My Winter Book Selection 2027 Part Two (and My TBR List)

Are you all set for part two of my My Winter Book Selection 2027? 🙂 Hope you have enjoyed part one! And if you haven’t already, check out My Winter Book Selection 2027 Part One! So, why not we get straight into this next list. You shall find a mixture of Canadian, American and British authors on this list. Happy reading!

  1. The Wrong Neighbour by Kathryn Sharman
    The Wrong Neighbour is a tense, psychological thriller about a woman who becomes convinced that the person living next door is not who they claim to be. As her suspicions grow, so does the danger, pulling her into a web of lies, manipulation, and escalating fear. Sharman’s pacing is tight and her atmosphere quietly claustrophobic, making this a gripping Winter read for fans of domestic suspense with a sophisticated edge.
  2. The Summer She Stayed by Laura Lombardi
    In The Summer She Stayed, Laura Lombardi crafts a tender, introspective novel about a woman who remains in her coastal hometown while everyone else seems to move on. As she navigates shifting relationships, old wounds, and the pull of a life she never fully chose, Lombardi explores longing, self‑discovery, and the bittersweet beauty of staying still. It’s an elegant, emotionally resonant Winter read — gentle, atmospheric, and deeply relatable.
  3. The Deacon by Linden MacIntyre
    The Deacon is a gripping, character‑driven mystery that follows a former journalist drawn back into a decades‑old case involving corruption, betrayal, and the fragile moral lines that shape small communities. MacIntyre’s prose is precise and quietly powerful, weaving suspense with emotional intelligence. It’s a sophisticated Winter read — grounded, atmospheric and rich with the kind of depth that lingers.
  4. For Residents Only by Cass Hunter
    For Residents Only is a clever, unsettling thriller set inside an exclusive residential community where privilege masks danger and every neighbour seems to be hiding something. When strange incidents escalate, a newcomer begins to suspect that the rules meant to protect residents may be designed for something far more sinister. Hunter blends social commentary with taut suspense, creating a polished Winter read that feels both modern and quietly chilling.
  5. The Plum Queen by Laurel Lathrop
    In The Plum Queen, Laurel Lathrop delivers a lush, emotionally rich novel about inheritance, identity, and the complicated bonds that tie families together. When a woman returns home to settle her mother’s affairs, she uncovers long‑buried secrets that reshape her understanding of love, loyalty, and the sacrifices made across generations. Lathrop’s writing is elegant and textured, making this a sophisticated Winter read filled with atmosphere and emotional depth.
  6. River of Heaven by Lee Martin
    River of Heaven is a poignant, character‑driven novel that follows a man haunted by a childhood tragedy and the secrets he has carried into adulthood. As he confronts the past he’s long avoided, the story unfolds with quiet tension, exploring guilt, redemption, and the fragile hope of forgiveness. Lee Martin’s prose is lyrical and deeply empathetic, creating a narrative that lingers long after the final page. It’s a moving Winter read — reflective, atmospheric and rich with emotional nuance.
  7. Just for Today by Nell Hudson
    In Just for Today, Nell Hudson crafts a tender, sharply observed novel about friendship, adulthood, and the quiet heartbreak of growing apart. When a group of friends reunites, old dynamics resurface, revealing the subtle shifts that come with time, ambition, and changing priorities. Hudson’s writing is warm, witty, and emotionally exact, capturing the bittersweet beauty of relationships that evolve whether we’re ready or not. It’s a gentle, sophisticated Winter read — intimate, relatable and beautifully human.
  8. Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
    Go Set a Watchman revisits Maycomb through the eyes of an adult Scout Finch, returning home to confront the complicated truths of her past. The novel explores identity, disillusionment, and the painful process of reconciling childhood ideals with adult realities. Lee’s writing remains clear and incisive, offering a thoughtful, sometimes unsettling reflection on family, community, and moral awakening. It’s a contemplative Winter read — historically significant, emotionally layered, and ideal for readers who appreciate literary fiction with depth.
  9. Beth March Returns From the Dead by Emily St. James
