Monday, September 8, 2014

The One Where I Review RUIN AND RISING

Ruin And Rising (The Grisha #3)
by Leigh Bardugo
Source: Bought
Format: Hardback
Pages: 417
Available Now

Goodreads Synopsis:

The capital has fallen.

The Darkling rules Ravka from his shadow throne.

Now the nation's fate rests with a broken Sun Summoner, a disgraced tracker, and the shattered remnants of a once-great magical army.

Deep in an ancient network of tunnels and caverns, a weakened Alina must submit to the dubious protection of the Apparat and the zealots who worship her as a Saint. Yet her plans lie elsewhere, with the hunt for the elusive firebird and the hope that an outlaw prince still survives.

Alina will have to forge new alliances and put aside old rivalries as she and Mal race to find the last of Morozova's amplifiers. But as she begins to unravel the Darkling's secrets, she reveals a past that will forever alter her understanding of the bond they share and the power she wields. The firebird is the one thing that stands between Ravka and destruction—and claiming it could cost Alina the very future she’s fighting for.




It's the end of an era. 
Something I both dreaded and anticipated. Whenever it comes to the end of a series, I feel this way. I needed to know how this book ended. Yet, at the same time, I couldn't image what would happen. Would I relish in the ending? Would it just suffice? Or would I loathe it with the passion of a thousand fiery suns?

What words can I possibly use to describe Ruin and Rising. It tore my heart in two, then mended it together. It was full of death, longing, and loneliness, yet also so full of hope, friendship and strength. The world that Bardugo has created is a cruel one, a broken one. Yet, there is always that little glimmer of hope for a better world. 

The characters, both new and old, were full of depth and heart. I laughed, cried, and grew frustrated alongside them. The main characters from books past continued to grow into amazing people. While the secondary characters were all those we've met before, we learn so much more about them and they truly come to light. Alina and Mal are no longer alone. Some of these characters I never would've thought would be brought to the forefront, but I adored them all. I felt their despair deep in my soul, but also saw the hope and strength these characters exuded. Though different, they all came together for what matters most to them: a new Ravka. 

Alina, a orphan girl suddenly thrust into power, yet still so alone. She may not have always had physical strength, but she had strength of heart. She grew so much throughout this series. From a young, lonely girl, to a powerful grisha to a woman willing to sacrifice in order to make the world a better place. 

Mal, who has always been, and always will be there for Alina. A "normal" boy who, like Alina, wants what is best for Ravka. A boy willing to sacrifice his own happiness in order to achieve it. A boy who loved a girl for who she was, not what power she possessed. Unfailingly loyal to the end.

Nikolai, the gloriously good-looking prince. Cocky, arrogant, snarky and most importantly handsome. A swashbuckling privateer. A suave prince. A future king. But he's so much more than that. Through all of his outer arrogance and sarcasm, he truly cares about Ravka. He sees how broken it is and, being the true prince he is, wishes to see Ravka become the glorious country she should be. 

And the Darkling. 
A villain with so much depth that my heart broke for him. He was so alone. A boy with power that no one should have, and no one to share it with. What he did was cruel, cold, and calculating. Yet, all I could see was the lonely little boy who just wanted to be loved. 

And the story itself....I had absolutely no idea what to expect. And this book threw me for many loops. It contained heart-break, death, depth and shocking discoveries, but always with a little glimpse of hope. I can't say too much without giving it away, but Bardugo created a wonderfully complex world, a brilliant story, and characters worth admiring. And the "After" chapter? Beautiful. 

So, thank you Miss. Bardugo. 
Thank you for creating a wonderfully complex world. A world that is far from perfect, yet so lush and beautiful. Your words contained a magic of their own. Thank you for a story that contains so much sadness, yet so much goodness. Thank you for creating characters with such depth. Characters who didn't always make the right decision, yet pulled through anyway. Thank you for giving me a villain I could feel sorry for. A villain so mysteriously delicious full of depth that I could understand the reasoning behind his cruelty. And thank you, THANK YOU, for giving me 
Nikolai. 



Tuesday, September 2, 2014

The One All About August 2014


Posts:
The One Where I Answer 55 Questions Part 2

Wow. Basically August was nonexistent on the blog. I blame it on my unexpected lack of internet (see above). But, instead of bemoaning my lack of posts for August, I'll let you know the awesomeness that is coming up in September.

First. A review and GIVEAWAY! Well, the giveaway isn't the book (though that may change between now and then), but it is related to the book. So jump for joy!

Also, look for my reviews of the Throne of Glass series. Unfortunately, I got behind on reading that series. I had originally wanted the reviews for the first 2 books posted before now with my Heir of Fire review being posted today in order to correlate with the release. Unfortunately, life happened and I haven't yet gotten around to Heir of Fire (I'm dying on the inside - I must know what happens!) but am planning on getting around to it within the next week or two. So, even though I haven't read it, I know it'll be amazing and am about to shamelessly promote it.


