How Searching on WebMD Landed Me in the Emergency Room

Jan 20, 2018

Once upon a time, after drinking a few too many cups of coffee, I noticed my heart fluttering — nothing crazy, just a little bit out of rhythm every now and again. Normally I am able to ignore little things like that, but having been a little on-edge already due to lack of sleep (#momlife), I couldn’t stop thinking about it. What if my body was trying to tell me something? What if something was wrong with my heart, and ignoring it meant I would die? As my anxiety escalated, I began to feel like I wouldn’t calm down until I had an answer for what was happening to my body, even if it was the wrong one. So instead of practicing my mindfulness routine and taking some deep breaths to allay my rising panic, I made a mistake: I went online. And then I ended up in the emergency room.

Let me fill in the gaps for you.

There’s a little corner of the internet called WebMD that’s particularly unhelpful for hypochondriacs like me (oddly, and somewhat hilariously, even WebMD admits it might cause anxiety). While having unending streams of information at our fingertips can be helpful for things like, um, research papers and genealogy, using the internet as a gauge for health can be not only unhelpful, but detrimental (as I discovered a little too late in the ER when the resident told me my heart was “a-okay”).

A lot happened between my initial Google search and my trip to the hospital at 10pm. Of course, my self-inflicted stress only made it worse. The more obsessed I became with the information I was taking in (heart attack? pulmonary embolism?), the more my heart raced, which only served as evidence that something terrible was happening to me. Essentially, WebMD fed my anxiety until it became so big I had to listen to it. I do struggle with generalized anxiety and panic attacks to begin with, but through years of medication and therapy, I have developed tools to talk myself down from panicked moments like this. I found that the noise on the internet — all the possible symptoms I could have — drowned out my ability to actually think through what was happening to me and listen to my body.

While in retrospect it’s very obvious my fluttering heartbeat was likely due to excessive caffeine consumption, the desire to self-preserve overrode my logic in the moment. Instead of waiting it out to see if my heartbeat calmed down with some deep breathing, I let my hyper-vigilance get behind the wheel and ended up paying for it (quite literally, thanks to my high-deductible insurance plan). I believed something was wrong with me, that my heart was failing — and so I began to manifest the symptoms I read, line by line.

According to Dr. Keith Humphreys, a psychiatrist at Stanford Healthcare, self-fulfilling prophecy is a very real phenomenon, and he sees it frequently among medical students. “There’s this thing called Medical Students’ Disease in which students under stress and pressure begin to manifest symptoms of really rare syndromes,” he tells us. “When a huge well of anxiety meets a pile of potentially scary information, we can sometimes focus on the negative.”

To be clear, the internet (or any other information source) is not exactly to blame for my trip to the ER or Medical Student’s Syndrome. Like mental health in general, it’s more complicated than that, given that most people who have hypochondria already suffer from anxiety — according to one study, only about 35 percent of hypochondriacs have hypochondria as their only mental health diagnosis. It’s the intersection of preexisting anxiety and information that exacerbates hypochondria, not the existence of the internet itself. For someone who isn’t anxious to begin with, WebMD might actually be a helpful tool to determine whether or not to go in for a checkup. But for people like me who are already at risk for panic and anxiety, information can be a trigger, especially if it doesn’t come from a doctor who can actually examine you in person.

So, what is WebMD good for? Health information online may be a dime a dozen, but good information is out there. “For all the negative things about the internet, I can think of positive things, like people getting accurate, helpful information about mental health,” Dr. Humphreys says. Along the same lines, he says health information aggregates like WebMD can be more useful than, say, websites peddling random wellness products, which are obviously biased and non-scientific.

Still, even in spite of the possibility it could be beneficial, I tend to avoid WebMD these days, especially if I am struggling with anxiety already. Instead, when a symptom surfaces, I try to listen to my body. If something is really bothering me or it gets worse over time, I usually involve my doctor, who I trust to be thorough (and empathetic). I’ve also found that managing my anxiety has drastically reduced the symptoms that make it worse, like a fluttering heart or shortness of breath.

