What I've Been Reading Lately

Well, this week has brought quite a reversal in weather! Last week, as mentioned, I was enjoying a nice sangria and reading session on the couch to escape the heat. 

This week, there's a hurricane bringing torrents of rain. 

I think I'm going to just stay here on the couch. 

Luckily, I've been reading a few books that I can wholeheartedly endorse. It's so nice to discover new favorites! This week, there are two dystopian/sci-fi novels, MORE historical fiction (of the super historical sort), a fantasy novel, and a dark, dark thriller. Read on to get my thoughts, and enjoy!

1. Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff - 

Publisher's description:

This morning, Kady thought breaking up with Ezra was the hardest thing she’d have to do. This afternoon, her planet was invaded.

The year is 2575, and two rival megacorporations are at war over a planet that’s little more than an ice-covered speck at the edge of the universe. Too bad nobody thought to warn the people living on it. With enemy fire raining down on them, Kady and Ezra—who are barely even talking to each other—are forced to fight their way onto an evacuating fleet, with an enemy warship in hot pursuit.

But their problems are just getting started. A deadly plague has broken out and is mutating, with terrifying results; the fleet's AI, which should be protecting them, may actually be their enemy; and nobody in charge will say what’s really going on. As Kady hacks into a tangled web of data to find the truth, it's clear only one person can help her bring it all to light: the ex-boyfriend she swore she'd never speak to again.

My Thoughts:

This book requires two things: a healthy degree of suspension of disbelief, and a hardcover copy. You do not want to read this on an e-reader! Even I, e-reader addict #1, read this in hardcover, and it was so worth it. This is because the authors use unconventional formatting to tell the story - there are email threads, illustrations from characters' journals, depictions of space battles with the thoughts of the pilots spiraling across a black sky. The list goes on. And somehow it works! I was completely engrossed - you're getting ALL sides of the story with this storytelling method, but it isn't overwhelming. It's an exciting puzzle. I loved it, and have already devoured the second in the trilogy (by the way, it's a trilogy). Highly recommend, if you feel like opening your mind to futuristic dystopian sci-fi told in a completely unique way. Loved the characters, cool story. All the thumbs!

2. The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N.K. Jemisin - 

Publisher's description:

Yeine Darr is an outcast from the barbarian north. But when her mother dies under mysterious circumstances, she is summoned to the majestic city of Sky. There, to her shock, Yeine is named an heiress to the king. But the throne of the Hundred Thousand Kingdoms is not easily won, and Yeine is thrust into a vicious power struggle.

My Thoughts:

Oh my gosh, I was obsessed with this book. This is also the first of a trilogy (the best kind of books - the ones that don't end). The characters are compelling because of how unapologetically flawed they are; you like them, you root for them, but sometimes they're bad and you like that too because it comes across as very real. I am a fan of these kinds of characters; I want feel like I'm living in the book's world when I'm reading it, and the protagonists are so much more believable when they not only make mistakes but are sometimes just not very nice. 

There's a lot missing from this publisher's description - namely, that there are gods involved, and magic in addition to the political intrigue. The author has built a captivating world. Loved this, please read!

3. The Good Daughter by Karin Slaughter - 

Publisher's description:

Two girls are forced into the woods at gunpoint. One runs for her life. One is left behind…

Twenty-eight years ago, Charlotte and Samantha Quinn's happy small-town family life was torn apart by a terrifying attack on their family home. It left their mother dead. It left their father — Pikeville's notorious defense attorney — devastated. And it left the family fractured beyond repair, consumed by secrets from that terrible night.

Twenty-eight years later, and Charlie has followed in her father's footsteps to become a lawyer herself — the ideal good daughter. But when violence comes to Pikeville again — and a shocking tragedy leaves the whole town traumatized — Charlie is plunged into a nightmare. Not only is she the first witness on the scene, but it's a case that unleashes the terrible memories she's spent so long trying to suppress. Because the shocking truth about the crime that destroyed her family nearly thirty years ago won't stay buried forever…

My Thoughts:

Oof. Dark, dark, dark. Sunshine and rainbows will not be found here. You will not walk away from this book smiling thoughtfully and feeling deeply content. But I don't think that's what the author is aiming for here, so I'd still call this a success. (On a side note, I am very interested in whether this author's real last name is Slaughter or if this is a pen name. If it's real, I have to applaud the choice in career. Writer of dark thrillers indeed.)

