Answering Your Questions! 1,000 Follower Q&A

Again, one HUGE thank you to all of my followers, and to those of you who commented or left a question!

Debby @ Always Booking, Asked:

Coffee or Tea?

Tea, I love tea and drink it pretty much daily. I really want to be a coffee person but I just don’t like the taste as much.

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Theo @ Reading and Rambling, Asked:

What’s your absolute least favorite character you have EVER read?

Trust me there are definitely quite a few and it’s hard to pick between them for the absolute worst! I’m probably going to have to go with Zoe Redbird from the House of Night series, she was like Bella Swan but waaaay worse. It was constant stupid decisions!

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Meghan @ Meghan’s Whimsical Explorations & Reviews, Asked:

What helped inspire you to create your blog name? 

So my friends are constantly teasing me for being “sassy” all the time, mostly it’s my tone when I’m being sarcastic (which is kind of a lot) so that’s why I went with the Sassy part of my blog name. Then of course I love books and I fully embrace my geekiness (with all things from movies to video games) so Book Geek!

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Lilly @ Lair of Books, Asked:

Which new to you 2017 debut author are you most interested in following into 2018?

There were SO many but I’m gonna have to go with Angie Thomas, her book “The Hate U Give” was perfection and her writing is amazing. Super excited for her book this year “On the Come Up”!

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Kayla @ Kayla’s Book Nook, Asked:

Have you ever taken the Myers Briggs personality test? If so, what was your result?

Yes, I am INFJ.

What is your Hogwarts house and do you own any merchandise pertaining to it?

Ravenclaw and I do have a shirt but I’m definitely wanting to get a lot more merch!

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Jessica @ The Awkward Book Blogger, Asked:

If you could trade places with one character in any book, who would you trade places with?

Definitely Eowyn from “The Lord of the Rings” because she is a badass!

What is your favorite bookish item that you own (bookish shirts, mugs, prints, jewelry, etc.)?

Probably my canvas print of the Marauder’s Map that I have hanging on my wall, it’s gorgeous and of course I want to fill my space with Harry Potter related items…

What is one skill you’d like to learn (fictional or real life)?

Sword-fighting, more on the fictional side of things though.

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Aria @ Snow White Hates Apples, Asked: 

What’s your most favorite and least favorite literary trope?

Favorite: Forbidden Romance

Least Favorite: Insta-love (it’s just so unrealistic, I like a slow burn romance!)

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Kristin @ Kristin Kraves Books, Asked:

Who would you want to write your autobiography?

Jay Kristoff, he’s my favorite author, and his writing is gorgeous. Also I feel like he could really embellish my autobiography….by adding swords and thunder tigers…..

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Jess @ Beaucoupbooks, Asked:

Any advice for newbie bloggers?

I feel like I always give the same advice but it’s because it’s the best advice I feel I can give. So newbie bloggers: do not be afraid to interact with other bloggers! If they have 5 followers or 5,000 followers we all love chatting with each other so go for it!

And what was your favorite read of 2017?

Probably “Red Rising” by Pierce Brown, it had everything I love in a book!

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Kelly @ Just Another Book in the Wall, Asked:

What made you decide to start blogging?

Well back in 2015 I finally joined Goodreads and while I was reading reviews and searching for new books I discovered book bloggers! Of course I didn’t really know much about it then but I figured what better way to express my love of books than to start my own? Plus I actually get to talk about them now, as I don’t really have any IRL family or friends that read.

And, who is your current favorite book blogger?

Destiny @ Howling Libraries, she’s not only super sweet and supportive but I’m always looking forward to her reviews and posts!

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Orangutan Librarian, Asked:

Which book world would you most like to live in?

Hands down Middle Earth! I’d get all the adventure but also be relatively safe too, haha!

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Misty @ Misty’s Book Space, Asked:

What was you favorite and least favorite read of 2017?

Favorite: Red Rising by Pierce Brown

Least Favorite: The Devils You Know by M.C. Atwood

What book are you most looking forward to reading in 2018?

I have to say I’m most looking forward reading “The Cruel Prince” since it is super hyped and everyone seems to love it!

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Anna @ My Bookish Dream, Asked:

-Which fantasy world would you love to live in? What would you like to do there?

Middle Earth, for sure! As far as what I would do there…hmmm. I’d probably act like a tourist to be honest going and seeing the Shire, Edoras, and Minas Tirith. Also I would probably hunt down Legolas and cling to him.

-And which one would you definitely stay away from? Why?

Probably the world of “An Ember in the Ashes” because it is extremely brutal and I would more than likely not survive whatsoever!

