Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… 🤔 Give yourself 5 points for every book you’ve read and an extra 5 points for every book you’ve also LOVED! ⭐️
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Here are my 20 all-time favorites (10 stand-alones and 10 series):
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STAND-ALONES:
🌲 Into the Heartless Wood
✨ The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
📚 The Midnight Library
🍂 The Nature of Witches
🏖️ People We Meet on Vacation
⏳ Early Departures
🐳 Amelia Unabridged
📖 The Bookish Life of Nina Hill
🏙️ Paper Towns
🎤 Daisy Jones & The Six
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SERIES:
🦌 Shadow and Bone
❣️ Shades of Magic
🎪 Caraval
🐺 Echo North
🦁 The Chronicles of Narnia
🩷 Heartstopper
😍 The Friend Zone/Part of Your World
☕️ Legends & Lattes
⛓️ The Prison Healer
🧚🏻‍♀️ Wicked Lovely
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How many points did you get? 🏆 Are any of the ones you *haven’t* read on your TBR? 🫶🏼
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #shadowandbone #grishaverse #leighbardugo #signedbooks
What was the last book you purchased for yourself What was the last book you purchased for yourself or got from the library? 📖
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I've said it before and I'll say it a million more times (😅): I don't purchase books unless I've read them first (my few exceptions being sequels for series I love or auto-buy authors) 🤷🏻‍♀️ Needless to say, I'm pretty picky about which books I DO spend my money on 💳
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I recently did a bit of a haul from Book Outlet during their mega fiction sale and here's what I snagged:
☕️ Legends & Lattes
🕰️ In Five Years
🌲 Lost in the Never Woods
🥀 Girl, Serpent, Thorn
🎤 XOXO
🥧 Crumbs
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Have you read any of these or are any of them on your TBR? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #bookhaul #bookoutlet #bookoutlethaul
What was the last sequel/companion novel announcem What was the last sequel/companion novel announcement that got you really excited? 🤩
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I was SO thrilled when I saw @kristinaforest's announcement for The Partner Plot, an adult romance that follows Violet (the older sister of Lily from The Neighbor Favor) and her high school sweetheart 🩷 It's coming out in the spring of 2024 and I'm already counting down the days until it's in my hands 🙌🏼
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If you haven't read The Neighbor Favor yet, what are you waiting for? 😉 It's absolutely ADORABLE and I was so thrilled to get a copy of it in one of my @litlovebox packages - along with some delicious chocolates and coffee, of course ☕️ Use the code STEPH5 for a discount on your very own box (good til the end of May!) 🎁
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What was the last cute romance book that you loved? 📖
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #theneighborfavor #kristinaforest #cartooncoverromance #romancebooks
What was the last series that you started? 📚
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I've been starting (and completing) a lot of series this year 🙌🏼 Admittedly, half of them are rereads, but they still count, right? 😅
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Series rereads I've finished this year:
🌊 All the Stars and Teeth
🏹 The Hunger Games
🦌 Shadow and Bone
❣️ Shades of Magic
🐦‍⬛ Six of Crows
🍂 Heartstopper (up to date)
🦸🏻‍♀️ Renegades
 
Series I've finished this year (not rereads):
💚 The Green Bone Saga
🥰 Jansen Brothers
🌲 Lovelight Farms
🔍 Truly Devious (trilogy - still working on the continuations)
🫖 The Tea Dragon Society
🧚🏼‍♀️ These Hollow Vows
🃏 The Cardplay Duology
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I've also started several more, but I'm most proud of the ones I've completed ✅ There's something so satisfying about finishing a series, don't you think? 😂
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Have you read any of these yet? 📖
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #bookseries
Café reading dates just hit different ☕️📖 Café reading dates just hit different ☕️📖

Dress is from @renttherunway and I literally never want to take it off 🙈 Get 40% off TWO MONTHS of an RTR Membership for their 10, 15, or 20-item plan with code RENT0E33DC 💃🏻

