Latest news with #SqueezeMe
Buzz Feed
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
51 Cheaper Versions Of Popular Products
A polar bear hydrating eye stick to cool and smooth, which helps lessen dark circles. Just keep it in the fridge and roll it under your eyes before you head out — a perfect quick de-puff remedy so your face can feel snatched! Plus, it's a much more budget-friendly alternative to that other TikTok-famous option from Tula. A set of affordable wireless Bluetooth earbuds that'll stay in no matter how intense your solo dance party gets. These are completely waterproof (reviewers have even worn them in the shower with no complaints!), have a built-in mic for taking hands-free calls, and come with different silicone covers to find your best fit. An affordable longline sports bra made from a very soft, stretchy material that's pretty similar to the Lulu Align tank. It's quickly become a staple in a ton of reviewers' wardrobes, and many say they don't even wear a bra with this because of the supportive padding. It's so good, people are snagging it in different colors — and you'll probably want to as well. 😉 A luxury-scented candle beloved by reviewers for how well it fills a space with its incredible aroma and they say you can even smell it while it's not lit! This jasmine, oud, and sandalwood blend is definitely a reviewer fave, but there are sooo many amazing scents to choose from — it's almost impossible to *not* find one (or several) that match your preference. E.l.f.'s moisturizing "Squeeze Me" lip balm because you deserve to serve "I just have naturally glossy, perfect lips" on the daily without dropping $20 on the Laneige lip balm. It's made with hyaluronic acid for extra moisture, tinted for a little color, and flavored as a touch of fun for your inner child. A pair of ~Dreamlux~ leggings made with a stretchy, buttery-soft fabric reviewers compare the quality to Lululemon's Align! If you've been looking for affordable, dependable leggings you can comfortably wear to the gym, running errands, and relaxing at home, then your search is over! Plus, a pair of popular cross-waist leggings that are lightweight, buttery soft, and stretchy — just like the Aerie ones, but without the Aerie price. These went viral for being an elevated version of the classic yoga pant thanks to the cute slits at the bottom and, of course, the iconic V-shaped waistband with a hidden pocket. A ridiculously comfortable oversize hoodie you might as well call your second skin, considering you'll never want to take it off. Reviewers love how it's warm without feeling stuffy and compare the quality to brands like Aritzia and Skims. A set of teeth whitening strips if you want a noticeably brighter smile without shelling out Crest-level cash. These enamel-safe strips are easy to use, don't slip around, and actually stay put while you go about your business. Those years of coffee and tea stains don't stand a chance! A three-pack of vintage-inspired polarized sunglasses because you probably don't want to bring your actual Ray-Bans to a concert and risk losing them. These are the perfect alternative for anyone who lives a "I forgot my sunnies" lifestyle because you can always have a back up pair in your car or bag. E.l.f's brand new Lash XTNDR Tubing Mascara that wraps each individual lash in tiny, lightweight "tubes" (hence the name) made of flexible polymers for maximum length and volume. And the real magic happens when you remove it: Instead of smudging or smearing, these tubes cleanly come off with just a little warm water and gentle wiping — so NO raccoon eyes! A bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo with over 36,000 5-star ratings? 🤩 Yes, please. And for under $15 — a total steal. The star ingredient, biotin, can help make your hair look fuller, while rosemary and coconut oils swoop in to nourish and moisturize your scalp. CeraVe's resurfacing retinol serum that works like a charm to tackle pesky dark spots, fine lines, and uneven texture. It gently helps renew your skin while keeping things smooth and hydrated, thanks to ceramides and soothing ingredients that help keep irritation at bay. And some reviewers even prefer it over pricier versions (like the $92 Murad Retinol Serum)! A ~weightless~ liquid cream blush for people who are going for the soft, dewy lewk but aren't ready to drop $25 on the Rare Beauty blush. This one stands out for its rich pigmentation and smooth blendability, made even easier with the built-in sponge applicator. Definitely a compliment earner! A seamless shapewear bodysuit because Skims can be pretty pricey and this one comes impressively close to the OG in both quality and fit — all without making your wallet weep. It's made from thick, supportive fabric with four-way stretch and offers just the right amount of compression without feeling restrictive. A set of luxury hotel bed sheets made from a super soft, moisture-wicking microfiber fabric that usually goes for hundreds of dollars. They also have a wonderful cooling effect (that I'm sure the contestants of Single's Inferno would've loved to have in their tents). But, seriously, only get these if you can fight the temptation to stay in bed all day. And a breathable, moisture-wicking waffle weave blanket for hot sleepers who still want to snuggle up under a blanket without overheating. It's ridiculously soft and has a cooling effect that will make it your