July Wrap-Up: Reviews, Reading Challenges, etc.

Another great reading month! Here’s hoping that that trend continues through for the rest of the year!


Books Read

  • Bone Gap by Laura Ruby – 2/5 stars, audiobook
  • A Million Junes by Emily Henry – 5/5 stars, REVIEW
  • The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead – 2/5 stars, audiobook
  • This Savage Song (Monsters of Verity, #1) by Victoria Schwab – 5/5 stars, REVIEW
  • Our Dark Duet (Monsters of Verity, #2) by Victoria Schwab – 5/5 stars, REVIEW
  • Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman – 3/5 stars
  • Leviathan (Leviathan, #1) by Scott Westerfeld – 4/5 stars, audiobook
  • The Wicked & The Divine, Vol. 1: The Faust Act by Kieron Gillen – 4/5 stars, graphic novel
  • The Wicked & The Divine, Vol. 2: Fandemonium by Kieron Gillen – 4/5 stars, graphic novel
  • Starfall (Starflight, #2) by Melissa Landers – 4/5 stars, REVIEW
  • Kings Cage (Red Queen, #3) by Victoria Aveyard – 4/5 stars, REVIEW
  • The Bone Season (The Bone Season, #1) by Samantha Shannon – 5/5 stars
  • The Mime Order (The Bone Season, #2) by Samantha Shannon – 5/5 stars
  • The Song Rising (The Bone Season, #3) by Samantha Shannon – 5/5 stars
  • The Winter Sea (Slains, #1) by Susanna Kearsley – 3/5 stars, audiobook

I cannot believe I was able to read/listen to this many books this month. It truly baffles my mind, haha! I’m also having a whole lot of trouble deciding on what else to say right now because I’m kind of starving and all I can think about is food. Y’all, I’M SO HUNGRY!

Total Books Read: 15

Overall in 2017: 52

Reading Challenge Updates

POPSUGAR

  • A Book That Takes Place Over a Character’s Life Span – The Underground Railroad
  • A Book Written by Someone You Admire – Norse Mythology
  • A Bestseller from 2016 – This Savage Song (Monsters of Verity, #1)
  • A Book with a Month or Day of the Week in the Title – A Million Junes
  • A Book with One of the Four Season in the Title – The Winter Sea (Slains, #1)

Beat the Backlist

  • This Savage Song (Monsters of Verity, #1)
  • Bone Gap
  • The Bone Season (The Bone Season, #1)
  • The Mime Order (The Bone Season, #2)

Goodreads Challenge

  • Total: 52/100
  • Previous Total: 36/100

Blog Posts

Teaser Tuesday

WWW Wednesday

Hype or Like Friday

Discussions/Misc.


How did your reading go during July? Did you get to all of the books that you wanted to? Did you participate in any of the reading challenges?

 

2017 Book Haul: 1st Half (My wallet hates me.)

I realized this weekend that I haven’t posted a book haul since probably December. Well, I think it’s time to remedy that. I spend way too much money on my books and no one appreciates that as much all of you, my book blogging friends! With that being said, I’ve spent so much money already this year and then I just laugh when I think of all of the amazing releases coming out in the next six months. FINE, TAKE ALL OF MY MONEY AND GIVE ME THE BOOKS!

But seriously, give me all of the books.


