End of 2014 Survey

Hello lovelies,

I hope you have a great New Years Eve, if you go out please be safe and responsible, don't get hurt, that would be a terrible way to start off the new year! I'm not planning on going out tonight because I have an Upper Respiratory Infection and Bronchitis, so I'm not feeling too good and I'm probably going to fall asleep as soon as the ball drops!

Anyway, because no one has time to read a super long and probably boring post all about 2014, instead I thought I would share with you my end of 2014 survey. I've shared it a few times over the past week, but I haven't received as many responses as I was hoping for. So if you haven't put in your response please do, I would love to have your feedback in time for the new year!!!

Also, I just wanted to say I love you guys ans thank you for sticking around this year, I can't wait to share with you all my new projects and adventures that next year will bring!

Thanks again everyone, I'll see you tomorrow!

XoXo,

Lori

My Favorite Songs of 2014

Hello lovelies,

My taste in music is constantly changing, I'm constantly discovering new (and old) songs and artists! I love music, I love listening to it when I'm sad, when I'm depressed, and of course when I'm happy!

This year I discovered and fell in love with a lot of songs, and today I'm going to list my 10 favorite songs of the year!

Lucy Hale - Road Between
Road Between is probably my favorite song of 2014, I love the message behind it, and Lucy's voice sounds amazing.

Taylor Swift - Shake It Off
Shake It Off is one of my favorite songs off of 1989, the album wasn't my favorite, but I did love some of the songs, and I think Shake It Off is great.

Demi Lovato - Let It Go
Who doesn't love Let It Go???

John Legend - All of Me
I've never been a huge John Legend fan, but I really do love this song, and I've listened to it a lot this year.

SoMo - Ride
I first discovered SoMo earlier this year and I immediately fell in love with his voice, he is an incredible artist and I can't wait to hear new music from him!

Rascal Flatts - Rewind
I've grown up listening to Rascal Flatts and they've never put out a song or album I don't like, so it's not surprise that this song is on my list of favorites!

Miranda Lambert ft. Carrie Underwood - Something Bad
The first time I listened to this song I really didn't like it, but once I listened to it some more I really started loving it. It's a great motivation song, it gets you pumped up and ready to go!

Cher Lloyd - Sirens
I had heard of Cher before she released Sirens, but I never was a huge fan. Sirens is so different from her other music and I love it!

Carrie Underwood - Something In The Water
I've been a huge fan of Carrie's since her first album, so once again, it's no surprise that this song makes it onto my list!

Nick Jonas ft. Demi Lovato - Avalanche 

NEMI!!! Okay I admit it, I'm a huge Nemi shipper, they would look so cute together, but they're both in relationships and I respect that. This song is incredible, the notes Demi hits in this song is some of her highest notes and their voices sound amazing together!

There are so many more songs that I've loved this year, but it would take forever to list them, so I'm going to leave you with these 10 songs! What were your favorite songs this year? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

December Goals Update

Hello lovelies,
I can't believe this year is pretty much over! It feels like just last week we were celebrating the beginning of 2014 and now here we are saying our goodbyes!

This year has been, for a lack of better words, crazy! I've learned so much over the past year, and I really do think that 2015 is going to be the best year yet!

But before we get ahead of ourselves we still have a few days left in 2014, and so let's take a look at my goals for December!

Finish Geometry Part 2.

Finish English 2 Part 1 & Part 2.

Start and Finish Chemistry Part 1.
Be a better blogger.
Send in ALL ACT scores.
Read two books.
Finish any college apps not completed.
Make final decision about WKU.

Start planning and drafting January posts.

Workout two times a week.

Complete BLOGMAS!

6 out of  11 Goals Finished.

Finish Geometry Part 2.

Almost done, but I took all last week off to enjoy Christmas. Plus I really needed a break, it was starting to give me anxiety and the last thing I want right now is to have a panic attack.

Finish English 2 Part 1 & Part 2.

I'm almost done with Part 1, with the holidays my teachers have been out and I they haven't been grading as often. Right now for Part 1 all that's left is my final (super easy) and I have one speech that I have to upload, I've just been waiting because my teacher hasn't been grading, so there was no point in uploading it.

Part 2 I haven't even started yet, but I think it's going to be pretty easy. It's over four units. One unit is poetry, then the other three are books, or excerpts from books I have to read. One full length book (Ethan Frome) and then the other two are excerpts. I should be able to knock that out in about two weeks.

