Book Review: His Forbidden Obsession: A sizzling forbidden love, secret pregnancy & forced proximity romance (The Martinelli Wedding Book 4) by Michelle Smart

His Forbidden Obsession is the fourth novel in Michelle Smart’s mafia romance series, The Martinelli Wedding. 

Niccolo Martinelli belongs to one of Italy’s oldest, noble, richest and prestigious families. His father is a Duke. Georgia Thomas is an unknown interior designer. She knows there is no future for them as a couple. Nic is having financial difficulties and so needs an influx of cash. The mafia Esposito family lend him the money on the condition that he marries the daughter, Siena. The Esposito family feel that this marriage will give their name social standing to go with their millions. Georgia and Nic have one last weekend together, he tells her about his upcoming nuptials, asks if she will continue to be his lover/ mistress and she tells him to sling his hook. Fast forward 4 months. She has realised she is pregnant and he he is the runaway groom. The Esposito brothers are trying to kill them both as their father dropped dead after Nic ran during the wedding. Nic rescues Georgia in London and they go into hiding. The question remains will they survive long enough to build a HEA? 

I really enjoyed this novel. I think it’s one of my favourite reads of 2025 and the most enjoyable out of the series, although all 4 have interesting and enjoyable storylines. The novel is well paced, the characters gel well together. There are links and references between this and the other novels in the series that are not just an afterthought but work together. The book and storyline is well paced, doesn’t drag and it feels like the author really enjoyed writing this book. If you enjoy mafia inspired, secret pregnancy, alpha male romances I would recommend this and the other novels in this series. 

An ARC copy was provided by Michelle Smart in exchange for an honest review

Book Review:Gone Before Goodbye by Reese Witherspoon; Harlan Coben

Gone Before Goodbye is a psychological thriller co-authored by Reece Witherspoon and Harlan Coben. 

Dr Maggie Maggie McCabe had been a successful surgeon. She had worked as an army surgeon and won several medals for her bravery. When she left the army she married fellow army medic, Marc, and set up a charity , WorldCures Alliance, which helped victims in war torn areas with their best friend Trace. Her life fell apart when Marc was killed in a war torn Tunisia - he had gone to save lives but lost his own. Her mother died, Maggie’s medical licence was suspended and she was facing a lawsuit from a former patient, so was unable to practice what she loved. She was talking to her husband through a grief bot an app that her sister was creating to help people come to term with their loss of loved ones. Maggie and her sister were facing bankruptcy when she was offered an opportunity by her old professor, Dr Barlow. She would go to Russia operate on 2 people and leave. It sounded so simple and would clear their debts. She took the job and her life spiralled from there into a murky underworld which finally solved her husband’s  death. 

The first 47% of the novel dragged in places as the scene was set for the twists and turns which culminated in an end I did not anticipate. The characters interact well together. Porkchop is my favourite character who, during the first half of the book, caught my interest enough to carry on reading and I am so pleased that I did!  Porkchop’s humorous and stoic character balanced out the confusion, intensity and grief that shaped the main storyline. The exploration of grief and the use of AI to combat those feelings was an interesting tool to show how deeply Maggie depended on her husband in life and death. I read this in one setting as the suspense was palpable. I wanted to see who actually killed Marc and find out where Trace was.  The ending was unexpected as the authors left not a single clue or hint until the last few pages unveiled the answers that Maggie and Nadia had been looking for. 

An ARC copy was provided by Netgalley UK and Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review

Book Review: The Cut Throat Trial by The Secret Barrister writing as S. J. Fleet

The Cut Throat Trial, written by S.J Fleet, is a legal thriller which captures the reader’s imagination. It has an intense sit on the edge of your seat and don’t anticipate the twist at the end plot line which is both enjoyable and nerve racking! 

A retired music teacher goes out on New Years Eve to purchase a bottle of champagne to share with his wife, a yearly tradition. He never returns. Bernard Hooper is brutally murdered, killed by a knife injuries. The trial takes place at Ableford Crown Court a year later. As is devastated wife Rita points out, he will never meet his first grandchild. Three teenagers, Craig, Arron and Jamal  are accused of killing an elderly music teacher. EAs the trial progresses cracks appear in the case as it is clear the evidence is not as clear cut as it first appears. 

The narrative and point of views moves between all the main characters, defendants, Judge etc. each chapter focuses and tells the story from a different viewpoint/voice. The reader also learns about the backgrounds of the characters and none are particularly likeable. The boys’ lives have been shaped by social deprivation, the judge already assumes they are guilty before the trial even begins and the barristers are an eclectic set of individuals. There is lots of court room drama and tension and not surprisingly the novel gives an insight into how trials play out in the English legal system. 

This is a morally compelling complex legal drama. Enjoyable to read but also shows the reader not to assume but listen to all the evidence and arguments before coming to the decision of who is guilty (or not). I enjoyed the style of writing, the pacing of the storyline was just right and kept me, as the reader, enthralled in finding out who the killer actually was. I am looking forward to reading the next novel by Fleet. 