Woodmark and tote from @theseasonalpages and I’m absolutely obsessed with it 🔖 Use ESPRESSO15 to get 15% off your next purchase 🫶🏼

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#bookreel #bookreels #bookishreel #bookishreels #bookvideo #booktok #bookrecommendation #booksuggestion #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booksta #lovetoread #bookpost #bookstaexplore #readersofinstagram #igreads #booksofig #booklover #booksaremagic #bookworm #instareads #readmorebooks @rtrambassadors #rtrambassador #thanksitsrtr #coffeeandbooks #cafestagram #coffeeshopvibes
What are your favorite adult fantasy series? ⚔️
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A few years ago, I devoured The Daevabad Trilogy and completely fell in love with the absolutely magnificent world-building 😍
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Adult fantasy can be tricky if you're used to the pacing in YA fantasy, but after some time, you might find that you really enjoy the way that the story develops 🙌🏼
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Some of my favorite completed adult fantasy series:
💚 The Green Bone Saga (Jade City, Jade War, Jade Legacy)
🧛🏻‍♂️ All Souls (A Discovery of Witches, Shadow of Night, The Book of Life)
🐺 The Wilderwood (For the Wolf, For the Throne)
⏳ Shades of Magic (A Darker Shade of Magic, A Gathering of Shadows, A Conjuring of Light)
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Have you read any of these yet? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #daevabadtrilogy #adultfantasy #adultfantasyseries #fantasyseries #thecityofbrass
What's one book you'd recommend to someone just di What's one book you'd recommend to someone just diving into fiction for the first time? 📖
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I've asked this in the past, but I'm curious how the answers might change since so many books have come out in the last several years that I think would fit this perfectly 👌🏼
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I don't have many IRL friends who enjoy reading, but I have been lucky enough to recommend books to fiction newbies in the past and I usually start with The Midnight Library! 📚 I think it's a book everyone should read (but that's because it saved my life, so it's very special to me) and I especially recommend it during May, Mental Health Awareness Month! 💚
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‼️ I’m taking the next week away from social media/blogging for my own mental health. I’ll probably be lurking some but please note that I won’t be updating much of anything til after the 15th 🫶🏼
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Have you read The Midnight Library yet? ☕️
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #mentalhealthbooks #mentalhealthrep #themidnightlibrary #mentalhealthawareness
Have you reached your quarterly reading goals (if Have you reached your quarterly reading goals (if you set any)? 📊
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I was tagged by @estherfungreads to do a quarterly reading wrap-up:
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Total books read: 92
Rereads: 28
Favorite genres: fantasy & romance as per usual
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☕️ Personal favorite reads (not counting rereads):
Begin Again, Legends & Lattes, Happy Place
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☕️ Favorite new-to-me authors:
Angie Thomas, Maureen Johnson
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☕️ Favorite authors revisited:
Leigh Bardugo, V.E. Schwab, Marissa Meyer, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Emily Henry
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☕️ Books that made me laugh (not counting rereads):
Funny Feelings, Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, Happy Place 
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☕️ Books that made me cry:
We Are All So Good at Smiling, The Crossover, Happy Place (yes it fits in both categories)
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☕️ Currently reading:
If the Shoe Fits, These Twisted Bonds, Crumbs
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☕️ What's left on my priority TBR:
Babel, A Curse for True Love, Foxglove, This Cursed Light, The Stardust Thief, A Wilderness of Stars, Painted Devils, Bring Me Your Midnight, Someone Just Like You, The Brothers Hawthorne, and several more tbh 
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #readingwrapup #readingrecap #beginagainbooks #quarterlywrapup
Did you love any of your April reads so much that Did you love any of your April reads so much that you wanted to immediately turn around and read them again? 🤎
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I certainly felt that about a few of the books I read this past month, but especially:
🫖 The Tea Dragon Society - this entire MG graphic novel trilogy just warmed my heart so much. It's precious and wonderful and if you haven't read it, please do because you won't be able to wipe the smile off your face.
🔍 Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers - within the first couple of chapters, I was belly-laughing so hard I was crying. This was hilarious and adorable and I didn't want it to end. I immediately began recommending it to everyone. 
⛱️ Happy Place - because of course! I mean, this book did make me sob my eyes out multiple times, but it also made me belly laugh more than once as well. It was perfect in every way and very quickly became my second fave of Emily's books (just after PWMOV)!
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Thank goodness I'm a big fan of rereading because I know I'll be revisiting all of these books again in the future 🙌🏼
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Have you read any of my April favorites? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #theteadragonsociety #happyplace #verawongsunsolicitedadviceformurderers #aprilreads
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Books, Reviews · September 21, 2020

