Three Day Lyrical Challenge – Day Two

A big thank you to Jenna @ Bookmark Your Thoughts for tagging me to do such a fun tag!

The Rules

  1. Thank the person who nominated you.
  2. Share one of your favorite song/lyrics one at a time for three days.
  3. Nominate three other bloggers each day. (I always hate tagging specific people, so if you like this tag then please feel free to do it!)

Jesus Christ by Brand New

 

[Verse 1]
Jesus Christ, that’s a pretty face
The kind you’d find on someone that could save
If they don’t put me away
Well, it’ll be a miracle

Do you believe you’re missing out?
That everything good is happening somewhere else
With nobody in your bed
The night is hard to get through

[Chorus 1]
And I will die all alone
And when I arrive I won’t know anyone

[Verse 2]
Jesus Christ, I’m alone again
So what did you do those three days you were dead?
Because this problem is gonna last
More than the weekend

Jesus Christ, I’m not scared to die
But I’m a little bit scared of what comes after
Do I get the gold chariot
Do I float through the ceiling

[Chorus 2]
Or do I divide and pull apart
Cause my bright is too slight to hold back all my dark
This ship went down in sight of land
And at the gates does Thomas ask to see my hands?

[Bridge]
I know you’re coming in the night like a thief
But I’ve had some time, O Lord, to hone my lying technique
I know you think that I’m someone you can trust
But I’m scared I’ll get scared and I swear I’ll try to nail you back up
So do you think that we could work out a sign
So I’ll know it’s you and that it’s over so I won’t even try
I know you’re coming for the people like me
But we all got wood and nails
And we turn out hate in factories
We all got wood and nails
And we turn out hate in factories
We all got wood and nails
And we sleep inside of this machine


What kind of music do you like to listen to? Have you ever heard of Brand New’s music before? What are some of your favorite songs?

Three Day Lyrical Challenge – Day One

A big thank you to Jenna @ Bookmark Your Thoughts for tagging me to do such a fun tag! I never get to talk about all of the amazing music that I listen to with y’all, so this is perfect!

The Rules

  1. Thank the person who nominated you.
  2. Share one of your favorite song/lyrics one at a time for three days.
  3. Nominate three other bloggers each day. (I always hate tagging specific people, so if you like this tag then please feel free to do it!)

Flicker by Niall Horan

 

[Verse 1]
When you feel your love’s been taken
When you know there’s something missing
In the dark, we’re barely hangin’ on
Then you rest your head upon my chest
And you feel like there ain’t nothin’ left
I’m afraid that what we had is gone

[Chorus]
Then I think of the start
And it echoes a spark
And I remember the magic electricity
Then I look in my heart
There’s a light in the dark
Still a flicker of hope that you first gave to me
That I wanna keep
Please don’t leave
Please don’t leave

[Verse 2]
When you lay there and you’re sleepin’
Hear the patterns of your breathin’
And I tell you things you’ve never heard before
Asking questions to the ceilin’
Never knowing what you’re thinkin’
I’m afraid that what we had is gone

[Chorus]
Then I think of the start
And it echoes a spark
And I remember the magic electricity
Then I look in my heart
There’s a light in the dark
Still a flicker of hope that you first gave to me
That I wanna keep
Please don’t leave
Please don’t leave

[Bridge]
And I want this to pass
And I hope this won’t last
Last too long

[Chorus]
Then I think of the start
And it echoes a spark
And I remember the magic electricity
Then I look in my heart
There’s a light in the dark
Still a flicker of hope that you first gave to me
That I wanna keep
Please don’t leave
Please don’t leave

This song just gets me every single time. If you ever want me to get emotional, all you have to do is play this damn song. Also, totally saw him in concert last summer and it was probably one of the best experiences. It’s very chill and just has an intimate feeling to it, which is helped by how relaxing his music is. I highly recommend seeing him live if you ever get the chance!


What are some of your favorite lyrics? Have you seen Niall Horan in concert? What was the best concert experience that you’ve had?

The Wonder Woman Book Tag

As always, big thanks to the lovely and lively Lilly @ Lair of Books for tagging me in this. I absolutely loved this movie and am so excited to do this fun tag!


Wonder Woman: Your favorite badass female book character…

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Victra from the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown

If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, then you’re probably tired of hearing me talk about Victra. Well sorry, not sorry! Because I will never stop talking about the biggest badass that I’ve ever read about. I will go down swinging if you dare disrespect my favorite. Just kidding!…. (sort of.)

Fantasy Island: A book setting you want to escape to…

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The Zodiac from the Zodiac series by Romina Russell

Yes, I’m one of those people loves obsessing over what people’s astrological sign is and if they match its personality. I have no shame to admit that. Which is why I absolutely love the world that Russell has created with each sign having its own planets and people that reflect that sign’s attributes. As an Aquarian, I would have amethyst eyes. HOW COOL IS THAT?!

London: A hyped book that let you down…

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Forest of a Thousand Lanterns (Rise of the Empress, #1) by Julie C. Dao

Antiheroes are awesome. However, they need to have nuances with them to help us sympathize and form a connection with them. Well, Xifeng is completely lacking in any qualities that made me want to root for her. In fact, I just wanted for someone to kick her ass! She treated everyone awful and the only reason she thought she was supposed to be queen was because her aunt said so and because she’s pretty. Yeah, hard pass.

