The life of a bookworm is not a cheap one. Reading can be an expensive hobby. But there are ways to save money without sacrificing the joys of finding new books to add to your shelves. Libby & Hoopla Hacks You can attach more than one library card to the Libby app to access multipleContinue reading "The Bookworm Guide to Budgeting"
Antarctica: The Journey of a Lifetime
In January 2024, for my 33rd birthday, I had the opportunity to go on an Antarctica expedition. I work for a luxury expedition cruise company, so that's how I got the chance to do this once-in-a-lifetime journey. The cruise included a few other adventures along the way. Buenos Aires, Argentina It all started with aContinue reading "Antarctica: The Journey of a Lifetime"
invisible string: The Folklore Chronicles
The next poem in my series for The Folklore Chronicles, a poetic journey inspired by Taylor Swift's album, is a piece for the song "invisible string." the clues I didn’t see I always dreamed of sharing my spoton Hollywood Beach with someone special.tell them about summer days with friendsclimbing the ramp up to the lifeguardContinue reading "invisible string: The Folklore Chronicles"
Perfect on Paper Review
Disclaimer: Some links in my review for Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Whether or not you make a purchase is entirely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary of PerfectContinue reading "Perfect on Paper Review"
Literary Towns
I wanted to highlight the literary towns I've found myself in on my adventures. In my last post about literary tourism, I spotlighted many of the local bookstores I've visited on my travels. Key West, Florida Many visitors come for the party and Spring Break vibes of the Florida Keys. But Key West holds aContinue reading "Literary Towns"
Sleepy Hollow: Beyond New York City
The next journey in my Wanderlust series is from my 2023 trip to Sleepy Hollow, New York, with my mom and cousin. Walking Around Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown Ambling about the city centers of Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown alone is a charming experience. These have such a quaint feel to them in comparison to theContinue reading "Sleepy Hollow: Beyond New York City"
illicit affairs: The Folklore Chronicles
Next on my poetic journey with Taylor Swift's folklore album is a piece I wrote for "illicit affairs." The last poem is here. Refrain You stared at me from across the rooman arrogant smile like you knewI’d risk it all for a single time with you.And I hate that you’re right. You stare at meContinue reading "illicit affairs: The Folklore Chronicles"
Literary Tourism
When I travel to new places, I like to engage in literary tourism. Visiting bookstores around the world offers a glimpse into the local culture. It showcases what the community values, and often, these shops and libraries hold great history. Below are just a few of the wonderfully bookish places I've been to (and oneContinue reading "Literary Tourism"
Plain Bad Heroines Review
Disclaimer: Some links in my review for Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth, Illustrations by Sara Lautman, are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Whether or not you make a purchase is entirely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared inContinue reading "Plain Bad Heroines Review"
The Folklore Chronicles: this is me trying
Continuing my journey through my Folklore Chronicles poetry, this is a piece for "this is me trying." The last poem is here. the right track you’re a bright kid with a Bright Futurestay on track and go to college and youcan have any job you want and onceyou have a good job you can buyContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: this is me trying"
8 Sapphic Audio Dramas: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror
This list of sapphic audio dramas was first published on The Lesbrary here. Voracious readers love a good story, and audio dramas could be considered book adjacent. If you’re fond of audiobooks, then podcasts are the next step. Here are a few audio stories featuring sapphic characters that span across the sci-fi, fantasy, and horrorContinue reading "8 Sapphic Audio Dramas: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror"
The Folklore Chronicles: august
I'm a couple of months late for my poem based on Taylor Swift's "august," but oh well. Time is a construct anyway. You can find the last piece from my poetic journey in the Folklore Chronicles here. Mine to Lose Oh, how that August summer slipped away.Nights of High School Musicals and 100chicken McNuggets. DaysContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: august"
Wanderlust: Puerto Rico
I visited my mom's and grandma's homeland of Puerto Rico in December 2022. It wasn't my first time there, which had been as a baby, but it was my first time as an adult able to make memories. This post will be a little different from my usual wanderlust series. I want to focus moreContinue reading "Wanderlust: Puerto Rico"
Bury the Lede Review
