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Book Review: Four Ruined Realms by Mai Corland

Book Review: Four Ruined Realms by Mai Corland

Am I still obsessed? Absolutely. I’m fully invested in this series, and I cannot wait for book three to drop later this year. If you want to check my review of the first book and get to know a bit more about the main characters…

Becoming Enough: The Work of Self-Healing

Becoming Enough: The Work of Self-Healing

I’ve asked myself countless times—what does not good enough even mean? Why do I feel this way before I’ve even started something as if I’m already bracing for disappointment? Why do I push myself so hard? So many questions, right? It took me years to…

Lunch Box Series: Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

Lunch Box Series: Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

Lunch Box Series: Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

Let me just say, shortcut meals are my lifesaver. But meal prepping? That’s another story. It’s not that I’m against it, but honestly, prepped meals don’t last long in my house.

With my kids either done with school or no longer attending traditional school, and me working from home, I’ve started using these lunch containers—for myself!

They’re perfect for portion control and a reminder to pause for an actual lunch break.

Let’s be honest—life can feel repetitive sometimes. I was a stay-at-home mom for 10 years, and then, out of nowhere, I found myself running a website, working 16+ hours a day while raising three kids, and having a husband who works nights.

Lunch Box Series: Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

It’s a juggling act, to say the least!

Back when my kids were little, I made small changes to keep life interesting: sneaking off for coffee breaks, taking 30-minute after-school drop-offs for a jog or walk, or showing up at school to have lunch with my kids. These little moments kept me grounded and added some spark to my day.

Fast forward to now—I’ve been working from home for almost 15 years, running my blog and social media. It’s not always easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Being my own boss fits me perfectly, even if I’m constantly learning to navigate the ups and downs of the blogging world. It’s a business, so even though it’s fun and you’re home, you have to take it seriously!

Lunch Box Series: Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

So, I’m excited to kick off this new series: Lunch Box. It’s part of my new blog, a space where I’ve packed all my passions into one place.

This series is all about practical, delicious meal ideas you can pack for on-the-go or enjoy at home. Some recipes will be completely from scratch, while others—like today’s—will lean on handy shortcuts.

I always make two portions: one for myself and one for my husband. Sharing a meal makes it even more special!

Lunch Box Series: Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

Why I Don’t Meal Prep, but Food Prep

Here’s the thing—I don’t meal prep, but I’m all about food prep. It’s a game-changer if you want to eat at home without the stress. Here’s how I make it work:

1. Prep your produce: Wash, dice, or slice veggies and store them in containers.

2. Prepare your protein: Cut, season, and marinate your meat before storing it. That way, it’s ready to sauté, grill, or air fry when you’re ready.

3. Plan your week: Make a list of recipes before you grocery shop. Buy only what you need, which saves time, and money, and reduces food waste.

Food prep takes less than an hour, but it sets you up for a week of quick, home-cooked meals—no pricey meal kits required!

I absolutely love this Lunch Box, Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

 

Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

Ingredients (2 servings):

  • 12 frozen chicken and vegetable potstickers
  • 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
  • 6 hot honey BBQ bites, or any on hand
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon ponzu sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions:

Steam the broccoli and potstickers:

  • Add 1/2 cup of water to a wok or large skillet.
  • Place the potstickers in the skillet and cook over medium heat.
  • When the potstickers are halfway done, add the frozen broccoli. Cover and steam for about 3 minutes, or until the broccoli florets are bright green and crisp, and the potstickers are cooked through. 
  • Drain any excess water, return the skillet to the heat, and add ponzu sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil. Toss everything to coat, then let it marinate off the heat for a few minutes.

Cook the BBQ chicken bites:

  • Air fry the chicken bites at 400°F for 12-13 minutes or until fully cooked.
  • No air fryer? No problem—bake them in the oven following the package instructions.

Assemble the lunch box:

  • Divide the chicken, broccoli, and potstickers between containers.
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a little extra flavor.

What do you love to pack in your lunch box? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for fresh ideas!

This series is all about making lunch exciting and practical, whether you’re on the move or working from home like me. Stay tuned for more fun ideas, and happy cooking!

Sanna <3

You can follow me on Instagram @mugofreality & Pinterest @MugOfReality

Latest Recipes:

This recipe has no ratings just yet.

Air-Fried BBQ Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, and Potstickers

February 6, 2025
: 2 Lunch Boxes
: 3 min
: 12 min
: 15 min
: EASY

This series is all about making lunch exciting and practical, whether you’re on the move or working from home like me.

