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Here is part one of my 25 book recommendations blog series, including romance novels to historical fiction, for anyone who enjoys snuggling up with a good book. I turned 25 last week, which means I'm officially at the age where I can say I'm having a quarter-life crisis. As a bibliophile, books and reading were a big part of my birthday. I received books as presents, took a bookish-themed quiz, and even had a birthday cake decorated with some of my favourite books. On the morning of my birthday, I shared a post on my BookTok and Bookstagram accounts that marked Chapter 25 of my life. Included in the post were 25 book recommendations of books that I have loved reading this year. I did a similar post for my 24th birthday in 2025, so I tried to recommend new books this year. Because I love recommending my favourite books, I thought I'd share these recommendations with my blog readers over the course of two blog posts. So, if you're looking for a new book to read, or perhaps want to try a new genre, continue reading for the first half of my 25 book recommendations. 25 Book Recommendations - Part One If We Were Villains Genre: Dark Academia Author: M.L. Rio Synopsis: "Oliver Marks has just served ten years for the murder of one of his closest friends – a murder he may or may not have committed. On the day he's released, he's greeted by the detective who put him in prison. Detective Colborne is retiring, but before he does, he wants to know what really happened ten years ago. "As a young actor studying Shakespeare at an elite arts conservatory, Oliver noticed that his talented classmates seem to play the same roles onstage and off – villain, hero, tyrant, temptress – though Oliver felt doomed to always be a secondary character in someone else's story. But when the teachers change up the casting, a good-natured rivalry turns ugly, and the plays spill dangerously over into life. "When tragedy strikes, one of the seven friends is found dead. The rest face their greatest acting challenge yet: convincing the police, and themselves, that they are blameless." My Thoughts: I read If We Were Villains for my university studies, but it fast became one of my all-time favourite novels. It is so intriguing; I loved M.L. Rio's writing style and just found myself so consumed with the characters and their stories. Escape Me Genre: YA Dystopian Author: Tahereh Mafi Synopsis: "James Anderson needs a new plan. He’s ready to make real moves to destroy the looming threats against their world, but no one is taking him seriously. James is tired of being underestimated by his own family. He wants five uninterrupted minutes alone with Rosabelle. He wants to kill Sebastian. And he’s done waiting for permission. "Rosabelle Wolff needs to stick to the plan. Which means she needs to stay away from James and the dangerous feelings he brings out in her. When she’s near him she loses control, and she’ll need absolute control if she has any hope of convincing Sebastian―and through him, Klaus―that she’s still carrying out the original plan to destroy the rebel regime. In the meantime, Warner needs to stay out of her business. "Aaron Warner Anderson is trying not to kill Rosabelle. They might be reluctant allies, but that doesn’t mean they get along. Every day is a new kind of hell for Warner. He’s worried about his wife; he’s worried about his world. He can’t decide what to do about James until he understands Rosabelle’s true motives―and when he’s finally delivered the answers he needs, the stakes prove astronomical. All roads lead to heartbreak and destruction, no matter what choice he makes." My Thoughts: The Shatter Me series is one of my favourite series that I will never stop recommending, and Escape Me is book three in the spin-off. I read this in under 24 hours and absolutely loved everything about it. Heavenly Bodies Genre: Fantasy Author: Imani Erriu Synopsis: "In a world ruled by the Stars, cruel and merciless gods, Elara has been cursed by fate. A prophecy promises she will fall for a Star, but that it will kill them both. Yet when the Star of Wrath and War descends to hunt Elara, the neighbouring kingdom sees an opportunity to take her from her home, the Kingdom of Night, to Helios, Kingdom of Light. Where she strides straight into the arms of an enemy prince. There, Elara is forced to either let Prince Lorenzo train her into a weapon worthy of battling against the tyrannical reign of the Stars, or to accept her fate. But there are shadows even within the Kingdom of Light – and they threaten to reveal the darkness in Lorenzo’s past and the ancient magic that slumbers in Elara’s veins. And with it all, the undeniable, star-crossed pull between them…" My Thoughts: Heavenly Bodies was one of the first fantasy novels I read this year and I'm so glad I picked it up. The concept and worldbuilding is brilliant and I loved the romantic plot, which ended on a cliffhanger. I will definitely be reading book two, Fallen Stars, soon! Shield of Sparrows Genre: Romantasy Author: Devney Perry Synopsis: "I’ve spent my life kneeling to their will and to my father's. As a princess, my only duty is to wear the crown and obey the king. I was never meant to rule. Never meant to fight. And I was never supposed to be the daughter who sealed an ancient treaty with her own blood. "But that changed the fateful day I stepped into my father’s throne room. The day a legendary monster hunter sailed to our shores. The day a prince ruined my life. "Now I’m crossing treacherous lands beside a warrior who despises me as much as I despise him bound to a future I didn’t choose and a husband I barely know. Everyone wants me to be something I’m not a queen, a spy, a sacrifice. But what if I refused the role chosen for me? What if I made my own rules? What if there’s power in being underestimated? "And what if for the first time I reached for it?" My Thoughts: Initially, I was wary of reading Shield of Sparrows because I'd heard such good things about it, I worried it wouldn't live up to the hype. However, I am so glad I did read it because I became obsessed with the novel and went to buy book two straight after finishing it. Mate Genre: Paranormal Romance Author: Ali Hazelwood Synopsis: "Serena Paris is orphaned, pack-less, and one of a kind. Coming forward as the first Human-Were hybrid was supposed to heal a centuries-long rift between species. Instead, it made her a target, prey to the ruthless political machinations between Weres, Vampyres, and Humans. With her enemies closing in on her, she has only one option left - if he'll have her. "As Alpha of the Northwest pack, Koen Alexander commands obedience. His authority is so absolute, only a fool would threaten his mate. It doesn't matter if Serena doesn't reciprocate his feelings; nothing will stop him from keeping her safe. "But power-hungry Vampyres and Weres are not the only threats chasing Serena. Sooner or later, her past is bound to catch up with her - and Koen might be the only thing standing between her and total annihilation..." My Thoughts: I love Ali Hazelwood as an author, but before reading Mate (and its prequel, Bride), I had only read Ali's STEM romances. But I really enjoyed reading Mate because it was unlike other books I'd read and was just so full of banter, which made for a fun reading experience. Great Big Beautiful Life Genre: Romance/Contemporary Fiction Author: Emily Henry Synopsis: "When Margaret Ives, the famously reclusive heiress, invites eternal optimist Alice Scott to the balmy Little Crescent Island to write her life story, Alice knows this is it: her big break. "The catch? Pulitzer-prize winning human thundercloud, Hayden Anderson, has been invited there for the exact same reason. "The proposal? A one-month trial period, after which Margaret will choose who will get to tell her story and unearth the truth behind one of the most scandalous families of the 20th Century. "But Margaret isn’t telling them everything, only giving each of them pieces of a past filled with scandal, wealth and heartbreak. Pieces they can’t put together because of an ironclad NDA and an inconvenient yearning pulsing between them every time they’re in the same room. But the truth about Margaret Ives is only part of the story." My Thoughts: I had high hopes about Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry before reading it. I love EmHen's novels, and the same can be said for GBBL because I read it on holiday in Granada, loved it and cried in a Spanish café at the end. Love Wells Kept Genre: Western Romance Author: Bailey Hannah Synopsis: "Jackson and Kate have been happily married for over ten years and live a beautifully chaotic life raising two young children on Wells Ranch. But when Jackson sustains a severe head injury that sends him into a coma, years of his memory are gone by the time he wakes. Doctors are confident it will return with time, but Jackson feels like a stranger in his own life. How can he have a wife and children but not know them? "Kate tries to remain strong for her family, but she secretly mourns the loss of the man she knew and fears he may never return. She leans on her Wells Ranch family, who she needs now more than ever. It's scary and difficult, but she won't give up on Jackson and their love, no matter how long it takes. "Despite early struggles, Kate and Jackson share tender moments that stir something in Jackson, even though he doesn't fully understand it. As more time passes, bits and pieces of Jackson's memories return, and he starts slowly rediscovering his instincts as a husband and dad. And though Jackson and Kate's love story may need a rewrite, they'll come to discover this new chapter might just be stronger than all the ones that came before." My Thoughts: Love Wells Kept was one of my most anticipated reads of 2026, and it did not disappoint. It's the final book in the Wells Ranch series, and it was great to go back to that fictional town and experience the emotional rollercoaster of the fifth book. And Now, Back To You Genre: Romance Author: B.K. Borison Synopsis: "Jackson Clark likes life neat, predictable, and preferably viewed from the comfort of his radio booth. Delilah Stewart prefers hers wild, spontaneous, and