Disclaimer: Some links in my review for Bury the Lede by Gaby Dunn, illustrated by Claire Roe, are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Whether or not you make a purchase is entirely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in TheContinue reading "Bury the Lede Review"
The Folklore Chronicles: seven
Next up on the Folklore Chronicles tour is my piece for the track "seven." See my last post for "mirrorball" here. I still picture you you invited me to your house because we liked playing togetheron the playground at school but my parents said no. why? she lives just around the corner i can seeContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: seven"
Wanderlust: Durham, NC
In September 2021, my brother, dad, and cousin decided to take a golfing trip to Durham, North Carolina, and meet a friend there. I decided to tag along for the journey. We rented a car, I dropped them off at their golf course, and went on my way exploring. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve I pulledContinue reading "Wanderlust: Durham, NC"
Shadow Life Review
Disclaimer: Some links in my review for Shadow Life by Hiromi Goto are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Whether or not you buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary of Shadow Life Kumiko,Continue reading "Shadow Life Review"
The Folklore Chronicles: mirrorball
*TVD Damon Salvatore voice* Previously on the Folklore Chronicles... Just kidding. But really, check out my last post for "my tears ricochet" here. Looking Through the Glass When the lights go out and the luster fadesI’m still here, swaying to the music that’s no longerplaying. I shined so bright for you but you left mebehind.Continue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: mirrorball"
The Last Place You Look Review
Disclaimer: Some links in my review for The Last Place You Look by Kristen Lepionka are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Whether or not you buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary ofContinue reading "The Last Place You Look Review"
Wanderlust: Cape May, NJ
I took a trip to Cape May in May 2022 as a shared birthday/Mother's Day trip with my mom and our cousins. She and our cousin have their birthdays one day apart, so we often like to celebrate together when we can. And of course, when we heard an opportunity for a spooky trip, myContinue reading "Wanderlust: Cape May, NJ"
The Folklore Chronicles: my tears ricochet
Last time on the Folklore Chronicles, a poetry journey inspired by Taylor Swift's album of the same title, I featured a piece for "exile." Today, I'll review my piece for the song "my tears ricochet." Here She Lies It’s gray and raining as they carry my casket down the frontchurch steps. Because of course. SoContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: my tears ricochet"
Grimmer Intentions Review
Disclaimer: Some links in my review for Grimmer Intentions by Jodi Hutchins are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary ofContinue reading "Grimmer Intentions Review"
Wanderlust: Smoky Mountains, TN
In 2021, I joined my friends for a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. A whole year had passed between my travel adventures for reasons you can probably guess (that's right, COVID). So, the wanderlust was long overdue. Now, I won't lie; the road trip to Tennessee had its challenges. But once weContinue reading "Wanderlust: Smoky Mountains, TN"
The Folklore Chronicles: exile
Previously on my poetry journey inspired by Taylor Swift's folklore album, I featured a piece for the track "the last great american dynasty." We See What We Want I.honey, how could you leave me high and dry likewe never meant a thing? and now you’re with a manwho leans close to hear you whisper wordsContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: exile"
You Exist Too Much Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for You Exist Too Much by Zaina Arafat are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared inContinue reading "You Exist Too Much Review"
Help Me Reach My Goal
This isn't my usual post, but I wanted to reach out and ask for donations or shares. I will be joining PRISM's team for the Florida AIDS Walk and Music Festival. I don't often take the chance to volunteer, and I definitely have never participated in a 5K walk. But I thought I'd try somethingContinue reading "Help Me Reach My Goal"
Wanderlust: Ohio
For our Mothman adventure, since it was so close, we flew in through Ohio. We took a scenic drive through the mountains of West Virginia in our rented car to our b'n'b. The place was an idyllic dream, set out on a farm with nothing but acres of land surrounding us. We found our rusticContinue reading "Wanderlust: Ohio"
The Folklore Chronicles: the last great american dynasty
Continuing my journey through poetry inspired by Taylor Swift's folklore album. You can read the previous piece for "cardigan" here. Evenings At Holiday House Of course, they want to blame me.As if the fool didn't already drink himselfsilly and overindulge on the pudding at dinnerevery night. They're just jealous of all the funwe had. Fun!Continue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: the last great american dynasty"