Ingredients
  • 12 frozen chicken and vegetable potstickers
  • 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
  • 6 hot honey BBQ bites, or any on hand
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon ponzu sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
Directions
  • Step 1 Steam the broccoli and potstickers:
  • Step 2 * Add 1/2 cup of water to a wok or large skillet.
  • Step 3 * Place the potstickers in the skillet and cook over medium heat.
  • Step 4 * When the potstickers are halfway done, add the frozen broccoli. Cover and steam for about 3 minutes, or until the broccoli florets are bright green and crisp, and the potstickers are cooked through.
  • Step 5 * Drain any excess water, return the skillet to the heat, and add ponzu sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil. Toss everything to coat, then let it marinate off the heat for a few minutes.
  • Step 6 Cook the BBQ chicken bites:
  • Step 7 * Air fry the chicken bites at 400°F for 12-13 minutes, or until fully cooked.
  • Step 8 * No air fryer? No problem—bake them in the oven following the package instructions.
  • Step 9 Assemble the lunch box:
  • Step 10 * Divide the chicken, broccoli, and potstickers between containers.
  • Step 11 * Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a little extra flavor.
January Reset: A Month to Refresh, Recharge, and Reconnect

January Reset: A Month to Refresh, Recharge, and Reconnect

What is January Reset? January is a time to breathe deeply, reset your focus, and set the tone for the year ahead. It’s not about massive overhauls, but about making small, intentional changes that add up to a big difference over time. This month, I’ve…

Kindle Makeover: Because Your E-Reader Deserves a Glow-Up

Kindle Makeover: Because Your E-Reader Deserves a Glow-Up

Let’s talk about Kindle dressing. Yep, you heard that right—dressing up your Kindle. It might sound a little extra, but trust me, it’s all the rage. I first got hooked when a friend on Instagram started giving her Kindle these adorable seasonal makeovers, and I…

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

 

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

Book Pub Day:  May 7, 2024.

Genres: Romance Fantasy, High Fantasy, Fantasy Fiction

  • It incorporates elements of mystery, thriller, and romance.

Trigger & Content Warnings:

Trying not to be in any blocked list, I am writing TW like that. I hope you don’t have an issue reading it.

  • Viol€nce,
  • Bl00d
  • D*ath (loved ones, animal death – includes dog death, children, incarcerated people, poisoning)
  • Alc0hol use
  • Substanc€ abus€,
  • Animal abus€
  • S*icidal id€ation
  • G€nocide.

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

MY THOUGHTS

With book two finally out, I couldn’t wait to dive in on my Kindle to read it—though my stunning physical copy is arriving next week, and I’m so excited to get my hands on it!

Let’s talk about book one, Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland.

I was obsessed!

I went in not knowing what to expect—except that there are six POVs—but wow, this book completely blew me away, and this was Corland’s debut novel. And can we just take a moment to look at the aesthetics? 

The cover, the jacket, the map, the stenciled/sprayed edges—absolutely STUNNING! 

Book two is just the same.

While the twisty, unpredictable plot of Five Broken Blades is a major highlight, the real heart of the story lies in its unforgettable characters. 

Mai Corland has crafted six incredibly complex protagonists, each with a tragic backstory that shapes the course of the book. 

The story doesn’t just revolve around them—it’s driven by their personal journeys, their motivations, and the tangled relationships they share. Understanding their pasts and choices is crucial to unraveling the many twists this book delivers.

Anyway, each character brought something unique to the table.

Main Characters:

Royo— the grumpy but soft-hearted strongman. Royo, the hardened street thug with a deep need for redemption, serves as the emotional core of the story. His tragic past and yearning for atonement make him a character you can’t help but root for. 

Sora— a master of poisons, driven by her devotion to her sister. Every action is calculated, and every risk is worth it. She was forced into the role of a poison maiden—a woman whose body is a literal weapon—Sora’s life is one of death, sacrifice, and longing for freedom. Every move she makes is to protect her sister, even if it means risking her own life.

Tiyung—The unassuming count’s son who quietly becomes indispensable as the story unfolds. He is sincere and surprisingly pivotal.

Aeri— The joyful thief with quick fingers and a heart of gold, just trying to earn her father’s approval. I thought her character was great, and probably the one I enjoyed and surprised by the most.

