Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Gobble It Up! | November 2025 Monthly Favorites

 How fast has this year gone by? Too fast if you ask me! Anyways, this month has been a bit better mentally, emotionally & physically. Celebrated another trip around the sun & had a lot of good reading happening, too. But without further ado, let's get into the monthly favorites because that's what we are here for am I right?



November, you were good to me!


Favorite Music (had a good mix of different types of rock this month):


Favorite Coffee and / or Tea:


Favorite Body Care and / or Skincare product:


Favorite Workout Videos:


Favorite Book(s) I've Read and / or listened to as an audiobook via Spotify:

  • Dear Reader by Tate James (library pick): My first experience with dark romance and it was a solid read! We were getting the mushy-gushy-spicy (yes I did say that- it does go there in spots just wanted to warn others of that by the way) stuff and then we learned of this mystery that happened on this university from this one girl's POV that endured it. The buildup of the mystery aspect was well done- curious to what the next two will touch on... yes I did say two more in the series. However, the one big pinpoint with this read I didn't love: the childish things that occurred in the book plus some of the wording placement with the writing (even it though it was good) confused me a bit at times. That pinpoint didn't stop me from enjoying it- also funny in bits, too. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dear-reader-tate-james/1146486862?ean=9781464237072

  • His & Hers by Alice Feeney (library pick): This is my 3rd book of Feeney's and it was so satisfyingly good! It was told in two POVs- Jack & Anna- and already loved the concept of that. The story had a great gradual buildup of the murders occurring throughout the book. Some murders were not for the faint of heart so do look up trigger warnings beforehand (surprisingly didn't bother me too much but I wanted to keep that in mind for anyone else). The killer's POV? So interesting... We thought it was one person then another person then we we found out the actual killer itself (plus some answers I was trying to figure out the whole book). That made my jaw drop! The writing in this book was also well done! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/his-hers-alice-feeney/1131637405?ean=9781250266095

  • The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark: This book was surprisingly good- only slight thing I nitpicked at was the up-and-down buildup it gave- but really liked the writing in it and the mystery-thriller vibes were there (even if it wasn't a super twisty kinda thriller). The past character POVs were well done and I was a bit surprised on who actually did it! The father-daughter dynamics played out nicely (especially the genres' it was coming from). I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-ghostwriter-julie-clark/1146182029?ean=9781464221286

  • She Didn't See It Coming by Shari Lapena: This was my first read of Lapena's and I throughouly enjoyed it! The story took us on so many twists and turns I didn't see coming (as it usually is with these mystery-thriller reads) plus I was invested in everything going on! I usually don't always feel invested in stories of this genre sometimes. Anyways, there was one interconnected case within the story that never got a proper answer but I could overlook it as cases usually never get proper answers nor solved really. Will definitely look more into Lapena's books that's for sure! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/she-didnt-see-it-coming-shari-lapena/1146487206?ean=9780593832448

  • The French Honeymoon by Anne Sophie-Jouhanneau: This was a wonderful, wild, and twisty thriller- didn't see much of the twists coming- but one of the characters' we were following in the book, Cassie, was the most unsympathetic selfish characters I've ever known in a fictionalized book. It was one of the main things I only nitpicked at with this read. But still liked it overall! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-french-honeymoon-anne-sophie-jouhanneau/1145847152?ean=9781464229404

  • We Could Be Rats by Emily Austin: This was my 2nd read of Emily's and it didn't disappoint! I enjoyed the writing & humor in this story- plus the connections we got by the end of the book, too. We need more stories like this in the world that's for sure! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/we-could-be-rats-emily-austin/1145681956?ean=9781668058145

  • The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin: Why do I love books about books? I don't know why but I did with this read. We meet A.J. Of whose bookshop isn't doing so great and recently lost someone important to him plus hasn't been taking the best care of himself. He is greeted by a little girl named Maya and the note attached to it says it's A.J.'s and he's got to straightened himself out. He meets Amelia, of who he didn't get on the right foot with at first, and then something between them overtime blossoms. A.J. Has a sister in law of who is unhappy in her marriage and she eventually meets someone new within the story. A.J. Is given a prognosis and isn't sure on how long he has to live. By the end, I noticed A.J.'s impact he had on others even if he had a hard time seeing it at first. Definitely enjoyed the humor, love, and the surprise twists I didn't see coming. Very much liked this one! I'll link it; https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-storied-life-of-a-j-fikry-gabrielle-zevin/1116395251?ean=9781643753614

