Sage Nestler's Blog, page 41
May 15, 2017
A Mental Vacation Shipped to You
Hello, Everyone!
Summer is just about upon us, and this is the perfect season to vacation during! However, some of us can’t afford to take vacations. This is why I created Literary Vacation Club – a box that brings you a multi-sensory reading experience each month to help you escape on a mental vacation!
We have some great destinations to take you on this summer, such as Russia, Neverland, and Westeros! However, we have limited quantities available for these boxes, so make sure you snag your spot before it’s too late!
Use Code “Welcome10” for 10% off of Your First Box!
https://biteable.com/watch/embed/lvc-1392696
May 12, 2017
Announcing Midnight Society Press
Hello, Everyone!
I am excited to announce that my partner and I have started a new publishing company titled “Midnight Society Press”! As authors and artists ourselves, we found that we were dismayed with the selection of young adult horror and dark fiction novels currently on the market. We created Midnight Society Press to be able to publish and bring the world hard hitting young adult horror and dark fiction that both young adults and adults can enjoy. Our mission is to change the young adult horror and dark fiction scene so that the writing is not desensitized for young adults.
[image error]
Here is our press release:
Midnight Society Press = A publishing company specializing in young adult horror and dark fiction.
The founders of Midnight Society Press – Ashley Nestler and Jennifer Davanh – were discouraged by the lack of hard hitting horror and dark fiction available to young adults in the current, traditionally published market. With experience in the publishing world and authors/artists themselves, the pair decided to found a publishing company that focuses on edgy, dark young adult fiction that isn’t afraid to scare the reader or make them think.
All of Midnight Society Press’s books are centered on characters in the young adult age range, while exploring the dark side of literature. Young adult fiction under the dark fiction genres shouldn’t be desensitized, and Midnight Society Press aims to bring young adults and adults alike truly unique reads that can’t be found in traditional publishing today.
We have already created our Facebook page and we will be creating our Twitter and IG accounts soon, as well as our website.
Like Our Facebook Page Here
If you are a young adult horror or dark fiction author looking to be published with us, please email me at peachykeenreviews@gmail.com for more information! We would LOVE to work with you.
Much love,
Ashley
FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form
FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
A Discussion on Dystopian Novel Writing
Dystopian novels have grown in popularity the last couple of years, and this has allowed authors and readers alike to experience the possibilities of what our reality may become in the near future. Writing dystopian fiction is one of the most unique writing experiences, because it allows the author to portray their idea of what an alternative reality might entail. In my dystopian novel, Beautiful Nightmare, I explore a world where technology takes over to influence humanity; but I also add in the ancient practices of astrology and reading astral signs to find guidance. When writing dystopian fiction, it is important to add elements from the past and the future to portray how these elements can collide and affect the present. The trick with writing dystopian novels is that even though it derives from the science fiction and fantasy genres, it is heavily influenced by history. All of today’s novels are derived from history in one way or another, and dystopian novels focus on the human experience in terms of humanity’s shortcomings and misery. The biggest drive to the dystopian genre is misery, and a dystopian writer’s duty is to focus on the misery that derives from oppression or totalitarian communities. By focusing on oppression to drive a dystopian community, the writer has the unique opportunity to portray how their characters rise, or fall, in the face of oppression.
As can be seen in many different dystopian novels – such as Divergent and The Hunger Games – dystopian characters are some of the most resilient characters in literature. Dystopian characters teach us to stay strong despite external circumstances, and they teach us to speak up for what we believe in. Therefore, dystopian novels and the authors of such are extremely important. A dystopian writer’s duty is to create characters that are outside of reality,but represent the universal human characteristics that we all share: a hope for life, and the betterment thereof. No matter how dark or dreary the dystopian world, if a writer creates characters that are vibrant and strong enough to shine against that setting, the reader will be changed for the better.
FOR BOOK REVIEWS, FILL OUT THIS FORM: Book Review Request Form
FOR BOX REVIEWS, EMAIL: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
May 11, 2017
Box Review: Thrifty Books – June 2017
Hello, Everyone!