Euyn— the banished prince with a major attitude, managed to grow on me (eventually). The former crown prince of Yusan is a deeply flawed character who’s been shaped by both privilege and tragedy. His years of exile have given him a new perspective, but his ambition to reclaim the throne is as sharp as ever. 

Mikail— the cunning royal spymaster and Euyn’s former lover, is the ultimate wild card. He’s manipulative, charming, and endlessly entertaining, constantly keeping everyone—including the prince—on their toes.

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

— You need to meet these characters!

And that twist at the end? Mai Corland, you got me good—I’m still recovering! 🤯👏

I was counting down the days until Four Ruined Realms was released because I needed to know what would happen next. It looks like it picks up right where book one left off, so I can’t wait to read it. 🙌

What will you find:

✨ Enemies to lovers (with actual sparks flying)

✨ Slow burn (and I mean sloooow)

✨ Forced proximity

✨ LGBTQ rep.

✨ Mystery

✨ Found family vibes

…this Korean-inspired story, as the fantasy world within the book draws heavily from Korean mythology and history NEEDS to be on your TBR! 

Just a heads-up, though—there are some intense moments, so make sure to check the trigger warnings.

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

Here’s a list of different genres that fit the story’s intense and dark themes:

“Control” by Halsey

  • It is a haunting, powerful track about inner chaos and control, perfectly capturing the complex personalities and motives of the five characters.

“Seven Devils” by Florence + The Machine

  • Dark and atmospheric, this song mirrors the themes of treachery, vengeance, and the high stakes of their mission.

“Warriors” by Imagine Dragons

  • An anthem for rebellion, this song reflects the characters’ determination to take down the immortal God King.

“The Devil in I” by Slipknot

  • Heavy and intense, this track captures the darkness, distrust, and inner demons of each character as they navigate their treacherous alliance.

“Sweet Sacrifice” by Evanescence

  • This song is perfect for the themes of revenge and the cost of their quest. Its raw, emotional energy matches the stakes and personal sacrifices each character faces.

“Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones or Ciara

  • A classic with a dark edge, this song’s themes of loss, vengeance, and darkness fit the story’s tone beautifully.

“Kill This Love” by BLACKPINK

  • Bold and fierce, this K-pop hit ties into the Korean-inspired setting and the characters’ fiery determination to destroy something oppressive.

“Hail to the King” by Avenged Sevenfold

  • With lyrics about power, corruption, and control, this track perfectly fits the God King Joon’s reign and the group’s mission to end it.

These songs bring a mix of genres to the table, offering dark, emotional, and high-energy vibes that reflect the book’s thrilling and treacherous narrative.Five Broken Blades by Mai Corlandz

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

Description

The king of Yusan must die.

The five most dangerous liars in the land have been mysteriously summoned to work together for a single objective: to kill the god King Joon.

He has it coming. Under his merciless immortal hand, the nobles flourish, while the poor and innocent are imprisoned, ruined…or sold.

And now each of the five blades will come for him. Each has tasted bitterness—from the hired hitman seeking atonement, a lovely assassin who seeks freedom, or even the prince banished for his cruel crimes. None can resist the sweet, icy lure of vengeance.

They can agree on murder.

They can agree on treachery.

But for these five killers—each versed in deception, lies, and betrayal—it’s not enough to forge an alliance. To survive, they’ll have to find a way to trust each other…but only one can take the crown.

Let the best liar win.

Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland

Quotes:

“Loving somebody is needing two hearts to live instead of just one.”

“The second he touches me, a feeling rushes through me. Our hands fit together like a lock and key, but it’s more than that. He feels like home.

About The Author:

Mai Corland is a Korean American attorney and writer, born in Seoul and adopted into New York. From there, she ran away from winter and studied in Florida at Rollins College and the University of Miami. Due to a variety of questionable decisions, she currently lives in the cold again with her partner, children, and a goldfish who will outlive them all. When not writing, you can find her asleep or clutching her latte machine. Mai writes award-winning children’s and young adult books under Meredith Ireland.
Corland’s other books: Four Ruined Realms
Instagram: @maicorland
Happy Reading!!

Sanna

You can follow me on Instagram @mugofreality & Pinterest @MugOfReality

My Latest Book Reviews:

From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

When We Had Forever by Shaylin Gandhi

P.S.

I’ve taken individual images from Pinterest and TikTok (@bookishboymomma) that were used to create one poster with characters. For all the others, if you’re the owner of any of them, please let me know so I can credit you. These were used solely for creative purposes. All the other images belong to me!