preferably in the eye of the storm, out in the field. "For years, the two have clashed like thunder and lightning - until they’re partnered against their will to cover the snowstorm of the century. Eager to be taken seriously as a journalist, Delilah offers Jackson a deal. If he can help her ace this assignment, she’ll help him rediscover his long-lost fun side. "But, when other feelings start to enter the equation, can Jackson and Delilah weather the storm? Or does what happens in the mountains, stay in the mountains?" My Thoughts: And Now, Back To You is the second novel in the Heartstrings series, and it's inspired by the Nora Ephron classic, When Harry Met Sally. I found myself laughing, smiling and kicking my feet the entire way through this book, which is a sign of a great romance. Into the Fading Twilight Genre: Romantic Suspense Author: Catherine Cowles Synopsis: "After a year in captivity, Nova Monroe is back in Starlight Grove—but she’s not the same woman who vanished. She lives on the edge, chases adrenaline, and refuses to be caged again. Cliff diving. Mountain biking. Anything to feel alive and outrun the memories clawing at her. But the single dad with shadows of his own won’t let her face it alone. Especially when she finds herself needing a place to stay. "Kol Archer has made it his mission to protect her. As a Forest Service investigator, he’s no stranger to rugged terrain or battling for control. But nothing prepared him for Nova—her fire, her fight, the way she makes him feel something he thought was lost. "The closer they get, the more dangerous things become. Someone doesn’t want Nova to move on. And Kol is determined to stop them—no matter the cost. "Because for the first time in forever, Nova’s not just surviving. She’s learning how to live, how to trust, and reminding Kol he can, too. But as darkness looms, the truth could destroy them both…" My Thoughts: I'm obsessed with the romantic suspense genre at the moment, and specifically, books that Catherine Cowles has written. Into the Fading Twilight blends Criminal Minds with romance and it's perfect for fans of romance novels but also thrillers. The Rebel Witch Genre: Romantasy Author: Kristen Ciccarelli Synopsis: "Rune Winters is on the run from the republic who condemned her and the boy who betrayed her. Her friends, her home, and the life she knew are lost. "An ocean away, her only ally is the unlikeliest one: Cressida Roseblood, the deposed witch queen intent on taking back what she thinks hers – the crown, the country, and Gideon Sharpe with it. Gideon will not allow the terrors of his past to rise again, even if this means hunting down every last witch. But there is only one witch who holds the key to Cressida’s return…and Gideon’s heart. "And he will stop at nothing to find her. Rune Winters will meet her end. Even if it ends him too." My Thoughts: It took me a while to get round to reading The Rebel Witch, book two in the Crimson Moth duology. Having now read it, I wish I didn't wait so long to pick it up because it was the perfect continuation of book one and I loved the enemies-to-lovers aspect. Winter Garden Genre: Historical Fiction Author: Kristin Hannah Synopsis: "Meredith and Nina Whitson are as different as sisters can be. One stayed at home to raise her family and manage the family apple orchard; the other followed a dream and travelled the world to become a famous photojournalist. But these two estranged women come together at their father’s deathbed standing alongside their cold, disapproving mother, Anya, to hear the one last promise he extracts from the women in his life. "It begins with a story like no other. A captivating, mysterious love story that spans sixty-five years and moves from war torn Leningrad in the 1940s to modern-day Alaska. The three women are brought together by a story so unexpected and extraordinary that when Meredith and Nina finally learn the secret of their mother’s past and uncover a truth so terrible, it will shake the very foundation of the family and who they think they are. My Thoughts: Kristin Hannah is an incredible storyteller; her historical fiction books are some of my favourite to read. However, Winter Garden might just be one of the best I've read. I found this novel so gripping, terrifying, and fascinating. I cried so much towards the end, but loved every second of the reading experience. All Together for Christmas Genre: Festive Romance/Family Drama Author: Sarah Morgan Synopsis: "Becky is stranded at the airport, so when she bumps into her brother’s best friend, Will, and he suggests they drive home together, Becky reluctantly agrees. For the first time, Becky is dreading Christmas, and only Will knows why. Can she trust him to keep her secret? "Rosie married Declan after a whirlwind romance, and now the cracks are starting to appear. Rosie and Declan have agreed to hide their problems from her family, but will this Christmas bring them closer or drive them apart? "Hayley can’t wait for her first Balfour family Christmas with Jamie, but she’s worried about her place in this close-knit family. Will there be room for her too? And how will they react to the secret she and Jamie have been keeping? "All this secrecy could derail everyone's happy holidays. Can the siblings open up to each other in time to enjoy a perfect family Christmas?" My Thoughts: If you know me, you know that Sarah Morgan's Christmas books are some of my all-time favourites. I have read almost all of her work, but All Together For Christmas is one I will forever recommend because it was so heartwarming and emotional that you just can't help but relate to it. These 12 books are some of my favourite ones that I've read in the past year. However, there are still more book recommendations to come, so if you want to know what other books I'll be recommending, come back in a couple of weeks to find out. Until next time...

Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club is an iconic West End show that I saw last week, and I am sharing my thoughts on the musical below. If you've followed my blog for a while, you will know that I am a fan of musical theatre, whether that's watching live musicals at the theatre or simply watching movie versions on my television. I've written a few theatre reviews over the years on WriteWatchWork, and I'm back with another this week. Last Friday, I went to the Kit Kat Club in London to see the hit show Cabaret. I thoroughly enjoyed it, so, of course, I wanted to share my thoughts with you all. So, if you're interested, continue reading for my review of the Berlin-based musical, Cabaret. Review of Cabaret Genre: Period musical drama Rating: 8/10 Stars: Skylar Astin, Sarah Hyland, Ruthie Henshall, Robert Hands, Baker Mukasa, Ronan Burns, Lindsay Atherton, Joe Atkinson, Xavion Campbell Brown, Olivia-Rose Deer, Anya Ferdinand, Lily Frances, Adrian Grove, Peter Houston and more Synopsis: The synopsis of Cabaret is as follows: "Berlin, 1930. A city alive with music, desire and possibility. The party is in full swing – but a shadow is growing at its edges. "Inside the intimate and electrifying Kit Kat Club, Sally Bowles sings to forget. Cliff Bradshaw writes to remember. And the Emcee reminds us that life is beautiful... until it isn't." Based on the play by John Van Druten, the musical follows various characters living in Berlin as the Nazi Party begins to rise to power. Conflict arises, but the Kit Kat Club continues to invite you in for an evening of singing and dancing. My Thoughts Going into this, I didn't really know what to expect. I hadn't heard much about the story of Cabaret before; I only knew that it was set in Germany and the Emcee is an iconic character. The musical is performed at London's Playhouse Theatre, right next to Embankment Tube Station. Inside, you go down a couple of flights of stairs and along a dark, narrow corridor. You're given a sticker that staff put over the back camera of your phone. The idea is not to take any photographs or videos inside the Kit Kat Club, so that the experience remains elite and mysterious, which I actually really enjoyed. Because Cabaret is set in a nightclub, the Playhouse Theatre was transformed into a club of sorts. There were musicians and dancers performing before the show began in the bar areas, which was great for building the atmosphere. The show I saw was the 19:30 showing, and I was seated in the Upper Circle. I will say that if you have mobility issues, are quite tall and not very well-balanced, the Upper Circle seating may not be for you. The stairs to our seats were quite steep, and the seating area was quite shallow. However, the view from the Upper Circle was actually amazing. We got a top-down view of the circular stage and even the orchestra too. Credit: WriteWatchWork My friend and I wanted to see Cabaret with the current cast because we are fans of Skylar Astin, who is from Pitch Perfect and plays the Emcee, and Sarah Hyland from Modern Family, who plays Sally Bowles. These two actors were incredible. Skylar Astin's performance as the Emcee was so versatile, and I loved the humour his character brought to the show. Sarah Hyland, her singing voice...wow! She performed brilliantly, and there is one scene where her character cries and breaks down, and I was in awe of how real Sarah made her performance seem. The other cast members were equally amazing. There was so much dancing and movement on the stage, and the moments when they all joined in singing were electrifying. I really enjoyed Ruthie Henshall and Robert Hands' performances as Fräulein Schneider and Herr Schultz. Their storyline was so heartwarming, but also bittersweet. However, it did have the audience awing and smiling along with them. I will say that if you don't know much about Cabaret before watching it, be warned that some of the dancing is quite sensual and sexual, and there are a few innuendos littered throughout the script. However, as a musical theatre fan, I thoroughly enjoyed watching Cabaret. I am really glad I got to see the musical, especially with actors whom I know from other films/shows I've seen. So, if you're a fan of seeing shows in the West End and fancy watching Cabaret, you can buy tickets here. Until next time...

