Saturday, December 30, 2017

Review: Unravel Me

Title: Unravel Me
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Publisher: Harper Collins
Release Date: February 5, 2013

tick
tick
tick
tick
tick
it's almost
time for war.

Juliette has escaped to Omega Point. It is a place for people like her—people with gifts—and it is also the headquarters of the rebel resistance.

She's finally free from The Reestablishment, free from their plan to use her as a weapon, and free to love Adam. But Juliette will never be free from her lethal touch.

Or from Warner, who wants Juliette more than she ever thought possible.

In this exhilarating sequel to Shatter Me, Juliette has to make life-changing decisions between what she wants and what she thinks is right. Decisions that might involve choosing between her heart—and Adam's life.

Monday, December 4, 2017

Review: Hinder


Title: Hinder
Author: Kristin Ping
Publisher: Fire Quill Publishing
Release Date: May 15, 2018

Ethan Sutcliff seems like a normal seventeen-year-old—at least that’s what he’s trying to portray. In a secret society run by the Supernaturals, Ethan is what witches call a Bender. Benders are Witches’ Guardians, who are able to control a witches’ ability, bend it, or move it away from harming humans. In Ethan’s case, he is able to bend the Earth element. But at the age of fifteen, he lost all connection to it, and the reasons behind it could only mean one of two things: His Wielder is either dead, or hiding out somewhere.

Alex Burgendorf has been living in her aunt’s locket for the past sixteen years with her mother—a Fire Wielder, and her father—a Water Wielder. For sixteen years, her parents vowed to protect her, and they have, as she is the last Earth wielding witch. However, time is running out. Alex must find her Bender, or the fate of the Supernaturals might be at stake.


Thursday, November 23, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving!

To all my US people, Happy Thanksgiving!



I'm sorry I've been kind of absent lately. I had some reviews I meant to write, and then I forgot before NaNoWriMo started (whoops!).

But let's forget about that! I'll get to them once November is over and I've finished this first and terrible draft of probably the only contemporary novel I will ever write. 

And if you're not in the US, then take advantage of online sales this weekend. And eat lots of good food because this is an excuse for food and who couldn't use an excuse for food?! Right???!

In the mean time, here's a list of some bookish things I am thankful for:


Writing buddies and critique partners. I don't think I would make it through NaNo without you guys.

My book shelves. Some of them might be ready to collapse, but what would I do without them?

The candle company. It's frustrating and stressful at times, but it's also fun.

My blogger friends, like Tracy at Cornerfolds and Sam at Tsundoku. You guys are amazing.

This edition of The Name of the Wind, because it's the most beautiful book in the world and everyone should read it xD

Have a great weekend, guys!!

Saturday, November 18, 2017

Review: The Name of the Wind

Title: The Name of the Wind
Author: Patrick Rothfuss
Publisher: Penguin DAW
Release Date: March 27, 2007

Told in Kvothe's own voice, this is the tale of the magically gifted young man who grows to be the most notorious wizard his world has ever seen.

The intimate narrative of his childhood in a troupe of traveling players, his years spent as a near-feral orphan in a crime-ridden city, his daringly brazen yet successful bid to enter a legendary school of magic, and his life as a fugitive after the murder of a king form a gripping coming-of-age story unrivaled in recent literature.

A high-action story written with a poet's hand, The Name of the Wind is a masterpiece that will transport readers into the body and mind of a wizard.


Monday, November 13, 2017

Finally Fall Book Tag

Finally Fall Book Tag

Am I finally, actually doing one of those tags I like so much? Oh my goodness, I think I am!

I saw this over on Cornerfolds, and I just had to do it. So let us begin.

Saturday, October 28, 2017

Audiobook Review: Double Life

Title: Double Life
Author: S. Usher Evans
Publisher: Suns Golden Ray Publishing
Release Date: June 12, 2014


Piracy is a game. How much are you worth?

Since she was a little girl, everyone - from her father to the Great Creator himself - told Lyssa Peate the same thing: she's worthless. But when she becomes the pirate bounty hunter Razia, she can see the price tag on her own head. Employed by one of the four pirate syndicates, she uses bank transactions and her considerable wits to capture rival members. At least, she would be if Razia's boss ever gave her a chance. It's a man’s world, and all she’s allowed to hunt are purse snatchers while she languishes on probation.

To pay the bills, she's stuck in her old life as Lyssa, discovering and analyzing distant planets and selling them for cash. She's doing just enough to stay out of trouble, pretending to be continuing her father's mysterious research while away for long periods of time. Her slimy boss is always asking questions and even assigns one of her younger brothers, Vel, to intern with her. Already struggling to keep the balance between her double lives, she tries everything to rid herself of the kid...

...until the universal police mistake Lyssa’s intern for Razia's hostage.

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Review: Nyxia

Title: Nyxia
Author: Scott Reintgen
Publisher: Crown BFYR
Release Date: September 12, 2017

Emmett Atwater isn’t just leaving Detroit; he’s leaving Earth. Why the Babel Corporation recruited him is a mystery, but the number of zeroes on their contract has him boarding their lightship and hoping to return to Earth with enough money to take care of his family.

