• Home
  • Life
  • Book Reviews
  • Beauty & Lifestyle
  • Poetry
  • Contact Me!
    • Bloglovin
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Tea Time & Books...

23rd December 2018

Favourite Switch Games So Far.

So you may have heard somewhere, possibly from a friend that I am a little obsessed with my Switch. I know shocker! I’ve done a whole post about my thoughts so you can check that out here. In my opinion, I do think that it can feel a little bit like you’re drowning in the amount of physical as well as E-shop games that are on offer. So I thought I’d would let you know which games I would recommend to any first-time switcher in the hopes that you spend your hard-earned money on a game that’s worth it.

Now I am definitely a collector (read: hoarder) so I love buying games to add to my shelf. Admittedly, I don’t have the biggest collection, but I don’t think that is a bad thing. Every game is carefully selected and being someone who would only spend £40 on a game that she really wanted, you can trust that if I say I like a game, I LIKE the game. I’ll be the first to moan about something I’ve spent that kind of money on that doesn’t live up to my expectations.

The most obvious one on this list is Super Mario Odyssey. Obviously. I don’t think I’ve seen one bad review about this game in the just over a year it’s been out. While it wasn’t the first game I bought when I got my switch, it was the first one I pre-ordered and I was super hyped on release day. It’s the kind of game that is great no matter what level of gamer you are. Whether you just play for the story and do the bare minimum or if you’re a completionist and spend hours every after you finished it collecting things, it’s not a game you get easily bored of playing time and time again.

While I haven’t fully completed this game, I have completed the story play through. And I honestly loved it. I found myself not able to put my switch down and pumping hours upon hours into it at a time. I loved the additional challenges for additional moons. I loved exploring new worlds and knowing I could go back and there would still be more for me to do when it was time to move on. In the months since completing it, I have picked it up many a time and spent an hour as well as 20 minutes grabbing more moons. The controls are easy yet you sometimes have to really think about how you’re going to make a certain jump or complete a certain challenge. Could it be better? I don’t really think so, this is a game I still pick up time and time again and know I will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

Time for a game that I, admittedly, have not spent much time on. Or at least that’s how it feels. Lego Marvel Super Heros 2 is, in theory, a game I really wanted to sink my teeth into. Realistically there isn’t anything about it that I shouldn’t like. So, what’s put me off finishing the game I hear you ask? How long it takes to really get into it. Couple that with the fact that the storyline is a little bit meh and 90% of the time, I’ve either forgotten whats going on or I’m just not sure why it’s happening.

That being said, I have really enjoyed what I have played of it and what I’ve seen of it. It looks as though once we enter into the more open world gameplay, it’ll be a game that I play non-stop. So why should you play it? It’s fun and an easy play, the controls aren’t too hard to get your head around and the challenges and quests are enjoyable and easy enough to complete. As I say the only downside for me, is how long it takes to really get going and to start with I don’t enjoy the backward and forwards of the setting. For me, I prefer a game to be very linear and have a story from the get-go to excite me. Had it been an open world from the jump, I think I would have definitely finished it by now. So while I haven’t had my fingers glued to my console to play this game in a while, it’s definitely going to be most other people’s cup of tea, and I am determined to finish it.

Snipperclips is something I just had to talk about. I don’t have many ‘party’ games on my switch, purely because I am much more of a solo gamer. That being said this has very quickly become one of my favourites that I always crack out when we have family gatherings or friends around.

It’s ridiculously easy to get your head around the controls, however, some of the challenges may have you pulling your hair out. It’s a game that requires you to work with your partner to achieve a goal. Whether that be getting a basketball through the hoop or cutting each other to fit a certain shape, you’ll no doubt find yourself both frustrated yet having the best time. Honestly, a few friends and I spent hours playing it and had an amazing time. Hours of fun for as little as £20, it was definitely worth every penny.

And last, but certainly not least, Crash Bandicoot: The N’sane Trilogy. I was absolutely buzzed when I found out that this was being brought to the switch. I had been praying it would ever since the remaster had been announced. And I am happy to report that it does not disappoint.

Having grown up playing the original trilogy, I was excited about the remaster. I’ve always wanted a new Crash game, and I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about something that was essentially exactly the same game that just looked a little better. But honestly, not only does it look great, it’s still a fantastic play. I pre-ordered it as soon as it was announced at the Nintendo Direct and literally counted down the days until it was posted through my letterbox. The controls are stupidly easy to get, although I still get frustrated when you’re obviously on the edge of a platform and fall off, but trust me it’s not half as bad as the original games were. It looks fantastic, it runs so smoothly and I love that I have all three games in one place. Whether you want it for the nostalgic factor or whether you’re just after a new platformer, I urge you to pick this up, you’re getting three games for the price of one, and I guarantee you’ll enjoy it!