Steve Trevor: A book that has a beautiful cover and a great story (i.e. good personality)…

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The City of Brass (The Daevabad Trilogy, #1) by S.A. Chakraborty

My favorite book of 2018 is an absolute gem! I finished this book and immediately wanted to reread it, which never happens! I don’t know how I’m going to survive waiting until the sequel is released. Seriously, if you haven’t picked this book yet then you’re really missing out. IT. IS. AMAZING.

Lasso of Truth: A book you hated…

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The Midnight Star (The Young Elites, #3) by Marie Lu

I was completely in love with this series and dying to see how it would all end with this finale book. And well… all we got was a load of crap. This is without a doubt the worst series finale that I’ve ever read. I truly believe that Lu was just writing some nonsense to finish off this series so she could focus on her other books. Most of the characters lost all of their depth and personality traits and the climax was so rushed, it just felt completely jumbled and lacked any sort of importance. I’ve never finished a book so pissed off before. The only good part was the epilogue which was beautiful but only like 4 pages long.

Wonder Woman’s Shield: A book so sad that you need a shield…

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We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

This book gets some hate from some people, but it literally killed me. I was not prepared for what happened and ugly cried for a good hour. You’ve been warned!

Ares: a villain that is scary, but you can’t seem to hate them…

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Katherine from the Three Dark Crowns series by Kendare Blake

I know you’re supposed to hate her because she’s a Poisoner, but I can’t seem to do it. I’m just too intrigued by her to hate her. She’s really just a fascinating character and I love the growth her character has done.

The Amazons: A book that you wish had more/better LGBT+ representation…

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Falling Kingdoms series by Morgan Rhodes

I’ve only just finished the second book in this series so maybe we get some LGBT+ representation in the later books. Because in my head cannon, Lucia is bi and that’s all there is to it. I need her to have a relationship with another girl like immediately! I’m also rooting for Nic to fall for a guy. I can totally picture him falling for someone in the army.


Do you agree with my choices? What would you pick for the different questions? I’m tagging anyone who wants to do it, so be sure to link back to this post so I can see all of your wonderful posts!

2017 End of the Year Reading Survey

It’s probably a little late in January to be going back to discuss 2017 reads, but I don’t care. I’m doing it anyway! I first saw this survey done by Caitrona @ LittleBookOwl and really enjoyed the different questions so I thought I’d take a shot at it.

Original survey was created by Jamie @ The Perpetual Page Turner.


2017 Reading Stats

  • Total Books Read: 89
  • Number of Re-Reads: 2
  • Genre You Read the Most From: Fantasy (always!)

Best In Books

Best Book You Read In 2017?

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The Dark Days Pact (Lady Helen, #2) by Alison Goodman

I wish I could describe to everyone just how obsessed I’ve become with this series, but there are no words. Seriously, I love everything about it – the mystery, the Regency setting, the slow burn romance, ALL OF IT.

Honorable Mentions: Our Dark Duet (Monsters of Verity, #2), The Serpent King, and Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles, #3)

Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?

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Forest of a Thousand Lanterns (Rise of the Empress, #1) by Julie C. Dao

Yeah, if you read my review of this book then you’ll know how much of an intense hatred I hold for the main protagonist. Seriously, she’s awful. However, the author has confirmed that the sequel will follow a different character so I can get behind that.

Honorable Mentions: Glass Sword (Red Queen, #2), Windwitch (Witchlands, #2), and Bone Gap

Most surprising (in a good way or bad way) book you read?

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Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

What surprised me most about this book was that I didn’t enjoy it as much everyone else seemed to. This is such a beloved book but I found it to only be mediocre. Maybe my expectations were too high? Also, Leah is a terrible person. That’s right, I said it! Why does everyone like her so much?!

 

Book You “Pushed” The Most People To Read (And They Did)?

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A Million Junes by Emily Henry

I literally recommend this book to everyone. Now I know a few of my friends have bought it but I don’t they’e read it yet. BUT THEY WILL!

 

 

Best series you started in 2017? Best Sequel of 2017? Best Series Ender of 2017?

Best Series Started – The Dark Days Club (Lady Helen, #1) by Alison Goodman

Best Sequel – The Mime Order (The Bone Season, #2) by Samantha Shannon

Best Series Ender – Our Dark Duet (Monsters of Verity, #2) by Victoria Schwab

Favorite new author you discovered in 2017?

Theodora Goss, Alison Goodman, Jeff Zentner

Best book from a genre you don’t typically read/was out of your comfort zone?

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The Cutting Season by Attica Locke

I’m not one for mystery/thrillers, but I really did enjoy this book. I thought it was very well done and unique in the story it was trying to tell. I especially loved the truly atmospheric setting that Locke created.

 

 

Most action-packed/thrilling/unputdownable book of the year?

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Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles, #2) by Marissa Meyer

Yup, everyone was right – this series is just so awesome. I’ve already got Cress on next month’s TBR, because I have to know what’s going to happen next with this wonderful cast of characters. Also, the snark is on point with this series, A+. I fully expect that to continue too!

 

Book You Read In 2017 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?

I’m not really one for rereading books unless it’s for a refresher before a sequel gets released. But you never know!

Favorite cover of a book you read in 2017?

 

Most memorable character of 2017?

Abel from Defy the Stars (Constellation, #1)… He’s just so hilarious because since he’s an A.I., he has literally no social skills whatsover. I mean, who else would say outrageous things such as this?

“We’ll have to devise another means of income.”
“How?”
“At this point, our swiftest and more reliable means of making money is prostitution.”
“You–you didn’t just say– you think I should become a prostitute?”
“Of course not. You’re my commander. I serve you. Therefore, I would be the more logical choice to take on sex work.”

