BOOK REVIEW: Trust Fall by Lynn Painter

“New York hypnotizes you with its autumn. Each falling leaf coaxes your consciousness into a long, sleepy sigh as you succumb to the dreamlike dance of the tumbling yellows, the falling reds, and those crinkling, crunchy browns.”
The moment word of Trust Fall's release hit my ears I knew i needed it in my life. Autumn in New York? Say less. Maybe it’s just me, but this book gave nods to The Princess Diaries, Dash & Lily's Book of Dares, Gossip Girl, and even Twilight - and I am not mad about it!

Our fmc, Julia, was sweet and naive and really balanced out the snarly, sarcastic Damion. I loved that she took her cat, Clank, on walks in the park, and that she tried to romanticize life. TBH though, Bernard may have been my favorite character. Though not a main, I really loved him in a grandfatherly way.

That said, I did start to taper at 80%. Maybe that’s a me problem because the characters finally fell in love, and I preferred the banter as they were headed there, but whatever. I felt like some tones (like the bullying) were persistent throughout the book with no intervention, then cut off at the knees when it was time to wrap things up. It was also odd that Donovan and Jasmine, Julia’s two NYC BFFs just disappeared towards the end. Not deal breakers; but they definitely factored into my rating.

I still loved this one, and highly recommend as a must for autumn.🍂



Star Rating: ****.25


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NOTD: ZOYA Sonnet Fall 2026 Nail Polish Collection in Berkley

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Berkley. Plum Creme.

NGL typically I am not a fan of purple nail colors, but this one right here? Stunning!

Berkley is a Plum Creme that is deep, dark, and delicious {perf for spooky season!} yet manages to maintain a passionate femininity that makes her an amazing choice for any and all personalities. This lady right here was incredible - she lasted a full 8 days with nary a chip, crack, or tipwear; and the ease of application was literal chef's kiss. One of my new faves for fall!

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Disclaimer: Cat Eyes & Skinny Jeans occasionally receives vendor/ brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services.

BOOK REVIEW: Practically Magic by Jen Calonita

What do you get when you mix together a pinch of Gilmore Girls, a cup of Halloweentown, and a spoonful of Hocus Pocus? Practically Magic.

NGL this was a cutie book that would easily appeal to readers 10 and up (it’s clean, barring one use of the sh word; so fully apropos). That said, I really struggled with the cattiness and miscommunication between sisters Kat and Harry; and could not get over how self-absorbed Kat was, even in the midst of her beloved town being taken over by Halloween horrors.

Speaking of, the amount of spooky creatures, from vamps to werewolves to gnomes and gremlins became a bit overwhelming; and by 70% in I just wanted the book to end. Nevertheless, I stuck it out, and was happy with the magical ending.

Standout characters were Roger/Fred, Laney, and Zach. If you’re seeking a quick-read/palate cleanser, this is a decent choice - especially if you’re looking for a little magic as we enter spooky season. It does err on the young side though, so if you’re seeking spice, look elsewhere.



Star Rating: ***


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NOTD: ZOYA Sonnet Fall 2026 Nail Polish Collection in Phyre

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Phyre. Fiery Orange-Red Metallic.

"I was on fire for you..." Sorry, sorry, sorry...every. single. time. I look at this color I think of those Cannons lyrics!

Phyre is a Fiery Orange-Red Metallic that embodies the shifting shades of the autumn season like whoa! You never know how a metallics will apply, but Phyre was fully opaque in one coat (I still doubled up to be safe), with a mirror-like shine that is TDF. I don't know about you, but for me, this may be the color of the season. She gives me All Too Well, autumn in New York vibes, and those are two things that I, for one, will forever find irresistible. Don't miss this one!

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Disclaimer: Cat Eyes & Skinny Jeans occasionally receives vendor/ brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services.