Books: First Lines Fridays 31st October 2025

First Lines Fridays is a weekly feature for book lovers hosted by Wandering Words. What if instead of judging a book by its cover, its author or its prestige, we judged it by its opening lines? 

• Pick a book off your shelf (it could be your current read or on your TBR) and open to the first page 
• Copy the first few lines, but don’t give anything else about the book away just yet – you need to hook the reader first 
• Finally… reveal the book!

My First Lines Pick This Week

The first lines of the book:

And the book is...

Book synopsis for Heart of Malice by Lisa Edmonds

The first time Moses Murphy's granddaughter killed on his orders, she was six years old.

For 20 years, she was a prisoner of an organized crime syndicate, forced to use her magic to make Moses the most powerful and feared man on the East Coast. To escape his cruelty, she faked her own death and started a new life as Alice Worth. As a private investigator specializing in cases involving the supernatural, Alice walks a precarious line between atoning for the sins of her grandfather's cabal and keeping her true identity hidden.

Hired to investigate the disappearance of a mysterious object of power, Alice enlists the help of Malcolm, a ghost running from a past as nightmarish as her own. It soon becomes clear the missing object was taken by someone with a dangerous secret and an unknown agenda. When her client is kidnapped, Alice must find her and the object of power before a vengeful killer destroys the city and slaughters thousands - starting with Alice.

Contains mature themes.

Where to find Heart of Malice by Lisa Edmonds online: 

 

Heart of Malice Amazon affiliate link

Heart of Malice on Goodreads

October 2025 Book Blogger Posts Round Up

A collection of blog posts by book bloggers

Welcome to another Book Bloggers Round Up post! Let's see what book bloggers posted about during October.

I introduced this feature here on the blog in May 2021 to showcase blog posts by other book bloggers and as it continues to be a popular series I've decided to continue again this year too. 

Each month I'll include a wide variety of content so there's something for everyone. You'll find book reviews, interviews, discussion pieces and more...

So if you're looking for new bookish content to read and/or want to discover some new book bloggers to follow, look no further!

Why I do this feature: 

Scanning through various social media feeds to find suitable content can take up valuable time and so I figured I'd make it easier and put together a collection here on the blog.

It's also a way for me to highlight some of the other great book bloggers out there and help promote books and reading at the same time. 

How it works:

Each month I do a post via my Twitter, where I offer the opportunity for book bloggers to submit posts published during that month for inclusion in this round up. I do this every month.

Want to be included in future round ups? Follow my Twitter profile and keep an eye out for the submission tweet.

October 2025 Book Blogger Round Up

In case you missed it, don't forget to check out the September Round Up for even more great bookish posts by different book bloggers. 

Santa Maria Maggiore: Rome’s Timeless Basilica You Shouldn’t Miss

What You Need To Know About This Church

The Basilica’s Peaceful Contrast with Busy Rome

Outside, the basilica looks magnificent, gleaming in the sun as Rome hums busily around it. Then you step inside, and suddenly the noise fades — it’s calm, cool, and feels like time has stopped altogether.

It’s this contrast that makes Santa Maria Maggiore so unforgettable. One moment you’re surrounded by the life and chaos of modern Rome; the next, you’re standing in a place that’s been here for over 1,500 years, untouched by time.

Why You Should Visit Santa Maria Maggiore

If you’re planning a trip to Rome, don’t skip this basilica. It’s one of the city’s most important churches — both artistically and spiritually — and offers a glimpse into the very soul of Rome. Whether you come for faith, art, architecture, or just curiosity, Santa Maria Maggiore has a quiet way of reaching you.

I honestly can’t wait to go back. Even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to see everything this place holds.

Visitor Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Visit

• Location: Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, on the Esquiline Hill, central Rome. Very short walking distance from Termini station. 

• Opening Hours: Generally open daily from early morning until evening; check the official Vatican or basilica website before visiting.

• Entry Fee: Free, though donations are welcome.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when the crowds thin and the light hits the gold ceiling beautifully.

• Dress Code: Modest clothing is required — shoulders and knees covered.

Final Thoughts

For me, Santa Maria Maggiore isn’t just another church in Rome — it’s a masterpiece of faith, history, and art. It’s one of those rare places where you can truly feel the layers of time, where beauty and spirituality blend so seamlessly that you can’t help but be moved.

If you only have time for a few churches in Rome, make sure this is one of them. You won’t regret it.

Love Rome as much as I do? Keep exploring with me!

Self-Care Tips for Beginners on a Health Journey

Starting a health journey can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether your goal is to improve your physical fitness, mental wellbeing, or overall lifestyle, self-care plays a vital role in sustaining your progress. For beginners, it’s important to approach self-care with kindness and patience. 

