Category: Blogmas

The Twelve Days of Christmas Book Tag

December 24, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 12!

And Merry Christmas Eve! Today is the final day of blogmas and I can’t believe that I’ve managed to compete my 12 days of blogmas challenge! I’ve discovered that the key is to get organised, and if it wasn’t for my colourful spreadsheet I don’t think I would have made it past day 1! I’m fully obsessed with my spreadsheet now and planning things out so much so that I’ve already planned out my scheduled posts for January! Anyway, I’ve really enjoyed blogmas this year and I’ve especially loved reading everyone else’s posts, they’ve all helped me get in the festive mood and ready for the big day!

I want to once again thank all of my readers and followers for all their support and I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! Lots of love and socially distanced hugs,

Amy X

ON THE FIRST DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: A PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR TREE.

The partridge stood alone in the pear tree. What is your favourite stand alone?

In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren. I read this during my festive 24-hour read-a-thon and it was exactly what I needed, it was lighthearted, it was adorable and most importantly it had everything I love about Christmas. I’ll 100% be checking out more of Christian Lauren’s books next year, so any recommendations would be wonderful!

ON THE SECOND DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: TWO TURTLE DOVES.

Love is in the air! Who is your one true pairing?

Azriel from A Court of Mist and Fury! Everyone else in the series has managed to find their mate and I’m very happy to fill that position for Azriel!

ON THE THIRD DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: THREE FRENCH HENS.

In the spirit of threes, what is the best trilogy you have read?

Caraval by Stephanie Garber. I’ve just finished the Caraval series and I’m OBSESSED and also embarrassed that it took me so long to continue with this series! You’d think I was used to all the twist and turns after the first book, but no! Each book held me in it’s grasp and took me on a whirlwind journey of magic, mystery and manipulation…

ON THE FOURTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: FOUR CALLING BIRDS.

Since series usually consist of four or more books, what is your favourite series?

The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater. The series starts as an innocent treasure hunting adventure between friends but concludes as something much deeper, darker and emotional. There’s so much hype around this series that I went into it with high expectations, all of which were surpassed. Stiefvater’s writing style is magically unique and has the power to create peacefully unnerving and impressionistic scenes that are equally beautiful and haunting. The complexity of her storylines and the way in which her characters intertwine with each other, adds another layer of intimate adoration for this series, that left me wishing for more.

ON THE FIFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: FIVE GOLDEN RINGS.

One ring to rule them all! Who is your Favourite Villain/Antagonist?

I’m loving Jacks from Legendary. I love it when an author makes to battle over whether or not you’re meant to hate a character or start falling slowly in love with them! And I wonder why I have trust issues, especially after being betrayed by so many beloved characters!

ON THE SIXTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: SIX GEESE A LAYING.

Creation is a beautiful thing. What is your favorite world/world-building?

Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff. I’ve always struggled to find a ‘good’ sci-fi and intergalactic adventure that explores the vast expanse and possibilities of space. The possibilities are endless and I think it’s easy for authors to get carried away, but the Kaufman and Kristoff duo manage to create a universe that is limitless yet believable!

ON THE SEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: SEVEN SWANS A SWIMMING.

Who needs seven swans when all it takes is one good animal sidekick? Who’s your favorite animal sidekick?

Mr Kindly from Nevernight or Saphira from Eragon. Not only would I give ANYTHING to own a dragon but both of these sidekicks are great at what they do, they’re always supporting our protagonists, giving them key advice and always have the perfect witty remark at the ready.

ON THE EIGHTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: EIGHT MAIDS A MILKING.

Milk is so 18th century. Which book or series takes food to a whole new level?

Harry Potter and the Philosopher Stone – those feasts!

ON THE NINTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: NINE LADIES DANCING.

Dancing is just one skill of a Lady! Who is your favorite kickass female lead?

Bryce Quinlan from Crescent City. Sarah has the ability to perfectly craft an imaginative and compelling storyline that is enhanced by her breathtakingly attractive and witty cast of characters that you can’t help but instantly love. Bryce is strong-willed, quick witted, emotionally raw and has her fair share of flaws and problems; everything about her was quintessential Maas and I loved her. Crescent City is ultimately her journey of self-discovery and acceptance, and it was a privilege to have been able to share it.

ON THE TENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: TEN LORDS A LEAPING.

How about your favorite leading lad?

 Ronan from The Raven Boys. For me Ronan was the standout character in this series, his character development and witty interactions are among some of my favourites.

ON THE ELEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: ELEVEN PIPES PIPING.

