BOOK REVIEW: Rebel: A Legend Novel by Marie Lu

"You rarely regret the things you do, but always the things you don’t."
I bought Marie Lu's Rebel: A Legend Novel back in February of 2022, but didn't pick it up until April 2023 because there was something about it that made me uneasy. You see, I felt a sense of closure when the final page of Champion was turned. Though I was excited at the prospect of a book told from Eden's POV; Day and June were done for me. Been there, done that. I wanted nothing more to do with them and their tawdry back and forth. Yes, at one point in time I shipped them like mad; but eventually they grew to bore me, and I felt that their relationship was satisfactorily put to rest. Sadly, I feel that the two of them managed to steal Eden's thunder in this installment - not too difficult tbh, because he was quite boring himself once given the power to carry his own tale; but still unfair to Eden in its own right.

For as long as he can remember, Eden has lived in the shadow of his hero brother, Daniel 'Day' Wing. And for good reason. It was Day, street rat Day, who singlehandedly led a revolution that ultimately saved the Republic of America. Clearly no small feat, amiright? Though Eden has a laundry list of accomplishments all his own {incredible inventor at the top of his class, anyone?}, it likely will never top Day's achievements - a sentiment that is never far from Eden's mind. Day, on the other hand, is done. Years of living on the edge, and risking his life, have placed him in a mindset of keeping Eden safe. Period. He's not interested in fame, nor fortune; and while he would love to play a leading role in June's love life, that too is part of the past.

Neither Day or Eden can really claim true happiness. While they live comfortably in Ross City, Antarctica; they merely go through the day to day motions as expected of them. But things aren't as...cozy as they seem - for the brothers, a chasm growing between the two that once did not exist; and for the uppity Ross City itself. Because you see, Ross City, for all of its posh airs and pretentiousness, hides a dark underbelly, one where illegal drone races run rampant; residents turn to all manner of crime to survive or make ends meet; and a truly bizarre level system holds some down and boosts others far higher than they deserve. When Eden becomes deeply involved in Drone Racing, and, in turn, Dominic Hann, Day resolves to save the brother he has slowly been moving away from; but sometimes people have to save themselves.

I've said it once, and I'll say it again: Marie Lu is a very hit and miss author. Her talent is exponential, but sometimes it's simply not executed well, and you wind up disliking it, or growing bored; and maybe that's exactly where I started with Rebel. The June/Day storyline has run its course; and, unfortunately, IMO, Eden could not carry a book on his own {despite once being one of my favorite characters}. The fact that he had such trite secondary characters surrounding him {Dominic Hann, Pressa...} didn't make it easier on him. The secondary characters used to carry this series when June and Day became tiring. Gone are the Tess', and Pascao's, and Kaede's...characters who you rooted for alongside our MCs. Rebel lacked that, and it was stifling to the story as a whole.

This is me hoping that this is the end of the Legend series. And, if for some reason it isn't, I don't plan on returning to the world of Day, or Eden, or June. For those of you who have not yet gone beyond Champion, I encourage you to stop here and give Warcross a try instead. Another Marie Lu book, yes; but one that actually tops the Legend series hype. You're welcome.



Star Rating: **1/2


xx

NOTD: Nailtopia Nail Lacquer in Oh Kale Yeah!

Two coats of Nailtopia Nail Lacquer in Oh Kale Yeah!. Deep Green Creme.

I actually found this shade in my stash just before Christmas last year, so it became my Christmas mani, and it. was. stunning.

Oh Kale Yeah! is a deep green creme that gives out of the woods vibes, what with its rich, outdoors-y tone. This one surprised me because it's fairly sheer after coat one; but definitely reaches opacity after two coats. I personally loved this color, and will definitely be pulling it out again during fall/winter 2024. If you love a good deep green, you need to add this beauty to your collection!

xx

decorate my amazon kindle paperwhite signature edition with me!

