lifestyle
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yoga
If you read my 2020 bucket list, you'll know something I wanted to do this year was to complete a 30-day yoga challenge, and as of January 31st, I'm happy to say, I am able to tick that one off the list.
I made the last-minute decision to begin the year by participating in the Home 30-Day Yoga with Adriene challenge. I'll be honest, when I first decided to do it, I expected to last a few days before I came up with an excuse to skip a session, however, I surprised myself by making it to day 30 without missing a single day, and I'll be honest, I'm pretty damn proud of that.
I thought I might feel out of my depth completing the challenge. I'm pretty new to yoga and have only ever practised at home from Youtube videos. I also have pretty poor balance and flexibility (something I blame on being born premature... but it could be that up until now, I've never pushed myself in those areas). Although there were definitely certain poses I struggled with, and a few a couldn't do, I found Adriene was great at making the sessions accessible for all abilities, offering alternatives depending on where you're at with your yoga journey.
Throughout the journey, Adriene keeps in mind where you're at, adjusting each practice to align with what you've already done, and allowing you to push yourself when necessary without jumping completely out of your comfort zone.
Some sessions definitely edged toward to mediation side of things with a lot of concentration on breathwork (for example day 12 and day 25), and others felt far more physical, like much more of a full-body workout (such as day 6). For me personally, I preferred the more physical sessions as I can find myself easily distracted when the session is more focused on breath than movement.
Yoga with Adriene 30-Day Challenge Review.
I made the last-minute decision to begin the year by participating in the Home 30-Day Yoga with Adriene challenge. I'll be honest, when I first decided to do it, I expected to last a few days before I came up with an excuse to skip a session, however, I surprised myself by making it to day 30 without missing a single day, and I'll be honest, I'm pretty damn proud of that.
The thing about daily yoga, is that does take dedication and time. So if it's something you're considering, like me, in the back of your mind you're probably questioning whether it's worth it - so in the blog post I thought I'd share my review of the challenge which will hopefully offer guidance on whether it's suitable for you.
The Sessions:
The sessions ranged from 16 to 40 mins, averaging around the 20-minute mark, so it didn't actually take too much time out of my day and was possible to squeeze in somewhere on those busy days. On the days I was lacking the motivation to make it to the mat, the thought 'it's only 20minutes' convinced me to take part in the practice, a decision I never once regretted.I thought I might feel out of my depth completing the challenge. I'm pretty new to yoga and have only ever practised at home from Youtube videos. I also have pretty poor balance and flexibility (something I blame on being born premature... but it could be that up until now, I've never pushed myself in those areas). Although there were definitely certain poses I struggled with, and a few a couldn't do, I found Adriene was great at making the sessions accessible for all abilities, offering alternatives depending on where you're at with your yoga journey.
Throughout the journey, Adriene keeps in mind where you're at, adjusting each practice to align with what you've already done, and allowing you to push yourself when necessary without jumping completely out of your comfort zone.
Some sessions definitely edged toward to mediation side of things with a lot of concentration on breathwork (for example day 12 and day 25), and others felt far more physical, like much more of a full-body workout (such as day 6). For me personally, I preferred the more physical sessions as I can find myself easily distracted when the session is more focused on breath than movement.
My Experience:
If you read this blog post of mine, you'll know I find yoga to be a great stress reliever and this 30-day challenge couldn't have come at a better time for me. I found myself looking forward to a yoga session at the end of each day, seeing them as a way to release any tension. Honestly some days it felt like the yoga was the only thing which kept me sane.
As I mentioned previously, I thought I'd might struggle in places with the practice, and although my poses weren't always perfect, I saw improvements as the journey went on, finding myself able to do poses which were initially a no-go, and feeling more in touch with my centre to balance and having built strength. I can now also officially touch my toes, something I've never been able to do.
