8.29.2020
8.27.2020
jaded
That open-stitch aesthetic is so perfect for year-round wear!
8.25.2020
BOOK REVIEW: Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer
I didn’t find myself in the world of Twilight due to Edward Cullen and Bella Swan’s forbidden vampire/human romance; far from it, in fact. What intrigued me about the series from the jump was the ambience created by Stephenie Meyer {necessary for rainy day re-reads - especially that illustrious baseball scene}, coupled with the Native American folklore and werewolves that accompanied the character of Jacob Black. So when I learned of Midnight Sun’s August release back in May, my pre-order was placed, and the countdown began.
Midnight Sun is very much Edward’s story. And by that I mean that the very things that kept my interest piqued in previous books were no mas {sad face}. Yes, I knew going into the book that we would be inside Edward’s mind; but I suppose that the true ramifications of that never occurred to me until halfway through the tome when I felt that something was missing.
Gone are Jacob’s tales of the Quileute Tribe; the awkward yet endearing interactions between Bella and Charlie {come on y’all, I know I’m not the only Charlie fan!}; and Bella’s brain {her worries about her parents, her insecurities, her thoughts about the Cullen’s, her self-deprecation}. In their place, however, is welcome insight into each and every one of the Cullens. Does it replace Jacob and the Quileute’s story? As Team Werewolf, absolutely not; but I loved reading the Cullen origin stories.
When told through Bella’s eyes {a la Twilight}, we truly only catch a surface glimpse of the Cullens. A highlight reel, if you will, of their ethereal, no-mortal-can-compare beauty; but through Edward’s version in Midnight Sun we go so. much. deeper. We finally see how each Cullen came to vampire fruition - an element that creates understanding for all of us who have always been curious about Rosalie’s rage, Emmett’s hunting preference for bears, Carlisle and Esme’s creation, and Jasper and Alice’s unbreakable bond. For longtime readers this insight is everything.
One of the highlights of Midnight Sun is one I didn’t expect: the constant telepathic communication between the Cullens {especially Alice and Edward}. There’s something unexpectedly charming about all of their silent exchanges that I, for one, loved. What I didn’t love: Bella and Edward.
Believe it or not, Edward’s mind is even sappier and more sentimental than Bella’s. In fact, at times {ahem, Chapter 17}, the mush was too much that I actually had to skim in order to make it through. Keep in mind though, I never read Twilight for the romance; so the fact that I wasn’t fond of this aspect holds virtually no bearing – but def something to keep in mind.
Perhaps most obnoxious about Midnight Sun as a whole is something that many may be able to overlook - unfortunately, I am not one of those many. Dying to know? The stumbling. When I say that Edward described Bella as stumbling, tripping, slipping… at least once on every. single. page. I am not. kidding. Like dude, I get that she’s clumsy, but that description goes way overboard when we’re talking about a 658 page book. But I digress…
Midnight Sun will satisfy the cravings of those who have missed the Twilight universe, while breathing new life into some of the lesser characters. Not gonna lie, I kiiiind of preferred Life and Death: Twilight Reimagined because it was a full retelling; but my quick read of Midnight Sun definitely tells me that I wouldn’t mind taking another trip to Forks in the very near future. Perhaps from Jacob’s POV next time?
xx
8.22.2020
8.20.2020
8.17.2020
NOTD: China Glaze Trolls World Tour Collection in It's All Techno
Hmmm...this color is a bit of a conundrum. Part of me likes it due to its lemming quality; while the other part feels ho hum for the very same reason.
It's All Techno is a Shrek of a color - bridging the gap between yellow and green to bring you a chartreuse that feels fitting for Halloween given its sliiight brown undertone. Despite the depth of the color, the formula is pretty thin, so you do need to swipe 3 times for full coverage. Would I recommend? Tbh, I'm on the fence - if the color tickles your fancy though, go for it!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
8.15.2020
8.13.2020
forget me not
The perfect summer to fall transition frock!
8.11.2020
BOOK REVIEW: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
Can I just say that it is hard reading a Hunger Games book in the midst of a global pandemic? I mean, so many of the plot points that have been popularized by prior Hunger Games novels are actually taking place now; so what was once fictional fodder is now all. too. real. But I digress…
I was never a diehard Hunger Games fan. While I read all of the books, I never warmed up to Peeta, or Gale, or even Katniss. TBH, Cinna was the only person I truly cared about – and, perhaps, the Avoxes. So why I was so excited for this release is beyond my comprehension. That said, what. a. letdown.
