Sweet Reads Box is a subscription box for book lovers craving some me time. Each month you will receive a carefully curated box showcasing the bestselling novel of the month. In addition to your novel, you will receive: an item connected to your novel’s storyline/theme/setting, a delicious drink to set the mood, a sweet treat to enjoy while reading, a card explaining our choice of novel regarding how your items connect, and more!
The Cost: $89.99 per month for the monthly box + free US shipping from Canada. Save with longer subscriptions.
ACTIVE DEAL: 10% off 3, 6, or 12 Month Subscriptions
CODE: MSA
This review is of the "The Maid" Sweet Reads Box.
This box was sent to us at no cost to review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
After my first encounter with Sweet Reads Box, I was left thoroughly impressed with the clever curation, so I couldn't wait to dig into this month's box. Read below to see how this box measures up compared to "Unsinkable Greta James."
First Impressions
1 of 2
Packaged in a sturdy cardboard box layered with bubble wrap and tissue paper, our box travelled from Canada to the USA safe and sound. Featuring book stack clipart, and fun fonts, I couldn't wait to check out this box.
Here's What's Inside
Content Card
1 of 2
The content card for this particular theme featured a red carpet and the quote "Am I the suspect? Or the victim?" By Charles Yu. On the opposing side, we were welcomed with a list of all of the items included in "The Maid" box along with a note as to why each item was chosen, also designating if they were from a Canadian company.
The Maid by Nita Prose - Retail Value $24.99
1 of 4
I listen to a lot of audiobooks while driving to and from school, but I have to say, there is nothing quite like the feeling of having a physical book in your hands. This particular paperback copy of “The Maid” is bright red and feels slightly velvety, almost begging you to read it without even knowing the contents! Published this year, this book has already earned rave reviews. I, myself, found it easy to read, interesting, and suspenseful. I love the lead character Molly and find her and her quirks charming and unique. When a suspicious death of a wealthy man occurs at the hotel Molly works at, and she discovers his body, we play detective as to who the killer may be. Is it the ex-wife, the bartender, or the maid?! Read and find out!
Regency Hotel Shortbread
1 of 4
How stinking cute is this box of shortbread? Not only are they delicious (buttery, sweet, and perfect with a cup of tea), but they are decorated with “The Regency Grand Hotel” logo, completely matching the book cover and setting. Charming and sweet - a perfect inclusion!
Regency English Breakfast Tea
1 of 3
I can’t say that I am much of a tea fan, so this breakfast tea just wasn’t for me, but was totally fitting for the theme of the box. Like the shortbread, the box was decorated with the hotel logo, and included 8 sachets. While I did give one of the earthy sachets a try, I will be passing the other 7 onto my mom who is a tea connoisseur.
Chocolate Puzzle - Retail Value $9.95
1 of 4
Molly and her Gran loved doing puzzles together, so this inclusion was also well thought out for the box. With extremely durable pieces, this 150-piece puzzle was fun to complete with my husband and kids and came in the cutest little chocolate box! Easy to finish and fun to look at, we enjoyed this puzzle and look forward to building it again.
Lindt Milk Chocolate Truffles - Retail Value $1.69
1 of 2
“From Molly the Maid. Know this: Your Work is Sweet.” Deliciously creamy, soft, and chocolatey, Lindt truffles are one of my favorite candies of all time - and of course they are presented in red like the other goodies!! How cute!
Door Hanger
1 of 2
While witty and uniquely fitting to the box, this door hanger didn’t get used as such in my house. Because I mostly read in the living room, where we only have an outside traditional door, I used it as a bookmark instead.
Regency Hotel Cleaner
1 of 5
Using direct quotes from the book, this Vanilla Citrus scented cleaner also has the labeling of the Regency Grand Hotel. Used on soft surfaces, clothing, and shoes, this can be used to keep things smelling fresh. I personally found the Vanilla Citrus scent to be light, fresh, and springy. While I haven’t used it on stains, this bio-enzymatic cleaner can also be used on hard surfaces and laundry.
Regency Hotel Notepad and Pen
Also designed just for this box was a Regency Grand Hotel notepad and pen set. It's parked by my desk for jotting down notes, and I can’t help but smile when I use one of these guys…just keeping the experience of the book alive! The pen dons the book quote “A Clean Desk Leads to a Clean Conscience,” which is just perfectly suited to this entire curation.
Verdict
First off, I’d like to say that the contents of this box were really fun, and well put together. (Though I always could go for more additions!) Sticking with the Regency Grand Hotel theme throughout the box was charming and exciting. These contents truly had me feeling like I was a character in the story, creating an entire experience rather than just a mindless read.
As far as value goes, because most of the included items were created solely for this box curation, it was really hard to calculate an accurate total. Dividing the $89.99 price by the 9 items we received equals out to about $9.99 for each item. That is very expensive, but if you are looking for a book experience that lures you in through well-curated goodies, I encourage you to check this subscription box out. (Past boxes are for sale in the shop, so if a particular theme jumps out at you, there is always a one-time purchase option!)
Keep Track of Your Subscriptions: Add this box to your subscription list or wishlist!
Other Things You Should Know
Can I still get this box if I sign up today? Yes. This box is currently available in the "Shop Buy Now Boxes" section of the Sweet Reads box website. Monthly orders will ship around the 5th of the month.
What did you think of the Sweet Reads "The Maid" box?
Please do not enter your email address in the Name field or in the comment content. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *. Remember to post with kindness and respect. Comments with offensive language, cruelness to others, etc will not be approved. See our full comment policy here.