Sage Nestler's Blog, page 40
May 25, 2017
New Listing: Falkor Plushie from The Neverending Story
Hello, Everyone!
As some of you may know, I own an Etsy store called The Bookish Hook. Through this store, I create yarn art based on different books and book characters. Well, I am super excited to show you the newest item that I have released in my shop! It is a Falkor plush from The Neverending Story that I crocheted from my own design.
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Full Body Photo – I crocheted the eyes from my own design!
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Hanging side view – the plushie comes with an optional hanger
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Bottom Side – The feet are made from pom pom balls and the wings are hand crocheted with wire
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This plushie will be made to order for $35 and FREE SHIPPING IN THE US! He measures a little over a foot in length. If you are a huge The Neverending Story fan like I am, then I am sure that you will love this Falkor plush. I am to portray my love for books in my yarn art, and I hope you enjoy it!
If you have any bookish characters who you would love to see in a plushie, feel free to reach out to me! I can crochet just about anything from scratch, and I’d be happy to do a custom order for you.
Much love,
Ashley
FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form
FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
Box Review: Devotions Delivered
Hello, Everyone!
I love supporting small business artists, and I found this subscription box called Devotions Delivered that does just that! This box brings you a new photography collection each month from an independent photographer and each photo is connected to scripture. If you are Christian or spiritual, this is a great box to give you a boost of faith each month while supporting small artists!
Much love,
Ashley
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Welcome to Devotions Delivered, where Christian prints & postcards from around the world travel to your mailbox.
Devotions Delivered brings you 4 exclusive photography postcard prints each month with matching bible verses. The postcards are 5 x 7 inches, and you have the option to order them pre-stamped for mailing, or unstamped. You can also choose between the Love collection or the Faith collection. Based on your choice, you will receive different bible verses on your postcards.
Plans:
$7.99/month + FREE shipping in the United States.
3 Month PrePay: $23.00 + FREE shipping in the US
6 Month PrePay: $39.99 + FREE shipping in the US
12 Month PrePay: $72.00 + FREE shipping in the US
The photographers at Devotions Delivered are faith photographers, and their goal is to share their experiences with you through their photographs!
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I subscribed to the Love collection, so all of my postcards are based on love! This month’s collection is set in Austria.
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Devotions Delivered comes in a thick, cardboard envelope to protect the photos inside. I love how compact this packaging is because it fits right into my mailbox!
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Inside of the envelope, the photos are wrapped in paper with a gorgeous fake plant tied to them. I love how caring the packaging is!
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On the opposite side of the photos is an attached note.
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The note is a thank you note for subscribing to the box!
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This is a personalized note from the owner of the box, Nissa, and I love how she wrote a note specifically to me. It makes me feel good to know how personalized this box is.
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Once I took the paper off of the photos, I was happy to see that they were protected further! Nissa puts so much care into the packaging of the photos, and I love how much love she sends to the subscriber through her box.
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The inside letter introduces this month’s guest photographer, Alibrandi Dawn! Devotions Delivered features guest photographers to give the subscriber a wide variety of photography collections.
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The letter also comes with in-depth descriptions of each of the photos included. There is also a biography listed for Alibrandi Dawn.
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The first photo included is a postcard called “Focus Flower”. The description for the photo discusses how in some cities it is hard to find greenery, but how greenery is everywhere in Austria. It also says that this photo represents a man-made building, as well as the God-made flower. It is supposed to remind the viewer to always be grateful for whatever God brings them because man-made things do not last. I love this! It helps to keep our purpose in check.
Featured Scripture:
“May the Lord Direct your hearts to the Love of God and the steadfastness of Christ.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:5 ESV
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The second photo is called “Salzach River”. The description that goes with this photo reflects how the photographer looks at these homes along the river and becomes joyful at the colorful sight. The photo is supposed to remind the viewer about how God looks down on us and loves us more than we could ever love each other. This photograph is full of love, and it radiates right off of the postcard!
Featured Scripture:
“And I will be to her a wall of fire all around, declared the lord, and I will be the glory in her midst.” – Zechariah 2:5
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The third photo is called “Famous Fountain”. This fountain was used in The Sound of Music when Maria is singing “I Have Confidence in Me”. The photographer says that the photo reminds her of Christ’s everlasting love since the fountain never stops running. She also talks about how she has confidence in Christ to provide for her since His love is everlasting. This is a great reminder of the love that Christ has for us!
