Victoria Moschou's Blog, page 15

Because of the full moon…

…the fact that February is coming to an end and I’m facing a general phase of changes, I decided for today’s post to be something different.

You’ve probably figured out that I’m not in a good mood lately, these past couple of months went from so and so to worse, but I do want to believe that things will get better eventually. They will get better in the end. And if they don’t get better, then it’s not the end yet.

I saw this the other day and it became some sort of mantra to me.

I’m trying to remind this to myself every day, otherwise things feel kind of hopeless. And I don’t want to believe that I have lost hope.

It’s ok to go through phases. It’s ok to fall. It’s ok to hide. As long as you gather your pieces, you get up again and you keep rising.

I’m telling this to you, so I can actually believe it myself. My friend Jo said that it’s also ok to let it go, and I think she’s right. Life’s too short for second thoughts, regrets and “what if”s.

So, if things change a little bit here, if I start writing more personal stuff, please don’t hold it against me. I promise it’s just a phase and eventually things will get back to normal.

I hope February was a much better month to you than it was to me. I hope y’all have a great weekend, you stay safe and positive!

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It truly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted!

Till next time… Toodles!

Life Update: Expanding my Business, BookBrewed and Other Changes

Hello awesome nerds and happy Thursday everyone.

I honestly don’t know how to start this particular post, so I’ll just go with the flow.

It’s been almost a year now since this whole pandemic thing started and it literally changed everyone’s life. We can’t really do the things we used to, many of us are working from home, we can’t see our friends and loved ones, and our everyday routine has started feeling a bit suffocating. And, by all means, do correct me if I’m wrong.

On top of that, 2021 started with many personal changes for me. As if it wasn’t enough that this quarantine thing has started affecting quite a lot my mental health, other personal issues started happening, as well, and, as I’ve probably mentioned in previous posts, I’m not in a very good place lately.

The only bright spot in this whole situation, aside from the fact that my family and I are healthy, are my books. They’re always there for me to remind me that, even in the darkest of times, beauty can always be found in the world. Even the darkest of days can get a little bit better when you get lost in a book.

That’s how it dawned to me. What if I actually turned my hobby into a business?

As you probably know, since I have mentioned it in the past, our family business specialises in fertilisers and plants, and in 2019 I started my own event planning business. The thing though is that, due to COVID, there are no events occurring at the moment, and I get kind of bored if I don’t have a full schedule. Yes, I’m a workaholic and an organised junkie, so please, be kind with me.

With the experience I’ve gained over the past year that I’ve been a rep for Beacon Book Box, and considering the fact that subscription companies are only starting to appear here in Greece, I decided to start my own book box service, called BookBrewed.

Essentially, BookBrewed is my newly founded YA monthly-subscription box, in which every month people will receive a greek edition of an old and new release, as well as a bunch of other bookish goodies, focusing on a specific theme.

The first box will be shipped in April and the theme is Arabian Nights.

For the time being, I’m only shipping in Greece, considering that the international shipping costs are quite high and the expected delivery time cannot be fully calculated, again due to COVID.

Nonetheless, people have been very enthusiastic so far, something that makes me all the more eager to work harder on this project. I’m currently working on the website, which will hopefully be ready next month, and on the orders for the first box. And although the first book that’s going to be featured is a 2018 release, a YA Historical Fantasy novel, which is going to blow people’s minds away (because for some kind of reason Fantasy isn’t that popular here in Greece), the May book is going to be a new release and I am so freaking excited about that!

So, I’m spending my days working approximately 10 to 12 hours every day, because otherwise my mind is always consumed with thoughts I simply want to lock away. That’s also the reason why I run 5-6km every day and try to read as much as possible. Running and reading help me defuse the tension, and they also remind me that, if athletes and fictional characters can face shitty situations, then so can I.

The only problem though is that… I feel like I’m in a writing slump. Again. My Muse has been silent and everything I write feels bad is best case scenario, shitty in worst. And no, this isn’t a prologue that I will stop writing here, too. There may be some changes until I manage to balance everything, but for the time being, the posting schedule will remain the same.

I have plenty of reviews and unboxings coming up, and I do hope that we’ll get to discuss about all that stuff.

Thank you all so very much, dearies, for stopping by once again. It honestly means the world to me that you keep coming back here, and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

I hope you guys have a wonderful rest of the week, you stay safe and positive.

Till next time… Toodles!

💗 Whimsical Art by TJ Lubrano 💗

Hello awesome nerds and happy Monday everyone!