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Amanda @ Metal Phantasm Reads, Asked:

What’s a movie or music album you’re looking forward to this year?

I’m not really big into music albums but as for movies I’m probably most looking forward to Avengers: Infinity War!

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Lucinda @ Lucinda is Reading, Asked:

What book/author never fails to make you smile?

Probably “Hyperbole and a Half” by Allie Brosh as I always find it hilarious and it really never fails in that!

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Ignited Moth, Asked:

What book have you read that made you feel the widest range of emotions while reading it?

“Red Rising” by Pierce Brown, I was shocked, sad, happy, and enraged while reading that one! So many different plot twists!

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Hannah @ Mortal Reader, Asked:

What was your favorite read of 2017?

“Red Rising” by Pierce Brown!

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Zezee @ Zezee with Books, Asked:

What are 2 fantasy novels you’d highly recommend?

“Stormdancer” by Jay Kristoff and “An Ember in the Ashes” by Sabaa Tahir

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Michelle @ Book Adventures, Asked:

If you ever came across the mirror of Erised what do you think it would show?

This is such a creative question Michelle! I think the Mirror of Erised would show me happily in love and sitting, reading inside of a giant home library.

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I Meant To Read in 2017….and Failed

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by  The Broke and the Bookish.

So these are all actually books I have on my 2018 Beat the Backlist TBR (which has yet to be posted) so I am bound and determined to ACTUALLY read them this year! They deserve it!

These are in no particular order.

10.) Little Monsters by Kara Thomas

I absolutely LOVED “The Darkest Corners” it was such a dark, twisted mystery/thriller especially for YA, there were times when I forgot I was even reading YA! After an amazing debut like that I want to read all of her books and this one is no exception, I just really need to get my butt into gear!

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9.) The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

I KNOW I NEED TO READ THIS SO VERY BADLY! I am ashamed of myself for not having read this yet! It’s pretty much a must read for fantasy fans and I am one, therefore I must read this. This is the year!

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8.) Because You Love To Hate Me by Various Authors

I am all for tales from the villain’s POV which all of these are, plus I like a good collection of short stories! I have heard mixed things about this one but I’m still excited to read it! I am so terrible, I’ve been meaning to read this for months. Literally.

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7.) Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor

I bought this right when it released and still haven’t read it. Why am I like this? I love Laini’s writing and I need to get lost in her newest fantasy creation! Soon, my friends, soon.

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6.) A Gathering of Shadows by V.E. Schwab

I do have a sort of excuse for this one but also not really because I own both this and “A Conjuring of Light”. I feel like I need to read this at exactly the right moment because I do not want to start reading and not be ready or have time to be fully immersed in this one, it deserves my attention 100%!

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5.) The Queen of Blood by Sarah Beth Durst

I’ve hear tons of good things about this book and I got it a while ago for Christmas so honestly I have no excuses for myself since I own it! It sounds super good and I love a good fantasy with interesting world building!

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4.) The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

I finally got the complete box set of the whole series so I am fully prepared to re-enter the Percy Jackson world. Now I just need to get to reading it…..

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3.) Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller

I borrowed this from the library, didn’t finish it, brought it back, bought a cheap copy on Book Outlet, and then proceeded to still not read it. I love pirates, I want to read all the pirate books, so I am FINALLY going to read it this year!

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2.) Dangerous Girls by Abigail Haas

Okay this book comes highly recommended by a ton of people and I’ve started it and stopped a couple of times just because I had other things to read. But this year I’m finally going to finish it, maybe during the summer since it gives off that vibe with the cover.

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1.) Bad Romance by Heather Demetrios

This is a book about an abusive relationship and while that may be hard to read through I think it’s going to be a very honest and important book about abusive relationships. I’m really excited to finally read it plus I think the cover is stunning.

Have you read any of these books? What did you think?

Did you mean to get to any of these last year as well?

Are you planning on reading any of them this year?

What were some of YOUR books you meant to get to in 2017 and didn’t?

Let me know in the comments!

January New Releases I’m Excited For!

It’s a new year and of course that means tons of new books! January is LOADED with new releases and I can’t wait to get my hands on a lot of them.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
Release Date: January 2nd

Everyone has been raving about this book, I don’t think there’s anyone out there who ISN’T loving this book! I also love this black and gold cover from Barnes & Noble and I think that’s the one I’ll be getting. I need to read more Fae books!

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Everless by Sara Holland
Release Date: January 2nd

This one is like a fantasy mixed with the movie ‘In Time’ if you’ve ever seen that, people use time off of their lives as currency. I am down for this!