    Beth March Returns From the Dead is a clever, genre‑bending novel that reimagines one of literature’s most beloved characters with wit, heart, and a touch of the uncanny. When Beth unexpectedly reappears, she forces her family — and herself — to confront grief, identity, and the stories that shape who we become. Emily St. James blends humour with emotional intelligence, creating a narrative that feels both playful and deeply resonant. It’s a unique Winter read — warm, smart and quietly profound.
  10. Smog by Stephanie Danler
    In Smog, Stephanie Danler delivers a haunting, introspective novel that examines ambition, desire, and the emotional residue of past choices. Set against the hazy, intoxicating backdrop of Los Angeles, the story follows characters whose lives intersect through art, longing, and the quiet ache of reinvention. Danler’s prose is atmospheric and razor‑precise, capturing the beauty and brutality of a city built on illusion. It’s a polished, reflective Winter read for anyone who appreciates character‑driven fiction with emotional depth.
  11. The Twin of Doria Gray by Andrew Fox
    The Twin of Doria Gray is a dark, stylish reimagining of the classic tale, blending gothic atmosphere with modern psychological tension. When a young woman discovers she may be connected to a long‑buried secret involving a legendary portrait and its unsettling legacy, she’s drawn into a world where beauty, identity, and corruption intertwine. Fox’s writing is sharp and eerie, exploring the seductive danger of reinvention and the cost of living in someone else’s shadow. It’s a sophisticated Winter read — moody, elegant, and perfect for fans of literary suspense.
  12. Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel
    Exit Party is a sharp, introspective novel that explores fame, reinvention, and the strange intimacy of modern life. Mandel follows a group of characters whose lives intersect at a glamorous, unsettling party where personal histories collide and the façade of perfection begins to crack. With her signature clarity and emotional intelligence, she examines the cost of ambition and the quiet ache of longing. It’s a polished, literary Winter read — moody, elegant and beautifully observed.
  13. The Paris Thief by Lisa Rochon
    In The Paris Thief, Lisa Rochon delivers a stylish, historically rich novel set during the Nazi occupation, where art, identity and resistance intertwine. When a young architect becomes entangled in a plot to protect priceless cultural treasures, she’s forced to navigate danger, betrayal, and the moral weight of preserving beauty in a world falling apart. Rochon’s writing is elegant and textured, blending suspense with cultural history. It’s a sophisticated Winter read for anyone who loves Parisian atmosphere and stories rooted in courage.
  14. Miss Wilcott’s Ghost by Louise Penny
    In Miss Wilcott’s Ghost, Louise Penny delivers a quietly haunting, character‑driven mystery that blends her signature warmth with an undercurrent of unease. When a long‑forgotten tragedy resurfaces in Three Pines, the community is forced to confront the lingering presence of a woman whose story was never fully told. Penny weaves atmosphere, compassion and gentle suspense into a narrative that explores memory, grief, and the echoes of the past. It’s a beautifully crafted Winter read — elegant, reflective and emotionally resonant.
  15. Operation Sparrow by Jason Bell
    Operation Sparrow is a taut, high‑stakes thriller that follows an intelligence officer pulled into a covert mission where nothing is as straightforward as it seems. When a classified operation unravels, he’s forced to navigate political pressure, shifting alliances, and the dangerous fallout of secrets buried deep within the system. Bell blends military tension with psychological depth, creating a story that feels urgent, sharp, and grounded in real‑world stakes. It’s a gripping winter read for anyone who appreciates thrillers with sophistication and moral complexity.
  16. The Paris Files by Eva Jurczyk
    The Paris Files is a stylish, literary mystery that follows a rare‑books librarian drawn into a dangerous hunt through archives, private collections and the hidden corners of Paris. When a priceless manuscript goes missing under suspicious circumstances, she’s forced to navigate academic rivalries, coded clues and the darker side of the city’s cultural elite. Jurczyk blends atmosphere with intellectual intrigue, creating a novel that feels both elegant and quietly tense — perfect for readers who love bookish mysteries with sophistication, European texture, and a heroine whose curiosity becomes her greatest risk. It’s a polished winter read that fits seamlessly into your Paris‑themed selections.
  17. One Second Away by Rick Mofina
