I’m not exaggerating when I say I cry at everything, from Christmas adverts to heartfelt goodbyes, I just can’t help it! So when the lovely Jessica @ The Awkward Book Blogger tagged me in this book tag, I knew it was one I had to do ASAP! I haven’t done a book tag in ages so I will admit that I added a few additional prompts of my own, the excitement and creativity was just too much for me to handle! One day I’ll write my own original book tag but right now I’ll just stick to adding the odd question here and there.
The Rules:
✦ Answer all the prompts with a book that made you tearful (on the inside counts) ✦ Link back to the original post ✦ Tag as many people as you want ✦ Drink some water
Foreign Film Cry: A book that was both beautiful and sad
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J Klune. This was more of a happy-sad tears! This book is beautiful and really pulled on my heartstrings. These characters take you by the hand and whisk you away on a journey of self-discovery and an adventure filled with new friendships and childhood fun! This book deserves all the hype so be sure to add this one to your TBR if you haven’t already!
Grief-Stricken Howl: A book character that didn’t need to die (Spoiler Alert, duh)
Where do I start? Sirius Black, Leslie Burke, Finnick Odair, Beth March, Matthias Helvar. These deaths destroyed me the most and left me with a hole in my heart!
Horrified Wail: A book where everything went wrong just when things were going right
Hmmm, I wonder which book Amy’s going to pick? Of course I have to pick The Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson! That book and its characters are total chaos, one moment things are going to plan and then on the next page Sanderson has thrown a major unexpected plot twist into the mix that causes mayhem!
Dry-eyed Shock: An ending that didn’t give you the closure you needed
I really struggled with this one, and spent a while starring at my bookshelves hoping that something would stand out! I hate endings. My problem is that I get too emotionally attached and invested with these characters and the worlds in which they exist, so when I finish that final page, I can’t help but feel lost and empty. I become apart of the story as it’s an easy and comforting escape from reality.
Childhood Wound: A book that related to events in your life
I see myself in both Nesta (ACOSF by Sarah J Maas) and Chloe Brown (Get a Life Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert), both of them go through journeys of self discovery and development, and it’s these struggles that mould them into better versions of themselves. Nesta has taught me that it’s okay to show weakness and Chloe Brown has given me push I needed to make my own ‘get a life’ list!
Exhausted Tears: A book you were hyped about that you ended up hating
Realm Breaker by Victoria Aveyard. I blame myself for this one! As soon as I read the synopsis my expectations shot up and I convinced myself that this book was written for readers like me, it ticked every fantasy box! The world building in Realm Breaker was so intense that I felt that sometimes it overshadowed the characters and the storyline, I ended up getting so caught up with place names and all the different kingdoms that I wasn’t able to connect enough with everything going on. Nevertheless, I am in love with this band of characters and I’m utterly obsessed with Erida, she is such a complex and unique character and I’m curious to see where the story takes her.
No Tears Left to Cry: A book that destroyed you emotionally
Out of Love by Hazel Hayes. Hazel manages to capture the essence of a break-up and those final stages of a relationship beautifully, the entire novel is a treasure trove of powerfully meaningful quotes. Each turning off the page uncovers another delicate layer of intimacy, as we delve further not only into our protagonists relationships but our own. The first chapter will break your heart, and then you’ll spend the rest of the novel, alongside our narrator, tentatively putting ourselves back together and remising on the highs and lows of love.
Crying with Laughter: A character that had you in fits of giggles
Mark Watney from The Martian by Andy Weir. What’s funny about a man stranded on Mars? Nothing, but our protagonist Mark Watney makes the best out of a bad situation and will have you cracking up at every page. Every bit of his dialogue is hilarious, he always finds the most surprising and inappropriate thing to say, even in the direst situations!
The Illuminae Files by Amie Kaufman also had me in fits of giggles! Amie Kaufman is a mastermind when it comes to creating lighthearted and effortless back and forth banter! Again, I didn’t expect to laugh this much! I’m OBSESSED with both Kady/Ezra and Hannah/Nik and they’ve earned a spot on my favourite fictional couples list.
The Chris Pine Oscar Worthy Tear: The perfect book that deserves a standing ovation
I couldn’t help myself and had to include this GIF, just look at that perfect single tear! I’m currently reading These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong and I’m OBSESSED! It sounds cliche but even after the first page I knew this was a book I was going to love, the writing is beautiful and these characters already mean the world to me!
October is my favourite month of the entire year; I love cosy jumpers, pumpkin spice lattes and all of the autumnal vibes, plus it’s my birthday month, so that’s an added bonus! I’ve got a lot to look forward to this month, not only have a booked a cheeky weekend down in London but I’m also going back to EDINBURGH! Edinburgh is one of my favourite places in the entire world and I can’t wait to spend a couple of days exploring more of this beautiful city! One day I’ll live there, but right now I’ll just have to settle for a couple of days here and there!
I start every month with a promise that the next month would be better, that I’d finally sort my routine and break out of this horrible cycle of disappointment, and so far I’ve yet to keep that promise! Whoops! BUT this month will be different! I turn 24 this much and it’s about time I sort my life out and start focusing my energy back into myself. I’ve made a monthly to-do list and at the top of that list is to ‘get back into blogging’, it’s something that I’ve really missed and I can’t wait to bring some of my post ideas to life!
I want to say a HUGE thank you to all my followers (new and old!) for welcoming back into this community. I took a couple of months off for my metal health and it truly felt like a piece of me was missing. I find it crazy to think that I’ve never met any of you, but I consider you all some of you as great friends who always make me smile with your kind and lovely comments and positive energy! I wish I could give you all a huge cuddle, so here a virtual hug!
September Wrap Up
I didn’t read much this month, but what I did read completely blew me away and gifted me with a reading experience like no other.
The House on the Cerulean Sea by T.J Klune – This book is like a warm hug, it’s wonderful. It completely surpassed my expectations and filled me with so much love and joy. Thank you to everyone who recommended this book, it’s quickly become one of my favourite reads of the year and if you still haven’t read it yet then I HIGHLY recommend you do, it’s beautiful.
October TBR
I love read-a-thons and one of my favourite things about them is picking my TBR based on the different prompts, so I think each month I’m going to set myself a few challenges rather than a selection of books I probably won’t read! I’m very much a mood reader with a huge TBR who also struggles with making decisions (that’s the Libra in me), so it’s no surprise that I don’t ever stick to structured monthly TBR’s! I’m ready to change things up and try something a little different! I’m also really behind in my Goodread’s reading challenge (12 books to be exact!) so I’ve got a lot of catching up to do!
Read something spooky: It’s spooky season! It wouldn’t be an October TBR without a few frightening reads!
There’s Someone Inside Your House by Stephanie Perkins, White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson, Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco, Wilder Girls by Rory Power, The Chalkman by C.J. Tudor
Read a book off my ’25 books challenge’: Alli @The Book Giraffe shared 30 books she wanted to read in the 30 months before she turns 30, so I thought I’d make my own list of book I want to read before I turn 25!
Keep an eye out for a post coming soon!
