8Sunday,December

Books That Hit Different: My Top Reads of the Year That Deserve 5'✨

As 2024 winds down, I’ve found myself looking back on all the books I've got through this year, especially those that hit different and that stayed on my mind for not just days, but months. Whether you’re hunting for your next book obsession or just curious about my faves, here’s my list of top-tier reads that earned a solid 5 ✨ from me. 

p.s I don't give 5 ✨'s out lightly


1. The Family Game - Catherine Steadman

This physiological thriller was a pleasant unexpected surprise read to my year, I picked this up from a holiday book swap shelf, and boy am I glad I did so!

With its twisty plot and gripping suspense, this book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. The family secrets and shocking twists completely caught me off guard—what a fantastic read!



2. The girl before - J.P Deleny 
 
Wow! Another physiological thriller that is getting 5 ✨'s from me.

 I've read a couple of books from this author this year but this was my favourite out of the lot. The well-thought-out storyline had me hooked from the start with its clever twists and suspense, this is a thrilling read and keeps you guessing till the end 

This has also been made into a TV series on BBC if you are more of a watcher than a reader!



3. Keep it in the family - John Mars 

You can probably tell by this point what kind of books I like to read...

This next book on the list is a physiological thriller. this book delves into how you never really know anyone and even your closest family keep secrets. With dark suspense, I didn't want to put this book down, I think I read this book in just two days, which for me, is fast.



4. The family upstairs + The family remains - Lisa Jewell

Last but certainly not least, I have combined these books as The Family Remains is the sequel to The Family Upstairs. I would go as far as to say these were my top reads this year. definitely deserving 5 out of 5 from me. 

Wow. just wow! 

Lisa Jewell, you are amazing.

These books have a fantastic plot and are hauntingly well written The gripping duo of psychological thrillers explores family secrets, betrayal, and dark pasts.



Let me know in the comments some of your favourites that you've read this year. Also, let me know if you've read any of these books already and give me your thoughts on them!




22Friday,November

The Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide For Her 2024

Gift shopping can feel impossible, especially when it seems like everyone already has everything! If you're reading this, you're probably struggling too. But don’t worry I’ve got you covered. This guide is packed with thoughtful and stress-free ideas to help you shop for your family and friends without the last-minute scramble.

The stress of gift shopping can take away from the festive joy. This year, I’ve decided to plan ahead yes, even in mid-November to avoid the Christmas rush.

 I hope this post gives you some help on what to buy this year This gift guide is mostly based on gifts for women, so if you need some help with ideas for your mum, sister or girlfriend you are in the right place. However, if you have come looking for help on men's gifts, sorry to break it to you but I'll be no help there, You're on your own with that girl!


1. Pyjamas 

A classic, but you can't go wrong with this one. Not sure if it's just me, but I love to have a new pair of PJs every Christmas, I never seem to buy them for myself but I'm always happy to receive some as a gift. I find Primark is great for Christmas jammies or if you want to go more luxurious then I recommend The White Company, they have some amazing soft and cute pairs.

2. Beauty boxes

If your loved one loves a pamper and likes trying new items a beauty box is a great idea. Personally, I love the Next beauty boxes as they have a range of boxes to choose from from makeup to hair care. The prices of the beauty boxes are around £15 to £50 so whether you want to spend a little or a lot there are options for both.

3. Gift cards 

This item is a fail-safe.  If you are completely clueless about what to buy someone then a gift card is the best call, then they can go out and buy whatever they like rather than you buying them something they are never going to use. There are many gift cards around, you can either get one for your favourite store or to be extra safe get a card that covers many shops, good cards for this are ones like One 4 All or a Lifestyle you can buy these in supermarkets. 


4. Experiences

Similar to the last one, if you know what someone enjoys then an experience day out is a great idea. You could do a day at the spa, drive around the F1 race track, cooking classes or even a bottomless brunch. Virgin Experiences  have a lot to offer there's something for everyone, and don't worry they get to choose the date to suit them so there's no need to worry if they will be free on a certain day they can pick themselves!

5. Bath stuff

I love a bath when I have special smellies to use, I think running a hot bath and popping in a bath bomb or bubbles with a couple of candles on is my idea of bliss, it's also 10x better when you haven't had to buy it all yourself. One of my favourite bath brands that's also affordable is Soap and Glory, they do a range of scents and all their products are amazing ( my favourite scent from them is their "Call of Fruity"). Boots at Christmas time always have some great deals on these bits.

6. Books

Speaking on behalf of all the bookworms out there, I don't think there could be a better gift. if your loved ones like to get stuck into a good book in their spare time then this is the gift for them. Around Christmas time most people are off work so there is no better time to start on a new book. Amazon is great for book buying as they have all the books you could think of ready to buy.

If you really want to push the boat out for your booking-loving family or friend then a Kindle is a great gift. if someone is always carrying around heavy paperbacks wherever they go a Kindle is a great way to store hundreds of books in one small lightweight place. I love my Kindle it's great for travelling and reading a night. I believe the pric
e range is from  £79.99 to about £250 depending on the features. I have the cheapest Kindle available and I think it's great.

P.s If you need book recs and know what genre they like have a look on TikTok, I always find this helpful

I could go on with ideas but I think I'll stop here. Hopefully, this guide has sparked some inspiration for your Christmas shopping this year.. Remember, it’s not about the price of the gift but the thought that counts!

What’s your go-to gift idea for loved ones? Let me know in the comments below!