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Batman: Nightwalker by Marie Lu
Release Date: January 2nd

Well I already have the Wonder Woman book so I need the Batman one, it’s just good manners.

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Gunslinger Girl by Lyndsay Ely
Release Date: January 2nd

A dystopian, western featuring a girl who fights against a corrupt city. I like the blend of two very distinct and different genres, I think it will prove to be a very unique book.

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Between the Blade and the Heart by Amanda Hocking
Release Date: January 2nd

I was lucky to recieve an e-galley of this book and really enjoy it. It’s about Valkyries who are put in charge of slaying the other immortals on Earth, including many different supernatural beings from many different mythologies around the world.

You can read my full review here. 

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A Conspiracy of Stars by Olivia A. Cole
Release Date: January 2nd

I FREAKING LOVE THIS BOOK! It reminded me a lot of the movie ‘Avatar’ with the lush flora and fauna on a far off planet that a group of humans now inhabit along with the indiginous people. The world building is seriously creative, unique, and amazing.

You can read my full review here. 

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The Forgotten Book by Mechthild Glaser 
Release Date: January 2nd

This one is about a girl who finds a book that whatever she writes in it comes true. Sounds very “Inkheart” and also kind of like “Death Note” hopefully not the latter, haha!

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Unearthed by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner
Release Date: January 9th

This is being described as Indiana Jones in space and that right there has me sold.

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Beneath the Sugar Sky by Seanan McGuire
Release Date: January 9th

The third book in this series I’m excited to read about one of the “nonsense” worlds and hope that McGuire gives us more books!

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Iron Gold by Pierce Brown
Release Date: January 16th

While I have yet to finish the last 2 books I am 100% ready for this one too so I can binge!

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Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson
Release Date: January 16th

All I know is this is about an unsolved kidnapping mystery and a new kid attending the school where it happeend tries solving it but also a new crime that has appeared as well. Sounds pretty good though.

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Reign of the Fallen by Sarah Glenn Marsh
Release Date: January 23rd

I’m SUPER excited for this one because 1.) the cover is gorgeous and 2.) it’s a fantasy about a necromancer and it’s also LGBT!

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Markswoman by Rati Mehrotra
Release Date: January 23rd

This fantasy sounds badass, it’s about a sisterhood of elite warriors that use telepathic blades. Awesome.

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Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann
Release Date: January 23rd

This one seems like a really fun and cute read featuring POC and also an asexual main character

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The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert
Release Date: January 30th

This one is a about a girl whose grandmother wrote a book of dark fairy tales and when her mother is kidnapped by something that claims to be from the land portrayed in those tales she is determined to rescue her. It SOUNDS great but I haven’t been hearing great things about it so far, so eehhhh.

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Reign the Earth by A.C. Gaughen
Release Date: January 30th

A high fantasy about a girl who marries a king to ensure the safety of her family and her people but finds out her husband is hell bent on destroying Elementae, people who have control over the elements, and discovers she has these abilities. Sounds really good though!

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HONORABLE MENTIONS
(aka not on my own TBR)

Meet Cute by Various Authors
Release Date: January 2nd

Thunderhead (Arc of the Scyth #2) by Neal Shusterman
Release Date: January 9th

Zenith by Sasha Alsberg & Lindsay Cummings
Release Date: January 16th

Love, Hate, and Other Filters by Samira Ahmed
Release Date: January 16th

Are you also looking forward to any of these books?

Have you read any of them yet (ARCs etc)?

What are some January releases I didn’t include that you’re looking forward to?

Let me know in the comments!

Down The TBR Hole #12

I actually get rid of a ton! I hit the patch in my TBR full of old books I have zero interest in!

If you missed my other posts of Down the TBR Hole here they are:

• Down The TBR Hole #1 
• Down The TBR Hole #2
• Down The TBR Hole #3
• Down The TBR Hole #4
• Down The TBR Hole #5
• Down The TBR Hole #6
• Down The TBR Hole #7
• Down The TBR Hole #8
• Down The TBR Hole #9
• Down The TBR Hole #10
• Down The TBR Hole #11

This was “created” by Lost in a Story!

The Rules:

• Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.
• Order on ascending date added.
• Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books
• Read the synopses of the books
• Decide: keep it or should it go?
• Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current TBR: 779

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Book # 111

Nightfall by Jake Halpern

Date Added: July 28th, 2015

At one point I actually REALLY wanted to read this because it sounds slightly creepy but I’ve seen almost nothing but “meh” reviews for it so I just don’t want to waste my time with books I’m not sure I’ll fall in love with.