    In One Second Away, Rick Mofina crafts a taut, high‑stakes thriller that begins with a devastating explosion and spirals into a global investigation where every second counts. As a journalist races to uncover the truth behind the attack, he’s drawn into a web of political intrigue, personal betrayal and the terrifying possibility of a larger plot still in motion. Mofina’s pacing is razor‑sharp, his tension relentless and his emotional beats grounded in human vulnerability. It’s a gripping, sophisticated Winter read for fans of intelligent, adrenaline‑charged thrillers.
  18. Meet Me in Paris by Kristin Harmel
    Meet Me in Paris is a luminous, emotionally rich novel that follows nine strangers whose lives intersect during one transformative week in the City of Light. At the heart of the story is Julia Glover, travelling with her daughter Piper as they navigate love, loss, and the urgency of time. Harmel blends romance, grief, and hope with her signature warmth, creating a novel that feels both intimate and sweeping. It’s a tender, elegant Winter read — perfect for readers who enjoy character‑driven fiction with emotional resonance.
  19. Where Dead Men Meet by Mark Mills
    In Where Dead Men Meet, Mark Mills delivers a stylish, old‑world thriller set in 1930s Europe, where danger moves as swiftly as the trains crossing the continent. When a young man becomes the target of a mysterious assassination attempt, he’s thrust into a world of espionage, hidden identities, and long‑buried secrets tied to the rise of fascism. Mills’ writing is cinematic and intelligent, weaving historical detail with relentless suspense. It’s a polished, sophisticated Winter read for anyone who loves atmospheric historical thrillers with emotional weight.
  20. The Last Murder in Paris by Dann McDormand
    The Last Murder in Paris is a moody, atmospheric thriller that pulls readers into the shadowed corners of the city as a journalist becomes entangled in a case that refuses to stay buried. When a murder echoes an unsolved crime from decades earlier, the investigation exposes political secrets, artistic rivalries, and the darker side of Parisian glamour. McDormand blends tension with cultural texture, creating a sophisticated, slow‑burn mystery perfect for Winter nights — elegant, layered and quietly un-settling.
  21. A Twist of Fate by Se‑Ah Jang
    In A Twist of Fate, Se‑Ah Jang delivers a tense, emotionally layered novel that begins with a single, life‑altering moment and unfolds into a story about identity, reinvention, and the consequences of choices made under pressure. As the protagonist confronts the fallout of a past she can no longer outrun, the narrative moves between timelines, revealing the fragile boundaries between truth, memory, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. Jang’s writing is sharp and atmospheric, blending psychological tension with character‑driven depth. It’s a sophisticated Winter read — moody, elegant and perfect for readers who appreciate fiction that balances suspense with emotional resonance.
  22. State of Exile by Jack Carr
    In State of Exile, Jack Carr returns with a high‑stakes, politically charged thriller that propels James Reece into a world where global conflict, covert operations, and cutting‑edge military technology collide. The novel opens with a frantic call from a doomed plane on 9/11 and expands into an international crisis involving a sixth‑generation fighter jet shot down over Ukraine — its stolen technology now in enemy hands. Carr blends military precision with relentless pacing, creating a story that feels both urgent and meticulously crafted. It’s a bold, adrenaline‑driven Winter read for anyone who appreciates sophisticated thrillers rooted in geopolitics, intelligence work and moral complexity.
  23. Down by the Water by Elle Connel In Down by the Water, Elle Connel delivers a taut, unsettling thriller that begins with a seemingly carefree New Year’s Eve getaway among old friends and slowly unravels into a chilling examination of loyalty, privilege, and the secrets people bury to protect themselves. When the group reunites at a remote Scottish estate, the celebratory mood quickly fractures, revealing simmering resentments and a past incident none of them are willing to confront. As the narrative shifts between timelines, Connel builds a creeping sense of dread, exposing how one night can alter the course of every life involved. It’s a sophisticated, atmospheric Winter read — moody, sharp, and perfect for readers who enjoy thrillers with psychological depth and a slow, elegant burn.
  24. Noble Chase by Michael Rudolph
    In Noble Chase, Michael Rudolph delivers a sharp, high‑stakes legal thriller that follows attorney Beth Swahn as she unravels a case that begins with a seemingly straightforward financial scandal and quickly spirals into danger, deception, and international intrigue. When a wealthy client vanishes — along with millions in stolen funds — Beth finds herself pulled into a chase that crosses borders and exposes the dark underbelly of privilege, corruption and ambition. Rudolph blends legal precision with fast‑moving suspense, creating a novel that is both smart and compulsively readable. It’s a polished Winter read for anyone who enjoys thrillers with sophistication, wit and a heroine who refuses to back down.