I hope you guys had a great weekend, you got the chance to relax and recharge your batteries. For me, it was one of those rare weekends that I actually had some “me time” and I very much enjoyed it. I read a lot, went for a long walk and actually had the chance to do all the things I love, like baking, taking pictures and watching RomComs on Netflix. Yes, I’m the hopeless romantic and I’m not ashamed of it.

The thing though is that I also took some pictures last week, mostly because my rep period with TJ Lubrano has started and I just can’t wait to share all the amazing goodies that she’s created with you.

For those of you who don’t know, TJ Lubrano is an illustrator from The Netherlands and one of the very first artists I discovered thanks to bookstagram. I’ve been following and supporting her since 2017 and I’m so very glad that I got the chance to collaborate and work with her.

If you guys like what you’re about to see below, I suggest you follow this link to see all the amazing art she had available on her Etsy shop. Also, you can follow that link to visit her official website. And if you guys decide to buy anything, don’t forget to use my rep code VICTORIOUS15 for a 15% off discount on anything you buy.

These are just some of the designs that TJ kindly sent to me and I’m planning on taking more pictures either this week or this coming weekend. Her art is just too beautiful for me not to photograph it.

Do you guys have any favourite illustrators? Have you ever bought any of their designs?

I look forward to reading your answers in the comment section down below.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It truly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

Have a wonderful week, dearies. Stay safe and stay positive.

Till next time… Toodles!

🎄 A Very (Belated) Beacon Christmas: The Sequel ~ Full Unboxing 🎄

Hello awesome people and happy Saturday everyone!

February is slowly coming to an end but I just got my special edition Christmas box, from Beacon Book Box.

I know it’s definitely not their fault, considering that the shipping has been all over the place lately and my life has been pretty crazy, as well, but it was really fun to get this ginormous present. So, once again, huge thanks to the Beacon family for being the coolest!

For those of you who don’t know, Beacon Book Box is a YA monthly-subscription box, in which every month you receive a new release, as well as a bunch of bookish items, focusing on a specific theme. They also do special edition boxes from time to time, mostly on major holidays, like Christmas and Valentine’s Day, but also when a very, very popular book is about to be released.

As always, I am a rep for Beacon Book Box and you can use my code VICTORIOUS5 to save on your subscription or single purchase. So, if you guys like what you’re about to see, I suggest you follow the link above, because there are some really cool things in store for y’all.

THE GOODIES

Exclusive Narnia Snowglobe, from Team Beacon

Exclusive Throne of Glass Blanket, designed by @dominiquewesson

Exclusive Beacon Book Box Henderbell “Whispers in the Dark” short story, by @jdnetto

Exclusive “Holiday Spirit” Drink Charms, from Team Beacon

Exclusive Serpent & Dove Pillow Case, designed by @jemlin_c

Exclusive To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before Magnet, designed by @abbymalagaart

Exclusive Pine Scented Tea Light Candle & LED Candle, from Team Beacon

Exclusive Shadow & Bone Engraved Tea Light Candle Holder, designed by Team Beacon

Exclusive A Court of Thorns and Roses “Velaris” Beanie, designed by @riddleandravens

Exclusive The Cruel Prince “Jude & Cardan” Ceramic Hot Pad, by @olivesillustrations

Exclusive Holiday Prints, featuring characters from The Infernal Devices, American Royals, Snow Like Ashes and Scythe, designed by @dianadworak

Exclusive To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before “Lara Jean’s Cherry Turnovers” ~ Recipe of the Month #BakingWithTheBeacons

THE BOOK

The featured book is this special edition box was Link by Link: An Anthology of Haunted Holidays. This was a Beacon Book Box Exclusive Edition, with custom made cover, embossed spine, sprayed edges and stamped author signatures.

If you guys don’t know what this book is about, here is the blurb for you to read:

“‘I wear the chain I forged in life,’ replied the Ghost. ‘I made it link by link…’”
-Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol
Link by Link is a collection of 9 stories of ghosts, spirits, and creatures unnamed, all come to teach lessons we won’t soon forget. From sweet Christmas tales to terrifying holiday hauntings, these stories take a dive into the past in the hopes of creating a better—or at least different—future.“

It feels like the perfect spooky read, so I will probably save it for next Christmas. Or I may read it sometime between Halloween and Christmas, we’ll see.

What’s certain is that this box was packed with amazing goodies, with the snow globe, the pillow case and the blanket being my absolute favourites!

The Beacons have outdone themselves once again and if you haven’t checked them out yet, I believe the time has come to do so.

Let me know in the comment section down below which was your favourite item and if you have read the book.