go-to blanket during the warmer months. E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm to literally melts away every trace of makeup (yes, even waterproof mascara!) without stripping your skin. It's packed with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help leave your face feeling soft, hydrated, and so smooth — and reviewers with sensitive skin give it their seal of approval! A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment that takes just 5 to 20 minutes to bring your hair back to life. Your strands will feel softer and look glossier thanks to ingredients like ceramide 3 and protein extracts. Reviewers rave about how well it repairs damaged hair, and it's tough to find another mask this effective at such an affordable price. Olaplex doesn't stand a chance. A Cosori gooseneck electric kettle to make brewing the perfect cup of coffee or tea easier. This thing is fancy with five temperature presets to get the perfect amount of warmth for each drink — so you don't have to burn your tongue or wait for your drink to cool down. *And* it has a "hold temp" function that keeps water warm for up to an hour (no more re-boiling) and an automatic shutoff (no more screeching kettles). A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer so you can easily achieve a salon-level blowout right at home without splurging on the Dyson Airwrap. It works on most hair types and textures and gets your hair camera ready in half the time since it simultaneously dries and styles. The amazing results do not match the minimal effort. Marc Anthony "Grow Long" Leave-In Conditioner Spray for detangling while strengthening and nourishing your locks so they can grow to be as long as Rapunzel's. Why bother with several products when you can get everything you need in one spray (complete with biotin, vitamin E, caffeine, and ginseng) instead? An eye cream made with vitamins C + E, rosehip seed oil, and hibiscus extract to help naturally brighten and firm sensitive under-eye skin. It can help reduce dark circles and puffy eyes so you can feel more refreshed. And reviewers love how it doesn't leave behind a greasy residue! A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers for when the Lululemon Align ones are simply out of your budget, because reviewers find these to be remarkably similar. And just like the Lulu ones, these are made from a soft, stretchy, breathable material and have a wide waistband for maximum comfort. You can wear them to work out, run errands, or just lounge in! A bottle of Nyx setting spray if you're tired of your makeup sliding off halfway through the day. One quick spritz, and this magic mist locks in your look for up to 16 hours with zero shine (just like the beloved Urban Decay setting spray), except this one will leave you with extra funds for a sweet treat. An adorable, roomy duffel bag with quite the resume. It's durable and water-resistant; plus, it has long handles to easily lug it around, a side panel to hook it onto a suitcase, and compartments to keep your wet/dirty clothes separate from your clean ones — check, check, check, and check. It's comparable to the Herschel's duffel, but ya know, is waaay more affordable. A waffle weave "shacket" that's just as stylish as the one from American Eagle. It's lightweight enough for easy layering, but warm enough to keep the chill off during those breezy beach nights or casual evening hangouts. A trio of lip sleeping masks because they essentially do the same thing as the Laneige one (providing deep hydration and nourishment) but for waaay less money *and* you get THREE of them! It's primarily an overnight treatment, but it can also be used as a lip balm throughout the day — so you're getting some serious bang for the little buck you spent. Peach Slices Acne Spot Dots to suck the gunk out of your pimples and keep you from picking at them. Just stick one of these hydrocolloid patches on a pimple before bed, and by morning, it'll be flatter, calmer, and way less angry. Plus, each pack comes with *three* different sizes to match whatever size of pimple you're dealing with unlike pricier brands. Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Base so your smoky eye doesn't go from beautifully blended to smudged after an hour. Now you can bat your eyes as much as you want without worrying about creasing or having spent way too much on the Two Faced version! A set of satin pillowcases that'll have you smiling in your sleep knowing how much you saved getting these instead of dropping over $50 on a single Blissy pillowcase. These create less friction on your hair compared to cotton pillowcases, which helps reduce frizz and breakage; plus, the satin just feels so soft and cool on your skin. A très chic Lululemon-inspired mini belted pack to keep all your daily essentials close by and easily accessible. Don't let its size fool you; this little guy can hold a lot — wallet, phone, earbuds, keys, those all-important snacks — all while keeping you hands-free. Pure Instinct Roll-On infused with pheromones and a soft, musky-sweet scent that reviewers say is just like it's pricier counterpart, Basic Instinct. Just roll a little on your pulse points and let the compliments roll in. A set of elegant cylindrical wineglasses to make drinking any beverage feel like you're celebrating something — and TBH, finding an affordable Crate & Barrel alternative IS cause for celebration. An long-sleeve