Today I’d like to show you a book subscription that is very earth friendly! This box is called Thrifty Books. They send out used copies of books to show readers wonderful books that they might not have tried, while also using recycled and recyclable packaging. They also send different teas, coffees, and other usable items, and I just love them! Melissa, the owner of the box, is so passionate about what she does, and her passion translates into her box. Enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
. * . * . *
Print is not dead, but it is distributed differently.
Gone are your struggles to decide what to read next. Let Thrifty Books pick your next favorite book, or remind you why you’ve always loved a classic. Each box contains a used book and coffee of the month! All books chosen are literary fiction.
Why Literary Fiction?
You may be thinking, why literary fiction and not just fiction? Literary fiction has a strong focus in the act of writing and language itself, character development over plot, and social and historical commentary.
Plans:
Thrifty Books Deluxe
The Thrifty Books Deluxe Box includes the book, coffee of the month, and extra goodies like tea, literary gifts, etc. (choose ground or whole bean coffee)
$32/month (Includes shipping)
$96/3 Month PrePay (Includes shipping)
$187/6 Month PrePay (Includes shipping)
Thrifty Books Basic
Includes book and coffee only (choose ground or whole bean coffee)
$15/Month + shipping
$45/3 Month PrePay + shipping
$85/6 Month PrePay + shipping
I received the June Thrifty Books Deluxe Box to review. Since this box has not yet been sent out, make sure you get your orders in before they sell out!
[image error]
Thrifty Books comes in a kraft box with the logo stamped on the front! There is also a recycle stamp since this box is recyclable.
There is also a cute Thrifty Books sticker on the side of the box. I love the tagline!
The contents of the box are wrapped in this bright tissue paper. I love the Thrifty Books sticker that holds the tissue paper together! It makes the box feel like opening a present, and I absolutely love it!
[image error]
The box comes with this note to alert the subscriber that Thrifty Books uses eco-friendly materials! I love this. There is so much waste not only in the subscription box industry but every retail industry. Every little effort helps. Good job Thrifty Books! I will make sure to recycle my box when I am done.
[image error]
The first item I pull out of the box is this adorable tea strainer! I love the lilac color, and the small disk is perfect to set the strainer on when my tea is done steeping.
[image error]
These moon sticky notes by Second Mansion were also included, and they are so cute! I love anything to do with space, and this is such a unique item.
[image error]
The next item is this tin of Earl Grey tea from Solstice Tea Traders! Earl Grey tea is my favorite tea, and I love how fragrant it is! The tea is perfect to use with the tea strainer that was sent in the box!
[image error]
Novel Teas is a great brand of book related tea and Thrifty Books sent this set of English Breakfast Tea with literary tags!
[image error]
Each tag has a quote or bookish related writing to accompany the tea. It makes me feel so old fashioned! This item definitely speaks to my old soul, and the tea is absolutely delicious.
[image error]
This book locket necklace from Coco’s Creative Chaos was also included in the box! I love the New Age essence of the necklace with the purple crystal, and wearing it makes me feel ethereal. I love it!
[image error]
This next item is very unique! It is an herbal supplement that you can drink, and it is called Brain Dust. This herbal supplement is designed to help you align with the mighty cosmic flow so that you can achieve greatness. It also helps you to maintain healthy body systems. I am very into natural healing, so this item is a big win for me!
[image error]
The last accessory is this button from Beanforest! I do love the smell of books, especially used books, so this pin is perfect for me. I also love that it comes from a small shop! I will definitely be purchasing more items from them.
[image error] [image error]
The owner of Thrifty Books, Melissa, included this letter to let the subscriber know why she chose the book that she did! I love how she rounded up thrift copies of this month’s book to stay eco-friendly. and her letter made me feel connected to not only her but to the book as well. This letter also includes the website to the blog where subscribers can blog about the month’s book!
