Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I had little to no interest in this book until release day. I saw all the TikToks, had all the FOMO and then luckily stumbled across an audiobook on Everand (which btw I do NOT recommend, I kept forgetting everyone’s names). Finally a friend took pity on me and lent me her print copy.

I read this book with clear expectations and figured nothing would shock me. I knew who would win, what their life would look like afterwards, etc. But despite that, this book had surprises for me that I did NOT see coming. I cried at some parts (somehow it hit me harder this time that it was just kids in the arena).

After the last movie, I was a bit of a Snow sympathizer but about half an hour into the audiobook, I hated him (well done, Suzanne Collins). As the book continued, I wanted to kill him myself.

I sacrificed sleep, TikTok, meals and even let my Nintendo Switch die (something that hadn’t happened…EVER) because I was THAT invested in this book.

Just read the damn book. I have no one to discuss it with




View all my reviews

Sweet Valley High: Three Novels: Double Love, Secrets & Playing with Fire by Francine Pascal

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


While I absolutely loved this series as a teen, as an adult I find that Jessica is unbearable.

Nonetheless I persisted since I have a growing collection of these books and now I feel like I have no choice but to carry on.

These first 3 books of the Sweet Valley High series introduce us to the students of Sweet Valley High. Although TBH I’m just invested in the Wakefields and their drama. And somehow Jessica almost always seems to be the problem.

This was a fun but overdone book but I enjoyed it immensely. I wish I had Power Play to dive into that one next.



View all my reviews

All Dhal’d Up by Kamini Pather

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I received a copy of this book from Penguin Random House South Africa in exchange for a review.

When it comes to cookbooks, I have a problem that few people seem to understand.

Firstly I can never find Indian cookbooks. At least, not ones that reflect the way my family actually cooks. Secondly, there’s never a cookbook that is truly simple. I have little to no skill in the kitchen, and the Indian method of “just add some of this” doesn’t work for me.

I own four beginner cookbooks and all I’ve learned from them is various ways to make eggs.

So when I saw that Kamini Pather had a cookbook, I felt a spark of hope. Surely, she would get it?

The book was delivered two hours ago, and I devoured it eagerly. I’m a fan! There are several familiar recipes that are easy to follow, along with exciting fusion dishes I can’t wait to try. Finally- a cookbook that gets me!



View all my reviews