Book Review of Fantasy Novel “Into the Heartless Wood”

into the heartless wood book with coffee and candles and basket of clothing
into the heartless wood book by joanna ruth meyer with coffee and plaid scarf
into the heartless wood fantasy book with warm colors and coffee

Fantasy-lovers, unite! “Into the Heartless Wood” is about to jump to the top of your reading list.

At the beginning of the year, I read “Echo North,” a truly unique and impactful tale by Joanna Ruth Meyer. I immediately fell in love with her writing style and gobbled up everything she had released. (You can find all these reviews on my Goodreads). When she announced a new story in the works, filled with tree sirens and astronomers, I squealed with excitement.

I was truly lucky to win an advanced reader copy of “Into the Heartless Wood“, before its official release in January 2021. I read the book nearly a month before writing this, but I have been slowly working on my review over time because it has meant so much to me, and I wanted to do it justice.


related posts
Cozy Books to Read This Autumn // How to Take Cozy Bookstagram Photos // The Best Fantasy Books of All Time

What I Thought About “Into the Heartless Wood”

Below, you can find the Goodreads synopsis, along with my honest review of the book.

Epic, heartbreaking, and darkly atmospheric, Into the Heartless Wood is the story of impossible love between a monstrous tree siren and a boy who lives at the edge of her wood.

The forest is a dangerous place, where siren song lures men and women to their deaths. For centuries, a witch has harvested souls to feed the heartless tree, using its power to grow her domain.

When Owen Merrick is lured into the witch’s wood, one of her tree-siren daughters, Seren, saves his life instead of ending it. Every night, he climbs over the garden wall to see her, and every night her longing to become human deepens. But a shift in the stars foretells a dangerous curse, and Seren’s quest to become human will lead them into an ancient war raging between the witch and the king who is trying to stop her.

“Something calls out to him. I am different than I was. I do not want my mother’s song, my mother’s souls. I want – I do not know. But I want something more than the death that she offers me. I want something more than her voice, her power. I want something more. I want something mine.”

Into the Heartless Wood

I waited two days to write a review after finishing the book and I still found myself somewhat speechless. I wasn’t sure Joanna Meyer could top her novel, “Echo North” – but this story was something truly spectacular. If I could give a book more than five stars, I would do so for this one in a heartbeat.

I sat on my bed after reading the last pages, unsure of what to think or feel. I’m not sure I’ve ever been so deeply affected by a fantasy novel (or any novel, for that matter). I had to just sit in silence and allow the emotions to wash over me. I fought back tears for the last third of the story.

Haunting. Breathtaking. Soul-shattering. Those are a few of the words I could use to describe this book. The character development is beautiful (even down to the chapter headings changing for Seren as the story goes on). It’s a true roller coaster of emotions as you fall in love with the characters and the characters fall in love with each other. There is such depth to this story, and I’ll never really get over it.

I had the worst book hangover of my life after I completed it. Not a single story I started could even compete with this poetic masterpiece.

Clearly, I was deeply affected by this book, and I can’t recommend it enough.

I will also say that Joanna Meyer is one of my favorite authors of all time. One of the things she does best is write a story that’s never been told before. Though “Into the Heartless Wood” is described as a gender-swapped retelling of Beauty and the Beast, it’s definitely something much more than that. The same can be said of everything she writes. I hope that my review encourages you to pick it up for yourself this coming winter.


order the book

Will you be ordering this fantastical tale to read soon?