Featured Scripture:
“Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” – Psalm 32:11 ESV
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The last photo is called “Unconditional Love”. This photo features Palace Leopold, which was used in The Sound of Music for the exterior of the Von Trapp mansion. I am a huge fan of The Sound of Music, so I love this photo! The photographer talks about how hard it must have been for Maria in the movie to love seven children that weren’t her own in the beginning of her working at the mansion. This represents how God loves all of us with unconditional love. This teaches us to love others as much as God loves us.
Featured Scripture:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
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Final Thought: I love how Devotions Delivered brings the subscriber a taste of the world, while also connecting back to God. This brings faith and travel together, and I always feel comforted when I receive this package! I also love how this box supports photographers and the art that is photography. If you are in need of a positive boost as well as an escape from your everyday life, then Devotions Delivered is the way to go!
*NOTE: Peachy Keen Reviews received this box to review.
May 24, 2017
Writing Discussion: The Importance of Historical Fiction
Hello, Everyone!
Today I want to discuss historical fiction for a bit. Historical fiction is a huge passion of mine, and it is something that drives every genre of literature. History is in everything that we do, and as writers and readers, it is important that we understand this.
I am a huge fantastic about ghost towns and the histories thereof. I live in Colorado where we have many ghost towns in the Rocky Mountains, but with the passing of time many of these ghost towns have lost their remaining structures and cease to exist. With our harsh winters, so many of these towns are lost and forgotten – and along with them the histories of those who once settled there. With the loss of physical markings of towns that once were, we are left with whatever recorded history exists and the possibilities of historical stories in literature.
This is why historical fiction is so important. By writing about the past and creating stories from different perspectives, authors keep alive those who are long gone and the legacies that they might have left. As time passes, history is lost and it is our duty as authors to make sure that the past is not forgotten. It is even more important as readers that we read these books to understand where we have come from. There is a lot that can be learned from historical fiction and history in general. Our world is molded from the events of the past, and we only continue and grow from them.
Historical fiction is also a great way to keep people and places alive who may be long gone. As in my example of ghost towns, I love writing about many of the ghost towns here in Colorado that don’t have big histories. By giving these places stories and a fictional population, I am able to explore that history and bring a place to life that might otherwise be forgotten.
The best way that a writer can get into writing historical fiction is to explore the history of where they live. This allows the writer to connect more with their surroundings and the history of their town. Just visit one of your local museums to get started! If you begin researching the history of your town, you will feel more connected to the history that lies within your town as well as those who live there now. Connections with other humans, and with our past, are what makes living wonderful.
My job for you is to find out something about the history of your town and share it with me in the comments! Let’s pass the history around.
Much love,
Ashley
FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form
FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
May 23, 2017
Box Review: Bookloot – May 2017
Hello, Everyone!
I wanted to share with you another BookLoot review! This box is an amazing young adult fiction box, and I am sure that you will just love it.
Much love,
Ashley
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LOVE YA? We do too!
Join us on a fantastic journey through multiple YA genres and themes with our Monthly box!
All boxes come with a newly released Young Adult book, 3-4 handcrafted bookish goodies, and an exclusive first publishing of our community submitted themed short story.
Plans:
Month to Month: $29.99 + shipping
3 Month PrePay: $86.97 + shipping
6 Month PrePay: $167.94 + shipping
12 Month PrePay: $323.88 + shipping
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This month’s theme is “Fierce Fems”! I always love a great female power box.
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BookLoot arrives in a simple navy blue box with the logo sticker on top!
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Upon opening the box, you can see how many goodies are packed inside! I love how the artwork on the item list is the first thing that the subscriber sees.
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Here is a closeup of the gorgeous artwork on the insert card! The artwork is by Athena Warner.
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I love how the item list describes each item in depth. This helps the subscriber connect to the owners of the box – Sara and Eugene – as well as the theme!
The first item, my favorite item, is this tote by Paperly & Co.! The tote says “be the heroine of your own story”, and I love that message! BookLoot has worked with Paperly & Co. before, and I just love their items! This is a great small business for bookish items.
The next item is a Celaena Sardothien Bath Bomb from Nerdie Nifties! This bath bomb is based on the character from Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas, and I love the scent! Bookish related bath products are definitely my thing. Thank you, BookLoot!
Here is a closeup of the bath bomb! The light blue color is just gorgeous, and it goes well with Celaena’s character.
