I have so many books on my bookshelf that sometimes I struggle to pick which book I want to pick up next. I struggle to compile my TBR lists at the best of times because the choice seems to be never-ending. I'm very much an "I want to see that" person at every trailer in the cinema, and I'm pretty much the same when it comes to book synopsis'.
Here is a little list of three books I wish I gotten around to reading in 2019, but for one reason or another, never managed to. It's fair to say that these will be top of my TBR lists early in 2020.
Cilka's Journey by Heather Morris
I absolutely devoured The Tattooist of Auschwitz by the same author, so when the sequel was released a few months ago, I just knew I had to pick a copy up. The Tattooist of Auschwitz was such a special, harrowing story that I think will never need to not be told, and I'm intrigued to read a different element of that story.
The Girl the Sea Gave Back by Adrienne Young
I'm an absolute sucker of a book set by the sea, and this one sounds amazing. I love strong, female-led stories and so this one sounds like it's right up my street. I have read some mixed reviews on this book though. Luckily, bad reviews don't necessarily put me off, as I've read some absolute raved about books in the past that I haven't overly enjoyed. The cover of this book is ridiculously beautiful, too!
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I've heard nothing but amazing things about this book, and it's one for my January TBR for sure. It's based around an interview with an ageing Hollywood star, who details her life in old Hollywood based around her seven husbands. It sounds amazing and one I am very sad I didn't get round to reading this year.
I don't ever do monthly reading wrap-ups because so far I have successfully reviewed every book I've read since I started blogging again back in April, so I figured a yearly wrap up would perhaps be better. I have read some books this year (some before I started blogging about books) that have easily become firm favourites, a lot of which have got a full review wrote up about them, so I won't waffle on too much.
Scythe, Thunderhead & The Toll by Neal Shusterman
Alright, I'm technically cheating by including a whole series as one, but I loved each and every one of these books. I've got a full review up on each of these that you can read if you wish to do so. But just know that I've recommend these books to everyone who fancies a dystopian, entertaining and generally bloody brilliant read.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
This made me absolutely bawl my eyes out. Like, literally cry. I absolutely love books that are centred around WWII and I don't think any human being of our generation could ever comprehend what people in Auschwitz went through. This was a truely beautiful read, and one that I don't ever think will not need to be told.
House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig
This was a recent read for me, and I absolutely devoured it. It was insanely good and definitely a lot creepier than I originally anticipated. I loved the eerie setting, there were twists and turns that I never saw coming and it's my first fairytale re-telling that I've ever read. Would very highly recommend.
Caraval by Stephanie Garber
This book was truely magical, yet also dark and mysterious. The setting was truely enchanting, and it was one of those books where every outcome I imagined just didn't happen. It was amazing, and I'm excited to read the next two books in this series throughout 2020. The author really does an amazing job of capturing you right in the heart of a spellbinding story.
The Choice by Edith Egar
Another Auschwitz inspired story, but this one is totally different and deserves recognition in its own right. This book focuses on the life of the author both during and after Auschwitz, but most of the book focuses on Edith using her experience to help others who are going through difficult times of their lives. It's a very touching read, and I think, regardless if you have an interest in WW11 or not, everyone can take something from this book.
As of the end of January, I'm going to start writing monthly gratitude lists. I used to see a councillor earlier on in the year, and every time I went to go see her, I had to take in a list with me of everything good that had happened since the last time I saw her, and it really, really helped me be in a better headspace, and it was one of my favourite parts of the sessions, so I figured I would carry that on and write down everything I am grateful for, but in blog form!
To kick off these gratitude lists, I figured what better way than to write a yearly one. It's absolutely fair to say that the past few years have been tough, but rather than focus on that, I'm going to focus on everything that went well!