“Abel, I can’t let you.. sell your body.”
“The transaction is closer to a rental.”

Most beautifully written book read in 2017?

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A Million Junes by Emily Henry

I’m sorry but this is the only valid answer for this question.

 

 

 

Most Thought-Provoking/ Life-Changing Book of 2017?

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American Fire: Love, Arson, and Life in a Vanishing Land by Monica Hesse

I don’t read as much nonfiction as I used to, but this one was a really great read. I thought Hesse did a great job showcasing how a dying community reacts to a series of arson attacks, mixing socio-economic history with a true crime investigation.

 

Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2017 to finally read?

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This Savage Song (Monsters of Verity, #1) by Victoria Schwab

I actually thought this was going to be a boring book and so I put it off for over a year. Hahahahaha… I am such an idiot. How could I have ever thought that?

 

 

Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2017?

“For what matters in life is not whether we receive a round of applause; what matters is whether we have the courage to venture forth despite the uncertainty of acclaim.”

– Amor Towles, A Gentleman in Moscow

Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2017?

Shortest: The Wicked & The Divine, Vol 1: The Faust Act – 144 pages

Longest: A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3) by Sarah J. Maas – 699 pages

Book That Shocked You The Most

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Our Dark Duet (Monsters of Verity, #2) by Victoria Schwab

YOU KNOW WHY!!!!!!

 

 

 

OTP OF THE YEAR (you will go down with this ship!)

Lord Carlston and Lady Helen from The Dark Days Club (Lady Helen, #1) by Alison Goodman… So much angst and I’m totally here for it. You can cut the sexual tension with a knife!

Favorite Non-Romantic Relationship Of The Year

Arsinoe and Jules’ friendship in One Dark Throne (Three Dark Crowns, #2) by Kendare Blake… These two are just the absolute greatest. I love that we’re finally starting to get more YA novels with great female friendships. Yay, sisterhood!

Favorite Book You Read in 2017 From An Author You’ve Read Previously

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Lost Stars (Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens) by Claudia Gray

I’m just obsessed with Claudia Gray and wanted to showcase a different novel of hers other than Defy the Stars. Seriously, she writes such awesome science fiction and is definitely an auto-buy author for me.

 

Best Book You Read In 2017 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else/Peer Pressure

Ummmm…. I don’t really think I read any books last year based on peer pressure. I get recommended lots of books that I’m usually already interested in.

Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2017?

Because I can’t pick just one…. Lord Carlston from The Dark Days Club, Abel from Defy the Stars, and Matthias from Six of Crows

Best 2017 debut you read?

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The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner

This book broke me. There was a lot of ugly crying going on while I was reading this one but I don’t regret any of it at all. Zentner did such an amazing job.

 

 

Best Worldbuilding/Most Vivid Setting You Read This Year?

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The Bone Season (The Bone Season, #1) by Samantha Shannon

This series is just so, so, so good. Shannon has created this new dystopian/fantasy setting of London. I’m obsessed with this world and this story.

 

 

Book That Put A Smile On Your Face/Was The Most FUN To Read?

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Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles, #1) by Marissa Meyer

This is such a well-known and beloved series already, that I’m sure you all know and agree with how fun it is. It’s a nonstop thrill ride from start to finish.

 

 

Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2017?

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A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3) by Sarah J. Maas

Yes, I did cry… A lot. I’m not ashamed to admit that I did either. Books make cry all of the time, alright?!

 

 

Hidden Gem Of The Year?

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Revenge and the Wild by Michelle Modesto

This book was just so much fun to read. It’s a mash up of western/fantasy/steampunk/historical fiction, and just so underrated. I wish more people would pick it up!

 

 

Book That Crushed Your Soul?

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Crooked Kingdom (Six of Crows, #2) by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo, I will NEVER forgive you for that!!!

 

 

 

Most Unique Book You Read In 2017?

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The Architect of Song (Haunted Hearts Legacy, #1) by A.G. Howard

I loved Howard’s Splintered Trilogy, so I should’ve known she would be able to create such a unique setting but I was still blown away by this story. I don’t even know why I haven’t read its sequel yet! It was so good!

 

Book That Made You The Most Mad (doesn’t necessarily mean you didn’t like it)?

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One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus

Teenagers can be such little idiots sometimes.

 

 

 


What book crushed your soul in 2017? Was a hidden gem for you? Most unique? Do you agree or disagree with any of my choices?

 

 

The Fall Book Tag

Fall is one of, if not, my favorite time of the year! I’m also quite partial to winter because it’s when Christmas and my birthday is… though I promise it’s not all about presents, haha! Really, I just love cold weather. Give me sweaters and leggings all day, every day!

Anyways, big shout out to one of my faves, Lilly @ Lair of Books for tagging me to do this! If you haven’t followed her yet, I highly suggest you hurry your little butt over there to do so because she’s got such an amazing blog (not to mention, she’s such a sweetheart!).

The Rules:

  • Please link back to Bionic Book Worm, as the creator of this tag!! She wants to see your answers!!
  • Use the graphics – if you want 🙂
  • Have fun!

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A Million Junes by Emily Henry

I will never stop recommending this book. Emily Henry can write the most beautiful stories that will both lift you up and break your heart. If you haven’t picked up either of her novels, I highly suggest you do. No one can write magical realism like this woman can!

