Saturday, April 30, 2016
April Wrap-Up
This month was really productive for me! I didn't get to all of the books on my TBR, but I read half of them. I went on a Cassandra Clare spree this month-most of the books I read this month were by her. Seriously, the Mortal Instrument series is addicting. I have been near nonstop reading it for the past two months, reading one or two books in between them to prolong the experience.
1. City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
Techniqually, I started this book in March but I finished it in May so I am going to say it counts ;P I really really really enjoyed it. The ending was perfect-and despite my hatred for perfect endings, I couldn't help but love this one. Cassandra Clare did it really well, making it perfect but not so perfect you hated it for it's cheesiness. Plus, you couldn't really hate an epilogue where Clary and Jace were finally allowed and wanted to be with each other. I gave this book four stars-it wasn't the best in the series so far, but it was really impressive.
2. The Giver by Lois Lowry
I finally read this book! I gave it 4 stars, because I just couldn't give it 5, not sure why though.
I went into it thinking I would hate it, but I wanted to read it neverthless. I am so glad I did! I know some people who hate this book, and others who love it so I was wary on how I would feel about it. I loved the world, and the plot flowed really well. I never felt as if some things weren't explained enough, or that the plot was dragged out. The ending was tough-but I felt like it suited the book. The Giver had this aura about it, as if there was something mysterious that you would never understand about everything. But that was okay, because it just fit with the book. So the ending really fit with that mood and tone.
3. City of Fallen Angels
Next, I read the next book in the Mortal instruments series, City of Fallen Angels.I gave this 3.75 stars. This book was okay, but was more of a transition from City of Glass to the next book, City of Lost Souls (Lots of cities!). It was as if someone had made a fanfiction of what would happen after City of Glass, and then published it as the next book. Not much happened, so it was kinda boring. Most of the drama that happened was relationship based, or was a very minimal fight or battle. It got more and more interesting as you read on and more things happened, but overall I didn't enjoy it as much as I had the previous 3 books.
4. City of Lost Souls
Continuing my Mortal instruments streak, I read the fifth book in the series. I gave this one 5 stars. This one was my favorite out of all of the ones I had read so far, and definitely made up for City of Fallen Angels. So much happened. So so much. My mind was an emotional mess when I finished this book. The last one hundred pages tore my heart out, then put it together, and then ripped it again over and over. Plot twists were scattered everywhere in the book, and the relationship drama was done fantastically. There wasn't too much too overshadow the main action, but there wasn't too little that the relationships were forgotten. It was simply brilliant, and I loved it.
5. Shadowhunters Codex
It probably won't surprise you that my next one is ALSO related to the Mortal Instruments. I gave this 4 stars. It was super informative, and gave me a much better understanding of the world. It was really rich with information and I found it hard to read all at once, so instead I read it in between books this month. That worked out great. Plus, Clary, Jace, and Simon's little notes in the margins never failed to make me laugh.
So those are the 5 books I read this month! If you want me to write an in depth review of any of them, listing the pros and cons in more depth, comment down below which ones! I hope you all had a good reading month!
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
Top 5 Wednesday: Intimidating TBR
Hey guys! So today I'm going to do my first ever Top 5 Wednesday! This tag was originally created by Lainey from gingerreadslainey on Youtube, but has recently been taken over by Sam from Thoughts on Tomes on Youtube. The goodreads group can be found here.
This week's topic is books you are intimidated by! I'm never really intimidated by books, mostly I just put them aside because I think "Well I can always get back to it, lets read this newer shorter one instead and be more time efficient." Except I never get back to it and it collects dust on my bookshelf. But there are a select few that intimidate me :P
1. The Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Mass
This first one is a series, rather than a book. But it's such a large series and the books are so long and the world must be so large. It's just one of those series that are constantly hyped over on Booktube and book blogs, and I don't want to be disappointed. I will get to it though! Its just a matter of when :P
2. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
Once again, quite a large book and is part of a series. Right now I just don't have the time to dedicate to reading such a large detailed story. Lot's of people have recommended it to me though, and the premise sounds really interesting. Really its just the world that intimidates me in this one. I don't know why, but for some reason I think this series has this large complex system of magic and laws and such. I don't know why, but that's one reason why I haven't picked it up yet. I may this summer though. We will see how it goes xD
3. Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
I finished Cinder about a month ago, and enjoyed it. I had predicted the main plot twist at the end really early on, which made it less enjoyable to read. I'm intrigued to read the rest of the series, but I don't want what happened with the first book to happen with the rest. Plus they are so long and somewhat complex. I will pick this one up soon hopefully, but am really worried I won't enjoy it, because I want to like it so much.
