Month: February 2020

NetGalley Wish List

This wasn’t my planned post, but last night it hit me, hard that it’s been 2 months since I had to put my dog down. It just hit me really hard and really suddenly. I’m currently dog sitting for family members, and while I absolutely love these three dogs with my whole heart, not going to lie, it’s a bit hard. They remind me of what I’m missing at home.

Anyways, I was a complete wreck and knew I wasn’t in the mindset to write a review, so instead I went for something low stress, and that would honestly not require a lot of work on my part.

Any other day, this post might be a little more involved, but not today.

In true NetGalley fashion, quite a few of these pending requests are actually already published, but it wouldn’t be NetGalley if they weren’t behind. I also requested some of these so long ago, that I’ve since read physical copies * cough * Greythorne.

Anyways, here’s what I currently want NetGalley to approve me for.

Screen Shot 2020-02-14 at 3.53.44 AM

The Crow Rider – Kalyn Josephson

The Court of Miracles – Kester Grant

A Castle int the Clouds – Kerstin Gier

By the Book – Amanda Sellet

Greythorne – Crystal Smith

The Midnight Lie – Marie Rutkoski

Ember Queen – Laura Sebastian

Next week I should have quite a few book reviews for you all to read, so keep any eye out for that. For now, I’m going to go crawl into bed and fall asleep watching something on tv.

What is one anticipated read that you want the chance to read early?

Book Review: Greythorne (Bloodleaf #2)

greythorneTitle: Greythorne (Bloodleaf #2)

Author: Crystal Smith

Pub. Date: June 2, 2020

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Princess Aurelia’s life is turned upside down when the kingdom she thought she saved turns to ruin, a loved one is tragically killed in a shipwreck, and her home country refuses to respect her brother’s legitimate claim to the throne. With no place left to call her own, Aurelia returns to Greythorne Manor—her best friend’s family mansion—only to get swept up in a coup d’état on the night of her brother’s coronation.

With everyone turned against her and enemies closing in on all sides, Aurelia has nothing left to lose in a mad fight to protect the only people she has left—her family. But in her darkest moments when all seems grim, will Aurelia find a spark of hope from a love she thought long lost?

This will be a spoiler free review.

It’s taken me days to write this review.

Mainly because I’m still not over how it ended and the fact that I have to wait for book 3.

Also, because I haven’t been able to form any kind of cohesive thought that wasn’t a scream or just ‘so good’ on repeat.

So, yeah, it’s taken me a few days, and I can’t promise that I won’t just scream at you to read this book when it comes out, because you definitely should, it’s fantastic. But I’m going to try and be calm and rational and not just a crazed reader shoving this book in your face.

I read Bloodleaf last year, and while I enjoyed it, it wasn’t a favorite…or at least that’s what I thought. It was one of those books, that once it sat with me for a bit after reading, I realized just how much I loved it and how much of a good book it was. It was like my reaction was massively delayed and once I came to that conclusion, I needed book 2. ASAP.

I also think part of my problem was that when I was reading it, I had zero idea there was going to be a second book, let alone a third. So, I think my feelings were skewed, and once I found out that there was going to be more books, that’s when my feelings towards Bloodleaf changed and I really needed book 2. Anytime Crystal posted about it, I got so damn excited. Then when the post pre-order campaigned happened, and my swag arrived in the mail, I freaked. Bloodleaf had quickly gone from a good, enjoyable read, to an absolute favorite, and my excitement and need for Greythorne was probably a bit out of control.

I’m a fan, what else can I say.

But I digress, and this is a book review for Greythorne.

It took me a moment to familiarize myself with the world and the characters, and to remember what happened at the end of Bloodleaf. It had probably been over a year, maybe? I’d have to go back a look at exactly when I read my ARC of it. It didn’t take long and then I was completely hooked. I flew through this book, despite trying to savor it. I was too damn excited to wait to read it.

I remember not being the biggest Aurelia fan in book 1, but that’s since changed. I actually really liked her character in this. She’s been through so much and really doesn’t have the time to deal or even remotely process anything. It’s one thing after another, and while that’s terrible for her, I kind of enjoyed the constant emotional swings she had to endure.

Does that sound bad? I don’t know. It found I was able to sympathize and root for her, knowing that everything she was doing, every choice she made was for the best interest of others. Like, despite everything she’d suffered and gone through, she was able to see past it to the bigger picture. I can’t even call her self-sacrificing, because of the knowledge she has. I just really loved her in this book. So much.

You’ll have to wait until the book comes out to understand what I’m talking about because spoilers.

Which leads me to the end of the book, because while the whole thing was fantastic, what Crystal pulled off in the end is one of my favorite things – when done correctly. Crystal knocked it out of the damn park, and suddenly things that happened throughout the book made so much sense and I was so giddy. She so cleverly pulled it off, and it makes me so damn excited for book 3.

Y’all, let me break this down for you. The last couple chapters were blood pressure raising, heart stopping, oh my god, I can’t believe this amazing, and then there was the Epilogue and that was tense and sad because of certain events that happen in the last chapters. But then there’s this final page, only a couple of paragraphs and I inhaled so hard with excitement I went a tad lightheaded, because omfg I really cannot wait for book 3.

Those last couple paragraphs, on that last page were just * chef’s kiss* so good, and it really gets you ready for book 3.