  • Her One Regret by Donna Freitas (November 2025 BOTM Read): This told a solid story on all aspects of motherhood- both good & bad parts. It definitely will spark some conversations that's for sure! Very character driven story & wasn't expecting some of those plot twists either. However, I only had one main issue with the story: Julia, one of our female main characters' we followed in the book, had a neighbor situation that I felt didn't connect to the main story we were reading about. But enjoyed the book overall! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/her-one-regret-donna-freitas/1146800103?ean=9781641296380

  • Night Watcher by Daphne Woolscroft: This was the most chilling, atmospheric, unsettling and edge of your seat read! We meet our FMC, Nola, of who witnessed an harrowing encounter when she was 8 years old seeing her own babysitter killed. The killer happened to be known as The Hiding Man; she's lived in fear ever since that day. She's taken over her dad's podcast, Night Watch, since he retired from it two decades ago. One evening episode Nola does with her crew, she hears a woman witnessing “a ghost” in the house and Nola instantly gets a sense of deja vu- The Hiding Man has returned for her and wants to finished what “he” started. Over the course of the book, we get the detective's POV (has a connection to Nola's dad) about these killings from said killer starting up again. Nola is on the hunt to find out what happens as well within the story. By the end, Nola and everyone else finds out who did it (also a connection to Nola's dad) and it surprised me because I thought it was one character and I was wrong! The mini romance subplot & the humor in it broke up some of the heavier themes within the story. The father-daughter dynamic was well touched on, too. By the end, I was happy for Nola having her parents' “together” (since they were divorced in the story) for one nice normal moment (even if it didn't feel that way at first). Really enjoyed this one- if you want a similar vibe of a read, I do also recommend (I already love recommending reads anyways): Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/night-watcher-daphne-woolsoncroft/1146511138?ean=9781538770900

  • The Clinic by Cate Quinn: This was, yet another, solid mystery-thriller read! Easy to keep up with & fast-paced; however, I did feel it did get a little bit silly & predictable at times while reading otherwise I liked it! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-clinic-cate-quinn/1143215737?ean=9781728293981

  • Crooked House by Agatha Christie (library pick): This book didn't disappoint! We were trying to figure out who poisoned Aristide Leonidas (a wealthy businessman in his 70s-80s), who became the heir of the house after he died, and if anyone else got poisoned / killed, too. This book gave an unsettling feeling because of bad things that happen in this said “crooked house”. By the end, we figured out who did it and it genuinely surprised me- it could've been anyone really within the story (they were pinning the blame on Aristide's second younger wife, 50 years his junior). This did give a good mix of the mystery-thriller genres. Definitely a different feel from Agatha's other books- that I read that are part of a series rather than a standalone- which I didn't mind too much! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/crooked-house-agatha-christie/1100155251?ean=9780062573278

  • The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie (library pick): This was a solid mystery read from Christie herself- just took me a minute to get into the premise of it by then I was hooked and also had a lot of characters for me to keep up with but otherwise I liked it! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-seven-dials-mystery-agatha-christie/1144785018?ean=9780063397880

  • These Fleeting Shadows by Kate Alice Marshall (library pick): This YA read was so well-done! It had every element- genre-wise and it is was kept me hooked from the beginning. I did get a bit confused on character connections while reading but really enjoyed it! It had a dark & gothic feel I did really like about the book. Our FMC, Helen, is set to inherit Harrowstone Hall but her mother, Rachel, never wanted her to return to the said place. But Helen has to stay for a full year at the hall in order to receive her inheritance. But within the time of her stay, she learns a lot more than she liked to admit (the history of the owners, her own family, etc). The house is built like a labyrinth- so the time passes when you enter within the walls. Helen learns her family isn't the nicest and by the end, this family legacy will soon crumble. The writing in this was so good- appreciated the layer of humor while reading, too. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/these-fleeting-shadows-kate-alice-marshall/1140388893?ean=9780593405116


Favorite TV Show, Documentary and / or Movie(s) I've Either Watched or Streamed:

Well that's all for this month- last monthly blog post for 2025 is next month can't wait to share with you, my friends. Until then, stay happy & take care of yourself (as basic as that may sound).

-Sincerely, Lauren-

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Friday, October 31, 2025

This Is Halloween... Everybody Make A Scene! | October 2025 Monthly Favorites

Hey, all! This has been a bit of a challenging month for me mentally, physically, and emotionally. But there were some good moments scattered into the month- having a good doctors' appointment, my mom and sister reading plus it being a good reading month as well. All things aside, I'm going to share my monthly favorites with you all because that's what we are here for am I right?

October 2025 Favorites Featured!