Forever.

Before long, Emmett discovers that he is one of ten recruits, all of whom have troubled pasts and are a long way from home. Now each recruit must earn the right to travel down to the planet of Eden—a planet that Babel has kept hidden—where they will mine a substance called Nyxia that has quietly become the most valuable material in the universe.

But Babel’s ship is full of secrets. And Emmett will face the ultimate choice: win the fortune at any cost, or find a way to fight that won’t forever compromise what it means to be human.

Monday, September 25, 2017

Review: Roar

Roar (Stormheart, #1)
Title: Roar
Author: Cora Carmack
Publisher: Tor Teen
Release Date: June 13, 2017

In a land ruled and shaped by violent magical storms, power lies with those who control them.

Aurora Pavan comes from one of the oldest Stormling families in existence. Long ago, the ungifted pledged fealty and service to her family in exchange for safe haven, and a kingdom was carved out from the wildlands and sustained by magic capable of repelling the world’s deadliest foes. As the sole heir of Pavan, Aurora’s been groomed to be the perfect queen. She’s intelligent and brave and honorable. But she’s yet to show any trace of the magic she’ll need to protect her people.

To keep her secret and save her crown, Aurora’s mother arranges for her to marry a dark and brooding Stormling prince from another kingdom. At first, the prince seems like the perfect solution to all her problems. He’ll guarantee her spot as the next queen and be the champion her people need to remain safe. But the more secrets Aurora uncovers about him, the more a future with him frightens her. When she dons a disguise and sneaks out of the palace one night to spy on him, she stumbles upon a black market dealing in the very thing she lacks—storm magic. And the people selling it? They’re not Stormlings. They’re storm hunters.

Legend says that her ancestors first gained their magic by facing a storm and stealing part of its essence. And when a handsome young storm hunter reveals he was born without magic, but possesses it now, Aurora realizes there’s a third option for her future besides ruin or marriage.

She might not have magic now, but she can steal it if she’s brave enough.


Challenge a tempest. Survive it. And you become its master.

I first picked up a copy of Roar at ALA midwinter back in January, because I've read some of Cora Carmack's NA romances, and I've loved them. Lucky for me, Ya fantasy is my favorite genre. So while I may have been surprised when I read the jacket copy, I wasn't disappointed.

Months went by and I never got a chance to read it. In fact, it wasn't until a couple months after I bought a finished copy that I finally dove into it. And all I can say is wow. Just wow.

I absolutely love the characters in this book. Roar is Princess Aurora of Pavan. She also goes by Rora. So to keep things straight, I'll just call her Roar. When she starts out, she's very accepting of her fate to marry the prince of Locke, Cassius. But when she hears him say something to his brother, she's determined she's never going to marry him. The only problem is that she doesn't possess any of the storm magic her family is known for to keep her kingdom safe from the incredibly deadly storms.

Roar goes through such an incredible journey throughout the entire book. I cannot wait to see how things play out in the next book.

Cassius. Oh Cassius. He's a great character. He would be terrible as a love interest. He's manipulative and cunning, but these make him a very compelling character. He has so many secrets, that I'm certain we haven't seen the last of them. I can't wait to see how his character might develop and to see what more he's hiding.

The worldbuilding was incredible. Deadly and violent storms with a mind all their own, intent on destroying people? Yep. Not to mention all different kinds of magic. I could talk a lot longer, but unfortunately, I don't have the time.

Overall
I'm glad I finally read this one. The next book is going to be one of my most anticipated reads of 2018.

5 stars


Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Mini Reviews: A Goodreads Cross-Post Part 2

You may have noticed a theme in my last Cross-Post over here. That theme being the fake-relationship trope. Yes, I have read enough of these lately to create a fake relationship goodreads shelf. And I need morrrrreee! So if you have recommendations, please just comment. Or email me. Or message me on twitter. Just, you know, give me all the fake relationship recs.

In the spirit of how I did my last post, I will not be giving the synopsis or buy links. Click on the cover picture to go to the goodreads page.

Monday, September 18, 2017

Review: Rebel Rising

Title: Rebel Rising
Author: Amanda J Clay
Release Date: September 18, 2017

A princess with nothing left to lose is a dangerous thing.

Princess Elyra Ballantyne has lost everything important to her—her father, her position, her freedom, and the one she loves. As rebellion festers beneath the city walls, and corruption spreads throughout the palace, she’s left with two choices: accept Minister General Pantone’s rule or rise up, learn to fight, and take back her country.

Rebel Rising is the second book in the top-selling Rebel Song series.

Thursday, September 14, 2017

Updates Ahoy!

It feels like most of what I've posted lately are life updates. So it goes.

But I swear I'm getting back into things. I even have a review written and at least three more in the works. Go me!

Okay, so for those of you who know that I am located in Florida, I did want to tell you that I'm okay and my house is okay after Hurricane Irma. I did have the unfortunate experience of coming home after evacuating to find that my home had been broken into. So that's an ongoing thing now. 