READ HEIR OF FIREEEEEEE!!!

JUST LOOK AT THE COVER!!


 FULL OF SUCH AWESOMENESS! 
AND AFTER THE END OF CROWN OF MIDNIGHT?! READ NOWWWWW! 
CHAOLLLLLLLLLLL!
*SWOON*

I've heard there are some awesome new characters, action, adventure, blood, and AWESOMENESS! I've heard it's even better than the first two. HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?!
Even though I plan on re-reviewing the first two, here are the links to my old reviews of Book 1 and Book 2 (full of GIFs!) in hopes of convincing those who haven't yet started the amazingness that is this series.

And, since I haven't actually read Heir of Fire yet, here is a link to a review of someone who has read it in hopes of convincing you of this series awesomeness. If she can't convince you, no one can. 


Seriously, read this series. It'll blow your mind. It just keeps getting better and better. 

Now, please excuse my while I lock myself in my room forgoing food, homework, and all social interaction in order to finish Crown of Midnight and then proceed to be emotionally gutted by Heir of Fire. Goodbye world. See you on the other side. Most likely not in one piece.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

The One With the Top 10 Books I Really Want to Read but Don't Own Yet

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme brought to you by The Broke and the Bookish.  Each week a new Top Ten list topic is posted and book bloggers fill in their own choices. 

This Week's Topics is

Top 10 Books I Really Want to Read But Don't Own Yet



So I could've easily made a whole list of books that aren't out yet that I would give up my first born for (I kid....possibly). But, I realized that there are a lot of books, especially series, that I haven't yet finished and would really love to. So, this list is split in half. The first half consists of book series that I've started, but don't yet have the final books. The second half consists of books coming out in the future that I'm incredibly psyched for. 

Already Released


1. Allegiant (Divergent #3) by Veronica Roth
I read Divergent when it first came out a long time ago. In between waiting for the next in the series, I found new books to read. Which means this series was left by the wayside. Though I still haven't read Insurgent (don't kill me!), I own that one whereas I don't own Allegiant. I plan on getting around to reading it....eventually.

2. The Bitter Kingdom (Fire and Thorns #3) by Rae Carson
Guysssss this series! AHHHHH! So good! And HECTOR?! *Swoon*
I can't believe I haven't gotten around to the final book yet! I'm actually going to reread the whole series to get all the feels (and lots of Hector). 
The Girl of Fire and Thorns Review (#1) (Wow. I think this is one of my first reviews ever)
The Crown of Embers (#2) (Even better than book 1!)

3. Deception  (Defiance #2) by C.J. Redwine
I read Defiance a while ago after the raves from fellow bloggers and I remember loving it. Too bad I didn't write a review for it :/ Anywho, I also plan on rereading this soon now that the whole trilogy is out! 

4. Sacrifice (Legacy #3) by Cayla Kluver 
This series is...interesting. As you can tell from my review of the first book, Legacymy feelings were definitely mixed. And....I actually never finished the 2nd book....but I plan to, I promise! Again, like book 1, I absolutely loathed it and loved it. The reason I didn't finish it isn't because it wasn't good, but because I was absolutely terrified of how the ending would come about. At this point I hated Alera and Narian and the people I liked were in awful situations. So, I set it down choosing to be blissfully ignorant of how the book seemed to be going and instead make up a nice, happy ending in my own head. I plan on shattering those notions soon though to finish the 2nd book so I can get to this one. It's only taken me 3 years. Not long at all....Baby steps. Baby steps. 


5. Fuse (Pure #2) by Julianna Baggott 
So this is yet another series I started way back when and never finished. Pure was incredibly dark and raw and brilliant. It's a wretched dystopia that I was dying to understand. Unfortunately, I just never got around to getting my hands on the 2nd book and this series fell to the wayside. It's definitely one I plan on delving into in the future. 

Yet to be Released


6. The Orphan Queen by Jodi Meadows
Moving past her name, this book sounds amazing. She's a princess, a spy, and a threat?1 Trifecta of awesomeness! Also, the Black Knife (aka hot man?) sounds mysterious and intriguing. Sign me up!  


7. The Young Elites by Marie Lu
OMG!!! I've been waiting for this one forever. Well, maybe not forever, per se, but pretty darn close! It sounds so dark and magical and has hot men. And Adelina sounds like an anti-hero you can't help but feel for. Not to mention its blurbed as "X-men meets Assassin's Creed 2 meets Game of Thrones". I CAN WAIT NO LONGER!!!! 


8. Shadow and Scale (Seraphina #2) by Rachel Hartman
Seraphina was absolutely stunning. Brilliantly done, captivating, and there were DRAGONS. I've been waiting for news on this book and it's finally here and sounds phenomenal! IT ONLY TOOK 3 YEARS! 