Thank you all saver much for coming back here once again. It honestly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

Love you all to Pluto and back, wonderful people. Have a wonderful weekend, dearies, stay safe and stay positive!

Till next time… Toodles!

💗 To All The Boys: Always and Forever ~ Review & Movie Rant 💗

“Never say no when you really want to say yes.”

~ Always and Forever, Lara Jean (To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, #3), by Jenny Han

I cried 19 times while watching this movie for the first time. 19 times. And I am not ashamed for any of them.

Hello awesome nerds and happy Thursday everyone!

Valentine’s Day of 2021 may have passed into history already, but that doesn’t mean we can’t watch romantic comedies anymore. I know I have already watched four times the third and final instalment of the To All The Boys franchise, and I cried every single one of those four times. Oh, yeah… I’m a hopeless romantic and I will always cry while watching RomComs because a) either they remind me of what I had, currently have or have lost, or b) they show to me what characters do to endure hard times, so I can make so effort to adapt and do the same.

And this is basically what To All The Boys: Always and Forever is all about. Adapting to what’s about to come next.

*DISCALIMER. I WILL TRY TO KEEP THIS AS SPOILER-FREE AS POSSIBLE, BUT IF YOU HAVEN’T READ THE BOOKS AND YOU HAVEN’T WATCHED THE PREVIOUS TWO MOVIES, THIS RANT MAY CONTAIN HECTIC SPOILERS. YOU’VE BEEN WARNED. PROCEED CAREFULLY.*

So, one thing I can definitely say without spoiling anything is that the third movie is definitely longer than the previous two. And it is only natural, considering how many things happen throughout the movie. There’s Senior Year and Senior Trip, Prom and a wedding, and so many other things. And for someone like me, who was a senior 10 years ago, this movie brought so many bittersweet memories in my head.

But it wasn’t just that. No…

I’ve said it before, but I’m gonna say it again. When reading a book or watching a movie, whether or not you’re going to connect with it, it’s all about the timing. And for me, the decision to watch To All The Boys: Always and Forever last week felt like the perfect time to do so.

I don’t know, you guys… Either I’m the ultimate Drama Queen, just as LJ is sometimes, and I take things way more seriously than I should, or my life really feels like a RomCom sometimes. Although, this third movie felt more… mature I’d say, for some kind of reason.

Maybe it had to do with the fact that one particular quote Peter said just stuck in my head and it’s been playing nonstop for the past few days.

“There is nothing worse than not feeling chosen.”

~To All The Boys: Always and Forever

Maybe it’s just the depression talking. Maybe it has to do with the fact that, for someone like me, the girl with zero orientation skills, losing people and things that made me feel like there was actually gravity and a purpose in my life, was such a shocker and it feels now as if I can’t see the target anymore. It feels as if I weren’t chosen. I don’t know…

In any case, there where times when watching To All The Boys: Always and Forever felt so very enlightening, even though I was crying while watching it, and there were times when it felt like a slap in the face, because there are still things I wanna do and haven’t done so, just because I’m freaking terrified of what could happen next.

I know this doesn’t really make sense to you (Or maybe it does, who knows?), but when I say that watching this movie will make you see things and relationships from a new perspective, and it will make you reevaluate things, I honestly mean it. It has all these strong family bonds and those amazing friendships and, of course, a love story that, at least to me, it felt worth fighting for.

I guess it has to do with the fact that, when you really, really want to be with someone, you show it with actions. You make plans with them and you are always there for them, not just by saying that you will be there, but by actually, meaningfully being there.

And again, it’s all about the timing, dearies.

The timing wasn’t right for LJ and John Ambrose (thank God, if you ask me). The timing wasn’t right for Peter and Gen. The timing seemed to be right for LJ and Peter, and then it seemed that it wasn’t right and then things changed again. Because when you want for people to stay in your life, you fight for them. You show to them that you want them in your life. You tell them what you think and how you feel. You don’t just let them assume.

“Being vulnerable, letting people in, getting hurt… it’s all part of being in love.”

~ Always and Forever, Lara Jean (To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, #3), by Jenny Han

My point is that, when you really love someone, you do all of those things. And the third movie in the series was just about that.

So, if you want to watch something romantic, slightly cheesy, but also funny and heartwarming, then I highly suggest you watch To All The Boys: Always and Forever, if you haven’t done so already. To me, this was probably the best movie of the franchise and I will definitely watch it again!

Let me know if you’ve watched the movie and what you thought about it in the comment section down below.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It truly means the world to me and i want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted. I never will.

Have a wonderful rest of the week, dearies. Stay safe and stay positive.

Till next time… Toodles!