I’m finding it really hard to explain exactly why I loved the ending so much but telling you what about it that’s my “favorite thing when done correctly” is a massive spoiler. I can think of only one other author who’s done it this well (I’m sure there are others, but none come to mind) and I’ve reviewed her stuff on this blog. Like, I’m back to the point where I just want to scream READ THIS BOOK, IT’S SO GOOD because I’m now thinking about the ending and I can’t. Ugh, so good.

I feel like this thing can be so hard to get right, to plant the right seeds, the right threads, and Crystal – in my opinion – did it phenomenally. I read it, and it was like little lightbulbs went off when I realized how it all tied back into other moments in the story.

Okay, I could drone on and on about the ending of this book and how good it is, and how you should read this book solely to read the phenomenal ending and be blown away like I was, but I’ll stop. Mainly because I want to talk briefly about Isobel Arceneaux and I might start talking spoilers if I don’t cut myself off.

Now, Isobel Arceneaux. I couldn’t stand her. I know we’re not supposed to like her, but damn. I definitely didn’t guess her backstory/reveal, and I don’t think I would’ve, if it hadn’t been told/Aurelia kind of figuring it out. There’s no denying she had it really rough, and that her past definitely shaped her actions, as shitty as they were. Sorry, they were, there’s no denying it. I think she’s my least favorite part of the whole book but facing off against Aurelia…it was pretty interesting and entertaining to watch it. I can appreciate the parallels between them and how Crystal created their dynamic the way she did.

So, even though I didn’t really like her as a character, I do understand her role in things and I’m really curious to see what happens next for her. What Aurelia does at the end…there are definitely going to be some consequences and I cannot wait to find out what they are. Maybe my opinion will change about her, the same way it did about Aurelia – only time and book 3 will tell.

I’m just going to sit here, slowly and quietly dying inside until I can read book 3, because omfg this book was A++, so good. Knowing that there’s like over a year wait might kill me, so Crystal if you need or want someone to read it early, I volunteer! But seriously, not knowing what happens next, is going to be the end of me…unless the TV show just happens to come out before then – wishful thinking, I’m aware – I might be okay. I’ll also add that I did a bit of Live Tweeting while I read the book, and if you’re interested, you can check out the thread here – make sure you click through to the actual thread – still spoiler free!

Make sure you check out Greythorne when it comes out in June, and if you haven’t yet, make sure you read Bloodleaf before June to be ready for Greythorne. You are not going to want to miss this book, I promise you.

I’m Feeling Uninspired.

I know, I know.

I know I said that today’s post was going to be my review for Greythorne and I do really promise that it’s coming. I think I also don’t know how to write the review that isn’t just me screaming, because, honestly, I’m still not over the ending, and this wait for book 3 sucks.

Image result for uninspired gif

I’m in this weird, uninspired rut.

I want to write the review, and then I sit down to do it, and I suddenly don’t want to write it.

I don’t know what it is. A blogging slump?

Are blogging slumps real things?

I think…I think I might be too caught up in the numbers aspect of blogging. 2019 was a fantastic growth year for my blog, I went from roughly 50 followers at the start to over 300 by the end, and I think there’s self-instilled pressure now.

I know I shouldn’t care about the numbers, and I should do this because I love doing it. Don’t get me wrong, I love blogging and connected to readers and other bloggers. But it’s hard to feel inspired when it feels like I’ve hit this near standstill rut with Writing the Universe.

I feel like the only way I can meet my view goals – which is just to have more than the previous month – is to post 5 times a week.

I don’t mind posting 5 times a week, but it gets hard to keep up that motion when posts I work hard on basically flop, and posts I spend 15 minutes on, in the dark of my room right before I pass out, do significantly better.

I don’t know what to do, so I’m uninspired and in a rut.

I hate this feeling, and all I legit want to do is watch this YouTuber – Clare Siobhan – play Sims4. So productive right? It’s so weirdly addicting and honestly mind numbing to watch someone else play Sims.

Sigh.

So, here’s my question for you –

Tell me what you want to see on this blog in 2020. It’s a new year, the start of a new decade. I have some exciting reads, and therefore exciting book reviews coming out, but let me know if you want more personal content, less or more reviews (I will do my best to accommodate), other kinds of bookish posts – please let me know. Let me know what you would like to see, because there is clearly something about what I’m currently doing that isn’t working as well as I would like it to.

I don’t want to have to beg for views at the end of the month just to reach my goal. I want to continue to see growth, and I can’t see that happening with the way I’m currently doing things.

Maybe I’m being way too critical and unfair, and maybe I should stop caring about the views, but that’s hard. So much of my time and energy goes into this blog and as of right now, I’m feeling uninspired and a bit dejected.

I don’t want to take the week off from posting on here, because I know that will negatively impact my views for the month, but maybe a little reset is a good thing.

I guess you and I will both find out if there is a post on Thursday.

I’m just going to go watch more YouTube videos of Clare playing Sims4 because why not.

Please let me know in the comments, what you would like to see!

 

Title Reveal and Cover Reveal and Book Mail – Oh My!

I wasn’t feeling 100% today, so the blog post that I initially wanted to do, just didn’t happen.

I woke up to my email exploding, my twitter mentions a mess and my iMessages coming in too fast for me to read.

