How many times have you read your favorite book or How many times have you read your favorite book or series? 🤎

I’m a big fan of rereading, so my favorite books are picked up over and over again. I’ve read some of my favorites every single year for the last six years and some I’ve read countless times since childhood (here’s lookin at you, Narnia) 🙈

I love when I find a new book to add to my reread list. What was the last one you added? 🔁

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#readersofinstagram #bookphotography #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookobsessed #cozyreads #bookaesthetic #flatlaylove #readingescape #readingvibes #bookishvibes #booknerd #bookcommunity #booklover cozy read, escapism, book hangover, book recs, TBR, reread worthy, late-night chapters, weekend read, comfort book
Are there any book small towns you’d like to liv Are there any book small towns you’d like to live in? 📍

I think I’d sell a kidney to live in Inglewild 😂 Small towns give me such happiness and this one seems especially cozy and filled with so many entertaining people 🙈

I kinda wish this series would last forever, but simultaneously, I just live for ANYTHING BK Borison writes 😍 I adored First Time Caller as well and can’t wait for more of that story to unfold! 📖

Have you read any of this author’s books? 🤎 

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#readersofinstagram #bookphotography #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookobsessed #cozyreads #bookaesthetic #flatlaylove #readingescape #readingvibes #bookishvibes #booknerd #bookcommunity #booklover #booksmalltowns #smalltownbooks cozy read, romance books, book recs, TBR, reread worthy, late-night chapters, weekend read, comfort book
Have you already read any of your most anticipated Have you already read any of your most anticipated books this year? 😍

I felt like I was counting down the days to Oathbound and Sunrise on the Reaping—and both of them definitely lived up to my expectations (best feeling ever)! 🙌🏼

Now to fully immerse myself in some of my fantasy ARCs and continue listening to EmHen’s latest! 🤎

Were any of these on your 2025 TBR? 📚

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#readersofinstagram #bookphotography #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookobsessed #cozyreads #bookaesthetic #flatlaylove #readingescape #readingvibes #bookishvibes #booknerd #bookcommunity #booklover cozy read, escapism, book hangover, fantasy world-building, book recs, TBR, reread worthy, late-night chapters, weekend read
Who are some of your favorite book siblings? 📖 Who are some of your favorite book siblings? 📖

I really love getting the chance to see a great sibling dynamic in a book—especially in fantasy, and *especially especially* if they work together! 🤝🏼

Unseelie had the most interesting twins in it and I loved seeing their similarities, their differences, and how they used both throughout the story! 🤎

Have you read this one yet? ✨

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#readersofinstagram #bookphotography #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookobsessed #cozyreads #bookaesthetic #flatlaylove #readingescape #readingvibes #bookishvibes #booknerd #bookcommunity #booklover escapism, book hangover, fantasy world-building, book recs, TBR, reread worthy, late-night chapters, weekend read, comfort book
Have any books taken you by surprise lately, and i Have any books taken you by surprise lately, and if so, which ones? 😳
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I tend not to stray very far from my comfort zone of fantasy and fluffy romance, but I recently read WE’LL PRESCRIBE YOU A CAT, a translated novel about a magical mental health clinic that loans out cats to their patients. 🐈 It was absolutely fantastic in every way and became my first 5-star read of the year (outside of my rereads). 🙌🏼 
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Magical realism has always been a favorite genre of mine, but I usually struggle a lot with translated books. 😅 It was such a treat to immerse myself in this story and I can’t wait to read the sequel soon! 📖
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What was your last 5-star read? ⭐️ 
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozyaesthetic #translatedbooks #magicalrealism #wellprescribeyouacat #berkleybooks books | japanese novel | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Did you discover any new (or new-to-you) authors i Did you discover any new (or new-to-you) authors in the past year? ☕️
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I know they say “don’t judge a book by its cover,” but let’s be real… we all do it! 😂 When I saw the cover for The Lovers, I was instantly obsessed—and then I read the synopsis! I knew I needed it in my life right away, and I wasn’t disappointed. 🤎
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This book is full of self-discovery, sapphic sweetness, and some truly hilarious moments that had me laughing til my stomach hurt. 🙌🏼 I loved every minute of it and about burst into tears when @berkleypub sent me a copy! 🥹
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Rebekah’s storytelling was fantastic and I can’t wait to read her upcoming book, The Sun and the Moon, when it comes out in August! 📖
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Is this a title you’ve picked up or added to your TBR? 📚
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyaesthetic #theloversbook books | sapphic books | queer books | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Are there any series you’re hoping to finish thi Are there any series you’re hoping to finish this year? 📚
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Typically, I’m someone who flies through series and prioritizes finishing them as soon as I possibly can. However, over the last few years, I’ve done a poor job completing all of the series I start, so I’m trying to make it a goal to finish them up! 👏🏼
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Some series that I’ve got on my list to finish:
📖 Girls of Paper and Fire
📖 Legacy of Orïsha (especially with the adaptation news!)
📖 Beasts of Prey
📖 The Inheritance Cycle
📖 The Atlas
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I’ve also got several that I’d like to start… but that’s another story entirely. 🙈
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Have you read any of these? 🤎
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyaesthetic #fantasybooks books | book series | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Tell me just ONE of your auto-buy authors! 🫡
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I read The Charm Offensive a few years ago and instantly fell in love with Alison’s writing and the way the book made me feel so seen. 🥰 
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When I got an ARC of Kiss Her Once for Me, I was thrilled and once again inhaled the book. Yet again, it was a story that made me feel understood. 🥹
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I pretty much sobbed my way through Here We Go Again on audio and immediately purchased a physical copy so I could put myself through both the heartache and deep belly laughing again and again. 😅
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@alisoncochrun is forever and ever going to be an auto-buy author for me. 🤎
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Have you read any of these books? 📚
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyaesthetic #alisoncochrun books | sapphic books | queer books | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
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Books, Monthly Wrap-Ups · February 1, 2021

January 2021 Reading Wrap-Up

a court of wings and ruin book laying open next to a burning candle and coffee pouring from a french press

How did you kick off the new reading year? I had a magnificent start with twelve books I read in January 2021.