An ARC copy was provided by Netgalley UK and Picador  in exchange for an honest review

Review: Halloween Themed Classic Canes Bats At Night Derby Walking Stick

Repost: I haven’t purchased and reviewed a walking stick for some time but I as I was browsing the Stick and Cane website I noticed that Classic Canes have launched quite a few walking sticks in their Contemporary Chic  Derby Adjustable Stick. The patterns include ladybirds, owls, birds and bats. I want them all, but restrained myself and chose the bat themed walking stick. 

The Bats at Night walking Stick (£46) is adjustable, collapses into four pieces and comes in a protective pouch. My stick looks slightly strange in the photo as I had a piece removed (I am only 4ft 7”). There are black bats, tree silhouettes, orange and yellow stars on a greyish background. Depending on the lighting and background the grey takes on a lavender tint.  The stick comes with a black non slip ferrule and a chrome collar. The colours aren’t exactly the same between the handle of the cane and the shaft (not a design flaw but due to the different materials used to make the stick) and I think that adds to the spookiness of the design. The derby shaped handle is comfortable to hold and the height of the stick is easy to adjust, just press the silver buttons at the top of the shaft and slide to the height you want. Without having any adjustments made to the walking stick it is adjustable from 79cm to 89cm.

I enjoy using this stick. The theme and graphics are really cute and eye catching. I shall continue to use it when Halloween is over! 

I purchased the item myself and the views expressed in my blog are my own 

Mr Snug Katden, Outside Cabin for Feral Cats

I purchased and reviewed the Cat Cosy Cabin a few months ago. It is made still in use, albeit by a different cat. The original cat, Princess Jasmine has moved into the house to live with the ex resident of the original cat house, Lily, who is not amused. Saturn, their brother has moved into the cosy cabin but Poppy, their sister, was living in the garden and needed shelter. I couldn’t find Cosy Cabins in stock anywhere so I purchased a Mr Snug Katden with mattress and liner in dark green (£84.99). As a side note they are all black cats (not easy to rehome even though they have gorgeous temperaments when on their own) and are from the same litter. They don’t like each other any more as they want to be the only child after they moved themselves out of a hoarder situation of 27 cats to live with the idiot down the road!

The den is raised off the floor so the resident will not feel damp or cold through the bottom of the house. There is a drainage hole so it easy to clean and drain the water out and a porch to help stop rain getting in. The den is easy to clean, hygienic, parasites and microorganisms cannot live in it and it will not rot as it isn’t made of wood, so even though it’s expensive it is an investment as it will last a long time! 

The den measures 55Dx40wx44Hcm, weighs 4.5kg so may need weighing down in gales but doesn’t take off during normal winds! The entrance measures 15Wx19Hcm. 

I went for the mattress and liner option. The mattress measures 16”x16” the liner 18”x14”x14”. They arrived already inside the den which I was pleased about as I have mobility problems and would have struggled to get the liner to fit in so it was comfortable for Poppy. The material feels and looks great quality. The liner is very thick and will be a great layer of insulation for cold winter months (although I think she is planning on moving into the house before then). Both the liner and mattress are machine washable. I will be buying a set (29.99) to put in my cabin, as I am so pleased with them. 

There are several different options/packages when purchasing a Katden. There is just a den (different colour options), den and a door, den and a self heating pad, den and a mattress, den and a mattress and liner, den and a cooling mat or any of these options and a door (just make sure you choose the installed option if you aren’t handy! 

I love the Mr Snug Katden just as much as the Cosy Cabin. Both are great options and it would be unfair to say one is better than the other as they both do the job, are well made etc. I shall do a side by side review once Poppy has fully moved in.

I purchased the item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own. 

 

#Win Chamilia Beauty and The Beast Sterling Silver Pendant & an E-book Beauty and the Reclusive Millionaire by Rachael Stewart

 As my last blog post showcased Rachael Stewart, this linked post will contain the promised competition prize - the Beauty and the Beast, A Tale as Old as Time, Sterling Silver Pendant. Rachael Stewart is donating an ebook of her True Love romantic novel Beauty And The Reclusive Millionaire as it was inspired by this timeless classic. 

Chamilia’s Beauty and the Beast collection launched in 2017. The Disney x Chamilia collaboration included bracelet charms, rings, earrings and pendants. Belle’s rose was the main feature but characters such as Cogsworth, Lumiere, Chip and Mrs Potts also made an appearance. 

This sterling silver pendant is shaped like a book - Belle loved reading.  It has Belle’s rose on one side and “A Tale as Old as Time” inscribed on  the other. The bale has Disney Chamilia stamped on it. The necklace is sterling silver and has a tiny Chamilia tag attached to the fastener. It is packaged in a Chamilia drawer style gift box. 

