Anushka's Bookish Shenanigans

Shady Hollow by Juneau Black Review – 4.5/5 | Cozy Mystery with Woodland Creatures and Murder 🦊🌲

Cover of Shady Hollow by Juneau Black, featuring a forest backdrop with fox reporter Vera Vixen in the foreground, accompanied by two other woodland characters. The illustration captures the cozy mystery vibe of the book with its charming forest setting.

Life has been lifing lately, and I haven’t had much time to read. I’ll admit, the reader in me has been feeling a bit guilty, but I was craving something cozy and fun to dive into. If you’re in the same boat, I think Shady Hollow might be exactly what you’re looking for. This cozy mystery hit the spot for me, offering the perfect balance of charm, excitement, and that “feel-good” factor we all need sometimes.

Blurb:

The first book in the Shady Hollow series, where we are introduced to the village of Shady Hollow, a place where woodland creatures live together in harmony—until a curmudgeonly toad turns up dead, and the local reporter has to solve the case.

Reporter Vera Vixen is a relative newcomer to Shady Hollow. The fox has a nose for news, so when she catches wind that the death might be a murder, she resolves to get to the bottom of the case, no matter where it leads. As she stirs up still waters, the fox exposes more than one mystery and discovers that additional lives are in jeopardy.

Vera finds more to this town than she ever suspected. It seems someone in the Hollow will do anything to keep her from solving the murder, and soon it will take all of Vera’s cunning and quickness to crack the case.

Trigger warnings: Murder, violence, death

Review:

I’ll be honest: Shady Hollow is exactly what I needed in my life right now! 🦊 This cozy mystery has all the charm, wit, and excitement you could hope for. While it was a bit predictable at times, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the setting and the characters. It was a page-turner that kept me hooked, and now I’m desperate for the next books in the series. 🌟

What I Loved:

The Setting 🌍: The village of Shady Hollow is everything I didn’t know I wanted in a cozy mystery. A place where woodland creatures live in harmony? Yes, please! From the descriptions of the town to the little details about the animals’ lives, I could almost see the whole village come to life in my mind. The setting felt like home, and I couldn’t wait to explore more of it.
The Characters 👩‍❤️‍👨: Vera Vixen, the reporter and main character, was absolutely delightful. Her curiosity and determination to solve the mystery made her a great protagonist, and watching her grow throughout the story was rewarding. I also loved the supporting characters—the animal personalities were quirky, fun, and memorable.
The Pacing 📚: The story moved fast, which was great because it kept me engaged. At times, it did feel like the action slowed down a bit, but that was probably just me being eager for more! Still, it was well-paced overall.

The Mystery 🕵️‍♀️:

While the plot itself was a little predictable, I really enjoyed the way Vera uncovered the secrets of Shady Hollow. The mystery itself was intriguing, and as the story unfolded, I found myself more and more invested in solving the case along with Vera. Plus, the underlying threat that loomed over the town kept me on edge.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries and enjoy charming settings with memorable characters, Shady Hollow is a must-read. The first book in the series really sets the stage for what I hope will be many more adventures with Vera and her woodland friends.

Rating:

Category	Rating
Writing ✍️	5/5 ⭐
Setting 🌍	5/5 ⭐
Characters 👩‍❤️‍👨	5/5 ⭐
Plot 📚	4/5 ⭐
Overall ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐

**Have you read Shady Hollow yet?**

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, I highly recommend you give this one a try. And if you’ve already read it, I’d love to hear what you think of the series so far! 🦊✨

The Wedding People by Alison Espach 💍📖 – 3.5/5 | Is This Novel Worth the Hype?

Cover of The Wedding People by Alison Espach, featuring two hands emerging from a water body, possibly the ocean. One hand is making a peace sign, while the other holds a wine bottle. The image is modern and whimsical, capturing the essence of the novel.

Introduction:

In an effort to step outside my usual reading preferences, I decided to dive into The Wedding People by Alison Espach, after it won Best Fiction at the 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards 🏆. Romance isn’t typically my genre, but the buzz around this book had me curious. As someone who rarely reads romance novels 💔, I figured it was time to give this one a fair shot.

Now, here’s my honest review of The Wedding People—a romance novel that, while cute and engaging, didn’t quite win me over. But maybe that’s just me! Let’s dive in. 💕

Blurb:

A propulsive and uncommonly wise novel about one unexpected wedding guest and the surprising people who help her start anew.