My health journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Living with multiple health conditions means that some days, even getting moving feels like an uphill battle. But through it all, I’ve discovered that exercise and nourishing my body with wholesome foods aren’t just chores—they’re acts of kindness towards myself. Every small step, whether it’s a gentle walk or choosing a colourful salad, is a powerful way to take control and respect my body. This journey has taught me that self-care isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence, compassion, and celebrating every victory, no matter how small. 

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here. 

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided on www.JoLinsdell.com does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

Here are some essential self-care tips with practical daily routines to help you stay motivated and make your health journey enjoyable.

1. Prioritise Sleep

Why it matters: Quality sleep helps your body recover, boosts your immune system, and improves mood and concentration.

Daily routine:

• Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

• Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime; instead, try reading a book or listening to calming music.

• Create a relaxing pre-sleep ritual such as gentle stretching or a warm bath.

2. Stay Hydrated

Why it matters: Water supports every function in your body, including regulating temperature and flushing out toxins.

Daily routine:

• Start your morning with a large glass of water.

• Carry a reusable water bottle and set reminders on your phone to drink water every hour.

• Infuse water with fresh fruit or herbs for a refreshing twist.

3. Eat Mindfully

Why it matters: Mindful eating encourages healthier choices and better digestion.

Daily routine:

• Take time to sit down and eat without distractions like TV or phones.

• Chew slowly and savour each bite, noticing flavours and textures.

• Plan simple, balanced meals ahead of time, including a mix of vegetables, whole grains, and protein.

4. Move Your Body

Why it matters: Physical activity improves physical health, mental clarity, and reduces stress.

Daily routine:

• Start with a 10-minute morning walk or gentle yoga to wake your body.

• Take short breaks every hour if you’re sitting for long periods — stand up, stretch, or walk around.

• Choose an activity you enjoy, like cycling or dancing, and schedule it into your week.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Why it matters: Smaller, achievable goals prevent overwhelm and boost motivation.

Daily routine:

• Write down one small health goal each day, such as drinking extra water or trying a new vegetable.

• Reflect each evening on your progress, noting what worked and what felt challenging.

• Adjust goals as needed to keep them manageable.

6. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Why it matters: Mindfulness reduces stress and helps maintain focus.

Daily routine:

• Spend 5 minutes each morning practising deep breathing or meditation.

• Take mindful pauses during the day to notice your surroundings and check in with your feelings.

• Before bed, try a guided relaxation or visualisation exercise.

7. Listen to Your Body

Why it matters: Tuning into your body helps you respond appropriately to its needs.

Daily routine:

• Check in with yourself 2-3 times a day — ask how hungry, tired, or stressed you feel.

• Honour these signals by resting when tired, eating when hungry, and taking breaks when stressed.

• Avoid pushing through pain or discomfort; modify activities if necessary.

8. Seek Support

Why it matters: Support provides encouragement, advice, and accountability.

Daily routine:

• Reach out to a friend or family member daily to share your health journey.

• Join an online forum or local group focused on health and wellbeing.

• Schedule regular check-ins with a professional if possible.

9. Limit Screen Time

Why it matters: Reducing screen time can improve sleep quality and mental health.

Daily routine:

• Set specific times for checking social media and stick to them.

• Use blue light filters on devices after sunset.

• Replace evening screen time with calming activities like journaling or reading.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Why it matters: Compassion fuels perseverance and reduces negative self-talk.

Daily routine:

• Start each day with a positive affirmation or gratitude practice.

• Celebrate small wins, such as choosing a healthy meal or completing a workout.

• When setbacks occur, remind yourself it’s okay to rest and start again tomorrow.

Starting your health journey with these self-care tips and practical daily routines can help create a strong, sustainable foundation for lasting change. Take it one day at a time, and enjoy the process of becoming the best version of yourself.

Ready to take the first step on your health journey? Start small, be kind to yourself, and celebrate every victory along the way. If you found these tips helpful, why not share this post with a friend who might need a little encouragement too? And don’t forget to explore more ideas to support your journey—because every positive change, no matter how tiny, brings you closer to the healthiest, happiest you.

On-Page SEO Made Easy: A Practical Checklist for Your Site

Whether you’ve been running a website for years or are just starting to explore the wide world of digital marketing, one thing’s certain—nailing your on-page SEO is essential. Think of it like building a sturdy foundation for a house; without it, everything else feels a bit shaky.

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

So, today I’m sharing a straightforward On-Page SEO checklist to help you optimise your site and make it more appealing to both search engines and your visitors. Let’s get started, shall we?

1. Start with a Clear, Relevant Title Tag

Your title tag is the first thing both users and search engines see. Make it punchy, relevant, and keep it under 60 characters. Include your main keyword near the beginning, but don’t force it. Think of it like the headline in a newspaper—grab attention and inform at the same time.

