Books & Browsing
What I've been reading & restraining myself from purchasing
In exactly one week I leave Australia and head back to the real world. Still not having a summer internship secured has been making me a little anxious, but I know I need to trust that everything will work out in whatever way it’s meant too.
I’ve had more free time these last 2 weeks than ever before in my life. The weather here in Sydney has been iffy and most days are dreary and rainy. Napping, long walks, reading, pilates everyday, and watching movies has become the norm for me.
I’ve started many drafts on here, yet pause halfway through, unsure what I want to say or how personal I want to get. Most thoughts end up haphazardly scribbled in my journal.
In an effort to avoid too long of a Substack dry spell I present to you:
BOOKS & BUYS
While my credit card is VERY much in time out right now, I simply couldn’t resist this brand new with tags Paco Rabanne two piece lace set that caught my eye at a local luxury consignment store. It fit like a glove, didn’t need hemming (a rarity for me), and had a built in bra?!?! I scored the set for less than half of what the skirt costs brand new.
I’m envisioning styling the skirt this summer with my new Flore Flore Tank that's waiting for me at home.
Just because my credit card is in time out, doesn’t mean I don’t browse. Here’s what hasn’t left my cart or mind.
Sea Priscilla Fringe Top - exquisite, this would certainly be my piece of the summer
Oséree Striped Lame shorts - a unique and elevated version of the handover sequin boxer shorts we’ve seen all over. These would be so fun with a simple white tee and some bold jewelry
Ocean Cotton Mini - while this may swallow all 5 feet of me, I can’t stop thinking about it with the below clutch at a chic resort dinner
Simkhai Raffia Oyster Shell Clutch - itching to add clutches to my wardrobe and this is such a perfect summer piece
Tory Burch Pierced Mule - I’m sure you’ve seen these everywhere, but as I envision going into the office for a a summer internship (crossing my fingers) these seem like the perfect versatile shoe!
Leset Jersey Pocket Pants - the biggest influence Australia has had on my style is that comfort is key, I rarely reach for jeans here. This color is divine and they would be perfect to throw on for a coffee run or quick lunch
Larroudé Stella Sneaker in Seaweed - another thing I don’t wear much here in Aus is sneakers, but I know how much of a staple they are in my closet, especially running around a city. This color is my absolute favorite and I can see it fitting perfectly into my closet
Vertigo Pink Lace Bag Charm - the stones in everything Vertigo makes are so eye catching and beautiful, and this would be amazing on a work tote
Jenni Kayne Newport Pleated Denim Trousers - dress these up or down, the office or drinks I love a good denim pant
A.Emery Slim Leather Sandals - I’ve been wanting to try this brand of sandals forever, and this specific one looks like such a classic and versatile summer shoe (I also love the suede ones and am very into suede in the summer)
Simkhai Nixi Twist Bag - clearly Simkhai does no wrong, this is such a stylish and timeless bag
BOOK REVIEW
I’ve always considered myself an avid reader, but at school I often find it hard to whizz through books like I’m used to. I spend so much time reading for classes, I often just want to watch TV and scroll, and then there’s all the late night cramming and social activities that aren’t quite conducive to a cozy cuppa tea and book in bed.
But here it’s a whole other world. I read at the beach, on the bus, at the coffee shops, before bed every night. I forgot the power of a good book.
So here is my review of all the books I’ve read so far in 2025
Conversations on Love - I read this book at a time when I couldn’t possibly need its words and wisdoms more. It’s filled with underlines and notes and I plan to come back to it often throughout my 20s and beyond. Filled with insights on friendships, grief, marriage, and relationships I found myself reminded that love comes in so many forms. I was comforted by the fact that so many people face the same insecurities and fears as me, and simultaneously filled with hope and joy at the notion that love is so prevalent everywhere in my life and within me.
The Guest - I enjoyed this book, but was disappointed by the ending. Following Alex, a sex worker from NYC, the story follows her time in the Hamptons, where she seems to always find her way towards chaos. Told through the blurred lens of Alex’s drug hazed mind, I was transported right there next to her and all her bad decisions. The writing was so vivid and transported me right to the beach clubs and pool houses of the Hamptons elite.
The Family Next Door - With a twist I never saw coming, I finished this book in less than a week. Each character was fascinating and messed up in their own way, with enough affairs and secrets to fuel a Desperate Housewives season. I adore a book that takes you inside the lives of seemingly perfect families. Highly recommend if you want a page turning easy read.
How to End a Love Story - Sometimes a romance book is just what the doctor ordered, and this one didn’t disappoint. By no means is this is the best romance book ever written, but it’s fun, has a unique set up, and has some depth to the characters and their stories.
Good Material - Dolly Alderton is one of my favorite authors, and this novel was a reminder why. From the perspective of a male comedian going through a breakup, this book was reflective, funny, relatable, and overall an interesting read. My favorite element was the notion that relationships are complex and never perfect, and the ending from Jen’s point of view was a needed reminder that it’s okay to enjoy being alone.
Trust - I chose this book for its high accolades and praise, and while I was a bit bored while reading parts, for the most part I was captivated by the characters and the unique architecture of the story. An exploration of how difficult it can be to identity the full truth and how easy it is to control a narrative, this was a read outside my comfort zone but well worth it.
The God of the Woods - My absolute favorite of all these books. Set at a summer camp in the Adirondacks, the story weaves through different POV’s past and present to craft a thrilling mystery. Without giving too much away, this is a MUST read book that will have you staying up to turn the pages under the covers at night.
All Fours - This book was not in anyway what I expected. I was disturbed and uneasy throughout and yet kept reading out of sheer curiosity. I was anticipating a reflective exploration on motherhood, middle aged life, and a writer exploring her creativity. Instead, the main character acted in bizarre and insane ways that left me cringing. I saw so much praise for this book online, but it wasn’t for me.