 

 

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Our Dark Duet (Monsters of Verity, #2) by Victoria Schwab

All I have to say is READ THIS SERIES. If you haven’t already, prepare for the perfect ending to such a dark and amazing journey. I literally died when I finished this one.

 

 

 

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Love, Lies and Spies by Cindy Anstey

This book is just so stinking cute. I can promise that it will make you smile while reading it. I mean, who can resist a sassy heroine falling in love with a sassy hero? I surely can’t!

 

 

 

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Vengeance Road by Erin Bowman

This book is just so freaking awesome. Kate is one of the most badass heroines that you’ll ever come across and I want to be her best friend. Seriously, one of my top 5 reads of 2016. The companion novel comes out really soon too!

 

 

 

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Armada by Ernest Cline

I think it’s pretty easy to see where science fiction novels tend to be pretty action packed, and Armada is the perfect example of that. The book starts off with a bang and doesn’t stop once. You’ll never have to worry about getting bored with this one!

 

 

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Into the Bright Unknown (Gold Seer Trilogy, #3) by Rae Carson

Y’all, I cannot wait to get my greedy little hands on this beauty. This trilogy has been such an underrated gem. I just don’t understand how it’s been able to fly under the radar for so long. I just know this finale is going to kill me and I’m not even ready for it.

 

 


Tag, You’re It!

Lauren @ Wonderless Reviews

Yvo @ It’s All About Books

Stephanie @ Adventures of a Bibliophile

I tag anyone else who wants to do this fun tag! And if you’ve already been tagged, please ignore!

Happy fall, y’all!


What are some books that make you think of fall? Have you done The Fall Book Tag? If so, please leave a link in the comments below!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Try A Chapter: Round #2

I first did this back in February when I wasn’t really sure what book I wanted to read next. After finishing up Crooked Kingdom the other night, I was having the same mini-crisis as I stared at my TBR bookshelf and wanted to read ALL THE BOOKS! Everything sounded so good that I just didn’t know how to pick only one. Luckily, I remembered this awesome tag created by BookParadise on Youtube. Praise the book gods!

RULES:

  • Pick 5 (or more) books from your tbr
  • Read the first chapter of all of them (including the prologue if there is one)
  • Tell your readers if you’re sold on the book and what you thought of the first chapter.
  • Are you going to finish the book this month?

I picked 5 fairly different books this time around, just like I did before. I actually let one of my guy friends choose from like 25 different books based on their spines and this is the list he came up with, haha!

My Choices:

  1. Fuse (Pure, #2) by Julianna Baggott
  2. Age of Myth (The Legends of the First Empire, #1) by Michael J. Sullivan
  3. Artemis Awakening (Artemis Awakening, #1) by Jane Lindskold
  4. The Wonder by Emma Donoghue
  5. The Clockwork Dynasty by Daniel H. Wilson

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To be a Pure is to be perfect, untouched by Detonations that scarred the earth and sheltered inside the paradise that is the Dome. But Partridge escaped to the outside world, where Wretches struggle to survive amid smoke and ash. Now, at the command of Partridge’s father, the Dome is unleashing nightmare after nightmare upon the Wretches in an effort to get him back.

At Partridge’s side is a small band of those united against the Dome: Lyda, the warrior; Bradwell, the revolutionary; El Capitan, the guard; and Pressia, the young woman whose mysterious past ties her to Partridge in way she never could have imagined. Long ago a plan was hatched that could mean the earth’s ultimate doom. Now only Partridge and Pressia can set things right.

To save millions of innocent lives, Partridge must risk his own by returning to the Dome and facing his most terrifying challenge. And Pressia, armed only with a mysterious Black Box, containing a set of cryptic clues, must travel to the very ends of the earth, to a place where no map can guide her. If they succeed, the world will be saved. But should they fail, humankind will pay a terrible price…

Option #1: This one included a small prologue where we are introduced to a new character, who kind of creeped me out a bit, not gonna lie. However, this series in general is just a tad creepy anyways. But the opening chapter was very engrossing jumping right into the story a few months after the end of the previous book. It was Pressia’s POV chapter and I loved how it ended on a cliffhanger with her. I’m really intrigued to see what happens next with her.

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Since time immemorial, humans have worshipped the gods they call Fhrey, truly a race apart: invincible in battle, masters of magic, and seemingly immortal. But when a god falls to a human blade, the balance of power between humans and those they thought were gods changes forever.

Now only a few stand between humankind and annihilation: Raithe, reluctant to embrace his destiny as the God Killer; Suri, a young seer burdened by signs of impending doom; and Persephone, who must overcome personal tragedy to lead her people. The Age of Myth is over. The time of rebellion has begun.

Option #2: This one started off immediately, with the catalyst to the main conflict happening within the first 10 pages. I really enjoyed Raithe as a main character, even in just the short amount of time. He was funny and his sarcastic interactions with another character, Malcolm, had me laughing aloud. I definitely could tell by the writing that this is going to be a true epic fantasy tale.

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Artemis is a pleasure planet created by a technologically advanced human empire that provided its richest citizens with a veritable Eden to play in. All tech was concealed and the animals (and the humans brought to live there) were bioengineered to help the guests enjoy their stay…

But the Empire was shattered in a horrific war; centuries later humanity has lost much of the advanced technology, and Artemis is a fable told to children. Until young archeologist Griffin Dane finds intriguing hints that send him on a quest to find the lost world.

