Ask any book lover what’s at the top of their bucket list and you can guarantee it’ll be a room of one’s own. And by room, we mean home library or a cosy hideaway to spend quality time with their beloved stack.
Between the pages of a book is always a good place to be but finding a position that’s a) comfortable and b) you can hold for the long haul, is another story altogether. Pins and needles, cramp, paper cuts to the forehead – bookworms know the struggle all too well.
Ask any book lover what’s at the top of their bucket list and you can guarantee it’ll be a room of one’s own. And by room, we mean home library or a cosy hideaway to spend quality time with their beloved stack.
If a separate space in your house isn’t readily available, rest assured the same peaceful sanctuary can be achieved with a bit of creativity, considered design and mood lighting. Whether you want to spruce up a wasted corner of your bedroom with a comfy armchair or go full-on Beauty and the Beast style with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, the spaces below will inspire your slice of interior calm, inviting you to recline in style, be it in the comforting embrace of a reading nook, a cosy alcove for the kids or a restful window seat with a view. Hibernation mode: activated.
Keeping things light and airy makes for a calming space to settle down with a good classic.
Interiors guru Kate Watson-Smyth’s living room-cum-library is every bibliophile’s idea of heaven. Top of our list? Those vintage Jindrich Halabala chairs.
Layer up bookshelves with their favourite reads and use faux sheepskin and cute decorative items such as string lighting, bunting and cuddly toys to create an inviting space where you can both wind down before bedtime.
The era of spiced cocktails is upon us, and we’re not mad about it. As Picantes andJalapeño Rosé become the new ‘it’ girls on the drinks menu, it’s clear that warming beverages are not just for winter…
Soho House’s iconic Picante is partly responsible for this trend- a fresh, zingy cocktail that packs a punch thanks to the crushed chilli inclusion- yum!
Understandably, not everyone fancies heading to a members-only club for their hit of heat, so we’ve compiled a list of 10 spicy drink recipes easy enough to make from the comfort of your own home.
From a Bloody Maria to a Spicy Cayenne Paloma, bookmark these delicious drinks for times when you’re seeking some serious heat, even as the end of the summer season draws closer. *Cries*
Heatwave in a glass, this spicy mango marg is the perfect balance of fruit + a little somethin’ somethin’ to bring the sunshine to your living room. Using fresh mango, Triple Sec, lime juice and an extra special jalapeño shot to finish things off, it’s a fruity glass of joy sure to put smiles on the faces of all your guests. Brb, off to add fresh mangoes to our Tesco repeat order list…
If you’re in the market for a boozy brunch, look no further than the humble Paloma to satisfy your desire for alcohol + hydration in one. Perfect for a midday hit thanks to its citrus, grapefruit flavours, it makes for a delicious accompaniment to a stack of savoury topped pancakes or french toast. This *spicy* version has a hint of something hot thanks to the Tajn coated rim (chilli, salt and dehydrated lime juice seasoning, FYI) ensuring your day starts off with a bang!
Want a beverage that feels like one of your 5 a day? Look no further than the cucumber cooler. This fresh and fun tequila based cocktail is made with cucumber, jalapeño (what’s a cocktail without a bit of spice in 2022 anyway?) agave and mint before being blended, strained and served over a generous portion of ice. Beware though, this hot weather classic is so dreamy you might forget it’s alcoholic…
Introducing 2022’s hottest alcohol trend: Jalapeño Rosé. A crisp glass of wine on a warm day hits different, so imagine our joy when TikTok’s latest trend involves a delicious glass of Rosé + our favourite spicy accompaniment. Simply pour yourself a glass of your fave rosé, add a handful of ice cubes and a few slices of jalapeño and boom, you’ve got yourself a refreshing, spicy glass of sweetness that is a must-try for wine lovers far and wide.
For the hangover days, the times when you need a detox or for those who don’t dabble in the world of alcohol, you need not miss out on the spicy drinks trend this summer with this Jalapeño infused margarita mocktail- because who doesn’t love a salty rim? With the same delicious flavours as a regular marg, this alcohol free version is one to toast on a Sunday evening ahead of a fresh week.
Another use for your favourite Tajin seasoning, this Bloody Maria is equal parts delicious, equal parts likely to get you feeling wavy over your weekend fry up. Another tequila based cocktail, add in some premade Bloody Mary mix and a generous serving of ice before pouring into your most aesthetic glass. Garnish with some lemon, olives, cucumber and baby pickles on a cocktail stick for the ultimate cafe brunch at home and voila, your Sunday morning just got upgraded.
Not a tequila girl? We’ve got you. This Beergarita is a beach girl’s dream, adding a fresh twist to the usual margarita by topping it with a cool bottle of Corona with the classic spiced rim we know and love. Perfect served at upcoming summer BBQs or to impress the girls ahead of your Saturday night in, this gingery delight tastes as good as it looks. Tequila lovers, grab your coupe glasses and prepare to be converted!