9. The Blood of Olympus (The Heroes of Olympus #5) by Rick Riordan
WLEFJWOEIFJWOEFIJWODF!!!! IT'S THE END!!!! I DON'T WANT IT TO ENDDDDDD! PERCABETHHHHHHH!!! EVERYONE ELSE!!!! LEOOOOOOOO!


10. Throne of Glass series 
Okay, so I'm totally cheating on this one because I technically own up through Heir of Fire, but they are eARCs and I want the real thing. I want these beauties sitting on my bookshelf so I can stare adoringly at them. They are brilliant and CHAOLLLLL!



Okay, so another cheat. Sue me. But I can't wait to learn all about Levana's backstory. I love learning about how people become who they are and why they do what they do (psychology lover here), so this is basically perfection. Also, it's like book-length which makes me happy. Yay!  

Saturday, August 23, 2014

The One Where I Explain My Unexplained Absence

I'm 
ALIVEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

Yes, I'm sure that most of you probably thought something horrible happened to me since I basically became nonexistent over the past couple weeks. Sorry. But I have a good explanation. I promise. And it's a doozy.....

I had no internet.

Shocker, I know! How, oh how, did I live before the wondrous internet deemed me worthy of its time? These past couple weeks of lack of internet have really given me time to take a step back and figure out my priorities. And I've realized by priorities include Netflix. #NoShame.
And blogging. Oh how I missed you blogging!

See, I didn't know that I wasn't going to have internet, else I may have scheduled stuff (just kidding, when do I ever schedule posts?). I was planning on taking a couple days off because I was moving to my new apartment, but I hadn't realized my roommate hadn't had internet hooked up yet. I said no big deal because I thought I could set it up when I got there and they'd come the next day. Little did I know that I wouldn't be able to get an appointment for them to set it up till 2 weeks later. Longest. 2 weeks. EVER. A bit sad to be quite honest, but once school started I needed it. The first week, not to bad. I could live without internet. But week 2? Seriously, I had e-mails to write, classes to add/drop, applications to send and no internet. I was losing it. There's only one provider for this apartment complex and lots of students needing internet moving in. It was a fight to get it first. Lesson learned.

And you think I would've taken all this free time to read. Yeah....no. For some reason, when I have too much time on my hands, I get nothing accomplished, including reading. Don't worry, I'm working on it. Instead I got addicted to Gilmore Girls that my roommate had on DVD. Gah.

But, I now have internet. Which means back to blogging. And reading (here's to looking at you Heir of Fire).
I'll post soon my dears!
In the meantime, enjoy all the books!


Monday, August 4, 2014

The One Where I Answer 55 Questions (Part 2)

Hey guys! So, remember that list of 55 questions I started last week (found through the amazing Notebook Sisters)? If not, here is the first 27 for you to check out. When you're done, I present to you 28-55!

28. Favorite reading snack?

I don't have one. Usually just coffee will do. That's basically heaven, in my book.

29. Name a case in why hype ruined your reading experience.

Ohhhhh.....let's see. I think I'll pick 2. One that's old school and everyone knows about, and one that's a bit newer. First up on the chopping block - Vampire academy. Peer pressure sucks sometimes. The plot and non-stop action were what kept me reading. But Rose? I wanted to punch her so many freakin times. She wasn't snarky, she was just plain mean. Hated being called a slut, yet, quite frankly,  didn't exactly do anything to help her reputation. Also, even if she wants to do all that, I could've had a bit of sympathy for her had she not complained and talked about other people doing the same thing. Quite hypocritical. Also, what's up with Dimitri? Why does everyone find him so attractive?! The only good thing about him was the fact that he wasn't afraid to call Rose out. She needed it. So, as far as Vampire Academy goes - not for me. Though I did read the next 2 books....

Alright, second book up on the chopping block - The Kiss of Deception. Now, I didn't hate this one. Actually, I enjoyed it. It just wasn't what I expected. I expected a sweeping fantasy with to die for romance and heart-grabbing emotions. What a got was a light fantasy that barely touched on the world with a mediocre romance and slight emotions. I did actually end up liking Lia, which, from the synopsis, I didn't think would happen. Unfortunately, neither of the guys made my heart go aflutter, but I was intrigued. The problem being, it wasn't really till the end that the book actually delivered on what everyone said. The plot finally got going, the men got interesting, the world was beginning to get fleshed out and crap actually happened. And then it ended. Of course. Will I read book 2? Yes. But book 1 definitely didn't blow me away like everyone said....

30. How often do you agree with critics about a book?

I assume your talking about professional critics? If that's the case, I don't read their opinions. If the critics opinions about books are anything like their opinions about movies, they suck. So I just don't read them.

31. How do you feel about giving bad/negative reviews?

Well, I don't believe in bashing and basically destroying a book (or the author - they worked hard!) with words, but at the same time, this is a place for me to give my opinion. If I don't like a book, I don't like a book and I'll tell you. And, it's just something people are going to have to realize - just because I don't like a book, doesn't mean someone else won't find it phenomenal. My blog is a place for people to determine whether or not they'll like a book. If they have similar taste, or if our pet peeves are the same, they'll turn away from it. However, my review could also help solidify someones decision to read it because things stated in my review that bother me, may not bother them.