Decorate my Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition with me!🩷 I’ve been obsessed with this #Bookstagram trend, but not until I found this CoBak Case (which has a protective cover AND clear back to collage) did I finally try it out - and I love! Linking everything I used (including these cutie Taylor Swift stickers)!


SHOP THE POST

xx

NOTD: ZOYA Magical Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Bisoux

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Bisoux. Opal Pink w/ Rose Microflakes and Gold Holo.

This color 100% lives up to the collection name because it is simply magical.

Bisoux is a pale opal pink w/ rose microflakes and gold holo that is giving me unicorn vibes. If you're a fan of whites, you will definitely dig this beauty because the pink is so subtle that it's almost not discernible when it's on the nail. This one had an amazing wear time with zero chips. I literally assembled 5 pieces of furniture while wearing this shade, and my mani still looked flawless. Talk about a testimony, amiright?

xx

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

BOOK REVIEW: A Court of Thorns and Roses {A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1} by Sarah J. Maas

"He smiled at me still, broadly and without restraint or hesitation. Isaac had never smiled at me like that. Isaac had never made my breath catch, just a little bit."
It's probable that Sarah J. Maas' A Court of Thorns and Roses had caught my eye prior to the end of September 2023; in fact, I'm sure of it. Perhaps it simply wasn't the right time, however, for me to discover it; therefore, it didn't officially enter my world until that fateful day. But that's the way all good book love stories begin. They enter your life when you need them most; and perhaps I needed a good, strong romance just then. But I digress...

Feyre is just nineteen-years-old when she kills a wolf in the woods. The killing itself isn't an anomaly - far from it in fact; after all, Feyre is a huntress. An illiterate, yes; but the only individual able to keep her family afloat with a skill learned all her own. Unfortunately, this kill is unlike the others; for unbeknownst to Feyre, this is no ordinary wolf. The wolf in question is none other than an immortal faerie occupying the land between the mortal realm, and Prythian, a magical land where High Lords roam amongst ethereal faeries, shapeshifters, and frightening creatures one want not even to dream of.

Though at first things seem fine following the killing, Feyre is soon visited by Tamlin, another faerie {this one the High Lord of the Spring Court wearing the mask of a beast} who arrives at Feyre's doorstep to take her to her fate. You see, by killing the wolf, Feyre has broken a centuries-old treaty between the mortals and the faeries. Feyre must now give her life in exchange for the one she took in coldblood. Though another might have demanded Feyre's blood; Tamlin has just one request: that Feyre live out her days on his estate in Prythian. And so she bids her family farewell, and heads over the wall.

Upon arrival, Feyre is convinced that this is a prison sentence come to life. After all, wouldn't it be easier to be dead than to live out one's days surrounded by a literal beast as well as the emissary and best friend of said beast, Lucien? As time passes, however, Feyre's heart begins to thaw towards both members of the Spring Court. Soon she has developed feelings for Tamlin, and can't picture herself separated from him even for a day; but the more time she spends in Prythian, the more she realizes that all is not right in the land of Fae. In fact, with each passing second, an ancient wicked blight is spreading further across Prythian; and if Feyre, as someone with a human heart, doesn't do something to stop it, Tamlin and his world will be doomed forever.

Originally I picked up A Court of Thorns and Roses because I had heard that it was a retelling of my favorite fairytale, Beauty and the Beast; and while it shares elements of that wondrous romance, it is not, by any means, a retelling. Rather it is its own tale that, at times, feels like two stories woven into one: Feyre in Prythian, and a fiercer version of Feyre returning to the magical lands to save Tamlin and the Spring Court once and for all. Yes, there are times it feels as if the two halves don't make a whole; but they are done well enough to keep one invested in reading. And, in all honesty, are very necessary in order to pave the way for Rhysand.

