7.28.2022

BOOK REVIEW: Super Spinach {Adventures in Fosterland} by Hannah Shaw



“Heroes aren't built from cloth and string. They're built from bravery, and from love.”

When I tell you that I pre-ordered Hannah Shaw's Super Spinach {Adventures in Fosterland} back in October 2021, I am not kidding. Y'all, Hannah Shaw is like a quuen to me {and to all kitties} due to her incredible dedication and devotion to cats, so purchasing anything she publishes is a total no-brainer. Anyway...when this tale appeared on my porch on release day, delving into it immediately was a must; and let me tell you...it is the cutest. If you follow Hannah Shaw {aka Kitten Lady} on social media {which I'm assuming you do}, you likely already know the MCs from this book, Spinach and Chickpea; but seeing their rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption story played out in fiction is the type of treat that will be adored whether you're 1 or 100.

Spinach is not okay with being kept in her own cage at the animal shelter. While some may feel privileged to have their own sleeping space; Spinach feels completely left out. After all, the other kittens at the animal shelter get to spend their days batting crinkly balls about, climbing cat trees, and playing together, while she has to sit out on the sidelines, a silent observer. Spinach kind of understands the reason, she's not healthy like the other kittens and gets worn out very quickly; but that doesn't make her feel any less lonely.

When Spinach is evaluated by a veterinarian, she finally receives a life-changing diagnosis - Spinach has pectus excavatum, a congenital condition that causes the chest to be sunken. The veterinarian knows exactly how to fix Spinach up; and, after surgery, she finally has the ability to play, pounce, and jump! She also has something extra: a metal plate on her chest that has transformed her into...Super Spinach!

Soon Spinach is whisked off to Fosterland by a giant lady where she is provided with two very important things: 1) a variety of super-powered socks to protect her plate; and 2} a super sidekick named Chickpea. With her socks and sidekick with her at all times, Super Spinach is fearless. But then the unthinkable happens...Spinach's super suit socks are taken away, leaving her powerless. Now it's up to Spinach to rely on her powers from within rather than her super suit to save the day; but she may not be up for the challenge.

This book y'all...it put me in my feels. Seeing Spinach and Chickpea star in their own story was truly like a dream come true; and the fact that it was so full of adventure {and accompanied by the cutest illustrations ever!} truly made it that. much. better. For those who don't follow Hannah, The True Story of Spinach and Chickpea accompaniment at the end, along with the real-life photographs of this pawsome duo on the back cover are a welcome addition. I, for one, cannot wait to share this series with my students, as I am positive that they will adore it just as much as I did.

Side note: After reading this book, I realized that this is actually considered the second story in the series, with Emmett and Jez being book number one. If you, like me, make that error, don't sweat it. The books are not based on continuity, and can easily standalone. That said, make sure you buy them both because one dose of cuteness is definitely not enough. I'm now officially counting down the days for Book 3, Baby Badger, to hit shelves!


Star Rating: *****


xx
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7.25.2022

NOTD: ZOYA Nail Polish in Kay

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Kay. Bright pink creme.

Ugh! Photographs are not doing this cutie any justice rn!

Kay is a brilliant bright pink creme that would be right at home on Barbie's nails. This beauty is lighter in shade than her collection counterpart, Gigi, but features the same incredible formula. This one, unfortunately, bubbled on me a tiny bit; but it seriously wasn't dealbreaker territory. Especially since the staying power was so phenom!

xx

Disclaimer: Cat Eyes & Skinny Jeans occasionally receives vendor/ brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services.
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7.21.2022

dune bug

Free People Dune Bug Zip-Up Cotton Cardigan in OVERBOARD {also available in WHITE SWAN}.

Seriously swooning over that crochet-inspired detailing. This would be so perfect for transitioning into fall, amiright?!

xx
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7.18.2022

NOTD: OPI Power of Hue Nail Lacquer Collection in Pink Big

Two coats of OPI Power of Hue Nail Lacquer Collection in Pink Big. Matte Bright Pink Shimmer.

Babes this shade is seriously slaying.

Pink Big is a groovy matte bright pink shimmer that is a total essential for all of you ladies who love a little girly glam. This cutie is an absolute must for summer mani/pedi season, what with it's Barbie girl feel and subtle shimmer. I do recommend applying two layers of top coat to amp up the shine, as this one dries down to a matte finish.

xx
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7.14.2022

BOOK REVIEW: Summer's Edge by Dana Mele



“The invitation is never the revenge, Kennedy. The revenge is what you’re invited to.”