It’s a beautiful day in Newport, Rhode Island, when Phoebe Stone arrives at the grand Cornwall Inn wearing a green dress and gold heels, not a bag in sight, alone. She’s immediately mistaken by everyone in the lobby for one of the wedding people, but she’s actually the only guest at the Cornwall who isn’t here for the big event. Phoebe is here because she’s dreamed of coming for years—she hoped to shuck oysters and take sunset sails with her husband, only now she’s here without him, at rock bottom, and determined to have one last decadent splurge on herself. Meanwhile, the bride has accounted for every detail and every possible disaster the weekend might yield except for, well, Phoebe and Phoebe’s plan—which makes it that much more surprising when the two women can’t stop confiding in each other.

In turns absurdly funny and devastatingly tender, Alison Espach’s The Wedding People is ultimately an incredibly nuanced and resonant look at the winding paths we can take to places we never imagined—and the chance encounters it sometimes takes to reroute us.

Trigger Warnings: Suicidal ideation, relationship struggles, divorce, cancer, death

What Worked for Me:

1. Writing ✍️: Alison Espach’s writing is sharp, easy to follow, and enjoyable. She does a great job of creating a flowing narrative that’s accessible to readers who aren’t necessarily romance fans. I was able to get through the book without feeling bogged down by complicated prose. The descriptions of the settings were vivid enough to paint a clear picture, which helped immerse me in the world of wedding planning and romantic drama. 💐

2. Characters 👩‍❤️‍👨: I found the characters in The Wedding People to be one of the strongest aspects of the book. They were well-developed and realistic, with relatable motivations and struggles. While the romance angle didn’t quite click with me, I could still understand why the characters’ journeys would resonate with romance fans. They felt like real people, and I appreciated their depth and personal growth throughout the story. 🌱

3. Setting 🌍: Espach’s ability to bring the setting to life also stood out. The details of the environments were rich and gave me a clear sense of place. Whether it was the wedding venues or the intimate moments between characters, the settings helped ground the story and added to its charm. 💒

What Didn’t Work for Me:

1. Predictable Plot 📚: This is where The Wedding People lost me a little. As much as I wanted to love it, the plot felt very predictable. As a reader who doesn’t always enjoy romance novels, the storyline followed a familiar formula that I’ve seen before in other books of the genre. While I’m sure it’s comforting for romance lovers to know how the plot will unfold, I found it a bit too formulaic for my taste. 🥱

2. Romance Elements 💘: I’ll admit it—romance novels aren’t really my thing, and that could be why I didn’t fully connect with the romantic aspects of this book. Maybe if I were in a different stage of life or more inclined toward love stories, I’d have been more invested. But I struggled to feel emotionally engaged with the romance, which is the core of the novel. 😅

Final Thoughts:

Would I recommend The Wedding People? If you love romance novels and enjoy a story with well-drawn characters, engaging writing, and predictable romantic plots, then absolutely! It’s a charming read that will likely appeal to fans of romantic fiction. 💕

But if you’re like me and struggle to connect with romance as a genre, this book might not be the one for you. While it’s a solid, well-crafted story, it didn’t move me the way I expected. 😬

Ratings:

Category	Rating
Writing ✍️	4/5 ⭐
Setting 🌍	4/5 ⭐
Characters 👩‍❤️‍👨	4/5 ⭐
Plot 📚	2.5/5 ⭐
Overall ⭐	3.5/5 ⭐

What Did You Think of The Wedding People?
Have you read The Wedding People? What did you think of the characters and the romance? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! 😁

Exploring Junoon NYC: Michelin-Star Indian Food That Feels Like Home

As someone who grew up watching Chef Vikas Khanna on MasterChef India with an embarrassing (but very real) childhood crush, visiting Junoon in NYC was kind of a full-circle moment for me. While I’m not entirely sure if Chef Khanna is still the executive chef — the internet seems split on that — his legacy clearly still lingers in the kitchen.

Booking a reservation was a breeze online. I went on a Sunday evening at 6:30 PM, and surprisingly, the place wasn’t crowded. Honestly, it made for a cozy and peaceful dining experience, which felt perfect.

✨ The Menu

Junoon offers three dinner experiences:

A five-course Chef’s Tasting Menu ($130/person + optional $70 wine pairing), which isn’t available on Sundays.
The Prestige Dinner Menu – either a 2-course ($85/person) or a 3-course with dessert ($98/person).
If you’re not up for a full 3-course meal, you can always do a 2-course and order dessert à la carte for $16 — though you save a few bucks doing it all together.

We did one 2-course and one 3-course menu between the two of us. Honestly, that was more than enough food.

🍸 The Drinks – A Flavorful Prelude

Junoon’s cocktail program is honestly its own art form. Described as being inspired by the Tree of Life, their drink menu combines Indian spices, local herbs, and global techniques in the coolest way. Hemant Pathak, their beverage director, has truly curated something special — each drink feels like a chapter in a story.