  • Startup by Doree Shafrir – received via Book of the Month Club, REVIEW
  • Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk by Kathleen Rooney
  • Aftermath: Empire’s End (Stars Wars: Aftermath, #3) by Chuck Wendig
  • The Song Rising (The Bone Season, #3) by Samantha Shannon
  • Heartstone by Elle Katharine White – REVIEW
  • Strange the Dreamer (Strange the Dreamer, #1) by Laini Taylor – received via FairyLoot, REVIEW
  • King’s Cage (Red Queen, #3) by Victoria Aveyard
  • A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3) by Sarah J. Maas – REVIEW
  • Windwitch (The Witchlands, #2) by Susan Dennard
  • Gilded Cage (Dark Gifts, #1) by Vic James
  • RoseBlood by A.G. Howard – received via Owlcrate
  • A Conjuring of Light (Shades of Magic, #3) by V.E. Schwab – REVIEW
  • Empress of a Thousand Skies (Empress of a Thousand Skies, #1) by Rhoda Belleza – received via FairyLoot
  • Daughter of the Pirate King (Daughter of the Pirate King, #1) by Tricia Levenseller
  • A Million Junes by Emily Henry – received via Book of the Month Club
  • The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid – received via Book of the Month Club
  • Wintersong (Wintersong, #1) by S. Jae-Jones
  • Carve the Mark (Carve the Mark, #1) by Veronica Roth – received via Book Boyfriend Box
  • Caraval (Caraval, #1) by Stephanie Garber – received via FairyLoot, REVIEW
  • Star Wars: Thrawn by Timothy Zahn
  • The Love Interest by Cale Dietrich – received via Book of the Month Club
  • Flame in the Mist (Flame in the Mist, #1) by Renee Ahdieh – received via FairyLoot
  • Shadow Run (Kaitan Chronicles, #1) by AdriAnne Strickland & Michael Miller
  • The Possessions by Sara Flannery-Murphy – received via Book of the Month Club
  • Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman
  • Blackhearts (Blackhearts, #1) by Nicole Castroman
  • Hunted by Megan Spooner – received via Book Boyfriend Box
  • City of Saints & Thieves by Natalie C. Anderson
  • Cress (The Lunar Chronicles, #3) by Marissa Meyer
  • Give to the Sea (Given Duet, #1) by Mindy McGinnis – received via FairyLoot
  • Starfall (Starflight, #2) by Melissa Landers
  • If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio
  • The Last Wish (The Witcher Saga, #1) by Andrej Sapowski
  • Sword of Destiny (The Witcher Saga, #2) by Andrej Sapowski
  • Blood of Elves (The Witcher Saga, #3) by Andrej Sapowski
  • The Time of Contempt (The Witcher Saga, #4) by Andrej Sapowski
  • Baptism of Fire (The Witcher Saga, #5) by Andrej Sapowski
  • The Tower of Swallows (The Witcher Saga, #6) by Andrej Sapowski
  • The Lady of the Lake (The Witcher Saga, #7) by Andrej Sapowski
  • Red Sister (Book of the Ancestor, #1) by Mark Lawrence

Damn, I should probably slow it down a bit. Oops!


What books have you bought recently? Have you read any of the ones on my list? What did you think of them?

Book Review: The Coldest Girl in Coldtown

This book had been on my radar for awhile, so I was happy to see it become available on BookOutlet a few months ago and snatched it up immediately. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I really enjoyed Black’s other standalone fantasy novel, The Darkest Part of the Forest, so I was cautiously optimistic. But luckily, The Coldest Girl in Coldtown ending up being a really fun and fresh take on the ever popular vampire story.

Tana lives in a world where walled cities called Coldtowns exist. In them, quarantined monsters and humans mingle in a decadently bloody mix of predator and prey. The only problem is, once you pass through Coldtown’s gates, you can never leave.

One morning, after a perfectly ordinary party, Tana wakes up surrounded by corpses. The only other survivors of this massacre are her exasperatingly endearing ex-boyfriend, infected and on the edge, and a mysterious boy burdened with a terrible secret. Shaken and determined, Tana enters a race against the clock to save the three of them the only way she knows how: by going straight to the wicked, opulent heart of Coldtown itself.

The Good

  • Unique Plot – I really enjoy how Black mixes fantasy/paranormal with contemporary. I enjoyed it first with The Darkest Part of the Forest and then again with this story. I also thought it was interesting to see how she brought a new twist to vampires. I found this story to be almost like if you had mixed True Blood with District 9, minus the aliens. I was immediately drawn into Tana’s story and her adventure into Coldtown. I also enjoyed that the story had a darker tone to it than some other vampire novels that you might know.. *cough* Twilight! *cough*
  • Characters – I loved the diversity of the characters in this book. I’ve noticed that this is something Black always includes in her stories which I appreciate. I really enjoyed Tana as a character, too. She was fun, take charge, and so protective of the people that she cared about. All of the characters brought an interesting dynamic to the story and were able to actually add to my enjoyment, rather than annoy me – which doesn’t happen often! However, Gavriel was definitely my favorite. He was just so mysterious and intriguing. I’ll admit that I also loved when he would lose his grip on reality a little bit and start acting strange. I’m weird, I know!

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The Bad

  • Pacing – I buddy read this with Britt @ Geronimo Reads and Jill @ Rant and Rave About Books, and they both had some issues with the pacing in this book. While it didn’t really bother me, as I was hooked from page 1, I will say that this could be an issue for a lot of people. It does take almost 200 pages for the group to actually get to Coldtown, so there is a lot of buildup. This may make it a little slow for some people, and I will admit, I wish there had been more time spent in Coldtown as I don’t think we get to explore it as much as I would have liked to.

Overall, this was a highly enjoyable read for me. I found myself engrossed in the world and Tana’s story from the very first page. I loved everything about this book. My only regret is that I wish it was a series so we could see more of Coldtown and these awesome characters. But if you’re in the mood for trying a different kind of vampire book or maybe just a fun standalone, then I definitely recommend checking this one out.

Final Verdict: 5/5 Stars


Have you read The Coldest Girl in Coldtown? What did you think of it? Have you read any of Holly Black’s other novels?