I was feeling inspired my by own “to be read” list and originally chose three that I wanted to pick up in order to get a running start at the beginning of the year. Then one of my best friends sent me an incredibly thoughtful gift to celebrate the relaunch of my blog and it included one of the titles I had been most excited about. So naturally, I put everything else down and began reading that. Needless to say, I ended up reading a total of four books from my planned TBR and even adding a few more to my bookshelf.

I finished a few series this month that I had begun last year. I also started a couple. I did a reread of my favorite book of all time (in honor of its official, public release) and I found a few new favorite audiobooks. In all, it was an excellent start to the reading year!


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Feyre candle c/o Janzy Wax Co (ESPRESSO10 for a discount) | A Court of Wings and Ruin | single-serve French press | cappuccino mugs + saucers | wooden cake stand | fuzzy pom throw blanket | sweater

a court of wings and ruin book by sarah j maas opened next to french press coffee pouring and candle called feyre

The 12 Books I Read in January

If you’re interested in more bookish content, follow my Goodreads account for live reviews, and take a look at my bookstagram – where I share aesthetic coffee and book photos!

The Memory of Fire by Callie Bates

The Memory of Fire (The Waking Land #2)

By Callie Bates

Rating: ★★★☆☆

Synopsis

Magic. Romance. Revolution. The sequel to the bold and gorgeous The Waking Land.

‘Bates is an author well worth watching’ Robin Hobb

Jahan Korakides is the hero who saved the life of the crown prince in battle, helped win the revolution in Eren and earned the heart of Elanna, the legendary Wildegarde reborn.

But Jahan Korakides is also broken; haunted by memories of the woman who experimented on him and his brothers as children.

So when the empire threatens war in retribution for Elanna’s illegal sorcery, Jahan leaves Eren to negotiate with the emperor on Queen Sophy’s behalf. But the world he left has changed – riots rock the city of Ida, his brother is missing and the crown prince refuses to speak to him.

Jahan’s only hope of success seems to lie with the rebels in Ida. Yet, if he joins them, he will merely spur on the war he’s desperate to avoid, and risk revealing himself as a sorcerer.

And then the witch hunters arrive at court, bringing Elanna in chains.

Buy the book

Audiobook Review

Do you ever have moments while you’re reading a book where you just pause and think, “wow, this has been one long battle and I’ve processed practically none of it,” or is that just me?

The Memory of Fire is written from Jahan’s perspective after Elanna wakes the land. There are a lot of flashbacks from his terrible childhood and you feel the weight on his shoulders as he tries to fight the voices in his head, help win a revolution, and keep his brothers safe.

However, rather than feeling uplifted or stirred to keep reading, I found myself getting more and more bored as the story went on. This one felt repetitive and unnecessarily informational (as in, you had a lot of information tossed at you without feeling as though you were retaining any of it because it had little purpose in the first place).

I really adored Jahan in The Waking Land, but maybe I only liked him from Elanna’s perspective? I’m not entirely sure now. It could just be that this book had “middle book syndrome” and was necessary in order to lead up to a banger of a finale? Here’s hoping…

A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses #3)

By Sarah J Maas

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis

Looming war threatens all Feyre holds dear in the third volume of the #1 New York Times bestselling A Court of Thorns and Roses series.

Feyre has returned to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin’s manoeuvrings and the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees. But to do so she must play a deadly game of deceit – and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.

As war bears down upon them all, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords – and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

In this thrilling third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling series from Sarah J. Maas, the earth will be painted red as mighty armies grapple for power over the one thing that could destroy them all.

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Book Review

Where should I even begin when it comes to this installment in the series? Honestly, I could sum up my review with the word, “WOW” and be done with it, but let me expound…

A Court of Thorns and Roses was painfully slow with little-to-no character progression or world building. I felt zero attachment to the characters and had no desire to continue reading. However, A Court of Mist and Fury took a completely different turn! I was impressed with the way the characters were written and even began to experience intense emotions as I read through the book because I connected to Feyre as she worked through anxiety, PTSD, and depression.

That leads me to A Court of Wings and Ruin. I didn’t think the characters could grow any more than they did in the previous book, but I was wrong. I felt like this one started off slow, but I actually didn’t mind because it was letting us have an in-depth look at the side characters and even what was going on as Feyre worked to protect her court and her mate.

By the last 200 pages, I found myself tearing up regularly. This was totally unexpected. The connections and “bonds” between the different characters, the way the story truly blossomed, it all had me so emotional. There were moments where I literally gasped aloud or even slammed my book down, saying, “OH NO!!!” In the end, it was a truly satisfying read and left me hungering for more.

A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

By Taylor Jenkins Reid

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis

Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life.

When she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one in the journalism community is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now? Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband, David, has left her, and her career has stagnated. Regardless of why Evelyn has chosen her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s Upper East Side apartment, Monique listens as Evelyn unfurls her story: from making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the late 80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way. As Evelyn’s life unfolds—revealing a ruthless ambition, an unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love—Monique begins to feel a very a real connection to the actress. But as Evelyn’s story catches up with the present, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.

Buy the book

Audiobook Review

Read my full review here

The Rising (Darkness Rising #3)

By Kelley Armstrong

Rating: ★★★☆☆

Synopsis

The race for survival comes to a thrilling conclusion in the heart-stopping finale to the Darkness Rising trilogy, from #1 New York Times bestselling author Kelley Armstrong.

Things are getting desperate for Maya and her friends. Hunted by the powerful St. Clouds and now a rival Cabal as well, they’re quickly running out of places to hide.

All they have is the name and number of someone who might be able to give them a few answers. Answers to why they’re so valuable, and why their supernatural powers are getting more and more out of control. But Maya is unprepared for the truths that await her. And like it or not, she’ll have to face down some demons from her past if she ever hopes to move on with her life. Because Maya can’t keep running forever.

With all the twists, thrills, and romance that have made Kelley Armstrong an international bestseller, plus the surprising return of some fan-favorite characters, The Rising will hold you under its spell long after its breathtaking end.