2. Craft a Meta Description That Invites Clicks

Meta descriptions don’t directly affect rankings, but they do influence whether someone clicks on your link in the search results. Keep it under 160 characters, make it engaging, and include your main keyword. It’s your little sales pitch!

3. Use Heading Tags Wisely (H1, H2, H3…)

Your headings organise content and help both readers and search engines understand your page’s structure. There should be only one H1 tag per page, typically your main title, followed by H2s and H3s for subheadings. Sprinkle relevant keywords naturally here.

4. Write Quality, User-Friendly Content

Nothing beats great content. Ensure your text answers your visitors’ questions, is easy to read, and avoids keyword stuffing. Aim for a good length—usually, longer content performs better, but quality always wins over quantity.

5. Optimise Your URLs

Keep URLs short, clean, and descriptive. Use hyphens to separate words, and include your main keyword if possible. For example, www.yoursite.com/on-page-seo-checklist is much better than www.yoursite.com/page1234

6. Don’t Forget Alt Text for Images

Search engines can’t see images like we do, so alt text helps describe what the picture is about. It improves accessibility for users with disabilities and can give you a little SEO boost too. Keep it descriptive but concise.

7. Internal Linking: Connect the Dots

Linking to other relevant pages on your site keeps visitors engaged longer and helps search engines crawl your site more effectively. Just be sure the links make sense and add value.

8. Mobile-Friendliness is a Must

With more and more people browsing on their phones, a mobile-friendly website isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. Google prioritises mobile responsiveness, so check your site regularly and use tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.

9. Improve Page Speed

Nobody likes waiting around for a slow-loading page, and search engines don’t either. Compress images, use caching, and minimise unnecessary scripts to keep your site speedy.

10. Add Schema Markup for Extra SEO Sparkle

Schema markup is a bit like giving search engines a cheat sheet. It helps them understand your content better and can enhance your listing in search results with rich snippets. It might sound technical, but there are plenty of plugins and guides to help.

Wrapping Up

Getting to grips with on-page SEO might seem a bit much at first, but with this checklist in hand, you’re well equipped to build a website that both search engines and visitors will truly enjoy. Take your time, keep things natural and focused on your audience, and you’ll soon see your site’s reach grow steadily.

Feel free to ask any questions about SEO in the comments—I’m here to help! 

When you’re ready to take your SEO further, have a look at my Guide to Off-Page SEO for tips on boosting your site’s authority.

If you’re new to SEO, I recommend checking out my Types of SEO: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners to help you get started with the essentials.

Books: First Lines Fridays 24th October 2025

First Lines Fridays is a weekly feature for book lovers hosted by Wandering Words. What if instead of judging a book by its cover, its author or its prestige, we judged it by its opening lines? 

• Pick a book off your shelf (it could be your current read or on your TBR) and open to the first page 
• Copy the first few lines, but don’t give anything else about the book away just yet – you need to hook the reader first 
• Finally… reveal the book!

My Pick For This Week

The first lines of the book:

And the book is...

Book synopsis for The Berlin Wife by Marion Kummerow

Germany, 1938. ‘No,’ she cries out as she falls to the floor, fear clutching desperately at her chest, ‘They can’t have taken him, they can’t have taken my husband.’ As her tear-filled eyes dart wildly around the empty room, she realises she has no one to turn to. She is his only hope. But how can she possibly save him?

When shy, beautiful Edith first met Jewish-born Julius it was love at first sight. Julius swept her off her feet, whisking her from humble beginnings into the sparkling society and glittering ballrooms of Berlin’s powerful elite. It felt like all her dreams had come true.

But her perfect world begins to crack with rumblings of the Nazi party growing in power and influence. Every day there are new laws to strip Jews of their money and their freedom. And there are even more frightening rumours, of horrifying camps, and people disappearing in the night…

Then when Edith’s own brother Joseph enlists as an SS officer, and her whole family turn their backs on them, she knows that it is only a matter of time before they come for her husband. She pleads with Julius that their only chance is to run away and start again. Who cares about worldly possessions if they can still be together, their lives intact? But despite everything, he refuses to believe he is in danger.

Then one terrible night, the sounds of cries and breaking glass ring out across the city as the Nazis wreak their destruction. Edith’s worst fears have been realised—Julius has been taken.

For so long, Edith has led a sheltered life, secluded from the real world. But the only way to save her beloved husband is to defy the Nazis and put herself in grave danger. Can she draw on every bit of strength she has to fight for love and save him… or is she already too late?

A totally devastating, powerful, and ultimately uplifting story, perfect for fans of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, My Name is Eva and Sold on a Monday.

Where to find The Berlin Wife by Marion Kummerow online: 

 

The Berlin Wife Amazon affiliate link

The Berlin Wife on Goodreads