I got signed off from counselling. Back in July, I was officially signed signed off from seeing my councillor, who I'd been seeing since February 2018 for postnatal depression. It was a long, hard journey and one that I will never forget because it taught me so much about myself that I didn't know, and I feel like I'm a stronger person because of it. The counselling sessions were hard at first and there was a time when I wanted so badly to quit them, but I powered through, and they DID get easier and I'm so, so happy that I kept going with them because they genuinely helped me through what was undoubtedly the toughest time of my life.
We got married! If you read my Why We Had A Secret Wedding post, then you'll know that myself and my HUSBAND (still feels surreal to say) got married last month, and it really was a special day celebrating our little family with all our closest friends and relatives. I won't waffle on too much because there's a whole post up about it, but this was by far one of the highlights of 2019 and I wish I could relive the day all over again!
My dog got some of his eyesight back. If you read my Living With A Blind Dog - One Year On post, or if you follow me on Instagram, then you'll know what a tough journey it's been with my youngest pug, Rhody. He lost his eyesight in his right eye when he was 6 months old and had corrective surgery which didn't work. Then his left eye started to deteriorate quite rapidly and he needed further surgery. At one point, he was completely blind. but the second surgery WAS a success and he has regained some vision in his left eye now. His confidence since regaining the vision has come on leaps and bounds and he is honestly the sweetest little dog and his vet is extremely pleased with his progress so far!
My daughter turned 2. I know I could technically put this on a gratitude list every single year (and I probably will), but I think she is at my favourite age so far, and I kind of wish that I could just pause time and keep her this way forever! She's independent enough to play on her own and occupy herself, but still young enough to want her nighttime cuddles. Watching her grow and learn everyday is truely a blessing, and she makes me smile and laugh every single day.
I've been on more trips out with friends than I ever had before. I've always had a small social circle, and some of my closest friends are people who I work with on a daily basis. This year, we've had two trips out to Alton Towers and a trip out to Blackpool Pleasure Beach (we love theme parks, as you can tell!) I've been to BPB before, but never to Alton Towers, and I'm so glad I've friends who suggest these ideas and actually follow through with them! They are some of my most memorable days out this year, and were full of laughs and memories made, and we're already planning where we can go next year!
I started blogging again. I've blogged on and off for the last 6 years, but always found that I'd outgrown the content or was generally just blogging about anything I thought other people would be interested in, and honestly, my heart wasn't in it. I stopped blogging for a good year or so, but started this blog up again back in April, and I'm so glad that I did. I've always seen blogging as a bit of a hobby that I should hide - why, I don't know - but this year when I started my blog back up, I made it public and started tweeting about it, which was a huge step for lil' old me. I grew up with people who judged you on everything you did, so I always kept blogging on the down low because it WaSn'T cOoL eNoUgH, but I'm glad I haven't this time - although, I'm still yet to post it on Instagram - maybe that's one for 2020!
All the weird and wonderful people in my life. So this one is going to be soppy as shit and honestly, I think it's perfectly okay to reflect on all the amazing people in your life and have a little bit of a cheeseball moment. This year has been a series of ups and downs, but the one thing that I have come to learn, is to appreciate the people who stick by you and are always there. I am massively thankful to everyone who has been there for me this year, from my parents, my nanna, my husband, my friends, my work colleagues... everyone has been beyond amazing, and I really am truely lucky to have such people in my life.
I haven't done many foody posts on my blog, and that's something I really want to change. Don't get me wrong, you won't see me whipping up any michelin star meals anytime soon, but I do want to start sharing quick, easy, tasty - not to mention, ***relatively*** healthy - meals for busy parents or people who just don't want to spend hours cooking. In this post, I'm going to be sharing one of my recent favourites - smoked paprika & garlic creamy chicken. This meal is incredibly versatile and can be served with both rice and pasta.
Prep time: 10 minutes > cooking time: 20 minutes.
You will need (serves one):
200g diced chicken
2tb spoons of smoked paprika
Juice of half a (small) lemon
100g garlic & herb soft cheese
Half a clove of garlic (I use half a teaspoon of easy garlic because I'm v v lazy)
Pinch of salt & pepper
Rice or pasta
Method:
Preheat your oven to 200c.
