With Blue Monday just two days ago, here are some self-care tips to help your mental health as 2026 gets underway. January is often classed as a depressing month. It's cold, dark, and it's the time when everyone returns to work or school after having time off over Christmas. For a lot of people, the first month of a new year can be a struggle. There are lots of things to think about ahead of returning to work, and also lots of things to sort out from Christmas and for the new year. Which is why the third Monday of January is named ' Blue Monday '. Whilst 'Blue Monday' was made up by a travel company a couple of decades ago with no real scientific backing, that doesn't mean it isn't important. The day serves as a reminder to care for your own mental health, but also to check in on those around you. So, with that being said, here are some self-care tips to help your mental health. Prioritising your body One of the most important things in our lives is our bodies. Without our bodies, we would not be here and it should be a priority to look after them and try to give ourselves the best quality of life possible. Prioritising our bodies is a method of self-care because it will ultimately improve our health, both physically and mentally. There are various ways of looking after our bodies, but let's talk about exercise, sleep and nutrition. Exercise is, of course, an important aspect that needs to be included in our daily routine. Not only does it release endorphins, which make us feel happier after a workout, but it also gets our blood pumping, reduces stress, increases confidence and can be a source of connection with others. Sleep should also be a priority — something I'm probably guilty of not doing. There is no point in having a long to-do list, making time to see friends or stressing about not doing well enough at your job if you're not getting enough sleep. Sleep lets our bodies rest and heal, and puts us in the best position for a good day, but only if we get enough of it and aren't doom-scrolling just before lights out. The final tip about prioritising your body is all about nutrition. There's the saying 'You are what you eat', and in a sense, that is true. If you're fuelling your body with lots of unhealthy and sugary foods, you're not going to feel refreshed and ready for the day ahead. Instead, you need to be eating a balanced diet, getting enough nutrition, and taking time to enjoy meals, not just scoffing them down as fast as you can if you're short on time. Connections with others I mentioned above that exercise can be a source of connecting with others, and that is important to remember. Sure, sometimes we all need space and time to be alone and have time to ourselves. But there is power in the connection we have with others, whether that's family or friends. You can bond with them and share memories, whilst opening up to them if you need to and getting support from trusted loved ones. So, it's important to remember to make time for friends and family, whether that's a simple coffee date, or having them pop in for an afternoon, or even spending time together grocery shopping. Manage stress and demands I often write about stress on this blog because it is something I suffer from and have seen those around me suffer from, too. Especially in the modern world, there are lots of things that cause stress, whether it's something on a national level, such as the cost of living, or on a more personal and individual level. But there are ways you can combat stress to help your mental health. Firstly, finding a hobby is a great tool for managing stress. Having a hobby that you can indulge in and take time for yourself to do can give you the time and space to relax and be present in the moment. It can be whatever you find enjoyable, whether it's reading, doing jigsaw puzzles, or even gardening. The next way to manage stress is through meditation. There are a lot of apps, like Headspace or Calm, that can help you with meditation if you're someone who hasn't done much of it before, but it can be just as simple as deep breathing or sitting there with your eyes closed and calming yourself down. The final tip of managing stress as a way of self-care is to embrace nature. Now, I'm not necessarily a huge fan of all things nature when it comes to insects and bugs; however, there is something powerful about being in nature and enjoying what it has to offer. So, go for a walk in nature and just have a stroll through greenery, or find an area of green space and just sit there for a while. Reflection My final tip about how to utilise self-care to help your mental health is all about reflection. This can take many forms, but a popular type of reflection is journaling. It doesn't have to be every day, especially if you're someone who is time-aware and knows you won't necessarily have time for it. You can reflect every few days, each week, whatever suits you. But take time to look back on things you've done recently, how you've felt and what has made you happy. This can help you understand your thoughts and understand how to improve your mentality and feel happier going forward. Another way of reflection that I saw recently in The Good Trade is to write a 'ta-da' list instead of a to-do list. Essentially, this is a list of all the good things you've accomplished (again, in whatever time frame suits you) and something you can look back on and feel proud about. With 2026 well underway, this year should be one of self-care for everybody. Of course, some tasks and jobs need doing, but life is too short to just complete housework and not take the time out for self-care. What self-care tips do you have? Until next time...

2026 is full of new book releases, and I've got a list of 26 books that I'm prioritising for this year, including both old and new recommendations. Last year, I made a '25 Books for 2025' list. I managed to read all but three of the novels on that list and found it enjoyable to have a set TBR that I could tick off. For 2026, I'm doing a similar thing. I have made a list of 26 books for 2026. On this list, there is a diverse mix of books, and I have included the three I didn't get to last year. I'm hoping to read more dark academia and thrillers, as well as fantasy and romance, so I have listed quite a few different genres and authors. If you're a reader and looking for some new recommendations this year, then carry on reading and check out the books on my '26 Books for 2026' list. Romance Meet Me At The Lake by Carley Fortune Carley Fortune was a new author for me last year, and I joined many readers in the hype for her novel, One Golden Summer . I loved her writing style so much that I knew I needed to read more of her work, and Meet Me At The Lake looks like a perfect summer read, so I'm excited to delve into this novel this year. At Whit's End by Bailey Hannah Normally, I read Bailey Hannah's books as soon as they're released, but as At Whit's End came out in December, I didn't get around to it (I only read festive books in December). However, it's high up on my TBR for 2026, especially with the final book in the Wells Ranch series coming out as well. Across the Vanishing Sky by Catherine Cowles If you've read one of my quarterly reading round-ups from last year, you'll know that I discovered Catherine Cowles. I devoured her Sparrow Falls series, and for 2026, one of my priority books is her upcoming release, Across the Vanishing Sky , which I know I'll just love. Rewind It Back by Liz Tomforde Liz Tomforde is another auto-buy author for me, but for some reason, I haven't read Rewind It Back , the fifth and final book in the Windy City series. I'm not sure why, maybe because I love the series so much, I don't want it to end, but 2026 is the year I'm going to finish it. Rewind It Back is the final interconnected standalone in the sports romance series and follows Rio and Hallie as they get a second chance at love. Breathe With Me by Becka Mack Becka Mack's series, Playing For Keeps , is one of my favourite hockey romance series. It is full of fab characters, lots of fun and lots of emotion. And Breathe With Me , the final book in the series, is one I've been eagerly anticipating since I met the two protagonists, Emmett and Cara, back in book one. I can't wait to dive into their emotional story and pick up Breathe With Me this year. Wild Card by Elsie Silver Wild Card is the final book in the Rose Hill series by Elsie Silver. That is a series I love, and Elsie is an author whose books I have enjoyed every time, but I haven't got around to picking up Wild Card and finishing off her third series. So, for 2026, I'm going to read the final book in the series and join in with the hype, before Elsie releases her upcoming book, Fever Dream , and starts a new series. You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry One of my favourite authors is Emily Henry . I've read four of her books so far, and have thoroughly enjoyed them all. However, heading into 2026, one of her books I had yet to read was You and Me on Vacation (People We Meet on Vacation in America). This book has been talked about a lot, and Netflix released the movie adaptation of Alex and Poppy's story last week. Knowing I want to watch the movie, You and Me on Vacation , is a priority read of the year, and I managed to read it as my second book, finishing it over the weekend. Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh Binding 13 is a brick of a book, and one many people have told me to read, but with tissues on hand. It's a novel that's intimidated me in the past, but I feel like 2026 is the year to finally read book one of the Boys of Tommen series and see why everyone ends up crying whilst reading it. And Now, Back To You by B.K. Borison Not only do I love books, but I also love movies, especially romcoms. B.K. Borison's upcoming book, And Now, Back To You , is book two in an interconnected standalone series all based on Nora Ephron films. I loved First-Time Caller (Sleepless in Seattle-inspired), so I knew I would be so excited to read And Now, Back To You (When Harry Met Sally-inspired), which is why it's a priority read for me. The Favourites by Layne Fargo The Favourites by Layne Fargo is a book I've had my eye on for a while, especially since I did work experience at the publishers . I've had it on my shelf since October, but I haven't yet picked it up; it's become a priority read for me this year because of its resemblance to Wuthering Heights . It includes romance, but is more of a contemporary fiction read, so I'm excited to branch out more into that genre. Thrillers The Exes by Leodora Darlington This novel is actually a debut by Leodora Darlington, set to be released at the end of February. I was lucky enough to receive a proof from Penguin Michael Joseph and made sure to read it before its release. The Exes was my first read of the year, and it was such a gripping thriller! I absolutely loved this book and found the writing incredibly easy to read, with truly shocking twists. If you love a good thriller and a debut novel, then you need to read this. The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell I do love a good thriller, but for some reason, I've never picked up a Lisa Jewell book. I know, tragedy; however, I now have my hands on one of her books, gifted as a birthday present, and I can't wait to read it. The title is intriguing enough on its own, let alone the blurb. But 2026 is the year I finally read a Lisa Jewell book. Twisted by Steve Cavanagh One of my favourite authors is Steve Cavanagh. Granted, I've only read three of his books; however, I know enough to call him a favourite author. Twisted is a standalone novel from Steve Cavanagh, and it's high on my TBR because I have heard such good reviews about it, and I want to read more thrillers this year. Dark Academia The Secret History by Donna Tartt I am on a dark academia journey this year. It's a genre that's become more involved with my writing, and it's a genre I also quite enjoyed last year. Donna Tartt is said to have kind of kick-started the dark academia genre with The Secret History , so it was a must-read for me. Babel by R.F. Kuang Similarly to The Secret History , if you ask someone to list some dark academia books, they'll probably mention Babel by R.F. Kuang. This novel is one all about literature and translation and language, which I love, and I really enjoyed R.F. Kuang's writing in Yellowface, so I knew that my sister and I would need to read this book eventually. Fantasy Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber I have heard nothing but good things about this fairy-tale YA romantasy since I joined the bookish communities on social media. As someone wanting to read more fantasy in 2026, it was a no-brainer that I would add this to my priority list. Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig Two Twisted Crowns is book two in the Shephard King duology. I read One Dark Window , book one, last year and really enjoyed it. However, I didn't read book two before the New Year, so I'm planning to read it in the first few months of this year. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros If you're a reader, you'll likely have heard of Fourth Wing . It's a romantasy series that received rave reviews quite quickly. But again, it's a book that intimidates me because of the high expectations. But this is the year that I finally give in to temptation and see what it's all about. The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J Maas This book is the prequel to the Throne of Glass series, although there are different reading orders to this series (a bit like Fast and Furious with Tokyo Drift ). I'm not sure what reading order I'll use when I come to reading the series, but I do know it's a priority to start the fantasy series. The Rebel Witch by Kristen Ciccarelli The Rebel Witch is the second novel of The Crimson Moth duology. Much like the Shepherd King duology, I read book one in 2025, but never got around to book two. Hence why it's a priority read for 2026. Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu Heavenly Bodies is another fantasy novel that I have been wanting to read for a while. It's got a lovely cover, and based on my friend's recommendations, I'm going to enjoy it, so it's another fantasy book to help me discover more in that genre. This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi If you've seen my BookTok or read some previous blog posts, you'll know I'm a huge fan of the Shatter Me series by Tahereh Mafi. I have read those books so many times, but for some reason, I've never picked up Tahereh's other series, This Woven Kingdom . So, 2026 is the year I discover more of Tahereh's writing in a new series that I have a feeling I'll love. Dystopian The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins Growing up, I very much enjoyed the dystopian era of the 2010s when The Hunger Games, Divergent , and The Maze Runner all came out. So much so, I still love reading dystopian novels today. The Hunger Games series is one of the best I've read, and it's a treat for readers that Suzanne Collins is continuing the series with a book about other characters. This one has already been made into a film, so I'm hoping to read it before finally watching the movie. Historical Fiction The Women by Kristin Hannah I absolutely loved Kristin Hannah's novel, The Nightingale , last year when I read it. I admire her writing style and the emotion she packs into her prose, so it was a no-brainer for me to want to read more of her books, and The Women is the novel I've chosen to read next. Non-Fiction Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton I haven't read much non-fiction in my life, but I've been told this is a book to read, particularly if you are a woman in your 20s. I know a little bit about Dolly Alderton and have seen rave reviews of this book, so I am looking forward to delving into her stories. Classics Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë I've been meaning to read this classic ever since I read Cressida McLaughlin's Christmas book, The Secret Christmas Bookshop . In that novel, the protagonist receives a special edition of Jane Eyre , and it intrigued me. I want to read more classic literature, and with Jane Eyre already on my bookcase, 2026 is the perfect year to pick up the classic and find out the story of Jane Eyre and Mr Rochester. These are the 26 books I'm hoping to read before the end of the year. There's quite a variety of genres and authors, but I'm determined to complete them all. And if you're a reader, I hope these book recommendations help you in discovering new books to add to your TBR. What books are you hoping to read this year? Until next time...

2026 is here and I'm sharing some tips on how to kickstart the new year, making the most of what's to come. Last year felt like it whizzed by, and now we're back in January of 2026. Christmas has been and gone, schools have returned for the spring term, and most people have gone back to work. January isn't a popular month for many people. It brings January blues, and can cause a lack of motivation, particularly when it's cold and rainy and dark. However, January is also a time for fresh starts, new beginnings, and new habits. A lot of people set resolutions, or create vision boards and bingo cards, for the year ahead. So, I'm sticking to the theme of motivation and sharing some tips to help kickstart the new year. Keep up to date One of the worst things that can happen is starting the new year and knowing nothing about what you've got going on. A lot of events and appointments may have been scheduled before Christmas, but it's easy to forget them. Therefore, when it's the start of a new year, it can help to have a diary or a calendar. Having a diary/calendar means you can write down everything you've got planned, birthdays and anniversaries, deadlines, etc. It doesn't have to be complicated or anything fancy, simply write down the dates. If you want to go a step further, you can colour-code your entries. I use a different coloured pen for different topics; for example, purple is for birthdays, blue is for university, pink is for personal, and orange is for family. However you want to design it, having a diary can make it easier to kickstart your new year by having all the important dates in one place. Practice self-care I know it's the start of the year, and a lot of people say, Be productive and get things done. And that's great, but one thing that should become a habit is self-care. In today's world, stress has become more common, and so has burnout. So, this year, I'm preaching self-care. Practising self-care will help make you more productive, put you in a better mood, and give you time to care for your physical and mental health away from the demands of work. It doesn't have to be a huge ritual full of skincare products or a whole routine. It can simply be having a hot drink, snuggling up on the sofa, and watching a comfort movie. Or if you fancy it, a spa day, a solo date, a takeaway one evening, etc. Just choose something that'll help you relax and indulge. Exercise and repeat Continuing along the lines of improving health, my next tip is all about your physical health. Exercise is something everyone should add to their weekly routine. You can pick the form of exercise; if you're not a runner, don't force yourself to run, and if you don't like the gym, don't force yourself to sign up. But choose a form of exercise that fits in with you and your routine. Something simple that you can do a couple of times a week. By getting your body and mind used to exercising regularly at the start of the year, you'll build the habit to continue throughout the next 12 months. This will help improve your physical health and your mental health with all those post-workout endorphins. You don't have to have a specific goal in mind, but just try to be active a couple of times a week for 20-30 minutes. You'll thank yourself in December. Aim for yearly goals New Year's resolutions tend to last through January, but are sometimes given up quite quickly, much like vision boards and bingo cards. My final tip is to aim for yearly goals. They don't have to be big; in fact, it's probably easier if they're smaller, more achievable goals. Creating a list of some goals for the year gives you ample time to work towards achieving them. You don't have to set many; just a few will do, but by having these goals, you'll set yourself things to achieve and give yourself a new sense of motivation in January. It will kickstart your year because you know it'll feel good when you can tick off each goal at the end of 2026. So, as we're in January, I hope you all had a Happy New Year, and continue to have a fantastic 2026. Until next time...