The Judgement: Go

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Book #112

The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

Date Added: July 28th, 2015

A classic high fantasy, which is pretty much the only reason I added it. I have higher priorities on my list for popular high fantasy and I just don’t think I’ll be wanting to read this one right now.

The Judgement: Go

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Book #113

Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

This is one that I feel “eeehhhhh” about because I didn’t really like “Shadow and Bone” a TON but I do think there’s potential for me to like the Grisha trilogy more. I think I want to give it another try so let me know if you think the trilogy gets better as it goes!

(P.S. I adore these cover re-designs!)

The Judgement: Keep

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Book #114

Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

I bought this because it was either free or really cheap a long time ago when I still used my Nook Color. I really don’t have any interest in reading it.

The Judgement: Go

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Book #115

Need by Carries Jones

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

Once again, a book I bought so long ago that I have zero interest in reading it anymore. It’s an urban fantasy that came out during the “Vampire Craze” in YA books, I just don’t think I would enjoy it.

The Judgement: Go

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Book #116

Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

Of course I’m keeping a Brandon Sanderson book!

The Judgement: Keep

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Book #117

Silence by Natasha Preston

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

My cousin recommended this to me a long time ago and I just don’t have time to get around to reading things that I’m not interested in 100%, I have waaay too many other books to get to!

The Judgement: Go

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Book #118

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

The only reason I have this is because of the movie….and I don’t really care about reading it anymore at all.

The Judgement: Go

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Book #119

The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

Date Added: July 29th, 2015

I need to read all of the Rick Riordan books, plain and simple.

The Judgement: Keep

Have you read any of these? What did you think?

Do you think I should have kept any of these books?

Do you agree with any of my keeps or discards?

Let me know in the comments!

1,000 Followers! A Thank You + Q&A

I am screaming right now, guys! I’m having a classic fangirl moment and “can’t even”! I am so incredibly grateful for you all and still can’t believe that there are wonderful souls out there that are interested in me rambling about books, haha!

Thank you all for supporting me and being there for a little ‘ol book blogger and book lover like me!

As you can see I’d like to do a Q&A to celebrate and answer questions YOU would like to ask me! I will try and answer all of them in a post either this weekend or the beginning of next week so please leave your questions in the comments section below! You can also leave your questions for me on Twitter or Instagram too if you’d like!

Follow Me Elsewhere: Twitter * Instagram * Goodreads

January TBR

So since I actually completed a monthly TBR last month I figured I go for it again, and keep my expectations realisitc! Once again I have quite a few ARCs to get through this month and a couple library books (why do I keep getting library books when I have so many physical TBR books? The world may never know.) but if I get through all of them I’ll have a couple “bonus” books to try and squeeze in as well!

I’m also planning on doing the “Beat the Backlist” challenge this year so be on the look out for that post as I will be listing all of my backlist books I plan on reading!

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Honor Among Thieves by Rachel Caine & Ann Aguirre

This might be cheating a little bit since I finished it yesterday but still counts! I wasn’t as impressed as I was expecting to be but it was still an entertaining read, I’m a sucker for a good action-packed sci-fi.

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Heart of Iron by Ashley Poston

My current read at the moment this is kind of fantasy and sci-fi mixed together complete with emperors, kingdoms, robots, and space pirates! So far it’s really great with lots of action and interesting world building.

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The Tombs by Deborah Schaumberg

Normally I’m not one for historical fiction, it really depends. However, this one has….super powers? I feel like that’s the best way to describe it or maybe more like psyhic abilities. Anyways it sounds great!

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Fire & Bone by Rachel A. Marks

An urban fantasy featuring a main character who discovers she’s the daughter of a Celtic goddess. I think it sounds interesting because Celtic mythology is something I don’t see very often and would definitely enjoy reading about, however, there does seem to be a love triangle so I am a little leery.

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The Ravenous by Amy Lukavics

So I do really enjoy Lukavics’ books but I heard this one wasn’t her best so I borrowed it from the library just because I want to see for myself!

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Daughter of the Burning City by Amanda Foody

Also borrowed from the library I wanted to give it a read before reading my ARC of “Ace of Shades” just for fun. I’ve heard lots of good things about it so I’m excited.

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Locke & Key Volumes 2 and 3 by Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez

I’m slowly picking through the graphic novels available at my library and actually really narrowing it down. I decided to continue with this series and see if it interests me enough to continue further with it.

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BONUS BOOKS!

As I mentioned, I don’t want to pressure myself too much but IF I get through the other 8 books I have 2 more on deck!

