Close your eyes Think about holding a book in you Close your eyes  Think about holding a book in your hands. Feel the pages and the spine. Visualize the cover. Now tell me, what book did you see? πŸ‘€ Was it one you recommend? πŸ₯°
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The first book that popped into my head when I did this exercise was The Charm Offensive! 🫢🏼 This was a combination of me wanting to reread this adorable book that became an instant fave of mine last year πŸ“– thinking about how often I've seen it recommended lately for #PrideMonth (yay!) πŸ³οΈβ€πŸŒˆ and all the pondering I've been doing lately about the fact that I hate reality TV shows but for some reason, love reading books about reality TV shows πŸ˜‚
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Have you read The Charm Offensive or is it on your TBR? πŸŽ₯ 
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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 #thecharmoffensive #lgbtqbooks #queerreads #queerbooks
Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… πŸ€” 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
πŸ“š The Midnight Library
πŸ‚ The Nature of Witches
πŸ–οΈ People We Meet on Vacation
⏳ Early Departures
🐳 Amelia Unabridged
πŸ“– The Bookish Life of Nina Hill
πŸ™οΈ Paper Towns
🎀 Daisy Jones & The Six
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SERIES:
🦌 Shadow and Bone
❣️ Shades of Magic
πŸŽͺ Caraval
🐺 Echo North
🦁 The Chronicles of Narnia
🩷 Heartstopper
😍 The Friend Zone/Part of Your World
β˜•οΈ Legends & Lattes
⛓️ The Prison Healer
πŸ§šπŸ»β€β™€οΈ Wicked Lovely
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How many points did you get? πŸ† 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? πŸ“–
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I've said it before and I'll say it a million more times (πŸ˜…): I don't purchase books unless I've read them first (my few exceptions being sequels for series I love or auto-buy authors) πŸ€·πŸ»β€β™€οΈ Needless to say, I'm pretty picky about which books I DO spend my money on πŸ’³
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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:
β˜•οΈ Legends & Lattes
πŸ•°οΈ In Five Years
🌲 Lost in the Never Woods
πŸ₯€ Girl, Serpent, Thorn
🎀 XOXO
πŸ₯§ Crumbs
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Have you read any of these or are any of them on your TBR? πŸ“š
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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 πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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If you haven't read The Neighbor Favor yet, what are you waiting for? πŸ˜‰ 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 β˜•οΈ 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? πŸ“–
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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? πŸ“š
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I've been starting (and completing) a lot of series this year πŸ™ŒπŸΌ Admittedly, half of them are rereads, but they still count, right? πŸ˜…
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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
πŸ¦β€β¬› Six of Crows
πŸ‚ Heartstopper (up to date)
πŸ¦ΈπŸ»β€β™€οΈ Renegades
 
Series I've finished this year (not rereads):
πŸ’š The Green Bone Saga
πŸ₯° Jansen Brothers
🌲 Lovelight Farms
πŸ” Truly Devious (trilogy - still working on the continuations)
πŸ«– The Tea Dragon Society
πŸ§šπŸΌβ€β™€οΈ These Hollow Vows
πŸƒ The Cardplay Duology
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I've also started several more, but I'm most proud of the ones I've completed βœ… There's something so satisfying about finishing a series, don't you think? πŸ˜‚
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Have you read any of these yet? πŸ“–
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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
CafΓ© reading dates just hit different β˜•οΈπŸ“– CafΓ© reading dates just hit different β˜•οΈπŸ“–

Dress is from @renttherunway and I literally never want to take it off πŸ™ˆ Get 40% off TWO MONTHS of an RTR Membership for their 10, 15, or 20-item plan with code RENT0E33DC πŸ’ƒπŸ»

Woodmark and tote from @theseasonalpages and I’m absolutely obsessed with it πŸ”– 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? βš”οΈ
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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 πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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Some of my favorite completed adult fantasy series:
πŸ’š The Green Bone Saga (Jade City, Jade War, Jade Legacy)
πŸ§›πŸ»β€β™‚οΈ 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? πŸ“š
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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? πŸ“–
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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 πŸ‘ŒπŸΌ
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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! πŸ“š 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! πŸ’š
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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? β˜•οΈ
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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)? πŸ“Š
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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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β˜•οΈ Personal favorite reads (not counting rereads):
Begin Again, Legends & Lattes, Happy Place
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β˜•οΈ Favorite new-to-me authors:
Angie Thomas, Maureen Johnson
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β˜•οΈ Favorite authors revisited:
Leigh Bardugo, V.E. Schwab, Marissa Meyer, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Emily Henry
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β˜•οΈ Books that made me laugh (not counting rereads):
Funny Feelings, Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, Happy Place 
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β˜•οΈ 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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β˜•οΈ Currently reading:
If the Shoe Fits, These Twisted Bonds, Crumbs
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β˜•οΈ 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
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Books, Reviews · January 29, 2021