I got the Mumbai Margarita – a tangy, refreshing mix of tequila, mango purée, lime, rose-chili syrup, and spiced salt. It was everything I love in a drink: zesty, slightly sweet, and just enough of a kick. My friend ordered the Junoon in Manhattan, which leaned stronger and smokier with Indian single malt, rye, amaro, and vermouth — not for lightweights, but definitely bold.

🍴 The Food – Indian Fine Dining at Its Best

Small Plates – what we got

🌿 Tulsi Lasun Paneer: Basil-garlic marinated paneer with mango relish and grape chutney. Pro tip (IK THIS IS THE NORM BUT STILL)? Eat all components together — the balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet is chef’s kiss.
🔥 Smoked Masala Ribs: Hands down, the star of the night. Charcoal smoked pork ribs with vindaloo rub and chaat masala apples. The meat fell off the bone, was unapologetically spicy (the Indian kind), and absolutely divine. I don’t usually go for red meat — and yet, here I am, dreaming about it. I was unable to record the presentation because I was busy drooling, but that was impeccable too.

Mains – what we got

🦞 Tandoori Lobster (+$7): Tandoor-roasted and drenched in a tomato, mustard, and green chili sauce. Super flavorful, cooked perfectly.
🍗 Murg Payaza: Boneless chicken in a cashew, onion-tomato gravy with cipollini onions. A safer pick, but comforting and rich.

With the mains, you get a beautiful spread of Daal Makhani, Yellow Dal Tadka, Pulao Rice, Mint Raita, and naan (we picked cheese and garlic). No sign of the seasonal chutneys mentioned on the menu, but honestly, we didn’t miss them — everything else was that good.

Also, I ate with my hands — because that’s how we do it. It felt so comforting, and the staff even brought out little towelettes afterward for cleanup (so thoughtful!). Eating with your hands is not just accepted here, it’s honestly encouraged — and I think it added so much value to the whole experience. Sticking to your roots, always!

We were so full by the end, we could barely walk. But there’s always room for dessert.

🍨 Dessert – Because Birthday Vibes

We got Cricket — a playful and delicious dessert made of chikoo mousse, coconut “grass,” and guava. It was plated like a cricket pitch and I FELL IN LOVE.

As a sweet surprise (it was my birthday!), they also brought out a small chocolate mousse, which was such a thoughtful and delicious touch.

They also gave us Almond Barfi with the check.

🪷 Final Thoughts

I’ve read mixed reviews about Junoon, but my experience? Genuinely amazing. It felt luxurious without being pretentious, and it honored Indian cuisine in a way that made me nostalgic for home. Every bite told a story.

Yes, it’s on the pricier side — our total with tip came to around $300 — but for a special night out, I felt it was worth every penny.

⭐ My Standard Ratings

Category	Score
Menu Variety	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5/5)
Presentation	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
Taste (Food & Drinks)	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5/5)
Portion Size for Cost	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5/5)
Ambiance	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
Staff & Service	⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Would I go back? Absolutely.

If you’re a fan of elevated Indian food with deep roots and bold creativity, Junoon is worth a visit. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself (because you should!), this place knows how to make an evening memorable.

I apologize for my pictures, or the lack of them – I was so caught up in the food and taking videos that I forgot to click any photos. But here is a link to my YouTube short about my experience.

I visited the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Mid-April 2025

This past weekend, I had the chance to visit the Brooklyn Botanical Garden—and wow, what a lovely way to spend a warm spring day! Thanks to my friend who gets free tickets through work (score!), I got in without paying, though general admission usually costs $25 for adults (including the service fee), $18 for students with valid IDs, and seniors over 65, and it’s free for children under 12. Just a heads-up: only service animals are allowed.

By mid-April, the garden was already coming to life. While the famous cherry blossoms and roses still needed a bit more time, most of the other flowers were blooming beautifully. It was so peaceful just strolling through the grounds and taking in all the colors.

My favorite part? Hands down, the Conservatory. The tropical, desert, aquatic, and bonsai rooms were all stunning, but the carnivorous plant stole (Trumpet pitcher aka Sarracenia) the show for me—absolutely fascinating (and just a little creepy in the best way).

The pond and the water-cleaning systems around the garden were also fascinating to see. It’s a thoughtful reminder of how ecosystems function, even in curated spaces like this one.

The Shakespeare Garden and Fragrance Garden were also in full bloom and really fun to walk through—super vibrant and immersive.

If I had to point out a con, it’s that because the garden features so many types of plants, there’s never really a time when everything is blooming, so no “perfect” visit window. Still, that makes every visit unique in its own way.