Read a book about witches: I’ve just started re-watching Merlin and I’m really craving a bit of magic, specifically books that involve witches and sorcerers!
Windwitch by Susan Dennard, Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin, The Bone Witch by Ron Chupeco, The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow, Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
Read a book off my out-of-control TBR: My TBR is embarrassing and I’m not allowed to buy any more books until I sort it out and get it under control! The problem is that since joining bookstagram I’m constantly seeing great book recommendations that I can’t help but add to my Goodread’s shelves!
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern, These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong
Hello, I’M BACK! I took a much-needed break last month but I’m happy to be back to blogging and catching up with everyone (and my GIANT TBR). A lot has happened over the last three months, and it’s funny how things can change in an instant. Last month I was the happiest I’d been in a long time, but the universe had other the plans and threw me a curve ball!
Ironically, it was during this heartbreak that I learned how much I was loved. I have the most incredible network of friends, family and co-workers who showered me with love and who continue to make me smile even when I’m at my lowest. It truly surprised me and I never expected so many people to care and I’ll be forever grateful for everyone who made me laugh through the tears and for all the cuddles!
As many of you know I also started a bookstagram earlier this month and again the love and support I’ve received since starting my account is incredibly overwhelming! Everyone has been so nice and welcoming and it’s easily one of the best decisions I’ve made all year! I just can’t believe its taken me this long!
Although my confidence has been knocked massively, I’m happy to say that things are getting better and I’m excited to see what the rest of the year has in store for me! Reading and the blogging community has always been my escape and I’m ready to start investing in myself and some much needed ‘me time’!
Anyway, my point in all of this is the importance of love. Writing these monthly posts are my way of spreading a little bit of appreciation because everyone needs a little bit of love in their lives and it’s my way of giving back to a community that has shown me endless support. I missed last months post so I’ve gone a bit mad with my recommendations, I just couldn’t help myself, so I hope you all enjoy and that you find some more incredible blogs to follow!
I love it when bloggers share extracts from their WIP’s, I get so excited and I’m constantly in awe at the work and creativity they share. J @Midnight Book Blog shared a beautifully haunting extract that gave me chills and now I need more!
Alice @Love for Words is creating a bookish box full of surprises for their best friend and I think is such a wonderful idea that I might have to do myself!
I’ve been in and out of a reading slump for a couple of months now and the wonderful Zoe @Reading by the Moonlight came to my rescue by sharing some great tips that have really helped, so thanks you! It’s nice to know that I’m not the only one who struggling through a long reading slump!
One of my favourite series to watch on YouTube is Vogue’s 73 Questions, so when Kristin @Kristin Kraves Books posted her answers I knew I was going to love reading it and enjoy getting to know her a little more! I also have Simply the Best by Noah Reid on repeat most of the time, and would love an invite to the her dream dinner party with Jane Austen, Tiffany D. Jackson, and Kate Winslet!
I can always rely on April Lee @Booked till Midnight to write incredibly creative and fun posts that never fail to make me smile! She shared a great on post on how likely characters from her recent reads were to be eaten by lions, and if you looking for a good laugh then check this one out!
I spend an unhealthy amount of time watching TikTok and Reels, and I’ve found so many new book recommendations from them. Elli @Ace Reader read some of TikTok’s most recommended romances and shared some great mini reviews too!
I’ve been blogging for over six years now and I’ve definitely learned a few things but at the same time I’m constantly learning new things every day! @The Passive Bookworm just hit her one year blogging anniversary (yay!) and shared some great lessons she’s learned whilst running a book blog!
I’ve just scheduled a Netflix Book Recs blog post (so keep your eyes peeled for that), but if you can’t wait then definitely check out Maddie @Inking and Thinking book recs based on popular TV shows and movies series! Her recommendations are spot on and perfect is you’re looking for your next read.
Another one of my favourite posts this month was Cherelle @A Bolt out of the Book Marvel movie book recs! I’m obsessed with the Marvel-verse and reading so this post was the perfect combination of the two!
Surprisingly I didn’t take any books with me when I moved to university because I knew I’d would be buying lots of them for my degree and I’m always curious to see what books people bring with them! Taylor @Planty of Pages has the best taste when I comes to picking books, and I’m a little jealous at how perfect this TBR is!
Jade City by Fonda Lee has been on my TBR for wayyy too long, and I’m constantly hearing good things about this series! @Book A Fiction shared their glowing review and it’s convinced me to finally start reading!
My TBR for the rest of 2021 is INTENSE! Nikaarika @Clouded Galaxy Reads also shared 21 books they want to read before the end of 2021 and it was nice to see a few favourites on that list too!
I love a good old rant and @Words on Fleek made my day with their post about things YA authors do that just irks us! This was such a fun read that had me nodding in agreement and dying with laughter, so be sure to check this post out if you need something to brighten your day!
I’m currently planning a trip to Cambridge and the lovely Aisling @Aisling Hamill Books has very kindly provided me with a detailed list of some of her favourite bookshops, a list that will be the perfect guide for my upcoming trip!
Trying to juggle a full time job whilst applying for other jobs and maintaining a healthy social life and a consistent blogging schedule is a bit overwhelming, so any advice is always welcome! Andrea @Andrea’s Book Corner shared some great and really helpful tips on how to be a book blogger when you have no time, and this post was exactly what I needed!
It sounds bizarre but I regally think about what books I’d bring with me if I was stuck on a desert island and the lovely Becky @Becky’s Book Blog shared her list of book she’d want to bring is she was ever stuck!
Morgan Matson is one of my go-to favourite authors, her books are always so adorable and fun! If you’re trying to decide which one of her books to pick up then definitely check out Christy and Claire @I’m All Booked Up post where they ranked all of her books! Although I agree with most of their ranking but I do think that Amy and Roger deserves a higher place on that this, that book is a classic!
I love a good-old roadtrip, and recently took one up to Scotland! Rachel @A Bookworms Paradise got really creative and compared some recent reads to roadtrips, and I’m so in love with this idea! This was such a fun and unique post, and all of Rachel’s comparisons were spot on!
I’m very happy that I won’t be duelling Erin @Reading on a Star anytime soon, as we both luckily share the same excellent taste when it comes to bookish tropes! Like Erin I’m a sucker for a pirate trope so any recommendations would be wonderful!
A post that made me smile (and very hungry) was Jessica @ The Awkward Book Blogger post where she replaced weapons on book covers with food! I’m still howling at ‘Queen of Kebabs’ and ‘A Gathering of Corn Dogs’!
I’ve been meaning to read some more classics and Ellie @Eleanor Sophie Writes shared 10 Classics to Try if you Like SFF! This post was exactly what I needed and it was nice to see some favourites like Frankenstein and Flowers for Algernon on the list!
As I mentioned previosuly my reading this year hasn’t been great, and reading everyone’s wrap ups from the first half of 2021 has definitely given me so much needed enouragement to get back into reading. Sophie @Me and Ink shared her wrap up and I loved how she structured this list into tiers!
I’ve recently fallen in love with audiobooks, and I’m always on the lookout for recommendations! Lotus @Pages of Starlight must have heard me and shared a great list of 6 worthy audiobooks to listen to and I couldn’t help but add a few of these of my TBR!