🔮 Beacon Book Box ~ SINISTER SISTERHOOD ~ November Unboxing 🔮

Hello awesome people and happy Monday everyone!

I hope you guys had a great weekend, whether you celebrated Valentine’s Day or not, and you had the chance to relax and do all the things that bring you joy.

Today I’m here with a very, very belated unboxing, as I only got my November Beacon Book Box last week. Due to COVID, the shipping has been all over the place and with the holidays, things only got worse. But I finally got this amazing box and I can’t wait to share it with you all.

For those of you who don’t know, Beacon Book Box is a YA monthly-subscription box, in which every month you receive a new release, as well as a bunch of bookish items, focusing on a specific theme. As always, I am a rep for Beacon Book Box, and you can use my code VICTORIOUS5 to save on your subscription or single purchase.

And now, with all that being said, let’s get to the actual unboxing.

THE GOODIES

“The Thirteen” Whiteboard, inspired by Throne of Glass and designed by @riddleandravens

Stainless Steel Straw Set, inspired by The Wicked Deep and designed by @catarinabookdesigns

“Duarte Sisters” Phone Stand, inspired by The Cruel Prince and designed by @sjwonderlandz

“Chateau le Blanc” Hot Chocolate, inspire by Serpent & Dove, with label designed by @riddleandravens

Collectible Ornament (11 of 12), inspired by The Wicked King and designed by @riddleandravens

#BakingWithTheBeacons recipe of the month ~ Manon’s Lemon Zucchini Bread

The Assassin’s Daughter and The Assassin’s Revenge eBooks, by Shana Vernon

THE BOOK

The featured book for the month of November was The Ravens, by Danielle Paige and Kass Morgan. The book was, as per usual, signed and it also came with a letter from the authors.

And if you don’t know what this book is about, here’s its blurb:

“Kappa Rho Nu isn’t your average sorority. Their parties are notorious. Their fundraisers are known for being Westerly College’s most elaborate affairs. But beneath the veil of Greek life and prestige, the sisters of Kappu Rho Nu share a secret: they’re a coven of witches.

For Vivi Deveraux, being one of Kappa Rho Nu’s Ravens means getting a chance to redefine herself. For Scarlett Winters, a bonafide Raven and daughter of a legacy Raven, pledge this year means living up to her mother’s impossible expectations of becoming Kappa Rho Nu’s next president. Scarlett knows she’d be the perfect candidate — that is, if she didn’t have one human-sized skeleton in her closet….

When Vivi and Scarlett are paired as big and little for initiation, they find themselves sinking into the sinister world of blood oaths and betrayals.”

If you’re in for supernatural stuff, modern-day witches and college life, then this is definitely the book for you.

Overall, this was such an amazing box, with the straw set being by absolute favourite item.

Did you guys purchase the November Beacon Book Box box? Have you read The Ravens? If so, did you like it?

I look forward to reading all your comments, thoughts and feelings in the comment section down below.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It honestly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

Love you all to Pluto and back. Have a wonderful week, dearies.

Till next time… Toodles!

BOOK REVIEW: Midnight Sun (Twilight, #5), by Stephenie Meyer ~ All the Nostalgic Feels! *SPOILERS & DISCUSSION*

When insomnia becomes a pain in the ass and there aren’t many things that you can do, you can always read a book, where the main protagonist doesn’t sleep. Ever.

Hello awesome nerds and happy Saturday everyone.

It feels to me like it’s been a while since the last time I wrote a review here, and that’s probably true. Mostly because I feel like I’m reading slower than ever, I’ve been extremely busy to properly sit down and actually talk about my thoughts and feelings towards a certain book, and, overall, I haven’t been in a really good place lately.

But, despite all that, I’m here today to discuss with you all the fifth and final (?) instalment in the Twilight Saga series.

For those very few who don’t know, the Twilight series is a YA Paranormal series, revolving around the life of Bella Swan, who is a human, and how her life abruptly changes when she moves to a small town in Washington, DC, named Forks. There, she meets and falls in love with Edward Cullen, a seemingly normal 17-year-old boy, who is actually a vampire.

Back in the early ’00s, paranormal novels where like a thing and Twilight slowly turned into an international phenomenon. And back at the time, when I was still a High School student, especially in 2008 and 2009, I was hooked and I kept rereading the four books of the main series.

The thing though is that there was another book. A book Stephenie Meyer had started writing, narrating the events occurring in Twilight from Edward’s POV. But, the first few chapters were illegally uploaded on the Internet, and Meyer put this story aside. Indefinitely.