I never understood the meaning of the term slow burn when attributed to books until experiencing Dana Mele's Summer's Edge; but now I understand it all too well. So well, in fact, that I question whether I will ever experience it again in the world of literature, as it evaded me up until this point; and I truly can't imagine any other book bringing the slow burn quite like this unputdownable gem right here.

Emily Joiner was once a key part of an inseparable group of friends. A group so devoted to one another that die-hard loyalties lasted, despite regular rivalries and the occasional red hot romance; and summers were always spent lazing at Kennedy's family lake house. Last summer, however, was different - more complicated. Instead of the usual friend group consisting of Emily, Kennedy, Chelsea {Kennedy's on again, off again girlfriend}, Ryan {Emily's twin brother}, and Chase {Emily's lifelong crush}; Mila has been added to the mix. Mila, Chase's new girlfriend, is disliked by the girl's on sight, and the summer...doesn't end well - especially for Emily, who winds up dying tragically when the lake house burns to the ground.

Fast forward one year. The lake house has been painstakingly rebuilt - a mirror image of its former self; the only difference being that death has been scrubbed out. Now ready for guests, and with the anniversary of Emily's death upon us, a reunion has been set into motion. The five former friends each receive an invitation, of which they accept, arriving at the house with hesitation; questioning if they should have RSVP'ed yes from the moment they emerge from their luxury vehicles. With tensions running high, the group elects to try and put their differences aside, and make the most of this memorial, for Emily's sake; but Chelsea, who has been locked away in a mental health facility for the past year, begins having terrifying visions that are pushing her towards the brink - visions that may be more accurate than anyone would like to admit.

With creepy events occurring within mere moments of their arrival; accusations begin to fly - accusations implying that Emily's death was no accident. Even worse, it becomes evident that the group may not be alone on the lake house property - someone else tagged along, and they're seeking revenge. Their survival depends on their ability to unravel the mystery, and unearth the truth; but that will take working together, and pushing past a whole lot of old drama, which this group of frenemies does not seem ready for.

When I say that I could not put this book down I am being 100% real with you - it was so good. And that ending? Mic drop moment. I read so heavily that authors rarely surprise me or keep me guessing, but Dana Mele did that tenfold with Summer's Edge. Comparing it to The Haunting of Hill House was so accurate because, like THOHH, this book was always a step ahead, using the assumptions we make as readers {or viewers} as leverage to catapult us into some new surprise that legit makes. you. think. NGL, I really couldn't stand any of the characters, who are toxic to a fault; however, I did start to find Kennedy a bit more interesting once I read the portion of the book told from her POV, and learned about her supernatural abilities.

Cheers to Mele for finally introducing me to the slow burn. And to everyone else, your summer will be incomplete without a read of this book - get. it. now. A little word of warning though, your perception of boat rides and late-night lake swims may change significantly after turning the last page. Just saying.


Star Rating: ****


xx
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7.11.2022

NOTD: OPI Power of Hue Nail Lacquer Collection in Mango For It

Two coats of OPI Power of Hue Nail Lacquer Collection in Mango For It. Matte Orange Shimmer.

Yo, girlies, this color is giving. it. to. me.

Mango For It is a fresh, flirty, fruity vibrant matte orange shimmer that feels positively made for the tropics! NGL here, if you opt for the matte look, this one is far lighter {think tangerine}; but when you add that top coat, the gloss brings out allll of those glorious, vibrant orange vibes.

Though all of the shades in the Power of Hue collection have featured shimmer throughout; Mango For It is one of the only colors where that shimmer is discernible and adds a juicy dimension to the overall look. Loving it!

xx
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7.07.2022

bennett

Free People Bennett Crop Cotton Top & Shorts Set in FAWN COMBO.

I am such a sucker for crop top and short sets, like it's not even funny. This one is the cutest!

xx
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7.04.2022

NOTD: ZOYA Nail Polish in Gigi

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Gigi. Red azalea creme.

OMG y'all this polish is phenomenal!

Gigi is a gorgeous red azalea creme that legit plays tricks on your eyes - appearing hot coral pink at times, and red coral at others. Regardless of which version your eyes see, however, this color is TDF. The kind of TDF that makes you want to repeat-wear all summer long. True story.

The formula here is straight up decadent, applying beautifully and drying at the speed of light. A very important thing to touch on here is that the brush is incredible - not too wide, not too slim, just perfect for achieving a model-worthy mani. Obsessed!

xx

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