There’s something deeply personal about starting a new book – that quiet thrill of cracking open the first page, knowing an adventure awaits. It’s like meeting a new friend, full of possibility and promise. As I sit here with my fresh download of “A Corruption of Gilded Ashes,” I can’t help but feel this moment is especially meaningful.

February brings us such a beautiful confluence of celebrations. As we honor Black History Month, celebrating the rich tapestry of Black stories, voices, and experiences, we’re also embracing the season of love with Valentine’s Day approaching. What better time to dive into a fantasy romance by a talented Black author like Jessica Cage? Her work represents exactly what I love about reading, the power to transport us while reflecting the diverse, beautiful world we live in.

This month, I’m inviting you to join me on a special reading journey. “A Corruption of Gilded Ashes” has called to my reader’s heart, promising to blend magical elements with deep emotional resonance. It’s beautiful experiencing a love story through a lens different from our own, discovering how magic and romance intertwine in ways we might never have imagined.

Why This Book Speaks to Me

In my quest to explore more Black authors in fantasy romance, I discovered Jessica Cage’s work. The premise instantly grabbed me; a story that promises to blend magical elements with deep emotional resonance. As someone who believes in the power of representation in fantasy, I’m excited to immerse myself in this world.

In choosing this book for February, It’s not just selecting another fantasy romance – It’s embracing an opportunity to support and celebrate Black creativity while indulging in the love for magical storytelling. It feels like the perfect way to honor both the historical significance of this month and the universal language of love that speaks to all our hearts.

My Reading Journey: A Personal Schedule

I’ve crafted a reading schedule that works with my life’s rhythm, allowing me to savor every moment of the story. Here’s how I’m planning my February reading adventure:

Week 1 (February 1-7): First Steps into Magic

• Chapters 1-5 during my morning coffee sessions
• Evening journaling about initial impressions
• Weekend deep-dive into character notes

Week 2 (February 8-14): Deepening the Connection

• Chapters 6-10 during my lunch breaks
• Evening reflection on world-building elements
• Weekend catch-up if needed (life happens!)

Week 3 (February 15-21): Heart of the Journey

• Chapters 11-15 in my cozy reading nook
• Journaling about pivotal moments
• Mid-month reflection on favorite scenes

Week 4 (February 22-28): Embracing the Finale

• Remaining chapters at a gentle pace
• Final thoughts and favorite quotes collection
• Personal reflection on the journey

Creating My Reading Experience

To make this journey special, I’m:

• Setting up a dedicated space in my reading journal
• Creating a cozy reading corner with blankets and cocktails
• Taking mindful moments to reflect on the story

Getting Your Copy

“A Corruption of Gilded Ashes” is available on Amazon. I’ve already downloaded my copy to my Kindle and can’t wait to begin this magical journey. I hope you will read long with us.

Share the Magic

While this is my personal reading schedule, I’d love for you to read along with me! I’ll be sharing my thoughts, favorite moments, and reflections throughout the month.

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Looking Ahead

The Joy of Shared Reading

Reading is such a personal journey. We all do it differently. Some of us read in quick bursts during lunch breaks. Others curl up for hours on weekends. I’m a morning reader myself – there’s nothing like a quiet hour with coffee and a good book to start the day.

But here’s the thing about reading – it gets better when we share it. When we can turn to someone and say “Oh my gosh, did you read that part?” or “I didn’t see that plot twist coming!” Those moments of connection make stories come alive in new ways.

If you caught my recent post about setting February reading goals, you know I’m all about making reading work for real life. This book is part of my six-book challenge for the month, and I’d love for you to tackle it with me. Not sure how to set reading goals that actually stick? Check out my guide here [link to February goals post] – it might help you find your own perfect reading rhythm.

I’ll be right here documenting every step of this journey. The surprises, the theories, maybe even the moments that make me gasp out loud. You’ll find my updates here on the blog and over on Instagram, where I share my reading life.

Every book changes us a little. It adds something to who we are, opens up new ways of seeing things. “A Corruption of Gilded Ashes” is about to become part of my story – and maybe yours too. Whether you’re reading along or just curious about my journey, I’m so glad you’re here.

Your Reading Journey Awaits

Remember, while this is my schedule, your reading journey is your own. Whether you read faster, slower, or completely differently, what matters is finding joy in the story.

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Are you planning to read along with me? What do you love most about fantasy romance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Happy reading!

D.