The best way to describe The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is lost. Confused. Useless. Ridiculous. An entire book about President Snow. This had promise. Collins really had the chance to paint the teenage version of this tyrannical monster in a way that made you empathize with him; but she didn’t. She just made you loathe him more with his arrogance, conceit, and preoccupation with himself. Seriously, his level of narcissism is out of this world. Like how?!
We meet Coriolanus Snow as an 18-year-old overachiever. Poverty-stricken due to the war {but keeping it on the dl from his pampered peers}; Coriolanus is eager to improve his social standing and score a full-ride to University {and, as we all know, President-ship} through hard work {or conniving behavior masked as hard work}, and above-average intelligence. His shot? The 10th Annual Hunger Games.
Coriolanus will serve as mentor to District 12’s very own Lucy Gray as she competes for victor of the Games – an opportunity that would allow Snow to land on top. But as he and Lucy Gray each strive for their own victories {which slowly become intertwined}, the two find themselves embroiled in a budding {gag-worthy} romance that slowly morphs into a vessel for Snow’s personal gain.
I respect Suzanne Collins as a writer; but, if I’m being honest, this book was beyond boring. It legit took forever to finish; and there was nothing enjoyable about the process. TBH I finally skimmed the last 250 pages; and only found a bit of intrigue in the last 40 or so.
As a character, Coriolanus is exhausting as he thinks only of himself, and truly believes that he’s better than everyone else. That said, the character of Lucy Gray was just as bad. Boring, underhanded, full of herself, and borderline sneaky, I could never figure out if she was pulling the wool over Coriolanus’ eyes, or if that was just her. Regardless, I never warmed to her. Their relationship was stilted and strange and felt out of place from the getgo.
I actually liked the character of Tigris; but since she was really only trotted onto the pages to bail the blithering dolt otherwise known as Coriolanus out of trouble, I can’t give her too much credit. Overall, as a whole, I was disenchanted by it all, and will strongly hesitate before treading into the world of The Hunger Games again. Womp womp.
xx
8.08.2020
8.06.2020
8.03.2020
NOTD: China Glaze Trolls World Tour Collection in Pink-In-Poppy
OMG babes, I'm crying over how pretty this pink is!
Pink-In-Poppy is packed with hot pink and lavender microglitter that creates a subtle blue shift in sunlight. Prior to adding topcoat this one has a gritty, Liquid Sand-inspired feel {y'all remember Liquid Sand, right?!}; but once top coat is applied {as it has been here}, you are left with smooth, glossy goodness! This one will be in my collection for a v, v long time. Loves it!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
7.30.2020
inspo
I can never resist a slouchy tee. Craving this cutie in allll of the colors!
7.28.2020
BOOK REVIEW: A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting by Joe Ballarini
Weeeell…almost, but not quite. If Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Scooby Doo, The Spiderwick Chronicles, and The Babysitter’s Club {BSC} had a love child, the result would be Joe Ballarini’s A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting.
Heavy on Spiderwick, light on the BSC, A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting follows thirteen-year-old Kelly Ferguson on her quest to raise a ridiculous sum of money to attend Camp Miskatonic – a summer destination she learned about from Deanna, leader of the Princess Pack {think small-scale Plastics from Mean Girls}. An odd-job extraordinaire, K-Ferg, as Kelly oft-times calls herself, has experience in everything from ticket taker to lemonade stand CEO and rain gutter cleaner to grocery bagger. The one thing she has yet to try? Babysitting.
Encouraged by her BFF Tammy {and the lure of big babysitting bucks}, Kelly begins offering her services. Upside? She scores her first gig within a few hours’ time. Downside? She’ll be working for her mom’s boss, Mrs. Zellman, so she cannot. make. any. mistakes. The bigger ish though? It’s Halloween, which means Kelly will have to miss the huge Halloween bash she was planning on attending – and her chance to hobnob with her crush Victor. Nevertheless, cash calls, so Kelly kisses {figuratively} Victor goodbye, and says hello to Baby Jacob.
A tot with terrible nightmares, and a serious sweet tooth, Kelly spends the night bribing the babe with candy and ice cream until something detrimental happens: he’s abducted by monsters living under his bed. I know, right?! With Jacob gone, Kelly crosses paths with Liz LeRue, Jacob’s usual sitter – who just so happens to be a member of The Order of the Babysitters, a secret society of babysitter’s who fight monsters {where can I sign up?}. Together, along with the rest of the Order, the two girls have to find Jacob, kick the Boogeyman’s {aka the Grand Guignol} butt, and have Jacob tucked into bed by 1:00am. But when you’re dealing with everything from Toadies to Hobgoblin’s, some things are easier said than done.
