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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's a guide to the Wells Ranch series by Bailey Hannah, a five-book western romance series that champions found family, true love and the small-town lifestyle. One of my favourite authors is Bailey Hannah. I have read every single one of her books and have recently joined her content team. Her cowboy romance series, Wells Ranch, came to an end this month with the fifth and final book being published. Having read the whole series, as well as Bailey's Christmas novella, I thought I'd do a guide to Wells Ranch for you readers. So, let's get into it. Wells Ranch series by Bailey Hannah Overview of the series Genre: Western Romance Total Number of Books: 5 Wells Ranch is a family-run ranch in the Canadian town of Wells Canyon, run by the three Wells brothers. The series follows the three Wells brothers – Austin, Denny and Jackson – as well as their best friends and ranch hands, Chase (nicknamed Red) and Colt. The five books follow each of their stories, exploring the found family at Wells Ranch and the women who come into their lives and change things for the better. They are interconnected standalones, which means you can read them as individual novels; however, for the best experience, I would read them in order because the found family, friendships and love in these books only get better as each book develops. The Books Alive and Wells Seeing Red Change of Hart At Whit's End Love Wells Kept The Main Characters As mentioned above, the Wells Ranch series focuses on the Wells brothers and two of their best friends. The five men are each a protagonist of their own book, plus the women who become their significant others. All five books are told using both the male and female protagonists' points of view, which gives us insight into both sides of the relationship and the different aspects of the ranch, too. The main characters of the series are: Alive and Wells – Austin and Cecily Seeing Red – Red and Cassidy Change of Hart – Denny and Blair At Whit's End – Colt and Whit Love Wells Kept – Jackson and Kate Credit: WriteWatchWork What are the books about? Alive and Wells: Austin and Cecily Tropes: Grumpy x Sunshine Forced Proximity City girl x Country Boy FMC in hiding Workplace romance Synopsis: "The last place city girl Cecily Kennedy expected to end up was a cattle ranch. But she needs a job-and refuge from her abusive soon-to-be ex-husband. If only her new boss, Austin Wells, would make it clear whether he hates her or wants her. His gaze makes her feel things she hasn't in years. Though getting over her ex by getting under her grumpy boss isn't worth the potential fallout. Austin's a gruff, no-nonsense rancher who's seriously regretting letting his head cook hire her own help. As far as he's concerned, Cecily won't be sticking around for long. Nobody ever stays. And the wedding ring indent still on her finger makes her more trouble than she's worth. When Cecily's past catches up with her, Austin discovers that she's already placed a branding iron on his heart. He wants her to stay. But first he needs to keep her safe . . ." My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this story and, as an aspiring author, I’m envious of Bailey’s writing and ability to convey emotions on the page. Alive and Wells drags you into the Wells Ranch family, and honestly, it's one of my favourite series. Seeing Red: Chase (Red) and Cassidy Tropes: Accidental Pregnancy Friends with Benefits He falls first Chronic Illness Rep Midsize FMC Synopsis: "Cassidy Bowman has strict rules to uphold her good-girl reputation: she doesn't date the Wells Ranch locals, and she definitely doesn't sleep with men she isn't dating. But after a run-in with her ex-boyfriend-and a few too many drinks-she's ready to buck those rules and allow herself one night of recklessness. On the other hand, local cowboy Chase "Red" Thompson has never met a rule he didn't love breaking. With a long-time crush on Cassidy, he's more than willing to accept her offer of a one-night stand and her one condition: he must agree to never speak of it again. That is until two pink lines render Cassidy's entire rule book null and void. Cassidy isn't looking for a relationship with the rough-and-tumble cowboy, and Red doesn't need anyone to tell him he's not good enough for the sweetheart of Wells Canyon. So the two make another agreement-they'll be friends and co-parents, nothing more. But as their carefully designed boundaries begin to blur, Cassidy might just realise that perhaps some rules are worth breaking . . ." My Thoughts: Seeing Red isn't necessarily my favourite in the series, but it is such a fun read. What I remember the most about reading this book is the feeling it gave me, and how I just enjoyed it and had a smile on my face. Change of Hart: Denny and Blair Tropes: Second chance Dual timeline