Autumn Vibes, Gripping Reads, and a Comfort Food Break

The days are really flying by at the moment. It’s hard to believe it’s been 9 days since my last blog post—it genuinely feels like just a few days ago. Right now, I’m fully getting those autumn and winter vibes. The temperature has seriously dropped here in the UK—not so much during the day, but definitely at night. The shorts and trainers have officially been swapped out for jeans and my trusty Dr. Martens.
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I’m currently reading a book called A Ring of Oak and Apple by Eoin Brady, and it’s absolutely gripping. The story is set in an Ireland overrun by weepers, with cities reduced to ash and towns turned into haunted graveyards. Fin, the main character, avoids the question “Where were you when the world ended?” by keeping to himself, with only the fading memory of his girlfriend, captured in a perfume bottle, for company. The plot revolves around his search for loved ones, even though he knows deep down they’re long gone. He’s haunted not just by the undead but by the things he’s done to survive this far. It’s bleak, yet captivating. At one point, Fin finds himself stuck on an island with other refugees after a horde forces him off the river. What starts off as a night of storytelling and camaraderie by the fire soon becomes a tense situation where trust is in short supply. With danger lurking on the island, you can’t help but wonder if the infection has already made its way there. It’s a brilliant read so far and keeps you on edge, wondering how much further Fin can push himself.

On the TV front, Sky Atlantic has just aired the first episode of their new Penguin show, starring Colin Farrell, who reprises his role as the Penguin from the latest Batman film. I was completely hooked from the start. The atmosphere, the gritty portrayal, everything about it was so good—it’s shaping up to be one of those shows that really pulls you in. There’s only one episode out so far, but I’m already excited to see where it goes next. Farrell’s portrayal is top-notch, and the character development is bound to get even more intense as the series unfolds.

I’m also planning a bit of a deviation from my usual 90/10 whole food diet today—I’ve decided to make spaghetti bolognese tonight. Sometimes you just need a hearty meal, and honestly, I’m looking forward to it!

That’s about it for now. It’s shaping up to be a busy but cosy autumn, with some great TV, a gripping book, and comfort food to keep me entertained as the nights draw in.