Something I didn't expect, was to be able to see the physical changes in my body. I decided to complete the challenge because I thought it might be good for my mental health, and simply to see if I could. I did not really consider that I might impact the appearance of my body, however challenging myself and moving for that 20minutes every day I found myself seeing some toning on my stomach, and my bum perking up, something I've only had back when I saw a personal trainer - nothing major, but small changes. I also lost some weight, however, I'm not completely sure whether that was related.
As I mentioned previously, I thought I'd might struggle in places with the practice, and although my poses weren't always perfect, I saw improvements as the journey went on, finding myself able to do poses which were initially a no-go, and feeling more in touch with my centre to balance and having built strength. I can now also officially touch my toes, something I've never been able to do.
Something I didn't expect, was to be able to see the physical changes in my body. I decided to complete the challenge because I thought it might be good for my mental health, and simply to see if I could. I did not really consider that I might impact the appearance of my body, however challenging myself and moving for that 20minutes every day I found myself seeing some toning on my stomach, and my bum perking up, something I've only had back when I saw a personal trainer - nothing major, but small changes. I also lost some weight, however, I'm not completely sure whether that was related.
Finding Motivation:
I didn't expect to find the motivation to unroll the mat each day, but I did - and that alone I found rewarding, so I thought I'd share my bit of wisdom on that.
It's very unlikely you will feel like doing yoga every day for 30 days because, life happens - but if you push yourself to do it, you'll be proud and it will be worth it.
- Figure out when works for you and do it the same time every day. A lot of people like to do the morning to get it over and done with. For me personally, I find yoga session in the evening most rewarding as they offer me a way to unwind from my day.
- Put a positive spin on it, think 'I get to do yoga today' rather than 'I have to do yoga today'.
- Plan well: If you know a day is going to be particularly busy figure out when you can fit in your practice. If you're away from home take your yoga mat. Be organised and it will feel less like a chore, squeezed into a busy day, and you'll really be able to appreciate the time you've taken to do it.
- Accept that you're not always going to feel like doing it, but understand you're always capable of doing it.
- Tell others about your challenge, have them hold you accountable. Maybe post about it on social media - I posted about it on my Instagram story and knowing I'd mentioned it in a public place, motivated me when I just didn't fancy it.
- Think about how you'll improve over where you're at. If at the start of the challenge I let my frustrations of not being where I wanted to be, get to me, I would have given up much earlier. Instead, I used that frustration to motivate me to work to improve.
It takes time, and dedication, but if you're looking for more zen and movement in your day, I'd recommend this Yoga challenge. Since completing it I've kept up doing yoga most days because it makes both my body and mind feel good.
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Drumroll, please
My February 2020 Goals.
To make sure I stay aligned with becoming the person I want to be, I like to regularly check-in and consider how I would like to better myself - one way in which I do this, is by setting goals.
So with a new month comes new goals to make sure I’m always improving and working on myself.
My February goals are as follows:
Run again:
There were a couple of months last year that I was pretty into running. I completed couch to 5k and then kept up running regularly. Then came winter, my eczema flared up, and running through the cold no longer felt so inviting. However, I'm missing that feeling of fitness, and those post-run endorphins. I can feel my fitness levels have dropped, so I'm going to do couch to 5k again to build it back up, but I'll probably start somewhere in the middle to ensure I'm pushing myself from the off.Be better at texting back:
Something I'm truly rubbish at is texting back (I mean honestly, just writing this reminded me of three friends I'm yet to reply to, opps, sorry) If I don't get back to someone immediately, I tend to just forget, or think to myself I'll reply later, and then later gets delayed. I don't know why I'm so terrible at it, but I'm sure it must drive my friends insane. I don't want to be that person everyone is always waiting on an answer from, I want to be reliable, and not to have a constant nagging of reply to this person in the back of my mind. So in February, I going to make sure I reply to messages the moment I see them, to hopefully turn off that notification in the back of my mind, and become a better friend.
