Sunday, August 31, 2025

Giveaway : September 2025 Free Printable Calendar

Cozy Up! Your FREE September 2025 Autumn Calendar is Here!

Hello, lovely readers!
Can you believe we're already waving goodbye to August and welcoming the hint of autumn?
That crispness in the air, the subtle shift in the light... it truly is one of my favorite times of the year!

And you know what that means, right? It's time for your shiny new, absolutely FREE monthly calendar giveaway!

As is tradition here on the blog, at the end of each month (or the very beginning of the next!), I love to share a little piece of art with you, a brand new calendar for the month ahead.
It's my way of saying thank you for being here, and hopefully, adding a little splash of joy and organization to your daily life.

Get Ready for September 2025 in Style!

For September 2025, I've poured all my autumn-loving energy into Photoshop to create something truly special.
Get ready to dive into a palette of brilliant reds, soft oranges, rich browns, and vibrant greens.

I've truly tried to capture all the incredible nuances autumn brings with itself, that magical shift in nature's wardrobe.
Every element is designed to evoke those cozy, crisp autumn vibes!

But it's not just about the leaves! This month's calendar features some of my favorite tiny forest friends that just scream autumn cuteness. Look out for:

- A sweet little owl with those adorable, big, curious eyes.
- A lovely sparrow on the doorstep of its little house
(by the way, do you have the good habit of putting them in your garden? All the birds appreciate them very much!).
- A darling hedgehog with the tenderest little face, ready to greet you each day.

It's cute, colorful, and just bursting with seasonal charm!

The best part? This calendar is yours to enjoy, completely free!
It's super easy to download and designed for high-quality printing, so whether you go big or small, it'll look fantastic.
No annoying pop-up ads, I promise!

CLICK ON THE PREVIEW BELOW TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE SEPTEMBER 2025 CALENDAR!
I create these with versatility in mind, so you can use it however best suits your needs:

- Desktop Background: Give your computer or tablet a fresh, autumnal makeover.
- Printable Calendar: Print it out in large format for your wall, fridge, or desk.
- Cute Bookmark: Print it smaller to tuck into your current read, perfect for those cozy autumn evenings with a good book!

I hope this calendar brings a smile to your face and helps you stay beautifully organized as we transition into one of the most picturesque seasons.

Let me know in the comments how you plan to use your calendar, I always love hearing your creative ideas!

Happy September prep, everyone!

With much love and autumn cheer, Tizi from Tizi Cozy Corner :-)

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Monday, August 18, 2025

Book review : City of Jasmine by Deanna Raybourn

City of Jasmine
City of Jasmine book #1
by Deanna Raybourn

GENRE : #historical-adventure-mystery
( with a touch very little touch of romance)


My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,9 stars rounded up to 4.

Deanna Raybourn's "City of Jasmine" offers a vibrant desert adventure, filled with compelling characters, sparkling dialogue, and a charming, exotic setting with a touch of historical depth. While I wouldn't recommend this to those seeking a passionate, sweeping romance, I wholeheartedly recommend it to those who enjoy a light, fast-paced read packed with thrilling adventures and a satisfying resolution.

THE STORY IN A NUTSHELL:

It's the 1920s, and renowned aviatrix Evangeline Starke has long believed her adventurer husband, Gabriel Starke, perished with the Lusitania. Their whirlwind courtship amidst London's glittering pre-war social scene was cut short by his apparent death. Now, five years later, Evie is forging a new life, circling the globe as a celebrated pilot and journalist. However, her world is shattered when she receives a mysterious – and recent – photograph of Gabriel, forcing her ambitious stunt to a screeching halt.

Accompanied by her eccentric Aunt Dove, Evie traces the photograph's origin to the ancient City of Jasmine, Damascus. There, she discovers that nothing is as it seems. Danger lurks around every corner, and a priceless relic – an artifact lost to time – is at stake. Criminals will stop at nothing to acquire it, even murder. Evie embarks on a perilous journey across the desert, determined to uncover the truth behind Gabriel's disappearance and recover the relic.

Along the way, Evie must confront the deceptions that separated her from Gabriel and embrace a passion that could redefine her future...

_________ ******* ________


WHAT I LOVED:
1__ Evangeline Starke Adventurous Life Introduction: I was immediately drawn in by the concise yet effective introduction to Evangeline Starke. We quickly learn how she reinvented herself as a celebrated aviatrix, earning a living by globetrotting and providing newspapers with captivating articles and photographs of herself, her adventurous aunt, and her aristocratic friend, Wally. This instantly establishes an unconventional heroine and sets the stage for thrilling escapades across the world.