There are food spots and water fountains scattered around the garden, but be warned: weekend lines for food were long. I didn’t eat inside, but if you go, I’d recommend a weekday visit for a more relaxed experience.

Overall, it was a super peaceful, plant-filled day—I just wish there were a few more animals to keep me company—but hey, it is a botanical garden after all! All in all, a gorgeous spring outing.

A Cozy Christmas Getaway in Portsmouth, NH 🎄✨

If you’re looking for a serene escape to unwind, indulge in great food, and explore charming streets, Portsmouth, NH is a perfect option. Just a quick 1-hour 15-minute bus ride from Boston’s South Station or Logan Airport, this picturesque town offers a mix of relaxation and holiday cheer.

I stayed in downtown at the Hampton Inn and Suites, an ideal location for easy access to Portsmouth’s main attractions. Over four days, I experienced the magic of both tranquil holiday moments and the lively post-Christmas buzz. Here’s how it all went:

Day 1: Christmas Eve – Arriving in Portsmouth

My adventure began with a bus ride from Boston to Portsmouth, arriving by mid-afternoon. After checking into my hotel, I headed straight to Popovers on the Square to grab one of their famous popovers. Light, airy, and warm, it was the perfect snack to fuel an afternoon of leisurely exploring the local stores.

For dinner, I stopped at Surf, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh flavors. I had their shrimp taco, and while I wish I could’ve sampled more from their menu, I opted for an early night to relax at the hotel and catch up on sleep.

Day 2: Christmas Day – Quiet Streets, Big Flavors

Christmas Day in Portsmouth was calm and almost magical. With most businesses closed, the streets were beautifully deserted, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.

After breakfast at the hotel, I spent the day wandering the quiet streets, capturing their serene charm, and finishing a good book.

For dinner, I ventured to Durbar Square, a Nepalese restaurant. It was my first time trying Nepalese cuisine, and it was such a treat! I enjoyed chicken momos, chicken and mushroom tarkari, flat herbed bread, and ginger duck. With spice levels ranging from 1 to 10, I chose 7 and immediately wished I’d gone higher. The warm flavors and cozy atmosphere made it a memorable Christmas meal.

Day 3: Post-Christmas Cheer

The town came alive again after Christmas, with shops and cafes reopening and people filling the streets.

I started my day with a hazelnut latte and croissant at The Works Cafe, a lovely spot to fuel up before exploring Prescott Park and Four Tree Island. The crowd was still light, so I managed to take some stunning pictures of these scenic spots.

Next, I visited Reedmore Books & Brews, a charming bookstore with a small menu. I tried their buffalo chicken bites and crab cakes—both were delicious! I also stopped by Riverrun Bookstore, where I definitely didn’t buy two books from their $5 used book sale. (I got one used from the sale and one new book I have always wanted haha)

Later, I indulged in a cheesy, comforting buffalo chicken grilled cheese from Cheese Louise, a perfect midday snack. For dinner, I went to Moxy, a tapas-style restaurant that quickly became one of my favorites. Every dish—corn muffins, crispy pork belly, mini beef burgers, and herb-brined chicken thighs—was an absolute delight.

Day 4: Souvenirs, BBQ, and Adventure

On my last day, I dedicated the morning to exploring local stores and picking up souvenirs for myself and my family.

Lunch took an unexpected but delightful turn when I accidentally entered Legends Billiards and Tavern instead of Shalimar. Their Thursday-Sunday lunch deals were incredible—I ordered buffalo chicken dip, three mini sliders, and a BBQ platter with pulled chicken and baby back ribs (with mac and cheese and home fries). Everything was delicious, even though I definitely over-ordered!

In the afternoon, I headed to Monkey Mind Escape Room, where I embarked on a thrilling mission to save a scientist’s wife by finding an antidote. It was so much fun and a unique way to end my trip.

Before dinner, I stopped by Hearth Market to warm up with some amazing truffles. For my final meal, I went to Black Trumpet Bistro, a fine dining restaurant that exceeded all expectations. I tried their Chef’s Meze Plate (an assortment of small dishes), Flashed Bay Scallops, and Sunchoke Brandade Crusted Fish. For dessert, I had a divine chocolate creation—the perfect way to wrap up my getaway.

A Getaway to Remember

Portsmouth, NH during Christmas was an unforgettable experience, blending quiet holiday moments with vibrant post-Christmas energy. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, incredible food, or charming shops, Portsmouth has something for everyone.

Would I recommend this trip? Absolutely! With its cozy vibe, delicious eats, and festive charm, Portsmouth is a perfect Christmas getaway.