The next item is a bookmark of Clary Fray from the book series The Mortal Instruments! Clary is one of my favorite female characters of all time, so I adore this item!
This bookmark was made exclusively for BookLoot by Book Buddies Bookmarks! I adore how many exclusive items BookLoot comes with. This makes the box one of a kind!
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The next item is this Katniss Everdeen bracelet by The Cherry Sue Boutique! Katniss is a wonderful fierce fem, so I was happy to see her included.
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The bracelet also came with a coupon for The Cherry Sue Boutique!
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The next item is a short story called M.I.A. by A.D. Taylor! BookLoot is unique because they publish a new short story each month from submissions that they receive. I love the artwork that goes with this short story! I always like trying new authors.
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And now for the main attraction: the book! I love how the book comes wrapped with swag so that it is protected.
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This month’s book choice is The Traitor’s Kiss by Erin Beaty! The book also came with a letter from the author, a signed bookplate, and bonus swag. I always love receiving bonus goodies with the books. It makes receiving the book more special!
Here is a synopsis of the book:
“An obstinate girl who will not be married.
A soldier desperate to prove himself.
A kingdom on the brink of war.
With a sharp tongue and an unruly temper, Sage Fowler is not what they’d call a proper lady―which is perfectly fine with her. Deemed unfit for a suitable marriage, Sage is apprenticed to a matchmaker and tasked with wrangling other young ladies to be married off for political alliances. She spies on the girls―and on the soldiers escorting them.
As the girls’ military escort senses a political uprising, Sage is recruited by a handsome soldier to infiltrate the enemy ranks. The more she discovers as a spy, the less certain she becomes about whom to trust―and Sage becomes caught in a dangerous balancing act that will determine the fate of her kingdom.
With secret identities and a tempestuous romance, Erin Beaty’s The Traitor’s Kiss is full of intrigue, espionage, and lies.”
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Final Thought: This BookLoot box was great! I adored the “Fierce Fems” theme and the items connected to characters I love. I can always tell that BookLoot makes sure that their boxes are carefully packed and curated, and I appreciate that effort. I also love how they support aspiring writers through their short story program. If you are looking for a great young adult fiction box that sets itself apart from the others, then be sure and check out BookLoot!
*NOTE: The Box Reviewers paid for this box to review.
Short Story: Finding Home by A.M. Nestler
Hello, Everyone!
I wanted to share with you a new short story that I wrote. This story is called Finding Home, and it is about a female pirate who comes home and faces her father for the first time since she left. Enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
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Abigail shuffled down the cobblestone road, each step shooting pain up her calves. Abigail hadn’t walked on this road in six years, and she wasn’t sure why she was back now. Each step reminded Abigail of her childhood and the parents she left behind. The memories that were flooding Abigail threatened to rip her from the inside out, but she kept walking anyway. The limp in Abigail’s gait hindered her speed, but she used her cane to steady her. The cane was the only thing holding her up.
Abigail had been ten years old when the pirates captured her. The memory of it had been burned into the back of her mind, and even though it had been six years since the incident, Abigail knew that she would never be able to let it go. Those men had changed her way of life, and Abigail was forever grateful that they had kept her alive once she had proved herself; but Abigail was not proud of the actions she was forced to perform to survive. Abigail had killed many innocent people for their belongings, and she carried each one of them with her with every step that she took.
A creak sounded throughout the alleyway as a door creaked open to Abigail’s left. She jumped, catching herself with her cane, and looked towards the offending noise. At first, Abigail couldn’t see anyone through the fog. But as the door widened, a small figure came through the mist.
“Hello?” a small voice said, and Abigail looked to where the voice had come from. A young girl dressed in a ragged dress was coming towards Abigail, and it made Abigail’s heart drop. “Who are you?”
Abigail used her cane to lower herself to the girl’s level. The resemblance of the young girl to Abigail was uncanny. Abigail felt as though she was looking into her past.
“My name is Abigail,” Abigail said, reaching her hand out to the girl. The girl considered her hand for a moment before shaking it with one quick jolt.
“You aren’t supposed to be here,” the girl said, and Abigail’s face twisted into confusion.
“Excuse me?”
“You aren’t welcome.”
The young girl ran back into her house as a loud shot rang out from behind Abigail. Abigail turned her head around, her body betraying her with its injuries. She felt as though she couldn’t move, but a crowd was coming at her without mercy.