Put your diced chicken in an oven proof dish. Pour in the juice of half a lemon, the smoked paprika (you add more or less depending how "smoky" you want it), the garlic and a pinch of salt & pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until the chicken is fully coated. Place it in the oven for 7 minutes.
Remove the mixture and add in the garlic & herb soft cheese. Mix the soft cheese in with the chicken until it becomes a soup-like consistency. At this point you want to assess whether you want to add more smoked paprika and garlic (I usually always add more of both). Return to the oven for 13 more minutes. Once cooked, remove from the oven and serve with rice or pasta.
The beauty of the meal is that it's so, so simple and you can customise it to your liking. If you want to spice it up a bit, you can add chilli powder or chilli flakes. You can add onions if you like. You can make it as smoky or glaric-y as you like by simply adding more in.
If you're cooking for two, simply double the ingredients, and likewise if you're cooking for three, four people etc.
I did one these posts previous, and actually, it helped me get rid of a couple of those books. I passed them on to a friend who I thought might like them and she's since read Friend Request by Laura Marshall and LOVED it, so I figured I'd do another one of these in the hopes of freeing up some space on my extremely over-stacked bookshelf!
October Man by Ben Aaronvitch
This is a novella in what is now a 10+ book series, and honestly, I just don't have the time to commit to that. I'm very much a 3-books-to-a-series kinda gal, so the Peter Grant series is well out of my commitment range. This does actually sound like a really interesting book, and I probably would read it if it were a standalone, but unfortunately, I'm going to give this book, and the whole series for that matter, a miss.
The Potion Diaries by Amy Alward
I can't quite put my finger on why I just don't gravitate towards this. The concept sounds like it could be really cool and also quite funny, but then the cover appears really young. This is the one book I'm really unwilling to give up, but also probably won't pick up. It does sound like there are some fantasy elements to it, but in the back of my mind, I think I'll always gravitate towards something more "grown up".
A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness
I've seen the film to this, and quite frankly, it was a beautiful story, but a tad boring at times. It's one of those films that I don't remember much about, which is surely not a good thing. Now, don't get me wrong, I know that 70% of the time, films don't do any justice to the books that they are taken from, but I just can't get past it. Maybe the book will be beautiful and maybe I'm judging a book by the film when I absolutely shouldn't, but for the time being, I'm putting this book on the back burner.
Living My Best Life by Claire Frost
I mentioned in my first Books I Own But Probably Won't Read post that I tend to stay clear of books that are centred around social media, and this is one that seems to be heavily based around social media - especially Instagram. Don't get me wrong, Instagram is my favourite form of social media, but I just don't get along with books that are centred around any form of social media.
First off, I'm M A R R I E D.
Myself and my HUSBAND (will that ever feel natural to say?) tied the knot a couple of weeks ago, and we kept the whole thing super hush-hush. In fact, the only people who knew were our closest family and about 4 friends. There was no mention of it to people we had no interest in being there, and there wasn't a single thing said about it on social media.
Buy why so secret?
I feel like a lot of people assume it's money related or that we just don't like anyone (lol), but actually, it's nothing to do with either of those things.
I've just never dreamed of a big wedding. I think it's stereotypical to assume that little girls dream of horse-drawn carriages, huge princess-like wedding dresses, 7 tier cakes, ginormous churches and dancing into the night at wedding receptions. And all that stuff is amazing, if that's what you want, but I never have. I've always known I wanted a super small, super intimate, fuss free wedding.
When all is said and done, I've never felt comfortable being centre of attention, and have always felt anxious and awkward when the spot light is solely on me.
Both myself and my HUSBAND (honestly, still feels bizarre), are both very low-key people. We both have small social circles and whilst he has a smaller family than I do, I'm not overly close with most of mine. In total there were 17 people at our wedding, and that was enough for the both of us. It felt like the people who we truely wanted there were there, and there was no pressure to impress people we aren't particularly close to.