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into the heartless wood fantasy book with warm colors and coffee
into the heartless wood book by joanna ruth meyer with coffee and plaid scarf

In: Books, Reviews · Tagged: advanced reader copy, ARC, best fantasy books, book review, fantasy book review, fantasy books, Into the Heartless Wood, Joanna Ruth Meyer, standalone book

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63 Comments
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Lucy
2 years ago

This book sounds like a deep read but a good one nonetheless! I loved reading your review lovely x

Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lucy

It was pretty incredible! I was so touched by the story and the poetic layout of some of the chapters was so unique. I really hope you get a chance to read it at some point 🙂

Reply
Sarah lennon
2 years ago

I am always looking for new book recommendations and I loved your review for this one!

-Sarah

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Sarah lennon

Well, I certainly recommend this one! It’s my favorite book of the year, hands down. I already want to read it again and again. It was so spectacular.

Reply
Jenny in Neverland
2 years ago

Anything that gives someone a massive book hangover is one to add on the TBR list! Great review and I LOVE your photos so much!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Jenny in Neverland

I feel the same way! I truly wasn’t sure how to move on to another book after finishing this one – it really was THAT good!

Reply
Serena
2 years ago

Sounds like a good book – I like how it’s sort of a retelling of Beauty and the Beast!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Serena

It has some similar vibes for sure. I wouldn’t have noticed that had it not been in the description, I’ll be honest. I just thought it was an amazing fantasy tale!

Reply
Lauryn Hock
2 years ago

You had me at, “gender-swapping retelling of Beauty and the Beast”! This book sounds fantastic

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lauryn Hock

I keep admitting that I would definitely have never noticed that if I hadn’t read it in the description haha! To me, it was just so unique I couldn’t compare it to anything!

Reply
Rach
2 years ago

Oo it sounds like a fun book and great to read deep into Winter. I might get it!

http://www.rdsobsessions.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Rach

I wouldn’t necessarily call it “fun,” because it’s a really melancholy and heartbreaking story throughout. But it’s beautiful and well-written and I loved every second of it!

Reply
Neely Moldovan
2 years ago

Sounds super interesting. I will add it to my list (which feels like it grows every day!)

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Neely Moldovan

I relate to that! My reading list triples almost daily haha. Good thing I read a LOT and fast!

Reply
Amanda
2 years ago

This sounds so good!! I love your review and your blog is so pretty. Thank you for sharing.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Amanda

That’s so sweet of you! Thank you 🙂 I’m glad you liked the review. I hope to do more like this soon!

Reply
Melissa
2 years ago

This book sounds very interesting! There’s something mysterious in it that definitely makes me want to read it.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Melissa

I know you love a good romance, and while this isn’t your typical style, it certainly is romantic. Beautiful and haunting and sacrificial romance!

Reply
Greta
2 years ago

I’ll have to add this to my reading list. Sounds so good!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Greta

You definitely will. It’s the best book I’ve read all year – and I’ve read nearly 100 books!

Reply
Jennifer Prince
2 years ago

Ah! I’m so happy for you that you were able to preview it. I know how much you love reading!! And those pants are too perfect. Adorable – I love the saying and the placement, too!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Jennifer Prince

It was such an exciting moment when I found out that I’d won a copy. How cool! It’s such a special book to have on my shelf. And the story was all sorts of incredible! Yes… these pants are the comfiest I own. They’re from The Bookish Shop!

Reply
Marissa Belle
2 years ago

That header image is stunning! How do you take your photos because they look so good! And this book sounds amazing tbh, defo going to add it to my Goodreads shelf! 😊

🌿 Marissa Belle × marsybun.com 🌿

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Marissa Belle

Thank you! I use a Canon Rebel t7i with a 50mm lens on a tripod in natural light and edit with my presets 🙂 I know that’s a nutshell version, but there’s plenty of BTS on my bookstagram page if you wanna see in action haha!