Whiskey lovers rejoice, a drink with a hit is still on the cards for you with this spicy old fashioned that’s perfect for the upcoming autumn season. Made with whiskey, agave syrup, firewater and umami bitters and finished off with orange peel, this traditional whiskey cocktail is a sweet hit of warmth from start to finish. With little dilution and no significant mixer, it’s a strong one, so beware of trying it both too early or too late into the night…
Blood oranges – along with jalapeños and tequila – have certainly had their moment in the drinks world, and this spicy Paloma gives them another opportunity to shine in a vibrant pink drink sure to top your go-to list. Warmed up with a generous serving of cayenne powder to add that sought-after *spice* we’re oh-so fond of, it’s then complemented by citrusy grapefruit, lemon and limes for the ultimate summer beverage your friends will be requesting the recipe for.
Another one to bookmark as the cooler weather gradually makes its approach, the Negroni Sour is a classic Italian cocktail with a twist, featuring Campari, Sweet Vermouth, Gin, Rosemary syrup, lemon juice, a splash of orange juice and an egg white. The smoked rosemary flavour makes it perfect for the autumn season, adding a subtle warmth that’s like sitting next to a smouldering open fire with a good book. De-lish!
Incredible Wild Swimming Spots In The UK You Have To Visit
From tranquil river swims to idyllic ponds, grab your swimmers, your sea shoes and your picnicware, along with your best adventurous self - these are some of the best outdoor swimming pools mother nature has to offer.
Summer solstice may have slipped away like a bottle of lukewarm supermarket wine, but what better way to make the most of the last of the sunshine than by immersing yourself in nature, Where the Crawdads style, and taking a wild dip?
Beyond the endless physical benefits, outdoor swimming is an exceedingly good way to de-stress by cultivating mindfulness and anchoring you into the present (‘cuse the pun).
From tranquil river swims to idyllic ponds, grab your swimmers, your sea shoes and your picnicware, along with your best adventurous self – these are some of the best outdoor swimming pools mother nature has to offer.
Here’s to being carefree and blissfully buoyant (but also, slightly paranoid about swallowing algae).
1. Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Sparkling azure waters are not limited to the Balearic Islands, people. Hidden in the cliffs above the Abereiddy Beach, you’ll discover Pembrokeshire’s magical blue lagoon, surrounded by sandy beaches and clifftops. Whilst it might be slightly colder than the Mediterranean, crowds flock to the 25m deep man-made quarry every summer to swim, kayak or simply enjoy the stunning coastal walks. Whether you opt to take to the open water, book a coasteering tour or stay dry and admire the view from the shoreline, it’s a must-visit playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. For those who are not brave of heart, bring a wetsuit.
2. Beckenham Park, London
This delightful Georgian swimming lake at the heart of Beckenham Place Park has been lovingly restored to its former glory over the last few years, welcoming bathers and water sports enthusiasts from across the city and further afield. If you’re looking to escape the hurly burly of London life, spend the morning here in perfect solitude, with the exception of a few feathered friends who also flock to the area to get their wings wet. Who can blame ‘em! Book ahead to reserve a slot (open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7am to 3pm).
3. Grantchester Meadows, Cambridge
If you’ve already ticked off punting, grab your swimmers and head to Lord Byron’s famous bathing grounds about a 30 minute walk from the city centre, where a picturesque stretch of the River Cam fringed by willows and accompanied by bursts of birdsong awaits.
After cooling off in the river, recline in a deckchair under an apple tree at the Orchard Tea Garden, a favourite haunt for the Bloomsbury Set who came to picnic, swim and discuss their work in this corner of England where time stands still. The ultimate summertime unwinding!
4. River Derwent near Chatsworth House, Derbyshire
As afternoons go, whiling away the hours in this quintessentially English spot is like tonic for the soul. With Chatsworth House for a backdrop – thought to be the inspiration for Pemberley in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice – wild swimming doesn’t get more romantic than this. Until you ruin the pleasant quietude with a cannonball of course. Got to be done!
5. River Wharfe at Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire, England
The River Wharfe is set in front of the majestic Bolton Abbey ruins. Packed with charm and character aplenty, it’s the ultimate period drama plunge and the perfect place for a paddle and a picnic. Just a word of warning – absolutely avoid the nearby Strid section at the point where the river is at its narrowest. The full force of the river flows through this rocky channel of indeterminate depth and the undercurrents and hidden ledges are notoriously dangerous. Stick to the shallows near the stepping stones by the abbey ruins.
6. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
One of the most famous attractions on the Isle of Skye, the fairy pools is as enchanting as its name suggests. Tinged with pinks and greens thanks to the presence of quartz in the rocks and surrounded by some of Britain’s best mountains, it’s easy to see why these storybook waters entice visitors from all over the world. Pack your goggles and your wet suit though, this wild swimming spot may be fanciful but it’s also chuffing freezing. Layer up, water nymphs!
7. Lough Shannagh, Mourne Mountains, County Down, Northern Ireland
A wide open loch framed by the stunning Mourne Mountains and boasting crystal clear, refreshingly cold waters, Lough Shannagh is sure to make for one unforgettable dip. Wim Hof who?