Subscription Box Review: December Owlcrate, Book Boyfriend, and FairyLoot

Sorry for the late posts with this one, because I’m sure that by now y’all have already seen all of the unboxings. However, I’m gonna do it anyways… so ha! I’ve also decided to combine all of my unboxings into one post. For December I received 3 boxes – Owlcrate, Book Boyfriend, and FairyLoot!


Book Boyfriend

Book Boyfriend Box is a U.S. based bi-monthly subscription box. Each box will include a newly released hardcover book and a few other bookish items that are curated around a specific theme. One or more subscribers will also receive a bonus item with each box, which are selected at random. Boxes start at $29.99 per month.

The December theme was Love Letters and inspired by all of the amazing men from Jane Austen’s novels.

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  • Quill Pen – I wasn’t sure at first if I would like this pen as it looked heavy, but I pleasantly surprised to see that it wasn’t! I’ve already used this pen a few times and I love it!
  • Notepad – Who doesn’t love Captain Wentworth? I love this notepad designed by Drop and Give Me Nerdy, with it’s beautiful Austen quote. It’s the perfect size to carry around with you without weighing down your purse/bag. So pretty!
  • Loose Tea – This is a Pride and Prejudice  herbal tea blend from First Edition Tea Co.. Y’all should know by now that I’m the BIGGEST tea drinker. I’m not a real fan of coffee but hot tea is the love of my life. I’m so excited to try this blend because it smells divine.
  • Coaster – I’m kind of obsessed with this coaster from Favoring Brave  that is made from upcycled pages of Persuasion. Like how cool is that?! It will go perfectly with my cup of tea actually!
  • Soap – Okay, this soap made of goat’s milk is from The MacBath and smells AMAZING. It’s also insanely cute with a quote from Pride and Prejudice printed into it. I’ve actually already used it all up now – that’s how much I loved it.
  • Hardcover Book – The book in this month’s box was We Are Still Tornadoes by Michael Kun and Susan Mullen. I really appreciated that they chose a book that wasn’t super hyped like most boxes tend to stick with. I haven’t heard anything about this book yet but the synopsis sounds sooo good. I also love that it included some bookish swag, including a music playlist to listen to while you read it! If you love books written in letter form, the 80’s, and great music references then you’ll probably enjoy this cute love story.

It’s the summer of 1982, and for Scott and Cath, everything is about to change.

Growing up across the street from each other, Scott and Cath have been best friends for most of their lives. Now they’ve graduated high school, and Cath is off to college while Scott stays at home trying to get his band off the ground. Neither of them realized that their first year after high school would be so hard.

Fortunately, Scott and Cath still have each other, and it’s through their letters that they survive heartache, annoying roommates, family dramas, and the pressure of figuring out what to do with the rest of their lives. And through it all, they realize that the only person they’ve ever wanted to turn to is each other. But does that mean they should think about being more than friends? One thing is clear: Change is an inescapable part of growing up, and we share unbreakable bonds with the friends who help us navigate it.

For my first box from Book Boyfriend, I was pleasantly surprised and am really excited for this month’s box to arrive. The theme for February is Out of This World and is perfect for fans of Red Rising, The Lunar Chronicles, and Star Wars!

Owlcrate

Owlcrate is a monthly bookish subscription box that includes one new release YA hardback novel, as well as 3-5 other bookish items. Each month revolves around a different theme that ties in with the book and goodies. It is also one of the few boxes that ships almost anywhere in the world. Subscriptions start at $29.99 per month.

The theme for December was Epic was curated around epic adventure fantasy books.

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  • Funko Mini – 12 different mystery mini vinyl Funko! collectibles from Harry Potter were sent out in this month’s boxes. I received the always adorable and appropriate for bookworms, Hermione. She’s just too cute and is already gracing my bookshelf right now!
  • Pin – This really gorgeous enamel Lord of the Rings was created by Ideal Bookshelf. I’m a huge LOTR fan so I was pretty excited about this pin. I also got a really cool canvas duffle bag for Christmas that this will look perfect on.
  • Coasters – Okay, I’m kind of in love with these house sigils from Game of Thrones. There is a coaster for Houses Stark, Lannister, Baratheon, and Targaryen. Basically all of the main players are present and accounted for. I would’ve liked to have seen House Tyrell in there too, but I really can’t complain either way. Dark Horse Comics did a great job with these for sure.
  • Sticker – This crazy beautiful quote sticker from A Darker Shade of Magic was created by Miss Phi. I’m so glad to add this one to my sticker collection, as it’s one of my all-time favorite book quotes!
  • Greeting Card – The Chronicles of Narnia is such a classic and I think this exclusive design from Susanne Draws, captures the beauty and whimsical nature of it perfectly.  It’s so pretty that I don’t think I’ll be able to send it to someone but will probably end up hanging it on my wall instead. Oops!
  • Hardcover Book – This month’s book is a diverse fantasy read that includes an LGTBQA romance, Of Fire and Stars by Audrey Coulthurst. I’ve heard some good things about this one so I hope it lives up to the hype!