[image error]
This month’s chosen book is The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold! Alice Sebold is one of my favorite authors of all time, and her novel The Lovely Bones changed me for the better. Her writing is a rare kind of literature that leaves the reader forever changed at the end. I have seen The Almost Moon in numerous thrift stores before, but I have never purchased it myself! I am so glad to have received it since Melissa was so touched by the book. This book looks like an emotionally jarring read, and I can’t wait to get started on it.
Here is the synopsis:
A woman steps over the line into the unthinkable in this brilliant, powerful, and unforgettable new novel by the author of The Lovely Bones and Lucky.
For years Helen Knightly has given her life to others: to her haunted mother, to her enigmatic father, to her husband and now grown children. When she finally crosses a terrible boundary, her life comes rushing in at her in a way she could never have imagined. Unfolding over the next twenty-four hours, this searing, fast-paced novel explores the complex ties between mothers and daughters, wives and lovers, the meaning of devotion, and the line between love and hate. It is a challenging, moving, gripping story, written with the fluidity and strength of voice that only Alice Sebold can bring to the page.
The book also came with an exclusive bookmark by Thrifty Books! I love the quote on the bookmark, and the Cheshire Cat is one of my favorite literary characters.
[image error]
Final Thought: Melissa puts so much care into curating her boxes, and I love her eco-friendly drive. All of the items included in the box are useful, and I love how Melissa is bringing back wonderful novels that are older. Thrifty Books is a great way to try new teas, coffees, and small shops, while also receiving used books with a purpose! Everything about this box just makes you feel at home, and I love how Melissa cares so much about her subscribers.
Box Review: Paper Street Books and Comics – April/May 2017
I want to share with you a box called Paper Street Books and Comics that featured a sneak peek of my novel, Beautiful Nightmare, this April! It is a great box for graphic novels and science fiction, fantasy and horror novels. I hope you enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
Paper Street Books & Comics is a bi-monthly mystery book box for those who are obsessed with reading! It is for readers who are adventurous, imaginative and definitely not afraid to explore. We offer both graphic novels and adult fiction, featuring books that are quirky and humorous and sometimes thrilling! These can be in the Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror genres from indie and mainstream publishers!
As a member, you’ll receive a box featuring:
Adult fiction and/or graphic novel
1-3 items related to the theme/book
Bookish swag from our featuring authors or publishers (if available)
Available Plans:
The Book Addict (Book + Accessories) $29.99/bi-monthly+shipping
The Comic Addict (Graphic Novel + Accessories) $29.99/bi-monthly+shipping
The Book Warrior (Graphic Novel + Book + Accessories) $44.99/bimonthly+shipping
*Worldwide Shipping is Available*
April’s theme was “Terra & Luna” and I couldn’t wait to receive the Book Warrior box! This was also Paper Street Books and Comics’ one-year anniversary box, so that made it extra special.
[image error]
Paper Street shows up in a simple white box with the logo on the front! I like how straightforward the packaging is. The box is also big enough to hold all of the items inside, but small enough that the items won’t move around during shipping.
[image error]
The items in the box come carefully wrapped in tissue paper! I love this care that goes into the packaging.
[image error]
The box comes with this brochure which includes a note from the owners of the box and an item list! The design is gorgeous.
[image error]
On the left of the inside of the brochure is the letter from the owners. I like how they explained why they chose the books that they did as well as their reasoning behind the theme. It makes the box so personal!
[image error]
The book included this month is Avengers of the Moon by Allen Steele! This book was included because it takes the reader back to the golden age of sci-fi, which I LOVE! I am a huge old-school sci-fi fan, so this book made me squeal.
Here is the synopsis:
Allen Steele, author of Arkwright, gives us a thrilling piece of science fiction pulp with Avengers of the Moon
Curt Newton has spent most of his life hidden from the rest of humankind, being raised by a robot, an android, and the disembodied brain of a renowned scientist. This unlikely trio of guardians has kept his existence a closely guarded secret after the murder of Curt’s parents.
Curt’s innate curiosity and nose for trouble inadvertently lead him into a plot to destabilize the Solar Coalition and assassinate the president. There’s only one way to uncover the evil mastermind—Curt must become Captain Future.
