media consumption journal (vol 3): everything I've loved in march
articles, films and movies I've consumed last month
This post is too long for email—please view it on the app or desktop!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). This is one of the ways I can continue to write free content for you.
Opening note
“Perhaps when we find ourselves wanting everything, it is because we are dangerously close to wanting nothing.” - Sylvia Plath
March has always felt like one of those months that stretches endlessly, yet this year, it slipped by in the blink of an eye. To counterbalance this shift, I’ve intentionally slowed down—both in the media I’ve consumed and in embracing a more mindful, unhurried pace of life. I’ve also found joy in the subtle transitions of the season, from nature’s shifting rhythms to the gradual swap of my wardrobe for lighter, more fitting attire.
This month’s media roundup reflects that shift, with fewer books completed as I gravitated more toward films and television. As you read on, you may notice a few recurring themes emerge in my media habits.
In case you missed out, you can view my media consumption journals from previous months here.
Monthly Report
What I’ve read
books
Rebel Witch by Kristen Ciccarelli
“Some people are determined to live out their own personal tragedies.”
⭐️ rating: 3/5 stars
📖 book tropes: enemies to lovers, close proximity
I finally finished Kristen Ciccarelli’s The Crimson Moth duology, and it was a deeply satisfying conclusion—a spellbinding blend of fantasy, romance, and rich world-building that swept me away. The tension crackles on every page, fueled by intricate character dynamics and a plot that refuses to let go.
It’s surprising how little buzz this series has received because it deserves far more recognition. The magic system is both inventive and seamlessly woven into the narrative, making for an effortlessly immersive read. I found myself utterly absorbed, finishing the book in just a couple of days.
At its heart, the story follows Rune Winters, a fugitive witch forced into an uneasy alliance with the merciless Cressida Roseblood, who seeks to reinstate a Reign of Witches. Standing against them is Gideon Sharpe—the boy who once loved Rune and then betrayed her—determined to protect the Republic, even if it means hunting her down. But when Rune presents him with an impossible choice, the lines between love, duty, and survival blur, leading to a breathtakingly tense and emotional finale.
For those who revel in YA fantasy brimming with high stakes, searing chemistry, and an enthralling magical world, this series is a hidden gem worth discovering.
Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone
“Grief is a relationship. It’s the way we figure out how to keep loving them even though they’re gone. And in order to do that we have to keep on going. And going and going. You’re not betraying her by healing, you are honoring her. You are learning to love her exactly as she is. As someone who isn’t here anymore… that’s who she is now. And this journey through grief.. it’s what we do for great loves of our lives.”
⭐️ rating: TBC
📖 book tropes: slow-burn romance, friends to lovers, grumpy x sunshine
Cara Bastone is one of those rare authors who effortlessly draws you in from the very first page. If you're looking to ease into the romance genre, her books provide the perfect introduction—warm, engaging, and irresistibly charming.
After devouring Ready or Not (review here), I knew I had to pick up Promise Me Sunshine next. Though I started it toward the end of the month, I couldn’t resist including it in this month’s recommendations—it’s simply too delightful to overlook.
A Crane Among the Wolves by June Hur
“If by any chance we do not meet again in this lifetime, then I will find you in the next—or as many lifetimes as it takes to see you again.”
⭐️ rating: 3/5 stars
📖 book tropes: slow-burn romance, close proximity
June Hur’s A Crane Among Wolves is a gripping yet unsettling historical novel set in 1506 Joseon, following seventeen-year-old Iseul as she risks everything to rescue her sister from King Yeonsan’s ruthless rule. Along the way, she forms a reluctant alliance with Prince Daehyun, who is secretly planning a coup. Packed with political intrigue, treachery, and emotional depth, the story explores the brutal realities of power and oppression.
The novel starts off a bit slow but remains engaging, with well-developed characters and a fascinating historical backdrop. Hur’s writing is immersive, and the mystery surrounding ‘Nameless Flower’ keeps the tension high. However, the ending feels somewhat predictable, and the subject matter is undeniably heavy, with significant trigger warnings.
If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads and rich cultural depth, this is a compelling—though emotionally intense—read.
First-Time Caller by B.K Borison
“When the whole world tells you you’re silly for wanting the things you want, you start to believe them. You start to think you’re not worth it. That if the things you’re waiting for do exist, they’re not for someone like you.”
⭐️ rating: 3/5 stars
📖 book tropes: slow-burn romance, friends to lovers, forced proximity
I went into this book with no expectations and was pleasantly surprised by its heartfelt romance—imperfect yet utterly charming.