2__ Eve, Captivating Heroine of the Story: Evie is a beautifully crafted character who resonates deeply because of her complexity and realism. She's not a perfect heroine but a real person—full of contradictions, strength, and vulnerability.
Her enduring love for her husband, despite years of absence and a difficult marriage, showcases a passionate stubbornness that feels genuine rather than contrived. The way she conceals her true feelings, even from herself, adds layers to her emotional struggle.

What truly stands out is Evie's refusal to be a victim. Even when faced with her husband's rough treatment, she responds with wit and unyielding will, demonstrating both courage and fierce loyalty. She's patient beyond reason and willing to confront painful truths instead of running away, which gives her remarkable depth. Her self-awareness, acknowledging her flaws while also displaying generosity and warmth to those around her, makes her incredibly relatable.

It's a shame the author didn't imbue Gabriel with the same depth or charm, as this imbalance can diminish the emotional impact. But Evie's character shines so brightly that she carries the story with authenticity and heart.
She's the kind of character you want to root for, the kind who stays with you long after you turn the final page.

3__ Impressive Desert Adventure: I absolutely loved the thrilling desert adventure that unfolds, filled with twists and turns. It magically rekindled that specific atmosphere of the Middle East, reminiscent of the fairy tales of Aladdin, Scheherazade, and The Arabian Nights, which I adored as a child. Unfortunately, I had lost that enchantment over the years, particularly after the rise of ISIS and the Taliban, their attacks on the West, the executions of journalists, and the ongoing conflicts between various religious factions. For a long time, when I thought of the Arab world, all that came to mind was dust, dirt, blood, and fear.

This book, however, delivered an adventure that reignited my curiosity, making me want to discover more about the historical and cultural stories behind these lands.

4__ Historical Echoes: I also thoroughly enjoyed the historical backdrop of the 1920s. The narrative subtly highlights how, even after the devastation of the First World War, Western colonial empires continued their attempts to exert control over what was not rightfully theirs.

The references to Lawrence of Arabia were particularly engaging (whom I only knew from movies, since he's part of British history, while I'm Italian). While reading the book, I found myself exploring online the life of this Englishman who tried to help the Arabs establish an independent state, and how the subsequent events and the revolts against the Turks unfolded in a disappointing manner.

I enjoyed researching, through Wikipedia, blog articles, and old black-and-white photos, the real-world places mentioned in the book, such as Damascus, Palmyra, and the Zenobia Hotel, an elegant hotel that was still in operation until 2013, but now sadly a victim of the conflict in Syria, riddled with holes and decay. This historical immersion added a rich layer to the story.

5__ Intrigue and Mystery: The intrigue surrounding the archaeological finds, perfectly interwoven with the political climate of the time, was another strong point. It kept me guessing and fully invested in the unfolding mystery.

6__ A Vibrant Supporting Cast: Finally, I loved almost all the supporting characters, both good and bad. Evie's loyal friend Wally, the enigmatic Sheikh Hamid, the diverse personalities at the archaeological dig, the charming British diplomat Hallyday, and even the funny and chatty parrot, they all added depth and flavor to the narrative. There was only one character I didn't quite connect with, although I know many readers appreciated her.

WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE:

1__ A Romance Mismatch: My primary disappointment stemmed from the book's cover and blurb (in addition to a prequel written a year after the book), which strongly suggest an intense love story between two protagonists deeply in love with each other. However, for up to 90% of the book, it seems like the only one truly in love is Evie. Her ex-husband, meanwhile, consistently adopts a gruff tone, and the only two kisses we witness toward the middle of the book are completely sterile and devoid of passion and genuine feeling. The romance trope should be "enemies to lovers," but here, even the slightest hint of love and interest on his part is missing, making the book profoundly disappointing from a romantic perspective.
Only in the last 10% do we get a making-love scene. It's tasteful; the author hints at it without explicit details, making it suitable for younger readers. Unfortunately, even after that scene, there are no overwhelming emotions or romantic thrills.

The ending is happy, but even here, the author missed an opportunity to make the hero more tender towards his ex-wife and now-returned partner. In fact, she's the only one who says "I love you," and there are no kisses that give you goosebumps (as any romance should, even if it's "clean" and free of explicit scenes).

2__ The Unconventional Aunt: The character I didn't like was the elderly aunt. While she's meant to be a whimsical, adventurous character, which could have been endearing, her portrayal as a 60-year-old Victorian woman who, despite her storied past, still flirts and makes insistent advances, even towards young men, felt off-putting. I found it quite jarring and out of place within the narrative.
It's also utterly absurd that, at a certain point in the story, she, at 60 years old and without prior experience, manages to fly an airplane on her own after less than an hour of lessons. This is particularly unbelievable, considering Evie herself has taken countless lessons from aviators recovering from the war, preparing herself practically, mentally, and physically.