  25. I Know Your Secret by Melinda Leigh
    In I Know Your Secret, Melinda Leigh delivers a taut, emotionally charged thriller that begins with a chilling confession and spirals into a web of danger, deceit, and long‑buried truths. When a woman is found dead under suspicious circumstances, Sheriff Bree Taggert is drawn into an investigation that exposes the fragile boundaries between loyalty, fear, and the secrets people will kill to protect. As Bree navigates small‑town tensions and her own complicated past, Leigh blends sharp suspense with character‑driven depth, creating a novel that is both gripping and sophisticated. It’s a perfect Winter read — atmospheric, fast‑paced, and anchored by a heroine whose resilience gives the story its emotional weight.
  26. The Life She Stole by Emily Bleeker
    In The Life She Stole, Emily Bleeker crafts a gripping, psychologically charged story about a woman whose carefully constructed life begins to unravel when a long‑buried secret resurfaces, threatening everything she has fought to protect. As past and present collide, she’s forced to confront the choices that shaped her identity — the betrayals, the reinventions, and the dangerous truth she hoped would never come to light. Bleeker blends suspense with emotional depth, creating a novel that is both propulsive and introspective, perfect for readers who appreciate thrillers with a sophisticated, character‑driven core. It’s a compelling Winter read that lingers, asking how far someone will go to keep hold of the life they’ve built.
  27. Dying to Be Us by Karen M. McManus
    In Dying to Be Us, Karen M. McManus delivers a sharp, fast‑moving thriller that exposes the fractures beneath a seemingly perfect family when a reunion at a remote estate spirals into suspicion, betrayal, and deadly consequences. As old resentments resurface and long‑buried secrets begin to crack open, each family member becomes both suspect and victim in a story that turns on shifting loyalties and the dangerous lengths people will go to protect the version of themselves they want the world to see. McManus blends psychological tension with her signature twist‑driven pacing, creating a sophisticated, compulsively readable winter novel that keeps you alert to every detail.
  28. Darling Mine by Romy Hausmann
    In Darling Mine, Romy Hausmann delivers a taut, psychologically layered thriller that begins with a chilling discovery: a woman found dead in her apartment and a child missing without a trace. As the investigation unfolds, the story centres on a man whose past is tangled with secrets he has spent years trying to outrun, forcing him to confront the possibility that someone close to him may be hiding the truth. Hausmann’s writing is sharp, unsettling, and emotionally intelligent, weaving suspense with character complexity in a way that keeps readers off balance until the final pages. It’s a sophisticated, atmospheric Winter read — perfect for those who appreciate thrillers with depth, nuance, and a haunting emotional core.
  29. Missing from Suite Five by Gloria Ferris
    In Missing from Suite Five, Gloria Ferris crafts a clever, fast‑paced mystery set within the seemingly tranquil world of a small‑town hotel, where a guest’s sudden disappearance exposes a tangle of secrets, grudges, and hidden motives. As the investigation unfolds, Ferris blends sharp humour with suspense, following characters who are equal parts flawed and endearing as they navigate the fallout of what should have been an ordinary stay gone terribly wrong. The novel’s mix of intrigue, wit, and small‑town dynamics makes it an engaging Winter read — brisk, entertaining, and just twisty enough to keep you turning pages long after you intended to stop.
  30. Canada’s 1960s by Bryan D. Palmer
    In Canada’s 1960s, historian Bryan D. Palmer offers a sweeping, incisive portrait of a decade defined by upheaval, activism, and the reshaping of national identity. Moving through labour movements, youth culture, political tensions, and the rise of new social consciousness, Palmer reveals how Canadians grappled with questions of modernity, justice, and belonging during a period often overshadowed by American narratives. His analysis is vivid and deeply researched, capturing both the optimism and the unrest that made the sixties a turning point in Canada’s cultural and political evolution. It’s an engaging Winter read for anyone drawn to history that illuminates how a nation comes of age.