With the permission of the Edmond Hamilton estate, Allen Steele revives the exciting adventures of Captain Future.
[image error]
The graphic novel this month is actually a young adult graphic novel! The book is called Wires and Nerve by Marissa Meyer, and it is part of The Lunar Chronicles Series. The Lunar Chronicles is a young adult science fiction series, and it brings classic sci-fi literature to a new generation.
Here is a synopsis for the graphic novel:
The first graphic novel from #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller Marissa Meyer!
In her first graphic novel, bestselling author Marissa Meyer extends the world of the Lunar Chronicles with a brand-new, action-packed story about Iko , the android with a heart of (mechanized) gold.When rogue packs of wolf-hybrid soldiers threaten the tenuous peace alliance between Earth and Luna, Iko takes it upon herself to hunt down the soldiers’ leader. She is soon working with a handsome royal guard who forces her to question everything she knows about love, loyalty, and her own humanity. With appearances by Cinder, Cress, Scarlet, Winter, and the rest of the Rampion crew, this is a must-have for fans of the bestselling series.
[image error]
Also included is a single comic of American Gods: Shadows #1 by Neil Gaiman, P. Craig Russell, and Scott Hampton. American Gods has had a resurgence of popularity since a new television series based on the book has been airing. That being said, I was very excited to see this comic included in the box! Comics are my guilty pleasure, and that is one of the reasons why I adore this box.
Here is a synopsis of the comic:
WAR IS COMING!
Shadow Moon just got out of jail, only to discover his wife is dead. Defeated, broke, and uncertain as to where to go from here, he meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday, who employs him to serve as his bodyguard—thrusting Shadow into a deadly world of the supernatural, where ghosts of the past come back from the dead, and a brewing war between old and new gods hits a boiling point.
The Hugo, Bram Stoker, Locus, World Fantasy, and Nebula award–winning novel and upcoming Starz television series by Neil Gaiman is adapted as a comic series for the first time!
[image error]
The first of the bonus items included in the box is this Crystal Growing Cherry Tree by Copernicus Toys! This tree is part of terraforming – creating a world based on Earth – and it literally grows before your eyes!
[image error]
It adds a nice touch of spring to my room, and it is so delicate. It goes with the terra theme perfectly.
[image error]
The owners of Paper Street make their own candles from time to time, and this month they made a candle based on Sailor Moon! I love Sailor Moon – she is one of my favorite characters of all time – and the scent of this candle goes perfectly with her personality. It has such a lovely spring scent. It is nice receiving an item based on Sailor Moon because you don’t see these items very often.
[image error]
Paper Street also included this exclusive Sailor Moon magnet! It is gorgeous, and I love how Luna – the cat – is part of the design. Paper Street designed the artwork themselves!
[image error]
As a bonus to subscribers who have been with Paper Street for multiple renewals, Paper Street sent out these gorgeous space lollipops! These are a throwback to the first box that Paper Street ever sent out, and I love that.
[image error]
Here is a close up of this lollipop! I haven’t eaten it yet because it is just too darn pretty, but I did lick it and it is delicious!
The last item included in the box is this sneak peek of Beautiful Nightmare by A.M. Nestler – which is me! Beautiful Nightmare was my first novel, and Paper Street was kind enough to include this sneak peek in their box.
Here is the synopsis:
What if your true love was only present in your dreams?
In the dystopian town of Lunamoon, everything is structured. Humans are created by science and everyone is programmed to follow certain regulations; but one girl, Shawneleigh, never lived up to the Council’s regulations. Shawneleigh has the disorder of narcolepsy, a disorder that causes her to fall asleep at random times without warning. Because of her illness, the Council banned her to life in a hospital since she cannot be counted on fulfill other duties. Lunamoonians all receive prophecies for their lives through dreams that the Dream Maker sends to them, but Shawneleigh hadn’t received a dream in years until she found herself falling into a dream during her sleeping spells. It is during these spells that she meets a man named August who claims to be the Dream Maker himself. He also lives in solitude outside of Lunamoon, and they begin to form a bond; however, Shawneleigh cannot control when she falls asleep, and soon August finds a way to manipulate her illness. The only problem is that when he manipulates her sleeping disorder, she continues to grow sicker. But no matter how hard they try, they can’t stay away from one another.
