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Here are some tips and advice on how to write a novel, based on my experience studying novel writing. Growing up, I always loved storytelling. I would come up with story ideas and stage plays in the hope that one day I would be brave enough to write an entire novel. If you've read a few of my blog posts before, you'll know that I am, in fact, writing my own novel. It's been a dream to be able to say I've written a whole manuscript, and I'm so close to doing so. With my personal experience and what I've learnt from my Creative Writing studies, I thought I'd share some tips on how to write a novel. Novel-writing can be quite daunting. It's no small feat, and it requires you to have the courage and resilience to keep on writing. But below are some tips that I think could help make writing a novel easier. Know your genre First things first, when writing a novel, it's likely that you favour a particular genre. Whether that's romance, thriller or fantasy, etc. Make sure you know what type of story you're going to write. For each genre, there are typical elements that define them, such as a happy ever after for romance or a whodunnit problem for crime. Knowing what genre you're writing, and what your sub-genres are, will help make writing your novel easier. You'll know some of the conventions to include, but also ones that you could subvert to surprise the reader. Flesh out your characters There's often the question of what comes first in writing: plot or characters. It doesn't matter too much what you create first, but the thing that makes each story different is the characters. Every character in a book has to be unique, and that's what sets one book apart from the other. So, before you start writing your novel, make sure you know your characters. Understand them as people, know what their lives are like and what the key bits of information about them are. That way, when you come to writing your novel, it'll be easier to write about them. You can't edit a blank page Don't write a chapter and then edit it. Keep the editing until you've got a first draft. This tip I actually struggled with at the start of my novel. I'd write a few chapters, but always go back and change small things. However, I've learnt that you can't edit a blank page. If you edit as you go, the likelihood is that it'll take longer to finish your novel and you might not actually finish it. Try and write as much of your novel as you can before you start editing. That way, you will have the bare bones of the story down in a draft and can then edit the whole thing more smoothly. Believe in yourself Writing a novel isn't an easy task. It requires resilience, confidence and courage. Sometimes you might have writer's block. Or you simply might not have enough time to write as much as you'd like. However, by believing in yourself, you will get to the end. Having self-confidence and the drive to complete your novel will help you in getting the words on the page. If you don't feel like writing one day, that's okay. Don't force yourself to try and write if you're not in the mood. But when the inspiration sparks, sit down and write away. But always believe you can do it. Because you can. Small milestones work Novels are typically around 400 pages long and over 80,000 words. It is a huge feat to craft a story and write it well in a way that you're proud of and not burnt out from. One thing I've found to help with this is by creating small milestones. If you know roughly where your story ends, or how many words you'd like to reach, don't try and complete huge chunks at a time. Instead, set yourself small goals, whether that's word counts, chapters, or story beats. When you've written 2000 words for a chapter, celebrate it. When you reach Chapter 5, celebrate it. Nothing is too small to celebrate when you're writing a novel. Find fellow writers Novel-writing is a lonely project. Often, you'll find yourself sitting in front of your computer or your notebook, writing by yourself. Unless it's a collaboration project — like Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben's latest novel — writing a book can be quite isolating. However, if you find friends who are writers or understand the process of writing a book, that can be a huge help. You'll have someone you can bounce ideas off. You can brainstorm with them and ask for their opinions. And more importantly, they can be your first beta-readers when you have a full draft. Whether it's a trusted friend, an unbiased family member, or a fellow writer, find someone you can trust to help and make the process less lonely. Now, these are tips that I've found to help from my personal experience. They might work for you, or they might not. But the main takeaway I've learnt from writing my own novel is to enjoy it. If you enjoy the story you're writing and are invested in the characters' lives, then it will make the process of going from Chapter 1 to 'The End' much more fun for you. I hope these tips can help any budding writers. If you have tips of your own, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Until next time...

Richard Osman's cosy mystery book, The Thursday Murder Club, has been made into a movie on Netflix, and here is my review. As a reader, I'm always wary of book-to-film adaptations. Over the years, there have been some great movies inspired by novels; however, there have also been some not-so-great ones. A film has to differ in some ways from the original book; you can't put every detail from a novel onto our screens and have the film fit within a normal time limit. Richard Osman's murder mystery series, The Thursday Murder Club , was picked up quickly by Steven Spielberg for a three-film deal. With the fourth book having just been released, the movie adaptation of book one in the series, The Thursday Murder Club , came out in August. Now, I must admit I haven't actually read the books yet. They are ones I want to read, and still want to read after having watched the film, but for the purpose of this review, I'm reviewing the movie, having just seen the movie, knowing nothing about the books. My review of The Thursday Murder Club Genre: Cosy Mystery Available to Watch: Netflix Rating: 4 out of 5 The Thursday Murder Club follows a group of four elderly people living in Coopers Chase, a retirement home. Elizabeth, Ron and Ibrahim are already residents of Coopers Chase, and have named themselves 'The Thursday Murder Club' after their fascination with solving cold cases. During their recent cold case mystery, provided by Elizabeth's friend, a former police officer, they decide they need someone with medical expertise. When they come across Joyce, she joins the club, having been a nurse. Joyce is new to the retirement home, but is eager to settle in, despite the attempts by her daughter (played by Richard Osman's wife) to have her live close to her. With Joyce now part of the Thursday Murder Club, they set out to solve the cold case. However, after witnessing an argument between two of the co-owners/founders of Coopers Chase, they're quickly thrust into a real murder mystery after one of them ends up dead. From there, the four protagonists set out to solve the case, save Coopers Chase and enjoy their retirement. The movie has a star-studded cast with Celia Imrie, Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley playing Joyce, Elizabeth, Ron and Ibrahim, respectively. There is also David Tennant, Tom Ellis, Daniel Mays, Naomi Ackie and Jonathan Price. Whenever a movie has an A-list cast or actors that I've seen in multiple films, it can be hard to just sit and enjoy it because I have preconceived notions of those actors. I've also heard mixed reviews of the film, with those who have read the books saying it's not that great, it's not as serious and almost like a spoof. However, I disagree. I actually quite enjoyed The Thursday Murder Club film. Again, I haven't read the books, but taking it as its own film, I liked it. I thought the actors did a great job, especially David Tennant, who I think is a phenomenal actor. However, I have heard Pierce Brosnan be criticised and some saying Ray Winston should've played Ron. The film is a light-hearted murder mystery with comedy in it, too. It's not supposed to be serious or hard-hitting. Some wholesome moments and scenes make you think about life, but all in all, The Thursday Murder Club is a movie for families to sit down together and watch. And that's exactly what my family and I did. I would happily rewatch The Thursday Murder Club. It is cosy, comforting and just a feel-good murder mystery with great characters. If you've watched the movie, or read the books, let me know what you thought in the comments below. Until next time...