Favorite Music (had a good mix of all types of rock this month):


Favorite Coffee and / or Tea:


Favorite Workout Videos:


Favorite Book(s) I've Read and / or listened to as an audiobook via Spotify:

  • The Only One Left by Riley Sager: This wasn't my first rodeo with Mr. Sager and this one of his blew me away! The gothic atmospheric vibes, the plot twists (I mean plot twists!) and the mysteries' within the story were all good! I'll link it: https://www.target.com/p/the-only-one-left-by-riley-sager/-/A-91341242?preselect=91000737#lnk=sametab

  • A Good House for Children by Kate Collins: This book was the most interesting thing I've ever read and I don't mean that in a bad way. It gave dark, gothic, atmospheric vibes and even left me a bit unsettled in some scenes, too. A solid mystery-thriller from a new to me author! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-good-house-for-children-kate-collins/1142412627?ean=9780063291027

  • Dracula by Bram Stoker: This was a well-solid (written even) classic vampiric story- however, the main big thing is I felt no points (answers really) came across clearly. Still liked the book though! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dracula-bram-stoker/1116610564?ean=9780593203385

  • Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: A wonderfully, written story told about a monsterous creature that wasn't as appreciated by others. He, Frankenstein, was created and wreaked havoc upon others. It took me a minute for the build up of the premise of the story (only slight thing I nitpicked at) but still a good classic to read during spooky season- not too scary for my friends that were asking. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/frankenstein-mary-shelley/1116608310?ean=9780593203392

  • Hallowe'en Party (inspired A Haunting in Venice film) by Agatha Christie: Another solid murder mystery book from the OG murder mystery queen herself- loved the aspect it being set around the time of Halloween, too. And yet again, I get the culprit(s) wrong- not the first time this lady has stumped me! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/halloween-party-agatha-christie/1100050678?ean=9780062573285

  • Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney (library pick): This was my 2nd read of Feeney's and this didn't disappoint! It began with our seemingly unreliable narrator named Daisy Darker and she's telling this story. Her Nana is celebrating 80 years of age (inviting the whole Darker family- this is one family reunion I didn't want to be invited to) and by the end of the night, Nana is found murdered. The pattern continues... of sorts. Each person of the family that dies has a morbidly dark written poem about them and these are ones you don't want to read out loud in class. Anyways, we find out who are culprits are (that genuinely surprised me), who the father is of Trixie (Daisy's sister's daughter) and the big plot twist about Daisy (enjoyed the lead up to what happened to her). Love the atmospheric & murder mystery vibes of this one! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/daisy-darker-alice-feeney/1140777506?ean=9781250843937

  • The Haunting of Paynes Hollow by Kelley Armstrong (October 2025 BOTM Pick): This book was so good! It told us a tale of Sam Payne, of who is set to inherit her family cottage for 10 million- there is always a catch with this- but has to stay for the whole summer in order to earn it. Her aunt comes along for the month-long visit, and she goes missing. Sam starts noticing strange things happening (some I cannot even describe to you it was that much) and it gets all connected and answered by the end of the book. Such good plot twists in this- some of them made my jaw drop! This book does have some connections to The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (which I bought the book and read beforehand and helped immensely)- so it's helpful if you the same thing I did before you read this one. Enjoyed it very much! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-haunting-of-paynes-hollow-kelley-armstrong/1146657236?ean=9781250360564

  • Verity by Colleen Hoover (library read): My first read of Hoover's and it didn't disappoint! I enjoyed the balance of thriller (psychological- which are my favorite to read) and romance (a bit spicy at times for my friends that were curious on that). The letter in the book? Made my jaw drop! And that ending? Need to say no more! It did feel a bit creepy and unsettling at times while I was reading (not in a bad way by any means). I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/verity-colleen-hoover/1130171830?ean=9781538724736

  • A Quiet Retreat by Kiersten Modglin (library read): This was my first read of Modglin's and I liked it! The whole murder mystery writer retreat concept was well done- even if the suspenseful bulidup took a bit of time (only slight thing I nitpicked at). I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-quiet-retreat-kiersten-modglin/1142552044?ean=9781956538328

  • How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold: This was such a morbidly, dark, fun (yes I said that) read. Loved the whole twist on the locked-room murder mystery- riddles? House that literally eats you alive? Sign me up! The characters' got a bit annoying at times and the ending left me a bit confused but a solid read! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-survive-a-horror-story-mallory-arnold/1146335581?ean=9781464227400

  • William by Mason Coile (library pick): This book was so different of a concept than I've ever read before! We meet Henry of who created this character named William. He is holed up in his attic working on this project- hence his agoraphobia- and his pregnant wife, Lily and her work friends want to meet William but that presents consequences. It took me on so many turns (some those of the being a bit creepy and unsettling) and some of the twists in this book I didn't see coming either. I had more questions to this book (only the one big thing I nitpicked at) but overall really was surprised by how much I liked it! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/william-mason-coile/1144445954?ean=9780593719602