The end of 2025 is upon us, so here is my final bookish round-up of the year, a reading review of Q4 2025. 2025 feels like it's flown by with us now heading into 2026. I can't quite believe how fast this year has gone, but it has been a successful 12 months when it comes to books. I already reached my reading goal in Q3 and have continued to add to that number as we head into 2026. Across the first three quarters of the year, I read 81 books. So let's get into my Q4 2025 reading review. WriteWatchWork's Reading Review Total Number of Books Per Month In Q4, I read a total of 25 books. I slowed down towards the end of the year in terms of how many books I was reading because I found myself reading one book at a time, rather than two simultaneously. However, I have read some incredible books in Q4. In October, I read nine books. In November, I read eight, and in December, I've read nine books. Overall, they were three pretty good months, with some diverse books included. Although December was mainly Christmas books. Most-Read Genre 2025 has seen me read quite a few romance books, and that trend continued into Q4. However, I have also read quite a few other genres, including thrillers, fantasy, historical fiction, crime, and Greek mythology. However, romance was the genre that came out on top, probably because of the festive romances I read in December. Most-Read Author In Q4, I read a wide variety of authors, totalling 25 different authors. This is more than the previous quarter, which I'm surprised at. The different authors I read across October, November and December are: Agatha Christie Alex Pine Allie Oleander Autumn Woods Becka Mack B.K Borison Catherine Cowles Cressida McLaughlin Debbie Johnson Erin Sterling Hannah Grace Harper Graham Heidi Swain Holly Jackson Kandi Steiner Kerri Maniscalco Kristin Hannah Laurie Gilmore Lindsey Kelk Madeline Miller Melissa Bashardoust Mia Sheridan Nancy Peach Rachel Gillig Sarah Morgan Out of these 25 authors, quite a few of them were new authors that I hadn't read before. These authors were: Alex Pine, Allie Oleander, Autumn Woods, Harper Graham, Kristin Hannah, Lindsey Kelk, Madeline Miller, Melissa Bashardoust, Mia Sheridan, Nancy Peach and Rachel Gillig. My most-read author has to be Sarah Morgan. I absolutely love her Christmas books and managed to squeeze in a few in December. Favourite Books This year, one of my goals was to limit my five-star ratings. However, I've struggled with that because I have read some incredible books. In Q4, there were quite a few five-star books that I read and ones that I will probably re-read in the future. It was hard to pick my top three, but I have made a decision. My top book of Q4 has to be The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. I haven't read much historical fiction, and I was wary of this book not living up to the hype I've seen on social media. However, I fell in love with it. It is a challenging and quite horrific story given the subject matter, but it was incredible. Kristin Hannah's writing is beautiful, and the story is so powerful and emotional that I couldn't not rate it five stars. Next up is All Together for Christmas by Sarah Morgan. As I mentioned above, I love Sarah Morgan's Christmas books, and her latest one is now one of my favourites. All Together For Christmas is such a relatable and raw story that I fell in love with the characters and the world of Cumbria. It's such a feel-good story that is the perfect Christmas read, and I'm so glad I read it this year. The third and final book in my top three favourites is going to be Nightshade by Autumn Woods. I haven't read many dark academia novels before, but boy, am I hooked on that genre. I absolutely fell in love with this book and the characters. Everything about it was intriguing, mysterious, and I need book two right now! Some other honourable mentions include One Dark Window; Throne of the Fallen; Secret Haven; A Touch of Magic at the Comfort Food Café ; and Holiday Ever After. Favourite Authors I have so many new favourite authors from all the books I've read this year, and Q4 provided lots more. The three authors of my top three favourite books — Kristin Hannah, Sarah Morgan and Autumn Woods — are some of my favourite authors, but I'm going to pick three different writers. So, my top three authors of Q3 are: Kerri Maniscalco Catherine Cowles Hannah Grace Kerri Maniscalco made me fall in love with her writing once again when I read Throne of the Fallen . I knew I enjoyed her writing style from loving the Kingdom of the Wicked trilogy, but reading Throne of the Fallen made me fall in love with it even more. Her intricacy of crafting in-depth fantasy worlds and characters leaves me in awe. Catherine Cowles was one of my top authors from Q3, but I couldn't not choose her again. Catherine is a brand-new author for me this year, but I have fallen in love with her Sparrow Falls series and can't wait to binge her other novels. Secret Haven was one of my most anticipated releases this year, and reading that story had me on the edge of my seat. My final favourite author of Q4 is Hannah Grace. I've read Hannah Grace's Maple Hills series, and I did enjoy that; however, she has stepped up her game with Holiday Ever After. I absolutely loved the small-town Christmas romance that left me feeling all warm and giddy. It was such an enjoyable read, and I hope Hannah writes more books in this series. Best Book Surprise The best book surprise of Q4 is Christmas Fling by Lindsey Kelk. This book came out this year, and was my first Lindsey Kelk book. I'd heard good things about her as an author and have always been intrigued by her books. But Christmas Fling was such a pleasant surprise. I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I read it in two sittings and laughed so much. The writing was easy to read and the story hooked me from the first page. The characters were great, and it was just such a funny, light-hearted read that was perfect for the build-up to Christmas. Least Favourite Book Unfortunately, Q4 had a couple of books that didn't meet my expectations, and for that reason, I'm listing them in this category. Now, bear in mind, I did enjoy all the books I read. However, these were my lower-rated books of Q4. First up, we have Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan. I rated this book three stars. I went into it, knowing the basic premise of a love story between Beth and Archer, a man who is mute and has to use sign language to communicate. For me, this story had so much potential, and I think because I'd seen reviews of how emotional it was and how amazing it was, I put too much pressure on myself to agree. Sadly, I didn't find the book that emotional, and I also found myself like skim-reading some sections. I didn't connect with the characters much, and I think that's probably why I enjoyed it less than I expected. A similar thing happened with The Song of Achilles . Now, I rated this book four stars, and I am so glad I read it because I love Greek mythology and did enjoy it. However, I read this after reading The Nightingale, and for that reason, I didn't find it emotional compared to Kristin Hannah's novel. The writing in The Song of Achilles is beautiful, and I will re-read this book next year, but at the time in Q4 when I read it, it didn't live up to expectations. 25 Books for 2025 Over the course of the year, I've ticked off books from my 25 books for 2025 list. And in Q4, I managed to progress even further, reading seven books from this list. The seven books on the list that I read in Q4 were: Five Survive (Holly Jackson), And Then There Were None (Agatha Christie), The Song of Achilles (Madeline Miller), Throne of the Fallen (Kerri Maniscalco), One Dark Window (Rachel Gillig), Fall With Me (Becka Mack), and Archer's Voice (Mia Sheridan). Credit: WriteWatchWork That leaves three books unread from this: Jane Eyre, Binding 13, Once Upon a Broken Heart . However, they will be priority reads for 2026. I hope you enjoyed my reading review of Q4 2025. If you haven't read some of the books mentioned in this post, I hope you give them a go. 2025 has been a great year of reading for me, and I hope 2026 will be the same. Until next year...