Reply
Abiodun
2 years ago

What a great preview! This will be a great read during the fall season. Love the mood of your pics as well!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Abiodun

I definitely plan to read it again and again until its January release. It’s the perfect cozy read!

Reply
Sarah Lindner
2 years ago

Sounds like a total escape of a pick…love the review! xoxo, Sarah

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Sarah Lindner

An escape is right! It’s definitely a story that will transport you to another time and place!

Reply
Becky
2 years ago

Wow, what a glowing review! I can be picky about fantasy but with this recommendation I’ll have to try it. I’m glad it will be on audiobook as well because that’s how I’m reading a lot of books right now!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Becky

I’m ridiculously picky about fantasy because it’s my favorite genre, so I relate! I highly suggest listening to her first novel, Echo North, to see if you like her writing style. If you enjoy that as much as I did, you’ll love this book too!

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Lizzie
2 years ago

Aw this sounds like such a great book! I love fantasy. The story sounds really unique and interesting!

Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lizzie

I’m always excited to find another fan of fantasy since that’s not as typical for adult women. I just love the genre so much!

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Christa
2 years ago

Your photos have been amazing! I am absolutely loving the whole style and substance of your blog. I haven’t read many fantasy books in the past. Maybe it’s time I branch out. This book sounds incredible!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Christa

That’s very kind of you! Thank you so much 🙂 If you’re looking for fantasy recommendations but don’t know where to start, I have a whole post with around 100 of my favorite fantasy novels – and ones I recommend for “newbies”!

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Ashley Hargrove
2 years ago

Everything about these pics makes me want to go get mega cozy and read! I have been on the hunt for a new, compelling book that will really suck me in and this one sounds absolutely perfect!! Definitely going to check it out.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Ashley Hargrove

Well, that’s certainly the goal, so I’m glad! I hope you get a chance to read it when it’s released in January!

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Candace Hampton
2 years ago

Wow, this looks wonderful! The cover is cleverly designed as well. It sounds like it is a wonderful book that is a perfect winter read. You’re so lucky that you got to it first!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Candace Hampton

It’s a beautiful cover, isn’t it? I’m very picky about the covers that I find truly gorgeous, but this one stole my heart immediately. And the story is magnificent! I’m really grateful that I got a chance to read it before the release 🙂

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Katherine
2 years ago

I’ve only ever preordered a handful of books in my life, but I’m totally sold after this review. I wish it was coming out sooner!! I always read more in the fall, but at least this will give me something to look forward to after the holidays. 🙂

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Katherine

Oh my goodness YAY! I’m so glad to hear that! It’s an incredible story, and I really can’t recommend it enough. Out of the nearly 100 books I’ve read this year, this one is definitely my favorite! I hope you love it just as much when you read it 🙂

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Adaleta Avdic
2 years ago

I love fantasy, and you have TOTALLY sold me on this book!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Adaleta Avdic

That’s great to hear! It’s an incredible book, and the author is beyond talented. She’s got the most unique writing style and I just can’t get enough!

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Beth
2 years ago

This sounds like a great read! I’ll have to add it to my list.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Beth

You definitely will! It’s a phenomenal story!

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Rachel
2 years ago

This book sounds SO good! You’ve been opening my eyes to so many amazing new genres and can’t wait to order a few books!

Rachel
http://www.hello-her.com

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Rachel

I know you’re not typically a fantasy reader, but I do think you should give some of the books a try 🙂 You might discover that you love them as much as contemporary. I also saw that you’ve been reading some Elizabeth Acevedo, which makes me so happy. Her work is amazing!

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Jiya Nagwan
2 years ago

This book seems such a fun. Thanks so much for the recommendation! I love reading books.
Lovely Post!
Allurerage
Thetrendybride

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Jiya Nagwan

I don’t know if I’d call it “fun,” since it’s really dramatic and heartbreaking. But it is a beautiful story and an incredibly written tale with excellent character development!

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Kileen
2 years ago

It sounds like an extremely interesting read! There are so many positive reviews and I’m always looking for a new and exciting book to read!

