A Night of Romantasy ✨📚

Tonight at Foyles Charing Cross truly felt magical. From the moment the event began, the room buzzed with excitement, book lovers, and endless conversations about fantasy worlds, dangerous romance, and unforgettable characters. It was such a wonderful evening surrounded by people who love YA and romantasy just as much as I do.

The authors spoke so openly about their books, the realities of being an author, and why the YA romantasy genre continues to capture so many readers’ hearts. Hearing them talk about writing, inspiration, and building magical worlds made the whole event feel incredibly personal and inspiring.

There was also a fun audience Q&A where readers asked everything from favourite tropes to writing advice and fun questions such as who the authors would eat a meal with and why and honestly, I could have listened for hours.

And of course, one of the best parts of the evening was the book signing afterwards. Each author took the time to sign everyone's books, chat with those who attended, and even write personalised little messages alongside names, which made the whole experience feel extra special.

The Featured Books 📖

✨ Thorn Season by Kiera Azar

A dark and twisty YA romantasy set in a glittering royal court where magic is feared and hunted. The story follows Alissa Paine, a girl hiding dangerous magical abilities while navigating court politics, secrets, and complicated romance. Think deadly intrigue, forbidden power, and serious tension.

✨ The Between-Worlds B&B by Amy Mae Baxter

A cosy and magical YA fantasy centred around a mysterious B&B that offers visitors a chance to escape reality and discover a little magic along the way. It sounds like the perfect blend of comfort, wonder, and adventure.

✨ Heir of Storms by Lauryn Hamilton Murray

An epic YA romantasy packed with magical trials, court intrigue, romance, and danger. The story follows Blaze, an outcast Rain Singer forced into deadly challenges that could change her fate forever.

✨ Tides of Fortune by Lauryn Hamilton Murray

The stunning follow-up to Heir of Storms, where Blaze embarks on a dangerous mission to find the powerful Eye of the Soul before it falls into the wrong hands. Filled with adventure, magic, and slow-burning tension, this sequel sounds absolutely incredible.

Overall, Let’s Talk Romantasy was everything a bookish event should be, it was magical, welcoming, inspiring, and full of readers who completely understand the excitement of getting emotionally attached to fictional characters. I left with signed books, a very happy heart, and an even longer TBR pile… which honestly feels very on brand. ✨📚

Check out the video section to see the books and signatures I got.

An Evening of Romantasy at Foyles: Lauryn Hamilton Murray, Tides of Fortune & a Signed Copy Waiting for Me

Sometimes being a book blogger and Booktoker genuinely feels surreal, and this week was one of those moments.

I was invited to attend the upcoming romantasy panel event at Foyles Charing Cross Road and not only that, but I’ll also be receiving a signed copy of Tides of Fortune by Lauryn Hamilton Murray, courtesy of Penguin Random House. As someone who spends an unreasonable amount of time thinking about fantasy worlds, morally grey love interests, and magical kingdoms, this honestly feels like the perfect event.

The event, titled Let’s Talk About Romantasy: A Panel Discussion, is taking place in the auditorium at Foyles on Charing Cross Road and is completely open to the public, which makes it even more exciting for fellow fantasy readers looking for their next obsession.

The panel itself sounds like an absolute dream lineup.

First, there’s Lauryn Hamilton Murray, author of Heir of Storms and the upcoming Tides of Fortune, the next instalment in the Storm Weaver series. Tides of Fortune follows Blaze after the deadly trials of the first book as she searches for the Eye of the Soul before a usurper king can seize its power. There’s danger, alliances, magic, and apparently plenty of tension with the mysterious Fox, which already sounds exactly like the kind of romantasy chaos I love reading.

Joining her is Kiera Azar, whose debut romantasy Thorn Season became a #1 New York Times bestseller. According to the event listing, the evening is also celebrating the paperback release of Thorn Season, making this feel like a celebration of both established and rising romantasy voices.

The discussion will be hosted by Amy Mae Baxter editorial director at Avon and founder of Bad Form magazine, whose YA debut The Between-Worlds B&B sounds wonderfully magical in its own right.