“Pirate!” one of them shouted, his mouth distorted with anger. The crowd behind him screamed and waved their torches in disgust. Abigail wasn’t even sure how they knew what she was, but she didn’t have time to think. She turned her head back around and shuffled down the road, moving as fast as she could with her bum leg. But Abigail could feel the crowd coming up on her. Abigail had fought so many townsfolk off in her time, but with each step that she took, she could feel her motivation leaving her. All Abigail had hoped was to find her home and the place that she was meant to be, but it was becoming apparent to her that perhaps that place was gone. A pirate could never come back home, because they never had a home to begin with.
Before long, a hand grabbed Abigail’s shoulder and pulled her back. Abigail lost her balance and fell to the ground, her cane clattering to the side. She howled in pain as her bad leg twisted beneath her and tears began to fill her eyes. The hand that pulled Abigail yanked her chin up so that they were eye to eye. But as the man looked into Abigail’s eyes and she looked into his, a flash of recognition coated his features. He let go of her chin and took a step back, his chest heaving. Abigail barely recognized him after all of this time, and it became apparent to her just how much time had passed.
“Abigail?” he asked, and Abigail nodded, just as surprised as he was. This man was not just a man looking to stop another pirate.
He was Abigail’s father.
Abigail managed to pull herself up with her hands, making sure that she put as little weight as possible on her leg. But Abigail could not stand on her own. As she began to fall again, her father came and grabbed her arm, holding her up.
“Abigail…my god…where have you been?” he was crying now, and the look on his face broke Abigail’s heart. In her father’s eyes Abigail saw the years that were lost between them and the distance that had grown in their relationship. Abigail was no longer the ten-year-old child that her father had known, but a sixteen-year-old girl on the brink of womanhood. A tattered girl at that. Abigail had travelled the seas more than once and seen things that she could never erase, but her father was the one person who she had wanted to come back to.
“Father, I…I don’t even know where to begin,” Abigail started. For years Abigail had dreamt of this moment, but she had not anticipated the regret and dread that arose within her at the thought of how her father might think of her after all that she had done. Abigail wanted to tell her father everything. She wanted to confide in him about everything he had missed, but instead of words, her mouth just filled with stale air. Seeing Abigail’s discomfort, her father embraced her. He carried the weight that she could not put on her injured leg, as well as the emotional weight that she had been shouldering for so long. Abigail’s father saw her how he always had, and it was almost as though no time had been lost between them. Abigail’s father did not see her as the pirate that she had become. To him, Abigail was still his little girl.
“Abigail, I missed you so much. I don’t know what happened…I don’t know where you went…or what you’ve been through. I’ve just been so lost without you.”
Abigail whimpered at his words.
“Papa, I’m so sorry,” she began, feelings of remorse falling over her. Abigail blamed herself for what had happened to her. She had been playing outside against her father’s wishes when she had been kidnapped, and she had not fought the men when they had lured her away. But as Abigail’s father cupped her face with his hand, rubbing some of the grime from her cheeks, she realized that none of that mattered anymore.
As the world fell away from them, Abigail felt complete for the first time in so many years. Even though she had seen and experienced so many things, she had never felt whole. Abigail’s father was her world, and in coming back to him she had found herself again.
No matter what those pirates had told Abigail, she now knew that it was possible to come home after all. Abigail’s home had always been waiting for her, despite the passing of time, and her father was all that she needed to carry on.
The passing of time didn’t matter when Abigail had someone waiting to carry her home. Through all those years away, Abigail knew that she had just been fighting to come home.
Abigail knew that coming home had been the only way to find herself.
COPYRIGHT © A.M. Nestler, 2017
May 20, 2017
Kayleigh Causton Art – Into The Fog by A.M. Nestler
Hello, Everyone!
I wanted to show you all some amazing artwork that I had done by an artist named Kayleigh Causton. She completed the following portraits for my characters in my novel, Into The Fog, and they are just gorgeous! Kayleigh is just the sweetest, most talented person. I highly suggest her artwork if you are looking for art for your novels or other projects.
Enjoy!
Ashley
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Addanc from Into The Fog
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Darielle from Into The Fog
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Deronica from Into The Fog
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Harlisisle from Into The Fog
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Quarilite from Into The Fog
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Tarum from Into The Fog
FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form
FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
May 19, 2017
Book Review: Lost Rider by Harper Sloan
Title: Lost Rider
Author: Harper Sloan
Rating: 3/5
Synopsis:
In Lost Rider, the first Western romance in New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Harper Sloan’s Coming Home series, an injured rodeo star encounters an old flame but will she be just what he needs to get back in the saddle?