Kileen
cute & little

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Kileen

Well, it hasn’t been released yet so the reviews aren’t even rolling in as much as they will when the book comes out in January. But it definitely deserves 5 stars and more!

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Raji
2 years ago

Thanks for sharing, this sounds like a great read! I’m always looking for unique fairytale retellings to try.

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Kait
2 years ago

I am not usually a big fantasy fan, but this is intriguing. I like that it seems to be a bit different than other fantasy settings I’ve seen before, with the tree sirens. And the story sounds so compelling and interesting. Your review has me thinking of going out of my comfort zone to give this fantasy book a try.

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Em
2 years ago

ou know I am always looking to add more books to my TBR and this one sounds interesting, although I’m not typically a fantasy reader!

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Deborah
2 years ago

I love fantasy books! This one sounds right up my alley, I’ll have to see if my library has it!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Deborah

Well, it won’t yet since it doesn’t come out until January (oops, I thought I did a good job making that clear – sorry for any confusion)! But hopefully, when it’s released it’ll be available at your library 🙂

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Anna English
2 years ago

You inspire me to find more time to read, especially during this season change!

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Caitlin
2 years ago

Wow this book sounds like something amazing to read this fall/winter. So cool you got to read it early!

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Lisa
2 years ago

Wow, sounds like such a great story! I haven’t been reading as much and miss it. Thanks for sharing!

xoxo,
Lisa

http://www.occasionallyluxe.com

Reply
Darleen
2 years ago

I love your book reviews! Always have the best recommendations. This one sounds like a good Fall read.

Reply
Erin Fairchild
2 years ago

I’m reading this book tomorrow in my hammock. I got an ARC copy and can’t waitttt.

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Neely Moldovan
2 years ago

I am not much of a fantasy reader but thissounds very interesting! I may keep it in mind.

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Jennifer Prince
2 years ago

Oh my goodness! That is quite the recommendation. Honestly, I love books that leave you longing for me. If you’re grieving it coming to an end, that’s a fabulous choice in my opinion. I need to read this one!

Reply
Andrea
1 month ago

omg I got this book for christmas and I couldn’t put it down. i ate it up in a matter of hours, and cried openly during the last chapters. It hit me so hard, i made my boyfriend read it!!!

Reply
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Welcome to The Espresso Edition, a cozy bookish blog (with just a pinch of lifestyle goodness). I'm Stephanie, and I'm overjoyed to welcome you to this safe space designed for book lovers old and new who are seeking everything from book recommendations to reading tips to reviews and so much more.