The other bit of news I have is that I decided (instead of beginning to query) to post Spy Project up on Swoon Reads. I don't think it's 100% there, but I'm not completely sure what to do with it. So I'd love feedback. 

I've talked a lot about Spy Project over the last year or so. It's one of my favorite manuscripts. So you guys can officially know now that my working title for this one is Cloak & Dagger. I hope that if it ever does get published, it gets something that stands out more lol.

Anyway, if you're at all curious, you can find Cloak & Dagger over on Swoon Reads (right here). I'll also be adding it to the menu at top, much like Iron Curse was there.

I will be back on Monday with a new review!

Friday, September 8, 2017

Another Life Update

So yea. I thought I was going to be back more last time, but I wasn't. Oops?

So since I hardly posted anything, here's another update on a day in the life of Christina.


Yea, I really need to work on that stuff...

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Blog Tour Review: Before She Ignites

28524058Title: Before She Ignites
Author: Jodi Meadows
Pages: 496
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Release Date: September 12th, 2017

Before

Mira Minkoba is the Hopebearer. Since the day she was born, she’s been told she’s special. Important. Perfect. She’s known across the Fallen Isles not just for her beauty, but for the Mira Treaty named after her, a peace agreement which united the seven islands against their enemies on the mainland. But Mira has never felt as perfect as everyone says. She counts compulsively. She struggles with crippling anxiety. And she’s far too interested in dragons for a girl of her station.

After

Then Mira discovers an explosive secret that challenges everything she and the Treaty stand for. Betrayed by the very people she spent her life serving, Mira is sentenced to the Pit–the deadliest prison in the Fallen Isles. There, a cruel guard would do anything to discover the secret she would die to protect. No longer beholden to those who betrayed her, Mira must learn to survive on her own and unearth the dark truths about the Fallen Isles–and herself–before her very world begins to collapse.

US Amazon | UK Amazon |Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Friday, August 18, 2017

Mini Reviews: A Goodreads Cross-Post Part 1

So as I mentioned in my last update (forever ago), I've read a fair amount of contemporary romance lately. And, of course, I didn't review any of it lmao. I did, however, post super short reviews on Goodreads for many of them, so I'm just cross-posting the few sentences to few paragraphs, in case you guys were curious what I've been reading and what I thought.

I'm going to keep these as short as possible. So no jacket copies, no buy links. Click on the cover picture to bring up the GR page.

So this book uses one of my favorite tropes, but with a twist. It's a combination of fake romance and friends to lovers. And it was excellentttttt. I love those tropes.

On the first day of school, Jenny and Chance fool everyone into thinking they've known each other for years. In a surprise assignment where they have to talk about their summer vacations, they play off each other so well, that their entire class believes they have been best friends all their lives. And when they decide to continue on with the lie, no one thinks twice.

I loved Chance and Jenny together so much. They were hilarious, and the way they interacted constantly made me smile. Their fake friendship blossoms into one where they are truly best friends. Since they had never even spoken to each other before, it seems that it's just easier for them to talk to each other. And as they get to know each other, they challenge each other with different stories, rules, and dares.

I had one real gripe about this book, and that was that it was not diverse at all. My high school was 95% white, so I get that this does happen. But there was also no sexual diversity, and that seems unlikely. Not everyone in life is blond and straight.

Of course, I'd personally rather no diversity than having it handled poorly (just my opinion). But it was still a disappointment.

Overall, I thought it was a cute and fast read. I loved the characters, and couldn't get enough of them.

_____________________________________

This one was just okay for me. I enjoyed reading it, but I didn't get all the touchy and tingly feels about out main couple. I don't know, I just didn't connect with them the way I would've loved to. Still, it was a cute and fast read. If you like these romance books with fake relationship tropes (like I do), definitely give it a read.





_____________________________________

It's not secret that I've been on some kind of contemporary romance kick lately. Especially when it comes to fake relationship books. And this is probably my favorite of my recent reads so far.

The romance is cute and sweet, and I loved Oak and Vaughn together. The story was definitely typical of the trope, but it wasn't 100% predictable. And I loved seeing the relationship between Vaughn and her siblings. I admit it, I'm a sucker for happy sibling relationships.

So as a struggling family in LA, Vaugh and her older sister are working hard just to make ends meat and send their little brothers to college. So of course when Vaughn gets offered and absurd amount of money to play the girlfriend to obnoxious rock star Oakley Ford, she says yes against her better judgement. But maybe Oakley isn't quite as bad as she initially thought. Even if he is a jerk.

One of the things I loved was that we got to hear from Oakley's POV as well as Vaughn's. I love reading from the male POV in books, and this was no exception. Seeing their relationship blossom was heartwarming, and I would have loved an even longer book or a follow up novel about the two of them. Can't wait to read other things from this author.


Saturday, August 12, 2017

Super Quick Update!

Omg guys it's been... a long time. I suck! I'm not 100% prepared to be back, but I have missed blogging, so I thought I'd share some quick updates about how things are going in the life and times of Christina.


Errr... Ignore that.