Betrothed since childhood to the prince of Mynaria, Princess Dennaleia has always known what her future holds. Her marriage will seal the alliance between Mynaria and her homeland, protecting her people from other hostile lands. But Denna has a secret. She possesses an Affinity for fire—a dangerous gift for the future queen of a kingdom where magic is forbidden.

Now, Denna must learn the ways of her new home while trying to hide her growing magic. To make matters worse, she must learn to ride Mynaria’s formidable warhorses—and her teacher is the person who intimidates her most, the prickly and unconventional Princess Amaranthine—called Mare—the sister of her betrothed.

When a shocking assassination leaves the kingdom reeling, Mare and Denna reluctantly join forces to search for the culprit. As the two become closer, Mare is surprised by Denna’s intelligence and bravery, while Denna is drawn to Mare’s independent streak. And soon their friendship is threatening to blossom into something more.

But with dangerous conflict brewing that makes the alliance more important than ever, acting on their feelings could be deadly. Forced to choose between their duty and their hearts, Mare and Denna must find a way to save their kingdoms—and each other.

The February theme is Run Away with the Circus!

FairyLoot

FairyLoot is a London-based monthly subscription box. It focuses exclusively on fantasy/science fiction YA novels. Each month will include a brand new release and 4-6 other bookish goodies as well. Subscriptions start at £26 + shipping.

The December theme was Sci-fi Adventure and was curated around some science fiction favorites.

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  • Pop Funko! – It’s a Stormtrooper vinyl character… Obviously I love it!
  • Bath Powder – This kryptonite bath powder was created by Geeky Clean, and smells like you just stepped into a bath full of cupcakes. I’ve already used some and laughed so hard when I saw that it turned my water completely green. Soooo fun!
  • Socks – These galaxy socks were created exclusively by FairyLoot and are so pretty. They’re also really silky and of good quality. They didn’t bleed either when I washed them, so that’s always very appreciated!
  • Bookmark – This beautiful watercolor bookmark was exclusively designed by LexyOlivia for this FairyLoot box. It’s a quote from The Starbound Trilogy by Amie Kaufman. I actually own the first book in this trilogy but haven’t read it yet. I plan to rectify that this year though!
  • Lunar Chronicles Art Print & Red Rising Buttons – Both of these were designed and created exclusively by Taratjah. I’m soooooo obsessed with both of these. I’ve always loved seeing her creations in boxes and all over bookstagram, and now I get to have a piece. I’ll definitely be picking up some more of her designs in the future.
  • Bonus Prints: Red Rising and The Long War to a Small, Angry Planet – Both of these art prints were added bonuses to this box and I love them both so much! I’m kind of a sucker for art prints, and being a Howler too, that Red Rising one is totally speaking to me. LOVE LOVE LOVE!
  • Hardcover Book – The book featured in this month’s box was Flashfall (Flashfall #1) by Jenny Moyer. This science fiction novel is the first in a planned duology and is giving me serious Red Rising vibes which I’m all about. I can’t wait to pick it up and experience it for myself!

Orion is a Subpar, expected to mine the tunnels of Outpost Five, near the deadly flash curtain. For generations, her people have chased cirium—the only element that can shield humanity from the curtain’s radioactive particles. She and her caving partner, Dram work the most treacherous tunnel, fighting past flash bats and tunnel gulls, in hopes of mining enough cirium to earn their way into the protected city.

But when newcomers arrive at Outpost Five, Orion uncovers disturbing revelations that make her question everything she thought she knew about life on both sides of the cirium shield. As conditions at the outpost grow increasingly dangerous, it’s up to Orion to forge a way past the flashfall, beyond all boundaries, beyond the world as she knows it.

The February theme is Emperors and Fugitives!


What did you think of the December boxes? What are some other subscription boxes do you subscribe to or recommend? Have you read any of the books that came in the boxes? What did you think of them?

Teaser Tuesday – January 24th, 2017

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme currently being hosted by Ambrosia @ The Purple Booker. All are welcome to participate!

Rules:

  • Grab your current read.
  • Open to a random page.
  • Share two ‘teaser’ sentences from somewhere on that page.
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! You don’t want to give too much away so as to not ruin the book for others!
  • Share the title and author so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR lists if they like your teasers.

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The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

Tana thought of the Cold girls and boys who had been chained to the walls the night before. At first, when she’d seen the kids in the cages, she’d thought they were a fresh batch and the others were dead. But now, she realized Lucien must keep them for weeks, months, however long he could.