  • Make Me a Monster by Kalynn Bayron (library pick): My first read of Bayron's and I enjoyed it very much! Our female main character, Meka, is now a mortician's assistant at the funeral home her parents' run. She has a wonderful, sweet relationship with a boy named Noah within the book. However, the book takes a turn with strange occurrences going on- ravens circling, figures following Meka, etc. Meka learns about the truth about her mom plus how her dad (and Meka's boyfriend, Noah) is connected in all of this (hence the strange people following him). When I learned about that, I was left speechless. And this is where Frankenstein comes into play for the story (the monster being reborn into the lab by a mad scientist in case you weren't familiar with the premise of that story)- it did help I read it this month (there were some mentions of the film but I haven't seen it). There were a few scenes depicting some body parts being taken apart- if you are squeamish, skip over those scenes (but it didn't bother me surprisingly). The writing in this for being a young adult book (forgot to clarify this part) was well done too! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/make-me-a-monster-kalynn-bayron/1146657095?ean=9781547615865

  • Hollow by Taylor Grothe (library pick): This was a new-to-me author and their debut novel was well done! It followed our female main character, Cassie, of who was recently diagnosed with autism after a breakdown she had at her previous school in New York. She moves back to a town she wasn't sure if she wanted to back to at all. Her friends “ghosted” her of sorts- most of them weren't aware of her diagnosis except her friend, Jac (the other two “friends” of hers didn't seem to care about it at all- such friends, am I right?). Anyways, Cassie agrees to go with her “friends” to Hollow Ridge to go hiking but the legend is people go missing out there and never return (Cassie's mom made her aware of this prior to the trip from a video her mom showed her online). But a spat breaks out between them one evening and when Cassie wakes up, everyone is gone. She is taken in by Kaleb (he's seemingly nice at first) and his “family” of sorts at this place called the Roost. But Cassie isn't so sure if this is a good idea being here and she's trying to find her “friends” if you will. It takes such a creepy, unsettling turn when we realize what the Roost is and who are the people behind it (this all surprised me for sure). This was wonderfully written and all of the representation (especially with the autism depicted and someone that has had since she was 3 years old- for those that didn't know that before) was well done. Cassie & Jac got their happy ending by the end of the book- that ending? Come on! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hollow-taylor-grothe/1146800836?ean=9781682637777

  • The Widow of Pale Harbor by Hester Fox (library pick): This was my first read of Fox’s and I wasn’t disappointed! It was so interesting to have the Poe connections in the story as someone that enjoys his morbidly dark pieces. There was intrigue, suspense, mystery, romance- yes even that, plus a dark & gothic atmosphere anybody in this genre would love. It had a good buildup around chapter 11 and it kept giving it in between chapters until we got to the twists and turns- which kept coming! I didn’t see the true killer of the Poe related crimes coming at all. When that all connected- it blew my mind! Who knew a genre I don’t read a lot of would surprise me? I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-widow-of-pale-harbor-hester-fox/1129908344?ean=9781525834264

  • House of Thorns by Isabel Strychacz (library pick): This was another solid YA Horror read (it's not too heavy on the horror- it's pretty easy to digest). Anyways, we meet Lia Peartree of who witnessed with her troubled sister Ali their other sister going missing five years ago. It also became the subject of headlines in the media and true-crime podcast junkies' (making the family themselves not so well liked). The place they think everything happened at was known as Brier Hall, we get a few brief pieces of the history of the house within the book too. It it is set off the Northern California cliffside coast- so immersively atmospheric while reading. Lia confides in her friend Rafferty of who she has had a crush on for years and he isn't so sure about this idea of going back to Brier Hall with Lia. The buildup slowly keeps building from there and it does get spooky and unsettling at times (but not to the point of where you want to sleep with the lights on). The writing in this was well done! I did nitpick at only one thing with this read- some plot holes within the story I felt were just left hanging and we didn't get anymore by the time our story was done. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/house-of-thorns-isabel-strychacz/1144226920?ean=9781665942591

Favorite TV Show, Documentary and / or Movie(s) I've Either Watched or Streamed:


That's all for this month, friends! I hope you all have a safe Halloween (if you do celebrate) and a wonderful day! See you next month!

-Lauren-
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Tuesday, September 30, 2025

🍂 Fall Into A New Month...🍂 | September 2025

Hello, all! The 'ber months are upon us... Yay! Cooler weather is definitely one of my favorite things about the upcoming season. Anyways, I've got a lot of fun things to share with you for this month! It was a well-rounded, balanced month for me personally. Let's get into it!