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Beautiful People - Writing Process


I have literally never participated in a writing meme before. But with me trying to focus more on said writing, it seemed like a good idea. In case you didn't know, it's a monthly writing meme hosted by Cait @ Paperfury and Sky @ Further Up and Further In

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Pitch Wars #Pimpmybio Mentee Bio


As you may know, I've decided to enter Pitch Wars this year. I've wanted to do it for a while, but the timing has never been right. I think I've got my timing right this year, though. So I cannot wait!

 So let me introduce myself. My name is Christina, I live in Florida. It is way too hot here. And humid. I went to Canada once years ago, and ever since then, I want to live there.

This year, I'm submitting for a YA fantasy project. Okay, it's YA fantasy romance. Because pretty much anything I write always has romance. Most of what I write is YA, and that's how this project began. It's gotten more and more into the upper YA, in fact, that I was convinced it was NA until I was told otherwise.

Here are some books that I absolutely adore:


Well that list is getting long. I'll stop now. Even though there are so many more that I want to list haha.

I absolutely love Avatar: The Last Airbender!! Zutara for life!


Oh! I work as a scientist. I test water and soils at an EPA certified lab.

I have three cats. I'm fairly certain two of them are evil, and the other is just there as a foil to them. 

My favorite genre to read is fantasy, but the only genres I don't read at all are horror/thriller and mystery. 

I was formally trained as an opera singer back when I was... not as old as I am now. Yes. Let's say it like that. I still love to sing and make sure I do it in my car every chance I get. I will listen to almost any music, but my weak spot is for alternative and prog metal. 

Aaaaanyway, this is getting kind of long. If you want to know more about me, you can see this interview I did with myself last year! Thanks for stopping by :)

Monday, July 3, 2017

Review: The Shadow Hour

Title: The Shadow Hour
Author: Melissa Grey
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Release Date: July 12, 2016

A battle has been won. But the war has only just begun.

Everything in Echo’s life changed in a blinding flash when she learned the startling truth: she is the firebird, the creature of light that is said to bring peace.

The firebird has come into the world, but it has not come alone. Every action has an equal and opposite reaction, and Echo can feel a great and terrible darkness rising in the distance. Cosmic forces threaten to tear the world apart.

Echo has already lost her home, her family, and her boyfriend. Now, as the firebird, her path is filled with even greater dangers than the ones she’s already overcome.

She knows the Dragon Prince will not fall without a fight.

Echo must decide: can she wield the power of her true nature—or will it prove too strong for her, and burn what’s left of her world to the ground?

Welcome to the shadow hour.

Saturday, July 1, 2017

June Wrap-Up

I'm a terrible person and am typing this just before midnight at work o_o

So I want to do a really super quick wrap-up for the month of June!!


Giveaway Winners

As you may remember, I had two giveaways for June. One was US only for a July Shelflove Crate box. The winner of this was Austine from Novel Knight.

My second giveaway winner was Jo, the winner of the International only $25 book on Book Depository. I've just emailed both of you (I'm running behind this month, I know), so get back to me as soon as possible!

In case you were wondering, the book of the month with the opening line "The Sorcerer arrived on a Saturday" was A Shadow Bright and Burning, by Jess Cluess. 

Reading Things

I really suck in that I read almost nothing. I finally made it all the way through The Shadow Hour by Melissa Grey. Gray? I honestly don't even know at this point and I can't look it up xD Please no one hate me lol. I usually try to spell things correctly, but I'm at work and have limited access to the interwebz.

I just started reading Before She Ignites by Jodi Meadows, who is (as you probably know) my favorite author of absolute ever. I am going through pretty quickly, which is nice, since I've been in a bad slump lately.

Life Things

Yea, so contributing to that slump is definitely work. I worked over 60 hours last week. Not to mention all the health issues. I won't bore you with the details, but I will say my doctor is concerned. Which is, you know, awesome. 

Writing Things

I have another draft of Spy Project back from beta reading, and I'm ready to get down to business on revisions as soon as I'm done reading BSI. I want to get heavy into edits all through July to hopefully be ready for Pitch Wars in August. This means I will not be reading anything all through the month of July. I will still have some posts, but very few reviews. I might get through an audiobook here or there, but I'll be mostly on hiatus for the month of July.

I think that's it! How was your month?

Monday, June 19, 2017

Monthly Giveaway Hint


So I managed to forget to update my giveaway page, but I'm doing that right now as I post this. So not to worry, it will be updated within the next... five minutes.

In case you forgot, my monthly giveaway is over this way here. This month is extra special, because I have TWO giveaways going on. One for international, and one for domestic US! Because I love you guys so much!

The international giveaway is for a book up to $25 on Book Depository, and the US is for the July Shelflove Crate box. July's theme is Shakespeare's Mystery Town. I have absolutely no idea what the  book will be, but I've been kind of out of touch lately, so if you have an idea, let me know!

So as you probably are already aware, to enter my monthly giveaways, you must tell me what the first line I give you is from. This month's book, the quote is....

The Sorcerer arrived on a Saturday.

In case you don't know what it is and don't want to just google it (lol), here's a hint.

This book was the author's debut novel last year. The second book in the series releases later this year. It's a fantasy that takes place in Victorian times London, and it has a very Lovecraftian feel to it.