Christmas is only a week away, so here are some tips on how to switch off for the holidays and enjoy the festive period. December is probably the most stressful month of the year, leading up to Christmas. There are presents to buy and wrap, food to order, decorations to put up, and on top of that, your normal routines of work and family. It can sometimes get to be too much for some people. And whilst you may think you've got lots of time to sort everything out, Christmas usually sneaks up on us, even though we know it's coming at the same time every year. However, I thought I'd share some tips on how to switch off for the holidays, so that everyone can actually enjoy the festive period and spend time with family and friends without worrying. If you find December and Christmas to be stressful and chaotic, consider the tips below for some helpful advice. Put your phone away In the modern age, almost everything can be done on our phones: taking photos, communicating with others, ordering gifts, etc. But sometimes, we can easily get wrapped up in scrolling on our phones for hours. So, to help you switch off for the holidays, try putting your phone away. I don't mean turn it off completely over Christmas—if there's an emergency, people still need to get in contact—but leaving it in a room, maybe on silent, can help. Having time away from our phones allows us to connect with things around us and means we can be fully present in the moment, letting us focus on the here and now. Write a recap and to-do list One of the things I struggle with over the holidays is my work. I tend to finish a week or so before Christmas and don't return until a few days into January. However, having a prolonged period of time off means I often forget what I was doing before the holiday and what is essential after. So, I write a list. Before I take time off for Christmas, I write a list of things I've done, where I stand with a project, etc. I also write a to-do list for after the holidays. This helps when I return to work, so I know what things need doing and where I'm up to, making it less stressful and making me less confused. Make a food list (to buy and to prep) Christmas is full of lots of things, and one of those things is food. It can be very stressful and time-consuming trying to figure out and buy all the food you need for Christmas. There's Christmas dinner, desserts, snacks, and breakfast—the list is endless. But writing a list of all the food you need to get and the different foods/meals that need prepping before Christmas can definitely help. It can also help to write when to cook things, for example, do you need to cook a turkey joint on Christmas Eve and one on Christmas Day? This will help you switch off for the holidays because you won't have to constantly think about each thing; instead, you can just look at your list. Embrace all sorts of wrapping Something I find stressful is wrapping, but that's mainly because I struggle to measure the wrapping paper correctly for each present. The folding and sticking I've got down, but not the cutting. However, I'm trying to embrace all sorts of wrapping. Whether that's too much paper, mismatched paper, too much cellotape, jagged edges, or simply tissue paper-wrapped presents. The idea of a gift isn't for it to be beautifully wrapped; after all, the wrapping paper gets ripped off and put in the bin. The thing that matters is the gift itself and the thought behind it. So, if wrapping presents is something that stresses you out, then embrace all sorts of wrapping to help you switch off as we get closer to the holidays. Take time to indulge Switching off for the holidays is key because it's a time to spend with family and friends and feel grateful for what we all have. But it's also a time to care for ourselves and make sure we're taken care of. This festive season, to help you relax and switch off, take time to indulge in things you like. Whether that's a day shopping (although that can be quite stressful at Christmas), a nice meal out, or an evening in with sweet treats, a festive movie and the Christmas lights on. However, you like to relax and take a moment, make sure you do this Christmas. I hope these tips help you switch off this Christmas and enjoy the holidays! As always, if you've got tips of your own, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Until next time...

The Family Plan 2 came out last month and it is a great family film for fans of action and comedy at Christmas. Earlier this year, I watched The Family Plan on Apple TV+. It stars Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan, and was such an enjoyable film. I loved The Family Plan , so when the sequel was announced, I was so happy. My family and I are big movie buffs, particularly action movies. The Family Plan 2 is a Christmas film, but it's perhaps one of the least festive movies. However, it is still a fab movie to watch this December, and I explain why in my review below. Review: The Family Plan 2 Genre: Action Comedy Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Monaghan, Kit Harrington, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Zoe Colletti, Van Crosby Where to Watch: Apple TV+ Rating: 8/10 Synopsis: The Family Plan 2 continues from the first film, a few years later, following the Morgan family after the events involving Dan's father. The official synopsis is as follows: "Now that Dan's assassin days are behind him, all he wants for Christmas is quality time with his kids. But when he learns that his daughter has her own plans, he books a family trip to London --- putting them all in the crosshairs of an unexpected enemy." My Thoughts: I absolutely loved The Family Plan 2 . It was such an enjoyable film to watch that I would watch it again. It follows the Morgan family at Christmas time as Dan (Mark Wahlberg) books a trip to London to visit his daughter, Nina (Zoe Colletti). However, as always, things aren't easy, and their Christmas trip in London soon takes a turn. The acting in this film is, as always, fantastic. I think Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan are great actors, and they portray their characters so well. There's chemistry between them, but they also play on the humour and comedy of the script to deliver exceptional characters. Kit Harrington plays a new character in The Family Plan 2 , but he is also a great actor. I haven't actually seen him in anything before --- I should probably watch a bit of Game of Thrones ---- but I loved the dynamic between his character, Finn, and Dan. Max, the younger of the Morgan children, was so cute during this film. There were offhand comments he made that just made me smile and laugh. In the first one, he was the only one to really pick up at first that Dan was a former assassin, and his cuteness and smarts continued into the sequel. One of the best things, though, in this film was the comedy. I love how the movie has serious scenes, showcasing the importance of family and looking out for each other, but also switches to light-hearted moments that make the audience laugh. It isn't a full-on comedy, but The Family Plan 2 definitely brings out the laughter, I can attest to that. Even during the action scenes, there's humour that doesn't take away from the action, only adds to it. I thought the action scenes were fantastic. I'm not sure if Wahlberg does his own stunts or not, but it is very impressive. Especially with the addition of parkour in this film over French rooftops. The Family Plan 2 is, overall, a family-friendly film that features action, comedy, a little bit of romance and highlights the importance of spending time with family, no matter where you are. So, if you and your family are looking for something to watch this festive season, then I definitely recommend checking out The Family Plan 2 on Apple TV+. Until next time...

