BOOKS I WANT TO READ THIS SPRING

Hello everyone! A couple of weeks ago now i shared a book review post on my recent favourite read, which you can catch up on here if you didn't do so already. With that in mind i am left looking for something new to read but there is no shortage of new reads available and keeping that in mind, for today's post i thought i would share with you the books i want to read this spring...

1. boyfriend for hire by kendall ryan | click to buy |

I’m the guy you call when you need to impress your overbearing family, your boss, or your ex. Yeah, I’m a male escort, but not just any escort, I’m the escort. The one with a mile-long waiting list and a pristine reputation that’s very well-deserved. I’m the guy who’ll make you feel beautiful, desired, and worshipped . . . all for a steep price. I’m hired to make you shine, and I always deliver. I’ll be whatever you want me to be for one night—except my true self. This is just a job, a role I play to earn a paycheck. But I’m not the guy who falls for a client. Not once in six years. And then I meet Elle. Her friend has hired me to escort her to a wedding, but Elle doesn’t know we’re just pretending. There’s a fire between us I never expected. A connection I haven’t felt in so long. One kiss, and I’m losing all control. But what will happen when she finds out who I really am?

2. the play mate by kendall ryan | click to buy |

Smith Hamilton has it all—he's smart, good-looking and loaded. But he remembers a time when he had nothing and no one, so he's not about to mess up, especially with his best friend’s little sister. That means keeping Evie at arm's length … even though the once pesky little girl is now a buxom bombshell. A sexy blonde who pushes his self-control to the limit the night she crawls into bed with him. Evie Reed knows she's blessed—with an exclusive education, a family who loves her, and a new job managing social media for her family's lingerie company. But she wants more, like a reason to wear the sexy lingerie herself. She has just the man in mind to help with that. She's crushed on Smith forever. Surely tricking her way into his bed will force him to see her in a new, adult way.

3. the hookup handbook by kendall ryan | click to buy |

My love wand is on a strike. As bad as that blows, pun unintended, it’s ten times worse for me. I’m a male escort, but not just any escort, I’m the escort. The one with a mile-long waiting list and a pristine reputation that’s very well-deserved. Only now, I’m on hiatus. Because after years of pleasing women all over the city, my man missile decides to get finicky. And the only woman he wants? Someone I can never have—my best friend’s younger sister, the nerdy and awkwardly adorable Sienna. She’s working at the agency this summer, keeping me organized, handling paperwork, and most importantly, keeping me on track to finish writing my book about sex and intimacy, which is due to my publisher in thirty days. She thinks I hate her, that I don’t want her here. The truth is much more twisted. I get hard every time she walks into my office. Her wide blue eyes and pouty mouth drive me wild with desire, and if she stays, I’m not sure how much longer I can stay away from her.

4. the mister by e l james | click to buy |

Life has been easy for Maxim Trevelyan. With his good looks, aristocratic connections, and money, he’s never had to work and he’s rarely slept alone. But all that changes when tragedy strikes and Maxim inherits his family’s noble title, wealth, and estates, and all the responsibility that entails. It’s a role he’s not prepared for and one that he struggles to face. But his biggest challenge is fighting his desire for an unexpected, enigmatic young woman who’s recently arrived in England, possessing little more than a dangerous and troublesome past. Reticent, beautiful, and musically gifted, she’s an alluring mystery, and Maxim’s longing for her deepens into a passion that he’s never experienced and dares not name. Just who is Alessia Demachi? Can Maxim protect her from the malevolence that threatens her? And what will she do when she learns that he’s been hiding secrets of his own?

5. crazy for your love by lexi ryan | click to buy |

The only thing worse than being single at my sister’s wedding is finding out that my ex will be there too. Not just any ex—the guy everyone expected me to marry, the man I came to Jackson Harbor to escape. Now I need a date, and fast. Enter Carter Jackson—the firefighter who’s dealing with an unwanted five minutes of fame ever since a shirtless photo of him saving a puppy went viral. He’s warding off propositions left and right, and he needs a fake relationship as much as I do. Sweet and sexy, Carter is completely off-limits. See, I have a rule. A no heartache rule. Not only is Carter my friend and a known heartbreaker, but his job as a firefighter puts him in danger daily, and that’s something I just can’t handle. The commitment between us might be pretend, but the passion all too real. As crazy as it makes me, I have to keep Carter at an arm’s length. Even that might not be enough to spare my heart.

6. nobody does it better by lauren blakely | click to buy |

Some women are just forbidden. Like off the top of my head, my sisters life-long best friend.Sis has made it patently clear that Vanessa is hands-off, as in keep my ladies' man paws far away from her clever, go-getter best friend who's ready for the real deal. That should be an easy guideline to follow, except Vanessa is deliciously flirty, easy to talk to, and laughs at my jokes. Translation - my libido has been craving her many, many years. So many that we might have stolen a kiss or two. Can you say pent-up, crazy, raw desire? That's exactly what we're both feeling when the storm of the century hits and it's 10 inches of snow with Vanessa and me trapped in a cabin all night long... The trouble is--Vanessa isn't interested in my playboy ways, and I have one night to convince her that I'm the real deal. 

Catch up on my previous post: here

xo.

FEBRUARY MUST-BUYS | CLOTHING, BEAUTY + BOOKS

Hello everyone! First of all how is it February already? and second of all how cold is it in the UK right now? Towards the end of January i picked up a few new winter wardrobe essentials, along with a few other sneaky purchases. With that in mind i thought today's post would be the perfect opportunity to share with you a selection my must-buys for February, from clothing to beauty and even books...