Autumn has officially begun, so here are some things to do this autumn to help you de-stress and enjoy the season. We are now well into autumn and already halfway through October. This time of year is one I always look forward to, but I know for some people, the darker days and colder weather can be challenging. Especially when school picks back up again, or the workload increases in the run-up to Christmas. But as someone who tries to enjoy autumn to the fullest, I thought I'd share some activities you could do this autumn to de-stress and enjoy the season. So, if you're looking for ways to brighten up your autumn, continue reading. Things to do in autumn to de-stress and enjoy the season Pumpkin Patch Picking Up until two years ago, I had never been to a pumpkin patch. In fact, I've still never even carved a pumpkin. But spending the day at a pumpkin patch with friends has become an annual autumn ritual for me. It's one that brings me joy and lets me fully embrace the season. There are a lot of pumpkin patches all across the UK, and they are perfect for an autumnal day out. Whether you want to pick pumpkins to decorate for Halloween, choose one to use in your pumpkin pie, or simply, just enjoy a day out surrounded by autumn, this activity could be for you. They're not overly expensive – from my knowledge – and aren't too stressful either. If you have young kids, pumpkin patch picking could be perfect for you. A Pub Roast In Britain, we're known for roast dinners. It is one of my favourite meals to have in autumn and winter, particularly when it's home-cooked. However, going to a pub for a roast dinner on a Sunday is one activity you could do to cosy up and de-stress. At this time of year, pubs are often very cosy and relaxing; they've got the fire going, a warm atmosphere and the excitement as the Christmas countdown begins. So, popping in to have a lovely roast dinner that you haven't had to cook can only be beneficial. In fact, if you fancy a pub roast, why not go after a visit to a pumpkin patch? Cosy Night In This activity is probably for those of us who enjoy the little things in life and find comfort in their own home. A cosy night in is the best way to spend an autumnal evening. Just imagine: the lights on low, a fire roaring (if you have one), cosy pyjamas, blankets, a lovely hot drink and a comfort show on the telly. There is nothing better than curling up on the sofa when the nights are cold and dark. So, if you're stressed, finding the autumnal season challenging or are simply tired, why not spend a cosy night in? Seasonal Coffee Date One of the best things for me when it comes to autumn and the festive season is going to a coffee shop and trying their seasonal drinks. A lot of coffee chains, mainly Starbucks, Costa and Greggs, often bring out autumn-flavoured drinks this time of year. Then when Christmas comes, they have festive drinks. With lots of flavours to choose from, including pumpkin spice, maple hazel, honeycomb, and more, going on a seasonal coffee date, either solo or with others, could be a great way to enjoy autumn. Exploring Nature This final activity is probably more for those who don't mind spending time outdoors. Exploring nature is always promoted as a way to reduce stress and improve our mental health; there are studies that show the benefits of being in nature. But it is also a way to enjoy autumn. Visiting nature reserves, exploring National Trust sites, or simply going for a walk around your town could make all the difference this autumn. There is lots of wildlife out and about, plus the falling leaves. And to make it even better, you could get a takeaway seasonal coffee to enjoy whilst exploring nature. There are lots more activities you could do this autumn to fully enjoy the season and help yourself de-stress. But these are just some of my favourites. If you've got any recommendations of your own, feel free to leave a comment. Until next time...

Saturday, 10th October, 2026, is World Mental Health Day and I'm sharing some reasons why reading is a hobby we should all enjoy because of the positive impact it can have on our health. World Mental Health Day is this Saturday. For 2026, the theme is 'Lived experiences heard: real voice, real change'. The purpose of this theme is to reiterate the importance of conversation. Speaking to others about your experiences and hearing them discuss their own can be incredibly powerful. mentalhealth.org.uk has shared some tips on how to talk about mental health as part of this year's World Mental Health Day campaign. And whilst learning about the lived experiences of others is so incredibly important, I'm sharing some reasons below why the fictional stories of books can be equally powerful. Why reading is a hobby we should all enjoy 2026 is the National Year of Reading. This is a national campaign aiming to get more and more people involved in reading and experiencing the joy that books can bring. Reading doesn't only bring joy. It can positively impact your mental health for a variety of reasons. However, the number of readers is declining, particularly among children and teens. But I'm sharing some benefits of reading and reasons why it is a hobby everyone can enjoy, no matter your taste. Accessible to all A lot of people don't enjoy reading or aren't inclined to take part in reading because they find barriers in their way. They may have difficulty with their eyes or have been diagnosed with dyslexia. However, in today's world, there are so many ways to comprehend books, and I'm not just referring to large-print books. E-readers or iPads are a great way to read a book if you struggle with small font or reading text on a page. You can adjust the font size, the brightness of the screen and even look up definitions of words. Or, if you fancy, graphic novels for those of us who are more visual readers. Audiobooks are also an incredibly important source of books. If you struggle reading words on paper, listening to audiobooks can be helpful as narrators read the story to you. Plus, if you can multi-task, you can listen to your audiobook whilst doing the housework, at the gym or even driving. Reduces mental stresses Our world can be rather stressful. Especially when there are government changes, wars in some countries and a cost of living crisis. But if there's one thing reading can do is provide an escape from reality. Reading a book, particularly a piece of fiction, allows you to escape from your reality and jump into a new world. This, in turn, can reduce your mental stress because you aren't focused on your life; you're reading that of others and allowing yourself to relax and just enjoy the story. Opens our eyes As I said in the point above, reading allows us to experience a new way of life. By doing so, we are increasing our knowledge of the world, understanding what other people go through, and discovering new cultures. It also fosters empathy by presenting us with new situations and letting us understand what the characters are feeling, which translates nicely into reality. So, a huge benefit of reading is that it opens our eyes to the world around us and beyond. Sparks inspiration As stated in a Cambridge article, reading books can inspire positive life changes. By reading books, we're exposing ourselves to the lives of characters and of real people, if reading non-fiction. From these, we can learn more about different experiences, whether that's living in a new country, a sport, or just learning to prioritise healthy relationships. As a result, reading can spark inspiration about how we can live our lives and raise self-awareness. If you've always wanted to travel, you might find yourself doing so after reading a summer romance set in Canada, for example. This can only benefit your health because you will be prioritising yourself and things that make you happy. Like the World Mental Health Day theme for 2026, lived experiences can inspire real change. Take 10 to Read Now, this isn't technically a benefit of reading. However, it is a way for us all to get involved with the activity. As part of the National Year of Reading campaign, the National Literacy Trust and the British Council are aiming to set a new Guinness World Record for the number of people reading online in 12 hours. The message of this campaign is: 'whatever you're into, take 10 to read into it.' There are four sessions throughout the day, depending on the age group of the readers. The different sessions include different activities, but all sessions will include a dedicated ten-minute reading session. The schedule is as follows from the Literacy Trust website: 9am, 1pm, 5pm - Ages 5 to 8 session with Rashmi Sirdeshpande and Nakul P 10am, 2pm, 6pm - Ages 8 to 12 session with Frank Cottrell-Boyce 11am, 3pm, 7pm - Ages 12 to 16 Nathanael Lessore 12noon, 4pm, 8pm - Ages 16+ Coco and Zubs All times are British Summer Time (BST). The registration link can be found here: https://literacytrust.org.uk/events/take-10-record-attempt/ So, if you're someone who loves inspiring better health and wellbeing, raising awareness of mental health and wants to read more, I hope these benefits of reading have helped persuade you. Until next time...