“Beautiful Nightmare: Some Dreams Become Your Reality” is novel about love, life, and the importance of those who care about you. Love, above all else, is the best thing that we have to give.
Final Thought: Paper Street Books and Comics is the best box to get your fantasy, sci-fi and horror book/graphic novel fix! The curation is always on point, and I love how the owners put so much thought into the items so that they all connect to the theme. This is the perfect box for hardcore comic and book nerds!
May 10, 2017
Box Review: The Music Box – May 2017
Hello, Everyone!
As some of you may know, I love sending out playlists linked to the books that we send out in our subscription box, Literary Vacation Club. But what I love even more is supporting indie artists. That being said, I found THE PERFECT box to help you experience indie artists you might now have otherwise found. This box is called The Music Box and it is possibly my new favorite experience of all time. Check out my review below! This box is a great way to find new music to read or write to, which all of us bibliophiles need.
The Music Box is my must try box of the month! You will not be disappointed.
Much love,
Ashley
*.*.*
When you sign up for The Music Box, every month you will receive carefully selected music from the box’s Featured Artists. A portion of the proceeds will be used to sponsor selected Featured Artists.
Plans:
The Digital Envelope: E-mailed digital download of our exclusive compilation CD.
$3/month + shipping
The Envelope: Compilation CD w/ various artists and our most popular genres such as Pop Rock, Pop Punk, Alt/Indie, Rock, etc.
$5/month + shipping
The Box: 2+ CD’s and other goodies (Choose your own genre)
$12/month + shipping
The Bundle: The Box + our exclusive monthly compilation CD (Choose your own genre)
$15/month + shipping
*Shipping: FREE US Shipping, Worldwide shipping is calculated*
[image error]
[image error]
The Music Box comes in a small white box with the logo and social media links stamped on the top. The box design is very indie and I just love it!
The contents of the box are set on a bed of blue paper shavings. I love how the first thing that you see in the box is a sticker designed by the box!
Here is a closeup of the sticker and the business card included in the box. I love that The Music Box supports small artists because I am all about that! I am a huge indie music nerd, and this box basically speaks to my soul.
This sticker is for a band called “Parks Landing” and the design is gorgeous! It is nice how The Music Box includes swag from multiple artists in their box.
The box comes with an insert card that gives you the names of the artists and albums included in the box. It also includes a music fact and a quote by Pete Wentz, whom I LOVE.
This month subscribers also received a free digital album to download! This artist is named Jerry Dale Harris and he even signed the card. I love that personal touch. The free record is called “Modus Operandi” and you can visit Jerry Dale Harris here.
[image error] [image error]
The Music Box also included this fun keychain and I adore the quote and artwork on it. Music IS life, and this box is all about that!
[image error]
The first album included is Brave by Retro Youth! I like how the CD has an image of the band on it as well. It reminds me of vintage rock. Retro Youth is a UK based alternative band, and they are really good. I listened to the album in its entirety and I love it! This is a great album choice by The Music Box. My favorite song on the album is probably “F.I.N.E.”. Visit them below and take a listen!
Visit Retro Youth here.
[image error] [image error]
The second album included is called Until the End of Days by Nick Urb. I love the artwork! This album is on the pop side, but it is very lyrical. I about sobbed my way through this album because it is so heartfelt and emotional. Urb’s voice is mesmerizing and I could listen to him all day. My favorite song off of this album by far is “Emily”.
Visit Nick Urb here.
[image error]
The last album included is The Music Box’s mix. This album compiles artists and songs from the most popular genres that the box sells, and it is great way to try out numerous new artists! I love the mix of this album, and it made me want to check out the individual artists further. My favorite song from this mix is probably “Coming Home” by Rudderfish.