3__ Too much of Peter Pan Influence: The last thing that bothered me slightly was the constant references to Peter Pan and Wendy, and the famous fairy tale. I've loved that fairy tale since I was a child, but in this context, it seemed a bit forced, and for a man of the world like Gabriel to constantly reference Peter Pan felt somewhat ridiculous and out of character.

*******______ ******
In any case, the negative aspects I mentioned were only a minor annoyance for me; overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the main characters and their world stayed with me for several days after I finished reading.

Despite its few flaws, "City of Jasmine" is a fantastic read for those seeking adventure, historical intrigue, and an escape to a vibrant, bygone era.

Thank for stopping by and reading my review. :-)

A review of the short prequel that tells the story of Eve's first meeting with her husband Gabriel can be found here: WHISPER OF JASMINE book #0.5

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Sunday, August 10, 2025

Book review : Whisper of Jasmine by Deanna Raybourn

Whisper of Jasmine
City of Jasmine book #0.5
by Deanna Raybourn

A Sweet and Intriguing Prelude
GENRE : #historical-short-romance #novella

My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,5 stars rounded up to 4.

"Whisper of Jasmine" is a short novella that serves as a charming introduction to Deanna Raybourn's "City of Jasmine."
While I found the whirlwind romance a tad implausible at times, this quick read offers a glimpse into the world of Eve and Gabriel and how their paths first crossed amidst the glittering backdrop of a 1914 Christmas Eve and pre-war party.

________ WHAT IT'S ABOUT:_______ England, December 1914.
Notorious socialite Delilah Drummond won't be deterred by the war. Instead, she decides to throw the event of the year, and she's handing out invitations with an eye for wanton fun and wild abandon. There is the dashing explorer and archaeologist Gabriel Stark, a man at a crossroads in his life and then there is the charming if flighty Evangeline Merriweather, who has dreamed her whole life of adventure. After her vivacious Aunt Dove acts as fairy godmother, if a saucy one, providing a scandalous gown and a whisper of jasmine on her skin.... Evie will shake cool Gabriel to his core... One seductive night that will change their life forever.

___________ **************** ____________

This story immediately establishes a strong connection between Eve and Gabriel. Raybourn masterfully crafts the whirlwind meeting of the two main characters, making their instant spark feel not just palpable, but fated. This rapid-fire romance serves as a bold declaration of destined love, perfectly fitting for characters who are clearly meant for extraordinary lives.
However, their insta-love story is a bit fast-paced for my personal taste.

What truly elevates this story beyond a simple charming romance is the genius inclusion of a subtle yet significant hint of something more... The brief appearance of other intriguing characters and a whisper of intrigue that suggests a larger, more dangerous world lurking beneath the surface.
This taste of espionage really piqued my interest! It definitely encourages you to dive into "City of Jasmine" to uncover the secrets that await.

It's a tantalizing glimpse behind the curtain, leaving the reader eager to delve into the full-length novel to uncover the secrets hinted at.

My mom, a big fan of Deanna Raybourn's "Lady Julia mystery series", assures me Raybourn is a skilled storyteller who writes captivating historical tales with memorable deeply compelling characters, and I can see that potential here.

"Whisper of Jasmine" provides an intriguing background for Eve and Gabriel’s relationship and a tempting preview of the adventures to come in "City of Jasmine." A lovely short story that definitely makes you want to read the full novel.

If you're looking for a quick, romantic read with a hint of mystery, this might be the perfect appetizer before diving into the main course!

Thanks for reading! I hope this helps you choose your next book. :-)

Want to know more about Gabriel and Eve after they get married? Will their adventures tear them apart or bring them closer together?
My review about the sequel can be found here: CITY OF JASMINE book #0.5

Join me on FACEBOOK: Tizi Cozy Corner, to be always updated on new posts

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Saturday, August 02, 2025

Book review : Secrets of the Nile by Tasha Alexander

Secrets of the Nile
Lady Emily Mysteries book 16
by Tasha Alexander

GENRE : #historical-cozy-mystery

My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,5 stars rounded up to 4.

"Secrets of the Nile" is a well-written tribute to Agatha Christie, and not a simple rehash of "Murder on the Nile."

I've read many books in the "Lady Emily" series by Tasha Alexander , and that is primarily why I'm giving this one 3.5 stars instead of a full 4: while I used to be a devoted fan of Golden Age whodunits, in recent years I've preferred mysteries with more action, coupled with solid investigation, historical settings (ideally with real historical figures), and a dash of flirtation and romance.

That winning combination often characterizes the "Lady Emily" books. However, this particular installment leans heavily into the style of the "Queen of Crime," focusing on investigation, scattered clues, logical reasoning, and deductive solutions, culminating in the classic final meeting of all suspects and the detective's (or their deputy's) revelation of the truth.

