Reviewer: @bookishly_koi (Instagram)
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I realised recently that I hadn’t actually posted my review for The Ex Effect by @jowatsonwrites
This was delightfully funny. I don’t know if it’s because I just vibe with Jo Watson’s writing as an author, or if it’s because she and I share South African humour (you know the one built on self-deprecation and sarcasm) but I was absolutely hosing myself at some of the situations in this book.
I loved the humour in this (if I haven’t said it enough already). I legit laughed so much. I’m talking full-on belly laughs, squeals, and giggles. I’m pretty sure people looked at me like I was a teenage girl fawning over her crush with the amount of noises I made while reading this. I think this is because this is very much a comedy of errors, like basically ridiculous in plot and absurd in situations.
I MEAN IT involves:
✔ Snakes
✔ Spider Webs
✔ Fish
✔ Pink Dolphin Dildos
✔ An unhealthy obsession with cheese
✔ A smelly Llama called Lucy
Everything that could go wrong, does go wrong. Most of it is realistically impossible, especially considering a large part revolves around a sexual “curse”, but it’s the kind of story you could see as a rom-com movie. It’s so over the top and doesn’t take itself too seriously, you can sit back, relax, and have a great time.
The book also takes you to some amazing locations. Now, I am biased toward Southern Africa (because I live here). But this book takes you on a gorgeous, exquisite journey from Kruger to Zambia, Botswana, the Chobe Reserve, and Lake Malawi, which just does an amazing job of showcasing the stunning diversity of wildlife and landscapes this part of the world has to offer.
Overall, if you want a cute, funny, low-stakes rom-com that will make you laugh out loud, this is definitely one to pick up for the laughs… and the llama… and the cheese!
@shelves_by_sim (Instagram)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
I’m sure many of us have heard about the strong and ferocious Queen of the Iceni tribe who fought to defend Britain from the Romans. Boudicca is a tale of a beloved British hero who fought for her people in 60 AD. I loved how this book literally transported me to a time I have never once imagined before. I loved the setting and imagery the author was able to convey and I especially loved her writing. There is definitely something about this story that makes it feel very true to history.
I loved Boudicca’s character, and I can believe that it’s not far off from the real Boudicca’s character. She was loved by her tribe, she was respected because of how determined she was to protect her people. There are many aspects of this story that are very unsettling (check trigger warnings) because that is just how it was in a time when nations were colonising each other but the emotion Cast was able to brinh out with her storytelling was so raw.
This book felt like a slice of life. We get dropped into the story after her husband has passed and after she is already queen of the Iceni and we just follow her through her life, her undying faith in her Goddess, her need to save her tribe, her pain, her love, her happiness, her battles and her end – right up until her famous revolution failed. It is a beautiful story, one of hope even if it has a tragic ending, and I really loved every moment of it.
Also, can we talk about this cover?? Because I am OBSESSED 😍
Reviewer: @lifewithtishaj (Instagram)
“That is my hope for you, dear reader. It’s the same hope I had for Rune at the beginning of her story. (And for myself, in a way). I hope you stop caring so much about the opinions of others and allow yourself to live. I hope you find the courage to be unapologetically yourself and start making your life—and maybe even the world—what you and the ones you love need it to be.”
“If this was weakness, he wanted to be weak. If this was sin, let him be damned to hell.”
The Rebel Witch was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025, & it did not disappoint. The Crimson Moth ended with the most intense cliffhangers so if you haven’t read this yet, count yourself lucky in that you don’t have to wait for TRW but it makes me sad that you haven’t had the opportunity to be tormented by the tension between Rune and Gideon. To experience the utter devastation that they both experience in their personal circumstances. The enemies to lovers that continue to scheme against each other until they can’t anymore. The friendships that are called upon, the bonds that develop, the epic hurdles that they must pit themselves against.
The writing is just so beautiful. I mean, look at this line – something from an SRK movie.
“Sometimes our paths must diverge from those we love. But if love is the highest power, our paths will converge again—if not in this world, then the next.”
Rune continues to delight in her determination to help her kind and to sacrifice herself to save another even if she doesn’t share why. Gideon is tormented, does he give in to his feelings or stay strong in his resolve to ensure that the witches don’t come to power again, no matter what it takes? But his smooth talking charm has you firmly in his corner even while you urge him towards the right path. The worldbuilding was at the same excellent level of The Crimson Moth & the pacing keeps you turning the pages rapidly until you know how the story ends.
Overall, an excellent romantasy duology with an exquisite slow burn that fantasy lovers are sure to enjoy.
Reviewer: @cookwithme_em(Instagram)
“From bean to blend, how to make the best coffee at home”
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home barista, Tom Paxton breaks down the art and science of brewing with clarity and warmth. From the origins and production of coffee to equipment and recipes, Paxton shares both knowledge and practical tips in an approachable, engaging way.
As an avid coffee drinker, this book deepened my love and appreciation for coffee (liquid gold). I’ve already passed it on to my husband, a true coffee connoisseur, because I know he’ll enjoy it just as much!
This book is perfect for: Coffee lovers, beginners eager to learn the basics, at-home pro baristas, and anyone who loves a good aesthetic kitchen book.
I loved the thoughtful design of the book. It’s beautifully laid out and easy to navigate, making it just as much a joy to flip through as it is to read in-depth.
The photographs are gorgeous, and the step-by-step guides later in the book feel like a warm invitation to try new techniques at home. I especially found the “Seven Tips for the Home Barista” helpful!
The Home Barista doesn’t just teach you how to make a great cup—it invites you into the ritual of coffee. It’s a book I’ll keep coming back to for inspiration, guidance, and those moments when I want to elevate my everyday brew.
Recipes I am still keen to try:
✨Vietnamese Egg Coffee
✨Homemade Coffee Liqueur
Also, did you know? (More interesting facts on page 201)
✨The first-ever webcam was invented to monitor a coffee pot!
✨Coffee beans are actually seeds!
bookish.baddie (Instagram)
This was such a cool and unexpectedly thought-provoking read. The Compound is set on a dating reality show that feels like a mix of Big Brother and Survivor. We experience the story through Lily’s eyes as the contestants complete tasks for rewards, navigate on-set relationships, and try to avoid elimination.
It’s a slow burn, but it’s laced with sharp social commentary. On the surface, it critiques capitalism and consumerism. But after some reflection, you start to notice deeper commentary on gender roles/dynamics – how women often have to weigh safety against desire, and how quickly the contestants fall into traditional roles just to survive.
The show’s premise was interesting, but I struggled to understand why anyone would actually go on it – the incentives didn’t feel strong or convincing enough.
And while Lily is the main character, I didn’t really connect with her. It felt like I was watching her from a distance, the same way I was watching the rest of the cast – which might have been deliberate, but it left me feeling a bit detached.
All in all, a unique and unforgettable read that left me with a lot to reflect on!