8. Hampstead Ponds, London
No wild swimming guide would be complete without mentioning this famous bathing spot. With your pick of three sites – the mixed gender pond, the Kenwood Ladies’ Pond and the Highgate men’s pond – you can escape the sweltering city heat by taking the plunge in these 250-year-old reservoirs before catching some rays in one of London’s best loved parks. The men’s and ladies’ ponds are open all year round, so should you wish to dip your toes into cold water therapy, this is the place to give it a try.
9. Barcombe Mills, East Sussex
This 5km stretch of the River Ouse near Lewes is perfect for fishing, boating and swimming due to its lack of current. Surrounded by bucolic fields and grassy banks, you can easily while away an afternoon here, dipping and drying off in the sun.
Bring plenty of picnic supplies and sun cream and make a day of it with the family, or head to the nearby Anchor Inn for a lovely riverside lunch. Those looking to get their boating fix can hire boats from the pub for £8 per adult for one hour.
10. Rydal Water, near Ambleside, Lake District
For a serene early morning dip combined with one of the most beautiful walks in the Lake District, take a leaf out of Wordsworth’s book and head to Rydal Water. It is reputed that this was the great poet’s favoured spot for relaxing and taking in the bucolic scenery and when you experience the view for yourself, it’s easy to see why these tranquil waters and exceptionally pretty trails inspired so much of his poetry.
At 15 metres deep and only 1 mile long, this lake is one of the first to warm up in the summer season, making it a great place to come if you’re new to wild swimming. After you’ve worked up an appetite, stop off at Grasmere to snap up some of their world-famous spicy-sweet gingerbread.
As always, please take due care when outdoor swimming and follow the standard safety guidelines:
Don’t jump into water you have not checked for depth and obstructions
Make sure you know how you will get out before you get in
Never swim alone
Come prepared with warm clothes before and after a swim
Never swim in urban rivers, stagnant lakes or reedy shallows
Wear footwear if you can
Look out for blue-green algae that can irritate the skin and make you sick if you swallow the water
From the smell of rain in the summer to the sound of wine cascading into a glass, these are a few of the modest pleasures that fill you with joie de vivre and charm your soul into a state of euphoria.
Be it the way the summer breeze dances with the pages of your book, dreamy watercolour sunsets or the way a friend plucks a flying ant out of your hair without hesitation (an act of love), paying attention to the subtle but significant ways that joy can show up has the power to transform your life, enhancing your day-to-day happiness and overall well being.
Rejoicing in the gentle beauty of everyday existence helps you cultivate a sense of wonder and gratitude for the simplest of pleasures, shifting your focus away from what’s lacking in your life to what’s there in glorious abundance.
If you’re in need of some inspiration, soak up this collection of magnificent mini things. From the smell of rain in the summer to the sound of wine cascading into a glass, these are a few of the modest pleasures that fill you with joie de vivre and charm your soul into a state of euphoria; the things that make you believe in the magic of living, if you slow down for long enough to savour them.
1. When they remember something important you said in passing
2. “This made me think of you”
3. A tight hug
4. Listening to you with curiosity when they ask how you are (top tier)
5. “I want you there!”
6. Comfortable silence with your pals
7. Turning their phone over on the table. It says they’re really here.
8. Getting a flying ant out of your hair without asking
9. Tearing off hunks of warm, freshly baked bread
10. Time to yourself
11. Fresh bed sheets
12. The sound of wine being poured
13. That first mouthful of dessert
14. Hearing the rain beating down on the window when you’re cosy indoors
15. Realising that a setback was actually your awakening
16. Swimming in the moonlight
17. Cloud-gazing
18. Someone messaging you, just as you were thinking about them
19. Your luggage being the first out on the baggage carousel – you are the chosen one
20. Finding money you didn’t know you had
21. Bank holidays that are actually *sunny*
22. Losing track of time
23. Putting your Out Of Office on before your holiday. The feeling is unmatched.
24. A song coming on the radio and taking you right back the time you first heard it
25. Walking in the rain on a summer’s day
26. “I appreciate you”
27. Dating yourself. Romanticise your life.
28. The first cup of coffee in the morning. Elite.
29. Wildflowers nodding in the wind
30. The way music sounds different in the heat of the summer
31. Indistinct chatter when you’re at the beach – children playing, bottles popping, cutlery on plates from nearby restaurants, waves lapping
32. The way the wind dances with the pages of a book
33. Overheard conversations, “Excuse me daddy, I love you” <3
34. The sweet honey tones of August’s golden hour light
35. Having no plans – because that IS a plan. Rest is productive.
36. “Have you had your lunch yet?”
37. A heartfelt thank you
38. Watching clothes drying on the line; the air perfumed with roses, the gentle breeze caressing the linen
39. Getting a car park space just as someone is leaving
40. The odd occasion when you’re trying to organise a night out with the girls and everyone just so happens to be free on the same day. Hallelujah. The stars have aligned, as has the jalapeño rose.