Fix blog broken backlinks:
I've made it my mission of 2020 to finally make something of this little blog of mine, to do that, I really need to improve the SEO. During February I'm going to go through the entirety of this website and fix any broken links in the hope I'll see my blog DA improve.
Eat better:
In January I found myself well and truly addicted to shortbread. Honestly, with all the Christmas leftovers I found the biscuits calling my name, and myself mindless snacking on tins of chocolate (Celebrations are just so yum, aren't they?!) But in turn, I've found myself feeling a sluggish, and unhealthy. So this month I'm going to swapping out the sweet snacks from some slightly more nutritious ones. I'm going to pay more attention to what I'm putting in my body. Eat more greens and cut down on the sugar.
Do you have any goals for the month?!
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2020
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favourites
lifestyle
What products have you found yourself falling in love with through January?
Remember I'll be sharing a full favourites video on my Youtube channel this Sunday so be sure not to miss it!
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January Favourites 2020 | The Beauty & Accessories Edit.
Today I wanted to share my January 2020 favourites. It’s been a long time since I've posted a classic beauty & lifestyle favourites (my last one was this one in July 2018!) but this month, I found myself wanting to talk about so many things I was enjoying, that it almost seemed necessary. However as there are so many things I've been loving (how lucky does that make me?!), I felt this blog post might go on forever - so I've created a beauty and accessories edit to share over here, and on Sunday my full favourites video will go live on my Youtube channel - which will include everything from fashion to books, activities and more... be sure to subscribe to my channel so you don't miss it.
Moon & Star earrings from DIM3NSION 3D Printing:
I'm not sure if it's a bit of a tease me sharing this one because it's a bespoke one-off product - however, I'm so in love with them, I felt I needed to include them. From my boyfriend for Christmas, I got these lovely 3D printed earring which he designed. It feels special and personal, knowing that I'm the only one with these earrings. I love the design - they are extremely... me. I also love that they are odd. The quality is great. I've been wearing them constantly, and they've added the perfect accessory to all of my outfits. If you want to get somebody a personalised gift, or one for yourself, I'd recommend DIM3NSION.
Chloe Heart Hanging:
Yes, I'm being annoying and including yet another thing which was personally made for me (how lucky am I, getting all of these bespoke goodies?!) For Christmas my sister made this clay heart hanging with my name on it, and I completely love it. I keep it hanging by the fireplace, and it fills my heart with joy.
Rose Quartz Face-Roller
Due to a whole lot of angry eczema, a luxury skincare routine has been completely out of the question for me, so part of my day I once found an enjoyable treat, has become a chore as I apply products prescribed by doctors instead of the ones I love. I did, however, get myself a Rose Quartz face roller and it's been bringing a bit of joy back to my skincare. It feels as though it soothes and massages my sore skin, and leaves me feeling refreshed. Plus who doesn't love a bit of rose quartz? I'm all for that crystal life.
Huda Beauty 3D Highlight Palette
I am completely obsessed with this palette. On the days I use it I just find my complexion looks much more healthy. My once dull skin glows, yet it looks more towards the natural side of things rather than the disco ball end. The shades Ibiza and Azores, in particular, have been taking my fancy.
Glossier Lidstar in Cub
Lately, on makeup days, I've been wanting quick and easy products, so this has been perfect. I love the pink-brown shade to it, and the shimmer which runs through. Although the formula is not perfect, it only takes a second to apply and gives me all the glossy lid goodness I could want.
Remember I'll be sharing a full favourites video on my Youtube channel this Sunday so be sure not to miss it!
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lifestyle
self care
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stress relievers
I hope you can refer back to this post when things are getting a bit much, and find something which helps you soothe that stress.
What's your go-to when you're feeling stressed?
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How to Relieve Stress | Self-Care, Intentional Living.
As life isn't always easy breezy in this post I thought we'd talk self-care, so here are my tips on how to relieve stress.