What is your favorite book or bookish thing with musical influence? (It can be about music, reference music a lot etc.)

My writing playlist has been getting a lot of love and attention this year, it’s now my go-to playlist if I ever need to get anything done! If you read my NaNoWriMo Wrap Up post then you’ll know that one of my aims for 2021 is to write more and my plan is create ‘scene/mood’ playlists to suit what I’m writing about!

ON THE TWELFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS MY TRUE LOVE SENT TO ME: 12 DRUMMERS DRUMMING.

Drum roll please…what is your favorite read of this year?

Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. I know I keep going on about this book but it is truly the perfect read that shattered my heart. The something deeply romantic and delicately secret about Miller’s prose, it’s so beautifully enchanting and has the ability to transcend our characters emotions straight off the page. Those last five chapter torn my heart from my chest, leaving me empty and alone, and for that I am thankful. If Song of Achillies isn’t on your TBR for 2021, then I would 100% suggest adding it ASAP!

Books on My Christmas Wishlist 2020

December 22, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 11!

When my family ask me what I want for Christmas the answer is always books, books and more books! It’s got to the point now that they refuse to buy me anymore books because I’m running out of room on my bookshelves! Nevertheless I still like to make a list, just in case they change their minds! I also thought I’d share my list of books I’ll be giving as gifts this Christmas, just incase anyone needs any last minute ideas!

Books on My Wishlist

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout – Ever since I heard about this series, I had to have it! For the past month however I’ve been on a book buying ban so I’m praying that my sister gets me this series for Christmas! I’ve never read a JLA book but I’ve heard nothing but praise for her action packed storylines and alluring characters!

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire by Jennifer L. Armentrout – From what I’ve heard, I’m going to want to have the sequel ready and waiting for me when I finish!

The Bone Criers Moon by Kathryn Purdie – I always say that I’m going to buy this book next but then something else catches my eye and I vow to buy in next time, it’s a vicious cycle! Even if I don’t receive this book it’s 100% going to be on my shelf by the end of January!

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson – As many of you know I’m obsessed with Brandon Sanderson and I’m eager to start another series! After looking through all of his series I decided I was craving more high-fantasy rather than sci-fi and settled for the epic that is the Stormlight Archive. I can’t wait to dive back into the wonderful world he creates and to meet a new and exciting cast of characters!

Books I’m Giving as Gifts

Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid – I had no idea that this story was inspired by Fleetwood Mac so I had to order it for my friend Amy! Between us there has been many karaoke renditions and bad dancing to some of their greatest classics so I’m hoping this book will bring back some good memories! Plus I’ve heard nothing but good things about this book and I’m secretly hoping that she chooses it for Book Club next year!

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – Every time I have a Zoom call with my friends they always ask me if I’ve managed to unhaul any of my copies of the Hunger Games, as I’ve got three copies of the series all with different and special covers! It’s not even my favourite series but teenage Amy clearly had an obsession! I’m now down to two copies of the trilogy (which according to my friends is still two too many) so I thought I’d share the love and send them a personalised copy to keep of their shelves FOREVER!

Unpublished Letters to the Daily Telegraph edited by Kate Moore – This is a go-to gift for my Dad, and a perfect way to reflect on this disaster of a year. This is a collection of unpublished and refreshingly witty letters that The Daily Telegraph receive each year and provide a typically British take on the year.

In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks – And finally it wouldn’t be Christmas without gifting a steamy highlander novel to my best friend, Grace! I’m always on the hunt for a trashy historical romance and I think I’ve hit the jackpot with this one, I’m even a little jealous and might have to grab a copy for myself! Maya Banks’ beguiling new trilogy features three unforgettable brothers risking everything to save their clan and their legacy—and to surrender their hearts to love.

24 Hour Christmas Read-a-thon & Watch-a-thon

December 20, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 10!

We’re nearing the end of blogmas and I’m still not fully feeling the festive spirit! It might be, because I work in the chaos that is retail and that the festivities started all the way back in early November, so I thought I’d take action and have a day dedicated to getting in the Christmas spirit! First things first, let’s get that playlist on! Usually I’m one of those people who breaks out the Christmas anthems all the way back in November but this year it’s been pretty quiet, so I think its only right that I start the day with a good-old sing-a-long!

After I embarrassed myself in front of the postman with my awful signing (and dancing) I thought it was best that I took myself upstair to decorate my little reading nook before settling down. I keep seeing pictures of everyones bookshelves covered in cute fairy lights, they all look so magical and it’s definitely something I’m going to have to do to mine too! I did think about getting myself a tree for my room but I managed to talk myself out of it, maybe next year!