The majority of the September favorites featured...


 Favorite Music (had a great round of all the different types of rock this month- not too mad about it):


Favorite Coffee and / or Tea (both of these coffees were good!):


Favorite Body Care and / or Skincare product(s):


Favorite Workout Videos:


Favorite Book(s) I've Read and / or listened to as an audiobook via Spotify: 

  • Dead Poets' Society by N.H. Kleinbaum: This told a story of these kids that were inspired by this teacher- John Keating is his name- and discovered about this secret society of where they relish and rave about poetry. It had some good messages scattered throughout the whole book, too. Enjoyed it! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dead-poets-society-nh-kleinbaum/1013395713?ean=9781401308773

  • And He Shall Appear by Kate Van der Borgh: This was such a hauntingly beautiful written book from a new-to-me author- it's told in dual timelines (which confused me some) but didn't stop me from liking this read! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/and-he-shall-appear-kate-van-der-borgh/1144884079?ean=9781454952619

  • The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston: This was my 2nd book of Ashley's I enjoyed! We meet Florence of who is a ghostwriter for a popular romance author, she had a deadline to meet literally the next day and gets the phone call she doesn't want- her dad has passed away. She wasn't expecting to come back home since as a kid she was picked on for being different (it states why in the book). Her family- her mom, brother and younger sister- barely hanging on by a thread trying to plan out their dad's funeral. Did I leave out the detail they run a funeral home? I guess did but not going to forget it now. Anyways, Florence not only has that to do but has a ghost of her own- the editor that gave her the deadline due the next day- Benji Andor (I also forgot she can talk to ghosts too just like her late dad in the book can). She is now navigating this ghost, her family planning her dad's funeral (plus the very unique requests her dad asked for prior to his passing), too. Florence is also trying to let go of her past while there on her visit home- she ties some loose ends up with an enemy (that surprisingly changed) from high school. Her dad's funeral happens, and Florence was given a letter from her late dad to read there and I'll admit, it did make me tear up some. By the end, we learn some surprising connections about Benji to the author Florence ghostwrites for and that ghost I mentioned? You just have to read to what happened to him (I know I know I'm not fun) by the end of the book! This was such a funny, heartbreaking, and a wonderfully told story. Also enjoyed Florence's best friend, Rose- great side character in this read! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-dead-romantics-ashley-poston/1140302582?ean=9780593336489

  • The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna (library pick): This was such a wholesome & cozy read! Enjoyed the found family aspect & all the whimsy the book offered, too. Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-very-secret-society-of-irregular-witches-sangu-mandanna/1140555514?ean=9780593439357

  • Starling House by Alix E. Harrow (library pick): This is one fantasy book that took me on a ride! We meet our female main character, Opal, living with her brother at a run-down motel and she has these dreams of the Starling House. She enjoyed the fictional author's work, The Underland, and it seems that these dreams from her own head plus the story itself are coming to life. The writing in here was good, but I also appreciated the footnotes & illustrations, too. Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/starling-house-alix-e-harrow/1142827202?ean=9781250799050

  • Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma (library pick): This book had me so hooked! I've never read anything like this before- the writing, the dark academia vibes, the enemies-to-lovers trope and the vampires (all of this was great) and looking forward to whatever book #2 is gonna offer (yep, it's a series- dare I say, trilogy?). Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/immortal-dark-tigest-girma/1144547348?ean=9780316570398

  • The Heartbreak Hotel by Ellen O'Clover (My September 2025 BOTM Read): What a read! We meet Louisa of who got her heartbroken by her ex, Nate. She shared a house with her now ex, Nate, and it's the only thing she wanted out of the breakup. Then, Louisa has a lightbulb idea to run The Comeback Inn for those of who were recently heartbroken. She has to ask her landlord/pet doctor about this idea and he seems to be on board with this idea. Over the course of the book, Louisa runs this inn with her friend, Mei, and the idea begins to be a success. Henry and Louisa have an immediate connection from the start then a romance blossoms- it goes up-and-down as it would. We learn that the both of them are hiding things from one other in the book, too. They eventually open up to one another and it takes a turn; they eventually stay with each other by the book. I did really like this one! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-heartbreak-hotel-ellen-oclover/1146743841?ean=9780593952542

  • Do Not Disturb by Frieda McFadden: This isn't my first rodeo with this author but yet again she surprised me- have a woman on the run from an unthinkable crime then she ends up staying at this run-down motel and I think she's deeply regretting going there. We also witness the owner's ailing wife across the street just casually watching- not moving at all (creepy, I know). But we get the backstory of the wife- plus her MS diagnosis- and how she met her husband (liked how all that got connected). Then we get a few secondary character POVs- one from the main female characters' sister (didn't see any of that coming with her) and the psychic (reading what this character did by the end of the book had my jaw dropped). Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/do-not-disturb-freida-mcfadden/1140860173?ean=9781464227288

  • Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea Earnshaw (a re-read option; book 1 in the series): This book was great! Even though it does read young adult/teen, the writing in it was good. The story kept you interested and engaged the whole time- it was like watching the movie all over again (I've seen it way too much- hate to admit that part). The whimsy & magic of all the holiday realms (the doors really) I remember from the opening of the movie were wonderful to picture in my mind. Jack & Sally forever! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/long-live-the-pumpkin-queen-shea-ernshaw/1147106319?ean=9781368115988

  • Hour of the Pumpkin Queen by Megan Shepherd (book 2 in the series follows up after Long Live the Pumpkin Queen): This book explored more of the realms (even the quirky characters that come with it), a dragon named Scorch (I know I know...), Sally & Luna (the “sister” she didn't know she needed) on a quest to save time and prevent Halloweentown from being gone. And we also get more of Jack & Sally's love story- such a softie with this stuff I'll hate to admit that here. It was so fun for Sally, Luna & Scorch to go on this quest and just the enjoying the journey with them as I was reading. Maybe potential for a third book? Universe, you listening? Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hour-of-the-pumpkin-queen-megan-shepherd/1147115354?ean=9781368089302

  • The Four by Ellie Keel: This was the most gripping, intense, speechless kind of story- something unlike of it's kind. There are triggers in the book that didn't sit well with me personally but do look that up before you read it. It didn't stop me too much from reading this! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-four-ellie-keel/1143508229?ean=9780063394384

  • The September House by Carissa Orlando (library pick): This book surprised me! We meet Margaret and Hal of who move into this house- did I forget this house has had a bit of it's own haunted history? The house has occurrences that only happen in, you guessed it, September. Hal suddenly leaves and we don't know where he went- that whole part of the story led me to a surprising ending. Do look up your trigger warnings prior to this read (touched on some heavy stuff especially with our cruel villain, Master Vale plus Margaret & Hal's relationship, too in the book). It was a mix of movie-style horror, real-life horrors, and the humor thrown into story helped easily digest some of the heavier stuff better. This book appealed to this scaredy cat over here and that is saying something for sure! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-september-house-carissa-orlando/1142804229?ean=9780593548622

  • The Maidens by Alex Michaelides (library pick): This author knew how to craft a such a suspensful, dark academia thriller. It kept me so interested and hooked! I was so surprised by who the killer was by the near end of the book. Enjoyed it! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-maidens-alex-michaelides/1138488921?ean=9781250304469

  • Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson (library pick): This was such a different concept of a book and quite enjoyed it! Jet is attacked on Halloween night, suffers from some horrible brain damage that could potentially cause a deadly aneursym, and she has 7 days to figure put who attacked her. Her friend, Billy, comes to the rescue and helps her out (also an aspiring musician, too). I wasn't expecting that ending at all; also just wanted some more of the side characters' connection to Jet (backstories mainly)- only slight thing I nitpicked at- but overall good read! Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/not-quite-dead-yet-holly-jackson/1146395864?ean=9798217092123

  • You Belong Here by Megan Miranda (library pick): This was my 4th read of Megan's and it had the signature plot twists, wonderful mystery and had a totally different feel than the others I've read of hers (which isn't a bad thing I can tell you that). I was just left confused in spots of the story (only thing I nit picked at) but otherwise a solid thriller in my opinion. Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/you-belong-here-megan-miranda/1146596220?ean=9781668080979


I hope you enjoyed this month's favorites- looking forward to what Fall, spooky season (if you choose to celebrate that), and Thanksgiving has to offer in the next few months. See you next month!

-Lauren-


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Thursday, August 28, 2025

August 2025 Monthly Favorites

 Hey, everyone! How is it already August?! Time flies when you are having fun! Anyways, let's get into the monthly favorites! I've got a lot of fun stuff to share with ya!



The selected August favorites...

