Books I'm Excited For: December 2013

Happy Thanksgiving! Today I am once again letting you in on the books I'm excited for that are being released in December! I am really liking this series, and I hope you all are, too!




Switched by Cassie Mae (Kindle)
Ever since high school, Kayla has been crazy for gorgeous football player Talon. But before she could muster the courage to tell him, he became a hot item with her beautiful BFF, Reagan. The only person who knows Kayla’s secret is Wesley, Talon’s best bud—and he’s got it bad for Reagan. Now they’re all in college together, hanging out 24/7. For Kayla, seeing the two lovebirds together is absolutely unbearable. So Kayla and Wesley hatch a plot to drive them apart before Talon has a chance to give Reagan the Christmas gift she’s been waiting for.

Soon enough, the once happy couple is fighting. Reagan suddenly can’t get enough of Wesley’s goofy sense of humor, and Talon seems to be paying more attention to Kayla than a guy who’s “only a friend” ever should. But just when everything seems to be falling into place, Kayla and Wesley accidentally spend a night together and discover a hitch in their plan they never considered: that switching partners may not lead to a perfect ending after all.

Why Am I So Excited?: I just love these kinds of "romance" novels, and all the drama that goes with them. I hate drama in my life, but I love some drama in my books! This is getting great reviews on GoodReads. I'm lucky enough to be in possession of an ARC of this book from NetGalley, and I will probably be reading it soon!
Release Date: December 2nd, 2013



 

Ink is Thicker Than Water by Amy Spalding (Paperback and Kindle)
For Kellie Brooks, family has always been a tough word to define. Combine her hippie mom and tattooist stepdad, her adopted overachieving sister, her younger half brother, and her tough-love dad, and average Kellie’s the one stuck in the middle, overlooked and impermanent. When Kellie’s sister finally meets her birth mother and her best friend starts hanging with a cooler crowd, the feeling only grows stronger.

But then she reconnects with Oliver, the sweet and sensitive college guy she had a near hookup with last year. Oliver is intense and attractive, and she’s sure he’s totally out of her league. But as she discovers that maybe intensity isn’t always a good thing, it’s yet another relationship she feels is spiraling out of her control.

It’ll take a new role on the school newspaper and a new job at her mom’s tattoo shop for Kellie to realize that defining herself both outside and within her family is what can finally allow her to feel permanent, just like a tattoo.

Why Am I So Excited? The premise for this book seems like something I will really enjoy. And the reviews seem to indicate the girl is an actual great representative of a teenage girl. It's getting pretty decent reviews on Good Reads, so it could be a fun one to read.
Release Date: December 3rd, 2013




These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner (Hardcover and Kindle)
t's a night like any other on board the Icarus. Then, catastrophe strikes: the massive luxury spaceliner is yanked out of hyperspace and plummets into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive. And they seem to be alone. 

Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a young war hero who learned long ago that girls like Lilac are more trouble than they’re worth. But with only each other to rely on, Lilac and Tarver must work together, making a tortuous journey across the eerie, deserted terrain to seek help. 

Then, against all odds, Lilac and Tarver find a strange blessing in the tragedy that has thrown them into each other’s arms. Without the hope of a future together in their own world, they begin to wonder—would they be better off staying here forever?

Everything changes when they uncover the truth behind the chilling whispers that haunt their every step. Lilac and Tarver may find a way off this planet. But they won’t be the same people who landed on it.

--

A timeless love story, THESE BROKEN STARS sets into motion a sweeping science fiction series of companion novels. The Starbound Trilogy: Three worlds. Three love stories. One enemy.

Why Am I So Excited?: The beginning of a new YA fiction trilogy? Sign me up! It's receiving rave reviews on Goodreads from those lucky enough to get an advanced copy, and all the reviews (non-spoilery ones, at least) just make me so excited to get my hands on this!
Release Date: December 10th, 2013





Roomies by Sara Zarr and Tara Altebrando (Hardcover or Kindle)
It's time to meet your new roomie.