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Book Review

I have to admit that when it came to this finale, I was less than impressed. I had great big expectations for the way that this epic story would be wrapped up. Instead of experiencing something spectacular, there was a TON of world-building and character development, back-and-forths with relationships, new characters added, and more…. only to have it all quickly wrapped up and finalized in the last few chapters.

It left me with a lot of questions and some hope that the series would continue.

Overall series rating: 3 stars. This is because while the first book totally captured my attention, had great action and good attention to detail, the second one felt like there was very little plot, and the third one never really…. finished the story.

The Rising by Kelley Armstrong
Instant Karma by Marissa Meyer

Instant Karma

By Marissa Meyer

Rating: ★★★☆☆

Synopsis

In this contemporary romance with a bit of magic, chronic overachiever Prudence Daniels is always quick to cast judgment on the lazy, rude, and arrogant residents of her coastal town. Her dreams of karmic justice are fulfilled when, during a night out with her friends, she slips on a spilled drink and hits her head, only to wake up with the sudden ability to cast instant karma on those around her. Pru giddily makes use of the power, punishing everyone from public vandals to karaoke hecklers, but there is one person on whom her powers consistently backfire — Quint Erickson, her slacker of a lab partner and all-around mortal enemy. Over the course of a summer, Pru begins to uncover truths about Quint, her peers, and even herself that reveal how thin the line is between virtue and vanity, generosity and greed… love and hate.

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Audiobook Review

This book had such a cute plot concept. It combined magical realism with animal rights and an adorable, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers trope.

It started off really strong with an intense focus on the enemies: Pru (our MC) and Quint. Pru wasn’t a particularly likable character from the get-go. She’s pretty arrogant and rude. However, you feel for her because she uses these traits to cover up for her anxiety. Quint is “teenage boy annoying” with his lackadaisical outlook and ability to charm despite his flaws. He gets on Pru’s nerves, but it’s pretty clear from the start where this story is going…

…enter the magical realism. Pru hits her head after a wild karaoke rendition of Instant Karma and suddenly she has the ability to inflict her own version of karma on others. For quite some time, she uses this power to only get back at those who have done wrong, but she finds out later on that she can reward people as well, and you start to see a different side of her.

I think that I felt conflicted about halfway through this story. It was cute, sure, but it felt like it was trying to have more substance than it actually did? Pru begins to involve herself in saving sea animals and she volunteers with Quint, causing her to see the good in him and they end up falling for each other (blah blah blah kinda predictable) buuuuut her character progression from snotty schoolgirl to animal rights activist felt a little contrived to me, considering she was so young (they mention that they’re sophomores soooo like 15 years old?) And simultaneously, there are about 5 other subplots that are going on which I never felt were actually resolved in the end. Maybe I’m just getting old.

I’m gonna blame it on getting old. This is a great, true, YOUNG ADULT book. Like… for teens or even preteens. But I had a hard time really getting into it in the same way I have with Meyer’s other books. And believe me, her other books (specifically Renegades but also The Lunar Chronicles) are some of my favorites OF ALL TIME. So, I guess this just wasn’t so much for me.

Into the Heartless Wood

By Joanna Ruth Meyer

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis

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.

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.

Buy the book

Book Review

Read my full review here | Read the author interview here

Into the Heartless Wood by Joanna Ruth Meyer
Shadow and Bone (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy #1) - Leigh Bardugo

Shadow and Bone (The Grisha #1)

By Leigh Bardugo

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis

Surrounded by enemies, the once-great nation of Ravka has been torn in two by the Shadow Fold, a swath of near impenetrable darkness crawling with monsters who feast on human flesh. Now its fate may rest on the shoulders of one lonely refugee.

Alina Starkov has never been good at anything. But when her regiment is attacked on the Fold and her best friend is brutally injured, Alina reveals a dormant power that saves his life—a power that could be the key to setting her war-ravaged country free. Wrenched from everything she knows, Alina is whisked away to the royal court to be trained as a member of the Grisha, the magical elite led by the mysterious Darkling.

Yet nothing in this lavish world is what it seems. With darkness looming and an entire kingdom depending on her untamed power, Alina will have to confront the secrets of the Grisha . . . and the secrets of her heart.

Shadow and Bone is the first installment in Leigh Bardugo’s Grisha Trilogy.

Buy the book

Audiobook Review

I realize that I’m super late to the game when it comes to Shadow and Bone, but last year I made the decision to read Six of Crows (thinking that was a prequel or something??) and I didn’t care for it. I felt like it was slow-paced and almost overly-detailed. However, I didn’t want to let that dictate whether or not I gave S&B a try. When a friend of mine (a huge fan of Bardugo’s work) offered to buddy-read this, I agreed! I went into it with an open mind, despite my previous experience with the Grishaverse.

That being said, I absolutely loved Shadow and Bone. From the moment it began, I was totally hooked. I’ll admit that I’m not usually one for The Chosen One trope, but I feel as though Alina is a unique character. She doesn’t come into her own readily and even fights her abilities throughout the story, which intrigued me. She’s a pretty intricate character and while this is only the first book, I like her a lot and I’m looking forward to seeing how she progresses.

On the matter of The Darkling. I knew bits and pieces about this character because of bookstagram. There’s a “love to hate” emotion that comes with reading about him. He’s toxic. A heavy combination of possibly wicked and definitely seductive. I can see why he’s so often discussed. I will say that the plot twist was well done (and that’s all I’ll say because I want this to be as spoiler-free as possible).

There are a lot of characters to keep track of and right now my feelings are mixed because this is only my introduction to this cast. I don’t like Mal. I do love Genya. I know that it’s going to be a roller coaster from here on out, but it’s a roller coaster I’m excited about.

Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares (Dash & Lily #1)

By Rachel Cohn

Rating: ★★★★☆

Synopsis

A whirlwind romance from the New York Times bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, soon to be a Netflix original series starring Austin Abrams and Midori Francis!