Don't get me wrong, I love going to bigger weddings, mostly because the focus isn't on me. I love seeing people really go to town on their wedding day. I love the extravagance of it all, but I also love that my wedding wasn't like that.
Our wedding felt incredibly right for us as a couple and it felt like a celebration of our family. It felt like it was exactly what we both wanted. I'm a firm believer of not giving into social expectations and doing what's best for you, and keeping our wedding a secret for over a year was bloody hard, but oh so very worth it.
I've owned my fair share of houseplants over the years, and admittedly, some have survived longer than others. As I've built my collection of houseplants, which currently sits somewhere around the 60-ish mark, I've come to realise that some are by far more delicate than others. Something I hear rather regularly, is that people "can't keep them alive", and that was certainly the boat I was in a couple of years ago when I first started to build my collection. Since then, I've learned which plants to recommend people to buy that take minimal effort to keep alive.
Sanseveria
These guys really are the hardiest of all house plants. They can survive months without water and do well in low light, which is great if you have an empty corner of a room that doesn't get much sunlight. And the best part? They some in SO MANY different varieties, and I can confidently say that there is most definitely something for everyone.
Pothos
If you like a hanging plant, then you'll love the pothos. These are quick growers and just like the sanseveria, come in all different varieties. I have three different kinds in my own collection - the golden pothos, the satin pothos (pictured in the first photo), and the marble queen pothos. They are all easy to take care of - simply water every 7-10 days and you're pretty much good to go. They are ideal for low/medium light conditions too, and look great hanging off bookshelves or hanging baskets.
Aloe Vera
Simply a classic in any household. What particularly makes these great for people who don't have natural green thumbs, is that they are ideal for rooms with a cooler temperature and just like the sanseveria, they need minimal watering, but they do need slightly brighter lighting conditions to properly thrive which makes them the ideal candidate for a kitchen window.
I didn't do a November TBR because I failed so miserably at keeping on top of my October TBR and to be completely honest, I still haven't caught up, but that's just the life of a book blogger, right?
I've set myself a really reasonable goal of 3 books to read throughout December, and I'm excited to read all of them, so in theory, I should be able to get through them without too much of a struggle.
The first book is The Toll by Neal Shusterman, which I've been very excited about ever since I finished reading Scythe and Thunderhead back in September. The Toll s by far one of my most anticipated releases this year, and I cannot wait to see how the story develops.
The next book is Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, which was featured in my November Book Haul post. It's about a time travelling cafe set in Tokyo and it just sounds like a really, really lovely read.
The third and final book I want to pick up is something more so on the light-hearted end of the spectrum, and that's Christmas at Rachel's Pudding Pantry by Caroline Roberts. I read the first book in this duo (review here!) back in September and loved it, it was cosy and not too chicklit-y, so I'm excited to see where the author takes this story and I just think it's going to be cute and cosy and a really easy Christmas read.
I just cannot stop buying books. In fact, I'm buying them faster than I am reading them which means that if I continue to buy them at the rate that I currently am, I WILL EVENTUALLY DIE WIT.H UNREAD BOOKS.
How tragic.
Anywho, here is the list of books I've bought throughout November...
Hardbacks:
Sleep by C.L Taylor
The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow
Still Friends by Saul Austerlitz
Paperbacks:
War of the Worlds by H.G Wells
The Tattoo Thief by Alison Belsham
The Toll by Neal Shusterman
Christmas at Rachel's Pudding Pantry by Caroline Roberts
This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay
Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
Kindle books:
The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock by Imogen Hermes Gowar
The Loney by Andrew Michael Hurley
Half a World Away by Mike Gayle
At least next month I can use the excuse that it's Christmas, right? I've asked for a few books for Chirstmas, and it's crazy to think that this time next month I'll be posting a Christmas book haul!
1. Where do you typically write your blog posts?
I find I write better on an evening or on a night, so 99% of the time it's when I'm lying in bed. I find it really hard to write when there's a lot going on around me, so it's pretty much always when I'm at home.