So, in short, I don't believe in just plain hating on a book, but describing why (with a bit of snark and sarcasm, obviously) to help others determine whether this book is for them.

32. If you could read in a foreign language, which would you choose?

GERMAN! Yes, I love my 2nd home. I picked up the language when I lived there long, long ago, but have, rather unfortunately, lost it. I hear reading in another language is a great way to pick it up though. Maybe I'll try it one day.

33. Most intimidating book you've read.

Is this a thing? INCONCEIVABLE! I've never been intimidated by books... Well, I take that back now that I think about it. If not wanting to read a series finale because it means a great series is over is considered intimidation, then yes. I have been intimidated by books. Curse you Ruin and Rising!

34. Most intimidating book I'm too nervous to start.

None to date. I'M INVINCIBLEEEEE!

35. Favorite poet?

Shel Silverstein. He's awesome. And basically the only poet I know.

36. How many books do you usually have checked out from the library at any given time?

I exercise great self-control at the library. So only a couple. I'm a slow reader and don't really care to pay fines. If I'm going to pay for a book, I want to actually own the darn thing. Also, my old library (haven't gotten round to the new one yet) didn't have that many options, so that helped a lot.

37. How often have you returned books to the library unread?

Surprisingly, not often. Though I'm also not a big library person so I don't have too many checked out at one time (see questions above).

38. Favorite fictional character?

WHAT KIND OF QUESTION IS THIS?! OMG...how do I answer this?! CELAENA! Any of the main gals from the Lunar Chronicles series!! So many characters from Rick Riordan's fabulous series (PERCABETHHHHH)! So many HP characters too! And ALANNA (Song of the Lioness)! NIKOLAIIIIII!!! GAHHHH! SO MANNYYYYYYY!

39. Favorite fictional villain?

Mmmmmmm The Darkling. Absolutely enticing. So evil. So delectable.
Michah (from the Seven Realms series).
Any of the baddies from Rick Riordans books. So evil. So funny.
Basically, any villain who has reasons and is evilllll. I love a good villain.

Though I have noticed, I tend to like books with multiples baddies. Or with ones that have a main baddie, but other characters aren't exactly saints.

40. Books you're likely to bring on vacay?

Any awesome fantasy book. Or, basically, any book. I'm not picky.

41. The longest you've gone without reading?

Ummmmmmmmm....do I really have to answer this question? Okay, *takes a breath* - 16 years. Don't kill me! Okay, it's not like I never read in those 16 years. I started reading really early and found some awesome series to read. But, I wasn't a reader. Reading was for my siblings. My sister used to bug the crap out of me and basically brag about how much she read and how smart she was and blah, blah, blah that I did the only natural thing - I did the complete opposite. I said I was too cool for reading. Had too many friends to take time to read. Yes, horrible me. But I learned my lesson! The end of my junior year I got my Kindle, found Goodreads, and found blogs. Before this, I might find a series through friends or family and devour it (Song of the Lioness, HP, Percy Jackson), but I'd never look into finding another series. With Goodreads and blogs, that all changed. I was now able to find books similar to books I'd previously liked. And now that I blog, it keeps me reading. It helps me make it a priority and realize how incredibly awesome delving into a new world can be. So thank you fellow readers. You helped me find my new love. 

42. Name a book that you could/would not finish.

I have a couple DNF books actually. 
1. The Queen's Choice  - I have such a love/hate relationship with her previous books that I wasn't sure whether I'd like this one or not. Definitely not feeling it. For too many reasons to count. 
2. Ender's Game - I'm sorry, but I truly do not understand how this is basically considered sic-fi royalty. It was boring. It was beyond weird. And just......not for me. Really, really disappointing. I know y'all are going to kill me but, the movie was actually better, not that it was great though either. THE HERESY!
3. Carnival of Souls - Wow. I don't even remember this book. I was just looking through my reviews to see which books I DNF and this one popped up. It was just so meh. And weird. 
4. Glitch - Made it 46% of the way through. Plot still hadn't gone anywhere. Annoying character who couldn't make up her mind. Insta-love. Made up cuss words. Also, looking back over the review, there is one really awkward part. I don't remember what it was. I'm kind of interested in going back to check it out....
5. The Last Princess - So much potential. So much fail. Not enough details, a mediocre MC, a weird insta-lovey relationship, and ridiculously quick pacing that didn't create a full picture. 
6. Starters - 1st half of the book = really interesting. 2nd half = not so much. After the first plot line is resolved, it gets boring. Also, confusing. 