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Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… 🤔 Give yourself 5 points for every book you’ve read and an extra 5 points for every book you’ve also LOVED! ⭐️
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Here are my 20 all-time favorites (10 stand-alones and 10 series):
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STAND-ALONES:
🌲 Into the Heartless Wood
✨ The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
📚 The Midnight Library
🍂 The Nature of Witches
🏖️ People We Meet on Vacation
⏳ Early Departures
🐳 Amelia Unabridged
📖 The Bookish Life of Nina Hill
🏙️ Paper Towns
🎤 Daisy Jones & The Six
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SERIES:
🦌 Shadow and Bone
❣️ Shades of Magic
🎪 Caraval
🐺 Echo North
🦁 The Chronicles of Narnia
🩷 Heartstopper
😍 The Friend Zone/Part of Your World
☕️ Legends & Lattes
⛓️ The Prison Healer
🧚🏻‍♀️ Wicked Lovely
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How many points did you get? 🏆 Are any of the ones you *haven’t* read on your TBR? 🫶🏼
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #shadowandbone #grishaverse #leighbardugo #signedbooks
What was the last book you purchased for yourself What was the last book you purchased for yourself or got from the library? 📖
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I've said it before and I'll say it a million more times (😅): I don't purchase books unless I've read them first (my few exceptions being sequels for series I love or auto-buy authors) 🤷🏻‍♀️ Needless to say, I'm pretty picky about which books I DO spend my money on 💳
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I recently did a bit of a haul from Book Outlet during their mega fiction sale and here's what I snagged:
☕️ Legends & Lattes
🕰️ In Five Years
🌲 Lost in the Never Woods
🥀 Girl, Serpent, Thorn
🎤 XOXO
🥧 Crumbs
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Have you read any of these or are any of them on your TBR? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #bookhaul #bookoutlet #bookoutlethaul
What was the last sequel/companion novel announcem What was the last sequel/companion novel announcement that got you really excited? 🤩
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I was SO thrilled when I saw @kristinaforest's announcement for The Partner Plot, an adult romance that follows Violet (the older sister of Lily from The Neighbor Favor) and her high school sweetheart 🩷 It's coming out in the spring of 2024 and I'm already counting down the days until it's in my hands 🙌🏼
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If you haven't read The Neighbor Favor yet, what are you waiting for? 😉 It's absolutely ADORABLE and I was so thrilled to get a copy of it in one of my @litlovebox packages - along with some delicious chocolates and coffee, of course ☕️ Use the code STEPH5 for a discount on your very own box (good til the end of May!) 🎁
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What was the last cute romance book that you loved? 📖
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #theneighborfavor #kristinaforest #cartooncoverromance #romancebooks
What was the last series that you started? 📚
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I've been starting (and completing) a lot of series this year 🙌🏼 Admittedly, half of them are rereads, but they still count, right? 😅
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Series rereads I've finished this year:
🌊 All the Stars and Teeth
🏹 The Hunger Games
🦌 Shadow and Bone
❣️ Shades of Magic
🐦‍⬛ Six of Crows
🍂 Heartstopper (up to date)
🦸🏻‍♀️ Renegades
 
Series I've finished this year (not rereads):
💚 The Green Bone Saga
🥰 Jansen Brothers
🌲 Lovelight Farms
🔍 Truly Devious (trilogy - still working on the continuations)
🫖 The Tea Dragon Society
🧚🏼‍♀️ These Hollow Vows
🃏 The Cardplay Duology
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I've also started several more, but I'm most proud of the ones I've completed ✅ There's something so satisfying about finishing a series, don't you think? 😂
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Have you read any of these yet? 📖
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #bookseries
Café reading dates just hit different ☕️📖 Café reading dates just hit different ☕️📖

Dress is from @renttherunway and I literally never want to take it off 🙈 Get 40% off TWO MONTHS of an RTR Membership for their 10, 15, or 20-item plan with code RENT0E33DC 💃🏻

Woodmark and tote from @theseasonalpages and I’m absolutely obsessed with it 🔖 Use ESPRESSO15 to get 15% off your next purchase 🫶🏼