Hope that helps! Have an awesome day, guys :D

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

When Book Slumps Get You Down

Suppose you're having a great reading year. You're way ahead on your goodreads goal, and then suddenly...

BAM!

Reading slump. Don't you just hate that? I know I do.

Recently, I've been kind of in a reading slump. Though, it's more like a life slump. I just don't feel like doing anything

I read a chapter and just feel bleh. I watch tv and movies to the same outcome. I don't feel like writing or editing (to be fair I never feel like editing). This feeling? It kind of really sucks. I want to do things, but I'm just not in the mood.

All I really want to do is listen to music. Which is fine. It's mostly all I've been doing aside from the monotony of work. But I've been SO UNPRODUCTIVE as of late.

Then we're left with this feeling of uselessness, and we constantly wonder how to get out of the slump, which just makes it worse.

Yes, reading slumps suck. But I plan on totally embracing this one. I'll let it play its course, and hopefully it will just go away on its own if I don't try to force myself into anything. I want to be nice and refreshed for whenever it's gone. 

Monday, June 12, 2017

Audiobook Review: Ruins

Title: Ruins
Author: Dan Wells
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Release Date: March 11, 2014

Kira, Samm, and Marcus fight to prevent a final war between Partials and humans in the gripping final installment in the Partials Sequence, a series that combines the thrilling action of The Hunger Games with the provocative themes of Blade Runner and The Stand.

There is no avoiding it—the war to decide the fate of both humans and Partials is at hand. Both sides hold in their possession a weapon that could destroy the other, and Kira Walker has precious little time to prevent that from happening. She has one chance to save both species and the world with them, but it will only come at great personal cost.

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Review and Unboxing: Thorns, Mist, and Wings High Fae Box

Last one for a little while, I swear! I did say that I subscribed to a few boxes this month haha.

So... I ordered the High Fae edition of the Thorns, Mist, and Wings box from A Court of Candles, because I'm obsessed with candles.

This box included a total of eight candles. Four 4oz tins, and four 2oz jars. So let's get to the box!

Monday, June 5, 2017

Review: These Ruthless Deeds

Title: These Ruthless Deeds
Author: Tarun Shanker, Kelly Zekas
Publisher: Swoon Reads
Release Date: March 14, 2017

England, 1883. Still recovering from a devastating loss, Evelyn is determined to use her powers to save other gifted people from those who would harm them. But when her rescue of a young telekinetic girl goes terribly wrong, Evelyn finds herself indebted to a secret society devoted to recruiting and protecting people like Evelyn and her friends.
As she follows the Society’s orders, healing the sick and embarking on perilous recruitment missions, Evelyn sees her problems disappear. Her reputation is repaired, her friends are provided for, and her parents are newly wealthy. She reunites with the dashing Mr. Kent and recovers the reclusive Mr. Braddock (who has much less to brood over now that the Society can help him to control his dangerous power). But Evelyn can’t help fearing the Society is more sinister than it appears...

Thursday, June 1, 2017

June Giveaway

So I tried, but I just didn't have time to get my post together before the start of the month D:

But I promised it would be here, and here it is!

There are two giveaways. One is USA only, the other is international only. 

The USA giveaway is for a July Shelflove Crate subscription. The international giveaway is for a book up to $25 on Book Depository. So. Here's the first line from the book of the month.

The Sorcerer arrived on a Saturday.

Boom, that's it! To enter each giveaway, follow the blog and tell me what that quote is from! No giveaway accounts, must have a public profile so I can see it, etc.

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

May Wrap-Up

Guys I suck. Seriously.

I never got my monthly giveaway up, so I really suck. This means that this month, I will be doing two giveaways. One will be for USA people, one will be for international people. Gotta make up for it, right? Honestly, my sister just moved to the area a couple weeks ago, and we've been doing a lot of work, getting her moved, cleaning and fixing up her house to sell... It's been a process. So I truly just haven't had much time to do anything.

Well, I may as well get into the month.

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Review and Unboxing: Shelflove Crate May Box

Greetings!

So if you know me, you know that I very rarely subscribe to book subscription boxes. But this past month, I've subscribed to a few things. So here's my review and unboxing of the brand new YA fantasy subscription box: Shelflove Crate :D

Witches and Matchmakers May Box

This is a brand new box. May was the first month for it, and I was so excited to get it from the very start. I subscribed using a single-time purchase, and I couldn't have been happier.

Monday, May 22, 2017

Spoiler Review: A Court of Wings and Ruin

Title: A Court of Wings and Ruin
Author: Sarah J Maas
Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's
Release Date: May 2, 2107

Looming war threatens all Feyre holds dear in the third volume of the #1 New York Times bestselling A Court of Thorns and Roses series.

Feyre has returned to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin's maneuverings and the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees. But to do so she must play a deadly game of deceit-and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.

As war bears down upon them all, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords-and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

In this thrilling third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling series from Sarah J. Maas, the earth will be painted red as mighty armies grapple for power over the one thing that could destroy them all.