Beauty And The Reclusive Billionaire (True Love Mills & Boon) is inspired by the timeless classic, Beauty and the Beast.  Catherine and Alaric were childhood friends who drifted apart and haven’t seen each other in 10 years. Catherine now goes by Kitty and is a famous LA actress. Alaric, however, has had a terrible accident and has hidden himself away on a private Greek island. Kitty is going through some emotional and physical trauma and Alaric’s sister suggests she goes to the island to recover.  The chemistry between them is still there and whilst Alaric acts like the angst ridden hero and Kitty is still struggling with the aftermath of her recent ordeals they start to heal together. This is very much a modern day Beauty and the Beast romance set in a beautiful island and of course there is a library!

To enter the competition all you need to do is fill in the compulsory Rafflecopter questions - you will get more entries if you fill them all in. 

Rafflecopter Link: a Rafflecopter giveaway

Rules:

Must fulfil the compulsory Rafflecopter requirements;

Competition is open worldwide;

Competition opens on July 17 2025

Competition closed on August 17 2025

Good Luck 

Rachael Stewart: Romance Rocks

Rachael Stewart is an author who can be found in the romance genre. Her books can be anything from tame to explicit but they are all fun and enjoyable reads. She mainly writes for Mills & Boon but with the advent of Kindle Unlimited and expansion of online self publishing,  her raunchier reads can be found there! I chose to write a blog post about this author as I subscribed to her newsletter and now receive not only e-books to read but she also highlights books from authors who fall into similar genres. 

As you can see below I have been reviewing her novels since 2020 and reading her books since I invested in a kindle back in 2012. Apart from a few duds I really enjoy her work and if you choose to subscribe to her website or download her books I hope that you do to! 

Book Reviews:

Mr One-Night Stand 

Naughty or Nice 

What Happens at the Beach

Reluctant Bride's Baby Bombshell

Fake Fling with the Billionaire

Website: Here

As she is a romance author and Beauty and the Beast is the ultimate timeless romance,  I decided to offer this Chamilia Beauty and the Beast, A Tale as Old my as Time, sterling silver pendant as this month’s blog prize. Rachael Stewart is donating an ebook of her True Love romantic novel Beauty And The Reclusive Millionaire, as it was inspired by this timeless classic. 

Book Review: The Virgin's Dance With The Devil, (The Martinelli Wedding Book 3) by Michelle Smart

The Virgin's Dance With The Devil is the third novel in The Martinelli Wedding Series written by Michelle Smart. I have read the first two novels through Kindle Unlimited (as can this book) but I was kindly gifted this novel by the author. 

Set in Italy, at Niccolo and Sienas’ wedding Marisa Rossellini (the virgin) and Federico Esposito were both in attendance as Rico was was the bride’s brother, Marisa’s sister’s husband the groom’s brother. At 25 Marisa is still a virgin, is a devout Catholic and lives at home helping her family take care of her father. Rico is the stereotypical Italian millionaire male. Women flock round him and he he is used to women saying yes. 

He and his brothers make a bet that he can sleep with Marisa, but during their 4 month romance they fall in love. Will the relationship and their HEA collapse when she finds out the truth? 

I liked that although this book can be read as a standalone novel, it also carried on storylines and included characters from the previous novels. There wasn’t just brief mentions of the characters, they weren’t just an afterthought to link the books but had definite parts to play in both their own and Rico and Marisas’ story. The novel also set the scene and introduced the characters for the final novel which I thought was an interesting way to get readers attention and preorder it (as I have done). The letters between Rico and Marisa was a nice touch.

Both characters are relatable and likeable. Marisa’s family has both financial and health issues  and she works a normal job whilst helping her mum care for her dad. She is a very strong character capable of saying no and walking away, which is unusual for a romance novel. Rico is the stereotypical Italian male who meets his match and loses as by the end it is Marisa that is in control of the narrative of how their storyline will end which again does not follow the formulaic storyline but makes the book more fresh and new.

Despite the lack of sex for the first half of the novel, there was off the scale chemistry between the two main characters. I also enjoyed that although Marisa was described as a devout “unicorn virgin” she is a very strong character, who by the end of the novel could have easily walked away. 

I was gifted this book but this does not affect my review. 

Review: LittleSilverHedgehog Silver Hedgehog Earrings

 

These silver hedgehog earrings became internet and TV famous last year when cheap copies appeared on Shein and Aliexpress Link. The copies don’t come anywhere close to the original but do have a gothic appeal, but only if you are willing to put something  through your ear without knowing what it is!  They have now been removed from sale and the originals can be found on LSH’s Etsy page. 

I selected the hedgehog earrings with pink cubic zirconia eyes (£55). The hedgehogs are sculpted by hand and are made from solid silver and measure 1.3x1cm. They hang from sterling silver wire hooks. There are matching items available. A portion of the profits goes to supporting Emma’s hedgehog rescue, so you are wearing a hedgehog to help save them! 