The story was technically good. I was interested, I wanted to unravel the mysteries, I wanted the conclusion. But I didn't much care for the characters, and while I appreciate that the author tackles some tough subjects when crafting her characters' psyches I felt that overall I couldn't really connect with the story. If you don't mind very dark stories, if you like mysteries - this might tickle your fancy. It wasn't really up my alley. Also not something I'd really want to read on the beach . . . or even at home with a glass of wine. 

4. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline -

Publisher's description:

In the year 2044, reality is an ugly place. The only time teenage Wade Watts really feels alive is when he's jacked into the virtual utopia known as the  OASIS. Wade's devoted his life to studying the puzzles hidden within this world's digital confines, puzzles that are based on their creator's obsession with the pop culture of decades past and that promise massive power and fortune to whoever can unlock them. When Wade stumbles upon the first clue, he finds himself beset by players willing to kill to take this ultimate prize. The race is on, and if Wade's going to survive, he'll have to win—and confront the real world he's always been so desperate to escape.

My Thoughts:

So good, and also disturbing on an utterly real level. I will tell you all now - I am terrified of some of the changes advances in technology will bring. Not technology for the greater good, mind you. VIDEO GAME TECHNOLOGY. I have fearful flashes of my future children mindlessly clicking away in some virtual world, pale as my upper thigh from never venturing into the sun. I've seen this in action now! It's real! Take heed! Stepping off my soapbox now. 

So otherwise, this story was charming! The author wove in pop culture reference from the 80's, and played on the nostalgia of the readers. The protagonist is likable - you want him to 'win the game'. There is a good overall message (confronting the 'real world' in order to truly live). Overall, this was just so well written, and I really enjoyed reading this. Several thumbs up!

5. Nefertiti by Michelle Moran - 

Publisher's description:

Nefertiti and her younger sister, Mutnodjmet, have been raised in a powerful family that has provided wives to the rulers of Egypt for centuries. Ambitious, charismatic, and beautiful, Nefertiti is destined to marry Amunhotep, an unstable young pharaoh. It is hoped that her strong personality will temper the young ruler’s heretical desire to forsake Egypt’s ancient gods.

From the moment of her arrival in Thebes, Nefertiti is beloved by the people but fails to see that powerful priests are plotting against her husband’s rule. The only person brave enough to warn the queen is her younger sister, yet remaining loyal to Nefertiti will force Mutnodjmet into a dangerous political game; one that could cost her everything she holds dear.

My Thoughts:

Full disclosure, this book is years old. I started in reverse with some of Michelle Moran's more recent offerings, and enjoyed her writing style so much that I've been working my way back to her earlier works. So far, this is by far my favorite. I'm a sucker for anything dealing with ancient Egypt, and the first-person writing and lavish (also accurate) historical details take you right into that time in history. Love, scheming, war - all play a part in Moran's novel. I have a new favorite author. In the historical fiction genre, I like this more than anything I've read in a while. I would definitely suggest giving her work a try. 

This concludes this week's literary roundup - if you have any questions or recommendations, please let me know!

- Taylor

Limited Edition Burberry Beauty Box Review and Swatches

This distinctly fall-toned set has me swooning big time - just take a look at the lovely warm red and brown shades. This gives off a total classic beauty vibe, complete with Burberry's Cat Lashes mascara. I can confirm that this mascara lives up to the hype. All in all, I look at this set and think, "Come at me, glamour!"

You know how I feel about value sets, and this offering is no exception. Burberry's beauty line is luxurious in quality and scent, and the price point matches that level of luxury. So when I see a gem like this come around, I do not pass it by. This limited edition set includes four products (click on link for full size of each):

• Burberry Cat Lashes in Jet Black (0.11 oz)
• Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Russet (0.035 oz)
• Light Glow Natural Blush in Dark Earthy No.11 (0.09 oz)
• Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base in Nude Radiance (0.17 oz)

Let's break this down - full size prices per product are as follows: the Light Glow blush is $42 for .24 oz, the Cat Lashes mascara is $30 for .20 oz, the Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid base is 1 oz for $48, and the Burberry Kisses lipstick is $44 for .11 oz. That gives us a total of 1.55 oz of product for $164 at full price. 

This set, on the other hand, gives you .405 oz of product. At a price of $35. That's over 1/4 of the product at about 1/5 of the price, and for a sampling of multiple items from the line! Completely worth it. In addition, Burberry's blush has a faintly floral scent that is just divine, if you're into that sort of thing (I am). 

Now on to the good stuff - pictures and swatches!