The Heart Forger (The Bone Witch #2) by Rin Chupeco

I really loved the dark fantasy world in “The Bone Witch” and I’m very excited to continue on with the series with this ARC!

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Golden Son (Red Rising #2) by Pierce Brown

I finally got a copy for Christmas so I am ready to devour the last two in preparation for “Iron Gold” that comes out this month!

Are any of these books on your TBR?

Have you read any of these, what did you think?

What are you planning on reading this month?

Let me know in the comments!

December Wrap-Up

I had a pretty great blogging month in December, I’m proud of myself! I’ve started scheduling and pre-planning posts ahead of time and opening up more time for me to read so I’ve been finishing more books as well. Hopefully I can stick to doing things this way as I find it to be a lot more satisfying!

Books Read This Month: 13

I read a mix of books this month some were great, some were “meh”, and some I really didn’t enjoy. I loved “Dear Martin”, “Between the Blade and the Heart”, “A Conspiracy of Stars”, and of course “Paper Girls” and “Saga”. While I thought “Ms. Marvel” and “The Queen’s Rising” were okay but kind of meh. And I REALLY didn’t enjoy “The Wicker King”, “There’s Someone Inside Your House” and “Final Girls”. However, there were more good than bad so that’s always a great thing!

I also actually stuck 100% to my planned monthly TBR, which is kind of a first!

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Reviews Finished This Month:

The Devils You Know by M.C. Atwood

No Saints in Kansas by Amy Brashear

This Mortal Coil by Emily Suvada

An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson

Between the Blade and the Heart by Amanda Hocking

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Tags & Memes Done This Month:

Top Ten Tuesday: Book Settings I’d Love To Visit

12 Days of Christmas Book Tag

Top Ten Tuesday: Favorite Books of 2017

Christmas Song Book Tag

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I Hope Santa Brings

Top Ten Tuesday: 2018 Releases I’m Looking Forward To

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Other Posts Done This Month:

Down The TBR Hole #7

November Wrap-Up

December TBR

Down The TBR Hole #8

Favorite Book Covers of 2017

Down The TBR Hole #9

20+ Books! Black Friday/November Book Haul

Down The TBR Hole #10

All My Favorites Books of 2017!

Down The TBR Hole #11

Least Favorite Books of 2017

2017 End of the Year Survey

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Currently Reading:

So right now I have like 30 pages left of “Honor Among Thieves” so I’ll be finishing quick here, but I’m kind of underwhelmed by it which is a shame because it sounded great. Then I’ll be moving on to “Heart of Iron” which is another sci-fi and hopefully more enjoyable.

How was your reading and blogging month this December?

What were your best or worst reads?

What are you currently reading?

What books are you excited for this coming month, January?

Let me know in the comments!

Top Ten Tuesday: New To Me Authors I Read in 2017

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by  The Broke and the Bookish.

Of course I read quite a few new authors this last year but these are the top ten that made the biggest impression on me! They are in no particular order and I will link to the reviews I have of their books.

10.) Angie Thomas (The Hate U Give)

After reading the amazing masterpiece that is “The Hate U Give” I am fully prepared to read anything and everything Angie Thomas writes! While I was reading I could not believe that this was her debut novel, she definitely writes like a seasoned pro.

(You can read my full review here)

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9.) Pierce Brown (Red Rising)

Why did it take me so long to read his books?! Why?! There is such a wonderful blend of twists, fantasy, sci-fi, and just overall emotions in this book. He wrote such excellent characters and I fell in love with them! I am ready for more heartbreak, bring on the rest of the trilogy!

(You can read my full review here)

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8.) Sabaa Tahir (An Ember in the Ashes)

Once again I am ashamed that I didn’t read this book immediately because it was amazing. The world that Sabaa Tahir created is brutal, shocking, and full of twists but there are also hints of magic and fantastic characters. I’m not only really excited to read the sequel (and rest of the series) but also anything she writes in the future as well.

(You can read my full review here)

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7.) Jen Wilde (Queens of Geek)

Not my usual genre whatsoever as it is not only contemporary but also romance, however, it was fantastic. There was loads of diversity, I found the anxiety rep to be on point, lots of geekiness, and in general just a great book. I am really excited to read her upcoming book “The Brightsiders” and anything else she writes!

(You can read my full review here)

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6.) Mackenzi Lee (The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue)

While I do own another of Lee’s books, “This Monstrous Thing”, this was the first book I have read by her. This book was incredibly well written, fast paced, and downright fun! Her characters had a ton of personality and I’m very excited for her future books.