Here's a guide to the Sparrow Falls series by Catherine Cowles, which will be complete this month with the release of the sixth and final book. This year, I've been introduced to several new authors in a variety of genres. One of those authors is Catherine Cowles. I was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of one of Catherine's books from her publisher, Evermore UK. Since then, I have been hooked on Catherine's writing. I've only read the Sparrow Falls series, which consists of six books. But as the final book in the series is published this month, I thought I'd do a guide to Sparrow Falls for you readers. So, let's get into it. Sparrow Falls series by Catherine Cowles Overview of the series Genre: Romantic Suspense Total Number of Books: 6 Sparrow Falls is a small town in Central Oregon, surrounded by mountains and beautiful landscapes. The series follows the Colson family as they fall in love and their pasts come back to haunt them and cause havoc. The Colson family isn't just an ordinary family, though. Nora Colson opens her home to children who need fostering; two of the protagonists in the series are Nora's biological children, and the others are those she's fostered or adopted, but are treated like blood relations. Each book focuses on a different member of the Colson clan. They are interconnected standalones, meaning you can read them as individual books, but for the best reading experience, I'd recommend reading them in order. The Books Fragile Sanctuary Delicate Escape Broken Harbor Beautiful Exile Chasing Shelter Secret Haven The Main Characters As mentioned above, the Sparrow Falls series focuses on the Colson family. The protagonists are the different Colson siblings and their significant others. All the books are dual point of view, which means we get to be inside both the female and male protagonists' heads, giving us both perspectives. The main characters of the series are: Fragile Sanctuary — Rhodes and Anson Delicate Escape — Shepard and Thea Broken Harbor — Copeland and Sutton Beautiful Exile — Arden and Linc Chasing Shelter — Trace and Ellie Secret Haven — Fallon and Kyler Below is a family tree, showing the relations of the Colson family and their partners, without spoilers. It doesn't include any of the protagonists' children, either already present at the start of their books or newly added at the end of the series. What are the books about? Fragile Sanctuary: Rhodes and Anson Credit: WriteWatchWork Tropes: Grumpy x Sunshine Brother's Best Friend Age Gap Ex-FBI Profiler Found Family Synopsis: " The scowl should’ve been my first clue to stay far away from Anson Hunt. The sexy smirk and the fact that he’s my brother’s best friend? Reasons two and three. Not to mention, he’s the new contractor working on my house. He’s everything I’m not: grumpy, rude, and more than a little attached to his solitude. It doesn’t matter how many times I try to kill him with kindness; the man simply won’t crack. Until he sees me shatter. Because when my world comes crashing down around me, Anson is the one catching me as I fall. And as so-called accidents start plaguing every part of my life, it’s Anson who steps in to keep me safe. As he does, I can’t help but feel a flicker of heat. And it only takes a single moment for that spark to ignite into flames, engulfing us both. But Anson’s a man with secrets, and they have a price. When they’re revealed, neither of us will make it out unscathed." My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this book! I was hooked from the very beginning and was trying to play detective the entire way through and solve the suspense storyline...but I didn't. The twist at the end had me in shock, it was so good. Delicate Escape: Shep and Thea Credit: WriteWatchWork Tropes: Hidden Identity Forced Proximity Roommates to Lovers Golden Retriever x Black Cat Found Family Synopsis: " Trust doesn’t come easily when you’ve been running for as long as I have, which is why moving in with a man I barely know is such a bad idea. Shepard Colson is all golden-boy charm and devastating good looks. But I know what it’s like to be taken in by easy smiles and the promise of forever—I have the scars to prove it. Only the handsome contractor won’t stop coming by the bakery and prying little truths from my lips. Those amber eyes of his seeing far too much. And when all the secrets come crashing down, he’s determined to keep me safe. Even if it means moving into my rundown cabin to do it. Now, Shep isn’t just rebuilding the walls of my home, he’s working his way into my heart. Suddenly, he’s everywhere: shirtless in my garden or in a towel coming out of my bathroom. And my resolve is no match. Only it’s more than his golden looks. It’s him. The way he watches for my wounds but tells me I’m stronger than anyone he’s ever known. And I can’t help but fall. But I should’ve known better than to think I could be happy. Not when a ghost from my past still has me in his sights. And when he finds me, he’ll do anything to tear my life apart, even if it means ending it for good…" My Thoughts: I really enjoyed Shep and Thea's story. I had high hopes for this one and it didn't disappoint. I thought this one was probably one of the more emotional books in the series and I really liked Thea as a female protagonist. Broken Harbor: Cope and Sutton Credit: WriteWatchWork Tropes: Single Mum Woman on the Run Hockey Hero Forced Proximity Found Family Synopsis: " Since the moment our lives fell apart, the only thing that mattered was making a good life for my son. A life where he was happy and safe. I just never expected to find that safety with a hockey player known for his brutal dominance on the ice and his recklessness off it. But Cope Colson is so much more. The gentle way he makes sure we’re okay. The playful care he shows my son. The way he truly sees me. When my life comes apart yet again, it’s Cope picking up the pieces. Now, we’re living in his house, eating his incredible, chef-worthy meals, and it’s not just my son who’s falling. It’s me. Because when Cope touches me, I lose all sense. I’m no longer thinking about staying safe, I’m thinking about how my skin ignites with every glance, how I come undone with the barest brush of his fingertips, and when we give into temptation…I’m lost. But Cope has secrets and so do I. And when the forces from our pasts emerge from the shadows, there’s nothing they won’t do to end our happiness once and for all…" My Thoughts: This was actually the first book in the series that I read (I didn't read them in chronological order), and it's what got me hooked on Catherine's writing. I absolutely loved this book; it is so wholesome and sweet and just made me smile when reading it. Beautiful Exile: Arden and Linc Credit: WriteWatchWork Tropes: Brother's Best Friend Heroine in Hiding Billionaire MMC Forced Proximity Who Hurt You? Found Family Synopsis: " I should’ve known Lincoln Pierce was trouble from the moment I held my knife to his throat. I’ve been running for most of my life, hiding away in a small town and hoping no one discovers who I truly am. The only problem is that I can never let anyone know the real me. Or at least that was true until my brother moved his best friend onto our shared property. Now, I’m stuck trying to avoid the nosy billionaire’s probing questions and piercing stares. And it doesn’t help that I almost killed him the first time we met. Oops. But when all my carefully crafted lies come crashing down around me, it’s Linc stepping in to shield me. And when it looks like the person hunting me for all those years is back, Linc will do anything to keep me safe. Only it’s not just my safety at risk. It’s my heart. Because when Linc touches me, I lose all sense. And when I truly get to know the broken billionaire, he’s so much more than a ruthless business tycoon. He’s the man showing me that it’s time to really live. But I’m not the only one with secrets. Linc has them, too. And when the forces from our pasts emerge from the shadows, it’s with only one goal: to end the new life we’re building together. For good." My Thoughts: This book I did really enjoy, however, it's not one of my favourites in the series. That being said, Arden and Linc definitely provide a great story that will keep you intrigued throughout. Chasing Shelter: Trace and Ellie Credit: WriteWatchWork Tropes: Single Dad Neighbours to Lovers Grumpy x Sunshine Who Hurt You? Found Family Synopsis: " I've spent my life hiding in plain sight, burying my past beneath layers of carefully constructed lies. Moving to Sparrow Falls was supposed to be a fresh start. A place to lay low. But when I end up living next door to the single dad who just happens to be one of my brother’s best friends, everything changes. Trace Colson sees too much, asks too many questions, and his protectiveness is as infuriating as it is alluring. And when danger comes calling, it’s Trace who stands between me and the darkness. But being close to him is its own kind of risk. Because with every heated glance and every stolen touch, Trace tempts me to open my heart, to dream of a life I’d long since given up on. The only problem? Trace has his own demons, and when they collide with mine, the fallout could destroy us both. Forever." My Thoughts: Wow. Chasing Shelter was such a fun read. I loved Trace and Ellie's characters and how their relationship developed. This was a really good book and I'm so lucky to have received an ARC of this one. Secret Haven: Fallon and Kyler Credit: WriteWatchWork Tropes: Marriage of Convenience Single Guardian Second Chance Forbidden Romance It's Always Been You Synopsis: " The first time I met Kyler Blackwood, he was a bruised and battered boy with fire in his eyes and nowhere safe to land. Since the first time he kissed me, he was my best-kept secret, my quiet rebellion, my haven in the storm. But fate forced us apart, making us pretend to be strangers because it hurt too much to be anything else. Years later, time hasn’t dulled what we felt, has never erased the way we fit. And when Kye’s past collides with my present, everything shifts. It’s a choice neither of us expected. A bond that never really broke. A line we were never meant to cross. We tell ourselves it’s only temporary, that the arrangement is just a means to an end. But with each passing day, the lie feels more like the truth. And with each stolen touch, Kye feels more like mine. Because some things were never meant to be pretend. And some dangers are closer than we ever imagined..." My Thoughts: This book is by far my favourite in the series. I've actually rated it 6 stars and there isn't a single criticism. I loved Fallon and Kyler's story so much and will forever recommend this book. Where to read the Sparrow Falls series? All the books are available to buy from Amazon here , but also in stores such as supermarkets. Secret Haven will be published next Tuesday, 21st October. If you want to read my reviews of the series, check out my social media. Also, if you would like to know my ranking of the series, then head over to my BookTok here . This series is definitely worth the read. If you have read it or fancy reading it in the future, let me know in the comments. Until next time...

