books

Things I Love: Pretty Little Things Edition

Welcome to the newest section of Will Write For Boots! Things I Love is place where you will find curated lists of things I am currently obsessed with, but don’t necessarily fit neatly into a another category (though some will be cross-posted). And what better day to launch a section all about the things I love than the week of Valentine’s Day?

So to kick off the new Things I Love section, here are seven pretty little things I love right now and are guaranteed to brighten your Valentine’s Day no matter your relationship status.

Riverdale He Loves Me, She Loves Me Not

This book is an awesome addition to any Riverdale fan’s bookshelf. Packed with fun dating tips and insights from your favorite characters, you find a fun compilation of character horoscopes, Veronica’s dating column, Dark Betty’s take on love, and so much more. Hey, you know what they say about the town with pep: Come for the murder. Stay for the romance.

9781338560145_p0_v1_s600x595 ($10.99 from Barnes and Noble)

Sephora Collection Lip Treatments

I’ve always been a big fan of the Sephora’s in-house brand, but their $7.00 lip balms and scrubs are my hands down favorite find. I own about six of them that live permanently in my purse. They smell great and leave your lips feeling smooth and soft for a long time after use.

s1835339-main-zoom ($7.00 from Sephora)

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before Lara Jean Funko Pop

Has a cuter Funko Pop ever existed? This sweet one is the perfect embodiment of everyone’s favorite Netflix rom-com heroine.

Screen Shot 2020-02-09 at 3.16.10 PM ($12.50 from Hot Topic)

Library Card Socks

I’m a sucker for a cute pair of socks, and these pastel library card socks are no exception. They just make me happy plain and simple.

Screen Shot 2020-02-09 at 3.19.34 PM ($14.00 from Out of Print Clothing)

Fringe Large Paperback Journals

I own a lot of journals, but none of them hold a candle to my large paperback ones from Fringe. (I currently own two and plan on getting more.) They combine the page size and space that I love about a marble composition notebook from the dollar store with the look and style of something I would buy at Barnes and Noble. Plus, with tons of cute designs a a reasonable price point, there is a journal for every mood and taste.

Screen Shot 2020-02-09 at 3.23.44 PM ($18.00 from Fringe Studio)

Book Lover Pen Set

What’s a pretty journal without a set of pretty pens? Whether you are penning a novel or jotting down a grocery list, these pens add a whimsical touch to any book lover’s day.

0843232150033_p0_v1_s600x595 ($14.99 from Barnes and Noble)

A Little Something Different

I’ve read a lot of romance over the years, but A Little Something Different by Sandy Hall has to the sweetest and most unique. From their campus meet cute to their shy glances in a their creative writing class, it’s clear to everyone around college students Lea and Gabe that they are endgame even if they don’t realize it themselves. As you watch their love story unfold through the eyes of friends, professors, and even a squirrel and a bench, you will be shipping these two hard from start to finish. Seriously, it’s a feels fest.

9781250061454_p0_v5_s600x595 ($9.99 from Barnes and Noble)

The Book Boyfriends You Need in Your Life Right Now

There is just something about boys in books. Whether he’s a tattooed badass, a gentleman of a bygone era, or the boy next door, we can’t seem to get enough of the guys who inhabit the pages of our favorite reads. Plus, with abundance of genres and sub genres on shelves right now, there really is a literary soulmate to suit every taste.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are five swoon worthy book boyfriends guaranteed to make you melt. Because boys in books are better. They just are.

Nash Donovan, “Nash” by Jay Crownover

Nash Donovan from the Marked Men series is the perfect example of why you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. At first glance, his gauges, his septum piercing and the flames tattooed on his head make him appear to be all kinds of bad news. However, behind those lilac eyes lies one of the most kind-hearted guys you will ever know. Rising above a past riddled with abandonment and anger, he’s the voice of reason in a group of friends known for their unpredictability, providing a steady shoulder for others to lean on. He puts he needs of others above his own and often carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. When it comes to his girl, he’s loyal to the core with a sweet and thoughtful romantic side that makes her feel like there is no one else in the room but her. Nash is proof of why you should read the book all the way through.

Nash Donovan

Will Herondale, “The Infernal Devices” series by Cassandra Clare

If there was a word to perfectly describe shadowhunter Will Herondale of Cassandra Clare’s Victorian London trilogy Infernal Devices it would be complex. Cursed to believe anyone who loves him will die a painful death, he hides behind a wall of arrogance and sarcasm, pushing away anyone who dares to get close. Most view him as self-centered, brash, and reckless. However, while he can’t show it, Will cares deeply for his makeshift family and would lay down his life for them in a heartbeat if asked. Time and again, he puts his own happiness aside for them without them even knowing it. His only solace from the pain is his books, their pages the only things keeping him from going mad with loneliness and despair. Long for love and to be loved, a beautifully complicated story you’ll want to get lost in again and again.