What are your favourite Switch games? Are there any that you can’t wait to get your hands on? Or even that you’d love to see released on the Switch? Let me know in the comments.

Filed in: Lifestyle • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

22nd December 2018

TV I’m Loving Right Now!

It has been a while since I’ve really sat down and kept up with any TV series. I tend to get to the summer hiatus and just stop, and then I forget about when things start again and what other things are on. I’ve been trying to take some time in the evenings to go to bed earlier and destress by either reading or catching up with TV shows. SO these are the shows I’ve been really enjoying lately. 

Greys Anatomy
I have to say, halfway through the last season I wasn’t sure if they were going to be able to keep going. I was a little bored and felt the story had become a little predictable. But, and it’s a big but, the new season has exceeded my expectations. I’m loving all the storylines that are evolving, the character development is pulling me back in, and I could quite easily spend my whole Sunday just watching episode after episode! (I actually binged four episodes in a row the other weekend to catch up!) 

Manhunt:Unabomber 
This is a show that I haven’t seen a lot about and just happened to stumble upon when I was trying to find something to watch with my dad the other night. Based on true events, it tells us the tale of Ted Kacznski, otherwise known as the Unabomber. Being only 8 episodes long, I like the fact that it doesn’t feel like a series that’s going to take up too much of my time. I do feel it can be a little slow in places, but not in such a way that hinders the story but more so because it doesn’t want to throw too much at you at once. It also jumps backward and forwards in time, which can throw me off a little bit, so you definitely have to pay attention – not one to leave on in the background. 

The Resident 
I loved the first season of this, and the second is no different. It’s the kind of show that makes you feel like you’re being welcomed with open arms. You know exactly what you’re going to get. It’s a typical medical drama, but it’s written very cleverly and is very witty. I love the characters and even the episodes that don’t have much of a story I still really enjoy, purely for seeing the characters and how they interact with each other. If you’re looking for a new medical drama to sink your teeth into, I definitely recommend this one. And trust me, having watched as many as I have, it takes a lot for me to recommend something that isn’t a classic now. 

Arrow 
I very much have a love/hate relationship with this show. I absolutely adored the first season, I thought everything about it was amazing and I told everyone who would listen that they needed to watch it! But as the seasons went on, I found there was less focus on the characters and things were happening for the sake of something happening and that is one of my biggest pet peeves with shows and movies. The season before last seemed to redeem itself slightly, I liked the idea of having a team again, and new characters that we could delve into. Plus the added bonus of Olicity was enough to make me binge watch and catch up. While I’m not necessarily on the edge of my seat needing the next episode as soon as the one on the TV has finished, I am enjoying the story more, and I think they’ve taken an interesting direction with it which I’m excited to see play out. 

Sherlock 
I know it may be shocking to some, but I’ve never watched the BBC Sherlock series. No particular reason just never got around to it. But I watched the first episode the other night in bed and I really enjoyed it. I feel like it’s the kind of series that’s very clever in its characterization and only gets better with time. I can’t wait to get stuck into the rest of them and will hopefully have finished them all by the time this post goes up! 

Let me know what shows you’ve been loving lately, I’m gonna need something to watch over the Christmas holidays!!

Filed in: Lifestyle • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

21st December 2018

Favourite Poetry Books.

I’m not sure when it was that I fell in love with spoken word poetry, but I think it was shortly after I started Uni. There’s something about it that is so open and bearing, it just hits you like a brick wall. When poetry books started to become a little more mainstream, I was beside myself. While my collection isn’t as huge as I want, I’m more than happy to slowly add to it.
Crush – Richard Siken
This was my first ever poetry book in the collection. I’d asked for it one Christmas after having read one of his poems in class. There’s something about his poetry that really tells a story and resonates with me.
Milk and Honey – Rupi Kaur
If there’s one that you’re bound to have seen around, it’s probably this one. And for very good reason. The poems are truly phenomenal and I can only imagine how amazing it would be to hear it live. It’s poetry that I tell people they will identify with in one way or another at some point, and I haven’t been wrong so far.