After crashing his ship, he encounters Adara the Huntress and her psych-linked companion, the puma Sand Shadow. Their journey with her will lead Dane to discover the planet’s secrets…and perhaps provide a key to give unimagined power back to mankind.

Option #3: I think the premise for this story sounds so interesting. It’s part science fiction, part action-adventure and has me really intrigued. I actually wanted to be an archaeologist when I was in high school, so I was able to easily connect with Griffin. I appreciated that this story immediately starts off with action. It’s so much easier to become engaged with the plot and story immediately when that happens. I also liked how the writing was easy to follow along with, whereas some science fiction novels can leave you scratching your head with so much terminology.

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In the latest masterpiece by Emma Donoghue, bestselling author of Room, an English nurse brought to a small Irish village to observe what appears to be a miracle-a girl said to have survived without food for months-soon finds herself fighting to save the child’s life.

Tourists flock to the cabin of eleven-year-old Anna O’Donnell, who believes herself to be living off manna from heaven, and a journalist is sent to cover the sensation. Lib Wright, a veteran of Florence Nightingale’s Crimean campaign, is hired to keep watch over the girl.

Written with all the propulsive tension that made Room a huge bestseller, THE WONDER works beautifully on many levels–a tale of two strangers who transform each other’s lives, a powerful psychological thriller, and a story of love pitted against evil.

Option #4: I was a little unsure how I was going to feel about this one. I don’t typically pick up mystery/thrillers very often, but I have to say that this one surprised me a bit. I was immediately intrigued by what was going to happen next. I couldn’t wait to flip the page to learn more about the situation that Lib found herself in. I also really liked the writing style, it flowed very well but was also straightforward. I also like how I didn’t really care for Lib. She’s a bit full of herself and quite judgmental towards the Irish, which I thought was a good choice that reflected the feelings of that era.

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Present day: When a young anthropologist specializing in ancient technology uncovers a terrible secret concealed in the workings of a three-hundred-year-old mechanical doll, she is thrown into a hidden world that lurks just under the surface of our own. With her career and her life at stake, June Stefanov will ally with a remarkable traveler who exposes her to a reality she never imagined, as they embark on an around-the-world adventure and discover breathtaking secrets of the past…

Russia, 1725: In the depths of the Kremlin, the tsar’s loyal mechanician brings to life two astonishingly humanlike mechanical beings. Peter and Elena are a brother and sister fallen out of time, possessed with uncanny power, and destined to serve great empires. Struggling to blend into pre-Victorian society, they are pulled into a legendary war that has raged for centuries.

The Clockwork Dynasty interweaves past and present, exploring a race of beings designed to live by ironclad principles, yet constantly searching for meaning. As June plunges deeper into their world, her choices will ultimately determine their survival or extermination.

Option #5: Out of all of my choices, this one was originally calling to me the most. It had a little bit of everything – steampunk, action, history, etc. And why is it that I feel like steampunk has a fall feel to it? Am I the only one who thinks that? Either way, I thought this one started off pretty good. Nothing really exciting happened, though I thought the prologue was very well done. I am very interested in seeing where the story will go from here though!

And The Winner Is…

Artemis Awakening (Artemis Awakening, #1)

I think I’m really in the mood for science fiction right now. It’s one of my favorite genres and lately has just really been speaking to me. I also was really intrigued by the premise of this story, as well. It looks like it might almost venture into some sort of Indiana Jones-style adventure story and that excites me. It’s also less than 300 pages long which means it should be really quick to get through, which might leave me enough time to pick up another book before October! (I’m looking at you, The Wonder!)


Do you ever have trouble deciding on just one book to pick up? How do you determine what book you’ll read next? Have you read any of the books on my list? If so, what did you think about them?

The Playlist Shuffle Tag

I haven’t done a tag in quite a while, so I thought today would be a good day for The Playlist Shuffle Tag. I decided to use my Soundtracks playlist on Spotify for this one because it’s what I listen to while I’m reading. Here’s some new tunes that y’all can listen to as you try and drown out all of those loud family members while you’re trying to read this holiday weekend! “TRY” being the key word, haha!

Thank you to Britt @ Geronimo Reads and Cindy @ The Book File for tagging me!

Rules:

  • List the first 10 songs that come on shuffle (no skipsies)
  • Then write your favourite lyric (or verse) from that song
  • Tag others

 1. “Be Our Guest” – Beauty and the Beast: Cast

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2. “Riff Off: Mickey/Like A Virgin/Hit Me With Your best Shot/S&M/Let’s Talk About Sex/etc.” – Pitch Perfect: Cast

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3. “Flying” – Peter Pan: James Newton Howard

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4. “End Credits” – Pride & Prejudice: Dario Marianelli, Jean-Yves Thibaudet

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5. “Light of the Seven” – Game of Thrones: Ramin Djawadi

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5. “Hakuna Matata” – The Lion King: Cast

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6. “Main Title” – Game of Thrones: Ramin Djawadi

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7. “Edelweiss” – The Sound of Music: Bill Lee, Charmain Carr

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8. “Think of Me” – Phantom of the Opera: Andrew Lloyd Webber

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9. “What’s This?” – The Nightmare Before Christmas: Danny Elfman

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10. “The Hologram/Binary Sunset” – Star Wars A New Hope: John Williams

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE!

TAGGED:

If you’ve already done this tag or don’t want to, don’t worry about it! Or if you would like to, then I tag you as well!


What do you like to listen to while you’re reading? 