Lily left a red notebook full of challenges on her favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. Dash, in a bad mood during the holidays, happens to be the first guy to pick up the notebook and rise to its challenges. What follows is a whirlwind romance as Dash and Lily trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations all across New York City. But can their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions, or will their scavenger hunt end in a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?

Buy the book

Audiobook Review

Sometimes you just need to sit down and enjoy a total fluff read. That’s what this is. It’s a fluff read. It’s like a marshmallow: all squishy and gooey and sweet.

I watched the Netflix adaptation of Dash & Lily over the holidays – and then watched it again. It was adorable and I loved every minute of the wholesome cuteness. I often reminisce on the late 90’s and early 00’s romcoms with their upbeat, whimsical goodness that’s suitable for the whole family. It’s rare to find that now – but Dash & Lily fits in that category perfectly. I had no clue it was based on a book until after I watched the show. So, obviously, I had to get the book ASAP.

It did not disappoint! I wondered how close the show would be to the book and I can say that it was pretty darn close. There are a few key differences, like the language in the book: I was NOT expecting to hear them swear and the first time I did, I actually laughed! Also, some of the “dare” scenarios play out a little differently, and the ending is spectacularly different. There were a few parts of the show I enjoyed a LOT that I wished had been part of the book, but overall, I was pleased.

If you’re looking for something light, quick, and cheerful – this is a great read. I’m looking forward to checking out the next few books in the series as well!

Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares (Dash & Lily #1) - Rachel Cohn, David Levithan
All This Time - Mikki Daughtry, Rachael Lippincott

All This Time

By Mikki Daughtry, Rachel Lippincott

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Synopsis

Kyle and Kimberly have been the perfect couple all through high school, but when Kimberly breaks up with him on the night of their graduation party, Kyle’s entire world upends—literally. Their car crashes and when he awakes, he has a brain injury. Kimberly is dead. And no one in his life could possibly understand.

Until Marley. Marley is suffering from her own loss, a loss she thinks was her fault. And when their paths cross, Kyle sees in her all the unspoken things he’s feeling.

As Kyle and Marley work to heal each other’s wounds, their feelings for each other grow stronger. But Kyle can’t shake the sense that he’s headed for another crashing moment that will blow up his life as soon as he’s started to put it back together.

And he’s right.

Buy the book

Book Review *SPOILERS*

** spoiler alert ** Whew. I’m not really sure where to begin with this one. I had to talk it out with a friend right after finishing it because I have some THOUGHTS. Let’s narrow them down, shall we?

1) The beginning of this book is tough. Like, totally naive and smitten Kyle gets into a car crash with his girlfriend immediately following their super intense break-up and she DIES kind of tough. He’s faced with a reality where she isn’t alive AND he finds out that his best friend was in love with her the whole time. Woof.

2) Then he meets Marley. At his ex-girlfriend’s cemetery. Marley is super moody and withdrawn because she thinks she killed her twin sister. But it’s okay because he draws her out of her shell and they fall in love. That’s most of the book. Them falling in love. It’s sweet (kinda weird, but sweet) and you start to have some hope.

3) ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT HE’S BEEN IN A COMA THIS WHOLE TIME. What? He “wakes up” a “year after the crash” (which turns out is 8 weeks after the crash) to learn that his ex-girlfriend is definitely still alive and this Marley girl is a figment of his coma-state imagination. At this point, I was kinda mad at the book. That’s a lot and I was finally starting to really like Marley. Plus, they’d just adopted a Yorkie puppy so…

4) Kyle decides Marley actually IS real and proceeds to go a bit nuts and even goes so far as to stalk a child, thinking it’s “his Marley”… OH, and then proceeds to creep on a visitor at the hospital who actually IS his Marley. This chick’s been sitting in his room and reading him stories that fueled his coma dream life for the last 8 weeks (or year in his mind). Is your head spinning? My head was spinning.

5) They finally begin to talk and they start to fall in love (again, sorta? for real this time?) and then SHE GETS HIT BY A CAR AND GOES INTO A COMA. What even!? So of course, Kyle has to try and save her just like “she saved him.” He goes into her coma-state imagination and tries to convince her to come back to him but she’s like “nah, I kinda wanna go be with my dead sister.” So he’s all bummed and he comes back and then suddenly the heart monitor starts beeping and she wakes up and is like “PSYCH. Just messing! I only wanted to say bye to her. Okay, we’re good now, let’s go back to being in love.” And that’s the end.

I… am reeling. If you want to be dreadfully confused and frustrated, this is a great book. The first half is kinda good and I liked the magical realism aspects. But the second half gave me whiplash.

Through the Dark (Legends of the Ancient Spring #1)

By Charity Brandsma

Rating: ★★★★☆

Synopsis

Four Kingdoms, One prophecy, and a race to save thousands of lives. Divergent meets Lord of the Rings in this fantasy novel filled with magic.

For hundreds of years, the Kingdom of Anaratha has waited for the Heir of the Prophecies, condemning their most promising royals to a Testing Day, where they journey through the sinister Jyre Forest. As Michale’thia prepares for her own test, everything begins to unravel: her maid begins to show signs of having the ancient magic in her veins, a legendary Botani warrior descends the mountain to appear at her Testing Day Ball, and the Northern Brends Kingdom makes a shocking declaration that may catapult the lands into war.Can Michale’thia ascend the throne as Queen and save the land of Elharren from utter destruction, or will she lose the race against time and condemn them all?

Buy the book

e-Book Review

I was gifted an e-book by the author in exchange for a review

There was SO MUCH packed into this creative fantasy novel that I barely even know where to begin when it comes to writing out all of my thoughts.

I’ll start with our protagonist: I’m a sucker for a strong, female MC and that’s precisely what I got, but not in the way you might expect. Sure, Michale’thia is a firecracker, but she’s also an intellectual and someone who is ready to put herself in harm’s way in order to protect her friends. She also sees the injustice surrounding her and wants to make a difference. I appreciated that from the very beginning of the story.

This is a really great cast, in general! Syra is ABSOLUTELY my favorite character and her quiet wisdom and fierce compassion for her best friend, Michale’thia, is so admirable. They’re almost more like sisters than anything else, even though race and class separate them in so many ways.

