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 18, 2021

Book Review: β€œThe Midnight Library” by Matt Haig

the midnight library by matt haig book open with french press coffee and cozy blankets
the midnight library by matt haig book open with french press coffee and cozy blankets
the midnight library by matt haig book open with french press coffee and cozy blankets
the midnight library by matt haig book open with french press coffee and cozy blankets

I picked up The Midnight Library without much information about the plot. Little did I know that it would be one of the most life-changing books I’ve ever read.

You know those books that just stick with you, long after you’ve finished reading them and moved on to other books? The Midnight Library has done that for me. It instantly became one of my favorite books of 2020, but it went deeper than that. This book really rearranged my perspective and made me appreciate my life.

I realized after reading this book that the author, Matt Haig, is quite well known for some of his other books, including Reasons to Stay Alive and the incredibly quotable How to Stop Time. Let me state right now that I have every intention of gobbling up the rest of his books as soon as I possibly can.

Let me tell you why The Midnight Library was so devastatingly life-changing.


related posts
Book Review: Midnight Sun // Book Review: Early Departures // Book Review: Into the Heartless Wood

Why You Should Read The Midnight Library

Below you can find my full and honest review. *TW for my own review: suicide/depression

β€œThe only way to learn is to live”

The Midnight Library

“Somewhere out beyond the edge of the universe there is a library that contains an infinite number of books, each one the story of another reality. One tells the story of your life as it is, along with another book for the other life you could have lived if you had made a different choice at any point in your life. While we all wonder how our lives might have been, what if you had the chance to go to the library and see for yourself? Would any of these other lives truly be better? Nora Seed finds herself faced with this decision. Faced with the possibility of changing her life for a new one, following a different career, undoing old breakups, realizing her dreams of becoming a glaciologist; she must search within herself as she travels through the Midnight Library to decide what is truly fulfilling in life, and what makes it worth living in the first place.” (Goodreads Synopsis)

In high school, during what I believed to be the height of my depression, I read It’s Kind of a Funny Story. I had never felt so seen. It made what I was going through feel less bizarre and more normalized and it also gave me hope for what was to come. Little did I know that depression would follow me into adulthood and suicide would be something I wouldn’t just contemplate but I would also attempt more than once.

I’m entering my late twenties now, happily married, approaching six years of self-employment for a dream career. I could continue to list all the good in my life, but what I’m working towards saying is that I still struggle with depression. It hangs like a cloud above me and sometimes the littlest things feel like the worst things. I promise… this is leading up to something great!

I sobbed my way through The Midnight Library because it was like I was seen all over again, but from a new perspective. I had seen a few negative reviews of this book prior to actually getting it for myself, but after reading it, I realized that the negative reviewers must have never experienced a lick of depression in their life, because this book hit all of it right on the nose. It depicted the hopeless feelings and general lack of caring that many depressed individuals experience. However, it also did a phenomenal job walking the reader through just why it’s so important to continue actively working to live! My gosh, the redemption alone made me grateful that I read this book. I’ve never been so thankful for the way a book highlighted WHY and HOW living is the best choice.

I caution those who are depressed/experience suicidal thoughts before reading this. I only do so because it can be triggering, especially if you’re currently in a low state. Simultaneously, I also want to shove it in the face of every person who is depressed or having suicidal thoughts because my GOSH it made me cherish my life all over again and I think it can do the same for so many others.

This isn’t a self-help book, but it will help. It will help those who have walked under this dark cloud and it will help those who need to know how to walk through it with others.


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The Midnight Library

Have you read The Midnight Library or any of Matt Haig’s other books?