Until last summer, when it was finally revealed that the fifth book of the series, Midnight Sun, would finally be released after 12 years! You can only imagine my shock, surprise and excitement when that happened! And yes, this is me saying all that, despite the fact that I still believe that rereading the Twilight Saga was a major wake-up call, especially on what comes to toxic relationships, sexual assault and rape survivors, what’s actually good and healthy for us, and what we should do, in order for us to be happy.

So, with all that being said, let’s get to the actual review of Midnight Sun, the fifth book in this classic, at this point, series.

“When Edward Cullen and Bella Swan met in Twilight, an iconic love story was born. But until now, fans have heard only Bella’s side of the story. At last, readers can experience Edward’s version in the long-awaited companion novel, Midnight Sun.

This unforgettable tale as told through Edward’s eyes takes on a new and decidedly dark twist. Meeting Bella is both the most unnerving and intriguing event he has experienced in all his years as a vampire. As we learn more fascinating details about Edward’s past and the complexity of his inner thoughts, we understand why this is the defining struggle of his life. How can he justify following his heart if it means leading Bella into danger?”

Before moving forward, let me tell you that this is going to be a SPOILERY REVIEW. The first part will be spoiler free, focusing more on technicalities and writing style, but from a certain point onwards HECTIC SPOILERS will make an appearance. So, if you haven’t read the book and you don’t want to be spoiled, proceed with caution.

First of all, let me just acknowledge the fact that Stephenie Meyer’s writing style improved a lot over the past ten years. And I’m saying ten because the last book I read from her was The Host and, even though back at the time when I read it, it felt pretty amazing to me, if I reread it now, I’d probably find many, many problems.

However, Midnight Sun was flowing effortlessly, partly because I knew what to expect, most of the times, and partly because Edward was such a well-written character, with a complex way of thinking and interesting opinions and ideas about the world. And again, yes, this is me saying all that. The same me who said that “I was such a goofball and a (stupid) romantic, and I was hooked by the love story.”, when I first read Twilight.

But seeing things from Edward’s perspective, which was equally narrating, as well as descriptive (And, oh my Lord, how many flowery adjectives Edward uses throughout the book), was truly a very pleasant change. To be honest, I would really like to read the entire Saga from his point of view now.

I very much enjoying the descriptions of the other characters and their minds, as well as the places where the story unfolded, and the events that occurred there. At times, it felt like a monologue to me, mostly because there were times when Bella was asleep and Edward was practically torturing himself (Which, let me tell you, is super masochistic), but other than that it was indeed a very, very pleasant read.

And so very nostalgic.

So, at this point, I want to warn you that, from this point onwards, the review will have some HECTIC SPOILERS, so if you haven’t read the book, I’ll see you next time. But if you have already read it, or you know the Twilight story in general, you’re free to stay and discuss this book with me.

Ok, folks.

This was a nostalgic, intense and very emotional journey to the past. It was really nice to be able to see things from Edward’s perspective and get to know him a little bit better. He has such a complex way of thinking and his mind works in such a peculiar, intriguing way. I’m not saying that it is healthy to try and act as a savior all the time, but I get why he does what he does.

Also, I most certainly don’t excuse all the horrible murders he committed. It was wrong in the first place to act as a vigilante and punish the guilty. This wasn’t his call. And yet… he never killed an innocent.

So, you see my point, dearies? It’s hard not to see even a fragment of logic in the way Edward sees and does things. It seemed logical to him to leave Bella at first, because he didn’t want to kill an innocent girl, because this would also “kill”, figuratively speaking, his family. They had chosen a different way of living and it was only logical for Edward not to throw everything away for a plain, human girl.

But… Love works in mysterious ways, I suppose. And when it’s real, you can’t hide from it. It consumes you mind, body and soul. It keeps you awake, even if you haven’t slept for almost a century. It hurts, but it’s also pleasant. And it’s so freaking rare. It really is. It’s rare to find someone who will accept you for who you are, who will be there for you no matter what, and with whom you’ll be able to be goofy and silly and sensitive and vulnerable and all the other shades of yourself.

You see, that’s why it was so heart-warming, and bittersweet at the same time, reading Midnight Sun. Not everyone is as lucky as these two. And don’t even get me started that this is a fictional couple. It’s because of classic and romance novels that great expectations occur and sometimes you’re left with disappointment.