Honestly, I don’t even understand why, but I played catch up for like 30 minutes.

WAR MAIDENS!I know that all of this will be old news by the time you read this post, that it will all be roughly 24 hours old news, but I’m pretty sure the overdue “sickness” I’ve been expecting is starting to hit me, so you get a recap.

Sorry, my brain isn’t good for much else right now.

Let’s start with Kelly Coon’s Warmaidens Cover Reveal – you can check out my post on it here – but it’s gorgeous! I’m so grateful I got to be a part of it, and October feels like an age away. I posted about it here on my blog – obviously – as well as over on my Instagram Stories and on Twitter. Everyone should definitely check out this cover. I can’t wait to find out what happens next for these characters! If you haven’t already, read Gravemaidens before Warmaidens – you want to be prepared!

img_7998Next was Brigid Kemmerer’s Title Reveal for Curse 3 – A Vow So Bold and Deadly – and I freaking love it. It promises so much, and I’ve been dying for this book since like last June when I read AHSFAB. I can’t wait until the cover reveal and I’m wondering if it’ll be purple, but I’m really hoping it’ll be a wine red/maroon. I think if it were that color, it would look so nice next to Curse and Heart. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see! Also, make sure you head on over to Brigid’s Instagram and give her post with the title reveal some love!

And finally, I got some book mail that I wasn’t expecting to come in, and it’s super exciting. Two anticipated releases – You Don’t Live Here by Robyn Schneider and Chain of Gold by Cassandra Clare!

I know, I’m freaking out too.

img_8004I got You Don’t Live Here in a trade, and I cannot wait to read it. I’m so happy I have the ARC and can add it to my collection of Robyn’s books on my shelf. I’ve always loved her contemporaries, so I really am dying to dive into this one.

As for Chain of Gold, I won that in a sweepstakes giveaway – though, I’m not sure how I won it, the email was a shock. I definitely wasn’t expecting it to be delivered today, but it’s so big, and so pretty, and I’m definitely reading it very soon!

Okay, so that’s a recap of my February 10, not much happened, but also, so much happened? But now I’m going to crawl into bed and maybe try to kick this sickness if that’s what it is, before it gets bad. Tomorrow I’ll have my review for Greythorne up, so keep an eye out for that!

Cover Reveal: Warmaidens (Gravemaidens #2)

CR warmaidensI know that you know what’s going to be contained in this post, and I can assure you that it’s gorgeous. Ever since I saw the cover yesterday, I keep finding myself opening up my Photos on my phone and staring at the cover for Warmaidens the second book in the Gravemaidens Series by Kelly Coon.

Y’all, this cover is gorgeous, and the color is so pretty. I can’t think of any other book out currently, or coming out, that’s this color. So, be prepared for it to stand out on your shelves. I also think that it’s going to look absolutely stunning next to Gravemaidens.
I really enjoyed Gravemaidens and if you haven’t yet read it, you should. A bit of a shameless plug, before we dive into the cover reveal for Warmaidens, but if you want to check out my review for Gravemaidens, you can do so here.

But like I was saying, I really enjoyed the first book, so when the opportunity came to be a part of Kelly’s street team, and participate in the cover reveal, I knew I had to bump today’s planned post, for this one.

This cover is stunning, and you’re not ready, but you should be excited.

Synopsis:

Just a few moons after escaping the tomb in Alu, Kammani and the other runaway maidens have found refuge in the city-state of Manzazu. There, Kammani has become a respected healer, especially among the warriors she’s brought back from the brink of death. Now that the nightmares of Alu are fading, she can finally decide whether or not to take Dagan’s hand in marriage.

But when an assassin murders a healer he believes is Kammani and attempts to kill the displaced queen of Alu, the maidens realize they’ve been found.

Hungry for revenge, Manzazu’s queen wants to strike back at Alu with her fiercest weapons—her scorpion warrior maidens—but Kammani knows that war harms more than it heals. To save the innocents and any chance of a future with Dagan, Kammani must take down Alu’s ruler before their lives burn up in the flames of war.

 I can’t wait to read this book, and it should be on your radar.

So, are you ready for the cover reveal?

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Yes?

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Well, here it is, in all its glory – the cover for Warmaidens (Gravemaidenss #2) by Kelly Coon!

Warmaidens Cover Reveal

It’s stunning. I love the maroon color, the vial that I’m guessing is either poison or some kind of remedy, but the black smoke makes me think poison, and the scorpions! Visually I find this cover absolutely gorgeous and I really cannot wait to find out more about how the scorpions fit in.

I really hope you all love this cover, and if you do, please head on over to whatever your preferred social media platform is and share it with everyone! If you do share, please –

Tag Kelly @kellycoon106, @getunderlined, and @delacortepress when you post and use #warmaidens – we want to spread the hype for this book!

WAR MAIDENS!Pre-Order:

Warmaidens (Gravemaidens #2)

Follow Kelly on Twitter 

Follow Kelly on Instagram

Add Warmaidens on Goodreads

I can’t wait to hear and see everyone’s reactions, and I’m so excited to be a part of Kelly’s Street Team, so thank you Kelly for giving me the opportunity to scream about your books by sharing them. I’m absolutely grateful! Warmaidens will be available October 20, 2020!