When East Coast native Elizabeth receives her freshman-year roommate assignment, she shoots off an e-mail to coordinate the basics: television, microwave, mini-fridge. That first note to San Franciscan Lauren sparks a series of e-mails that alters the landscape of each girl's summer -- and raises questions about how two girls who are so different will ever share a dorm room.

As the countdown to college begins, life at home becomes increasingly complex. With family relationships and childhood friendships strained by change, it suddenly seems that the only people Elizabeth and Lauren can rely on are the complicated new boys in their lives . . . and each other. Even though they've never met.

National Book Award finalist Sara Zarr and acclaimed author Tara Altebrando join forces for a novel about growing up, leaving home, and getting that one fateful e-mail that assigns your college roommate.

Why Am I So Excited?: I reviewed this book back in October because I received an ARC from NetGalley. Long story short is that I just really, really enjoyed it, and recommend it. 
Release Date: December 24th, 2013


There are so many more books that are coming out in December, but these are some of the ones I saw that I am really excited to read. My favorite place to see what's coming out is the Most Popular page on Good Read- I highly recommend checking it out if you're looking for new books to read!
FTC: This post contains amazon affiliate links. Please see my disclosure page for more info.

New Beauty Test Tube November 2013

I finally made up my mind to subscribe to the New Beauty Test Tube. I was lucky enough to sign up in time to receive the newest Test Tube for November 2013.
(The New Beauty Test Tube is released every two months, whereas the QVC New Beauty Test Tube is released quarterly.)




It came in this pretty pink box, just like the QVC New Beauty Test Tube, but with slightly different lettering.



When I opened the box, it was wrapped up all pretty like this!
(Since this is the first box, I'm showing the complete unboxing.)



The tube itself has products in it, and there are products outside of the box. There is a candle that is a part of the Test Tube, and then there are a few products in a clear bag that are "extras". They call this "Beauty To Go."





I haven't tried this facial oil yet, and to be honest, I probably won't. Those little packets are so hard to use!



I've heard really good things about this John Frieda 3-Day Straight Spray, but since I don't have curly hair, I am not the ideal person to test this out. I'll be passing it off to a friend.




It's pretty different than the QVC tube- it's a lot heavier duty (I believe they may have just changed the packaging?), and could be reused! Unfortunately, I have no place for things like this so I recycled it, but once I am able to, I could definitely see finding a use for these!





(All the products!)




John Frieda Frizz-Ease Straight Fixation Smoothing Creme (1.25 oz)
Win the battle against humidity with this smoothing cream that keeps your straight hair soft and sleek while also moisturizing and protecting your locks.
How To Use: Place a dime-size amount into palms and rub hands together. Work through wet or damp hair and blow-dry straight.
Benefits Include: Frizz Fighter - Keep your style sleek and chic from a.m. to p.m. with this smoothing cream that wards off humidity-induced frizz while also keeping strands nourished and hydrated for healthier-looking hair; and Safeguard Strands - The formula contains unique Thermoguard Complex and helps protect strands from damage brought on by heat-styling tools.
Will I Use It?: I have used this once, but I am still forming my opinions. I did feel like my hair was super straight and sleek when I used this before I flat-ironed my hair. There is definitely enough here for me to really try it and see what I think.