January hasn’t been the greatest month for me. I’m pretty privileged in general, so don’t get me wrong, I know there are people that are far worse off, but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel stress, and recently, it's been something very present in my daily life, for multiple reasons - which I won’t go into because I’m here to help, not to moan.
Certain things have been brightening my days and easing that pressure, I’ll list them below and hopefully, they can offer you some stress relief too.
Yoga:
I’ve been doing this 30-day yoga with Adriene challenge, and I’ve found myself craving yoga session when things haven’t been great, and feeling completely relieved after pushing myself to show up on those days stretching didn't seem like a priority. Those 20-minute sessions have offered me some much-needed light on dark days.Walking:
Will I ever stop going on about walking? Probably not. I don’t think there’s anything which refreshes my mind quite like a walk in fresh air (yup, this also got a spot in last weeks post).Meditating:
When I began to practise meditation, managing my emotions became easier. Not only did the practice give me ten minutes away from my day to breathe, but it also gave me the skills I use daily when things get too much.Writing:
Sometimes we just need to get out of our own heads. Writing and journaling can be a great way to transfer emotions from the dark depth of the mind. It allows you to process what you're really feeling. Often when I put my pen down, I realise that my troubles weren't nearly as big as they seemed.Talking it out:
We all have people in our lives who care about us, although when we're feeling a bit down, it's easy to forget this. Spend time with the people you love, if you feel you're both in the right space for it, tell them how you're feeling. I didn't realise how much this was something I needed to do until I found myself in a tearful conversation with my mum about all that had been bothering me. Afterwards my worries felt lighter... a problem shared is a problem halved and all that.
Or if you're not feeling comfortable enough to talk to those close to you, look into therapy. Counselling could offer you the support you're looking for.
Focusing on goals:
During January, I've been focusing on my blog, considering my goals and where I want to take this website of mine. That focus has kept my mine from feeling completely overloaded with the other stuff I was going through. That focus stopped me dwelling on my sadness and getting caught in a spiral of negativity. It's gave me hope.
Audiobooks:
I recently began listening to audiobooks - self-improvement ones (during January, I listened to Good Morning, Good Life by Amy Landino and I've now moved on to Atomic Habits by James Clear... if you want to keep up-to-date with what else I'm listening to, you can follow me on Goodreads). Audiobooks have offered me both an escape which required no energy on my part and inspired me to do what I can to improve my daily life.
Outfit Details
Hat: M&S | Dress: Topshop (old, similar linked) | Jumper: Topshop (old, similar linked) | Gloves: George Asda | Shoes: Dr Martens
I hope you can refer back to this post when things are getting a bit much, and find something which helps you soothe that stress.
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date ideas
intentional living
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valentines day
This is honestly one of my favourite things to do with my boyfriend. Nature often has a way of reminding us how wonderful the world is, and there's something simple yet special about sharing that view with a partner, just taking a moment or two to take in the world together. If you're planning a sunset viewing, keep an eye on the weather, and find a spot with a good viewpoint. Living in Bristol/Gloucester, some of the ones we've explored have been Cleeve Hill, Selsley Common, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Nibley, Coaley Peak.
Cute, Affordable Date Ideas for Valentine's Day 2020.
With Valentine's Day coming up, it's time to get planning, and figure out what cute, affordable date ideas will make your day!
This year will be my first Valentine's Day in a relationship in 5 years, and I'm excited about it. In the 6 months I've been with my (quite wonderful) boyfriend, we've been on some pretty incredible dates, which have made our time together feel completely magical... and we've not spent much money either - me, my relationship and my bank balance are all very happy.
If you're having a mind blank when it comes to celebrating Valentine's day, I've put together a list of cute, affordable date ideas to help ya out (you're welcome).
