12 May, 2026

Wishing on a Star in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager - [Book Review]


Book Details:


Title: Wishing on a star in the city
Author: Krysten Lindsay Hager
Reading Age - 10 - 17 years
Genre: Teen, Romance, Yong adult fiction
Print length: 292 pages
Source: A free review copy from Rachel's random resources








Blurb:


Everyone thinks Ivy Macomb’s life is perfect as she’s a teen actress on a TV show, part of a well-known family, and has just started college with her football star boyfriend, Ryan. However, as Ryan’s campus fame grows, the two break up, leaving Ivy heartbroken. 

She makes up a cover story to save face about how they’re taking time apart, but she’s devastated and unsure how to handle things. She ends up having a crying meltdown in front of her great-uncle, who is better known in the media as the most ruthless man in business. However, she learns there’s another side to Uncle Alfredas, as he not only offers advice, but helps her with her podcast.


Her cousin tries to get her to go out and show people she’s doing fine after the breakup. Enter freshman hockey player, Konrad Gorski. Ivy and Konrad become fast friends as he’s a shoulder to cry on for her as she deals with her feelings. He’s also been through a bad breakup and has trust issues. Konrad is selected to go overseas for a hockey opportunity, and the two stay in touch daily. They begin to have feelings for each other, but she’s worried about getting hurt. 

Can Ivy open her heart to love again?

Purchase Links:



universal link: https://mybook.to/UeOTh

My Review:


Ivy is a rich kid, podcaster, and a teen actress. While she is taking a break from her relationship with her boyfriend, Ryan, she is upset when she finds him with another girl. While she is coping with relationship and insecurity issues, she comes across Konrad, who becomes a good friend. 

The story is about how she overcame the breakup with Ryan and her insecurities in life. 

This is a great young adult book I would recommend for girls. There is a lot of good relationship advice from Ivy's uncle Alfred, which makes sense. 

Ivy's character portrays the internal struggles and questions in teen girls' minds. The story also covers the social pressures on young girls. It also covers the impact of popularity and public scrutiny on our lives. 

Overall, I loved the cute romance, the characters of Ivy, Alfred, Ivy's dad, etc., and I loved the relationship advice. I love the subtle humor, especially in the conversations of Konrad and Ivy.

It seems a little boring, though, as the whole story is centered around only Ivy and her perspective on things. The narrative might have been still interesting. 

This is about a second chance at love, forgetting the past and embracing the present. Even though I am not the target audience for this book, I found it an enjoyable read. 

My Rating: 4/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

Author Bio:


Krysten Lindsay Hager is a bestselling author of YA and contemporary romance. She writes romance because she loves bringing people swoony moments and hope-filled everafters happily. She writes about falling in love, fame, fitting in, frenemies, first loves, and finding your way in the world. She loves reading, watching movies, and lipstick.


Social Media Links:



Until next time,


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Gardening Go-Tos This Season: Amazon Haul Finds Under $10

Spring and early summer are the perfect seasons to refresh your garden, add a few new plants, and finally tackle all those outdoor projects you’ve been putting off. 

The good news? You don’t need a huge budget to create a beautiful, thriving garden space. 

Amazon Haul has become one of my favorite places to find affordable gardening essentials, especially when everything is under $10.


https://www.pexels.com/photo/artificial-flowers-on-a-flower-pot-4567382/



From seed starter kits to cute garden accessories, these budget-friendly finds make gardening easier, more organized, and honestly a lot more fun. 

If you’re planning to spend more time outdoors this season, here are some gardening go-tos worth adding to your cart.


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This post may contain affiliate links; clicking on those links may earn us some commission without any additional cost to you.

1. Seed Starter Trays

If you love growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers from seed, seed starter trays are a must-have. They help organize seedlings neatly and make it easier to monitor watering and growth.

This season, reusable seed trays are especially popular because they’re eco-friendly and easy to store for next year. They’re perfect for starting tomatoes, peppers, basil, marigolds, and more indoors before transplanting outside.

Budget Pick: Seed starter kits under $10


120 Cells Seed Starter Tray





300 Mixed Color Climbing Rose Seeds





2. Gardening Gloves

A good pair of gardening gloves instantly makes outdoor work more comfortable. Whether you’re pruning roses, pulling weeds, or repotting plants, gloves help protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and rough soil.