shirt made with a super soft fabric that has just the right amount of stretch and thickness. Reviewers even compare the quality to Skims, which definitely sets it above all those other plain long sleeves. A sleeveless halter bodysuit so you don't have to splurge on one from Zara or Skims. This versatile piece goes with everything, and I mean everything: shorts, skirts, jeans, sweatpants, leggings, you name it. And it's slightly compressive (similar to shapewear), but without being too restrictive! Honestly, you might just want to stock up on a few colors now. Maybelline's Total Temptation Eyebrow Definer Pencil you'll end up wanting to buy in bulk and you actually can since it's nowhere near as pricey as the Anastasia Beverly Hills' Brow Wiz. The teardrop-shaped tip makes it super easy to shape and fill, while the built-in spoolie blends everything out for that soft, naturally fluffy brow look. A popular set of makeup sponges for perfectly blended foundation, concealer, and any other base makeup. They're super fluffy and bouncy, with many reviewers actually preferring these to the OG Beauty Blender. And honestly, who can blame them? With how well they get the job done and at such an affordable price, they're a total game changer for your makeup routine. A pair of beloved stretchy faux-leather leggings that'll get you the chic leather pant look without the stuffy, constricting feeling. They can be styled with T-shirts and boots for an elevated casual vibe, or a fancy top with heels for going out! A 24/7 interactive Petcube pet camera so you can literally see what your furry friend gets up to when you're not around, complete with a wide-angle view and night vision. And thanks to the two-way audio, you can even check in and tell them they're a good boy (in case they forgot since you told them this morning). If you know what a Furbo is, this is kind of similar — but way more affordable! A lightweight E.l.f.'s Poreless Putty Primer to help minimize the appearance of pores and blemishes — it's like an IRL Facetune smoothing tool (and an amazing alternative for the Tatcha Silk Primer). Reviewers say it helps their makeup look more even and their skin smoother! A slightly cropped half-zip pullover so you can feel cozy and look put together. Reviewers say it's thick and warm, which makes it perfect for chilly summer nights. Plus, the very similar Lululemon one is about three times as much — and we both know you could use that money elsewhere. A six-piece set of high-performance matte lipsticks that'll stay put through eating, drinking, and everything in between, delivering gorgeous color that lasts. As one reviewer put it: "This functions just like the high-priced lip colors you can find at high-end stores and makes it affordable for all!" A pair of gold-plated, hypoallergenic minimalist teardrop earrings you can wear with any 'fit for any occasion — not many accessories can look as equally amazing with a shirt and jeans as they do with a floor-length gown, but these pull it off! They might look similar to the Bottega Veneta ones, but thankfully, they're *much* cheaper. E.l.f. Power Grip Primer that'll have your makeup sticking to your face like its life depends on it. It's infused with hyaluronic acid to keep your skin feeling hydrated and looking plump (just like the Milk's Hydro Grip primer, but for half the price!). Just apply it, wait a quick 30 seconds, and watch as your foundation goes on smoother and lasts way longer than it ever has before. A fuzzy loungewear set so you can relax in style. The matching top, bottoms, and cardigan also make for a cute outfit you can run errands in. Reviewers say the material is soft and stretchy, making it very comfortable. Thank goodness this set is so affordable; otherwise, you'd have to spend over $140 on the Skims version! An extreme-hold Nyx eyebrow gel that'll ensure your brows stay sleek and sculpted from dawn 'til dusk! The wand applicator effortlessly tames your brows and provides a strong hold without any sticky residue. It's ideal for all brow types and perfect for creating anything from bold, defined arches to a natural, groomed look. A dark spot-removing soap bar packed with kojic acid, turmeric, retinol, collagen, and vitamin C — aka the dream team for fading dark spots, evening skin tone, and giving your complexion that ✨lit-from-within✨ vibe. It lathers up nicely, smells great, and is gentle enough for everyday use on your face, underarms, inner thighs, and more. Bonus: This is a way more affordable option than those high-end dark spot treatments out there. A pair of cozy pull-on cushioned boots to keep your feet nice and toasty. These have a soft faux fur lining and memory foam insoles, and reviewers say they are comparable to their Ugg counterparts (which are over $140) in look and comfort. Cushionaire slides that you don't have to break in (I'm looking at you, Birkenstocks) — the flexible cork footbed and cushioned insole means that they are comfortable right out of the box! But if you don't believe me, look at the over 50,000 5-star over 1,000 reviews comparing the support to Birks. L'Oreal's True Match Lumi Glotion so you can glow like a beautiful sunset without spending three times as much on Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops. This adds a lightweight tint that creates a natural dewy look, perfect for mixing with your favorite moisturizer or layering with foundation!