It was only since last year that I completed my first re-read for personal enjoyment (rather than for university exams!) and I loved the whole reading experience. There are some books that I’m too scared to read again because I’m worried that I won’t love them as much, Line @First Line Readers shared the books she’s scared to re-read so be sure to check this post out too!
I’m always on the lookout for book recommendations, and Em @Em and Her Books shared a great list of suggestions for romance readers! I’ve been on a bit of a romance kick recently so this post was exactly what I was looking for, thank you Em!
Another post I really enjoyed was Alli @The Book Giraffe’s list of 30 books they want to read in the 30 months before they turn 30! I am obsessed with this idea and this post has inspired me to create my own list of books I want to read before I turn 25!
I swear I’m the only person who hasn’t read Atlas Six yet, and after reading Sanah @Stories & Stardust interview with author Olivie Blake, I knew had to order myself a copy ASAP! I loved this little chat and I look forward to going back and reading more of these questions when I finish reading it! If you’ve already read Atlas Six then I highly recommend you check out Sanah’s incredibly detailed and enjoyable post!
The incredible Sofii @A Book A Thought always gives the BEST book recommendations! I’m a huge fan of magical realism and just magic in general, so Sofii’s post on 5 star worthy magical books was right up my street! This list has something for everyone and I guarantee you’ll find something to add to your TBR!
It sounds weird but I really enjoy reading bad reviews of some of my favourite books, some of them are really funny! Cherry @Letter to the Lost also reacted to one star reviews, and now I really want to read We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal! That book has been sitting on my shelfs for wayyy too long!
I’m a sucker for a good cover and the lovely Ally @Ally Writes Things shared some beautiful book covers that’s she’s just not interested in reading! I’m constantly drawn to pretty book covers and Ally’s post has inspired me to start a little bookish art project!
I can always rely on the wonderful Stephen @Stephen Writes to share thoughtful and enjoyable discussion posts, his recent one being about the beauty of paratexts! These little bits of gold are usually overlooked but they’re some of my favourite parts of a book!
I love seeing other peoples predicted favourites posts, they’re always so much fun and I enjoy comparing our TBR’s! Beks @The Little Fiction Fox shared 5 books they think will be new favourites and I 100% agree with all their picks especially Jade City and Skyward!
One of my favourite style of posts to read is when other readers share some of their most loved quotes. The wonderful Maria @The Character Study shared some of her favourite quotes, and I had to add a couple of these to my quotes jar!
I would have come for you. And if I couldn’t walk, I’d crawl to you, and no matter how broken we were, we’d fight our way out together—knives drawn, pistols blazing. Because that’s what we do. We never stop fighting.
I always enjoy @Kira Jeanette’s writing updates and they always encourage me to start writing again! I’ve broken out the ideas notebook and all the abandoned files on my laptop and I’m give this whole writing thing another crack!
I recently read We Were Liars in one sitting and there’s just something really satisfying about finishing a book in one go. @Novels and Teacups shared 6 books they read in one sitting and this list has encouraged me to finally start reading All The Light We Cannot See! That book has been sitting on my shelves for years and I think it’s about time I see what all the fuss is about!
Blogging has been a huge part of my life and I’ve discovered so many new favourite books and authors from it. To celebrate 9 years of blogging Emma @Never Judge a Book by its Cover shared 9 favourite books she discovered from blogging! It’s nice to see a few favourites on this list as well as some new books that I couldn’t help but add to my ever-growing TBR!
Another one of my favourite posts from the past two months was Katja @Life and Other Disasters post about whether they were compatible readers with the gorgeous hunk that is Chris Evans!
I can always rely on Birdie @Birdie’s Booktopia for great book recommendations, and she’s shared the perfect list of 2022 diverse YA debuts to anticipate! I couldn’t resist adding all of these books to my TBR and I’m very excited to read these stories soon!
Georgia @Lost in Neverland always has some of the best reviews, and her review of Wendy Darling by A.C.Wise has me hooked! Georgia has loads of lovely book reviews so be sure to check them out!
For the past couple of years I’ve been dying to go to YALC but I haven’t got anyone to go with, and I did try and get involved this year but I just so busy with work! Luckily I was able to live vicariously through Rosina @Lace and Dagger Books who shared her experience with the virtual event!
I’m all about spreading the love and @24 Hour Book Blog has a great list of YA books that deserve more love! There’s definitely a few on this recommendations post that I’ve had to add to my TBR, so be sure to check it out!
Shadow and Bone, Catching Fire and The Mortal Instruments (film not the TV Show) are some of my comfort viewings and the lovely Aarushi @Aarushi Reads shared some adaptions she thinks are pretty good!
Now let’s take a moment to talk about Rukky @Eternity Books heartfelt and honest post about struggling with your identity as a blogger. I don’t think I’ve ever related to a post more, and it’s comforting to know that I’m not alone in my struggles. I love blogging and although it’s taken a back seat over these past couple of months, it’s something that continues to bring me joy and something I love to pour my heart into, but it is a lot of hard work and pressure. There’s never any need to apologise for our absences or hiatuses, we all need to look after ourselves and do what makes us happy. The blogging community is such an incredibly supportive place and will always be there to welcome people back with open arms! There’s so much more I could say about this post, but I think it’s best if you guys check it out yourself and give Rukky some love!
I’m still a bit in shock, but last weekend I had the honour of attending a virtual fan meet & greet with the cast and creators of Shadow and Bone! WHAT?! It’s no secret that I’m utterly obsessed and head over heels for this show, so the chance to meet the cast was an experience like no other and one that I will cherish.
I was very fortunate enough to be one of the hundreds of lucky fans around the world who attended the exclusive Q&A, and it was lovely to interact with the cast and learn more about their filming experience. The love and enthusiasm this cast has for each other and this show is so wholesome and heartwarming, and I’d give anything to be a part of their little inner circle! So Netflix, if you want to fly me to Budapest to interview the cast for season 2 or hire me as an extra, then hit me up! I think I’d look good in a Kefta!
I don’t think I’ve ever smiled so much in my life, and I will openly admit that I fully fangirled when each cast member appeared on screen, so I was quite glad that there was a lot of us! And then, when Leigh and Eric joined us, I died. The Q&A was over zoom, and you were broken off into different rooms where you waited for the magic to happen and for your chance to submit questions to the cast. The first session was with the Crows (Freddie, Amita, Danielle, Kit and Calahan), and the energy these five brought with them to the call was contagious.
One of my favourite moments of the call was when the cast was asked what skills they had that would convince Kaz (Freddie) to hire them for a heist. If I was Kaz, then I’d hire Amita! She argued that her height would allow her to squeeze into small spaces, that her long hair could hide different things and that she could also speak lots of languages, I mean, what more could you want! Kit revealed that he had a great memory, and Danielle shared that she was an expert when it came to Instagram stalking and finding information about people!