-page 312

All I can say is that if you haven’t read this book yet, you need to. I’m loving the world of Coldtown and everything about it. Vampires have been very polarizing book subjects, but Holly Black has done them right in this novel. If you enjoyed the political vampire intrigue in True Blood, then this book is for you!


What book are you currently reading? Have you read The Coldest Girl in Coldtown? What did you think of it? Leave your own teaser in the comments below!

A Hufflepuff Reading List

Hello to all of you amazing Hufflepuffs out there! Today’s post is just for you! We see you for your loyalty, hardwork, and kindness – a few things that this world could use a bit more of, especially right now.


1. The Half Bad Trilogy by Sally Green

I don’t really know if I can think of a more loyal and kind person than Gabriel from this series. His commitment and love for Nathan turned this series into more just a paranormal adventure. I think all Hufflepuffs would agree that that’s what being a Hufflepuff is all about.

2. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

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Oh, yes… Just thinking about Ari and Dante’s loyalty to one another is enough to bring tears to my eyes.

3. Me Before You by JoJo Moyes

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Louisa’s hard work ethic, kindness, and her ability to stay true to herself is about as Hufflepuff as you can get. I mean, who doesn’t want to be best friends with her?!

4. The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner

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Hufflepuffs, read this book and know that you’re with friends.

5. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

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I think it’s hard to picture Patroclus as anything other than a Hufflepuff. He went to war with Achilles even knowing how it was going to end. His love and loyalty spawned one of the greatest stories in the world.

6. The Infernal Devices Trilogy by Cassandra Clare

Some might disagree with me on this one and think that our young heroes and heroine belong in Gryffindor. But I am here to tell you that these three represent the very best Hufflepuff has to offer!

7. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

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We all love to see the loyalty and strength that families provide. And I find a shining example of that is by the Dashwood sisters of Sense and Sensibility, both Hufflepuffs!

8. Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier

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Inman’s love and loyalty to Ada, mixed with hard work and determination, was the thing keeping him alive long enough to return from the War and home to his sweetheart. I think his quiet and resolute nature would be at home in Hufflepuff.

9. Matilda by Roald Dahl

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I originally had Matilda as a Ravenclaw, due to her precocious love for books and learning. However, I finally decided that her kindness and truth to self shined too brightly to be ignored.

10. Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

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Lochan and Maya’s loyalty to their family and all of their hard work in order to keep them together was one of the most beautiful stories that I read last year. There’s no doubt that those qualities as well as their kindness, would have left the Sorting Hat saying, “Hufflepuff!”


Do you agree with the books on my list? What are some other books that you think belong on here? Do you disagree with any? Let me know in the comments!

Hype or Like Friday – January 13th, 2017

Just another Hype or Like Friday! This meme and Goodreads group were created by myself, Jill @ Rant and Rave Books, and Britt @ Geronimo Reads. To join our group and find out more information about what it’s all about, please go to our Goodreads page HERE.

The January BOTM is The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner.

RULES:

  • Answer the weekly discussion topic.
  • Optional: Discuss your chosen hyped book of the week.
  • Optional: Talk about your progress on the BOTM.

TOPIC OF THE WEEK: Most Anticipated of 2017 – Which books are you most excited to get your hands on this year?


Most Anticipated of 2017

I think we can just all agree that 2017 is going to be an insanely good year for new releases. I mean, this isn’t even a fraction of what I’m excited about but I thought I’d keep myself reined a little and just stick with a few choices. I tried to think of which book I’m most excited for and it was pretty tough to just narrow it down to one so I thought I’d go with A Conjuring of Light (Shades of Magic, #3), since it’s the finale to an awesome trilogy. I’ll also choose Iron Gold (Iron Gold, #1), since it’ll be the beginning of a new trilogy. Makes sense, right?!


What books are you most excited for this year? Did any from my list make the cut? Don’t you think 2017 is going to be a great year for books?! Leave a link to your Hype or Like Friday post in the comments below!

A Ravenclaw Reading List

I was originally sorted into a Hogwarts house a few years ago on Pottermore. Now, this was long before the new updated sorting system, and I was sorted into Gryffindor. While I do agree that I fit into Gryffindor, I always had a little inkling in the back of my mind that I could be in Ravenclaw, too. Well a few days ago, I decided to redo my Pottermore account and take the new sorting quiz to verify my House, as I had heard that some people were actually getting sorted into different Houses. And y’all, I’ll be damned if that didn’t happen to me! It’s official, I am a Ravenclaw, just as I had always suspected!

So in honor of my new House, I decided to list a few books that you are most likely to see a Ravenclaw reading. Yippee!


1. The Great Library Trilogy  by Rachel Caine

Okay, this is a series set in an alternate history where the Great Library of Alexandria never burnt down, but ended up becoming a universal government that controls all of the knowledge and writings ever created. It’s a story about books, knowledge, and a library. I think it’s a no-brainer for any Ravenclaw!