Childhood sweethearts Forced Proximity Angst Synopsis: "Five seconds of honesty: Wells Canyon is the last place Blair Hart wants to be. But her mother's illness leaves her no choice except to return to the hometown-and the traumatic past-she's spent thirteen years hiding from. A run-in with the boy who tore her life to pieces is inevitable in a town like Wells Canyon, but that doesn't mean she's prepared for the way Denver Wells can turn back time with a single smile. Thirteen years ago, Denver's world crashed around him. Since then, he's done everything he can to outrun his demons, until a flash of brown hair knocks him from his saddle. But if he wants her back, he'll need to prove he can be the man Blair needs-the same one she used to love. With a thousand sticky-note-worth of responsibilities, Blair doesn't have the time to sift through their messy history and resolve things with the man who's determined to be in her life. And Denver's going to need more than cowboy charm and five seconds of honesty to convince Blair he's worth a change of heart." My Thoughts: As soon as Change of Hart came out last year, I read it. It was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025, and it did not disappoint. I laughed, I cried, which isn't a common occurrence when I read, and I fell in love with the emotional story of Blair and Denny. Credit: WriteWatchWork At Whit's End: Colt and Whit Tropes: Single parent Alpha male Found family Opposites attract Friends-to-lovers Synopsis: "Single mom Whitney Hart is, quite simply, overwhelmed. She's struggling to raise her ten-year-old son, Jonas. Her ex-boyfriend only seems to come around and help take care of his son when he's single and hoping to get back together. With Jonas acting out more than ever, Whitney enlists the help of her sister Blair to keep an eye on Jonas over summer vacation. Enter Colt, a fun-loving Wells Ranch cowboy who is tasked with giving Jonas work to do around Wells Ranch to keep him busy. In Colt, Jonas finds a mentor and male role model for the first time in his life. And in Jonas, Colt discovers a friendship that brings a new kind of joy into his life. Colt and Whit slowly develop a friendship of their own through a shared concern for Jonas, and over the course of the summer, it begins to spark into something more. The attraction and chemistry between them are hard to ignore, but Whit's insecurities and hesitancy to trust men cause her to pull away. As miscommunications give way to understanding, the two will discover that sometimes you have to first be broken before you can become whole, and that there's no one way to create a family..." My Thoughts: One of my favourite reads of 2026 so far. I devoured this book and couldn’t believe just how good Colt and Whit were together. Their story is so funny, so romantic, and so sweet! Love Wells Kept: Jackson and Kate Tropes: Marriage in crisis Second chance He has amnesia Slow burn "My wife" Synopsis: "He's forgotten their love story. She'll help him write a new one. Jackson and Kate have been happily married for over ten years and live a beautifully chaotic life raising two young children on Wells Ranch. But when Jackson sustains a severe head injury that sends him into a coma, years of his memory are gone by the time he wakes. Doctors are confident it will return with time, but Jackson feels like a stranger in his own life. How can he have a wife and children but not know them? Kate tries to remain strong for her family, but she secretly mourns the loss of the man she knew and fears he may never return. She leans on her Wells Ranch family, who she needs now more than ever. It's scary and difficult, but she won't give up on Jackson and their love, no matter how long it takes. Despite early struggles, Kate and Jackson share tender moments that stir something in Jackson, even though he doesn't fully understand it. As more time passes, bits and pieces of Jackson's memories return, and he starts slowly rediscovering his instincts as a husband and dad. And though Jackson and Kate's love story may need a rewrite, they'll come to discover this new chapter might just be stronger than all the ones that came before." My Thoughts: This book is an incredible story full of heartbreak, family, and true love. I knew going into this one that I would feel all the emotions, but I surprised myself with how engrossed I became in Kate and Jackson's story. It's a great end to the series, and an amazing story. Where to read the Wells Ranch series? All five books are available to buy from Amazon here, and also in stores, like The Works. As Love Wells Kept came out earlier this month, the whole series is now complete. I've shared reviews of all the books on my social media, so if you're interested in them, then check them out. The Wells Ranch series is one of my favourites, and I will always recommend it. If you read it, let me know in the comments. Until next time...