Honestly, what I love most about events like this is that they’re more than just author signings. They’re spaces where readers get to hear about the inspirations behind the books, the publishing journey, world-building, fantasy tropes, romance arcs, and all the little details that make romantasy such a huge genre right now. The event will also include an audience Q&A and a signing afterwards, which means readers will actually get the chance to interact with the authors directly.

If you’re into romantasy, YA fantasy, magical trials, enemies-to-lovers tension, or simply want an excuse to spend an evening surrounded by fellow book lovers in one of London’s most iconic bookshops, this genuinely sounds like such a fun event to attend.

Information and tickets can be found here: https://www.foyles.co.uk/events/lets-talk-about-romantasy-a-panel-discussion?srsltid=AfmBOoogIJFHp6vT4KO6TSSfiP2b60ob7dDQXhq2f6YupCYzTWNlGEXD

✨ Why Every Reader Needs a Book Journal (and How to Start One!)

There’s something magical about finishing a book and then immediately wanting to talk about it, remember it, and keep a tiny piece of it forever. That’s exactly where reading journals come in, your personal, cosy archive of every story you’ve loved.

A reading journal (also called a book journal) is simply a space where you track, reflect on, and record your thoughts about what you read . Think of it as a scrapbook for your reading life part diary, part memory box, part creative playground.

📖 Different Types of Reading Journals

One of the best things about book journals? There’s no “right” way to do them. You can make them as simple or as aesthetic as your heart desires.

Here are some popular types:

1. The Simple Book Log
Perfect for minimalists. Just list the title, author, and maybe a rating. It’s quick, clean, and super satisfying to look back on.

2. The Bullet Journal Style
For the creative souls! Think trackers, colour coding, spreads, and layouts. You can track genres, reading goals, or even pages read per day.

3. The Reflective Journal
This is where you dive deep, writing reviews, thoughts, favourite quotes, and emotional reactions. It helps you connect with books on a deeper level.

4. The Quote Collection
A dreamy little section (or whole journal!) dedicated to beautiful lines that made you pause mid-page.

5. Digital Journals & Apps
For readers who love stats and organisation, digital journals let you track reading goals, reviews, and progress all in one place .

💫 Why Reading Journals Are a Reader’s Best Friend

Let’s be honest, how many books have you loved and then slowly forgotten?

A reading journal fixes that.

• It helps you remember what you read and reflect on it later
• It keeps track of your reading habits and goals
• It lets you connect more deeply with stories and characters
• It becomes a personal time capsule of your reading life

Even better? Writing about what you read can actually improve how much you remember boosting retention significantly compared to just reading alone .

🎨 Making Your Own Reading Journal

You do not need anything fancy to start. Seriously.

A notebook. A pen. That’s it.

From there, you can build something that feels completely you.

Here are a few ideas to include:
• Book title, author, and dates read
• Star ratings ⭐
• Favourite quotes
• Character notes
• Mini reviews or thoughts
• A “books to read” (TBR) list
• Reading trackers or goals

And remember: it doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to exist.

🛠️ Easy Tips to Start (and Actually Stick With It)

Keep it simple at first don’t overwhelm yourself with complicated layouts
Write right after reading so your thoughts stay fresh
Make it portable so you can journal anywhere
Don’t force it, even a few lines is enough
Experiment until you find your style

Your journal should feel like a cosy habit, not homework.

🌸 Pinterest = Your Book Journal Bestie

If you ever feel stuck or need inspiration Pinterest is gold.

There are hundreds of creative ideas from aesthetic spreads to fun trackers, collages, and themed layouts .

Want a bookshelf tracker? A reading bingo? A rainbow TBR page? Pinterest has it all.

It’s basically a never-ending mood board for your dream journal.

💖 Final Thoughts

A reading journal isn’t just about tracking books, it’s about celebrating your reading life.

It’s messy pages, scribbled thoughts, favourite quotes, and tiny moments of joy captured forever.

So whether you go full aesthetic bullet journal, or just jot down book titles in a notebook you’re doing it right.