However, while the character progression is incredible, the world-building is just as intricate. There were so many issues discussed throughout the story. From racial injustice to legalism to the massive errors in the different kingdoms and how they rule. There was a LOT to unpack here, but Brandsma did a great job and handled it all with such grace.

Through the Dark has a Chosen One trope that’s really well done and a bunch of fun twists throughout (plus a GREAT cliff-hanger ending). There’s not a ton of romance, which I missed to some degree. However, I didn’t find that it impacted the story negatively at all. There’s such an emphasis on family and friends that I wasn’t just wishing it would “hurry up and get to the romance already.”

I’m seriously looking forward to the sequel!

Through the Dark by Charity Brandsma

Dreams of Gods & Monsters (Daughter of Smoke & Bone #3)

By Laini Taylor

Rating: ★☆☆☆☆

Synopsis

Two worlds are poised on the brink of a vicious war. By way of a staggering deception, Karou has taken control of the chimaera’s rebellion and is intent on steering its course away from dead-end vengeance. The future rests on her.

When the brutal angel emperor brings his army to the human world, Karou and Akiva are finally reunited – not in love, but in a tentative alliance against their common enemy. It is a twisted version of their long-ago dream, and they begin to hope that it might forge a way forward for their people. And, perhaps, for themselves.

But with even bigger threats on the horizon, are Karou and Akiva strong enough to stand among the gods and monsters?

The New York Times bestselling Daughter of Smoke & Bone trilogy comes to a stunning conclusion as – from the streets of Rome to the caves of the Kirin and beyond – humans, chimaera, and seraphim strive, love, and die in an epic theater that transcends good and evil, right and wrong, friend and enemy.

Buy the book

Audiobook Review

Have you ever read a book that’s so unremarkable that you forget nearly everything about it the moment you finish it? That’s how I felt about this book. That’s how I felt about this series overall, which is such a shame.

I absolutely loved the first book. It was magical and mysterious and it totally sucked me in. The second book bored me to tears. This third book was scary the moment I laid eyes on it. It’s HUGE! So, rather than reading the physical copy I had picked up from my library, I decided to listen to the audiobook on a road trip. I listened to four hours of it – 30 chapters on 1.8x speed – and I had only finished 34%. I felt exhausted just thinking of continuing, but I pushed forward.

This book was like a never-ending battle that introduced way too many new characters and new storylines, considering it was the final book. I was confused, mixing up the plot, and then just felt myself zoning out… practically not listening to the final couple of hours of the audiobook. I wanted to love it. I wanted it to redeem itself. I hoped the second book was just a fluke and this one would be epic and exciting and romantic like the first one… but it fell flat.

I think I’ll stick with the Strange the Dreamer duology. Meep.

Giving the full trilogy 2 stars as a whole. That first book ROCKED, but… it was downhill from there.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

By V.E. Schwab

Rating: ★★★★★

Synopsis

A Life No One Will Remember. A Story You Will Never Forget.

France, 1714: in a moment of desperation, a young woman makes a Faustian bargain to live forever and is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.

Thus begins the extraordinary life of Addie LaRue, and a dazzling adventure that will play out across centuries and continents, across history and art, as a young woman learns how far she will go to leave her mark on the world.

But everything changes when, after nearly 300 years, Addie stumbles across a young man in a hidden bookstore and he remembers her name.

Buy the book

Book Review

“Do you know how you live three hundred years? she says.
And when he asks how, she smiles. “The same way you live one. A second at a time.”

A little over halfway through reading The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, a friend asked me if I got the hype surrounding it or if I was feeling underwhelmed. I began to explain that while I was certainly not underwhelmed, I hadn’t discovered the elements that created the hype. As I was talking through the plot, I began to realize more and more that I had, in fact, already discovered those elements without even becoming aware of them. They were slowly sinking in and making an impact and I hadn’t noticed until I stated them aloud. But isn’t that what a truly good book should do? Sometimes the impact hits like a train – a really good quote or moment that just stands out above the rest – but other times it just seeps in like a steady IV drip of profound knowledge.

What I loved most about this book wasn’t the beautiful story (though yes, it was hauntingly beautiful), but it was the way it made me FEEL. It was a book of emotions in the form of words. It carried you to new places and made you experience everything Addie, Henry (and even Luc) did as they experienced them. You felt their pain, their joy, and when they were the most emotionally vulnerable, you felt stripped down to your rawest self as well.

Though moments of it were slightly predictable, I didn’t mind. They were written in such a way that while I saw them coming, I also wanted that outcome (and not because the outcome was always “perfect” or “good” but because it was REAL). Yes, this book may have been written about a girl who lived to be 300 years old, trapped in the body of a 23-year-old, but it was still relatable in many ways I wasn’t expecting.

I don’t annotate books. I just can’t make myself take a pen to a book, however, I can see myself wanting to reread this and learn from it (and yes, maybe even annotate) time and again because there’s so much to gain from it. It is one of the most profound books I’ve ever read. Leave it to Schwab to create another pure masterpiece.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - V.E. Schwab

related posts

30 Exciting Book Releases in January 2021 // My Flexible “To Be Read” List for 2021 // The Best Books I Read in 2020

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Have you gotten your hands on any of the books I read in January?


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In: Books, Monthly Wrap-Ups · Tagged: book reviews, January book reviews, January reading wrap-up, reading wrap-up, what i read in january, what i read in january 2021

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Merry Sari
4 years ago

Ahh! I have ‘Instant Karma’ in my TBR – I’m planning to read it in February lol ~ will check the rest and hope to add some titles to my list! Thanks, Steph x

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Merry Sari

I hope you enjoy it a bit more than I did! 🙂

Reply
Brooke Ressell
4 years ago

I haven’t come across any of these yet. I’ll have to add some (or all) of them to my reading list. And I can’t believe how nice the cover art is these days. Books are so beautiful now.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Brooke Ressell

Oh wow, none of them? The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is like the most popular book in the world right now haha! Either way, I hope you get a chance to read some of these in the future.