Amazon Haul has plenty of lightweight floral gloves and cooling gardening gloves that are both practical and cute. Many options are breathable enough for warm weather gardening sessions.

Budget Pick: Stylish gardening gloves between $6–$15

Gardening Gloves, Bamboo Fiber




3 Pairs Skin-Friendly Big kids gardening gloves for kids





3. Mini Garden Tool Sets

You don’t need expensive tools to maintain a small garden or patio setup. A simple hand tool set with a trowel, cultivator, and transplanter is enough for most beginner gardening tasks.

Compact garden tool kits are especially useful for container gardening, raised beds, and balcony gardens. Look for stainless steel tools with comfortable wooden handles for durability.

Budget Pick: 3-piece garden tool sets around $10–$15

Heavy-duty Garden Tools Set



Garden Pruning Shears for Pruning





4. Plant Labels and Markers

If you’ve ever forgotten what you planted where, plant labels are a lifesaver. Seedlings can look almost identical in the early stages, especially herbs and vegetable plants.

Reusable waterproof markers help keep your garden organized while also giving it a clean, aesthetic look. You can even use them for indoor plants.

Budget Pick: Plant marker packs under $8

Plant Labels 300Pcs






100 PCS White Plastic Plant Tags Thick Gardens Labels




5. Self-Watering Accessories

Warmer weather means plants dry out faster, especially in containers and hanging baskets. Self-watering globes and watering spikes are affordable tools that help maintain moisture while you’re away or busy.

These are especially useful during vacation season or hot afternoons when patio plants need extra hydration.

Budget Pick: Self-watering globes under $10

22pcs Plant Self-Watering Insert Spikes






3 Pcs Plant Watering Globes






6. Grow Bags for Vegetables

Grow bags are one of the easiest ways to start gardening without building raised beds. They work beautifully for tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, herbs, and even flowers.

Fabric grow bags improve drainage and airflow while being lightweight and easy to move around. They’re also ideal for renters or small-space gardeners.

Budget Pick: Multi-pack grow bags under $10


5 Gallon Grow Bags 4 Pack






7. Decorative Garden Extras

Gardening isn’t only about plants — it’s also about creating a relaxing outdoor space. Small decorative touches like garden flags, solar lights, hanging planters, and mini plant stands can completely transform a patio or balcony.

Amazon Haul has surprisingly cute seasonal decor at affordable prices, making it easy to refresh your outdoor area without overspending.

Budget Pick: Solar lights and planters starting at $5


Teddy Bear with Lamp Acrylic Garden Stake




Final Thoughts

Gardening doesn’t have to be expensive to feel rewarding. Some of the best seasonal gardening finds are simple, practical tools that make daily plant care easier and more enjoyable. 

Amazon Haul is full of affordable gems that help beginners and experienced gardeners alike create beautiful outdoor spaces on a budget.

Whether you’re planting herbs on a balcony, growing vegetables in containers, or refreshing your backyard patio, these under-$10 gardening finds are perfect for the season.

Happy gardening!

Until next time,





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08 May, 2026

A Walk Through Old Town San Diego: History, Culture, and Mexican Flavors

There’s something special about stepping into Old Town San Diego State Historic Park — the place where the story of modern San Diego began. 


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Colorful streets, historic adobe buildings, lively Mexican restaurants, mariachi music drifting through the air, and charming souvenir shops make this area feel both cultural and festive at the same time. Often called the “birthplace of California,” Old Town blends history with a vibrant atmosphere that makes it one of the most enjoyable places to explore in the city.







We walked through the streets, explored art, crafts, homemade items like candles, pottery, and wonderfully decorated Mexican restaurants. 

Walking through Old Town feels like traveling back to the 1800s. Preserved buildings, museums, and courtyards showcase life during the early Mexican and American periods of California history. 





The restored adobe homes and old-style storefronts inside Old Town San Diego State Historic Park give visitors a glimpse into how the first settlers once lived. Horse-drawn carriage rides, historical demonstrations, and local artisan shops add even more character to the experience.






One of the highlights of visiting Old Town is simply wandering through the lively streets and soaking in the atmosphere. The area is filled with colorful décor, handcrafted pottery, traditional Mexican art, and small boutiques selling everything from handmade jewelry to authentic souvenirs. Don't you agree?