Maverick Austin Davis is forced to return home after a ten-year career as a rodeo star. After one too many head injuries, he’s off the circuit and in the horse farming business, something he’s never taken much of a shine to, but now that it’s his late father’s legacy, familial duty calls. How will Maverick find his way after the only dream he ever had for himself is over?
Enter Leighton Elizabeth James, an ugly duckling turned beauty from Maverick’s childhood—his younger sister’s best friend, to be exact, and someone whose heart he stomped all over when she confessed her crush to him ten years back. Now Leighton is back in Maverick’s life, no longer the insecure, love-stricken teen—and Maverick can’t help but take notice. Sparks fly between them, but will Leighton be able to open her heart to the one man who broke it all those years ago?
Written in the vein of Diana Palmer and Lindsay McKenna, this Texas-set series is filled with sizzle, heart, and plenty of cowboys!
Review:
I received this box from Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss! This is a great subscription box for those who love new women’s fiction.
I have to admit that I am very picky when it comes to romance/erotica novels. When I do read erotica novels I stay within the cowboy/Western genre, so I was very excited to receive this book in my Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss!
Lost Rider by Harper Sloan is the first book in a new series, and this book follows a bull rider named Maverick on his way back to his childhood home. But the book also follows Leighton, a girl who had a huge crush on Maverick growing up, and how she is still hung up on Maverick after all of the years that they were apart. Lost Rider essentially takes place after Maverick comes home and he and Leighton end up falling in love.
However, I did have one big issue with this novel. In the beginning of the story, Leighton is made fun of by Maverick for “trying to be sexy when she looks like a twelve year old boy”. Even though this was in a flash back, it showed how Maverick didn’t recognize Leighton when he came back to town because she had “grown breasts”. Leighton also talks about how she got a boob job because she was self – conscious about her body. Sloan seems to insinuate that Leighton wasn’t important enough to be noticed unless she had large breasts. I just thought that it was shallow of Maverick to not recognize Leighton because her body had changed, and he only seemed to like her once she had filled out. This was very chauvinistic, and it didn’t sit with me well.
But Lost Rider is a great page turner. Despite multiple grammatical errors, the story was a quick read and it did keep me interested. The erotic scenes were few and classy, and the romance between Leighton and Maverick ended up being endearing. I just wish – as a female author – Sloan wouldn’t have body shamed Leighton. Even though she did have Leighton fight back against Maverick, it just seemed that he kept Leighton in her place by making her feel self – conscious about her body. I just expect more from female romance authors in this day and age, and I hope that Sloan will improve how her male characters treat her female characters in the future. Readers learn from books, and we don’t need more men judging women by their looks.
FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form
FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
May 17, 2017
Box Review: A Girl’s Night In – May 2017
Hello, Everyone!
I wanted to share with you another introvert box that I found! This box is called “A Girl’s Night In” and it brings introvert women activities to do on a night at home. I love the care that goes into curating this box, and I highly recommend it! We all need a relaxing night in once in a while.
Much love,
Ashley
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A Girl’s Night In
Each box is carefully curated with the discerning introvert in mind and starts with an interesting book. You’ll also find bath and beauty products such as handmade bath bombs, high-quality facial masks and other cruelty-free products, craft kits along with instructions, hand-made candles, chocolates or other sweet treats, herbal or regular tea, or maybe hot cocoa. We also have a Facebook group and a monthly Spotify playlist.
With A Girl’s Night In Box, you’ll have a reason to say, “Sorry, I’m just so busy. I guess I’ll have to miss that big party with all those people tonight!”
Plan Options:
Month to Month: $39.95 + shipping*
3 Month PrePay: $115 + shipping*
6 Month PrePay: $220 + shipping*
*Ships ONLY within the US and Canada – shipping is calculated.
I couldn’t wait to receive this box because I am an introvert and love spending nights on my own. I think it is great that this box celebrates introverts, because it is much needed!
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A Girl’s Night In comes in this gorgeous bluish-purple box with the logo on the front. I love the calming design. It made me so excited to see it waiting for me on my porch!
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The first item in the box is this pair of Solemate Socks by The Sock Lady! These socks are extremely warm and comfortable and I am actually wearing them right now. The socks are mismatched, and I love the quirky look to them. They are the perfect pair of socks for an introvert such as myself! The socks are also made out of recycled cotton, which I appreciate very much.