Start and Finish Chemistry Part 1.

I've started the course and so far it seems like it's going to be pretty easy, I don't think I'll have any trouble with it and I should be done with it in 3-4 weeks.

Be a better blogger.

I definitely feel like I was a better blogger this month. I spent more time blogging, I spent more time on all of my different social media accounts, and I spent more time reading and commenting on other blogs!

Send in ALL ACT scores.

Yeah, that didn't happen. Thankfully I only have two left to send in, so it's no big deal. I did send in two others, so progress was made, I just didn't finish it.

Read two books.

Honestly I didn't think I would accomplish this one, I didn't think I would have the time to read, but I actually read more than two books.

Finish any college apps not completed.

I only have one app left to finish and that's for WKU. I wasn't planning on applying, but I decided it would be a good idea to apply to at least one in-state school.

Make final decision about WKU.

I decided to go ahead and apply, I have till January 15 to get everything in, and thankfully my regular app doubles as my scholarship app, so it makes it a little easier!

Start planning and drafting January posts.

I've already started planning for January and I have a few book reviews ready to go up, I just can't post them yet because the books haven't been released yet!

Workout two times a week.

I worked out a few times this month, but sadly the past two weeks I haven't been able to do anything due to my bad knee. My knee has been swollen and hurting really bad, I've been icing it, but it's not really helping any.

Complete BLOGMAS!

YES, I completed Blogmas!

That's it for today, did you accomplish your goals for this month? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

Via

Hello lovelies,
If you have a few minutes to spare, please fill out my End of 2014 Blog Survey, I would love your feedback!



XoXo,

Lori

5 Words: Week 100 The Final 5 Words

Hello Lovelies,
As I warned you back in November, the time has come to say goodbye to 5 Words. I've been planning this for a few months now and I can't wait to start off with a new series next week. I have it narrowed down to doing a Friday Five or a Weekend Links: What do you think? Let me know below!

Here's the final 5 Words...

Gloze - To explain away.

Zedonk - The offspring of a zebra and a donkey.

Droke - A valley with steeply sloping sides.

Garboil - Confusion.

Smirch - To discolor or soil.

That's it for today, I'll see you all next week!

XoXo,

Lori

Merry Christmas

Hello lovelies, I hope y'all are having a very merry Christmas Eve! I will be spending the next few days with my family, eating great food, and sleeping! I am so happy and grateful that I get to spend this wonderful day with my friends and family, including all my wonderful bloggy friends and followers! I hope you all are spending this special day with your loved ones, and I hope you always remember that I love you!

XoXo,

Lori

P.S. I'm taking the day off to spend with my family, so I won't be posting tomorrow!

Blogmas Day 23: Top 10 Tuesday: Top 10 Books I Wouldn't Mind Santa Bringing This Year

Top 10 Tuesday is a weekly link-up hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. 

This week's theme: Books I Wouldn't Mind Santa Bringing This Year.

The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins

Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by Alex Harris

Lori Foster - No Limits

Colleen Coble - Lonestar Secrets

Thomas C. Foster - How to Read Literature Like A Professor

Henrey Cloud - Boundaries

Nick Davies - Flat Earth News

Emma Healey - Elizabeth is Missing

Rebecca Skloot - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

Stephen King - On Writing

That's it for today, if you participated in this weeks link-up leave your links below, I would love to see them, and if not feel free to tell me below!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 22: The Christmas TAG

Hello lovelies,
Today I will be doing the Christmas TAG!

1. What's your favorite holiday movie?

- The Grinch. And I also love all of the Santa Clause movies!

2. What are your favorite Christmas cookies?

-I love snicker-doodles and sugar cookies!

3. Do you have any Christmas traditions?

My family always puts up our Christmas tree the weekend of Thanksgiving. And we also always go to my aunts house on Christmas Eve!

4. If you could only buy one person a present this year who would it be?

-My mom, she deserves it!

5. Favorite Christmas treat or meal?

-Favorite treat is homemade Reese's peanut butter cups or balls. Favorite meal is ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls!

6. Favorite Christmas candle?

-I love anything with a vanilla or cookie scent!

7. Do you like to stay in your PJs for Christmas or dress up?

-I always stay in my PJs.

8. Have you ever built a Gingerbread House?

No, but I want to!

9. White lights, or colored lights?
Both! Except this year, this year we bought a white Christmas tree and we have two sets of purple lights and two sets of colored lights on the tree, it looks amazing!