We're officially in autumn, which means that we're heading into the final quarter of the year, so here is my reading review of Q3 2026. Continuing my reading review series, I'm back with a reading review for Q3 of 2026, where I talk about all the books I read in the third quarter of the year. Q3 was a busy quarter for me, and it meant I didn't read as many books compared to the first two quarters of the year. However, I did manage to reach my reading goal and make some progress on the two reading challenges I set myself for this year. I have quite a few books I would like to read still in the remaining three months, especially around Christmas. But for now, let's get into my reading review of Q3 2026. WriteWatchWork's Reading Review Total Number of Books Per Month In Q3, I made some great progress with my Goodreads Reading Goal for the year. I reached my goal of 65 books and have since exceeded that, as I read a total of 22 books across the third quarter. In July, I read 7 books; in August, I read 8 books; and in September, I read 7 books. Most-Read Genre I read a fair few genres throughout Q3. Some of these were fantasy, thrillers, and even a novella-in-flash. However, my most-read genre, much like Q2, was romance. Most-Read Author In the third quarter of the year, I read 21 different authors, some of whom I have read before and others who were new to me. The different authors I read in Q3 2026 were: Ali Hazelwood Andrea Hannah & Rebecca Mix Ayana Gray Bailey Hannah B.K. Borison Becka Mack Carley Fortune Chelsea Curto Danya Kukafka Devney Perry Heidi Swain Homer Jennifer Lynn Barnes Kandi Steiner Krista and Becca Ritchie Laurie Gilmore Layne Fargo Merit Niemeitz Sophie Van Llewyn Tahereh Mafi Thea Guanzon My most-read author was Layne Fargo, as I read two of her books: The Favourites and They Never Learn. The authors who were new to me included Andrea Hannah and Rebecca Mix, Ayana Gray, Chelsea Curto, Danya Kukafka, Devney Perry, Homer, Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Merit Niemeitz, Sophie Van Llewyn and Thea Guanzon. Favourite Books Out of the 22 books I read throughout Q3, I rated five of them five stars. So, like always, I'm going to pick my top three books of the quarter. The first book I'm choosing is Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry. I have never read a Devney Perry book before, but I have heard such good things. So, when I started this fantasy novel, I expected to enjoy it. However, I didn't realise that I would love it so much; I had to force myself to put it down and actually work. Shield of Sparrows is an incredible book and therefore has to be my favourite of the quarter. Up next, we have Love Wells Kept by Bailey Hannah. If you've read some of my blog before, you'll know that I love Bailey Hannah as an author. Love Wells Kept was a highly anticipated read for me, and it lived up to expectations. It made me laugh, cry, and feel all the emotions that come with the second-chance, marriage-in-trouble tropes. The third book I'm going to choose is And Now, Back To You by B.K. Borison. This is book two in the Heartstrings series, and having rated book one five stars, I knew I would enjoy this When Harry Met Sally-inspired romance novel. I had such a fun time reading And Now, Back To You, that I just had to include it in my top three. Moving on to some honourable mentions, some of the other books I loved included: The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, Face Off by Chelsea Curto, The Favourites by Layne Fargo, I Killed the King by Andrea Hannah and Rebecca Mix and Hawk & Sparrow by Ayana Gray. Favourite Authors Choosing my favourite authors of a quarter is always challenging because it's tempting to pick the three who wrote my favourite books of the quarter. Whilst one of the authors below is an author of one of my top three books of Q3, the other two authors aren't. So, first up we have Devney Perry, who wrote Shield of Sparrows. When reading Shield of Sparrows, I became so engrossed in the characters and fantasy world that Devney Perry created. I immediately bought book two and would love to read more of Devney Perry's backlist moving forward. The next author I'm choosing is Ali Hazelwood. I re-read The Love Hypothesis in Q3, just before the movie's release. Re-reading this romance novel made me realise why I love Ali Hazelwood's books because I flew through my re-read and still rated The Love Hypothesis five stars. The third and final author is Chelsea Curto. I had never read any of Chelsea Curto's books before, but I knew that a lot of people loved her writing, especially the DC Stars series. So when I read Face Off, book one in that series, I had high hopes, and it definitely exceeded them. Chelsea Curto's writing was so easy to read and I didn't want to put the book down. Best Book Surprise The best book surprise of Q3 has to be I Killed the King by Andrea Hannah and Rebecca Mix. I was lucky enough to be sent this book by HarperCollins, and before reading it, I didn't really know what to expect. Credit: WriteWatchWork But I loved the blend of fantasy and murder mystery. There was a twist halfway through that literally made my jaw drop; I never saw it coming. I Killed the King reminded me of the Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo, one of my favourite duologies, which made it even better to read. I loved the multiple viewpoints from different characters, and I was constantly trying to figure out who the perpetrator was, alongside the characters. Overall, it was a fab book. Least Favourite Book Of all the books I read in Q3, only one did I rate below four stars, so it's my least favourite book of the quarter. The book in question is: Bottled Goods by Sophie Van Llewyn I actually rated Bottled Goods 3.5 stars, which in my rating system is still a good book. However, the reason why it's my least favourite is that I didn't find myself wanting to carry on reading it, which means I didn't enjoy it as much as others. It could be because it's a novella-in-flash, and I've never really read that form of fiction before, or it could be because the subject matter of the story isn't something I generally gravitate towards. However, I am glad I read it. 26 Books for 2026 If you've read my previous reading reports of this year, you'll know that I've set myself a challenge of 26 books I want to read in 2026. In Q3, I managed to make progress with this challenge, reading a total of five books from this list. The first one is Breathe With Me. I read it in August and really enjoyed it. I rated it 4.5 stars, and found it a particularly emotional and moving read with a fab found family. The second book from this list is Meet Me At The Lake by Carley Fortune. I've loved each and every one of Carley Fortune's books that I've read, and this one was no different. Tahereh Mafi is an all-time favourite author of mine, and in Q3, I finally got round to starting her fantasy series, This Woven Kingdom. I did enjoy this book, and am hoping to read book two soon. And Now, Back To You, one of my favourite books of Q3, was also on this list. B.K. Borison's Heartstrings series is such a feel-good romance series, and I loved this one in particular. The fifth and final book from my 26 Books for 2026 that I read in Q3 was The Favourites. I had heard some mixed reviews on The Favourites, and whilst I was unsure about it in the early chapters, I grew to love this Wuthering Heights-inspired retelling so much. 12 Recs from 12 Friends The third challenge I set myself this year was to read 12 book recommendations from 12 friends. Before Q3, I had seven books left to go, but now, as we head into Q4, I only have three books left on this list, as I managed to read four across July, August and September. The first one I read was Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka. This thriller was not what I expected at all, and so different from any other book I've read, but it was so intriguing at the same time. The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon was up next, and I really enjoyed this one. It took me a while to get used to the worldbuilding, but overall, it was a great fantasy romance. Shield of Sparrows was also on this list, so I'm very grateful to my friend who recommended this one as I'm still obsessed with it two weeks after reading it. The final book from this list that I read in Q3 was Face Off by Chelsea Curto. I love a sports romance, and this book has definitely kickstarted my obsession with the DC Stars series. I still have a few books left on this list, and on my 26 Books for 2026 challenge to read before the end of the year, but I'm hoping to complete them both. I will be back at the end of Q4 with another reading review, and plenty of blog posts in between now and then, so don't forget to subscribe below to keep up to date. Until next time...