The book includes the series' hallmark alternating chapters, featuring a story set in the past (very common in much modern fiction), but the connection between the ancient past and Lady Emily's present feels somewhat tenuous.

Before delving into the details, here's the PLOT IN A NUTSHELL:

Lady Emily and her husband, Colin, along with Colin's illegitimate daughter, are invited by his mother to join a friend on a trip down the Nile, followed by a stay at his Egyptian villa.

Other British guests, all longtime friends of the host, join them. A sumptuous and elaborate welcome dinner is served on the first evening, but, at the very last moment, the host is poisoned to death, right before everyone's eyes.

Colin, a Crown Agent, takes charge of the investigation, with Emily's assistance (and the forced participation of his daughter, Kat), to unravel the mystery. Despite the group's dismay and long-standing friendships, cooperation proves difficult to come by.

________ ************** ____________

_____ THE MYSTERY_____

While many readers (myself included) might expect a murder mystery closely resembling Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile," Tasha Alexander appears to have drawn inspiration from another of Christie's works, transplanting it to the exotic setting of Egypt, with its archaeological digs, impressive pyramids, giant statues, temples and stories of pharaohs and gods.
She mentions this in her end notes (which I always read before starting a book). She doesn't specify which Christie novel, but having read all of them, I immediately thought of three or four possibilities.

I didn't immediately identify the solution, as the author skillfully blends elements reminiscent of Christie's books with the personal lives of Lady Emily and her family.
Even if I developed a strong hunch a couple of chapters before Emily uncovers the truth, I suspect this was mere luck, and my suspicion didn't detract from my enjoyment.
I felt compelled to discover the truth until the very end. Similarly, I was eager to learn the fate of Meryt, the female sculptor and protagonist of the ancient Egyptian storyline.

Overall, the puzzle is well-crafted, and the author's work is excellent.
Even the historical subplot, though less captivating than those in previous books, maintained my suspense, as the dramatic events hinted at from the beginning remain unknown until the climax.

Both timelines are narrated in the first person (Emily in 1904 and Meryt in ancient Egypt at the time of Ramesses II).


_____ CHARACTERS______

Readers familiar with the "Lady Emily" series will know the many recurring characters (her family and friends) who often participate in the stories.
This book features her handsome, clever (and very much in love with her) husband, her always-challenging mother-in-law, and Colin's impertinent and rebellious illegitimate daughter, Kat (a new character to me, as I skipped the two previous books).

While the characters are usually well-defined in the early books of the series, later installments tend to describe them with fewer details, both physically and personality-wise. This makes their personal experiences interesting for long-time readers, but it may be more challenging for newcomers to empathize with them.

I tend to read this series out of order (each book works as a STANDALONE and I select them based on the setting and time of year). However, I don't recommend this approach.
----->READING THE BOOK IN SEQUENCE is definitely more rewarding, as the series begins with Emily as a young woman.
Approximately twenty years elapse between the first book and this one, during which Emily experiences considerable personal growth and change.


____ SIDE CHARACTERS_____

None of the supporting characters are explored in great depth, but, in the style of classic Christie novels, each is presented with a characteristic that hints at a potential motive for murder.


_______ HISTORICAL PART______

This element, in my opinion, feels less pronounced compared to previous books.
Nevertheless, through Lady Emily's exploration of archaeological sites and Meryt's story, the author introduces us to the mysterious and fascinating world of the pyramids, their stunning frescoes, and the funerary customs surrounding not only deceased pharaohs but also the artists who decorated their tombs and lived together in villages near their construction sites.

Coincidentally, I watched a documentary on TV about excavations in Egypt, specifically focusing on the tombs of artists who decorated the tombs of the pharaohs during the reign of Ramesses II, the very period depicted in the book. Witnessing the remarkable preservation of those paintings was thrilling. Therefore, if you choose to read this book, I recommend enhancing your knowledge with readily available video documentaries on YouTube... or perhaps planning your next vacation to Egypt!

----> SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES: clean language, no gruesome scenes, no sex scenes.

In conclusion, while this wasn't my favorite Tasha Alexander novel, I will continue to eagerly follow the adventures of her heroine wherever she travels, both geographically and through history.

Thank you for reading my review.

If you want to know more about OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES, you can read some reviews here :

(Alas I was not used to reviewing books until a couple of years ago, so reviews of books #1 and #12 and some Christmas stories are missing )

BOOK #2 : A Poisoned Season

BOOK #3 : A Fatal Waltz by Tasha Alexander

BOOK #4: Tears of Pearl

BOOK #5: Dangerous to Know

BOOK #13.5 : Upon the Midnight Clear ( Christmas novella )

BOOK #17: A Cold Highland Wind



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Giveaway : October 2025 Free Printable Calendar

Hey everyone! I'm so excited to share my October 2025 calendar giveaway with you! As you know, I love creat...