Hamilton Spectator
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
New crime novels feature a locked-room mystery, a Scarborough stabbing and a Jan. 6 insurrectionist
It's a weird time in American politics, which means it's a perfect time for Florida novelist Carl Hiaasen to plumb the satirical depths of corruption and malfeasance in his home state. His last novel, 2020's 'Squeeze Me,' suffered from a subplot that attempted to satirize the once-and-current occupant of the White House, a Falstaffian spray-tanned figure so outrageous as to be almost impervious to satire. For 'Fever Beach,' Hiaasen wisely steers clear of POTUS and his inept administration, preferring instead to focus on wanton corruption at a lower level. 'Fever Beach,' by Carl Hiaasen, Alfred A. Knopf, $34.99. The new novel begins with a meet-cute on an airplane between Twilly Spree and Viva Morales. Twilly is a stock Hiaasen character: an independently wealthy Florida do-gooder who spends his time making life miserable for folks who litter, antagonize the local wildlife or otherwise cause environmental or social havoc. Viva's job is administering the foundation of a couple of rich right-wing octogenarians whose fundraising operates as a money-laundering front to finance the campaign of far-right (and profoundly stupid) congressman Clure Boyette, in hot water with his obstreperous father over a scandal involving an underage prostitute named Galaxy. Add in Viva's landlord — a Jan. 6 insurrectionist named Dale Figgo who heads the Strokers for Freedom (a white nationalist militia whose name is a rebuke to the Proud Boys' insistence on refraining from masturbation) — and his cohort, the violent and reckless Jonas Onus, and you have all the ingredients for a classic Hiaasen caper. Twenty years ago, German-born author Leonie Swann debuted one of the most delightful detective teams in genre history: a flock of sheep on the trail of the person responsible for killing their shepherd with a spade through the chest. After a two-decade absence, Miss Maple, Othello, Mopple the Whale, and the other woolly sleuths are back on the case, this time on behalf of their new herder, Rebecca, the daughter of the early book's victim. 'Big Bad Wool,' by Leonie Swann, Soho Crime, $38.95. Rebecca, her intrusive Mum, and the sheep are overwintering in the lee of a French chateau where there are rumours of a marauding Garou — a werewolf — that is responsible for mutilating deer in the nearby woods. Among other strange occurrences, Rebecca's red clothing is found torn to pieces and some sheep go missing — and soon enough there's a dead human for the flock, in the uncomfortable company of a group of local goats, to deal with. 'Big Bad Wool' is a charming romp, whose pleasure comes largely from the ironic distance between the sheep's understanding of the world and that of the people who surround them. ('The humans in the stories did plenty of ridiculous things. Spring cleaning, revenge and diets.') Their enthusiasm and excitement results in prose that is a bit too reliant on exclamation points, and some of the more heavy-handed puns (like the sheep's insistence on 'woolpower') seem forced, but this is nevertheless a fun variation on the traditional country cosy. Romance novelist Uzma Jalaluddin takes a turn into mystery with this new book about amateur sleuth Kausar Khan. A widow in her late 50s, Kausar returns to Toronto from North Bay to help her daughter, Sana, who has been accused of stabbing her landlord to death in her Scarborough mall boutique. The police — including Sana's old flame, Ilyas — are convinced Sana is the prime suspect, but Kausar is determined to prove her daughter innocent. 'Detective Aunty,' by Uzma Jalaluddin, HarperCollins, $25.99. Her investigation involves a couple of competing developers, both of whom want to purchase the land on which the mall stands, along with members of the dead man's family and fellow shopkeepers. On the domestic front, Kausar finds herself concerned with Sana's deteriorating marriage to her husband, Hamza, and her teenage granddaughter's sullenness and mysterious nighttime disappearances. Jalaluddin does a good job integrating the various elements of her plot, and the familial relationships are nicely calibrated. The momentum is impeded, however, by a preponderance of clichés ('Playing devil's advocate, Kausar asked …'; 'Kausar's blood ran cold') and a tendency to hold the reader's hand by defining every easily Googleable Urdu word or greeting too programmatically. More attention to the writing on the line level would have helped move this one along. Yukito Ayatsuji's clever postmodern locked-room mystery was first published in Japanese in 2009; it appears for the first time in English translation, which is good news for genre fans. 