Wednesday, 20 August 2025
Oaths and Vengeance Wordsearch Answers
Offside and Off-Limits Book Release
Tuesday, 19 August 2025
20 Bullet Journal Reading Journal Layout Ideas Every Book Lover Needs to Try
Here is a curated list of YouTube video links that show how to set up various Reading Journal page layouts.
March 2025 Reading Journal Setup (includes layouts and decoration ideas)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaNJSgNyiXQBullet journal ideas MARATHON with +200 ideas, including reading challenge layouts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtC1M3NyxRAReading Journal Ideas MARATHON with +100 layout ideas for reading journals
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dJRVYI92Xk70 Bullet Journal Ideas for Your 2025 Setup (useful for reading journal inspiration)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-4SMpkP1FY2025 Reading Journal Setup (detailed setup with aesthetics focus)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHK2zK8Vsv4My 2025 Reading Journal Set Up (creative and cute spread ideas)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpqiuvUetUk2025 New Reading Journal Setup - Square Journal Layouts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRvX_oFNCOk20 Beginner Bullet Journal Spreads, including weekly and reading journal-friendly spreads
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGA0hTMaNqsReading Journal Videos Playlist (various quarterly setups and ideas)
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzKqBme4CZ-KbXYWZZJ-R0fyaiyP4SglReading Journal Playlist (includes months with reading wrap-up and reviews)
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1WPOcV-x_Tuc4SgRRAdxsfYMQDLOj9Qx
These videos and playlists together cover detailed step-by-step setups for multiple reading journal pages, including tracking, challenges, book lists, reviews, stats, and more.
Monday, 18 August 2025
August Release: Oaths and Vengeance
Book Release: Oaths & Vengeance by Susan Illene (August 2025)
The eagerly awaited Oaths & Vengeance is making its grand entrance this August, with the paperback launching on August 19th and the eBook arriving on August 22nd. This thrilling new fantasy is the first in Susan Illene's Realm of Zadrya series and has already begun to generate excitement among lovers of epic romance and high-stakes adventures.
A Modern Romeo & Juliet Vibe
At its heart, Oaths & Vengeance radiates the star-crossed energy reminiscent of Shakespeare’s classic Romeo and Juliet. The romance unfolds between two sworn enemies, creating a web of tension, mutual attraction, and forbidden alliance. Readers will be swept away by a chemistry that dares to cross deeply entrenched boundaries—echoing the original tale’s tragic passion, but with its own unique magical twist. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is especially electrifying—with high emotions, fraught loyalty, and impossible choices that capture the essence of what makes tales like Romeo and Juliet timeless.
The Heroine’s Struggle: Family Duty vs. Protecting the Innocent
The heroine of Oaths & Vengeance is torn between powerful family obligations and an inner drive to protect innocent lives caught in the crossfire. Her journey isn’t simply about choosing sides; it’s about reconciling personal loyalty with her fundamental sense of justice. As the plot unfolds, she’s forced to make hard decisions that test her values, her love, and her ability to shape her destiny. This balancing act between legacy and compassion gives her character realistic depth, and provides the emotional fulcrum for the entire story.
Recommended For…
If you’re drawn to:
- Epic fantasy worlds with detailed magic systems and rich lore,
- Enemies-to-lovers romance that tugs at your heartstrings,
- Mature, layered characters facing genuine moral conflicts,
- High stakes and emotional tension that keep you turning pages,
Oaths & Vengeance is a must-read this August. Fans of classic star-crossed lovers, as well as readers who enjoy complex heroines struggling with duty and heart, will be pulled in from the first chapter.
Don’t miss out on the fantasy release everyone’s talking about this month! Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, an epic fantasy enthusiast, or love seeing heroines carve out their own destinies against all odds, Oaths & Vengeance belongs on your summer reading list.
OATHS AND VENGEANCE WORD SEARCH (ANSWERS WILL BE POSTED AUGUST 20TH)
Thursday, 14 August 2025
TBR List Showdown: One Big List vs. Monthly Goals (Pros, Cons & Laughs)
However, the monthly method does have its pitfalls. The cons? There’s a risk of losing the grand vision. If you’re constantly resetting, you might forget those long-term treasures buried in the “someday” pile. And sometimes, the pressure to tick off new goals monthly can turn reading from a joyride into a rush, making book choices more about quotas than quality or mood. Also, let’s be honest: Some months are busier, and sudden life chaos can derail the whole plan, leaving you with another “unfinished project” badge.
