Creative Creatures

Vampires, Shifters, and Witches! Oh My!

My last post activated the nerd in me heavy! So, I will be building onto my fun fact that I shared with you all, by giving mention to TV shows that get me going! Just some light-hearted posts here recently as a mental break from a tiring week. Homework and exams galore, plus I know how those work weeks can get ya!

Charmed

Everyone in my family has watched this show I feel, and I remember it always being on when I got home from school! The Charmed Ones (the most powerful): 3 sister witches who reactive their powers one fateful night, and get introduced to the world of magic! This show made me wish I had powers, but I'd probably get caught up in the rules. Yes, the charmed ones had rules, and the big one: no personal gain! Each sister has a unique personality and power that evolves right along with the characters!

They had every magical/mythical beings in here:

• Witches/Warlocks (well yeah)
• Angels/Whitelighters
• Demons (so many types!)
• Ghosts
• Shifters
• Cupid
• Fairies
• Mermaid

The list could go on and on, but I will stop here! This show was straight lit!! They will make you laugh, cry, frustrated, and even fall in love. If you don't believe me just ask my cousin Jillian (aka Juice lol)! A lot of drama and even some time travel to keep you interested for all 8 seasons!

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

I'm always up for a character who takes no mess and can beat you down (especially the supernatural type too)... when provoked of course. Buffy lowkey gives me Kim Possible vibes with both being teenage girls saving their town, yet expected to get to school on time and do homework! LOL! I love that she wasn't the stereotypical new girl who everyone loves, is super sweet, and modest and whatnot. Buffy was straight up real and amusing.

Magical/mythical beings:

• Vampires (clearly)
• Angels
• Spirts
• Animal creatures

There were some other creepers in this show that I don't necessarily know how to classify. Ya'll know those moments when watching a show/movie and you have to roll your eyes at the foolishness unfolding? Well generally it gets called out on this show from what I remember. Check out the 7 seasons!

H2O: Just add Water

Ahh such a more lighthearted show! I have been into mermaids since Disney's The Little Mermaid entered my life. This Australian TV show didn't air in the U.S. until I was in high school; however, I found it online somehow around the beginning of middle school.

These weren't simple mermaids, but 3 average teen girls turned water creatures. The big deal is that it wasn't voluntary, and all it takes for their tail (fin?) to sprout is water. As cool as this is, my clumsy self gets some type of liquid on me various times a day! Also, they have to deal with the weather and any accidents on the fly. This obviously changed their lives, but they also developed powers to go with their new status.

Magical/mythical beings:

• Mermaids

These girls face a lot of challenges trying to keep their secret from getting out, even from their families. 3 seasons!

Being Human

The show is based off a BBC series, which I didn't watch, but it snuck up on me. I just wanted to see what it was about, and boy did the show surprise me! It sounds kind of cheesy, yet a vampire, ghost, and human (maybe, maybe not) are housemates. As you know everyone has a story and secret to keep, but the past has a way of tracking you back down. Their lives (well can you say that with the undead involved?) are at risk at almost every turn!

These characters are dope, and whatever rules you thought there were about magical creatures can be broken. This show gave a pretty good twist on these magical beings who sometimes struggle with what they are and try to be as human as possible, because who said they chose to become what they are.

Magical/mythical beings:

• Vampires
• Werewolves
• Ghosts
• Demons
• Zombies

Once again, some more creepy creatures pop up here and there in different lethal degrees. There is always an external and internal fight to get that old normal life they used to have, but so much has changed that they cannot come back from. 4 seasons!

All found on Netflix!!

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Much Love,

Khariah

Blast From The Past.

Memories From Way Back Then...

I will read anything I can get my hands on, except a textbook! I remember even staying up passed my bedtime as a little girl to finish a book I started earlier in the day. Actually I still do that! My favorite place to go was the library, and I found so many amazing stories that I wish I could remember all the titles to! I began to discover my lovely skill of speed reading and my appreciation for the feel of real pages.

These authors and books were a great part of my childhood, and I vividly remember the stories, as well as that time period of my life. They bring back so many memories of a simple life before I knew what college really was! *Wistful sigh* On a positive note, I did pick up my cap and gown yesterday, so I'm almost at the finish line!! Back to the point... I will go into more detail on certain authors and books that seriously excited me in my younger years! (As if I'm pushing 80 or something)

I plan to make "Blast From The Past" a featured post topic! I realized I have read WAY TOO MANY books, and there is no way I can post them all in one go! So, be on the look out! I will even add a little personal fun fact about myself at the end of each post!