'The Labyrinth House Murders,' by Yukito Ayatsuji, Pushkin Vertigo, $24.95. Ayatsuji's narrative is framed by Shimada, a mystery aficionado, who is presented with a novelization about murders that took place at the home of famed mystery writer Miyagaki Yotaro, found dead by his own hand soon after the manuscript opens. Miyagaki has left a bizarre challenge for the writers gathered at his Byzantine Labyrinth House: each must write a story featuring a murder, and the victim must be the writer him- or herself. The winning author, as adjudicated by a group of critics also convened at Labyrinth House, will inherit Miyagaki's sizable fortune. As the writers compete for the reward, bodies start falling in real life and Ayatsuji has a grand time playing metafictional games with his readers, challenging them to figure out who the culprit is in the context of a story that owes more than a small debt to Agatha Christie's 'And Then There Were None.' But Ayatsuji does Christie one better; it is only once the afterword, which closes the framed narrative, has unfolded that the reader fully understands how cleverly the author has conceived his multi-layered fictional trap.
Buzz Feed
3 days ago
- General
- Buzz Feed
These 38 Things Are Even Better Than Your Old Faves
A "flossing toothbrush" for some thorough teeth cleaning. It has dual-layered bristles: regular ones and ultra-long, thin flossing bristles that get *deep* in between your teeth and gums. Reviewers are saying it feels like they got their teeth cleaned at the dentist, but nope! — just this very innovative toothbrush. E.l.f.'s moisturizing "Squeeze Me" lip balm because you deserve to serve "I just have naturally glossy, perfect lips" on the daily. It's made with hyaluronic acid for extra moisture, tinted for a little color, and flavored as a touch of fun for your inner child. A silicone "Broombi" that picks up all the little specks of dust, crumbs, and hair regular brooms and vacuums somehow miss — without all the gunk sticking to it. Pet hair, human hair, werewolf hair, it doesn't matter; this broom can handle (accidental broom pun) it. Reviewers say it works like magic. Just don't try to use it to fly! A BPA-free rotating 2-in-1 colander and washing basket so you can wash and drain food without accidentally dumping it out. The nifty rotating design means you can just pour the excess water as normal and trust that half the rice you're washing won't end up in the sink. And a nonstick safe scoop colander for draining and serving food without the hassle of lifting a hot, heavy pot. It'll eliminate the risk of burning your hands or losing food down the sink; plus, it has handy hooks that let it rest securely on your pot so you can keep things tidy and avoid food stains on the counter. A bleach-free, no-scrub Wet & Forget shower cleaner you simply spray on, let sit for 8–12 hours while you tackle other chores (and maybe get a manicure), then rinse off with water for a shower so bright and shiny, it'll look like you were in there scrubbing for hours — when in reality, you did almost nothing! A compact cutlery organizer with stacked, angled compartments that take up *much* less room than traditional silverware organizers. You can free up more space for those larger cooking utensils that take up an entire drawer or are sitting on your counter. A "Bread Buddy" dispenser that lets you enjoy your bread loaf at your own pace so you're not racing to finish it before it expires in just a few days. This airtight container keeps your bread fresh (and from being smushed) while conveniently releasing one slice at a time. And the clear design means you'll still be able to read the labels! A weekly pill organizer because adulting is hard enough without chasing down loose vitamins at the bottom of your bag. Each day's compartment pops out so you can take it on the go, and the magnetic base keeps everything neatly in place. Reviewers love how sleek and easy it is to use, which, let's be honest, is half the battle when it comes to staying consistent. A flat head mop and wringer set for anyone who's ever 'cleaned' their floors only to realize they've just been spreading the dirt around. This genius setup has separate wash and dry compartments (no more swamp water), plus an inner scraper that pulls off all the gunk, hair, and mystery crumbs. The 360-degree swivel head hits every awkward corner your old mop gave up on, and the washable pads mean you can actually reuse them without feeling gross. A fast-drying sink stone caddy that absorbs water so quickly, you'll think you hallucinated it ever being wet. It stands on four tiny legs, which helps prevent buildup, keeping your counters dry and ready for the next time you do the dishes. A self-cleaning broom and dust pan set for anyone who's ever had to hand-pick hair out of their broom bristles like some tragic punishment. This one's got built-in scraper teeth that do the dirty work for you in one satisfying pull, plus a rubber lip on the dustpan that actually touches the floor (aka no more lines of leftover dust taunting you). And it