First-Time Caller follows Aiden, a radio host for a romance hotline who has long since stopped believing in love, and Lucie, a single mother and auto mechanic whose daughter calls into the show, hoping to give her mother a second chance at happiness. As Aiden and Lucie begin talking on air, listeners across Boston fall for her warmth and authenticity, leading to an invitation for her to join the show in search of love. But, as fate would have it, the connection she’s meant to find is with Aiden himself.
While the pacing felt a bit drawn out in the beginning, picking up only about a third of the way in, the book ultimately delivers the kind of swoon-worthy, slow-burn romance that leaves you giddy. If you’re a fan of late ‘90s and early 2000s rom-coms—the kind that give you butterflies, make your heart race, and leave you grinning like a fool—this story will feel like a nostalgic dream come to life.
Wild Side by Elsie Silver
“I’ve spent a lifetime thinking I don’t like talking. It turns out I just needed the right person to talk to.”
⭐️ rating: 2.75/5 stars
📖 book tropes: slow-burn romance, small-town romance
One of my reading goals this year was to finally give a chance to an author I had long avoided, and Elsie Silver was at the top of that list. It wasn’t out of dislike—more a mix of skepticism and hesitation, particularly with the overwhelming buzz surrounding her books on BookTok. But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to dive in. To my surprise, I found the book enjoyable, though not without a few reservations.
If you enjoy contemporary romance set in a small town, particularly with the forced proximity trope, this one is definitely worth considering. The story follows a woman who agrees to marry the man who once ‘betrayed’ her in order to keep her nephew in Rose Hill. Rhys Dupris is brooding, secretive, and often distant, but living under the same roof sparks undeniable tension between them. As she uncovers the man behind his guarded exterior, she discovers a fiercely protective and unexpectedly gentle side. What starts as a marriage of convenience slowly evolves into a slow-burn romance, making it harder to hate him—and far too easy to fall in love. Perfect for fans of small-town romance and simmering chemistry.
Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
“She’s not an easy person; she’s like me, Peeta always says. But she was smarter than me, or luckier. She’s the one who finally kept that sun from rising.”
⭐️ rating: 2.75/5
📖 genres: science fiction, young adult, dystopia, fantasy
Suzanne Collins takes us back to the arena in Sunrise on the Reaping, this time following Haymitch Abernathy’s brutal journey through the 50th Hunger Games. The book starts off slow, giving us a deep look into Haymitch’s life before the Games, but once the action picks up, it’s an emotional rollercoaster. We get fascinating backstories on characters like Mags, Wiress, and Beetee, plus shocking details—like how Haymitch wasn’t even supposed to be reaped.
There are plenty of gut-wrenching moments, from Leonore Dove’s tragic final words to the horrifying punishment that awaits Haymitch back home. That said, some deaths felt repetitive, and the arena occasionally seemed a little too convenient for him. It’s not quite as gripping as The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, but if you’re a Hunger Games fan, this is still a solid read that adds more depth to Haymitch’s story.
If you enjoyed my book recommendations, feel free to follow me on Fable for daily reading updates and book reviews. I’ve also got a referral for Fable, where you can get a $5 credit to use on an ebook!
March articles and essays
Here are a few of my favourite long-form content I’ve enjoyed reading in March.
The Trump Administration Accidentally Texted Me Its War Plans
The True Story of the Married Woman Who Smuggled Her Boyfriend Out of Prison in a Dog Crate
The rise of chatbot “friends” Wait, what is a friend anyway?
Media to consume instead of doom-scrolling
What I’ve watched
This month was marked by a deep nostalgia and a renewed love for historical dramas. I found myself revisiting films that shaped my younger years—yes, I’ve always been a Twilight fan, to the point of reading the books. The same goes for The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare. With Sunrise on the Reaping releasing in March, I couldn’t resist rewatching The Hunger Games movies, reliving the intensity all over again.
Films
The Other Boleyn Girl (2008) - Two sisters, Anne and Mary Boleyn, compete for the love of King Henry VIII, leading to ambition, betrayal, and a tragic fall from grace. The film dramatizes the political intrigue and personal sacrifices within the Tudor court.
Mary Queen of Scotts (2018) - Mary Stuart returns to Scotland to reclaim her throne, clashing with her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, in a power struggle that ultimately leads to her downfall. The film explores themes of female leadership, betrayal, and political manipulation.