4. The Raven Boys by Maggie Steifvater
Another series that has lots of hype in the book community. I REALLY need to pick the first one up and start the series, but they are all so loooooong. It's not really an excuse, plus the last book in the series is coming out soon (Less than a week!) So it will be nice to finish the series within a month or so with the last book out. But knowing me that probably won't happen, lol.
5. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
This one isn't that long, and isn't very complicated. So why am I intimidated by it? All classics intimidate me really. No matter the length. I want to love them all, to be that one who can quote them all and know them and call back memories from them. But there is just something about old writing styles that just intimidates me. It's really weird. But especially this classic, I want to love it sooooo much, and I don't want to be disappointed with myself. (Silly, I know lol)
But there you go! My top 5 intimidating books/series! I hope you guys enjoyed my first Top 5 Wednesday. Remember to go check out the Goodreads group to find other Top 5 Wednesdayers and if you want to do it yourself!
This week's topic is books you are intimidated by! I'm never really intimidated by books, mostly I just put them aside because I think "Well I can always get back to it, lets read this newer shorter one instead and be more time efficient." Except I never get back to it and it collects dust on my bookshelf. But there are a select few that intimidate me :P
1. The Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Mass
This first one is a series, rather than a book. But it's such a large series and the books are so long and the world must be so large. It's just one of those series that are constantly hyped over on Booktube and book blogs, and I don't want to be disappointed. I will get to it though! Its just a matter of when :P
2. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
Once again, quite a large book and is part of a series. Right now I just don't have the time to dedicate to reading such a large detailed story. Lot's of people have recommended it to me though, and the premise sounds really interesting. Really its just the world that intimidates me in this one. I don't know why, but for some reason I think this series has this large complex system of magic and laws and such. I don't know why, but that's one reason why I haven't picked it up yet. I may this summer though. We will see how it goes xD
3. Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
I finished Cinder about a month ago, and enjoyed it. I had predicted the main plot twist at the end really early on, which made it less enjoyable to read. I'm intrigued to read the rest of the series, but I don't want what happened with the first book to happen with the rest. Plus they are so long and somewhat complex. I will pick this one up soon hopefully, but am really worried I won't enjoy it, because I want to like it so much.
4. The Raven Boys by Maggie Steifvater
Another series that has lots of hype in the book community. I REALLY need to pick the first one up and start the series, but they are all so loooooong. It's not really an excuse, plus the last book in the series is coming out soon (Less than a week!) So it will be nice to finish the series within a month or so with the last book out. But knowing me that probably won't happen, lol.
5. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
This one isn't that long, and isn't very complicated. So why am I intimidated by it? All classics intimidate me really. No matter the length. I want to love them all, to be that one who can quote them all and know them and call back memories from them. But there is just something about old writing styles that just intimidates me. It's really weird. But especially this classic, I want to love it sooooo much, and I don't want to be disappointed with myself. (Silly, I know lol)
But there you go! My top 5 intimidating books/series! I hope you guys enjoyed my first Top 5 Wednesday. Remember to go check out the Goodreads group to find other Top 5 Wednesdayers and if you want to do it yourself!
Friday, April 8, 2016
April TBR
Hey guys! Spring is among us, and I can't believe it! The year has blown by so fast, and school ends in two months! I am currently on spring break, and also am traveling a lot this month, which means my TBR is quite large this month.... but I finally got out of my reading slump and am ready to get caught up on my reading challenge!
1. City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
I started the Mortal Instruments in March, and am loving the series so far! I cannot wait to continue on, although half of me wishes that the series did end at City of Glass with its happy ending. But we all know Clary and Jace can't stay out of trouble forever :P Can't really summarize it without spoiling it sooooo.
2. City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare
Hoping to get to the fifth book this month as well, because I know I will be wanting more after City of Fallen Angels. Once again, can't summarize without spoiling :P
3. Shadowhunter Codex by Cassandra Clare
Since all of my libraries copies of City of Heavenly Fire are checked out and aren't due until the end of April, I decided I would settle for this. Cassandra Clare basically wrote this as if it were the Shadowhunter Codex, and had Simon's, Clary's, and Jace's notes in it as if Jace was teaching to them about the world with it. I'm really looking forward to it, and hope it gives me lots of background information on the shadowhunter world.
4. Not after everything by Michelle Levy
Very random book compared to my others-but I have been wanting to read this book for ages. This story is focused on a boy named Tyler, who is the typical highschool golden boy when his mom commits suicide. His dad becomes abusive, and he has to find a job to support him and his dad. Along the way he meets his former childhood best friend Jordyn, and they fall in love. However, Tyler can't let Jordyn find out about the chaos his home life has become, but something happens and I believe she finds out and something happens. I know its gonna be a dark read, but I also know it will be a deep and important one too.