As well as timeless classics, there are a lot of new Christmas movies for you to add to your watch list this December. I love cosying up on the sofa and settling in to watch a Christmas movie. Of course, there are the classics, such as The Holiday, Arthur Christmas, The Polar Express, and Elf. But this year, there are plenty more Christmas movies that have been released in time for you to watch them this December. So, as a film buff, I thought I'd share with you some of my top recommendations of new Christmas movies to add to your watch list. Three Wisest Men Genre: Family Comedy Where to Watch: Hallmark or Sky Christmas Synopsis: "Three siblings deal with personal changes and their mother's decision to sell the family home before Christmas. Between in-laws, wild animals, and a mall Santa, they try to make the holidays perfect." My Thoughts: I loved the first two movies in this trilogy, and the third and final instalment is just as good. It is funny, heartwarming, and Christmassy. A Merry Little Ex-Mas Genre: Romantic Comedy Where to Watch: Netflix Synopsis: "A separated couple tries celebrating one last Christmas together with their kids before their divorce. However, the husband's new girlfriend joins the festivities, causing tension and chaos during the holidays." My Thoughts: From the trailer, this movie looks so good. I always love a Netflix Christmas movie and this one seems right up my street when I'm in the mood for a Christmas comedy. Oh, What Fun! Genre: Family Comedy Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Synopsis: "Claire plans a special Christmas but is forgotten by their family. When they realise that she's missing, their holiday is at risk until she returns to give them the celebration they deserve." My Thoughts: I like Michelle Pfeiffer as an actress and this film looks great. It's all about family at Christmas and not taking people for granted, which is an important reminder at this time of year. Christmas Karma Genre: Christmas musicals Where to Watch: Synopsis: "A hard-nosed businessman, Mr Sood, is forced to confront his past, present and future over one fateful Christmas Eve - guided by three unforgettable spirits - on a journey toward compassion and redemption." My Thoughts: With a star-studded cast, this Christmas musical is definitely on my to-watch list because it is a unique twist on A Christmas Carol and looks so fun! Jingle Bell Heist Genre: Romantic comedy Where to Watch: Netflix Synopsis: "At the height of the holiday season, two strangers team up to rob one of London's most famous department stores while accidentally falling in love." My Thoughts: I've seen this one advertised on social media quite a bit and I love the look of it, so will definitely be watching this in December. A Very Jonas Christmas Movie Genre: Musical comedy Where to Watch: Disney+ Synopsis: "Three famous brothers race against time and face mounting challenges during a chaotic journey from London to New York, desperate to make it home in time for Christmas with their loved ones." My Thoughts: I love the Jonas Brothers — I used to watch their show on Disney Channel — so knowing they've done a Christmas movie made me so excited to watch it. Joy to the World Genre: Romantic Comedy Where to Watch: Disney+ Synopsis: "A famous lifestyle writer must maintain her carefully crafted image when TV cameras arrive for Christmas dinner. Her plan to have her best friend pose as her spouse leads to unexpected feelings and revelations." My Thoughts: I like Chad Michael Murray as an actor, and Joy to the World looks like a wholesome Christmas film that is just enjoyable to watch. Merv Genre: Romantic Comedy Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Synopsis: "A recently separated couple take their shared dog on a holiday trip to cheer him up, but end up reconnecting romantically." My Thoughts: Who doesn't love a Christmas film about a dog? Merv looks like it'll be such a good film to watch with some comedy, romance and dog cuteness. The Family Plan 2 Genre: Action comedy Where to Watch: Apple TV+ Synopsis: "Now that Dan's assassin days are behind him, all he wants for Christmas is quality time with his kids. But when he learns his daughter has her own plans, he books a family trip to London---putting them all in the crosshairs of an unexpected enemy." My Thoughts: I love a good action movie, and I loved the first movie, The Family Plan , so this is a must-watch for my family and me. Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story Genre: Sports Romance Where to Watch: Hallmark and Christmas 24 Synopsis: "Sparks fly between two lifelong Buffalo Bills fans as they try to discover the identity of a mysterious Christmastime gift giver." My Thoughts: I love the NFL and Hallmark movies, so it's no surprise that I'm looking forward to watching a Christmas movie that combines both with one of my favourite actresses, Holland Roden. Those are my 10 recommendations of new Christmas movies that have been released for you to watch this December. There's a little bit of something for everyone, so I hope if you choose to watch one off this list that you enjoy it. Until next time...

December is nearly here and the countdown to Christmas is on, so here are 10 different Christmas books to read this festive season. If you're like me, then December is one of your favourite months of the year. I absolutely love December and am definitely not a grinch. Christmas is my favourite time of year; I get to spend time with family and friends, soak up all the positive, festive vibes, and watch Christmas films and read Christmas books. Each November, I have to rearrange my bookshelves to make space for my Christmas books. I have quite a lot, and I thought I'd share some Christmas book recommendations with you. So, if you're a reader and want to read some festive novels, then here are 10 recommendations for you to read this December. Christmas Book Recommendations A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Genre: Classic Synopsis: " When the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge dismisses Christmas as mere "humbug," he has no idea that his cold heart is about to be transformed forever. On a bitter Christmas Eve in Victorian London, Scrooge receives an otherworldly visitation from his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, who brings a dire warning: three spirits will visit before dawn, offering one last chance at redemption. As the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come guide Scrooge through forgotten memories, hidden truths, and possible futures, he witnesses the true spirit of Christmas through the joy of his nephew's dinner and the humble celebrations of Bob Cratchit's family—including the unforgettable Tiny Tim." My Thoughts: Starting off with a classic, The Christmas Carol is a staple of the festive season. Most people know the story of Scrooge, and I can't wait to revisit this timeless tale this Christmas. The Secret Christmas Bookshop by Cressida McLaughlin Genre: Romance Synopsis: " In a village by the sea, where wintry skies bring a dusting of sparkling snow, somebody is opening an unexpected gift… When Sophie receives a surprise package, she’s intrigued to find a beautifully bound book inside. Sophie is desperate to discover the mystery sender, and her hunt draws her to the enigmatic Harry. The subject of much gossip since his return from London, Harry keeps to himself in his crumbling manor house. But they are both about to learn that the best stories can take on a life of their own." My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this book when I read it last year. It is full of Christmas cheer and has a literary mystery running through it that I just loved. Plus, Felix the Goat is such a great character! Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie Genre: Murder Mystery Synopsis: " It is Christmas Eve. The Lee family reunion is shattered by a deafening crash of furniture, followed by a scream… Upstairs, the tyrannical Simeon Lee lies dead in a pool of blood, his throat slashed. But when Hercule Poirot, who is staying in the village with a friend for Christmas, offers to assist, he finds an atmosphere not of mourning but of mutual suspicion. It seems everyone had their own reason to hate the old man… " My Thoughts: I really enjoy reading Agatha Christie's books, and this story about Hercule Poirot at Christmas seems right up my street. I haven't read it yet, but it is one I hope to read soon. The Comfort Food Café by Debbie Johnson Genre: Romance Synopsis: " It’s been a tough year for Maxine Connolly – so tough she's almost given up on finding her happy ending. But then she discovers The Comfort Food Café, shining like the star on top of the Christmas tree and welcoming her in to its cozy, cake-filled embrace for hot chocolates dripping with whipped cream, melty grilled cheese toasties and the funniest bunch of regulars she soon calls friends. Then there’s gorgeous local Gabriel Moran, who looks at Max like she’s a present he can’t wait to unwrap – and she can’t help but think that, maybe, he’s just what she wants for Christmas too…" My Thoughts: I read this book last year and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's more than a romance; it's about found family and making your own happiness in life, no matter where you end up. The Christmas Ring by Karen Kingsbury Genre: Romance Synopsis: " While searching for her family's long-lost heirloom ring, military widow Vanessa Mayfield meets handsome antique dealer Ben Miller. The two are drawn to each other and forge a friendship that soon becomes a deep and breathtaking romance. But neither are sure that what they've found can last...Days before Christmas, when all seems hopeless, Ben and Vanessa learn an important eternal truth: Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." My Thoughts: I'm really intrigued by this book because I hadn't heard much about it since before I saw the trailer for the movie, but I think it'll be such a wholesome, heart-warming Christmas read. Murder Most Festive by Ada Moncrieff Genre: Murder Mystery Synopsis: " Christmas Eve, 1938. The Westbury family and assorted friends have gathered for another legendary celebration at