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Review and Unboxing: To the Stars Who Listen Box

Greetings! I just got in my first subscription box from Book and Nook. I've ordered candles from them before, but this was their first monthly box. And because of what the theme was for May, I absolutely had to order!

If you hadn't guessed by the title of the post, it was ACOTAR/ACOMAF themed, all because of the release of ACOMAF!

So if you've ordered this and it hasn't arrived yet, ye have been forewarned.

Monday, May 15, 2017

Audiobook Review: Fragments


Title: Fragments
Author: Dan Wells
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Release Date: February 26, 2013
Author Dan Wells is back with the sequel to the sci-fi blockbuster Partials, which Pittacus Lore called a "thrilling sci-fi adrenaline rush, with one of the most compelling and frightening visions of Earth's future I've seen yet."


After discovering the cure for RM, Kira Walker sets off on a terrifying journey into the ruins of postapocalyptic America and the darkest desires of her heart in order to uncover the means—and a reason—for humanity's survival.

Dan Wells extends his richly imagined, gritty world and introduces new memorable characters in this second installment in the Partials Sequence.

Monday, May 8, 2017

Review: Ash and Quill


Title: Ash and Quill
Author: Rachel Caine
Publisher: Berkley
Release Date: July 11, 2017



Hoarding all the knowledge of the world, the Great Library jealousy guards its secrets. But now a group of rebels poses a dangerous threat to its tyranny....


Jess Brightwell and his band of exiles have fled London, only to find themselves imprisoned in Philadelphia, a city led by those who would rather burn books than submit. But Jess and his friends have a bargaining chip: the knowledge to build a machine that will break the Library’s rule.

Their time is running out. To survive, they’ll have to choose to live or die as one, to take the fight to their enemies—and to save the very soul of the Great Library....

Sunday, April 30, 2017

April Wrap-Up

The month is already over!! Goodness, where did the time go? (also am too lazy to find my header lmao)

First, let's talk about what happened this month.

Writing Things

I did Camp NaNoWriMo! And I not only finished my 20k word goal, I also finished this draft of the manuscript! YAYYYYYY! There have been so many changes from my first draft, it's fascination to see the journey it has taken me on.

Reading Things

Ummm. Yea.

Life Things

I have a fun announcement, but I can't say anything just yet! Still, watch this space for more bookish fun :D

Giveaway Winner

So if you didn't know, the book of the month was Every Day by David Levithan. The winner of the candle from Cornerfolds Candles was Rossi, who I have already spoken with. 

I'll be back tomorrow with another monthly giveaway. There won't be a review tomorrow as I'm still catching up from my month away from reading. I'll be back next Monday though, likely with a review of ACOWAR (WHERE IS MY COPY DAMMIT I WANT IT EARLY TOOOOOO).

Saturday, April 29, 2017

Cover Reveal: Red Days

Hey guys, today I have a cover reveal for you! Hurray! I love covers haha. So here is the book.


Title: Red Days
Author: M L Sparrow
Release Date: July 23, 2017

2017: 235 taken into captivity, 570 slaughtered.

Keiko never set out to be an activist, but when she’s sent on an assignment to Taiji, Japan, the ball is set in motion. Reporting on the brutal yearly slaughter of hundreds of dolphins alters her life.

Over the course of ten years Keiko follows the highs and lows of the campaign to stop the slaughter of dolphins in Japan and attempts to bring change through her articles. Will her efforts and that of many others be enough?

*Though fictional, Red Days is based on a series of true events up until January 2017*

Monday, April 24, 2017

Review: The Alchemists of Loom

Title: The Alchemists of Loom
Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Keymaster Press
Release Date: January 10, 2017

Her vengeance. His vision.

Ari lost everything she once loved when the Five Guilds’ resistance fell to the Dragon King. Now, she uses her unparalleled gift for clockwork machinery in tandem with notoriously unscrupulous morals to contribute to a thriving underground organ market. There isn’t a place on Loom that is secure from the engineer turned thief, and her magical talents are sold to the highest bidder as long as the job defies their Dragon oppressors.

Cvareh would do anything to see his sister usurp the Dragon King and sit on the throne. His family’s house has endured the shame of being the lowest rung in the Dragons’ society for far too long. The Alchemist Guild, down on Loom, may just hold the key to putting his kin in power, if Cvareh can get to them before the Dragon King’s assassins.

When Ari stumbles upon a wounded Cvareh, she sees an opportunity to slaughter an enemy and make a profit off his corpse. But the Dragon sees an opportunity to navigate Loom with the best person to get him where he wants to go.

He offers her the one thing Ari can’t refuse: A wish of her greatest desire, if she brings him to the Alchemists of Loom.


Saturday, April 22, 2017

I Canceled My Audible Subscription, and Here's Why

Hey guys. It's no secret that I enjoy listening to some of my favorite books.

Sometimes I even -gasp- review audiobooks. Strange, I know. This was the main reason for why I ended up joining audible.

I'll be honest. I was happy with audible until very recently. There are so many good things about it. 1) It's relatively cheap. Much cheaper, in fact, than just buying audiobooks directly from amazon or another company, because you're paying for credits. 2) Satisfaction guaranteed, meaning if you didn't like an audiobook, you can return it and get your credit back. 3) 30% off all titles, plus other sales when not using credits.