2. How long does it generally take you to write a book review?
I'm a slow writer (and easily distracted), so perhaps an hour, maybe two? I'm not sure if this is quick or slow compared to other people, but it's taking the photos that REALLY slow me down as I'm at work all day and there is no natural light when I get home!
3. When did you start your book blog?
I've been blogging on and off for 6 years now, but only really transitioned into a book blog around March/April of this year.
4. What is the worst thing about having a book blog in your opinion?
Finding the time to write up posts and take blog photos! I always think my writing could be so much better and my photos be so much prettier if I had a little extra time to put into it!
5. What is the best thing about having a book blog in your opinion?
As cliche as it sounds, it's definitely talking to other book bloggers. I've met a few people in the short time I've been part of the book blogging community and everyone is so kind!
6. What blog post have you had the most fun writing so far?
Most definitely my In-Depth Bookshelf Tour 2019 blog post - it was by far the most challenging and took the longest, but I loved writing it!
7. What is your favourite blog post to write?
Definitely reviews of books I have loved. I love raving about books and hopefully encouraging others to give it a go!
8. When do you typically write?
I pretty much answered this in question 1, but it's almost always on an evening/night, or when I've got a bit of spare time on a weekend. Having a toddler and a full-time job isn't always easy to read books, let alone read books and write up blog posts!
9. Do you review EVERY book you read?
Since I transitioned by blog into a book blog, I have managed to review every book I have read, which I'm pretty proud of, and I hope to continue doing so!
10. How do you write your reviews? With a cup of coffee or tea? With Netflix? Cuddled with your fur baby?
I always have something on the TV in the background, but it can't be anything TOO enthralling otherwise I'd easily get distracted. Typically it's Friends, which I've seen a million times and doesn't distract me too much!
11. When do you write your reviews? Right after finishing the book? Or two weeks after finishing the book?
I usually try to write them straight away, as I'm the type of person who forgets what happened after a couple of weeks. I'm trying my hardest to write notes in my phone as I'm reading, especially if it's something I know I particularly want to mention.
12. How often do you post?
I try to post at least once a week but there is honestly no consistency to when I post - sometimes it's every 10 days, other times it's 3 times a week!
"In a manor by the sea, twelve sisters are cursed.
Annaleigh lives a sheltered life at Highmoor, a manor by the sea, with her sisters, their father, and stepmother. Once they were twelve, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls' lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last—the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge—and there are whispers throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods.
Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that the deaths were no accidents. Her sisters have been sneaking out every night to attend glittering balls, dancing until dawn in silk gowns and shimmering slippers, and Annaleigh isn't sure whether to try to stop them or to join their forbidden trysts. Because who—or what—are they really dancing with?
When Annaleigh's involvement with a mysterious stranger who has secrets of his own intensifies, it's a race to unravel the darkness that has fallen over her family—before it claims her next."
I've been dying to read this since its release day back in August because of three things. The first being that it's set by the sea. The second being that it's a retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. The third being that, aesthetically, it's a pretty bloody beautiful book.
It's absolutely fair to say that I was instantly captivated by this book. I mean, how could you not be when the opening chapter is a dreary, atmospheric funeral of Eulalie, one of the twelve sisters - the lively, charismatic, flirtatious sister who plunged from the edge of the cliffs to her death in the middle of the night?
Admittedly, after that first chapter, the first 1/3rd of the book is a lot tamer than the remaining 2/3rds. The first part of the novel is very fairytale-esque; dress-up glamorous balls that are all very sparkly and enchanting. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the first part of this book, because I did - a lot - but the rest of the novel was a whole other experience that consists of stunningly haunted scenes that left me thinking about them long after I put this book down.