Twilight (2008) - Teenager Bella Swan moves to a small town and falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious and brooding vampire. Their forbidden romance is tested by supernatural dangers and a deadly vampire coven.
![The Twilight Saga: New Moon – [FILMGRAB]](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!OYiM!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F9edb8429-1660-402d-b16c-dbedffb62707_1280x534.jpeg "The Twilight Saga: New Moon – [FILMGRAB]")
The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) - After Edward leaves Bella for her safety, she finds comfort in her friendship with Jacob Black, a werewolf. As she spirals into reckless behaviour, she learns Edward believes she is dead, leading to a dramatic confrontation in Italy.
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010) - Bella must choose between her love for Edward and her deep bond with Jacob as a vampire army threatens her town. The love triangle intensifies while a vengeful enemy from the past seeks revenge.
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 and Part 2 (2011 and 2012) - Bella and Edward marry, but their honeymoon leads to a dangerous pregnancy that nearly kills Bella. After becoming a vampire, she must protect her daughter from the powerful Volturi in an epic final showdown.
![The Hunger Games – [FILMGRAB]](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!gH3B!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F88c3ed1b-c2f7-4c30-887a-a03f4386ad22_1280x534.jpeg "The Hunger Games – [FILMGRAB]")
The Hunger Games (2012) - Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute to take her sister’s place in a brutal televised fight to the death. With the odds stacked against her, she fights for survival while unwittingly becoming a symbol of rebellion.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) - After winning the Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta are forced into another deadly arena as the Capitol seeks to silence growing dissent. Their defiance sparks the beginning of a revolution.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 (2014) - Katniss becomes the face of the rebellion against the Capitol while struggling with the weight of war. As she fights to rescue Peeta, propaganda and politics shape the uprising.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2 (2015) - Katniss leads a final assault on the Capitol, facing devastating losses and moral dilemmas. As the war ends, she must decide the future of Panem and her own path forward.
The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013) - Teenager Clary Fray discovers she belongs to a secret world of demon hunters known as Shadowhunters. As she searches for answers about her mother’s disappearance, she is drawn into an ancient battle between good and evil.
The Longest Ride (2015) - A college student and a former bull rider fall in love despite their differences, with their romance paralleling the decades-long love story of an elderly man. As their relationship is tested, they find inspiration in the past to shape their future.
Tv Shows
The First Frost (2025) - In First Frost, reporter Wen Yifan unexpectedly reunites with her former high school deskmate and crush, Sang Yan, at a bar he co-owns. Initially pretending not to recognise each other, fate intervenes, leading them to become housemates. As they navigate their past and present, old feelings resurface, and they rekindle their romantic feelings.
One Piece (1999) - Based on the legendary manga, this live-action adventure follows Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the fabled One Piece treasure. Along the way, they battle powerful enemies, form unbreakable bonds, and chase their dreams of freedom on the high seas.
When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025)
"When Life Gives You Tangerines" is a heartwarming South Korean drama set on Jeju Island in the 1950s and 1960s. It follows Ae-sun, a spirited young woman with dreams of becoming a poet despite her tough upbringing, and Gwan-sik, a loyal and hardworking man who has always had feelings for her. As they navigate love, family, and life’s challenges, the show beautifully captures Jeju’s unique culture and breathtaking scenery. With its touching story and deep character development, this drama is perfect for anyone who loves nostalgic, emotional storytelling.
Feel free to share what you’ve read, watched or listened to this past month in the comments! I always love media recommendations.
In case you missed out….
Here are a few of my most popular posts from March loved by you:
newsletters
I prefer to be alone - why I choose to spend time with myself & solo date ideas for every occasion
Your monthly reset: vol 1 - interesting reads, journal prompts & watchlist
Part 4 of Media to consume instead of doom-scrolling
Self-Invasions and the Invaded Self The hidden injuries of the age of exposure
Don’t forget if you’d like to ask me a question, you can submit your questions anonymously below. It can be about anything (career, living abroad, travelling, navigating your twenties etc).
Here’s also my mood of the month:
That's it for now, but you'll be hearing from me soon!
Until next time,
Before you go: You can find me on Instagram, Fable, and TikTok to keep up with my updates, oversharing and recommendations in real-time.
This newsletter is entirely reader-supported. If you enjoyed this post, likes, comments, and shares mean the world. For even more content, consider becoming a paid subscriber to access my full archive and exclusive paywalled posts. Your support keeps this space going—thank you!
resources I can’t live without