Burberry Light Glow Natural Blush in Dark Earthy No. 11 - 

This blush is very neutral in tone, and reviews I've read mention that this is great for contouring. It doesn't have that warm orange tone that you want to avoid for contouring purposes - this is a light to medium brown shade with a hint of gray. Full disclosure, I've been using this as an eyeshadow and loving it for that purpose! This is perfect for a quick daytime eye - just put a bit in the crease and bam, defined eyes. 

Facing indirect sunlight

Facing away from sunlight

Burberry Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base in Nude Radiance and Cat Lashes Mascara in Jet Black - 

I've actually purchased a full sized bottle of the Luminous Fluid Base before, and it is just lovely for prepping the skin for a dewy foundation look. This has a very subtle, healthy looking shimmer that blends right in to the skin without looking like a disco ball. When I use it, my skin looks extra moisturized. Love this, and the size that comes in the kit is perfect for travel!

The Cat Lashes mascara is a recent release, and from what I've seen it's getting rave reviews. When I used this, I noticed extreme lengthening of my lashes but not a ton of volume. The definition was perfect, however, and that seems to be more of what this mascara is aiming for. Easy, non-clumpy doe-eyed glamour can be found here! This will be going into my daily rotation. 

    

Fresh Glow Luminous Base in Nude Radiance, Cat Lashes in Jet Black

Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Russet - 

This shade is fall in a nutshell. It's photographing a little more on the true red side, but in reality it has a clearly visible warm undertone and comes across as a brownish-red. Makes me want to jump around in colorful piles of autumn leaves, possibly while wearing a plaid scarf. I didn't have anything like this in my stash - this shade is truly unique, but I believe it would be universally flattering!

Swatches:

The fluid base is difficult to photograph, but you can see the slight sheen it gives to the skin. We aren't looking for obvious sparkle here, so this is a good thing! 

Direct sunlight, bottom to top: Burberry Light Glow Blush in Dark Earthy No. 11, Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Russet, Luminous Fluid Base in 02 Nude Radiance

Direct sunlight, left to right: Burberry Light Glow Blush in Dark Earthy No. 11, Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Russet, Luminous Fluid Base in 02 Nude Radiance

Indirect sunlight, left to right: Burberry Light Glow Blush in Dark Earthy No. 11, Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Russet, Luminous Fluid Base in 02 Nude Radiance

Wearing items from Burberry Beauty Box:

I'm wearing Dark Earthy on eyes, the Luminous Fluid Base dotted on cheekbones, and Russet on lips. First two pictures are in direct sunlight, third is in the shade. 

I'm in love! I would classify this as a must-buy, if only for the fact that the quality is so dang good and it only comes around once a year. 

You can purchase from Sephora here. 

Do you have any questions, or favorites from Burberry's beauty line? Comment and let me know!

- Taylor

Summer Liquid Lipstick Bouquet - Swatches and Pictures

We've been having the sorts of days here in Texas that make me want to throw my face up to the sun and twirl in circles - gorgeous, bright. Hot as well, but I'm going to stay positive here.

In keeping with the beautiful days and shades of summer, I've been experimenting with all sorts of brights. In keeping with the hundred degree weather, I've been experimenting with long lasting liquid lipstick formulas. 

I'm calling my experiments successful! Just as walking in to a house and seeing a bouquet of flowers lifts my mood immeasurably, so does slicking on a pop of vibrant pink or coral before heading out about my day. 

See below for swatches and pictures of some of my favorite picks from my summer lipstick bouquet!

From left to right:

1. Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick in Blast Off - bright pink coral

2. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in San Paulo - plummy pink

3. Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid in Berry Boost - bright berry magenta

4. Stila Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick in Fiore - hot pink

5. Bobbi Brown Art Stick Liquid Lip in Uber Red - bright blue red

From left to right:

6. Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick in Marvelous Mauve - true mauve

7. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lovesick - mauve nude

8. Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick in Blackberry Sorbet - deep berry

9. Bobbi Brown Art Stick Liquid Lip in English Rose - midtone rose

10. Stila Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick in Patina - dusty rose

Swatches (direct sunlight) -

On lips (indirect sunlight) - 

My favorite pick for summer!

I hope you've enjoyed seeing my summer roundup of bright and beautiful liquid lipsticks! What shades have you been experimenting with? Let me know in the comments!

- Taylor

Jamberry Nail Wraps Application & Review

Nail wraps by Jamberry in the pattern Kimono

I've always dreamed of being polished - you know, hair always looking perfect, makeup not sliding everywhere and flawlessly blended, outfit minus the ranch dressing stains (damn you wings), unchipped nails.