1. inthestyle billie faiers black polka dot tshirt | click to buy |

First up is one of my favourite pieces i picked up from In The Style recently, i know it doesn't look the warmest of clothing items but would be warmer styled with a jacket or chunky knit cardigan during the winter. This particular piece also comes in a white with black polka dots, as well as a bodysuit version, which i also have my eye on.

2. gentleman sinner by jodi ellen malpas | click to pre-order |

Next up is a book and one that i simply can't wait to get my hands on and binge-read, because i already know i am going to love this book as Jodi is my favourite author and i have never not loved one of her books. I am also looking forward to Jodi's book The Protector being released in movie form on Passionflix at the end of this month!

3. inthestyle sarah ashcroft nude colour block jumper | click to buy |

Another piece from my recent In The Style order is from the new Sarah Ashcroft range and definitely one of my favourites from the new collection, which has so many great pieces this time around. I love how cosy and comfortable this jumper is. I also picked up a cropped neon colour jumper, which for a neutrals girl is out of my comfort zone yet i am loving it.

4. mua pro base primer oil | click to buy |

A couple of skincare/makeup items that i have been loving using the past few weeks which are from MUA's pro base range, which are super affordable yet amazing quality. I love using facial oil's for hydrating the skin before applying my makeup, as i just feel like my makeup applies/lasts so much better when i do and i was so surprised at how good this particular one was as it was just £4! You can pick this primer oil up in a couple of different versions, including one with gold infused within the product.

5. adidas originals trefoil tshirt | click to buy |

Back to clothing and this past month i have picked up a selection of pieces from Adidas, as i have been loving wearing the pieces on more casual days. This particular t-shirt is one of my favourites from what i picked up, along with the long sleeve three stripe tshirt in the most beautiful rose/pink shade. 

6. mua pro base moisturising primer | click to buy |

Finally another skincare/makeup item from MUA that i have been enjoying reaching for recently is this moisturising primer, if you are a fan of super light weight moisturisers/primers that do the job yet sink into the skin quickly then i would highly recommend giving this one a try, for just £4 also you can't really go wrong.   

Catch up on my previous post: here

xo.

GOODREADS | BOOKS I WANT TO READ THIS AUTUMN

Hello everyone! It only feels like just yesterday that i was sharing my goodreads summer holiday romance reads, yet here we are now talking all things autumn/winter. As i mentioned in my summer goodreads post it is good to switch up the cosy-ing up with a good book for by the pool, but those days are over and we are back to getting all cosy with your favourite autumnal scented candles lit instead. With that in mind for today's post i thought i would share with you the romance reads that i can't wait to get stuck into this autumn...

1. sweet possession - j.daniels | buy on amazon | goodreads |

First up is the second book in a Sweet Addiction series by the author J.Daniels, which i read the first book literally within two evenings i was that hooked on the story and i mentioned this in my september must-buys post. These books follow the story of Dylan and Reese who's relationship to each other started as a wedding hook-up, a one off and is definitely a must read. Book one had me feeling all of the emotions as i laughed, cried, as well as swooning over Reese and i can't wait to pick up where i left off with book two (book one ends in a cliffhanger).

2. dear jane - kendall ryan | buy on amazon | goodreads |

Next up is a book that isn't released until the middle of the month but it is one i can't wait to read, as i have read a handful of Kendall Ryan's books now and i have loved every single one of them (especially Mister Tonight). Dear Jane is kind of a re-kindling romance story as the main character broke her heard and left town ten years ago, now he says he has changed and wants one shot to make everything right again but i don't think things will be as simple as that seems. 

3. hot winter nights - jill shalvis | buy on amazon | goodreads |

Jill Shalvis is an author i know through Passionflix, as her novel The Trouble With Mistletoe was turned into a movie last Christmas time and i have watched it so many times. Almost a year on and she has a new release called Hot Winter Nights, which i can't wait to read also as of course the setting is perfect for this time of year (either autumn or winter time). That being said the story line has a very "protector" kind of theme to it, which has me itching to read more than it being fitting for the time of year.

4. pinch of salt - bethany lopez | buy on amazon | goodreads |

This is one of the book out of many that i have downloaded to my kindle whilst on free promotion, which if you didn't know you can get so many free books from the kindle store. The free books switch and change all the time, so it is worth taking the time and looking often just in-case something takes your fancy. This is a great way to try some books from authors you haven't read anything by before or to try the first book in a series. This book is one where the description made me click download as it has a slightly different theme to the story, than some of your typical romance books as it is good to switch things up from time to time.

5. flirting with forever - kendall ryan | buy on amazon | goodreads |

Another book by Kendall Ryan that is also on my to read list, is a new release by the author at the beginning of last month that i am yet to get around to reading. The theme of the book is all about not realising that the right person was right in front of them all along, in the form of a friendship turned relationship story. If it is anything like all of her other books i know i am going to love this one also, as i mentioned before i am yet to be disappointed. If you are looking for something super sexy, flirty and the perfect mix of funny and serious, then i definitely recommend her books!

6. josh and hazel's guide to not dating - christina lauren | buy on amazon | goodreads |

Finally we have a book that i spotted on my goodreads new releases list and after reading the description of the book. The story behind this book is about two friends who are apparently "just friends", that have reformed their friendship years on. As they aren't dating each other, they are setting each other up on terrible double blind dates destined for failure that means nothing between them apparently (i can already tell i am not convinced that is the case and that makes me want to read it even more).

Catch up on a suggested autumnal post: here

xo.