Book Review: β€œThe Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid

mug of coffee with the seven husbands of evelyn hugo book open in foreground
the seven husbands of evelyn hugo by taylor jenkins reid book with fluffy blanket and mug of coffee
hand pouring coffee from french press into mug with the seven husbands of evelyn hugo book open in foreground
the seven husbands of evelyn hugo book next to multiple blankets and a mug of black coffee

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a melodramatic and salacious tale filled with Old Hollywood glamour and twist you’ll never see coming.

I listened to the audiobook for Daisy Jones & The Six in 2020 and was absolutely blown away. Not only has that novel taken the spot of my favorite audiobook ever, but it was also a brilliant story (review can be found here). I knew I wanted to listen to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo to compare and contrast the author’s work along with the audiobook quality.

This was such an easy read because it was really dramatic and entertaining. Almost like… listening to a movie? The day that I took down all of my Christmas decorations, I had this blasting through my speakers to keep me company. Let me tell you, I didn’t even realize how much time had passed when everything was in boxes and put away. I was thoroughly enjoying myself!

Let me tell you just why this book is so grand.


related posts

Book Review: The Midnight Library // Book Review: Early Departures // Book Review: Into the Heartless Wood

hand pouring coffee from french press into mug with the seven husbands of evelyn hugo book open in foreground

Why You Should Read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Below you can find my full and honest review. [TW: suicide, substance abuse, drug use, infidelity, abusive relationships]

β€œIt’s always been fascinating to me how things can be simultaneously true and false, how people can be good and bad all in one, how someone can love you in a way that is beautifully selfless while serving themselves ruthlessly.”

the seven husbands of evelyn hugo

“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 unfoldsβ€”revealing a ruthless ambition, an unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden loveβ€”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.” (Goodreads Synopsis)

This story was incredible. From the second I began listening until the last few lines in the book, I was on the edge of my seat. Reid clearly knows how to write a furiously intoxicating leading lady. Although, I can’t be sure I’d even give the title of “lady” to Evelyn Hugo. She was monstrous in so many ways, but she admits to that early on, without any regrets. Or so it seems.

I found myself totally baffled as to why she hired nobody-journalist, Monique, to write her whole life into a really entertaining – though potentially unflattering – memoir. We learn some terrible secrets about Evelyn in the last few chapters of the book. Secrets that had me literally gasping with shock and turning to anybody to scream, “THAT PLOT TWIST!” This is when we learn how unabashedly ballsy Evelyn truly was and what she thinks of herself in her later years. Do we learn who her true love was? Yes, yes we do – but it’s not who you might think.

Was this book better than Daisy Jones? That was the question I was asked many times upon finishing it. I can’t be certain of the answer. It held similar elements of drama, lust, spite, and betrayal. It was definitely different enough to be on its own plane of existence, however. I have given them both five-star ratings. If you’re curious which is better, I’d just say to read them yourself, but don’t be surprised if you feel the same way as I do: that they’re equally INCREDIBLE but also very different from each other. Oh – and they’ll make your head spin.

Side note about the narration: it didn’t have a full cast as Daisy Jones did, but it didn’t need one. There weren’t nearly as many POVs to follow, so I think it was well done, though not quite as epic of a performance.


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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
the seven husbands of evelyn hugo by taylor jenkins reid book with fluffy blanket and mug of coffee

Have you read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or any of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s other books?


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In: Books, Reviews · Tagged: book recommendations, book review, Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

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54 Comments
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Claudia
2 years ago

Let me guess — she hired Monique because she’s in love with her! Masking her sexuality because of being in the public eye… I don’t know why I thought this book was about someone in the 1700s but clearly I was far off. The 20s are my favourite!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Claudia

Hahaha that would be quite the plot twist (especially considering the really massive age-difference), but it’s not even close! πŸ˜‰ You’ll just have to read the book to find out what the plot twist actually is!

Reply
Caitlin
2 years ago

AH! I had to skim your review because I have this book just waiting to be read on my bedside table – from the looks of it you enjoyed it and I really hope I do too! Always love your book reviews πŸ™‚

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Caitlin

Oh, there are no spoilers! I would’ve mentioned that at the beginning if there were πŸ™‚ But I do hope you enjoy the book. It’s incredible!