Happy reading!

I’m Stacey Hobbs, thanks for reading Face by Stace! Until next time.
do you feel fabulous today?

Alyssa Rivers (The Recipe Critic) Inspired: Bacon & Butternut Squash Alfredo Pasta

Creamy • Cozy • Family‑Loving• Comforting
This one is rich, indulgent, and visually gorgeous — golden squash, crisp bacon, silky Alfredo sauce.

A creamy, golden Alfredo tossed with roasted butternut squash, crisp bacon, garlic, and Parmesan. It’s cozy, indulgent, and exactly the kind of comforting, family-loving pasta your readers love — simple, satisfying, and perfect for chilly Autumn evenings.

Prep: 15 minutes Cook: 30 minutes Total: 45 minutes Serves 4

Fettuccine Alfredo with Bacon and Roasted Butternut Squash
Fettuccine Alfredo with Bacon and Roasted Butternut Squash/www.nueskemeats.com

A rich, creamy Alfredo pasta layered with sweet roasted butternut squash and crisp bacon. The sauce is silky, garlicky, and indulgent — the perfect balance of comfort and Autumn warmth. It’s a cozy, family‑loving dish with gorgeous golden tones.

Ingredients

Roasted Butternut Squash

  • 3 cups butternut squash, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper

Pasta & Bacon

  • 12 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp butter

Alfredo Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup Parmesan, freshly grated
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • Salt & pepper
  • Optional: ¼ cup pasta water for thinning

Finish

  • Extra Parmesan
  • Fresh parsley
  • Black pepper

Instructions

1. Roast the squash

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Roast 20–25 minutes, until golden and tender.

2. Cook the pasta

  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
  • Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.

3. Crisp the bacon

  • In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp.
  • Remove bacon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.

4. Build the Alfredo base

  • Add butter to the bacon drippings.
  • Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  • Pour in cream + milk.
  • Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add the cheese

  • Stir in Parmesan until melted and silky.
  • Thin with pasta water if needed.

6. Combine

  • Add pasta, roasted squash, and bacon to the sauce.
  • Toss gently to coat.

7. Serve

  • Finish with extra Parmesan, parsley and black pepper.

Beauty Benefits

  • Butternut squash → beta‑carotene for skin radiance
  • Garlic → supports collagen production
  • Cream → healthy fats for moisture + glow
  • Parsley → vitamin C for brightness

Health Benefits

  • Balanced fats + protein for satiety
  • Squash provides fibre + antioxidants
  • Bacon adds protein + flavour depth
  • Parmesan offers calcium + umami

Storage

  • Refrigerate: 3–4 days
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth
  • Not ideal for freezing (cream sauces separate)

Substitutions

  • Bacon → pancetta or prosciutto
  • Heavy cream → half‑and‑half
  • Fettuccine → penne, rigatoni or linguine
  • Parmesan → Pecorino
  • Add spinach or kale for colour
  • Add chili flakes for heat

History

Cream‑based pasta dishes became popular in North American home cooking in the 1980s–2000s, when Alfredo evolved from a simple Roman butter‑and‑cheese pasta into a richer, cream‑forward comfort dish. Food bloggers like Alyssa Rivers helped modernize this style by adding family‑friendly twists — bacon, garlic, seasonal vegetables, and thicker sauces.

Butternut squash entered the Alfredo world more recently, as cooks began blending harvest ingredients with classic comfort dishes. Its natural sweetness and velvety texture pair beautifully with Parmesan and cream, creating a golden, autumn‑forward pasta that feels nostalgic yet fresh.

This recipe is the epitome of:

  • classic American comfort
  • seasonal harvest cooking

I’m Stacey Hobbs, thanks for reading Face by Stace! Until next time.
do you feel fabulous today?