Before settling down for any movie/reading marathon you need to be in something cosy, and in my case it was my new Christmas pj’s, cosy socks and giant fluffy blanket, (I take this whole comfort thing very seriously!). Now you need to make sure you’re fully stocked with lots of snacks! On a day like today it’s okay to eat your body weight in chocolate, and it’s not Christmas themed day without a tube of Smarties or Terry’s Chocolate Orange. I also tried one of those ‘hot chocolate bombs’ that are taking the internet by storm, and it’s fair to say they’re worth the hype! When I make a hot chocolate I always like to go full out, and I mean whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate flakes, the whole shebang! It was so GOOD!

Now would it be a read-a-thon without an overly ambitious TBR?

The Holidaze by Chritsina Lauren – If you google ‘best Christmas reads’ then this one is always number one so I thought it was only fitting that I gave it a go! Turns out this book was just what I needed, it’s lighthearted and just a bundle of fun that I managed to devour in a couple of hours. I was gutted when it finished, I need MORE. I’ll 100% be checking out more of Christian Lauren’s books next year, so any recommendations would be wonderful!

Finding Love at the Christmas Market by Jo Thomas – This is our Book Club book of the month for December and it was only fitting that we chose a trashy festive romance! I love a good-old Christmas market and it breaks my heart that I’m missing out on them this year so I just had to settle for my imagination! As expected I really enjoyed it and it was the perfect addition to my day!

One Day in December by Josie Silver – Although I didn’t get round to reading this one, it’s definitely on my December TBR and I think it’ll be nice to curl and read over the holidays.

When I’m reading I like to enjoy a bit of background noise and it’s not a Christmassy day if some festive films aren’t involved. Plus with all that reading, I needed a break now and then!

Christmas with the Kranks (Netflix) – This is one of my all time favourite Christmas films, as someone who’s grown up in a close village community this film tends to hit home. That final scene when everyone comes together to create the perfect Christmas Eve for Blair never fails to make me smile.

Noelle (Disney+) – A new Disney Christmas film, yes please! This film is a combination of Elf and The Santa Clause and is just some lighthearted fun that is packed full with festive spirit.

A Christmas Prince (Netflix) – Now is it really a Christmas themed day if you don’t watch The Christmas Prince? This film is so bad that it’s good!

The Santa Clause (Disney+) – And finally one of the greatest Christmas films ever, a perfect contemporary and highly imaginative rendition of the Santa Clause story! The wonder and child-like innocence that surrounds this film reminds me of my childhood and the magic of Father Christmas.

It’s fair to say that I’m definitely feeling a little bit more festive now and I even managed to get some online Christmas shopping done! The lead up to Christmas is always a stressful one and I think that everyone needs a day now and then to just relax and enjoy the magic of Christmas!

Surprising and Disappointing Reads of 2020

December 18, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 9!

No matter how hard I try, I always start a book with expectations and it is through these expectations that I either end up falling utterly in love, being pleasantly surprised, or disappointed with my reading experience. It is from these expectations and bookish hype that has enabled my to create this list and it’s not guaranteed that all my 2020 disappointing reads will be low ratings and vice versa, it’s purely down to whether it reached or surpassed my predicted ratings. I’ve tried my best to pick books that actually unintentionally surprised me rather than some staple favourites, I’ll leave those books for my 2020 favourites/wrap up post!

Surprises

The Song of Achillies by Madeline Miller – Don’t get me started on my thoughts about this book, I ADORE IT! I’m still trying to fully comprehend my thoughts and I don’t think I’ve experience a book-hangover like this since I read The Final Empire two years ago! This book just left me in awe and I just want to re-read it again and again. I knew the story. I knew what was going to happen. But the enchanting quality in Millers prose lures us into the comfort of caring for these characters. The emotions shared between Achillies and Patroclus are profoundly physical, and those last five chapters tore the heart from my chest, leaving me empty and alone.

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde – I read a bit of Wilde whilst studying at Univeristy and there’s always that worry when reading ‘a classic’ that I might not ‘get it’ or enjoy it as much as others, but this one surprised me greatly! I found it super easy to read and I certainly wasn’t expecting the intrusively personal thoughts it left me with. This is a true masterpiece that was the perfect read during Halloween and is filled with beautiful quotes that will stay with you long after finishing!

Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning – If your new to this blog then you probably don’t know about my obsession with trashy highlander romance novels, they’re so bad that they’re good! You may be think Amy, why on earth is this book on your surprise list? Well, its because I truly love this book! I’m just as surprised as you are, everything was great from the plot to the characters (it was an enemies to loves relationship and we all know I’m a sucker for one of those). So if you’re ever struggling to find something to read then I highly recommend anything that has a shirtless man in a kilt on the cover!

The Witchling’s Girl by Helena Coggan – Another complete surprise! I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a review but I got so much more. Like I’ve mentioned before I’m usually a read driven by plot rather than character but this book completely subverted that. Coggan’s beautifully evocative prose and world building surrounds a battling story of love and death that will break readers hearts. The characterisation and development is what makes this book truly stunning, Haley’s succession to becoming the Witchling is one heck of a journey that I’m thankful to have experienced.

Out of Love by Hazel Hayes – There’s that stigma behind YouTubers writing books, and although I fully trust Hazel and her ability to create beautiful and meaningful prose as seen through her Time of the Month series and short film Happy, there was always that element of doubt. This was on my list of most anticipated reads for 2020, so I had all my fingers crossed that it would live up to my expectations, and thankfully it did!

Disappointments

The Cup and the Prince by Day Leitao – This is probably one of my biggest disappointments of 2020 and it breaks my heart to admit that because I was hooked by this book’s synopsis but sadly this is one of those rare cases of a great premise but not so great execution. Nevertheless it was still a fun and easy read filled with a unique world that I’d love to learn more about.

A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmerer – Please don’t hate me! It’s not that I don’t enjoy this series but I don’t think that this book lives up to the hype. It’s a solid Beauty and the Beast adaptation with a intricate storyline and good characters but I swear if I read another Beauty and the Beast adaptation I’m going to DIE, there’s a whole world of untold fairytales than need updating so pick something else! ACOTAR will forever be my favourite adaptation because Maas cleverly uses it’s framework to build a greater and more complex story. I will probably continue with this series because I’m curious to see where Kemmerer takes these characters and her storyline!

Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman – One of my reading goals this year was to start and finish this series, and although I was hooked with the haunting concept and world of book one, sadly book two didn’t have the same effect! I remember really struggling to finish this book and I probably couldn’t even tell you what happened! I do hope to pick up this series again in the future but right now it’s not at the top of my TBR.

The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater – What is it with sequels? I think my problem is that I fall utterly in love with the first book and I’m so eager to start that second book that my expectations creep higher and higher. I knew it was going to be difficult for this book to top its predecessor but I just felt like something vital was missing. I felt like we were missing the camaraderie and brotherhood of the first book, I understand that it’s good for each characters to have their own time and storyline but it just felt a little empty. 

Fictional Items I’d Love to Find Under My Christmas Tree

December 16, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 8!

This is probably one of my favourite posts of this year! I loved going through all the of the books on my bookshelf and picking out all the fictional item’s I’d love to find under my tree on Christmas Day! I tried my best to avoid the obvious choices (e.g. EVERYTHING from Harry Potter) and pick something a little different! Let me know what items are on your fictional wishlist in the comments below!

Caraval (Caraval, 1): Amazon.co.uk: Garber, Stephanie: Books

Scarlett’s Dress from Caraval – A dress that changes with your mood? Yes please! I loved watching her dress change throughout the series and enjoyed the fact that it had a mind of it’s own and could change at any time! The possibilities are endless and I don’t think I’d ever want to take it off.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia, Book 2) eBook by C. S. Lewis - 9780007325054 | Rakuten Kobo United Kingdom

The Wardrobe from The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe – I already have too many clothes and am in desperate need of more wardrobe space so a wardrobe that would help with storage issue and also allow me to step into the wonderful world of Narnia would be perfect! I’d constantly be going on adventures or just for tea with Mr Tumnus!

Eragon: Book One (The Inheritance cycle 1) eBook: Paolini, Christopher: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

A Dragon Egg from The Inhertitance Cycle – I’d honestly give ANYTHING to have a Dragon Egg under my tree!

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J. K. Rowling | Waterstones

A Jumper from Mrs Weasley from Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone – There’s so many things I could have chosen from Harry Potter but this one is the most sentimental. Just imagine Mrs Weasley taking the time to knit you one her famous initial jumpers!

The Night Circus: Amazon.co.uk: Morgenstern, Erin: 9780099554790: Books

A Ticket to the Le Cirque des Rêves from The Night Circus – As many of you know, The Night Circus is one of my favourite books so the opportunity to experience the circus first hand would be a dream come true! There’s so much to do and I could see myself becoming apart of the magic and fulfilling my parents worst nightmare by running away with the circus!