The cast were also asked to share their characters favourite line, and I couldn’t agree more with their choices! Danielle’s favourite line was ‘Were you born a prick, or was it a choice?’, a quote that encapsulates Nina’s personality and relationship with Matthias. Freddie chose the line that I’m sure many fans were waiting for, ‘no mourners, no funerals’ and Amita picked the brilliant line that was ‘in that case, I’ll take my knife back.’ I agree with Kit when he said that Jesper has too many iconic lines to pick just one, and it surprised me to learn that Calahan’s favourite lines were when Matthias and Nina revealed their names to each other!
The second call was then with Ben, Jessie, Archie, Leigh and Eric and, it was here that we got to learn more about the cast and their antics outside of filming! The cast and crew are like one big happy family, and they revealed the cast regularly hosted game nights. One of their favourite games to play was the wine box game, and if you’ve never played the aim is to pick up a wine box with your teeth without putting your hands or knees on the floor. Each round you then cut off a piece until it’s just a bit of card on the floor. I don’t like to brag but I am a CHAMP at that game and would give anything to challenge the cast to a round!
I’ve been to a few meet-and-greets, but this one takes the win for a most unique one, so when it came to getting our ‘pictures’ I had to use a little bit of editing magic! This was such a fun experience that I’m very grateful to have been apart of so thank you again to Netflix and the incredible cast and crew of Shadow and Bone!
First things first, I want to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who left a lovely comments on my April Wrap Up and May TBR post, I wasn’t expecting to receive so many kind and heartwarming messages of support and I even got a little emotional. The love and support that the blogging community continues to spread never fails to make me smile and all those amazing comments have given me a massive and much-needed confidence boost, so thank you again! All of you continue to make my blogging experience one that is filled with so much joy, kindness and friendship, and for that I’ll be forever grateful!
I wanted to continue spreading the love and support and celebrate some wonderful bloggers and posts that I loved this month. I always have so fun much writing these posts and they just keep getting longer and longer, I can’t help it!
Anyway, enough about me, let’s celebrate some of the AMAZING posts I read in April!
Ari @Read With Ari combined two of my favourite things and gave us some book recommendations based on some of her favourite songs! I thought this was such a fun and creative idea and I look forward to more of her recommendations!
I’ve heard so many amazing things about Manga and it’s a style that I’ve wanted to explore for a while now! @24HrYABookBlog shared the perfect starter kit and recommendations for any reader looking to read more Manga and I’m excited to add a few of these to my TBR.
If you’re looking for your next read then look no further! Sahi @My World of Books shared a brilliant compilation post of some amazing books by Asian authors and I couldn’t help but add a few off these to my ever-growing TBR!
There’s something special and magical about atmospheric books and the wonderful Veronika @Wordy and Whimsical shared some of her favourites. These books take you by the hand and guide you to incredible worlds filled with magic, mystery and wonder!
When it comes to memoirs my mind instantly jumps to Joan Didion, her books continue to destroy me emotionally but I can’t help it they’re just so beautiful and I love learning more and more about her life. The lovely Ally @Ally Writes Things shared 10 Memoir recommendations and I’ve taken this as a sign to branch out and read something different!
Sofii @A Book. A Thought shared a beautiful list of perfect books for transitioning between seasons and I’m in love with all of her picks, they’re so good and capture the mood of each season perfectly!
Growing up I loved learning French and reading French literature, but over the years my learning has taken a backseat. Alienor @A Fox’s Wanderings shared 10 French classics I need to re-read and it’s encouraged me to add a few more French classics onto my TBR!
One of my favourite posts I read last month was Amy @Golden Books Girl post on Recommending Books to Lion King Characters! I’m fully obsessed with this post and how accurate these book recommendations are, and I can’t wait for more posts in this series!
One of my favourite discussion posts this month was the incredible Ahaana @Windows to Worlds post about diversity, inclusivity and representation in YA fantasy. This was such a well-written, thought provoking and insightful post that I can’t praise enough! Ahaana also shared 13 recommendations for #OwnVoices, and Diverse SFF, so be sure to add some of these to your TBR!
Rums @Rums the Reader only read romance books for a week and I’m in love with this idea! I’m a hopeless romantic and someone who has a huge pile of romance books on her TBR, so I think it’s about time that I take a page out of Rums book dedicate an entire week of reading to romance!
Last month I only managed to read one book, so Rosina @Lace and Dagger Books post on how to read more was exactly what I needed! These tips were super helpful and this might be the month that I give audiobooks a second chance!
Another post I loved this month was Rachel @A Bookworms Paradise discussion on what makes a good book title and why they matter. I don’t know about you but I love it when a character mentions the name of the book, it’s a clever little nod to the reader and the perfect way to tie everything together.
When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.
I’m a big foodie so Elizabeth @An Attic Full of Paper post about the best food references in novels was the perfect post and one which made me feel a little peckish!
Naemi @A Book Owls Corner shared her fantastic review of the Shadow and Bone TV adaptation and I couldn’t agree with her more!! I’m still having trouble putting all of my thoughts and praises into coherent sentences rather than emotional ramblings and it’s been great to see so many people fall in love with this show!
One thing I really want to start doing this year is to take note of some of my favourite quotes and turn them into some creative project. Michaela @Journey into Books shared some of her favourite quotes from The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta and they make me want to re-read this book again!
“This book is a fairy tale in which I am the prince and the princess. I am the king and the queen. I am my own wicked witch and fairy godmother. This book is a fairy tale in which I’m cursed and blessed by others. But, finally, I am the fairy finding my own magic.”
Huge congratulations to Susana @Susana Loves Books who celebrated hitting 100 Follows with a Q&A! I loved reading all her answers and getting to know her a little better!
In other exciting news, the lovely Joy @ohsrslybooks revealed her beautiful bookmark and notepad designs! It makes me so happy to see her chasing her dreams and I wish her all the best with all of her projects!
I don’t think I’ll be travelling anywhere soon so it looks like I’ll just have to settle with some of my favourite fictional worlds! April Lee @BookedTillMidnight shared 8 fictional worlds she wants to travel to and my bags are packed and ready to go with her!
Another series I’m really enjoying is Catarina @Pages and Plots Under the Radar feature that highlights little-known YA books turning one year that week. I love reading books little-known books, there’s just something intimate and secret about reading book that not many others have read!
Another post that I LOVED last month was Katie @Melting Pages discussion about blogger burnout. I am no stranger to a creative burnout and at times blogging can be overwhelming, and it’s comforting to know that I’m not alone in my struggles. I related to this post so much and it’s sparked a really important conversation on why I blog and my blogging journey in general. I always find that taking a break helps me and I want to let everyone know that my DM’s are always open to anyone who is struggling!
Shadow and Bone dominated my April, and it got me thinking about all the other books that I want to see adapted! The lovely Amber @Bibliomavens clearly read my mind and shared her list of fantasy books that also need to be adapted and I agree with every single one of her picks! I’ve got all my fingers and toes crossed that hopefully one day we’ll get at least one of these adaptations.
Zoe @Reading by the Moonlight shared what she loves about blogging and it reminded me of why I love too blog too! The blogging community and the love everyone continues to spread is hands down my favourite part of blogging and it’s one of my biggest motivators!