43. What distracts you easily when you're reading?

Well, I actually prefer it to be quiet, or with very low background noise. People talking to me is a big no-no. If you see me reading, be kind and let me know you want to talk to me or ask me a question instead of launching into your life's story or asking questions straightaway. Give me a chance to put my book down so I can give you my full attention. Unless I'm at a really good part. Then you wait. 

44. Favorite film adaptation of a novel?

I actually was rather fond of both Hunger Games movies. They stuck really well to the books. Also, LORD OF THE RINGS! So, I've never read the books, but the movies are absolutely phenomenal. So good that when I went to New Zealand with my parents, my one request was that we visit the film site. Amazing. 

45. Most disappointing film adaptation. 

Percy Jackson. Horrible. Absolutely horrible. NOTHING LIKE THE BOOK! See, I'm actually relatively easy to please when it comes to books to movies, as long as they stick relatively well to the books. I'm not super picky because I know that the movies will never be as good as the books. BUT, this was horrific. Completely different than the books. I actually started this series because my friend wanted to go see the movie. For those who have never read this series, please don't base your decision on whether or not to read the books based on the movie. Sure, the movies are at least entertaining, somewhat. However, they never should've been called Percy Jackson.

46. The most money I've ever spent in the bookstore at one time.

I try and only buy 1 book at a time (college budget here!). Does that always happen? *snort* NO! Let's see, the other day I spent....$46, give or take a dollar. 

47. How often do you skim a book before reading it?

Is this a thing? I don't think this should be a thing. 

48. What would cause you to stop reading a book halfway through?

Well, if it's completely boring for one. Also, if I don't like the MC, the plot, or insta-love I'll DNF probably. Thing is, sometimes I can get over having one of these things so long as everything makes up for it. What I've noticed with book I tend to DNF is that everything is very "meh". I'll even finish a book that I'm totally hating on as long as it's not completely boring (Camelot Burning).

49. Do you like to keep your books organized?

I don't even have proper bookshelves, so, no. Don't worry, I'm getting some for my new apartment. Still probably won't be organized though.

50. Do you prefer to keep books or give them away one you've read them?

MINEEEEEEE!

51. Are there any books you've been avoiding?

The only one I can think of currently is LOTR. I absolutely loved the movies. Seriously, I watched them as soon as they came out (I was in elementary school - nothing scared me!). I even just had a LOTR extended addition marathon this past spring at school! I don't recommend it though. So. Many. EMOTIONS! Since I love the movies so much, I'm afraid to read the books. I'm afraid it will ruin it for me whether it's because they are boring or because they are different than the movies. So, I'll just stay blissfully ignorant. 

52. Name a book that made you angry.

Oh, I really don't know actually. I've not liked books before. I'm not sure any have made me angry per se. Frustrated? When the MC is completely, utterly, idiotic. 

53. A book you didn't expect to like, but did?

Threats of Sky and Sea - I was a bit surprised by this one. I think because it was a little known book but surprisingly good. The MC really helped. I wish things would've been fleshed out a bit more, but definitely looking forward to book #2. 

The Winner's Curse - This one had a lot of hype. I was hesitant but picked it up anyways. Beautiful. Amazing. Breath-taking. Emotional. So, SO good. Read it. READ IT!.

54. A book you expected to like but didn't?

The Queen of the Tearling  and The Kiss of Deception - I didn't hate either book, but I certainly didn't love them like I expected.

55. Favorite guilt-free pleasure reading?

Irrelevant. I feel no guilt while reading. I read what I like. Except in public....

Saturday, August 2, 2014

The One Where I Recap July 2014


Meme/Miscellaneous Posts:


Reviews:


Books read this month:
Threats of Sky and Sea by Jennifer Ellision
The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen
The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson
The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas

Currently reading: Throne of Glass (reread) by Sarah J. Maas



1. I'm done with work! My 2 months of imprisonment FINALLY are over!!! Okay, maybe likening it to prison is a bit harsh. It actually wasn't awful. I really loved both of my jail mates (or coworkers if you want to be PC) and I worked for my brother so it was actually fun and easy going. Just mind numbingly boring. But, easy money. I'll miss it.

2. I'm heading up to my new apartment at school next weekend. Woohoo! I'm always sad to leave my family, but I am very excited to finally get out of the dorm and live on my own (well, with roommates). And decorating? Oh, so much fun! I've still got some shopping to do before heading up. All that hard-earned money (see above) going down the drain. For a good cause, of course.

3. School starts. Bleh. Actually, I'm really excited for some of my classes, and to see my friends of course, but homework (aka papers)? Not so much. I'm someone who can just listen to lectures or discussions and be okay. Weird, I know.


Plans for August:

Read.
Blog.
Enjoy life.


Go forth and read my friends! 

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

The One Where I Answer 55 Questions (Part 1)

Last week sometime, I was perusing my blog feed minding my own business when I came upon wondrous blog post by the amazing Notebook Sisters: 55 questions about books. Questions about where I get to talk about books and myself? I'm always game for that. These 55 questions, which the Notebook Sisters believe originated here, are what I bring to you today. Well, at least the first part. I agree with Cait and Mime, 55 questions is a lot. 


