Monthly Review | May 2025

Hey Babes,

Welcome back to the blog! I hope you're doing amazing. Well, it's the last day of May, and you know what that means. It's time for another edition of the Monthly Review! As usual, I pick out 10 things to try, review, and share my thoughts on at the end of the month. The categories have no limits, and my opinions are unbiased. Without further ado, here is everything I tried this month.

1. Angel's Share Paradis by Killian (10/10)

So, funny story. I actually bought this towards the end of April and I meant to include it in last month's Monthly Review, but I already picked out my 10 items. I teased this on my Instagram too, and I'm finally sharing because it's too good to gate-keep. She is truly angelic! It's a sensual blend of raspberry, liquor, tonka bean, praline, and woody notes to tie it together. I'm not sure if the liquor note is bourbon or a cognac, but either way it is divine. I would pair this with any warm gourmand with similar vibes, like Kayali 28. I layered the two and Mr. Dragon couldn't keep his hands off me. In short, the perfume is amazing, the design is fascinating (it looks like bourbon in an old fashioned glass), and it is currently one of my favorites. 

2. Pukka Peace Organic Tea (8/10)

I heard about this through a friend. Tea is an important part of my morning and night routine. If you have anxiety or just want to unwind, this is for you. It has calming herbs like chamomile, ashwagandha, and hemp. It's perfect for a peaceful morning or a relaxing evening. I honestly don't want any other tea now, because I love this. Plus it's organic and caffeine free, so you don't have to worry about being wired or getting the jitters. 

3. Godiva Dubai Chocolate (5.5/10)

My motto in life is: if you want something, get the best quality you can find. I was curious to try the viral Dubai chocolate, but I didn't know where to get it. When I found out that Godiva sold it, I couldn't get my (fiance's) card out fast enough. Now that I have tried it, I am on the fence. I do think it has a good taste, but the texture is not for me. I have never had knaffeh before, so I likened it to shredded coconut before trying it. It's not bad, but I do think Dubai chocolate is an acquired taste. 

4. Sprinter Vodka Peach (7/10)

Listen, I am not a vodka person. Regardless, this was a surprising treat. I was recently gifted  a collection of vodka sodas along with a few cocktail recipes. It was so good, I even purchased a few myself. The peach soda is my favorite! The vodka is blended perfectly with sparkling water and natural fruit juice. For a vodka soda, it's pretty tasty. If you're into light fruity drinks, this might be your thing.

5. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck (9/10)

Everyone needs to read this book. People pleasers, over thinkers, and anyone who tends to think the worst case scenario will happen. As a recovering people-pleaser, I’m learning how to set boundaries and stop chasing external validation. This book really pushed me to reflect and let go of things outside my control. A must-read if you’re working on personal growth.

6. This Water Dispenser (10/10)

A great addition to the apartment! Mr. Dragon set up a water dispenser for the kitchen, just because. It keeps our water nice and cool, and it’s pretty sturdy too. Right now, it’s sitting on the island, but I think it would look better on the counter.

7. The Japanese Garden (10/10)

I recently found this book in storage. We have pretty good real estate for Seoul, there's a lot of open land near our house. I want to plant a garden or maybe some landscaping to maximize that space. This book gave me a lot of ideas and the designs are so creative. 

8. Rhode Lip Set (6/10)

If you remember, I rated a lip treatment from Rhode called "raspberry jelly". I tried it and I loved it. After remembering that, I picked up a set of lip treatments from Rhode. My overall opinion hasn't really changed but now I am noticing more than before. When going on, the treatment feels a bit gritty but it wasn't uncomfortable and went away over time. The formula is good as a finisher but not for long-term wear as it isn't very moisturizing. (a bit oily, it only stays on the surface of my lips and wears off after maybe half an hour) On a brighter note, the flavor is definitely there and the treatments are a nice finishing touch to my makeup looks. 

9. Pattern Edge Control (9/10)

I find it very disrespectful when my hair decides to do whatever it wants. This pomade has become my new holy grail. It's perfect for creative designs or a sleek ponytail. The best part is that it doesn't dry up or get flaky! My edges stayed laid all day, and my hair feels soft! An instant favorite.

10. Hermes Blanket (7.5/10)

I'm still conflicted about this one. I recently purchased this lovely Hermes throw blanket for the living room. I thought it would tie the room together. The design is beautiful and it's very soft. However, I think it's too expensive for its quality. Don't get me wrong, it's a decent blanket, but I've had better for cheaper. In my opinion it's less for practical use and more for decorative purposes. 

Well, loves, this is everything I reviewed this month! Please let me know what you think. Have you tried any of these items? If so, does my review feel accurate or not? I would love to hear from you in the comments or over on Instagram. 

With Love,

Scarlette