A Fantasy-Lover’s Dream Day in Salem 🌙✨

Living so close to Salem for ages, you’d think I’d have been there a million times, right? Wrong! As a lover of all things mystical and magical, it’s almost criminal that it took me so long to visit. But finally, I made the trip, and let me tell you—it was totally worth it! I explored, discovered tourist gems, and, of course, took a ton of photos to capture it all.

Armed with my trusty MBTA weekend pass (only $10!), I set off on my Salem adventure and made sure to stop everywhere my curious heart desired. Let’s dive into my day!

Activity 1: Fueling Up for the Adventure 🥞

Stop 1: Red’s Sandwich Shop
Apparently, Salem begins its day here, so of course, I had to start mine here too. After a short wait, I dug into a solid, heavy breakfast of matcha and grilled cheese (not my usual combo, but hey!). The food was good—not mind-blowing, but just right for the long walks ahead.

Stop 2: A & J Artisan Bakery
Craving a chocolate croissant, I was a bit crushed to find they’d run out. But I picked up a chocolate chip cookie and brownie to munch on as I strolled through Salem—perfect treats for a perfect morning walk!

Activity 2: History & Haunts 🕯️👻

Stop 3: Salem Witch Trials Memorial & Cemetery
An absolute must-visit in Salem. Walking through, I couldn’t help but reflect on the eerie and powerful history that put Salem on the map. The atmosphere is solemn yet beautiful, a thoughtful memorial that honors the past.

Stop 4: Pyramid Books
Of course, I couldn’t pass up a bookstore! Though not a typical bookstore, it’s packed with witchcraft books and charming (but pricey) trinkets. Definitely a fun stop for the vibe alone!

Stop 5: Salem Maritime National Historic Site
The old-world architecture here was so charming. I also grabbed a souvenir from the park store—always love supporting the national parks! Bonus: clean public restrooms nearby, which is a rarity on a day of exploring!

Stop 6: Artists’ Row
Although mostly empty due to the off-season, the colorful installations still made for a pretty stroll. Just don’t linger too long near the restrooms—trust me.

Stop 7: Bewitched Statue
A quick stop to snap a classic tourist pic!

Little Library Find #1:
While exploring the park near the Bewitched Statue, I stumbled upon my first little library! Such a fun and unexpected discovery.

Activity 3: Exploring Salem’s Charm 🍁📸

Stop 8: Blackcraft Cult
A clothing store which also is part coffee shop, part gift store- this place is packed with fun picture spots, including a huge witch statue hanging from the ceiling. Couldn’t resist snapping a few shots here!

Stop 9: Wicked Good Books
Since 2014, Wicked Good Books has been a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors, offering a rich selection of new titles and local favorites. Known for its friendly atmosphere, it’s hard not to fall in love with this indie bookstore. They even have cozy hoodies and totes featuring their cute kitty logo—perfect souvenirs from a charming place that feels like home to any book lover. I was hoping to find my final Backman novel here but no luck this time.

Stop 10: WytchWood
Welcome to WytchWood, where the dark whimsy of the forest meets the heart of nature-centered living. This enchanting shop is a haven for those who cherish the earth’s magic, with beautiful tea and coffee items, herbal syrups, and tools for rituals that honor the changing seasons. I had to double back after leaving without buying anything. I ended up getting a cute tea steeper—practical and a little magical!

Stop 11: Caramel Patisserie & Macarons
This was my sweet treat heaven. I tried a flan and a pain-au-chocolat, both absolutely delicious and worth every bite.

Stop 12: Witch House
Iconic Salem vibes! Tours were sold out but the photo line was short, so I grabbed a classic photo out front.

Stop 13: The Ropes Mansion & Garden
Huge, beautiful, and even includes a fishpond! Though empty now, definitely a spot for garden lovers in the spring.

Little Library Find #2:
This little library was painted a beautiful shade of blue and was just as adorable as the first. Found it in the Ropes Mansion garden— Had to take pictures with it.

Stop 14: Salem Athenaeum
Just a quick photo stop, but it was lovely to see the historic building up close.

Stop 15: Salem Public Library
Another quick snap here—it’s a book lover’s duty!

Little Library Find #3: Walking down Derby Street, I stumbled upon another little library outside a church—each one felt like finding treasure!

Activity 4: Getting a Little Mystical 🔮🧙

Stop 16: Professor Spindlewink’s World of Wizardry
For $15, I entered a whimsical, interactive experience with six magical realms to explore. I completed the quest to find four escaped apple crabs (yes, you read that right) and earned a cute sticker—such a fun little adventure!

Stop 17: Salem Witch Museum
Another quick photo op to capture the quintessential Salem experience.