I've since come to realize that it would literally be a full time job, except for a few unicorn ladies out there. (Side note: the pun in the first sentence was actually unintentional, but after reviewing the post and realizing its existence, I'm delighted with it.)

So typically, I go for one polished category at a time. Maybe two if I'm feeling extra fancy! Lately it's been keeping up with my nails. Let me take you quickly through my nailvolution.

• I've sworn off regular nail polish, to begin with, because I just can't do it. My technique, developed over twenty plus years of life, is STILL to paint the entire finger with polish and then flake the excess off in the shower. And what good does it do to go to all that trouble when it just peels right off bit by bit the next day? Looks much worse than bare nails, I tell you. There's respectability in a nice bare nail. 

• Next I moved to getting gel polish at the salon. Still a fan of this, actually! They whip my ragged cuticles right into shape, and I've had phenomenal luck with the lasting power. The problem is with removal - it's horrible for your nails to peel gel polish off, so I find myself in situations where the edges are peeling upward and my nails are getting caught in my hair, which is the absolute worst. So my options are, a) destroy my nail, or b) return to said salon and spend more money on getting them to remove the polish, at which point since I'm already there why not go ahead and get another gel mani? And so the cycle continues. 

• Now, I'm giving something new a try, and so far I'm liking it despite my decidedly amateurish application technique! Unlike with traditional nail polish, I truly believe that given time I can perfect my skill with nail wraps. Also, I like the patterns! I've never been a pattern girl, but I say don't knock them until you try them. I have been going a relatively conservative route with the colors and designs, but my horizons are expanding every day.

 Let's take a look at the nail wrap route!


My lovely friend Elyce introduced Jamberry nail wraps to me by always having the coolest nails ever.

Naturally, one has to ask where said cool nails came from. Luckily for me, she became a Jamberry distributor and my affair began! Click here to get to her Facebook page, which includes incredibly handy videos demonstrating application/removal in a far more expert manner than I am capable of.

Description from Jamberry's website:

 "Nail wraps are thin vinyl sheets that are pressure and heat activated to adhere to your nail for a long lasting and beautiful look. They are made with durable materials, so smudges and streaks are never an issue, and can last for up to two weeks on fingernails and four weeks on toes!"

Trim Tip to Toe Nail Care Kit , Sally Hansen Cuticle Rehab

I began my journey by purchasing an at-home manicure kit for general upkeep, which I would highly recommend doing. My kit came from Target for $10, and includes everything you might need. Buffer, file, nail clippers, nail brush, cuticle pusher, cuticle trimmers, and small scissors (not pictured).

In addition, I bought Sally Hansens' Cuticle Rehab for my chronically dry nail beds. I would recommend applying the cuticle cream the night before, as you want your nails and skin to be as moisture-free as possible while applying the wraps.

Let's get this party started.

Jamberry Application Steps:

1. Find a spot with good lighting. You want to be able to see all angles in case of any bubbles that pop up. Next, line the wraps on the sheet up with the appropriately sized nail. For ideal application you want room on all sides of the wrap when placed on the nail - it will not adhere well to skin, and you won't get a tight seal (which prevents the wrap from lifting up prematurely). So choose your size accordingly!

2. Lift the wrap gently from the sheet using a tool such as a cuticle pusher or tweezers - you do not want to touch the underside with your fingers!

3. Cut the wrap in half (each strip can be used for two nails). 

4. Heat the wrap for approximately three to five seconds with a hair dryer or mini heater - don't get too close or heat for too long, you don't want the nail wrap to bend and touch itself or get too hot. 

5. Position the tool you are using so that the rounded edge of the wrap is facing the cuticle of the nail, and gently apply. Make sure you don't have edges of the wrap touching skin!

6. Immediately press the wrap down, beginning at the middle and smoothing out towards the edges to avoid any bubbles. 

7. This is optional (you could move straight to filing), but I prefer to trim the excess slightly before I file the top of the wrap off. 

8. File at a 45 degree angle with the bottom edge of the file angled AWAY from the nail - you will get better lasting power if there is no overhang of the wrap. 

Yayyyyyyyyyy.

And voila! You're done, and hopefully your nails now look super cool! See below for a few of my favorite picks for the summer - they range from matte to glossy finish, options for everyone.

My personal experience with these has been very positive - there's a little bit of a learning curve and I wasn't the best at getting the wraps to lie completely flat on my nails at first, but now I can knock out an application session in less than ten minutes with great results. They last several weeks on me, and I'll occasionally put a top coat on (completely personal preference).