If you’re struggling with health anxiety, whipping out your iPhone to research may seem like a quick way to put a band-aid over a concern, but if you’re anything like me, it could make your panic worse. The best route, I’ve found, is to talk with a real, live physician about your concerns and work through your struggles with a therapist. While the internet can be a great tool in many ways, sometimes it’s best left to what it does best — online shopping, GIFs, and the occasional meme.

Do you use WebMD? Tell us about it @BritandCo!

(Photo via Getty)

6 Salon Habits That Are Secretly Annoying Your Hairdresser

Beauty appointments are at the top of my self-care list, but you there's one question that's always sat in the back of my mind. Do I have bad habits that are annoying to my hairdresser or am I a "good" client? This could stem from being listening to retail horror storiesand fighting the urge to gasp in horror at customers' behavior.

No matter what it is, it's apparent hairdressers aren't a fan of everything you and I may do before, during, and after our appointments. Out of curiosity, I asked the following hairstylists about their biggest pet peeves:

Giovanny Jorge, master stylist and founder of Hair Repair Bar by Giojé(West Village of Manhattan, NYC)
Jean Marc Durante, stylist and co-creator of Red Market Miami Salon

Learn which bad habits you should stop doing if you want to stay in your hairdresser's good graces!

1. Coming To Your Appointment After Being At The Gym

Madison Kinsley/Dupe Photos

I'm thoroughly surprised that people do this because I know how sweaty I get after a workout. But Jorge's had clients who've done this and it's not a good look, according to her. "Yes your service begins with a wash, but seriously," she asks. I don't think you need a reminder, but you might want to take a shower after your gym or pilates session out of courtesy for your hairdresser!

2. Arriving Late To Your Appointment

Most hairdressers have have a grace period for clients because they understand things happen, but that's not your cue to take advantage of their kindness. For Durante, "being late is the primary issue." Want to know why? He says it's because this "backs up all the appointments and creates a domino effect of issues that can often be hard to catch up on."

3. Acting Like An Armchair Stylist

cottonbro studio/Pexels

Hair appointments should be collaborative, yes, but not to the point where your hairdresser feels like you're trying to do their job for them. Jorge says, "The most nerve-wrecking thing a client can do while they are in the chair is constantly second guess what the stylist is doing or changing their minds about their service. Clients need to trust their stylist and not back seat drive every snip."

If you're guilty of doing this, try to be mindful of how this makes your hairdresser feels. They're providing a service, but they're still human.

Jorge also says, "Sometimes, I just want to give the client the scissors and let them cut their own hair. J/K.."

Rene Terp/Pexels

It's something Durante doesn't care for either. "We always encourage our clients to give as many details as possible with how they want their hair to be cut, colored, and/or styles, but directing the service and telling the hairstylist exactly how to do their hair in step-by-step format is unnecessary when seeing a professional," he states.

Should you be afraid to talk to your hairdresser? Not at all, but it's unhelpful if you think you're more equipped to do your hair while sitting in their chair. "We appreciate a client's direction as it is their look, but critiquing and instructing us on how to reach the end goal is beyond frustrating. Quite frankly, we have spent years handling requests and know exactly how to achieve your desired look based on the tools we've gathered throughout the years," Durante adds.

5. Waiting To Share Your Dissatisfaction

Antoni Shkraba/Pexels

Another annoying behavior stems from something we've all done at least once. Durante says, "When completing a cut or color based on an inspiration photo, the client says they "wanted to go a different direction" - but only tells us once the service is completed."

At this stage in life, I realize the importance of communicating with my hairdresser throughout my appointment. People can't read minds so it's something to think about if you typically wait until your service is over to complain.

6. Covering Your Hair Once It's Been Styled

Melissa Romee/Dupe Photos

According to Jorge, it's annoying when "after receiving a hair cut and styling, the client wears a hat or covers their hair." I'm always excited after a hair appointment because it's a chance to enjoy and show off my new refreshed look, but I guess some people feel the need to "hide" their style.