41. White Magnums in summer
42. Seeing a dog run through fields. Only their flapping ears are visible.
43. “Do you want me to do your back” SPF kindness – a love language
44. A ‘picky bits’ dinner
45. Going for a drive at sunset
46. “Just checking in” texts
47. Hearing the buzzing of bees, flying from flower to flower
48. Rising with the sun and starting your day gently
49. “Text me when you get home”
50. Rearranging your room. It’s like gardening for the mind.
24 Gifts Every New Parent Will Be Eternally Grateful To Receive
From frozen meals for when the 3am feed leaves mum's stomach rumbling too, to a pair of soft AF new pyjamas to sink into during that first welcome night at home, consider these the new baby essentials that every first time parent will be forever grateful to receive...
So, life just changed big time for one of your besties/family members/colleagues, and after 9 long months of preparation and weird and wonderful cravings, they just welcomed a tiny bundle of joy into the world- cue the ‘awwws’ from across the hospital ward.
Amongst the teary eyes and milky cuddles, your loved one is likely experiencing a considerable dose of overwhelm too, as the reality of their new life sets in and a dreamy 8 hours of consistent sleep seems like a distant memory. And whilst flowers, balloons and chocolates will all be gratefully received, what can you actually buy for new mums and dads that is sure to make their life easier?
From frozen meals for when the 3am feed leaves mum’s stomach rumbling too, to a pair of soft AF new pyjamas to sink into during that first welcome night at home, consider these the new baby essentials that every first time parent will be forever grateful to receive…
Whilst most brides tend to stick to low stakes, barely-there nudes, sheer pinks and classic French tips for their big day, who's to say you have to play by the rules? You don’t get married every day, after all.
Deciding on a nail colour is hard enough at the best of times but when it’s your wedding day, the pressure’s really on to find *the one*.
Whilst most brides tend to stick to low stakes, barely-there nudes, sheer pinks and classic French tips for their big day, who’s to say you have to play by the rules? You don’t get married every day, after all.
We’re all for feeling your best on your big day, and if that means bucking tradition and opting for intricate nail art or a whimsical pop of colour, then we fully support that. So, whether you’d prefer to stick to subtle neutrals you can wear with anything or go a little bit Gatsby for the occasion, we’ve got you covered with these 30 wedding nail designs. From Hailee Bieber’s glazed doughnut nails to floral designs to match your bouquet, get ready to say ‘I do’ with these top-tier wedding day manis.
1. This modern micro twist on the classic French manicure is perfect for short nails.
If you think HPV is rare and only unhealthy, young, or promiscuous people get it through unprotected sex then you may have believed some common myths we're here to bust!
HPV is an extremely common infection that’s spread through skin-to-skin contact. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by infection with high-risk HPV, which can sometimes cause abnormal cells to develop in the cervix. In the majority of cases, these abnormal cells will go away without the need for treatment. However, sometimes they can become cancerous. This is why cervical screening is so important, as it can detect the cells before they reach that stage.
10 Myths About HPV
1. It’s rare
Quite the opposite. It’s actually really common, so common in fact that four in every five people (80%) will have the virus at some point in their lives. This is why removing stigma around the virus is so important.
2. It’s always something to worry about
There are over 100 types of HPV and the majority are nothing to worry about. However there are 13 high-risk types that can cause cancer. Can – not will. In most cases, if you or any partners get high-risk HPV, your bodies will be able to clear the infection, just like with low-risk infections. In a few cases, the infection can cause abnormalities in the cells of the cervix – which, if not detected and monitored, may develop into cervical cancer.
3. You will know if you have it
False. HPV normally has no signs or symptoms so it is very difficult to tell if someone has it. By attending your regular smear tests, high-risk HPV infection and any abnormalities caused by the infection can be identified and treated if needed.
4. Only promiscuous people get HPV
You can get HPV the very first time you have sexual contact, so this is not true. HPV is passed on through skin-to-skin contact of the genital area, so anyone who has ever had any kind of sexual contact is at risk. If you have had several sexual partners, or one of your partners has, you simply have a higher chance of having come into contact with the virus. However, because HPV is really common, you can get it even if you have only ever had one partner.
HPV can be inactive (dormant) in the body for many years – even decades! – so if you have a long-term partner and find out you have HPV, it does not mean they have been unfaithful.
5. HPV is a young person’s virus
Nope. HPV is passed by skin-to-skin contact of the genital area, so anyone who has ever been sexually active can have HPV. It is important to remember that HPV can remain dormant for long periods of time, so even if you have been with the same partner for many years or have not been sexually active for a long time, you can still have the virus. This is why it’s important to keep attending your smear tests regularly throughout your life, until you are no longer invited.
6. You won’t get it if you’re healthy
HPV infections are very common, so while having a healthy lifestyle can help your body to protect itself from HPV, the only way to entirely avoid having the virus is abstinence.
So where does being healthy come in? Your immune system is responsible for fighting off HPV infection, so the healthier it is, the more effectively it can do its job. So eating well, exercising, and, most importantly, not taking up or stopping smoking can all help. However, HPV can affect anyone who is sexually active, even very healthy people, so you can’t fully reduce your chance of getting it – no matter how many green juices you drink and yoga classes you go to!
7. If you use condoms you won’t get HPV
Not true! Wearing condoms will reduce your risk of getting the virus. However, HPV can live on the skin in and around the whole genital area, which will not be covered by a condom, so it can be transmitted through sexual contact of any kind including any touching or genital to genital contact, as well as oral, vaginal and anal sex.