Alyssa Rivers (The Recipe Critic) Inspired: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Garlic Butter Croutons

Ultra‑creamy, golden soup with crispy croutons

This butternut squash soup is warm, cozy Autumn soup that blends roasted squash, garlic, and cream into a silky, golden bowl of autumn comfort. Finished with crisp garlic‑butter croutons, it’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for chilly evenings. This is the kind of creamy, family‑friendly recipe your readers adore — simple, soothing, and beautifully seasonal. It’s comforting and family‑friendly

Prep 15 min Cook 40 min Serves 4

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Garlic Herb Croutons: Discover the Secret to Irresistible ...
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Garlic Herb Croutons: Discover the Secret to Irresistible …/bakedinone.com

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups butternut squash, peeled & cubed
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups day‑old bread cubes
3 tbsp butter
1 garlic clove, grated
1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics
    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
  2. Add squash & broth
    Add cubed butternut squash and pour in broth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer.
  3. Simmer
    Cover and cook 20–25 minutes until squash is very tender.
  4. Blend
    Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) and blend until completely smooth.
  5. Add cream
    Stir in heavy cream and warm gently over low heat. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Make garlic butter croutons
    In a skillet, melt butter with grated garlic. Add bread cubes and toast 5–7 minutes until golden. Toss with parsley.
  7. Serve
    Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with garlic butter croutons.

Beauty Benefits

  • Butternut squash → beta‑carotene for skin radiance
  • Garlic → supports collagen production
  • Cream → healthy fats for moisture + glow
  • Parsley → vitamin C for brightness

Health Benefits

  • High in vitamin A + antioxidants
  • Supports immunity
  • Fibre + healthy fats for satiety

Storage

  • Refrigerate: 4 days
  • Freeze: 2 months
  • Reheat gently to maintain creaminess

Substitutions

  • Heavy cream → coconut milk
  • Vegetable broth → chicken broth
  • Add chili oil for heat
  • Add crispy pancetta for a meat‑inclusive version

History

Butternut squash soup has deep roots in North American and European autumn cooking, but the creamy comfort‑forward version you’re creating sits at the intersection of modern family cooking and classic harvest tradition.

Winter Flappers: How Canadian Climate Changed the Look

Canadian flappers faced a challenge: Winter. Real Winter. Snowbanks, icy sidewalks, freezing winds and months of cold that demanded practicality — even in the most modern decade of the Jazz Age.

Two women laughing on a snowy Toronto street beside vintage cars
Two fashionable women share a laugh while walking through snowy downtown Toronto.
Three women walk in snow; signs read “KING ST. WEST” and “TORONTO DAILY STAR — BLIZZARD HITS PRAIRIES.”
Three women in vintage winter clothing walk through a snowy city street as a newspaper announces a prairie blizzard.

This climate shaped the Canadian flapper look in ways that made it instantly recognizable.

Hemlines rose in the 1920s, but Canadian flappers often balanced shorter dresses with heavier coats, fur collars, wool capes and thick stockings. Evening wear was glamorous, but layered: silk dresses paired with long coats, wraps and gloves to survive the walk to the dance hall.

Footwear differed too. While American flappers wore delicate T‑strap heels year‑round, Canadian flappers switched between stylish shoes indoors and practical boots outdoors. Many carried their dancing shoes in small bags, changing once inside.

Hair also adapted to the climate. The Canadian bob was waved and curled not just for style, but for durability. Structured waves held better under hats, snow and humidity. Finger waves survived Winter winds far more gracefully than a sharp, straight bob.

Makeup stayed subtle partly because cold weather demanded powdered, matte skin to avoid shine from Winter dryness. Rouge and lipstick were worn, but carefully — bold makeup could look harsh against pale Winter light.

Winter didn’t limit Canadian flapper style. It refined it — creating a look that blended modernity with practicality, glamour with survival and Jazz Age energy with unmistakably Canadian resilience.

I’m Stacey Hobbs, thanks for reading Face by Stace! Until next time.
do you feel fabulous today?

Rare Beauty Holiday Kits Have Arrived!

It’s that time of the year, which means holiday kits have arrived! Explore the holiday kits I’ve selected for this list by Rare Beauty, I’m sure you’ll love and find a perfect gift. To discover the full range of Rate Beauty Holiday Kits, please visit: rarebeauty.com

Rare Beauty delivers vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested and paranormal-free formulas.