(You can read my full review here)

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5.) Hillary Monahan (The Hollow Girl & Mary: The Summoning)

I actually read two books by Monahan this year because one was an ARC and the other was for Halloween! However, after reading “The Hollow Girl” I knew I would want to read her other books and was not disappointed with either of them. She definitely knows how to write horror well!

(You can read my full review of “The Hollow Girl” here)

(You can read my full review of “Mary: The Summoning” here)

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4.) Margaret Rogerson (An Enchantment of Ravens)

I am so happy I decided to pick up this debut novel because Rogerson’s writing is so lyrical and beautiful! She also created a wonderful fantasy world in such a short amount of pages, I am excited to see what else she will come up with!

(You can read my full review here)

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3.) Amanda Hocking (Between the Blade and the Heart)

This was such a fast paced, fun read that was filled to the brim with great mythologies and world building. I’m not only excited to continue this series but also to check out Hocking’s other books as well.

(You can read my full review here)

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2.) Olivia A. Cole (A Conspiracy of Stars)

I think I could gush about this book forever! The vivid and creative world building is some of the best I’ve seen especially in a sci-fi book, the creatures and planet were described so well and all of it’s unique! I am PUMPED to read the sequel and of course any of her future books too.

(You can read my full review here)

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1.) Jodi Lynn Anderson (Tiger Lily)

I loved this book it was a very somber but beautiful retelling of Peter Pan and some of Anderson’s other books also sound very creative too. I think I’m more excited to see some more retellings from her though.

(You can read my full review here)

Have you read any of these books before? What did you think?

Have you read anything by any of these authors before?

Who were some of your favorite new to you authors in 2017?

Let me know in the comments!

ARC Review: A Conspiracy of Stars by Olivia A. Cole

Octavia has only ever had one goal: to follow in the footsteps of her parents and become a prestigious whitecoat, one of the scientists who study the natural wonders of Faloiv. The secrets of the jungle’s exotic plants and animals are protected fiercely in the labs by the Council of N’Terra, so when the rules suddenly change, allowing students inside, Octavia should be overjoyed.

But something isn’t right. The newly elected leader of the Council has some extremist views about the way he believes N’Terra should be run, and he’s influencing others to follow him. When Octavia witnesses one of the Faloii—the indigenous people of Faloiv—attacked in front of her in the dark of night, she knows the Council is hiding something. They are living in separate worlds on a shared planet, and their fragile peace may soon turn into an all-out war.

With the help of Rondo, a quiet boy in class with a skill for hacking, and her inquisitive best friend, Alma, Octavia is set on a collision course to discover the secrets behind the history she’s been taught, the science she’s lived by, and the truth about her family.

****Huge thank you to HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!****

Trigger Warning: Animal Abuse & Experimentation

This book really surprised me in the best possible way, I was not expecting to love it this much!

“A Conspiracy of Stars” is a bit slow to start as it slowly introduces us to the characters and the planet of Faloiv, however, world building and plot were definitely enough to keep my interest regardless of the slower pacing. The pacing and action really does pick up in the second half of the book though, there were some great twists!

As I mentioned there are some pretty great twists in this story, although many of them I found to be predictable but that didn’t make them any less enjoyable! However, the main focus of the story is on Octavia and her friends who are interns in the labs studying the local fauna. That’s all I want to really say since I don’t want to spoil anything! And that cliffhanger at the end was awesome and I will definitely be anticipating the sequel!

The world building was absolutely fantastic in this book, it’s very unique and creative but I would say it’s safe to compare it to Avatar (the movie, not the Last Airbender!) with the native people, Faloii, and native plants and creatures. I was enthralled with the planet of Faloii, there was a lot of detail and thought put into it and I really can’t wait for the sequel so I can learn more!

However, since a lot of the book focuses on the human settlers on Faloiv and their scientific experiments it can get very emotional at times. Some of the scientists are cruel and subject these poor creatures to cruel experiments, it’s heart-breaking. That being said there are good characters that do everything in their power to help though.

I also thought the writing flowed well and was very descriptive, although it would have been nice to get some more character description.

While I really liked the characters in this story I just felt like they were a little…distant at times. I do think that Octavia especially could have used a bit more personality as the main character and the side characters could have used a little more development too.

Octavia and her friends, in general, were all pretty likable and sweet. They must be protected at all costs because of their adorableness! I thought the friendships were portrayed positively and well, they were all very loyal to each other.

Even with the lack of character descriptions there were some hints at diversity in the characters too, such as many characters being described as having brown skin and one character who has two dads.

There is a bit of romance in this book and it definitely doesn’t take the spotlight at all, which is nice especially in YA. It’s also more slow burn and develops from a friendship, they were pretty cute!