Vaseline Lip Therapy Rosy Lips (0.25 fl oz - Full Size!)
Loaded with the healing power of Vaseline Jelly, this sheer, rose-tinted lip treatment deeply moisturizes dry lips to leave them soft and beautiful.
How To Use: Apply as needed to keep your lips moisturized, soft, and rose-tinted.
Benefits Include: On-The-Go Hydration - Packaged in an adorable and perfectly portable jar, you can bring this lip treatment wherever you go for hydration anytime, anywhere The perfect accessory for the girl on the go!; and Pure Formulation - Made with 100% pure, triple purified Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, the formula instantly softens lips, while providing an occlusive layer that locks in moisture- so lips feel better over time.
Will I Use It?: I have been using this interchangeably with a couple other things I put on my lips either at night or in the morning after I brush my teeth, while I'm putting on my makeup. The opening on top of the container is really teeny, and I wonder if my nails were longer (I'm still struggling with my nail biting) if it would be a lot more difficult, but only time will tell! This doesn't give any kind of tint to my lips, but it is very moisturizing and doesn't seem to leave any residue on my lips as it goes away. It smells rosy, but tastes pretty much like regular Vaseline.
As a quick side note, mine was open like that when I received it. It did make me a little nervous to use it, but the product itself appeared to be untouched.






Lumene Time Freeze Anti-Age CC Color Correcting Cream (1.0 fl oz - Full Size!)
This six-in-one formula helps reverse the signs of aging while also working as a long-wear foundation, concealer, primer, illuminator, and SPF 20.
How To Use: Apply to cleansed skin alone or after applying day cream.
Benefits Include: The Timesaver - Take a few steps off of your routine with this semi-matte formula that works as a foundation, concealer, primer, and illuminator all in one; and Flawless Complexion: The supersmooth color correcting cream helps even out your skin for a smoother complexion while SPF 20 helps protect skin from sun damage.
Will I Use It?: I have used this several times since receiving this box, and I really, really like it. It evens out my complexion, and has been great under my bareminerals. The light shade, which came in my box, is a really great match (as you can see above). My skin looks so great with this stuff, and my face doesn't seem to be getting oily as quickly. Granted, it's getting colder so I'm not sweating as much, so the true test will be when it starts to get warmer. I'm definitely going to keep using this to try to formulate a more complete review later.




Votivo Icy Blue Pine (1 candle tin - Full Size!)
Fill the air with the scent of holiday nostalgia with this deliciously fragrant candle in Icy Blue Pine.
How To Use: Place candle lid underneath before burning to prevent damage to your furniture. (This is actually a really good tip!)
Benefits Include: Vibrant Fragrance - A bold whiff of pine, accented with hints of cedar and ice come together in a fragrance reminiscent of a crisp winter day; and Long-Lasting Scent - Using the finest wax, this candle will burn for up to 40 hours.
Will I Use It?: I won't be using this. I'm not a huge fan of the scent. It does smell exactly what they say it smells like, but scents like this one can get overwhelming for me and give me a headache. So I will be gifting this to someone that will enjoy it.




Glo Therapeutics Refresh Facial Polish (1.0 fl oz)
Harnessing the power of botanical extracts, nourishing oils, and gentle skin polishers, this exhilarating facial polish awakens tired, sluggish skin while working to clear pores and remove dead skin cells and debris for a smoother-looking complexion.
How To Use: Massage a small amount onto clean, damp skin. Rinse clean after one to two minutes.
Benefits Include: Smooth Operator - The botanical-based formula features gently exfoliating and dissolving Jojoba Beads to smooth and remove debris from the skin's surface sans irritation; and Invigorating Scent - Pure Mint Essential Oil not only leaves a refreshing clean scent in its wake- it also lends a cooling tingle to revive skin and awaken the senses while providing soothing and nourishing benefits.
Will I Use It?: I have used this once, and I enjoyed it. It didn't irritate my skin at all, and it was quite refreshing! It also smells exactly like baking soda toothpaste, and has a similar texture, so that was a little weird. This doesn't lather, so if you're a lather-lover, this isn't the product for you. But I did feel like it got my skin clean. Usually I only use products like this at night, but I feel like this would be safe to use in the morning, and would probably feel great as I wake up!