10. What is your best Christmas memory?

- My favorite memory is the year my mom couldn't afford to buy Christmas and our landlord and our church got together and brought us food and presents on Christmas day.

11. What is your favorite part of Christmas Dinner?

The rolls, I REALLY love bread, so Holidays are the few times a year I let myself eat a lot of bread at once. I also love desserts, my mom and I always bake together, so it's fun seeing how our creations turn out!

12. Do you want to build a snowman? ;)

YES, but there's no snow! I want a white Christmas!!!

That's it for this today, if you do this tag leave a link below I would love to read yours!

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration + End of 2014 Survey

Via

Today I would like to ask you to take a few minutes to answer my end of the 2014 survey, I will be using the results in the new year to make changes!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 20: Book Review: Allison Leigh - A Weaver Christmas Gift

Today I will be reviewing 'A Weaver Christmas Gift' by Allison Leigh, copy received from Netgalley via Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.

'A Weaver Christmas Gift' is a contemporary romance novel, it is 224 pages long and it took me about four hours to read. It is available at Amazon (Kindle) $3.79, and Barnes & Noble (NOOKBook) for $3.99.

Book Stats

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Length: 224 pages

Publisher: Harlequin

Release Date: October 21, 2014

Book Synopsis:
Help Wanted: Husband.

Jane Cohen is in a quandary: she needs a man for her baby plan. Love and marriage are nonnegotiable-it's the traditional route or bust. So it's time to cut Casey Clay loose--her friend with benefits doesn't do commitment. But this impossible, irresistible man sets the bar awfully high for her husband hunt!

No matter how deep Casey's feelings run for the sexy bar owner, when it comes to kids, he can't give her what she wants. And his secrets don't stop there. But as the mistletoe goes up around Weaver, 'tis the season for their moment of truth...and their shot at true love.

What did I think? 4.5 Stars

Like: The adorable ending.
Dislike: Nothing.

Would I recommend it?

Yes, I would definitely recommend this book! This was the first  Weaver book that I've read and I'm sure there are some things that would make more sense if I'd read some of the other Weaver books, however, this book can definitely be read as a standalone novel, and you'll still understand everything with no confusion.

My favorite part of this book was definitely the ending, it was beyond adorable! When I first started reading this book I thought it was going to be a romantic suspense, but it wasn't. And I would have known that if I had actually taken the time to read more of the books description. This was the first I've read since September that wasn't a romantic suspense book, and I actually enjoyed it!

Overall I loved the book and would definitely recommend it! It does have a few love scenes, so if you're not into that you might want to skip it, but otherwise I would definitely recommend it!

Thank you Harlequin via Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review!

Will you be buying this book? Let me know below!

XoXo,
Lori

5 Words: Week 99

Hello lovelies,
 I hope your winter break is off to a great start and I hope you all are extra careful this weekend while traveling! Be safe, take your time, and get home safe!

Here's this weeks 5 Words...

Sparge - To scatter or sprinkle.

Gnomist - A writer of aphorisms.

Prate - To talk excessively and pointlessly.

Strident - Making or having a harsh sound.

Prevaricator - A person who speaks falsely; liar.

That's it for this week!

XoXo,

Lori

Guest Post: Favorite Make-Up & Nail Polish Brands

Hello lovelies,
So today I have for you a guest post from Haley at Vest Dressed! I hope you enjoy it and don't forget to head over to her blog to see more from her!

XoXo,
Lori

Make-up and nail polish are two of almost every girl’s favorite things!!  I know it is definitely mine.  I am going to discuss some of my favorite make-up and nail polish brands, and hey, they are just in time for the holiday season in case you are still thinking of things to ask for for the holidays!

So first I have to start with talking about Stilla primer.  This primer is amazing!  It is truly a ‘one step correct’ skin tone correcting and brightening serum.  With every use I am swirling my way to perfect skin.  I especially love it in the winter because I tend to always be red in the face (not really sure why, maybe because it’s freezing and windy) but this helps sooooo much with my red wintery cheeks!  It’s my go to one-step primer for sure!

My all time favorite foundation that I have ever tried is the NARS sheer glow foundation.  This foundation goes on so smooth and is full coverage.  It covers all of my blemishes and doesn’t make my face look greasy throughout the day.  I highly recommend this foundation.

My favorite way to sculpt my eyebrows is by using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow. This dipbrow is smudge-free and water proof.  It is a nice creamy texture and a must have in my daily make-up routine.  Getting the dipbrow brush that goes with it is highly recommended because that is the best brush to use to apply the dipbrow with.

