Tag: mini book reviews

DNF Review: From Fire and Shadows (A Tale of Six Sources #1)

from fire and shadowsTitle: From Fire and Shadows

Author: J. F. Baptista

Pub. Date: August 15, 2020

Rating: ⭐️⭐️(DNF at 19%)

A girl with a dangerous power.
A warrior they call the shadow of death.
A world divided and slowly dying.

Six-year-old Theodora grew up at the House, a place for girls born without power. Abandoned as a baby, she has no memory of her past beyond the melody that invades her dreams. So when an ancient presence starts whispering in her ear, she answers.

Continue reading “DNF Review: From Fire and Shadows (A Tale of Six Sources #1)” →

Partial Book Review: To Sleep in A Sea of Stars

tsiasosTitle: To Sleep in A Sea of Stars

Author: Christopher Paolini

Pub. Date: September 15, 2020

Rating: TBD

It was supposed to be a routine research mission on an uncolonized planet. But when xenobiologist Kira Navárez finds an alien relic beneath the surface of the world, the outcome transforms her forever and will alter the course of human history.

Her journey to discover the truth about the alien civilization will thrust her into the wonders and nightmares of first contact, epic space battles for the fate of humankind, and the farthest reaches of the galaxy.

This will be a short spoiler free review and thank you NetGalley for providing a free partial copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I went into this book expecting to love it and hate it. Love it because it’s everything I want in SF book, hate it because I only have a partial eARC and I don’t know if there will be full ARCs. I also went in expecting to be super mad, again, because I don’t have the whole book.

Let me tell you, the wait until September is going to kill me, because I need to know what happens next. Like a desperate, aching need.

Christopher Paolini has written the book I’ve wanted for a long time. It feels so much like some of my absolutely favorite Sci-Fi TV Shows – Farscape, Stargate…

In fact, the way this partial eARC left off, it gave me serious Stargate Universe vibes, and the non-ending (if you’ve seen the show, that might be a slight spoiler) to that show still drives me mad. The only consolation is that, there is more to this book, I just have to wait for it. Which, honestly, doesn’t console me much, because I’m dying with how the partial ended.

Y’all, what I did read was so good, so captivating and I was instantly sucked into this world he created. There was a moment in this, that I legitimately stopped breathing while I was reading. The action was so tense, so emotional, and the outcome of that scene is – well, I don’t want to spoil, but it had my heart pounding.

I really like Kira and how she’s this pawn in a much bigger plan and isn’t really thrilled with how events turn out for her. I’m so anxious to see how this continues, because where this partial ARC ends, I’m dying to know. I NEED to know.

I’m sure exactly how much of the book I’ve read, I know it’s long, but judging how I felt and the emotions I went through with just this partial, come September I might be wrecked.

Since I haven’t read the full book yet, I’m giving this a 3.5 – rounding up for rating sake, but I have no doubt that this is going to be a 5star read from me, and something I read over and over. I’ve loved everything I’ve read so far and I’m still a massive Christopher Paolini fan.

Currently Reading and Watching #13

Honestly, I’ve been playing more Animal Crossing: New Horizons more than anything.

It’s taking over my life.

Image result for animal crossing new horizons gif

I have been reading, and I’ve read a lot of good books this month, but you’ll have to wait until my monthly wrap up post to find out what. I’ve also started a new show, and I’m kind of really into it.

BOOKS:

The Bridge Kingdom – Danielle L. Jensen

I legit just finished this, and I’m going to be downloading the audiobook since I cannot wait until September for the paperback copy. I’m kicking myself for waiting so long to read this. Rivals to Lovers, contract marriage, betrayals, and a fantastic fantasy world…it’s everything I want in a fantasy book. Definitely recommend and keep an eye out very soon for a full spoiler free review.

You’d Be Mine – Erin Hahn

I’m starting this today, and I’ve heard great things. I’m excited to finally get to it. I’ve read a lot of high fantasy lately, so a quick contemporary will be a nice change of pace.