Well, at least not in one post. 

So, without further ado, I present to you 27 questions about yours truly.

1. Favorite childhood book:

     Soooooooo, confession time:

I, Mackenzie, here at "Oh, For the Love of Books" did not grow up reading. 

     But don't go grabbing your torches and pitchforks quite yet. I wasn't necessarily a reader, but I did read. Only when I found those really rare books that captured me. My sister was always the reader and would bug the crap out of me to read and brag about all that she read so I decided I was better than reading. Naturally. Doing the exact opposite of what I'm told to do? Welcome to childhood. 


Anyways, what books I did read were simply phenomenal. Two series that stuck with me were the Harry Potter series (who wasn't impacted by these?) and both The Song of the Lioness series and the Immortals series by Tamora Pierce. Both J.K. Rowling and Tamora Pierce are goddesses amongst man. Most of y'all have definitely probably read HP, but if y'all have not been lucky enough to be blessed by the awesomeness that is Pierce, I suggest you remedy it immediately. Else I might take the torches and pitchforks to you....I kid. I kid. Somewhat. 

2. What are you reading right now?

     I am currently re-reading the gloriousness that is Throne of Glass by yet another goddess amongst man, Sarah J. Maas. I've decided to re-read the whole series in preparation for Heir of Fire (WLEJHRWOEFJWOIEJFO!!). I just finished The Assassin's Blade and my emotions are currently a wreck. Naturally, I've decided The Assassin's Blade did not produce enough feels and decided to jump right into Throne of Glass without giving myself the necessary time to get myself together. Please ignore my feels. They may dissipate....eventually.

3. What books do you have on request at the library?

....um......none...PLEASE DON'T HURT ME! I JUST MOVED HERE!!!

4. Bad book habit:

Umm....okay, just give me a moment......ugh, sorry, can't think of one. Which means I'm perfect. Obviously. And humble.

5. What do you currently have checked out at the library?

Please see #3.

6. Do you have an e-reader?

Yes, And I absolutely adore it #NoShame. I'm a traveler and having an e-reader is a wonderful help. Also, I usually get ARCs through Netgalley and it's much easier to read on a Kindle rather than a computer. Actually, ARCs are really all I use it for. I still really love owning books. I can't ever give that up completely.

7. Do you prefer to read one book at a time or several at once?

Well, I prefer to read one book at a time. However, that doesn't mean I don't read more than one at a time. Usually that happens when I'm not totally in love with a book or I'm not in the mood. I'll start it, put it down and start another book, and when I'm finished with the second book, I may or may not pick up the first one again.

8. Have your reading habit changed since you started to blog?

Not that I can recall. I guess I try to read more and take advantage of free time?

 9. Least favorite book you've read so far this year?

Unfortunately, I feel like I've had quite a few I've been disappointed with. To name a few:

All of those were books that I wasn't sure what to expect, but was disappointed anyway. There are two books that I had high(er) expectations for, yet fell somewhat flat for me: Kiss of Deception and The Queen of the Tearling. Both were books that the blogosphere were practically exploding over, yet left me with somewhat confused feelings. Both were books I devoured while reading, yet still found many issues. The Kiss of Deception didn't leave me with quite as mixed emotions as The Queen of the Tearling (as you can see from the review), but both were less than savory.

10. Favorite book you've read this year? 

    WHAT KIND OF QUESTION IS THIS?!?!
YOU DARE ASK ME WHAT MY FAVORITE BOOK IS?!?
.....
Impossible. There is no one book, but many. Therefore, A LIST!

Cress - Cress is just absolutely, preciously adorkable. As if that wasn't good enough, the romantic interest is Captain Thorne. *SWOON*

The Falconer  - Aileana is one butt-whoopin, faerie-killing machine. She. Is. Awesome. With a beautiful Scottish setting, a snarky, intelligent, kick-butt heroine, and, of course, the incredibly mysterious Kiaran, this book is a favorite. BUT THAT ENDING! GAHHHH! Oh, and Kiaran. 

The Winner's Curse - So beautiful. I didn't know what to expect, but this just blew me out of the water. I actually plan on re-reading it before writing a review. It was that good. 

The House of Hades - It's Rick Riordan. I'm fully convinced that he is one of the gods of olympus hiding amongst us rather mundane mortals. 

The Grisha Trilogy - I re-read this and the FEEEELINGSSSSS. I can't believe this series is over with! I'm in denial. My only consolation is the fact that the Great Leigh Bardugo is writing another series set in the Grisha universe. I suppose that sates my appetite somewhat. 

The Assassin's Blade - I read all of the novella's save for the last one (and The Healer that was exclusive in this book) before this book came out. Then I stupidly bought this book. They were super good. But the last one. The last one. MY FEEELLINNGGGSSSS! It gutted me. Destroyed me. I even knew what happened, just not how. And the how is what destroyed me. Beautiful, haunting, heart-breaking, and feels-destroying. But oh so satisfying. 