Watch Sunsets:
This is honestly one of my favourite things to do with my boyfriend. Nature often has a way of reminding us how wonderful the world is, and there's something simple yet special about sharing that view with a partner, just taking a moment or two to take in the world together. If you're planning a sunset viewing, keep an eye on the weather, and find a spot with a good viewpoint. Living in Bristol/Gloucester, some of the ones we've explored have been Cleeve Hill, Selsley Common, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Nibley, Coaley Peak.
Go to a Comedy Show:
On our second date, we went to see some stand-up comedy. As the comedians were all relatively small it was inexpensive. It was nice to do something different, and we got to laugh - what more could you want?!
Magic Show/Bar:
Probably one of the more pricey suggestions but I didn't want to leave it out. If you're looking to do something a bit different with your loved one, why not consider going to a magic show/bar. We recently went to Smoke and Mirrors with some friends (it's a great choice for a double/triple date, group hang situation). It was so fun to do something a bit different and made for a memorable evening.
Walk:
There is nothing I love more than going for a walk... I mean seriously, I've talked about it in this blog post and this blog post. Getting out in fresh air is good for the mind and soul, and it's nice to explore nature with your partner. You can talk about your goals, hopes and dreams as you wander, or laugh and reminisce. If you're stuck on where to go walking, you can't go wrong with a National Trust Trail. Extra points if you manage to combine it with a sunset view!
Cook Dinner Together:
Sometimes, the best things are the most simple. We all need to eat, so why not make dinner an event. It can be fun to try out new recipes and cook together. Put some extra effort in when you set the table and light a candle or two and enjoy the flavours of a meal you made together.
Go to the beach:
No, it doesn't matter if it's cold, thermals and jumpers exist for a reason. Sit on a blanket with fish and chips and watch the waves come crashing in.
Cathedrals:
Cathedrals make a nice place to visit together, that's whether you wander inside and admire the stained glass windows, or simply take it in from the outside. Cathedrals tend to be both beautiful and peaceful. Near us, we have Lacock and Gloucester cathedral, in both locations parts of Harry Potter was filmed which makes them feel, well, magic.
Museums & Art Galleries:
The majority of museums and art galleries are free to enter, maybe with occasionally paying a little extra for certain exhibitions, or making a small donation. Honestly, I couldn't think of anything more perfect than holding hands and looking at art.
Star Gaze:
If it's a clear night, take advantage. Take some blankets outdoors and watch the night sky together. There's something romantic in the twinkling lights in the sky, reminding you how big the universe truly is.
Read together:
Something me & my boyfriend have begun to do is read together. We choose a book we both want to read and take it in turns to read a chapter aloud to one another. It felt awkward and bizarre at first, but once you get over the initial weirdness, it was wonderful to get lost in a fictional world together.
Pottery Painting:
If you want a creative activity, to keep you busy on Valentines Day, why not try pottery painting? It's usually inexpensive, it's fun and you get to take something you made home with you. You could even each paint something for the other and trade when you're done to add that extra bit of romance.
Skating:
One of the best dates I've been on with my boyfriend was an ice-skating one... but I realise it's not really the season for that. Rollerskating, or a roller-disco if you're feeling funky could be a super fun option!
Visit a new place:
Vague I know. What I mean is, choose a city or cute village nearby that you haven't been before, somewhere that's not home but close enough that taking a day trip won't cost you the earth. Explore somewhere new together.
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I hope these date ideas have inspired you! There have been times we've of course ended on less romantic dates... does the time my boyfriend took me to the recycling centre (in the early days) count as a date? Or what about the time we went to Gloucester service station just to have a look?! As fun as these both were, I'm assuming you want something a tad more romantic for V-Day, so the list above should help.
Let me know how you end up spending the big day!
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2019 books
bookblogger
bookclub
books
fiction
memoir
reading
ya fiction
★★☆☆☆
What A Time To Be Alone by Chidera Eggerue: This book talks about the importance of independence as young women, and how to feel happy alone. I found it to be wise, yet slightly repetitive of what The Slumflower posts on social media. It's beautifully illustrated throughout so makes for a great coffee table book. I talk about this more here.