Always and Forever, Lara Jean, Volume 3 To All the Boys I've Loved Before: Amazon.co.uk: Han, Jenny: Books

Lara Jean’s Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies from Always and Forever, Lara Jean – Lara Jean makes it her baking mission to create the perfect chocolate chip cookie, and as someone who has a small addition to biscuits, this would be the perfect gift to unwrap and devour!

House of Earth and Blood: Winner of the Goodreads Choice Best Fantasy 2020 (Crescent City): Amazon.co.uk: Maas, Sarah J.: 9781408884416: Books

Bryce’s Amulet Necklace from Crescent City – I’m a sucker for a bit of jewellery, and Bryce’s necklace is perfect! Not only does it protect against the influence of various magical objects but it’s gorgeous and simple enough to wear everyday, nothing too extravagant.

A Darker Shade of Magic: 1: Amazon.co.uk: V. E. Schwab, Victoria Schwab: 9781783295401: Books

Kell’s Coat from A Darker Shade of Magic – Red is one of my favourite colours and although I already have a red jacket, I’d love one with a bit more magic. Like Scarlet’s dress, I love the fact that the coat has it’s own individual personality and limitless possibilities when it comes to its style!

The Raven Boys: Amazon.co.uk: Stiefvater, Maggie: Books

Gansey’s 1973 Chevrolet Camaro from The Raven Cycle – This gift is quite big so I don’t think it would fit under my tree! I mean who wouldn’t want this beauty of a car as a Christmas present? I’d 100% use this car to go on my own adventures with friends, and discover more about Welsh/English folklore!

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay eBook: Rowling, J.K.: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

Newt’s Suitcase from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them – My handbag at the moment is a bit like Mary Poppin’s iconic bag, it’s never ending and it has everything you’d ever need, from first aid kits to to emergency sewing kits! So it’s fair to say that I’m a bit of an over-packer! With Newt’s suitcase not only could pack everything and more, but like Newt I could also keep a few furry friends inside.

And finally…

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses): Amazon.co.uk: Maas, Sarah J.: 9781619634466: Books

Azriel from A Court of Mist and Fury – A girl can dream, can’t she?

My Favourite Book Covers of 2020

December 14, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 7!

Should you ever judge a book by its cover? Well in this case yes! 2020 may have been a terrible year for everyone but it has been another year of beautiful book covers! It’s becoming more and more difficult to resist buying all of them when I visit my local Waterstones. Both my wishlist and bookshelves are filled with loads of stunning covers so I thought I’d share a few of my 2020 favourites and trends.

The Subtle Hints

House of Earth and Blood: The blockbuster modern fantasy of 2020 (Crescent City): Amazon.co.uk: Maas, Sarah J.: 9781408884416: Books

Crescent City by Sarah J Maas – This is hands down my favourite book and cover of 2020, just look at it, isn’t it BEAUTIFUL! The cover itself is full of hidden details and secrets that relate to the characters and their storyline, like the wolf for Danika, the serpent for the Viper Queen and finally the unicorn for Jelly Jubilee! I’m eager to see what the rest of the series looks like!

Woven in Moonlight (Woven in Moonlight, #1) by Isabel Ibañez

Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez – This tapestry of magic and romance draws inspiration from Bolivian history and politics was designed by the author herself! It’s absolutely gorgeous and one that I can’t wait to have on my bookshelf!

The Charlie Bowater Masterpiece

STAR DAUGHTER — Shveta Thakrar

Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar – I wish my life was like a Charlie Bowater illustration, because everything she creates is pure magic. I’m obsessed with her artwork, so I’m instantly drawn to anything with her touch especially this one! This constellation of gold and beauty is just WOW!

Bone Crier's Moon (Bone Grace, #1) by Kathryn Purdie

Bone Criers Moon by Kathryn Purdie – This book has been sitting on my wishlist for the majority of the year and is 100% going on my Christmas list because I NEED this book in my life! I’m eager to learn more about these characters and I can already tell from the cover that their dynamic and relationship is something I’m going to enjoy.

The Minimalist

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab – Another 2020 favourite, and a case where the US edition is better than UK one. The simplicity of this cover paired with Addie’s iconic constellation of freckles still manages to capture the magic and classic nature of this heartbreaking masterpiece.

The Contemporary Cartoon

Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertalli

Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertalli & Aisha Saeed – I’m living for all these contemporary cartoon covers, they’re all adorable and instantly give you a glimpse into our characters personalities and blossoming relationship.