What I Loved:

• World building
• Plot was interesting
• The writing was good
• Bit of diversity
• Well portrayed friendships
• Cute, slow burn romance that doesn’t take over the plot

What I Didn’t Love:

• Slower pacing
• Characters could have used a bit more complexity

I highly, highly recommend checking this book out! It’s beautifully written and is an incredibly unique YA Sci-Fi that really breaks the mold in my opinion.

Links: Amazon / Goodreads / Book Depository  / Barnes & Noble

 

2017 End of the Year Survey

What better day to do this than the literal last day of the year? This is an annual survey created by Jamie @ The Perpetual Page Turner so go check it out if you’d like to join in on this as well!

Number Of Books You Read: 83
Number of Re-Reads: 0
Genre You Read The Most From: Fantasy (Young Adult)

1. Best Book You Read In 2017?

My favorite 2017 release has got to be “The Hate U Give” and my favorite backlist book is “Red Rising”, either way both books pretty much emotionally destroyed me.

(You can read my full reviews of The Hate U Give & Red Rising here, they are mentioned a lot throughout this survey!)

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2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?

Yep, with the gorgeous cover and the fantasy/horror vibes I got from the synopsis I thought this one was going to be waaaay better but in the end it was just really messy, slow, and confusing.

(You can read my full review here.)

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 3. Most surprising (in a good way or bad way) book you read?  

There are a couple but I’ll have to go with “Queens of Geek” since I probably wouldn’t have picked it up if it weren’t for all the glowing reviews. I usually hate contemporary books and definitely ones that are romance driven but this one had so much diversity and geekiness that it ended up being a ton of fun!

(You can read my full review here.)

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 4. Book You “Pushed” The Most People To Read (And They Did)?

I am not sure whatsoever since I push a lot of books and also nobody really tells me if they read something or not? So. No idea. ****Pssst, if you’re reading this and DID read something because of me please let me know!****

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 5. Best series you started in 2017? Best Sequel of 2017? Best Series Ender of 2017?

Series Starter: “Red Rising” because I am 100% ready to devour the rest of the trilogy!

Sequel: “The Empress” I was not prepared to be blown away with this one but I was, so many brutal plot twists!

Series Ender: None

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 6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2017?

I’m going to have to go with Angie Thomas the author of “The Hate U Give” because I will definitely be adding her books in the future she writes like a PRO!

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7. Best book from a genre you don’t typically read/was out of your comfort zone?

Definitely “Queens of Geek”, again. As I already mentioned it was not only contemporary but romance which are two genres I don’t really go for.

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 8. Most action-packed/thrilling/unputdownable book of the year?

I could easily go with “Red Rising” again but I’ll go with “An Ember in the Ashes” since that one was pretty much CONSTANT action and I definitely could not put it down!

(You can read my full review here)

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 9. Book You Read In 2017 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?

I don’t really re-read books ever because my TBR is ridiculous and I like to devote time to that instead but just to pick one for the sake of the question I’ll go with “Every Heart a Doorway”.

(You can read my full review here)

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10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2017?

This is an ARC I have so it isn’t out yet but technically I read it this year and the cover is just gorgeous.

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11. Most memorable character of 2017?

Lucifer from “The Wicked + The Divine Vol. 1: The Faust Act”. She definitely made an impression on me in just one graphic novel and she’ll continue to be a favorite of mine!

(Full series review here)

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 12. Most beautifully written book read in 2017?

“An Enchantment of Ravens” was very beautifully written! It reminded me very much of Laini Taylor’s writing style.

(You can read my full review here)

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13. Most Thought-Provoking/ Life-Changing Book of 2017?

DEFINITELY “The Hate U Give”! This is a book that really makes you think and take things into a different perspective.

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 14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2017 to finally read? 

“Red Rising”! Why did I wait so long to read this masterpiece?!

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 15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2017?

“Sometimes you can do everything right and things will still go wrong. The key is to never stop doing right.” – Angie Thomas, “The Hate U Give”

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16. Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2017?

Shortest: Pretty Deadly, Vol 1: The Shrike by Kelly Sue Deconnick

Longest: Night Film by Marisha Pessl

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17. Book That Shocked You The Most

There are actually a few (Red Rising and An Ember in the Ashes among them) but I think the book that honestly shocked me the most was “The Empress” because THAT book was constantly throwing twists at me, at one point there were 3 different twists on a single page and my mind was just reeling!

(You can read my full review here)

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18. OTP OF THE YEAR (you will go down with this ship!)

Probably going to have to go with Monty + Percy in “The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue”.

