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It\\u2019s an interesting time to be in Melbourne right now, for me the current vibe is quite different from the first lockdown. Then there was an almost frenetic energy about needing to isolate. Now, at least what I am feeling, is a bit more of a malaise, you know? That general feeling of discomfort, unease and it\\u2019s also a little bit heavy, like there\\u2019s a weighted blanket on you and staying in bed is just the best you can do right now. And that\\u2019s okay if so.

I really struggle to read books in times like these. Where I would normally read a few books a week, right now I\'m lucky to get through one. And trying to read a new book, even one I am super interested in, is quite tough. There are days I manage it, and there are days when I reach for my comfort reads.

So today I wanted to share these with you, these favourite comforting, gentle and sometimes not so gentle reads and perhaps they can help you get some reading in too.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Schaffer is a favourite which I paired with a delicious La Sirene wild ale - the Praline - in episode 2.

In episode 9 whilst chatting with the lovely Australian speculative fiction writer Samantha Marshall I recommended The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and paired it with a delicious warming coconut turmeric latte.

I spoke about I Capture The Castle by Dodie Smith in episode 12 with the lovely librarian and youth advocate Adele Walsh and paired a wholesome chicken soup or chamomile tea with it for a warm and relaxing reading experience.

To Ride Pegasus (#1 in the Talents Saga) by Anne McCaffrey is the first in a series which I love to re-read all 8 books of when times are a little bit more difficult. Futuristic yet Old Fashioned I paired this with a warming Cocoa Old-Fashioned cocktail.

The Elenium and The Tamuli series by David Eddings. Knights on quests, Gods and magic, handsome men and strong women. Read with an Imperial IPA for a hearty, warming time!

American Hippo by Sarah Gailey. 1890s Louisiana, with hippos. Feral hippos. Hippo ranchers and outlaw hippo wranglers. Queer misfits on a quest. Paired with a Tequila Honeysuckle for a lip-smacking lime and alcohol hit.

The Babysitters Club on Netflix - fresh take on a classic, light and lovely, diverse and fun! Made me want a spider (ice cream soda) for the first time in years!