The Hero’s Close Up

Legendborn (Legendborn, #1) by Tracy Deonn

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn – If you know me then you’ll know that I’m a sucker for anything related to Arthurian legends, so that combined with how stunning this cover has made sure that this book is 100% on my TBR for next year!

The Gilded Ones: Amazon.co.uk: Namina Forna: Books

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna – Usually I’m not a massive fan of character profiles on the cover but this one is MAGNIFICENT! The colour scheme of turquoise and gold is everything and makes this book truly stand out. The publication for this book has been moved to Feb 2021 but I couldn’t resit including it on this this.

The Almighty Weapon

These Violent Delights (These Violent Delights, #1) by Chloe Gong

These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong – I was initially hooked by the cover and then I read the synopsis! DAMN! A Romeo and Juliet retelling set in 1920s Shanghai, yes please! For me, this cover captures the balances between love and war, it’s stunning.

The Power Stance

A Sky Beyond the Storm: An Ember in the Ashes Novel: 4: Amazon.co.uk: Tahir, Sabaa: Books

A Sky Beyond the Storm by Sabaa Tahir – This is one of my most anticipated releases of 2020 and another case where the US cover is better than the UK edition! This entire series from the cover to the content is stunning and I’m just in love with the all purple tones. I am missing my fix of Helene though, I just hope her absence on the cover doesn’t allude to any drastic events…

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin: Amazon.co.uk: Brown, Roseanne A.: Books

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown – THAT EMERALD DRESS and gold detailing! The subtle tones of regality and power Malik displays on this cover is beautifully unnerving and a true power stance!

Authors I’ve Discovered in 2020

December 12, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 6!

This year has been a year of old favourites and new discoveries especially when it comes to my reading habits. I recently wrote a post discussing all the books I’d discovered through blogging and its through blogging that I’ve also discovered some new favourite and go-to authors, so I thought I’d share a few that I read this year. Most of these authors had been on my TBR for a while now, but there are a few new faces that I’m eager to read more from!

Truthwitch (The Witchlands, #1) by Susan Dennard

Susan Dennard – Dennard has been on my radar since all the way back in 2016 and I just kept pushing her Witchland’s series further and further down on my TBR list, not because it was bad, but because there were so many other series that I wanted to read! This year however I finally picked up the first book and I’m already obsessed with all the characters and the unique elemental magic system. I’ve only read the first book in the series but I’m eager to learn more about the wonderful world Dennard has created!

Helena Coggan – An unexpected favourite of the year and one I discovered through NetGalley! The Witchling’s Girl is a truly heartbreaking story that focuses on the battle between love and death and one that features beautifully evocative prose and magical world building. I’m usually a read that it motivated by plot rather than character but this book completely changed that, the characterisation and development is what makes this book so stunning.

Aurora Rising (The Aurora Cycle) (Aurora Cycle 1): Amazon.co.uk: Kaufman, Amie, Kristoff, Jay: Books

Amie Kaufman – I’m only 100 pages into Aurora Rising but I’m in love. I needed a new series to fill the sci-fi/Star Wars void and this one is perfect, the characters, the world, the writing, it’s everything I wanted it to be! Kaufman has earned her place as a new favourite and I’m eager to continue this series and read more of her work!

A Curse So Dark and Lonely (Cursebreakers, #1) by Brigid Kemmerer

Brigid Kemmerer – A breakout author from last year that I’ve only just discovered! Her Beauty and the Beast retellings are fun, easy and action-packed reads that everyone can enjoyed.

Maggie Stiefvater – I’m not surprised that Stiefvater is on this list because her Raven Cycle Series has received nothing but well deserved praise from her readers and it’s about time that I hopped on the bandwagon. Stiefvater’s writing style is magically unique and has the power to create peacefully unnerving and impressionistic scenes that are equally beautiful and haunting. The complexity of her storylines and the way in which her characters intertwine with each other, adds another layer of intimate adoration for this series, that left me wishing for more.

Normal People: Amazon.co.uk: Rooney, Sally: 9780571347292: Books

Sally Rooney – I read Rooney’s Normal People and Conversation with Friends and haven fallen in love with her writing style and ability to create complex and real characters and a narrative that is more than just a romance. I loved her characters from Normal People so much that I based an entire weekly read-a-thon around them, so if you haven’t checked that out yet, then I’ll leave a link here!