Erin. A Craig has an extrordinary talent for writing scenes that enthrall you and draw you in. Some of the creepier and more sinister chapters had my heart literally racing, especially with the youngest sister, Verity, who draws sketches of her dead sisters, detailing the horrific and gory scenarios they died in - not to mention she talks out loud with them, too. There were twists and turns that I genuinely did not see coming a mile off, which was probably one of the reasons I read this book faster than average (for me, anyway!)
If I had a nit pick though, I would say that there are times when Annaleigh is incredibly passive as a heroine. Often she completely abandons all sense of investigation into Eulalie's death and to figure out who the mysterious killer is. It's a little hard to believe that a girl as suspicious as her would simply do away with trying to figure out what's going on and simply go ahead and scoot through magical doorways that lead to magical worlds full of dancing and ballrooms.
Having said that, I do absolutely love that fairytale retellings are a thing, and I imagine that as an author, it's hard to create a fresh, new perspective on a well known fairytale, in this case, the Brother Grimms' work, but I think Erin. A Craig did a fantastic job and it had me hooked from the get go. She somehow managed to add a creepy, gothic and eerie take on a classic fairytale, that also had elements of romance and mystery too, and yet, the story flowed so easily and so naturally, despite the fact it had huge potential to be a bit messy by covering so many different elements.
Now, I must admit that whilst I didn't care too much for the love story going on, I was genuinely shocked with the revelation about the delusions. I don't want to give too much away, but it was truly mind blowing and at one point I think I let out an audible gasp. It was amazing. Like, truly, utterly amazing story telling and I lapped up every single word on the page.
This book has made me want two things. The first being to read more fairytale retellings, and the second to read whatever Erin. A Craig comes out with next. I loved this book so much, and if you're a fan of mysterious, creepy yet beautiful stories, you'll absolutely devour House of Salt and Sorrows.
Verdict: ★★★★★
Reading has always been a huge passion of mine, and before having my daughter, I would read on average of maybe 2 books a week whilst holding down a full time job, and even then, I would think I wAsN't ReAdInG eNoUgH.
Let's all take a moment to laugh at past Caroline because HELLO I'm lucky if I average 3 books a month now. I'd love to read more, of course I would, but I simply just don't have as much time as I used to, which is perfectly okay, because time spent with my daughter is precious and I obviously wouldn't change it for the world. Instead, I've simply learned to use my time more effectively to still fit in this life-long reading hobby of mine, and I've complied a little list on how fellow parents can keep on top of their TBR piles too!
1. Go electronic
Carrying around a physical book everywhere you go isn't ideal, especially when you're carrying around a bag full of nappies, wipes, juice, toys and goodness knows how many snacks (seriously, little people can EAT goddamit). I've had a Kindle for years, but only over the past 18 months have I really put it to good use. It's lighter, slimmer and doesn't take up much additional space in my bag full of half eaten packets of crisps! And hey, if you don't have a Kindle, you can always download the Kindle app on your phone - it's 2019, people!
2. Play time for your child = reading time for you
I've really cut down on the amount of TV time I allow my daughter to watch. She now has 30 minutes of TV time before having her evening bath, and I use this time to squeeze in a chapter or two! Whilst her eyes are glued to some questionable multi-coloured cartoon, my brain is getting lost in pages of imaginary monsters and worlds far away from ours!
3. Make use of short, unproductive time
This is something I've really gotten into the swing of lately. I now use my 20 minute each way commute to work every day to pick up my Kindle (I get the train, don't drive and read, peeps!) I also use whatever time I have remaining on my lunch hour, and you'd be surprised at how much reading you can get done whilst waiting for a doctors appointment! Making use of time that would otherwise be used browsing aimlessly on Instagram that you've already checked 17 times this morning could be put to much better use in terms of powering through your TBR list!
4. Strike a deal with the dad
My partner loves his xBox and I love reading, but we have a kid to look after - this doesn't necessarily mean we can't have hobbies too. Every now and again, I'll say to him "I'll take Rosie out to the park for an hour so you can go on your xBox and you do the same tomorrow?" - trust me, no man is ever going to turn down precious xBox time. Having that hour every now and again completely to yourself is not only great for your mental health, but also handy to get in some much needed reading time!