Favorite Music (had a great selection of cool + different tracks from all over the genre board):

Favorite Coffee and / or Tea:

Favorite Body Care and / or Skincare product:

Favorite Workout Videos:

Favorite Book(s) I've Read and / or listened to as an audiobook via Spotify:

  • Normal People by Sally Rooney (library read): This was one of the few surprising reads for me this month! We meet two polar opposites in school pretending to not know each other. Over the course of the story, they admit feelings then they don't (it's a bit of a theme in the book). And they always don't make the best decisions (but in life/work/school, we as humans always don't make the best decisions anyways that's just my two cents about that). By the end of the book, I was pleasantly happy with how all it wrapped up for our two main characters, Connell & Marianne. Writing was pretty good in some parts I was reading as well. Another book you may want to look up trigger warnings for if you were interested in reading it. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/normal-people-sally-rooney/1129141966?ean=9781984822185

  • They Never Learn by Layne Fargo (library read): This was so good! We learned about two different storylines intersecting and when I found out the twist of it, my jaw dropped! Do look up trigger warnings if you are sensitive to it. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/they-never-learn-layne-fargo/1136314548?ean=9781982132033

  • It's All Relative by Rachel Magee: This was a wholesome read about families coming together, lots of laughter and love (even if at times it always didn't come together). I'll link it: https://www.target.com/p/it-s-all-relative-by-rachel-magee-paperback/-/A-90325456#lnk=sametab

  • Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid (library read): I was really surprised by this one (because I'm not the hugest reader in the sports/athletic topics of books) and I ended up really liking it! I was rooting for our female main character, Carrie, and her confidence / attitude exuded throughout the whole book (she's someone you don't want to mess with in the game of tennis). The ending I thought with this one wrapped well! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/carrie-soto-is-back-taylor-jenkins-reid/1141014764?ean=9780593158685

  • While We're Young by K.L. Walther: This young adult romance was perfect for those that are fans (me being one of those fans) of the classic Ferris Bueller's Day Off (even if you aren't a fan of the film I think you'll still love it). I typically have a love/hate with young adult novels because of the writing but this book was wonderfully written (not too cringey), the love triangle aspect in this didn't drag out too much (ended on a healthy note), and appreciated the harder subject touches (ie: mental health + grief). This was a nice, modernized version of the classic film and loved all of the references from the film scattered into the book. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/while-were-young-k-l-walther/1145771635?ean=9780593813959

  • Looking for Alaska by John Green: This book I had a hard time getting into at first and I don't know why it took me so long to realize that. I was also surprised at well the story was written, the characters' being so funny and out-of-the-box. It touched on loss (which I wasn't aware of), love, and also the importance of having friends that always stick with you no matter what. Liked the found family aspect in this book, too. I'll link it: https://www.target.com/p/looking-for-alaska-reprint-paperback-by-john-green/-/A-11326458#lnk=sametab

  • Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley: This book was the epitome of music-coded! We meet Percy at a bar in Berkeley, CA and she befriends an aspiring songwriter named Joe and they hit it off. Over the course of the story, their situationship is up-and-down and everything with their jobs + life takes turns, too. But by the end of the book, their chemistry connects. I was smiling by the end- only had one flaw with one of their characters which I couldn't overlook but it didn't stop me from loving this book. I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/deep-cuts-holly-brickley/1145575031?ean=9780593799086

  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky: Well, this was my third re-read of one of my favorite books of all time. And it's deeply resonated with me more (now in my 30s) since giving it a re-read. I forgot how good the writing is in it, how funny it is, how moving it is, and the fact that it touched well on loss + mental health. Do yourself a favor and read it and again do look up trigger warnings, too. I'll link it: https://www.target.com/p/the-perks-of-being-a-wallflower-paperback-by-stephen-chbosky/-/A-12708200#lnk=sametab

  • Immortal Consequences by I.V. Marie (My August 2025 BOTM Read): This book was such a ride, entertained me at times, and that ending? I need some more, please! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/immortal-consequences-i-v-marie/1147919965?ean=9780593898802

  • Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston: As someone that as never read this author before, I loved the whole romance-magical realism concept this story had. We meet Joni of who is a famous songwriter from LA and she hasn't been able to get herself to write the next hit song due to writers' block + burnout. So she heads back home to Vienna Shores, NC to hopefully gain some inspiration for this next hit she may write. Back home, nothing is the same as it was- her parents' music venue is closing down, her mom's health isn't the best and her best friend is engaged to her brother (still has yet to tell her about it). But when she starts to hear the melody of that said tune, it does gain inspiration- somewhat- and she hears it in the form of another voice named Sasha. She wants to actually meet this said character in person and it happens and Joni realizes who it is. The one she had a horrible kiss with at a concert earlier in the book. He's a total bad boy type that I seemed to enjoy in the book. But when Sasha and Joni begin making this connection for this next hit song, their feelings began growing for one another. Someone from Joni's past comes back in and declares his love (well sort of). It ends how it began for her & Joni's date- walking out on her the 2nd time around. By the end of the book, Joni and Sasha produce the next best hit (with her best friend involved on vocals), they love each other, and everything feels all interconnected. As a music lover, I loved all the music references in it and whatnot. Total summery feel of a book- great beach/pool read! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sounds-like-love-ashley-poston/1146306635?ean=9780593956236

  • Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid: This was such a wonderfully told story of the Riva family- not the most picture perfect family by any means- and we learned the beginning, the middle and the end of it. It was following (alternatively) our eldest, Nina, having her annual end-of-summer party in August of 1983. Throughout the story, we learn things about our characters' and the secrets they are all hiding before it all blows up at the party. I usually I'm not a fan of family drama ridden stories but this story I felt so engrossed in. It does touch on themes of cheating and alcoholism so keep that in mind if you were to read this book. Third read of TJR's and wasn't disappointed yet again! I'll link it: https://www.target.com/p/malibu-rising-by-taylor-jenkins-reid/-/A-85916475?preselect=85910617#lnk=sametab

  • The Housemaid by Frieda McFadden (book 1): This book of Freida's was the most twisted I've ever read and I surprisingly really enjoyed it! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-housemaid-freida-mcfadden/1142009317?ean=9781538742570

  • The Housemaid's Secret by Freida McFadden (book 2): The 2nd in the series was surprisingly good- read more like a mystery with a wonderful layer of suspense! I'll link it: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-housemaids-secret-freida-mcfadden/1142829592?ean=9780349132617

  • Totally & Completely Fine by Elissa Sussman: This sort-of-sequel to Funny You Should Ask (also by the same author listed) ended up being really good! We follow with the sister of Gabe, Lauren, from the first novel and her now navigating life as a widower plus being also a mom to a moody daughter. Then we meet Ben, Gabe's co-star on his newest film, and they have instant chemistry from the first time they meet. Over the course of the story, we learn about how Lauren & her late husband Spencer met (Spencer was Gabe's best friend in the book- reflects on Gabe's addiction too), and if she feels ready to open her heart up to Ben. Things stall for a few between Lauren & Ben and she realizes (while on a horrible date her new friend Allyson set her up on) that she has always loved Ben (even if recurring things pop up about Spencer). Ben & Lauren share so much in common (loss being one of those themes) and he is willingly to sacrifice a career choice to be with the woman he loves (even her daughter, Lena, is happy about Ben in the picture if she at first wasn't as open about it). Did I also forget Ben is Irish, has a motorcycle, tattoos and is in his 30s in the book? If that wasn't enough to entice you to read it... I'll link it: https://www.target.com/p/totally-and-completely-fine-by-elissa-sussman-paperback/-/A-89926007#lnk=sametab

Favorite TV Show, Documentary and / or Movie(s) I've Either Watched or Streamed:


Well that was a wonderful slew of favorites this month- wasn't disappointed at all (that's saying a lot coming from me)! Thanks for reading and see you next month!

-Love, Lauren-


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Tuesday, July 29, 2025

An Ode to July | July 2025 Monthly Favorites

 Well, hello all! It's that time to share with what I've been into for the month! It's been 5 months offline (social media specifically) and I've been feeling surprisingly good. We'll see if I continue... Anyways, let's get into the favorites!

All of the good things I enjoyed about July.

Favorite Music (had a great slew of pop-punk & rock music this month):


Favorite Coffee and / or Tea:


Favorite Body Care and / or Skincare product(s):


Favorite Workout Videos:


Favorite Book(s) I've Read and / or listened to as an audiobook via Spotify:


Favorite TV Show, Documentary and / or Movie(s) I've Either Watched or Streamed:


That's everything for this month- had such a good slew of things all around! Anyways, hope you enjoyed reading and I'll see you next month! 

If it's not too hot where you live, go outside and just soak it up. Summer doesn't last long so go do it (wear your sunscreen please- sunburns are seriously not fun- take it from me! Also, hydrate too!). 

Stay cool, friends!
-Lauren-



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Friday, June 27, 2025

It's summertime! It's summertime! | June 2025 Monthly Favorites

Well, friends! Chapter 1 of the warmer months have arrived! Usually not my vibe, but I'm gonna embrace it (hopefully not complain too much in the process; if I do, please just yell at me). Anyways, I've got a good slew of things to share with you all for this month! Let's get right into it, shall we?

A round-up of the monthly favorites featured...


 Favorite Music (had a good round of all the rock- pop-punk, alt rock, etc.):


Favorite Coffee and / or Tea:


Favorite Body Care and / or Skincare product(s)- had a good mix of wonderfully, smelling items:


Favorite Workout Videos:


Favorite Book(s) I've Read and / or listened to as an audiobook via Spotify:


Favorite TV Show and / or Movie(s) I've Either Watched or Streamed:



Well that about wraps up this monthly favorites post! Hope you enjoyed it! See you next month!

-Lauren-
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