New Year Reflection
2024 has been a pretty good year, but surprise, surprise, I did get burned out again. When writing is my full-time job, it's hard to keep up any kind of writing practice outside of that for myself. Reading also proves difficult when I lack the mental capacity after work. I want to do more bookContinue reading "New Year Reflection"
Not Your Sidekick Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Not Your Sidekick by CB Lee are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in TheContinue reading "Not Your Sidekick Review"
Wanderlust: Mothman Festival
After my 2019 road trip, I hit the Mothman Festival with my friends for our last travel of the year. Funnily enough, plans for this trip were made during our road trip when we stopped at our friend's house in Tennessee for the 4th of July. The Legend Himself We first heard about this WestContinue reading "Wanderlust: Mothman Festival"
The Folklore Chronicles: cardigan
Welcome back to The Folklore Chronicles with a poem inspired by the song "cardigan" from Taylor Swift's folklore album. Check out my first poem in the series with "the 1." I Knew You (And Still Do) You beckoned me over, patting your lap, enticing me withexactly what you knew I wanted: attention and affection.But evenContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: cardigan"
7 Young Adult Sapphic Books With Latin Representation
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my list of young adult sapphic books are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. TheContinue reading "7 Young Adult Sapphic Books With Latin Representation"
Wanderlust: Kentucky
Kentucky was our second to last stop on the 2019 Midwest road trip before hitting Tennessee the second time and heading back home. For the end, it came back to just me and my friend Charlee. As we ventured into the state, I appreciated all the greenery. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park Since weContinue reading "Wanderlust: Kentucky"
The Folklore Chronicles: the 1
Welcome to my first installment of The Folklore Chronicles, a writing endeavor of poems inspired by Taylor Swift's folklore album. I will follow track by track, starting with "the 1." The Greatest Love of All Time Is Over Now You were the one, Jay. I was the one. Why’d you have todig up that oldContinue reading "The Folklore Chronicles: the 1"
If You Could Be Mine Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for If You Could Be Mine by Sara Farizan are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appearedContinue reading "If You Could Be Mine Review"
Affiliate Marketing Journey
I tried affiliate marketing accounts in the past, but I didn't engage with them enough to generate considerable income. Recently, I've been looking for ways to make a little extra income because, well, living is expensive. If you've visited my home page, you may have noticed my Bookshop page and my Mythologie Candles store. IContinue reading "Affiliate Marketing Journey"
Wanderlust: Illinois
Illinois is the next stop on my 2019 road trip that is coming to a close. You can catch more of my travels here. Lincoln Home National Park Entering the Land of Lincoln, our first stop of course was the national park with the former president's home. It's always such a delight to take aContinue reading "Wanderlust: Illinois"
The Folklore Chronicles
My most recent creative endeavor is a collection of poems inspired by Taylor Swift's folklore album. Although I ran out of officially published pieces to share, I do often share some work on Instagram. And I've had fun reviewing my poetry on my Behind the Poems series, so I thought I'd start sharing these here.Continue reading "The Folklore Chronicles"
Her Body and Other Parties Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review firstContinue reading "Her Body and Other Parties Review"
Wanderlust: St. Louis, MO
The chronicles of my 2019 road trip continues in St. Louis, Missouri. I gotta say, this may have been my favorite stop and made me want to come back for a full-on proper tour of the city. Word of advice though, if you have to navigate the airport here, don't listen to your GPS! JustContinue reading "Wanderlust: St. Louis, MO"
Writing is Hard
Writing is hard for a living. It means never doing it for fun or for myself anymore. After spending an eight-hour work day using up all my creativity for a job that will pay the bills, there's nothing left in the tank for me. And by the time the weekend comes around, I just needContinue reading "Writing is Hard"
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review firstContinue reading "The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics Review"
Wanderlust: Tennessee
Continuing on my 2019 road trip through the Midwest, we headed to Tennessee after we last stopped in Mississippi. We actually hit Tennessee twice — once on the way up and again on the way home. So, I'll cover all stops and activities from both pass throughs. Memphis, Tennessee On the way in, we mostlyContinue reading "Wanderlust: Tennessee"