One of my favourite book tags this month was The Spring Cleaning Book Tag! Alexa @Writing The Universe shared her answers and also gave me an amazing book recommendation that I really excited to read!
Two of my favourite things are books and tarot cards, and the lovely Robin @Paperbacks and Planners has combined the two to create tarot book recommendations. I love this idea so much and the recommendations are always spot on!
I love tracking my reading and and various bookish apps like Goodreads and The Storygraph, so when I saw that Angele @Adominiquereads had done the Goodreads Was Wrong Book Tag, I had to check it out! I I loved this book tag and I really enjoyed reading Angele’s answers, we’ve got very similar opinions when it comes to Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard!
I said this last month but what happened to April? This month has once again been a whirlwind and I feel like I’m constantly playing catch up! I had so many plans for April but in typical Amy fashion everything ended up being bit chaotic and pushed aside.
As many of you know already, I’m one of thousands of publishing hopefuls who are trying their hardest to break into a highly competitive industry and the constant rejection or lack of response is heartbreaking. I like to think of myself as an optimistic and positive person but recently it’s been a struggle trying to remain hopeful and confident in my abilities. It’s been almost two years now since I graduated from University with a degree in English Literature, and although this past year has had its set backs, I’m still at square one and just a little less optimistic than before. At this moment in time I’m fortunate enough to have a job working in retail with wonderful group of ladies who I absolutely adore, however I hoped for more. I don’t plan on giving up on my dreams anytime soon, and I hope that the universe has something epic in store for me soon!
Last month was emotionally, physically and mentally exhausting but I’ve started this month with a new mindset and goal orientated attitude and I’m confident that I’m going to make it a memorable one! My personal aim for May is to find a routine and get myself a little more organised. I’ve been juggling so many different things that I’ve lost track of what’s on my to-do list and what day it is, whoops!
April finally saw the re-opening of lots of non-essential shops including bookshops (I’d argue that books are essential) and I’ve never been so excited to experience a bit of retail-therapy. My poor bank account has taken a bit of a beating this month, but if you can’t treat yourself now, when can you?
The highlight of my month was hands-down the Shadow and Bone adaptation, IT WAS PERFECT! I’m currently on my third re-watch and I think I fall in love with it a little more every time I watch it! I’ve got a dedicated post going up next week where I gush about all of my feelings and how wonderful the entire show was, I can’t stop raving about it and if Netflix doesn’t renew it for more seasons then I quit!
As for reading, it’s no surprise that I only managed to read ONE book this month! Luckily I’m on track with my reading goals and I hope to have a really productive May.
King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo – Nikolai is one of my all-time favourite characters so the chance to spend more time with him and join him on another adventure with some other great characters was perfect! AND that ending, it’s a good thing that I’ve got Rule of Wolves ready and waiting on my bookshelf!
May TBR
When it comes to reading, I’m the bookworm of the family but occasionally my sister will fall into the magical world of reading and go into full-on reader mode! Seriously that girl can read, she managed to read the first two books in the Blood and Ash Series by Jennifer L Armentrout in TWO days and I’ve never been prouder! So I thought I’d take advantage of her whilst she’s on this reading sprint and get her to choose my TBR for next month! I’ve brought so many new books recently and I don’t know what to read next, so it’s been great getting an outsiders opinion!
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare – This is my sisters all time favourite series and I’ve lost track at how many times I’ve promised her that I’ll read. I really enjoy reading about the vast Shadowhunter world and I’m excited to see what all the fuss is about!
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L Armentrout – As I mentioned previously, my sister managed to read the first two books in two days and now she needs someone who she can talk about it with and I’m more than happy to fill that role. Everyone has been raving about this series and I feel little bit left out so it’s about time I jumped on the bandwagon!
The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon – My sister knows me far too well and told me to pick the book that’s been sitting on my TBR pile for the longest! I received an excerpt of this book years ago and loved it so excited to continue with the rest of the story!
Realm Breaker by Victoria Aveyard – I’ve been going on about this book for weeks so there was no way that I wasn’t going to put this book on my TBR for May.
Fashion’s biggest night falls on the first Monday in May and lays the stage for both New York’s high society and Hollywood’s finest, as they join forces and collaborate with some of the world’s most influential designers. Sadly due to the pandemic the Gala has once again been postponed but I thought I’d celebrate in my own bookish way!
The creativity and innovation of the designers and the way in which they embrace each years theme never fails to surprise me. I’d give anything to be on that carpet with the likes of Harry Styles and Lady Gaga in a very glamours ensemble, a girl can dream!
Anyway, I thought I’d combine two of my favourite things and give some book recommendations based off some iconic Met Gala themes as well as dream outfit choices! Enjoy!
2020 – About Time: Fashion and Duration (Timeless Books You Can Re-read Over and Over Again)
With this look I’d either pull a 2019 Lady Gaga outfit change, with layers of different iconic pieces throughout fashion or I’d go for something timeless like a little black dress but with a Met inspired twist!
As for my book recommendations, these are some of my absolute favourite comfort books that transport me away from reality and right into the heart of their magical and beautiful adventures.
2019 – Camp: Notes on Fashion (A Book with a Queer/LGBTQ+ Protagonist)
This was one of my favourite Met Gala themes because the possibilities were endless and the carpet was filled with so many iconic pieces. For this look I’d either do something super colourful and vibrant or I would be twinning with Ezra Miller in a pinstripe suite with a train and bedazzled corset, and jaw dropping illusion make up!
These beautifully refreshing books need to be on your TBR! Their stories are real and relatable but be prepared, they will leave you both emotionally wrecked and fulfilled.
2016 – Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology (A Dystopian/Sci-fi Book)
That year, Claire Danes hit the mark with her elegant and tasteful light up ball gown and as much as I loved it, I’d want to wear something straight out of a Project Runway unconventional material challenge or something dystopian and Blade Runner inspired!
My teenage years were dominated by YA dystopian fiction, so it’s not usually my go-to genre but recently I’ve fallen in love with it all over again. A friend of mine has been trying to get me to read The Fifth Season for years and I’ve finally given in and I’m excited to see if it lives up to the hype!
2014 – Charles James: Beyond Fashion (Best Dressed Books)
Charles James was an English-American fashion designer and is best known for his ballgowns and highly structured aesthetic, so it’s no surprise that I’d love to wear a big and beautiful ballgown that belongs in a fantasy wardrobe.
I’d give anything to have these characters wardrobes, especially Scarlets changing 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.
2012 – Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations (A Book that Sparks a Conversation)
The 2012 theme juxtaposed the work of Italian designers Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada and allowed us to explore how the past enlightens the present. If I was to attend I’d love to wear a Met inspired power suit, as this piece proves that women can exhibit confidence and authority in a male-dominated world and turn a significantly male outfit into a powerful yet feminine suit of armor. The power suit doesn’t focus on embedding the masculine silhouette and stepping inside the shoes of a man, instead, it emulates the masculine look and combines it with the female identity to create a flattering and powerful sheathing that fuels the feminist movement with confidence and style.
These books offer a vital and power insight into different issues and perspectives and are all 100% worth the read!