Voicemails for Isabelle is a romantic comedy drama on Netflix, starring Zoey Deutch and Nick Robinson. Over the weekend, I decided to sit down and have some me-time to relax. This consisted of reading my book – Love Wells Kept for those wondering – and watching a movie. There are quite a few films that have come out recently that I want to watch, including Enola Holmes 3 and Project Hail Mary. However, the movie I chose was one I've seen recommended on social media for its emotional storylines and rom-com aspects. Lots of viewers shared how much they cried whilst watching, but also just how heartwarming a story it was, so I thought I'd give it a watch. And the movie is Voicemails for Isabelle. I loved it so much that I thought I'd share a mini review for those of you who love a good movie night. Review of Voicemails for Isabelle Genre: Romantic Comedy Drama Stars: Zoey Deutch, Nick Robinson, Harry Shum Jr., Leah McKendrick, Ciara Bravo Where to Watch: Netflix My Rating: 9/10 Synopsis The synopsis for Voicemails for Isabelle is as follows: Jill leaves voice messages to her deceased sister telling her about her chaotic life in San Francisco. Unwittingly, a mysterious Austin, TX real estate agent, Wes, begins to receive Jill's voicemails, and whilst listening to them, he falls in love. My Thoughts I want to start this review by talking about the start of the film. I knew going into this that it would be sad. How can it not when the entire premise is based upon the fact that Jill has lost her younger sister, Isabelle, to cancer? However, despite knowing that it would likely be a very emotional movie, I did not anticipate how emotional I would find it. The relationship between the sisters is what really tugged at my heartstrings. If you do have siblings, you can probably find it easier to relate to the protagonists because it would be quite easy to put yourself in Jill's shoes. And that is why I sobbed so much that I had to pause the TV because I couldn't see through my tears. That being said, whilst I did cry for a lot of the movie, I also laughed out loud and giggled. The movie begins showing the sisters at a young age and highlighting how devoted they are to one another. These scenes were so heartwarming and fun to watch. As it progresses, the movie obviously takes a sad and emotional turn before turning to happier notes, which involve Jill's relationship with Wes. After her sister dies, Jill leaves chaotic voicemails as a way of coping and getting through life, not knowing that her sister's phone number has been reassigned to Wes, who has, in fact, received all the voicemails. When they meet, it turns straight into a classic rom-com. Even Wes's best friends -- played by Harry Shum Jr., and the writer of the movie, Leah McKendrick -- respond to him saying 'Tom Hanks is America's sweetheart' with 'You are not Tom Hanks, ' once they find out about the voicemails. But Voicemails for Isabelle does have that nostalgic romcom feel about it. There are love confessions, solidarity in friendships, running through the rain, and dancing on top of a hill in public in broad daylight. Yes, if we're looking at it pragmatically and with a safety hat on, Wes listening to Jill's voicemails without her knowing is not necessarily the best or safest course of action. However, this movie spins it around and turns it into life's plan for Wes and Jill. They are almost fated to meet through Isabelle, and I loved watching them progress from friends, who have both sworn off the opposite sex after lots of failed dates, to slowly falling in love and realising just how much they like spending time with the other person. There is, of course, a third-act break-up, which I know a lot of readers, in particular, aren't necessarily fond of, but for me, this conflict gives Jill the push to properly move on in life. I loved her telling Wes that she does not need a man, and goes to prove that statement true. And in Wes's love confession, I love how he acknowledges that fact but says that he needs her. Voicemails for Isabelle is one of the best films I've watched this year. It is full of humour, sisterhood, love, and more. It reflects the devotion siblings can have to one another, and that is what really pulled me in. Zoey Deutch is an incredible actress and her portrayal of Jill's character was amazing. Her emotions were so raw and I loved watching her bring this movie to life alongside Nick Robinson, who I think is a great romcom actor. So, if you're looking for a new film to watch, definitely check out Voicemails for Isabelle on Netflix. Whether you want to cry, laugh, fall in love, etc., give it a watch and let me know what you think in the comments below. Until next time...