Reply
Amanda
4 years ago

I LOVED The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo! Wonderful list, thanks for sharing 🙂

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Amanda

It’s an incredible book! So good, I had to write an entire post dedicated to it! 😉

Reply
Ro // A Cup of Kims
4 years ago

You read 12 books already?!! You go, girl! I’m trying to read more for leisure this year and make time for it, starting with a few books I started but never finished. Once I finish that I’m excited to purchase some new ones – including a few I’ve seen recommended in this and a couple of previous posts of yours! The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo looks right up my alley!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Ro // A Cup of Kims

Yep! I plan to read 10 each month, so whatever comes after that is just extra special. And I guess technically I read 13 because I squeezed in a manga on the 31st haha. I hope you enjoy The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. It’s phenomenal!

Reply
Cristina Rosano
4 years ago

I am already in a reading slump, but trying to get out of it ASAP! 12 books is a huge achievement to start the year with the right foot! Instant Karma sounds like a fun read just added it to my TBR! A cour of Wings and Ruin was one of my favourites from ACOTAR and can’t wait to get my hands on “the invisible life of Addie LaRue”. Thanks for sharing x

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Cristina Rosano

Oh my gosh! I hope you’re able to conquer that slump soon. I’ve only experienced one in my life, but it still wasn’t quite the way other people seem to experience it. If you read Instant Karma, I hope you enjoy it a little more than I did. But I definitely recommend Addie LaRue!

Reply
Tanvi Rastogi
4 years ago

I can’t wait to get my hands on “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” from the library. I have only read one book from your list. I just finished The Book Thief last night which left me underwhelmed. Incidentally, my today’s post is also about what I read in Jan 2021 😉

❥ tanvii.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Tanvi Rastogi

It was a truly incredible read. I plan to have a full review of it coming soon. It just impacted me so deeply! Great minds think alike when it comes to blog posts 😉

Reply
Loïne
4 years ago

I will never get tired of reading your blog posts. Your aesthetic is just so cozy…! It’s fantastic that you managed to read 12 books!!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Loïne

Awww thank you, friend! That’s so kind of you! I was definitely encouraged to start the year off like that. I wasn’t expecting to exceed my TBR for the month so quickly haha!

Reply
Neely Moldovan
4 years ago

I really feel like IM in the minority with the seven husbands! Need to check out some of these other books!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Neely Moldovan

You definitely are. I think you’re the only one I’ve known to give it a negative review. But I think we also have very different tastes in books!

Reply
Lee
4 years ago

These sound amazing! I read a book and a half in January and was proud of myself even for that haha. I’m currently half way through Cilka’s Journey and if you’re interested in historical based fiction I highly recommend it!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Lee

That’s definitely something to be proud of! I’ll admit, I’m not a huge fan of historical fiction, but I might need to check that out anyways to see if it piques my interest! 🙂

Reply
Rach
4 years ago

Instant Karma looks so cute! I haven’t read any of these books in January, but you definitely helped add more books to be my TBR list haha!

http://www.rdsobessions.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Rach

It was definitely “cute” though it definitely didn’t live up to the standards I had set for the author’s work. It was pretty juvenile when her other books were amazing and reached a larger crowd. But it was a fun fluff book 🙂

Reply
Taylor
4 years ago

Ah! So many good books. Also your review of Instant Karma reminded me I need to read the Renegades series still! I also just picked up Into the Heartless wood and cannot wait to pick it up!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Taylor

Renegades is where it’s at!!! That’s definitely my favorite of hers. I love the Lunar Chronicles too, but Renegades was on another level in my opinion. I’m SO thrilled you picked up Into the Heartless Wood!!! I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Reply
Reads and Ramblings
4 years ago

So many of these on my tbr that I’m really excited about!!! I was instantly attracted to the cover of All this Time but it sounds like the most cringe and frustrating book. I can’t stand the it was a dream or coma thing eurgh. Waste of such a pretty cover😂

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Reads and Ramblings

The hardest part for me was that I LOVED Five Feet Apart and this was the companion novel. I wanted to love this just as much and it became more frustrating as I read it. Such a bummer.

Reply
Marlene
4 years ago

How did you get through so many in a month?! I haven’t read any of these but will have to add some to my list!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Marlene

I actually recently wrote an entire post about how to read more books. You’ll have to check that out!

Reply
Mykki
4 years ago

That’s a really impressive list.

How did you like Shadow and Bone? I see so many people rave about it, but I’m wondering if it’s truly worth the hype. Let me know your thoughts – if you haven’t blogged a review already! 🙂

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Mykki

Ah, you must have missed the review in this post 😉 It’s right there below the title of the book. The ratings, synopses, and reviews are next to each book photo! Hope this helps!

Reply
Mykki
4 years ago
Reply to  Stephanie Whitman

Definitely missed that, lol. That’s what I get for scrolling through quickly and scribbling down the names of all these books for my own TBR. I’ll go have a look now!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Mykki

Haha, it happens. I try to include the synopses and my reviews in these monthly wrap-up posts so that people can have the information + what I thought about the book all in one place!

Reply
Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication
4 years ago

Shadow and Bone is on my TBR! So glad to see you enjoyed it! I’ve been working a ton lately, but I plan on diving back into reading when ACOSF drops!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication

I hope you get a chance to read it before the show begins! That’s part of why I picked it up. Plus, my booksta bestie is a huge fan and I wanted to see why she loved it so much!

Reply
Emely Turish
4 years ago

Hearing so many good things about Instant Karma, will definitely have to check it out. Thank you for sharing! That’s so amazing that you are able to read so many.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Emely Turish

How interesting! I didn’t love it, but it was alright. Definitely made for younger readers, but I’m sure you were able to catch that in my review 🙂

Reply
Oh to Be a Muse
4 years ago

I feel really lame because I didn’t read any books in January, and I actually really enjoy reading. You’ve inspired me to get back on it.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Oh to Be a Muse

That’s okay! Not everyone is able to read in the same ways. But I’m sure you’ll get to some great books soon!