Behind the Poems: The Greatest Show on Mars
This next installment of Behind the Poems, "The Greatest Show on Mars," originally appeared in Latino Book Review. Come one, come all to see the amazing automaton woman.See how she never cries, not a single tear in those eyes.Step right up, prick her skin. Slice straight through.See how she does not bleed. The wound gapesContinue reading "Behind the Poems: The Greatest Show on Mars"
Wow, No Thank You Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Wow, No Thank You by Samantha Irby are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in TheContinue reading "Wow, No Thank You Book Review"
Wanderlust: Mississippi
The 2019 road trip that started in Pensacola continues with driving through Alabama to Mississippi, where we made a few stops. Along the road we found the Mississippi Petrified Forest. This gorgeous plot of nature greeted us on a gray day with beautiful petrified trees and lovely boardwalk to stroll. Inside the visitor's center hadContinue reading "Wanderlust: Mississippi"
Behind the Poems: Weeknights With Walter
This next installment of Behind the Poems, "Weeknights With Walter," was originally published in Resurrection Magazine - La Ley Del Karma, an online publication that I can't find a working link to anymore. It’s the evening ritual with mom. Every night at 5:30, after she came homefrom a long day at work and I hadContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Weeknights With Walter"
Here Comes the Sun Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Here Comes the Sun by Nicole Dennis-Benn are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in TheContinue reading "Here Comes the Sun Book Review"
Wanderlust: Pensacola, Florida
Catching up on my travel log, this post will be the beginning of my 2019 road trip through the Midwest with my friends, which started in Pensacola. I'll try to keep each stop as its own post, but it all depends on how good my memory is. After making the drive up to Tampa toContinue reading "Wanderlust: Pensacola, Florida"
Behind the Poems: Hollywood Living
Originally published in the Avatar Review, Issue 21 (an online publication that is now defunct), this next installment of Behind the Poems is a love letter to my hometown. It doesn’t matter where I go in SoFlo. Palm trees always follow.Lush green to decaying brown starburst fronds exploding from atrunk of taupe rings so skinnyContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Hollywood Living"
10 Poetry Collections by Black Queer Women
Disclaimer: Some links in my list are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this list appeared on The Lesbrary. Poetry has always been an artistic expression. From declarations ofContinue reading "10 Poetry Collections by Black Queer Women"
Wanderlust: Greece
Rather than go in-depth on each stop from my Greece trip (because real talk: it’s been a few years and my memory is Swiss cheese at this point), I thought I’d hit the remaining highlights for the rest of the trip. Zakynthos Zakynthos (or Zante) may have been my favorite on the trip, as weContinue reading "Wanderlust: Greece"
Behind the Poems: ex
Originally published in the Avatar Review, Issue 21, this next installment of Behind the Poems is an ode to writer's block. Cross it all off and don’t look back. Like a long languid breath, to draw that X over words that no longer work because you no longer work the same way. X marks theContinue reading "Behind the Poems: ex"
Advice I Ignored Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Advice I Ignored: Stories and Wisdom From a Formerly Depressed Teenager by Ruby Walker are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version ofContinue reading "Advice I Ignored Book Review"
Wanderlust: Nafplion & Olympia, Greece
Continuing on our April 2019 journey through Greece, we left Mycenae and Epidaurus for the next town. Nafplion We stopped in the charming town of Nafplion, where the laid-back vibes invited us to stroll through the alleyways and market square. When we got hungry, our group found a harborside restaurant and dug into some GreekContinue reading "Wanderlust: Nafplion & Olympia, Greece"
Behind the Poems: Battle of the Billboards
My next installment of Behind the Poems was first featured in the Avatar Review, Issue 21. I was inspired to write this one on a road trip I took driving up to Orlando with my best friend. The poem below is the result. On the drive up to Orlando through the 95, we saw billboardContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Battle of the Billboards"
5 Exercises to Help with Your Writing
Whether you write fiction, poetry, essays or anything else, every writer needs to hone their craft. Practicing your art doesn't necessarily mean writing within the same genre or category all the time. Sometimes, it benefits you to step out of your usual writing zone and engage with a different skill to improve your own. HereContinue reading "5 Exercises to Help with Your Writing"