Stop 18: Peabody Essex Museum
This museum was a huge highlight. With exhibits on Moby Dick, maritime artifacts, India, and incredible glass art, it blew me away. A $15 student ticket was well worth it!

Activity 5: Dinner & Winding Down 🍽️🌆

Stop 19: Kakawa Chocolate House
Tried a hot chocolate float and picked up some chocolates for later. It was an interesting treat, though the taste wasn’t my favorite.

Stop 20: Gulu Gulu Cafe
With an hour wait for our dinner reservation, I stopped here for a snack. The pickled eggs and cappuccino were okay, but probably better suited for lunch. Lesson learned!

Little Library Find #4: Spotted one last little library near City Hall while making my way to dinner.

Stop 21: Dinner at Turner’s Seafood
Finally, dinner time! The vibe here was so warm and inviting, and the food did not disappoint. A perfect end to a full day of walking and exploring.

Stop 22: Omen Psychic Parlor & Witchcraft Emporium
Just as a fun last stop before catching the train back, I popped in and may have left with some olive leaves for a little Athena’s blessing. 😉

Wrapping Up the Magic ✨

After one last look around the now quieter Salem streets, I made my way back to the MBTA station, tired but utterly satisfied. This day was everything I hoped for and more. Salem’s charm, history, and quirky shops make it a must-visit, especially if you’re a fan of fantasy, books, and cozy vibes like me.

I’d give this trip a solid 100/10 and would recommend it to anyone who cares to listen. If you’re in the area, get your MBTA pass and spend a day in Salem—it’s an adventure you won’t regret!

Here are some more pictures I snapped on my stroll across Salem:

New Beginnings

It’s been three years since my last post, and a lot has happened in that time. I’ve loved and been loved back. I’ve formed meaningful relationships, but I’ve also faced my fair share of roadblocks. I took some leaps, and while they didn’t always turn out as expected, they panned out okay (I think). One of those leaps involved moving to a new country. I’ve read a lot—and yet, also so little. My hard work has been recognized and rewarded, but my mental health has never been as unsettled as it is now. I’ve never felt more certain about what I’m doing, yet I’ve never felt this lost either.

Life is good, though there’s still a long way to go. Over a month ago, I decided to step back from social media. I needed to preserve my sanity, collect my thoughts, make time for the things I’ve always wanted to do, and, perhaps most importantly, escape the constant pressure to post. So, in short, while everyone else is rushing toward short-form video, I’m running back to my written blog—where I once found peace. Oh, how the tables have turned!

What am I expecting from this? Nothing more than what I always have. This could be where I gather the chaos in my mind and make some sense of it—or not. I want to share my experiences, thoughts, travels, book reviews, and maybe even series, and movie reviews. I know this goes online, but without any monetary investment, I also know that very few people will likely read it. And I think that’s exactly what I want—to share, but not exactly.

But you know what? Don’t believe me. I always end up breaking my self-made social media commitments. Why would this be any different? But for now, here are pictures of me at a bookstore.

The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson – 4.5/5

‘Most high school students have hobbies. Some play music. Some play sports. Some write , or draw or make things. Stephanie Bell solves CRIME’
– Maureen Johnson

Specifics:

Book: The Box in the Woods

Author: Maureen Johnson

Published: 27th April 2021

Genre: YA mystery / thriller

LGBTQIA literature: Yes

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 335

My rating: 4.5/5

Blurb: (from Goodreads)

The Truly Devious series continues as Stevie Bell investigates her first mystery outside of Ellingham Academy in this spine-chilling and hilarious stand-alone mystery.

Amateur sleuth Stevie Bell needs a good murder. After catching a killer at her high school, she’s back at home for a normal (that means boring) summer.

But then she gets a message from the owner of Sunny Pines, formerly known as Camp Wonder Falls—the site of the notorious unsolved case, the Box in the Woods Murders. Back in 1978, four camp counselors were killed in the woods outside of the town of Barlow Corners, their bodies left in a gruesome display. The new owner offers Stevie an invitation: Come to the camp and help him work on a true crime podcast about the case.

Stevie agrees, as long as she can bring along her friends from Ellingham Academy. Nothing sounds better than a summer spent together, investigating old murders.

But something evil still lurks in Barlow Corners. When Stevie opens the lid on this long-dormant case, she gets much more than she bargained for. The Box in the Woods will make room for more victims. This time, Stevie may not make it out alive.

‘Fashions come and go but jawlines are eternal.’
– Maureen Johnson

Review:

Where do I start with this book? Maybe by mentioning that you don’t have to read the trilogy to understand this book.

The Box in the Woods is set during the school break from Ellingham Academy and before the kids have to return for their semesters. Stevie is invited to solve a mass murder that happened in the ’70s on a camp by it’s now owner who has named it Sunny Pines. He has his own selfish reasons – to make a podcast on the case.