Each Rare Beauty holiday offering captures the season’s warmth with curated essentials designed to blush, glow, and shine through every festive moment. From the Hope Faves 4 Piece Set—packed with nude‑mauve favourites and a charming Mini Puffy Tote Keychain—to the trio of limited‑edition minis that deliver spirited violet tones and prismatic gloss on the go, every kit feels thoughtfully crafted. Romantic rosy mauves take centre stage in the full‑size lip duo featuring the Darling Kind Words Matte Lip Liner and Heart Soft Pinch Lip Oil Stick, while the four‑piece fresh‑faced essentials set ensures cheeks, lips, and eyes stay effortlessly radiant. For a touch of decadence, Rare Eau de Parfum pairs beautifully with Adore Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, creating a signature blend of spice and bright pink flush. Plush, shimmering lips come alive in the Lovely lip liner and exclusive Flash gloss duo, and the Rare Eau de Parfum set—with its full‑size bottle and 10 mL travel spray—captures the essence of a perfect moment wherever the season takes you.

Hope Faves 4 Piece Set

Hope Faves 4 Piece Set/Rare Beauty

Hope Faves 4 Piece Set delivers a flush of Hope for every festive moment. Brighten your look with these best-selling nude mauve essentials—Soft Pinch Liquid Blush Mini, Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush, and a limited-edition Positive Light Luminizing Lip Gloss—complete with a matching Mini Puffy Tote Keychain. 

Violet Faves Mini Cheek & Lip Trio

Violet Faves Mini Cheek & Lip Trio/Rare Beauty

Three limited-edition minis to blush, glow, and gloss on the go. Featuring award-winning Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Spirited (mid-tone violet), Positive Light Liquid Luminizer in set-exclusive Lovestruck (duo chrome violet), and Positive Light Luminizing Lip Gloss in set-exclusive Twinkle (mauve with duo chrome lilac/blue/rose pearls). 

Mauve Faves Lip Duo

Mauve Faves Lip Duo/Rare Beauty

Romantic rosy mauves perfect for the season and beyond, featuring two full-size, limited-edition essentials. Creamy, waterproof Kind Words Matte Lip Liner in Darling shapes lips with rich, stay-put colour, while Soft Pinch Lip Oil Stick in Heart swipes on juicy, buildable colour infused with nourishing oils.

Bestselling Faves 4 Piece Set

Bestselling Faves 4 Piece Set/Rare Beauty
Bestselling Faves 4 Piece Set/Rare Beauty

Everything you need to create a fresh-faced look through every festive moment, featuring four bestselling essentials for cheeks, lips, and eyes. 

Classic Faves Fragrance & Blush Duo

Classic Faves Fragrance & Blush Duo/Rare Beauty

A classic pairing made to become your everyday signature: Rare Eau de Parfum wraps you in irresistible warmth and decadence with a touch of spice, while award-winning Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Adore (bright pink) gives cheeks a pinch-perfect flush that lasts. 

Luminous Faves Lip Duo

Luminous Faves Lip Duo/Rare Beauty

Define your shine with plush, prismatic lips that drip in shimmer. This full-size duo features a creamy, waterproof Kind Words Matte Lip Liner in Lovely (warm mauve) and Positive Light Luminizing Lip Gloss in new, exclusive shade Flash (sheer champagne with gold, pink and silver pearl).  

Rare Fragrance Faves Eau de Parfum Duo

Rare Fragrance Faves Eau de Parfum Duo/Rare Beauty

The essence of the perfect moment captured in a warm, decadent fragrance with a touch of spice. Includes a full-size Rare Eau de Parfum by Rare Beauty and a 10mL travel spray. 

For more information, please visit: rarebeauty.com

Check out the full range of Rare Beauty’s Holiday Kits!

I’m Stacey Hobbs, thanks for reading Face by Stace! Until next time.
do you feel fabulous today?

Audrey Le Goff (Pardon Your French) Inspired: Chicken & Leek Fricassée with Butternut Squash

A silky, rustic French countryside classic — tender chicken, buttery leeks and sweet roasted squash in a creamy wine‑kissed sauce.

I love Audrey Le Goff’s recipes. If I have to choose one that is my favourite, which is hard to decide so there really isn’t just one favourite, in that case I would have to choose the Macaroni and Cheese Gratin. Hands down. The best mac and cheese I have ever had. French Style Macaroni Gratin – Pardon Your French

This is a dish that is silky, comforting French fricassée built on tender chicken, buttery leeks, and sweet roasted butternut squash. The sauce is classic Audrey Le Goff energy — creamy, wine‑kissed, herb‑forward — with that warm orchard‑to‑table Autumn charm your readers adore.