You can check out Elyce's Jamberry page here, and her Facebook page Put on the Jams (including helpful videos) here. 

Clockwise top left to right: Brooklyn Bridge, Fields of Green, Summer Mosaic, Petite Posies,
Copenhagen, Guava, Kimono, By Any Other Name

Let me know if you have any questions or thoughts! Happy hauling!

- Taylor

The Wishlist - Eight New Beauty Launches To Try

1. Milk Makeup Blur Liquid Matte Foundation - $40 for 1 oz

From the brand: 'Blur’s got you covered. From blurring pores and fine lines to providing weightless full coverage, Blur Liquid Matte Foundation does it all. It’s vegan, oil-free, and silicone-free, and glides right onto skin with the Dab + Blend Applicator for a smooth, matte finish that looks and feels as light as air. Plus, it features airless, no-drip packaging to minimize air exposure and eliminate spills — allowing your foundation to stay fresh, the color stay true, and all of it to stay put. As always, this product is cruelty-free.'

This foundation looks creamy and amazing in the pictures I've seen. I have high hopes that this will work for my dry skin despite being a matte finish due to the lightweight texture. Already available online and just arrived at my local Sephora - if it isn't at yours yet, keep an eye out, it should be there soon!


2. First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Tripe Protection Skin Ting with Goji Berry - $34 for 1 oz

From the brand: 'This weightless complexion fluid instantly adds natural looking color to help even skin tone, conceal imperfections and create a flawless look, while helping protect against the harmful effects of the sun and urban pollution. The superfood-powered formulation includes antioxidant-rich ingredients, including Goji Berry, Astaxanthin and Vitamin C to help shield skin from environmental aggressors, along with anti-pollution active ingredient, Alteromonas Ferment Extract. Pure mineral Zinc Oxide helps filter out harmful UVA and UVB rays and helps protect skin from photo-aging.'

This reminds me of my absolute holy grail summer foundation/tinted moisturizer, Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue - heavy on the skincare ingredients, light and soothing in texture. I'm looking forward to seeing how the coverage compares - new foundation roundup will featured shortly.


3. Bobbi Brown Essential 5-in-1 Face Palette - $65 (Nordstrom exclusive)

From the brand: 'Great for travel and touch-ups, this coordinated, five-in-one face palette contains all the products you need to perfect the look of your skin. Bobbi's Corrector brightens and neutralizes undereye discoloration, while her Creamy Concealer lightens and evens out the skin tone beneath your eyes. Skin Foundation Stick provides a seamless, natural, skin-like finish; Sheer Finish Pressed Powder sets makeup for all-day wear; and Bronzing Powder provides a touch of flattering warmth.'

This looks like the most perfect set for travel I've seen in a while! Bobbi Brown's cult classic face makeup options rolled into one palette - corrector/concealer (I can personally vouch for both), foundation stick (have not tried this specific formulation but the colors are excellent), pressed powder (have tried and love for a non-cakey finish), and bronzing powder (not too warm or too grey, a happy medium that will suit most people). I usually end up packing way too many individual products to achieve a finished face when traveling, so I will definitely be picking this up. Another palette for the win!


4. Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment - $26 for .18 oz

From the brand: 'Potency and precision—the new power couple. An innovative concentrate of our most powerful matte yet. Fluid Pigment Complex, liquefied pigment with a zero-gravity feel, introduces infinite matte color saturation with ultra-flexible long-wear. Sensorial, lightweight texture that applies like an ink on lips. Dries down to lock in formula for a smudge-resistant, carefree wear. Matte. Empowered. 20 lip-sealing mattes.'

I tried this on in the shade American Woman and swatched a few of the other shades recently. The wear is very comfortable and not at all drying, and for the most part the colors in the range are fairly everyday shades with a few standout brights/darks. American Woman is a great everyday neutral for me, I would recommend! I will be adding a few of these to my collection.


5. Clinique Pop Lip Shadow Cushion Matte Lip Powder - $19.50 for .04 oz

From the brand: 'Clinique Pop™ Lip Shadow is a weightless matte powder that delivers bold, highly pigmented lip color.'

Although I haven't seen this in person yet, this looks very promising - I've been chasing that super matte but not drying look all summer, and you can't get more matte than a powder! An intriguing concept for the lips. I'll be picking this product up soon and doing an in-depth review.


6. Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Liquified Lipstick - $24 for .25 oz

From the brand: 'The liquid lip gets redefined with this handcrafted, moisture-rich, high-pigment formula. Bite Beauty’s most nourishing lipstick, Amuse Bouche, gets liquified, while offering rich, high-impact color and a creamy, comfortable application that glides on with unprecedented precision. Created by hand in small batches, Amuse Bouche Liquified Lipstick is made with natural monoi butter and coconut oil, which melts at the temperature of your lips to glide on for ultimate wear and a satiny finish. With 12 modern, wearable shades you’ve never seen from Bite Beauty, this collection gives everyday lip color an unexpected twist.'

Bite Beauty has always been very reliable for me. I love the concept (lipstick with ingredients safe enough for consumption), and the colors are just beautiful. The shade range here is smaller than their regular Amuse Bouche lipstick line, and mostly come in neutrals it seems. This isn't a launch that I feel I must run out and immediately grab, but I have a feeling I'll end up with at least one of these babies in my bag.


7. Farmacy Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturizer with Echinacea - $45 for 1.7 oz

From the brand: 'Designed to promote a vibrant, glowing complexion, Honey Drop delivers powerful antioxidants to help nourish the skin and glides on effortlessly to create a smooth, hydrated finish. A long lasting, lightweight moisturizer combining Echinacea GreenEnvy™ Honey, Triple Hyaluronic Acid Complex and Cupuacu Butter Beads.'

I'm excited to check this new moisturizer out purely because of my love for Farmacy's Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask - I've seen what they can do with honey in skincare, and I'm all in. Bring on the glow.


8. Fresh Vitamin Nectar Moisture Glow Face Cream - $42 for 1.6 oz

From the brand: 'Vitamin Nectar Moisture Glow Face Cream with a vitamin fruit complex is a revitalizing universal moisturizer that awakens skin for an incredibly vibrant, healthy-looking glow. The lightweight formula with an effervescent citrus scent helps to soften, smooth, and minimize signs of tired skin, so skin feels invigorated and recharged.'

More glow! Always more glow! As with the Farmacy launch, I was drawn to this through the gateway drug that is Fresh's Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy-Boosting Face Mask. I like using the mask before an event for a hydrated, even-toned canvas for makeup; stands to reason that using the moisturizer as well would only improve the situation! Very excited to try this out.




This concludes my current wishlist, although I add more products to it every single day (it's a real problem). Let me know of any upcoming launches you're excited for, and if you've tried any of these products already!

- Taylor

Buxom Customizable Eyeshadow Palette Review

Here's the thing about palettes - the value is almost always there, but how many times have you bought a palette and genuinely liked or wore every single shade? For me, there's always those few sad shades in the corner, gazing wistfully over at the shimmery neutrals being worn down to the pan. I feel bad for them, I do. But not bad enough to force myself to use them. What a waste, right?

I'm loving the new customizable options that have been coming out! It seems like several brands have popped up with, if not holders specifically shaped to the product such as the one I'm about to review, at least magnetic palettes capable of fitting stand-alone shades with magnetized backs. It's a wonderful world out there now. You do you. 

This palette is by Buxom, and I highly recommend this for anyone trying to get a specifically themed look together. Read on for background information from the brand about the palette and shadows, swatches and pictures of the palette I built, and my thoughts!

My lovely custom built palette.

From the brand:

'Take your favorite Buxom Eyeshadow Bar eye shades to-go with this refillable, Buxom Empty Eyeshadow Bar Customizable Compact. Choose your favorite shades and then pop them into the six-shade compact, which has a stylish, faux croc-embossed lid and an innovative hidden drawer that slides in and out for easy loading.'

'Featuring primer-infused technology to help keep color locked in place, this Single Eyeshadow Refill has a powerfully pigmented formula that glides onto lids - delivering intense payoff with an ultra-luxe, powder-to-silk feel. Moreover, with finishes ranging from plush matte to shimmering metallic to sparkle and duo-chrome, each shade offers eye-catching possibilities.'

As far as value, these are excellent.

• Each stand-alone shade is normally $12 (which I don't find to be unreasonable for the pan size at .05 oz compared to brands of similar quality in the market). 
• The customizable palette is $13 when bought by itself. This palette includes a small two-sized brush. 
• The palette plus all six eyeshadows to fill it would come out to be $85 at full price; Buxom offers a combination deal with purchase of palette and six eyeshadows, however, reducing the price to $40.

Score. For the ability to pick each and every shade in the palette, I find this to be SO worth it.