Meg Cabot

She is the author of The Princess Diaries series that became the movies!!! I discovered her books in middle school and read a couple of her series and a few stand alone books. I went to her website and I am blown away with how much she has written! Much of it is new to me, since it was like 2007/8 when I began reading her works. She has expanded on a few series and I need to catch up on a few soon! She has books for all age ranges from kid/tween, teens/young adult, and adults. Cabot is catering to all!! There are way too many books to individually name or feature, but if you want an exclusive list go to megcabot.com!

What I've personally read (some I own, but who knows where they are!):

• Airhead series- Your average girl ends up in the body of a famous model and has to conform to this new lifestyle, and keep this secret hidden from everyone! We know how intense Hollywood can be, especially to a "new girl" who doesn't care. 3 books
• All-American Girl series- A teen girl ends up in the national spotlight after saving the life of the president's son. She is absolutely not okay with how her life is changing! Why can't she just deal with normal teenage girl issues. 2 books
• Avalon High- A modern high school twist on the tale of Camelot. The connections are uncanny, but she is the only one who is realizing it. There are much more powerful things at play. (I need to read the newer additions ASAP). 4 books
• Teen Idol- So, what happens when literally a teen idol attends your school and you end up being responsible for him?! Actually not a cliché ending and touches on a serious issue! Lets not discuss how much I would've enjoyed this to happen after reading this in middle school. Stand alone book

Sharon Draper

This woman represents everything phenomenal to me! Her books have African American characters at the forefront dealing with "urban"/relatable situations, as well as a story telling our history. Being a young black girl I needed something that represented me. While I love all these other books, there is something special about a character looking like me and my family. Checking out her website I see she has added a new book to one of my favorite series!

She wrote my favorite book of all time Romiette & Julio. I don't care how cheesy it sounds, but I love this book so much and it literally warms my heart thinking about it! Draper has written books for young adults, tweens, and young children. However, that is not all seeing as how she has poetry books and even teacher's aid books! Check out her website for a full list of her works sharondraper.com!

What I've personally read:

• The Jericho Trilogy (Battle of Jericho, November Blues, Just Another Hero)- When you want to be accepted by the most prestigious high school club, you may be willing to do anything, even if it is wrong. It can't be so bad though, right? The club has been around for 50 years and is respected in the community. What people don't know is what happens during the initiation process behind closed doors, where lives are at risk. What is done in the dark, comes to the light. This trilogy goes beyond one incident, but follows the main characters (and featured) through the next couple of years in life, and added drama! 3 books
• The Hazelwood Trilogy (Tears of a Tiger, Forged by Fire, Darkness before Dawn)- Tragedy strikes this beloved high school when the star basketball players are involved in a car crash. The crash leaves most injured, and one dead. No one knows how to cope with such sadness and depression, especially the best friend of the deceased. We are pulled into his mind as he tries to cope, while still trying to live his life under the other pressures of being a dedicated student and son. The series intertwines the stories of each respective main character attending this same high school. Each incident carries weight and significance into the next book! 3 books
• Copper Sun- Follows the tale of an African teenage girl's life from her capture/slave trade, to her fight back to freedom. This book really puts a hold on your heart and mind. Beautifully written! Stand alone book
• Romiette & Julio- A more urban and ethnic retelling of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Romi(ette) is a black girl and Julio is a Mexican boy. No problems right because "minorities shall unite",,, WRONG, not in this fiction telling! The teens' love sparks over the internet (this was back in early 2000s before catfishing was a thing), and Julio decides he wants to meet Romi once he finds out they are way closer than they think. All is well in their little bubble, until they realize the people around them do not like them being an interracial couple. Even their parents are holding racial biases. Things take a dangerous turn when a gang actively expresses their distaste of Romi and Julio's relationship. Stand alone book
• Fire from the Rock- Sylvia Patterson's life is about to change forever. It is 1957 in Little Rock, and the plan is to integrate Central High School. Her teacher suggests that she join the group to be the first black students in an all white school. This book is fiction, due to the character not being ne of the Nine. Draper's take on this historical event and time period makes you feel like you are being transported back to the 50s. Despite the obvious differences, there are still your personal situations, which we all deal with today, stressing Sylvia. Lets not forget how intense high school is period without history taking place on your front porch. Stand alone book

Fun Fact!!

I LOVE mythology! I am a Christian, but I have always enjoyed learning about Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology. Not to forget mythical creatures such as: vampires, werewolves, lycans, shape shifters (they go beyond werewolves and animals), mermaids, etc. I do NOT believe in any of these creatures, yet they make for great books, TV shows, and movies! I took a humanities course over this subject, and needless to say, I flourished LOL! I was "that" student. I don't know why this area excites me so much, but it does. I just have a creative and overactive imagination I guess.

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Much Love,

Khariah

TRIFECTA!!!