8. There’s no relationship between smoking and HPV infection
Smoking is actually a major risk factor for developing cervical cancer. If you smoke, your immune system around the cells of the cervix may be weakened, making it harder for the body to prevent and clear high-risk HPV infections which could cause abnormal cells to develop.
9. The HPV vaccine means you won’t get HPV
If you’ve had the HPV vaccination you’re protected against at least 70% of cancer-causing HPV infections, but not fully protected. Attending smear tests is important whether you have been vaccinated or not, as it will detect abnormalities caused by other types of HPV.
10. If you have HPV you will probably get cancer
It is true that 99.7% of all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, but most people will clear HPV without any problem. In order to protect yourself you should make sure you attend your smear tests when invited, get the HPV vaccination if you are eligible, and make sure you know the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Do visit your GP if you are concerned.
At Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust they hear from women and other people with a cervix every day who read that they have HPV on their cervical screening results letter, rush to Google it, and then panic when they read it is an STI. They want to challenge the stigma around HPV. While there are some similarities between HPV and some STIs, most of us will have HPV regardless of sexual behaviour. We believe that the level of stigma associated with the virus needs to change. If you’re anxious about going for a smear test then check out this video of Zoe taking you through her own!
It’s time to find out what our meal deal choices really say about us, and who needs to take a long hard look in the mirror before polluting the place with tuna again - an al desko crime if ever we’ve smelt one.
Ahh, the humble meal deal – is your working week even complete if you don’t head to the aisles of your chosen supermarket at least once in the Monday-Friday grind and peruse the shelves of ready-made deliciousness to get you through to 5pm? The answer is a hard no.
Whilst the jury’s still out on which supermarket has the best meal deal offerings, what’s perhaps more controversial are the three sacred choices you have to make in selecting your chosen meal- main, snack and drink. It’s stressful stuff.
The Team Zoella office may have seen some *things* in its time, but nothing compares to the meal deal combos of those who work there. It’s time to find out what our meal deal choices really say about us, and who needs to take a long hard look in the mirror before polluting the place with tuna again – an al desko crime if ever we’ve smelt one.
Egg and cress is an interesting choice for the under-60s bracket and, as such, should be reconsidered at the closest opportunity, even more so if it’s going to be eaten in a communal space, in which case, open a window you villain. The snack selection is the best part of this meal deal, with Sensations Sweet Chilli arguably appearing in the top 5 category of crisp options available- slight redemption. Finished off with a Peach Iced Tea though? It’s giving bland. To conclude, this meal deal is an eclectic mix and not in a good way. Its confusing combination of flavours are less than inspiring and the combination of egg and cress plus iced tea is conjuring up images of afternoon tea at grandmas. Not likely to inspire a great afternoon following your lunch break, let’s put it that way.
Tuna Mayo Sandwich | Salt and Vinegar Crisps | Sparkling water
Let’s take a pause at the tuna mayo and reassess our options. Unless consumed alone and far, far away from desk territory, you may as well expect an email from HR waiting for you in your inbox because this is an office no-no. In its last moments of revenge, this tuna has been sat on a shelf simply waiting to Hulk out of its odour containing cardboard wrap, and you have let it. Shame on you.
On a lighter note? Salt and vinegar crisps. A pretty standard choice but one with which there’s little to fault, and possibly even +1 point here to bring you out of the minus range- well done. The combination of fish, salt and vinegar is suggesting you’re craving some time by the sea, and quite frankly it would be a blessing if a seagull nabbed the whole lot from you on your walk down- still not over the tuna.
Just as it seemed like things were on the up, we finish on sparkling water- is any commentary even required? TV static in a bottle, consider this your final warning from the Tesco meal deal Gods.
A strong combination here, with the emphasis on brown bread and lentil chips suggesting health, is a priority, of which we cannot criticise. Sandwich first and the classic chicken, bacon and mayo is on the menu- someone understood the assignment and that person is you. A sensible, filling option that’s guaranteed to satisfy your 2pm slump making it equal parts delicious and satisfying. Things go slightly rogue when it comes to the snack choice- do lentils even count as crisps? The barbeque flavour is a slight redemption, complementing your sandwich beautifully, but next time go for some classic Walkers and call it a day.
Finishing on a high here- the elite Innocent smoothie. You must consider yourself somewhat of a bargain hunter because turning down a £2 smoothie within a £3 meal deal would be simply blasphemous. Watch out for your white shirt whilst drinking this bad boy, but you can sit back, relax and enjoy the sweet taste of fruit and success knowing you’ve finessed the system to the max, you Meal Deal mogul you.
BLT Sandwich | Skips | Water
Did the dictionary definition of boring just turn up? Sorry, that was a little harsh, but BLT aside this combination is hardly giving us any reason to look forward to lunchtime- you can get water from the tap for crying out loud. Bacon, lettuce and tomato is a solid combination and one we won’t argue with. Dependable and, quite frankly, a meal deal classic, the crunchy lettuce, soft bread and juicy tomato make for a delicious choice, so much so that you probably won’t even notice the rather lacklustre serving of bacon considering the first letter of this acronym suggests it would be a key feature.