Street performers and live music often bring extra energy to the neighborhood, especially during weekends and festivals. We are fortunate to watch a dance performance when we visited. 





Food is another big reason people love visiting Old Town. The district is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, fresh tortillas, flavorful tacos, sizzling fajitas, and homemade churros.

We love Mexican food. We enjoyed our favorite Fajitas and Sopapillas. 


Photo by Laura oliveira from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/delicious-salmon-tacos-with-fresh-ingredients-34429487/

Photo by Çiğdem Bilgin from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/delicious-churros-with-chocolate-dip-on-plate-36361401/



 Many restaurants feature beautiful outdoor courtyards with festive lights and live mariachi performances, creating a memorable dining experience that perfectly matches the spirit of Old Town.





Beyond the shops and restaurants, Old Town also offers several historic landmarks worth exploring. Places like the Whaley House Museum, one of the most famous historic homes in California, and the old blacksmith shops and museums provide deeper insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage. 






Whether you are a history enthusiast, foodie, photographer, or casual traveler, Old Town San Diego offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and entertainment all in one charming destination.

Hope you liked this photo tour!

Until next time,




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04 May, 2026

The Secret of Secrets: A Novel (Robert Langdon) by Dan Brown - [Book Review]

   

This post may contain affiliate links; clicking on those links may earn us some commission without any additional cost to you.

Book Details:

Title: The Secret of Secrets: A Novel (Robert Langdon)

Author: Dan Brown

Genre: suspense thriller, technothriller

Publisher: Doubleday

Print Length: 688 pages

Source: A copy from the local library










Blurb:

INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • THE NEW ROBERT LANGDON THRILLER FROM THE ICONIC AUTHOR OF THE DA VINCI CODE

“A master of the brainy, twisty thriller. . . . The Secret of Secrets is perhaps his most ambitious undertaking yet: a dense thriller that is also a meditation on the nature, and the possible future, of human consciousness.”—Los Angeles Times

“So riveting you’ll want to clear your calendar.”—USA Today

Robert Langdon, esteemed professor of symbology, has traveled to Prague to attend a groundbreaking lecture by Katherine Solomon—a prominent noetic scientist with whom he has recently begun a romantic relationship. Katherine is on the verge of publishing a breakthrough book that contains explosive scientific discoveries about the nature of human consciousness . . . revelations that threaten to disrupt centuries of established belief.

When a brutal murder catapults the trip into chaos, Katherine suddenly goes missing—and her manuscript disappears. Desperate to find the woman he loves, Langdon embarks on a thrilling race through the mystical landscape of Prague, ruthlessly hunted by a powerful organization and a chilling assailant sprung from the city’s ancient mythology.

As the action expands to London and New York, Langdon plunges into the dual worlds of futuristic science and historical lore—navigating a labyrinth of codes and symbols . . . and finally uncovering a shocking truth about a secret project that will forever change the way we think about the human mind.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Purchase Link:

Amazon


My Review:

This story is set in Prague and centers around a book that hasn’t even been published yet—written by Dr. Solomon, Langdon’s friend, who’s deep into researching consciousness and something called Noetics. 

Like most Dan Brown novels, it’s a fast-paced, page-turner with a lot of intriguing ideas backed by solid research. That said, it’s a long one—around 660 pages—so be ready for a bit of a commitment.

What I loved:


 The theme really stood out to me. I ended up highlighting quite a few lines on my Kindle because the way the book explains human consciousness is both thought-provoking and easy to grasp. It reminded me a lot of ideas from different religions and philosophies.

 For example, in Hindu philosophy, there’s the concept of Jeevathma (the individual soul) and Paramathma (the universal soul or God). The ultimate goal is for the Jeevathma to merge with the Paramathma—to attain moksha.

The book touches on ideas like chakras and spiritual awakening, explaining how advanced meditators might experience a kind of universal consciousness and deep peace. Without getting too deep into it, the story explores different ways of opening the mind to higher awareness, which I found fascinating. Overall, the pacing (at least for most of the book) kept me hooked.

What didn’t quite work for me:

Some parts felt a bit hard to believe—especially the way the CIA is portrayed. Their level of power, decision-making, and even the idea of secretly building an advanced underground research facility felt a little far-fetched.