SHOWS:

Heartland (Netflix)

I started this after I finished season 1 of Virgin River. I didn’t actually expect to get hooked on it, but I am. I love the plot line, of bad boy on probation who turns out to be a giant softy and slowly falls for the farm girl. I like the whole cast of characters and I’m trying to not blow through it, make it last, even though there are 17 seasons.

The Walking Dead (Live TV)

Negan is still a fave. As is Daryl and Judith. I do not care about Carol or Michonne. Honestly, I think I’m just tired of their plot lines, and the fact that Michonne has been missing like all season, I kind of forgot about her character’s journey.

Zoe’s Extraordinary Playlist (Live TV)

You should be watching this show. It’s so much fun, and even with some heavier emotional topics, it still manages to make you feel warm and fuzzy. I love it.

Grey’s Anatomy (Live TV)

If I weren’t so invested, I’d probably give up this show. It has to be coming to an end…with the way they’re legit writing characters into the ground and fucking up years of growth…It’s a shame. It doesn’t even feel like Grey’s anymore. It feels like someone is writing bad fan fic of the show.

Outlander (Live TV)

I hate Roger. I hate Bonnet (or whatever tf his name is). They’re both so damn annoying. Roger overreacts to everything and gets so pissy whenever things don’t go his way. Bonnet is just tired. Get rid of his character. Other than that, I’m enjoying this season, despite how slow it’s been.

Homeland (Live TV)

I only watch this because my dad does, and holy crap Carrie Mathison is so annoying and so whiny. Even my dad doesn’t like her. Her character doesn’t even make sense anymore. I’ve watched enough of the show over the years to get the general gist of her story, but damn. It’s not even believable anymore.

Castlevania (Netflix)

I’ve been dying for this to come back on…so I can’t tell you why I haven’t finished the latest season yet. Other than maybe I’m trying to not blow through it. I really like this show, so I’m surprised that I haven’t just binged it.

Feb’20 Wrap Up

Last month was a pretty solid reading month.

Everything I read ranged from DNF to really loved, and I think that’s a pretty good representation of reading as a whole.

I’m super thrilled when I like everything I read, but sometimes I start wondering if I’m not judging correctly or rating fairly. Then I read books that I absolutely cannot stand, or are just blah, and I realized that I’ve curated my reading habits and books to be things that I know I’ll like.

I’m always open to reading and trying new books, but I’ve gotten to the point where I know what I like, and what appeals to me. With so many books constantly piling up my TBR, I don’t have time to read books that I know aren’t going to interest me, or that don’t appeal within the first 50-100 pages.

I liked Feb’s reads, so let’s take a look at what I read last month.

havenfallHavenfall (Havenfall #1) – Sara Holland

eARC Finished: February 5, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] 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.”

crescent cityHouse of Blood and Earth (Crescent City #1) – Sarah J. Maas

eARC Excerpt Finished: February 6, 2020

TBD / Review / GR

“[…] 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.”

greythorneGreythorne (Bloodleaf #2) – Crystal Smith

US Coverless ARC Finished: February 9, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] 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!”

undoneUndone (Unknown #3) – Wendy Higgins

US Paperback Finished: February 12, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] When I got to the end of the book, I just wanted to continue reading, but that’s hard to do when you read the last page.

Overall, I liked how the book and the series ended. I don’t think I really have any complaints, except that I wish there was another book, but I’m pretty sure I already said that. I could definitely read a whole book about what happens after the final battle.”

magebornMageborn (The Hollow King #1) – Jessica Thorne

eARC Finished: February 17, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / Review / GR

“[…] I hope that in this jumble, mess of a review, I’ve managed to convince you to read this book. It’s out today, I’ve already ordered my copy, because I need a physical version in my life, so you can check it out whenever. I recommend this week, so you can bump it to the top of your reading list, so I can have someone to talk to about it. I’m going crazy, bottling up all my thoughts about this book. So, seriously, if you’ve read it (and if you made it this far in this very long review, sorry) please message me, dm me on twitter, and I will gladly chat.