The best part about the book is that it’s a standalone and there is no time utilised to set a premise. We are bombarded with information and our brains start ticking from the get-go.

It is an unputdownable thriller that takes us on an adrenaline-boosting ride. The narration in the book reminded me so much of BuzzFeed unsolved (100 points) and had my heart popping in the final few chapters.

The representation of the LGBTQ community is brilliant. We need more books with narratives like this. The character development isn’t a lot since it’s only a span of a few months but I did fall in love with Nate, Janelle, and Stevie’s friendship more.

Plus the book is set in a camp around a lake that has a TREE-HOUSE LIBRARY. The town of Barlow Corners sounds like a very cozy place for us bookworms to live in. The author did a brilliant job with the descriptions.

Also, the characters are so relatable, it’s embarrassing coming from a 24-year-old.😂

The only issue I had with the book was that the ending might have felt a little rushed but it was unexpected, nonetheless.

Thank you After-School Tales and Harper Collins India for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review!

What I liked about it:

Fast paced and engaging writing
Brings back the best characters of the trilogy
Manages to make us laugh few times
The premise – CAMP in the woods was not just a ruse but essential to the story
Loved how the author described the teenagers of the 70’s and the current generation
There is no beating around the bush – the plot is rich with information to digest from the get-go
The last few chapters kept my anxiety on such a high level that MY CHEST HURT!

Things it reminded me off:

Chapter 4: Carson details the murders and the theories related to them. I could not stop myself from reading it in ‘Ryan Bergara from Buzzfeed Unsolved’s voice’ with the music of the show playing in the back of my head.
Page 206 :p : Read the journal entry in the voice of Stephan Salvatore aka Paul Wesley reading Dear Diary in TVD
The last two chapters: I imagined the total scene with Stevie as ACP Pradhyuman and the others helping as Abhishek and Daya as they unravel the mystery to the culprit and suspects in the end of every episode. :p

‘You can tell a lot about a person from what they read’
– Maureen Johnson

Check out my review of The Hand on the Wall by Maureen Johnson to know how much and why I loved it. It also has a run-down of the truly devious mysteries.

September 2020 Wrap-Up

The month of September was a breeze to begin with but I had to slow down in the end of it. I read 5 fantastic books and also managed to read my first graphic novel too.

1. Camp by L.C Rosen – 4/5

Camp is one of the best queer reps I’ve ever read. Released on 26th may 2020, this YA Romance is the kind of book that should be a part of curriculums.

2. Aurora Burning by Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman – 4/5

The book #2 of the thrilling Sci-Fi Fantasy was released on 5th May 2020 but took its sweet time to come to India. While it has left me speechless in the end, it did have its ups and downs.

3. Anna K by Jenny Lee – 3.5/5

4. Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron – 3/5

5. Dancing at the Pity Party (A Graphic Novel) by Tyler Feder – 5/5

Camp by L.C. Rosen – 4/5

‘It’s a safe place. A place for you all to be yourselves and have a childhood that you don’t get anywhere else.’
– L.C. Rosen

Specifics:

Book: Camp

Author: L. C. Rosen

Published: Penguin Books

Genre: YA Romance, Romantic Comedy

LGBTQIA literature: Yes

Publisher: Penguin Books

Pages: 374

My rating: 4/5

Blurb:

Sixteen-year-old Randy Kapplehoff loves spending the summer at Camp Outland, a camp for queer teens. It’s where he met his best friends. It’s very it takes to the stage in the big musical. And it’s where he fell for hunkey Hudson Aaronson-Lim – whose only into straight-acting guys and barely knows Randy even exists.

This year, though it’s going to be different. Randy has reinvented himself as ‘Del’ – buff, masculine and on the market. Even if it means giving up show tunes, nail polish and his unicorn bed sheets, he’s determined to get Hudson to fall for him.

But as he and Hudson grow closer, Randy has to ask himself how much he is willing to change for love. And is it really love anyway, if Hudson doesn’t know who he truly is?

‘We can do everything straight people can do, you’re right, but what makes being queer special is we don’t have to if we don’t want to.’
– L.C. Rosen

Review:

When I picked up this book, I knew it would be a good read but nothing could have prepared me for the unique and essential storyline that hit me.

The book was not only fresh but also close to reality. It had one of the best representations of all the sapphic books I’ve read.

Camp is set in a queer camp where queer teens can go to find acceptance and overcome bias by being themselves unapologetically for a month. Like any other camp, it has activities to do but most of all, it uplifts the once that need to be.