Wembley hosted the first Union Jack Classic on September 19th, bringing college football to London for the first time as the Arizona State Sun Devils faced the Kansas Jayhawks. If you know me, you will know that I am a huge American Football fan. Alongside my love of F1, my dad got me into the NFL, but until last Saturday, I had never actually been to an American Football game. Flying to America to see a game has never been possible, and the London NFL games have always been rather pricey; plus, I support the Dallas Cowboys, and they haven't played in London since 2014. However, when I saw that the Union Jack Classic was hosting a college football game here in London at Wembley, I knew I had to go. So on Saturday, my dad and I went to the Union Jack Classic and saw two Big 12 teams play a game of American Football. And I loved it so much I needed to do a full review on here for all of you. Review of Union Jack Classic What is the Union Jack Classic? The Union Jack Classic is a celebration of sport that brought two powerhouse college football teams from America to London. These teams were the Arizona State Sun Devils and the Kansas Jayhawks. But it isn't only a football game. The Union Jack Classic at Wembley brought a full-scale tailgate party, with music artists, food trucks, official merchandise, and even Fox's Big Noon Kick-off. What is college football? College football in America is essentially games of American Football played by different university teams. However, college football is split into three divisions, and then, within each division, there are multiple smaller conferences. In Division 1, there are 10 conferences, which are: American Athletic Conference, Atlantic Coast Conference, Big 10, Big 12, Conference USA, Mid-American Conference, Mountain West Conference, Pacific-12, Southeastern Conference, and Sun Belt Conference. The Union Jack Classic had two teams from the Big 12, one of the Power Five conferences of Division 1. My Thoughts on the Pre-Game Tailgate Knowing I love the NFL, I had high hopes for the Union Jack Classic. But I never expected to love it as much as I did. And part of that was down to the incredible atmosphere that the American fans created. As soon as my dad and I got on the tube to Wembley, we immediately spotted ASU fans, kitted out in full maroon and gold merch. When we reached the stadium, the number of Americans for both ASU and the Jayhawks tripled. There were so many dedicated and hardcore fans of both teams that you couldn't help but feel a part of something bigger. Along Olympic Way, there were food vendors as well as stalls of official merchandise for the Union Jack Classic, so of course, we had to purchase some merch. There wasn't any team-specific merchandise, which, when looking back, I thought was actually a good thing because, being a Brit who hasn't really watched college football before, it was nice to be able to support both ASU and the Jayhawks. After securing our merch, we headed to the official Union Jack Classic Tailgate in Arena Square. You had to have tickets to the game in order to be let in, but once you're in, the idea is you drink, eat and enjoy the music played by various DJs, including Tech N9ne. Fox's Big Noon Kickoff Crowd. Credit: WriteWatchWork This was a great atmosphere, which only got better when we headed to Fox's Big Noon Kickoff, which was broadcast live from 3 pm BST for the official broadcast of the game. Being a part of Fox's BNK was such an incredible experience. The crowd was huge and the chanting from ASU fans was so loud you couldn't help but join in. Music was also played and it was great to have the whole crowd join in singing Sweet Caroline. It was really good seeing the official broadcasters, including Rob Stone, Brady Quinn, Mark Ingram II, Matt Leinart, and Urban Meyer. I particularly enjoyed seeing them try fish and chips. Both ASU's and Kansas's marching bands joined the crowd and played some tunes on the drums, which got the party pumping even more. My Thoughts on the Game Inside Wembley, my dad and I managed to get some food before heading to our seats. We were seated in 109, row 6, which meant we actually had really good seats. We were seated just behind one of the end zones, but we could see so much of the field from eye level and had a great view of the big screen at the other end of the stadium. It did rain quite a bit throughout the game, and being in row 6 meant we weren't under cover; however, it was all part of the experience. The ASU team came out of the tunnel directly to our right, so we had a fab view of the players coming out, of the team mascot Sparky, and of all the warm-ups prior to the game. After both national anthems had been performed, it was time for kickoff and wow! I absolutely loved watching all of the action, especially being surrounded by ASU fans and a couple of Jayhawks fans because they were cheering on their teams, chanting either 'ASU' or 'Rock Chalk Jayhawk', and it just made the atmosphere incredible. The game wasn't high-scoring, not compared to ASU's season opener, but it was still enjoyable to watch. When players scored a touchdown, the crowd went mental, and at one point, one fan in the section next to us started a Mexican wave, which went around the entire stadium, and everybody cheered. The half-time show featured both universities' marching bands and their cheerleaders, as well as some music artists. There was a drumming section, which I particularly enjoyed. When the game ended and ASU won 24-17, my dad and I decided to stay a little bit longer to watch the trophy presentation, which meant we had a great view of the players again because lots of fans had already left. I didn't want to leave because I enjoyed it so much and I've already signed up for announcements regarding next year's Union Jack Classic. Until next time...

The 'ber months are here, and with the weather turning colder, here are some Dark Academia books to add to your autumn TBR. A genre of fiction that I've tried to read more of this year is Dark Academia. I'd heard of the term 'Dark Academia' before, but I had never really explored novels within the genre. However, after specialising in Dark Academia literature for the final year of my undergraduate degree, I wanted to read more books that were marketed as Dark Academia fiction. And I loved them. The Dark Academia genre really appealed to me as a writer and reader because I have always enjoyed academia and studying, and the aesthetic of it calls to me as a lover of autumn. So, I thought I'd share some Dark Academia books that I've read and enjoyed, for you to add to your autumn TBR. Dark Academia Book Recommendations for Autumn The Secret History by Donna Tartt Synopsis: "Under the influence of their charismatic Classics professor, a group of clever, eccentric misfits at an elite New England college discover a way of thinking and living that is a world away from the humdrum existence of their contemporaries. But when they go beyond the boundaries of normal morality, their lives are changed profoundly and for ever as they discover how hard it can be to truly live and how easy it is to kill." My Thoughts: I read The Secret History earlier this year because it's one of those books that people say everyone should read at least once. It is often regarded as the 'classic' Dark Academia novel, and that is why it should definitely be on your autumn TBR. I did enjoy reading The Secret History and following the story unravel. I will say that compared to some other Dark Academia novels, it was not as fast-paced, so it took me a while to get through it. If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio Synopsis: "Oliver Marks has just served ten years for the murder of one of his closest friends – a murder he may or may not have committed. On the day he's released, he's greeted by the detective who put him in prison. Detective Colborne is retiring, but before he does, he wants to know what really happened ten years ago. As a young actor studying Shakespeare at an elite arts conservatory, Oliver noticed that his talented classmates seem to play the same roles onstage and off – villain, hero, tyrant, temptress – though Oliver felt doomed to always be a secondary character in someone else's story. But when the teachers change up the casting, a good-natured rivalry turns ugly, and the plays spill dangerously over into life. When tragedy strikes, one of the seven friends is found dead. The rest face their greatest acting challenge yet: convincing the police, and themselves, that they are blameless." My Thoughts: I absolutely loved If We Were Villains. For me, it is one of my favourite books I've ever read, although a lot of readers, particularly fans of The Secret History, say it isn't as good as Tartt's novel. However, I found If We Were Villains so easy to read; it is a gripping novel that blends murder and academia so seamlessly that I didn't want it to end. And to prove how much I loved this novel, I even used it as a basis for a research project for my degree. Babel by R.F. Kuang Synopsis: "Traduttore, traditore: An act of translation is always an act of betrayal. Oxford, 1836. The city of dreaming spires. It is the centre of all knowledge and progress in the world. And at its centre is Babel, the Royal Institute of Translation. The tower from which all the power of the Empire flows. Orphaned in Canton and brought to England by a mysterious guardian, Babel seemed like paradise to Robin Swift. Until it became a prison… But can a student stand against an empire?" My Thoughts: When people ask for Dark Academia book recommendations, Babel is often one of the most common answers. So, naturally, I needed to read it. Having read R.F. Kuang's Yellowface, I knew I would probably enjoy her writing style, and I did. Babel is such a complex story, but so well-written. However, it does rely heavily on academia and using language as a way to critique colonialism; it is done so well, but I found it challenging at times to stay engrossed in the story because of the foreign languages and the footnotes that are present throughout. That being said, I am really glad I read Babel. The Maidens by Alex Michaelides Synopsis: "YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN THE MAIDENS. The Maidens are Cambridge University's most exclusive society, whose members are selected by the charismatic professor of Greek tragedy, Edward Fosca. A SECRETIVE SET OF THE BRIGHTEST, MOST CAPTIVATING STUDENTS. When one of the Maidens is murdered, grieving young therapist Mariana Andros is drawn back to the idyllic campus where she was once herself a student. THE GROUP FROM WHICH EACH VICTIM WILL BE CHOSEN. Because beneath