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The next item is this set of Seed of Intention Cards! I love how these cards help the subscriber have confidence in themselves.
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Here are a few of the cards for example! I love the positivity of the cards. This is a great gift for introverts who want to expand themselves and stand up for who they are.
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Also included in the box is this tension balm from Sincerely Different! I love this balm because it helps to ease your stress and/or anxiety. I suffer from an anxiety disorder, so I was very excited to see this balm included! I have already used it, and it works wonders. For those who have skin sensitivities, a hand cream was sent instead. This just shows how much A Girl’s Night In cares about their subscribers!
The next items are these packets of tea from Art of Tea! I received an Egyptian Chamomile tea and two packets of French Lemon Ginger. The chamomile tea was a great calming tea, and I liked how sweet it was. I also loved the lemon ginger teas because I have stomach issues, and they helped to soothe my stomachaches! As you can see, I am quite the tea enthusiast since I already used these teas up. Therefore, I am very excited that they were included in the box! Tea is a must for an introvert’s night in.
The treat included in this box is a milk chocolate bar from Dagoba! Chocolate is always a good idea for a night in, and I love how this chocolate is rich and unique. Usually, I am a dark chocolate fan. But I love how this bar isn’t sickeningly sweet or milky. It is the perfect blend of rich chocolate and sweet milk, and I love how it is rainforest alliance certified. Good job A Girl’s Night In! It is always nice receiving gourmet chocolate that you might not buy often.
Als0 included this month is The Book of Doubt by Tessa De Loo! This book is unique because it is hard to find, and it is written by a Dutch author. I had not heard of this book before receiving it in this box, and that made me all the more excited to receive it. Based on the reviews, The Book of Doubt is quite the experience to read. I love life-changing books!
Synopsis:
Even though he is the son of a Dutch mother, Saeed has a Moroccan first name in memory of the virtuoso oud player his mother fell in love with twenty years ago. When she found out she was pregnant, he ran off and returned to Morocco. Saeed decides to look for his father, in the hope of finding a new identity in a new world. His childhood friend Hassan accompanies him. Back then they shared an imaginary land which they both ruled. Now they only have one starting point: a grocery shop in Fez. From there they follow the trail of the oud player, who leads them from the cedar woods of Ifrane to the red dunes of the desert to the high Atlas, where Kasbahs are locked in a losing battle with decay. Saeed’s search sends him deeper into disillusionment and into the arms of Islam, where he tries to find something to hold on to. But there is a disturbing presence. A seemingly fictitious character from their imaginary past infiltrates Saeed’s quest. While Saeed desperately tries to get rid of him, different aspects of his life, more and more beyond his control, reach an apotheosis resulting in one final deed affecting man and beast alike.
The last item is this fancy Wordsearch book! This item was included for introverts to have something to do in public when they don’t want to participate in small talk. I found this concept hilarious because it is so true! Wordsearch is a much better activity to do than just staring at your phone. The Wordsearch book is high quality, and I have already completed six of the puzzles! This item is probably once of my favorites in the box. Thank you, A Girl’s Night In!
This month’s playlist on Spotify is based on classical music, and I love the songs that A Girl’s Night In picked! The playlist is extremely calming, and it goes well with the box experience.
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Final Thought: A Girl’s Night In KILLED IT with this box. Every single item was of high quality, and each item gave the subscriber a different activity to do during a night in. I love how unique each item was, and each item was something that I had never come across before. A Girl’s Night In is a luxurious box for introverts, and I appreciate the care that went into making introverts feel loved with this box.
May 16, 2017
March Literary Vacation Club Review
Hello, Everyone!
I wanted to share with you a review that The Box Reviewers did of my subscription box – Literary Vacation Club – for our March box! Our theme was Norse Mythology, and we sent each subscriber on a trip to Norway!
If you are interested in subscribing to us, use the code “WELCOME10” for 10% off of our first box!
June’s theme is “DESTINATION: Russia”!
Much love,
Ashley
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Literary Vacation Club is a book subscription service that sends you on a literary vacation every month!
Plan Options:
The Holiday: 1-2 indie novels in any genre (except for horror, poetry, and erotica), unique items that tantalize all 5 senses, and a bonus bookish goodie!