Regardless of that, even though the love story was the main aspect of this book, I also loved seeing Edward interacting with his family, especially Alice, Rosalie and Emmet. Y’all know how much I adore Rosalie and seeing her through Edward’s eyes was a very… refreshing way, I’d say, to reevaluate some stuff. The way Edward sees Rosalie made me appreciate her even more as a character. And, of course, it was so much fun seeing Edward getting all grumpy every single time Alices had a vision, but it was also super cute seeing how these two were connected with such a special bond, one they do not share with the other members of their family. Lastly, Emmet will always be the goofball guy I’ll like to have in my life. He feels like a big brother, a best friend and the coolest partner a girl could ask.

Last but most certainly not least, the finale, with the hunt, James and the final battle was absolutely EVERYTHING! I don’t remember having such intense emotions while reading a book lately, except perhaps when I was about to finish Chain of Gold, but reading the last few pages of Midnight Sun was intense in a completely new level.

Overall, I ended up rating this book with 4/5 stars and I highly suggest you check it out if you love the Twilight Saga series and you want to get all nostalgic and emotional.

I look forward to reading all your thoughts and feelings in the comment section down below, if you made it to the end of this post.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It truly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

Love you all to Pluto and back, awesome nerds! Have a wonderful weekend, stay safe and stay positive.

Till next time… Toodles!

Beacon Book Box ~ MAGICAL RETELLINGS ~ March Theme Reveal

Can someone please explain to me how is spring just around the corner? Where did time go?

Hello awesome nerds and happy Thursday everyone, and welcome to a very exciting post! It’s been a while since my last Beacon Book Box post, but today I’m gonna treat you all with the March theme reveal, which is going to be simply magical!

For those of you who don’t know, Beacon Book Box is a YA monthly-subscription box, in which every month you receive a new release, as well as a bunch of bookish items, focusing on a specific theme.

The theme for the month of March is… MAGICAL RETELLINGS!

Before delving into detail about what this box is going to be about, let me remind you that I am a rep for Beacon Book Box and you can always use my rep code VICTORIOUS5 to save on your subscription or single purchase.

With all that being said, let’s go and see what the March box is going to have!

This month’s box is going to revolve around books and worlds that are retellings of some classic and beloved tales. And trust me when I say, we all need retellings in our lives. Because classics never die. They may be old, but they’re also gold.

The book of the month is going to transport you to an opera house’s catacombs in a Paris-like city, were a lush and mysterious adventure awaits. A girl with a terrible secret, music-based magic, revenge, murder, betrayal and falling chandeliers are found in this Phantom of the Opera retelling, and they promise to hook you right from the very first page!

The book will, as per usual, be SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR and it will also come with a letter from them. This book is perfect for the fans of House of Salt and Sorrows and Serpent & Dove.

You can also expect items inspired by The Wrath and the Dawn, The Court of Miracles and These Violent Delights. What’s more, the March box is going to feature the first quarterly collectible mug, with artwork inspired by Stalking Jack the Ripper and designed by Dominique Wesson.

Do I need to say more?

This box will be available for subscriptions and single purchases today, at 10AM EST, aka in an hour, and you can follow that link to grab yours. Don’t forget to use VICTORIOUS5 at checkout to save some money.

Are you guys as excited as I am for the March box? Have you read any of the books mentioned here? Also, do you have any suspicions of what the book is going to be?

Let me know all your thoughts and feelings in the comment section down below.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It honestly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

Have a wonderful rest of the week, beautiful people. Stay safe and stay positive.

Till next time… Toodles!

RomComs to Watch on Valentine’s Day

Hello awesome nerds and happy Monday everyone!

I hope y’all had a lovely weekend, you had time to recharge your batteries and spend time with your loved ones.

I, as per usual, had a very busy weekend, but it was also fun, as I’m currently working on a really exciting project, so I can’t complain. I also managed to read a lot, write a bit and work on my bookish content.

Since we’re back in a strict lockdown until February 14, this week isn’t going to be anything but work, jogging, reading and Netflix for me. And since Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and it is going to be slightly different, compared to how it was last year, I have a list of RomComs for you to watch, either that day or during the week. I know I’ll do the latter.

So, sit back comfortably and get ready to feel all the swoons!

1. To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before2. To All The Boys 2: P.S.: I Still Love You3. To All The Boys: Always and Forever

So, you can probably understand how OBSESSED I am with this series. I’ve already watched it multiple times, I can’t wait for the third movie to be released, I’ve read all three of the books AND I ordered some amazing candles inspired by the series, which I can’t wait to receive. Talking about obsession, now, huh?

Also, this Friday, I’m planning on baking these turnovers LJ made, but with strawberries, because we don’t have cherries this time of the year. I’ll let you know how they turned out.