Because at the end of the day, your reading journal is your story about stories ✨📚

MAY BOOK RELEASES TO ADD TO YOUR TBR ✨📚

May is bringing the books, and honestly my shelves are nervous. From dragons and magic to heart-melting romance and deliciously dark love stories, May has something for every reader. If your TBR wasn’t already out of control… it will be now. 👀

🐉 FANTASY / ROMANTASY

The Ballad of Falling Dragons by Sarah A. Parker
Dragons, danger, romance, and high emotional stakes? Yes please. This sequel is already one of the most talked about fantasy releases for May. Perfect for romantasy lovers who want action with their angst.

The Tapestry of Fate by Shannon Chakraborty
A sweeping fantasy adventure packed with rich world-building, legendary journeys, and layered characters. Ideal for readers who love immersive fantasy worlds.

Bromantasy by Máire Roche
A cozy and funny LGBTQ+ fantasy adventure with romance, charm, and found family vibes. Great if you want fantasy with a lighter, heartwarming feel.

💘 ROMANCE

Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
Best friends, heartbreak, second chances, and a beautiful getaway setting? This emotional friends-to-lovers romance is expected to be one of May’s biggest hits.

Fever Dream by Elsie Silver
Small-town chemistry, emotional tension, and all the swoony romance readers love from Elsie Silver. If you adore addictive contemporary romance, add this now.

The Daisy Chain Flower Shop by Laurie Gilmore
Fake dating, comfort-read vibes, and cozy romance energy. This sounds like the perfect feel-good spring read.

🖤 DARK ROMANCE

Hunt the Villain by Rina Kent
Dark, intense, and full of morally grey chaos. If you love obsession, tension, and dangerous characters, this one belongs on your radar.

My Dreadful Darling by H.D. Carlton
Atmospheric, twisted, and sure to keep readers hooked. A dark romance pick for readers who love intense emotions and haunting vibes.

Whisper of a Shadow by Monty Jay
Dark romance fans are already watching this one. Expect emotional damage, suspense, and unforgettable toxic chemistry.

📚 FINAL THOUGHTS

May is giving us:

✨ Epic fantasy worlds
✨ Swoony romances
✨ Dark and addictive love stories
✨ Cozy comfort reads

Basically… there are no weak releases coming out in May.

📖 More Tales from the Novel Nook

Deep dives into the reading life, from the joy of shared loyalty to the secrets of a perfectly curated shelf.

The Joy of Shared Shelves: Linked Loyalty Cards

There’s something quietly magical about a bookshop loyalty card. It’s not just a bit of plastic (or an app tucked away on your phone). It’s a promise. A little nod that says: yes, you will be back here again and again, and again. Because once you fall into the rhythm of browsing shelves, reading blurbs, and walking out with “just one” book (that somehow turns into three), there’s really no going back.

And lately, bookshop loyalty schemes have become even more satisfying. Take Waterstones and Foyles, for example. Two iconic names. Two beloved sanctuaries for readers. And now? They’re finally playing on the same team. Their loyalty schemes are linked, meaning your card works seamlessly across both shops. Whether you’re wandering through a grand Foyles flagship or popping into your local Waterstones, your points and your book-buying habits follow you.

It feels a bit like your reading life just got an upgrade. There’s a certain joy in watching those points quietly stack up. Every paperback, every hardback “treat”, every spontaneous purchase adds to a future reward. It turns buying books into a kind of slow, satisfying game, one where the prize is, inevitably, more books. And let’s be honest: anything that gently justifies our ever-growing TBR piles is welcome.

But beyond the points and perks, loyalty cards tap into something deeper. They turn bookshops into your bookshops. Places that remember you, in a way. Places you return to not just for stories, but for the feeling of being surrounded by them. So next time you’re at the till, and they ask if you have a loyalty card, it’s worth saying yes. Because collecting points is nice. But building a life that always leads you back to bookshops? That’s even better. 📚✨

📚 Three Ways to Read, One Love for Books

Reading isn’t one size fits all and that’s what makes it so magical. Whether you’re flipping pages, pressing play, or swiping screens, every reading style has its own charm. Let’s talk about three popular ways to enjoy books and why each one is amazing in its own way.