October is Lupus Awareness Month, and as someone who sees and understands the impact of Lupus, I wanted to raise awareness of the autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses in which the immune system, which is supposed to protect you, attacks your body. For most autoimmune diseases, there is no cure. Those suffering from them are forced to endure the impact and pain daily. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that impacts my family's daily life. But here in the UK, it isn't one I hear about often. As October is Lupus Awareness Month, I wanted to raise awareness of the chronic illness, building on my previous blog posts . So, here are some general tips for life with Lupus and other autoimmune diseases. I also just want to state that I'm not a medical professional. These tips are based on my knowledge and understanding of Lupus and the impact it has on those suffering from it. Create an evening routine One of the major symptoms of Lupus is fatigue. Now, I'm not just talking about waking up early and feeling like you could use a 20-minute nap. I mean exhaustion, deep in your bones, that it hurts you to push through and carry on. This is caused by Lupus, but it's also caused by Lupus's other main symptom: joint and muscle pain. Getting a good night's sleep can be challenging when you have an autoimmune disease, especially if you're having a flare-up. However, by creating an evening routine, you can wind down before bed and put yourself in the best position to get some rest. Whether it's having a warm shower and snuggling up in pyjamas with a cup of tea, or sitting in bed and reading a couple of chapters, it can help. Find what you enjoy and what calms you down, and hopefully that'll ease your mind and body to help you sleep. Find comfort at home With a lot of autoimmune diseases, especially Lupus, you can end up spending a lot of time at home. Sometimes, it's by choice, but other times, it's because your body won't let you go out and enjoy yourself. Therefore, by finding comfort at home, you can make your time within the same four walls more enjoyable. This could be adding some decor to your rooms that you like, making a cosy atmosphere with fairy lights and candles, and showcasing family photos to remind you of happy times. Anything that brings you comfort, bring it to the forefront of your house so the next time your body won't let you out, it can be a comforting day indoors. Pick up a hobby Having an autoimmune disease can often stop you from doing things other people do. For instance, the gym can be challenging, exploring historic sites that require a lot of walking is difficult and spending the entire day somewhere is hard. However, picking up a hobby can give you something back. Whether it's cross-stitch, drawing, reading, etc., having a hobby can help those with autoimmune diseases, like Lupus. I know a Lupus sufferer who loves to cross-stitch, and it helps her a lot daily. Having a hobby that you enjoy and one that you can do easily and from a lot of places can give you something to focus on. Something to be proud of that doesn't necessarily require a lot of energy or movement. Whatever you choose, just make sure you enjoy it. Banish the guilt Now, this is probably the toughest tip to put into place because banishing guilt isn't easy. But what I mean is that when you're feeling guilty for not working, or staying in bed all day, or resting in the living room because your body hurts, don't. It's easier said than done, but it isn't your fault that your body is attacking itself and causing you harm. And you need to realise that punishing yourself by feeling guilty won't help make you feel any better. So, the next time you're feeling guilty for giving your body time to rest and recuperate, try and remember that it isn't your fault and your body needs the rest in order to feel better. I hope that if you have Lupus or other autoimmune diseases that these tips can help you. It isn't easy living with constant pain and medication, but leaning on your family and finding things that bring you joy can help. Lupus UK also have some great tips and resources for those diagnosed with Lupus. Until next time...