Here’s where things get a little less interesting. Skips, whilst somewhat tasty, are certainly not in the top tier of crisp options within a meal deal, let’s put it that way- they’re basically flavoured air! What about BBQ Hula Hoops!? Doritos? Sensations? Even Walkers Cheese and Onion? Skips dissolve on the tongue quicker than you can say ‘Tesco Clubcard’ and as a result are a total waste of your £.
The final straw, however- a bottle of water. The Skips look like a Michelin star meal in comparison to a plain bottle of still water. If we thought sparkling was bad, at least it has a little somethin’, somethin’ about it, but plain water? It’s a sackable offence.
Cheese and Pickle sandwich | Hula Hoops | Diet Coke (must be a can!)
Fix up look sharp, Little Miss Diet Coke Addict has arrived, Aspartame coursing through her veins.
A meal deal combo classic- a triple threat if you will. All bases are covered here with these top-tier lunchtime picks celebrating the true potential of a meal deal. Cheese and pickle may sound somewhat safe, but sometimes dependability is what you need on a Wednesday at 1.30pm, and you always know a cheese and pickle can deliver- never overlook the power of the underdog.
Next up and amongst other classics including Pride and Prejudice and Wuthering Heights we have a bag of ready-salted Hula Hoops. Their satisfying crunch and finger-lickin’ saltiness have saved many a hangry moment over the years, and for this, we will always be grateful. Wash it all down with a cold can of Diet Coke and feel that sweet hit of sugar makes everything instantly better. A midday Coke slaps HARD.
Tomato pasta pot | Pickled Onion Monster Munch | Ribena
Did we accidentally pick up a childrens’ lunch box by mistake? Objectively, this isn’t a bad selection, but the combination of tomato, pickled onion and blackcurrant is somewhat of a bold one, whilst simultaneously being the most childlike of all. Pasta is a respectable meal deal choice and somewhat of an original one, so for that we say +2 points for being adventurous, however, the Monster Munch is where we draw the line with compliments. Get yourself into the tuna quarantine room and consume your stinking snack there. Finally, the Ribena is giving 10-year-old energy, and if you can live with that then so be it…
Chicken Caesar Wrap | Salt and Vinegar Discos | Sugar-Free Redbull
A wrap- someone likes to be a bit different. Chicken caesar is a strong choice, there’s no doubt about it, with its crispy lettuce, creamy mayo, tiny tastes of bacon, and soft tortilla, it’s pretty close to *chefs kiss* in the meal deal world. It’s yet to be confirmed whether or not salt and vinegar complement these flavours, but either way, the choice is a pretty bold one and for that we respect it.
Washing it all down with a Red Bull feels a little like psychopath behaviour, but this meal deal selection is nothing if not confident, and for that reason, it’s a thumbs up from us.
Reviewing You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi
At once, a searing Black love story and a visceral exploration of life after loss, You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty is a genre-defying read, guaranteed to go straight to the top of your fave reads of 2022.
Fiction, non-fiction, poetry and now contemporary romance, there’s simply nothing Akwaeke Emezi cannot do. Nada.
At once, a searing Black love story and a visceral exploration of life after loss, You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty is a genre-defying read, guaranteed to go straight to the top of your fave reads of 2022. Thrumming with sensuality and boasting complex female characters, an addictive plot and bi representation (we love to see it), it’s got all the ingredients of a 5-star read.
Here’s what the team thought of this summer’s hottest romance.
Content Warning: Grief, death, car accident
Feyi Adekola wants to learn how to be alive again.
It’s been five years since the accident that killed the love of her life and she’s almost a new person now—an artist with her own studio, and sharing a brownstone apartment with her ride-or-die best friend, Joy, who insists it’s time for Feyi to ease back into the dating scene. Feyi isn’t ready for anything serious, but a steamy encounter at a rooftop party cascades into a whirlwind summer she could have never imagined: a luxury trip to a tropical island, decadent meals in the glamorous home of a celebrity chef, and a major curator who wants to launch her art career.
She’s even started dating the perfect guy, but their new relationship might be sabotaged before it has a chance by the dangerous thrill Feyi feels every time she locks eyes with the one person in the house who is most definitely off-limits. This new life she asked for just got a lot more complicated, and Feyi must begin her search for real answers. Who is she ready to become? Can she release her past and honor her grief while still embracing her future? And, of course, there’s the biggest question of all—how far is she willing to go for a second chance at love?
Akwaeke Emezi’s vivid and passionate writing takes us deep into a world of possibility and healing, and the constant bravery of choosing love against all odds.
Screaming, yelling, shaking. I flew through You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty within a matter of days, such is the power of its readability. Not only is the story incredibly human and seriously hooky but Akwaeke’s writing is immaculate – they have such a talent for dialogue! Whenever I was forced to put this book down to eat or ya know socialise (even then, I wouldn’t be stopped, snatching a page here and there), I couldn’t wait to get back to it and find out what else was about to unfold in protagonist Feyi’s life. As well as being a deeply emotional romance, it’s also a story about the power of female friendship, queer love, learning how to live alongside unimaginable grief and the fight for self-discovery, albeit with plenty of messy and complicated entanglements along the way, as the case is in YMAFODWYB. You won’t necessarily support Feyi’s decisions throughout this book, but you will be rooting for her. This is my first experience of reading Akwaeke Emezi’s work and I was not disappointed. Their pen is impeccable! Sidenote: I would like a whole second book on Joy please.