Reply
rebecca
4 years ago

oh my gosh 12 books!!! I am looking for a new Fantasy Series and I feel like you have the best recs… which is your fave?

xx reb // http://www.rebeccapiersol.me

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  rebecca

OOOOOH you’ve definitely come to the right place. My favorite fantasy series of all time is Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr (I think you read my book club announcement for the first book) and my favorite trilogy is Shades of Magic by V.E. Schwab. Let me know if you need any other recommendations 😉

Reply
Lizzie
4 years ago

Girl, I don’t know how you have time for it all! This is amazing and so inspiring! Looks like you had aa really great reading month!

Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Lizzie

Haha! That’s why I wrote the post on how to read more 🙂 I follow all those tips myself!

Reply
Amanda
4 years ago

12 books?! Holy moly, that is so awesome! I’m so glad you 5-starred Evelyn Hugo, it was one of my favorite reads last year. Out of these I definitely want to check out The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. The story sounds super intriguing and is different than what I would normally read. My challenge this year is to try different books and genres I might not typically reach for.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Amanda

I absolutely recommend Addie LaRue. It was such a great book to read at the end of the month. Very satisfying and emotional! I hope you pick it up soon. Definitely let me know if you ever need a recommendation 😉

Reply
Anna English
4 years ago

I thought the Dash & Lily Netflix series was so cute, maybe I’ll grab the book!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Anna English

That’s why I decided to read the books. Similar to when the “To All the Boys” movies started to come out, I had no clue this was a book series. It’s a great adaptation too! The book is very, very similar!

Reply
Hillary Conheady
4 years ago

You did some great reading this month! Definitely need to check these out!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Hillary Conheady

I did indeed! I actually ended up squeezing in an additional book on the 31st, but I’d already written this post thinking I wouldn’t have time for more books haha!

Reply
Jamaria
4 years ago

Thank you so much for sharing these! I had a really bad start to my reading goal for 2021, but I am going to get it together because there are so many books I want to read!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Jamaria

Awww I’m sorry to hear that. Hopefully you can find some motivation to read soon 🙂

Reply
Helena Marz
4 years ago

Wow 12 books! My goodness! You have so many cool books that I haven’t come across and I will have to check it out!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Helena Marz

Yes indeed! I always set my reading list for 10 books a month and then see how it goes from there. I love reading more than just about anything else, so I prioritize it 🙂

Reply
Deborah
4 years ago

ooh you had a great reading month! I really need to get my hands on Evelyn Hugo! I loved Taylor Jenkins Reid’s other book, Daisy Jones and the Six!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Deborah

Heck yeah! Daisy Jones & The Six was what made me want to read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo! They’re both phenomenal!

Reply
Greta
4 years ago

Wow, 12 books! That’s quite an accomplishment! I need to add Dash & Lily to my list!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Greta

Haha! I set my goal to 10 a month and just see what happens from there. Crazy enough, I actually read 13, but I’d already written up this post and didn’t feel like adding a manga to the list at the last second!

Reply
Caitlin
4 years ago

I always love to see all of the books you read in a month! It must be such an accomplishment – sadly I only made it through one in January but I have higher hopes for Feb haha. My sister just borrowed my Evelyn Hugo book!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Caitlin

I just love reading! I don’t know if anyone considers it an accomplishment when they watch all 22 episodes of a new TV show in a month, right? But it’s the same concept for me. I enjoy reading so much that it’s just… what I do, I guess! 🙂 I do like looking back at the end of the month or at the end of six months or a year and seeing everything I’ve read though, it definitely is fun!

Reply
Venus
4 years ago

I haven’t read any of these books yet, but I’ve heard of Dash & Lily. Surprisingly I still didn’t get a chance to read it. I need to add more books to my list 🙂

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Venus

I didn’t even know it was a book series til after I watched the show. But now I’m glad I’ve read the first book. I’m looking forward to reading the full trilogy soon 🙂

Reply
Carrington | Chaos and Coffee
4 years ago

These all sound so good!! Kudos to you reading 12 books in a month too! I’m lucky if I get 1 in a month, I feel like I’m always so busy going going going! XX.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Carrington | Chaos and Coffee

I know that’s how a lot of people feel. I prioritize reading because I love it more than anything else and I’m lucky to be a fast reader (plus I read multiples at a time, use different formats, yada yada yada…) haha!

Reply
Adaleta Avdic
4 years ago

WOW! 12 books in January?! That is so crazy but I also do understand the appeal of it. I seem to get carried away in projects but I always love to keep it moving with the books. Finally got a Kindle too!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Adaleta Avdic

Actually shhh don’t tell but I read 13. I had just already prepped this post to share and my last book was read entirely on the 31st haha. I love reading and it’s my form of self-care, so I prioritize it 🙂

Reply
Candace Hampton
4 years ago

Sadly I have not read any of these books. Looks like I am going to have to add them or see if they are already on my list and tackle them ASAP. Amazing that you have read so much in such a time crunch. I admire that! It makes me want to challenge myself to see what I can do myself.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
4 years ago
Reply to  Candace Hampton

That’s okay! I certainly don’t try to force the books I read on people – but I want them to see what I thought of the books I have read in case they sound appealing! 🙂

Reply
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Book Review: “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid

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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How many times have you read your favorite book or How many times have you read your favorite book or series? 🤎

I’m a big fan of rereading, so my favorite books are picked up over and over again. I’ve read some of my favorites every single year for the last six years and some I’ve read countless times since childhood (here’s lookin at you, Narnia) 🙈

I love when I find a new book to add to my reread list. What was the last one you added? 🔁

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Are there any book small towns you’d like to liv Are there any book small towns you’d like to live in? 📍

I think I’d sell a kidney to live in Inglewild 😂 Small towns give me such happiness and this one seems especially cozy and filled with so many entertaining people 🙈

I kinda wish this series would last forever, but simultaneously, I just live for ANYTHING BK Borison writes 😍 I adored First Time Caller as well and can’t wait for more of that story to unfold! 📖

Have you read any of this author’s books? 🤎 

—

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Have you already read any of your most anticipated Have you already read any of your most anticipated books this year? 😍