★★★☆☆
The Life Diet by Laura Jane Williams: I listened to the audiobook of this (Laura claims it was written to be listened to, although you can read it) It was a fairly quick listen. Laura offers great advice on how to lead a fulfilling life.
★★★☆☆
Wishes Fulfilled by Wayne W Dyer: I didn't enjoy this guide on manifestation as much as I expected to. Although the author came across wise and knowledgable on the subject, I found it to be filled with too many religious references, which I found unrelatable.
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
This Is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay: Adam Kay shares both hilarious and heartbreaking journal entries from his time as a junior doctor. I talk more about it here.
★★★★★
Becoming by Michell Obama: I listened to the audiobook of this and completely fell in love with it. Michell Obama talks about growing in working-class Chicago and tells stories about life in the Whitehouse. It is fascinating while the narration remains relatable. I talk more about this here.
★★★★☆
The Wrong Knickers by Bryony Gordon: Bryony tells the story of the chaos of her 20s. This is hilarious and relatable. I talk more about this here.
★★★☆☆
How to Fail by Elizabeth Day: I've spoken about this book time and time again because it is brilliant. The memoir is about everything Elizabeth Day has learned from failure. It's both wise and reassuring.
★★★★★
Twas the Nightshift Before Christmas by Adam Kay: A sort of festive version of This is Going to Hurt with diary entries written around the Christmas period. This quick read is equally as brilliant.
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan: This comedy tells the story an Asian heir to a massive fortune who brings his American-born Chinese girlfriend to meet his family. Although this story is both funny and ridiculous, I'd heard so many good things about it before I read it, that I found it to be completely underwhelming and disappointing. I talk about it more here.
★★☆☆☆
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste NG: This thriller begins with the death of Lydia who has mysteriously drowned and then goes on to tell the story of her family, and what had happened. It's gripping and interesting. I talk about it more here.
★★★☆☆
Still Me by Jojo Moyes: The third instalment of Me Before You, follows Lou as she begins a new job in New York. It has equally as much charm as the previous books in the Me Before You series and I really enjoyed it. I talk about it more here.
★★★☆☆
How To Be Good by Nick Hornby: Written in the perspective of a GP, who is married to a writer. It's the story of her husband inviting a spiritual advisor called GoodLife to live with them, and their attempts at becoming good. Although I found this thought-provoking at points, there were also points I found it boring.
★★☆☆☆
One Day by David Nichols: This is the enchanting story of Emma and Dexter follows the pair through there relationship over twenty years, capturing there lives on the same day each year. This story feels very real, it's beautiful and heartbreaking. I talk more about this here.
★★★★☆
Essays in Love by Alan de Botton: This fictional story of a couple who meet on an aeroplane is written in the form of beautiful, thought-provoking philosophical essays which offer insights into the author's thoughts on love and relationships. It's brilliant and unlike anything that I've ever read before. I talk about this more here.
★★★★☆
Our Stop by Laura Jane Williams: This rom-com tells the story of a couple who have been flirting via newspaper ads, keep missing their opportunity to meet in real life. The characters feel very real, it's relatable, but also very cliché and predictable. I talk more about this here.
★★★☆☆
Heartburn by Norah Ephron: I know so many people who love this book, but I just didn't get it. It tells the story of a wife who learns her husband is having an affair and has recipes weaved into the narrative throughout. Although it is undeniably well written, I found it boring.
★★☆☆☆
★★★☆☆
Nick & Nora's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan: This book follows an evening of teens Nick & Norah as they meet at a gig and unexpectedly spend the entire evening in New York together. You can read my full review of it here.
★★★★☆
Open Summer Road by Emery Lord. This book is about Reagan, a once rebellious teen, who spends the Summer on the tour bus with her best friend who just so happens to be a famous popstar. They are joined on tour by another artist, Matt Finch. It's a story about friendship, with a touch of romance weaved in. I talk more about this here and here.