My favorite lip combo is when I wear MAC lip primer and then put Tom Ford lipstick on top of it.  The MAC lip primer is so smooth and makes your lips softer then you could ever imagine.  Tom Ford lipstick is a bit pricier but definitely worth the money.  I could rave about Tom Ford lipstick forever.  The lipstick goes on so smoothly and then it stays on for the WHOL DAY!  Even after meals it is still on my lips.  I absolutely love it.

My three favorite nail polish brands are Essie, OPI, and Sally Hansen insta-dry!  OPI and Essie are my go-to nail polish brands!  Whenever I want a new color of nail polish I go straight to the OPI and Essie colors!  The Sally Hansen insta-dry is AMAZING!  It actually dries really quickly!  It is perfect if you are running late and really need to do your nails.  You just throw some paint on and they are dry in 3 minutes instead of 15!  It is a miracle.

Also just to let you all know a lot of the make-up I have discussed in this post is on sale!  So get it while it’s a good deal!  

Thanks so much for reading about my beauty favorites!  Be sure to check my blog out at Vest Dressed and follow me on instagram (vestdressed_) to stay up to date!  Thanks so much for letting me post Lori!

XO Haley

Blogmas Day 18: Holiday Survival Kit

Hello lovelies,

Today I have for you my Holiday Survival Kit! For me the holidays are mostly amazing, however I am an introvert and I need time by myself to relax and rewind, so I decided to put together a few things that help me get through the holidays with the least amount of stress! Enjoy!

Relaxation

When I'm at home you will find me lounging around in a sweater and either yoga pants or leggings! I like to be comfortable, so I recommend finding that one outfit that you can be comfortable in whether you're alone, or if you have guests over. 

Blank Slouchy Oversized Sweatshirt $24

My ideal time to relax is late at night in bed with my favorite sweater. I love the look of this sweater from Etsy and I want to buy one in every color!

Zella 'Live In' Reversible Leggings $52

These were actually recommended to me by my doctor years ago! I really like that these come in a variety of color which makes them perfect for wearing around the house to add a pop of color!

Bath & Body Works Super Soft Slippers $17

Who doesn't need a good pair of slippers? They're perfect for wearing around the house and they keep your feet nice and warm!

Effortless, Quick, and Easy Make-Up

I love playing around with different make-up styles, however I also have a go-to routine that insures I can get my makeup done in less than 10 minutes. I recommend finding a routine that you can do quickly and that compliments your facial features!

Here's an idea for a quick and easy make-up look this holiday season!

 I always do my eyes first so that if I have any fall-out I can clean it up without messing anything else up.

Start with an eye pencil. I chose this Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Color in the color Cocoa $28.00. I would apply this close to the eyelash line and then either use your fingers or a brush and smudge it out.

Then, eyeliner, I chose this Kat Von D Tattoo Liner $18.00. Apply this like you would any other eyeliner, you can choose to keep it simple, or you can wing it out, your choice!

Then you would apply mascara and your eyes would be done!

Now for your face, I chose this Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation $38.00 !

After applying your foundation you can go in with your bronzer, blush, or highlighter, if you want. 

Then the lips, for an everyday natural look I would just apply lip balm. But if you wanted to go a little more festive I would recommend the NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Luxembourg $22.50 !

That's it for lips, and you're done! Of course with everything I've listed above you can use your fingers to apply, but personally I prefer to use make-up brushes, so I would recommend the It Cosemtics Your Face & Eye Essentials Mini 5pc Travel Brush Set $30!

Extras

I chose to include a few extras for you to consider this holiday season! 

Ghiradelli Peppermint Bark Stand Up Bags Bundle $20

I think this it's a good idea to keep something sweet on standby just in case someone gets low blood sugar. I also think these would be a really cute idea to hand out to your guests as little gifts before they leave.

Yankee Candles (Prices Vary)

I gotta admit I am a candle hoarder! I love candles, I can't get enough, if I'm in a store I can't pass the cand;e isle without stopping to smell at least one! One of my favorite candle brands is definitely Yankee Candle, my favorite scent is definitely Vanilla Cupcake and French Vanilla. I would recommend you get a few good candles this season to help you relax, to use as gifts, or just to make your house smell amazing!

Starbucks Holiday Blend for Two Gift Set $27.