Visit The Music Box’s website to view featured artists here.
[image error]
Final Thought: This box ROCKS, quite literally. It is not only perfect for those who are crazy about music, but it is great for anyone looking for new bands and artists to listen to. You can also choose your own genres for your box, which basically makes The Music Box a personal music shopper for you! I don’t know about you, but I’m a bit sick of the mainstream pop that is always on the radio. The passion of smaller artists is what draws me to them, and I love that The Music Box infuses this passion into everything that they do! This box is not only worth the price because of the experience, but it is a great way to support small artists. Grab your box now! You will not be the same once you listen to these artists.
May 9, 2017
Hedren’s Chest June/July Theme
Hello, Everyone!
As you may know, I am the CEO of Hedren’s Chest, a book subscription for lesser known horror novels! This box is $19.99/bimonthly+shipping, and we ship worldwide.
Well, I have just revealed the June/July theme, and I am very excited about it. The theme is going to be:
[image error]
I have some great creepy carnival/circus themed items to send out, as well as a novel that focuses on the dark side of this childhood favorite! Orders are open now, so grab your box before we sell out.
You won’t want to miss this box!
Use Code “WELCOME10” to receive 10% off of your first box
The Unseen by Jacob Devlin Release Day!
Hello, Everyone,
Today, The Unseen by Jacob Devlin releases! This is the sequel to The Carver by Jacob Devlin , and these novels are based on classic fairytales and beloved children’s stories. I love how they relate to Once Upon A Time, and they are must reads for fairytale fanatics such as myself! Read more about The Unseen below, and make sure to check out a reading of the first chapter at the end of this post.
Much love,
Ashley
About the Book
[image error]
Crescenzo and his friends may have survived their confounding journey to the enchanted realms of Florindale, but now they find themselves fighting for their sanity and lives while stuck on the other side of the very mirror they set out to destroy.
With their families trapped by a former ally with a crippling fear of the queen, Enzo, Rosana, and Zack must play a deadly game in Wonderland, where shadows are on the move, kings are at war, and one of them wants Rosana dead.
As darkness hovers over the world, the friends must lean on each other and stop the King of Hearts from following through on Avoria’s orders: Break them.
Get your copy now!
Amazon – Barnes & Noble – iTunes – Kobo – Goodreads
About the Author
When Jacob Devlin was four years old, he would lounge around in Batman pajamas and make semi-autobiographical picture books about an adventurous python named Jake the Snake. Eventually, he traded his favorite blue crayon for a black pen, and he never put it down. When not reading or writing, Jacob loves practicing his Italian, watching stand-up comedy, going deaf at rock concerts, and geeking out at comic book conventions. He does most of these things in southern Arizona.
Website – Instagram – Twitter – Facebook – Goodreads – YouTube
View a Reading of the First Chapter
May 8, 2017
Box Review: Hideaway Crate – May 2017
Hello, Everyone!
If you are like me, you are a bookish introvert, and I am happy to announce that I have found the perfect box for us! This is a subscription box called “Hideaway Crate” and it is special made for introverts and it gives them activities to do with themselves during the month. Every quarter the box is book club themed, and I received their “Spring Afternoon Reading” box! I hope you enjoy my review!
Hideaway crate is a monthly subscription box for introverted women and homebodies. Every month you’ll receive a themed box chattering to a relaxing and enjoyable solo activity. Boxes will contain 4-5 items including home goods, snacks, special gifts or best-selling books with relatable characters.
Plan Options:
Month to Month: $32.00+shipping
3 Month PrePay: $89.85+shipping
*Ships within the US ($5.95) and Canada ($14.95)
Every quarter, Hideaway Crate is book club themed! Subscribers can choose to only receive the book club boxes every 3 months by purchasing the quarterly book club option in Hideaway Crate’s one – time shop. This plan costs $119.80+shipping for 1 year. Visit Their Shop Here
I received the May box to review, and this month’s theme was “Spring Afternoon Reading”!
