The Safekeep by Yael Van Der Wouden
I could not put this book down - which is very unusual for me! Set in The Netherlands, an uptight and controlling, thirty-odd girl, Isabel, lives in a large, inherited house. Somewhat perversely attached to the contents in the home, which she sentimentally attaches to her mother, Isabel suffers with paranoia and the stifling conditions she puts on herself.
Isabel’s life starts to unravel when her brothers girlfriend Eva arrives and ends up staying for a lengthy time with just the two of them to get along. I don’t want to say too much more about what plays out but it is an incredible love story.
Dutch-Israeli author Yael, has beautifully captured the world we inhabit when we’re lost in our internal thoughts. She reminded me how falling in love can completely undo us as people and cause us to become beings that aren’t in control of ourselves anymore. She writes sex really well too. This is a book about desire, repression, ownership and the cost of refusing to confront the past.
Verden Shampoo & Conditioner
My long standing pot of Aesop amenities for the B&B is coming to an end and so i’ve been trying a few other Shampoo & Conditioner brands. Verden is a beautiful British and 100% natural fragrance. Their D’orangerie Shampoo scent of orange blossom is fresh and warming - great for all seasons. I am super fussy when it comes to shampoo and this one i really loved. It got a real good lather on so you don’t need to use half the bottle in one wash and it feels moisturised after rinsing, rather than dry and squeaky. Likewise the conditioner is softening but doesn’t weigh down your hair with how heavy it is.
Aestura moisturizer
My incredible skin care specialist friend Olivia Pope has introduced me to another incredible, and affordable, moisturiser to help with my compromised skin barrier! The Aestura ATOBARRIER365 moisturiser is a Korean brand and is ridiculously hydrating. I was pleased to read that this range is formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and artificial fragrances too! And it’s only £25!
I’ve really noticed a rise in Korean skincare recently especially those face mask thingy’s that make you look like you’re an Egyptian mummy.