I don't know about you, but I always forget someone on my Christmas list. I would highly recommend you buy a few extra gifts to have sitting around just in case!

Urban Outfitters Polaroid Camera $100

Sadly this camera is sold out, but it still serves it's purpose in this post. Make sure you have a camera nearby, even if you think you don't need it because you have your phone, get a camera, you don't want to risk missing out on taking a photo you'll remember forever.

So that is it for my little survival guide! I don't know about you, but I really enjoyed sharing with  you that quick make-up look! What did you think? If you want me to do more like it, let me know below!

What's in your Holiday Survival Kit?

XoXo,

Lori

My Favorite Holiday Movies

Hello lovelies, 

Every year from November 1st through to the end of December if I'm watching TV, it better be a Christmas movie! I have a slight obsession with ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas! I also tend to constantly have my TV on hallmark, their movies may be a bit cheesy, but I love it!

Because I've spent the past month and a half watching only Christmas movies, I have a few recommendations for you! Most of them you've probably seen, but I thought I'd go ahead and show them to you anyway!

Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas
I love the Grinch, it is by far my favorite Christmas movie, I watch it every year!

Elf
Who doesn't love buddy the elf?

The Polar Express
I love this one because it's something I can watch with my baby cousin and she won't get scared by it!

The Santa Clause, The Santa Clause 2, The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause
I love all three of the Santa Clause movies, my favorite is the third movie, I have it on DVD and I watch it all year round.

Home Alone & Home Alone 2: Lost In New York
I grew up watching the Home Alone movies and I still love them!

Christmas With the Kranks

I love Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis on their own, but they're even better together!

Matchmaker Santa

This is a Hallmark movie starring Lacey Chabert, it's probably one of my favorite Hallmark movie, it's a really cute holiday romance and I love it!

What are your favorite Christmas movies?

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 16: Top 10 Tuesday: Top 10 Books I Read in 2014

Top 10 Tuesday is a weekly link-up hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

This week's theme: Top 10 Books I Read in 2014.

Before I get into today's Top 10 Tuesday, I would like to ask you to leave your opinion below on my little edit! Normally I use the one from the Broke and the Bookish website, but it's a little too small for my blog and it looks blurry, so I decided to make my own and I want your opinion! So please let me know below what you think!

The Tycoon's Daughter by Caitlyn Duffy
I really love the Treadwell Academy Series, it's probably the best YA series I've read in a long time! The Tycoon's Daughter is by far my favorite in the series and you can read my review here!

Too Friendly Too Date by Nicole Helm
If I had to pick my #1 book read in 2014 it would probably be a tie between this and The Tycoon's Daughter, I highly recommend this book, I loved it, I still love it, and I see myself re-reading this book again in the future!

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
I read this in January for my English class and I really enjoyed it. I didn't think I would like it because I usually don't like the books I have to read for school, but I actually liked it.

Deadly Holiday Reunion by Lenora Worth
I actually just finished this book last week, but it was amazing, and I couldn't leave it off my list! You can read my review here!

Heiress on the Run by Sophie Pembroke
I won this book in a giveaway and I really liked it, I really liked the characters, and I like the message of the book. You can read my review here.

Her Colton Lawman by Carla Cassidy
I LOVED this book, I LOVED the whole series, in my review (here) I said I was thinking about buying the third and final book in the series, well, I did, I haven't finished yet, bus as soon as I do I'll make sure I review it!

Maverick Sheriff by Delores Fossen
The only bad thing I can say about this book is that it should have been longer! You can read my review  here to see more of what I thought about it!

The Boy I Love by Nina de Gramont
I really liked the characters in this book, it's one of the two YA novels I read this year, and I really enjoyed it. You can read my review here, to see more of what I thought about it!

Loving Ellie by Lindsey Brookes
This is a contemporary romance novel, my favorite part about this book was that unlike most books nowadays, it didn't rely on constant references to today's books, music, entertainment, etc. I like that this is a book that I could read in 50 years and not look back wondering what the author was talking about. You can read more of my review here!

Snowstorm Confessions by Rachel Lee
I LOVED this book, I really loved the Brianna and Luke's characters, but what I loved even more was getting to read from the stalkers point of view too! You can read my review here!

This was a really hard list to make, I read so many amazing books this year, there weren't many that I didn't like! You may have noticed a them above, this year I discovered that I really like the romantic suspense genre, that's what I mostly read this year, and I'm so happy I re-discovered my old love for romantic suspense books!