their beautiful country house. The champagne flows, the silverware sparkles and upstairs the rooms are ready for their occupants. But one bed will lie empty that night. On Christmas morning, David Campbell-Scott is found dead in the snow. There's a pistol beside him and only one set of footprints. Yet something doesn't seem right to amateur sleuth Hugh Gaveston. Campbell-Scott had just returned from overseas with untold wealth - why would he kill himself? Hugh sets out to investigate..." My Thoughts: I've read one of Ada's books before and really enjoyed it, so I have a feeling Murder Most Festive will be right up my street too. The Winter Killer by Alex Pine Genre: Crime novel Synopsis: " As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, DI James Walker receives a phone call that puts paid to his Christmas break. During the wedding of the year at a lakeside hotel, the bride’s sister has vanished. When Rachel left the wedding breakfast before her speech, newlywed Libby was furious. But as the night went on with no sign of her maid-of-honour, Libby started to realise something was very, very wrong… Before the wedding night is out, the lake is being searched for a body. Something old, something new. One guest is a killer. The question is: who?" My Thoughts: This book is book three in the DI James Walker series, and I was hooked by the blurb. Again, not one I've read yet, but one I hope to read because it just sounds so good! I'll Be Home For Christmas by Karen Clarke Genre: Romance Synopsis: " Nina Bailey loves Christmas. Except this year she doesn’t. Because it turns out that her husband-to-be has been cheating on her – and her beautiful wedding ceremony in the snow is cancelled. She’s not really in the mood to be jolly, sing carols, or go anywhere near gingerbread men – in fact, what Nina wants is to avoid the whole thing. So she’s come to stay at her Aunt Dolly’s cosy café to nurse her broken heart. Nina is determined to get through Christmas with no tinsel, no fuss – and definitely no flirting. So when she arrives and meets infuriatingly handsome Ryan Sadler, with his gorgeous forest-green eyes, she is not best pleased...With sparkling lights adorning every wall and a tree to equal the Rockefeller Center’s and, yes, mistletoe above every doorway, can Nina resist the magic of Christmas – and stick to her no-romance rule? My Thoughts: Set in a small French town, this book had all the cosy vibes when I read it a couple of years ago. It's such a comforting novel and the French backdrop is so picturesque. I really enjoyed this one. The Secret Christmas Library by Jenny Colgan Genre: Cosy Romantic Mystery Synopsis: " Mirren Sutherland didn't expect an old book in her great-aunt's attic to change her whole world. But one minute she is staring resentfully at the sparkly London Christmas lights, dreading the thought of another Christmas alone. And the next, she is being whisked away on a secret night train to a grand old house in the highlands... Jamie McPherson is desperate to save his family home - and he needs Mirren's ability to sniff out an antique to do it. There is a very rare, very valuable, and very lost book somewhere in the nooks and crannies of his family's crumbling estate. And if Mirren can find it, they might just be able to save the McPhersons from financial ruin. But the house has its secrets, and when a snowstorm traps Mirren and Jamie in, along with rival book hunter Theo Palliser, they realise that there is much more than just a book hidden in the halls. With old feelings and new sparks slipping through the cracks, it's a race against time - and snowfall. With the help of a sprinkle of Christmas magic, will Mirren uncover the clues and find the book - without losing her heart?" My Thoughts: I haven't read a Jenny Colgan book before, but this one looks so good. The cover, first of all, is gorgeous, and the blurb intrigues me so much. I think I'll definitely have to read this book soon. Murder Under the Mistletoe by Reverend Richard Coles Genre: Mystery novella Synopsis: " It is Christmas Day and at Champton Rectory, Canon Daniel Clement and his mother Audrey are joined by the residents and guests of the big house to drink, eat and be merry. At the festive feast, peace and goodwill prevail. Until two meet under the mistletoe. One of them falls down dead. And Daniel suspects murder has returned to Champton . . . Can Daniel and Detective Sergeant Neil Vanloo solve the crime and catch the Christmas killer?" My Thoughts: I haven't read any Reverend Richard Coles' books before, but people in my book club have. This novella seems like a short and sweet murder mystery to read at Christmas. Want more recommendations? I hope the above recommendations intrigue you to give them a read this December. However, if you're looking for even more Christmas book recommendations, then head to my Instagram and TikTok , where I'll be sharing a festive book each day until Christmas. Until next time...

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is one of the most beautiful yet heartbreaking books I have ever read, and here's my review. As you all know by now, I love reading. I have read over 90 books so far in 2025 and still have more to read. One of my latest books is The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. It's one I've seen broadcast all over social media, and it has received rave reviews. It's been on my TBR for a while, but I recently read it around Remembrance Day. And I'm so glad I finally picked it up because it's one of my top reads this year. Below is my review of The Nightingale , which will hopefully convince you to pick it up and give it a read. My Review of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Genre: Historical Fiction Tropes: French setting Sisters Rebellion Secret Identities Power of Love Rating: 5 stars Synopsis The synopsis for The Nightingale is as follows : "Soon to be a major motion picture, The Nightingale is a multi-million-copy bestseller across the world. It is a heartbreakingly beautiful novel that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the endurance of women. This story is about what it was like to be a woman during World War II when women's stories were all too often forgotten or overlooked . . . Vianne and Isabelle Mauriac are two sisters, separated by years and experience, by ideals and passion and circumstance, each embarking on her own dangerous path towards survival, love and freedom in war-torn France." My Thoughts The Nightingale was my first Kristin Hannah book, and it most definitely will not be my last. I am in awe of her writing and storytelling. I have always loved history. I studied history at GCSE level and I've always been fascinated by learning about the past, in particular, about World War 1 and World War 2. The plot of The Nightingale is what drew me to it initially. Nazi-occupied France wasn't something I knew much about in detail, so this book presented an opportunity to expand my knowledge of that topic. However, I didn't expect The Nightingale to be so raw, so emotional, and such an incredible story. Kristin Hannah's writing is lyrical and poetic. She portrayed this story beautifully, and I was hooked from the very first page. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Nightingale , although perhaps 'enjoyed' is not the right word because of the horrific subject matter. However, this book is beautiful as well as hard-hitting. It is told in a third-person point of view, switching between Vianne and Isabelle's perspectives. There is also the occasional first-person chapter from the point of view of an unknown French woman, now living in America, reflecting on the war. The third-person POV for Vianne and Isabelle's story works really well. It allows us as readers to see their thoughts and feelings, and experience the horrific things they had to endure, whilst still keeping a little bit of distance between us and the narrator. The first-person chapters are set several years after the war, and they're what intrigued me throughout the novel because I wanted to know who this older woman was. Is she Vianne or Isabelle? The Nightingale follows Vianne and Isabelle on their different journeys throughout World War 2. We're taken on a journey throughout France and get to see just how horrifying and heartbreaking WW2 was, but for the people left behind. We hear stories about soldiers fighting at the front, and most films depict battlefields in war. But Kristin Hannah portrays the ordinary life of women and children left behind as their brothers, husbands, fathers, etc., had to fight. The Nightingale really is an eye-opening and thought-provoking story. Learning about how they were forced to obey a curfew, had ration cards which gave them measly amounts of leftover food, had Nazis living in their homes, and they could do nothing about it, and how they had to suffer through freezing winters and boiling summers without sufficient clothes, food, or drink was fascinating. It really was a harrowing time, and Kristin writes in a way that draws you in and doesn't let you go until the very last page. I cried quite a bit whilst reading The Nightingale . I knew I would at some point, but I have never cried so much at a book. It is a piece of historical fiction. However, there is inspiration taken from real-life women, in particular Andrée de Jongh; women who answered the question of: What would you be willing to do in war to survive, and to protect your loved ones, and those who are innocent? The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah shares a story of two brave sisters, divided by situation and experience, as they choose to fight, survive and endure Nazi-occupied France. This book is one of my all-time favourite novels. It is a beautiful, poignant and heartbreaking story that features incredibly brave women and teaches readers about the horrors of war, away from the battlefield. If you love history, if you love exceptionally well-written books and well-crafted characters and stories, then read The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. I will forever recommend this book because it is not only a novel, but also a story that has impacted my perspective on things. Until next time...