I'M BAAAACK AND I'M BETTER

Well I had a few difficulties with my old laptop literally coming apart in my hands and having to get a new one to finish out the semester! I'm now back in action with updates on hair, a book, and quick makeup grab!

Crochet Box Braids

I decided to go natural my freshman year, by first transitioning for a while until I felt comfortable enough to cut all the perm out. Around this time I discovered wigs and fell in love, so I still have yet to do much of styling to my own hair. Once I graduate I will definitely have more time and  patience to experiment! I feel that your hair can transform you into a whole new person!

These crochet box braids that I have now are absolutely amazing! I wish I found these when I started transitioning, because it puts very low stress on your hair, plus they are cute! I have gotten these two other times before, and it doesn't take long to install (I didn't install them myself, but you can). Since your hair is cornrowed to the back it is best that your hair isn't straight, so the hair style stays secure. Make sure to fill in around the front (to your pleasure), so that the spacing between each cornrow isn't too obvious. The braids come in different sizes of small, medium, and large (mine are medium), and you can buy them in the beauty supply store. I think they even have some colored ones! I plan to keep these in as long as possible (Maybe 3weeks)!

P.S. Don't forget to tie down and lay those baby hairs! Its been all day for me and took these pics right before bed! No judging!

#1 Bestselling Writer in the world

Zoo by James Patterson with Michael Ledwidge is regarded as the greatest book ever written by Patterson! This man has written AT LEAST 61 books, and some of them have either become a movie or a TV series! Zoo is actually on Netflix currently, but it is a cheap imitation of the book in my opinion; VERY DIFFERENT. He is definitely one of my all time favorite authors, so you will see a lot of books from him. This particular story is absolutely ingenious! I don't understand how he can weave such unique concepts and realities!

This story is not a crime solving deal, which he is highly recognized for (Alex Cross series), but actually centers around the animals. The animals aren't talking, well not in the way you would imagine. The laws of nature as, humanity has known it, has slowly been shifting back in the favor of the animals. Humans have adopted animals for pets, entertainment, and studies; however, these animals are rising up. It starts in the zoos with animals strategically escaping and attacking their caretakers. These events are regarded as unusual and tragic, but biologist Jackson Oz knows exactly what is happening. The only problem is everyone in the scientific world thought his idea was delusional. Oz sets out to prove them all wrong and fix this problem by travelling to Africa, where he witnesses more than he ever imagined. The lions have congregated in masses and organized an attack on the human tourists. This is unheard of, and more witnesses note that lions are not the only animals committing unprovoked attacks on humans. They seem to be communicating.

Soon the whole world is under attack: Animals vs. Humans! Jackson Oz is the only one who has been studying for this type of animal behavior, yet even he seems unprepared and stumped by the events unfolding rapidly. He is the world's new saving grace to resurrect humanity!

This book has action, suspense, and unique intelligence! It is a crazy page turner that had me on edge with the many different twists and turns. I was shocked, since this is nothing like anything I have ever read before, and usually wouldn't have picked up. I was confused on how a book involving animals was considered the nest book ever from Patterson, but I now understand! Zoo is something you have never come across before!

Milani Cosmetics

So, lipstick is my favorite thing ever! They are just so fun and come in many different colors! I won't lie though, I am one of those people who will buy multiple versions of essentially the same color. I'm partial to dark reds, because I feel it is always a good shade to toss on! I own a liquid foundation from Milan, yet I never got around to picking up one of the lipsticks. I have seen the lipstick lines on Instagram makeup pages and loved them, but just now got my hands on them! They both were $7.99 at Walgreens, but cosmetic prices fluctuate a lot depending on what promotions they are running and new stock.

Left/Top: Matte Metallic Lip Crème

• Color: Over-Dramattic (13)
• Formula: Smooth application and dries without making my lips feel chapped. Plus, it smells really good. Relatively no smudging.
• Thoughts: A color I would wear out to a party or any fun outing! I will probably mix my brown and natural pink liner together with this to have a good base to help this color come across a little different every time!

Right/Bottom: Matte Lipstick

• Color: Cabaret Blend (40)
• Formula: Very silky and only matte in appearance. More so stains the lip than drying down completely. A little smudging will happen., but not much.
• Thoughts: I love deep reds, so I will be wearing this plenty! Also, I will be lining my lips in either a deep red or a shade the color of my lips to help keep the lipstick in line (It's harder for me to do with tube lipstick)!

Feedback is always welcomed, and the subscription box is at the bottom of the page! Switch to "web version" if on mobile!

Much Love.

Khariah

OMG!!!

You Better Get In to It!

Now I am not one to review TV shows (I watch plenty though), so this is a ONE-OFF occurrence. With that being said I still had to bring attention to these shows I watched recently that got me SHOOK!!