So there's my Top 10 Books I Read in 2014, what are yours? Tell me below or leave me a link to your Top10!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 15: Pinterest Finds

Hello lovelies,

I hope you had a great weekend! My weekend was probably the best weekend I've had in a while. Most of that can be contributed to the fact that I was still on cloud nine from getting accepted to UE last week!

This week I have a lot to do, I have a lot of schoolwork to finish up this week, three finals, two English papers, and three quizzes! Like I said, it's a lot, but I can do it! I also want to get some blog work in there, I have so many changes coming up and I can't wait to share it with you!

Before I get into this months Pinterest Finds, I want to take a moment to ask your opinion on something. Do you prefer how I usually do my monthly Pinterest finds with pictures to every link, or do you like how I did this post with links, explanations, and only one or two photos?

 Please let me know below!

1. Mostly Morgan: 44 Things I Learned My Freshman Year of College

Last Thursday, after I got my acceptance letter to UE of course I started looking at the college section on Pinterest! While looking at the College section I found a new blog that I'm loving right now! It's called Mostly Morgan , if you're interested in blogging, college life, or health & beauty, I would definitely recommend you check out her blog!

2. Be A Sticker Stickler

I've been trying to eat healthier lately and I found this and I thought it might help others who are trying to eat healthier!

3. 5 Crispy Alternatives to the Potato Chip

Keeping with the healthy theme, I found this link for healthy alternatives to chips. I really want to try  the kale chips, so many people love them and I really need to eat more veggies and fruits!

 I also like the bacon chips even though they really aren't that healthy!

4. A Little Bit of Inspiration

That's it for this month's Pinterest Finds, I hope you found something that interests you! What have you been loving on Pinterest lately?

XoXo,

Lori

Weekly Inspiration

Via

XoXo,

Lori

Book Review: Lenora Worth - Deadly Holiday Reunion

Today I will be reviewing 'Deadly Holiday Reunion' by Lenora Worth, copy received from Netgalley via Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.

'Deadly Holiday Reunion' is a romantic suspense novel, it is 224 pages long and it took me about four hours to read. It is available at Amazon (Kindle) for $4.74 and at Barnes & Noble (NOOK Book) for $4.99.

Book Stats

Genre:  Romantic Suspense

Length: 224 pages

Publisher: Harlequin

Release Date: November 4, 2014

Book Synopsis:

A child's life was in danger.

Texas Ranger Jake Cavannah will do anything to rescue his kidnapped daughter from the clutches of a killer. And that means turning to Ella Terell--his high school sweetheart--for help. The former FBI agent is lucky to be alive after her own encounter with the vengeful madman. And now history seems to be repeating itself this holiday season. Ella needs time to sort through the past--yet time is a luxury they don't have. For the kidnapper is taunting them with misleading clues and a ticking clock. But Ella will bring Jake's child home at all costs--even at the risk of losing her heart and her life...

What Did I Think? 5 Stars

Like: It kept me guessing.

Dislike: Nothing.

Would I recommend it?

Yes, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic suspense books. This is probably one of the best romantic suspense books I've ever read! If you like Christian romantic suspense books then you'll love this book!

I really liked Jake and Ella's characters, in most books you don't really see male protagonists show a lot of emotion, so I really liked that that was explored in this book, it made you feel even more for Jake.

Overall it was a great book and I want to look into and read more from Lenora Worth'!

Thank you Harlequin via Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review!

Will you be buying this book? Let me know below!

XoXo,

Lori

5 Words: Week 98

Hello lovelies,
This week has been incredible, so many amazing things have happened and words cannot express how happy I am! So what has made me so happy this week?

I got into my #1 college pick, the University of Evansville!!! I honestly didn't think I was going to get in, my ACT scores were awful, and I don't have many extracurriculars, so getting that letter yesterday made my year. I've been dreaming of getting into UE since I first visited the campus in sixth grade!

Anyway, here's this week's 5 Words...

Nidificate - To build a nest.

Chansonette - A little song; ditty.

Iwis - Certainly.

Hypogeum - An underground burial chamber.

Immix - To mix in; mingle.

That's it for today! Come back tomorrow for more Blogmas fun!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 12: Over $100 Holiday Gift Guide

Hello lovelies,

Today I'm bringing you my Under $100 Holiday Gift Guide! As of right now, this will be my final gift guide for this year, but if you want to see more, then let me know below and I'll try to do another!