 

 

 

Excerpt Review: House of Blood and Earth (Crescent City #1)

crescent cityTitle: House of Blood and Earth (Crescent City #1)

Author: Sarah J. Maas

Pub. Date: March 3, 2020

Rating: TBD

#1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas launches her brand-new CRESCENT CITY series with House of Earth and Blood: the story of half-Fae and half-human Bryce Quinlan as she seeks revenge in a contemporary fantasy world of magic, danger, and searing romance.

Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life—working hard all day and partying all night—until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at the heart of the investigation. She’ll do whatever it takes to avenge their deaths.

Hunt Athalar is a notorious Fallen angel, now enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow. His brutal skills and incredible strength have been set to one purpose—to assassinate his boss’s enemies, no questions asked. But with a demon wreaking havoc in the city, he’s offered an irresistible deal: help Bryce find the murderer, and his freedom will be within reach.

As Bryce and Hunt dig deep into Crescent City’s underbelly, they discover a dark power that threatens everything and everyone they hold dear, and they find, in each other, a blazing passion—one that could set them both free, if they’d only let it.

With unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and page-turning suspense, this richly inventive new fantasy series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas delves into the heartache of loss, the price of freedom—and the power of love.

This will be a mini, spoiler free review.

I’m so ready for a new SJM book.

I know it’s only been – holy crap, it’s been 2 years since KOA? – honestly, I was about to say that it’s only been a year, but I lie.

Anyways, I read the first 5 chapters of this new book, because I couldn’t wait, and curiosity got the better of me.

Holy crap am I read. March 3rd cannot come soon enough. It’s cruel to cut off the excerpt right as something major happened. I need to know what happens next!

On the other hand, I hate that I read this excerpt because now a month long wait is going to royally suck.

I will say that I found it a little slow and a little confusing in the beginning, but I feel like that’s forgivable since this is a whole new story, whole new set of characters, whole new world that she’s introducing us too. By chapter 4 I was hooked anyways, so I don’t really have an issue with it.

I’m so excited to meet the love interest – I’m pretty much a sucker for how SJM writes relationships and I tend to devour her books. I’m also pretty sure I’m going to really like Bryce. It feels too early to make any definitive declarations, but I think she’s going to be really fun to read.

So, I’ll just be sitting here, impatiently tapping my foot, waiting for March 3rd so I can finish this beast of a book.

If you’re someone who doesn’t mind the tease of an excerpt, I highly recommend checking this one out.

 

Book Review: Havenfall (Havenfall #1)

havenfallTitle: Havenfall (Havenfall #1)

Author: Sara Holland

Pub. Date: March 3, 2020

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

A safe haven between four realms. The girl sworn to protect it–at any cost.

Hidden deep in the mountains of Colorado lies the Inn at Havenfall, a sanctuary that connects ancient worlds–each with their own magic–together. For generations, the inn has protected all who seek refuge within its walls, and any who disrupt the peace can never return.

For Maddie Morrow, summers at the inn are more than a chance to experience this magic first-hand. Havenfall is an escape from reality, where her mother sits on death row accused of murdering Maddie’s brother. It’s where Maddie fell in love with handsome Fiorden soldier Brekken. And it’s where one day she hopes to inherit the role of Innkeeper from her beloved uncle.

But this summer, the impossible happens–a dead body is found, shattering everything the inn stands for. With Brekken missing, her uncle gravely injured, and a dangerous creature on the loose, Maddie suddenly finds herself responsible for the safety of everyone in Havenfall. She’ll do anything to uncover the truth, even if it means working together with an alluring new staffer Taya, who seems to know more than she’s letting on. As dark secrets are revealed about the inn itself, one thing becomes clear to Maddie–no one can be trusted, and no one is safe . . .

This will be a spoiler free review.

Maybe I’m becoming too jaded when it comes to reading.

Or maybe we as a community just hype books too much.

Either way, anticipated reads seem to be falling short left and right.
I hate that.

Seriously.

It’s not every anticipated read, but so many of them since September 2019 have just been missing the mark.

I think part of the problem is that a lot of YA feels tired, the same, and rewrites of stories that already exist.

Yes, I’m aware that nothing is truly *original* but books are just missing the mark for me.

I was super excited for Havenfall. I read an excerpt a few months ago, and I was so damn excited for it. I couldn’t wait to read it, so when I got approved on NetGalley for an eARC I was ecstatic. I couldn’t wait to read it.

Well, I read it.

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…

Ugh.

I don’t know where that initial excitement went. I have no idea where it ran off to. But it became pretty clearly early on, that it wasn’t going to be showing up again.

Now, I will be completely clear that I wasn’t a fan of Sara’s second release – Evermore. It was disappointing after reading Everless – which I loved. I went into this book with a clear mind, completely intent on giving her writing another chance, and I don’t know what it is, but this book just didn’t hit the mark.

Let me back up – overall, sure, I enjoyed this book. It had elements that I like in a story, and I did stay interested enough to keep turning the pages.

But with that being said, I never felt a connection with it. I didn’t connect with the characters…at all. Not once did I feel anything for the characters. I also had trouble picturing them…well everyone except Taya. I could picture her easily. You would think that as the reader, I should be able to picture the MC – Maddie, but nope. All I remember about her physical appearance is that she has short hair. It extends further than just the characters. I struggled to picture Havenfall. Ultimately, I just pictured like a Victorian Mansion, but I have no idea if that’s right.