4. The Kissing Booth5. The Kissing Booth 2

Again, this is one of the series that I have already watched multiple times, but somehow it never gets old. I know it’s kinda cheesy, but at this point, after multiple lockdowns, a year in the Covid era, and many personal ups and downs, I just appreciate whatever it is that can give me some giggles! And that is the case with these movies.

6. Valentine’s Day

Y’all! Come one! This one’s a classic!

I still can’t believe this movie was released in 2010 and it’s freaking 2021 now!

But, I watch this every year and I love how the stories intertwine with one another, leading to the sweet finale!

7. I Hate Valentine’s Day

Another classic at this point is this beauty above, with Mia Vardalos and John Corbett, who are both two of my absolute favourite actors. I don’t know how many times I’ve watched this movie and every single time I get surprised by the chemistry these two have. And if you were too young back in 2009, when this movie was released, then you can definitely watch it this year.

8. No Strings Attached

Honestly, you guys, there’s nothing I can say about this movie. I was watching it at least once a month when I was studying at university, my best friend still claims that I act like Emma, in many aspects of my life, and I still can’t believe it’s been TEN FREAKING YEARS since this movie was released!

9. Set It Up

This was one of the very first romantic comedies I discovered on Netflix, I’ve watched it multiple times ever since, but I still enjoy it just as much as I did the first time I watched it. Zoey Deutch is simply amazing in this movie and I can relate so freaking much to the point it get weird. Like really, really weird…

10. The Ugly Truth

Last, but most certainly not least, another classic, in my personal opinion, which everyone loves. And maybe sometimes get pissed by it.

Once again, this is a movie I’ve watched multiple times and yet, it never gets boring no matter how many times I rewatch it. This year isn’t going to be an exception. That is for certain.

These are some of the movies I’m planning on watching this week, and I hope you enjoy them, too, if you choose to watch them.

Let me know in the comment section down below any RomCom recommendations you may have. As you’ve probably figured out, I can never have too many.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It truly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

I hope you all have a wonderful week and you spend it in the best way possible!

Till next time… Toodles!

The Books I Really Want to Read by the End of February

Hello awesome nerds and happy Saturday everyone!

How it is already February 6th, I have no idea! The thing though is that I’m really busy lately and I feel like I’m not reading as much as I want to. Which is why I thought I should mention here the books I really want to finish by the end of this month, just to motivate myself a little bit more.

Plus, this will be a great opportunity for you to discover new book recommendations, especially if your TBR isn’t completely out of control yet.

So, sit back, get your notebook and a pen, and write down some books that will definitely give you all the feels this February!

1. Midnight Sun (Twilight, #5), by Stephenie Meyer

“When Edward Cullen and Bella Swan met in Twilight, an iconic love story was born. But until now, fans have heard only Bella’s side of the story. At last, readers can experience Edward’s version in the long-awaited companion novel, Midnight Sun.

This unforgettable tale as told through Edward’s eyes takes on a new and decidedly dark twist. Meeting Bella is both the most unnerving and intriguing event he has experienced in all his years as a vampire. As we learn more fascinating details about Edward’s past and the complexity of his inner thoughts, we understand why this is the defining struggle of his life. How can he justify following his heart if it means leading Bella into danger?”

I’m already more than halfway through and I really want to finish it by the end of the weekend. So far it gives me all the nostalgic feels and a better understanding of how Edward’s mind works. Yet, I still believe that he was overreacting most of the times, he was a little bit controlling and, maybe, under different circumstances, a little bit toxic.

Nonetheless, I’m not gonna deny that it’s nice to finally read things from his POV. Bella was just… dull compared to how complex thoughts Edward has.

2. A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy, #1), by Deborah Harkness

“A richly inventive novel about a centuries-old vampire, a spellbound witch, and the mysterious manuscript that draws them together. 

Deep in the stacks of Oxford’s Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell. 

Debut novelist Deborah Harkness has crafted a mesmerizing and addictive read, equal parts history and magic, romance and suspense. Diana is a bold heroine who meets her equal in vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont, and gradually warms up to him as their alliance deepens into an intimacy that violates age-old taboos. This smart, sophisticated story harks back to the novels of Anne Rice, but it is as contemporary and sensual as the Twilight series-with an extra serving of historical realism.”

I am currently listening to this on audiobook and again, I really want to finish it by the end of this weekend.

The narrator is amazing, I love the fact that the protagonist is closer to my age and it’s a really fun change to see witches and vampires, demons and humans interacting in the real world, having college problems to deal with, but also supernatural obstacles to overcome.

I admit, it was a bit hard at first to keep up with everything, but the audiobook makes things seem easier, so I do believe I’m gonna end up liking this a lot.