Out of Love by Hazel Hayes | Waterstones

Hazel Hayes – For the past five years I’ve followed Hazel on all her creative journeys, her short-film Happy and Time of the Month series being a stand-out favourites and videos I continue to re-watch, always with a box of tissues at the ready. So, when I heard she was writing a novel, I knew I was in for a treat. Hazel posses the rare ability to craft an effortlessly real and raw narrative and the way in which she talks about love and heartbreak are truly moving. I hope I get to experience more of her writing in the future.

Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor (Hardback, 2017) for sale online | eBay

Laini Taylor – This book was refreshingly unlike anything I’ve read before, the limitless scope of Taylor’s world and perfect strangeness of her characters makes this such a memorable and enchanting read that left me eager for more. Admittedly at times Taylor’s heavily detailed writing was a challenge to get through but it was 100% worth it!

Baby, It’s Cold Outside Book Tag

December 10, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day 5!

Another HUGE thank you to Pilar @The Bookworm Shelf for nominating me for this tag! I was desperately searching for a Christmas Book Tag I hadn’t done yet and then she tagged me in this one! Perfect timing or what!?

Snowy Day: What’s your ‘comfort’ book?

For me a comfort book is one I can read over and over again, and is a book that captures the magic and warmth of reading. I’ve got so many favourites but I’m going to pick Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller because that book left me in AWE! I’m still unable to fully comprehend my thoughts and emotions about this book but its fair to say that it has earned its place as one of my all time favourites.

Snow Angel: What’s a book that you love so much you would want to be buried with it? (a little morbid, but…)

If you’ve been following my blog for a while I think it’s pretty obvious which books I’d pick…! It has to be ACOMAF by Sarah J Maas, The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson and of course The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern! These books are pure magic and I would grant me everlasting dreams of adventure and wonder.

Warm Socks: What’s a book that makes you feel warm inside? (The fluffiest, cutest romance you’ve ever read?)

Any Morgan Matson read! Her books are just so lovely and are guaranteed to make your little heart skip a beat! I need to start manifesting some of her heartwarming meet-cutes and adorable romances into my own life!

Hot Cocoa: What winter-themed novels have you previously read?

I’m embarrassed to admit that I don’t really read Christmas novels despite the fact that it’s my favourite time of the year! I think it’s because I usually use the month of December to catch up on all the books I wanted to read that year so there’s never anytime for some festive reading! I am however planning a 24-hour Christmas read-a-thon this week and I hopefully plan to read some Christmas staples like The Holidaze and One Day in December! The only Christmas book I have read is Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares, which was adorable!

Sledding: What’s a book with the best plot twists? Who’s an author that always keeps you on your toes?

I just finished the first two books in the Caraval series by Stephanie Garber and I LOVED them! You never know what to expect in this series, one moment you think you know what’s going to happen and then Garber throws you a curve ball! If you’ve yet to read this series then I highly recommend that it makes it’s way onto your TBR now!

Ugly Sweaters: What’s a book with the ugliest cover?

Please don’t hate me but I really don’t like the new cover for A Court of Silver and Flames by Sarah J Maas! WHY CHANGE IT NOW? I’m refusing to re-purchase the entire series just so everything matches, but I know what I’m like, and will probably cave sooner or later!

Movie Marathon: What’s the last book you binge read?

I’ve just started Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson and I’m flying through it!

Letter to Santa: What’s a book that’s on your wish list this year?

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! This beautiful beast of a book has been on my Wishlist for a while now and although I know I probably won’t get round to reading it anytime soon, I just want it so I can display on my bookshelf! I’d also love The Harry Potter Illustrated books because they’re also stunning!

I tag, anyone else participating in Blogmas and anyone who needs a Festive Book Tag to get you into the Christmas spirit!

Mini Reviews – Song of Achilles, The Witchling’s Girl and The Cup and the Prince

December 6, 2020

Welcome to Blogmas Day 3! I haven’t written a book review in months, so I thought I was about time I shared my overdue opinion on some recent reads!

Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller – Don’t you love it when you finish a book and then spend days trying to collect your thoughts into complete and coherent sentences? This book left me in awe and I just want to re-read it again and again. I now REFUSE to read or watch another Troy retelling that doesn’t acknowledge the fact that Achilles and Patroclus were lovers, as Miller has crafted a beautifully heartbreaking love-story.

I knew the story. I knew what was going to happen. But the enchanting quality in Millers prose lures us into the comfort of caring for these characters. The emotions shared between Achillies and Patroclus are profoundly physical, and those last five chapters tore the heart from my chest, leaving me empty and alone. I’m still unable to full comprehend my thoughts and emotions about this book but its fair to say that it has earned its place as one of my all time favourites.