I love these earrings and would love to keep them for myself but unfortunately I have developed a silver allergy so cannot wear them. They would languish in my jewellery box and they deserve to be worn and admired so keep an eye on my X account- @susan1375 for a competition coming in July 2025.

I purchased this item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own. 

Book Review: The Ruins in Which We Bleed: A Gripping Holocaust Novel Inspired by a Heartbreaking True Story (World War II Historical Fiction Book 3) By Steve N Lee

The Ruins in Which We Bleed is written by Steve N Lee and is the third novel in his Holocaust series - they are all inspired by true stories. 

In this novel, Helena (a 16 year old girl) and her mother are trapped in a Warsaw Jewish ghetto. during World War 2 and the invasion of Poland by the Nazis. Each page of the novel describes the suffering, starvation and fear that they go through on a daily basis. The ghetto is a hell hole and people struggle to survive. Helena’s story is heartbreaking as she has lost her teenage years, family, friends and neighbours just because as they are Jewish, the Nazi see them as lesser, worthless beings.

I can’t say I enjoyed this book because the storyline is so sad, showing how low humanity is prepared to go to “win”. Each page reveals the Nazi’s hatred and determination to wipe out fellow human beings whilst the ghetto residents are struggling just to survive whilst still maintaining their humanity and caring for others. 

I couldn’t read more than a chapter at a time as the storyline is relentless. The fact that that this is based on a true story made it even harder to get through. Helena’s devotion to Sparkle and the baby boy in the underground shelter, for example, showed on the one hand how the characters retained their humanity and caring selves but also how sometimes they had to do something they never imagined they would have to do in order to survive the nightmare that had become their life. 

The book is beautifully written. The author doesn’t focus on describing the blood and gore, he lets the reader think about it by, for example, only briefly mentioning someone falling from a roof when set alight. He focuses on the characters and how their characters are shaped as they struggle to survive. The characters aren’t relatable as none of us will (hopefully) ever go through anything as traumatic as living/ existing in a ghetto but they do draw the reader in to feel for them and hope that life gets better in the next few pages of the book. 

I didn’t “enjoy” this book or read it in one sitting but that is because the storyline, whilst perfectly paced and planned out, is just so heartbreakingly sad. There are no real winners in war, there is just death and destruction and even though Helena’s story is set (and the real life version took place) over 80 years ago, it still feels like I was reading about her life in real time and it was happening as I read the book. 

I was lucky enough to be gifted this novel but I will download the two other novels in the series to read over the summer (they are currently available on Kindle Unlimited).

I was gifted this book but this does not affect my review. 

Review: Hanging Heart for Ornaments & Mini Terrariums

 

These iron hanging hearts can be found on both eBay and Amazon and can be purchased as sets or just single items. The iron hook stand is easy to store. The bottom of the stand just twists off the the two pieces can be stores flat. The stand measures 23x22x12cm and is a matte black so won’t take away from the main feature which will be the hanging ornament. I like to use this stand when taking pictures of hanging ornaments as I can edited out the stand and just leave the ornament as the central visual element. 

I have an expensive Disney hanging ornament holder which is forever falling over and will not hold certain heavier ornaments. The heart design means that the ornament/terrarium hangs from the middle so balance is easier to maintain.  This design is sturdier,  more substantial and doesn’t tip over. The downside of the heart shape means that certain larger items don’t fit inside it. 

I like this stand for smaller Disney hanging ornaments. It is minimalistic and a pack of 5 on either Amazon or eBay is around £12.

I purchased this item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own.

Book Review: Destination Weddings And Other Disasters By M. C. Vaughan

Destination Weddings And Other Disasters is the second in M.C. Vaughan’s mini series- Belize Dreams. This is an Mills & Boon Afterglow novel, aimed at the under 35 year old reader with lots of spice and a diverse storyline as the characters find their best lives.

Michelle and Jim live in LA and are currently planning their wedding (Michelle is on her 4th). Carson Miller, Jim’s son, after a serious car accident which destroyed his sports career, runs a successful events planning business whilst Julia Stone, Michelle’s daughter is currently living in NYC after attending graduate school to study working in the hotel industry. Carson bullied Julia mercilessly during high school and she has gone out of her way to avoid him since their parents started dated, after all with 4 million men in LA how could her mum meet/date her high school nemesis’s father? She finally has to meet him and is surprised that he is truly sorry for everything he put her through in school. They establish a working relationship in order to plan their parents’ wedding and travel to Belize to ensure all is ready for the nuptials in 2 weeks time. 

As the heat of Belize gets hotter the chemistry between the pair increases. They visit waterfalls, have great meld with Julia’s sister and her fiancé but will their relationship survive the wedding? 

This novel was readable but not memorable and I wouldn’t rush to read the other books in the series. The storyline isn’t particularly spicy/ raunchy in fact it is quite tame in comparison to some of the M&B Modern novels I have read. The characters seemed nice individuals who learned and appreciated that they had made mistakes in their youth and wanted to fix them, I liked the secondary storyline of their parents and Carson “s father panicking that Michelle was too good for him, so the book isn’t a total flop it just doesn’t really fit into the Afterglow criteria apart from the fact they get their HEA which happens in all romance novels. 