November 17th to 21st is Work in Publishing week, and here are some resources for publishing hopefuls. Work in Publishing week is here, and the national campaign, organised by The Publishers' Association, aims to inform all about the publishing industry. Tips are shared, pathways into publishing are discussed, and information is learnt. As a publishing hopeful, I have developed my knowledge of the publishing industry in the past year. I've attended lots of events, both in person and online, including The London Book Fair, some webinars, and even work experience at Penguin Random House. However, being a publishing hopeful isn't easy. It is a competitive industry, and whilst I am based in East Anglia, many publishing hopefuls live up north and have fewer opportunities due to travel. Therefore, in addition to my social media posts about Work in Publishing week, I'm sharing some resources for publishing hopefuls. The resources below are all designed to help publishing hopefuls better understand the industry, develop skills, network with professionals and fellow hopefuls, and more. Publishing Resources The Publishing Post Logo Credit: The Publishing Post The Publishing Post is an online publishing magazine. It is aimed at publishing hopefuls, giving them a platform to develop knowledge and skills, whilst building volunteering experience. With blog posts, a jobs board and CV and Cover Letter feedback, The Publishing Post is a great resource. It includes interviews with industry professionals, breakdowns on campaigns and general application tips too. By subscribing, you gain access to all articles and everything The Publishing Post has to offer. It's only £5 a year and well worth the money for the resources you receive in return. The Society of Young Publishers Logo Credit: The Society of Young Publishers Another volunteer-led organisation is The Society of Young Publishers . This society not only helps publishing hopefuls, but also publishing professionals at the start of their careers. With different branches of the SYP all across the UK, it's a fab resource for those with an interest in publishing. The SYP has its own quarterly print magazine. This provides updates on what's happening within the SYP and also the wider industry with articles, interviews and reports. There are also regular events, including networking events and workshops, that members can attend. Additionally, being a member of the SYP offers discounts on certain things, such as: 15% discount on a subscription to The Bookseller 30% off London Book Fair Ticket There is also a jobs board and a mentorship scheme, run by the SYP, too. The Bookseller Logo Credit: The Bookseller The Bookseller is the industry magazine, providing all the news you need to know about the publishing industry. I'm signed up to it, and it is an invaluable resource with regular round-up emails of their latest articles. The magazine is online and in print, and has been the book trade magazine for 157 years. However, that's not all. The Bookseller also has a jobs board, advertising lots of industry jobs available to publishing hopefuls. BookCareers Logo Credit: BookCareers BookCareers, run by Suzanne Collier, an award-winning careers advisor, is an incredible resource, offering all sorts of advice to publishing hopefuls. It helps with job hunting, CV and Cover Letter writing, and also advertises job vacancies. There is also a BookCareers podcast, where Suzanne shares her insights and tips about the book industry. Also, at the London Book Fair, there is usually a BookCareers careers clinic. I've attended this more than once, and it's been an invaluable event. Earlier this year, I went and was able to buy Suzanne's book, How to Get Into Publishing. Creative Access Logo Credit: Creative Access Creative Access is an organisation aiming to "build a creative economy". Since 2012, Creative Access has partnered with lots of creative companies, including publishers, to help get people into the different industries. They often advertise job vacancies, as well as mentorship schemes, internships and workshops on various topics. I've found Creative Access to be incredibly helpful in job hunting, not only for publishing but for other creative industries. BookMachine Logo Credit: BookMachine BookMachine is a versatile resource. It has a publishing community where you can network and connect with other industry peers, as well as lots of online courses and events. There is also a BookMachine blog, which shares articles on various topics, including audiobooks, book marketing and publicity, book publishing business, and more. And BookMachine is a creative agency that supports brands with marketing and other creative services. Independent Publishers Guild Logo Credit: IPG The Independent Publishers Guild (IPG) is an organisation that supports its members with lots of different opportunities, including networking events, training and other resources. As a member, you get access to the IPG Spring and Autumn conferences; you can network with industry professionals; access to the IPG skills hub; opportunities for a mentoring scheme, and more. The IPG aims to help independent publishers grow, and with their jobs board, it can be so useful for publishing hopefuls to join. The Publishing Hopefuls Facebook Group Logo Credit: Publishing Hopefuls Facebook Group The Publishing Hopefuls Facebook group is probably the first publishing resource that I used. Created by Christina Storey, currently working at HarperCollins, this group is full of publishing hopefuls. Tips and advice are shared in the group, as well as the opportunity to talk to other publishing hopefuls. People share questions, they share job adverts, and they ask for help on CVs and Cover Letters. Everyone helps each other, and it's a great way to network with others currently applying for roles and job hunting. Market Your Marketing Substack Logo Credit: Market Your Marketing Market Your Marketing is a Substack community run by Eleanor Pilcher, an award-winning marketer with lots of experience in the publishing industry. This Substack is full of useful and insightful resources for publishing hopefuls. Eleanor has created a Publishing Hopefuls Toolkit, a publishing glossary, and runs her own webinars for publishing hopefuls — the next one is on 3rd December. Not only is Eleanor lovely in person, but her advice and Substack articles are always incredibly helpful. I often read her articles on her Substack and find them very useful. London Book Fair Logo Credit: The London Book Fair The London Book Fair is a three-day annual event where the publishing industry comes together. It is more of a trade event with publishers developing relationships and making deals; however, I've been attending for the past two years and find it incredibly useful as a publishing hopeful. There are lots of different publisher stalls around the fair, including the Big 5 and some independent, smaller publishers. There are also different publishing companies. Plus, there are regular conferences/seminars to attend on all sorts of topics, relating to the publishing industry. With so many people attending, it's a great way to network and meet other publishing hopefuls, but also professionals in the industry. So, if you're a publishing hopeful, I hope this blog post full of resources has been helpful. These are some great resources to expand your knowledge of the industry, meet and network with professionals and other publishing hopefuls, and also gain confidence in applying for roles. If you have other publishing resources, feel free to drop them in the comments below. Until next time...