[image error]
I was extremely excited to get this box because I am an introvert, and I am sick of people picking on me for it. Hideaway Crate celebrates introverts, and we introverts need that confidence boost sometimes!
[image error]
Hideaway Crate shows up in a cute kraft box with the logo on the front! I love Hideaway Crate’s logo. It looks peaceful and ethereal.
[image error]
Upon opening the box, I saw that the included items were wrapped in this silver polka-dot tissue paper! I love how cutesy this touch is. The craftiness makes the box personal.
[image error]
The insert card displays the theme of the box, as well as a short description of what is included in the box! This month’s box is meant to help you relax and read a good book. My favorite solo activity!
Tea is my favorite thing to drink on a rainy spring afternoon with a good book, and Hideaway Crate seems to feel the same way! Included is this African Autumn tea from Harney & Sons Fine Teas in an adorable tin, and it is just delicious.
[image error]
I made sun tea with the tea (where you let the tea steep in the sun) and it honestly tastes like drinking the sun! It is citrusy and very mild. What a perfect reading treat!
[image error]
These lemon cookies by J&M were included to go with the tea, and they are perfect because they are tea cookies! The cookies are light and buttery, and they remind me of something I would eat at an old-fashioned tea party.
[image error]
Since this month is a book club box, this adorable fabric bookmark was included in the box! I love how it is handmade. It adds a nice small business feel to the box, and I will be getting a lot of use out of it!
[image error]
Hideaway Crate designed this adorable bracelet to go in this month’s box, and they call it the “unsocial butterfly” bracelet. It is so clever! It makes me feel proud of being an introvert, and I love how these bracelets are highly adjustable.
[image error]
The bracelet came in this canvas bag for safe keeping!
[image error]
Hideaway Crate sends out books in their book club boxes that introverts can relate to, and this month’s pick is The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry! Here is the synopsis:
“Funny, tender, and moving, The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry reminds us all exactly why we read and why we love.”*
A. J. Fikry’s life is not at all what he expected it to be. He lives alone, his bookstore is experiencing the worst sales in its history, and now his prized possession, a rare collection of Poe poems, has been stolen. But when a mysterious package appears at the bookstore, its unexpected arrival gives Fikry the chance to make his life over–and see everything anew.
This book looks absolutely adorable, and I can’t wait to read it!
[image error]
Final Thought: Hideaway Crate is a great box for introverts. It gives introverts an activity to do by themselves with pride! I love that I received the book club box because I am a huge book nerd. This box made me feel better about myself, and I can’t thank Hideaway Crate enough for that. The curation of the box was very careful, and I loved how each item went along with the “Spring Afternoon Reading” theme. I can’t wait to enjoy the cookies and tea while I read during a quiet spring afternoon!
May 5, 2017
Box Review: Holly Journals – May 2017
Hello, Everyone!
I want to share with you another box from Holly Journals! This box is perfect for writers like me who love to write on paper instead of the computer, and I can’t get enough of Holly’s adorable, handmade items ❤
Holly Journals is a gorgeous journal of the month box, and each journal included in the box is handmade by Holly Rose! Holly also sells journals in her shop on top of her subscription box, and I adore the handmade nature of her products. Handmade items are so much more valuable to me than manufactured items.
There Are Three Different Subscription Options For Holly Journals.
The Different Subscriptions Are Outlined Below:
Holly Journals Monthly Box: $39.99/month+FREE SHIPPING
Includes:
1 wire bound journal with at least 50 pages
1+ pens
Journal prompts
Extra embellishments
Journal jewelry
Bonus gift
Holly Journals Gift Options:
3 Month Pre-Pay ($108.00+FREE SHIPPING)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($210.00+FREE SHIPPING)
12 Month Pre-Pay ($408+FREE SHIPPING)
Includes:
Everything in the Holly Journals Box
These plans allow you to pay in advance at a discount!