Empire

I'm going to have to start with a bang rather than end with one, because this was too amazing! Last night the new season premiere  of Empire came on, and the whole cast is on point! The drama has reached new levels and we are steadily uncovering how twisted and shady Lucious Lyon really is. Cookie is ready for war and has finally snapped the way we all have been waiting for. This was true intensity and raw emotion! The bat scene was at the end of the episode and EPIC BEYOND WORDS! Naturally, the music in the back helped further set the tone (Not what you hear in the promo), and the scene is much longer than this clip!

She gave up her family ties to be with a man she loved and believed in. She helped him further his dream by working on it with him. She went to prison for 17 years out of her loyalty and love to her HUSBAND, which caused her to miss out on her 3 children growing up. Lets not forget he stopped speaking to her and divorced her while she was serving time in prison over him! Once she finally returned to be apart of her family and share the fruits of their labor and her love, she was met with disrespect. Well Cookie finally reached her limit, and the end scene gathered my whole LIFE! You finally felt the anger and anguish she has been constantly dealing with. She is a woman scorned! (Y'all better find the episode on Hulu)!!

Taraji P. Henson delivers as usual and in a way no other can emulate! She is simply a goddess!

Underground

WATCH THE ENTIRE TRAILER. (I wanted to show the more theatrical trailer, but it would not load. Search Underground and click "full length trailer" if interested, as it shows more action.)

Yes, this is a show about slavery, but that is not what it is all about. People tend to write off the idea of having an actual series involving slavery, because the movies stir up enough emotion as is. I understand; however, this show almost has slavery as background of the series (much like movies or shows based in the 50s or whatever), since the stories develop far beyond captivity. Legit everyone is stone cold and will have you sitting up like "No he didn't! No she didn't! Oh snap! It's about to get real!" As in any show there are characters that you love, hate, love to hate, and hate to love. Each and every character makes you feel something and right when you think you got it all figured out... BOOM!! The show blows your mind and leaves you wanting to know more!

It has action and suspense like the many crime shows that seemingly everyone watches (Law&Order: SVU is on everyday and you'll end up watching it even if you don't plan on it). It has tragedy and love, same as much of the plot we see in the crowd favorite, Grey's Anatomy. There are also lies and deceit, which is what runs shows such as Scandal and How to Get Away with Murder. I say this because instead of bypassing certain shows that we think may make us feel uncomfortable, give it a chance like any other show that comes out. These actors are flat out breathtaking in their performances!

Side note: The music on this show is lit! Like I never thought I'd say I want the soundtrack to the "slavery show"! (Kanye West, The Weekend, X Ambassadors, Shane Eli, etc.)  

Prison Break

WATCH THE ENTIRE TRAILER.

Now this show started several years ago, but has come back! I have been watching it on Netflix, and I must confess that I am not done with the last season aired, but close. I decided to start watching this show because I was amazed at the concept of a series coming back 8 years later (Ended May 2009)!This show is a beast, because who gets themselves sentenced to the same prison as their brother with the goal to break out!

The only reason he can do this is due to the fact he built the place. He is a mastermind and knows all the ins and outs of the facility. His brother is on death row about to be executed for killing the Vice-President's brother; however, he says he is innocent. We all know prison is no walk in the park (I've never been, but American History X was definitely enough insight!), so things aren't exactly smooth sailing, because no one can account for human behavior, especially violent criminals! The question is, what happens if they do manage to escape prison? Plus, if the brother has been set up that means people in power will go to great lengths to ensure his death!

The characters on here (majority) are criminals, but that doesn't matter, because you'll still pick and choose who you do and don't like. And one in particular is especially psychotic, yet throughout the seasons, you almost start to understand the man. The show is dope and almost has you plotting on how to break out... of what, I don't know because I'm not doing prison for anyone!

Don't forget you can always comment and subscribe! The e-mail subscription box is at the bottom of the page! (Switch to "web version" if viewing on mobile device)

Much Love,

Khariah

Online Shopping

Into the Abyss: Will it fit?

When it comes to shopping it can be a fun or frustrating experience. Personally I can pick up tops without trying them on, but when it comes to bottoms and dresses, a fitting room is necessary. I'm 5'2 (barely) and thick in the thighs and behind. So, I qualify for the curvy fit and stretchy items. This is why I hardly wear jeans, because they are either too big in the waist and make my gut look bigger, or suffocate me.