Ruthless and supremely powerful, the Great Library is now a presence in every major city, governing the flow of knowledge to the masses. Alchemy allows the Library to deliver the content of the greatest works of history instantly—but the personal ownership of books is expressly forbidden.

Jess Brightwell believes in the value of the Library, but the majority of his knowledge comes from illegal books obtained by his family, who are involved in the thriving black market. Jess has been sent to be his family’s spy, but his loyalties are tested in the final months of his training to enter the Library’s service.

When his friend inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess discovers that those who control the Great Library believe that knowledge is more valuable than any human life—and soon both heretics and books will burn…

 2. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

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A magic school? Check! I think that makes it a no-brainer. Ravenclaws would definitely be reading this book!

Simon Snow is the worst chosen one who’s ever been chosen.

That’s what his roommate, Baz, says. And Baz might be evil and a vampire and a complete git, but he’s probably right.

Half the time, Simon can’t even make his wand work, and the other half, he sets something on fire. His mentor’s avoiding him, his girlfriend broke up with him, and there’s a magic-eating monster running around wearing Simon’s face. Baz would be having a field day with all this, if he were here—it’s their last year at the Watford School of Magicks, and Simon’s infuriating nemesis didn’t even bother to show up.

Carry On is a ghost story, a love story, a mystery and a melodrama. It has just as much kissing and talking as you’d expect from a Rainbow Rowell story—but far, far more monsters.

3. The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

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A book about how much books affect our lives and shape us into who we are. And the main character owns a bookstore!…Yup, I would almost bet that Zevin is a Ravenclaw.

A. J. Fikry’s life is not at all what he expected it to be. His wife has died, his bookstore is experiencing the worst sales in its history, and now his prized possession, a rare collection of Poe poems, has been stolen. Slowly but surely, he is isolating himself from all the people of Alice Island—from Lambiase, the well-intentioned police officer who’s always felt kindly toward Fikry; from Ismay, his sister-in-law who is hell-bent on saving him from his dreary self; from Amelia, the lovely and idealistic (if eccentric) Knightley Press sales rep who keeps on taking the ferry over to Alice Island, refusing to be deterred by A.J.’s bad attitude. Even the books in his store have stopped holding pleasure for him. These days, A.J. can only see them as a sign of a world that is changing too rapidly.

And then a mysterious package appears at the bookstore. It’s a small package, but large in weight. It’s that unexpected arrival that gives A. J. Fikry the opportunity to make his life over, the ability to see everything anew. It doesn’t take long for the locals to notice the change overcoming A.J.; or for that determined sales rep, Amelia, to see her curmudgeonly client in a new light; or for the wisdom of all those books to become again the lifeblood of A.J.’s world; or for everything to twist again into a version of his life that he didn’t see coming.

4. My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows

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That Jane has read book on all sorts of random things. The amount of knowledge she has is insane. I bet she would even be at the top of her class at Hogwarts, basically a Hermione twin!

The comical, fantastical, romantical, (not) entirely true story of Lady Jane Grey. In My Lady Jane, coauthors Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows have created a one-of-a-kind fantasy in the tradition of The Princess Bride, featuring a reluctant king, an even more reluctant queen, a noble steed, and only a passing resemblance to actual history—because sometimes history needs a little help.

At sixteen, Lady Jane Grey is about to be married off to a stranger and caught up in a conspiracy to rob her cousin, King Edward, of his throne. But those trifling problems aren’t for Jane to worry about. Jane is about to become the Queen of England.

5. The Magicians Trilogy by Lev Grossman

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Another magical school but this time a college. And a school that requires passing a test to get in? Ravenclaws are always looking forward to a reason to use their knowledge, wits, and creativity! I think that school is full of Ravenclaws.

Like everyone else, precocious high school senior Quentin Coldwater assumes that magic isn’t real, until he finds himself admitted to a very secretive and exclusive college of magic in upstate New York. There he indulges in joys of college-friendship, love, sex, and booze- and receives a rigorous education in modern sorcery. But magic doesn’t bring the happiness and adventure Quentin thought it would. After graduation, he and his friends stumble upon a secret that sets them on a remarkable journey that may just fulfill Quentin’s yearning. But their journey turns out to be darker and more dangerous than they’d imagined.

6. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

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Cath is a total Ravenclaw. She’d rather spend time with her books and writing fan-fiction than out partying? Ohhhh yeah, she’s a Ravenclaw.

Cath is a Simon Snow fan.

Okay, the whole world is a Simon Snow fan…

But for Cath, being a fan is her life—and she’s really good at it. She and her twin sister, Wren, ensconced themselves in the Simon Snow series when they were just kids; it’s what got them through their mother leaving.