Reply
Tanvi Rastogi
2 years ago

I had read it last year. While I really enjoyed the story and the bold/strong characters I felt the ending was rushed and the twist was a little incomplete. But a great read nonetheless.

β₯ tanvii.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Tanvi Rastogi

I’m so sorry to hear that you didn’t prefer the ending. I thought it was well-done (clearly), but everyone is entitled to their own opinions, of course! πŸ™‚

Reply
Katie
2 years ago

I keep meaning to read this book, heard such great things about it!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Katie

Well, clearly I love it and highly recommend it, so you can just add my “great things” to your list πŸ˜‰

Reply
Lucy
2 years ago

This book sounds like it has a lovely story and I like the sound of the main characters also! x

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

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lucy

It’s certainly a good book, but I wouldn’t say it’s very “lovely” as it’s a super intense and dramatic plot!

Reply
Kim
2 years ago

I just finished a book and was a looking for a new one to read. I just added this one to my list! Thanks for the recommendation…It sounds right up my alley!

xoxo,
Kim

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Kim

Oooh glad my blog post could come at the perfect time! I highly recommend this one! It’s a phenomenal story.

Reply
Raji
2 years ago

Sounds like you really enjoyed this book! I keep meaning to read it and I’m hoping to get to it in the next couple of months. Great review!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Raji

It’s amazing! Such a great story with a phenomenal plot twist that I totally wasn’t expecting (and I’m the type of person to see a plot twist coming from a mile away)!

Reply
Mykki
2 years ago

Oooh, I bet good money I could figure out the plot twist in the first few chapters! I’ve already got some ideas but I won’t say them here in case I accidentally spoil it for anyone…

I thought, from the title, this would be a boring, average piece of literary fiction – but if its pace is like a Hollywood drama this might be worth checking out!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Mykki

See, that’s exactly how I usually am. I figure out the plot twist immediately, so I was shocked that this one surprised me as much as it did. I definitely wasn’t expecting it (and I’m the type of annoying person to be able to know a plot twist at the beginning of a series)! Haha! I hope you do read it πŸ™‚

Reply
Lizzie
2 years ago

This book sounds totally up my alley! I love stories that take place in certain time periods. Putting this on my list!!

Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lizzie

Aaaand it’s a great audiobook, so it’ll work perfectly if you decide to try those out at some point πŸ™‚

Reply
LoΓ―ne
2 years ago

This review was incredible!!! You got me all high hopes for this book and I hope it will match my expectations!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  LoΓ―ne

I sure hope that you end up loving it as much as I did!

Reply
Lee
2 years ago

LOVE a good book with a complex, strong leading lady!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lee

Me too! Evelyn is certainly that. I loved her and hated her all at once (with lots of other emotions in-between haha)

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Taylor
2 years ago

I LOVED Daisy Jones (one of my top books of 2020) and I need to listen to this one. Putting the audio on hold from my library right now so I can listen to it soon!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Taylor

Daisy Jones was one of my top picks for 2020 and my favorite audiobook of all time! I definitely think if you enjoyed that you’ll enjoy this one too!!

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Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication
2 years ago

This sounds like a really interesting book! I may have to check it out! Also, I’ve only ever listened to one audiobook in my life. This review definitely makes me want to listen to more!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication

Oh my gosh! I love audiobooks with my whole heart, but I only try to recommend ones that are really well-done. This one has a great performance (not quite like Daisy Jones & The Six, but still good) and the story is AMAZING.

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Rach
2 years ago

This book has been on my TBR list for awhile now. I still need to read it! For sure will need to be read asap!

http://www.rdsobsessions.com

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Rach

Oh my gosh! Yes, you definitely do need to read it! It’s so good!

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Mica
2 years ago

It sounds like an interesting book and it’s great you enjoyed it, although with those warnings it might be a bit too heavy for me! I got a book from the opshop once and was really enjoying it then right near the end one of the characters died and I was in tears! I had a horrible sleep that night, as I read before bed, it wasn’t the kind of relaxing unwinding read I needed, haha!

Hope that you are having a good weekend πŸ™‚ Another hot one here!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Mica

That’s totally understandable. I’m very sensitive, especially to triggers related to death/suicide, but this book did a really good job of handling those elements. If you ever do check it out, let me know what you think. You might be pleasantly surprised.