Well, all of a sudden Fashion Nova appears out of nowhere all on my Instagram. Every curvy celebrity is advertising them and the amazing fit of the clothes. NO MORE PANTS GAPS! So, naturally I'm game, but also realize my body isn't exactly getting sculpted in the way theirs is. Like seriously, they have the money for these cellulite rubs, laser treatments, and so forth. Oh and lets not forget two of the main models on the website have like a 19inch and 23inch waistline! Mine is NOT EVEN close to either of those, plus they're not as short as me. Either way I gave it a gamble since I saw way too many cute outfits. So, here are my pictures! (Click on any pics if you need to enlarge for any reason)

Classic High Waist Skinny Jeans- Medium Blue

• Worries: Skinny jeans are never "skinny" all the way to the ankle for me, because I'm technically between short and regular when it comes to lengths. However, I don't know how they do it, but these jeans fit my short self and taller people!!
• The fit: Snug enough that is hugs the curve of my back and I don't have to worry about a baggy waistline, or the usual gap issue. Also, when I say snug, I don't mean they are too tight! So no worries there, you can sit in these!
• Drawbacks: This depends on your comfort level. Since they are a snug fit and high waisted, that means if you have a little cushion around your waist it will fit to that. I have a little in my lower abdomen area (I usually say lower gut area but I don't want to offend anybody lol) but I don't have any issue with the jeans.
• Size: I suggest to sticking to your regular sizing here. Yes, they stretch, but not enough to size down.

Tori Tunic- Charcoal

• Worries: I wanted something along the lines of a t-shirt dress I could wear during a casual day, or a cute night. So, I was wondering if the material would be structured like a t-shirt or have a little more give. Also, how short would it fall? Well, the length is both good and bad for me.
• The fit: Very comfortable material and allows for the natural curve of a body. Nothing is too tight or too big, and even had enough space in the arms. I don't know why, but some clothes will fit good everywhere, but there. I don't know what body proportions they are imagining when that happens!
• Drawbacks: This brings me back to the length. Online I can tell the bottom is not a straight across cut, so it will curve up a bit on the sides. The front and back are good enough lengths, but when I put it on the sides went up WAY TOO HIGH for me! I feel too exposed, and will most likely wear it with something around my waist. That flannel was the best available for an example.
• Size: I'd say go with whatever size you usually get in something like this. I got it a size up from what I wear in my regular t-shirts. If you want it to be a pretty loose fit though, go for a bigger size of course.

Overall Experience

Fashion Nova is a pretty good website, and I actually have a few (6) more items, some that I really do enjoy wearing OFTEN. It is my spring break currently, so I just threw some things in a bag and came home and had these two items! People are always cautious about shopping online, because who knows what it will look like out the package! Shipping is amazing, and so far there has been nothing I needed to send back. Basically no hassle. THEY CARRY PLUS SIZES FOR WHOMEVER NEEDS IT!

Now, the prices for certain items can be steep, but I always shop with a discount code or look in the below $15 tab to save as much as I can. They ALWAYS have some type of promotion going on, so it's not hard to save. The best was saving between 30-80% off an entire purchase! I will probably review my other purchases from them, and hope to check out some other cool websites I have seen. This is all depending on what my funds are looking like!

Feel free to drop a comment and subscribe via e-mail at the bottom of the page (Switch to "web version" on mobile)!!!

Much Love,

Khariah

The REAL 1st impression

Home Mirror Test

Hey there my lovelies! I know some of y'all have bought something really cute in the store, but got home and wondered if it transformed in the bag. Makeup is always a guessing game because you truly don't know what it will look like until you go home and try it out. I picked three lipsticks that gave me this feeling. Now they are all the same brand, but I am not bashing this brand, in actuality it is one of my favorites and holds some of the best colors and formulas!

Honestly, the reason I chose the most difficult colors from my favorite brand, is to show how they can transform into wearable shades (Thus giving points to why they are a bomb brand). Usually, we feel like we have wasted money when the color doesn't go on the way we imaged. However, your whole face plays a part, because when my hair looks good, whatever face makeup I have on looks 10x better! Same applies in reverse. These colors will look washed out alone, but I will show you how I made them pop! (The trick is generally LIP LINER)

Some of my pictures have that great lighting and angle, and others I just look straight up tired and no foundation on. I'm almost always tired so.... any who, your lipstick is what you make of it!

Color: Push-up Bra

Thoughts: My lips freaking disappeared off my face! HATED it and didn't know what to do, but then I remembered I can MIX colors! I have TRANSFORMED this color in so many different ways. it is truly VERSITILE!

Formula: Light weight and glides on silky. Dries down like most matte liquid lipsticks, and does not transfer.

Add on: Light Brown, Medium Brown, or Pinky Nude liner

Color: Exotic

Thoughts: I was actually skeptical from the beginning but figured it wouldn't be so bad. I put it on and felt something was just missing a bit. I feel it is a soft and delicate color.