SUMMER FAVOURITES | BEAUTY, LIFESTYLE, STYLE + MORE

Hello everyone! Seeing as autumn is fast approaching us and it is safe to say we have said goodbye to summer for another year, i thought for today's post i would do something a little bit different. The something different being an end of summer favourites type of post, to make up for the fact i haven't posted a "monthly favourites" post in a couple of months now. I have so many favourites from the whole of summer, from beauty products to clothing, accessories, music, movies and books...

1. ps bronze dewy glow face + body butter

Kicking things off with probably one of my favourite beauty finds of the summer, which is crazy as it is a super affordable product. Cream highlighters have been an essential part to my everyday makeup routine this summer, as they are super lightweight on the skin yet they still give you that beautiful/healthy sun-kissed glow. One thing that really made this product a summer favourite (glow aside) was the fact it is coconut scented and what makes a product more summer appropriate than that? 

2. topshop onara lattice white cross body bag

Next up is an accessories favourite of mine from this summer, in the form of this small white cross body bag from Topshop that i picked up for just £10, when they had 25% off a few months ago (not available anymore). This bag has been perfect to pair with so many different summer outfits, especially for going out for a more casual yet still dressy dinners. One of my favourite things about this bag is even though it is super small and compact, you still had a central section to put your money and cards in securely/hidden without needing to pack a purse.

| featured cream highlighter post | featured cross body bag post |

3. nude nails

This next favourite can be an all year round favourite of mine, but even more particularly this summer and that is of course nude nails. I just love how natural they look, they go with every single outfit you are going to wear and i just don't ever get bored of them. That being said i could never narrow it down to just one (even though i do have a top favourite which is included) and i have found myself reaching for a selected few this summer. The nude nail polishes are rimmel 60 seconds let's get nude, barry m gelly hi shine peanut butter, barry m speedy winning streak and of course essie spin the bottle.

4. summer music favourites

This summer i have been loving a lot of music, from the music that i listen to on an everyday basis and then also the music that keeps me motivated during workouts. I always listen to my music on Spotify which is perfect to keep track on what music is new, as well as making your own playlists and also listening to other already made playlists. Some of my favourite playlist's made by Spotify are the this is: playlist's, as well as the release radar playlist which is tailored to suit the style of music that you personally listen to.

| this is: dvsn playlist | this is: majid jordan playlist | are & be playlist |

5. my summer reads

This summer i have read so many books, well like i have been doing for the most of the year as i made it one of my new years resolutions, to read as many books as possible this year. Of course i have some of my ultimate favourite reads from the summer, starting with Driven. I loved every single page of all three books from the Driven series, which i mentioned i wanted to read before the series was released in movie/tv series form on Passionflix. Next up and two books part of a two book series by my favourite author and that is of course Jodi Ellen Malpas and her fantastic Smoke & Mirrors series (The Controversial Princess and His True Queen). 

6. protein world slender blend

I have mentioned how this year i have been super motivated and have been a lot stricter with my diet and my lifestyle. One product that i have been loving reaching for a lot to help with that this summer is the Slender Blend protein powder from Protein World, as it is not only a perfect quick meal especially after a workout but also great for adding into smoothies or even porridge. The Slender Blend is packed full of protein, fibre and is also low in sugar, calories and fat.

| august must-buys post | six books to binge-read this month post |

xo.

SIX MUST BINGE-READ BOOKS THIS MONTH

Hello everyone! If you read my recent august must-buys post, then you will have probably seen me mention in that post about a book that i had been reading recently and i was going to be talking more about it in an upcoming post. Last year and this year i have read so many different books/book series's, that i thought i was about time i put into one post some of my favourite books that are definitely book binge worthy...

the smoke + mirrors duology book series by jodi ellen malpas

Regarded as down to earth by the press and rebellious by The King, Princess Adeline refuses to bow to the royal expectations her title carries. She knows better than anyone that the united front of the royal family is nothing but smoke and mirrors - lies and secrets masked by power and privilege. She wants no part of it, and she will never surrender to The King’s demand to marry a man she does not love but despite Adeline's determination to retain her free will, she remains deeply unfulfilled, feeling caged and suffocated. That is until she meets Josh Jameson, drawn in by his confidence Adeline is soon captivated by the scandalously sexy American actor. His ability to penetrate her defences overwhelms her - his touch is pure fire, and his allure overpowering. Nothing has ever made her feel so alive in a world where she’s otherwise slowly drowning. However, while Josh may be Hollywood royalty, he’s not actual royalty, and Adeline knows The King and his advisers will do everything in their power to keep them apart.

| shop the controversial princess (kindle) | shop his true queen (kindle) |

come as you are (stand alone novel) by lauren blakely

For one fantastic evening, at a masquerade party in the heart of Manhattan, I’m not the millionaire everyone wants a piece of. Fine—multimillionaire. But who’s counting all those commas? Not me, and not the most intriguing woman I've ever met, who happens to like dancing, witty banter, and hot, passionate up-against-the-wall sex as much as I do. There's no need for names or business cards. And that’s why I’m eager to get to know her more, since my mystery woman seems to like me for me, rather than for my huge…bank account. Everything’s coming up aces. Until the next day when things get a little complicated. (Newsflash a lot complicated).

night after night seductive nights series by lauren blakely

Their world was sex, love, and lies. He intoxicated her. Commanded. Consumed. With a dirty mind and a mouth to match, Clay Nichols is everything Julia never knew she wanted and exactly what she cannot have. He walked into her life one night and unlocked pleasure in her that she never knew was possible. Possessing her body, captivating her every thought. Which makes him way too dangerous for Julia to risk her heart, given that she has a price tag on her head. She ran after one mind-blowing week with him, but now he's back, and determined to make her his own no matter the cost. She was a sexy drug to him. Fiery, unforgettable, and never enough, Julia is an enigma, and Clay isn't willing to let her go without a fight. But she's got dark secrets of her own that threaten to destroy any chance of happiness. She's a wanted woman the stakes are high, her every move is watched, and yet the lure between them can't be denied. Can two people burned by love trust again when desire and passion are met by danger at every turn?