She Must Be Mad – Charly Cox
I’m not one to buy something just because of the hype surrounding it, in fact, it puts me off. However, I made an exception after having seen this one on social media for month and months, that when I saw it at St Pancras a few months ago, I simply couldn’t resist. I haven’t read it all, but the poetry is heartwrentchly raw and just truly unbelievable!

The Princess Saves Herself In This One – Amanda Lovelace
I bought this one on a whim really. I’d seen a few friends talk about it and I just needed to see what all the fuss was about. I love the fact this is a series of sorts, and I bought the second one at the same time. I love the colour contrast between the covers and they look lovely on my shelf together. I have picked up this a few time and have loved spending time flicking through and picking out poems that I have ended loving. 

Are there any poetry books that you’ve been loving? Or perhaps ones you weren’t too keen on? I want to know it all, let me know in the comment down below. 

Filed in: Uncategorized • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

20th December 2018

Travel Plans For Next Year.

The idea of traveling has never really struck a chord with me, not for any real reason other than I have just never felt the need or the yearn to. That being said, after my trip to Vancouver, albeit for the purposes of attending a convention, I feel the need to get back out there. Yes, for more conventions obviously, but also to do more exploring! Two birds, one stone. I don’t think I will ever be the backpack and hostel kinda gal, but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that!


So what have I got in the works for next year? Well, I’m going back to Canada! I wasn’t lying when I said how much I loved it! This time I’ll be going to Toronto, and while I would have loved to venture back to Vancouver, the time I was looking to go would have been too expensive and I’m hoping to make two trips next year, so gotta save those pennies where I can! Toronto is the perfect solution, slightly cheaper, I’ll still get to breathe that Canadian air, and I’ll get to go a few days after my birthday which I think is just the perfect excuse to go really! Just like Vancouver, I’ll be spending 3 days at a Convention, but I plan to fully utilize the other days and see as much as I can! If you have any recommendation on what to do while in Toronto, let me know down below!

I’ve also decided to attend a music festival called Rockwood. I was very close to going this year, and after seeing how much fun everyone had, I’m gutted that I didn’t! So I am desperate to go next year. It’s held in Frankfurt, Germany, which is great because it’s not too far from home, I’m hoping this helps keep the prices down a little! As the details for next year haven’t been announced yet, I’m not sure where I’ll be staying, when I’ll be going, or for how long, but as it’ll be 3 days out again for the festival, I’m thinking maybe sticking around for 6 days in total, depending on how much I end up having on my itinerary.

And then my dream trip? St. Petersburg. I’ve been talking about going for a few years now, and I would absolutely love to make it happen. There would be no convention, no festival, just pure exploration of a beautiful city! Depending on how things with Germany turn out, I might try and make it happen at the end of next year, if not 2020 will be the year!!

Have you traveled anywhere amazing this year? Attending any special events that have taken you around the world? I’d love to hear about them!

Filed in: Life • by Taylor • 9 Comments

19th December 2018

I Don’t Need More PJ’s, Do I?

The answer is always yes, and if you’re having to ask the question you’re clearly not doing it right. You can never have too many pajamas, at least I don’t think so. There is honestly nothing I love more at the end of a long day than getting home and getting changed into my PJ’s. I think it’s my way of forgetting about everything that has happened that day, and just getting nice and cozy so I can switch my brain off for a while.

Anyone who has ever come shopping with me knows that a pyjama section of any shop is dangerous for me because I will always more than likely come out with a new pair. I don’t need them, but I NEED them, y’know? Anywho, with Christmas around the corner and the evenings getting colder, now is the perfect time to find an excuse to get a new pair (or two, no judging here) to snuggle up in. I’ve had a little online browse, and these would be my top picks this season. 

NEXT Pink Floral Cotton Ruffle Sleeve Pyjamas – £25 
I love the colours on these! I will always tend to pick up pyjamas that have a cuffed bottom because I hate when the legs roll up or get bunched up during the night. I think the ruffle is a nice touch too, definitely not a style I would usually go for, but you can’t really go wrong with a pair from Next! 

ASOS Design Oversized Sketched Floral Print Traditional 100% Modal trouser set – £28 
I am also partial to a good pair of PJ’s from ASOS. I think you can get some lovely sets and it doesn’t make a huge dent in your purse. These are a set that contradicts my last statement of not liking bottoms that aren’t cuffed, however, I love the print so much that I would probably still go for it! These look as though they would be roomy and comfortable so I will definitely be adding these to my basket at some point! 