Gender Flytrap Poetry Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Gender Flytrap by Zoe Estelle Hitzel are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this poetry review first appeared in TheContinue reading "Gender Flytrap Poetry Review"
Wanderlust: Greece – Corinth Canal, Mycenae & Epidaurus
After starting in Athens, our adventure through Greece's Ionian Coast continued. Corinth Canal We took a charter bus with our local guide from EF Ultimate Break and stopped at the Corinth Canal to take a picture. At the time, I hadn't realized what an engineering feat this channel is. I only recently learned through workingContinue reading "Wanderlust: Greece – Corinth Canal, Mycenae & Epidaurus"
Behind the Poems: Contra Pelo
I had the great honor of having this poem featured in the inaugural publication of Latino Book Review in 2019. Growing up I always felt self-conscious of my curly, frizzy hair. I tried to keep it under control, slicked back with hair gel. Or I would have my mom spend hours straightening it with aContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Contra Pelo"
Revising Book Reviews for Re-Reads
Have you ever re-read a book and thought twice about your initial review of it? I have. Sometimes I come back to a book feeling that I liked it better the second time around. Does that mean I increase my rating? Other times I realize I missed a lot of problematic aspects now that I'mContinue reading "Revising Book Reviews for Re-Reads"
From A Shadow Grave Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for From A Shadow Grave by Andi C. Buchanan are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appearedContinue reading "From A Shadow Grave Book Review"
Starfall Ranch Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Starfall Ranch by California Dawes are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary.Continue reading "Starfall Ranch Book Review"
Wanderlust: Athens, Greece
During my travel year in 2019, my trip to Greece started and ended in Athens, the capital. The juxtaposition of ancient ruins within a cosmopolitan city makes the longstanding history stand out. Even in the middle of the city, you still find archaeological sites. Walking Tour of Athens Our tour guide walked us around theContinue reading "Wanderlust: Athens, Greece"
How Sex Changed the Internet Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for How Sex Changed the Internet and the Internet Changed Sex: An Unexpected History by Samantha Cole are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you.Continue reading "How Sex Changed the Internet Book Review"
Behind the Poems: Binary Code
The next poem in my Behind the Poems series is "Binary Code" originally published on Burning House Press. Bilingual bisexual bi-cultural. Ones and zeroes. DNA.Make a single switch or delete a digit and I become another. 01100010A Spanglish dictionary embedded en mi cerebro, flippingpages back and forth and sometimes pegándose. 01101001Dark brown curls cascading fromContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Binary Code"
TBR List Woes: It’s OK to Cut Ties With Books
I browsed through my Goodreads TBR list a couple of months ago to see what I wanted to buy with my Barnes & Noble birthday coupon. I ended up deleting several books from my list. I'm not the same person I was when I added them to my TBR years ago. It doesn't mean they'dContinue reading "TBR List Woes: It’s OK to Cut Ties With Books"
New Friends
A few years ago I started sharing a short sci-fi story I wrote for a writing challenge called "Better Than Fiction" that I just really enjoyed. I posted the first four parts back in 2020 and never got around to posting the conclusion, but it's finally here! You can catch up with the first fourContinue reading "New Friends"
Perspective Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for Perspective by Monica McCallan are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. SummaryContinue reading "Perspective Book Review"
Wanderlust: Key West, Florida
I visited Key West, Florida with my cousin Amanda in April 2019. Every time she comes into town, I become a tourist in my home state. I feel like that happens for everyone because the same holds true whenever I visit her in New Jersey. Most people I talk to don't like the beaches inContinue reading "Wanderlust: Key West, Florida"
A New Year of Content
Happy new year, friends! In 2021 I burned out on blogging and posted a lot less. Then, in 2022 I picked back up a bi-weekly schedule and posting twice a month. I'm determined to keep up that pace this year. I plan to continue with book reviews and my current series "Behind the Poems," butContinue reading "A New Year of Content"
Behind the Poems: What do you think the B stands for?
The next poem in my Behind the Poems series is "What do you think the B stands for?" originally published on Burning House Press. What do you think the B stands for? “I’m not one of these people, buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut, there are some gay people that won’t like you comparing being bi to the same asContinue reading "Behind the Poems: What do you think the B stands for?"