Her other pet peeves? "Washing their hair with a cheap, sulfate shampoo that ruins their color. Going for a swim after a keratin treatment only to dry their hair afterwards and realize a giant frizz bomb where perfectly straight hair once was."

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The Top 10 Most-Watched Netflix Shows To Watch This Weekend

Netflix's March shows brought us ton of incredible titles like The Residence and With Love, Meghan, but those are only two of the buzzy series you can watch right now. Audiences can't get enough of these top Netflix shows — and they make for the perfect weekend watch. Stop scrolling and start enjoying!

Here are the top Netflix shows on March 28, including Adolescence and The Residence.

1. Adolescence

Netflix

In this Netflix show, 13-year-old Jamie Miller is arrested when a girl at his school winds up dead. But the most shocking part for a lot of viewers? Each episode is done in one shot.

Adolescence stars Owen Cooper, Stephen Graham, Ashley Walters, and Erin Doherty.

2. The Residence

Eerin Simkin/Netflix

Coming in at number 2 is The Residence, which is a wacky whodunnit that takes place during a White House state dinner. Viewers are saying it gave them the same thrill as Knives Out, which is a VERY high recommendation in my book.

The Residence stars Uzo Aduba, Randall Park, Giancarlo Esposito, Edwina Findley, Molly Griggs, Jason Lee, Ken Marino, Al Mitchell, Dan Perrault, Bronson Pinchot, Julieth Restrepo, Mel Rodriguez, Susan Kelechi Watson, Isiah Whitlock Jr., and Mary Wiseman.

3. Million Dollar Secret

Netflix

Top Netflix show Million Dollar Secret is a reality competition that brings 12 strangers to a lakeside estate. One of the 12 will receive $1 million upon arrival, and they get to keep it as long as no one discovers who's got the cash.

Million Dollar Secret is hosted by Peter Serafinowicz.

4. Harlan Coben's Caught

Berna Rode/Netflix

Harlan Coben's Caught follows Ema Garay, an Argentinian journalist that exposes criminals who get away with their crimes. And her newfound friendship with Leo Mercer gets upended when he becomes the prime suspect in her latest investigation.

Harlan Coben's Caught stars Soledad Villamil, Juan Minujín, and Alberto Ammann.

5. Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure

Netflix

This docuseries revolves around a treasure supposedly hidden in the mountains outside of Santa Fe — and the poem that holds the key to their location. And one community of treasure hunters are determined to find the truth.

Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure is a top Netflix show right now.

6. Survival of the Thickest season 2

Netflix

Survival of the Thickest season 2 is finally here — and it's already a top Netflix show! Mavis is juggling her life, her styling business, and her new singleness, and she's doing it with the people she loves.

Survival of the Thickest stars Michelle Buteau, Tone Bell, and Christine Horn.

7. Chelsea Handler: The Feeling

Jocelyn Prescod/Netflix

Chelsea Handler is exploring it all in this Netflix comedy special: unusual encounters, her first adventures in business, and even her own birth.

Chelsea Handler: The Feeling is hosted by Chelsea Handler.

8. Temptation Island

Netflix

Four couples are walking onto an island in this top Netflix show, and a group of singles awaits them. How many couples are going to walk back out? You'll have to watch and see.

The original Temptation Island couples include Alexa and Lino, Shanté and Brion, Tyler and Tayler, and Ashley and Grant.

9. Weak Hero

Netflix

Intelligent Yeon Shi-eun is much more than just a student. And thanks to his mind and his tools, he's able to fight against the violence closing in around him.

Weak Hero stars Park Ji-hoon, Choi Hyun-wook, and Hong Kyung.

10. Running Point

Netflix

It's not too late to watch this Netflix show, which follows Isla on her journey as the new President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team. It's funny! It's heartfelt! It's worth a watch!

Running Point stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.

Check out The 9 Best TV Shows To Watch On Netflix This Month for more!