5.Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gaphart
I recently got this ARC from my library, and it isn't set to be published until May. I don't know much about it, other than the two main characters are transgender and have bipolar disorder. Again, a deep but important book I can't wait to read.
6. The 5th Wave by Richard Yancy
I am super late at reading this book. I think we all pretty much know what its about, aliens invading earth, and a girl having to rescue her brother from them with an untrustworthy boy. I want to watch the movie, but really need to read the book so spring break is the perfect time.
And yeah! Thats my semi long/shortish tbr. I might end up reading more, but who knows. I hope you guys have a great April!
1. City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
I started the Mortal Instruments in March, and am loving the series so far! I cannot wait to continue on, although half of me wishes that the series did end at City of Glass with its happy ending. But we all know Clary and Jace can't stay out of trouble forever :P Can't really summarize it without spoiling it sooooo.
2. City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare
Hoping to get to the fifth book this month as well, because I know I will be wanting more after City of Fallen Angels. Once again, can't summarize without spoiling :P
3. Shadowhunter Codex by Cassandra Clare
Since all of my libraries copies of City of Heavenly Fire are checked out and aren't due until the end of April, I decided I would settle for this. Cassandra Clare basically wrote this as if it were the Shadowhunter Codex, and had Simon's, Clary's, and Jace's notes in it as if Jace was teaching to them about the world with it. I'm really looking forward to it, and hope it gives me lots of background information on the shadowhunter world.
4. Not after everything by Michelle Levy
Very random book compared to my others-but I have been wanting to read this book for ages. This story is focused on a boy named Tyler, who is the typical highschool golden boy when his mom commits suicide. His dad becomes abusive, and he has to find a job to support him and his dad. Along the way he meets his former childhood best friend Jordyn, and they fall in love. However, Tyler can't let Jordyn find out about the chaos his home life has become, but something happens and I believe she finds out and something happens. I know its gonna be a dark read, but I also know it will be a deep and important one too.
5.Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gaphart
I recently got this ARC from my library, and it isn't set to be published until May. I don't know much about it, other than the two main characters are transgender and have bipolar disorder. Again, a deep but important book I can't wait to read.
6. The 5th Wave by Richard Yancy
I am super late at reading this book. I think we all pretty much know what its about, aliens invading earth, and a girl having to rescue her brother from them with an untrustworthy boy. I want to watch the movie, but really need to read the book so spring break is the perfect time.
And yeah! Thats my semi long/shortish tbr. I might end up reading more, but who knows. I hope you guys have a great April!
Introduction
Hey guys! I'm not going to go on about myself much in this post, and if you want to find out more about me/find my social media go to the About page above. Instead, since this is a book blog after all, I thought I would do the Ultimate Book Tag so you guys could get to know about me in a bookish sense a tiny bit.
1. Do you get sick while reading in the car?
Sometimes, it really depends on my mood and the book I am reading. If it is early on in the drive, and my book is mildly interesting (Like TFIOS, I finished that in an entire 3 hour car ride) then I normally don't get sick.
2. Which author's writing style is completely unique to you?
Hmm, this is a hard one. I would have to say Ransom Riggs, author of Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children. The way he intertwines images with his writing is really unique and interesting.
3. Harry Potter series or the Twilight Saga? Give 3 points to defend your answer.
Harry Potter series.
1. Its my childhood-and my first series I ever fangirled over
2. Better and more diverse characters.
3. Better plot.
4. Do you carry a book bag? If so what is in it (besides books)?
No, I actually don't own a book bag. Normally, I just fit my book into my purse with a bookmark.
5. Do you smell your books?
All the time. The smell of the library is one of my favorite smells in the entire world.
6. Books with or without illustrations?
Both I guess. I like illustrations as the make the story seem more real, but I also like leaving the imagery to my imagination.
7. What book did you love while reading but later found out wasn't quality writing?
I honestly don't know about this one. The Series of Unfortunate Events I guess, though the writing style isn't terrible....
8. Do you have any funny stories involving books from your childhood?
Despite being an avid reader when I was younger, I don't have any funny stories. I was a shy child, especially about my reading.
9. What is the thinnest book on your shelf?
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by J.K. Rowling, landing at a whopping 41 pages (all of which are amazing!)
10. What is the thickest book on your shelf?
The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan, at 553 pages (I have a lot of close ones though!)
11. Do you write as well as read? Do you see yourself in the future as being an author?
Yes! I adore creative writing, and actually have Wattpad and Fanfiction.net accounts (find the links on my About page). I do see myself as a future author, though I am not sure if it's actually going to happen :P
12. When did you get into reading?
When I was around 7, I started the Magic Treehouse series and ever since I have been addicted.
