Category Archives: Life & Style

Celebrate Bastille Day at Brasserie Blanc with Boeuf Burger’gnon

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Salut… and do we have a Bastille Day treat for you!

From 8-19th July, Brasserie Blanc have a special main course of pure culinary genius to help celebrate. They have transformed their top rated Boeuf Bourguignon sauce into a delicious burger aptly named ‘Boeuf Burger’gnon’ and will be serving it up to willing diners across all of their sites this month. 

We tried the twist on the traditional French dish for ourselves in the Chancery Lane branch of Brasserie Blanc slap bang in the lunchtime rush and we were blown away. A perfect blend of bold, upfront flavours of a burger balanced well with the slow cooked spices of their famous Boeuf Bourguignon served alongside some tasty skinny fries. 

We decided to start our meal with a quintessentially French dish, a cheese soufflé, which was like eating a delicious cloud.  But what I must say is that although the special, nicknamed the “dirty burger”, appears petite and unassuming at first glance, this packs the punch of a rich fillet steak. The burger itself is deliciously tender and well seasoned. The meat is top notch and the Bourguignon sauce which subtly brings it together is not overwhelming at all. We did have to get our knife and fork out for this one to break up all the components equally but the burger was not uncomfortably packed to the brim. The onion rings were well cooked and the bacon naturally salted the burger. As for the bourguignon sauce, i’m surprised it’s taken this long to come up such a concept as the two are so well suited. As for the case of Man V Food, food certainly won us over – but nicely. I definitely regretted filling up on bread for this meal but if you’re hoping for bang for your buck you will not be disappointed and you will not leave hungry. This is something that has to be tried for yourself though and we can honestly say “Bravo” to this novel and inventive treat. If you still have room for dessert, Brasserie Blanc’s summer menu is full of decadent treats that it’s hard to pick just one thing. One thing’s for sure, they’ll definitely execute it well and with a fine French finesse. 

Boeuf Burger’gnon is available from now until the 19th July at all Brasserie Blanc branches and what’s more – if you decide to dine on July 14th Bastille Day itself and are dressed in the famous red, white and blue colours of the French flag, you will get your Boeuf Burger’gnon for HALF PRICE(£7.50)

You will be foolish to miss out so make sure you make those reservations now.

http://www.brasserieblanc.com

Hurrah Hurrah. Karri Barron Cards is opening a shop in Hampstead Grand opening.13-14th July

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I received my first Karri Barron 3D card, so beautifully crafted and personalised, from my pal Michael when my first Milly Adams novel was launched.

 

 

I keep it covered by a glass dome. It is a work of art.

Since then I have ordered countless cards from them, all personalised for the person who ‘deserves’ one.

Karri Barron Cards was founded in 1994 as a family run business and since then they have been creating these ‘Little Worlds’. Their catalogue is extensive and are open to personalised changes, and every one I’ve ordered has arrived in good time. The difficulty then is, that one has to put selfishness in one’s pocket because you end up wanting to keep them for yourself.

No, no, they are for someone else.

Several recipients have, they tell me, put them in their ‘precious’ cabinets or under glass domes, as I have. They are more than cards, they are a momento.

This family run  business  produces not only original products but is efficient, and each card arrives in good time. They tell Frost Magazine that they’ve poured all their energy into the family-run business, expanding along the way. As well as online, they have a stall in Covent Garden, but now there is this exciting   news. Are you ready?

Karri Barron Cards have opened their own gift shop in Hampstead. Selling not only  3D cards, but a variety of different luxury toys, gifts and photography. That’s not all. They’re having a celebratory Grand Opening on the 13th & 14th July where everything is 20% off!

Tania’s cafe next door will also be giving a free cup of coffee for those who spend over £30. So why not check out what’s going on in Hampstead and most of all, stop by the shop.

13 & 14 July, Hampstead Antique and Craft Emporium, 12 Heath Street, Hampstead, London NW3 6TE

Opening times: Mon – Wed by appt. Thurs – Sat 10.30 am – 5 pm.

Sunday 11 am – 5 pm.

www.karriebarron.com

SISTER SCRIBES: JANE CABLE ON BOOK BIRTHDAYS

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My latest book, Another You, was published at the end of last month. Actually, it was re-issued, but the experience was so different this time, it’s hardly felt as though it was ever out there before.

With its previous publisher, it slipped into the world unnoticed. I was given no prior warning then suddenly, there it was on Amazon. For a few days I told no-one, then somebody noticed and the cat was out of the bag. The week before Christmas. Not great timing for what is essentially a summer book.

Of course I had a certain trepidation signing with another publisher after that, but I could already see from the outside looking in that things would be different with Sapere. There was proper editing, for a start, and although the story is the same it is tighter, neater, with their input. And although last time the cover was good, this time it is knockout. When I saw the image of the soldier walking away, head bent, I cried. Because whoever had briefed the designer totally got the story.

Next there was a decent pre-order period with a boost of advertising and a mailer to kick it off. The result was it rocketed up the Amazon charts and although things have calmed down a little now I know the book is selling. And its presence on Netgalley has been skilfully used to generate reviews from trusted readers, which has not only raised Another You’s profile but has also given me a rich vein of content for social media.