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The 6 Very Best Pimple Patches Shoppers Say “Vanish” Breakouts Overnight

Breakoutsalways seem to pop up at the worst possible times, but the right pimple patch can make them disappear just as quickly! Whether you need something to wear during the day or are looking for an effective overnight pimple patch, there’s an option for every skincare need out there. These top-rated pimple patches work their magic to absorb gunk, calm redness, and speed up healing – so you can get back to clear, glowing skin!

Scroll on to discover the 6 very best pimple patches shoppers love for clearing up pesky breakouts quickly.

Amazon

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patches

These gentle pimple patches are wildly effective at calming down breakouts – especially whiteheads. They stick to clean skin really well, enough to last you all day or night without budging! A pack of 36 patches is just $13, plus you can easily cut each one into halves or quarters so they last longer.

Amazon

Promising review: "These have been a total game-changer for me! They've helped clear up my blemishes so much, I’m obsessed! I put them on overnight and wake up to almost completely clear skin—my zits are barely noticeable. They blend in perfectly and are just the right size. These are total miracle workers, and I’ll definitely be using them from now on!"

Amazon

COSRX Master Patches

This $7 pack of pimple patches from COSRX comes with three different sizes (10 small, 5 medium, and 9 large) to suit every kind of zit. The hydrocolloid included in each patch helps create a moist environment on your skin, which makes the pimple healing process even faster.

Amazon

Promising review: "I buy these so often because theyre so good and a really great value. They're not the thinnest or the most transparent, but theyre good enough and absolutely get the job done. I love that they come in various sizes, and sometimes i cut the big ones in half to get more use. I have sensitive skin and these patches don't irritate me at all."

Amazon

PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches

Heralded for their effective, yet affordable acne solutions, PanOxyl's pimple patches live up to the hype. Patch a breakout up with these babies, and you nix the risk of added dirt and grime getting into your skin, limit potential picking, and keep the area clean for faster healing. Just $8 gets you 40 patches!

Amazon

Promising review: "The PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches work so well—I just wish teenage me had them instead of relying on questionable DIY remedies. These actually reduce blemishes overnight and are now an essential in my skincare stash. If only they could also erase my awkward high school photos… 😂"

Amazon

Rael Miracle Pimple Patches

These pimple patches from Rael are epic because they're nearly invisible, with a clear, matte finish. They're designed with tapered edges that really grip the skin and blend in seamlessly. One pack of 96 patches is $15 (was $18) right now!

Amazon

Promising review: "They work well! They soften my skin so well, making it look like there’s no pimple there, which i wanted. I love how you can’t even see it on my skin. Also, the sizes, despite only being two, work well enough for me not to care. I tend to use the big ones at night for when I want it to treat my pimple, and use the small ones in the day to hide them as they are less obvious."

Amazon

Good Molecules Pimple Patches

These super-thin pimple patches gently remove any impurities that may be sitting on your skin, and they're so seamless that you can layer 'em under makeup! They're suitable for sensitive skin, so they're also easily wearable for everyday use.

Amazon

Promising review: "These work really good. Doesn’t take long to bring up the pimple and it turn white. Will definitely purchase more."

Amazon

Grace & Stella Pimple Patches

If you're in on the idea of a pimple patch being an accessory, then these are the ones for you! Coming in adorable little colored shapes like hearts, flowers, and clouds, these patches target spots not only with hydrocolloid, but tea tree oil and salicylic acid which help treat and calm breakouts.

Amazon

Promising review: "These worked way better than I anticipated. Very satisfying to peel one of these suckers off and see that everything that came out. Worked on all my blemishes, easy to apply, and actually stayed on my face all night or day."

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more must-try skincare products!

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24 New April Book Releases To Add To Your Calendar STAT

Spring is here and it's brought the promise of more riveting new books with it! Bookish readers will love getting lost in our most-anticipated recommendations by authors Sarah Damoff, Allison Raskin, and more! We know how much you love rom-coms, but we've also included mystery, romantasy, and self-improvement titles to give you a range of TBR picks to choose from.

Scroll to find the best swoon-worthy rom-coms, nail-biting mysteries, and helpful self-improvement books debuting in April!