Here is a list of videos showing how to make annual or monthly reading journal TBR layouts:
January 2025 Reading Journal Setup - Monthly TBR and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQx4dH_4NLkReading Journal Ideas Marathon - Includes TBR layouts by month and year
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dJRVYI92XkApril Reading Journal Setup & TBR - Monthly reading reset and TBR planning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aq10DzfPRO02025 Reading Journal Setup - Annual TBR and monthly spreads explained
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0o2gZzsRXgMay TBR + Reading Journal Setup - Monthly TBR and journal ideas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Gu30kz3D5E2025 Reading Journal Set Up - Covers yearly TBR trackers and monthly spreads
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yzrbi8vStdQJune TBR + Reading Journal Setup - Monthly TBR planning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljaJbBIkbqENEW Reading Journal Setup - Includes TBR, book rating system, and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nn4zztcTqqkSetting up my Annual Spreads! | 2025 Reading Journal - Focus on annual TBR list
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKjmzSqZ01QMy March TBR + Reading Journal Setup | Monthly Reset
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIzmWTvK4mk
These videos provide a variety of approaches for setting up your reading journal with either annual TBR lists, monthly TBR goals, or both. They include creative layouts, tracking ideas, and tips to keep your reading organized and fun. Enjoy setting up your journal!
Tuesday, 12 August 2025
Crown of Thorns and Magic – Fast-Paced YA Fantasy with Heart, Twists, and Rich Characters (4.5 Stars)
A Crown of Thorns and Magic Introduction – A YA Fantasy Adventure Worth Reading
I recently had the chance to read Crown of Thorns and Magic, and it pulled me in from the first chapter. This young adult fantasy blends fast-paced storytelling, compelling characters, and engaging world-building in a way that kept me turning the pages.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review — and I’m happy to report this one is a winner. Here’s why this 4.5-star read is worth adding to your TBR.
What Makes Crown of Thorns and Magic Stand Out
1. Fast Pacing Without Losing Depth
One of the things I appreciated most was the quick, immersive pacing. The story never lagged, yet the author still took time to create well-rounded characters with believable motivations and personalities. Even supporting characters were more than just filler — they had their own roles to play.
2. Astar as a Protagonist – Strengths and Challenges
The main character, Astar, is just 16 years old — something that gave the book a refreshing YA energy but also occasionally made certain storylines feel a little improbable for her age. While this didn't ruin my enjoyment, I sometimes had to suspend disbelief about the complexity of her actions and the weight of the challenges she faced.
That being said, her youth also adds a unique vulnerability and room for growth, which could be very rewarding to see develop in future books.
3. Twists, Turns, and World-Building
The plot twists kept me guessing right until the end. Every revelation not only surprised me but also enriched the fantasy world the author had built. These twists raised the stakes repeatedly, ensuring there was never a dull moment.
I loved how seamlessly the action sequences were balanced with emotional beats, making the story as heartfelt as it was exhilarating.
Who Will Love This Book
If you’re a fan of:
Young Adult fantasy series
Strong, layered characters
Magic-driven plots
Unexpected twists and turns
Fast-paced adventure with emotional depth
…then Crown of Thorns and Magic should definitely be on your reading list!
Final Thoughts & Star Rating
Overall, Crown of Thorns and Magic earns a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. It’s a gripping YA fantasy that moves quickly without sacrificing character richness, and it’s packed with surprises that keep you invested until the final page.
I’m excited to see how Astar’s journey evolves in the next installment and whether the author will continue to blend high stakes, strong emotions, and magical intrigue so seamlessly.
If this first book is any indication, this series could become a favorite for YA fantasy lovers looking for their next binge-worthy read.
Monday, 11 August 2025
Bookish Quotes From Fourth Wing
The most loved quotes from Fourth Wing feature memorable lines and strong character voices; here are ten of the most popular quotes, with their speakers:
1. “A dragon without its rider is a tragedy. A rider without their dragon is dead.”