Yes, some of you will fall head over heels for the supposed Prince Charming, Tamlin; whilst others will be drawn to the quintessential bad boy, Rhysand. While Rhysand makes a brief appearance in the first half of the book, he does so in a manner that makes him instantly unlikable. It is only when he returns as an MC in the second half that he redeems himself in his unique fashion, making him swoon-worthy. Who I am rooting for in this love triangle remains to be seen; but I will be picking up A Court of Mist and Fury sooner rather than later to explore further. After all, bad boy vs. beast is never an easy decision to make.



Star Rating: ***1/2


xx

NOTD: ZOYA Magical Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Adara

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Adara. Lapis Blue Shimmer w/ Scattered Rose Gold and Blue Holo.

This color! Insert all the heart eyes here!

Adara is a lapis blue shimmer with scattered rose gold and blue holo that brings serious ice queen vibes. While the color is brilliant, however, the formula is not. Womp womp. I had a lot of chipping and tipwear right off the bat with this one; so it's definitely best reserved for a weekend wear as opposed to week long or more. Still recommend for the unique shade!

xx

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

ZOYA Magical Collection Nail Polish Swatches + Review

When I say that ZOYA has been slaying the holiday polish game, I am 100% not lying! Enamored Group A, Enamored Group B, and now...Magical. Pinch me! For reals though. Y'all, this collection is so, so pretty. While Enamored Group A and Enamored Group B were kind of like an even split of reds, and glitters, and darks, leaving you to select the bundle that was best for you; Magical is basically a blend of all of the colors, so you get, to quote Hannah Montana "...the best of both worlds..." Swatches in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

Cherri is a Blue-Toned Red Creme. Y'all know that I'm not huge on reds, but this one? Chef's kiss. Cherri is a blue-toned red creme that brings about visions of Rudolph's nose and mistletoe - yes, it is a perfect Christmas red! The formula for this one is breathtaking! Not only does it apply flawlessly, but its weartime is phenomenal! If you love reds, you need to add this one to your collection immediately! This is 2 coats.

Fairleigh is an Oyster Shell Holo. Le sigh. This color is just giving me all of the festive feels! Fairleigh is an oyster shell holo that is equal parts sophisticated and sassy. For those of you who typically gravitate towards whites and creams, this color will have you in a chokehold. The scattered holo is just stunning. Formula here was fantastic. This could easily act as a top coat to another shade; but when you apply two coats you get the gorgeous opacity you see here. Highly recommend for the holidays, or as an amped up neutral!
This is 2 coats.

Adara is a Lapis Blue Shimmer w/ Scattered Rose Gold and Blue Holo. This color! Insert all the heart eyes here! Adara is a lapis blue shimmer with scattered rose gold and blue holo that brings serious ice queen vibes. While the color is brilliant, however, the formula is not. Womp womp. I had a lot of chipping and tipwear right off the bat with this one; so it's definitely best reserved for a weekend wear as opposed to week long or more. Still recommend for the unique shade! This is 2 coats.

Bisoux is an Opal Pink w/ Rose Microflakes and Gold Holo. This color 100% lives up to the collection name because it is simply magical. Bisoux is a pale opal pink w/ rose microflakes and gold holo that is giving me unicorn vibes. If you're a fan of whites, you will definitely dig this beauty because the pink is so subtle that it's almost not discernible when it's on the nail. This one had an amazing wear time with zero chips. I literally assembled 5 pieces of furniture while wearing this shade, and my mani still looked flawless. Talk about a testimony, amiright? This is 2 coats.

Vixen is a Blackened Cherry Creme. I seriously thought I would love this color, but it just didn't do it for me. Womp womp. Vixen is a blackened cherry creme that gives off deep chocolate brown vibes. I typically dig an oxblood-meets-merlot shade, but this one was far darker than that, and didn't feel as chic as I thought it would. If you dig blacks, you'll probably like this one; but if you prefer a more red-leaning blackened cherry, Vixen isn't it. Cute name though. This is 2 coats.