2011 – Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty (A Thrilling Adventure)
Alexander McQueen is a huge influence on fashion and his gift for tailoring allowed to him to create the imaginative designs he is known for and to construct breathtaking runway shows. The key elements of McQueen’s aesthetic included Roman Gothic/Victorian-inspired pieces, like dark colours, thick fabrics, and red lace as well as frequent references to armour or pieces that are ‘protective’ of the woman wearing them. Just like McQueen these books are powerfully bold and full of surprises!
2010 – American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity (A Book Set in the USA)
When I think of iconic and fashionable American women, my mind jumps to the likes of Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, and Jackie Kennedy, so I think I’d wear something classic, elegant and timeless.
Before writing this post I had no idea that there was the American reading challenge which involves readers taking a road-trip around the US by reading books set in each state! I’m obsessed with this idea and it’s definitely something I want to work towards!
2008 – Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy (A Book about Superheros)
This theme needs a re-do, as the outfits for the 2008 superhero inspired theme was very disappointing and I feel that stars and designers now would fully embrace the theme and go all out! I’m a huge fan of all the Marvel films so I think I’d channel one of my favourite characters, Bucky Barnes ‘aka’ The Winter Soldier. I’d love to wear a one-shouldered black gown with a silver sleeve with a dark and smokey eye look that screamed mysterious and powerful elegance!
As for the book recommendations, Vicious by V.E.Schwab is at the top of my list! It’s a masterful, twisted tale of ambition, jealousy, betrayal, and superpowers, set in a near-future world that I guarantee you’ll love!
2006 – AngloMania: Tradition and Transgression in British Fashion (A Book Set in the UK)
For this theme I’d join forces with British Oscar-winning costume designer Jacqueline Durran (Atonement, Little Women & more) to create something incredible! When reading I spent most of my time in wonderful fantasy worlds rather than my own, but after finding books for this prompt I’m going to make more of an effort to read books set in the UK!
2003 – Goddess: The Classical Mode (A Book about Gods/Goddesses)
I’m thinking white party-toga realness! I’d channel my inner Athena/Aphrodite and go all out with a lightweight white dress and gold headpiece! As many of you know I’m obsessed with mythology, so here are a few of my favourite Greek God-based books!
So many amazing people have recently tagged me in book tags, favourite posts, monthly round-ups and more, so I want to say a HUGE THANK YOU! I adore the blogging community so it’s lovely to nominated for so many fun and creative tags! The wonderful Georgia @Lost in Neverland has very kindly tagged me in both the 20 Questions Book Tag and the The Aesthete Blogger Award, so I thought I’d give them both a go today. If you don’t already follow her then please do, she is such lovely person and is always posting fabulous content that I know you will all enjoy!
Book tags are the perfect way to get to know everyone better, so I hope you enjoy reading my answers and learning a little more about me!
20 Questions Book Tag
1. How many books are too many books in a series?
If an author is happy to keep writing then the answer is never too many! I’d happily read about some of my favourite characters just doing very mundane things!
2. How do you feel about cliffhangers?
I LOVE a good cliffhanger, they’re emotionally exhausting but they make a reading experience so much more memorable. At the time I hate them because they tend to leave me with some of the worst book hangovers but I love discussing all the different theories with other bloggers and readers!
3. Hardback or Paperback?
I’ve just treated myself to the King of Scars duo-logy in hardback and they’re stunning, but I think my heart (and bank account) will always belong to paperbacks!
4. Favourite book?
Please don’t make me choose! It’s no surprise that The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson is on my list, as well as A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas and Little Women by Louisa May Alcott!
5. Least favourite book?
I struggled to think of one off the top of my head so I had to check my Goodreads account for my one-star reads! I hate giving bad reviews for books but I really hated The DUFF by Kody Keplinger and The Sin Eaters Daughter by Melinda Salisbury, the protagonists were both so unlikable and unexciting.
6. Love triangles, yes or no?
No. They stress me out and cause way too much drama! I understand that fans can get very passionate about certain ships and love interests, but I think I’m still traumatised by the whole Team Edward and Team Jacob fiasco.
7. The most recent book you just couldn’t finish?
Like Georgia, I’ve never DNF’d a book! I feel bad and force myself to continue with the book with the hopes that it’ll get better soon.
8. A book you’re currently reading?
I’m ashamed to admit that I’m still reading King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo! I started this book at the beginning of April but I’ve been so busy with work and other job applications that I just haven’t found the time to switch off and read!
9. Last book you recommended to someone?
I’m going to shamefully plug my recent Star Sign Recommendations post here because I put my heart and soul into that post and had so much fun trying to find the perfect book for each sign! I’ve also got another unique recommendations post ready for Monday and I’m so excited to share it with everyone! I’ve had this idea for ages so I really hope you enjoy it!
10. Oldest book you’ve read?
Aside from a lot of Shakespeare, the oldest book I’ve read, I think, is The Castle of Ontranto by Horace Walpole. This ‘classic’ is regarded as the first gothic novel when it was published in 1764 and is full of all the melodramatic gothic tropes. Was it worth the read, no, but it’s another classic I can tick off the list!
11. Newest book you’ve read?
I haven’t read it yet but I’m patiently waiting for my copy of Realm Breaker by Victoria Aveyard to arrive! The synopsis of this book sounds epic and I’m beyond excited to dive into this incredible adventure!
12. Favourite author?
Hmmmm, I wonder who I’m going to pick? Of course it’s Sarah J Maas, Leigh Bardugo, and Brandon Sanderson!
13. Buying books or borrowing books?
Like many other bookworms, I’m also super protective over my books and I like them to stay perfect with their spines unbroken, so I always get nervous when I let people borrow my books or when I borrow theirs! I’m very fortunate that I can afford to treat myself to new books now and then, and I hope one day to have an entire wall of bookshelves!
14. A book you dislike that everyone else seems to love?
I’m mentioned this before but I think that The Folk of the Air series is overrated? I enjoyed it but I don’t think it deserves all the hype!
15. Bookmarks or dog-ears?
Bookmarks! I’m criminally lacking in bookmarks so I tend to used anything I can find or my old faithful and battered book depository freebie!
16. A book you can always re-read?
Atonement by Ian McEwan, Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo,and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.
17. Can you read while listening to music?
Yes! Listening to music helps enhance my imagination and turns some of my favourite scenes into mini-movies in my head. Different albums and playlists can transport me to different worlds and creates the perfect reading mood, even now there are specific songs I associate with books and when I hear them I get a little flashback!
18. One POV or multiple POVs?
Multiple POV’s! I love getting to know different characters and experiencing a different tone/voice with each chapter, they help provide a greater depth to a story and it’s nice to see different character reactions.
19. Do you read a book in one sitting or over multiple days?
Both! When I’ve got a free day off or when I find a book that I’m head over heels for, then I’ll throw all my energy into reading but recently my reading has taken a backseat. My Goodreads goal for 2021 is to read 52 books (a book a week) and so far I’m confident that I’m going to hit my goal!
20. Who do you tag?
Anyone! I had so much doing this tag and answering all these questions so I want to pass the enjoyment on by tagging everyone!