I received this book via Netgalley and Mills and Boon in exchange for a honest review. I am a #MillsAndBoonInsider #netgalley #gifted

 

Michelle Jim 

Carson Miller, Julia Stone 

Mills & Boon Afterglow Imprint

Gerald Mills and Charles Boon published their first Mills & Boon novel, Arrows from the Dark by Sophie Cole, in 1908. Mills & Boon have now been publishing romance novels for over 100 years, are the number one romance novel publishing company, selling 200 million novels a year worldwide. In 1971 they merged with Harlequin books and became an imprint. HarperCollins acquired Harlequin (and M&B£ in 2014.

M&B have ventured into many different themes and imprints, some more successful than others! The most recent venture being the Afterglow Books series. Launched in January 2024 the books are aimed at the under 35 readership. This imprint aims to:

“feature(s) authentic and relatable stories, characters you can’t help but fall in love with and plenty of spice!”

Certainly TikTok #booktok and #spicytok (which has well over 4.3 billion views) indicates there is a gap in the market for this type of book. At the moment 2 novels are published per month. 

“Lisa Milton, M.D. and Publisher said: ‘Everyone deserves a love story that’s true to who they are, and from showing up to glowing up, each book features characters who are on the path to leading their best lives and finding romance along the way. TikTok has encouraged a younger generation to read more diversely, and the community has built a new and exciting way to reach readers. Afterglow Books aims to reach these readers where they are and delivers all the tropes,characters and romance that they want!”.

I have finally found another Afterglow book that caught my interest (see my review in the next post. This  is the link to my first review). To be honest I don’t see how the series will last. The remit is so wide and the category seems to be so catchall and vague. I don’t see any afterglow in either of the novels I have read. The reason their existing imprints are successful is because they are cohesive and specific. If you want a medical romance - choose the medical imprint, a story about a billionaire finding love with a waitress- M&B Modern. The series’ covers, which look cheap, remind me of the huge amount of chic flicks that were stacked up at Bookworks years ago when they cost £3.99 for 3! Maybe I’m just getting old - I’m not the target audience anymore! 

The views expressed in this blog post are my own.

Mills & Boon Announces New Imprint, Afterglow Books:

https://corporate.harpercollins.co.uk/press-releases/mills-boon-announces-new-imprint-afterglow-books/

Review: XTI Black Espadrilles for Girls

Over the years I have seen the brand XTI when I have been in Barcelona and also here in the UK. I have small (35EU) feet but I need them to be wide fit. I have some Pisamona ones and they are fine until my feet swell and they aren’t black. I put black flat buckle espadrilles into Google and an online shop called Esdmarca  popped up. As they are in Madrid as I was concerned the postage would be expensive but it was only £5.49 tracked and my shoes were with me within 2 weeks. 

The espadrilles are vegan and PETA approved which as a vegetarian I love. The shoes are flat but have a lot of foot support and cushioning because the sole is thick. The black fabric is a knitted macramé material so it stretches as my feet swell, it feels like I am wearing comfortable slippers. The strap doesn’t dig in but it can be a pain to fasten as it is soft band. This is great but it makes it harder to get the buckle to go through and fasten. I am thrilled with these espadrilles. The jute on supporting the back of the heel is also soft and doesn’t rub/blister my heel. 

I am thrilled with is purchase, they are one of the most comfortable items I own. As I have neuropathic pain in my feet I am very picky about shoes. I have always wanted a black pair as most of my clothes are either black or a dark colour! They are so comfy and look smart to wear with long skirts and dresses. 

Review: GemeShou Gypsum White Ring display holder

The Gemeshou Gypsum ring holders isre available in a set of 3 in two different sizes (£13.86) from Amazon. I got one of the taller ring holders as a sample gift and I really like it. The design and material it is made from is quite unusual. Mine measures 3.5x3.5x6cm. The holder is quite striking and the rings sit nicely on the cone. I don’t think I would have chosen this design myself but now it is in front of me I really like it! 

Book Review: My Baby's Billionaire Daddy: A Billionaire, Enemies-to-Lovers, Surprise Pregnancy Romance (Billionaires After Dark) by Heidi Rice

 

My Baby’s Billionaire Daddy, written by Heidi Rice, is a reboot/ updated version of the 2008 novel Pleasure, Pregnancy and a Proposition published by Mills & Boon. It is part of her new mini series, Billionaires After Dark.  I have both versions, I won a copy of the 2025 reworked version and P, P &P is part of a Mills & Boon trilogy - One Amazing Night Baby! (no longer available in Kindle/ ebook format) which I purchased years ago. 