Camille Beckman Glycerine Hand Therapy in Midnight Monarch (1.35 oz)
Using old-fashioned recipes and state-of-the-art technologies, these hand creams deliver powerful hydration to restore softer, suppler skin.
How To Use: Dab a small amount on hands or areas of rough skin. After 10 minutes, your skin should feel noticeably smoother. Use daily for best results.
Benefits Include: Time-Tested Ingredients - Each formula uses time-tested ingredients like glycerin, vitamin-E, aloe vera, almond oil, and botanical extracts, all known for their nourishing benefits; and Noticeable Difference - The luxurious, gluten-free formula will leave your hands healthier and softer after just one use.
Will I Use It?: I have kept this in my purse since receiving it, and I have used it a couple times. I do like the outcome of using the cream, but the scent is not really for me. The Camille Beckman website lists the scent, Midnight Monarch, as follows: Top Notes - Jasmine Tea, Bergamot; Heart Notes - Orange Orchid Nectar, Damask Rose; and Base Notes - Midnight Patchouli, Vanilla Amber. I know it's the Jasmine that really gets me, and the Patchouli is definitely noticeable to me. I will probably keep this in my purse until I use it all (my palms get really scally and gross so I like to keep a hand cream on me), or if someone enjoys the smell more than I do and I can pass it on to them.
I am really interested in trying a couple more of her scents, though, and they are cheap enough for the size I received to do so (the 1.35 oz sells on the website for $4.99). They actually do sell this at a couple of places in my town, so I might have to stop buy those places and check out the selection. As I stated above, I really do like the benefits and would love to try a different scent because I really feel like that's the only thing keeping this from becoming my new favorite hand cream.




Molton Brown Pink Pepperpod Nourishing Body Lotion (3.3 fl oz)
Infused with ingredients that are good for your skin, this fragrant pink lotion helps deliver serious hydration along with a spicy, yet fun and flirty scent.
How To Use: Apply to skin in a circular massaging motion after showering or bathing, or whenever your skin needs it.
Benefits Include: Nourish Skin - Rich in antioxidants, key ingredients pink pepperpod extract and ginger oil help hydrate for smoother, softer, healthier skin; and Fresh Scent - The luxuriously, creamy lotion, also contains patchouli, which melds seamlessly to create an irresistibly clean scent.
Will I Use It?: I haven't used it yet, only just tested it slightly on my arm to see how the scent would interact with my body chemistry, but I do like it. The patchouli is actually not noticeable at all. It's a lot spicier scent than I normally use, but I think it's a nice winter scent. And it's not too thick, which I also like.




Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner (1.8 fl oz)
(I can't find an exact link to this, but I believe I've seen it at my local drugstores.)
The shampoo and conditioner work together to keep hair incredibly moisturized, healthy-looking, and soft.
How To Use: Apply shampoo to wet hair, lather, and rinse. After shampooing, massage conditioner through hair and rinse thoroughly after 1-3 minutes.
Benefits Include: Cellular Power - Dove's Pro-Moisture Complex goes to hair's cellular level. Get gorgeous results without excess residue; and Strand Smoother - Appropriate for thick and curly as well as soft and straight locks, the shampoo and conditioner will leave hair beautiful and up to 5x smoother.
Will I Use It?: I have it in my shower and have used the combination once, but not enough to really give an opinion. I didn't feel like it was as good as the Tresemme shampoo and conditioner that I love, but it was still nice. I'm not a huge fan of the smell, though. I'll probably end up using this completely and give a full review, but for now, I'm just okay with it.




StriVectin-EV Get Even Brightening Serum (1 fl oz)
Say good-bye to discoloration and dark spots with this innovative serum that will leave you with a smoother, more even-toned complexion.
How To Use: Apply to clean skin before moisturizer in a.m. and p.m. For best results, follow with StriVectin SPF 30 in the day.
Benefits Include: Powerful Formula - Clinically proven to be six times more effective than brightening actives alone, this formula fights dark spots at the source to deliver noticeable results starting within two weeks of use, according to the company; and Radiance Booster - Paraben-free and suitable for all skin types, this serum helps brighten up even the dullest complexion for more youthful-looking, radiant skin.
Will I Use It?: I have used this a couple of times, but not enough to really see a difference. It feels good on my skin and I haven't seen any breakouts. I'll definitely keep using this, though, the full size of this is 1.7 fl oz, and costs $89.00, so I'm probably not going to repurchase even if it is a miracle product. But I will enjoy it for now!