With the pre-orders having gone so well I didn’t expect too much from publication day itself, but I was knocked out by the support I received on social media, especially from members of the Romantic Novelists’ Association. They are a generous hearted bunch and I seemed to spend much of the day saying thank you, which was only right. There was considerable support from my buddies at Chindi Authors too.

The day before some lovely flowers had arrived from my Sister Scribes and they were looking glorious in their vase in the sunshine. There was also a parcel, which contained a gorgeous embroidered notebook and pencil case, in colours that toned beautifully with my book cover. Next an email popped into my inbox with a voucher for a spa day at the marvellous Scarlet on my beloved north Cornwall coast. To say I was overwhelmed is a bit of an understatement.

The day became even stranger, when no doubt prompted by all this activity my husband downloaded the book. To put this into context, he has never before read anything I’ve written outside the world of cricket journalism. To be fair, he’d been talking about downloading Another You for a while, but there wasn’t any point if he had no intention of reading it. This time, he says he will, but I have to say I’ve seen no moves to do so yet.

Then, just when I thought all the fuss was over, the doorbell rang again and a bottle of champagne turned up – again, courtesy of my Sister Scribes. These amazing, amazing, women. I am truly humbled to have them as my friends.

The point is – they get it. They’re writers too, so they know how publication day should feel. They know it should be special enough to mark the fruition of what is months, and sometimes years, of work. Every book needs a proper birthday, and this is one I will never forget.

Soundcore Wakey Bluetooth Speakers | Tech Reviews

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Soundcore Wakey Bluetooth Speakers Powered by Anker with Alarm Clock, Stereo Sound, FM Radio, White Noise, Qi Wireless Charger with 7.5W Charging for iPhone and 10W for SamsungI am not a fan of clutter so I ask a lot from my possessions. It has to be either beautiful or useful. Or both. I especially like things that double up. This Soundcore Wakey Bluetooth Speakers certainly ticks all of the relevant boxes, and then some more. It has built-in wireless charger powered by Anker technology. It works with Samsung and iPhone*.

It is also a radio and a speaker you can connect via Bluetooth or AUX cable. It wakes you up with 15 individual alarms which have 10 different alarm tones. It is also a white noise machine. Choose from 10 sleep-inducing ambient sounds or compose your own soothing soundscape using the Soundcore app.

The touch bar allows you to turn on the Bluetooth connection, FM radio, increase or decrease volume, and snooze the alarm. It also features a built-in sensor that adjusts the brightness of the LED screen. As you room darkens the display dims and as the sun rises it brightens again.

It also looks stylish and has a lovely, clean, minimalistic design. It has pride of place on our bedside table now. This is a brilliant multi-tasking gadget and it gets the Frost Gold Standard.

Soundcore Wakey Bluetooth Speaker is available here.

*Charge Qi-compatible devices at up to 10W for Samsung S10, S10+, S9, S9+, S8, S8+, and Note 9 and 7.5W for iPhone XR, Xs Max, XS, X, and 8 Plus.

FROST’S FAVOURITE: DEALS FOR THE ULTIMATE BRIDE-BOD

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It’s classed as one of the most stressful times for women and, let’s face it, we can all see why. With all eyes on the bride (sorry to the grooms out there), she wants to look her best and not break the bank.

We’ve done some digging and found our three top deals which all brides should take advantage of. Thank us later.

TO TONE UP


Orangetheory Fitness runs highly-effective one-hour interval-based classes – comprising of treadmill, rowing and floor exercises. If it’s nice outside, sometimes they break out the weight sled in their parking lot. The workout utilises wearable heart-rate technology to help members achieve results from the inside out.

Certified coaches understand that one-size doesn’t fit all. Thanks to the wearable technology, they have real-time data at their finger-tips to provide personalised training and give class-goers the confidence to perform at their best and achieve their goals. Snazzy, eh!

Orangetheory Fitness has six studios in the UK and you can now get three classes for just £30 by visiting orangetheoryfitness.co.uk

TO GLOW UP

Every bride wants glowing skin on her wedding day and a broad stroke of highlight can often look a little fake. Try dermaplaning. The process completely removes the dead, dull skin cells at the top of the skin and leave you with glowing, fresh skin that is super, super soft. because dead skin cells are taken off during treatment, your usual skincare will penetrate deeper and have a better effect. In addition, it combats that niggly, annoying peach fuzz which you definitely don’t want to be catching the light on the those wedding photos!

Book in at Regent’s Street Aesthetics where you can currently buy packages, including a skin peel or micro-needling, from £120 https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15220636

 

TO GLAM UP

With any wedding, the devil is in the detail and that extends to the wedding jewellery. Often accidentally left off the wedding budget but a key part to that flawless look, choosing the right jewellery will complete the outfit. David’s Bridal offers a 10% discount to its VIBs (Very Important Brides) once you’ve purchased your dress and is a great way to save some dollar pre the big day!