11. How often do you read out of your comfort zone?

Never. Well, basically never. Unless textbooks count. 

12. What is your reading comfort zone?

I don't really know actually. If it comes to genres, I'll read most any fiction, except contemporary. I just don't like contemporary. I read to escape. Contemporary doesn't allow that in my opinion. I may not be huge fans of some genres (urban, horror, thriller) but I'll still read them. They may just not be my forte, per se. 

13. Can you read in the car?

If you don't mind me puking all over you, then yeah. I don't like getting sick though, so I'll go with the safe HECK NO! 

14. Favorite place to read?

Anywhere at home that's comfortable. I really love the chair by the window I have in my room. We also have a reading room with two chairs looking out a window that's so comfortable to read it. And my couch. I love my couch. 

15. What is your policy on book lending?

Non-existant. Not many of my friends really read to be honest. If I lend them to anyone, it's usually my sister. The only thing I hate that she does is using the cover for a book mark. I mean she takes off the whole cover and shoves it in the book instead of just using the flap. IT'S BOOK CANNIBALISM! Other than that, if I lend em out, I just ask that they take care of them.

16. Do you dog-ear books?

What is this blasphemy?

17. Do you ever write in the margins of your books?

MORE BLASPHEMY! 
Okay, I totally get why people do this and, to be honest, I even envy them. With the writing, the books look so loved and worn. But, but, BUT! I just can't bring myself to do this. 

18. Not even with textbooks?

Not even with textbooks.

19. What is your favorite language to read in.

English. Else I wouldn't understand a thing I was reading and it would be far less enjoyable. 
Though, I do hear it's a great way to help learn a new language! 

20. What makes you love a book?

You know, I can't really pinpoint it. Not making me want to gouge my eyes out usually helps. But I'm usually relatively easy to please. At least I think so. But what makes a book great? Wonderfully complex and amazing characters, an engaging plot, action-packed awesomeness, and FEELS! I need to feel connected and actually care about the characters. Also, added bonus points for maps. And really, to make a book awesome in my opinion, you need all of these dumped in one awesomely fantastic medieval-like fantasy world (with magic). I love fantasy. 

21. What will inspire you to recommend a book?

If I love it, I'll recommend it. Usually I don't recommend though. I'm truly awful at it. 

22. Favorite genre?

FANTASYYYYY (see #20)! Seriously, give me fantasy any day of the week and I'm a happy gal. I love exploring new worlds with magic, wonderful characters, adventure, and complex systems. Also, if it's got a medieval vibe to it, it's basically perfection. 

23. Genre you rarely read but wish you did:

Oh. Um. I don't know. I guess classics. Unless I had to read them for school, I avoided them like the plague. I feel like I should like the classics. But I don't. 

24. Favorite biography?

You're assuming I've read one...

25. Have you ever read a self-help book?

Part of one. When I was considering opening an Etsy store I read the how-to guide for idiots. Quite informative actually.  

26. Favorite Cookbook?

Any Christmas/dessert recipe book. I actually only have one, but it has my favorite seasonal dessert in it: Pumpkin cheesecake bars. To. Die. For. 

27. Most inspiration book you've read this year (fiction or non-fiction)?

Oh. I don't know if inspired is necessarily the right word, but I do truly love the Throne of Glass series. For one, phenomenal writing, characters, and world-building. If I ever was a writer, this is what I'd aspire to be. But, I love it too because I love complex characters who aren't perfect and had to make incredibly hard decisions. I'm a psychology major and I absolutely love delving into personalities and the mind and decision-making when it comes to difficult situations. It's amazing what people will do to survive and it blows my mind how two people can be in the same situation, yet react completely different. It simply amazes me. And Celaena is as complex as it gets. I totally understand why she is how she is and I love delving into her past and really learning about her. She may be an assassin, but she's much more than that. It  goes to show that you truly can't judge a book by its cover. It's what's between the pages, the inner story, that counts. 

So my dears, what about you? I'd love to know some of y'alls answers to questions! And if you make a blog post, let me know! I'd love to read it! 







Sunday, July 27, 2014

The One With the Challenge Updates

Well, it's more than halfway through the year which means I'm late in updating all my challenges! 
To be honest, I almost forgot I was even part of challenges. Yeahhhhhh, shows how good I am at doing these things. But I still have 5 months left so there's still hope. Right? 



Defy (Defy #1) by Sara B. Larson - 2.5 stars
Lady Thief (Scarlet #2) by A. C. Gaughen - 4 stars
The Queen’s Choice (Heirs of Chrior #1) by Cayla Kluver - DNF
Camelot Burning (Metal & Lace #1) by Kathryn Rose - 1.5 stars
Sworn to Raise (Courtlight #1) - Terah Edun 2.5 stars
Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore - 3.5/4 stars
Threats of Sky and Sea (Threats of Sky and Sea #1) by Jennifer Ellision - 3.5/4 stars


The Blood of Eden series
Book 3: The Forever Song (review coming soon)

Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan
Unfortunately, I don't have any reviews for these books. WHY DON'T I?!?! 