With the UK temperature only rising this week, here are some tips on how to work productively in the summer heatwave. Summer has officially begun, and with it, the UK is suffering from some very high temperatures. We had the hottest day on record in June, and whilst the weather has cooled down slightly, it is still incredibly hot. As someone who enjoys summer, but definitely prefers autumn, I thought I'd share some advice on working productively in the summer heatwave. But just to clarify, I'm no expert on this matter; these are simply some things I'm doing to help me keep cool this summer and ensure I can still get work done. So, if you're struggling in the summer heatwave, check out my tips below. Advice on working productively in the summer heatwave Drink, Drink, Drink When it is incredibly hot, our bodies sweat more and we can become more easily dehydrated. Therefore, it is imperative that we drink lots of water. It can be hard, especially if you're someone who prefers cold water and your taps have been heated by the sun. However, we must try to keep hydrated; otherwise, our bodies and our brains will suffer from it. Make sure you're refilling your glass or bottle regularly. If you've got ice cubes in the freezer, keep adding them to drinks, and if you want really cold water, you can always freeze half a bottle of water before filling the rest of it up from the tap. Try not to drink too much alcohol or caffeine as they can dehydrate you quicker. Keep Your Toes Cool It is scientifically proven that if you can keep your extremities cool, it'll help cool the rest of your body down. This is quite easy to do for some if you're sitting at your desk for work. If you can find a large enough bowl or tub, it'll work well. Essentially, fill it up with water, place it under your desk, and submerge your feet whilst working. I did this the other day and it helped wonders; I didn't get too hot, which meant I could keep working and tick things off my to-do list. Utilise the Freezer In the summer heatwave, having a freezer is a must-have. Not only can it store ice cubes or ice cream for when you want a break from work and a treat, but you can also freeze some ice packs. Normally, ice packs are used to keep food and drink cool; however, they work wonders in a heatwave. I've been having an ice pack, wrapping it in a tea towel, and using it like a cold compress for when I'm really hot. It helps to have it nearby when I'm working so when I do get too hot, I can press it to my skin, and start to cool down. Goodbye Outside World In a heatwave, the sun's rays can easily heat the inside of houses, especially when windows or curtains are open. So, whilst it might be hard to work in a darker room, try to shut out the outside world as much as you can. This is especially important when the sun is shining in a certain room in your house. For me, I wake up to the sun shining on my bedroom, which is also where my desk is. So, it's easier to have the blinds shut in the morning and open them during the afternoon, when it's not so hot outside my window. Raise Your Laptop This piece of advice is only relevant to those who work with a laptop. I've found that during this heatwave, my laptop has been working overtime and as a result, the fan has been going crazy and the keys have been getting hot. So, to avoid burning my fingertips, I've been raising my laptop in the four corners to give it some breathing space. I've also decided to put an ice pack -- in a tea towel -- underneath when I'm not using it. Not only is this helpful to stop the laptop overheating, but it will also help reduce the amount of heat the laptop is giving off. All of these tips will hopefully help cool you down whilst working so that you can work productively. It's important to take breaks and ensure you're feeling good in this heat. So, I hope these help, and if you've got any other tips and tricks for keeping cool whilst working in the summer heat, feel free to leave a comment. Until next time...