If you'd like to sign up for the New Beauty Test Tube, please leave your e-mail below so I can refer you!
(I will receive a free box for every person that signs up, but I will post and review everything that is received in them.)
I'm really happy I signed up to receive this box, and I can't wait to get my next one! Although I hadn't heard of a couple of these brands, and the candle is getting gifted, the box itself is a great value with good quality products.


FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from the New Beauty Test Tube catalog included with the box.)
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Top 10 Makeup Products I Can't Live Without

About a month ago, I posted a "Top 10 Makeup Products I Can't Live Without", but it was a guest post by my sister-in-law, Jenna. I have never actually done my own.
After about a month of thinking about it, I have finally decided on my own Top 10.


1. The Lorac Pro Palette



As of this post, this is my absolute, cannot live without it, don't know how I never had it before, palette. It has every single shade I need to do all of my eye looks. It's the one I pack when I go places. And to be honest, when I don't have it in my makeup bag, I miss it. A lot. It has both matte and shimmer shades, and it's just the perfect palette, in general.


2. Too Faced Shadow Insurance



I never do my makeup without an eye primer, and this is my go to. As you can see above, I even have a backup. This is what I use when I do my makeup for any type of occasion where I know I need my eye makeup to stay put. I wore it on my wedding day. I wore it to my high school reunion. I wear it in the hot, 100+ degrees days of summer. My eye makeup NEVER creases when I wear this under it, and I never have to worry that it will do so. It really is a product I cannot, under any circumstances, live without.


3. Ulta Waterproof Automatic Eye Liner (specifically in black)



I know everyone goes on and on about the Urban Decay 24/7 liners, but this is really my holy grail liner. It is so black, and it never goes anywhere other than where I put it. It glides on super easy on the water line, and really stays put there. And it's cheap- at the most, it costs me around $8.00, but Ulta almost always has some type of bogo deal on all of their branded products. If you're still looking for that great, very black eyeliner, I recommend at least trying this one.


4. BareMinerals Original SPF 15 Foundation in Fairly Light



I did live without this product for a few months, and now I'm not sure how. Yes, my L'Oreal powder foundation is good. But there is just something special about the way this goes on, and the way it matches my skin so flawlessly. And the way it never seems to cake up on my skin, even if I do go a little overboard. I can never see myself being without this product again.


5. NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder



I didn't really start filling in my brows until about a year ago, but it really does make a big difference. Even if all I do it put on a little mascara and fill in my brows a bit, it makes me look so much more put together. And this kit really matches my eye brows well- I tend to go dark blonde when I dye my hair, and for the first couple weeks, I can use the darker shade, and for the last couple of weeks, I mix the two.


6. Too Faced Lashgasm Mascara



When I was thinking about my list, this is one of the first products I thought of. It's not a mascara I use all the time, but it is a mascara I will always repurchase, and always want to have on hand. It really thickens and lengthens, and never flakes on me. And it never clumps. It's pretty much the only mascara I own that I don't need to have a spooly to run through my lashes to de-clump them a bit. It is pricey, but completely worth it.


7. Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette



I thought long and hard about this, but this is a must-have for me. It's surprisingly versatile, and has the best matte black (and yes, it is better than the one in the Lorac Pro Palette) I have ever used. All the shades are super creamy, and go on like butter. If all my other palettes just disappeared, I would replace the Lorac Pro first, and this second. And it would be enough for me.


8. Urban Decay eyeshadow in Sin



I choose the Lorac Pro over my Naked palette, but this shade is one I cannot see myself never having. It is the perfect shade for my skin tone- it matches beautifully. It goes on smooth. It's my go-to color when I'm having trouble deciding what else to wear. And right now, it's the only palette color I've loved enough to go out and buy a full size of.