The Names We Take Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for The Names We Take by Trace Kerr are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in TheContinue reading "The Names We Take Book Review"
Behind the Poems: Tocarla
"Tocarla" is the next one in my series "Behind the Poems." See other posts in the series here. This poem first appeared in Lady Lit Magazine, an online journal that is now deactivated. I remember how excited and nervous I was when I first wrote this poem and submitted it for publication. It was myContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Tocarla"
Remember November Book Review
A version of this book review for Remember November by Cameron Darrow first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary Remember, November follows Millie, Elise, Victoria and their coven of witches as they learn their powers in the aftermath of World War I. The coven is under the employment of The Allied Directorate for Alternative Means (ADAM),Continue reading "Remember November Book Review"
Behind the Poems: Speak Easy
Another one for the "Behind the Poems" books. See other posts in the series here. "Speak Easy" was first published in Lady Lit Magazine, an online journal that is now deactivated. Speak Easy We walk into pitch black edges with only silhouettesof people and wine glasses and beer bottles on hightop tables. At the forefrontContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Speak Easy"
The Athena Protocol Book Review
Disclaimer: Some of the links in my review for The Athena Protocol are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. A version of this book review first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary JessieContinue reading "The Athena Protocol Book Review"
Behind the Poems: Drill Sargeant Dad
Welcome to my series "Behind the Poems." You can read the other posts here. "Drill Sargeant Dad" was originally published in December 2016 in an online journal called Page & Spine that is no longer active. Drill Sergeant Dad I. Second Grade I came home from school each day with homework, but didn’t need toContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Drill Sargeant Dad"
The Labyrinth’s Archivist Book Review
A version of this book review for The Labyrinth's Archivist first appeared in The Lesbrary and contains spoilers! Summary The Labyrinth’s Archivist is the first in the Broken Cities series. It follows Azulea, the daughter of the Head Archivist and granddaughter of the former Head Archivist. The Labyrinth contains winding paths and hallways with gates toContinue reading "The Labyrinth’s Archivist Book Review"
Behind the Poems: The Crayola Dance
Welcome to the next installment of my series "Behind the Poems." You can read the other posts here. "The Crayola Dance" is the last piece published in The Cypress Dome, UCF's literary journal. As you can see from above, I am not an HTML coder and cannot properly display the poem but this is closeContinue reading "Behind the Poems: The Crayola Dance"
The Sanctuary of Themyscira Book Review
The Sanctuary of Themyscira is the first in the Amazons series by Leila Hedyth. This review first appeared in The Lesbrary. Summary A mysterious group of women rescue Kylla from imprisonment and throw her into an otherworldly adventure on the mythical island of Themyscira, home of the legendary Amazonian women. However, the paradise of aContinue reading "The Sanctuary of Themyscira Book Review"
Behind the Poems: D Major
Welcome to the next installment of my "Behind the Poems" series. Check out more of these posts here. This is another poem published in my alma mater's literary journal, The Cypress Dome. It's one of my earliest forays into acrostic poems and it set off my love for the format. D Major Calloused fingertips pressContinue reading "Behind the Poems: D Major"
We Now Return to a Bi-Weekly Schedule
I pulled back from blogging for the last couple of years to give myself time to recalibrate. My work/life schedule became overwhelming and I couldn't fit blogging in as much as I used to before. But I find myself at a steadier pace these days with a better grasp on my time. So, I'm goingContinue reading "We Now Return to a Bi-Weekly Schedule"
Behind the Poems: Leonids
Welcome to the second installment of a series I'm doing called Behind the Poems. You can see the first post here. Meteor shower and sunset "Leonids" was originally published in The Cypress Dome 2012 I had the great honor of having one of my earliest published poems accepted at The Cypress Dome, the literary journalContinue reading "Behind the Poems: Leonids"
How to Find Diverse Books
While many readers often want to diversify what they read, they sometimes have trouble knowing how to find diverse books. Below you will find my collection of book databases to help you on your reading journey. I plan to keep adding to it the more I find. And if you have any websites or appsContinue reading "How to Find Diverse Books"
Behind the Poems
I've been thinking of starting a series called "Behind the Poems" that I mentioned a couple of weeks ago on my Instagram. Growing up with MTV and VH1, I may have been inspired by the Behind the Music series. I plan on discussing inspiration behind my poetry, why I chose their structures and more. InkContinue reading "Behind the Poems"
Wanderlust: New York Revisited
I went to New York again in 2018, nine years after my last time there. Though in 2009, I did a quick day trip to visit a college, so not sure if that actually counts. It's now been four years since I've been, but the city still holds a certain magic over me. And howContinue reading "Wanderlust: New York Revisited"
Wanderlust: Salem, Massachusetts
Salem came as an unexpected surprise during my trip to Boston. It's a city I've always wanted to visit and I definitely need to go back in October. But I certainly hadn't planned for it. Welcome sign in Salem, Massachusetts If you know about my trip to Washington, D.C., then you know I have aContinue reading "Wanderlust: Salem, Massachusetts"