Like I said, if you’re a fan of SJM, Air Awakens and Serpent & Dove you’re going to love this book. Out today, February 18, 2020, check out Mageborn! Everyone should be reading this book, so get to it!”

clock danceClock Dance – Anne Tyler

Library Hardcover: February 21, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / GR

 This was my Book Club’s pick and I didn’t want to read it. I wasn’t a fan, and this would never be a book I’d pick up off the shelf. It was a pretty easy and quick read, but the ending legitimately sucked. It made the book not worth the minimal effort it required to read it. I didn’t like any of the characters, and every man in this book is trash. I don’t recommend and this is all I’m giving in terms of a review. 

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

US ARC Finished: February 20, 2020 (DNF at page 28)

⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] But it was more than just being unable to picture the world, but take every fantasy story, every mythology, lore, and history fact you know, and throw them all in a book and you’d have this. Then add a whole heaping of modern-day world problems and concerns and politics.

It was just kind of a mess, and I felt so loss amongst everything going on in the beginning of this book.

Now, maybe I’m in the minority here, but I absolutely hate it, and it’s almost always an automatic turn off, when a book includes thinly veiled, media hyped political rants that do nothing but bash the US. I read fantasy books to escape.

chain of goldChain of Gold (The Last Hours #1) – Cassandra Clare

US ARC Finished: February 24, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / Review / GR

“[…] I have no idea what to expect, or how this trilogy is going to turn out, but I have a feeling it’s not going to disappoint. I have my predictions, my hopes for who is going to be endgame, but really, I have no idea what could happen plot wise. I know the books are going to be chocked full of action moments, sweet moments, gushy moments and probably heart breaking moments, but everything else, I have no idea, and I’m ready and quite terrified to find out. I love these characters now, and don’t want any more harm to come to them.”

lanterns in the skyLanterns in the Sky (The Starlight Chronicles #1) – P.S. Malcolm

eARC Finished: February 25, 2020 (DNF at 50%)

⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

“[…] Ultimately, to my disappointment, this book just didn’t do it for me. Overall, it was just kind of a mess and I don’t want to recommend this to anyone. It’s just not worth it.”

fatedFated (The Will of Yggdrasil #1) – Sara C. Roethle

eARC Finished: February 27, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / Review TK / GR

 I read this because Elise Kova posted about it in her Facebook group, and I really enjoyed it. I have a full review coming, so this will be brief. This series is fully addicting, even though the writing isn’t the best and it’s a bit formulaic. It’s very much a paranormal NA, and if you’ve read anything in that genre, then you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. That doesn’t stop me from legit inhaling each book in this series. I’m already on book 3.

fallenFallen (The Will of Yggdrasil #2) – Sara C. Roethle

eBook Finished: February 28, 2020

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review TK  / GR

 I inhaled this in like 3 hours? And then promptly bought book 3. I have a full review coming, so this will be brief, but I’m fully engrossed in this series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. A lot happens in this book and the characters are on one hell of a journey. You should all check out this series.

 I’m excited to see what I get read this month! So many books are coming out and I have a few ARCs I have to read for review!

What was your favorite read from February, or what are you looking forward to read this month? I’m super ready to read House of Blood and Earth!

 

Book Review: Scorched (Frigid #2)

scorchedTitle: Scorched (Frigid #2)

Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout

Pub. Date: June 16, 2015

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sometimes life leaves a mark.

Most days, Andrea doesn’t know whether she wants to kiss Tanner or punch him in the gut. He is seriously hot, with legit bedroom eyes and that firefighter body of his, but he’s a major player, and they can’t get along for more than a handful of minutes. Until now.