Palette packaging, single eyeshadow packaging, and customizable eyeshadow palette

As mentioned, the tray holding the individual shadows slides in and out so you can add/take out easily. The tray is extremely secure when put in place (such a satisfying click) - no chance of anything falling out and breaking. Each shadow also clicks into its little slot, as you can see in the pictures. Great overall design.

Let's get on to the fun part - shades and swatches! I built my palette to use primarily for everyday looks, with a shimmery gold neutral pop and one fun color if I wanted to amp it up for the night. I wanted this to be something simple to keep in my purse at all times and know my bases were covered. 

A note on shade selection - on the Buxom brand website, there are 48 shades available. If you purchase through Sephora, there are 42; at Ulta, there are 40. Worth consideration - however, I personally would advise purchasing at a vendor with the shades available to swatch in person, as some of these shadows can be hit or miss, and shades can look different online.  

Shades from left to right: Cashmere Craving, Gimme Gorgeous, Lingerie Lover, Spoiled Sexy, Bold Bling, Wild Nights

Cashmere Craving, Gimme Gorgeous, Lingerie Lover

• Cashmere Craving - matte light, neutral almond (note - this is almost invisible swatched)
• Gimme Gorgeous - matte camel
• Lingerie Lover - matte mauve

Spoiled Sexy, Bold Bling, Wild Nights

• Spoiled Sexy - matte deep mauve
• Bold Bling - metallic rose gold
• Wild Nights - shimmering sugar plum

Left to right: Cashmere Craving, Gimme Gorgeous, Lingerie Lover, Spoiled Sexy, Bold Bling, Wild Nights

Left to right: Cashmere Craving, Gimme Gorgeous, Lingerie Lover, Spoiled Sexy, Bold Bling, Wild Nights

Wearing a sheer wash of Bold Bling

Wearing a sheer wash of Bold Bling

Final thoughts - 

I really liked the texture of every shade except for Cashmere Craving. I went in hoping for an easy, neutral base shade on the paler side to wear as a simple wash or as a foundation for other colors. Unfortunately, this shade is tending to be chalky and uneven. My most worn shade is Lingerie Lover for everyday looks, and my favorite is Wild Nights (such a gorgeous shimmer!); all of the other shades I chose are very reliably pigmented.

This is one of my new favorite palettes! Buxom does come out with special editions of the palette pre-loaded with shades from time to time, and these usually include one or more shades that you can't buy as a stand-alone, so keep an eye out. 

What is your dream palette combination? Let me know!

Purchase the Buxom Customizable Eyeshadow Palette online here. 

- Taylor

What I've Been Reading Lately

105 degrees outside, you say? Might be better to stay inside on the couch with a good book and some sangria, you say?

Well, you don't have to tell me twice.

This week's selections run the gamut - we've got a twist on an old classic, a dystopian, some historical fiction, and a few thrillers. When I was choosing which books to include this week, I noticed an alarming trend towards murder mysteries and novels about assassins. I swear this means nothing. I switched a few out. But I think you'll enjoy the final selections!

1. The Wrath & The Dawn by Renée Ahdieh - 

Publisher's description:

In a land ruled by a murderous boy-king, each dawn brings heartache to a new family. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, is a monster. Each night he takes a new bride only to have a silk cord wrapped around her throat come morning. When sixteen-year-old Shahrzad's dearest friend falls victim to Khalid, Shahrzad vows vengeance and volunteers to be his next bride. Shahrzad is determined not only to stay alive, but to end the caliph's reign of terror once and for all.Night after night, Shahrzad beguiles Khalid, weaving stories that enchant, ensuring her survival, though she knows each dawn could be her last. But something she never expected begins to happen: Khalid is nothing like what she'd imagined him to be. This monster is a boy with a tormented heart. Incredibly, Shahrzad finds herself falling in love. How is this possible? It's an unforgivable betrayal. Still, Shahrzad has come to understand all is not as it seems in this palace of marble and stone. She resolves to uncover whatever secrets lurk and, despite her love, be ready to take Khalid's life as retribution for the many lives he's stolen. Can their love survive this world of stories and secrets?

My Thoughts:

This may sound familiar! The tale of Scheherazade and the One Thousand and One nights she spun her stories (Middle Eastern folk tales such as Ali Baba) to stay alive has been told and retold many times over the years. I've read several versions and enjoyed them all - there's bravery, magic, love. And stories within stories! Who could ask for more. This version tends a little more on the magic/romance side than most others I've read, and develops much more backstory concerning Shahrzad's family and friends. Technically classified as young adult, but to me a good story is a good story, and I enjoyed this! Good light reading for the summer, and the first in a series. Two thumbs up. 