(You can read my full review here)

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19. Favorite Non-Romantic Relationship Of The Year

Umm….is it weird if I say Darrow and Sevro as Howler besties? Because that’s what I’m going with…

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20. Favorite Book You Read in 2017 From An Author You’ve Read Previously

I absolutely loved Henry’s horror Alice in Wonderland retellings and I adored her Peter Pan one as well, “Lost Boy: The True Story of Captain Hook”!

(You can read my full review here)

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21. Best Book You Read In 2017 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else/Peer Pressure:

The closest thing would probably have to be “The Night Circus” which literally every blogger has pushed on me! I loved it though!

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22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2017?

I’ve said this before and it’s kind of odd but Sevro from “Red Rising”….I don’t know I just really liked his character!

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23. Best 2017 debut you read?

Once again “The Hate U Give”!

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24. Best Worldbuilding/Most Vivid Setting You Read This Year?

“An Ember in the Ashes” had a very well fleshed out world and also is full of hardships and even magic.

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25. Book That Put A Smile On Your Face/Was The Most FUN To Read?

“The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue” was so much fun to read, Monty’s antics were hilarious at times!

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26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2017?

Many, I actually get really emotional. But I was hardcore ugly crying multiple times while reading “Red Rising” especially at the beginning….

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27. Hidden Gem Of The Year?

There are actually quite a few but I’m going with “The Hollow Girl” because it only has 162 ratings on Goodreads, that’s it! I loved the diversity, the magic, the revenge arc, and the main character. It definitely isn’t for everyone but it’s a great book.

(You can read my full review here)

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28. Book That Crushed Your Soul?

“The Empress” because I was put through so many brutal twists that I feel crushed for sure, especially after the cliffhanger at the end!

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29. Most Unique Book You Read In 2017?

Maybe “The Seafarer’s Kiss” because not only does it have an F/F romance but it’s also a Little Mermaid retelling AND filled with Norse mythology. Definitely pretty unique.

(You can read my full review here.)

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30. Book That Made You The Most Mad (doesn’t necessarily mean you didn’t like it)?

“There’s Someone Inside Your House”, I just feel really cheated.

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2017?

Howling Libraries! Destiny has been an absolutely fantastic blogging buddy and I am so fortunate to have met her this year!

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2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2017?

Okay so I wrote a ton of reviews and I don’t every really feel like one is better than the other but I guess here’s a few of books I enjoyed a lot.

• Lost Boy: The True Story of Captain Hook by Christina Henry
• Every Heart A Doorway (Wayward Children #1) by Seanan McGuire
• An Ember in the Ashes (An Ember in the Ashes #1) by Sabaa Tahir
• Red Rising (Red Rising #1) by Pierce Brown

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3. Best discussion/non-review post you had on your blog?

My post on how to request physical review copies!

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4. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?

Top Ten Tuesday is pretty much always my favorite meme to participate in!

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5. Best moment of bookish/blogging life in 2017?

Um, I guess I’m not really sure! I don’t remember anything really substantial happening to me so maybe I’ll go with getting approved for some ARCs on Edelweiss because I felt I never got approved on there!

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6. Most challenging thing about blogging or your reading life this year?

Slumps! I had this happen a few times this year where I would either be in a reading or blogging slump and it’s definitely a challenge to get back on track.

(But here is a post I made on how to beat them!)

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7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?

My Halloween Book Tag post, which is the most popular every year for some reason! I have no idea why!

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8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

Fantastic Book Settings and Where To Find Them, mostly because I laughed forever at my title…..

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9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?

I don’t really have one….

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10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?

Just my Goodreads Reading Challenge which was set at 80 and I did finish it!

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2017 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2018?

STRANGE THE DREAMER BY LAINI TAYLOR. I don’t know why I never got around to reading this one, I am ashamed!

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2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2018 (non-debut)?

“The Boneless Mercies” because I NEED a feminist Beowulf retelling!!!!

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3. 2018 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?

Probably “Children of Blood and Bone”, it’s a diverse YA fantasy and sounds so amazing and unique!

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 4. Series Ending/A Sequel You Are Most Anticipating in 2018?

“Obsidio” by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff!

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5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging Life In 2018?

Cut down on my TBR because it’s out of hand, seriously! I have way too many unread books on my shelves and a terrible book buying habit.

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6. A 2018 Release You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone (if applicable):

“A Conspiracy of Stars” it’s seriously amazing you guys, it’s a bit slow but really picks up in the second half and the world building is amazing (it’s a YA Sci-Fi).

Here’s to  a Happy New Year filled with reading books, everyone!