So yea. I would say that I really liked using audible. Until recently.

Monday, April 17, 2017

Review: Flame in the Mist

Title: Flame in the Mist
Author: Renee Ahdieh
Publisher: Putnam
Release Date: May 16, 2017

The daughter of a prominent samurai, Mariko has long known her place—she may be an accomplished alchemist, whose cunning rivals that of her brother Kenshin, but because she is not a boy, her future has always been out of her hands. At just seventeen years old, Mariko is promised to Minamoto Raiden, the son of the emperor's favorite consort—a political marriage that will elevate her family's standing. But en route to the imperial city of Inako, Mariko narrowly escapes a bloody ambush by a dangerous gang of bandits known as the Black Clan, who she learns has been hired to kill her before she reaches the palace.

Dressed as a peasant boy, Mariko sets out to infiltrate the ranks of the Black Clan, determined to track down the person responsible for the target on her back. But she's quickly captured and taken to the Black Clan’s secret hideout, where she meets their leader, the rebel ronin Takeda Ranmaru, and his second-in-command, his best friend Okami. Still believing her to be a boy, Ranmaru and Okami eventually warm to Mariko, impressed by her intellect and ingenuity. As Mariko gets closer to the Black Clan, she uncovers a dark history of secrets, of betrayal and murder, which will force her to question everything she's ever known.

Saturday, April 15, 2017

Monthly Giveaway Hint


Hey guys! It's that time again. Halfway through the month where I give you a hint as to what book the first line for my giveaway comes from.

Though honestly, you could just google it. I don't care xD

Anyway, the first line is...

I wake up. Immediately I have to figure out who I am.

So. Your hint is that it is a contemporary read with some hints of speculative fiction. But it's still in the contemporary genre. It's also a widely known LGBT+ read that has a companion novel. 

NOW THAT I HAVE GIVEN IT AWAY...

Go forth and enter on the giveaway page!

Also, I'm having am Instagram giveaway this weekend for getting to 300 followers (such a small account but I'm still happy lol). So don't forget to check out my account for details here :)

Monday, April 10, 2017

Review: Given to the Sea

Title: Given to the Sea
Author: Mindy McGinnis
Publisher: Putnam's Childrens
Release Date: April 11, 2017

Khosa is Given to the Sea, a girl born to be fed to the water, her flesh preventing a wave like the one that destroyed the Kingdom of Stille in days of old. But before she’s allowed to dance – an uncontrollable twitching of the limbs that will carry her to the shore in a frenzy – she must produce an heir. Yet the thought of human touch sends shudders down her spine that not even the sound of the tide can match.

Vincent is third in line to inherit his throne, royalty in a kingdom where the old linger and the young inherit only boredom. When Khosa arrives without an heir he knows his father will ensure she fulfills her duty, at whatever cost. Torn between protecting the throne he will someday fill, and the girl whose fate is tied to its very existence, Vincent’s loyalty is at odds with his heart.

Dara and Donil are the last of the Indiri, a native race whose dwindling magic grows weaker as the island country fades. Animals cease to bear young, creatures of the sea take to the land, and the Pietra – fierce fighters who destroyed the Indiri a generation before – are now marching from their stony shores for the twin’s adopted homeland, Stille.

Witt leads the Pietra, their army the only family he has ever known. The stone shores harbor a secret, a growing threat that will envelop the entire land – and he will conquer every speck of soil to ensure the survival of his people.

The tides are turning in Stille, where royals scheme, Pietrans march, and the rising sea calls for its Given.


Monday, April 3, 2017

Review: Dark Breaks the Dawn

Title: Dark Breaks the Dawn
Author: Sara B Larson
Publisher: Scholastic, Inc
Release Date: May 30, 2017

On her eighteenth birthday, Princess Evelayn of Eadrolan, the Light Kingdom, can finally access the full range of her magical powers. The light looks brighter, the air is sharper, and the energy she can draw when fighting feels almost limitless.

But while her mother, the queen, remains busy at the war front, in the Dark Kingdom of Dorjhalon, the corrupt king is plotting. King Bain wants control of both kingdoms, and his plan will fling Evelayn onto the throne much sooner than she expected.

In order to defeat Bain and his sons, Evelayn will quickly have to come into her ability to shapeshift, and rely on the alluring Lord Tanvir. But not everyone is what they seem, and the balance between the Light and Dark comes at a steep price.

Saturday, April 1, 2017

April Giveaway

So. I don't know if you all know, but my good friend, Tracy, over at Cornerfolds has an Etsy shop. Her shop is, in fact, here. We've been brainstorming different candle ideas, so yes. CANDLES.

So, this month's prize is any one 8oz candle from Tracy's shop. No Tracy, you are not eligible to win xD And I'm sorry guys, this is US only. Shipping is incredibly expensive for something like a candle. I try to stagger them. My last giveaway was international. My next will probably be as well.

Okay, so here's the fun part. How to enter :) All you have to do is both follow my blog and tell me what book the following first line is from.

