Greetings, fellow book enthusiasts! I am thrilled to present my favorite blog yet, the blog where I get to talk about all things books. What better way to spend a chilly December day than by diving into a captivating book while sipping on a delicious drink? I can’t think of a more perfect combination, so let’s dive into the magical world of reading and merge it with all things cozy and delicious.
Let’s kick things off with my ultimate favorite, “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros. For those of you who have experienced its magic, you understand my obsession with it. I put off reading this book for the longest time because I was worried it wasn’t worth all the hype around it, but I am here to tell you it is more than worth the hype. The way this book has such a grip on me that I think about it, (AND Iron Flame), daily. Dragons, magic, enemies turned lovers, drama, self realization and growth, every aspect of Violet and Xaden’s story is jaw dropping and soul gripping. The only thing that could make this book any better is the perfectly paired drink.
Drink one: Violet Violence
- 2oz Empress Gin
- Lemonade (optional addition of jalapeños for extra violence!)
Drink two: Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Add peppermint schnapps for a fun twist
Both drinks pay homage to the key elements of the story, allowing you to immerse yourself even deeper in the story.
If you’re in the mood for more suspense, let’s talk about the craziest thriller I have read this year, “The Housemaid” by Freida McFadden. Freida is the master of all things thriller with this tale that keeps you guessing at every turn, it’s a plot-twist extravaganza. In this story, a young girl named Millie becomes a live-in housemaid for a family who seem as put together as one family can be. Millie soon learns that they have more than a few skeletons in their closet… and that is all I can say without completely spoiling the thrill!
Match your next thriller read with this perfectly paired drink recipe:
Twisted Classic Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka (or your preferred clear spirit)
- 0.5 oz raspberry liqueur (for a hint of intrigue and sweetness)
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice (for a burst of citrus)
- Soda water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the vodka and raspberry liqueur.
- Squeeze in the fresh lime juice.
- Top up the glass with soda water.
- Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with a few fresh raspberries.
A refreshing and simple concoction that adds a touch of mystery to your reading experience. Cheers to a suspenseful reading experience!
Now, let’s transition to a classic love story, “The Notebook” by Nicholas Sparks. Allie and Noah’s story is a timeless tale that tugs at the heartstrings, a guaranteed tear-jerker. This was one of the first love stories I ever read and it still sits with me to this day. After completing this literary masterpiece, you have the option to watch the movie adaptation that followed.
To accompany this classic, grab a bottle of your favorite wine. What drink says “love” better than a bottle of good wine?
Lastly, let’s delve into the soul-stirring love story of “Archer’s Voice” by Mia Sheridan. The character development in this story is unlike anything else. Mia has a way of writing her characters to make it feel like you are on the journey alongside them. Following the self journey of both Bree and Archer alone, and with each other, is a story that will make your heart swell. Really any of Mia’s books will make you feel this way, they will make you feel like love is possible no matter the circumstances.
The Silent Serenade mirrors the warmth and depth of the novel, creating a perfect pairing for this beautiful love story.
Silent Serenade Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz honey syrup
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 dash of lavender bitters
- Ice cubes
- Lavender sprig for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, honey syrup, fresh lemon juice, and lavender bitters to the shaker.
- Shake well to blend and chill the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Optionally, garnish with a sprig of lavender for a subtle floral aroma.
While I could talk about books endlessly, every good story, including this blog post, must come to an end. I leave you with these book recommendations and their perfectly matched drinks. There’s a book and a delightful drink out there for everyone to curl up with this winter. Cheers to the joy of reading!
If you missed any of our past posts, you can read them here, and don’t forget to look out for next week's blog post; Fun Family Friendly Christmas Games.
Thanks for reading, we appreciate you!! Cheers!