I have included the beauty and health benefits of this dish, along with the history to go along with it. Why? Because, I find it so fascinating. The history to dishes, specifically French dishes intrigues me. I thought it would deliver the same effect. Also, who doesn’t want to know about the beauty and health benefits? Lol. Anyway, enjoy Audrey Le Goff (Pardon Your French) Inspired: Chicken & Leek Fricassée with Butternut Squash! I’ll catch you with the next one :).

Prep 20 min Cook 45 min Serves 4

Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner
Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner/bazarecipe.com

Ingredients

4 bone‑in chicken thighs (or 2 large breasts)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 large leeks, thinly sliced (white + light green parts)
3 cups butternut squash, cubed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
to taste salt & pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
optional fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Roast the squash
    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast 20 minutes until tender and caramelised.
  2. Sear the chicken
    Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium‑high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté the leeks
    Add sliced leeks to the skillet. Cook 8 minutes until soft and silky. Add garlic and thyme; cook 1 minute.
  4. Deglaze
    Pour in white wine. Scrape up browned bits and simmer 2 minutes.
  5. Build the sauce
    Add chicken broth, cream, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Combine
    Return chicken to the skillet. Add roasted squash. Cover and simmer 20 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce is creamy.
  7. Finish
    Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

This dish is pure French countryside comfort — silky leeks, tender chicken, and sweet squash wrapped in a creamy wine‑infused sauce. It’s rustic, elegant, and deeply autumnal. Perfect for cozy editorial spreads and seasonal storytelling.

Beauty Benefits

  • Butternut squash → beta‑carotene for skin radiance
  • Leeks → prebiotics for gut‑skin harmony
  • Chicken → collagen‑supporting amino acids
  • Thyme → antioxidant‑rich, supports skin clarity

Health Benefits

  • High in vitamin A and C
  • Balanced protein + slow carbs
  • Leeks support digestion and detox pathways
  • Cream provides satisfying healthy fats

Storage

  • Refrigerate: up to 4 days
  • Freeze: up to 2 months
  • Reheat gently on stovetop to preserve sauce texture

Substitutions

  • Chicken thighs → chicken breasts
  • Heavy cream → half‑and‑half
  • Leeks → sweet onions
  • White wine → extra broth + 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Add mushrooms for extra French rustic depth

History

The fricassée is one of France’s oldest countryside dishes — a technique that dates back to the 16th century, long before modern French cuisine was codified. It was originally a farmhouse method for turning simple ingredients into something silky, comforting and elegant without being fussy.

Origins of the Fricassée Technique

The word fricassée appears in early French culinary manuscripts describing a dish that is “neither fully sautéed nor fully stewed.” Instead, chicken is gently browned, then simmered in a velouté‑style sauce enriched with cream, wine, and aromatics. It was a way for rural families to create a luxurious texture using humble ingredients.

This technique became especially popular in Normandy and Brittany, where dairy was abundant and cooks leaned into cream‑based sauces, leeks, and orchard vegetables.

Leeks: A French Countryside Staple

Leeks have been a cornerstone of French rustic cooking for centuries. In Northern regions, they were grown year‑round and used in soups, gratins, veloutés, and stews. Their mild sweetness and silky texture made them ideal for dishes that required gentle, slow cooking, which is exactly the kind of preparation a fricassée demands.

Leeks were also considered a “bridge vegetable,” connecting Winter storage crops (like squash) with fresh Spring herbs.

Butternut Squash: A Modern French Addition

Butternut squash is not traditionally French, however in the last thirty years, it has become a beloved ingredient in modern French home cooking. Its sweetness pairs beautifully with:

  • cream
  • thyme
  • leeks
  • white wine
  • poultry

French cooks began incorporating squash into classic dishes like potages, gratins and fricassées to bring warmth and color to autumn meals.

Audrey Le Goff’s Influence

Audrey Le Goff’s style — rustic, heritage‑driven, and deeply French countryside — often blends:

  • orchard ingredients
  • root vegetables
  • dairy‑based sauces
  • simple but refined techniques

This dish reflects her signature approach: taking a classic French technique and pairing it with seasonal produce to create something familiar yet fresh.

I’m Stacey Hobbs, thanks for reading Face by Stace! Until next time.
do you feel fabulous today?