Hi, I’m Maddie

An open copy of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' surrounded by dried flowers and leaves, with a cup of tea with dried petals on a floral saucer, all set on a textured fabric surface.

A washed up English major finding the joy in reading again.

Okay, washed up may be a little harsh. What I mean is that I’ve always been a self-proclaimed book lover; I even went to college just to study them, but I never pursued any literary-related careers and, during the last few years, I almost stopped reading entirely. Not sure why, exactly. But after struggling with resurfaced mental health issues, I decided books, like they did a long time ago when I decided to study literature, would be the thing to pull me out of the pit I found myself in. But this time, I wouldn’t be analyzing. I’d be thoroughly enjoying (maybe with a touch of analysis here and there).

Now, I want to share my own reviews for anyone who’s not looking for a scholarly breakdown but honest reviews that don’t take themselves too seriously. I’m sure from a critical standpoint, some of my thoughts and opinions may not hold up. I know that there are certain objective criteria that deem a book “good,” but I’m just here to find a little joy, exercise my brain a little harder, and maybe learn a little something along the way. So, don’t take my words as gospel, but do take them as one honest viewpoint to consider when exploring new books to read (or when you’re in that post-book frenzy, scouring the internet for other people’s thoughts).

What else you’ll find here
stay tuned for these other collections

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    Travel

    I’ve lived in Siena, Italy for nearly five years now, and it stole my heart the minute I stepped foot on this ancient earth. I hope to share some of that love with you through anecdotes, travel tips, and random musings on the beauty of the Tuscan region.

  • A black fountain pen resting on handwritten letter with purple and white flowers beside it.

    Poetry

    I’d by no means call myself a poet or even a writer, but poetry has been a cathartic tool for me for many years. For a while I was too shy to share these words with anyone, but now I’m hoping someone out there may find comfort in them.

  • A bouquet of dried lavender, white candles, small bottles, black candles, and purple gemstones on a wooden tray with green moss and decorative items.

    Hobbies & More

    A random collection of notes, journal entries, and maybe a guide here or there about my various hobbies and other miscellaneous things. I tend to bounce from hobby to hobby and need a space where I can document it all!