the university's ancient traditions and beauty is a web of secrets, jealousy and lies. And when the killer threatens the person she loves most, Mariana will give anything to stop them - even her own life..." My Thoughts: When I read The Maidens, I didn't really know what to expect. However, I thoroughly enjoyed it because the atmosphere in this book was incredible. It has the perfect Dark Academia vibes for autumn with the moody and misty Cambridge University as its setting. I thought the plot of this novel was complex, and I found myself trying to work out what was happening and almost playing detective. It's different to other Dark Academia novels as the protagonist is an adult returning to her university, rather than a current student, but it was an enjoyable read all the same. Starling Nights by Merit Niemeitz Synopsis: "Some secrets are written in the stars. Others hide in the shadows. There were many myths told about Cambridge. Stories woven from rumour and skewed half-truths, the thin fabric passed from hand to hand in the shadows. The university kept the true, unfiltered secrets of this place. Only a select few were capable of understanding what it had to tell. People like us. We understood because we were part of it. Because we were the biggest secret of all. Cambridge student Mabel Golding learned long ago to keep her head down and avoid getting entangled in other people’s drama, but when her best friend, Zoe, is drawn into the circle of a mysterious student society with centuries of history, Mabel feels inordinately uneasy. Even more so when she soon finds herself dangerously close to the heart of The League of Starlings, and to its inscrutable leader, Blake…" My Thoughts: I originally bought this book in the Kindle 99p deals, not really knowing much about it. But when I discovered it was Dark Academia and a translated novel too, I knew I had to pick it up. From the start, I was immersed in the world that Merit created. This book just pulls you in and doesn't let you go. I really enjoyed Starling Nights and wished it were longer because I didn't want the story to end. It is detailed, atmospheric, and intriguing. A must-read for fans of Dark Academia and YA novels with a hint of the supernatural. Sorrowsong University Duology by Autumn Woods Nightshade - Book One Synopsis: "He’d burn the world down for her . . . but she plans to burn his to the ground. Isolated in the Scottish Highlands, Sorrowsong University only welcomes students from the most powerful families. Ophelia Winters doesn’t belong, but a rare scholarship grants her the perfect opportunity to investigate her parents’ ‘accidental’ death near the castle grounds. Things get off to a rocky start when she runs afoul of the mysterious Alex Corbeau-Green – son of her prime suspect. As far as she’s concerned, he is just a younger version of his billionaire father. A monster hiding beneath a beautiful façade. When an unknown tormentor begins to stalk Ophelia, she realizes she may not be able to survive Sorrowsong on her own. Alex becomes her unexpected ally – and alibi for murder. And as she begins to fall for the soft heart that hides beneath his hard exterior, her hunger for revenge wavers for the first time. Can she really bring herself to destroy everything he’s ever known?" Daybreak - Book Two Synopsis: "Now his world is burning down, and Ophelia Winters is desperate to prove she didn’t strike the match. When she first joined Sorrowsong University, she wanted nothing more than to destroy Alex and his high-powered family. But that was before she knew him – before she fell for the man behind the reputation. In the face of an unthinkable betrayal and the disappearance of his father, Alex is forced to return to New York, hoping to forget what he had with Ophelia and to undo the damage done to his family. In Scotland, Ophelia is left reeling, alone ... and watched. With a new anonymous tormentor threatening them both, the pair find themselves drawn back to one another. But can they rebuild the love and trust between them? And, even if they can, will it be enough to keep them alive?" My Thoughts: I absolutely loved both Nightshade and Daybreak. This duology is one of the best duologies I've read, and they are two of my favourite Dark Academia novels. Autumn Woods's writing is flawless, and the characters make you fall in love with them from the very start. I really enjoyed the tension and the banter within this book, and how the plot unfolds. Plus, the flirting via crossword clues really made me smile. Where to read them All of these books are available on Amazon, so if I've tempted you into picking any of these books up, I hope you enjoy them. If you've got more recommendations of your own, feel free to leave a comment. Until next time...

Grease The Immersive Movie Musical returned to London this summer for a limited-time run, and here are my thoughts on the smash-hit event that brings the Pink Ladies and T-Birds to life. Last weekend, I headed to London to watch Grease The Immersive Movie Musical. Having been a fan of the movie starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John for many years, when I saw that the immersive experience of watching Grease was returning to London, I knew I had to see it. Grease The Immersive Movie Musical is in Battersea Park for a limited run, with only a few days left at the time of writing this blog. I was lucky enough to secure tickets for a day that was lovely weather, and because I enjoyed the show so much, I wanted to share my thoughts. So, if you're a musical theatre fan, a lover of the Pink Ladies and T-Birds, or simply interested in seeing what exactly Grease The Immersive Movie Musical is, check out my review below. Review of Grease The Immersive Movie Musical Genre: High-School Romance Based on: The 1979 movie Starring: Stephanie Costi, Giórgios Michaelides, Lucy Penrose, Arcangelo Ciulla, Jess Smith, Andrew Jackson, Ziki Buswell, Dylan Blake-Colbet, Hannah Hague, Kieran Alleyne, David Fearn, Leah Dane, David Heal, Joshua C Jackson, Imogen Kingsley-Smith, Jacob Stebbings, Charlotte Avery, Michelle Bishop, and Em Barrett Synopsis: Grease The Immersive Movie Musical is an immersive theatre experience that brings together the movie, Grease, and the West End performance. As stated on the website, the show is: "An award-winning immersive theatrical experience that invites you into the world of Rydell High, where cinema, stage, and celebration become one. "From the moment you arrive, you'll find yourself immersed in the halls of Rydell High alongside Danny and Sandy as every corner of the set comes alive. "With live music, a summer fairground and classic American diner-inspired delights, every unforgettable moment and song from Grease unfolds before your eyes." My Thoughts: Grease was one of the very first musicals I ever saw. There was something about the 1959 setting with the dresses, the music, the classic aspects of American high schools that pulled me in. I can't tell you how many times I've watched the movie over the years. However, I've never seen the West End production of Grease. So, it was safe to say I was really looking forward to watching Grease The Immersive Movie Musical at Battersea Park. I attended the 19:30 evening performance, which meant the doors to the summer fairground opened at 18:00. My friend and I arrived at Battersea around 17:00, which gave us time to explore the area. We started queuing at 17:45 and didn't have to queue for very long. Once inside the gates, you enter the summer fairground. Essentially, this is a big outdoor space with food vans and carnival rides/games. These included a hot dog van, burger van, a couple of bars, a merch stand, a Ferris Wheel, Kentucky Derby, swings, and more. Your ticket to the event grants you one token, but to go on the other rides/play the games, you need to purchase more tokens. I bought 10 for £10, which also gave me a free programme for the show. Inside, there is also a bar and a Benefit Beauty School, echoing Frenchie's love of beauty. In here, there's a fun crossword for you to do and the chance to win free Benefit samples of makeup. When it hit 19:30, the big screen outside came on and Grease, the movie, started playing. Everyone then headed inside to either find their seats or get a good position standing during the opening credits. I bought seated tickets and was located in the Drive-In, which, in my opinion, is the best seats to get because a couple of the songs were performed in/around the drive-in area. However, if you can stand for the duration of the show, then it's worth buying a standing ticket; for the performance I saw, the standing area had a lot of space to move around. Once everyone was inside the arena, the show began. Essentially, Grease The Immersive Movie Musical combines both the movie and a theatrical performance. The classic movie is playing throughout the entire show, broadcast on various screens around the arena. The cast of the show then performs every song, coming out on different stages within the arena. Some scenes from the movie were also performed, such as the sleepover at Frenchie's, the pep rally scene, and the iconic Thunder Road scene. If you have a standing ticket, there is a high chance you could be invited onto the stage to participate in different scenes, like the big high school dance scene. Some of my favourite performances were Greased Lightning, Sandy (Danny was in the Drive-In seats for this song), Born to Hand Jive, the dance with Cha Cha, and, finally, the Thunder Road scene. When it comes to the final two songs – You're the One That I Want, and We Go Together – the audience heads outside back to the fairground, and the cast performs out there. This was particularly atmospheric because it all looked so pretty with the carnival lights, and everyone was singing. The one thing that I thought could be improved was what was shown on the screens inside the arena. Of course, the movie is playing the entire way through, but there were some scenes where the cast were acting or performing, but it wasn't shown as much, so it was harder to see what they were doing and where in the arena they were. I think it would be good to play the movie on the outer screens continuously, and show more of the actors on the bigger, more central screens so the audience can pay attention to them, not just the movie. However, that being said, I am so happy I finally got to see Grease The Immersive Movie Musical. It really is such a unique experience and definitely very immersive. So, if you're a fan of Grease and of musical theatre, I definitely recommend seeing it when it (hopefully) comes back to London next summer. Until next time...