The Book Courtship Tag

I was tagged all the way back in April by Hopeless Book Addict (thank you!) and I am finally getting to it! If you’ve tagged me in the past few months, I promise I’ll get to it soon. I will be playing catch up from now until Christmas!

Anyway’s, let’s get to it!


Phase 1: Initial Attraction. A book that you bought because of the cover?

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A Passage to Shambhala (The Explorer’s Guild, #1) by Jon Baird and Kevin Costner

This photo doesn’t do justice to the actual cover. It was just so shiny and intriguing when I first saw it at the bookstore that I had to pick it up. If it reminds you of old Victorian classics, then good, it should! This is such a uniquely written story, as it is written in 19th century language and all speaking parts are in graphic novel format! And yes, it is written by THAT Kevin Costner.

Phase 2: First Impressions. A book that you got because of the summary?

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A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1) by Sarah J. Maas

This was the first book I’d ever read by Maas and the only reason that I picked it up was because it was a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. But oh damn, did this book completely become something else entirely! Now I’m completely obsessed and have since moved on to Maas’ first series, Throne of Glass. Also, Rhysand is life and let it be known that I thought  so even in the first book!

Phase 3: Sweet Talk. A book with great writing?

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Shatter Me (Shatter Me, #1) by Tahereh Mafi

Mafi tends to get really polarizing views when it comes to her writing. But for me, personally, I think it’s amazing and beautiful. And this trilogy is just all kinds of awesome really. Now that I have Furthermore on my bookshelf, I’m really excited to dive back into Mafi’s whimsical styled writing!

Phase 4: First Date. A first book of a series which made you want to pick up the rest of the series?

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

If you’ve been following my blog for a while, then you’ll know just how much I am obsessed with this series. It very much might be sharing the number 1 spot in my heart with Harry Potter – yes, yes you did read that right. I cannot say enough great things about this book. And if the first book doesn’t completely hook you (which I don’t know how that’s even possible), then just continue to Golden Son and watch your mind be blown. Simply amazing.

Phase 5: Late Night Phone Calls. A book that kept you up all night?

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The Rose Society (The Young Elites, #2) by Marie Lu

This series is just really great all-around, but the second book left me reeling. I couldn’t put it down and I had to know what was going to happen next. This series took a turn in this book that I just wasn’t expecting. Then that ending!!!!! I have barely been able to contain my excitement for The Midnight Star to be released, but I was finally able to snag the last copy of it yesterday at the bookstore. Now it is just staring at me from my bookshelf as I try to hurry up and finish Heir of Fire.

Phase 6: Always on my mind. A book you could not stop thinking about?

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The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

You could make the case that almost every WWII book will stick with you, but none has affected me more than this one. Everything about this story is just absolutely beautiful and that ending completely wrecked me. I still tear up when I think about it. All of the feels!

Phase 7: Getting Physical. A book which you love the way it feels?

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The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

My copy is one of those floppy paperbacks and I just love those kind of paperbacks. Me and Regan at Peruse Project share a love for them. They’re just comfortable to hold and easy on your hands. Because if you’re like me, then you know all about how holding books open can lead to hand cramps haha!

Phase 8: Meeting the parents. A book which you would recommend to your family and friends?

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Outlander (Outlander, #1) by Diana Gabaldon

Now, this one was a little hard to think of. You have to take into account the other person’s age/gender/tastes before you just go around recommending books to them. I’m obviously not going to recommend my brother, who reads pretty much only science fiction, Pride and Prejudice. However, if I was meeting a guy’s mother for the first time and she was asking for a book, I’d almost definitely recommend Outlander. I mean, what woman in her right mind wouldn’t fall in love with James Alexander Malcolm McKenzie Fraser?

Phase 9: Thinking about the future. A book or series you know you will re read many times in the future?

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Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

Yeah, that’s right, I did go with the cliché answer and I don’t regret it one bit.

Phase 10: Share the love. Who do you tag?

If you’ve already done this tag or just don’t want to, then please don’t feel like you need to! Also, if anyone else wants to do this tag then I tag you as well! 🙂


What do you think of my list? See any books that you agree with? What books would you choose for these questions?

The Intimidating TBR Book Tag

So I came across this tag on Riley Marie’s Booktube and thought that looks like a lot of fun to do, especially if you’re like me and have an insanely huge TBR pile with plenty of options to choose from. Which, if you’re a bookworm, then you totally have this same problem. I’m only using books that I actually already own but just haven’t read yet for this one but you can do it however you like.

Let’s get to it!


A Book You Were Unable to Finish

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My boyfriend gave me his copy that includes all 4 parts, or books, in this series. I made it through the first two before I had to just stop. I don’t find Adams funny. I felt like he was trying way too hard to be silly and outrageous, which is something I’d normally be entertained by. But with this one, I just wasn’t. I hope to finish the series in the future and see if my opinion of it will change with time. I’m not holding my breath.

A Book You’ve Yet to Read Because You Just Haven’t Had the Time

I might be cheating here since this is actually a series. I own the first 3 but I haven’t really had the time to just jump into a long commitment. Instead, I spend all of my time reading other novels because that’s the crazy type of person that I am. But I’llpersevere and get to these beauties soon I’m sure.

A Book That You Haven’t Read Yet Because It’s a Sequel

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I plan on reading this soon but I keep putting it off because I have a little bit of a bitter taste in my mouth from Lila. She got better at the end but not enough to move this one to the top of the pile. Now if Kell were the only MC then I’d have no problem reading it.