2. Scythe by Neal Shusterman - 

Publisher's description:

Thou shalt kill.

A world with no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery. Humanity has conquered all those things, and has even conquered death. Now scythes are the only ones who can end life—and they are commanded to do so, in order to keep the size of the population under control.
Citra and Rowan are chosen to apprentice to a scythe—a role that neither wants. These teens must master the “art” of taking life, knowing that the consequence of failure could mean losing their own.

My Thoughts:

Such an intriguing concept! This book does not shy away from some gritty realities, but doesn't cross the line into overly morbid (shockingly). The author does an excellent job of establishing a society in which this is possible. Dystopian novels, however far-fetched the plot, will always catch my eye - there's just something so interesting about our world being shown in an alternate circumstance. In this version of our world's future, the digital cloud has evolved into a greater being, known as Thunderhead, a self-aware creation. Immortality is a possibility for any person. The characters are both likable, which poses as problem as they battle literally to the death. Loved this! All of the thumbs.  

3. Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly - 

Publisher's description:

Inspired by the life of a real World War II heroine, this debut novel reveals a story of love, redemption, and secrets that were hidden for decades.

New York socialite Caroline Ferriday has her hands full with her post at the French consulate and a new love on the horizon. But Caroline’s world is forever changed when Hitler’s army invades Poland in September 1939—and then sets its sights on France. An ocean away from Caroline, Kasia Kuzmerick, a Polish teenager, senses her carefree youth disappearing as she is drawn deeper into her role as courier for the underground resistance movement. In a tense atmosphere of watchful eyes and suspecting neighbors, one false move can have dire consequences. For the ambitious young German doctor, Herta Oberheuser, an ad for a government medical position seems her ticket out of a desolate life. Once hired, though, she finds herself trapped in a male-dominated realm of Nazi secrets and power. The lives of these three women are set on a collision course when the unthinkable happens and Kasia is sent to Ravensbrück, the notorious Nazi concentration camp for women. Their stories cross continents—from New York to Paris, Germany, and Poland—as Caroline and Kasia strive to bring justice to those whom history has forgotten.

My Thoughts:

First of all, that cover is completely misleading. I saw this and thought, 'Oh, some fluff'. Lovely, friendship! Yay.'

No. No, no no. This is brutal, intense historical fiction that will keep you captivated with hope and horror. The three characters are separate for parts of the novel, but their lives intertwine in disturbing ways during the course of World War II; the author does an incredible job of writing in the three vastly different voices, including making a character that inspires nothing but hatred on the part of the reader absolutely come to life. You must read this - it is not light reading, but it is important reading. 

4. The Lying Game by Ruth Ware - 

Publisher's description:

Isa drops everything, takes her baby daughter and heads straight to Salten. She spent the most significant days of her life at boarding school on the marshes there, days which still cast their shadow over her now.

Something terrible has been found on the beach. Something which will force Isa to confront her past, together with the three best friends she hasn't seen for years, but has never forgotten. Theirs is no cosy reunion: Salten isn't a safe place for them, after what they did.
At school the girls used to play the Lying Game. They competed to convince people of the most outrageous stories. But for some, did the boundary between fact and fantasy become too blurred? And how much can you really trust your friends?

My Thoughts:

Secrets upon secrets! As such, I can't tell you much about this book other that what the description has already disclosed, but I can say that my experience reading this was enjoyable. Not an incredibly shocking plot - the exposition is slow, but I love tales about friends and their pasts. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants this is not, however. Not my absolute favorite but worth a read - one thumb. 

5. The Dry by Jane Harper - 

Publisher's description:

When Federal Police investigator Aaron Falk returns to Kiewarra for the funerals, he is loath to confront the people who rejected him twenty years earlier. But when his investigative skills are called on, the facts of the Hadler case start to make him doubt this murder-suicide charge.

And as Falk probes deeper into the killings, old wounds start bleeding into fresh ones. For Falk and his childhood friend Luke shared a secret... A secret Falk thought long-buried... A secret which Luke's death starts to bring to the surface...

My Thoughts:

Australia! The setting is in Australia! I knew I'd like this book for that alone. This is more of your classic crime novel - clues popping up, misdirection, past coming into present, that sort of thing. But it's so well written, and while it isn't difficult to follow it isn't simple enough to feel like an 'easy' read. Hits right in the sweet spot, and the little details peppered in about rural Australian life are fascinating. Two thumbs up!

This concludes this week's literary roundup - if you have any questions or recommendations, please let me know!

- Taylor