I wake up. Immediately I have to figure out who I am.

Got it? Good. Go forth and enter!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, March 31, 2017

March Wrap-Up

But how can March be over already??

I know, I kind of slowed down in blogging momentum near the end of the month, but there is a reason for that.

As I've mentioned before (at least I think I have), I'll be taking April off from reading. So I'm writing as many reviews and posts ahead of time to last through the month.

Sooooo.... what happened this month?

So, in case you missed it, the March Giveaway ended and the winner is Lauren at My Expanding Bookshelf

I've emailed you. Please email me back within 48 hours. The March book of the month, which I took the first line from for the giveaway was Rebel of the Sands, by Alwyn Hamilton. Congrats on winning a free audiobook form audible!

Blogging Things

Not much really happened. I read fourteen books, including audiobooks and one DNF (very late in the book too). So that's not too shabby. In case you missed it, I posted reviews for these:


I also, for the first and only time in many months, did a Waiting on Wednesday post.

I'm wanting to start a feature of a weekly interview. I love doing interviews! But if this happens, it'll be a long way off.

Life Things

I have some health answers and more health questions. Such is life. 

Instagram Things

I got throwing knives in. Yes, I ordered throwing knives, because I want to learn. I still need a target though, so I'm currently just using them for props.  Here are two of my more recent photos from this month.



If you're on instagram, let me know your username! I'm constantly on the search for more bookish accounts to follow.  I try to post at least once a day, though I usually post more.

Monday, March 27, 2017

Review: Duels and Deception

Title: Duels and Deception
Author: Cindy Anstey
Publisher: Swoon Reads
Release Date: April 11, 2017

Miss Lydia Whitfield, heiress to the family fortune, has her future entirely planned out. She will run the family estate until she marries the man of her late father's choosing, and then she will spend the rest of her days as a devoted wife. Confident in those arrangements, Lydia has tasked her young law clerk, Mr. Robert Newton, to begin drawing up the marriage contracts. Everything is going according to plan.
Until Lydia—and Robert along with her—is kidnapped. Someone is after her fortune and won't hesitate to destroy her reputation to get it. With Robert's help, Lydia strives to keep her family's good name intact and expose whoever is behind the devious plot. But as their investigation delves deeper and their affections for each other grow, Lydia starts to wonder whether her carefully planned future is in fact what she truly wants…

Monday, March 20, 2017

Review: Crystal Storm

Title: Crystal Storm
Author: Morgan Rhodes
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: December 13, 2016

The ruthless Empress Amara of Kraeshia has taken the Mytican throne, and now uncertainty looms over the three kingdoms. Since Lucia unleashed the fire Kindred, wreaking havoc throughout the land, Myticans have been looking for someone—anyone—they can trust. They believe in Amara, not knowing her grand promises are built on lies.

In Paelsia, Magnus and Cleo reluctantly follow King Gaius to the home of his exiled mother, Selia. Selia is a powerful witch and claims she can help unlock the magic of the Kindred—if the visitors agree to her terms. When Jonas arrives from Kraeshia, he is shocked to find that his rebel army now includes his sworn enemies. Along with Nic, Felix, and the mysteriously resurrected Ashur, the contentious group agrees to cast aside old grudges—for now—and united against their common enemy: Amara.

Meanwhile, bearing the child of a Watcher and feared by all, Princess Lucia travels across Mytica to find her family. But time is running out. The impending storm signals the dark prophecy Timotheus warned her about. Her fate is written, and it includes none other than the rebel Jonas. When their paths collied, Jonas and Lucia must decide between blindly following their destiny or fighting for their own free will.

The battle for power culminates at the Paelsian palace, where Amara resides. Rain pours. Blood spills. And soon all will discover that the darkest magic comes at an even darker price.

Monday, March 13, 2017

Audiobook Review: Shatter Me

Title: Shatter Me
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Publisher: Harper
Release Date: November 15, 2011

I have a curse
I have a gift

I am a monster
I'm more than human

My touch is lethal
My touch is power

I am their weapon
I will fight back

Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal. As long as she doesn’t hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don’t fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war – and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she’s exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Review: Hunted

Title: Hunted
Author: Meagan Spooner
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: March 14, 2014

Beauty knows the Beast’s forest in her bones—and in her blood. Though she grew up with the city’s highest aristocrats, far from her father’s old lodge, she knows that the forest holds secrets and that her father is the only hunter who’s ever come close to discovering them.

So when her father loses his fortune and moves Yeva and her sisters back to the outskirts of town, Yeva is secretly relieved. Out in the wilderness, there’s no pressure to make idle chatter with vapid baronessas…or to submit to marrying a wealthy gentleman. But Yeva’s father’s misfortune may have cost him his mind, and when he goes missing in the woods, Yeva sets her sights on one prey: the creature he’d been obsessively tracking just before his disappearance.

Deaf to her sisters’ protests, Yeva hunts this strange Beast back into his own territory—a cursed valley, a ruined castle, and a world of creatures that Yeva’s only heard about in fairy tales. A world that can bring her ruin or salvation. Who will survive: the Beauty, or the Beast?