Also, as a reader – tying into the whole not being able to picture anything or anyone – I felt like I was told everything. Told everything, and still unable to picture anything, or even fully understand everything. It was like I was dumped into the middle of this book, this world and expected to know things, which clearly wasn’t the case.

Then there’s the plot.

So much goes on, plot wise, and it’s all kind of a jumble.

By ‘so much’ I mean, so freaking much.

Like, it’s one thing after another, and some of it just feels unnecessary?

And yes, I understand that, ‘one thing after another’ is how a plot progresses, but by the end of this book, the ending feels cheap, easy and wholly unjustified. Then there were the moments that elicited this expression –

Image result for seriously gif

You know what I’m talking about. The ‘of course this is how this played out, because it couldn’t possibly have played out any other way’ sarcasm response, that makes you thin your lips and roll your eyes. Every reveal felt so damn obvious and generic. Like, of course that person isn’t who they seemed or of course that issue with a group of individuals is just a massive misconception and my favorite of course I have some life altering connection that connects our pasts with a person I have feelings for – like, really? Really?

I just don’t know.

I don’t know what happened.

Did I mention that it took until the 30% mark for me to even get remotely interested in this book? No? Well it did. I don’t know what that relates to page count wise but come on.

I think through it all, my least favorite part was the ending. For everything I went through as a reader – hell for everything Maddie went through, the ending sucked. I know there’s another book coming to conclude the story, but literally nothing is wrapped up at the end of this book. Nothing.

It’s so open, a breeze is blowing through it.

You should see me sitting here, thinking about this book as I write this review. I’m so annoyed I keep staring at a wall, like it’s a camera on the Office. You know the look. Like, ‘please see what I’m talking about’.

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I’m just so annoyed and so over these books that ultimately feel like almost a waste of my time.

I know some people absolutely love this book, and that’s fantastic, I’m so incredibly happy for you! I wish I did, but I don’t. The concept is really cool and unique, but the story – how it was written, just fell short for me. My excitement is gone, disappeared, blown away with the breeze. I didn’t connect to this book at all, on any level and I don’t know if I’ll pick up the second one when it comes out. I also have no idea how everything is going to tie up by the end of that book, but I’m sure it’ll be very convenient and easy.

Okay, I’m going to end this hear before I start truly ranting and start talking specific spoilers.

If you’re interested in Havenfall, hopefully I haven’t put you off of it. I’m going to tell you to check it out and form your own opinions. I don’t want to convince you out of a book that might become your favorite read.

Book Review: Twisted Palace (The Royals #3)

 

twisted palaceTitle: Twisted Palace (The Royals #3)

Author: Erin Watt

Pub. Date: October 17, 2016

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

These Royals will ruin you…

From mortal enemies to unexpected allies, two teenagers try to protect everything that matters most.

Ella Harper has met every challenge that life has thrown her way. She’s tough, resilient, and willing to do whatever it takes to defend the people she loves, but the challenge of a long-lost father and a boyfriend whose life is on the line might be too much for even Ella to overcome.

Reed Royal has a quick temper and even faster fists. But his tendency to meet every obstacle with violence has finally caught up with him. If he wants to save himself and the girl he loves, he’ll need to rise above his tortured past and tarnished reputation.

No one believes Ella can survive the Royals. Everyone is sure Reed will destroy them all.
They may be right.

With everything and everyone conspiring to keep them apart, Ella and Reed must find a way to beat the law, save their families, and unravel all the secrets in their Twisted Palace.

This will be a short spoiler free review.

When picking the books, I was going to read for my 3-month TBR, I figured that I’d finally finish this series. I knew from how I practically inhaled the first two, that I would undoubtedly inhale this one as well.

I did.

Not surprising.

These books are addicting and are kind of hard to put down. I enjoyed reading it and seeing how Ella and Reed’s story came to a close.

I will say that the big reveal towards the end of the book, wasn’t what I was expecting. The person who was at the center of everything wasn’t who I thought it was going to be? Though, to be fair, the person I thought it was going to be doesn’t really make much sense, and it would have been a very strong reaction.

I hated Ella’s father. There wasn’t a single moment where I thought ‘oh maybe he’s redeemable’. Not one.

I do have a complaint though.

For all the books really, and not just this one.

I find it so hard to – I don’t know if believe is the right word…buy into, maybe? – Ella and Reed’s relationship, and how any parent would be okay with it. I also found it so weird that this is clearly a New Adult novel, but the characters are still in high school. I also understand that this is centered around very rich, entitled people, and the shit they get away with is incredible. I get all of those things, and I while I have a slight issue, these books are addicting as hell and very easy to get lost in. I also get that even when you’re not dealing with the rich elite, that teens are doing these things. It’s not lost on me, I promise. It just kind of rubs the wrong way.

I just know that I wouldn’t be okay with my kid doing what Ella or Reed does, but hey, I’ve not been through everything these characters have, so what do I really know?

If you read books 1 & 2, then you should be picking this one up to finish out their story. I definitely want to read books 4 & 5 which follows Easton, and eventually I will. If you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable, New Adult read that will keep you wanting more, then you should check out these books, for sure.

 

Jan’20 Wrap-Up

I read 12 books in January.

I’m not sure how I did it.