Formula: Light weight and glides on silky. Dries down like most matte liquid lipsticks, and does not transfer.

Add on: Light Brown liner, or stand alone

Color: Dubai

Thoughts: Finally. a nice shade of brown! It went on more a murky brown so I was just kinda... lost at first. But once I paired it with a decent look I realized it would be a color I had to put a little more effort behind. I feel like it worked best with my twists... it just did, no logical reason.

Formula: A creamy moose texture (smells PHENOMENAL) and matte color. Matte does not mean the liquid lipstick has to dry onto your lips like paint to a wall, and this lip cream formula shows that . I love that my lips don't feel like they are going to crack off my face when I wear this line! It dries down some over time, and transfers a bit. I honestly have had them last all night on me though.

Add on: Medium Brown liner

Make a LASTING impression

Over time I have come to own a treasure trove of lipstick, and these three don't even come close to the many different shades I have! I did; however, wanted y'all to see how to make the most of what you have. There is no way to consistently pick out the perfect shade. I often get people asking me where I got a certain color from, or how to help them pick a shade. It is all a game of chance really, since the tube may not represent the true color once you swipe it on.

Also, a big thing is our skin tone! I am aware I am light skin and that my undertones are usually a warm yellow gold (Summer tans and winter pales can change that all up, and I have been known to buy different foundations to match the season!).

That means what looks good on me is not a standard or represents others. There are plenty of colors others can wear, but I could never pull off because their skin tone adds to the beauty of the color, and there are people who have told me the same in return. So, try and make your "failed" pick ups work by playing around with them for a little bit, and don't be afraid to be daring! Rock your lipstick with confidence!

Much Love,
Khariah

Sometimes FREE means FREE

Wattpad App

In my last post I told y'all about Bookshots, which are made to retail at $5 max, but since we are all about saving those coins let me tell y'all about something free!!

Wattpad is a free reading app that lets you read developing or completed stories. The app can be uploaded on your phone, tablet, or iPad, so that means you have a reading device always with you and can start up a story at any convenience! The authors are writing and updating at their own pace, and you can comment throughout the process and really interact with the author. (I think it is awesome to have almost real-time interactions and discuss the storylines with them!) 

You can log in through Facebook and be set to roam. You can scroll through whichever genre interests you and find stories. Since this app is open to everyone that means you may come across some bizarre storylines, or developing writers. Because of this I wouldn't say everything on here will be a good read, but the MAJORITY I have read is! At the end of the day it boils down to personal preference. But have no fear, because I am here to refer you to a certain profile to start! All you have to do is search the "@" name!

This particular author, Sally Mason, is absolutely brilliant! One of her stories entitled Trapped has been published and can be purchased on Amazon! I will be reviewing this in the near future! It is not uncommon that certain users land a publishing deal for their works on this app. Sally Mason can weave a story like no other that is absolutely impossible to guess! I stayed on my toes trying to figure out what was coming next! I honestly believe she is just as great, if not greater, than some bestselling authors! Her books dig deep into various topics, and do not give vague details leaving you confused. I am going to start you off with her War Bride Trilogy that will make you wish it was a movie! (She actually has linked in media of trailers for ALL her stories!! AWESOME!)

Book One (part I of trilogy)

Stacy Degray is an 18yr old teenager from a small town in Indiana (fellow Hoosier) who develops an online relationship with a handsome man from the small country of Malaguay (Central America location). I'm thinking ole girl is about to get catfished, but no she actually video chats him and sees his face. She seems feel like an outcast in her own home, and has expressed this to him on countless occasions, yet this time she lets him talk her into visiting his country. Y'all know that screams bad idea but she agrees. Fast-forward and she meets the man of her dreams and immediately there are flags that something is off, but she goes with it. He wines and dines her and she is madly in love, until he turns out crazy! Don't stress it though, because a knight in shining armor rescues her and she ends up falling for him. Everything should be good right? WRONG! Malaguay is a severely war-torn country and impoverished, yet she finds herself smackdab in the middle of everything! Her knight is no longer shining and she becomes acquainted with the devil's spawn himself. Every decision she makes could lead to her being killed or worse. She has to learn to survive amongst political power plays between countries, as well as dealing with child and rebel soldiers.

Book Two (part II of trilogy)

YO!!! After book one I was like that has to be it, there is nothing else to add to this story! I felt like I was right there with Stacy going through the impossible. Now, what are you about to have me do next Sal (Sally)? There is so much MORE! In the end of book one people have died, people have gone missing, some are in the fray, and some have been introduced or come out of hiding. In War Widow, Malaguay is not done with us yet. The fallout has to be rectified, legacies must be rebuilt, and new power must be established. You get sucked back into the hypnotic nature of Malaguay, learning more of the country and people's stories you never even thought to imagine! The lies, deceit, and betrayal is still running rampant, yet it is hiding behind grand scale manipulations. You start to believe that certain characters have hope, can change, are multifaceted. Are they really though? So many different sides of characters are explored and exposed, but after learning to be cautious in book one you don't know what to believe. This question stays on your mind from start to finish, because everyone has good in them, right?