I liked this one. Did I love the fact that the entire 338-page book took place in one. night. Nope. Did I l-o-v-e Kelly? Negative. What I did love {or, rather, who} was Liz LeRue. Some may not be a fan of hers, but I capital L-O-V-E-D loved her. Snarky, tough, brainy…she was like a female Fortnite character come to life {right down to her clunky boots and arsenal of bomb weapons}, and I enjoyed every moment she was on the page. Mama Vee was also a pretty cool character; and I'm confident that Kelly will grow on me over time {especially once the Netflix adaptation of this series debuts}. Will I read the sequel, Beasts & Geeks? The jury’s still out; but I would encourage anyone who grew up with Spiderwick, or is looking for an easy laugh, to snag this one – especially during the season of spook.
xx
7.25.2020
7.23.2020
one n only
Can we just talk about how cute these would look as a beach cover-up? Obsessing!
7.20.2020
NOTD: OPI Mexico City Nail Lacquer Collection in Suzi's Slinging Mezcal
OMG ladies this gold is glorious!
Suzi's Slinging Mezcal is a super, super, super saturated gold metallic shimmer that is simply stunning. Not gonna lie, golds rarely do it for me; but this one is beyond fab! Formula was incredible - no streaking, builds fast, and lasts. for. days. For summertime I prefer more bronze metallics; but I will definitely be brining this bad boy out for holiday soiree season!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
7.18.2020
7.16.2020
7.14.2020
BOOK REVIEW: Kristy's Great Idea {The Baby-Sitters Club Book 1} by Ann M. Martin
Okay, okay, okay…I started reading Ann M. Martin’s The Baby-Sitters Club books when I was in first. grade. {and I distinctly remember writing her fangirl letters in second}; but I haven’t delved into the world of The BSC since I was 10, and oh! How I’ve missed it.
Inspired by the arrival of Netflix’s new The Baby-Sitter’s Club {y’all, this is the content we need in our lives rn. Trust}, I had to invest in a new copy of book # 1, Kristy’s Great Idea, and my 6-year-old self has never been happier!
We are immediately thrown into the life of Kristy Thomas - 12-year-old Stoneybrook, Connecticut resident with a big mouth, tomboy streak, and brilliant idea. Together, with her two besties, Claudia Kishi, and Mary Anne Spier; along with New York City transplant, Stacey McGill, the four girls launch an entrepreneurial endeavor that takes them on a series of hilarious misadventures {and learning experiences!} involving kids, divorce, and, of course…boys.
Did it feel dated? Not. One. Bit. Despite the fact that this book was originally published in 1986; Kristy’s Great Idea, and the Baby-Sitters Club concept as a whole, felt nostalgic and refreshing in a social media-obsessed millennia.
Though I’m clearly not the target audience, I felt my 90s self shining through, relating to the girls as they experienced growing up and growing apart; sympathizing with Stacey as she struggled with revealing the truth about her diabetes; and empathizing with Kristy as she came to terms with her divorcee mother’s new {serious} relationship.
NGL, back in the day I was a Dawn Schafer fan, who is not present in Kristy’s Great Idea, as she moved to Stoneybrook later in the series; but I still loved this so. much. And yeah, I will definitely be reaching for book two shortly.
Think this one’s a little bit too young for you? At least show up for the amazing style of Claudia and Stacey. For reals though…these girls are iconic when it comes to fashion. Claudia’s baggy purple overalls and Stacey’s sporty gray skirt and sweatshirt set? Go. Off. Sis I am here for it. Also here for the blossoming romance between Stacey and Kristy’s older brother, Sam {so sweet, so cute, o-b-s-e-s-s-e-d}; as well as the crazy appearances by Boo Boo, a tubby attack cat with a fiery spirit.
xx
7.11.2020
7.09.2020
hot dang
100% necessary for those sultry summer nights, amiright?!
7.06.2020
NOTD: Ciaté London Mini Paint Pot in Paradise Lost
There's just something about metallic nail colors that make me all swoon-y once the warmer months hit.
Paradise Lost is a brilliant bronze that feels perfectly beach-ready due to its sparkling shimmer and sunkissed hue. Formula is a breeze to work with - streak-free, fully opaque, and fast-dry. If you dig a little dazzle, you'll fall in love with this cutie!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
7.02.2020
China Glaze Trolls World Tour Collection 6 Piece Mini Kit Swatches + Review
AVAILABILITY: Ulta.