13. What is your favorite classical book?
I'm not much of a classical person, but my favorite is probably Anne of Green Gables.
14. In school is your best subject Language Arts/English?
It isn't my best subject, but I do pretty well in it.
15. If you were given a book as a present that you had already read and hated, what would you do?
I would probably say thanks, and then offer it to a friend who I think would like it.
16. What is a lesser known series that you know of that is similar to Harry Potter and the Hunger Games?
Warriors, by Erin Hunter. It has the same action vibe that Harry Potter has. Or Divergent, by Veronica Roth which is very similar to the hunger Games.
17. What is a bad habit you always do (besides rambling) while filming?
I don't film :P
18. What is your favorite word?
Hm, I don't know I like too many words to choose :P
19. Are you a nerd, dork, or dweeb? Or all of the above?
All of the above!
20. Vampires or Fairies?
Fairies!
21. Shapeshifters or Angels?
Shapeshifters!
22. Spirits or Werewolves?
Spirits! (Unless we are like comparing Peeves the Poltergeist to Remus Lupin, then Werewolves)
23. Zombies or Vampires?
Zombies!
24. Love triangle or forbidden love?
Eh, forbidden love I guess
25. Full on romance books or action packed with a few love scenes mixed in?
Depends on my mood and the characters in question :P
There you go guys! If you have any questions, feel free to ask them in a comment, and I will reply ASAP.
1. Do you get sick while reading in the car?
Sometimes, it really depends on my mood and the book I am reading. If it is early on in the drive, and my book is mildly interesting (Like TFIOS, I finished that in an entire 3 hour car ride) then I normally don't get sick.
2. Which author's writing style is completely unique to you?
Hmm, this is a hard one. I would have to say Ransom Riggs, author of Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children. The way he intertwines images with his writing is really unique and interesting.
3. Harry Potter series or the Twilight Saga? Give 3 points to defend your answer.
Harry Potter series.
1. Its my childhood-and my first series I ever fangirled over
2. Better and more diverse characters.
3. Better plot.
4. Do you carry a book bag? If so what is in it (besides books)?
No, I actually don't own a book bag. Normally, I just fit my book into my purse with a bookmark.
5. Do you smell your books?
All the time. The smell of the library is one of my favorite smells in the entire world.
6. Books with or without illustrations?
Both I guess. I like illustrations as the make the story seem more real, but I also like leaving the imagery to my imagination.
7. What book did you love while reading but later found out wasn't quality writing?
I honestly don't know about this one. The Series of Unfortunate Events I guess, though the writing style isn't terrible....
8. Do you have any funny stories involving books from your childhood?
Despite being an avid reader when I was younger, I don't have any funny stories. I was a shy child, especially about my reading.
9. What is the thinnest book on your shelf?
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by J.K. Rowling, landing at a whopping 41 pages (all of which are amazing!)
10. What is the thickest book on your shelf?
The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan, at 553 pages (I have a lot of close ones though!)
11. Do you write as well as read? Do you see yourself in the future as being an author?
Yes! I adore creative writing, and actually have Wattpad and Fanfiction.net accounts (find the links on my About page). I do see myself as a future author, though I am not sure if it's actually going to happen :P
12. When did you get into reading?
When I was around 7, I started the Magic Treehouse series and ever since I have been addicted.
13. What is your favorite classical book?
I'm not much of a classical person, but my favorite is probably Anne of Green Gables.
14. In school is your best subject Language Arts/English?
It isn't my best subject, but I do pretty well in it.
15. If you were given a book as a present that you had already read and hated, what would you do?
I would probably say thanks, and then offer it to a friend who I think would like it.
16. What is a lesser known series that you know of that is similar to Harry Potter and the Hunger Games?
Warriors, by Erin Hunter. It has the same action vibe that Harry Potter has. Or Divergent, by Veronica Roth which is very similar to the hunger Games.
17. What is a bad habit you always do (besides rambling) while filming?
I don't film :P
18. What is your favorite word?
Hm, I don't know I like too many words to choose :P
19. Are you a nerd, dork, or dweeb? Or all of the above?
All of the above!
20. Vampires or Fairies?
Fairies!
21. Shapeshifters or Angels?
Shapeshifters!
22. Spirits or Werewolves?
Spirits! (Unless we are like comparing Peeves the Poltergeist to Remus Lupin, then Werewolves)
23. Zombies or Vampires?
Zombies!
24. Love triangle or forbidden love?
Eh, forbidden love I guess
25. Full on romance books or action packed with a few love scenes mixed in?
Depends on my mood and the characters in question :P
There you go guys! If you have any questions, feel free to ask them in a comment, and I will reply ASAP.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)