Book Three (final part)

We are back for the final act, and boy did I take a short break after part II, because dealing with Malaguay was almost too exhilarating! Everyone has been able to make moves and decisions, while facing the consequences of their actions as they come. Time jumps ahead several years and everything has settled (this is book three, y'all know nothing has really settled) and everyone is dealing with their new realities. Well, the stakes have risen 10x due to a child being made the target and object of control in this ongoing game. New players have been added to the mix and it is time to see who our true allies are! And yes OUR allies because you become invested and apart of the story at this point! Sally Mason is still developing this story, but she has several other works that are phenomenal to read while you wait!

I may review several other stories on this app in the future, so stay alerted to my new posts by subscribing! Remember to verify you email account you MUST open the email sent from FeedBurner. It is not spam, but a confirmation that you have been added to the email list, otherwise you wont receive updates!

Much Love,

Khariah

Mid-Week Brain Teaser!!

Hidden by James Patterson

with James O. Born

Hey y'all we have reached that middle of the week mark. We have moved on from Monday, but aren't exactly close enough to Friday. Over here in the Midwest the weather has decided to be utterly disrespectful with the temperature highs staying in the 30s. Combining this cold front with springing forward has left me utterly victimized! My mind, body, and soul are on zero and in need of a boost.

Enter in the bookshot Hidden by James Patterson! The main character, Mitchum, is a Navy SEAL dropout who has returned back to his small hometown. We're talking no privacy, everyone knows all your business, and even knows what you eat for breakfast. He works as a newspaper distributer, (he's a paperboy basically) and an unofficial private investigator doing minor favors for the community. He doesn't even accept pay for this side hustle. Everything changes when his teenage cousin, Bailey Mae, winds up missing. Everyone expects him to break this case and bring her home ALIVE. The quiet town is turned upside when not only is his cousin missing, but dead bodies start turning up and a strange man tries to kill Mitchum. He is determined to go to the ends of the Earth for his cousin, as she is the only person left with a pure heart in his life. But who are these strange people that rode into town? Are they connected to Bailey Mae, or is there something else happening? And where are the police in this crisis? Mitchum is only one man, a civilian, what can he really do? This was an absolute page turner and I loved it!!! I read it in between my classes and it kept me from zoning out. Books are life, y'all better get in to it!! Keep your mind sharp! Gotta stay quick witted and petty LOL!

This story is not the size of your average book (only 115 pages), hence it being a "bookshot". The purpose is to make the story more streamlined and focus on the drama/case at hand, rather than building characters and delving too deep into the backstories. I have read a few of these and they are a great stimulator. Gets your mind going without having to commit a lot of time getting into the meat of the book. These are great to pick up on work breaks and between classes. Also, if you aren't into reading a whole lot, these are an amazing start as it grasps your attention right away before you can change your mind.

The Juice (Shout out!)

My cousin and I are more like "sister cousins" as she calls it. She's from California, but I am from Indiana. We are almost the same person and it is crazy how much we have in common! While we don't get to see each other as we'd like to, our bond is solid. Both of us have started up blogs and are entering into new, exciting territory. All we ask for is love and support. So, go check out her page and spread the love!

http://music-booksandsip.blogspot.com/

DISCLAIMER: Remember to subscribe at the bottom. Mobile users switch to "web version" and the subscription box will be there. After you enter your email you must open the confirmation email sent from FeedBurner, and then you will receive updates whenever I create a new post!

Social Media!

IG: @k_macole

Twitter: @TheKMacole

Much Love,

Khariah

Giving You Vibes

Coming to you live and with color

On Saturday night I got the chance to do a full face of makeup, yet the event I attended was decade themed. That means this look process was different from my norm due to channeling 50's glam. I am going to hit on a few products that really made this look pop and I bought at a drugstore like Walgreens, or Walmart. I won't always do a review of multiple products at once, but it seemed like a special occasion!

P.S. My mom made that flower clip! Props to her!! Oh and my third picture is solely there because I was still feeling myself after the event. Plus the filter didn't actually change my makeup, just made me super bright.

Brows:

I was blessed with naturally thick brows and don't really do much to them, outside of waxing them once they get too out of shape. With that being said, this Maybelline brow pencil gave me life!! They currently have little shape to them, but a few strokes and brushing them brought them back together. I chose the dark brown instead of black since I didn't want to have clown eyebrows, and honestly a little goes a long way with this pencil. My brows did not smudge when I touched them and it took Vaseline to remove the makeup. It cost around $6 from Walmart.