Strictly Come Dancing returned last week, and with week two of the show tonight, let’s recap what happened during week one. When September arrives, I enjoy the start of autumn and the crisper weather, but there's one thing that makes me really happy. That is Strictly Come Dancing. The BBC dance competition has been broadcast on our televisions since 2004. Each year, 15 couples take to the dance floor in the hopes of working their way towards the final to clinch the glitterball. Last weekend, Strictly Come Dancing returned for its 23rd season. 15 new celebrities danced for the very first time in the Strictly studio with their professional partner and received a score from the judges. Today, Strictly's second live show is airing and it is the first weekend with a dance-off and elimination. So, let's get into what happened during week one of Strictly Come Dancing to get up to date before week two tonight. Strictly Come Dancing: Week One Recap The Judges The judges for the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing are the same as last year. On the judging panel, there is: Craig Revel-Horwood Motsi Mabuse Shirley Ballas Anton Du Beke The four of the judges graced our screens with a judges' dance at the start of week one. Craig was an announcer whilst Motsi, Shirley and Anton each danced with the show's professionals, working through different decades. It was a fab opening, showcasing what the judges can do and that they do know what they're talking about. For Movie Week, there are also rumours that Cynthia Erivo will be joining the panel as a guest judge. She first appeared on Strictly, replacing Craig, on Musicals Week during Covid. The Contestants This year's contestants range from soap stars to footballers to drag queens to gladiators. So, the 15 celebrities taking part in Strictly are: Harry Aikines-Aryeety - Gladiator (Nitro) Alex Kingston - Actress Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink - Former Footballer Balvinder Sopal - EastEnders Star George Clarke - Social Media Star La Voix - Performer and RuPaul's Drag Race UK Competitor Chris Robshaw - Former England Rugby Union Captain Ellie Goldstein - Model and Actress Thomas Skinner - Businessman Vicky Pattinson - TV Presenter Stefan Dennis - Actor Ross King - Presenter and Writer Karen Carney - Ex-Lioness Lewis Cope - Emmerdale Star Amber Davies - West End Performer Amber Davies stepped in at the last minute to take over from Dani Dyer, who suffered an injury during training. As such, Amber was brought in with only a few days to rehearse before the first live show. Week One Leaderboard The first live show saw all 15 couples take to the dance floor, but nobody went home. Instead, their scores are carried over to tonight's show, with the first dance-off being tomorrow. Week one's leaderboard after all 15 contestants had danced is as follows: Week Two Dances Tonight is the series' second live show, which means all new routines and dances. Each score for tonight will be combined with week one's score to create a total for reference when the audience votes. The dances for week two are: Karen and Carlos — Tango Lewis and Katya — Viennese Waltz Amber and Nikita — Samba Jimmy and Lauren — Cha Cha Cha George and Alexis — Paso Doble La Voix and Alijaz — Jive Vicky and Kai — Foxtrot Stefan and Dianne — Cha Cha Cha Alex and Johannes — Samba Harry and Karen — Quickstep Ellie and Vito — Waltz Balvinder and Julian — Charleston Thomas and Amy — Salsa Chris and Nadiya — Viennese Waltz Ross and Jowita — Waltz New Dance-Off Rule For the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing, there is a new rule when it comes to the dance-off on Sundays. Previously, with only four judges, Shirley was named Head Judge. This meant that if the dance-off vote were split two to one, Shirley would decide which couple would be saved another week. However, during week one, it was announced that the Head Judge would change from week to week, giving all four judges the opportunity. As someone who has watched Strictly for many years, this is certainly an interesting development. It'll be good to see what the other judges decide and how this plays out. How to Vote Voting has also changed for this season of Strictly. Whilst it's still down to the public, the only way to vote now is online with a BBC account . There will also be a QR code on your televisions throughout the programme. By scanning that, you'll be taken to the voting page where you can cast your vote too. With quite a bit of new information for the 2025 season and a strong cast of contestants, I have a feeling this series is going to be a good one. Week two of Strictly Come Dancing airs tonight at 18:20 UK time on BBC One. Keep dancing! Until next time...

The final quarter of 2025 has begun, so here is my reading review of Q3 2025. Autumn is well and truly here, and that means we're into the final quarter of 2025. This year has gone by so fast, and I've accomplished a lot, including reading many books. I have reached my Goodreads Reading Goal for this year and exceeded it. I've also read a lot of great books this year. In Q1, I read 26 books and in Q2 I read 30 books. In the latest quarter, I managed to read 25 books. So, let's get into my reading review of Q3 2025. WriteWatchWork's Reading Review Total Number of Books Per Month In Q3, whilst I read 24 books, that is the fewest books read in each quarter. However, it's quality over quantity, and some of the books I read have been some of the top reads of the year. In July, I read seven books. In August, I increased that number to nine books, managing to squeeze in some last summer books. And in September, I've read nine books. August and September were my best months, in terms of the number of books read, but all three months proved to have some great books. Most-Read Genre Romance was my most-read genre in Q2, and the same could be said for Q3. Within the romance genre, I read quite a few different sub-genres, including romantic suspense, STEM romances and dark romance too. However, romance wasn't the only genre I read. Q3 consisted of dystopian books, fantasy books, a magical realism novel and a thriller as well. Most-Read Author In Q3, I read quite a variety of authors, totalling 19 different authors. This isn't as many as the previous quarter, but still quite a few. The authors I read in July, August, and September are: Ali Hazelwood Ashley Poston B.K. Borison Brynne Weaver Carley Fortune Catherine Cowles E.M. Carter Gregory Maguire Hannah Bonam-Young John Marrs Krista and Becca Ritchie Kristen Ciccarelli Lauren Asher Laurie Gilmore Malorie Blackman Meredith Trapp Paige Toon Sarah Morgan Susie Tate Out of these 19 authors, a lot of them were new authors to me, meaning I'm definitely completing my goal of reading new authors this year. The authors I had never previously read were: Ashley Poston, Brynne Weaver, Carley Fortune, E.M. Carter, Gregory Maguire, Hannah Bonam-Young, John Marrs, Krista and Becca Ritchie, Kristen Ciccarelli, Malorie Blackman, Meredith Trapp, and Paige Toon. However, my most-read authors were Ali Hazelwood and Catherine Cowles, as I read three of their books. Favourite Books I read so many good books in Q3 of 2025, it's hard to pick my favourites. However, I will give you my top three, one of which I rated six stars because I loved it so much. I also rated quite a few books five stars. My top pick is Out of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young. This was a six-star read that had me laughing, swooning, and crying. It was my first introduction to Hannah's writing, and I was definitely not disappointed. Everything about this book was just perfect. Next up is First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison. I devoured this book. I've read B.K. Borison's books before, so I knew I enjoyed her writing, but I'd heard some mixed reviews about First-Time Caller . However, the Sleepless in Seattle -inspired book was just so good in my opinion. Pure rom-com vibes. The third and final book in my top three favourites is going to be, you guessed it, another romance. Love Arranged by Lauren Asher is the final book in the Lakefront Billionaires trilogy, and once again, I absolutely loved Lauren's writing. I also read book two, Love Unwritten , in Q3, but Love Arranged came out on top for me. Some other honourable mentions include One Golden Summer ; Every Summer After; The Crimson Moth; You Killed Me First; Problematic Summer Romance; and Malorie Blackman's Noughts and Crosses . Favourite Authors For my favourite authors of Q3, I could easily pick the three authors of my favourite books — Hannah Bonam-Young, B.K. Borison and Lauren Asher. However, I'm going to pick three different authors. So, my top three authors of Q3 are: Carley Fortune Catherine Cowles Kristen Ciccarelli Carley Fortune's books, Every Summer After and One Golden Summer, have been praised for being the romance books of summer. With the hype surrounding them, I just knew I had to read them, and I'm so glad I did because they were amazing. Both were five-star reads, and I loved Carley's writing. Catherine Cowles was a top author of Q2 for me, after reading only two of her books. However, in Q3, I finished off reading the published books in her Sparrow Falls series, and just had to pick her again. The romantic suspense storylines she creates are just so good. My final favourite author of Q3 is Kristen Ciccarelli. Fantasy and romantasy books have risen in popularity with the rise of BookTok, and I've never really been a fantasy girl. However, I wanted to read more of the genre and The Crimson Moth was the perfect book to do so. I loved Kristen's worldbuilding, and can't wait to read book two, The Rebel Witch . Best Book Surprise When picking the best book surprise, there was a lot to consider. For instance, Out of the Woods surprised me by how much I enjoyed that story and felt the character's emotions, and The Crimson Moth surprised me by hooking me onto the fantasy genre. However, I'm going to pick Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman. As a YA writer and avid reader, I knew I had to read Noughts and Crosses at some point. It's considered a modern classic that is relevant today, and that's why it surprised me. Credit: WriteWatchWork The dystopian novel tackles tough topics and themes, delivering them in a way that a young adult audience understands without feeling patronised. It also surprised me with just how emotional the book is. I didn't expect it to have such a lasting impact on me as a reader, and that's why it's a five-star read. It is complex and harrowing, but also beautiful. You can read my full review of it here . Least Favourite Book Unfortunately, Q3 of 2025 did have some disappointing books, in my opinion. Out of the 25 books read, there were three I rated under 4 stars, and these were: Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver, The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie Gilmore, and Wicked by Gregory Maguire. For me, Butcher and Blackbird , whilst I enjoy dark romance, just didn't live up to expectations. I thought I was going to really enjoy this, and whilst it was a fun read, I found myself wanting to get to the end. I didn't really connect with the characters, and some parts were rather disturbing. However, I will give book two a go. The Strawberry Patch Pancake House was a sweet book and I did enjoy it. However, the ending let me down because whilst I like the story, there's something that happens towards the end, causing the third-act break-up, which I felt was unnecessary and didn't fit with one of the characters. That being said, I still enjoy the series. The final book is sadly Wicked by Gregory Maguire. Now, I'm a huge fan of the musical (I've seen it twice), and I love the movie. However, this book is completely different. Going into it, I knew it wouldn't be the same as the musical/movie, but I didn't realise how much it would change — it was almost like reading a completely different story. Also, it is darker, grittier and I just didn't vibe with it. 25 Books for 2025 Q3 of 2025 was great for progressing with my 25 Books for 2025 list. I managed to tick off five books on the list below, which were: The Seven Year Slip (Ashley Poston), Outlier (Susie Tate), Wicked (Gregory Maguire), Butcher and Blackbird (Brynne Weaver) and Addicted To You (Krista and Becca Ritchie). Credit: WriteWatchWork I've got ten more books to read to complete my 25 Books for 2025 list. However, I do have quite a few Christmas books lined up in the coming months of Q4. But I'm hoping to read as many as I can from above before the festive season begins. I hope you enjoyed my reading review of Q3 2025. If you haven't read some of the books mentioned in this post, I hope I've inspired you to give them a go, and if you've read some of them, feel free to let me know what you thought in the comments below. Until next time...