Well, okay, I mean I know how I did it, but I just can’t believe that it added up to that many by the end of the month.

Once I started reading, I rarely stopped. Granted, a bunch of the books I read were short contemporaries that I could bust out in an evening.

I really liked everything I read in January, and even had some 5-star ratings.

With that being said, let’s jump into this post!

DIAMOND CITYDiamond City (Diamond City #1) – Francesca Flores

ARC Finished: January 9, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /Review / GR

“[…] As for it being the start of a multiple book series (trilogy?) I don’t think it was particularly bad. I might have had a few issues, but I can see why people like this book. It’s fast-paced (for the most part), with action, and likeable characters. There’s a subtle hint of romance and it’s about figuring out who you are, what you deserve, what you’re worth and standing up for yourself. I’m definitely interested in seeing how Aina’s story unfolds and what’s going to come next.”

how to speak boyHow to Speak Boy – Tiana Smith

Hardcover Finished: January 13, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] Off hand, if you liked How to Speak Boy you should check out Letters to the Lost by Brigid Kemmerer and Tweet Cute by Emma Lord. Both have very similar plot elements, and both are really good books. How to Speak Boy is out, so make sure you grab your copy and fall in love with Quinn and Grayson. You’ll love this book. I swear. Go read it. Go buy it. Go borrow it from a library. You’re missing out…seriously.”

unrestUnrest (Unknown #2) – Wendy Higgins

Paperback Finished: January 14, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] I legit cannot wait to read book 3, though I’m going to be sad that the series is going to be over. I’m so excited and anxious to see how it’s all going to end. With the way book 2 ended…phew. I’m concerned. I’ll definitely be ordering the next book today, and I’ll probably start it the minute it lands on my porch. If you’re looking for a slow burn, steamy, sci-fi dystopian, New Adult romance, look no further. You want to fall for Rylen and Amber, as well as Remy, Tater and the rest of their crew.”

releasing the godsReleasing the Gods (The Titan’s Saga #1) – Leia Stone & Jaymin Eve

Paperback Finished: January 15, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / Review / GR

“[…] Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to dive into the second one come April. I’m anxiously anticipating its release. If you like Greek Gods and snarky banter, and end of the world destruction all in a New Adult package, you should definitely check this book out.

 

remembranceRemembrance (Transcend Time #1) – Michelle Madow

Paperback Finished: January 16, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] Even with all the things that irked me with this book, I still really enjoyed it. It was like comfort food…in book form. It was like taking a step back in time, and I loved the feeling. If you’re looking for a relatively quick, enjoyable read, featuring Pride & Prejudice, moody teen boys with a mysterious past and reincarnated romance, you might want to check this out.”

the bone charmerThe Bone Charmer (The Bone Charmer #1) – Breeana Shields

ARC Finished: January 17, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

 “[…] I could list out all the individual things that I enjoyed immensely about this book, but those would be spoilers, and this is spoiler free. But overall, the book just gave me this feeling of pure enjoyment and even that’s not most accurate world. I just look at the book and I have no words, but tingles build in my chest and – I’m literally tossing my hands in the air, because I either don’t have a word, or can’t think of one – but fine, enjoyment. I loved this book, the world, its characters, every little, shock, funny remark, tension filled moment.”

Tweet Cute_CoverTweet Cute – Emma Lord

eARC Finished: January 18, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review/ GR

 “[…] If you’re looking for a fun, dramatic rom com, with tweet wars, anonymous online chat friends, and romance, you’re not going to want to miss this book. You’re not going to want to miss falling in love with Jack and Pepper’s easy banter and great chemistry. Out today, so make sure you pick up your copy of Tweet Cute!”

frigidFrigid (Frigid #1) – Jennifer L. Armentrout

Paperback Finished: January 20, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review/ GR

“[…] If you’re looking for a book that’s got romance, a bunch of steamy scenes and some emotional growth, all set to the background of a giant snowstorm and some buckshot, you’ll want to check this out. Kyler and Sydney are so much fun, and so worth getting to know.”

 

Maybe this timeMaybe This Time – Kasie West

ARC Finished: January 23, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] I honestly don’t know what else to say about this book. I don’t think I went in with high expectations. I mainly picked it up because I’d liked a bunch of her other books, so I guess I expected to enjoy it. I did, on a base, ‘it’s an enjoyable read, where the stakes aren’t that high, and you can breeze right through it’ kind of a way. I just don’t really feel much for this book, it wasn’t bad, it wasn’t amazing, it just was.”

scorchedScorched (Frigid #2) – Jennifer L. Armentrout

Paperback Finished: January 25, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] If you’re looking for a quick steamy read where the characters cope with the cards, they’ve been dealt in whatever way they can – alcohol, sleep meds, a veneer of sharp barbs and bickering, and anger. Where the characters have to learn how to navigate a world that throws obstacles at them constantly and where you can find your soul mate even when you’re struggling – you’re going to want to check this book out. I doubt you’ll be disappointed.”

the stars we stealThe Stars We Steal – Alexa Donne

ARC Finished: January 26, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] I want to be clear – I didn’t hate this book, despite the issues I had with it. I was invested, I wanted to know what happened next, I loved the characters and hated others and I loved the setting and the feel and overall, just really enjoyed the book. But I also had issues with it and that’s okay. I do definitely recommend this book and you should definitely pick it up. It’s a good escape, and that’s what books do best – provide a few hours escape from the real world. You can pick up The Stars We Steal on February 4, 2020 when it hits shelves! I hope you enjoy!”

twisted palaceTwisted Palace (The Royals #3) – Erin Watt

Paperback Finished: January 31, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / GR

My full review for this book will be up this week, but I definitely enjoyed it and I didn’t see the ending coming. These books are definitely addicting, and I can’t wait to read the last two in the series!