9. Physician's Formula Mineral Wear blush in Pink Glow



Ahh, this blush. I get so happy every time I see it in my makeup kit, because it is my absolute favorite. It gives my skin the perfect flush, and still looks natural. And a little goes a long way. If all my blushes disappeared, this would be the first one I would replace, because it looks good with every single eye look I have worn with it.


10. Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray



I went out and bought this the night of my high school reunion because I was out. That is how much I cannot live without this product. Do I use it every day? Of course not! But on those days/nights where I really need to make sure my makeup stays put, this is all I use. It really does work.



I feel like this would be something fun to do maybe once a year or so, to see how much things change- because I feel like every time I try a new product, it becomes something that could be a product I can't live without. At one time, I did not own anything above, and now I would grab all of these things first. And, funny enough, I could do my makeup with all of these products and get a complete look (other than lips- I'm not really a lip product junkie so I don't have one I can't live without).

What are some products that you can't live without??


FTC: All of the above products were either purchased by me or a gift. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post does contain Amazon affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Redken All Soft Argan-6 Oil Review

I received the Redken All Soft Argan-6 Oil in my Allure Fall Beauty Box. At the time I received it, I was still using the Josie Maran Argan Oil, so I put this aside for a bit. However, if I had known how good this stuff is, I would've stopped using the Josie Maran one and started using this instead!

I gave a rave review to the Josie Maran Argan Oil when I first received it, but as I got further down the bottle, the less effective it seemed to be. Which was a little disappointing, but I thought it was okay, because then I wouldn't feel like I had to go out and purchase a full size bottle of it (which would have been $48.00 because I would have purchased the 1.7 ounce) when I wasn't sure it would be great all the way through.

But this stuff is pretty great! I'm a little less than half of the way through the bottle now, and it is every bit as good as the first time I used it. And even when I go a little overboard, my hair never feels weighed down or looks more-greasy than usual. It feels soft, and looks healthy.
I usually use it when my hair is still damp, and I put it through the ends. I also sometimes use a tiny pump after drying to soften the hair a bit more, if my hair is looking a little more frayed than it should.

I think this has helped my hair so much, in terms of breakage, because my hair doesn't tangle when I use this. When my hair doesn't tangle, I don't have to brush it as often, which means less a chance of breakage!

Compared to the Josie Maran Argan Oil, this stuff is a steal at $30.00 for a 3.0 fl oz bottle. The one I received in my Allure Box was 1 oz, and has lasted me a couple of months with at least three day a week use, so I imagine the full size will last me quite a while, so I might be able to justify the purchase, when it comes time to do so. Especially when Ulta has a great sale going on!


FTC: This product was received in a subscription box that I purchased with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post contains an Amazon.com affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

2013 Holiday Palette Wishlist

I'm sure by now most of you have seen the new holiday offerings makeup companies are enticing us beauty lovers with, and I am no exception to that! There are so many wonderful palette's available, and here are a few that I am coveting.

I've already talked about the Tarte Gorgeous Getaways Palette, and that should definitely be mentioned on this list, as it's high up on mine!


I really like the options for the Too Faced Palette, A Few of My Favorite Things



I really love the color options, and the fact that there are both matte and shimmers.


I think this would be really great for someone that wants to try a few of the Benefit products (like me- I don't have many!)


The Little Love Potions kit is perfect for someone that may be on a budget and not sure about purchasing these products out-right, but would probably love the opportunity to try them and see if they are worth the hype!


I'm also interested in the Benefit Luve It Up palette



It's a pretty basic-looking neutral palette, but it is definitely high quality (I checked it out last time I was at Ulta), and if you are a neutral loving girl like me, it would get a lot of use.



On the drug store end, you really can't go wrong with an ELF (eyeslipsface) palette.



Sometimes the quality can be a little hit or miss, but this would be perfect for a beginner!

And I'm not 100% sure this is a holiday release, but I wouldn't mind seeing it show up in my stocking- the Sonia Kashuk Jewel of an Eye palette.