The narrator of the book is Randy aka Del aka Randall who has transformed himself for love. It seems to be working pretty well. What I liked here is that as absurd as it sounds he always maintained that it’s not permanent and that he will slowly turn back.

The story flows in two timelines, the present with Del and the past with the original Randy. I was expecting them to coincide sometime but I realised that it’s only to give us a glimpse to the past and an idea about how Randy came to this decision in the first place.

He has got some amazing friends who support him but also give him their honest opinion. What the author managed to do is share the spotlight equally among all the characters. The supporting characters don’t even feel like side characters. They shine with their own glitter.

The character development is also immense and commendable. As irritating as Del may seem, he is a teenager and being irritating is almost every teenagers secong nature. So, the author nailed it. But, he also grows so much.

The best part of the story is how we are shown all the sides and edges there are to the life of queer teens. Not everyone is readily accepted and not everyone is free to be who they are even after coming out. And this is expressed very well in the book.

We definitely need more books like this. It’s the need of the hour.

I rate the book 4/5 for being so important and just.

Spoiler alert

There’s not much mystery surrounding the book so as to call this as the spoiler section but there were a few things that happened that were too good to not talk about.

Starting with Hudson’s family history, this is one of the prime examples for DON’T JUDGE A BOOK BY IT’S COVER. Yes, he was all crazy about being masc but his parents have forced him to do so. He lost his grand mother, the only person who ever accepted him in the family and fights his way to the camp every year. The way he opens up to Randy warmed my heart.

The history lessons given at the camp are so important and I wish everyone gets them. I like how even though the book was all fun and romance it didn’t deter from the cause of giving queer teens a sense of belonging.

The most important one is Randy’s diva blue sequin jumpsuit and his amazing win at the obstacle course. It was so dramatic and amaizng. The aftermath of the race was painful but necessary too. Hudson got to face the truth that you don’t have to act masc to he masc and I am glad he agrees to accept who he is.

I love how they write their names on the tree as Randy and Hudson instead of Del and Hal or anything temporary or fake. I’m glad they found each other.

The overly dramatic acknowledgements are to date the best way I’ve ever seen an author do this part. It was so unique and fresh just like the story. I can’t stop talking about it.

‘I think he believes in me, and that makes me feel like I have a thousand stars–a galaxy–inside me, glowing brightly.’
– L.C. Rosen

Coming to the characters:

Randall: He is actually a sweetheart so smitten by love that he forgoes his passion for theatre and the usual fun he has with his friends to be with Hudson who openly hates on ‘Gay Acting queer men’. He tries to be masc and turns out that it isn’t that hard. In the process he manages to make Hudson fall for him but also keeps getting reality checks from his friends. Eventually, when he confesses to Hudson, he calls him a ‘Fa***t’ and that breaks him. After Hudson has time to think and tries to reconcile, he acts like an idiot. It takes for Hudson to accept who he is for Randy to take him back. But they do get back and I hope they live happily ever after.

Hudson: aka HAL is known to be someone who gets in with a new guy each time and sleeps with him in the second week and ends things by the next. But, Randy changes that about him and he genuinely falls in love. He goes from accusing his friend Brad for using nail polish to wearing nail polish himself. He has the highest growth in terms of a character and is handsdown one of my favourites. I love everything about his past and feel heavily for the unfortunate parents he was born to. I really hope it changed for him.

George: My best friend! Atleast my fictional best friend? I love him. Especially how he is so unapologetically himself and doesn’t give a damn of what people think or say. He’s a passionate actor and a very honest friend. He will support you in all your decisions but will never back away from telling you if your stepping into a ditch. I am so glad he found Brad this time.

AshLeigh: The girl with a crush on a straight woman. Well, atleast when she had a crush, she was straight. Ashleigh is a tech nerd but lives in the drama tent because friendship above all else. She does not take any shit for herself or her friends but she is really shy. This summer, she gets to be the head of lighting on the drama and also finds someone with similar interests as herself.

What I liked about it:

very easy read
one of the best queer reps ever
a realistic story showing us both the sides of the coin
pleasing ending
smooth writing
The unique acknowledgements in the end was amazing
Friendship goals

‘There’s no one way to be gay and no coming out story is the same as another.’
– L.C. Rosen

I made my first ever reading vlog for this book. Check it out by clicking on this link: CAMP – READING VLOG. If you like that video, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more.

This was a buddy read with the amaizng Nilay Bhatt (Ig: @weelilbugboy) and we had a discussion. To check out the extended version of our chat click on this link: Camp – EXTENDED DISCUSSION

If you liked that and you want to see an uncut and super extended version of our chat, click on this link: CAMP – UNCUT DISCUSSION

Thank you! Stay tuned for more.