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner (April 8, 2025)

Sisters Cassie and Zoe Grossberg were once the the greatest pop stars ever. Known to the public as The Griffin Sisters, their hits coupled with public appearances made them ultra popular. However, their personalities have always been different and it's part of what eventually drove them apart.

Between Zoe being a mom and Cassie living an obscured life, the only person who seems to have an idea of what happened to their careers is Zoe's daughter Cherry. But the only way the past can be healed is if everyone's willing to confront it and reconcile the lives they currently live.

Amazon

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8, 2025)

Nikki's been caught in the middle of a strange feud between her mom and grandmother, so she's shocked when the latter wants her to visit. Before long, Nikki arrives in North Carolina and hopes to discover what happened to the women she loves. Instead, her grandmother begins to tell her about a forgotten kingdom that her great-great-great grandmother Luella was queen of. Adding to Nikki's astonishment is the revelation that her grandmother is telling the truth based on the artifacts the young woman finds hidden in the hills.

Sadly, there are people who are threatening to completely erase the Kingdom of Happy Land's history which leaves Nikki in charge of saving it.

Amazon

To Have and Have More by Sanibel (April 15, 2025)

Emery Hooper and Lilah Chang may be Asian students who attend Derrymore Academy, but that's where their similarities end. While the adopted Emery has perfectly assimilated into the culture around her, she finds Lilah to be a cringey representation of Asians. She's also unsure why Lilah is working so hard to be her friend.

But over time, Emery begins to see how much she's subject to covert racism despite being wealthy. It's what eventually unites her and Lilah because they begin to see how much some things can't save you from harmful rhetoric that's ingrained in society.

Amazon

The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)

Ryan and Lillian Bright may have built their marriage on love, but their secrets eventually tear them apart. It's something their daughter Georgette witnesses, causing her to back away from their once close-knit family. But even her plans are changed when Lillian's secret son appears. This forces Georgette to learn more about her family so she's able to see if love can save everyone.

Amazon

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

Margaret Ryan starts off living a life that every woman dreams of in the 1960s. She has it all — the cushy husband, kids, and comfortable life — and it seems like she's content. However, a perceptive person would be able to pinpoint how unfulfilled she is. It's something she wasn't willing to admit until her new neighbor Charlotte Gustafson moved to Concordia.

Charlotte's mysterious and intriguing, prompting Margaret to start her own book clubwith two other women. Soon, she, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv begin meeting to dissect The Feminine Mystique. It's a classic book that begins making them question their suburban lives which opens them up to even more books that help them challenge the status quo.

Though they didn't anticipate this, these four women's friendship becomes a sturdy foundation during the most pivotal year of their lives.

The Best Romance Books Debuting In April

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Save the Date by Allison Raskin (April 8, 2025)

Couples therapist Emma Moskowitz's life is left in shambles when the abrupt end of her engagement upends her wedding, career, and book plans. As far as her audience knows, she's skilled at matters of the heart so she feels like she's letting everyone down when she comes up short in the romance department.

Unwilling to give up her wedding date, Emma concocts an intriguing plan to find someone who's willing to marry her in the next 6 months. Call it desperate, but sharing her plans online garners a ton of attention that leaves her torn between a podcast produced named Will and the divorced Matt. But, you can't possibly find love that'll stand the test of time in such a short amount of time...right

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Ofosua Addo thinks she's found the love of her life when she and Cole Drake kiss for the first time, but there's two problems. One, she's an heiress to a vast empire and two, she's supposed to marry someone else her mother approves of. Being a good daughter means forging ahead with her wedding, but it comes crashing down in flames.

On her path to self-love and discovery, Ofosua and Cole cross paths again. This time, they'll have to remember why they fell for each other and if their love can cancel out tradition's strict protocol.

The Best Mystery & Thriller Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruley (April 1, 2025)

Jimmy Baker used to be a famed hockey player, but his career ended when he made a drastic decision. Since then, he's been a Zamboni driver who doesn't make waves in Bitterfrost, Michigan. It's not the life he wanted, but he has no other choice but to atone for his mistake. His days are mostly eventful until he's suddenly accused of a double murder he doesn't remember committing.