So pretty!!!



What is on your wishlist for the holidays this year?



FTC: This post contains amazon.com affiliate links. Please see my disclosure page for more information.

Book Review: The Bone Season (The Bone Season #1) by Samantha Shannon

Description from Good Reads
It is the year 2059. Several major world cities are under the control of a security force called Scion. Paige Mahoney works in the criminal underworld of Scion London, part of a secret cell known as the Seven Seals. The work she does is unusual: scouting for information by breaking into others’ minds. Paige is a dreamwalker, a rare kind of clairvoyant, and in this world, the voyants commit treason simply by breathing.

But when Paige is captured and arrested, she encounters a power more sinister even than Scion. The voyant prison is a separate city—Oxford, erased from the map two centuries ago and now controlled by a powerful, otherworldly race. These creatures, the Rephaim, value the voyants highly—as soldiers in their army.

Paige is assigned to a Rephaite keeper, Warden, who will be in charge of her care and training. He is her master. Her natural enemy. But if she wants to regain her freedom, Paige will have to learn something of his mind and his own mysterious motives.

The Bone Season introduces a compelling heroine—a young woman learning to harness her powers in a world where everything has been taken from her. It also introduces an extraordinary young writer, with huge ambition and a teeming imagination. Samantha Shannon has created a bold new reality in this riveting debut.


My Review
The Bone Season is about a girl named Paige Mahoney. Paige is a dreamwalker, a type of clairvoyant, who makes money basically by breaking into people's minds. In her world, set in 2059, it is not only illegal to be a voyant, but it is extremely dangerous.

Paige works for a syndicate of seven other voyants, and is eventually taken to the city of Oxford (known as Sheol I), where it is actually legal to be a voyant, but you are essentially a slave. She is given to a Rephraim (another race that is described as mostly human but not) named Warden, for training.


There is a lot of information presented about Paige, the syndicate, Scion London (where she is from), and her life in the first several chapters. So much so that it was a little difficult for me to even get into the story. It was very, very descriptive. If that is something that puts you off a story, be weary of this one. I do tend to lose it a bit when an author is overly descriptive- I know what they're doing by trying to set a scene, but I wonder if I'm not losing out on the story because of the descriptions of the trees. (This is a huge reason why I'm still on page 100something of Lord of the Rings.) However, I have to say, Shannon kept me in the story by not only using her descriptions to her advantage (especially her descriptions of Scion London), but by continually moving the story along in the process.


Paige and Warden have an interesting relationship from the get go. To be honest, it's a little master/mistress for awhile. Not in a sexual way, but definitely in a controlling type of way. But Paige is strong-willed, and she does start to wear down Warden's defenses. 
Warden is the betrothed to an extremely evil Rephraim Nashira. She basically wants to eliminate Paige and steal her voyancy.


As far as first books in a series go, this one is pretty good. I gave it four stars on Good Reads, because once I got into the author's way of telling the story, I was in it 100%. But I took off a star because it's not like I think it's a book I will read over and over again. It was just a very good story.
Shannon has a seven book deal for The Bone Season. I wonder in the next six books how this will play out. But I will definitely be checking out Book #2 when it comes out.




You can purchase this book for Kindle here, and the hardcover here.

FTC: I borrowed this book from my local library. 
This book does contain an amazon affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Foreo Luna Mini First Impressions/Review

(This product was provided at a discount by BzzAgent and Foreo.)

I've been a BzzAgent since 2007, and have been able to try a lot of great stuff. This, however, is by far my favorite!
I received an offer to get the Foreo Luna Mini at a discounted price, and I could not resist! I've been thinking about investing in a facial cleansing device for awhile, and this was one that was on my list to research.