Rating: 5 shiny immaculate pristine GOLD stars Would you recommend it: YES. The mango whipped cream scene will live in your mind rent free.
Danielle’s Review…
This was the PERFECT romance novel to sink my teeth into in July, without being a typical cliche beach read (not that there’s anything wrong with that). I could completely relate to Feyi throughout the story, losing a partner at any age would be horrific but when you are young I think people just expect you to be able to move on quickly with your life and find someone else. Feyi escaping to New York is exactly the kind of move I’d make, wanting to just join the noise and recreate your being. I was all in for Feyi and her journey to get back on the proverbial horse of sex and romance. This is such a vibrant novel, from the food to the music and island descriptions, and of course the sex. Akwaeke Emezi is simply put a fantastic author, and I immediately want to pick up all their other books, because I connected with the writing style so much. Ditch your cliche rom-com this summer and pick up You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty, you won’t regret it.
Rating: 4.5/5 Would you recommend it: Absolutely, pick it up this summer!
Charlotte’s Review…
“A reimagined love story, this fresh and seductive novel is about a young woman seeking joy while healing from loss.”- I was sold from the start!
This title reminded me a little of The 1975 Album I Like It When You Sleep For You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware Of It, and so even if it hadn’t been a Zoella book club pick I definitely would have been drawn to it on the shelf in Waterstones! I love a long, emotive title.
After losing the love of her life 5 years ago in a car accident, it’s only now (along with the encouragement of her best friend, Joy) that Feyi feels ready to dip her toe back into the world of dating and find out how it feels to date as a widow.
Exploring love, loss, trauma, friendship and sexuality whilst feeling authentically messy and intense from start to finish, I found this book all-consuming in its exploration of starting afresh and the idea that our lives are forever evolving. Akwaeke takes you takes you on a real journey with their writing, as you almost feel to be sharing Feyi’s joy, grief, freedom and anxieties. Beautifully descriptive, the storytelling itself is 5, and I loved* delving deep into Feyi’s complex yet hopeful journey from start to end. The perfect easy yet poignant holiday read IMO!
Rating: 5/5 Would you recommend it: 100%!
Darcey’s Review…
The title of the book definitely hooked me from the offset, You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty, so captivating!
The book centres around Feyi, who lost her high school sweetheart 5 years ago in a car wreck, while she navigates her grief she moves to New York, a place she feels she can hide as the fast-paced city swallows her up. After years of numbness, her desires for sexual intimacy begin to rise and we follow Feyi test the waters of different relationships. I loved the rawness of this book and the exploration of learning to live again with such unimaginable grief, Feyi’s self exploration (if not somewhat messy) is real and painful, but it shows what it truly means to be alive (that word comes up a lot!).
I have never read any work from Akwaeke Emezi’s before but they truly are an extraordinary story teller, I’ve ordered Freshwater to read next!
Rating: 5/5 Would you recommend it: Absolutely!
Next month we’ll be reading The Set-Up by Lizzy Dent!
The Beautiful Queer Love Stories that Will Have You Glued to the Screen
From the mesmerising summer love of Oliver and Elio in Call Me By Your Name, to the passion of Auste and Sangailė in the beautiful Summer of Sangailė, here are the creme de la creme of unquenchably sexy, poignant and erotic queer love tv shows and movies.
Long suppressed and silenced, the stories of life-altering and all-consuming queer love have for so long not been given the spotlight they deserve, both in real life and in the works of fiction that form the fabric of our culture. But as attitudes have rightfully changed and our laws and society become more accepting (no matter how overdue), the world of books, TV and cinema have opened up to the beauty that is unapologetic, intimate queer love. From the mesmerising summer love of Oliver and Elio in Call Me By Your Name, to the passion of Auste and Sangailė in the beautiful Summer of Sangailė, here are the creme de la creme of unquenchably sexy, poignant and erotic queer love tv shows and movies.
Call Me By Your Name
Forget Jack and Rose, sometimes the most devastating love stories are those that take you by surprise with their intensity, and so goes the tale of Elio and Oliver in the 2017 cinematic adaptation of the 2007 book of the same title. Beautiful, unsuspecting, innocent yet intense, the romance between 17-year-old Elio and his father’s summer research assistant, 24-year-old Oliver, is a coming-of-age story like no other. Set in Crema- a charming Northern Italian town- everything from the cinematography to scriptwriting is beautifully captivating, as the story explores what it means to fall in love for the first time, and how our previous ideas around sexuality can unravel before our eyes.
Set in the summer of 1983, Call Me By Your Name is an enthralling look at lust, love and everything in between, and a beautiful representation of such during an era in which bisexuality and LGBTQ+ romance was not shown in the mainstream.