With the odds stacked against him, Jimmy will have to figure out what happened and if he's as violent as everyone says he is.

Amazon

Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)

Claire and Aaron Litvak's worlds come to a halt when they learn their daughter Lindsey's been hurt in China. Not only is she in critical condition, but the unlucky parents begin realizing her life in Shangai might not have been as linear as they thought. The only person who may have an idea of what happened is Lindsey's adopted sister Grace, but can Claire and Aaron piece together the truth before it's too late?

Amazon

The California Dreamers by Amy Mason Doan (April 8, 2025)

The Merrick siblings are used to beautiful California summers because they know they're guaranteed to have fun with their parents. However, a secret picture taken of them begins circulating and it puts them in danger. Years later, the patriarch of the Merrick family is being honored when a nosy journalist finds them and begins poking around their past.

The siblings will have to decide if they're ready to deal with the truth or if they're going to continue burying things like they've always done.

Amazon

Ruth Run by Elizabeth Kaufman (April 15, 2025)

Instead of using her intelligence to better the world, Ruth makes her money as a robber who targets banks. In a just a few years, she's managed to steal over $250 million thanks to her cyber smarts. But her clever plan is halted when she triggers an alarm that puts her in danger.

Now considered a high-level threat who could possibly help a government agency, Ruth tries to evade the agents on her trail who don't care how they capture her. It's clear their obsession with her borders other feelings, but Ruth isn't waiting to find out what they are.

Amazon

Coram House by Bailey Seybolt (April 15, 2025)

Young orphan Tommy's disappearance from Coram House in the late 1960s became an unsolved mystery that's haunted Lake Champlain ever since. It's the very case that's could restore true crime journalist Alex Kelley's career, so she jumps at the chance to lend her skills to a book about the orphanage Tommy once lived at. However, the stories surrounding him are complicated. Plus, Alex gets more than she bargained for when she stumbles across a dead woman's body floating in the lake.

She's convinced there's a connection between this and Tommy's case, but officer Russell Parker doesn't take her seriously. But he'll have to because more people are dying and Alex could be next.

Amazon

The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner (April 29, 2025)

Nautical archaeologist Haven Ambrose is supposed to be figuring out why ships keep wrecking in Positano, but she's also curious about what her father saw the last time he dived into the beautiful water. As soon as she arrives in town, strange things begin occurring that she has no explanation for.

The more she digs into her investigation, the more she unearths the chance of something magical at work. Despite one woman's desire to save the people she loves, she could've possibly cursed the Amalfi Curse and it's up to Haven to stop it before everything's ruined.

Amazon

A Campus on Fire by Patrick O'Dowd (April 29, 2025)

Student journalist Tess Azar wants to know why someone was killed in the writing program she's been lucky to be admitted to. As she investigates, she learns that something amiss is going on and it may involve a cult. There's also a growing right-wing group of students that are threatening to create more hysteria.

The Best Fantasy & Romantasy Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Never List by Jade Presley (April 8, 2025)

The kingdom of Lumathyst may be destroyed soon unless the four immortal god-princes can secure their mate. Unfortunately, none of the women who have come before them have been suitable and they're running out of time. The issue is that the woman they choose will need to become immortal like them, but the process is brutal and doesn't guarantee survival. But Rylee Gray may be their saving grace if they don't uncover what she's hiding.

Amazon

The Raven Scholarby Antonia Hodgson (April 15, 2025)

Orrun has been peaceful ever since Bersun the Brusque ruled over it, but it's time for someone else to ascend the throne. So, everyone who considers themselves worthy begins to compete for the #1 spot because they think they have what it takes. But an untimely murder leaves High Scholar Neema Kraa scrambling to discover the murderer. What she doesn't know is that there are forces who are more than willing to help her and keep her out of harm's way at all costs.