The icon that was Dolly Parton, sadly passed away last week, so I thought I'd share some of the inspirational quotes that she shared during her life. As someone who regularly listens to music and has an interest in various music genres, I've always enjoyed listening to Dolly Parton's songs. Particularly, Jolene and Light of a Clear Blue Morning. I first discovered Dolly Parton whilst watching Hannah Montana on Disney Channel when I was in primary school. And since then, I've always enjoyed her music; I've followed her as a Dallas Cowboys fan and have found her inspiring, especially with the Imagination Library. So, to pay tribute to the legend that she was, I thought I'd share some of my favourite quotes that Dolly Parton shared throughout her life on all things love, life, happiness, and more. Inspirational Quotes from Dolly Parton "Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "You’ll never do a whole lot unless you’re brave enough to try" Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en “The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "If you see someone without a smile today, give 'em yours." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "Find out who you are and do it on purpose." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "Dream more, learn more, care more and be more." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "Well, honey, nobody knows what's around the corner, but I do know one thing: if you keep yourself out of the game for fear of losing, there is no way on this earth you're gonna win." Credit:https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "You cannot be a diamond if you are not willing to get cut." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en "Because books, my friends, are true magic bound between two covers." Credit: https://www.instagram.com/dollyparton/?hl=en “You have to work at being happy. Some people work at being miserable. If I wake up in the morning and don’t feel great or things are not great, I try to think about what I can do to make things work better, rather than just falling into that deep hole, because then you just go deeper and deeper." I hope that these Dolly Parton quotes help inspire you and bring a smile to your face whilst we remember the icon that was Dolly Parton. Until next time...

Stress can be a silent enemy, so here are some ways that you can battle stress by slowing down and romanticising life whilst prioritising your health. You may have noticed that last week, I did not publish a blog post. I've tried to stick to publishing a blog every Wednesday this year, which I have adhered to for the most part. However, last Wednesday, I decided to hold off on publishing a blog post. The reason was that I recently went to the doctor because of daily headaches. My GP advised me that I needed to slow down and take more time out for myself to relax because it was most likely stress that was causing my headaches. So, I took a week off from blogging. I also made more time during each day for me to relax and chill, which was incredibly difficult. If you know me or have read some of my 'Work' blogs before, you will know that I struggle with productivity guilt. I don't like taking time to rest when I know there are other, more productive tasks I could be doing, whether they relate to work (job hunting), my university studies, or simply housework. But after going to the doctor, I decided to take their advice on board. So, last week, I saw friends, I went for coffee, I walked in nature, and did lots more that helped my headaches disappear. And now, I'm sharing some tips with you so you can battle any stress you may face and slow down and romanticise life. Tips to slow down and romanticise life to get rid of stress Indulge in a small luxury Luxuries can mean different things to different people. For some, a luxury is buying a new car or a new pair of shoes with a red sole. But for others, it could be buying a new book or simply treating yourself to a coffee and cake. I've recently been treating myself to a café's iced coffee with cold foam, which I recently discovered. This is my little luxury because it's not too expensive and doesn't take too long to go and buy one. Plus, it makes me feel happier knowing I've got a lovely, delicious drink to indulge in. Find your inner peace Finding your inner peace can be quite a challenging task, but it is key to allowing yourself to slow down and take a minute without feeling like you're wasting time. Trust me, I know. What I mean by finding your inner peace is finding something that makes you feel calm and at peace, that empties your mind of stress and worry and allows you to be in the moment. This could, for instance, be visiting the beach and watching the sea rise and fall, or sitting in nature somewhere and listening to the birds chirp. Whatever it may be, having something that you know helps you feel calmer can be a tremendous help. Make memories, not just conversations Whilst I'm an introvert, I love seeing my friends. Often, because we're all so busy, we tend to go out for dinner or coffee to catch up, which I love. However, I've recently decided that I want to experience more of life, and part of that is creating memories, not just conversations. When I see my friends, I want to have fond memories to look back on that are more than just sitting in a restaurant and chatting. The conversations don't have to change, but the background of photos and the location in which we meet can change. So, if there's something you've wanted to do or something you've wanted to experience, why not ask a friend to go with you? Reflect on the good things As a writer, I know how powerful it can be to write down your thoughts and feelings. But I also know how useful writing is as a tool to reflect. So, if you're feeling stressed, why not add some time into your day where you can sit and write down your thoughts, feelings, and events of the day. It doesn't have to be in detail; you can write bullet points of things you're grateful for, or a list of what you did that day. However you want to write it, jot down your thoughts in a journal and get them all out onto the page. Elevate your routines This final tip is a way of romanticising life, which is a term I've seen a lot of on social media recently. Essentially, it means noticing the smaller moments of happiness so that you live a life that makes you smile and brings you joy. Some ways to elevate your routine could be to read your book whilst eating breakfast, or putting on your makeup and jewellery for the day, or even treating yourself to a lovely perfume. It doesn't have to be huge changes, but small additions to your routines, like fairy lights in the evening, can help bring a smile to your lips and ease some of that stress. So, if you're feeling stressed and want to slow down a bit more, I hope these tips can help you in battling your stress and romanticising life. If you've got more tips of your own, feel free to put them in the comments. Until next time...