Tanner knows he and Andrea have had an epic love/hate relationship for as long as he can remember, but he wants more love than hate from her. He wants her. Now. Tomorrow. But the more he gets to know her, the more it becomes obvious that Andrea has a problem. She’s teetering on the edge, and every time he tries to catch her, she slips through his fingers.

Andrea’s life is spiraling out of control, and it doesn’t matter that Tanner wants to save her, because when everything falls apart and she’s speeding toward rock bottom, only she can save herself.

Sometimes life makes you work for that happily ever after…

This will be a mini spoiler free review.

Why is Jen so good at writing such flawed and wonderful guys? Sure, maybe they start off as assholes, or put on a front to hide their real feelings, but damn, she makes you care for them. She also makes you wish they existed in real life.

Maybe they do.

But I’ll blame Jen for my high expectations.

It’s been five years since I last read this book, and I didn’t remember most of what happened. If you wait long enough to reread a book, it’s like reading it for the first time all over again. It’s great.

I’ve already established that I loved Tanner – he’s not perfect and makes some terrible mistakes. But he owns up to them. He doesn’t just sit in his wrongness and pout; he acts like an adult and apologizes.

I also like Andrea. She’s struggling, keeping it all hidden behind smiles, sharp witty barbs towards Tanner and the air that nothing is wrong. Even though it the furthest thing from the truth.

Whereas the first book in this series is a bit more lighthearted, despite the events that take place, this one has more of a real world feel. Almost like the stakes are higher and the characters have further to fall.

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.

Book Review: Frigid (Frigid #1)

frigidTitle: Frigid (Frigid #1)

Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout

Pub. Date: July 15, 2013

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For twenty-one-year-old Sydney, being in love with Kyler isn’t anything new. They’d been best friends ever since he pushed her down on the playground and she made him eat a mud pie. Somewhere over the years, she fell for him and fell hard. The big problem with that? Kyler puts the ‘man’ in man-whore. He’s never stayed with a girl longer than a few nights, and with it being their last year in college, Syd doesn’t want to risk their friendship by declaring her love.

Kyler has always put Syd on a pedestal that was too high for him to reach. To him, she’s perfect and she’s everything. But the feelings he has for her, he’s always hidden away or focused on any other female. After all, Kyler will always be the poor boy from the wrong side of tracks, and Syd will always be the one girl he can never have.

But when they’re stranded together at a posh ski resort due to a massive Nor’easter, there’s nothing stopping their red-hot feelings for each other from coming to the surface. Can their friendship survive the attraction? Better yet, can they survive at all? Because as the snow falls, someone is stalking them, and this ski trip may be a life-changer in more ways than one.

This will be a short, spoiler free review.

Technically this is my 3rd 5 star read this year, but I’m hesitant to count it. Not that I’m going to remember to actively keep track of this list. I hesitate to count it because it’s a re-read…but the fact that I still loved it so much and it’s been 6ish years since its publication, maybe I should.

I picked up Frigid in my efforts to continue my reread of JLA’s very extensive backlist. I hadn’t read it since its publication, and I knew it was a relatively short book and I’d be able to get through it quickly.

I should note – for those of you who might not know – heads up, this isn’t YA. It’s definitely New Adult.

It’s also just really enjoyable, a bit predictable, but it allows you to turn your brain off for 250ish pages. You get to just immerse yourself in the story and get lost. It’s one of my favorite things about this book. As well as the fact that it takes place on a mountain, in a snowstorm.

Shenanigans ensue.

All sorts of shenanigans.

There’s also the little bit of mystery and a bit of terror.

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.

 

December Wrap-Up

December was kind of a rough month and I needed distractions…so I read a lot of books. Some of these books actually surprised me and I enjoyed them a lot more than I anticipated – which is always a good thing.

I’d definitely recommend reading these books, or at least giving them a fair try. There’s quite a collection of genres – again, I was all over the place last month. I tried to read things that interested me, and some of them I grabbed books that weren’t even on my TBR list.