Fairytale:


Lucky No. 14:
1. Visit the Country: Read a book that has a setting in a country you really want to visit in real life - House of Hades - always wanted to go to Rome and Greece!
3. Blame it on Bloggers: Read a book because you've read the sparkling reviews from other bloggers - Kiss of Deception - raving after raving review for this book. Or, The Queen of the Tearling - another book that had mostly raving reviews. Both were enjoyable for me, but both had their issues. 
5. (Not So) Fresh From the Oven: Read a book released last year that you never had a chance to read - Etiquette and Espionage - Why did I wait so long?!  
8. Chunky Brick: Read a book more than 500 pages - Cress - ABSOLUTELY ADORED IT! So amazing. Cress is preciously adorkable and THORNE *swoon*. 
12. Freebies Time: Read a free book (giveaway, ARC, birthday, ect) - Threats of Sky and Sea   - Thanks netgalley ;)

Soooo, I haven't really kept up with these challenges. Obviously. But, I'm such a mood reader that I don't read for challenges, just whatever the heck I want to read. Also, I've just read really little this year. Y'all don't even WANT to know how behind I am on my Goodreads challenge! But, blogging life isn't about these challenges. They just hopefully help me read a bit more and they're always fun to participate in :) 

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

The One with the Top Ten Characters I Woul Want on a Deserted Island With Me (#3)


Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme brought to you by The Broke and the Bookish.  Each week a new Top Ten list topic is posted and book bloggers fill in their own choices. 

This Week's Topics is

Top 10 Characters I Would Want on a Deserted Island With Me

For hotness or otherwise.....

1. Celaena (Throne of Glass)
Because she's Celaena. First off, she's snarky and we can complain to each other about our unfortunate circumstances. However, we'd totally be rocking it on the beach. She'll totally make it fun with all her sarcastic wit. Also, she kicks butt. I'm pretty sure she could take on whatever unsavory creature comes our way. 

2. Cress (Cress)
Yes, sweet, adorkable Cress. She's a techie! Sureeee there aren't going to be any technological advances on a deserted island, but I feel like she's a gal who could make a communicator out of coconut and twigs. 

3. Captain Thorne (Cress
Move over Cress, he's mine now. He'd make living on a deserted island bearable with his wit and humor. And hotness. Can't forget that.

4. Hermione (Harry Potter)
One word: magic. You know, so we could actually survive. There's probably a spell out there somewhere for building a boat. And if not, the LeviOsa charm will come in handy for lifting large pieces of wood to build said boat. Also, she's is the brightest witch of her age, so she'll know what to eat and what not to eat. She can make a magical tent or treehouse. And, if all else fails, she could just apparate us out of there.

5. Chaol (Throne of Glass)
Because he's really, really, ridiculously good-looking. Also, he'd take being on a deserted island in stride. And practice sword-fighting on the beach. 
Shirtless.

6. Percy Jackson (The Lightning Thief)
He's the son of the Sea god! We're on a deserted Island in the middle of the ocean! How could I not want this kid? He can use his awesome, watery skills to get us off the island. And make a really cool waterside of some sort. He can make a rainbow for an Isis-message to let people know where we are. 
Also, wit. He makes any situation fun. And not to hard on the eyes either ;)

7. Annabeth (The Lightning Thief
Because, let's face it, where would Percy be without this girl? She's a super genius! Both she and Percy can call in favors with the gods which is always helpful. She's also an architectural genius which means she knows how to build a boat. And while we are waiting for the boat to be built, we can live it out in style with the amazing treehouse I know Annabeth will build. It will put HGTV to shame.  

8. Cinder (Cinder)
She's a mechanic and tinkerer. I feel like with her, Hermione, Cress, and Annabeth, we should be able to build a freakin boat....

9. Katniss (The Hunger Games)
Not gonna lie, I think she's kind a downer. Not a fun as the other people on this list. But, she's hunts. I eat. 

10. Nikolai (Siege and Storm)
Because he's Nikolai. He's also incredibly inventive. And funny. And hot. And intelligent. And snarky. And hot. And sarcastic. And a privateer. And a prince. And hot......

I think I have a pretty good list going here. Honestly, I wouldn't mind being on a deserted island with this motley group of awesomeness. I'd have a blast hanging with all the gals kicking butt, swapping stories, exchanging wit and looking at the gloriousness that is the men shirtless. I think I'd like to hang out on this island a bit soaking up the rays, building campfires, and awesome tree houses (and having fun with water slides and waves a la Percy) before heading out. I'll be sure to mark it on a map so as to come back and visit.