Inez is a Magenta Creme w/ Rose Gold Microflakes. Never have I ever fallen in love with a magenta polish; but I guess there's a first time for everything. Inez is a magenta creme with rose gold microflakes, and let me tell you right now...those rose gold microflakes make all the difference. Y'all, this color is stunning - it's rich and lush, but girly at the same time. For me this is a total lemming, and I am obsessed. NGL, I did have a bit of flaking while wearing {towards the end of the 6 days}, but a quick touch-up fixed it immediately, so not a dealbreaker. Highly recommended! This is 2 coats.

AVAILABILITY: ZOYA.

january is january

people put so much stress and anxiety into the concept of january, but here’s the sitch: january is january. you’re still going to feel feelings once the clock strikes midnight. you’re still going to cry; you’re still going to laugh; you’re still going to hope; you’re still going to dream. it’s all just going to occur in another year. 2023 is out, 2024 is in; but it’s still just january, and everything is going to be fine. i promise. that said, here are 19 reminders for 2024 ♡

1. you can read every in/out list there is, but you still have to figure out what works for you because there is no one size fits all when it comes to human emotion.
2. you don’t need a new year to start over. not happy where you are in 3 months? begin again.
3. things don’t happen overnight, including transformation. if you seek results too soon, you’re going to wind up disappointed.
4. you are the only person who decides what is significant to you.
5. choose your people wisely. it’s not about distance - it’s about who’s ‘there’, and who loves you.
6. overthinking is every bit as dangerous as not thinking at all - balance is key.
7. being lonely and being alone are not one and the same.
8. you won’t always get the closure you need or deserve; sometimes you just have to give it to yourself.
9. it’s easier to process things when you take a step back and separate yourself from them for awhile.
10. there’s nothing wrong with therapy. sharing your feelings, and talking your way through them is iconic. period.
11. when forgiveness is too hard to muster up acceptance is fine.
12. reality is multifaceted.
13. so is emotion.
14. curiosity is a power. be curious. always.
15. there will always be a song lyric to describe exactly how you’re feeling at this very moment, you just have to find it.
16. write it down. your thoughts, your feelings, your hopes, your dislikes…all of it. self talk is real and it’s spectacular.
17. the right person for you probably isn’t a replica of the dream person you thought up in your mind - that’s okay.
18. it’s also okay if you make mistakes. we’re human. mistakes are a part of life. don’t beat yourself up over them.
19. long story short, you’ll survive.
xx

NOTD: ZOYA Magical Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Fairleigh

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Fairleigh. Oyster Shell Holo.

Le sigh. This color is just giving me all of the festive feels!

Fairleigh is an oyster shell holo that is equal parts sophisticated and sassy. For those of you who typically gravitate towards whites and creams, this color will have you in a chokehold. The scattered holo is just stunning. Formula here was fantastic. This could easily act as a top coat to another shade; but when you apply two coats you get the gorgeous opacity you see here. Highly recommend for the holidays, or as an amped up neutral!

xx

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

2023

a reminder that for all of the times 2023 looked like smiles and laughter, it also looked like tears and heartbreak. it’s okay if your 2023 was a bit of both (it’s called balance for a reason). it’s okay if your lesson learned was that some things get broken and stay broken, no matter how much you try and piece them back together. it’s okay if your big takeaway was that things don’t always work out the way you want them to, regardless of how well-laid your plans were. it’s also okay if you’re still navigating through rough times, trying to seek out better ones. if 2023 was everything, everywhere all at once, congratulations…you did it right. love you.🫶🏻
xx

happy christmas angels!