A Book You Haven’t Read Yet Because It’s Brand New

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Yeah, this one got pushed off since it’s the start of a series and was just released recently.

A Book You Haven’t Read Yet Because of Another Book by the Author

I don’t actually have one for this but I guess you could count A Gathering of Shadows by V.E. Schwab for this too.

A Book You Haven’t Read Yet Because You Just Haven’t Been in the Mood

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I’m gonna have to psych myself up for this one. I just haven’t been in the mood to pick up this dense novel by George Eliot and I even bought it back in August.

A Book You Haven’t Read Yet Because It’s Just Humungous

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I’ve loved this series so far but I just don’t really want to tackle this one. It’s so dense and I  am just not in the mindset to deal with that damn annoying Brianna for 800 pages. Seriously, I just want to get back to the focus on Jamie and Claire, not their daughter who I want to punch in the face the whole time. I know that sounds mean but she’s an awful character!

A Book I Haven’t Read Yet Because It Was a Cover Buy and Then You Heard Bad Reviews About It

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Luckily, this one is our BOTM for Hype or Like so I’ll actually end up reading it. I know some people like it but I’ve just seen an overwhelming number say it’s extremely boring. Kill me now.

The Most Intimidating Book on You TBR

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I’m not actually intimidate by this book, it just happens to be the biggest TBR book that I currently own. Once I buy the Mistborn trilogy then that’ll probably change. But yeah, this is a massive novel. I mean the book itself is just so hefty!


I tag whoever wants to do this!


Do you see any books on my list that you think I need to read next? Are any of these on your TBR? What are your opinions on them if you’ve read any?

100 Questions No One Ever Asks

The supremely lovely and awesome Jill @ Rant and Rave About Books tagged me to do this a while back. I was a bit hesitant to do it because I was worried none of y’all would really care to take the time to read all of my answers. But what the hell! Might as well do it for the fun of it, especially since I’ve had quite a few new subscribers over the last week or so.

I’m a pretty open and honest person, so if you ever have a question, book-related or otherwise, feel free to ask me!


100 Uncensored/Unfiltered Questions About Larkin

Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed? Closed. I have to have all doors shut with zero noise and light to fall asleep.

Do you take the shampoo or conditioner bottles from hotels? Nope, I always bring my own. I’m fancy that way.

Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out? Tucked in for the most part.

Have you ever stolen a street sign before? HAHA! No, I was one of those goody-two-shoes growing up and never did anything to get in trouble. Seriously. I think the most I did in high school was sneak out a few times.

Do you like to use post-it notes? I don’t really ever need them but they’re useful at work.

Do you cut out coupons but never use them? Not at all. My family aren’t the couponing type. The only things I ever save are my discount coupons I get emailed for bookstores.

Would you rather be attacked by a bear or bees? Bees, though those suckers can be pretty freaking aggressive.

Do you have freckles? Yup, I tend to get a light sprinkling of them on my shoulders from growing up playing softball every summer.

Do you always smile for pictures? Yeah. I’m currently trying to perfect the closed smile that some celebrities do but it’s not working for me.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Terrible drivers. Bitch, you need to turn your blinker on before you actually turn! Also, if you’re not driving 10mph about the speed limit but chugging along in the left-hand lane, get your butt outta my way. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

Do you ever count your steps when you walk? Haha, no.

Have you ever peed in the woods? I live in East Texas. Hell yes, I’ve had to pee in the woods before.

What about pooped in the woods? Now you’re just taking it too far. I’m not uncivilized.

Do you ever dance when there is no music playing? Oh yes. I’ve been a dancer all of my life so I tend to get the mood whether there’s music playing or not.

Do you chew your pens and pencils? Negative.

How many people have you slept with this week? Zero. You sly dog, you.

What size is your bed? Queen size. I’ve got to have lots of room to spread out.

What is your song of the week? When We Were Young by Adele

Is it okay for guys to wear pink? Definitely. Southern Tide and all that! I always enjoy a good Southern prep.

Do you still watch cartoons? I’ll occasionally turn on Spongebob, sure.

What’s your least favorite movie? Where should I begin is the real question.. But one that I absolutely hate would have to be Derailed with Jennifer Aniston and Clive Owen. Have you ever seen it? Extremely awful.

Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had any? Uh, there is no burying it. There is only spending and investing it. It’d be a waste to hide it away.

What do you drink with dinner? Water or sweet tea.

What do you dip a chicken nugget in? Honey mustard or sweet and sour.

What is your favorite food? Tex-Mex or sushi.

What movies could you watch over and over again and still love? Clueless, Pride and Prejudice, any Will Ferrell movie, Zoolander, Austin Powers, Zero Dark Thirty, The Holiday, Love Actually, Leap Year, PS I Love You, A Philadelphia Story, Gone with the Wind, Emma, Vanity Fair, A Knight’s Tale, any Disney movie (minus Mulan & Pocahontas, sorry but they’re boring!), Sweet Home Alabama, Steel Magnolias, Harry Potter, Guardians of the Galaxy, Rush.. Alright, I’ll stop there.

Last person you kissed/kissed you? Cheek – my mom. Lips – my boyfriend.

Were you ever a boy/girl scout? Negatory, ghost rider.

Would you ever strip or pose naked in a magazine? Hell no. Dazzle them with your wit, not your chest. 😉

When was the last time you wrote a letter on paper? Uhhhhhhhhh, no idea.

Can you change the oil on a car? Nope. I can hire someone else to do that.

Ever got a speeding ticket? Yeah, three.