Wanderlust: Boston
In December 2018 I had quit a job I hated and just graduated from my MBA program. For the first time in my life I found myself free with no specific plans in sight. All my life, I either worked or went to school or did both at the same time. I felt like IContinue reading "Wanderlust: Boston"
Mexican Gothic Book Review
Check out my book review for Mexican Gothic, a truly creepy and suspensful read. Perfect for fans of stories like The Yellow Wallpaper
2020 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books You May Have Missed
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this list of 2020 sci-fi and fantasy books are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Image by Sachu Sanjayan from Pixabay When the pandemic hit, someContinue reading "2020 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books You May Have Missed"
Wanderlust: Chicago 2017
It's been a while since I wrote about my travels, so I thought I'd dive back in with my visit to Chicago in December 2017. After the last couple of years with limited traveling due to the pandemic, I think I'm long overdue to share my old adventures. As I made my way between theContinue reading "Wanderlust: Chicago 2017"
Best Books for Fall Lovers
Disclosure: Some of the links in this list of best books for fall are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. UPDATED AUGUST 29, 2025 Image by hudsoncrafted from Pixabay As the leavesContinue reading "Best Books for Fall Lovers"
The Crimson Crown by Cinda Williams Chima Book Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for The Crimson Crown are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. It's taken several years, but I finally finished the Seven Realms Series.Continue reading "The Crimson Crown by Cinda Williams Chima Book Review"
Back in the Blogosphere
Hello friends! Source: Source: Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay I needed a break from blogging. I've been doing it because I enjoy it, but I'm feeling burned out with everything I have going on. But I think I'm ready to come back. Only now I'll have a once a month schedule. My aim is toContinue reading "Back in the Blogosphere"
5 Books Better on Audio to Add to Your TBR
Disclosure: Some of the links in this list for books better on audio are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. 5 Books Better on Audio As much as bookworms love to takeContinue reading "5 Books Better on Audio to Add to Your TBR"
Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet Book Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet, Hear Our Voices Book TourContinue reading "Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet Book Review"
Essay Collections to Make You a Smarter Person
Disclosure: Some of the links in this booklist of essay collections are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Essay collections to make you smarter Essay collections combine creativity and academic language toContinue reading "Essay Collections to Make You a Smarter Person"
Short Story Collections to Get You Through Your Reading Slump
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book list of short story collections are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Collections of short stories often fulfill that reading itch without the longContinue reading "Short Story Collections to Get You Through Your Reading Slump"
Indigenous Authors Books to Read
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book list of indigenous authors are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. UPDATED NOVEMBER 8, 2025 This reading list of indigenous authors will give youContinue reading "Indigenous Authors Books to Read"
Fat Chance Charlie Vega Book Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for Fat Chance, Charlie Vega are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I was graced with an ARC of Fat Chance, Charlie VegaContinue reading "Fat Chance Charlie Vega Book Review"
The Fifth Season by NK Jemisin Book Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for The Fifth Season are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. My best friend read the whole Broken Earth trilogy by NK JemisinContinue reading "The Fifth Season by NK Jemisin Book Review"
Romance Novels For Non-Romance Readers
Disclosure: Some of the links in this list of romance novels are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Readers who don’t like romance novels often cite the kitschy tropes that make themContinue reading "Romance Novels For Non-Romance Readers"
Travel Poetry: Running With Zeus
We visited the Temple of Zeus in Olympia on my trip to Greece in 2019. It's hard to believe I'm already coming up on two years since that vacation. I felt like a kid exploring those ruins. I was obsessed with Greek mythology in middle school. Olympia, Greece (May 2019) Funny though, Zeus was neverContinue reading "Travel Poetry: Running With Zeus"
Not the Weirdest Plot Line This Year
As 2020 comes to an end I thought I'd share a little story I wrote for a prompt I did for a writing retreat I participated in with my friends. And since those mysterious monoliths started appearing everywhere, this felt right. CONTENT WARNING: PROFANITY Image by Daniela Realpe from Pixabay I was used to staticContinue reading "Not the Weirdest Plot Line This Year"
Wanderlust: Pichincha, Ecuador
https://videopress.com/v/1wJFnDNc?muted=true&persistVolume=false&preloadContent=metadata Riding the teleferico up Pichincha trails The final installment of my travels to Ecuador in 2018 end with a hike near the Pichincha volcanoes. We started with a teleferico ride up the mountainside to reach the first trail. Riding the cable car up the mountain, it's blue sky and green hills all around. AsContinue reading "Wanderlust: Pichincha, Ecuador"
Weeknights With Walter
Had the great honor and pleasure to be published in LA LEY DEL KARMA: A JOURNAL DEDICATED TO WALTER MERCADO. Many Latinx people from my generation grew up seeing Walter Mercado give astrological predictions on Primer Impacto as they watched their elders listen to him with rapture. Walter became a mainstay in many Latinx culturesContinue reading "Weeknights With Walter"