Cinnamon and Sugar Doughnut Holes

Cinnamon and Sugar Doughnut Holes

Growing up, doughnuts were one of my favorite treats. They weren’t an everyday indulgence, but when the weekend rolled around or a chilly day called for a cozy snack, doughnuts were the perfect comfort food. It’s one of those nostalgic childhood memories that hits hard…

Rustic Holiday Wall Hanging Ornament

Rustic Holiday Wall Hanging Ornament

I may not be the most crafty person like my husband, but I enjoy crafting with my family. This holiday season, I had the idea to make a DIY Rustic Holiday Wall Hanging Ornament. My daughter and I spent a few enjoyable hours creating these…

Book Review: From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

Book Review: From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

Book Review: From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

Book Pub Day:  1 February 2018

Genres: Sports Romance, Adult contemporary romance

Trigger & Content Warnings:

  • Estranged father
  • Abandonment
  • Online/offline bullying
  • Fatphobia/body shaming
  • Misogyny
  • Sexual harassment
  • Stalking
  • One explicit sexual scene

From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

MY THOUGHTS

Anyone with five dogs, a pig, a bunny, and a cinnamon-roll personality is good in my book!

I know From Lukov with Love wasn’t published yesterday, and many readers have already fallen in love with it. But here’s my (mostly spoiler-free) take.

I absolutely adored Jasmine Santos and Ivan Lukov. They’re the quintessential “enemies to lovers” couple: bickering constantly but with a love that runs deep. Their dynamic was everything—funny, heartfelt, and so relatable.

I’ve always loved figure skating but have never dared to step onto the ice (probably because I’d embarrass myself instantly, haha). Joking aside, I appreciated how realistic Mariana Zapata made this story. Figure skating isn’t just glitz and glamour; it’s grueling, requiring endless dedication, hard work, tears, and sacrifice.

Zapata captured that beautifully by portraying Jasmine as both vulnerable and tough—a balance that felt genuine and human.

This book was a solid 4.5 stars for me. Why not 5? Because let’s be honest, I got old waiting for them to finally get together! But that’s just Zapata’s signature style—slow-burn perfection. Aside from that, it’s absolutely 5-star material, which I rounded up on Goodreads.

If you’re expecting a lot of steamy scenes, this isn’t that kind of book. There’s only one explicit scene (toward the end), and the rest is very PG. 

That being said, I loved how realistic the character interactions felt. Jasmine’s moments of negative self-talk might bother some readers, but they reflect the pressures of being in a physically demanding sport like figure skating. 

Just like models in the fashion industry, skaters face scrutiny about their bodies, which inevitably affects their self-image. It’s not sugarcoated here, but it feels authentic.

From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

As for the family dynamics, I know some have issues with how fat her siblings went on teasing her. Listen, siblings, teasing each other is a reality for many of us, and Jasmine’s relationship with her family added depth to her character. If you have siblings, you’ll definitely relate.

Ivan and Jasmine’s love-hate relationship is the heart of the book. Their banter was a chef’s kiss—it made me laugh out loud at 2 a.m. while the rest of the world and my family slept. Here are a couple of gems:

“Dumbass,” I mouthed before I could stop myself.

“Meatball,” he mouthed back.

And:

“Actually, Satan,”—his nostrils flared, and I didn’t miss that—“all I want is to know if you’re coming to me because no one else wants to deal with you—because that doesn’t make sense, so don’t think I’m stupid and don’t know that—or if there’s some other ulterior motive I’m not getting.”

If you’re looking for a sports romance with a cinnamon-roll hero, witty banter, and a slow-burn love story, this book is for you!

What will you find:

  • Family Dynamics
  • Slow Burn Romance
  • Sports Drama
  • Enemies to Lovers/Frenemies
  • Humor & Banter 
  • Cinnamon Roll Hero
  • Realistic Goals & Ambitions 
  • Best Friend’s Brother
  • Competition
  • Years later Epilogue

I’m working my way through Mariana Zapata’s backlist, and I can’t wait to dive into Under Locke, Dear Aaron, When Gracie Met the Grump, and Wait for It in 2025. So far, I’ve read The Wall of Winnipeg and Me, Hands Down, Kulti, and All Rhodes Lead Here. I’ve loved them all, but Kulti might just be my favorite.