3. The Boundless (The Beholder, #2), by Anna Bright

“This breathtaking sequel to The Beholder will take you on a journey into a darkly sparkling fairy tale, perfect for fans of The Selection and Caraval.

When Selah found true love with Prince Torden of Norway, she never imagined she’d have to leave him behind. All because the Beholder’s true mission was a secret Selah’s crew didn’t trust her to keep: transporting weapons to the rebels fighting against the brutal tsarytsya, whose shadow looms over their next port of Shvartsval’d. A place Selah hoped she’d never go.

But gone is the girl who departed Potomac filled with fear. With a stockpile of weapons belowdecks and her heart hanging in the balance, Selah is determined to see the Beholder’s quest to its end.”

This book has been patiently waiting for me to pick it up for quite some time now. But, I believe the time has come for me to read it, especially since it’s a romance story and what better month to read a romance story than February, right?

I honestly hope that it’s going to be just as good as The Beholder, if not better. What I know for a fact is that, once again, I’m going to enjoy Anna’s writing style!

4. These Witches Don’t Burn (These Witches Don’t Burn, #1), by Isabel Sterling

“Hannah’s a witch, but not the kind you’re thinking of. She’s the real deal, an Elemental with the power to control fire, earth, water, and air. But even though she lives in Salem, Massachusetts, her magic is a secret she has to keep to herself. If she’s ever caught using it in front of a Reg (read: non-witch), she could lose it. For good. So, Hannah spends most of her time avoiding her ex-girlfriend (and fellow Elemental Witch) Veronica, hanging out with her best friend, and working at the Fly by Night Cauldron selling candles and crystals to tourists, goths, and local Wiccans. 

But dealing with her ex is the least of Hannah’s concerns when a terrifying blood ritual interrupts the end-of-school-year bonfire. Evidence of dark magic begins to appear all over Salem, and Hannah’s sure it’s the work of a deadly Blood Witch. The issue is, her coven is less than convinced, forcing Hannah to team up with the last person she wants to see: Veronica.

While the pair attempt to smoke out the Blood Witch at a house party, Hannah meets Morgan, a cute new ballerina in town. But trying to date amid a supernatural crisis is easier said than done, and Hannah will have to test the limits of her power if she’s going to save her coven and get the girl, especially when the attacks on Salem’s witches become deadlier by the day.”

Now, that’s what I’m talking about!

This is probably my typical kind of read, but there’s also diversity and everyday problems and witches in the hometown of witches. So, I truly hope that it’s going to be absolutely PERFECT because I’m so very excited about this!

5. The Unhoneymooners, by Christina Lauren

“Olive is always unlucky: in her career, in love, in…well, everything. Her identical twin sister Ami, on the other hand, is probably the luckiest person in the world. Her meet-cute with her fiancé is something out of a romantic comedy (gag) and she’s managed to finance her entire wedding by winning a series of Internet contests (double gag). Worst of all, she’s forcing Olive to spend the day with her sworn enemy, Ethan, who just happens to be the best man.

Olive braces herself to get through 24 hours of wedding hell before she can return to her comfortable, unlucky life. But when the entire wedding party gets food poisoning from eating bad shellfish, the only people who aren’t affected are Olive and Ethan. And now there’s an all-expenses-paid honeymoon in Hawaii up for grabs.

Putting their mutual hatred aside for the sake of a free vacation, Olive and Ethan head for paradise, determined to avoid each other at all costs. But when Olive runs into her future boss, the little white lie she tells him is suddenly at risk to become a whole lot bigger. She and Ethan now have to pretend to be loving newlyweds, and her luck seems worse than ever. But the weird thing is that she doesn’t mind playing pretend. In fact, she feels kind of… lucky.”

This month, I decided to mix things up a bit and read something I don’t normally read. That is an Adult Romance story, just because a) it’s February and I need something light and slightly cheesy to cheer me up, and b) many of my friends have read this particular book and really liked it.

I have never read a Christina Lauren book before and I do hope that I’m gonna enjoy this one.

Well, frankly, I hope I’m going to enjoy all five of these books. It’s still too early in 2021 to get in a slump.

Have you guys read any of the books mentioned here? How many books are you planning on reading this month? Also, do you have any romance recommendations for me?

I look forward to reading all your comments, thoughts and feelings in the comment section down below.

Thank you all so very much for stopping by once again. It honestly means the world to me and I want you to know that I most certainly don’t take your presence here for granted.

Have a wonderful weekend, dearies. Stay safe and stay positive!

Till next time… Toodles!