Wayward Witch by Zoraida Cordova Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this Wayward Witch review are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. https://videopress.com/v/xPAw8KZS?autoPlay=true&controls=false&loop=true&preloadContent=metadata The third and final installment in Zoraida Cordova's Brooklyn Brujas series absolutely delivers. WaywardContinue reading "Wayward Witch by Zoraida Cordova Review"
How to Write a Book Review
The first thing to note when learning how to write a book review is that there's no one right way to do it. Throughout the years, I've gone through a few formats of book reviews myself. But today, I will outline the latest structure that works for me. I hope it helps other writers whoContinue reading "How to Write a Book Review"
Blazewrath Games by Amparo Ortiz Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this Blazewrath Games review are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I received an ARC for the Hear Our Voices book tour. Thank you so muchContinue reading "Blazewrath Games by Amparo Ortiz Review"
Happy Latinx Heritage Month
Disclosure: Some of the links in this Latinx Heritage Month post are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. For those who don't know, Latinx Heritage Month takes place from September 15 -Continue reading "Happy Latinx Heritage Month"
Writing a Book That’s Smarter Than Me
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I've been writing a book for almost 10 years now that has truly tested my intelligence. TwoContinue reading "Writing a Book That’s Smarter Than Me"
Always Human by Ari North Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for Always Human by Ari North are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase the book tour company Hear Our Voices or myself will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I'm happyContinue reading "Always Human by Ari North Review"
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas Book Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase the book tour company Hear Our Voices will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I had the goodContinue reading "Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas Book Review"
Wanderlust: Chimborazo, Ecuador
I left off on Chimborazo, Ecuador in my travel tales. It's been a while, but I still remember the feeling of triumph. I'm not an athletic person. I like to "hike" in the sense that I can walk for a short period. Sometimes, I can walk uphill. In the case of el Chimborazo, I metContinue reading "Wanderlust: Chimborazo, Ecuador"
Lobizona by Romina Garber Book Review
Disclosure: Some of the links in this Lobizona book review are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I received an e-book advanced reader copy from the publisher Wednesday Books. This review isContinue reading "Lobizona by Romina Garber Book Review"
Reading Nora Roberts for the First Time
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post about Nora Roberts are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Dark Witch (The Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy #1) by Nora Roberts, 2013 A few monthsContinue reading "Reading Nora Roberts for the First Time"
Website and Blog Update
Image by ROBERT SŁOMA from Pixabay Greetings all! I wanted to do a little check-in and update post to let everyone know what's been going on with my blog and website. Lately I've made some major changes. I wanted to become more than a blog, so I built my website out to include pages for my services. StorytellingContinue reading "Website and Blog Update"
5 Afro-Latinx Books to Read More Black Stories
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for Afro-Latinx books are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. I first wrote this list for Cultura Colectiva when the movie trailer forContinue reading "5 Afro-Latinx Books to Read More Black Stories"
Black Bloggers, Vloggers and Content Creators List
In light of current events, I'm compiling a list of black bloggers to follow to help uplift their voices. I'm a great believer in the power of storytelling, and right now, the world needs the voices of black writers and creators more than ever. Make no mistake of where this blog and I stand: BlackContinue reading "Black Bloggers, Vloggers and Content Creators List"
Travel Poetry: Keystone Gate
Writing travel poetry whenever I go somewhere new helps keep those memories fresh in my mind, whether I visited just a year ago or five years past. For this edition of travel poetry, I'm sharing my piece about the Agamemenon Keystone Gate in Mycanae, Greece from my trip in 2019. Travel Poetry for Mycanae, GreeceContinue reading "Travel Poetry: Keystone Gate"
Meagan Reads YA Horror: Category Five by Ann Davila Cardinal
Disclosure: Some of the links in this book review for Category Five are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Category Five by Ann Davila Cardinal, Tor Teen, June 2020 The team atContinue reading "Meagan Reads YA Horror: Category Five by Ann Davila Cardinal"
Travel Poetry: Columns of Legend
I love to travel, but more than that, I love to write poetry based on those travels. I find exploring and discovering the world so inspiring to create poems about my observations. I've had a passion for travel poetry for a while now. I've posted a few other poems from my other destinations, like IrelandContinue reading "Travel Poetry: Columns of Legend"
Meagan Reads YA Fantasy: Chain of Gold by Cassandra Clare
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. The decision of whether or not to buy something is completely up to you. Hardcover copy of Chain of Gold by Cassandra Clare, The Last Hours, Shadowhunter Chronicles Chain of GoldContinue reading "Meagan Reads YA Fantasy: Chain of Gold by Cassandra Clare"
Call and Respond
A poem from my travels to Greece