 

 

Let me know what your favorite read of January was!

 

Jan’20 Book Haul

Um, I hauled 16 books in January.

16.

But I only bought 6?

So, technically I got 10 for free?

And I don’t have room for them? Book hauling problems, amirite?

Anyways, I’m really super excited for all of these, and cannot believe that I have some of these for collection purposes and reading purposes. There are a few of them that I really can’t believe that I was approved for on NetGalley, a handful of others that I got from Brigid, and even a couple I go through trading.

I really need to redo my shelves now, because I have no idea where I’m going to put all these books. Like, no idea at all.

img_6313Marrow Charm (The Gate Cycle #1) – Kristin Jacques

(US Paperback) / GR / Review

The world Above is full of monsters, both wild and cunning, some more human than Azzy was led to believe. Armin is captured and bound for the Auction block of Avergard, a ruthless city of inhuman lords and twisted creatures. To reach him, Azzy must brave the perils of the Above and the chaotic life forms created by the Gate. To reach him, she must find allies and forge new bonds in this broken world.

And Azzy must reach him, before Armin’s new power is used to open the Gate once more.

This was one of my favorite 2019 reads, and I finally bought a paperback copy because I needed it for my shelves. It’s gorgeous and I cannot wait for book 2 to come out. I need to know what happens next. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

dark of the westDark of the West (Glass Alliance #1) – Joanna Hathaway

(ARC) / GR

Athan’s mission becomes complicated when he finds himself falling for the girl he’s been tasked with spying upon. Aurelia feels the same attraction, all the while desperately seeking to stop the war threatening to break between the Southern territory and the old Northern kingdoms that control it—a war in which Athan’s father is determined to play a role. As diplomatic ties manage to just barely hold, the two teens struggle to remain loyal to their families and each other as they learn that war is not as black and white as they’ve been raised to believe.

I’ve been wanting to read this for a while, and when I was able to snag a copy of it during a trade, I jumped. I’m definitely putting this on my next TBR. I’ve waited long enough. It’s finally time to dive into this.

echoes between usEchoes Between Us – Katie McGarry

(Us Hardcover) / GR / Review

Veronica sees ghosts. More specifically, her mother’s ghost. The afterimages of blinding migraines caused by the brain tumor that keeps her on the fringes and consumes her whole life haunt her, even as she wonders if it’s something more…

Golden boy Sawyer is handsome and popular, a state champion swimmer, but his adrenaline addiction draws him to Veronica.

A girl with nothing to live for and a boy with everything to lose–can they conquer their demons together?

Ugh, I love this book so much. For whatever reason, I really connected with it and just fell in love with the characters. I’ve been waiting impatiently since like, July for a finished copy and now that I finally have it…I die. You should definitely be reading this book if you haven’t already. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

a heart so fierce and brokenA Heart so Fierce and Broken (Cursebreakers #2) – Brigid Kemmerer

(US Hardcover) / GR / Review

A Heart so Fierce and Broken (Cursebreakers #2) – Brigid Kemmerer

(UK Paperback) / GR

Heart so Fierce and Broken (Cursebreakers #2) – Brigid Kemmerer

(FairyLoot Exclusive Edition Hardcover) / GR

Rumored to be the heir, Grey has been on the run since he destroyed Lilith. He has no desire to challenge Rhen–until Karis Luran once again threatens to take Emberfall by force. Her own daughter Lia Mara sees the flaws in her mother’s violent plan, but can she convince Grey to stand against Rhen, even for the good of Emberfall?

 I loved this book as well, and possibly even more than Curse. It doesn’t disappoint and you all should read it and I’m so excited for book 3. Yes, I hauled 3 versions of this book in January, and yes, I definitely needed them all. I have no shame. My bank account hates me though, but it’s fine. I’m supporting a favorite author and a friend. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

CIWYW GermanDas Schicksal weiß schon, was es tut (Call it What You Want) – Brigid Kemmerer

(German Edition Hardcover) / GR / Review

When Rob and Maegan are paired together for a calculus project, they’re both reluctant to let anyone through the walls they’ve built. But when Maegan learns of Rob’s plan to fix the damage caused by his father, it could ruin more than their fragile new friendship…

Are you tired of hearing about Brigid’s books yet? Oh well, I’ll forever be posting about them. Brigid gave me a German copy of CIWYW, as well as a Czech copy of LTTL (listed below). I don’t usually collect foreign editions that I can’t actually read, but both of these editions are so pretty, and Brigid handed them to me, so I just added them to my collection. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

LTTL CzechLetters to the Lost – Brigid Kemmerer

(US Paperback) / GR / Review

Dopisy ztraceným (Letters to the Lost, Letters to the Lost #1) – Brigid Kemmerer

(Czech Edition Hardcover) / GR 

When Declan reads a haunting letter left beside a grave, he can’t resist writing back. Soon, he’s opening up to a perfect stranger, and their connection is immediate. But neither Declan nor Juliet knows that they’re not actually strangers. When life at school interferes with their secret life of letters, sparks will fly as Juliet and Declan discover truths that might tear them apart.