The second quarter of 2026 is complete, so here is my reading review of Q2, which saw me read 24 books. I'm back with another reading review for 2026, this time all about the books I read during the second quarter of the year. Q2 was a busy quarter of the year for me with a summer holiday, a university research project to complete, and general life stuff going on. However, during Q2, I managed to read enough books that have left me with only 16 books to read until I reach my goal of 65. I do still have quite a few books on specific TBR lists to get through, but I have made some progress. So, let's get into my reading review of Q2 2026. WriteWatchWork's Reading Review Total Number of Books Per Month As mentioned above, I now only have 16 books left to read until I reach my Goodreads goal for the year. I made some good progress, reading 24 in total across Q2. In April, I read 8 books; in May, I also read 8 books; and in June, I read 8 books. Most-Read Genre I read quite a few different genres throughout Q2. Some of these were dark academia, young adult books, and fantasy novels. However, my most-read genre, with nine books, is romance. Most-Read Author Whilst I have my favourite authors, I always enjoy discovering new writers and their work. So, much like Q1, I read a mix of authors I'm familiar with and authors whom I had yet to discover. The different authors I read in Q2 of 2026 were: Alex Michaelides Allie Oleander Ana Huang Anna B. Doe Autumn Woods Caitlin Breeze Carley Fortune Catherine Cowles Dolly Alderton Donna Tartt Emily Henry Faridah Abíké-Íyímídé Gabriel García Márquez Holly Jackson Imani Erriu Lauryn Hamilton Murray J.K. Rowling Kristin Hannah Liz Tomforde R.F. Kuang Tahereh Mafi Faridah Abíké-Íyímídé and Liz Tomforde were my most-read authors as I read two of their books. From the above list, the authors that were new to me were Alex Michaelides, Caitlin Breeze, Dolly Alderton, Donna Tartt, Gabriel García Márquez, Imani Erriu, and Lauryn Hamilton Murray. Favourite Books I read a lot of good books during Q2 of this year. In total, I rated seven books five stars because I loved them so much. For that reason, it was challenging to pick my top three books of the quarter. However, I have made my decision, so here are my top three books of Q2. The first book I'm choosing has to be Release Me by Tahereh Mafi. If you've read previous blog posts or follow me on social media, you'll know that I absolutely love the Shatter Me series. It's my favourite series, and Release Me is book two in the spin-off. I pre-ordered the hardback and read it as soon as it arrived and it exceeded all my expectations. Up next, we have Into the Fading Twilight by Catherine Cowles. This is book two in the Starlight Grove series, and is, perhaps, my favourite Catherine Cowles book. It is a romantic suspense novel that will get you feeling all the emotions – I almost cried after chapter one – and will leave you shocked after the final twists. My third favourite book of Q2 2026 has to be This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune. This novel is one of Carley's earlier books; I've had it on my Kindle ever since I read Every Summer After and One Golden Summer by Carley last year, and knew I wanted to read it this summer. I'm so glad I did because I read this book in two sittings and flew through it. It is such a fun summer read that is feel-good and made me want to travel to Prince Edward Island. Those are my top three, but because I loved so many of the books I read in Q2, I'm going to list some honourable mentions, including: Daybreak by Autumn Woods, Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry, Heir of Storms by Lauryn Hamilton Murray, Good Girl Bad Blood by Holly Jackson and Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu. Favourite Authors I always struggle picking a favourite author because there are just so many that I love. Last month, I picked M.L. Rio, Catherine Cowles, and Kandi Steiner. With that in mind, I'm going to pick a top three for Q2 of 2026, not including Catherine Cowles (even though I rated her book five stars!). My first favourite author of Q2 2026 has to be Emily Henry. I read her latest novel, Great Big Beautiful Life, whilst on holiday in Spain, and I loved it. It was a five-star read for me, and I just fell in love with EmHen's writing all over again. The next author I'm choosing is Liz Tomforde. I actually went to an event where Liz Tomforde was one of three authors talking about their books, so I made sure to finish the Windy City series and read the spin-off before attending. I loved both books, and they reminded me how fun it is to read a Liz Tomforde novel. My third and final choice is Imani Erriu. I haven't read much fantasy, but once I'd read Heavenly Bodies, I