happy christmas angels. <33 yes, the holidays can be extremely lonely. for many of us (read: most), the holidays bring to light the fact that we never had the ‘perfect’ family that we dreamed about in our childhood fantasies (plot twist: there’s no such thing as perfect). it’s okay if today looks like lying on the floor with your AirPods listening to playlists to quiet your noisy mind; or binging movies to make you laugh, or cry, or reminisce, or contemplate why that letter to Hogwarts never arrived. it’s okay if you’re spending the day cuddling with your furbaby (or maybe you, like me, are spending the morning walking dogs at a shelter). it’s okay if you’re ordering pizza and burning cookies as opposed to carving turkey and devouring the perfect pumpkin pie. it’s also okay if you’re excited to spend time with your family. or if you’re barely tolerating their invasive questions and snarky comments and are counting down the seconds until they vacate the premises. today will take billions of different shapes for billions of different people, and each will simply be what it is. maybe not good, maybe not bad…just moments. take them for what they are, feel the way you need to feel, and move forward. ilysm.❤️
xx

NOTD: ZOYA December 2023 Color of the Month Nail Lacquer in Vienna

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Vienna. Metallic Gold w/ Iridescent Microshimmer.

This shade right here? Literally just converted me to a gold lover. True story.

Vienna is a Metallic Gold w/ iridescent hex shimmer, irregular flakes, gold and iridescent microshimmer, and fine white pearl that gives off the most royal vibes I have ever seen in polish form. Like this? This right here is it. Literally no other metallic shades are needed if you have Vienna in your life - she is supreme. Formula was fantastic. I didn't expect opacity in 2 coats, but I achieved that so easily; and dry time was brilliant. This is one of those shades that is perfect for going glam or simply embracing as an amped up neutral. You need her!

xx

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

NOTD: ZOYA Magical Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Cherri

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Cherri. Blue-Toned Red Creme.

Y'all know that I'm not huge on reds, but this one? Chef's kiss.

Cherri is a blue-toned red creme that brings about visions of Rudolph's nose and mistletoe - yes, it is a perfect Christmas red! The formula for this one is breathtaking! Not only does it apply flawlessly, but its weartime is phenomenal! If you love reds, you need to add this one to your collection immediately!

xx

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

NOTD: ZOYA Enamored Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Murphy

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Murphy. Metallic Army Green.

NGL, this color is quintessential fall.

Murphy is a metallic army green that is literal bliss for autumn. The formula and finish for this one is v similar to that of Eleanor {also in this collection}; but the color is in a class of its own. I received so many compliments on this shade; and it is undoubtedly one of the the most perfect colors for fall into winter. This one is a must!

xx

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

NOTD: ZOYA Enamored Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Jean

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Jean. Indigo Periwinkle with Holographic Finish.

Tell me it's soiree season without telling me its soiree season.

Jean is an iconic indigo periwinkle with holographic finish that gives denim-meets-Frozen vibes. This one is a showstopper that will keep all eyes on your tips. Formula here is flawless. Jean is very buildable; while I used two coats here, I could definitely see the color being even more intense with a third coat. Just saying. Highly recommend!

xx

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

NOTD: ZOYA Enamored Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Precious

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Precious. Orchid Mauve with Micro Rose Gold Flecks.

NGL, this one definitely threw me for the fall collection; but I'm still a fan.

Precious is a feminine orchid mauve with micro rose gold flecks throughout that actually looks kind of amazing paired with cognac riding boots and oversized cream sweaters. This one is ultra-girly, and will seamlessly transition into the winter months, which I love. Formula was very easy to work with. This one was perhaps slightly thinner than some of the other shades in this collection; but overall a breeze to level.

xx

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

ZOYA Enamored Group A Bundle Nail Polish Collection Swatches + Review

After the stunningness that was ZOYA's Enamored Group B Bundle Nail Polish Collection, I literally could not wait to try out the Enamored Group A Bundle Nail Polish Collection. Truth? I can't even tell you which bundle I preferred because they both had incredible colors and formulas; so you really have to go with your personal preference {or pick up both} - the choice is yours. Swatch time!