Reading. Rereading. Hanging out in Simon Snow forums, writing Simon Snow fan fiction, dressing up like the characters for every movie premiere.

Cath’s sister has mostly grown away from fandom, but Cath can’t let go. She doesn’t want to.

Now that they’re going to college, Wren has told Cath she doesn’t want to be roommates. Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She’s got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend, a fiction-writing professor who thinks fan fiction is the end of the civilized world, a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words… And she can’t stop worrying about her dad, who’s loving and fragile and has never really been alone.

For Cath, the question is: Can she do this?

Can she make it without Wren holding her hand? Is she ready to start living her own life? Writing her own stories?

And does she even want to move on if it means leaving Simon Snow behind?

7. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

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I think Jo, who is a strong, creative, independent woman, would make a wonderful Ravenclaw.

Following the lives of four sisters on a journey out of adolescence, Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women explores the difficulties associated with gender roles in a Post-Civil War America.

8. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

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DUH!

In this historic romance, young Elizabeth Bennet strives for love, independence and honesty in the vapid high society of 19th century England.

9. A Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R. Martin

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Ravenclaws enjoy using their wits, wisdom, intuition, and creativity. All of the political intrigue and strong characters in this series are the perfect combination to spark the minds and interest of a Ravenclaw. In fact, I bet Khaleesi would be a Ravenclaw and Arya would be a Slytherin. Obviously, Jon Snow is a Gryffindor. Right?!

In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes of the north of Winterfell, sinister and supernatural forces are massing beyond the kingdom’s protective Wall. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the land they were born to. Sweeping from a land of brutal cold to a distant summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, here is a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens. Amid plots and counterplots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, the fate of the Starks, their allies, and their enemies hangs perilously in the balance, as each endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones.

10. Anne of Green Gables Series by L.M. Montgomery

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Anne is one spunky chick, with a super good creative and individual outlook on life. Her fight to be number one in her class is like music to my ears. And she meets the love of her life while doing it? That girl is living the Ravenclaw dream.

Everyone’s favorite redhead, the spunky Anne Shirley, begins her adventures at Green Gables, a farm outside Avonlea, Prince Edward Island. When the freckled girl realizes that the elderly Cuthberts wanted to adopt a boy instead, she begins to try to win them and, consequently, the reader, over.

And there you have it. If you see anyone walking around and reading one of these books, then chances are, they’re a Ravenclaw. So when you see one of us out and about, be sure to stop and say hi! 😉


So what did you think of my list? What are some other books that you think a Ravenclaw would be reading? Do you disagree with any of the choices on this list? What House are you sorted into and what books would one of those members be reading?

Hype or Like Friday – December 2nd, 2016

Woohoo, it’s Hype or Like Friday again! This meme and Goodreads group were created by myself, Jill @ Rant and Rave Books, and Britt @ Geronimo Reads. To join our group and find out more information about what it’s all about, please go to our Goodreads page HERE.

The December BOTM is A Thousand Pieces of You (Firebird, #1) by Claudia Gray.

RULES:

  • Answer the weekly discussion topic.
  • Optional: Discuss your chosen hyped book of the week.
  • Optional: Talk about your progress on the BOTM.

TOPIC OF THE WEEK: Pleasant Surprise – What books did you read in 2016 that you weren’t expecting much from but ending up completely loving?