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Alexis Gauthier
2 years ago

I’m so glad that you loved this! It seems like a lot of people love it, so maybe it’s finally time I give it a try? I’m always nervous with hyped up adult novels since I usually stick with YA!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Alexis Gauthier

I can relate to that! Up until last year, I pretty much never read adult fiction, but TJR’s books have both been winners so far and I plan to read more of her work in the future. They’re just so well-written.

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Stephani
2 years ago

This sounds so intriguing!!! She hires Monique bc moniques husband left her for Evelyn?!?! Haha!! I’ll have to read/listen to this one!!

Xo, Steph

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Stephani

Haha! It’s fun to see what people think the plot twist is going to be before they read it. Now you definitely need to read to find out if you’re right or wrong πŸ˜‰

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Rebevca
2 years ago

I read this one before I read Daisy Jones and I have to say I liked it better! It might be because Evelyn Hugo was for a book club and we had such fun discussing it. Love them both but this book just really got me for so many reasons!

Xx Reb // http://www.rebeccapiersol.me

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Rebevca

I’m glad you enjoyed it! It’s such a great book. I can definitely see why it would be fun for a book club!

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Deborah
2 years ago

I’m on the waitlist at the library for this book because, like you, I REALLY loved Daisy Jones and the Six! I can’t wait to read it!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Deborah

Ooh I hope you enjoy this when you read it! Let me know what you think of the plot twist πŸ˜‰

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Sarah
2 years ago

I read this book and loved it too! I thought it was very well done and quite different from any book I’ve read before. I loved how it went back and forth from the two different point of views. And I did not see that plot twist coming until a little before it was revealed!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Sarah

It’s certainly a unique book. The author does an amazing job writing creative and dramatic stories. Have you also read Daisy Jones & The Six?

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Greta
2 years ago

I love all your book reviews. Adding this to my library list!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Greta

I hope you love it when you do get a chance to read it. It’s phenomenal! And I highly recommend Daisy Jones & The Six as well πŸ™‚

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Anita
2 years ago

This seems like a really good book to read. I like the title and the plot. It seems interesting.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Anita

It’s a wonderful book and clearly, I highly recommend it πŸ˜‰ I hope you do check it out in the near future.

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Jenny in Neverland
2 years ago

I haven’t read this book or anything from this author actually but I’ve heard SUCH great things so I’m definitely going to be adding it to my TBR list. I might treat myself for Valentine’s Day πŸ™‚ xxx

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Jenny in Neverland

There’s a reason it’s so hyped. I’m not usually one to love a hyped book, if I’m honest, but this one lives up to it! I hope you do treat yourself!

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Katie
2 years ago

How have I not heard of this book? It sounds amazing!

Katie | katieemmabeauty.com

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Katie

I’m not sure! It’s really popular! But now I understand why – it’s seriously phenomenal. I definitely recommend it.

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Amanda
2 years ago

This was one of my absolute favorite reads from last year. The plot twist (twists?!) was so good and it was a well-written book all around. I’m looking forward to reading Daisy Jones as I heard that is an excellent read as well.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Amanda

I’m so glad you enjoyed it! It’s such an incredible book and so beautifully written. If you liked this, you’re definitely going to love Daisy Jones & The Six (I highly HIGHLY recommend the audiobook for that one)!

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Jennifer L Prince
2 years ago

I need to check into this! I love it when an audiobook can do the real book justice – sometimes audiobooks can be boring, but this sounds so good. So does Daisy Jones & The Six – I need to listen to them both!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Jennifer L Prince

I’m a huge fan of audiobooks and rarely find them boring. However, some are just far superior to others! Daisy Jones was definitely in the superior category, but Evelyn Hugo was just an all-around excellent book! I think it’d be great to enjoy in any format!

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Gail
2 years ago

Added this to my to-read list this year! I’ll also check out the audiobook. Tbh, I never tried audiobooks because I think it will make my mind wander while listening to it. But I was hooked when you said it seems like listening to a movie! Thank you for sharing this. πŸ™‚

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Gail

Audiobooks are phenomenal – but I know they can be challenging for some people. I highly recommend this one and Daisy Jones & The Six (my favorite audiobook EVER and often compared to a podcast) if you’re looking to get into audiobooks at all.