The storyline remains the same in both novels. Louisa DiMarco is a writer for Blush. Luke Devereaux, Duke of Berwick was named in her yearly Eligible Bachelors list which he did not appreciate. He took his revenge by having a one night stand with her and then revealed his identity. Three months later he tracks her down and makes her take a pregnancy test as he had realised she may be pregnant.  They go to his house - Havensmere to discuss the future. There is still chemistry between the pair but will they be able to build a future together?

In the original version only a small amount of the book is written in the first person. In the reboot the story is rewritten so it is in the first person from the point of view of either Luke or Louisa. There are also small changes that bring the storyline upto date. The Eligible Bachelors feature, for example,  is an article in the original book, a YouTube vlog in the new version. When Louisa is told she is pregnant in the original version she is in an alternative zone. In the new she is in her version of the American Horror Story. These tweaks and small updates make the book more interesting and fun for the reader. There are lots more quips and humorous asides in the new version whilst the language and sex scenes are much more explicit. The changes and additions do not alter the storyline but make it realistic and the characters seem more up to date and relatable to the reader. 

As the original is no longer available in ebook format the new version is definitely worth getting if you haven’t read it before. Even if you have read the original it is over 20 years old and the revamp makes it seem like a totally new read!

I was gifted one book and purchased the other but this did not effect my review. 

Why do Disney villains love and wear powerful jewelry/ jewellery?

I have recently been deindexed by Google (please search for sparkling magpie Disney on Google to show them I exist if you see this post). I signed up with a free SEO sit to see how I could fix it (as yet I haven’t and can only be found on Bing). There is an AI post function that I looked at and one suggested post caught my eye - Why do Disney villains love and wear powerful jewelry/ jewellery? 

I haven’t copied and pasted the ai article as it was rubbish but the question got me thinking/ why do Disney villains wear/ hold Jewellery that defines them? 

Ursula’s nautilus gold shell necklace was used to capture Ariel’s voice when she agreed to swap her voice for leg and the pendant was assumed to have magical properties as it glowed when Ursula started certain spells. 

Although Maleficent is portrayed as a heroine, her headpiece with protruding horns adds a devilish  aspect to her personality. 

Jafar’s ruby eyed cobra staff was used to  hypnotise those he wanted to control. An ostentatious piece it made Jafar seem in control, larger than life and EVIL

Certainly the jewellery helps makes the villains  spear more evil. The enchanting world of Snow White is destroyed by the iconic evil Apple, Ursula’s necklace has magical properties etc. On a more consumerist level the villanesque aspect to the jewellery adds to the possibility that they will be licensed and made into wearable pieces, charms, earrings etc. items can be found anywhere from Alliexpress (for a few pence) to more high end websites. I don’t think the original Disney artists envisaged that the villain jewellery would become such a money maker but as the characters’ popularity has increased and viewers want something to remember a movie by, villain jewellery will remain popular.  

The Little Crystal Lounge Rose Quartz Semi Polished Point

I was looking for a way to display and store my Rajput Spinning Bangle from Charlottes Web Jewellery and I came across The Little Crystal Lounge. This is a UK company which specialises in semi precious stones. My favourite stone for mounting jewellery on to use as a blog prop is rose quartz as I find that it complements rather than overpowers the piece I am photographing. I also want to store my bangle where I can see it otherwise I either forget to put it on or panic that I have lost it. I decided I wanted some type of rose quartz stone. Not too tall. My only criterion was that the diameter had to be 60ish mm or it wouldn’t sit on the stone. I found that not many sellers provide the dimensions of their products or provide photographs of the actual item. The Little Crystal Lounge does both so I purchased my stone from her shop. My point is 10” in diameter and weighs 258g. It cost £25 plus £3.75 shipping and arrived well packaged and in a timely manner. 

The stone is beautiful, it is just what I wanted and more. The stone’s inclusions and imperfections complement my bangle perfectly and it sits just right on the crystal. I love looking at the stone as o notice something new every time I look at it. I find it relaxing just to sit turning it in my hands. 

I didn’t purchase the stone for its magical properties but for anyone who is interested rose quartz is supposed to be a calming influence, boost feelings of romance, self love, compassion, friendship and also relieve stress. 

The Little Crystal Lounge was set up by Kate, a certified crystal healer. All her stones are ethically sourced. She sells from an online crystal shop based in Widnes. She has been interested in crystals for over 30 years but that interest really took off after she had a very stressful few years. She started meditating and incorporated crystals into the process. She has studied crystals healing, crystal healing for pets and chakra healing with crystals. She provides advice and free mini guides and unlike some shops I have browsed doesn’t just her use of crystals as a way to make money but as a way to help her and customers  through life. 

I would use her shop again - I love the rose quartz coasters and the price range for all her items seems very reasonable. 

I purchased the item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own. 

Review: Millie Savage Pastel Dream Sterling Silver Sapphire Ring

I caved and purchased a Millie Savage Pastel Dream Sapphire Ring in sterling silver in her once a year 1/2 price discontinued items sale. The sale price was £135 from £270 so still expensive (one of the most expensive pieces I have and will ever buy) but I love the colour of the stones and the shape/texture of the band.  Sapphires are my mum’s birthstone and I haven’t been able to find a ring until now that I feel close to her when wearing it. 