– Said by Violet Sorrengail
2. “There’s nowhere in existence you could go that I wouldn’t find you, Violence.”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
3. “I would rather lose this entire war than live without you, and if that means I have to prove myself over and over, then I'll do it. You gave me your heart, and I'm keeping it.”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
4. “Hope is a fickle, dangerous thing. It steals your focus and aims it toward the possibilities instead of keeping it where it belongs—on the probabilities.”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
5. “Fascinating. You look all frail and breakable, but you’re really a violent little thing, aren’t you?”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
6. “I’m going to keep you. You’re mine, Violet.”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
7. “Lies are comforting. Truth is painful.”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
8. “I am the sky and the power of every storm that has ever been. I am infinite.”
– Said Violet Sorrengail
9. “The right way isn’t the only way.”
– Said by Xaden Riorson
10. “Don’t die, Violet. I’d hate to be an only child.”
– Said by Mira Sorrengail (Violet’s sister)
I am an Amazon Affiliate and may receive a small commission at no cost to you.Saturday, 9 August 2025
Two Spinsters and A Thief
Two Spinsters and a Murder: Disappointingly Dull
I really wanted to love Two Spinsters and a Murder. The promise of a cozy mystery, plus the potential for quirky small-town characters, seemed right up my alley. But honestly, this one almost landed on my dreaded “Did Not Finish” pile. The pacing moves at a snail’s pace, and there wasn’t much about the leads that made me want to root for them or spend more time in their world.
I kept with it, hoping the story would improve—and I’ll admit, the plot finally starts to pick up around the halfway mark. But after slogging through so many slow chapters, the ending just didn’t deliver a satisfying payoff. For me, the time invested simply wasn’t worth it. If you’re a die-hard fan of languid mysteries with minimal character spark, you might find something to enjoy. Otherwise, I’d give this one a pass.
A True Literary Masterpiece: Fourth Wing
Monday, 4 August 2025
August Reads For Your TBR
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
As summer hits its midpoint, I know I had already read all of the books I had chosen as summer reads. I am excited to introduce you to three new releases for August.There is a bit of something for everyone in these recommendations. I will include posts for each of the books, along with some fun activities, to let you live in their world a bit longer. For today, I just wanted to put these three 5-star reads on your radar for the month.Monday, 14 July 2025
July Release:Rose in Chains Audiobook
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
If you’re searching for your next immersive listen, Rose in Chains by Julie Soto deserves a spot on your summer audiobook playlist. I recently finished the audiobook and rated it four stars for its gripping blend of dark fantasy, romance, and political intrigue.
The story follows Briony Rosewood, a princess whose world is shattered when her kingdom falls to the dark forces of Bomard. With her people facing servitude or worse, Briony is stripped of her magic and freedom, then auctioned to the highest bidder—Toven Hearst, a member of the very family responsible for her kingdom’s downfall. What unfolds is a tense, enemies-to-lovers dynamic set against a backdrop of loss, survival, and the slim hope of rebellion.
Julie Soto’s writing shines in audio format, with the narration bringing Briony’s emotional journey and the lush, dangerous world to life. The audiobook’s pacing is brisk, balancing heart-pounding moments with quieter scenes of reflection and resilience. The chemistry between Briony and Toven is palpable, and the story’s twists kept me invested throughout.
While some plot elements tread familiar ground for the genre, Soto’s nuanced characters and the audiobook’s atmospheric delivery elevate the experience. If you love romantic fantasy with high stakes and complex relationships, Rose in Chains is a solid addition to your summer listening lineup. Add it to your playlist and prepare to be swept into a world where hope and courage bloom even in the darkest days.
I received an advanced copy of this book to received an advance copy of this book to review. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read it. All opinions are my own.
July Audiobook Recommendation: Lore of the Tides
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The pacing starts off measured, allowing you to settle into the world, but soon accelerates, building momentum until the final, breathtaking pages. There’s a fair amount of spice—enough to add heat and tension, but never so much that it overshadows the heart of the narrative. "Lore of the Tides" balances adventure, romance, and self-discovery in a way that feels both thrilling and meaningful. Highly recommended for anyone who loves stories where every choice matters and every emotion is earned.
Released July 8,2025.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Friday, 11 July 2025
Recommended Book Released in July.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.