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#bookreel #bookreels #bookishreel #bookishreels #bookvideo #booktok #bookrecommendation #booksuggestion #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booksta #lovetoread #bookpost #bookstaexplore #readersofinstagram #igreads #booksofig #booklover #booksaremagic #bookworm #instareads #readmorebooks @rtrambassadors #rtrambassador #thanksitsrtr #coffeeandbooks #cafestagram #coffeeshopvibes
What are your favorite adult fantasy series? ⚔️
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A few years ago, I devoured The Daevabad Trilogy and completely fell in love with the absolutely magnificent world-building 😍
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Adult fantasy can be tricky if you're used to the pacing in YA fantasy, but after some time, you might find that you really enjoy the way that the story develops 🙌🏼
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Some of my favorite completed adult fantasy series:
💚 The Green Bone Saga (Jade City, Jade War, Jade Legacy)
🧛🏻‍♂️ All Souls (A Discovery of Witches, Shadow of Night, The Book of Life)
🐺 The Wilderwood (For the Wolf, For the Throne)
⏳ Shades of Magic (A Darker Shade of Magic, A Gathering of Shadows, A Conjuring of Light)
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Have you read any of these yet? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #daevabadtrilogy #adultfantasy #adultfantasyseries #fantasyseries #thecityofbrass
What's one book you'd recommend to someone just di What's one book you'd recommend to someone just diving into fiction for the first time? 📖
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I've asked this in the past, but I'm curious how the answers might change since so many books have come out in the last several years that I think would fit this perfectly 👌🏼
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I don't have many IRL friends who enjoy reading, but I have been lucky enough to recommend books to fiction newbies in the past and I usually start with The Midnight Library! 📚 I think it's a book everyone should read (but that's because it saved my life, so it's very special to me) and I especially recommend it during May, Mental Health Awareness Month! 💚
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‼️ I’m taking the next week away from social media/blogging for my own mental health. I’ll probably be lurking some but please note that I won’t be updating much of anything til after the 15th 🫶🏼
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Have you read The Midnight Library yet? ☕️
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #mentalhealthbooks #mentalhealthrep #themidnightlibrary #mentalhealthawareness
Have you reached your quarterly reading goals (if Have you reached your quarterly reading goals (if you set any)? 📊
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I was tagged by @estherfungreads to do a quarterly reading wrap-up:
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Total books read: 92
Rereads: 28
Favorite genres: fantasy & romance as per usual
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☕️ Personal favorite reads (not counting rereads):
Begin Again, Legends & Lattes, Happy Place
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☕️ Favorite new-to-me authors:
Angie Thomas, Maureen Johnson
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☕️ Favorite authors revisited:
Leigh Bardugo, V.E. Schwab, Marissa Meyer, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Emily Henry
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☕️ Books that made me laugh (not counting rereads):
Funny Feelings, Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, Happy Place 
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☕️ Books that made me cry:
We Are All So Good at Smiling, The Crossover, Happy Place (yes it fits in both categories)
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☕️ Currently reading:
If the Shoe Fits, These Twisted Bonds, Crumbs
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☕️ What's left on my priority TBR:
Babel, A Curse for True Love, Foxglove, This Cursed Light, The Stardust Thief, A Wilderness of Stars, Painted Devils, Bring Me Your Midnight, Someone Just Like You, The Brothers Hawthorne, and several more tbh 
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #readingwrapup #readingrecap #beginagainbooks #quarterlywrapup
Did you love any of your April reads so much that Did you love any of your April reads so much that you wanted to immediately turn around and read them again? 🤎
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I certainly felt that about a few of the books I read this past month, but especially:
🫖 The Tea Dragon Society - this entire MG graphic novel trilogy just warmed my heart so much. It's precious and wonderful and if you haven't read it, please do because you won't be able to wipe the smile off your face.
🔍 Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers - within the first couple of chapters, I was belly-laughing so hard I was crying. This was hilarious and adorable and I didn't want it to end. I immediately began recommending it to everyone. 
⛱️ Happy Place - because of course! I mean, this book did make me sob my eyes out multiple times, but it also made me belly laugh more than once as well. It was perfect in every way and very quickly became my second fave of Emily's books (just after PWMOV)!
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Thank goodness I'm a big fan of rereading because I know I'll be revisiting all of these books again in the future 🙌🏼
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Have you read any of my April favorites? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #theteadragonsociety #happyplace #verawongsunsolicitedadviceformurderers #aprilreads
Convince me to read your FAVORITE book of all time Convince me to read your FAVORITE book of all time in the comments ☕️
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It's been a while since I've screamed about my favorite book, INTO THE HEARTLESS WOOD by @gamwyn, in-feed... so here's another reminder to not just buy this, but actually READ IT - like RIGHT NOW 😉 I take every opportunity I can to recommend this one because it truly is unlike any other fantasy I've ever read and I just adore it with my ENTIRE HEART 🤎
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If you love hauntingly beautiful fantasy books with:
🔭 cinnamon roll astronomer boys
🌲 monstrous tree siren girls
🎶 villain falling for the hero
💫 stars and leaves and everything in between
you will absolutely LOVE this book 📖
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Have you read Into the Heartless Wood or anything else by Joanna? 📚
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #intotheheartlesswood #joannaruthmeyer #fantasybooks #yafantasy #enemiestolovers

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