Topshop Monochrome Stripe Camisole and Trousers – £34 
I haven’t got a tonne of PJ’s from Topshop, but the few pairs I do have, have lasted me very well. I like that this is a cami top as sometimes, even in the winter, I can overheat really easily, so I feel like this is a good compromise of having full-length bottoms but a very light, sleeveless top. 

NEXT Grey Fancy Dress Dog Pyjamas – £25 
I’m not going to lie, I have had my eyes on these since I saw them in the Next catalogue. It’s pretty much a given that I will buy most things that have dogs on, purely for the fact they have dogs on. I know, it’s an issue. But the fact that I love Next pyjamas, they have cuffed bottoms, AND they have dogs on, mean that these are a sure-fire win for me! 

Anthropologie Floreat Silky Sleep Trousers – £58 
Yes, I know what you’re thinking, more than 50 quid just on pyjama bottoms? Couple that with the fact the top is around that much too and you’re looking at a pretty dent in your purse for this set. But just look at the pattern. How gorgeous! I can guarantee, you can try and find something similar but nothing will compare to this beauty. The piping, the elastic wait, the colours. This is the pyjama set of dreams! 

I can honestly say that if I’m ever in the market to treat myself, a new set of pyjamas that I can change into as soon as I get home, and settle down with a cuppa tea and a good book, is most definitely the way forward. 

Filed in: Life • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

18th December 2018

Favourite Christmas Films.

I love a good Christmas film, and anyone who knows me knows that! I get super sad when the Christmas film channels finish in January, and will always get in a few extra viewings of the Grinch before January is over. Over the years I have watched many Christmas films and I love them all, but there is always a small selection I continually come back to.

White Christmas
I love an old movie of any kind, and anything with Bing Crosby in is going to be a winner for me! This is just such a lovely film to have on in the background while you’re decorating the Christmas tree.

The Holiday
You can try and stop me from watching this at least 6 times over Christmas, but you would not succeed. I’m secretly a bit of a sucker for a good romance, and this is quite possibly the best Christmas Rom-Com that’s ever existed. Yes, I’m one of those fee people that think Love Actually is a lottle overrated! The cast is fantastic, as is the music selection. If there’s one Christmas film I make people watch every year, it’s this one. It’s just a feel good, classic Christmas film.

The Polar Express
This is another of my favourites, probably stemming from my love of the book. I love that it isn’t you typical animation style, but there is just something so magical about the whole thing. And I’m sorry, but anyone who says they don’t enjoy Tom Hanks singing about hot chocolate is very clearly lying.

Miracle on 34th Street
Another classic that couldn’t not be on the list, I’m sure everyone and their mum has seen this, and if you haven’t, where have you been! This is always without fail shown on either film 4 or channel 4 around this time of year, and sometimes you just need an old, lovely, heartwarming film and this fits the bill every time

How the Grinch stole Christmas
Anyone who knows me knows that this is one of my absolute favourite films of all time. I will happily watch this film all year round. There’s nothing more to say than if you haven’t seen this, you absolutely need to because you’ve no idea of the masterpiece you’re missing out on

Mickeys once upon a Christmas
It has been a Christmas tradition in our house to watch this on Christmas Eve. I won’t lie, over the years the viewers have dwindled down to a solo viewing of just me, but I can’t quite bring myself to give the tradition up. It’s basically three mini cartoons, each focusing on Donald, Mickey and goofy. Each story is lovely and has a very important message. I don’t think this film will ever not be in my Christmas film line up.

Do you have any Christmas films you watch every year without fail? Are you more of a Love Actually or The Holiday person? Let me know in the comments below!

Filed in: Life • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

17th December 2018

Christmas Films I’ve Already Watched.

In my mind, it is never too early for a Christmas film. Whether it’s a classic I’ve watched for the past god knows how many years, or something I’ve stumbled upon on the Christmas24 channel, I will happily watch any Christmas film. The good and the bad. And when it finally gets to my favourite time of year, just try and stop me watching them back to back. So I thought I’d give you a little run  down of the Christmas films I’ve already watched!

How The Grinch Stole Christmas  
An absolute classic without question. This may just be my absolute favourite Christmas film and I watch it numerous times every year. I love the book and everything about this adaptation, I don’t remember a year I haven’t watched it. I’m not sure how I feel about the new animated one coming out, but I’m sure I’ll still watch it, but I can guarantee that it will not beat this one. 