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the midnight library by matt haig book open with french press coffee and cozy blankets
the midnight library by matt haig book open with french press coffee and cozy blankets

In: Books, Reviews · Tagged: book recommendations, book review, Matt Haig, mental health rep books, The Midnight Library, The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

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37 Comments
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Lucy
2 years ago

This sounds like an amazing read, I’m yet to read one of Matt Haig’s books but I’m sure I will soon! x

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

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lucy

It was absolutely phenomenal. Definitely tricky for me to read at times due to the triggering aspects of it. Simultaneously, it was SO HELPFUL because it gave me a new perspective that really made a difference in my life. I’m truly grateful for it.

Reply
Tori Long
2 years ago

Lovely review. I’m definitely adding this to my reading list.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Tori Long

I’m hoping that you not only add it to your reading list but that you actually read it (it can be so easy to add and then forget about a book). It’s incredibly impactful and I think you will love it.

Reply
Lizzie
2 years ago

Aww! This honestly gave me chills! You are not alone at all and I’m so happy that this book ended up being so much more than just that. You are amazing!! Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I’ve totally been there and I know that this is going to help a lot of people <3

Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lizzie

I definitely wasn’t expecting it to be such an emotional read. I kinda got it because the title sounded fun to me. Little did I know that it would impact me in the way that it did. It was certainly triggering at times, but in the long run, I’m so grateful that I read it because it has now become one of my all-time favorites. I think I could continue to learn something new from it with each read.

Reply
Sarah
2 years ago

I have read a few reviews on this book but I have to say yours resonated with me the most and now I am convinced I have to read this book. I will have to snag a copy and read it as soon as possible.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Sarah

That honestly means so much to me. I’m glad that sharing my own personal story (however “nutshell” that version was) made an impact on you in this way. I look forward to hearing your thoughts once you’ve read the book!

Reply
Claudia Amendola Alzraa
2 years ago

I’m not sure if you know, but I have PTSD and went through EMDR therapy to combat my trauma and to heal my chronic anxiety and depression. The only weird thing is that I now have difficulty relating to books like this (because the memory no longer feels like my own). But everyone is so touched by this book and I know I’ll find that, too. So it stays on my wishlist!!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Claudia Amendola Alzraa

I definitely wasn’t aware of that and I need to just tell you that I admire you so much. Going through any kind of traumatic recovery process is daunting and extensive, so knowing that you’ve come out swinging is incredible to me. I can imagine that experiencing that disconnect is a little strange, but I know that you will still understand and be touched by the importance of the message in this book. I look forward to hearing what you think when you do read it!

Reply
Katrina
2 years ago

I’ve heard really great things about this book and would love to read it!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Katrina

For good reason. This book is excellent and if you’ve experienced any sort of mental health struggle in your life, I’m sure it will be all the more impactful. I know that was the case for myself.

Reply
Lauren
2 years ago

Thank you for sharing such a detailed review. It is great that you have warned people that it could be triggering before they buy it. I have seen matt haig being mentioned before. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Lauren

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lauren

It was really important to me to include the trigger/content warning because none of the other reviews I’ve read in the past have included that and I know it was triggering to me, but it could affect others at a higher intensity. Matt Haig is an excellent author. I’m looking forward to reading his other books!

Reply
Kelly Diane
2 years ago

I’ve heard so many good things about The Midnight Library. You’ve written such a great review. I feel like I really need to read this book myself.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Kelly Diane

I’m so glad you enjoyed reading the review. I hope it has prompted you to read it. It’s an incredible book and I think you’ll really like it!

Reply
Jennifer Prince
2 years ago

I love it when an author can express themselves and allow their readers to connect like that. I’m sure they never will realize the impact they will have and the freedom they will give their readers. Such a great thing to consider with everything we write!

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Jennifer Prince

I knew very little about the author prior to reading the book and after finishing it, I went and did some research. He’s an amazing person with quite a life story. I’m really grateful for his vulnerability and the way he uses his own experiences to weave such beautiful tales. This book was certainly impactful!

Reply
Lauryn Hock
2 years ago

This book sounds so therapeutic. I may just have to pick up a copy for myself.