Autumn has officially started, and as we near the end of the year, here are some tips on how to be productive in the colder months. We're over halfway through September, and autumn has officially started. With the change in seasons, the weather is turning colder, and the days are getting shorter. It can be difficult to be productive during this time because we often feel more tired from lack of sunlight, want to stay inside in the warm, and a lot of people suffer from illnesses. Going out to work or running errands when it's raining can be challenging. I know that when it's raining or cold outside, I'd much rather snuggle up on the sofa with a good book and hot drink, but tasks still need ticking off. So, here are some tips to help you be productive in the colder months. Listen to your body Autumn and winter tend to bring around more colds and illnesses that are easily transferred to one another because of the colder weather. But if you're suffering, it can sometimes be easy to just power on and push through. I've recently come back from holiday and have felt quite unwell; normally, I'd just want to carry on, and whilst I did have productivity guilt, I knew working in the state I was in wouldn't be smart. So, if you're feeling under the weather, listen to your body. Don't carry on because things need doing; you'll undoubtedly make yourself worse and prolong the illness. Give yourself time to rest and recuperate, and that way, you'll be more productive when you've recovered. Hydrate, hydrate and hydrate In the colder months, it's just as important to hydrate as it is in summer. But whilst you're drinking water, you can also drink a lot of hot drinks. By hydrating with hot drinks in the last few months of the year, you'll help make yourself more productive. They'll warm up your body and bring you comfort at the same time, so that you're not sitting at your desk, freezing. Bring a friend along As you get older, you might find that you have less time to see your friends; things like housework, jobs, and children can all get in the way of having a spare moment. One tip I've found to be quite helpful is to bring a friend along on an errand. Or invite them round for coffee, but still do your chores whilst they're there. Everyone has chores and errands to run, so why not conquer them together? Plus, grocery shopping with friends makes it more fun, and by doing it together, it ensures you're ticking off your to-do list whilst making time for friends too. Limit your time If you've got a long list of chores that need doing, there's nothing worse than when they're dragged out and take a while. Therefore, one way of ensuring you're productive enough to get them done is to limit your time. What I mean is set yourselves deadlines. If you need to go into town to shop for a few things, give yourself an hour. When you're doing housework, don't spend all day on it, just an hour or two, depending on the task — if you do that little and often, it'll help reduce the time it takes. By setting yourself deadlines, you'll be more efficient in completing the task at hand and be able to return home quicker to enjoy the rest of your day. These tips are just things I've found to help me be more productive in the colder months. I hope they can help you, too, and if you've got any tips of your own, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Until next time...

Autumn is the perfect season to snuggle up on the sofa and watch some good TV, so here are six recommendations of TV shows to watch this autumn. I am an avid reader, but I'm also a lover of television and movies. When the weather turns colder and the evenings grow darker, I'll always take the opportunity to read a good book or watch good TV. Earlier this month, I shared some book recommendations for your autumn TBR , so this week, I thought I'd share some TV show recommendations for you all. There are many more TV shows I could recommend, including the likes of Gilmore Girls, Charmed, The Vampire Diaries and Once Upon a Time. However, I recommended them a couple of years ago, so here are six new recommendations from me. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder Genre: Murder Mystery Available: BBC iPlayer and Netflix Synopsis: ' Five years after the murder of a 17-year-old girl in a sleepy English town, one student is determined to uncover the truth and find the real killer.' My Thoughts: A Good Girl's Guide to Murder is perhaps one of the best book-to-screen adaptations I have seen. It is a young adult murder mystery that is full of twists and turns. I really enjoyed this television series, and the spooky vibes are perfect for autumn. Teen Wolf Genre: Supernatural Available: Prime Video Synopsis: ' A n animal bite turns a high schooler into a werewolf whose newfound supernatural abilities make him a star athlete – and majorly complicate his life.' My Thoughts: Teen Wolf is one of my all-time favourite TV shows. I absolutely love it and have rewatched it multiple times. It is action-packed, humorous, spooky and has everything you could want in a TV show. Only Murders in the Building Genre: Comical Murder Mystery Available: Disney+ Synopsis: ' Only Murders In The Building follows three strangers who share an obsession with true crime and suddenly find themselves wrapped up in one as they investigate the mysterious death of a neighbour in their New York City apartment building.' My Thoughts: I haven't actually watched Only Murders in the Building , but I have heard very good reviews about it. A murder mystery just fits with autumnal vibes for me, so I would recommend it as a light-hearted, comical murder mystery. Stranger Things Genre: Supernatural Mystery Available: Netflix Synopsis: ' When a young boy vanishes, a small town uncovers a mystery involving secret experiments, terrifying supernatural forces and one strange little girl.' My Thoughts: I also haven't watched Stranger Things before, but I know people who have and loved it. It's also a theatre play in the West End, so that speaks to how popular and well-loved a show it is. Virgin River Genre: Small-Town Drama Available: Netflix Synopsis: ' Searching for a fresh start, a nurse practitioner moves from LA to a remote northern California town and is surprised by what — and who — she finds.' My Thoughts: I'm partway through watching Virgin River , and I absolutely love it. It's a more mature version of Gilmore Girls , with some difficult yet important themes explored, but it is just a wholesome show that is great for autumn. The Celebrity Traitors Genre: Reality TV Available: BBC One and iPlayer in October Synopsis: ' A psychological game show that follows celebrities where the contestants are trying to outwit, outplay, and outlast the challenge.' My Thoughts: I have only watched a couple of seasons of The Traitors , and I did enjoy them. However, I have a feeling that this series will be particularly good because of the celebrity line-up, which includes Alan Carr, Joe Wilkinson, Jonathan Ross and Stephen Fry, to name a few. So, if you're looking for a new TV series to watch this autumn, give some of these recommendations a go. If you've got some recommendations of your own, feel free to leave a comment below, too. Until next time...