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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Close your eyes Think about holding a book in you Close your eyes  Think about holding a book in your hands. Feel the pages and the spine. Visualize the cover. Now tell me, what book did you see? πŸ‘€ Was it one you recommend? πŸ₯°
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The first book that popped into my head when I did this exercise was The Charm Offensive! 🫢🏼 This was a combination of me wanting to reread this adorable book that became an instant fave of mine last year πŸ“– thinking about how often I've seen it recommended lately for #PrideMonth (yay!) πŸ³οΈβ€πŸŒˆ and all the pondering I've been doing lately about the fact that I hate reality TV shows but for some reason, love reading books about reality TV shows πŸ˜‚
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Have you read The Charm Offensive or is it on your TBR? πŸŽ₯ 
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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 #thecharmoffensive #lgbtqbooks #queerreads #queerbooks
Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… Let’s see how similar our tastes are in books… πŸ€” 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
πŸ“š The Midnight Library
πŸ‚ The Nature of Witches
πŸ–οΈ People We Meet on Vacation
⏳ Early Departures
🐳 Amelia Unabridged
πŸ“– The Bookish Life of Nina Hill
πŸ™οΈ Paper Towns
🎀 Daisy Jones & The Six
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SERIES:
🦌 Shadow and Bone
❣️ Shades of Magic
πŸŽͺ Caraval
🐺 Echo North
🦁 The Chronicles of Narnia
🩷 Heartstopper
😍 The Friend Zone/Part of Your World
β˜•οΈ Legends & Lattes
⛓️ The Prison Healer
πŸ§šπŸ»β€β™€οΈ Wicked Lovely
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How many points did you get? πŸ† 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? πŸ“–
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I've said it before and I'll say it a million more times (πŸ˜…): I don't purchase books unless I've read them first (my few exceptions being sequels for series I love or auto-buy authors) πŸ€·πŸ»β€β™€οΈ Needless to say, I'm pretty picky about which books I DO spend my money on πŸ’³
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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:
β˜•οΈ Legends & Lattes
πŸ•°οΈ In Five Years
🌲 Lost in the Never Woods
πŸ₯€ Girl, Serpent, Thorn
🎀 XOXO
πŸ₯§ Crumbs
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Have you read any of these or are any of them on your TBR? πŸ“š
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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 πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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If you haven't read The Neighbor Favor yet, what are you waiting for? πŸ˜‰ 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 β˜•οΈ 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? πŸ“–
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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? πŸ“š
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I've been starting (and completing) a lot of series this year πŸ™ŒπŸΌ Admittedly, half of them are rereads, but they still count, right? πŸ˜…
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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
πŸ¦β€β¬› Six of Crows
πŸ‚ Heartstopper (up to date)
πŸ¦ΈπŸ»β€β™€οΈ Renegades
 
Series I've finished this year (not rereads):
πŸ’š The Green Bone Saga
πŸ₯° Jansen Brothers
🌲 Lovelight Farms
πŸ” Truly Devious (trilogy - still working on the continuations)
πŸ«– The Tea Dragon Society
πŸ§šπŸΌβ€β™€οΈ These Hollow Vows
πŸƒ The Cardplay Duology
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I've also started several more, but I'm most proud of the ones I've completed βœ… There's something so satisfying about finishing a series, don't you think? πŸ˜‚
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Have you read any of these yet? πŸ“–
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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
CafΓ© reading dates just hit different β˜•οΈπŸ“– CafΓ© reading dates just hit different β˜•οΈπŸ“–

Dress is from @renttherunway and I literally never want to take it off πŸ™ˆ Get 40% off TWO MONTHS of an RTR Membership for their 10, 15, or 20-item plan with code RENT0E33DC πŸ’ƒπŸ»

Woodmark and tote from @theseasonalpages and I’m absolutely obsessed with it πŸ”– 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? βš”οΈ
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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 πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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Some of my favorite completed adult fantasy series:
πŸ’š The Green Bone Saga (Jade City, Jade War, Jade Legacy)
πŸ§›πŸ»β€β™‚οΈ 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? πŸ“š
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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? πŸ“–
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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 πŸ‘ŒπŸΌ
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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! πŸ“š 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! πŸ’š
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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? β˜•οΈ
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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)? πŸ“Š
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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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β˜•οΈ Personal favorite reads (not counting rereads):
Begin Again, Legends & Lattes, Happy Place
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β˜•οΈ Favorite new-to-me authors:
Angie Thomas, Maureen Johnson
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β˜•οΈ Favorite authors revisited:
Leigh Bardugo, V.E. Schwab, Marissa Meyer, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Emily Henry
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β˜•οΈ Books that made me laugh (not counting rereads):
Funny Feelings, Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, Happy Place 
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β˜•οΈ 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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β˜•οΈ Currently reading:
If the Shoe Fits, These Twisted Bonds, Crumbs
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β˜•οΈ 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:
πŸ«– 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.
πŸ” 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 πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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Have you read any of my April favorites? πŸ“š
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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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