Amazon

Awakenedby A.E. Osworth (April 29, 2025)

Wilder awakes to the realization they're able to decipher all languages. Dealing with confusion, they find safe haven with other witches who have also "awakened" to their hidden abilities. There's:

Quibble, a portal traveler
Artemis, a caretaker and seer
Mary Margaret, a powerful telekinetic individual

As soon as Wilder gets comfortable, something evil in the form of AI threatens everything they and their coven's come to know. Before long, their group has to contend with how much is too much when it comes to magic and artificial intelligence.

The Best Parenting Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthoodby Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood (April 1, 2025)

Autors Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood have on thing in common: they're parents of children who have autism. This has united them in more ways than one, leading them to write Autism Out Loud with the goal of sharing their firsthand insights. Readers will learn about everything from the diagnosis process to what it looks like to raise a child who has autism.

Amazon

Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood by Erin Morrison (April 8, 2025)

Sometimes moms need a reminder they can have a few minutes to themselves which is why Erin Morrison's compiled Three Minutes for Mom. Each day will feature an opportunity to look at strengths and areas of growth, but readers will also discover boundless encouragement for one of the toughest jobs in the world.

The Best Self-Improvement Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedomby Morgan DeBaun (April 1, 2025)

Blavity's founder Morgan DeBaun is here to share her success secrets with you. She built a powerful platform that aims to empower the Black community and knows that it helps to abide by certain principles that'll help propel you towards the career you want to have. Whether it's challenging certain rules or encouraging you to think outside of the box, readers will learn how to live the lives they want.

Be sure to visit Rewrite Your Rules for a robust look at how you can be living your best life!

Amazon

A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex by Dr. Morgan Cutlip (April 8, 2025)

This one's for all the couples who are still dealing with burnout. Dr. Morgan Cutlip knows there's no such thing as 50/50 in relationships, but that doesn't mean your relationship is doomed. In A Better Share, Dr. Cutlip explores things that affect partners like the mental and emotional load of everyday life. There's also great insight about how libidos are impact when people feel things aren't balanced or "fair." So, buckle up and get ready to transform your relationship.

Amazon

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige Desorbo (April 15, 2025)

Featured in our best podcasts article, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are back with their first book How to Giggle. Instead of listening to them, readers will have a written account of how these two friends navigate life. From awkward moments to realizing men don't have to be the center of everything, you'll get a kick out of the joyous way they tackle real moments.

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

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A Feast of Thorns and Rosesby Chelsea Cole (April 1, 2025)

Can't get enough of ACOTAR? Now you'll get a chance to cook meals inspired by the famous BookTok series! You'll find over 50 recipes that the creatures of Prythian eat (aside from carnivorous moments), that'll make you feel like you have a seat at one of the High Lord's table. Better yet, you'll become a pro at cooking meals that would make them pay you a visit!

Amazon

Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impressby Alix Traeger (April 22, 2025)

Alix Traeger doesn't expect you to be 5-star chef because life's too short for that. However, she does know you're interested in cooking meals that impress your family and friends. Inside of Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impress are recipes that even the most hazard-prone cook will find easy to follow. From girl dinner-esque appetizers to evening meals, anyone can have fun with Alix's cookbook!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more of the spring picks we can't stop obsessing over!

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Our All-Time Favorite Products From Amazon's Big Spring Sale

Amazon's Big Spring Sale is here, and we've hand-selected our 56 all-time favorite Amazon products that just so happen to be heavily marked down. From high-tech home products to chic decor pieces and on-trend fashion finds, these products are the best of the best, and they won't be on sale for much longer.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Sweep Up Effortlessly With This Stationary Vacuum

Amazon

Simplify cleaning with a stationary vacuum that effortlessly picks up stubborn dust, hairs, and fibers. Featuring a dual filter system, it cleans your floors and purifies the air, making it a seamless addition to any home.

How Searching on WebMD Landed Me in the Emergency Room

Learn which bad habits you should stop doing if you want to stay in your hairdresser's good graces!