Eleanor is a Metallic Cinnamon Mahogany. Babes this. is. it. The nail color you need for Thanksgiving! Eleanor is a charming metallic cinnamon mahogany that just brings fall leaves, and pumpkin patches, and feasts to life. I found that this shade didn't wear as well as other Zoya shades in that it chipped in a few places, and tipwear wasn't great. But for your Thanksgiving festivities it will definitely make for a standout shade! This is 2 coats.

Precious is a Mauve with Micro Rose Gold Flecks. NGL, this one definitely threw me for the fall collection; but I'm still a fan. Precious is a feminine orchid mauve with micro rose gold flecks throughout that actually looks kind of amazing paired with cognac riding boots and oversized cream sweaters. This one is ultra-girly, and will seamlessly transition into the winter months, which I love. Formula was very easy to work with. This one was perhaps slightly thinner than some of the other shades in this collection; but overall a breeze to level. This is 2 coats.

Jean is an Indigo Periwinkle with Holographic Finish. Tell me it's soiree season without telling me its soiree season. Jean is an iconic indigo periwinkle with holographic finish that gives denim-meets-Frozen vibes. This one is a showstopper that will keep all eyes on your tips. Formula here is flawless. Jean is very buildable; while I used two coats here, I could definitely see the color being even more intense with a third coat. Just saying. Highly recommend! This is 2 coats.

Murphy is a Metallic Army Green. NGL, this color is quintessential fall. Murphy is a metallic army green that is literal bliss for autumn. The formula and finish for this one is v similar to that of Eleanor {also in this collection}; but the color is in a class of its own. I received so many compliments on this shade; and it is undoubtedly one of the the most perfect colors for fall into winter. This one is a must! This is 2 coats.

Frenchy is a Beige Pink Creme. Yes, Zoya is bringing us a neutral for fall. Frenchy is a fresh beige pink creme that is unlike what we typically see for autumn. Rather than deep, dark, and vampy, this pretty is subdued and minimalistic - perfect for the girl who prefers a more classic polish. The formula here is incredibly easy to work with and wears beautifully for multiple days. This is 2 coats.

Lennon is a Deep Teal w/ Scattered Holo. For my blue girls you are going to love this one for fall. Trust. Lennon is a flashy deep teal w/ scattered holo that feels highly bejeweled and brilliant. The scattered holo lends a midnight vibe to the deep teal and makes it so perfect for the season. Formula was fantastic here - I showed no tipwear or chips for the full week that I wore it. Bonus: it looks utterly lush in sunlight. This is 2 coats.

AVAILABILITY: ZOYA.

NOTD: ZOYA Enamored Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Eleanor

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Eleanor. Metallic Cinnamon Mahogany.

Babes this. is. it. The nail color you need for Thanksgiving!

Eleanor is a charming metallic cinnamon mahogany that just brings fall leaves, and pumpkin patches, and feasts to life. I found that this shade didn't wear as well as other Zoya shades in that it chipped in a few places, and tipwear wasn't great. But for your Thanksgiving festivities it will definitely make for a standout shade!

xx

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

NOTD: ZOYA Enamored Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Frenchy

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Frenchy. Beige Pink Creme.

Yes, Zoya is bringing us a neutral for fall.

Frenchy is a fresh beige pink creme that is unlike what we typically see for autumn. Rather than deep, dark, and vampy, this pretty is subdued and minimalistic - perfect for the girl who prefers a more classic polish. The formula here is incredibly easy to work with and wears beautifully for multiple days.

xx

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

NOTD: ZOYA Enamored Collection 2023 Nail Lacquer Collection in Lennon

Two coats of ZOYA Nail Polish in Lennon. Deep Teal w/ Scattered Holo.

For my blue girls you are going to love this one for fall. Trust.

Lennon is a flashy deep teal w/ scattered holo that feels highly bejeweled and brilliant. The scattered holo lends a midnight vibe to the deep teal and makes it so perfect for the season. Formula was fantastic here - I showed no tipwear or chips for the full week that I wore it. Bonus: it looks utterly lush in sunlight.

xx

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