 | shop come as you are (kindle) | shop night after night (kindle) |

mister tonight (stand alone novel) by kendall ryan

Last night was the most embarrassing night of my life. I was that girl. You know, the highly intoxicated chick celebrating her thirtieth birthday with her two best friends—who are happily married. And the more I drank, the more I wanted to do something reckless to celebrate. By reckless, I mean the sexy and alluring man dressed in a business suit standing near the bar. You know his type tall, dark, handsome. I was sure he was out of my league, but I’d had just enough alcohol that things like that no longer seemed to matter. I’m not fat, mind you, but you can tell I like french fries, so there’s that. He took me home, and I enjoyed the hottest birthday sex of my life. Well, until it came to a screeching and rather unwelcome halt. There’s nothing quite like being interrupted mid-ride with a little voice asking, “What are you doing to my daddy?” Just kill me now or so I thought.

baby daddy (stand alone novel) by kendall ryan

We met in a trapped elevator. Emmett was on his way to work, sophisticated and handsome in his tailored suit and tie. I was on my way to the sperm bank. Awkward, right? At thirty-five, my life hadn’t taken the path I thought it would and I was tired of waiting—I wanted a baby. And I was ready to take matters into my own hands to make it happen. After our ill-fated elevator encounter, Emmett insisted on taking me to dinner—he also insisted on something else—that I ditch my plan involving a turkey baster and let him do the job. He would be my baby daddy. He was a wealthy and powerful CEO with little interest in diapers or playdates. And since he didn’t want kids, I’d be on my own once his bun was in my oven, free to go my own way but once his baby was inside me, it was like a switch had been flipped, and I got a whole lot more than I ever bargained for.

| shop mister tonight (kindle) | shop baby daddy (kindle) |

Catch up on my previous post HERE...

xo.

AUGUST MUST-BUYS | CLOTHING, FOOD, MOVIES + MORE

Hello everyone and Happy August! With it being a new month means only one thing, it is time for another instalment of monthly must-buys. This month i have a good selection of must-buy items from fashion to food and even tv/movies, as well as some upcoming/things i want to pick up ASAP...

1. protein world slender blend | £31.99 (1.2KILO) |

So first up i recently decided to pick up some of the slender blend, as i had been wanting to give it a try for a while now and i thought it would be perfect for something super quick (meal replacement perfect for breakfast time) yet was full of  good stuff. I actually picked mine up whilst they had money off on the site so this huge size only cost £22.99 yet it is usually £31.99 and you get 30 servings out of it. They also come in a wide range of flavours but i decided to just try simple vanilla to begin with, although i do have my eye on chocolate mint.

2. prettylittlething tan large wooden structured clutch | £35 |

If you follow me on Instagram then you might have seen my stories earlier in the week, sharing a few of my favourite things on PLT at the moment and this bag is definitely one of them. I have mentioned in a few different style related posts about how obsessed i am with the whole wooden/wicker bag vibes right now, what makes this one different is you can also pick one up in either black or white and of course the traditional wood colour.

3. primark beauty coconut body scrub | £3 |

When it comes to shower gels, body lotions and scrubs i am all for anything and everything coconut scented, so naturally when i spotted that Primark now have a coconut body scrub i was going to be excited. The scent of this is literally giving me all of the summer holiday/beach vibes and for just £3, what a bargain must-have product to have in your shower this August.

4. boohoo basic swing cami | £5 |

I am always picking up new basic tops as you can never have enough, as they are so good for day to day wear with a pair of jeans. I had tried the cami tops like this from Boohoo before and i wasn't that much of a fan but i am pretty sure they have recently changed them, for the better! I recently picked up a couple, one in black and one in this beautiful mustard colour.

5. topshop panther quilted shoulder bag | £29 |

Ooops another bag, but i am honestly such a sucker for Topshop bags and when i saw this new-in on the site i was just instantly in love. I know we have another month or so left of summer but i think this will make a great transition into autumn bag, re-introducing my favourite a/w colour....black of course!

6. silk fred black leather biker jacket | £49.99 |

So if you have read a few of my posts recently/have been keeping up, then you will probably know that this year i have become a lot more healthy in my lifestyle choices and with that of course i have lost weight. I actually picked up a brand new leather jacket from MissGuided earlier in the year but obviously once the warm weather hit, i wasn't reaching for it anymore. That being said when i did try it on a few days ago, i couldn't believe how much bigger it was on me and i definitely need a smaller sized one. There are always so many different black leather jackets to choose from online/in-stores but at this moment in time, this Silk Fred number is definitely my favourite (well favourite one out of those you don't need a mortgage for).

7. mister tonight kindle book by Kendall Ryan | £2.99 |

Once i had finished my current read, i was browsing through the kindle book store for inspiration on what to read next and i decided to give something a go by Kendall Ryan. I have heard of the author a lot before yet i hadn't read anything buy her and ever since finishing Mister Tonight in just two nights, it definitely left me wondering why i haven't read her books before. The way her books flow, how easy they are to get into is just perfect, i am also currently reading another book by her which i will be talking about in a post coming soon...

8. passionflix | $5.99 / £4.60 per month |

I have spoken about my love for the Passionflix movie service for almost a year now ever since it launched, as it is something that i personally subscribe to also and love. The idea of Passionflix is turning romance books into movies/tv shows, which who doesn't love seeing some of their favourite books turned into film? Getting to the point in just one week, the first tv series to the site will be released (the first three episodes) and that is Driven. Driven is a book series that i have mentioned over the past couple of months, which i decided to read as i hadn't done so already before it was released on screen. I never expected this series to be one of my favourites i have ever read, which has me even more excited to binge watch on release day! 