The Princess Swap 
I am a sucker for a Hallmark Style movie and when I saw this one from Netfilx I knew we were probably in for a good’un. I was right. This is a proper fluffy rom-com and while I did potter around while it was on, it was the perfect one to have on in the background. It’s been a while since I’ve seen Vanessa Hudgens in anything so it was nice to see her pop up again. It’s definitely a predictable film but it’s also a lovely one to watch on a cold evening with a cup of hot chocolate with the Christmas lights on. 

The Holiday Calendar 
I was excited for this one after the goodness that was The princess Swap, I thought that Netflix must have been on a roll for sure, plus this has Kat Graham and I loved her in The Vampire Diaries. But honestly I could have switched it off before I’d even got halfway through, I continued on hoping it would get better, but it doesn’t. It such a shame because it’s actually quite a sweet storyline, and I’m not sure what it was that put me off so much, but I don’t think this will be returning to my Christmas to-watch list any time soon. 

The Christmas Inheritance
Now, I’m not going to lie, I was planning on watching this on my way back from Vancouver, but I just wasn’t in the mood. Which is very unusual because I never turn down a good Christmas film. I have since watched it and it redeemed my faith in the Netflix Christmas movies. It’s festive, there’s a will they, won’t they romance, and I actually really enjoyed the story. One for the list for sure! 

A Christmas Prince
Yes yes, I know, I’m a little late to the party with this one. I didn’t want to bend to the hype last year, but this year I couldn’t resist. And it was okay. I think in general, the Christmas films Netflix have released this year are doing better. But it was alright, it was light and fluffy and had a storyline, although it was more like drops of information positioned thoughout the film. I probably would watch it again, but it wouldn’t be top of my list, at least I can say I’ve finally watched it now. 

Do you love Christmas films? Which have you already watched this year? Honestly, I’m slacking a little bit but I’ll definitely be cracking them out over the next few weeks and making up for lost time!

Filed in: Lifestyle • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

16th December 2018

Asos Wish List #1

If I had to shop from just one place for the rest of my days, ASOS would always be my answer. I love ASOS, I love the fact that you can get a wide range of brands there and their own stuff isn’t too bad either. I honestly check the app near enough every day just to see what new stuff they’ve got in. I know it’s a problem! These are a few of the things that I’ve been lusting after for the last month. 


We are Hairy People Organic Cotton Sweatshirt with Hand Painted Honey Bee – £60
I like anything with bees on. Socks, mugs, notebooks, and apparently now jumpers! This is super cute, I don’t think the bee’s are too much and its looks really cozy too. This isn’t a brand that I’ve heard of before, so I would probably wait until this went into the sale to see before I bought anything else from them full price. 

ASOS Design Petite Farleigh High Waist Slim Mom Jeans in Bennie Wash with Super Wide Busted Knee – £35 
I was a Topshop petite jeans girl through and through until the prices went up and I felt the quality wasn’t as great as it used to be. A couple of months ago I bought a few pairs of ASOS ones in the sale for my trip to Vancouver and honestly, they’re the only jeans I’ve bought since. I love the material, the fits is just right and I the fact that they do so many different styles as petite is just an added bonus. 

Miss Selfridge Cardigan with Contrast Stitch in Cream – £39
I always preferred a jumper to a cardiagn, but this has changed recently, I suddenly have an afflkiction for a good old cardigan. I havn’t bought from Miss Selfridge in years but I really like the contrast stitching on this, and it looks very snuggly. 

River Island Jumper with Crew Neck in Pink – £34 
The colour, I cannot get over the colour of this. Plus it looks so soft. I went off River Island a little while ago because I think it got too expensive for the quality you were getting. I’m hoping that this will be a little thicker than it looks, but I think it will be a great piece to add to your wardrobe. 

ASOS Design Mickey Mouse Exclusive 90th Birthday Boxy Tee and Legging Pyjama Set – £24 
Hello I’m a Disney fan, so I think this is just a given. I have loved all of the 90th birthday merch that has come from so many brands. I definitely don’t need any new PJ’s but surely this mouses birthday is enough of an excuse, right?

Timberland Courmayeur Valley Shearling Saddle Leather Ankle Boots – £200
I need these like I’ve never needed a pair of shoes before. I find my Timberland boots so comfortable and I adore them. These are a beautiful pair and I will be praying these go in the sale at some point so I can add these to my shoe collection that doesn’t really need adding to. But honestly how perfect are these going to be in the winter months?

ALDO Nicholes Black Heel Court Shoes – £65 
I’m not a heels kinda gal, nope, give me a pair of trainers anyday. But there’s just something about these I really like! I love that these are closed toe because there’s something about open toe that I just can’t get behind. I also don’t normally go for pointed shoes, but I just keep going back to these! They have been in and out of my basket like a yo-yo, I’ve no doubt I will own these before the year is out. 