$29.99/month plus shipping*
Save $5 with their pre-paid plan – $84.99 every 3 months + shipping*
The Weekender: 1 indie novel in any genre (except for horror, poetry, and erotica), items that tantalize your see and hear sense, and an item that tantalize the smell or touch sense.
$14.99/month plus shipping*
Pre-paid plan is $54.99 every 3 months + shipping
*Shipping: $6.99 for the US, $10.99 for Canada, and $19.99 for Worldwide
March’s theme is “Norse Mythology”
I want to start off that I apologize for the late review. This is a March box and we are now in mid-May. Let’s just say time is not my friend at the moment.
First look: Literary Vacation Club always put a lot of thought and care into their packaging. Every month, it feels like I’m opening a lovely care package from a friend!
I was instantly greeted by the Literary Vacation Club pamphlet, which contains the packaging list, book questions that are available for discussion at their official facebook club, and a thank note from the owner of the company, Ashley Nestler. I also received a cute greeting card from the owner, saying “Happy Day!”. I love collecting cards so it’s always nice to receive a special, handwritten note!
Literary Vacation Club stands out for me because of their five senses feature Each item appeals to one of the five senses: to See, Hear, Taste, Touch, or Smell.
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To See: We received multiple items this month! The first item is a raven print, which is connected to Odin, a God of War and Death. I love ravens so this was a delight for me! The second item is a sticker sheet of Lord of the Rings by Beloved by HIM. I love Lord of the Rings and I was happy to see this was included in the box since Tolkien’s influences were in Norse Mythology!
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As a bonus, Holiday subscribers received a Thor magnetic bookmark by Kaelis Accessories and a Crocheted Lothlorien Leaf Badge by Crocheted Candy. Magnetic bookmarks have become increasingly popular in book subscription boxes and I can see why! They are cute, functional, and you can never have too many bookmarks!
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The Lothlorien Leaf Badge is based on Lord of the Rings. It is a reference to the brooch that Galadriel had given to the members of the Fellowship of the Ring.
To Hear: Members can access to a specific playlist on Spotify, curated to enhance your reading experience. This month, there are two playlists to go along with the featured novel!
To Taste: We received four rye crackers and two raspberry and red currant preserves by Bonne Maman. This is only available to the Holiday plan. A Viking’s diet is mostly meats, vegetables, wild fruits and cereals such as barley and rye so, my guess is that in Norse, it’s safe to assume that their diet could be similar hence the rye crackers and preserves. I never had rye crackers before so it was curious to try it. After pairing it with the preserves, it took a couple of bites for me to decide that I liked it!
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To Touch: We received a Floral Nordic Pencil Pouch with a snowflake charm. Flowers have a lot of meanings in the mythology. For instance, it is the return of spring after a long winter or even life and death. With the snowflake charm, the reference can link to the return of spring after winter. My mom loves flowers so I will be giving the pouch to her.
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To Smell: Included was the 12th Night wax by Antiquity & Illusion. At first, the scent is powerful! It is a strong scent of warm spices. However, after a while, the scent seems to tone down a little bit. Since this was shipped out in the month of March, the weather can still be cold and snowy so the warm scent is wonderful for cold nights.
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Last but not least, the book choices! All plans received a young adult, urban fantasy novel, Elsker by S.T. Bende and Holiday subscribers also received a novella written by the same author, The Elsker Saga: Tur.
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Here is a brief summary of Elsker from Amazon:
“Kristia Tostenson prefers Earl Grey to Grey Goose and book clubs to nightclubs. But when she transfers from her one-stoplight Oregon town to Cardiff University in Wales, she falls in love with Ull Myhr. Her new boyfriend isn’t exactly what she was expecting. Ull is an honest-to-goodness Norse god — an immortal assassin fated to die at Ragnarok, the battle destined to destroy Asgard and Earth. When someone starts asking the wrong questions, Kristia realizes the crazy visions she’s had all her life might be the key to saving their realms… even if they end up costing her her life. Her orderly world just got very messy. (Elsker: The Elsker Saga, Book One)”
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Here is a brief summary of The Elsker Saga: Tur from Amazon:
“Inga Andersson is the envy of every girl in Asgard. On the surface she has it all — great friends, a job as Odin’s personal fight choreographer, and a happy ever after with her realm’s hottest assassin. But when evil invades Asgard, her perfect world comes crashing down. Someone is planning to kill off the gods, and Inga’s best friend Ull is first on their list. With the Norse apocalypse a nanosecond away, Inga has to decide how she’ll spend her final moments of freedom. Because from the moment this battle begins, Inga’s happily ever after will be nothing more than a memory.