Following the announcement that Nottingham University is suspending Modern Languages courses, here are several reasons why it's beneficial to learn a new language. I first started learning French when I was four years old. I then started learning Spanish at 11 in high school. I studied both French and Spanish at GCSE level, and wanted to continue both at A-Level. Unfortunately, I was only allowed to study one language in sixth form, which I chose to be Spanish. My sister has studied French and Spanish at university, as well as some Italian and Portuguese, and has an A-Level in Latin. To this day, we still enjoy learning modern foreign languages and communicating in Spanish. It's safe to say that seeing the news about the University of Nottingham suspending language courses was a shock and a disappointment. Now, I understand that languages aren't always the most popular subject in education. Most people might think: Why learn another language when most people can speak English? Below are some reasons why I, and others I know, feel that languages should be studied and the benefits of being able to speak more than just your mother tongue. Understanding other cultures There are around 7000 languages in the world. Approximately 2000 languages are spoken in Asia. The EU has 24 working languages, and as of 2023, only 19% of the global population speaks English. With more and more people immigrating from their own countries to others, the number of languages spoken in one area is increasing. As is the number of different cultures. Therefore, by learning another language, you'll be increasing your knowledge and understanding of other cultures and ways of life. Language is an expression of culture. Language courses involve learning about different countries and their cultures, including things such as traditions, holidays, politics and history. By learning a language and being able to speak it will help you learn new ways of life, which in turn aids humans in becoming more adaptable and diverse through accessing other communities. Improves communication skills Whilst there are around 7000 languages in the world, there are around 370 alphabets and 293 writing systems. The Latin script is the most commonly used. If you learn another language, you will be improving your communication skills in various ways. You'll be able to communicate with other people from different countries; you can access their culture and customs and hold conversations with them. But being bilingual also helps your communication skills in your mother tongue. You'll improve your listening skills, writing skills and speaking skills. On a language course, you learn how to construct sentences, what the different tenses are (there's more than just past, present and future), and how to correctly use grammar. Learning a language will also give you a better understanding of your own language, especially if it is derived from Latin and you're learning a Romance language (French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian). Flexibility of travelling abroad Having the ability to speak another language and understand when someone speaks it to you can be hugely beneficial, especially if you like travelling. Nowadays, lots of people travel abroad for holidays, work and for fresh starts in life. Speaking another language can help with all three of these and make it easier for you to enjoy your time abroad. If you love going on holiday to foreign countries, being able to speak part of their language will help while there. You can order food and drink in their language, you'll be able to ask for directions if you need them, and you'll be able to understand different signs and notices. Speaking another language also allows you to move abroad if you fancy, whether that's for work or for retirement, perhaps. It'll give you confidence living in another country and being able to understand the life around you. Plus, language courses tend to include a year abroad, either working or studying, which gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture. Improves cognitive skills Being able to speak another language improves your cognitive skills. Studies show it increases your memory, concentration and problem-solving. It also helps you think creatively because when learning a language, you're effectively generating new pathways in your brain, increasing brain power. As a modern languages student, your course will help you think critically and structurally, improving your intellectual skills as well as your decision-making. Learning a language boosts your mental ability in many ways, which are only beneficial, especially for the reason below. Benefits neurological health Studies have shown that whilst learning a language improves cognitive skills, such as memory, attention and problem-solving, it also improves your neurological health. Having the ability to speak another language actually delays the onset of ageing and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's and Dementia. Findings have shown that being bilingual means you retain your mental abilities for far longer than those who are monolingual. So, it can only be a good thing to start learning or studying a language. Opens more career prospects Whilst a lot of the world speaks English, it can always help to be able to speak and understand another language, especially when it comes to career prospects. Having this ability could make you more attractive to employers. If a company works on an international scale, having someone who can communicate with others in a different language is an advantage. Learning a language can also open new doors for you in terms of career prospects because it could allow you to consider a different career path or a new job that you may not have thought of before. Why it's beneficial to learn a new language The above reasons are only a few as to why it's beneficial to learn a language. There are so many more, and as someone who loves languages, I'm a huge advocate for getting people to learn them. Yes, Artificial Intelligence is growing and becoming more commonly used. However, using AI for translation and interpreting is not the best route forward because it will not always be correct, and a machine cannot understand humans or emotions. The University of Nottingham hasn't explained its full reasoning behind its decision, but I hope that the news of them suspending Modern Language courses will inspire people to continue, or start, learning another language. Students from UoN have created a petition to stop the removal of Modern Languages courses, which you can sign here: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-removal-of-modern-languages-courses-at-the-university-of-nottingham Plus, it's just really cool to be able to go travelling and confidently speak the country's language. Until next time...

Wednesday, November 5th, is Stress Awareness Day, so here are some tips on how to overcome stress creatively. In our everyday lives, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed. With the world advancing in some respects faster than we once believed, and the threat of international problems rising, it is more common to feel stressed than not to be. That's why I wanted to raise awareness of Stress Awareness Day. On the first Wednesday of November, the International Stress Management Association raises awareness about stress. Both the impact of it and ways to manage it. This year, the theme of Stress Awareness Day is 'Optimising Employee Wellbeing Through Strategic Stress Management'. That's quite a mouthful, but essentially, it means tackling stress on more than just an individual level. The theme encourages organisations like companies and schools to tackle stress in the workplace and craft a more positive environment. As a writer who has posted about stress before and shared some tips, I wanted to reiterate the importance of managing stress and taking care of ourselves. Therefore, as today is Stress Awareness Day, I'm sharing some creative tips on overcoming stress, both for the individual and for a group. Create together My first tip is aimed at those in a group and those who work together. Life can often get quite lonely, especially if you work remotely or are at a different stage in life than those around you. However, by working together to create something new, you can help beat the stress in the workplace. If at work, you notice your colleagues and your employees seeming stressed, and not their best selves, suggest a creative project. This doesn't have to be an important work project. It could simply be an afternoon or evening outside of work, where you take part in a creative activity, such as pottery painting or an escape room. By getting together with colleagues outside of work and doing a different activity than one in the office, you can build new relationships, put your mind at ease for a while, and create a new positive environment at work. Have a fika ' Fika' is a Swedish term , and it is a tradition that means taking a coffee and cake break. The idea is that you take a short break, have a bite to eat and a drink whilst also having a moment's rest. I actually first heard the term Fika whilst on a uni workshop. Since then, it's come up on my LinkedIn and was something I did during my work experience at Penguin. Every Thursday, the team I worked in had a 30-minute Fika. Stepping away from work or chores, and taking a break to socialise with others whilst having a cake and hot drink can help overcome stress. It gives you time to relax and slow down. Also, it means you're not constantly working and can give your brain a break and also your eyes, particularly if you work with computers a lot. Journal your thoughts This tip is definitely for the individual, and it is one I've recently adopted. I'm sure you've heard that journaling is a good habit to get into. Writing your thoughts and stresses down on a piece of paper can help expel them from your brain and body, leaving you feeling less stressed than before the pen touched the paper. And that's true. For some scientific reason, writing down what you're thinking can help you process your thoughts and worries. It can make you see things clearly and reduce the overwhelming stress you feel. So, if you are feeling stressed and are someone who likes writing, then journaling could be for you. Indulge in other worlds The current world we live in is a stressful place. Countries are at war, finances are rising and life is tough sometimes. Therefore, one creative way to reduce stress is to indulge in other worlds. You can interpret it any way you like, whether it's visiting different countries and experiencing their cultures, or simply picking up a book and delving into fiction. By giving yourself a break from reality, you can overcome the stress you feel. For me, picking up a good book, especially a romance or fantasy novel, helps me relax and just let myself rest for a moment. Choose a hobby It's so easy to get wrapped up in work and with the chores that need doing in everyday life. And as a result, it can be easy to keep on going and not give yourself a break. However, by doing so, your stress levels will inevitably increase. But if you choose a creative hobby, you can help yourself destress and relax. Having a creative hobby that you can take time out and enjoy — it doesn't have to be for long — can really help you mentally. Whether that's knitting, drawing, colouring, scrapbooking, etc., find one that you will find comfort in. That way, when you find yourself getting stressed, you can indulge in your hobby, if only for a short while, and hopefully, find yourself destressing along the way. So, as today is Stress Awareness Day, I hope these tips can help you creatively destress. If you have tips of your own, feel free to leave them in the comments. Until next time...