ASOS Design Backpack with Ring Toggle Detail in Croc – £22
I love a good backpack. This is my favourite colour so it’s an immediate love for me. I feel like this is a great size, I sometimes tend to stray towards a big bag, but that’s because I’m a bit of a hoarder and carry lots of unnecessary crap in my bag. I think I’d be able to get my camera, purse, and all my snack in, so basically all my important stuff! 

ASOS Design Supersoft Long Woven Scarf with Tassels – £12
This particular shade of pink is one I know is going to take over my wardrobe this winter. I have been loving big scarves recently, they’ve been keeping me warmer in the office when it’s cold in the mornings! 

Stacey Dooley: On The Front Line with the Women Who Fight Back  – £14.99 
I’ll admit I didn’t know who Stacey was until I saw her in Strictly, as now I adore her. I would love to read this book because I think she is such an interesting person and has seen so many interesting things. Plus we all know that I am a sucker for a new book! 

Filed in: Life • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

13th December 2018

Me? Writing? Well, Trying To!

There have been multiple times this year where I have told myself that I was going to put pen to paper, fingers to keyboard, and start writing again. Multiple times it hasn’t happened. I think that after having to write things for my degree, I revelled in having the time and space to not have to write anything, but then when it got to the point where I wanted to, I almost forgot how to. 

That sounds silly, but it’s the only way to explain it. Like when you haven’t ridden a bike in year and you get that split second of, holy shit can I even do this anymore? What annoys me about this more than anything is the fact that I actually had got to the point at the end of my degree, where I was very confident with my work and wasn’t doubting everything I had written. But this feels almost like going back to square one. 

So for those who don’t know November is when NaNoWrMo take place. It’s where you take the month of Novemeber to just try and write a novel. I debated with doing it, but then when I decided I wanted to, I felt as though it was too late in the game to get started. However it was the spur I think I needed to get me into the writing frame mind again. I have found myself writing little bits of poetry here and there which hasn’t happend for months. 

Now, one of my final pieces of work I handed in on my course, was one of the only things I’ve worked on that I was super proud of. Since the second I handed it in, I knew I wanted to finish it, I wanted to tell this story, even if I wasn’t really sure what that story was yet. For MONTHS I said that I was going to pick it up again, when in actual fact I couldn’t even lay my eyes on it because I knew how much of a daunting task it would be. But this month has changed that. I’m exctied to be writing again. I want to take on the challenge and while I feel like it’s going to be a bit of an uphill climb, I’m ready to get back on the bike. This is my bike. This story. 

So what have I done so far? I’ve reconnected with the characters, I’ve planned every single chapter of the book, I’ve written little excepts, I’m loving it. While I’m still a little worried about sitting down and actually having to write chapters in full, and string together all the little bits I’ve already written, I’m looking forward to it and I can’t wait to get started. 

Would you be interetsed in getting writing updates to see how I’m getting on with it? I think it would be a good way to hold myself accountable to getting this finished. 

Filed in: Uncategorised • by Taylor • Leave a Comment

22nd August 2018

My Graphic Novel Collection

Graphic Novels were never something I saw myself getting into and to be honest I get too excited about new ones to ever continue buying one series! However, I have stumbled across some over the last year or so that I have really enjoyed so I thought I’d show you my little-but-ready-to-expand collection that sit proudly at the top of my bookcase.

Lumberjanes was one of the first Graphic novels I picked up a few years ago. I think I was feeling a little bit rubbish and took my usual pick-me-up trip to Waterstones and decided I wanted something easygoing and fun. Thus Lumberjanes happened. As I often find for me, it was the art style that pulled me in on this particular series. I love looking at all the illustrations but I also genuinely love the story of these girls. It’s a fantastic story of friendship and courage and how you can be brave if only just by believing you are. I have yet to read the third one, but the fact I’ve even picked up the next two in this series, I think is telling enough about how much I enjoyed the first one.