Visit https://www.davidsbridal.co.uk to book an appointment

FOR THE BAMBINOS: TOP BAMBOO TOYS

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Hape’s latest collection of kids toys claims that by the time these toys makes it into your hands, the bamboo used to make it has already grown back. *Adds to basket*

Check out our three favourites from the range below:

Flexistix Multi Tower Kit, £25.74 from Amazon

Use the silicone connectors to link the bamboo sticks together one by one to create an entirely new shapes. Hape’s Flexistix kits push the boundaries of STEM learning in a more interpretive and original way.

4Y+

Pallina Ocean Rescue, £28.29 from Amazon

Help free the sea creatures by pulling out the bamboo sticks but without releasing the fish. Pallina is a great challenge for the little ones, to implement the use of a delicate touch and a thoughtful strategy.

3Y+

Skinny Legs Toss, £21.99 from Amazon

Target and toss these silly spiders into a triumphant tangle. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor play Hape’s Skinny Legs Toss is designed for 1 – 4 players at a time. The concept? Each player picks a colour, then gathers their three spiders.

3Y+

SLEEPING BEAUTY: FIVE NOCTURNAL HAIR AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS

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Let’s face it, evenings are for Netflix and napping. We might want to do a five step beauty regime at night but more often than not, it’s not going to happen. That’s why we’ve pulled together five life saver products which will do the work while you sleep. What more could you need!

 

Morning Glamour Pillowcase, £12.99, makeupbox-ldn.co.uk

The Morning Glamour satin pillowcase provides a smoother surface for your hair strands, which reduces matting, breakage, tangling and snagging as you sleep. It’s also non-absorbent, helping your skin maintain maximum moisture. It also prevents wrinkles, allowing you to wake up with smooth, clear and flawless skin every morning.

 

Satin Sleep Turban, £15, Only Curls

Only Curls have updated the traditional satin bonnet into this sleek turban, with a cute bow at the front. Sleeping with a satin cap means no more split ends. It protects your hair from the dryness caused by friction between your hair and moisture-absorbing materials such as cotton. This also helps to greatly reduce breakage, tangles and thinning.

 

Daytox Rich Cream, £26, Waitrose

This decadent cell-reviving cream is enriched with highly active ‘BioDtox’, a mix of citrus, aloe and broccoli. It fills out fine lines and protects against free radicals, while Hyaluron restores a youthful, fresh radiance to the skin. Perfect for dry and stressed skin in need of rich care. Apply at night to allow the cell repairing properties to flourish, given our cells regenerate faster as our body rests.

 

LQ Liquid Health Supplements Skin, Hair & Nails, £29.99, Boots

Who ever said a shot before bed was a bad idea? This daily supplement is scientifically formulated, with multiple key active ingredients such as marine collagen (7000mg), hyaluronic acid, resveratrol, silicon, glucosamine, selenium and vitamins. Take before bed to supplement the natural production of collagen, which occurs as we sleep.

 

Sesderma Factor G Renew Anti-Ageing Regenerating Cream, £46.34, sesderma.co.uk 

A powerful anti-ageing cream with growth factors and plant stem cells to stimulate cellular regeneration, reduce wrinkles and give the skin back its tautness. Apply just before bed to allow ingredients to work their magic as you sleep, and wake up feeling smooth and revitalised.

 

 

The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff Reviewed by Natalie Jayne Peeke

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Grace, New York , 1946

Grace , a beautiful, young widow , finds an abandoned suitcase under a bench in Grand Central Station. Curiosity getting the better of her , she opens the suitcase on a hope of finding find a hint of who the owner is. Inside the contents containing a silver backed hairbrush , lavender soap and a pair of baby shoes are all neatly packed.

Realising she has invaded someone else’s privacy, she withdraws her hand and discovers a pack of carefully wrapped photographs. Each photo is of a different young woman, too different to be related , some in uniform , others not.

Who are they ? Who does the suitcase belong to ? Grace doesn’t have the answers but she’s determined to find out.

Eleanor, London, 1943

Eleanor, a Polish Jew now living and working in London as Gregory Winslow’s secretary, He’s the director of the special operations executive (SOE) . Eleanor witnesses the frustration as more and more agents are being captured and presumed dead , shortly after their arrival behind enemy lines.

Growing as frustrated as her boss and having a overwhelming urge to prove herself , Eleanor makes a bold suggestion to the director, a suggestion that would not only change her life but the lives of so many others.

Marie, London, 1944

Marie, a young single mother, a typist for the war office . Marie has always been made to feel useless , first by her father, then by her husband . With her daughter safely evacuated Marie yearns to help with the war effort .

Enjoying the quiet after a long day of constant clacking, Marie relaxes in a quiet cafè, reading poetry by her favourite French writer . Unexpectedly she is approached by a stranger who offers her a well paid job , no description or further explanation. Simply leaving her with a name and a address. With nothing to lose Marie makes a decision that she could never turn away from .

A truly gripping read of mystery, love and heroism. Perfect for fans of Lizzie’s secret & Lizzie’s war by Rosie Clarke. Or fans of stories with a strong female hero , or 12 !

The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff

Paperback £7.99
eBook £5.99
Audio download £12.99

Natalie Jayne Peeke: http://www.thebookwormmother.co.uk