★★★☆☆
After by Anna Todd (series): After is the story of the relationship between bad boy Hardin, and sheltered girl Tessa. Their relationship is clearly quite toxic. This book definitely has its faults, but I couldn't put it down. I found myself reading the full series in a really short amount of time because I was fascinated by the characters. These books are both stories of betrayal and love. I talk more about this here.
★★★★☆
Someday by David Levithan: This is the third book in the series 'Everyday' (I review the first book here). The character A does not have a body of his own, instead, his spirit moves to a new body each day. In this book, he and Riannon try to figure out to make their relationship work and we get to know another character who, like A does not have a body of his own. I talk more about this here
★★★★☆
Let it Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle: This book consists of three different teen romance stories which take place on Christmas Eve during the storm. I liked the first one most out of the three. It makes a lighthearted, feel-good festive read, but doesn't really have much depth to it.
★★☆☆☆
Validate Me by Charly Cox: Charly's second book Validate Me consists of poems written on her phone about modern life, dating and mental health. I talk about it more here.
★★★★☆
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Every Book I Read in 2019.
As someone who is always looking for book recommendations, I thought you might be too, so in today's post, I am going to share every book I read in 2019 and my thoughts on them. (I did this for 2018 too, you can find the post here).
Self Development
Playing Big by Tara Mohr: This self-help style-book is a guide on how to play big, and overcome limiting factors in your life. Although I found it made some good point, which stuck with me, I thought it was a tad underwhelming as I'd heard so many good things about it. In places, it felt repetitive and even boring.★★☆☆☆
What A Time To Be Alone by Chidera Eggerue: This book talks about the importance of independence as young women, and how to feel happy alone. I found it to be wise, yet slightly repetitive of what The Slumflower posts on social media. It's beautifully illustrated throughout so makes for a great coffee table book. I talk about this more here.
★★★☆☆
The Life Diet by Laura Jane Williams: I listened to the audiobook of this (Laura claims it was written to be listened to, although you can read it) It was a fairly quick listen. Laura offers great advice on how to lead a fulfilling life.
★★★☆☆
Wishes Fulfilled by Wayne W Dyer: I didn't enjoy this guide on manifestation as much as I expected to. Although the author came across wise and knowledgable on the subject, I found it to be filled with too many religious references, which I found unrelatable.
★★☆☆☆
Memoirs
The Rules Do Not Apply to Ariel Levy: This memoir by the New Yorker writer is tender, insightful and heartbreaking. I talk about it more here.★★★★☆
This Is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay: Adam Kay shares both hilarious and heartbreaking journal entries from his time as a junior doctor. I talk more about it here.
★★★★★
Becoming by Michell Obama: I listened to the audiobook of this and completely fell in love with it. Michell Obama talks about growing in working-class Chicago and tells stories about life in the Whitehouse. It is fascinating while the narration remains relatable. I talk more about this here.
★★★★☆
The Wrong Knickers by Bryony Gordon: Bryony tells the story of the chaos of her 20s. This is hilarious and relatable. I talk more about this here.
★★★☆☆
How to Fail by Elizabeth Day: I've spoken about this book time and time again because it is brilliant. The memoir is about everything Elizabeth Day has learned from failure. It's both wise and reassuring.
★★★★★
Twas the Nightshift Before Christmas by Adam Kay: A sort of festive version of This is Going to Hurt with diary entries written around the Christmas period. This quick read is equally as brilliant.
★★★★☆
Adult Fiction
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste NG: This tells the story of two contrasting families at Shaker Heights, and what caused one of the Richardson children to set their house alight. Both the characters and narrative carry a lot of depth and I was gripped from the start. I talk more about this here.★★★★☆
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan: This comedy tells the story an Asian heir to a massive fortune who brings his American-born Chinese girlfriend to meet his family. Although this story is both funny and ridiculous, I'd heard so many good things about it before I read it, that I found it to be completely underwhelming and disappointing. I talk about it more here.