Main Characters:

Jasmine Santos: A 26-year-old figure skater who’s tough, determined, and sarcastic but hides her vulnerability behind a strong exterior. Her journey of self-discovery and perseverance is inspiring and deeply relatable.

Ivan Lukov: A 30-year-old champion skater, Jasmine’s long-time frenemy, and eventual partner. Beneath his cocky exterior lies a loyal, supportive, and kind-hearted hero who’s deeply invested in Jasmine’s success.

If you’ve read this one, let me know your thoughts! If not, what are you waiting for?

From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata

For From Lukov with Love, which has a slow-burn, emotional, yet quirky vibe, I’d recommend a mix of classic and modern Rock playlist (with one exception of a pop rock song) that balances upbeat tunes with some softer, more introspective tracks to reflect the book’s theme —  Here’s a short playlist I think would fit perfectly:

“Go Your Own Way” – Fleetwood Mac

  • A perfect song for the tension and eventual growth between Jasmine and Ivan. It’s about independence and change.

“Dream On” – Aerosmith

  • An anthem of perseverance and following dreams, much like Jasmine’s journey in the story.

“The Kill (Bury Me)” – Thirty Seconds to Mars

  • A raw song about internal struggle and overcoming personal pain, which fits well with Jasmine’s emotional journey and battles with self-worth.

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses

  • This could represent the softer, more vulnerable moments of the relationship—full of passion but also care.

“Weightless” – All Time Low

  • This song deals with the feeling of being overwhelmed by pressure, but also finding hope in letting go. It mirrors Jasmine’s emotional journey through the stress of her skating career and the weight of her personal struggles.

“I Hate Everything About You” – Three Days Grace

  • An iconic song that captures the emotional push-pull of a love-hate relationship, much like the one between Jasmine and Ivan, where they can’t stand each other but their connection runs deeper.

“Faint” – Linkin Park

  • A track that represents frustration and a feeling of being unheard. This could mirror Jasmine’s struggles with feeling overlooked and unappreciated, especially in the face of bullying and her strained relationship with her father.

“Warrior” – Demi Lovato (though more pop-rock)

  • This one is an empowering anthem about rising above struggles and becoming stronger, mirroring Jasmine’s journey of overcoming bullying, family issues, and her internal battles with self-worth.

Description:

From Lukov with Love is told in the sole POV of Jasmine Santos. She is a figure skater and after seventeen years, she’s aware that it is almost time to hang up the skates. Until an offer to be the partner of Ivan Lukov, a fellow skater who she has spent almost as long hating, lands in her lap.

Quotes: 

“I wanted you to be my partner for years, dumbass. When Karina had told me you were thinking about switching to pairs, I had thought you would say something to me, even in passing as a joke. I thought you would say you were going to kick my ass, and I had planned on talking to you over it. But you never did. The next thing I knew, you had a partner. Some dipshit that wasn’t half as good as you.”

“I love you so much I spend all day with you, and it still isn’t enough for me,” he kept going. I stopped breathing. “I love you so much, if I can’t skate with you, I don’t want to skate with anyone else.” Holy. Fuck. “I love you so fucking much, Jasmine, that if I broke my ankle during a program, I would get up and finish it for you, to get you what you’ve always wanted.”

Mariana ZapataAbout The Author:

Mariana Zapata is a bestselling contemporary romance author known for her signature slow-burn love stories. Her books often feature strong, independent heroines, complex relationships, and plenty of witty banter. Zapata’s writing style focuses on character development and emotional connections, making her a favorite among romance readers. She currently lives in Texas with her partner and pets.

Authors Website:

www.marianazapata.com

Instagram: @marianazapata

Zapata’s other books:

Under Locke, Dear Aaron, When Gracie Met the Grump, Wait for It, The Wall of Winnipeg and Me, Hands Down, Kulti, All Rhodes Lead Here, etc.

Happy Reading!

Sann

You can follow me on Instagram @mugofreality

Latest Book Review: When We Had Forever by Shaylin Gandhi

 

P.S.

I’ve taken individual images from Pinterest that were used to create the first “poster” image or featured image in this post. If you’re the owner of any of them, please let me know so I can credit you. These were used solely for creative purposes.

 

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: My Journey to Healing and Self-Care

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: My Journey to Healing and Self-Care

I’ve been meaning to write these journal entries every week, but truthfully, I just couldn’t. The past 30 days have been heavy, and I had to step back and focus on healing—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It started with a mild flu that drained me more…