I do have full reviews for all of these books, so I won’t be going into too much detail here, but f

feel free to check out my reviews for each of these reads.

the weaverThe Weaver (The Weaver #1) – Heather Kindt

eARC Finished: December 4, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

The story concept as a whole is fantastic. How often do we all wish that we can bring our characters to life? I know I do. I really did like the concept and the story Kindt created, and I’m interested in seeing how this trilogy plays out. I also really liked that it’s set on a college campus and that the characters are college age. I don’t read near enough NA anymore and this was a nice little foray back into that age range.

If this book is on your radar, definitely give it a chance. It’s a quick read with some cutes-y moments and a unique concept. I read it in a handful of hours, and I’m a bit bummed I have to wait for the next one.

Conceal dont feelConceal, Don’t Feel (Twisted Tales #7) – Jen Calonita

Hardcover Finished: December 6, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

Overall, I was disappointed, and felt like it was lacking magic and uniqueness. It was a fun read and I enjoyed the Anna and Kristoff scenes. If you’re a Frozen fan, if you can’t get Frozen 2 and its amazing songs out of your head, and you’re biding time before you can go see it in theaters again, then you should maybe pick this up.

beyond the shadowed earthBeyond a Shadowed Earth (Beneath the Haunting Sea #2) – Joanna Ruth Meyer

ARC Finished: December 9, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

 Overall, this is definitely a great fantasy and I can’t honestly think of anything else that I’ve read this year that is like it. There are a few small similarities – giant, people carrying birds – being the main thing, but still unique. The lore and history that Joanna has created in this world is so rich and vast and the pantheon of Gods is so interesting. Definitely pick up Beyond the Shadowed Earth when it comes out in little over a month, January 14, 2020!

second starSecond Star (Neverland Transmissions #1) – J.M. Sullivan

eARC Finished: December 10, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / Review / GR

Overall, I’m glad that this book wasn’t a disappointment and I’m a bit excited to see what happens next in the series. Peter Pan + Space = my kryptonite. I love it.

 

lovestruck.jpgLovestruck – Kate Watson

Paperback Finished: December 11, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / Review / GR

I also really liked the other characters in this book, and I’m really glad it ended the way it ended, and I definitely didn’t see that little twist/revelation coming at the end. I’m really glad that this book didn’t disappoint and that once I really got into it, I was hooked. If you’re looking for a relatively quick and wonderfully distracting read, you should probably pick this up. Also, if you’re a fan of Greek Mythology, you should pick this up as well. I love that 2019 is introducing me to stories I haven’t read before…or even heard of. It’s fantastic and I can’t wait to see what this author does next.

scavenge the starsScavenge the Stars (Scavenge the Stars #1) – Tara Sim

ARC Finished: December 12, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

Overall, while I was unimpressed, even though the writing is strong and the cast of characters is diverse. If you’ve liked Tara Sim’s other books, you will probably want to pick this up and check it out when it comes out in January.

 

the queen of nothingThe Queen of Nothing (Folk of the Air #3) – Holly Black

OC Hardcover Finished: December 13, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

I still don’t like Jude, there wasn’t enough Cardan to truly keep my interested and nothing fucking happened in this book. Don’t @ me.

 

unknownUnknown (Unknown #1) – Wendy Higgins

Paperback Finished: December 26, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / Review / GR

If you’re looking for a quick, post-apocalyptic, alien, slow burn romance read, you’ll definitely want to check this out. I’m anxiously awaiting the arrival of book 2, and maybe I should just go ahead and order book 3.