knew I was hooked on the genre. Imani's writing was effortless, and I loved the world and characters she created. I can't wait to read book two. Best Book Surprise The best book surprise of Q2 is a novel I knew I would enjoy because I love the author, but one I didn't anticipate enjoying that much. The book I'm talking about is Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah. Having read The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, I knew I loved her writing style and the way she crafts a story. So, going into Winter Garden, I had high hopes. But I did not expect to become so engrossed in the story that I cried multiple times. Credit: WriteWatchWork It's not necessarily an easy read, but it is one that will grab you from the start and make you feel a whole tornado of emotions. Least Favourite Book Out of all the books I read in Q2, there were two I rated below four stars. These two books are therefore my least favourite books of the quarter, and they are: Until August by Gabriel García Márquez The Fox Hunt by Caitlin Breeze The reason I've chosen Until August is that whilst I enjoyed reading the English translation, it took me a while to get into the short story and find myself enjoying it. I wasn't a huge fan of the protagonist, and to be honest, it wasn't until about 20 pages in that I realised what the story was about. With The Fox Hunt, I chose this because, again, whilst I enjoyed reading it and thought the dark academia atmosphere of the novel was very strong, there were times when I did get a little confused. But that being said, I am glad that I read it. 26 Books for 2026 For this year, I've made a list of 26 books that I would like to read during 2026. In Q1 of this year, I read six books from this list. And in Q2, I managed to read five. The five books off the list below that I read in the past three months are: Babel, The Secret History, Heavenly Bodies, Everything I Know About Love and Rewind It Back. 12 Recs from 12 Friends I've also set myself a challenge of reading 12 books that have been recommended to me by 12 friends. In Q1, I read three of the books recommended to me, but in Q2, I've only read two of them. The first one is Heavenly Bodies; I read it in April and was hooked from the start. It got me back into reading fantasy, and I'm excited to get book two in paperback to carry on the series. The second book from these recommendations that I've read is another fantasy, and that is Heir of Storms. I wasn't sure about this book going into it, because I didn't really know much about it; however, once I was a couple of chapters in, I didn't want to put it down. I've still got seven books to read from my 12 recommendations before the end of the year, and I'm hoping to get a fair few read in Q3. I hope you enjoyed my reading review of Q2 2026, and that the books mentioned above inspire you to pick them up and give them a go. I'll be back at the end of Q3 with another reading review, and plenty more blog posts before then, so don't forget to subscribe to keep up to date with WriteWatchWork. Until next time...

If you're looking for some new comfort TV show recommendations, here are a few TV shows that I will always return to. A recent post I shared on BookTok was 'Meet Me In Five'; the premise of the post was to share your top five books, movies, artists, TV shows and hobbies. As someone who reads a lot, listens to a lot of music, and watches a lot of TV and lots of films, I found it quite challenging to just pick five. However, it got me thinking about what I would choose and what my favourites are for the different categories. I also thought about what I would class as a comfort read and a comfort show, so I thought I'd share what TV shows I would recommend as comfort shows, especially as the UK weather is too hot at the moment to do anything but sit in front of the TV. So here are my TV show recommendations for ones I feel are like a warm hug. My top comfort TV shows Charmed Genre: Supernatural Drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "Three sisters discover that they are descendants of a line of good female witches and are destined to fight against the forces of evil." My Thoughts: Charmed is my all-time favourite TV show, spanning eight seasons. I can't tell you how many times I've rewatched the entire show, not just the odd episode. It's funny, it's action-packed, it's emotional...it's everything. Teen Wolf Genre: Supernatural Teen Drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "An average high school student and his best friend get caught up in some trouble, causing him to receive a werewolf bite. As a result, they find themselves in the middle of all sorts of dramas in Beacon Hills." My Thoughts: Teen Wolf is another show I've rewatched multiple