has an adjustable handle so you don't have to awkwardly hunch while sweeping. A set of reusable GripStic bag sealers so your precious "Everything But the Bagel" chips from Trader Joe's don't go stale after a week. They slide across the entire top of the bag, ensuring an airtight seal, and will fit in even the most cluttered of drawers (unlike bulky chip clips). A "Springer" that lets you squeeze water into the attached bowl for your pup to sip, then releases any leftovers back into the bottle. It's leak-proof, can be used with one hand, and comes with a carabiner so you can clip it to your bag, leash, or belt like the proud dog parent you are. A set of double shower curtain hooks to make changing your shower curtain or liner easier than it's ever been. Since you hang the curtain on one side and the liner on the other, you'll avoid the hassle of taking the whole thing down every time you switch the curtain/liner. A set of quick-drying waffle weave kitchen dish cloths that are soft enough to gently dry your most delicate wineglasses (no scratches or streaks here), but are absorbent enough to handle a full-blown coffee spill. A six-outlet wall charger if your outlets are constantly maxed out and you're playing a daily game of "which device gets to charge today". It also has two USB ports and a built-in night light that's perfect for late-night snack runs. Reviewers find it especially useful in the kitchen for powering bulky appliances, and the angled design means your oversized plugs won't battle for space. A magnetic microwave cover that conveniently attaches to the microwave ceiling, ensuring it's always ready when you need it. Now, when you reheat your lasagna leftovers, it won't look like an actual crime scene. A veggie chopper for keeping your counter tidy while speeding up your prep time. If you love to cook but hate chopping (who doesn't, right?) this thing is a lifesaver. It chops just about everything — onions, peppers, zucchinis, potatoes, you name it! Plus, it comes with different blades for slicing, dicing, and even spiraling your favorite veggies. A delightfully practical Stojo collapsible travel cup that collapses down so you can throw it in your bag instead of carrying around an empty full-size travel mug! It's also great if you like to bring your morning cup of joe with you to work (instead of trying to chug it in five minutes) — it's microwave safe, so you can reheat your lukewarm beverage instead of dumping it out! A Nodpod with a unique four-pod design gently presses around your head, giving you that perfect 'ahhh' feeling without any annoying straps to mess with. One side is soft jersey cotton, the other microfleece, so you get all the cozy vibes. Plus, it's weighted and bead-filled to block out light and help you fall into deep, dreamy sleep — even if you're a side sleeper who's constantly tossing and turning. A bagless, touchless stationary vacuum that's basically a black hole for all your pet hair, dust, and crumbs. Just sweep near it, and bam! Its smart sensors kick in to suck up the mess like magic. No more awkward bending or dealing with dustpans. Plus reviewers with furry pets who shed a lot have found this exceptionally helpful in keeping their home cleaner. A ChomChom pet hair remover roller because of how *effectively* it removes fur from your furniture, clothes, and other fabric surfaces. It's reusable and works its magic without using anything sticky. (So no residue!) Also, this gadget went viral based on its results — and that's when you know a product is good. A Hatch Restore 2 that supports your natural circadian rhythm by mimicking natural light transitions. It gently wakes you up with a soft sunrise glow (no more blinding alarms or snooze marathons) and helps you wind down at night with calming sounds and customizable lights. Plus, you control everything from your phone, so you don't have to leave your cozy cocoon just to turn off your alarm. A rolling egg dispenser because it's more fun and convenient than taking the whole carton out just for one egg. It has a nonslip base to keep it in place and can hold up to 14 large eggs. If you're someone who starts every morning off with some fluffy scrambled eggs, then this will be your new best friend. A heavy-duty ice cream scoop strong enough to go up against the rock-solid tub of "The Tonight Dough" that's been chillin' (pun intended) in your freezer for two months. Reviewers rave about its durability, amazing handle, and how effortlessly it scoops, forming a flawless sphere every time. A set of legging organizing hangers if your closet is beginning to look like the Goodwill outlet bins. Each one holds up to 10 pairs of your favorite lightweight pants, while still keeping every pair easy to access. Plus, the rubber-coated clips keep everything secure without those annoying pinch marks. A rectangular lazy Susan to save all that food from disappearing into the back of your fridge like