Rule Archer, “Rule” by Jay Crownover

If there was ever an incarnation of every girl’s idea of the perfect rebel, it would be hard to beat tattoo artist Rule Archer from the Marked Men series. Tattooed and pierced with ever-changing colored hair and icy blue eyes, this gorgeous guy is known for his wicked temper, stubborn attitude, and reckless behavior, including plowing his way through the greater population of young women in Denver. However, underneath all that angsty, agro swagger, you’ll find it’s all a front. So who is the real Rule? As his girl Shaw discovers, he’s a fierce protector, a skillful artist, and a passionate lover who’s loyal until the end and ready to give everything he’s got. Rule will never be your typical romantic guy and there’s always going to be give-and-take, but life with him will never be boring.

Rule Archer

Race Hartman, “Better When He’s Bold” by Jay Crownover

Few are bold enough to rule over a broken kingdom like like the Point, but Race Hartman from Better When He’s Bold has never been one to back down from a challenge. Trading in a life of luxury to protect his younger sister, his rise to kingpin of the mean inner-city streets was a hard fought battle, he has no plans of abdicating his throne. While those around him rely on fists and guns, Race uses his intellect, charm and powers of persuasion to keep his control on the chaos around him. However, don’t let his pretty face and regal presence fool you. He knows exactly who is controlling the chessboard, and he knows how to manipulate the pieces to put the odds in his favor, especially if you go after the people he loves. Mess with his girl, his car or his city, and Race will burn the world to the ground.

Xander Spence, “The Distance Between Us” by Kasie West

Xander Spence from The Distance Between Us is just like a cup of hot chocolate. He’s sweet, he’s hot, and he’s oh so rich. Oozing irresistible charm, money, and status, Xander’s got the fancy car, the fancy clothes, and an uncanny ability to disable even the most stubborn of girls with just a flash of his perfect smile and some witty banter. However, he isn’t just another stuck-up snob like the rest of his crew. Under all his cocky flash is a sweet guy with a big heart and a kind soul. He’s been known to run errands for his grandmother and to go above and beyond for a friend. He’s also a big fan of romantic gestures both big and small. He’ll whisk you away on an over the top date one day and bring you blueberry muffins and hot chocolate at work the next. With Xander, life is always one sweet adventure.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: Nancy Drew

Nancy Drew is bursting back onto the pop culture stage, and I am completely here for it. For decades, America’s favorite girl detective has captivated imaginations and inspiring young women through dozens of incarnations in books, movies, and phone and computer games. Many influential women in business, politics, and the arts have even cited her as one of their personal heroes. Now, Nancy is being introduced to a whole new generation with a brand new series on The CW. With the popularity of this latest incarnation, Nancy Drew themed items are guaranteed to top many wishlists this holiday season.

Looking for some clues of what to get? Whether she’s a long time fan or just discovering her for the first time, here a list of awesome Nancy Drew gifts that won’t require any internet sleuthing.

Tote Bag

This pretty tote is perfect for carrying around all your important possessions like your notebook or stolen blood from the morgue.

Screen Shot 2019-11-25 at 3.21.57 PM.png ($20.00 from Out of Print)

Nancy Drew Starter Box Set

Dive into the book series behind the show with this beautiful box set containing the first five Nancy Drew stories. Plus, you’ll be able to spot many of the subtle references the show runners have slipped into the show.

71wtTywDszL.jpg ($25.00 from Amazon)

Lilac Inn Candle

Dead Lucy may be the only guest at the now defunct Lilac Inn, but I can only imagine it was a luxe Horseshoe Bay retreat once upon a time. Relieve its glory days with this sweet blend of lilacs, rosemary, and oranges.

il_794xN.1924175376_9ogu (Starting from $8.50 from Etsy)

Drew Crew T-Shirt

Join the coolest teenage sleuths since the Mystery Gang. Because mystery loves company.

Screen Shot 2019-11-25 at 3.31.33 PM.png(Available in a variety of styles starting at $20.00 from Tee Public)

I’m Nancy Drew Mug

For anyone who considers Nancy Drew #LifeGoals.

560 ($15.00 from Teespring)

Bayside Claw T-Shirt

The official swag of the only Horseshoe Bay eatery where everyone comes for the chowder but stays for the murder.

Screen Shot 2019-11-25 at 3.26.13 PM (Available in a variety of styles starting at $20.00 from Tee Public)

Book Safe

I’m pretty sure Nancy would love to have this to keep all her discoveries safe and sound from prying eyes.

il_1588xN.1175475808_h40n ($19.00 from Etsy)