times. I honestly love Teen Wolf for its ability to blend humour and sarcasm with life-or-death situations. It's a fun show to watch and some great characters too. Off Campus Genre: College Romance Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "A college-set romantic drama chronicling the unexpected love story between a music student and the university's star hockey player, exploring themes of love and the complexities of adulthood through deep friendships and enduring bonds." My Thoughts: If you've read my recent blog posts, you'll know that the TV adaptation of Off Campus, based on the books by Elle Kennedy, was one of my favourite book-to-screen adaptations. I've already started my rewatch of the show, and because I loved the books so much, this is now a comfort show for me. Bridgerton Genre: Regency Romance Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society." My Thoughts: There is just something about watching the Bridgerton siblings in Mayfair on the marriage mart that acts like a warm hug. I love Bridgerton and find it such an easy show to just sit and enjoy. Virgin River Genre: Small Town Drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "Seeking a fresh start, nurse practitioner Melinda Monroe moves from Los Angeles to a remote Northern California town and is surprised by what and whom she finds there." My Thoughts: Virgin River is another of my comfort shows. I was surprised by how easily I became attached to the characters, but also, with how quickly I flew through the episodes. Plus, the scenery in the show is stunning. Grey's Anatomy Genre: Medical Drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "A drama centred on the personal and professional lives of five surgical interns and their supervisors." My Thoughts: I haven't rewatched Grey's Anatomy yet as it's still ongoing and there are 22 seasons; however, I have rewatched the odd episode, and whenever I watch this medical drama, I just love it every time. You get to know the characters and become engrossed in their lives and the hospital's activities too. The Rookie Genre: Police drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "Starting over isn't easy, especially for John Nolan who, after a life-altering incident, is pursuing his dream of joining the LAPD. As their oldest rookie, he's met with scepticism from those who see him as just a walking midlife crisis." My Thoughts: I personally love a crime drama, and my favourite one is The Rookie. I first watched this because of Nathan Fillion, but have since come to love the show. It's such an enjoyable series to watch with its action, humour, complex cases and more. Plus, I love how they film some of the episodes through the body cams. Hart of Dixie Genre: Small Town Drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "New Yorker and new doctor Zoe Hart accepts an offer from a stranger, Dr Harley Wilkes, to work in his medical practice in Bluebell, Alabama. She arrives to find that he has died and left half the practice to her in his will." My Thoughts: Hart of Dixie was probably one of the first small-town romance shows I watched. It only lasts four seasons, which makes it easy to rewatch it. There was just something about the small-town drama of Bluebell, Alabama, that had me hooked, and I love it. One Tree Hill Genre: Coming-of-Age Romantic Drama Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "Half-brothers Lucas and Nathan Scott trade between kinship and rivalry both on the basketball court and in the hearts of their friends in the small, but not so quiet town of Tree Hill, North Carolina." My Thoughts: One Tree Hill is a classic TV show. I was only two years old when it first aired, but I discovered it in my teens, and it is one of the few TV shows I actually own on DVD. I really enjoyed getting to know a group of high school students and following them through life's trials and tribulations -- even if some are extraordinary circumstances. Friends Genre: Sitcom Credit: IMDB Synopsis: "The personal and professional lives of six friends living in the Manhattan borough of New York City." My Thoughts: I find Friends such a fun TV show to watch because the episodes are short, but they're all full of friendship, humour and love. I love rewatching the odd episode of the American sitcom, and I think, given the general global consensus, it's a timeless TV show. These 10 TV shows are all comfort TV shows for me; I could watch any of them and be content. It is unlikely that I would get bored watching them, and I love having shows like that: that I can revisit and just enjoy. If you're looking for new TV show recommendations, check out some of the above. Or if you have comfort show recommendations of your own, feel free to leave a comment. Until next time...