Today I only have 13 items for you, but I think you're really going to like them, so let's get started!

Goodnight Macaroon Beige Navy Blue Trim Structured Collar Trecnch Coat $188.00 $138.00

I really like the look of this trench coat, I like more structured pieces, plus it's on sale!

Gucci Guilty Intense Eau de Parfum Spray 2.5oz $112.00

I've never actually smelled this for myself, but I've had it recommended to me time and time again and I really want to get a sample of it to try.

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4x $449.00

I HATE having, I hate it, if I had $449 to pay for this I would buy it in a hearbeat! When I first saw commercials for the Tria I thought it was just some gimmicky product, but from the reviews I've seen it's actually the real deal, and it's a lot cheaper than other options.

Keurig K10 Single Serve Brewer, Mini Plus $150.00

I don't drink coffee often, but when I do I usually only drink one cup and I'm done, so a single serve coffee maker is perfect for me because I hate wasting stuff.

L.L. Bean Classic Lambswool Duffel Coat $229.00

I love this Molten Red color, I've been searching for a coat like this for a while, I just never thought of looking at L.L. Bean for one! Sadly I've already bought a coat for this winter, but next winter I'll make sure to remember this!

Goodnight Macaroon Pearl Diamond Sterling Silver Earrings $118.00
I feel like a nice pair of pearls is a timeless and foolproof gift for women of all ages, this particular pair comes in three colors, white, purple, and pink. Personally I prefer the white, but it's nice to have the option of getting a different color if you wanted something different.

Tuckernuck Bristol Men's Watch Daniel Wellington $229.00
I really like this watch, I think it's very simple and it could be worn by pretty much any guy on your list!

Ann Mashburn Box-Pleat Skirt $225
I really like this piece because it has a classy timeless style and I also really love that it has pockets!

Chi Ultra CHI Orbit 3 in 1 Tourmaline Cermaic Curler $120.00
I really need a new curling iron, I like this set becuase it's the quality of a CHI, but you get three sizes! I think this is definitely worth the price, plus it's easier to store and keep organized compared to three full-size curling irons.

Citizens of Humanity Skinny Stretch Leggings (Axle) $178.00
I really love the look of these leggings, they really do look like jeans, and I love black jeans!

Hunter Sandhurst Equestrian Boots $175.00
When I first saw these boots I didn't like them, but they've started to grow on me, and now I want them!

Clarisonic Mia 3 Replenishing Moisture Cleanse $199.00
I mentioned this in yesterday's post I've had an urge to buy a new face brush even though I really don't need one! But I decided to go ahead and include it to give y'all some ideas!

Urban Decay Naked Vault $280.00
This one really doesn't need an explanation, this is on pretty much every girls 'If I Could Have Anything This Christmas Wishlist'!

That's it for this post, I hope you liked it! My 5 Words for this week will be up in a little while, make sure you read it, I received some of the best news ever yesterday and I talk about it in that post!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 11: Under $100 Holiday Gift Guide

Hello lovelies,
Today I have for you my Under $100 Holiday Gift Guide! I have lots of goodies for you today, and I'm so happy I can finally share them with you!

Let's get started!

Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush $89.50
I've had my eye on this brush for a while, I love Clinique and I love the design of this brush. I've been wanting this for about a year, the only problem is I already have a brush by another brand and even though I want it, I really don't need it.

Anne Klein Hinge Case Watch, 32mm $55.00
The one thing I really want for Christmas this year is a watch, I don't have any watches, and I really want to get a nice watch before I go off to college next year.

Hunter Original Ballet Flats $89.00 Final Sale
I'm in desperate need of a new pair of flats, the problem is I can't find any that come in my size and that give my feet the support they need. Unfortunately because these are final sale they no longer have my size, but I decided to go ahead and include them in case any of you can find your size, it's a great deal and they have five colors, enjoy!

The Fine Pearls 6-7mm Black Akoya Pearl Earrings AAA Quality $58.00
When you think of pearls you don't think of black pearls, you think of pretty white or cram colored pearls. That's why I love this pair of earrings, you still get your traditional pearls, just with a twist!

Urban Decay Naked 3 Eyeshadow Palette $54.00
I really love the rosy colors in this palette, I never really was a fan of the Naked 2 palette, but I immediately fell in love with the Naked 3 as soon as I saw the first pictures after it's release!