The mini has a 3-zone brush- two of which you can see in the photo above. This side is used for two purposes- general cleansing (the larger part), and under the eyes and around the nose (the smaller part). The device also has two settings in which you can use to clean your face, which are high-intensity and low-intensity. When you turn on the device, it is already in high-intensity. It is recommended you use this to cleanse your face moving from zone to zone (start on your chin, then wait for the device to pause, move in upward strokes along your cheeks, the device will pause, do the other side, the device will pause, and then do your forehead).



You can also use this side for deeper exfoliation, mainly on your t-zone. Then you go to lower-intensity, and using the smaller portion, cleanse under your eyes.



My Luna mini came with the device, a USB cord for charging (you can see the port in the second photo), and a warranty card. I was able to use the device right out of the box, however, they recommend you charge it first.


(Size Comparison)

The device is 100% waterproof up to a depth of 1 meter, so you can also use it in the shower, which is awesome for someone like me that washes their face during their morning shower routine. I just put my cleanser on my face, wet the device, and away I go. It is not recommended to use this with any type of exfoliating or clay-based cleansers, so I have been using the Neutrogena cleanser I received in my Allure Fall Beauty Box when I want to use this.

I have been loving the results- I've used this four times since receiving it, and my face feels almost unbelievably smooth. And I feel like it's really getting deep down into my pores and getting all the gunk out from the day. I also love that it is so compact, and it would definitely be travel friendly! They also claim you can use it up to 300 times on a full charge!
The device is made with a silicone brush that is nonporous, so you do not have to replace the brushes! (They just advise you clean with a mild soap and water after use). I was thinking for so long about getting the Clarisonic, but the expense of having to replace the brushes was definitely holding me back. Now, that is a non-issue, because I have a T-Sonic device that will never need to have the brush replaced! HUGE WIN!


The standard price of the Foreo Luna Mini is $139.00. however, Foreo and BzzAgent have provided me with an offer code good for 35% off regular price (which would bring this down around $90.00). If you'd be interested in the code, please comment below with your e-mail and I will be happy to pass it on! This promo code is no longer available! Thank you for all the interest!


I am planning on doing a more in-depth review next month, once I actually have time to really use it regularly and see more results, but so far, I am really happy!




FTC: This product was provided to me at a discount as a BzzAgent. I have not received any compensation in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

What's in my makeup bag? (As of November 13th, 2013)

As much as I was loving everything I was using the last time I updated my makeup bag, I figured it was time to switch it up again.




My sister-in-law got this for me last christmas, and I really don't use it enough! It's time to commit!



I love most of the shades, however, see that shade Nude Beach? It is probably my very favorite, but it also has a shit ton of fall out. NOT CUTE. Have I mentioned I really need to get a good glitter base? I'm hoping Santa decides to put some in my stocking.



I'm pretty much using all the same eye primers and liners as before- they work!



For mascara I am completely switching it up! The Lash Blast Length is in Brown Black, but everything else is black.
I may be doing a comparison of some of these mascaras soon.



For face, I decided to try back out the Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream. It's super creamy and I have to be really careful not to use too much, but I do really like it.



For blush, I am using the ELF blush and bronzer combo, a discontinued Physician's formula blush, and the Too Faced Glamour to Go palette. This also has eye shadows in it, but I mainly chose it for the blush options.



For eyes, I also decided to pull out a couple of my Bare Minerals eye shadows (see swatches here- I picked the shades Pearl Sateen and Smoky Sage), as well as two colors from the Superneutrals collection by Geek Chic Cosmetics (The Trickster and Angel of Thursday, see swatches here), as well as a shade from the Dangerous to Go Alone Collection by Geek Chic Cosmetics (Chosen One- see swatches here).



I also took advantage of the Bare Minerals FAB gift (I'm a member of their FAB club, and received an e-mail for a free eyeshadow!), and got Here Kitty. It is a gorgeous deep wine bronzy color. I don't have anything quite like it, and I'm happy to add it to my collection! Especially since it cost me nothing!




And here is a glimpse at my bag! I'm hoping to start doing look photos soon to do a collection of looks for blogs as well!