 

wardens of eternityWardens of Eternity – Courtney Moulton

ARC Finished: DNF at page 135 (December 27, 2019)

DNF / Review / GR

Maybe one day in the future I’ll try finishing this book, but today’s not that day. I wanted desperately to like this book, but between the lacking characters, the weird pacing and unbelievable actions, I can’t bring myself to finish it. I don’t buy into Ziva, I don’t care about her or her journey. I don’t care about any of it, if I’m being completely honest. It kind of felt like this could have been a part of the Shadowhunter universe, but like, in a way that just didn’t work. I don’t know and I’m bummed because it sounds really good. Maybe the second half of the book is really good – if it is, and if you’ve read it let me know.

fate of the drownedFate of the Drowned (The Broken Lands #3) – Carrie Summers

Paperback Finished: December 29, 2019

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / Review / GR

Again, overall, I liked this book and enjoyed it. I was reminded of why I’ve fallen in love with Carrie’s writing. She’s so good at it, and making the world come to life in your mind. She’s so good at creating these wonderfully flawed human characters that make you feel.

What books did you read in December? Should any of them be on my list of potential reads? Let me know!

November Book Haul

My book buying ban kind of, sort of ended. I’m not purchasing books like I used to – so my bank account loves me. The majority of the books I hauled in November where from trades/friends. I really only purchased 2 books…well, 3 if you count the one, I bought to donate. So, while I hauled quite a few books, I didn’t break my bank.

Surprisingly taking a month off from buying books (or however long I put myself on a ban) the urge to buy every single new book has greatly diminished. There are still a few that I really want to own finished copies of, but overall, I’m glad I’ve scaled back on the book acquiring. Though…maybe you can’t tell from November’s haul.

Anyways, let’s jump into it and check out the books I got in November!

seerpent and doveSerpent & Dove – Shelby Mahurin

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Review / GR

The war between witches and Church is an ancient one, and Lou’s most dangerous enemies bring a fate worse than fire. Unable to ignore her growing feelings, yet powerless to change what she is, a choice must be made.

This is one of my favorite 2019 reads and I cannot wait for the second book! If you haven’t yet read Serpent & Dove you’re missing out! I have a spoiler free review (linked above) so if you’re interested you can check out all my thoughts there!

the last hope.jpgThe Last Hope (The Raging Ones #2) – Krista & Becca Ritchie

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / TRO Review / Review / GR

As Court and Mykal grow closer, their linked bond becomes harder to hide, and dynamics change when Franny begins to fall for someone new. Vulnerable and with no choice, the hunt for the baby sends the trio on a dangerous path to Saltare-1: a water world where their enemies can’t die and survival comes at a high cost.

This was such a good finale too this series. I never anticipated The Raging Ones becoming a favorite book, and the second one did not disappoint in the slightest. If you’re looking for a really good sci-fi duology, you should definitely check these books out. If you’re interested, you can check out my reviews for both books (linked above).

Maybe this timeMaybe This Time – Kasie West

GR

Told over the course of one year and following Sophie from event to event, this delightful novel from master of romantic comedy Kasie West shows how love can blossom in unexpected places.

I’m always down for a fluffy contemporary romance, and I’m such a huge fan of Kasie’s books. They’re just fun reads that are always enjoyable and always so good! I cannot wait to dive into this one, and maybe finally start catching up on all her recent releases!

ruthless gods.jpgRuthless Gods (Something Dark and Holy #2) – Emily A. Duncan

WS Review / GR

 In her dramatic follow-up to Wicked Saints, the first book in her Something Dark and Holy trilogy, Emily A. Duncan paints a Gothic, icy world where shadows whisper, and no one is who they seem, with a shocking ending that will leave you breathless.

I still cannot believe that I have a physical copy of this ARC. Thanks Sammy! I’m definitely planning on diving into this really soon! With having recently been in a slump and then with NaNo happening, I didn’t want to start it with distractions and disinterest. Now that both of those things are gone and done, I’m super anxious to finally dive in and read more about Emily’s disaster children. It’s been a hot minute since I read Wicked Saints, but regardless, it’s happening! If you’re interested, you can check out my review for Wicked Saints (linked above).

havenfallHavenfall – Sara Holland

Excerpt Review / GR

Sara Holland takes the lush fantasy that captured readers in Everless and Evermore and weaves it into the real world to create a wholly captivating new series where power and peril lurk behind every door.