★★☆☆☆
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste NG: This thriller begins with the death of Lydia who has mysteriously drowned and then goes on to tell the story of her family, and what had happened. It's gripping and interesting. I talk about it more here.
★★★☆☆
Still Me by Jojo Moyes: The third instalment of Me Before You, follows Lou as she begins a new job in New York. It has equally as much charm as the previous books in the Me Before You series and I really enjoyed it. I talk about it more here.
★★★☆☆
How To Be Good by Nick Hornby: Written in the perspective of a GP, who is married to a writer. It's the story of her husband inviting a spiritual advisor called GoodLife to live with them, and their attempts at becoming good. Although I found this thought-provoking at points, there were also points I found it boring.
★★☆☆☆
One Day by David Nichols: This is the enchanting story of Emma and Dexter follows the pair through there relationship over twenty years, capturing there lives on the same day each year. This story feels very real, it's beautiful and heartbreaking. I talk more about this here.
★★★★☆
Essays in Love by Alan de Botton: This fictional story of a couple who meet on an aeroplane is written in the form of beautiful, thought-provoking philosophical essays which offer insights into the author's thoughts on love and relationships. It's brilliant and unlike anything that I've ever read before. I talk about this more here.
★★★★☆
Our Stop by Laura Jane Williams: This rom-com tells the story of a couple who have been flirting via newspaper ads, keep missing their opportunity to meet in real life. The characters feel very real, it's relatable, but also very cliché and predictable. I talk more about this here.
★★★☆☆
Heartburn by Norah Ephron: I know so many people who love this book, but I just didn't get it. It tells the story of a wife who learns her husband is having an affair and has recipes weaved into the narrative throughout. Although it is undeniably well written, I found it boring.
★★☆☆☆
Young Adult Fiction
It Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne: After a breakup and watching her parent's marriage end, Audrey is fed up with unrealistic stories films tell us when she takes a job at the cinema and meets wannabe filmmaker Harry. In some places it's a typical YA fiction romance, in others, the characters act in unexpected ways.★★★☆☆
Nick & Nora's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan: This book follows an evening of teens Nick & Norah as they meet at a gig and unexpectedly spend the entire evening in New York together. You can read my full review of it here.
★★★★☆
Open Summer Road by Emery Lord. This book is about Reagan, a once rebellious teen, who spends the Summer on the tour bus with her best friend who just so happens to be a famous popstar. They are joined on tour by another artist, Matt Finch. It's a story about friendship, with a touch of romance weaved in. I talk more about this here and here.
★★★☆☆
After by Anna Todd (series): After is the story of the relationship between bad boy Hardin, and sheltered girl Tessa. Their relationship is clearly quite toxic. This book definitely has its faults, but I couldn't put it down. I found myself reading the full series in a really short amount of time because I was fascinated by the characters. These books are both stories of betrayal and love. I talk more about this here.
★★★★☆
Someday by David Levithan: This is the third book in the series 'Everyday' (I review the first book here). The character A does not have a body of his own, instead, his spirit moves to a new body each day. In this book, he and Riannon try to figure out to make their relationship work and we get to know another character who, like A does not have a body of his own. I talk more about this here
★★★★☆
Let it Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle: This book consists of three different teen romance stories which take place on Christmas Eve during the storm. I liked the first one most out of the three. It makes a lighthearted, feel-good festive read, but doesn't really have much depth to it.
★★☆☆☆
Poetry
Validate Me by Charly Cox: Charly's second book Validate Me consists of poems written on her phone about modern life, dating and mental health. I talk about it more here.★★★★☆
Youtube Video: Stand Out Books of 2019:
I also made a video, sharing the books from the year which really struck a chord with me. You can hear me talk more in-depth about my favourite reads of 2019 below, or over on my Youtube channel (which you should probably subscribe to while you're there too).
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