If you're going on holiday during school time, here are some tips to help you prepare for a stress-free holiday. September marks the start of a new academic year. However, not everyone follows the national education timeline, like me, for example. School holidays are a prime time for families and students to travel. But for those who can take time off from work at any time in the year, now might be when you're going on holiday. I know that previously my family and I have been on holiday in September and October. Not only is it out of the summer holidays, lessening the likelihood of children being there, but it's also cheaper. Plus, with the way the weather has been recently, September continues to have some sunshine. Therefore, I thought I'd share some tips for those who go on holiday during term-time. Hopefully, these tips can help you prepare for a stress-free holiday, making sure you enjoy it to the fullest. Know your dates and times Perhaps one of the most important tips for this blog is to know your dates and times. Whether you're staying in the UK or going abroad, it's essential to know timings. Make a note of the dates you'll be away, from the day you leave to when you return. Plan when you'll be leaving to make sure you have enough time to get there before check-in. If you're flying or getting a train, make a note of when your flight or train depart. There is nothing worse than thinking you've got lots of time, hearing your boarding number, and having to run through the airport — trust me, I've been there. Once you've made a note of the dates and times, it's good to have them in an accessible place that you'll remember to look at. You could text it to yourself, set a reminder, or have a Post-It note stuck to your passport or car keys; somewhere you'll find it and won't be worried about being late. Meet every deadline When you're going on holiday, it can be a mad dash to get all your work finished in time before you go. Especially if you've got multiple projects and looming deadlines. So, I'd recommend a few weeks before your holiday, making a note of any deadlines you'll have coming up. That way, you'll know that when your holiday draws closer, what work you need to complete and submit on time. If you're a freelancer, this can also be helpful if you're offered more projects. Having a list of upcoming deadlines can help you prioritise work and ensure you don't take on too much before your holiday. I know I always make a note of my university assessment and enrolment deadlines, so I don't miss anything whilst away. Create an out-of-office A lot of communication between colleagues is done via email nowadays, especially for those who work remotely or are freelancers. But emails can build up pretty quickly and fill up your inbox. One handy way of managing this and ensuring urgent queries/emails are met is by creating an out-of-office. It doesn't have to be complex; it can be as simple as saying: 'Thank you for your email. I'm currently on holiday until XX/XX/20XX. I will get back to you as soon as I return, but for urgent matters, please email * INSERT COLLEAGUE NAME *. Thank you.' That's just a rough draft, but you get the idea. Having a colleague who can help manage the emails you're sent can be hugely beneficial, so that when you return, you won't have a huge volume of emails to reply to. Write a returning to-do list I absolutely love a to-do list. I find them incredibly helpful and probably wouldn't be half as organised as I am without one. If you're planning to go on holiday, one way to make it stress-free is by writing a to-do list before you go for when you return. What I mean is that on your final day of work, write a to-do list — it doesn't have to be long — of key tasks that you know you'll need to do upon your return. Whatever it may be, write it down, and that way, when you come back from holiday, you won't be panicking about what to do. I've returned from holiday before and forgotten what I was doing beforehand and what needed to be done, so having a to-do list is an easy way to refresh your mind and avoid stressing during the final few days of your holiday. So as September begins and children return to school, if you're planning a trip to go on holiday, then I hope these tips can help. If you have any tips of your own, feel free to let me know in the comments below. Until next time...

September has arrived, which means we're heading into autumn, so here are some book recommendations for your autumn TBR. Whilst I love reading summer books, there's something about snuggling up with a blanket, a hot drink, and a good autumn book that hits different. Heading into September is the perfect time to read some autumn and spooky books that fit the vibes of the 'Ber' months. As a book blogger and BookToker, I thought I'd share some book recommendations for your autumn TBR. These range from thrillers to fantasy novels to romance books, so there's a recommendation for everyone. So, if you're looking for new books to read this autumn, check out the book recommendations below. The Running Man by Stephen King Genre: Sci-Fi Dystopian Thriller Available: Now Synopsis: ' It's not just a game when you're running for your life. Every night they tune in to the nation's favourite prime-time TV game show. They all watch, from the sprawling slums to the security-obsessed enclaves of the rich. They all watch the ultimate live death game as the contestants try to beat not the clock, but annihilation at the hands of the Hunters. Survive thirty days and win the billion-dollar jackpot - that is the promise. But the odds are brutal and the game rigged. Best score so far is eight days. And now there is a new contestant, the latest Running Man, staking his life while a nation watches. ' My Thoughts: I admire Stephen King's writing, and this has been on my TBR list since it was announced it would be a movie, starring Glen Powell. It's a short novel with under 300 pages, so good for a quick, spooky read. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie Genre: Mystery Available: Now Synopsis: ' First, there were ten—a curious assortment of strangers summoned as weekend guests to a little private island off the coast of Devon. Their host, an eccentric millionaire unknown to all of them, is nowhere to be found. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they're unwilling to reveal—and a secret that will seal their fate. For each has been marked for murder. A famous nursery rhyme is framed and hung in every room of the mansion... When they realize that murders are occurring as described in the rhyme, terror mounts. One by one they fall prey. Before the weekend is out, there will be none. Who has choreographed this dastardly scheme? And who will be left to tell the tale? Only the dead are above suspicion. ' My Thoughts: I can't wait to read this novel. It's a timeless classic mystery book, which I have heard very good things about. Solving a mystery puzzle in autumn seems like a great idea, so I am excited to delve into the world of Agatha Christie. Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco Genre: Fantasy Available: Now Synopsis: ' The Prince of Envy has never claimed to be a saint. But when a cryptic note arrives, signalling the beginning of a deadly game, he knows it will take more than a hint of sin to win and save his falling demon court. Riddles, hexed objects, anonymous players, nothing will stand in his way, though none of his meticulous plans prepare him for her, the frustrating artist who ignites his sin like no other… Virtuous. Darling. Liar. The trouble with scoundrels and blackguards is that they haven’t a modicum of honor, a fact Miss Camilla Antonius learns after one desperate mistake allows Waverly Green’s most notorious rake to blackmail her. To avoid a ruinous scandal, Camilla is forced to enter a devil’s bargain with Envy, little expecting his game will awaken her true nature... Together, Envy and Camilla must embark on a perilous journey through the Underworld—from glittering demon courts to the sultry vampire realm and beyond—while trying to avoid the most dangerous trap of all: falling in love. ' My Thoughts: I loved the Kingdom of the Wicked series by Kerri Maniscalco, and am very excited to read Throne of the Fallen to read all about Envy and his story. I have high hopes for this book, having heard good reviews, and think a fantasy read is perfect for autumn. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins Genre: Dystopian Available: Now Synopsis: ' It is the morning of the reaping that will kick off the tenth annual Hunger Games. In the Capitol, eighteen-year-old Coriolanus Snow is preparing for his one shot at glory as a mentor in the Games. The once-mighty house of Snow has fallen on hard times, its fate hanging on the slender chance that Coriolanus will be able to outcharm, outwit, and outmanoeuvre his fellow students to mentor the winning tribute. The odds are against him. He's been given the humiliating assignment of mentoring the female tribute from District 12, the lowest of the low. Their fates are now completely intertwined -- every choice Coriolanus makes could lead to favor or failure, triumph or ruin. Inside the arena, it will be a fight to the death. Outside the arena, Coriolanus starts to feel for his doomed tribute... and must weigh his need to follow the rules against his desire to survive no matter what it takes. ' My Thoughts: I haven't actually read this book yet, but it is on my shelf, and the edition I've got is full of autumn vibes. A dystopian novel definitely fits with the last few months of the year, and I have a feeling A Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes might be the perfect autumn read. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Genre: Historical Fiction Available: Now Synopsis: 'I always thought it was what I wanted: to be loved and admired. Now I think perhaps I’d like to be known' 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. It is a novel for everyone, a novel for a lifetime. ' My Thoughts: Kristin Hannah is a new author to me, but one who has been popularised all over social media for her heart-wrenching, emotional novels. The Nightingale is giving rainy weather vibes, and with it being set during World War II, it'll be perfect for a late-autumn read. Powerless by Lauren Roberts Genre: YA Fantasy Available: Now Synopsis: ' Only the extraordinary belong in the kingdom of Ilya . . . The exceptional. The Elites. The Elites have possessed powers for decades, gifted to them by the Plague, while those born Ordinary are just that, banished from the kingdom and shunned from society. No one knows this better than Paedyn Gray, an Ordinary posing as an Elite. When she unsuspectingly saves one of Ilya’s princes, Kai Azer, she’s thrown into the Purging Trials, a brutal competition to showcase her ‘Elite’ powers. If the Trials and the opponents don’t kill her, the prince she’s fighting feelings for will if he discovers what Paedyn really is . . . completely Ordinary. ' My Thoughts: I absolutely loved Powerless by Lauren Roberts — I even chose to study it for uni — and with it being book one in a fantasy trilogy, it'll transport you to different worlds whilst giving you the opportunity to snuggle up under a blanket this autumn. The Crimson Moth by Kristen Ciccarelli (Heartless Hunter in America) Genre: Fantasy Available: Now Synopsis: ' The only thing more treacherous than being a witch is falling in love… A HUNTED WITCH. The revolution reigns. The witches who once ruled are hidden, hunted. Rune is one of them. A socialite by day, she is the Crimson Moth by night. A vigilante bent on saving her own, her next rescue demands she court Gideon Sharpe – a notorious witch hunter and unforgiving revolutionary. A WITCH HUNTER. Gideon will pursue the Crimson Moth to the ends of the earth, and her trail leads him to Rune. But beneath her façade might be his match. Except what if she’s the very villain he’s been hunting? ' My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this book when I read it. It had been a while since I'd read a fantasy novel, and The Crimson Moth was the perfect spooky, witchy read I was looking for. It is part of a duology, but I'd definitely recommend it for autumn. Kill For Me, Kill For You by Steve Cavanagh Genre: Thriller Available: Now Synopsis: ' One dark evening on New York City’s Upper West Side, two strangers meet by chance. Over drinks, Amanda and Wendy realize they have much in common, especially loneliness and an intense desire for revenge against the men who destroyed their families. As they talk into the night, they come up with the perfect plan: if you kill for me, I’ll kill for you. In another part of the city, Ruth is home alone when the beautiful brownstone she shares with her husband, Scott, is invaded. She’s attacked by a man with piercing blue eyes, who disappears into the night. Will she ever be able to feel safe again while the blue-eyed stranger is out there? ' My thoughts: I love Steve Cavanagh's books, but Kill For Me, Kill For You was such a gripping read, it's in my top ten books of 2025. If you love a good thriller and love solving mysteries, give this a read this autumn. All Wrapped Up by Heidi Swain Genre: Romance Available: 11/09/2025 Synopsis: ' Clemmie Bennett has been renovating beautiful Rowan Cottage on the outskirts of the small town of Wynbridge, for eighteen months following a very public heartbreak back in her childhood hometown. The popular Instagram influencer, lost her husband, sold their home, and has been cosied up the Fens and living a very private life, but now she feels it’s time for a change. A chance encounter with co-owner of The Cherry Tree Café, the bubbly Lizzie Dixon, pulls her into organizing Wynbridge’s first-ever Autumn Festival, and her once quiet life is soon a distant memory. With the whole town rallying behind the event, she discovers a new sense of purpose. And when local vet Ash falls hard for Clemmie, she begins to wonder if she’s ready to move even further on from her past and fall in love again… ' My Thoughts: I have yet to read a Heidi Swain book that I didn't like, and I have a feeling I'm going to love All Wrapped Up . It's Heidi's first proper autumn book, which means it'll be the perfect romance to cosy up with. Soul Searching by Lyla Sage Genre: Supernatural Western Romance Available: 30/09/2025 Synopsis: ' Home is where the heart is - and this one is haunted. Collins Cartwright does not want to go home. Sweetwater Peak, Wyoming, was supposed to be in her rearview mirror, but when she finds out a developer is trying to buy her parents' antique shop, she doesn't have a choice. At least, that's what she tells her family. They don't need to know she's lost her job and is out of money. Or that the ghosts that have always been her companions have recently gone silent. Brady Cooper is absolutely fine. Seriously, there's no secret reason why he decided to uproot his life and suddenly move to Sweetwater Peak. He just needed a change of pace. At least, that's what he tells himself. But when he agrees to let Collins stay in his spare room, he doesn't realize that she constantly talks to thin air or that she looks like that. Good thing their arrangement is only temporary. Right? ' My Thoughts: I haven't read any of Lyla Sage's novels yet, but I am very excited to read Soul Searching. A supernatural western seems right up my alley for Halloween and spooky season. So, if you're looking for new books to read this autumn, then I hope these book recommendations help. I'll be reading most, if not all, of these, and if you read them too, feel free to let me know what you think in the comments below. Until next time...