A few characters also felt underdeveloped. Dr. Gessner, for instance, just kind of disappears, leaving you wanting more clarity. The whole “Threshold” research is mostly explained through Langdon and Katherine’s discoveries, which sometimes feels like guesswork. It would’ve been more convincing to hear directly from the people actually behind it, like Finch or Gessner.

There’s also a subplot involving Golem that doesn’t quite blend smoothly with the main story—it feels a bit forced.

And while I don’t mind long books, this one started to drag after the research facility exploded. The ending could’ve been tighter or more engaging.

Overall:
A fascinating read with a strong central theme and lots of thought-provoking ideas—but it could’ve benefited from tighter storytelling and a bit more realism in certain parts.


My Rating: 4/5



Until next time,



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24 April, 2026

A Song for the Earth by Shannon Jade - Book Club Discussion Ideas

Book Details:


A Song for the Earth by Shannon Jade is a lyrical novel in verse, offering an inspired call to action towards climate and environmental causes.
  • Climate & environmental focus in line with audience interest within the modern zeitgeist
  • Accessible verse format suitable for time-poor and reluctant readers
  • #1 bestseller in nature poetry (IngramSpark)
  • Nominated for several major literary awards

Published by Wildflower Books


Release Date: 30 June 2025

Distributor: Ingram

Trade ISBN: 9781764143608

Ebook ISBN: 9781764143615

Retail: $19.99 AUD / $13.02 USD

Format: Trade Paperback

Trim: 5.5 x 8.5"

Purchase Link:






Blurb:

A LYRICAL NOVEL-IN-VERSE DESIGNED TO OFFER HOPE IN THE CLIMATE CRISIS


A Song for the Earth by Shannon Jade is a lyrical novel in verse, offering an inspired call to action towards climate and environmental causes.

The wide, wild world is made of wonder, but as climate change reinvents the landscape, rich ecosystems are under threat. On a journey through Earth's major biomes, January learns the plight of the planet. Armed with the power of a voice made for poetry, she turns her lyrics into a call for action. Is it enough to write a song for the earth and ask the world to sing along?

"Lyrical, urgent, and deeply moving, A Song for the Earth is a poetic journey through the planet’s fragile beauty and a stirring call to action for anyone who believes words can change the world—perfect for fans of The Overstory and Braiding Sweetgrass." – NewInBooks



THE AUTHOR


Shannon Jade is an author and environmental scientist who

believes in the real-world magic of storytelling. She is the bestselling author of A Song for the Earth and has worked on books for several major publishers, including Rebel Girls and Wiley.

Shannon holds a BA in creative writing and publishing and a master’s of environmental science. Today, Shannon mostly writes adult fiction and poetry projects with a hopeful environmental focus, aiming to make the world a better, greener, and kinder place.


@shannonjadeauthor

shannonjadeauthor@gmail.com

Book Club Discussion:

This is a great book for book clubs, especially for the Earth Day celebrations. 

Here are some questions to consider for book club discussions:


DISCUSSION QUESTIONS


1. Before she leaves the city, January says, “I never recognised the limits for what they were until they boxed me in.” What limits stand between you and environmental advocacy?

2. In the rainforest, January notices a stark contrast between the city and the wild. Why is this difference important?

3. When she visits the desert, January isn’t just passionate; she’s angry. How do her emotions influence her journey and her writing?

4. As she sails across the ocean, January is confronted by
huge amounts of plastic waste in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. How did this imagery make you feel?

5. “Who could evolve as fast as the climate that changes again, year after year?” January asks when she visits the Arctic. Why do you think climate change is more of a threat when it moves at a rapid pace?

6. January calls the savannah a phoenix, rising from the ashes. What symbols can you attribute to other ecosystems?

7. January’s mission begins with the power of poetry and a
mass call for community action. But what could she do next
to create positive change? How could you follow in her footsteps and help support this change too?

8. “Just when I think I am all out of courage, the faintest sunbeam climbs free from the darkness.” Why is hope such an important part of climate conversations?

9. A Song for the Earth weaves together poetry and environmental science. How do you think this supports the book’s message? Would the story have worked if it were written in prose?

10. Can art and creativity be tools in the fight for climate action? What would you like to see next in this space?

Until next time,


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