I can’t believe that I was approved for this book on Netgalley. I read the excerpt that was posted last month and loved it. I was pretty bummed and honestly annoyed when I got to the end of the excerpt and had nothing more to read. If I had – I’d probably would have sat on the couch all day and read the book in one sitting. So, needless to say, I’m super excited to be able to read this early and I cannot wait to jump back into it. I do have a short review posted, so if you’re interested, I’ve linked it above.

the queen of nothingQueen of Nothing (Folk of the Air #3) – Holly Black

TCP Review / TWK Review / GR

 From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black, comes the highly anticipated and jaw-dropping finale to The Folk of the Air trilogy.

 I’m shocked that I haven’t been spoiled for this book yet – but that’s probably only because I’ve muted so many words and phrases pertaining to this series on Twitter. I swear I’m going to get to it soon. Hopefully this week. That’s my plan anyways. I’m excited for it, but not like overwhelmingly so. I enjoy the books a lot, but they’re not favorites…I’m going to go run and hide now, because that might have been a slightly controversial statement. If you’re interested, you can check out my reviews for The Cruel Prince and The Wicked King (linked above).

the wish they were usThey Wish They Were Us – Jessica Goodman

GR

Gossip Girl meets One of Us Is Lying with a dash of The Secret History in this slick, taut murder mystery set against the backdrop of an exclusive prep school on Long Island.

My friend Sammy grabbed this book for me while she was at Yallfest. I don’t know much/next to nothing about this book, but it sounds interesting. Though, to be honest, it’s pretty low on my list of books to read. It also doesn’t come out until like January, so there really is no rush. I’m kind of a sucker for things inspired by Gossip Girl so I definitely plan on giving it a chance, but probably not until next year.

evermore academyEvermore Academy – Audrey Grey

GR

Welcome to Evermore Academy where the magic is dark, the immortals are beautiful, and being human SUCKS.

If you love reading about fated mates, enemies-to-lovers, snarky heroines, and everything Fae, then one click today and fall into this magical new series that’s being called Vampire Academy meets The Cruel Prince!

I’ve kind of fallen in love with Audrey Grey’s writing and when I saw this on sale for * I think * .99 cents, I knew I had to grab it. I do want a finished copy, but for now, I’m happy with the eBook. I’m super excited to dive into it and I think I’m going to do that very soon. I already know that I’m going to be reading anything that Audrey publishes from here on out.

So many new and awesome sounding books – now I just need to not fall into another slump, and I need to get reading. I’m so excited for so many of these books and I cannot wait to dive into them. What was your favorite book you hauled in November? What book(s) do you want most for Christmas?

 

 

 

Currently Reading & Watching #9

I wasn’t planning on posting this today – but I wasn’t able to finish the book I’d wanted to review. Oh well.

Image result for greys anatomy dancing gifI try to do these posts about a month a part and it’s been almost a month and I like doing these posts and sharing them with you all.

Reading-wise, I’m currently reading two very different kinds of books. One is a high fantasy while the other is Paranormal(?) I guess.

As for shows, that’s not really changed to be honest. But, let’s jump into what I’m currently reading and watching!

BOOKS:

The Chameleon with a Sword – B. L. Logan

I’m not very far into this yet, but I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read so far. I haven’t heard much about this book, so I don’t really have any expectations. It has a solid 4 stars on Goodreads, so I’m guessing people have liked it. My goal is to finish it this week!

Every Last Breath – Jennifer L. Armentrout

This wasn’t on my TBR, but I finished book 2 and really just wanted to breeze through the final book in the trilogy. I’m really loving being back in this world with these characters. It’s been so long since I’ve read them, that I don’t actually remember a lot of what happens. So it’s kind of like reading them all for the first time again.