The Aesthete Blogger Award
“This award is to honour every creative person, irrespective of their number of followers and views. Because, as long as you create, that is all that matters. This award is for those bloggers who put an insane amount of thought in each of their posts and for those who spread creativity like wildfire! Just wow!”
Here are the rules:
Use the official logo/graphic of the award and display it on your blog.
Tell me something about this world that you admire.
What is your favourite form of creativity?
Nominate 7 lovely people and notify them by commenting on their posts; spread some love!
Ask your nominees 4 questions.
Share something you created. (can be anything!)
And lastly, just so you know: I LOVE YOUR CREATIONS!
Georgia’s Questions
What is something in the world you admire?
Is it cliche if I say the beauty of our world? I’ve been very fortunate to travel to some of the most beautiful places in the world and meet so many kind-hearted people along the way. All my experiences have a special place in my heart and I tend to get quite emotional when I reflect on some of these memories. I’ve sailed around the mountains of Yangshuo, seen the Northern Lights in Iceland, and marvelled at the incredible craftsmanship of St Peter’s Basilica and I can’t wait to discover more of the world soon!
What’s your favourite aesthetic?
Any fantasy or cottagecore aesthetic! Get me in a ballgown running through the gardens of some stately home or a beautiful meadow any day, that’s the dream!
How do you organise your physical books?
I spend way too much time organising my bookshelves to make sure they look perfect but at the moment they just look very chaotic as I’ve officially run out of room! I’d share a picture but they’re so messy and I need to trip to Ikea ASAP! I’d love to have a rainbow bookshelf but I don’t have enough colourful books!
My top two shelves are organised by colour, and the third is my favourites shelf which is home to my beautiful Sarah J Maas series and other loves. As for the rest of my shelves, they’re a little more chaotic and are organised by both series and colour, and then we have the bottom shelves of doom which is full of my university and Depop books!
What is your favourite creative outlet to use?
Blogging! I love to write, so blogging is the perfect outlet to let my creative juices flow! I love coming up with new and unique posts as well as getting involved with all the wonderful book tags and people in the bookish community!
What colour is your soul?
I love this question and I was really curious to take the test! I did loads of different tests and the two colours I kept getting were green and red! Red represents passion and the burning energy to go out there and do something and Green symbolises a healers soul which makes me a mediator, balancer and harmonizer or the equilibrium of life, both of which I think is spot on!
A couple of months ago, I wrote a post about fairytales retellings, which got me thinking about all the other daring and classic adventures that deserved the spotlight, and my mind went straight to Greek mythology. It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with the wonderful world that is Greek mythology! These tales of heroic adventures, love and Godly disputes will always be some of my favourites, but now I want more! Growing up, I fell head over heels with Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series and would have given anything to be sent to Camp Half-Blood for the summer. So while I waited for my ticket to Long Island, I spent my summers going on make-believe quests with my friends and pretending I was either the daughter of Zeus or Athena.
Fast forward ten years later, and I still can’t resist a book that has even a hint of mythology, I love it! In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in the number of books that share and explore the unheard stories of mythological characters as well as many of the women, girls and goddesses who have often been silenced or cast into the background. One of my go-to authors for Greek mythology is the wonderful Madeline Miller, and if you haven’t read any of her books yet, then you are missing out. Circe is full of delicate and divine layers of love, heartbreak and acceptance and, then we have the enchanting masterpiece that is The Song of Achilles, that book emotionally destroyed me but in a good way! Next on my TBR is A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes, but there are so many other tales that also need to be appreciated and transformed into powerful retellings for everyone to enjoy!
This has been another one of my favourite posts to write this year, and it’s even inspired me to start writing and planning some potential retellings based on misrepresented figures in mythology that I hope to share one day! So if you’re up for the challenge or are looking for a new writing prompt, then I challenge you to adapt one of your favourite myths.
Persephone, Queen of the Underworld – I’d sell my soul to read a Persephone retelling by Madeline Miller! One day Persephone, daughter of Demeter, is kidnapped by Hades and taken to the underworld to become Queen. I’m a sucker for a good-old enemies to lovers trope, but I’d also love to read a classic retelling that focuses on both Hades’ unrequited love for Persephone and Persephone’s journey to becoming the powerful Queen of the Underworld. In a lot of adaptations, Persephone is presented as being a whiny and frail woman, but there’s so much more to her story, she is a complex character that has so much potential and who’s strength and power deserves to be represented more in literature. She’s the Queen of the dead, you can’t any more badass than that!
Ida and Marpessa – This is a love story that even has a happily ever after, a rarity in mythology! Marpessa was the only daughter of Evenus, king of Etolia, so when it came to finding a husband, Evenus announced that any prince who wants to marry Marpessa would have to defeat him in a chariot race. Idas, the prince of Messenia, won the race, but Evenus refused to give up his daughter, so Idas did what any heartbroken man in mythology would do and kidnapped her. But Idas wasn’t the only man who wanted to wed Marpessa. The God Apollo had fallen for her and once again precede to kidnap her! After a clashing of swords, Zeus made Marpessa choose between the two suitors. She knew Apollo would be unfaithful and chose a simple but committed relationship with Idas and lived happily ever after.
The Three Sisters of Fate – When you think about the three sisters of fate, your mind probably jumps to the classic depiction of three ancient, decrepit and bickering sisters that control our hero’s fate, but they’re so much more than that! Although the trio is a package deal, each sister is unique and is responsible for one of the three phases. Clotho is the creatress. She sits on her pedestal, twisting, pulling, and spinning the threads of life. Then there’s Lachesis, who is responsible for deciding the details of our destiny, and finally, we have the eldest Atropos who makes the final cut. The whole idea surrounding the threads of fate and destinies fascinates me and is another storyline that holds so much potential. These women hold so much power and responsibility that has never been fully explored. Their word is final, but what would happen if they played with destiny or saved someone destined for death…
The Danaides – This myth is intense and follows the story of fifty women who commit a horrible by killing their husbands on their wedding night by order of their father and motive fuelled by revenge and greed! However, one of the girls, Hypermnestra, did not commit this horrible crime and spared her husband out of pity. As for the other forty-nine girls, they were forced to endure an eternity of torment for their unspeakable crimes.
Leto, the Mother of Apollo and Artermis – Zeus is a serious womaniser, and I’d love to read something from the perspective of the heart-broken lover, in this case, Leto. But Leto is more than just a broken-hearted woman, she is a strong and independent mother who endures so much suffering and misfortune caused by Hera’s jealousy, and it is Leto’s strength and power that protects her and children from harm. She is forced to endure NINE days of labour, as well as battling many earth-born creatures sent by Hera! Leto is such an underrated and forgotten character from Greek Mythology, and she deserves to have her story told.