Ever ran out of gas? Nope!

Favorite kind of sandwich? Turkey on whole wheat with kosher pickles and spicy brown mustard.

Best thing to eat for breakfast? I’m not a breakfast person but if I had to choose, I’ll take some french toast, please.

What is your usual bedtime? I’m a night owl so I usually average around midnight or 1am.

Are you lazy? Well if I have to choose between running errands or staying home and reading a book, then by gosh, I’m going to stay home and read a book. So yeah, a little lazy.

When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween? I’ve been a witch, Jasmin from Aladdin, a 50’s diner girl, etc.

What is your Chinese astrological sign? Horse. So majestic.

How many languages can you speak? Fluently – English. Intermediate/Upper Inter – Spanish. Very Beginner – Czech.

Do you have any magazine subscriptions? No, I usually just grab my Cosmo at the store.

Which are better, LEGOs or Lincoln logs? LEGOs, definitely.

Are you stubborn? Hahahahaha, hell yes.

Which is better Leno or Letterman? Neither. Don’t watch them.

Ever watch soap operas? Nope.

Are you afraid of heights? I used to not be but I’m getting that way a bit more as I get older. Rollercoasters, airplanes, and stuff like that don’t bother me though.

Do you sing in the car? Yep, I transform into Taylor Swift every time.

Do you sing in the shower? No, not really.

Do you ever dance in the car? Yes, full concert experience.

Ever used a gun? Hell yeah. I’m a heck of a shot too. I can even shoot ambidextrous with my pistol. Blame it on my roots, alright.

Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer? I think it was for family portraits before I moved to Prague.

Do you think musicals are cheesy? Not at all.

Is Christmas stressful? NO! It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

Ever eat a Pierogi? Don’t think so.

Favorite type of fruit pie? Apple, all the way.

Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid? The President, archeologist, and an ambassador.

Do you believe in ghosts? Yeah, I’d like to think so. I like a bit of mystery.

Ever had a deja-vu feeling? Most definitely.

Take a vitamin daily? No, but I used to.

Wear slippers? Yeah, I’ve got little house moccasins.

Wear a bath robe? No, I just have a wrap.

What do you wear to bed? Nothing. I get hot wayyyyy too easily to wear anything. Plus, shirts and pants just get all bunched up and become so uncomfortable.

First concert? N*SYNC.

Wal-Mart, Target or K-Mart? Is this even a question? TARGET. Not even close. That place is my sanctuary. When I lived in Prague, that was what all of us expats agreed that we missed most about America.

Nike or Adidas? I guess Nike but I prefer Asics.

Cheetos or Fritos? Cheetos.

Peanuts or Sunflower seeds? Neither.

Ever heard of the group Tres Bien? What’s that?

Ever take dance lessons? Yeah, for sure. I was on the high school dance team for goodness sake.

Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing? Not really. As long as he has a successful job and doesn’t mooch off of me, then I’m fine.

Can you curl your tongue? Nope.

Ever won a spelling bee? I think so, just in my class. I got too nervous to speak in front of everyone at the big one for the entire grade.

Have you ever cried because you were so happy? Yes. I have a heart!

Own any record albums? No, I’m a Spotify subscriber.

Own a record player? No. I’m not hip enough for all that.

Regularly burn incense? No, but my boyfriend does. My vice is scented candles. The obsession is real, guys.

Who would you like to see in concert? Guns N’ Roses, Muse, Kings of Leon, Adele, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and One Direction. Yeah, I said it! I’m a 25 year old One Direction fan!

Hot tea or cold tea? I have an intense love for both. Hot tea while I’m reading or relaxing and sweet tea with my meals. I am southern belle after all!

Tea or coffee? Tea. Coffee is really not my thing but I love the smell of it.

Sugar cookies or snickerdoodles? Meh, neither would be my first choice.

Can you swim well? Yeah, I’m a pretty damn good swimmer. Helps to have a pool in the backyard.

Can you hold your breath without holding your nose? Yes, I can.

Are you patient? No way!

DJ or band at a wedding? DJ, because you can request what you want.

Ever won a contest? Yeah, I have! I actually just recently won a giveaway on Instagram.

Ever had plastic surgery? Nope and I never will. I’m too scared of pain to do anything.

Which are better, black or green olives? Gross, neither.

Can you knit or crochet? Nope.

Best place for a fireplace? In a library. So cozy.

Do you want to get married? Sure, maybe someday. Not anytime soon that’s for sure.

If married, how long have you been married? Not applicable.

Who was your HS crush? Oh man, probably Conor. He was two years older than me and was my first high school boyfriend and we were on and off all through school. Still friends to this day.

Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way? Haha, no. That’s not really my first reaction.

Do you have kids? Hell no.

Do you want kids? Ummm, I’m still on the fence with that one.

What’s your favorite color? Purple.

Do you miss anyone right now? Not at this exact moment, no.

Would you rather live in a fictional world or the real world? Fictional world. I’m still waiting for my Hogwarts letter, too.

Who is your favorite author? I don’t really have an absolute favorite author. Though recently, Pierce Brown is definitely high up there.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Ireland. My absolute favorite place in the world. Seriously, my entire family is now obsessed with it ever since we went. My dad claims he’ll be buying us a castle there as soon as he wins the lottery. I’m not even joking.


Alright, that took too long to answer. My hands hurt and I’m tired. I hope y’all enjoyed getting to know me a little bit more. 🙂

I tag whoever wants to take the time to do this!