Nordstrom at Home 'Deer Date' Plush Throw $38.00
I really love this Red Earth/Cream Turtledove color, I love buying soft blankets, and this one is so cute, plus at the moment it's actually on sale for  $28.49!

Nordstrom Buffalo Plaid Cashmere Scarf $99.50
I've always loved buffalo plaid, so the fact that it's super trendy right now makes me really happy! This cashmere scarf would be perfect for that special guy on your list that you want to keep warm and toasty this winter! ;)

J. Crew JD Wolfe Heart Bowels $36.00
When I first saw these bowels my first impression was oh my God those are so cute! Then when I saw the price my mind was blown, I was expecting these to be over $100, I think this would be the perfect gift for anyone who's just got a new place!

Tuckernuck Christmas Sweater Needlepoint Flask $65.00
I don't think there's any explanation needed for this one!

Barefoot Dreams 'Cozy Chic' Multi-Stripe Throw $98.00
I love the color combo on this throw!

Ted Baker London 'Small Bow' Cosmetics Case $45.00
I love this Mid Pink color, it's so bright and fun, the only thing I would worry about is keeping it clean.

Tory Burch 'Evie' Faux Pearl Stud Earring $68.0
I've had my eyes on these for a few months now and my love for them still has faded! They look so classy and timeless and I'm in love!

Torrid Strappy Riding Boot (Wide Width) $70.00
I love the design of these boots, they're exactly what I've been searching for and I love that they aren't a shiny black, it's more of a matte black, which makes them even more versatile! AND they have my size! Honestly, my bank account hates me, and I hate it because it doesn't have enough money in there to buy them, college applications and the ACT are killing me! *Finds a corner to go cry in*

Renne Rouleau Cio Calm Repair Masque $52.00
I'm really interested in trying this masque, the only thing stopping me from buying it is the price tag and the fact that I'm scared my sensitive skin will have a bad reaction to it.

Scout Miss Manors Blackout Scout $59.00
So I've already mentioned that I want to buy a watch before going off to college, I also want to invest in a really good bag. I found this bag a few months ago and I still haven't found anything else that tops it! I decided to include this because of the price and because with an extra $12.00 you can personalize it!

Fashion to Figure Plus Size Glenda Glitter Dress $44.50
I'm in love with this dress, I love the color, the ruching under the bust, and the length!

Before I sign off for today I did want to mention that one a few of these items the prices are actually lower than I listed above. At the moment Nordstrom is doing a sale, I'm not sure how long it will last so I decided to put the regular price, instead of the sale price on the items I included from Nordstrom.

So that's it for today, I hope you enjoyed it! Don't forget tomorrow I'll be posting my Over $100 Holiday Gift Guide!
Let me know below what you think!

XoXo,

Lori

Blogmas Day 10: 10 Holiday Party Dresses

Hello lovelies,
With the Holiday season in full swing I've come to realize that I really don't own any dresses that could be considered Holiday dresses. In my closet I only have four dresses, two summer dresses, one formal dress, and one that could be worn pretty much anywhere.

So after realizing that I decided it's time to invest in some more dresses and so I've been searching the internet and I've come up with 10 Holiday Party Dresses that I would love to buy!

I've ordered these by price, lowest to highest! While I do love the last dress in this post I definitely won't be buying it because I don't have $500.00 to spend on something I would rarely ever wear, but if you have the money, I say go for it!

So, here's my picks for this Holiday season!

Forever 21 Sequined Textured Knit Dress $24.90

Charlotte Russe Lace-Back Halter Shift Dress $26.99

Charlotte Russe Cold Shoulder Bodycon Sequin Dress $36.99

Charlotte Russe Sequin & Lace Strapless Skater Dress $39.99

Fashion to Figure Plus Size Glenda Gliter Deep V Dress $44.50
This is my fave! I love the color, the ruching under the bust, and the length!

Dolman Metallic Ombre Dress $109.00
This is my second favorite, again I love the color, the length, and I think the ombre looks amazing!

Ann Taylor Boucle Sweater Dress $109.99

Dress the Population 'Kim' Sequin Body-Con Dress $180.00

Adrianna Papell Sequin Cutaway Sheath Dress $238.00

Topshop Online Exclusive Chain Embellished Shift Dress $500.00

That's it for today, I hope you enjoyed this post. Don't forget tomorrow I will be posting my Under $100 Holiday Gift Guide tomorrow and my Over $100 Holiday Gift Guide on Friday!

Will you being going out this holiday season? What dress do you prefer?

XoXo,

Lori