it's the Bermuda Triangle. Now you might actually have a chance at finishing that container of Greek yogurt instead of finding it months later, covered in mold. Plus, its shape maximizes your fridge space way better than the traditional round ones! A Scrub Daddy sponge holder that gives your favorite cleaning tool a designated spot (and the appreciation it deserves). This suctions to the side of your sink, keeping your sponge from ending up at the bottom or sitting in its own puddle at the edge of the sink. A set of quick-dissolving laundry detergent sheets with the same cleaning power as liquid detergent, but without all the drips, spills, and plastic waste. Plus, they're hypoallergenic and gentle enough for kids and people with sensitive skin. A set of electric grinders if you're tired of the old-school twist-and-turn pepper mills that leave your wrist sore and your food under-seasoned. This sleek, battery-operated gadget lets you season your dishes with a simple flip — no buttons, no cranks, just gravity doing the work. A set of Stretchlace shoelaces that transform any lace-up shoe into a convenient slip-on, because who has time to constantly tighten, untie, and redo their laces every time they leave the house? Plus, these really come in clutch for travel, making airport security a breeze and keeping things comfy if your feet tend to swell mid-flight. A DogBuddy pooper scooper if you're over the awkward hand-in-bag maneuver every time your dog does their business. This compact gadget clips right to the leash and lets you scoop up the poop without ever getting too close for comfort. It even comes with a built-in waste bag dispenser, so you're never caught unprepared mid-walk. A handy collapsible twisting whisk that morphs from a flat whisk (perfect for stirring sauces and gravies) into a balloon whisk (ideal for whipping cream or beating eggs), all with a simple twist of the handle. It also folds flat for easy storage, making it a dream come true for those with limited kitchen space. A nonslip acrylic food prep and cutting board if you're over bulky, stained cutting boards cluttering your kitchen. It sticks securely to your counter, catching all the mess from your morning smoothie prep while letting those marble countertops (that you spent good money on) shine through. A roll of Bambooee bamboo towels that are machine washable and can be reused up to 100 times. Fun fact: 30 sheets of these can replace up to 429 paper towel rolls (you heard me rolls), so it's a win-win where helping save the environment *also* helps you save some moola. A 42-page Rocketbook Fusion reusable notebook with seven different templates (think calendars, to-do lists, goal trackers) and both lined and dotted note pages. And once you've filled it up, you don't toss it. Just wipe the pages clean with a damp cloth and start fresh. Plus, with the Rocketbook app, you can scan and save your notes to the cloud, so all your brilliant (and not-so-brilliant) thoughts are always just a click away. An LED fog-less mirror designed to stay crystal clear in even the steamiest of showers, ensuring that you can see everything while shaving or applying face wash. It has an adjustable bracket so you can always get the perfect angle. Plus, it even comes with a squeegee to keep things spotless!
Toronto Star
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Toronto Star
New crime novels feature a locked-room mystery, a Scarborough stabbing and a Jan. 6 insurrectionist
Fever Beach Carl Hiaasen Alfred A. Knopf, 384 pages, $39.99 It's a weird time in American politics, which means it's a perfect time for Florida novelist Carl Hiaasen to plumb the satirical depths of corruption and malfeasance in his home state. His last novel, 2020's 'Squeeze Me,' suffered from a subplot that attempted to satirize the once-and-current occupant of the White House, a Falstaffian spray-tanned figure so outrageous as to be almost impervious to satire. For 'Fever Beach,' Hiaasen wisely steers clear of POTUS and his inept administration, preferring instead to focus on wanton corruption at a lower level. 'Fever Beach,' by Carl Hiaasen, Alfred A. Knopf, $34.99. The new novel begins with a meet-cute on an airplane between Twilly Spree and Viva Morales. Twilly is a stock Hiaasen character: an independently wealthy Florida do-gooder who spends his time making life miserable for folks who litter, antagonize the local wildlife or otherwise cause environmental or social havoc. Viva's job is administering the foundation of a couple of rich right-wing octogenarians whose fundraising operates as a money-laundering front to finance the campaign of far-right (and profoundly stupid) congressman Clure Boyette, in hot water with his obstreperous father over a scandal involving an underage prostitute named Galaxy. Add in Viva's landlord — a Jan. 6 insurrectionist named Dale Figgo who heads the Strokers for Freedom (a white nationalist militia whose name is a rebuke to the Proud Boys' insistence on refraining from masturbation) — and his cohort, the violent and reckless Jonas Onus, and you have all the ingredients for a classic Hiaasen caper. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Big Bad Wool: A Sheep Detective Mystery Leonie Swann; translated by Amy Bojang Soho Crime, 384 pages, $38.95 Twenty years ago, German-born author Leonie Swann debuted one of the most delightful detective teams in genre history: a flock of sheep on the trail of the person responsible for killing their shepherd with a spade through the chest. After a two-decade absence, Miss Maple, Othello, Mopple the Whale, and the other woolly sleuths are back on the case, this time on behalf of their new herder, Rebecca, the daughter of the early book's victim. 'Big Bad Wool,' by Leonie Swann, Soho Crime, $38.95. Rebecca, her intrusive Mum, and the sheep are overwintering in the lee of a French chateau where there are rumours of a marauding Garou — a werewolf — that is responsible for mutilating deer in the nearby woods. Among other strange occurrences, Rebecca's red clothing is found torn to pieces and some sheep go missing — and soon enough there's a dead human for the flock, in the uncomfortable company of a group of local goats, to deal with. 'Big Bad Wool' is a charming romp, whose pleasure comes largely from the ironic distance between the sheep's understanding of the world and that of the people who surround them. ('The humans in the stories did plenty of ridiculous things. Spring cleaning, revenge and diets.') Their enthusiasm and excitement results in prose that is a bit too reliant on exclamation points, and some of the more heavy-handed puns (like the sheep's insistence on 'woolpower') seem forced, but this is nevertheless a fun variation on the traditional country cosy. Detective Aunty Uzma Jalaluddin HarperCollins, 336 pages, $25.99 Romance novelist Uzma Jalaluddin takes a turn into mystery with this new book about amateur sleuth Kausar Khan. A widow in her late 50s, Kausar returns to Toronto from North Bay to help her daughter, Sana, who has been accused of stabbing her landlord to death in her Scarborough mall boutique. The police — including Sana's old flame, Ilyas — are convinced Sana is the prime suspect, but Kausar is determined to prove her daughter innocent. 'Detective Aunty,' by Uzma Jalaluddin, HarperCollins, $25.99. Her investigation involves a couple of competing developers, both of whom want to purchase the land on which the mall stands, along with members of the dead man's family and fellow shopkeepers. On the domestic front, Kausar finds herself concerned with Sana's deteriorating marriage to her husband, Hamza, and her teenage granddaughter's sullenness and mysterious nighttime disappearances. Jalaluddin does a good job integrating the various elements of her plot, and the familial relationships are nicely calibrated. The momentum is impeded, however, by a preponderance of clichés ('Playing devil's advocate, Kausar asked …'; 'Kausar's blood ran cold') and a tendency to hold the reader's hand by defining every easily Googleable Urdu word or greeting too programmatically. More attention to the writing on the line level would have helped move this one along. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW The Labyrinth House Murders Yukito Ayatsuji; translated by Ho-Ling Wong Pushkin Vertigo, 272 pages, $24.95 Yukito Ayatsuji's clever postmodern locked-room mystery was first published in Japanese in 2009; it appears for the first time in English translation, which is good news for genre fans. 'The Labyrinth House Murders,' by Yukito Ayatsuji, Pushkin Vertigo, $24.95. Ayatsuji's narrative is framed by Shimada, a mystery aficionado, who is presented with a novelization about murders that took place at the home of famed mystery writer Miyagaki Yotaro, found dead by his own hand soon after the manuscript opens. Miyagaki has left a bizarre challenge for the writers gathered at his Byzantine Labyrinth House: each must write a story featuring a murder, and the victim must be the writer him- or herself. The winning author, as adjudicated by a group of critics also convened at Labyrinth House, will inherit Miyagaki's sizable fortune. As the writers compete for the reward, bodies start falling in real life and Ayatsuji has a grand time playing metafictional games with his readers, challenging them to figure out who the culprit is in the context of a story that owes more than a small debt to Agatha Christie's 'And Then There Were None.' But Ayatsuji does Christie one better; it is only once the afterword, which closes the framed narrative, has unfolded that the reader fully understands how cleverly the author has conceived his multi-layered fictional trap.
Buzz Feed
14-05-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
41 Cheap And Beloved Beauty Products
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