6.30.2020
BOOK REVIEW: Prodigy by Marie Lu
Give me a moment to digest what I just read because after turning the final page of Marie Lu’s Prodigy, all I can say is mind. blown.
He is the silver lining in a world of darkness.
He is my light.❞
We meet up with Day and June nine days after escaping from the Republic. John, Day’s older brother, has been executed in his place. Eden, Day’s plague-ridden younger brother, is missing. Los Angeles is on lockdown; Day is severely injured; and the two lovebirds are seeking asylum and assistance from the Patriots in Las Vegas. But there’s one thing I failed to mention: the Elector Primo is dead, leaving his early-twenty-something son Anden with the title.
New to the Elector Primo throne {figurative}, but familiar with the political scene, Anden is heavily disliked by the Senate due to his desire to do away with the Republic’s archaic systems, including the rigged tests that determine each person’s future. While his stance will likely please the oppressed people of the Republic, it may never come to fruition. At least, it won’t if the Patriots have anything to say about it.
Overseen by Razor {aka Commander Andrew DeSoto}, the Patriots are working from the inside of the Republic; but they’re more than happy to help Day and June…for a very high price. The Patriots {with Kaede and Tess in tow} are willing to make Day as good as new as long as he and June assist in assassinating Anden. By placing June in Anden’s hands {and a gun in Day’s}, Razor is convinced that he can eliminate the Elector Primo and overthrow the Republic for good. The question is: who are the bad guys and who are the good?
NGL here…this one started out very slow for me {we’re talking almost-abandoned-it-for-something-else slow}, and I didn’t feel the same love for some of the characters I adored the first time around; but overall it was a solid sequel.
My main qualm with Prodigy was the love square. Yeah, you read that right; Prodigy goes beyond the typical love triangle {which I am not a fan of}, and introduces an angst-filled love square involving Day, June, Anden, and Tess {how Tess went from endearing little sister to potential love interest within the course of a few weeks - book time - is completely beyond my comprehension, but whatevs}. I found the whole situation awkward, fumbling, and unenjoyable. In other words…it was cringey. In fact, that term could also be used for much of Day and June’s interactions.
The two narrators, whom I adored in book one, really lost a lot of their spark this go round. Speaking of spark…it was lacking in Tess as well. Tess, Tess, Tess. I loved her in Legend and legit loathed her in Prodigy. Nevertheless, I found other characters to fill the void: shockingly, Kaede won a huge place in my heart; as did Anden. And while Day and June did little for me for a good 75% of the book; they lit up the pages for those last few chapters, and left me eager to see how their story will end in Champion.
xx
6.27.2020
6.25.2020
georgia peach
Legit the sweetest little romper for summer!
6.22.2020
NOTD: China Glaze Trolls World Tour Collection in No-Holds Barb
This shade is on fire! Babes, I don't usually clamor over crimson, but I could not pass up this pretty for the summer season!
No-Holds Barb is a glooorious coral-meets-red hue that is desperate to deck your tips and toes for summertime! While this is a jelly, making it perfect for those sparkly jelly sandwiches, it can easily be donned alone, as you see here, as long as you apply an extra coat to prevent VNL. As a jelly, it is thinner and stickier than your standard creme; however, it doesn't cruise for the cuticles, applying beautifully with minimal effort.
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
6.20.2020
6.18.2020
6.16.2020
BOOK REVIEW: Left Fur Dead by J.M. Griffin
Gimme allllll the telepathic bunny books, ya hear?
Twenty-five-year-old Juliette ‘Jules’ Bridge is the proprietor of New Hampshire-based Fur Bridge Farm, an ultra-charming sanctuary-style rescue that rehabilitates bunnies; while providing community education on the proper care and keeping of rabbits. Oh, and did I mention Fur Bridge Farm also houses a beyond quaint gift shop brimming with bunny-raising supplies, along with the softest yarn on. the. planet. Yeah, kinda wanna go there pronto!
While Jules adores all of the bunnies who come into her care, she has a soft spot for Bun. Rescued from a physically and mentally abusive environment {his former owners were legit convinced that sweet Bun was in league with Satan}, the two share a bond like no other. No, really. You see, Bun communicates with Jules telepathically. Go ahead, read that again. Telepathic communication with. a. rabbit. Bun speaks to Jules in her mind, and Jules responds verbally {when no one’s around that is; wouldn’t want to be dubbed the crazy lady}. It’s a little secret the two share that not even Jess Plain {Jules’ friend, employee, fellow rabbit lover, and veterinarian-to-be} is aware of.