Lips:

I used three colors in three different shades of red because I had read that this was a technique they had used to achieve the "perfect" pout... and it was also a trial and error situation of finding the right shade of red. I got lucky it worked out! I started the base by lightly swiping on the darkest shade(695). Next I added the scarlet red(690) to brighten the center of my lips. Lastly, with a light touch, I swiped on the bossy color to add shine and brighten the colors, since it is not a matte formula like the others. *I ordered the bossy color from colourpop cosmetics for $5, and I will tell you my love for this website at a later time!* Divine Wine (695) and Siren in Scarlet (690) I got from Walmart in Covergirl brand for no more than $6-7 because I am cheap, but they are two of my favorites that I've had for a while! These colors are super long-lasting through drinking and eating, even though I saw a little bit of color transfer with each activity (yes eating is a wonderful activity).

Lashes:

These false lashes come from the KISS mink collection to cater towards a more luxurious look. I picked Little Black Dress because it looked cute and like an amazing starter. I have never worn lashes and did not care to try. I still will not wear them unless there is a special occasion. I bought a crappy pair to practice with because I was not going to wait until the night of and look a hot mess! I looked up some YouTube videos and got extremely close to the mirror. I honestly can only say to keep practicing! I had some stuck eyelash situations, my real eyelashes! However, I clearly got these to work out, thanks to a miracle, and they are super light weight and natural looking. They cost around $7 at Walgreens. I bought the lash glue separate, the kind with aloe since it sounds more sensitive to the eye and I have sensitive skin. I have used it four times now and no reactions!

This is not the only makeup I have on my face, but the most prominent features! If you have any other questions you would like to ask me, or feel that I left something a little vague comment below. I am always up to interact with y'all!

Much Love,

Khariah

New Journey Ahead

It's Official!!

Hey there my lovelies, I hope everyone is having a beautiful and blessed day! I am here with my first official post to tell y'all a little bit more about myself.

Starting off, the question I am asked most when speaking to people is how to pronounce my name, Khariah. The best way to pronounce it is like Mariah, but with a "K" instead of an "M". I understand my name can trip up a few people at first glance and wanted to help y'all out and be ahead of the game :). I am a college student completing my last semester at Murray State University! I am getting a bachelors degree in Criminal Justice, which I have always felt a deep connection in this area, and have been studying since my junior year in high school. While this is a serious passion of mine, there other interests that touch my heart.

I read for fun whenever I get the chance. My mother has told me once before that I should be an actor, so that way I can play all these different roles I enjoy to read. I swear with my dramatics I had to have been into the theatrics in a past life! LOL! I can speed-read through a book in a day or two when I have enough free time, because if the book is fire I just have to know what comes next. It's like a movie or TV show in my mind when I read, so if I stop in the middle it's like pausing your Netflix binge! You got to know what happens next! I think it is amazing how much you can learn from anything you read. Like many shows you watch, you get invested in the characters and begin to learn though them and with them. We tend to identify with certain characters and it keeps us interested and coming back for more. I believe opening a new book is like stepping into a new reality, for just a little while. It is a way to unwind and get excitement without stirring up any drama in your own life. Let's be real we all like to spice up our life, but not get burned in the process.

My feeling for makeup were a slow development for me. I always enjoyed trying to look my best (my campus look does not count, it's just too early for me to do all that) but never felt the need for the long process some girl's took. In high school I started with eyeliner and mascara, but it wasn't until college I really got into it for myself. I view makeup as a work of art since I have a natural talent for art. I practiced and honed my skill throughout middle school and high school and participated in a few art shows. I enjoy the shading, colors, textures, etc. I occasionally sit down and draw like I used to, but I have seemed to transform my canvas from paper to my face. In no way am I a makeup artist, but I have learned what has worked for me and that sharing tips and new finds with your friends is fun and informative.

Now y'all know I am a college student, so that means I can't go around buying whatever I want because this education is expensive! Swear they charge you to just LOOK at the campus! I have worked and not worked; however, I stay tight with my coins. When I have the extra to spend I browse through looking for the cheaper, yet quality items of everything! The town where my university is located is very small and the closest mall and actual city is almost an hour away, so I had to adapt to shopping with lesser options. There are individual stores and establishments, but nothing like I was used to at home and in bigger cities. I intend to share with y'all the truth, whether it is good or bad, while still shining some positivity throughout it all. Thanks so much for reading, and feel free to comment and make yourself at home when visiting! ;)

Social Media
IG: @k_macole

Much Love,
Khariah