Beautannia Balfour Scented Candle

The beautiful scented candle caught my eyes and then my nose was in for a treat. The candle was inspired by the Scottish Highlands.  With notes of English fern, birch leaf, labdanum, oakmoss, vetiver, and copaiba balsam.  It has a refreshing scent and lasts even after ousting the flame. 

Book Review - Detective Strongoak and the Case of the Dead Elf by Terry Newman

Photo Source - Amazon.com

Private detective Nicely Strongoak goes about his day until he is asked to investigate the case of a missing surfer. The case seeming easy enough turns into a whirlwind of mystery and murder.  The book which is a mishmash between LOTR, mystery noir, humor and thriller takes readers to a fantasy world filled with colorful characters. 

While, investigating the missing surfer, Perry Goodfellow, is thrown into a chaotic world filled with murder, death, fire, drugs, magic and goblins. He awakens after one of his investigations next to a murdered elf with Nicely's weapon engraved into his skull. With death knocking on every door, Nicely must navigate the sticky world of politics while making sure he's not next.

The mysterious thriller is tinged with jokes and wildly creative characters that takes the reader for a wild ride.  It is a quick read but can be a bit wordy at times. A great read for anyone who likes fantasy books or who has a soft spot for private eye dwarfs!

Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen - No.2 BlackBlue

The creamy eyeliner goes on smoothly but smudges very easily. After a while, the satin finished eyeliner just melts away and disappears away. The pencil sharpens nicely but the cream eyeliner sometimes melts and gets stuck in the sharpener or just breaks off. The eyeliner is enriched with vitamin E and natural mineral pigments and is paraben, mineral oil,  and preservative free. The eyeliner is a beautiful blue black color with a hint of glimmer.

Julep Nail Polish - Anne

The bold nail polish is violet creme color. It goes on with a bit goopy/thick and has a little streaky. I got roughly 3 days before I got chips. A cute color, perfect for the Spring or when you need a pop of color in the Winter.

RosaPacific 19 Real Neck PT Whitening and Anti-Wrinkle

As the trend for face and sheet masks continue, it only make sense to have a mask for the neck region. As one of the many, I usually apply lotion and take diligent care of my face but forget to show the same love to my neck. Which is probably the reason why fine lines and wrinkles on the neck is the one of the first precursor of aging. I came across this mask, which I believe came in one of my MemeBox purchases and I thought I should take the time to show my neck some love.  The bio cellulose mask is made with fermented coconut juice. Coconut juice is known for its high absorptive powers and hydrating (and quite tasty!) Like many face masks, it comes with two protective layers and it can be applied to the neck region for around 30 minutes. I tried applying the mask standing up but it kept falling off. I found it easier to apply the mask and lie down (although, it was still a bit slippery). There was a slight cooling sensation and it does leave skin with a sticky film. You can wash off the extra serum or rub it in. I just rubbed mines in hopes to get rid of my neck lines (it didn’t). Unlike, facial masks  -- the whitening and anti-aging effect isn’t apparent after one use. However, my neck did feel softer, smoother and was well hydrated. I am not sure if I would get this product again but I might try another neck mask in the future.

Book Review - Harvest of Rubies (Harvest of Rubies, #1) by Tessa Afshar

Photo Source - Amazon

A woman who speaks, reads and write multiple languages, manages complex accounts along with solving mysteries -- that's completely unheard of! Thanks to the counsel of her cousin Nehemiah, Sarah was able to work as a senior scribe for the Queen. Sarah has a knack for picking up every nuances and elegances of the written word. However, how great Sarah is with the written word -- she still struggles with the spoken word.  Known for her inability to filter the truth; Sarah can't help always getting herself in trouble especially in a male dominated world.

In exchange for helping the Queen, Sarah is engaged to an admired and wealthy noble that is used to having his way. With two different worlds clashing, will the couple be able to survive the differences? Sarah who has lost her faith in God and constantly feels unloved, insufficient, and alone while Darius has his own demons. The story entwines a love story with believing in God and faith. The book moves very quickly in the beginning but I feel like the ending was a bit drawn out.  I believe, this was because to lead into the next book. A good and touching story for everyone who ever felt alone to know that there is someone always out there who does care for you.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book for my honest opinion**

Book Review - The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster by Scott Wilbanks

Photo Credit - Amazon

A heartwarming tale of misfits coming together to find a place where they belong. Separated by decades, two woman who impose isolation on themselves find comfort in each other's company. A single mysterious item, connects the two lonely hearts in more than one ways. With each letter, the pair begin to bond when an article alerts Annie to a murder. She concocts a plan to prevent the murder with the help of her kindred friend along with a cast of misfits.

Little did she know, her plan is not only destined by faith but unleashes a whole new mystery. With each of the endearing and complex characters being drawn to each other and connected. A sweet endearing story with a lot of twists and turns, that will keep you in suspense page after page. The story kept me stuck to the edge of my seat compelling me to read faster than I could to find out how the story will end.