I was very worried about delving into the Marvel and DC graphic novels, because its such a vast and expanding universe that I wasn’t quite sure where to start. I didn’t want to pick something up that I wouldn’t understand because I needed to read 3 other series’ and a TV show to understand. So instead of delving straight in at the deep end, I took a few cautious steps with one’s I knew I could pick up and not be lost. Black Widow was the first one I picked up and I absolutely loved it! The artwork is exactly what I expected from a Marvel Graphic Novel and the back story was amazing, it gave so much depth to a typically pretty 2D character. Don’t get me wrong, I think Black Widow is awesome but I don’t think the films delve into her enough  to really allow her to be her own character. I definitely need to get my hands on the rest of this series as well as the Hawkeye one, which I’ve heard is equally as amazing.
Ms Marvel was a christmas present last year, and I’m pretty sure I read it as soon as I opened it. I enjoyed it a lot, but after the hype around it, I was kind of expecting a little bit more. I will pick up the next one and see if that changes my mind, but I’m not in an absolute rush to do that. The Flash 52 is one I debated with and was actually another Christmas present. I know there’s been other Flash Graphic novels and like I said I didn’t want to be in the position where I needed to have read something else to understand the timeline or lore. But this was a very good choice. This is The Flash reimagined, a new story of sorts I think. So I didn’t think I was missing anything while reading this. As much as I enjoyed this, I’m not sure I would rush to pick up the rest of them, purely because I think there are others out there that I might enjoy more.

Saga was the other one I picked up during my first outing into Graphic Novels. And I certainly wasn’t disappointed with it. If you’re looking for a slap you in the face, no frills and no pussy footing around badass graphic novel, this is it. I’ve read it a few times and I’m still not 100% sure about what’s going on, I just know it’s amazing! If you’re looking for something out of your comfort zone, fantasy based and that will typically blow your socks of, get your hands on this. From the story to the artwork to the presentation to the quality of the book itself, I have yet to find something I’ve enjoyed quite as much. I’ve been meaning to pick up the rest of them for the longest time, but I can never seem to find the second one in any of the stores I go into, so I’m still on the hunt for those.
Paper Girls is the newest one in my collection, and I’ll be honest with you, it didn’t blow me away. I think based on all the other’s I’d delved into, I just really expected something that wasn’t delivered. I’m going to pick up the second one, purely because the end of the first one pulled a twist out of the bag that was semi-interesting and I really liked the art style, so I’ve decided to give the next one to see if the story picks up. But currently, I would worry yourselves about racing to the stores to grab this.
I wont lie, The Wicked and The Divine is one I picked up one birthday because of all the hype I’d heard about it and I think I’ve only read the first few pages. I think it’s going to be quite lore and story heavy which I’m really interested to delve into but I just haven’t found the time or brain power to do so yet. I did see another one in the collection on my last visit to Waterstone and I did pick it up and flick through, and from the few bits I saw, I definitely need to get my head into this so I can get the rest.

The League of Extraordinary Gentleman had been one on my list for as long as I can remember. Not because it was a graphic novel, but because of the fact I actually really like the movie. However, compared to the other graphic novels I’d bought this was a little more pricey and I wasn’t sure whether it would be worth it. If you liked the movie, it definitely is, I would recommend picking this up asap. I’m not the biggest fan of the artwork, I’m definitely more of a cartoon style reader I think. However, story wise this is fab and I love picking it up randomly and just chipping away at it, and every time I do, I get this real urge to watch the film.
It’s seems I’ve unintentionally left my favourite till last. Nimona was one that I heard A LOT about before it came out and I was actually a little unsure about it. But it’s easily my favourite of every graphic novel featured here. The story, the artwork, everything is just so perfect. I’m sad that there isn’t more because honestly it had me laughing and mentally cheering my possibly favourite duo the whole way through. It reminds me very much of Rainbow Rowell, both in story and artwork. I know that I’ve gushed about a few of the others on this list, but if you’re an avid book lover who is looking to branch into Graphic Novels, this I the one for you. I think it’s the one that most reads like a book and is the closest in terms of feeling like a novel. If nothing, the artwork is adorable.
Are there any Graphic Novels on this list that you also love? Are there any you love that you think I need to get my hands on? Let me know down below!

Filed in: Book Reviews • by Taylor • 1 Comment

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • …
  • 13
  • Next Page »
  • Bloglovin
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Popular Posts

What I’ve Been Watching In Isolation

A Lil’ Book Haul

Twitter

My Tweets

Follow Me On Instagram!