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is Tom Holland's latest feature film as Spider-Man, and as a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, here is my review. One of my favourite film franchises is the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The complexity of the world within these films never fails to amaze me. With a new Spider-Man movie being released, and Avengers: Doomsday coming out later this year, I knew I needed to see Spider-Man: Brand New Day in the cinema. I took my sister to our local Everyman cinema and we both settled on the sofa and watched Tom Holland's fourth feature film as the iconic superhero. We, of course, discussed our thoughts after the film, but I thought I'd share my review with you all. So, if you're unsure about whether to watch the latest Spider-Man, or just want to read reviews of it, here are my thoughts on the movie. *Note: There are spoilers at the very end of this blog, but there is a warning in advance, so you can avoid if you want to Review of Spider-Man: Brand New Day Genre: Superhero Movie Stars: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Mark Ruffalo, Jon Bernthal, Jacob Batalon, Liza Colón-Zayas, Florence Pugh, Tramell Tillman Where to Watch: Cinemas Rating: 9/10 Synopsis: The IMDB synopsis of Spider-Man: Brand New Day is as follows: "A forgotten Peter Parker lives alone as a full-time Spider-Man until mounting pressure triggers a dangerous change and a powerful new enemy emerges." My Thoughts: Considering all the superheroes, I would not have said that Spider-Man is one of my favourites. However, I absolutely love Tom Holland's portrayal of Spider-Man and really enjoyed Spider-Man: Brand New Day to the point where I'm reconsidering the above statement. Spider-Man: Brand New Day follows directly on from the previous film, Spider-Man: No Way Home. At the end of that movie, Peter Parker is forgotten by everyone, leaving him alone in the world and only known as Spider-Man. In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Peter Parker is not really living, only Spider-Man is. He works with Detective Jean DeWolff of the NYPD to take down bad guys and is protecting New York City. Whilst he's doing so, his love, MJ – portrayed by Zendaya – and his best friend, Ned – portrayed by Jacob Batalon – are carrying on with their lives, having graduated from MIT and living together in the city. Missing his friends, Peter throws himself into being Spider-Man, when changes start to occur, involving his powers. And the time is not ideal because a new threat comes into town. Spider-Man works with the Department of Damage Control, run by Bill Metzger – portrayed by Tramell Tillman – to keep the city safe and stop the new threat. However, there is always more to the story. I absolutely loved the plot. I did not know what to expect when going into this movie. It's been a while since I'd watched an MCU film, but oh my goodness, I loved it. The MCU always has really complex plots with multiverses and time travel and infinity stones, etc., but Spider-Man: Brand New Day was easy to follow despite the complications. The new villain is a great addition and left me with so many questions about the future of the MCU and how Doomsday will bring together different Marvel universes. I thought the villain was portrayed so well – I won't say who the actor is but I really enjoyed watching them bring the character to life. One thing I particularly liked about the plot, and therefore the character relations and the action sequences, was that whilst the stakes were high, they weren't world-ending. There have been too many times, in my opinion, that superhero films always threaten the end of Earth and then the superhero saves the world. In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, NYC is threatened, but not the whole world. Peter Parker battles his evolution as Spider-Man and the new threat, but it's a more isolated danger. The action sequences involving fighting or even just Spider-Man swinging around the city were so good. It felt like a good old classic action movie at times, which I loved. Zendaya and Tom Holland do a fantastic job of playing MJ and Peter Parker, and I always admire couples who are together in real life, married even, and then have to play characters who aren't together, one of whom doesn't even remember the other. What I really enjoyed about the movie though is the emotional message that you take home. At the start, Peter Parker, or Spider-Man, is just a superhero. No one knows his real identity; not even The Hulk. He feels alone and doesn't rely on anyone. But by the end, we start to see him leaning on friends, old and new, and become a better version of himself. The takeaway is that you're never really alone and that it's okay to ask for help if needed. I really loved that, and the final scene...OMG!! I'll share my thoughts at the end of the post, with a spoiler warning, so you can avoid them if you'd like. Overall, Spider-Man: Brand New Day felt like the classic Marvel movies. It was such a fun film to watch, and did tie up loose ends, but also left me with so many questions that I'm hoping Doomsday will answer! If you want to watch it, I hope you enjoy it, and if you've already seen it, let me know what you thought in the comments below. Until next time... *SPOILERS WARNING* The final scene with Ned and Peter was so good and so heartwarming. I've heard of cinema showings where the audience all claps, or audibly gasps, and whilst I didn't shed tears, I couldn't stop smiling. I loved how it was Ned who had the realisation as to who Peter was, not MJ, because it felt more powerful that it was Peter's best friend, who's been with him through it all.

Face-to-face interviews can be quite nerve-wracking, but I'm sharing some tips that can help calm you and prepare you. This year, I've submitted god-knows how many job applications. Some, I've heard back about, but others, I have not. The job market is incredibly challenging in today's world. There was even a news article on the BBC about how job opportunities are shrinking for young people. Not only is it hard to succeed when applying for jobs, it is also tough even finding the right jobs to apply for. A lot of jobs I've noticed being advertised as entry-level or 'assistant' roles require at least a year's experience in an office or some sort of admin role. In my opinion, that's not an entry-level position. Then, if you are successful and get taken through to the interview stage, that can be just as nerve-wracking. Especially if it's face-to-face and you don't know what to expect. So, I thought I'd share some tips for face-to-face interviews that I've found have helped me this year. Ask for a drink When in an interview, one can assume that you'll be doing a lot of talking: answering questions, asking questions, and generally chatting to the interviewers. During that time, there is nothing worse than having a really dry throat. An easy fix for that is to ask if you can have a glass of water, or if offered, saying yes. By having a drink in front of you, you can take small sips to keep hydrated, allowing you to speak clearly and to avoid clearing your throat. It can also come in handy if you're unsure about a question and need a little time to think. If that's the case, when asked, take a sip of your drink and think of your response, and then answer the question. I recently had a face-to-face interview that lasted an hour, and without a glass of water, I would have struggled to deliver my responses confidently and clearly. Chat on route This one is key for a face-to-face interview. When employers are looking for new hires, they're not only looking for someone capable of completing the job. They want someone who will gel well with the colleagues already there. And the route to your interview is the perfect opportunity to showcase why you would be the ideal person. When someone collects you to take you to your interview, strike up a conversation. It doesn't have to be in-depth, just something to show that you are confident, can easily chat to people, and are excited about being given the opportunity. If you've done something interesting recently, or been anywhere nice, you can mention that. For example, in my latest face-to-face interview, when asked 'Did you find the place okay?', my response was: 'Yes, thank you. I actually just had lunch with my sister at the nearby café, so it wasn't too far to come.' Use a S.T.A.R If you've done lots of interviews before, or have already researched different ways to prep for them, you've probably come across this acronym. S.T.A.R refers to a method of answering interview questions that allows you to showcase your skills, abilities and positive outcomes. It stands for: S - Situation T - Task A - Action R - Result When answering a question, it's good to outline the situation that you were in; then briefly describe the task which you needed to complete, what your goal was and the challenges of it; the action refers to what YOU did to achieve this; and finally, the result is the positive outcome/impact it had. An example answer that demonstrates strong teamwork could be: Situation: At university, I was part of the Harry Potter society, and we needed to raise funds to organise a trip to the Warner Bros Studio Tour. Task: My job was to work with the other society members to come up with fundraising ideas. Action: I organised a meeting for us all to brainstorm different ideas, and worked with the society president on sharing the responsibilities out to different members. I made sure we all knew what we were responsible for by sharing a list on the society group chat with the fundraising activity, those in charge, and when it would be held. Result: Everyone pulled together and knew what they needed to do, which meant we raised enough funds for everyone to go to the Tour. Practice, Practice, Practice Whilst I class myself as a confident person, I can be quite introverted, so having face-to-face interviews is rather daunting. But I found that practising as much as I can really helps. Before your interview, research some interview questions that could be asked. If it's a competency-based interview, there are lots of lists online of different questions. Draft some answers to these questions and make sure you know what you said in your cover letter and what was said on the job advert. Once you have all that information, do a mock interview. Get someone to ask you the questions, and practice answering using the S.T.A.R method. Or if you don't have anyone to practice with you, use a mirror or Zoom/Teams/Google Meet to practice on your own. This helps you remember your answers and feel more confident about clearly and concisely responding to the questions. Be passionate Skills are one of the most important things interviewers look for. Can the applicants demonstrate the skills required in the job advert? However, one of the other important factors they need to consider is your passion. There is nothing worse than applying for a role and being asked to an interview if you're not passionate about the job or the company. And employers can see if you're passionate. When in an interview, make sure you portray your passion and enthusiasm to the interviewers because it will only work in your favour. Explain your motivations for applying, not only to the role, but the company. If there's a particular aspect of the company that you like or interests you, mention it; for instance, if you're applying to a publisher, mention a book they recently published or a campaign you particularly enjoyed. Showing you're passionate about the job is key and will only be beneficial for you. So, if you have any face-to-face interviews coming up, I hope these tips can help prepare you for it and help calm your nerves. They're not easy, but everyone has to go through at least one interview in their life, so you're not alone. If you have any other tips, feel free to share them in the comments below. Otherwise, good luck! Until next time...