February reflections

Well, February 2024 was a bit of a mixed bag for me, if I’m honest. I spent most of the month being rather ill. It was undoubtedly exacerbated by some quite trying circumstances, as well as my apparent inability to actually rest up as long as I really need to when I’m not well. I pushed myself a little too hard when I thought I was on the mend and then immediately took a step back in recovery. I am always the first one to tell people to take all the time they need, but have a blind spot in taking that advice to heart when I need it for myself. I highly doubt I’m alone in that - raise your hand if that's you too!

I did have one glorious weekend away, however, in my belated birthday trip to Disneyland! I have said for a little while that the only way I wanted to celebrate my birthday this year was with my main mouse. Whilst I didn’t quite make it there for the day itself last month, it was just as glorious as I imagined it would be. 

My main takeaways from this month then? Follow my own damn advice because I actually know what I’m talking about, and make time for the magic you enjoy whenever and however you can! 

What I’ve been reading

House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J Maas 

The Mortal Queen of Fairy Smut is back with the third book in the Crescent City series. I couldn’t wait to pick it up after the cliffhanger at the end of HOSAB, and the urban high fantasy setting is just up my street. There is no denying that the plot has twists and turns aplenty but, whilst I did enjoy it immensely, this wasn’t the slam dunk I had hoped it would be. 

Lilith by Nikki Marmery 

What a book! Lilith was Adam’s first wife (yes, that Adam!), created as his equal and cast from the Garden when she refused to submit. It’s a bold, unflinching reimagining of thousands of years of religious human history that will stay with you long after the final page. 

Romancing Mr Bridgerton by Julia Quinn 

The second Bridgerton book I’ve read recently and the subject of the new series of the show when it comes out in May. I think Colin Bridgerton may be my favourite sibling yet as I can identify with both his love of writing and his love of sandwiches! 

What I’ve been listening to 

The Grammys this month brought with them the announcement of a new Taylor Swift album and I think it could be the perfect album for all of us readers! I have therefore had a very Swift-heavy month. I gravitate towards the lyrical melancholy and pared back production of Folklore and Evermore so I have had those on heavy rotation in the wake of my gloom this month! 

What I’ve been watching 

Days off work have meant lots of sleeping, not too much reading, and comfort TV shows. I started rewatching Modern Family and have been racing through it and trying to live more by Phil’s-osophy!