 I received these following books from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

The Witchling’s Girl by Helena Coggan – I picked this book up around Halloween time as I wanted something spooky to read but instead I got something completely different. This book is haunting. Coggan’s beautifully evocative prose and world building surrounds a battling story of love and death that will break readers hearts. The characterisation and development is what makes this book truly stunning, Haley’s succession to becoming the Witchling is one heck of a journey that I’m thankful to have experienced. I can’t recommend this book enough, everything about it is uniquely wonderful!

The Cup and the Prince by Day Leitao – This is probably one of my biggest disappointments of 2020 and it breaks my heart to admit that because I hate writing bad reviews. As many of you know I was hooked by this book’s synopsis but sadly this is one of those rare cases of a great premise but not so great execution.

I’ve never DNF’d a book but after reading the first chapter, I was close and instantly knew that I wasn’t going to click with the overly simple writing style and characters. Our protagonist Zora is trying to be this powerful and feminist figure but instead ends up feeling naive and indifferent. However, the plot was pretty solid, and the world Leitao has created has the potential to become something really intriguing. I feel like the only person who didn’t like this book, but if you’re looking for a fast paced and easy fantasy adventure then this might be something to look into!

Blog Post I Loved This Month | November

December 4, 2020

Happy Blogmas Day Two! This is quickly becoming one of my favourite blog posts to write! Being able to celebrate and highlight the creativity and brilliance of the blogging community is just another reason why I love to blog! There has been so many blog posts that I loved this month and can’t wait to see what people have in store for Blogmas!

Anyway, here’s a few posts I loved this month! Enjoy!

With the holidays quickly approaching, it’s time to start searching for that perfect gift for all your family and friends! The lovely Becky @Becky’s Book Blog wrote a fabulous post about some of her favourite UK based bookish shops, to help with your Christmas shopping! I loved everything she included in this post and I might have to treat myself to something nice too!

Alison @Antari Reads also posted a bookish holiday gift guide and I’m OBSESSED with all these small businesses! I don’t need any more candles or bookmarks but they’re all so beautiful and I don’t think I can resist!

This festive season is the perfect time of the year to shop locally, and one of my aims since lockdown it to help support more independent businesses especially when it comes to buying books. Jeff Bezos has enough money! Anyway, @A Cup of Tea With That Book, Please shared a great post about the different ways you can show your support by shopping locally, so be sure to check that out!

This week also saw the UK finally come out of lockdown and move into the 3 Tier system (which is basically the same thing unless you’re lucky enough to be in Tier 1!) and Jen @Books on the 7:47 shared a great list of excellent lockdown reads to help you escape and pass the time!

Despite having all this time in lockdown I’ve been struggling to set a reading routine! But Simone @Simone and Her Books came to my rescue by sharing her tips on how she makes time too read, and some of them really helped so thank you Simone!

One series I have restarted is Caraval by Stephanie Garber and it’s just as good as I remember, I just can’t believe it’s taken me this long to pick it up again! If you’ve yet to dive into this series then check out Erin @Reading On A Star’s post which gives you 5 reasons on why you need to read this magical masterpiece!

When I’m reading I love to listen to music, whether its the latest tunes, my emergency Taylor Swift playlist or the scores from some of my favourite films! Ahaana @Windows to Worlds shared a great list of song recommendations for a few different genres and it was just what I needed! My reading/writing playlists are slowly coming together!

Another post I loved this month was Ally @Ally Writes Things TBR of translated books! In my eyes translated books are hidden gems and after reading her list I’ve had to add a few more to my TBR! I think I might have to dedicate a weekly read-a-thon next year to reading them all!

I also LOVED Naemi @A Book Owl’s Corner’s post about stuff that happens in books but never in real life! This post had me agreeing with at all of these unrealistic tropes especially the one about eye-colour-hyperawarness! Who instantly notices those things? So if you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted read then this is post for you!

I’ve also got to give the the wonderful Dee @If The Book Review Fits a shoutout for creating a book blogger directory for anyone searching for more new and exciting blogs to follow! This was such a wonderful idea and its helped me discover so many other bloggers!

And finally Cherelle @A Bolt Out of The Book and Ashmita @The Fictional Journal have created their own BOOK CLUB, The Books Go Boom! The book of the month for December is Set Fire to the Gods by Sara Raasch and Kristen Simmons and not too late to join, so be sure to check out both of their posts!