Catch up on last month's must-buys post HERE...

xo.

MID-MONTH FAVOURITES | TV SHOWS + BOOKS

Hello everyone! I know it doesn't seem all that long ago that i shared a few of my current more lifestyle favourites, in my may beauty + lifestyle favourites post but over the past few weeks/June so far i have been loving so many different more lifestyle things. That being said for today's post i thought i would share a handful of my current favourite binge-worthy tv shows and books...

love island | netflix | itv hub |

First things first, i had to mention the show that pretty much the whole of the UK (me included) are talking/thinking about all of the time. If you aren't familiar with the set up of the show, it is basically singles both men and women, living in a villa and hoping to find love, with a little help with everyone at home deciding who stays and who goes. This reality TV show is so addictive and if you haven't indulged in the show before, i highly recommend catching up from season one/two on Netflix or if you are yet to watch season three you can catch up on the season so far on the ITV hub. 

bulletproof | sky one |

So i actually briefly mentioned this show in my May beauty and lifestyle favourites post, but i didn't go into too much detail. If you are a huge fan of the police drama Lethal Weapon from the US, then you are definitely going to love this as it is basically an English version of the show and as well as having a serious crime story line each week, it also has an hilarious comedy element to it. The show is a mixture of a partner/friendship and conspiracies. Bulletproof is currently on Tuesday's at 9PM on Sky One, but you can binge watch all six episodes so far.

desperate housewives | virgin |
A show that i have started re-watching now it is on Virgin Box sets/on demand is Desperate Housewives, this show used to be one of my all time favourite shows way back when it was first aired. If you never watches it first time around i highly recommend that you do, it is a show that is full of mystery and drama that never gets old no matter how many times you re-watch it.

the ruthless gentleman by Louise Bay | amazon |
So first up on the book favourites is this one by Louise Bay, which happened to be the first book i had ever read by this author and i wasn't sure what to expect. I went in thinking i wasn't going to enjoy this book, as i was still suffering from a slight book hangover after the cliffhanger that the controversial princess and i surprised at how i couldn't put it down. The way this contemporary romance novel was written just flowed so easily and had you captivated with the chemistry between the two characters, i also liked how the way it was written actually made me feel like i was sat on a boat whilst reading it. I will definitely be reading something from her again!

driven by K.Bromberg | amazon |
This book is actually my current read but is one i was literally hooked on from the start, as it started super full-on rather than a build up to the meeting of the two characters. This is also a book from an author that i have never read anything from and i probably wouldn't of ever discovered her books, if it wasn't for this book in-particular being turned into a movie for Passionflix. As i mentioned in my books i want to read post, i am one of those people who likes to read the book before the movie so that is exactly what i am doing. Once i have finished book one i will definitely share more of my thoughts on the story and i am so glad there is 5 books in the driven series.

I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

xo.

MAY FAVOURITES | BEAUTY + LIFESTYLE

Hello everyone! It is that time of the month again and when i say time of the month i mean, monthly favourites. I honestly can't believe how fast this month has gone, i swear it was the beginning of the month just last week? yet somehow we are in June in just a couple of days and i don't know if that upsets me or makes me happy because it is my birthday month. Putting that to the back of my mind for now, this month i didn't a whole lot of new beauty favourites so i thought i would do another combined favourites of both beauty and lifestyle...

topshop onara lattice white cross body bag

So first up we have this super cute small cross body bag which i picked up a few weeks ago from Toshop (currently has £10 off) and i actually featured it in my recent how to update your wardrobe for summer on a budget post. I am obsessed with this style of bag and the white is perfect for summer yet it goes with so many different coloured outfits. What i love the most about this bag is even though it is a "see-through" style bag with its lattice design, it also has a zip section in the middle to hide your money, cards etc.

good grain high fibre puffed wheat

As i mentioned in my previous post, i like to switch my breakfast up pretty much everyday and rotate what i am having, just so i don't get bored of having the same thing over and over again. So on the days when i just want something quick that isn't overnight oats, i have been loving having some of this puffed wheat with some almond milk and a drizzle of honey. If you are a 90's kid or you grew up around the cereal "sugar puffs" this is basically the healthy version of those and so low in calories/sugar/fat yet super high in fibre.

palmer's cocoa butter natural bronze tan lotion

In my eight products to keep you smelling beach-y this summer post i talked about a bunch of different Palmer's products that i love and i also mentioned how i had recently switched up the everyday tan lotion from what i usually use. I feel like this natural bronze tan from the brand lasts longer/looks fresher longer, as well as it being easier to apply to a mitt as it has a pump top. Another thing i love about this tan is that it smells so good with the original cocoa butter scent, as well as keeping my skin super hydrated. 

primark bronze + glow bronzer/highlighter butter duo

The two makeup items that i have been reaching for this month different to past months are a bronzer and highlighting face/body butter both from Primark (first impression linked). Since we are now coming into the summer months i have been loving the whole bronzed up skin with a natural/dewy highlighted look and these two products used together do just that.

the controversial princess by jodi ellen malpas

So i am currently suffering from a serious book hangover because i read the whole of this new book release within days of it being released, as i was just so hooked, so fast just like i always seem to be when Jodi releases a new book and that is probably why she is one of my favourite authors. I know i have a bunch of other books on my to-read list which i did do a post on recently here but i still can't wait for August for the next instalment. 

tv show favourites

Finally we have TV show favourites and i actually have a few different shows that i have been enjoying this month, a couple of regulars and a couple of new shows. This month has been leading up to the end of the current season of Grey's Anatomy, which has been my favourite show for years but with a couple of the main cast members leaving it has been a gripping yet emotion few episodes and i have loved every single one. Sticking with the similar show theme i have also been loving Station 19, which i had saved a few episodes back to binge watch. Finally a new show that i have been loving is called Bulletproof on Sky One, if you love police/crime/action tv shows you will love this and i especially love the whole banter/comedy elements between the two main cast. 