1. Coming To Your Appointment After Being At The Gym

2. Arriving Late To Your Appointment

3. Acting Like An Armchair Stylist

5. Waiting To Share Your Dissatisfaction

6. Covering Your Hair Once It's Been Styled

Here are the top Netflix shows on March 28, including Adolescence and The Residence.

1. Adolescence

2. ​The Residence

3. ​Million Dollar Secret

4. ​Harlan Coben's Caught

5. ​Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure

6. ​Survival of the Thickest season 2

7. ​Chelsea Handler: The Feeling

8. ​Temptation Island

9. ​Weak Hero

10. Running Point

Scroll on to discover the 6 very best pimple patches shoppers love for clearing up pesky breakouts quickly.

Scroll to find the best swoon-worthy rom-coms, nail-biting mysteries, and helpful self-improvement books debuting in April!

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April

The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner (April 8, 2025)

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8, 2025)

To Have and Have More by Sanibel (April 15, 2025)

The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

The Best Romance Books Debuting In April

Save the Date by Allison Raskin (April 8, 2025)

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

The Best Mystery & Thriller Books Debuting In April

Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruley (April 1, 2025)

Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)

The California Dreamers by Amy Mason Doan (April 8, 2025)

Ruth Run by Elizabeth Kaufman (April 15, 2025)

Coram House by Bailey Seybolt (April 15, 2025)

The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner (April 29, 2025)

A Campus on Fire by Patrick O'Dowd (April 29, 2025)

The Best Fantasy & Romantasy Books Debuting In April

The Never List by Jade Presley (April 8, 2025)

The Raven Scholarby Antonia Hodgson (April 15, 2025)

Awakenedby A.E. Osworth (April 29, 2025)

The Best Parenting Books Debuting In April

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthoodby Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood (April 1, 2025)

Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood by Erin Morrison (April 8, 2025)

The Best Self-Improvement Books Debuting In April

Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedomby Morgan DeBaun (April 1, 2025)

A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex by Dr. Morgan Cutlip (April 8, 2025)

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige Desorbo (April 15, 2025)

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

A Feast of Thorns and Rosesby Chelsea Cole (April 1, 2025)

Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impressby Alix Traeger (April 22, 2025)

Sweep Up Effortlessly With This Stationary Vacuum

This Suit Set Was Made for Cool Girls

This Tummy Control Shapewear Is a Total Confidence Booster

This High-Waisted Swim Skirt With Pockets Is a Summer Style Win

Cleanse Your Face Using These Scrubs

Master Chef’s Secret Weapon

This V-Neck Waffle Knit Tee Is Your New Go-To Everyday Top

Step Up Your Style with These Ultra-Comfy Wedge Sneakers

The Striped Tee Taking Over Summer

This Magnetic Screen Door Is the Summer Hack You’ll Wish You Bought Sooner

Brighten & Hydrate

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Hair

Flattering and Comfortable Leggings

This Face and Neck Moisturizer Is the Secret to Smoother, Glowier Skin

This Tankini Top Is Your New Poolside Favorite

Outdoor Relaxation in Style

These Under-Cabinet Lights Instantly Upgrade Your Kitchen Vibe

Glossy Perfection

These Wireless Earbuds Deliver 60 Hours of Playback Without Missing a Beat

This Electric Spin Scrubber Makes Cleaning Feel Effortless and Fun

This LED Medicine Cabinet Brightens Up Your Bathroom Instantly

Pack Like a Pro with LeanTravel's Ultimate Compression Packing Cubes Bundle

This Wireless Remote Outlet Switch Makes Any Setup Smarter in Seconds

Retro Vibes with Modern Protection

Effortlessly Chic Summer Style

Effortless Summer Style

Organized Beauty on the Go

Sip Sustainably and Stylishly

A Cabinet With Tilt-Out Storage for Laundry, Recycling, or Trash

2. The Residence

3. Million Dollar Secret

4. Harlan Coben's Caught

5. Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure

6. Survival of the Thickest season 2

7. Chelsea Handler: The Feeling

8. Temptation Island

9. Weak Hero