WATCHING:

Grey’s Anatomy (Netflix)

Still going strong and I’m currently on season 5, and Izzy has just recently been diagnosed with cancer, Mer + Der got engaged and there’s so much drama. Though, to be honest, I’m ready for the episodes when Izzy is no longer on the show. She’s my least favorite character.

The Walking Dead (Live TV)

Give me more Negan. Also, Carol is starting to get on my nerves, and I love Daryl and Lydia’s relationship and how much he cares for her and relates to her.

Victorious (Netflix)

This probably isn’t surprising since everyone seems to be watching this since Netflix put it up.

Also, Jade is probs my least favorite character. *runs and hides*

Clare Siobhan & Kelsey (Buzzfeed Multiplayer) (YouTube)

This one is a bit different, but I’ve recently fallen down a “let me watch other’s play the Sims4” rabbit hole. It started with watching Kelsey do the “100 Baby Challenge” – which is highly addicting and there is an entire playlist with A LOT of videos and then I was being recommended other channels and started watching Clare’s. I’ve most recently fallen into her Strangerville series and I can’t stop watching. I never “play” Sims 4, I just mainly build houses and create Sim, and have never really been a fan of watching people play games. But clearly something has changed

September Wrap-Up

September was a pretty good reading month, despite not reading for the majority of the month. I managed to whip out quite a few in the last week/few days, and only one of them was a DNF – I just could not get into it. It sucks when that happens, but sometimes a book just doesn’t work for me. Granted I didn’t realize it was the fifth book in a series…And rather than forcing myself to read through it, I have too many other books to read to waste time on something that’s just not working.

Anyways, let’s rehash everything I read this past month. All of these have a review, which I’ll link below, so feel free to check them out!

slumber.jpgSlumber – Becky Bird

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / (eARC Finished: 9/8/19) / Review / GR

A fun Disney Sleeping Beauty reimaging that will allow you to turn your brain off and just enjoy!

 

capturing the devilCapturing the Devil – Kerri Mansicalco

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / (Hardcover Finished: 9/11/19) / Review / GR

The finale in the Stalking Jack the Ripper Series, where the hunt is on for Audrey Rose and Thomas as they hunt a killer through the White City.

 

the hollow queenThe Hollow Queen – Sherry D. Ficklin

DNF / Review / GR

The fifth book in a historical fantasy series about royalty, and this one focuses on the last Romanov Princess.

 

the memory thiefThe Memory Thief – Lauren Mansy

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / (ARC Finished: 9/23/19) / Review / GR

In a place where memories are a commodity and power is absolute, one girl will do whatever she can to break the cycle and save everyone.

 

bid my soul farewellBid My Soul Farewell – Beth Revis

⭐️⭐️⭐️ / (ARC Finished: 9/24/19) / Review / GR

An army of the risen dead, a power-hungry ancient entity and romance, the final book in this duology, Nedra has debts to settle and things to set right.

 

these wicked watersThese Wicked Waters – Emily Layne

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / (ARC Finished: 9/26/19) / Review / GR 

Think, Jurassic World, but with human-hating, hungry sirens instead of Dinosaurs. Oh, and romance.

 

the navigatorThe Navigator – Erin Michelle Sky & Steven Brown

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / (eARC Finished: 9/29/19) / Review / GR

It’s time to fly back to Neverland with the second installment in The Tales of the Wendy series. London is in danger, identities revealed, and a potential budding romance between a pirate and a Wendy.

 

img_6313Marrow Charm – Kristin Jacques

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / (eARC Finished: 9/30/19) / Review / GR

Magic has raged across the surface of the world, forcing humans below ground. Barely scraping by, one girl decides to brave the surface in order to find and save her brother and forms strong bonds along the way…but there’s something different about her.

 

I’m already four books into October and getting ready to start my fifth. So many amazing books come out and have already come out this month, so be ready for some packed Haul and Wrap-Up posts in November!

QOTD: What was your favorite read in September?