The Myth of Arachne – Greek mythology is filled with shapeshifters, Gods who could transform at will and mortals who suffered the unfortunate fate of unwanted and cursed mutations. Such a transformation befell the poor spinner Arachne. Her talent for creating magnificent tapestries was unmatched and attracted the attention of people all over the land. She could often be heard boasting about her skills and declared that her talent surpassed anyone else’s, mortal or divine. Athena heard these claims and planned to teach a girl a lesson by disguising herself as an old woman and berating her in front of a crowd. But Arachne only laughed. Athena then revealed her true form and challenged her to a weaving contest. Athena’s tapestry depicted the strength and power of the gods, whereas Arachne’s showed the gods abusing their power. When Athena saw Arachne’s undeniably beautiful work she flew into a rage and transformed the poor girl into a spider.
The Amazons – You probably know about the legendary Amazons from the epic that was Wonder Woman, but if not, then let me fill you in! The Amazons were the daughters of Ares (the God of War) and were a race of warlike women noted for their riding skills, courage and pride, who lived on the outer limits of the known world. These legendary leading ladies deserve to have their story told, and I’d love to learn more about their battles against the Greeks and other male heroes.
Pandora’s box – According to legend, Pandora was the first human woman, breathed into being by Hephaestus, the God of fire. She was blessed with the gifts of language, craftsmanship, emotion and finally, the gift of curiosity from Zeus and a locked box whose contents could never be seen by human eyes. Pandora thrived in the world, but her thoughts were always plagued by the mysteries that lay within the box. Its enigma soon became maddening as her obsession with the box grew, until one day its presence became too overwhelming, and Pandora finally opened the box. Monstrous creatures and other evils escaped the darkness of the box and were unknowingly released into the world. This tale battles the duality of curiosity and sparks the debate on whether to encourage human inquiry or to accept that some mysteries are better left untold.
I’ve wanted to do a book tag like this for a while now, so when the lovely Samantha and Amber @Bibliomavens tagged me in this tag, I knew it was meant to be! If you like fun and fabulous bookish content then be sure to check their blog out, I always enjoy reading their posts but beware they’ve got some weird bookish habits! Who reads the last sentence of a book?! 😅 But seriously if you’re not following them yet, then you’re really missing out!
Anyway, these two have created their own original tag and a want to say a HUGE thank you for tagging me! They’re questions really made me think and I had a great time answering them! I always love doing book tags as it the perfect opportunity for everyone to get to know me better and I always enjoying reading other book tags too! You can learn a lot about someone from their answers!
Enjoy!
Here are the rules for this tag:
Nominated bloggers can nominate ten other bloggers.
Use the same questions from the tag.
Who is your all-time favourite book character?
Don’t make me choose, that’s like asking someone to pick their favourite child! There’s no way that I’ll ever be able to pick just one character, so here’s my top five: Kelsier from The Final Empire, Nesta and Azriel from A Court of Thorns and Roses, Hannah Donnelly from The Illuminae Files and finally Inej from Six of Crows. It’s pretty clear that I have a type! I love mysterious, impulsive, witty and reckless individuals and I can’t get enough of them. These characters look death in the eye and smile. They are survivors.
If you were stranded on a desert island, which book would you take with you? (Survival books do not count)
War and Peace! It has been sitting on my shelf for ages and each year I set myself the challenge to read it. But it’s a beast of a book with 1,225 pages and I know from watching the beautiful BBC adaptation that this book is intense and that it’s going to be a nightmare to keep track of all the different characters! So if being stranded on a desert island doesn’t make me read it, then nothing will!
What’s your most unpopular book opinion?
Please don’t hate me but I think The Folk of the Air series is overrated…It’s a good series but I wasn’t blown away by it and I kept thinking that I’d missed something! I think that’s the problem with booktwt and booktok, there’s so much pressure to like something because everyone loves it and you end up feeling guilty for not enjoying it as much as everyone else.
What’s your weirdest bookish habit?
It’s not weird but I LOVE fan art and I will always look up a character when I’m introduced to them! I have an idea in my head of what they look like but I always enjoy seeing other people’s interpretations and fan castings. It helps me visualise them and one day I hope to have an entire wall dedicated to some of my favourite pieces and artists.
Like many other bookworms, I’m also super protective over my books and I like them to stay perfect with their spines unbroken. I’ve lovingly drilled it into my sister that ‘if you break the spines of my book, then I’ll break yours’! Even when I was studying at University, I was the girl who kept her books pristine and unmarked.
What character would you bring to a family event as your fake partner?
As much I adore Azriel, my family is quite intense and I don’t think he’d cope! So I would choose Anthony Bridgerton because he’s used to this type of scheming and has dealt with the pressures of having a large and inquisitive family! Plus every year my family and I have a big reunion up in Scotland, and just like the Bridgerton family, there’s always a fiercely competitive game of croquet. There’s no doubt that Anthony and I would make a great team and he would earn the respect of all my cousins!
What made you decide to start a book blog?
If you’ve been following me for a while then you’ll know that I started this blog back in 2014 with one of my best friends, Eleanor. Our shared passion for books is what inspired us to create this blog and has become the perfect platform to share our thoughts with the world and the bookish community. Since then this little blog has continued to grow in followers and friends and has seen us through the trials and tribulations of high school, university and continues to play its part as we take our next steps into adult life.
Eleanor is now working hard as a midwife and although she no longer posts, she still enjoys curling up with a book and a good old cup of tea. As for me, this blog is my baby and after giving it a fresh new look, I’m eager to see where this next stage in my blogging journey takes me. Our friendship, like our love for books, is still strong and we’ll be best friends for life.
What about reading and books do you love the most?
I’ve always had an active imagination and reading has gifted me with an escape like no other. I get to join some of my favourite characters on their adventures and experience new worlds that are full of wonder and magic. Books and reading have been there in my darkest moments and are the light that will never fade. These stories have shaped the person I am today and have inspired me to follow my dreams, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful.
What is your field of study/desired profession/current profession?
I’m a proud English Literature graduate and like many others, the dream is to work in publishing and more specifically marketing and publicity in a children’s department. The opportunity to continue sharing the magic and wonder that I’ve been so fortunate to experience as a reader with a new generation would be a dream come true. So far it’s been a long and disheartening process but I’m trying to remain hopeful that one day all my hard work and passion will finally pay off!
What are some book recommendations that became your favourites/obsessions?
Anything by Amie Kaufman! I read Aurora Rising earlier this year and I’m currently flying through the Illuminae Files. I’ve fallen head over heels for her writing, there’s so much detail in every element and it’s always a wonderfully unique reading experience. I’m also OBSESSED with her characters! Their interactions are witty yet heartfelt and I know this world is fictional but these character’s feel so real to me. Thank you to everyone who kept encouraging me to finally read this series, I loved it!
What is the book you shove down everyone’s throat?
If you guessed The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson then you know me too well! Sanderson’s writing style pulls you into the wonderful world he has created and will have you standing side by side with all his characters as they battle through everything that comes their way. You never know what to expect with this book, it’s intense, action-packed and filled with so many twists and turns making it an unpredictable and suspenseful adventure. And don’t get me started on the intricacy of the his magic system, it’s incredible and like nothing I’ve ever read before! If I had to read one book for the rest of my life then it would probably be this one, and I know that’s a bold statement but I honestly love this book so much.
A Fangirl's Opinion 