Some things are worth fighting for.”
The author also included a signed bookmark and an Olaug’s Norsk Waffles recipe! The preserves that were included in the box would have been a perfect topping for this recipe! I just wished I didn’t finish it with the rye crackers!
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Final thoughts: This is my favorite theme from Literary Vacation Club! The items fit the Norse theme perfectly and I would have never discovered S.T. Bende or independent authors that Literary Vacation Club have worked with in the past. It is a wonderful subscription service that will take you on a reading vacation!
Box Review: Blue Spider’s Attic – May 2017
The Magic Of A Used Bookstore Delivered.
Blue Spider’s Attic is a book subscription that sends you used books, coffee and/or tea, and bookish accessories. Each month’s box is based on a different theme, and all items are carefully picked to match that month’s theme.
Each box comes with three used books along with enough tea or coffee to fill a whole pot. Also included are bonus accessories that correlate to the month’s theme.
There Are Three Different Boxes That Blue Spider’s Attic Offers:
The Attic Box = Includes books, tea or coffee, and bookish accessories
Month by Month ($21.99/month+shipping)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($59.99+shipping)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($114.99+shipping)
Blue Spider’s Bookish Accessories = Include 2 – 3 bookish accessories and one sample of tea and one sample of coffee
Month by Month ($13.99+shipping)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($39.99+shipping)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($79.50+shipping)
Blue Spider’s Basics = Includes books, coffee, and tea
Month by Month ($13.99+shipping)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($39.99+shipping)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($79.50+shipping)
Blue Spider’s Attic also offers one time boxes that you can purchase without subscribing
US shipping is $7.00
One of the best things about subscribing to this box is that you are able to list your book preferences. No two boxes are the same, and the owners work hard to make sure that you receive books you will love!
Use Code TBR2017 to Receive 10% off of Any Item from Blue Spider’s Attic
I bought the May Attic Box, and this month’s theme is Steampunk! This is always one of my favorite themes, so I couldn’t wait to receive this box.
Blue Spider’s Attic shows up in a simple kraft box with the logo sticker on the top! I love how this gives the box a thrifty feel.
Upon opening the box, you are able to see how the items are wrapped in tissue paper and sealed with another logo sticker. I love this careful packaging. It makes each box special!
The first item I pulled out of the box is this fake mustache! This item is a bonus, and it goes perfectly with the steampunk theme. I have had so much fun playing with it!
The next paper items are a bookmark, business card, and postcard from Blue Spider’s Attic! I love the Alice in Wonderland themed postcard as well as the personal bookmark. These are a nice touch!
This skeleton key bottle opener is also a great addition! I love the steampunk aspect of this item. Skeleton keys are something that I love to collect!
Blue Spider’s Attic includes coffee or tea each month, and this month I received ground coffee from Jitter Crow! This coffee has a rich flavor, and I like how smooth it is. Coffee and reading go so well together!
The next item is probably my favorite thing in the box! It is a scent locket that you can put oils into and use for aromatherapy. I am very into aromatherapy, and I have been wanting one of these lockets for forever!
The locket comes with two pads that can be used with scented oils!
The locket also came with this oil from The Literary Apothecary! This oil is called “The Coggler” and it was made exclusively for Blue Spider’s Attic to go with the steampunk theme. I love how the oil is made from essential oils and smells how you would imagine a steampunk setting to smell!
The books chosen for me this month are wrapped in this adorable old-fashioned newspaper! I love the vintage feel of the wrapping.
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The best part about Blue Spider’s Attic is that they will choose books for you based on your chosen genres! Because of this, there are only a certain number of boxes available each month. I put horror and science-fiction as my favorite genres, and Blue Spider’s Attic delivered! I don’t have any of these books, and they are by authors who I have been needing to try. I love the care that goes into picking books for each subscriber’s preferences!
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Final Thought: Blue Spider’s Attic is a great box for those who are looking for books chosen specifically for them, as well as used books to stay eco-friendly. They also send unique items that you can’t find anywhere else! The experience that this box brings is worth every penny because it does feel like a used bookstore has been brought to you. Blue Spider’s Attic is one of my favorite book boxes because of the care that goes into each box, and I can’t wait to continue growing my book collection with them!
*NOTE: The Box Reviewers paid for this box to review.