Ammonite
Cast your mind back to the 1840s and a southern coastal town in England, and there you’ll find palaeontologist Marry Anning, selling shells and fossils to tourists. Here her love story begins, after meeting Charlotte Murchison who is staying in the town during a period of convalescence before the pair begin an intense and life-altering relationship that changes the course of their futures forever. Intimate and nuanced, Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan make for one iconic duo in this utterly absorbing watch.
Heart Stopper
Perhaps the newest of releases that has the Internet in a chokehold is Netflix’s Heart Stopper. Released in April 2022, the series follows teens Charlie and Nick as they explore an unlikely friendship that might just be something more, navigating school, young love, loyalty, friendship and everything in between. The series is based on graphic novels by bestselling author, screenwriter and illustrator, Alice Oseman, and since its original publication has amassed 52.1 views to date. Starring Kit Connor, previously known for his roles in Rocketman and His Dark Materials, and newcomer Joe Locke as the beloved Nick and Charlie, the 8 part Netflix series is heartwarming to its core.
In need of a hug? Watch Heartstopper.
Love, Simon
This 2018 rom-com classic is another one you’ll find under the dictionary definition of wholesome, thanks to its warmth, honesty and relatability, offering a brand new take on the ‘classic’ straight rom-com- we love to see it! The story follows Simon Spier, a closeted gay high schooler who is struggling to balance his friends, family, and the blackmailer threatening to out him to the entire school, while simultaneously attempting to discover the identity of the anonymous classmate with whom he has fallen in love online. He’s got a lot going on…
Love, Simon feels authentic, like you’re stepping into a queer love story that could be unfolding in any number of places right now, with its iced coffee addicted teens and the prevalence of the Internet changing and shaping the lives of its characters, it’s liberating and captivatingly cute from start to finish.
Moonlight
Look up the dictionary definition of striking and you might just find Moonlight alongside it. It might not have the feel-good quips of Love, Simon or the warmth of Heartstopper, but what Moonlight does provide is a necessary look at life in poverty, the presumptions about what makes a man a man, and the confusing process of discovering who you truly are.
Poetic and majestic, Moonlight follows Chiron in three stages of his life: childhood, adolescence, and early adult life, exploring the difficulties he faces with his sexuality and identity, including the physical and emotional abuse he endures growing up. Important more than ever during a season such as Pride, this film acknowledges, understands and dives deeply into the gritty subject matter.
“It’s a love story,” says actor Andre Holland, who plays the adult version of Chiron’s longtime friend Kevin. “I think it’s easy to put it in a box of, oh, it’s a black film or a black, gay film about these poor kids, but really, at the centre of it, it’s a love story and I love that people can see past all that stuff on the exterior.”
Jongens / Boys
Jongens aka Boys is a Dutch coming-of-age romance that follows Sieger, a fifteen-year-old athlete who finds himself on a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and sexual awakening after being chosen to represent his team at the national championships along with fellow runner, Marc, for which they must train intensely. Summer is peak hot and heavy romance season, and in the words of Lana Del Rey“hot summer nights, mid-July, when you and I were forever wild”, there is no better backdrop for that first all-consuming love.
Ending on a hopeful note, this story of friends to lovers is a beautiful look at living life in true authenticity.
The Summer of Sangailė
Similarly to Call Me By Your Name, the 2015 release of The Summer of Sangailė is the definition of a summer romance, cementing the warmer months as surely the most dreamy and mesmerising of them all. The Lithuanian tale follows seventeen-year-old Austė as she falls in love with fellow teen Sangaile who’s spending the summer at her family’s lake house. Sensual, evocative and emotional, the film is one of beauty and optimism that not every coming of age film can capture.
“I wrote the story for The Summer of Sangailė with the guiding idea that sometimes it only takes a chance encounter with someone who helps you to see yourself in a different light to overcome certain difficulties,” says director Alanté Kavaïté.
“From the writing stage I had envisioned a film that would be bright and light, even if the movie addresses adolescent unrest and self-destructive behaviour, for with hindsight, obstacles that seemed insurmountable at the time are now put in their proper perspective. Yet, the joys of adolescence remain intense. Moments of fear and suffering appear to us today as necessary steps to find balance in our lives, emancipate our- selves and grow up.”
The Summer of Sangailė is a celebration of passion, guaranteed to leave you thinking about it long after watching it.
Sex Education
One of Netflix’s most hilarious, refreshing and necessary watches, Sex Education, is perhaps the best of modern day television when it comes to representation that doesn’t feel forced, authentically conveying the experiences of so many teens growing up in challenging environments today. The British series follows the lives of the students of Moordale High, and explores a number of queer relationships, one of the most charming being the bond between Ola and Lily.
Season 2 of the series shows Ola explore the idea that she may be pansexual, with this realisation helping her to understand her feelings for Lily and realise the attraction that has been underneath their friendship until this point.
Patricia Allison who plays Ola told Teen Vogue, “Ola is just the kind of character to me that I think from the beginning, you could never really put in a box. She really is the definition of pansexual, she will go based on the personality and who makes a laugh, and who catches her eye in that sparkly way.”