So how does this duo find themselves immersed in mischief and mayhem? Well…during one of their early morning outings in a nearby park, Jules and Bun happen upon the dead body of Arthur Freeman – aka Arty the Mime. Known for his stupendous performances around the local birthday party circuit {oftentimes alongside Jules and her bunnies}, Arty is somewhat of a local celebrity. And once Jules learns that he kicked the bucket not due to natural causes, but murder, she and Bun decide to put on their detective hats and crack the crime – much to the chagrin of Sheriff Jack Carver. The question is…will Jules and Bun solve the case, or be next in line for an untimely demise?
Oh. My Gosh. I loved this book! NGL, it took me 60 pages or so to really get into Left Fur Dead, but once I did I was hooked!! Bun is the cutest character ever. He actually reminded me of a British butler for some reason {kinda getting Alfred from Batman vibes}. And Jules and Jess are gems – I would love to hang out with these girls IRL. Though he was aloof, I found something endearing about the character of Andrew Stone, and I truly hope that he returns in the sequel {perhaps as a love interest?}.
Truth be told, I was able to pinpoint the killer the moment they appeared on the pages {intuition}; but that didn’t stop me from loving the story. Part of the appeal of cozy mysteries is an assemblage of lovable characters, and an endearing setting – both of which J.M. Griffin created fabulously here. I truly cannot wait to get my paws on book two, Who’s Dead, Doc?
xx
6.11.2020
magnolia
Love this sweatshirt dress is strong.
6.08.2020
NOTD: China Glaze Trolls World Tour Collection in Delta Darlin'
Soooo... I seriously wish that this shade would have photographed better because it. is. smokin'.
Delta Darlin' is a dreamy orange creamsicle-esque shade that feels fit for spring through summer {but would also work as a winter pastel}. The formula here is a little bit thicker to work with; however, upon application, it's a bit thin. Meaning? Either apply 3 thin coats, or 2 thick coats for full coverage. This one is a total keeper!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
6.04.2020
OPI Mexico City Mini 4 Pack Swatches + Review
AVAILABILITY: Ulta and Amazon.
PRICE: $17.00 for the 4PC Mini Set; $10.50 for each full-size bottle.
6.02.2020
BOOK REVIEW: The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis
Years ago I remember reading C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, followed by a few other tales of Narnia, but I’ve forgotten the titles since then, and overall have v little recollection of the series as a whole; thus, I decided to explore the Chronicles again.
Though published as book six in the series, The Magician’s Nephew is to be read first, as a prequel of sorts, to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
The Magician’s Nephew introduces us to Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, two neighbors who become fast friends, and spend their summer days seeking adventure – which is how they come to find Uncle Andrew’s study. Uncle Andrew is Digory’s supposedly mad uncle who is convinced he’s a magician. But Digory and Polly soon learn that Uncle Andrew may actually be a magician.
While in Uncle Andrew’s study, the mad magician manages to trick Polly into touching a magical yellow ring that results in the young girl vanishing. With Polly gone, Uncle Andrew blackmails {I know, right?!} Digory into testing another magic ring in order to be reunited with Polly. In addition to the yellow ring, Uncle Andrew provides Digory with two green rings {green for returning home}; just in case the two children are able to jump back into their current world. It’s getting freaky now, mmm’kay?
Once Digory touches his yellow ring, he finds himself with Polly again – resting within a wooded area that connects the two worlds. And surrounding them? Pools - many, many pools. Each pool leading to a different universe.
Obvs, given the current circumstance, Digory and Polly elect to explore the different worlds before returning to England; which is how they uncover…Charn. Abandoned and desolate, the children shortly discover what they presume to be an ancient palace filled with statues of Charn’s former kings and queens. And smack dab in the middle of those breathtaking statues? A bell, a hammer, and the following words:
Strike the bell and bide the danger
Or wonder, till it drives you mad
What would have followed if you had.”
And thus, the story of Narnia officially begins; for once Digory and Polly take it upon themselves to ring that enticing bell many things are set in motion. From the creation of Narnia and the animals who reside within, to the origins of the lamppost {so prevalent in the pages of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe} and the presence of the {evil} White Witch. But, above all, we are introduced to Aslan - the overseer and creator of all things Narnian; and learn much about the spectacular Wardrobe, and its ability to transport the chosen to Narnia.
The Magician’s Nephew was entertaining, no doubt about it. In under 150 pages it packed a whole lot of action and magic, and did a brilliant job of setting the stage for future adventures in Narnia. The characters are engaging and likable from the jump; while the world-building is perfection. I will certainly be back for more!
xx
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
©
cat eyes & skinny jeans | All rights reserved.