Catch up on a similar post HERE...

xo.

BOOKS I WANT TO READ IN 2018 | PART TWO

Hello everyone! So i have mentioned the fact that last year i made it my mission to read more books and i have actually stuck to it for once, so much so i have constantly got a book on a go from new reads to re-reading old favourites. At the beginning of the year i shared part one to the "books i want to read in 2018" which you can catch up on here and since then the list has just kept on growing, even more so since i downloaded the goodreads app. With that in mind for today's post i thought i was share the next set of books i want to read in 2018...

1. the controversial princess by jodi ellen malpas

I know i mentioned this book in my part one post but seeing as we are almost in May, that means it is almost release date for one of my favourite authors new books. The controversial princess is book one in the new series called Smoke and Mirrors, which i believe is going to be a duology. The story line to this book is that she is the daughter of the King and he is a Hollywood actor, she doesn't usually bow down to anyone...until she meets him.

2. love in lingerie by alessandra torre

Ever since falling in love with the Hollywood Dirt movie on Passionflix i have fallen in love with a couple of books from Alessandra Torre, the author who wrote Hollywood Dirt. With that in mind the book from her that i want to read next isn't so much a new release but one i haven't read as of yet, called Love In Lingerie. The store line of the books is about two people who go from being hired for work, to best friends, tp falling in love and risking everything by breaking the rules.

3. driven by k bromberg

As i mentioned before how i had fallen in love with the Hollywood Dirt book turned movie on Passionflix, well the next movie to be filmed and released by Passionflix is a book called Driven. I am that person who likes to read the book before watching the movie, hence why this book has made its way onto the want to read list. The story line to this book is about two people who wouldn't of usually met, she hates him but wants him at the same time.

4. hitched by kendall ryan

Personally i am yet to read a book by the author Kendall Ryan, but ever since downloading the Good Reads app i have seen a large amount of her books pop up in the romance section. When i was talking all things books to one of my friends, ironically they mentioned this series to me called Hitched. The story line to this book series is that two people get married in a business arranged manor but then are faced with the challenge to get pregnant, the only catch is she can't stand him but he isn't walking away easily.

5. london affair series by rhyannon byrd

This book series also always seems to pop up in popular reads on both Amazon and Good Reads, both having a large amount of great reviews. The series is said to become a favourite of yours if you are fan of books by Jodi Ellen Malpas, Sylvia Day or J Kenner and i am a huge fan of all three authors, as i have read so many books by them all. The story line to this series is that of a typical girls lands her dream job but then meets someone (good if you love a billionaire romance). I tend to love this type of book series, so i am sure i will love as many people have!

6. dirty billionaire series by meghan march

Finally we have a book that i actually downloaded on my Kindle a little while ago, as i wanted to give it a read and thought i would download it at the time as it was on promotion. I actually think this is going to be the next book i pick up, as i am super intrigued after seeing a fair few people read this so recently considering it isn't even a new release. The story line to this book is also pretty much about a billionaire man with a huge ego, all until he meets her and everything gradually changes. Who doesn't look this type of read?

Catch up on my previous post HERE...

xo.

THINGS TO BINGE ON IN THE EVENING (OR AT THE WEEKEND)

Hello everyone! So when we have reached the end of a long day, there is nothing more that we want to do than remove our makeup, wash the day off and get into our favourite pair of pyjamas. Once we have done the following steps, we tend to either sit in front of the tv and binge watch or pick up a good book. With that in mind for today's post i thought i would share some of my favourite binge-worthy things to do in the evening time...

1. grey's anatomy (now tv linked)

If you are looking for a great binge worthy TV show to watch and you have never seen it before, then you definitely need to give Grey's Anatomy a watch or even a re-watch if you have followed the show from day one. It might be on it's 14th season, but it is definitely a show you don't want to miss out on especially if you love a good medical drama. I am also looking forward to the new spin-off show called Station 19, which is all about a fire station in Seattle just like Grey's Anatomy!

2. suits (netflix linked)

If Netflix is more your thing and are looking for a show to binge on rather than a movie, then Suits is definitely one to give a go. I watched the show from day one but then i stopped watching it around season four for some reason, that being said i recently picked it up again and i wonder why i stopped watching it in the first place. If you aren't sure what exactly Suits is already, then it is a super intense legal drama surrounding a top legal firm in NY.

3. this man trilogy (amazon three book linked)

If you have read my posts before, especially book related ones then you will probably already know that Jodi Ellen Malpas is my favourite author and i am obsessed with every single one of her books. With that in mind next week she is launching book number four in her best selling This Man series, which i literally can't wait for so much so i have been binge re-reading the series before it is launched and i am almost ready for starting book three. If you are looking for a new book series to delve straight into, then this is definitely the one to binge on.

4. quantico (netflix linked)
Next up is a show i actually recently started watching and i am hooked, you can watch it on either Netflix, Now TV or Virgin TV box sets. This show is a perfect watch if you love a good thrilling drama, which is based around the FBI, crime etc. I wasn't sure what i was going to think about this show and it is probably the quickest 10 minutes which is really 40+ minutes episode ever, it literally goes that fast because of how gripping it is.