Millie Savage is an Australian brand/ Jeweller which she set up 20 years ago in a little workshop in her back garden shed. Now she has studios in Bali and Fitzroy plus several shops in the UK, New York and Australia. All her her team are women, they use recycled sterling silver and ethically sourced materials and respect the Traditional Owners of the land where they are based - the Wurundjen people of the Kulhin Nation both past and present. 

So on to my dream Pastel Dream ring. The stones are natural sapphires in blue, yellow and pink. A pastel rainbow of beautifully cut and set sapphire stones. The ring band is what drew me to the ring. Made of certified recycled sterling silver, the ring band looks very earthy, organic, rustic and inspired by nature. The edge of the band is polished sterling silver, whilst the rest of the band has a textured look and feel to it. The stones which are beautifully cut, fit seamlessly into the design without making the band just seem like a band that is there to hold the stones in place. The stones and band work together to make the perfect piece. 

The gift/ ring box is very cute. The bright velvet is eye catching and easy to spot when I am looking through my jewellery drawers. The logo MS can be found on the inside of the lid. The packaging has been well thought out and really fits the aesthetic of their brand and jewellery design.  The ring also came with two cute stickers which were a nice addition. 

I love my ring and the customer service was great (but postage is expensive. Shipping within the UK with DHL is £16.99) and quick. Luckily for me my sterling silver allergy only seems to be affecting my ears, not my fingers or neck at the moment and I have also bought a sterling silver allergy shield protectant that I shall use if my fingers start itching. I ordered my item at 13.19 on Saturday and it was on its way to me at 13.25). I will not be shopping regularly with them just because they are a higher end more expensive brand but I will watch out for sales and offers.  

I purchased the item myself and the views expressed in this post are my own. 

Review: GemeShou Gold Metal Earring T Bar Stand

I  purchased the GemeShou T-bar earring display stand (£11.96) from Amazon. I purchased the gold version (it’s also available in silver and black) just because I wanted some variety when taking my jewellery blog photos.

I purchased the shorter (low) version. It’s height is 11.5cm, the hexagon base 3.8cm and the cross bar is 6cm. The taller version measures 13.5cm and horizontal bar 6cm. The thee pieces came wrapped in bubble wrap and were easy to assemble. I love the way the gold reflects into my black background. 

This item took a few weeks to arrive but I have noticed that if an item is sent from China you get a free sample gift. This time I got a sample ring holder which I would have purchased if it was on Amazon as it is quite unusual. 

I purchased the item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own 

Review: Vintage/Baroque Jewellery Display Stand

I first saw this Vintage/Baroque Jewellery Display Stand on TEMU for £12.39. I refuse to purchase anything from there so I searched both Etsy and Amazon for a similar item. The exact item can be found in different colour ways on Etsy but costs £40 ish including shipping and tax. Amazon had the white velvet option for £18.99.

The stand is made from a light resin material painted gold. The back of the stand is woodeny and there is a stand so the display can be positioned like a photo frame. The stand also has a picture hook so it can be hung up. Earrings can be displayed in the velvet area. It is padded so just push the earrings in. The butterfly backs will have to be kept in a pot for safe keeping until needed. I haven’t tried this as I don’t want to mark the velvet a I plan to use the stand to display necklaces. Necklaces hook around the the top of the stand. The display measures 19x11.5 cm. The stand looks like it will be unite weighty but it is in fact quite light.

 I think it would be a faff to use the stand to display earrings, fiddling about pushing the earrings in to place and remembering to keep the earring backs in a safe place.  It is, however, great as a necklace holder. The stand is well made and very pretty.  I just wish I had been able to get a stand with a darker velvet as the white looks like it will mark very easily. 

I purchased this item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own. 

Review: SeaglassByArchie 50 x pieces (150g) Sea glass assorted green shades of glass from Kent

 I purchased two 150g (about 50 pieces) of green sea glass from SeaGlassByArchie via Etsy (she does also have her own online website and store here where you can also see where she walks her dog, Bolt, as she collects the glass. 

Each bag cost £15 but I got it on sale at nearly half price. The pieces of glass are beautiful, some are iridescent, some opaque whilst others are just a beautiful hue of green. It’s a shame glass cannot speak as I am sure each piece has its’ own story to tell. 

I am very pleased with the glass stones I received. I intend to use them not only as blog props but also home decor and fill some glass bowls with them to put around my house. 

I received a free card and a thank you note with my order which inspired me to look at her other items. She also has a lovely well priced range of sea glass gift cards which could be framed once you have given the card to the recipient.

I would recommend Sea Glass by Archie if you wanted some glass to use for crafting projects or for home decor. I will certainly buy from her store again. 