2016 Pleasant Surprises

  • The Heart of Betrayal (The Remnant Chronicles, #2) by Mary E. Pearson – I was really surprised that I enjoyed this book so much, as the first one, The Kiss of Deception, kicked off my insanely long reading and blog slump this summer. Luckily, the sequel was sooo much better! Full review can be found HERE.
  • Half Bad (Half Bad Trilogy, #1) by Sally Green – I wasn’t really sure if I was going to enjoy this series, so I decided to grab a copy from the library rather than buy it. It turned out to be so good! It was a very unique spin on the subject of witches, with a bit of dark twist that I thoroughly enjoyed. I didn’t write a review for the first book in the series, but you can read my reviews for book 2 HERE and book 3 HERE.
  • Don’t Tell, Don’t Tell, Don’t Tell by Liane Shaw – I adored this book. I’m so glad that I found and requested it from NetGalley because I would have never heard of it otherwise. READ THIS BOOK. Seriously, I want all of y’all to read it! If you’re looking for a book full of diversity – this one fits the bill. My full review can be read HERE.
  • My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, & Jodi Meadows – I was just looking for a little lighthearted read when I picked this book up. I’d heard that it was fun, but I was not expecting it to be soooo much fun. The story was kooky, silly, and just downright cute. If you’re looking for a little pick-me-up this holiday season, then Edward, Jane, and Dudley are just the ticket! Full review HERE.
  • Walk on Earth a Stranger (The Gold Seer Trilogy, #1) by Rae Carson – When I first grabbed this book from the library, I was just expecting it to be a nice little historical fiction (I kind of love them). But seriously, I ended up loving this book. It started off a tad slow but grew into a really fun read. And the sequel was even more exciting! Y’all just need to read it and love it with me. Review can be read HERE.
  • Not If I See You First by Eric Lindstrom – I don’t read a whole lot of contemporary, as I’m sure my followers have come to notice. But luckily, this book came in one of my Uppercase boxes and I’m so glad that it did. If you like a sarcastic, sometimes unlikeable protagonist with major snark – then you will love our blind (literally) leader, Parker. It’s also a really quick read if you’re looking for an easy book during a read-a-thon or challenge. Full review HERE.
  • Wolf by Wolf (Wolf by Wolf, #1) by Ryan Graudin – This is a more recent read, or actually buddy read, that completely took me by surprise. I didn’t really know much about this book beforehand but I actually had it pegged more as a fantasy type alternate history. Okay, I actually might have thought that Yael was a werewolf… Don’t judge! But needless to say, this book turned out to be something completely different and I found myself thoroughly enjoying it, and not the boring novel that I was expecting. My full review for it can be found HERE.
  • Ink and Bone (The Great Library, #1) by Rachel Caine – You know, I don’t know I was surprised that by how good this series is. I mean, it’s a book about books – how could I not love it? Well I don’t really have an answer for that. I just know that this book far exceeded my expectations, and maybe that’s because it’s not a very popular book. But it should be. Full review is HERE.
  • Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz – When Britt recommended this book, I thought it would be alright. But this book was such a beautiful book. I loved it and the characters were so lovely. Another contemporary to add to my growing list! I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed every bit of it. You can read my full review HERE.
  • Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, #1) by Sarah J. Maas – Alright, alright.. I really kind of expected this book to be wayyyy overhyped and nothing special. But I’ll be damned if I haven’t become super attached to this series and the characters that fill it. It’s become my guilty pleasure and I’ve loved every second of it. So yes, I have become Throne of Glass Trash and I ain’t ashamed! You can read my reviews of this series HEREHERE, and Queen of Shadows review should be up in the next few days.

All in all, I think it’s been a good year for surprisingly good reads.


What books were pleasant surprises for you this year? Did you read any of the ones on my list? What did you think of them? Leave a link to your Hype or Like Friday post in the comments below!

Hype or Like Friday – November 11th, 2016

Woohoo, it’s Hype or Like Friday again! This meme and Goodreads group were created by myself, Jill @ Rant and Rave Books, and Britt @ Geronimo Reads. To join our group and find out more information about what it’s all about, please go to our Goodreads page HERE.

The November BOTM is going to be Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake. All of the topics this month revolve around being thankful! Perfect for the upcoming holiday season, right?

RULES:

  • Answer the weekly discussion topic.
  • Optional: Discuss your chosen hyped book of the week.
  • Optional: Talk about your progress on the BOTM.

TOPIC OF THE WEEK: I’m Thankful Someone Recommended Me…


I’m Thankful Someone Recommended Me…

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Red Rising (Red Rising, #1) by Pierce Brown

Obviously this book gets mentioned a crap ton on my blog. But I love it so I don’t care… I’m thankful that my wonderful and awesome book-loving dad recommended this book to me. I guess I should say, more like he forced me to read this book! And I am soooooooo glad that he did. Thanks to him, this book/trilogy is now one of my all-time favorites. I’d even say it’s equal to Harry Potter… GASP!

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Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz

I’m thankful for one of my first blogging buddies, Britt @ Geronimo Reads, for recommending this book to me. She raved about it so much! I’m not a huge contemporary fan, but I decided to read this one because of how enthusiastic Britt was. And I’m so glad that I did! I really enjoyed the relationship between Dante and Ari. I also appreciated the fact that both family units were extremely close and supportive, which is something that I find lacking in a lot of YA novels. And yay for diversity!!!

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Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

I’m thankful to my ex for recommending this book to me. He’s not the biggest reader, so when he was going on about how much fun this book was – I knew I had to try it. It does help that we are both big gamers and understood a lot of the references made in the book!

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Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, #1) by Sarah J. Maas

This one is a little different, as it wasn’t so much as recommended as completely trashed by Liam @ Hey Ashers! in one of his hilariously sarcastic rants. I’m thankful to him for making me cry from laughter and giving me a reason to pick this book up to see for myself what all the fuss was about. I was so prepared to hate on it, really I was! But, while the first book was just alright, this series has turned into one of my guilty pleasures. There are tons of issues with them but I enjoy them so much, I don’t even care. 100% pure entertainment!


What are some books that you are thankful for being recommended to you? What are your thoughts on the books from my list? Leave a link to your Hype or Like Friday post in the comments!