The summer holidays are ending, and the new academic year is upon us, so here are all the ways you can prepare for it to ensure success. Summer this year has been full of sun and heat, but we are heading into autumn and the 'Ber' months, which only means one thing. A new academic year is here. Whilst I'm no longer in full-time education, I'm still studying for my undergraduate degree. I have been since 2020, and my degree is quite unique in that it doesn't follow a typical academic year like most brick-and-mortar universities. However, I still like to prepare for the new academic year, ensuring I've got all the essentials, so I can have a successful final quarter and a half to the year. Below are some tips to help you prepare for the new academic year yourself. Gather essential supplies When it comes to the new academic year, there is one type of shopping I love. Stationery. I absolutely love shopping for stationery, and preparing for a new year is the perfect opportunity. You need to make sure you have everything you need to start learning and studying, including pens, pencils, a ruler, Post-it notes and notebooks. For some, you might even need to get specific equipment, like a scientific calculator, certain textbooks and secondary sources. Whatever you may need, make sure you've got it in advance to save you time later on. Reset your body clock The summer brings longer days, and with that, we often change our body clocks to go to sleep later. It's all very well enjoying the sun and having little sleep in summer, especially if you get summer holidays, but when you go back to school/university etc., you'll need to reset your body clock. Make sure you're getting enough sleep and are able to wake up early enough in preparation for your day. If you know you'll have classes at 9 am, make sure you're getting into the routine of waking up and ensuring you can complete your morning routine, whether that's eating breakfast, going for a walk, or simply travelling to your destination, with enough time to spare. There's nothing worse than being late on the first few days of the academic year, so reset your body clock a week beforehand to help you get in the best routine before studying starts again. Organise your study space The saying goes, 'Tidy house, tidy mind'. The same could be said for your study/work space. With education comes studying and revision. If you're able to have a space in your home where you can study, that is perfect. However, not if it's not tidy. Organising your study space before the academic year can give you a clear mind and a refresh before you have to study again. So, tidy up a bit by removing scrap bits of paper; organise your stationery and notebooks so they're easy to access without making a mess; ensure you've got a power supply if you use a laptop/computer. However you imagine a tidy space, put it into action for your desk, and it'll help in the long run. Recap and review When the new academic year begins, you may find yourself continuing with topics from the previous year or having done some summer reading. Before classes start, why not recap everything you learnt last year? It doesn't have to be in detail, just the topic headings to give you a reminder, so you know what to expect in the future. If you've got textbooks you're working from, review the contents page and any reading you think may be helpful. It will stand you in good stead for the upcoming year and ensure you don't flounder on the first day. Set your goals Depending on what year of studying you're going into, depends on whether you'll have major exams. But even if you won't have exams like GCSEs or A-Levels, you might find you'll have coursework, assessment periods and mocks. However, you'll also still have a personal life outside of studying. One thing I've found to be helpful is to set some goals before the academic year begins. It can be achieving a certain grade in a subject, receiving positive feedback for a piece of coursework, meeting every deadline, etc. Whatever you personally want to achieve, make a note of it at the start of the year, and revisit it at the end. Doing this will help provide motivation throughout your studies, so you can tick it off at the end and feel even prouder of yourself for reaching your individual targets. So, if the new academic year means more studying, new topics, and exams for you, I hope these tips can help you prepare and put you in a good position to achieve success (however that looks for you). In the meantime, good luck. Until next time...

Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman is a classic dystopian tale that explores love, heartbreak, loss, and racism. It is a novel everyone should read. Malorie Blackman is perhaps one of Britain's most well-known authors, with over 70 books and 20 award wins to her name. She has an OBE, was the Children's Laureate and is regarded as a literary icon. With that in mind, I don't know why it took me so long to pick up and read her novel, Noughts & Crosses . Especially since I'm an avid reader of young adult literature and dystopian novels. Noughts & Crosses had been on my Kindle for so long, and to mix up my summer romance reads, I thought I'd finally delve into the dystopian world that Malorie Blackman has created. The book has also been turned into a television series , which I've not seen yet. However, now that I've read the book, I want to share my thoughts with you all. So, continue reading to see my review of Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman. Review: Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman Genre: YA dystopian Tropes: Forbidden romance Opposites attract Childhood friends Star-crossed lovers Rating: 6 Stars Noughts & Crosses is book one in a series. The synopsis of the book is: 'Sephy is a Cross -- a member of the dark-skinned ruling class. Callum is a Nought -- a “colourless” member of the underclass who were once slaves to the Crosses. The two have been friends since early childhood, but that’s as far as it can go. In their world, Noughts and Crosses simply don’t mix. Against a background of prejudice and distrust, intensely highlighted by violent terrorist activity, a romance builds between Sephy and Callum -- a romance that is to lead both of them into terrible danger. Can they possibly find a way to be together?' Credit: WriteWatchWork On the surface, Noughts & Crosses is a book about young love between two childhood friends who are destined to be enemies. However, it is about so much more than that. It is a seminal piece of YA literature that could be regarded as a modern classic. It is a love story, but it is also a dystopian novel that explores themes of heartbreak and racism and terrorism too. When I read Noughts & Crosses , I had a basic idea of the plot. I knew it followed Sephy, a young black girl in a privileged position within society, and Callum, a young white boy, who was looked down upon by all Crosses. The book begins with them as children. Callum's mum worked for Sephy's family as a cleaner, which allowed Sephy and Callum to form a friendship from a young age. But after one incident, things take a turn and their families are no longer on friendly terms. As a result, Callum and Sephy meet in private. Noughts & Crosses is a dual point of view novel, with each chapter alternating between their perspectives. It is also written in the first-person, which allows us as readers to receive a whole 360 degree view of both characters and the world they inhabit, which is vastly different between the two. Sephy is a Cross, and her family have a position of power. Her dad is a highly respected politician, and because of her place in society, she doesn't completely understand the prejudice or racism that occurs against Noughts. She is a sweet character, and I loved watching her transform as the novel progressed. She may have started the novel as a bit naïve and hopeful for change, but by the end of it, Sephy is mature, self-sufficient and independent in both her actions and her thinking. She is devoted to Callum, despite learning about the harsh realities of their world. Callum, the youngest of three siblings, knows life as a Nought isn't good. He isn't granted the same rights as Sephy, and that much is clear when he becomes one of four Noughts allowed to attend Sephy's school. Throughout the novel, Callum's awareness of the divide between races grows, and he takes steps to fight for freedom, following in his father's and brother's footsteps. Both Callum and Sephy are gripping narrators. Their voices are distinct, and the dual POV gives us a direct line inside their heads, so we can witness their thoughts and feelings. Noughts & Crosses isn't an easy read. There are twists and turns throughout the story, and tragedy strikes more than once. Questions are raised. All the way through, I feared reaching the end because I just knew something bad was going to happen. With Noughts & Crosses being a series as well, I had a feeling it wasn't going to end on a happy note, which I've come to expect with dystopian novels. But what blew me away whilst reading Noughts & Crosses was Blackman's writing, the thematic exploration and the relevance of it. This book was published in 2001 — the year I was born — but it still felt relevant today. Through Callum and Sephy and their situation, Blackman explores what it's like to be looked down upon by society because of the colour of your skin; she conveys racism and terrorism in ways that are thought-provoking and also terrifying, generating empathy from readers for both protagonists. And because of the topics explored, Noughts & Crosses is still relevant today. We live in a world where there are still divides between races and ethnicities. It makes you question the society we live in through the dystopia in the novel. Blackman's writing is effortless. She has crafted a fantastic dystopian society through human behaviour rather than any otherworldly aspects; her characters are all realistic and could be real, living, breathing people. The best thing was that despite fearing the end, I couldn't put this book down. Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman is an incredible piece of young adult literature. If you love YA books, dystopian novels, or thought-provoking stories, then this is for you. I am so glad I finally read Noughts & Crosses , and I will be reading the next book in the series, Knife's Edge . But if you do choose to give Noughts & Crosses a go, let me know in the comments below what you thought of it. Until next time...