Brigid gifted both of these copies to me, after telling her that I was going to buy the US paperback of Letters, and then she told me about this gorgeous edition she had. So now I have both, plus the German CIWYW gracing my shelves. I love Letters, and it’s one of my favorite books, so give me all the copies. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

the how and the wayThe How & The Why – Cynthia Hand

(ARC) / GR

But eighteen years ago, someone wrote Cass a series of letters. And they may just hold the answers Cass has been searching for.

Alternating between Cass’s search for answers and letters from the pregnant teen who gave her up for adoption, this voice-driven narrative is the perfect read for fans of Nina LaCour and Jandy Nelson.

This wasn’t on my radar, and Brigid told me that I should read it, so now I have a copy. It definitely sounds interesting, and I trust her opinion, so I’ll give it a try.

obsidian new coverObsidian (Lux #1) – Jennifer L. Armentrout

(New Cover Paperback) / GR / Review

The hot alien living next door marks me.

You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon’s touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I’m getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.

If I don’t kill him first, that is.

Did I need a new copy of this book? Actually, yes. My copy is falling apart and I’m kind of terrified of taking it off my shelve. It’s been well loved and well-read and I love the new covers, so I figured, why the hell not. I was able to trade for it, so it all worked out. I also love these books, so I’m not complaining at all. I’ll just need to make more room on my JLA shelf…which might not be possible at this point. Oops. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

scavnge the Stars OCScavenge the Stars (Scavenge the Stars #1) – Tara Sim

(OwlCrate Exclusive Edition Hardcover) / GR / Review

Amaya wants one thing: revenge against the man who ruined her family and stole the life she once had. But the more entangled she becomes in this game of deception—and as her path intertwines with the son of the man she’s plotting to bring down—the more she uncovers about the truth of her past. And the more she realizes she must trust no one…

I wasn’t a big fan of this book, but I got the OwlCrate box anyways. I do love the cover, but I didn’t love the book enough to need a finished copy, let alone an exclusive one. It happens. I’ve linked my full review, above, if you’re interested.

sunshieldSunshield – Emily B. Martin

(NetGalley ARC) / GR

Separated by seas of trees and sand, the outlaw, the diplomat, and the prisoner are more connected than anyone realizes. Their personal fates might just tip the balance of power in the Eastern World—if that very power doesn’t destroy them first.

This is one of my Anticipated Reads for 2020 and I was shocked when I got the approval email. I’m super excited to dive into this, but it’s going to have to wait a bit for me to read a bunch of the other stuff I need to. I’m very sad about it. But soon, soon I will get to read and possibly fall in love with this book and I cannot wait of that to happen.

shieldedSheilded (Shielded #1) – KayLynn Flanders

(NetGalley ARC) / GR

Only, on the journey to reach her betrothed and new home, the royal caravan is ambushed, and Jenna realizes the rumors were wrong–the new threat is worse than anyone imagined. Now Jenna must decide if revealing a dangerous secret is worth the cost before it’s too late–for her and for her entire kingdom.

Ugh, this sounds so good and I literally cannot wait to dive into it. The cover is what initially drew me to it, and then when it popped up on NetGalley I knew I needed to at least try and see if I could get it, and shockingly enough, I did!

Wicked as you wisWicked as You Wish (A Hundred Names for Magic #1) – Rin Chupeco 

(NetGalley ARC) / GR

And with the rise of dangerous spelltech in the Royal States of America; the appearance of the firebird, Avalon’s deadliest weapon, at her doorstep; and the re-emergence of the Snow Queen, powerful but long thought dead, who wants nothing more than to take the firebird’s magic for her own – Tala’s life is about to get even more complicated….

Yes, I have a physical copy of this book, and I’m planning on reading it this month, but this was available for ‘Read Now’ on NetGalley and I decided to download it, so I could use the review I was already going to write, to help boost my rating. Also, I can ultimately end up trading my physical copy, or give it away, and still have a copy. Shush, don’t judge me.

the stone of sorrowThe Stone of Sorrow (Runecaster #1) – Brooke Carter

(NetGalley ARC) / GR

With a fallen Valkyrie by her side, and the help of a gorgeous half-elf Runa is not quite sure she can trust, the apprentice must travel to the site of an ancient runecasting competition to try to win back the magical gem. But the journey will not be easy; the three unlikely companions encounter malevolent and supernatural creatures at every turn. Somehow, Runa must summon the courage and strength to face her destiny, a destiny she never wanted. Or die trying.

This was an impulse request. I saw the cover, read the synopsis and decided ‘what the hell’ and clicked request…or maybe it was read now? I can’t remember. So far it appears as though people are enjoying it and it sounds really good. I’m also a sucker for Norse Mythology, so I’ll probably enjoy this regardless.

Okay, phew, finally got to the end. These posts are so much easier to write and finish when I only haul a few books. I’m going to have to go back on a book buying ban, or maybe more specifically book hauling ban, since I didn’t really buy that many in January.

Let me know in the comments, what was your favorite book you hauled in January?