5. shadowhunters (netflix linked)
If something more on the supernatural side of things, then Shadowhunters is the show you need to watch as it is everything supernatural in one show. Yet again another show where each episode goes by super quickly, leaving feeling all the feels and wanting more each week. Binge-watch season one and two, before season three which starts March 21st on Netflix.

6. altered carbon (netflix linked)
Another show which is more on the dark side of things and a well talked about/trending Netflix original series, that i have only just finally gotten around to starting after so many people telling me how good it is. It is such a gripping series, dark, action packed and definitely one of those shows you need to have your full attention on.

7. passionflix original movies
I have spoken about how much i have been loving the PassionFlix service (which you can also buy and rent the movies from Amazon video), as it is a lot of your favourite romance books/series's turned into movies and TV shows. The This Man book series is going to be turned into a TV series, which is just everything and more. There is a new release in the form of The Matchmaker's Playbook, starring the ever so dreamy Nick Bateman and i can't wait to give it a watch.

8. one night book series (amazon linked)

Finally another book series by Jodi Ellen Malpas worth binge-reading is the One Night Series, which once i am done with being on Cloud Nine Jesse i might have to re-read myself again. If you are a sucker for a good romance/alpha male, then this book series/any of Jodi's books are definitely for you and i just can't get enough of them!

Catch up on my tips for self-love post HERE...

xo.

MY MARCH MUST-BUYS | CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES + BEAUTY

Hello everyone and Hello new month! Where did March spring from? (no pun intended), it honestly felt like January lasted a lifetime and February went in a flash. So the past couple of months at the beginning of the months, i have been sharing a selection of my must-buy items, whether that be the things i have already bought or if i am wanting to buy. That being said so far they seem to be a huge hit views wise, so with that in mind and now we are into a new month here are my March must-buys from clothing to beauty and accessories...

1. bareMinerals gen nude lip lacquer in the shade major | £17 |  
bareMinerals gen nude glow blush in the shade pretty in pink | £22 | selfridges |
Fun fact bareMinerals is probably my favourite high end makeup brand, especially for products like my all time favourite invisible bronze bronzer. They have recently launched a bunch of new gen nude products, which naturally i was going to be excited for especially the nude lip colours.

2. black faux leather jacket | £30 | missguided |
I have been in need of picking up a new black leather jacket, as i have had my other one for some time now and i decided to take a look on the missguided site. I ended up going for this one which to be honest is a bargain at £30, yet it was even more of a bargain as it was included during the 50% off everything on the site so it ended up being £15. I also took full advantage of this 50% off and picked up a few other things, but returned a couple of them as they ended up being too big.

3. casual peplum camisole top | £14 | topshop |
When it comes to tops i am all about stocking up on basics, especially tops like this one as they are so great just to throw on with a pair of jeans and look great paired with a leather jacket. I also like how they come in several different colours, but of course for me it is all about the black.

4. pretty trim bardot top | £22 | topshop |

Another Topshop number that i am loving at the moment is this bardot top, in this gorgeous peachy shade. I actually first mentioned this top in my recent early spring clothing + accessories lust list post and i said how perfect this would be for spring/summer with a pair of jeans, that is if we even end up getting any nice weather in the UK soon!

5. luna oriental kimono wrap dress | £20 | boohoo |

I have really been loving wearing print blouses when it comes to wanting something a little more dressy, then i saw this patterned wrap dress on Boohoo and thought how nice this would look styled in so many ways. You could style it either with heeled boots (ankle or thigh high) or with heeled sandals or block heels.

6. layla basic crew neck t-shirt | £5 | boohoo |

As i mentioned before i like to stock up on basics, as they always come in handy so when i placed a Boohoo order i decided to pick a few of these up whilst i was on the site. Of course i went for a couple of the black, but i also picked up a grey one and a mocha colour (which looks more of a nude colour). 

7. yellow tie up block heel sandals | £42 | river island |

Another item that i mentioned in my recent early-spring lust list is these gorgeous block heel sandals from River Island, which as i mentioned in that post i am obsessed with this yellow colour. I have a feeling these sandals are going to be a summer outfit staple, which you could either dress up or dress down.

8. with this man by jodi ellen malpas | £5.43 | amazon |

Finally the thing that i am probably so excited for at the end of the month, which is the next chapter in the This Man series of books. If you read my recent music, tv + books at the moment post then you will probably know how i started re-reading the series just to refresh my memory (well that is my excuse anyway). I definitely recommend giving this series a read, especially if you are a sucker for an alpha male and Jesse is the lord of alpha males!

 I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

xo.

BOOKS I WANT TO READ IN 2018 | PART ONE

Hello everyone! So last year one of my main goals was to read more books and i was so impressed with myself at how many books i managed to read and i loved every minute of it, as well as how many books i ended up really enjoying (including a couple that left me with character withdrawal). That being said my goal again for this year is to continue to read more books again, as i find it is so good for me personally and i have found it great way to just simply take a break. If you didn't catch last years "books i want to read" posts, i will link them at the end of this post and just like those posts i will be doing this years in two parts also.

1. with this man by jodi ellen malpas

If you have read any of my previous book related posts, then you will probably already know that Jodi Ellen Malpas is one of my favourite authors and i have loved every single book of hers, especially the This Man series. That being said i literally squealed with joy when i saw that there was going to be a book #4 in the series, this time from the pov of Jesse and literally can't wait to read it once released this March as i have been suffering from a Jesse hangover ever since i finished the All I Am novella.