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lauryn Hock

Therapeutic is a good description. I think it could be for those who want to find beauty in life after struggling to see it for some time. It certainly opened my own eyes. I’m really grateful for the impact it had on me, personally.

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Amanda
2 years ago

Wonderful review! It sounds so good, and your review makes me want to read it!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Amanda

I’m glad to hear that! I always hope that my reviews inspire others to read the books I’m sharing.

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Charity
2 years ago

This is such a great book review. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts about it.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Charity

Thank you for the encouragement! I hope you get a chance to read it πŸ™‚

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Lily
2 years ago

I recently saw someone else recommend this book on IG. Sounds so deep! I have never experienced depression, but know so many people who have. I’m so glad this book made you feel seen and you found it so helpful too.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lily

You’re one of the lucky ones, friend! It’s a terrible thing to walk through, but reading books like this make me feel less alone, and they also inspire me to create a better future for myself with a brighter outlook. I’m grateful for the way they affect me!

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Stephani
2 years ago

Thank you so much for sharing this! Nice to have found a book without any expectations and then to be life changing. That’s amazing! I’ll have to look into this book

Xo, Steph

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Stephani

It’s a really special experience to go into reading a book without knowing much and then having it blow you away. That’s definitely what happened here. I’m grateful for the fact that I did read it and for the way it changed my life!

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Greta
2 years ago

I’ve never read the book or heard of the author. But definitely going to add this to my reading list now!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Greta

I hope so! It was one of the most impactful books I’ve ever read. I know it’ll make a world of difference for others as well.

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Annie
2 years ago

I just want to start off by saying that I am SO thankful you’re still here with us, Stephanie! You are such a kind, wonderful person and I cherish our friendship, even if it is only online and through our blogs. You’re a strong, intelligent woman and I’m thankful to know you! I love reading your book reviews, because I can tell how strong your passion for literature is, and that you love what you do. Plus, they always make me interested in books I either wouldn’t have thought I’d like, or didn’t know of until I read your reviews.

This book sounds like yet another book you’ve read I need to add to my reading list!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Annie

I can’t even begin to express how much I appreciate this genuine, heartfelt comment, Annie. Thank you so much for the kindness you’ve shown me. I’m thankful that I’m still here as well (and if you had told me I’d feel this way even 7 years ago, I wouldn’t have believed you). I’m thankful for books like these that continue to give me a fresh perspective and change the way I think about life. It’s incredible how books can mean so much, isn’t it? Literature makes such an impact! Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement. I’m sending you a GIANT virtual hug right now!

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Lydia
2 years ago

Thanks for sharing, this definitely sounds like a book I should pick up. Dealing with depression often feels like an unending battle, but there is some comfort in knowing so many others share the same struggles and still manage to build amazing lives for themselves.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lydia

It absolutely does feel that way. It’s like trudging through mud that never goes away. And that’s a light description, as I’m sure you’re aware. I’m grateful for authors who put things into perspective and give me new reasons to love life.

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kileen
2 years ago

this looks like a great book that I need to add to my list! I definitely get a bit down emotionally as well during this time of year and think this book would really help me as well.

kileen
cute & little

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  kileen

I guess it would also provide a new perspective for those who experience seasonal depression, but I will say that it’s far more in-depth and focuses a bit more on heavier trauma and suicide. If that’s something that doesn’t affect you negatively while reading, I highly suggest it.

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Gayle
7 months ago

I found this review after doing a search to see if anyone has explored why some people love this book and find it inspiring, while others absolutely hate it and call it trite garbage. I’m one of the ones who loves it, and I think you are correct in your assessment that “negative reviewers must have never experienced a lick of depression in their life,” That’s the conclusion I’ve been coming to. I made the mistake of recommending it for a book club meeting and I was the only one who appreciated it. Everyone else trashed it and that left me feeling a little despondent. Now I know that the book is definitely not for everybody, just those that need the message in it. Thanks for your review.

Reply
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The Best Books I Read in 2020

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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