Mini Journal Box: $23.95/month+FREE SHIPPING
Pre – Pay Options
3 Month Pre-Pay ($67.00+FREE SHIPPING)
6 Month Pre-Pay ($135.00+FREE SHIPPING)
Includes:
Everything in the Holly Journals Box
The journal is just half the size of the regular box
I received the May Mini Journal Box to review, and the theme is “Wanderlust”!
Holly Journals arrives in a compact box with the logo on the front. The box is the perfect size to house all of the contents without having them moving around during shipping!
Upon opening the box, you are greeted with the item list and personal letter from Holly! I love these touches because they make the box feel personable. The way the box is wrapped feels like a care package, and it just brings me such joy.
[image error]
Here is a closer look at the letter from Holly! I like hearing her ideas of what you can use this month’s journal for. It helps the subscriber get ideas for their journaling.
[image error]
Here is also a closeup look at the insert card. I love how simple this design is, and I always love receiving an item list so I know what to expect!
[image error]
Holly also includes a list of writing prompts to go along with the monthly theme! I like how all of these prompts are related to travel since the theme is wanderlust. Using these prompts is a great way to reminisce about your travels, or to document new ones.
[image error]
The first items I pull out of the box are these two pens! I love the personalized black pen, and the Gelly Roll white gel pen is perfect for writing on dark paper!
[image error]
Since Holly added multiple dark pages to this month’s journal, the white gel pen will be put to great use! I love how smoothly it writes.
[image error]
The black pen also writes very smoothly, and it will be perfect to use on the light pages in the journal!
[image error]
This mini pencil was also included in this month’s box. It is perfect for taking on the go since it is so compact!
[image error]
The next two items were carefully wrapped with decorative tape and bubble wrap. I love the care that Holly puts into her boxes!
[image error]
The bonus gift included in this box is a map necklace, but the coolest part about this necklace is that Holly customized them to the subscriber’s address! She used the map of my hometown to make this necklace, and it is my new favorite thing.
[image error]
Holly usually sends some journal jewelry that you can clip onto your journal as well, and this month’s jewelry is all about travel! I absolutely love the mini passport that is on the jewelry, and I have already clipped it onto my journal.
[image error]
Here is the journal with the jewelry!
[image error]
The journal this month is wrapped in this adorable travel tissue paper and sticker! I am definitely keeping the tissue paper and using it the next time I give someone a gift.
[image error]
And now for the main attraction! This month’s adorable journal has “Travel” across the cover, and design with the passport stamps is precious. Even though this journal is half the size of the full-size journal in the bigger box, it is very big! I couldn’t even tell that it was half size, to be honest.
But the inside of the journal is even better than the front! Holly’s journals include so much more than just paper, and I love how unique each page is. Below are numerous photos showing the inner workings of these beautiful journals!
I am amazed by the adorable paper items that Holly collects to correlate with each theme!
The quotes she adds in-between the pages are always a nice touch of inspiration.
This library card insert and map are just too cute!
These antique looking postcards add a great sense of nostalgia to the journal. I love the old-fashioned travel theme!
There are also numerous envelopes inserted throughout the journal. These are great for storing trinkets or photos that you want to save!
The end of the journal comes with suggestions for photos to take on your next trip! This is a great way to turn the journal into a scrapbook as well.
[image error]
Every box also comes with an envelppe of bonus trinkets for you to personalize your journal with.
[image error]
The trinkets included this month are so cute! They follow the vintage travel theme, and the plane paperclip is so unique! I can’t wait to add them to my journal.
[image error]
The last item included in the box is this tin of Altoids peppermints! Holly always sends a little treat in her boxes, and I love the sentiment.
[image error]
Final Thought: This box was just as good as last month’s box, if not better! Holly has so much creativity, and I love how each journal is completely different from the month before. You cannot find these journals anywhere else since they are handmade and invented by Holly, and that makes the box a one of a kind treasure. This box is perfect for crafters, journalers, writers, and scrapbookers alike. It is the most original box I have come across, and I cannot say enough good things about it! You can’t go wrong with Holly Journals for yourself or for a gift for someone you love!
Much love,
Ashley