📖 Physical Books: The Classic Experience

There’s something special about holding a real book in your hands. The feel of the pages, the smell of the paper, and the simple act of turning each page creates a cozy, immersive experience.

No screens, no distractions
Easy on the eyes
Perfect for creating a calm reading ritual

Physical books turn reading into a moment you can truly slow down and savor.

🎧 Audiobooks: Stories on the Go

Audiobooks bring stories to life in a completely different way. With expressive narration, they feel almost like a performance.

Great for multitasking (walking, cleaning, commuting)
Makes stories more accessible
Adds emotion through voice and tone

They’re perfect for busy days when you still want to stay connected to a good story.

📱 E-books: Convenience at Your Fingertips

E-books make reading incredibly easy and portable. You can carry an entire library in your pocket!

Adjustable fonts and lighting for comfort
Instant access to new books
Ideal for travel and late-night reading

They’re modern, flexible, and perfect for readers who love convenience.

✨ The Best Part? You Don’t Have to Choose
Each reading style offers something unique and the beauty is, you can enjoy them all. Some days call for a quiet moment with a physical book, others for an audiobook during a walk, or an e-book before bed.
No matter how you read, what matters most is the story and the joy it brings.

The Essential Kindle

Compact and light enough to fit in a pocket
Crisp 300 ppi glare-free screen that reads like paper
Plenty of storage for thousands of your stories

Kindle Colorsoft

The first Kindle to bring book covers to life in color
Wireless charging for ultimate nightly convenience
Perfect for graphic novels and vibrant book jackets

Which Kindle is Your Perfect Reading Match?

Moving your entire library into the palm of your hand is a bit of a dream come true for any book lover. While nothing beats the physical charm of a paper book, a Kindle is the ultimate companion for those late-night reading sessions under the covers or long travels. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the choices, don't worry here is a friendly guide to help you find 'the one' for your reading nook.

Ultimately, it's all about what makes your reading experience feel most special. Whether you crave portability or a canvas for your notes, there is a perfect device waiting for you. Happy hunting, dear readers!

Kindle Paperwhite

Larger 6.8" display for a more immersive feel
Waterproof, so you can read worry-free in the bath
Adjustable warm light to save your eyes at night

Kindle Scribe

Massive screen that is wonderful for reading larger text
Includes a pen so you can scribble notes in the margins
Doubles as a digital notebook for your reading thoughts

The Magic of the TBR Jar: A Cosy Way to Find Your Next Read

We’ve all been there staring at a shelf full of beautiful books, paralyzed by the sheer number of choices. It’s called decision fatigue, and it’s the sworn enemy of a cosy reading afternoon. Enter the TBR (To-Be-Read) jar: a simple, darling way to let fate decide your next adventure.

Why TBR Jars are Perfectly Lovely

The beauty of a TBR jar lies in its simplicity. It transforms your ever-growing pile of books into a playful game. Not only does it eliminate the stress of choosing, but it also adds a sprinkle of mystery to your routine. Plus, there is something deeply satisfying about the tactile experience of unfolding a little slip of paper to reveal your next destination.

Different Jars for Different Moods

The Genre Jar: Colour-code your slips by genre so you can pick exactly what you’re in the mood for.
Seasonal Surprises: Fill your jar with specific 'autumnal' or 'summery' reads to match the weather outside.
The Backlog Buster: Dedicated solely to those books that have been sitting on your shelf for over a year.

How to Create Your Own

Find a Jar

Write Titles

Any glass vessel will do, but a vintage mason jar is extra cosy.

Use scraps of pretty paper or washi tape for your book list.

Fold & Fill

Fold them neatly and drop them in. Give it a gentle shake.

Let Fate Decide

Close your eyes, reach in, and prepare for your next journey.

Happy reading, dear friends. May your jar always lead you to a story that speaks to your heart and adds a little magic to your nook.