Sundays were made for reading, right?! 🥰 Sundays were made for reading, right?! 🥰
Tell me you're a mood reader, without telling me y Tell me you're a mood reader, without telling me you're a mood reader 🙈

Away from my bookcase for all of three nights, yet need all the options because I've nearly finished my current read, 3 new books and a kindle is reasonable right? ✌️
Anyone have sections of their bookshelves they jus Anyone have sections of their bookshelves they just enjoy looking at? 🤩 I chucked my recent purchases on my shelf the other day and really like the way they looked together, sad I know, but it's the small things in life 🙈
Monthly little kindle haul 👀 I always get suck Monthly little kindle haul 👀

I always get sucked into the 99p deals, I'm a sucker for a deal! However, is it a deal when you have hundreds of books on your kindle already that you haven't read yet? 🤣 This month I picked up:

✨️ The Enigma of Room 622
✨️ Happy Place 
✨️ The Wolf and the Woodsman 
✨️ Notes on Heartbreak 
✨️ Her Majesty's Royal Coven 
✨️ Merideth Alone 

Have you picked any of these up? Read any? Let me know! ☺️
"Some were born to follow, but we were born to lea "Some were born to follow, but we were born to lead" - @mincemeatlive

Have I been telling absolutely everyone who would lend me an ear about how absolutely fantastic this new musical is? Yes, yes I have! I booked this back in November on a complete whim! Mostly because in the email I got, it was described as "part Mel Brooks, part Six, part Hamilton with a side order of One Man, Two Guvnors", and if that doesn't hook you I don't know what will! Other than the brief synopsis in the email, I went in blind, knowing nothing about the show, the music or the actors but man do I want to shout about them now. 

Firstly, the Fortune Theatre felt like the perfect kind of venue for a show like this, surprisingly intimate and like you were actually involved in the action. From the very first song, I was hooked, I knew that I was in for a good one! The actors were all absolutely  phenomenal, each one with comical timing that was absolutely on the money along with some fantastic pipes that were definitely easy on the ears. I laughed, I teared up, I didn't want it to end, everything from the music to the staging was absolute perfection if you ask me. @spitlip aren't a group I'd heard of before, but certainly won't be one I forget fast. I will absolutely without a single doubt be going to see this again before it closes, and only pray that it actually sticks around. Potentially the best new musical I've seen in a very, very long time! Go get your tickets now, old chap! ✌️
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins
Sundays were made for reading, right?! 🥰 Sundays were made for reading, right?! 🥰
Tell me you're a mood reader, without telling me y Tell me you're a mood reader, without telling me you're a mood reader 🙈

Away from my bookcase for all of three nights, yet need all the options because I've nearly finished my current read, 3 new books and a kindle is reasonable right? ✌️
Anyone have sections of their bookshelves they jus Anyone have sections of their bookshelves they just enjoy looking at? 🤩 I chucked my recent purchases on my shelf the other day and really like the way they looked together, sad I know, but it's the small things in life 🙈
Monthly little kindle haul 👀 I always get suck Monthly little kindle haul 👀

I always get sucked into the 99p deals, I'm a sucker for a deal! However, is it a deal when you have hundreds of books on your kindle already that you haven't read yet? 🤣 This month I picked up:

✨️ The Enigma of Room 622
✨️ Happy Place 
✨️ The Wolf and the Woodsman 
✨️ Notes on Heartbreak 
✨️ Her Majesty's Royal Coven 
✨️ Merideth Alone 

Have you picked any of these up? Read any? Let me know! ☺️
"Some were born to follow, but we were born to lea "Some were born to follow, but we were born to lead" - @mincemeatlive

Have I been telling absolutely everyone who would lend me an ear about how absolutely fantastic this new musical is? Yes, yes I have! I booked this back in November on a complete whim! Mostly because in the email I got, it was described as "part Mel Brooks, part Six, part Hamilton with a side order of One Man, Two Guvnors", and if that doesn't hook you I don't know what will! Other than the brief synopsis in the email, I went in blind, knowing nothing about the show, the music or the actors but man do I want to shout about them now. 

Firstly, the Fortune Theatre felt like the perfect kind of venue for a show like this, surprisingly intimate and like you were actually involved in the action. From the very first song, I was hooked, I knew that I was in for a good one! The actors were all absolutely  phenomenal, each one with comical timing that was absolutely on the money along with some fantastic pipes that were definitely easy on the ears. I laughed, I teared up, I didn't want it to end, everything from the music to the staging was absolute perfection if you ask me. @spitlip aren't a group I'd heard of before, but certainly won't be one I forget fast. I will absolutely without a single doubt be going to see this again before it closes, and only pray that it actually sticks around. Potentially the best new musical I've seen in a very, very long time! Go get your tickets now, old chap! ✌️
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins

Copyright © 2026 · Theme by Blog Pixie