2. hidden seams by alessandra torre

So i have never read any books by Alessandra Torre before but a friend told me that her books are must reads, especially the now made into a movie book called Hollywood Dirt. That being said when i popped the authors name into google, this new release for a book called Hidden Seams came up and it sounds like the kind of book that i would love. This book was released on January 18th and Hollywood Dirt was released back in 2015.

3. the controversial princess by jodi ellen malpas

Another exciting recent announcement by my favourite author which is being released in May this year and a new set of characters and book series called the Smoke and Mirrors series, with The Controversial Princess being book number one. I am not 100% sure if this is going to be available in a paperback version or not, but i know it will be available on Kindle and iBooks.   

4. the man in the black suit by sylvain reynard
Last summer i read the Gabriel trilogy by Sylvain Reynard and i loved every single page of each book, so much so i didn't want it to end. If you want to know my full thoughts of that trilogy you can do so here, they are a must read. Keeping that in mind i really want to read the latest novel release called The Man In The Black Suit, as it sounds equally as passionate and dramatic. This book was released in December of last year.

5. the bridge series by meredith wild

Back in November i did a post all about the books i wanted to read this winter, which you can catch up on here and in that post i mentioned how i wanted to read this particular series by Meredith Wild as i had read her Hacker Series and loved that. That being said i never got around to reading all of the books in the post, as November/December just ended up being super busy and i never got the chance. Talking of the Hacker Series, i think i might re-read them at some stage this year, as they were a favourite book series of mine.

6. wicked torture by j kenner

Finally another book from that same post, which i never got around to reading yet i still really want to as i loved the other two in the series even though they were stand alone stories in the wicked series. The thing i have loved about these books so far is they are different stories, yet are still linked within the same world of "characters" from J Kenner's Stark Series of novels which were also favourites of mine.

Catch up on my books i want to read related posts here...

| books i want to read in 2017 #1 | books i want to read in 2017 #2 | kindle books i have been reading in june/july | books i want to read this winter |

xo.

BOOKS I WANT TO READ THIS WINTER

Hello everyone! So at the beginning of 2017, i set myself a goal to actually read more books that i would usually do and it is safe to say i have read my fair share of books this year. I have also written a few posts this year talking about all things books, which i will link at the end of this post if you want to catch up. With that in mind for today's post i thought i would do an updated "books i want to read" but talking about the ones i want to read this coming winter, which is probably the best time to read a good romance book, especially snuggled up in bed with a hot chocolate, tea or a cheeky glass of wine or two.

1. darker (fifty shades darker) by EL James

Of course i was going to kick things off with the book, which i literally can't wait to get stuck into when it is released on the 28th of this month. If you are familiar with the Fifty Shades trilogy books/films by the amazing EL James (if not where have you been since 2012) then you will know that she already released grey which was the first book told from Christians point of view. Now she is releasing the second book from his point of view, i really enjoyed this because obviously usually with a book you only get one persons perspective of things and you don't know exactly what is going on in the second persons head but with this book you can! 

2. the trouble with mistletoe by Jill Shalvis
If you read my kindle books i have been reading in june/july post, then you will probably know that i mentioned a book by Sylvia Day that was being turned into a movie (on passionflix). That being said this particular book by Jill Shalvis is being released as a movie next month i believe, so i wouldn't mind reading the book before seeing the movie. I have never really read many Christmas themed novels, so i think that would be something different and i have also never read anything from this particular author either.

3. covent garden in the snow by Jules Wake
Sticking with the Christmas novel theme, this particular book actually caught my eye whilst browsing on amazon as it came up as the top best selling new release. I think this book would be good to read when you are wanting something a little more light-hearted, as well as probably another way to get you into the Christmas spirit.

4. wicked dirty and wicked torture by J Kenner
Another book from the kindle books i have been reading in june/july post, which was the first book in this series (which are stand alone stories) called wicked grind and i really enjoyed it, as it was such a different kind of read for me in the style it was written. That being said i really want to read the next two books in the series, wicked dirty which was released a couple of months ago and wicked torture which was released this week. If you have read my previous book related posts, then you will already know i am a fan of Julie Kenner's stark series.

5. misadventures of a city girl by Meredith Wild and Chelle Bliss
This series of books is definitely ones that are to be read, when you have some time to spare as there is going to be a total of 13 books and 7 of them have already been released. That being said i have a feeling they are all going to be good reads especially the ones co-written by Meredith Wild, as i loved her hacker series books.

6. the bridge series by Meredith Wild
Sticking with Meredith Wild books, i really want to give this particular series a read by her also even though it has been out for a while now. Unlike the hacker series of books, i believe these 3 books are all different stories but are based around different brothers who have the surname Bridge. If you have never read the hacker series, i highly recommend that you do, as i loved every single instalment of the 5 book series.

7. it started with a swipe by Shelly Smith
This is another book that i first spotted on the new-release section on amazon and as soon as i read the title/about the book, i was sold because of how relatable this book seems to be to current day dating/trying to date and i find stories like that hilarious. I have a feeling it is going to be a quick yet enjoyable read, as it is only 160 pages.

8. with this man (this man book 4) by Jodi Ellen Malpas
Technically this book isn't a winter read, as it isn't released until the end of March next year but i couldn't not mention it as i am so excited for this read. The this man series by Jodi Ellen Malpas is probably my favourite series of books i have ever read, as i mean lets face it if you are familiar with the stories then you will know Jesse is pretty much the definition of the word Alpha male! Even though this book seems like it has a tragic accident in the story, i am really excited for a whole book from Jesse's point of view, rather than what we are used to which is from Ava's perspective.

Catch up on my other "book related" posts here:
books i want to read in 2017 #1
books i want to read in 2017 #2
kindle books i have been reading in june/july

xo.