I felt like I was counting down the days to Oathbound and Sunrise on the Reaping—and both of them definitely lived up to my expectations (best feeling ever)! 🙌🏼

Now to fully immerse myself in some of my fantasy ARCs and continue listening to EmHen’s latest! 🤎

Were any of these on your 2025 TBR? 📚

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#readersofinstagram #bookphotography #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookobsessed #cozyreads #bookaesthetic #flatlaylove #readingescape #readingvibes #bookishvibes #booknerd #bookcommunity #booklover cozy read, escapism, book hangover, fantasy world-building, book recs, TBR, reread worthy, late-night chapters, weekend read
Who are some of your favorite book siblings? 📖 Who are some of your favorite book siblings? 📖

I really love getting the chance to see a great sibling dynamic in a book—especially in fantasy, and *especially especially* if they work together! 🤝🏼

Unseelie had the most interesting twins in it and I loved seeing their similarities, their differences, and how they used both throughout the story! 🤎

Have you read this one yet? ✨

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#readersofinstagram #bookphotography #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookobsessed #cozyreads #bookaesthetic #flatlaylove #readingescape #readingvibes #bookishvibes #booknerd #bookcommunity #booklover escapism, book hangover, fantasy world-building, book recs, TBR, reread worthy, late-night chapters, weekend read, comfort book
Have any books taken you by surprise lately, and i Have any books taken you by surprise lately, and if so, which ones? 😳
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I tend not to stray very far from my comfort zone of fantasy and fluffy romance, but I recently read WE’LL PRESCRIBE YOU A CAT, a translated novel about a magical mental health clinic that loans out cats to their patients. 🐈 It was absolutely fantastic in every way and became my first 5-star read of the year (outside of my rereads). 🙌🏼 
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Magical realism has always been a favorite genre of mine, but I usually struggle a lot with translated books. 😅 It was such a treat to immerse myself in this story and I can’t wait to read the sequel soon! 📖
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What was your last 5-star read? ⭐️ 
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozyaesthetic #translatedbooks #magicalrealism #wellprescribeyouacat #berkleybooks books | japanese novel | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Did you discover any new (or new-to-you) authors i Did you discover any new (or new-to-you) authors in the past year? ☕️
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I know they say “don’t judge a book by its cover,” but let’s be real… we all do it! 😂 When I saw the cover for The Lovers, I was instantly obsessed—and then I read the synopsis! I knew I needed it in my life right away, and I wasn’t disappointed. 🤎
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This book is full of self-discovery, sapphic sweetness, and some truly hilarious moments that had me laughing til my stomach hurt. 🙌🏼 I loved every minute of it and about burst into tears when @berkleypub sent me a copy! 🥹
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Rebekah’s storytelling was fantastic and I can’t wait to read her upcoming book, The Sun and the Moon, when it comes out in August! 📖
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Is this a title you’ve picked up or added to your TBR? 📚
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyaesthetic #theloversbook books | sapphic books | queer books | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Are there any series you’re hoping to finish thi Are there any series you’re hoping to finish this year? 📚
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Typically, I’m someone who flies through series and prioritizes finishing them as soon as I possibly can. However, over the last few years, I’ve done a poor job completing all of the series I start, so I’m trying to make it a goal to finish them up! 👏🏼
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Some series that I’ve got on my list to finish:
📖 Girls of Paper and Fire
📖 Legacy of Orïsha (especially with the adaptation news!)
📖 Beasts of Prey
📖 The Inheritance Cycle
📖 The Atlas
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I’ve also got several that I’d like to start… but that’s another story entirely. 🙈
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Have you read any of these? 🤎
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyaesthetic #fantasybooks books | book series | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Tell me just ONE of your auto-buy authors! 🫡
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I read The Charm Offensive a few years ago and instantly fell in love with Alison’s writing and the way the book made me feel so seen. 🥰 
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When I got an ARC of Kiss Her Once for Me, I was thrilled and once again inhaled the book. Yet again, it was a story that made me feel understood. 🥹
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I pretty much sobbed my way through Here We Go Again on audio and immediately purchased a physical copy so I could put myself through both the heartache and deep belly laughing again and again. 😅
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@alisoncochrun is forever and ever going to be an auto-buy author for me. 🤎
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Have you read any of these books? 📚
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyaesthetic #alisoncochrun books | sapphic books | queer books | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
What are five books or five series you find yourse What are five books or five series you find yourself constantly recommending? 🖐🏼
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TODAY IS MY 5TH BOOKSTAVERSARY! ☕️
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In honor of five years in this community, I wanted to share five books and five series I’m always recommending. These are stories that mean so much to me that I just wish everyone I encounter would read and love them too! 🥰
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FIVE STANDALONE BOOKS:
📖 The Nature of Witches
📖 The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
📖 The Midnight Library
📖 The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
📖 Echo North
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FIVE SERIES:
📚 Shadow and Bone
📚 Shades of Magic
📚 The Prison Healer
📚 The All Souls Trilogy
📚 Bright Falls
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I have so many more that I could share, but these are just a few that have made my life a little brighter 🤎
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When is your bookstaversary? 🤔
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #booksbooksbooks #cozyaesthetic #bookstaversary books | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes
Are you planning any rereads this year? 🔁
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Rereading is something that I absolutely love to do. While there are countless new releases to get excited about, there’s something incredibly comforting about revisiting my favorite books. 🥹
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One of my favorite series to reread is SHADES OF MAGIC. Nothing gets me quite as excited and emotional as those opening words: “Kell wore a very peculiar coat…” 🙌🏼 AH! Just writing that makes me anxious to pick up this comfort series again this year. 🙈
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Have you read this phenomenal series? 📚
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#cozyvibes #coffeeandbooks #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #shadesofmagic #cozyaesthetic #adarkershadeofmagic #veschwabfeatures #adsomfeatures #adsom books | v.e. schwab | book flatlay | cozy book aesthetic | book recommendations | coffee and books | cozy vibes | adsom | a darker shade of magic

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