I purchased the item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own 

Book Review: How The Duke Met His Match by Sophia Williams

This Regency romance is Sophia Williams’ debut novel. Heiress Emma is thought to be about to become victim to a rogue ruining her reputation and claiming her wealth. Duke of Harwell, Alexander, steps in and claims to be her fiancé. He is not thrilled to do this as he has already been married once. His wife died and he is scared to love again but will do so to protect the young heiress. 

They enter into a marriage of convenience with the agreement that they both remain independent. They travel to his estate and meet Alex’s young sons. Slowly despite Alex playing hot and cold and Emma excusing his behaviour a friendship then romance slowly develops. Will they be able to create a perfect family or will past experience thwart their HEA. 

I don’t really enjoy historical romances as romances but I do enjoy reading them (as long as they are well researched and understand the social prejudices and strictures that restricted the lives of upper class women during the Regency period) as historical novels. I found this book did incorporate and understand the problems women faced despite being rich and the fact that they could face ruin if their virtue or honour was questioned so much do that in order to protect themselves they were prepared to enter marriages of convenience. Both Alex and Emma have strong characters and I like how the author develops them over time as they interact with the boys and between themselves. 

I love Mills & Boon UK and I think you will too! Click my personal referral link to get a discount on your first purchase http://rwrd.io/f4yjeqp?c 

I received this book via Netgalley and Mills and Boon in exchange for a honest review. I am a #MillsAndBoonInsider #netgalley #gifted

Neuropathic foot pain? Falke Happy Socks, Happy Feet?

I have mentioned in previous blog posts that due to a spinal injury I have severe neuropathic pain, especially in my feet. This affects what I can wear on my feet socks and shoe wise. To compound this my ankles and lower legs swell which means I have to be careful and check there is stretch around the sock band and that it isn’t tight to start with. I have always worn Women’s Falke Berlin or Falke Happy socks as they are designed for people with foot issues, leg swelling and diabetes. I’m only a size 34 so they are a pain to find in this size and are very expensive - £12 to £16 per pair. There are sometimes multi packs available on Amazon but they sell out very quickly. 

I was thrilled to see that Amazon had a 6 pair multi pack of unisex kids Happy Socks size 12-2.5 in dark blue for £24. This is £20 cheaper than the adult version! I was worried they wouldn’t be the same as the adult version but they fit me perfectly and feel just as soft and comfortable to wear. The socks are ideal for sensitive feet. The toe seam is flat so doesn’t rub, blister or irritate this area. The heel is reinforced and fits perfectly so again no rubbing or blistering. The material is a soft non scratchy breathable cotton. No sweaty feet, they are kept dry all day. The elasticated cuff is wide and stretchy. It doesn’t slip down and expands when needed. The socks don’t really wrinkle so pressure points and sensitive areas of the foot don’t develop blisters which is great as I find it takes ages for foot issues like this to heal. 

I have worn Falke sensitive socks for years. They are comfortable, durable and they last. I still have and wear my first pairs bought from House of Fraser Manchester many years ago. I have never tried the kids socks and I think I will purchase this version in the future as they are cheaper and my feet are happy when I wear them! For once yay for having little feet. 

I purchased these items myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own. 

Review: Accessorize / Z for Accessorize 14ct Gold Plated Tourmaline Pebble Necklace

  I haven’t purchased any jewellery from Z for Accessorize for around a year as nothing has really caught my eye plus I have put myself on a strict no buy rule with a few exceptions. I was, however, skimming through my Instagram feed and this tourmaline necklace popped up.

 This necklace measures 40cm including the extender. The chain is 14ct gold plated and the “pebbles” are pieces of tourmaline in dusty hues of pink, green, orange and grey. Tourmaline is thought to be a healing and calming stone both of which I need in bucket loads at the moment. The stones are absolutely beautiful and the necklace looks so much more expensive than it actually was/is. 

I had some points to use up and there was 30% off so it was a bargain! Accessorize do seem to be doing lots of offers at the moment, at the moment there is a £10 off £40 spend, plus if you have a free Accessorize card you get free shipping and collect points from purchases!

 The extender is innovative and means that the wearer has mr choice and control over how long the chain/ necklace will be. Traditional attached extender chains just have 3 or 4 rings fastened to a chain, so the necklace can be extended 3 different lengths. This necklace has a chain with a little ball with a ring attached which slides up and down the chain when it is held straight and tight  the wearer has a lot more choice and control over the exact length they want the necklace to be which I think is great.

 I haven’t seen much/ any Accessorize jewellery that I have liked or would recommend for so long but this necklace is great. It is very old school Lola Rose in the way the stones are cut and threaded together. The necklace could be worn as a year round piece as the pinks and orange stones sing warm summers whilst the greens and greys will look great next to burgundy or green jumpers for winter.  I love the innovative way the extender means the wearer has more choice over the length of the chain. My necklace will be a staple piece and I intend to rewear it a lot. 

I purchased this item myself and the views expressed in this blog are my own.