5. Read before bed for 30 minutes
I find it difficult to switch off on a night if I don't spend 30 minutes or so reading a book. Setting aside just 30 minutes every night doesn't sound like much, but that's 3.5 extra hours every week and that amounts to a LOT over the year - think of how many extra books you would get through every year just by simply setting aside 30 minutes to yourself on an evening!
6. Pick books with shorter chapters
There is nothing, and I mean NOTHING more annoying than unnecessarily long chapters when you're strapped for time. I'm one of THOSE people who can't put a book down until I've finished the chapter, so having a 30+ page long chapter is a huge no-no from me. I even find that I read more in one sitting if the chapters are shorter, because JUST ONE MORE CHAPTER syndrome is a real thing!
Welcome to my first ever bookshelf tour! I absolutely love reading these posts and seeing how everyone organises their bookshelves, so I figured I would finally do my own. One thing I have come to realise is that photographing a bookshelf is HARD.
And please, let's all ignore the accidental paint sample patch behind my bookshelf from about 5 months ago that I am still yet to fix.
There are also a few books missing from my shelf, mainly because I've lent them out to friends and family, for instance, I own all three books in the Scythe series but the first book I have lent to a friend and so I've only currently got books 2 & 3 from the series (which is secretly killing me inside but still).
Okay, so starting with the skinnier part of the bookshelf, which is a new(ish) addition because the wider one was just not wide enough anymore.
The top shelf is where I keep my fantasy paperback books. We have:
The Confessions of Frannie Langton by Sara Collins
Circe by Madeline Miller
A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield
The Girl the Sea Gave Back by Adrienne Young
War of the Worlds by H.G Wells
Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman
The Toll by Neal Shusterman
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I also have a couple of miscellaneous books here too, which you can see on the end.
The second shelf is where I keep my miscellaneous chicklits. We have:
After by Anna Todd
Living My Best Life by Claire Frost
Wait For You by J Lynn
The Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes
The Last Letter from your Lover by Jojo Moyes
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
Christmas at Rachel's Pudding Pantry by Caroline Roberts
Rachel's Pudding Pantry by Caroline Roberts
My Summer of Magic Moments by Caroline Roberts
Billy & Me by Giovanna Fletcher
The Pet Shop at Pennycombe Bay by Shiela Norton
Our Song by Dani Atkins
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
A Year of Marvellous Ways by Sarah Winman
Moving onto the next shelf, we have some hardback books that are kind of just 'there'. We have:
Never Greener by Ruth Jones
The Tattooist of Auschwitz and Cilka's Jorney by Heather Morris
The Flat Share by Beth O'Leary
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
The Secret Hours by Santa Montefiore
Ellie and the Harpmaker by Hazel Prior
An Island Christmas by Jenny Colgan
My Name is Monster by Katie Hale
Toffee by Sarah Crossan
October Man by Ben Aaronvitch
The Blue Salt Road by Joanne Harris
Peter Pan by by J.M Barrie
On the shelf below that, we have some more fantasy hardbacks. There is:
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Twelve Kings in Sharakhai by Bradley Beaulieu
The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E Harrow
Sleep by C.L Taylor
The Binding by Bridget Collins
A House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin. A Craig
The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
The Deathless Girls by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales by Angela Carter
We have all my Stranger Things books on the next shelf along with a Friends book. There is:
Worlds Turned Upside Down by Gina McIntyre
Suspicious Minds by Gwenda Bond
Darkness on the Edge of Town by Adam Christopher
Still Friends by Saul Austerlitz
And then on the very last shelf of this section, we have my (very small) Stephen King collection. We have:
1986 copy of IT as well as the 2019 cover version
The Green Mile
Desperation
Nightmares & Dreamscapes
Bag of Bones
The Eyes of the Dragon
Moving onto the top shelf of the 'main' part of my bookshelf. This is where I keep predominantly my Jane Fallon books. I currently own all of her books and I always group my books together by author, and then organise that by publication date. I know A lot of people like to do it in colour order and I think that looks pretty bloody beautiful, but personally, it makes me feel a little uneasy knowing my series and authors aren't grouped together. The Jane Fallon books I have are:
Getting Rid of Matthew
Got You Back
Foursome
The Ugly Sister
Skeletons
Strictly Between Us
My Sweet Revenge
Faking Friends
Tell Me a Secret
Also on that shelf is where I keep my Christmas chicklit books. We have:
Sleigh Bells in the Snow by Sarah Morgan
Once Upon a Christmas by Sarah Morgan
Miracle on 5th Avenue by Sarah Morgan
Moonlight over Manhattan by Sarah Morgan
The Christmas Sisters by Sarah Morgan
A Wedding in December by Sarah Morgan
The Snow Spider by Jenny Nimmo
Twelve Days of Christmas by Trisha Ashley
One New York Christmas by Mandy Baggot
Not Just for Christmas by Natalie Cox
How to Stuff up Christmas by Rosie Blake
Also on that shelf we have three books by Miranda Dickinson which admittedly I have had for about 6 years that I still haven't read. They are When I Fall in Love, Fairytale of New York and It Started With a Kiss.
I will make the effort to pick one of these up during this year's festive season!
Then on the second shelf is where I house all my Milly Johnson books, again, in publication order:
The Yorkshire Pudding Club
The Birds and the Bees
A Spring Affair
A Summer Fling
An Autumn Crush
Here Come the Girls
White Wedding
A Winter Flame
It's Raining Men
The Teashop on the Corner
Afternoon Tea at Sunflower Cafe
Sunshine Over Wildflower Cottage
The Queen of Wishful Thinking
The Perfectly Imperfect Woman
The Mother of All Christmases
The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew
On top of my Milly Johnson books is a hardback Carole Matthews book that a) doesn't fit on my Carole Matthews shelf, and b) I need to buy the paperback version of. The said book is The Cake Shop in the Garden.
Laid flat near my Milly Johnson books is the Me Before You Series by Jojo Moyes, which consists of Me Before You, After You and Still Me.
Moving onto the third shelf, and this is where I keep all of my Carole Matthews books. I'm starting to sound like a broken record here, but again, I own all of them. In publication order, they are:
Let's Meet at Platform 8
A Whiff of Scandal
More to Life Than This
For Better For Worse
A Minor Indiscretion
A Compromising Position
The Sweetest Taboo
With or Without You
You Drive Me Crazy
Welcome to the Read World
The Chocolate Lover's Club
The Chocolate Lover's Diet
It's a Kind of Magic
All You Need is Love
The Difference a Day Makes
That Loving Feeling
It's Now or Never
The Only Way is Up
Wrapped up in You
Summer Daydreams
With Love at Christmas
A Cottage by the Sea
Calling Mrs Christmas
A Place to Call Home
The Christmas Party
The Chocolate Lover's Christmas
The Chocolate Lover's Wedding
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses
Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights
Million Love Songs
Happiness for Beginners
PHEW.
On the fourth shelf, we have some Jane Green and Paige Toon books, and guess what, I DON'T own all of them.
From Jane Green we have:
Jemma J
The Sunshine Sisters
Falling
Spellbound
Mr Maybe
From Paige Toon we have:
The One We Fell in Love With
Johnny Be Good
Baby Be Mine
Five Years From Now
If You Could Go Anywhere
One Perfect Summer
One Perfect Christmas
The Longest Holiday
Laid down flat near those are my Dawn French books. We have Oh Dear Silvia, According to Yes and A Tiny Bit Marvellous.
Moving onto the next shelf on this part of the bookcase. Here is where I keep my YA and contemporary books and they're in absolutely no particular order. We have:
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
American Royals by Katherine McGee
Flawed by Cecilia Ahern
The Potion Dairies by Amy Alward
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
2x Life of Pi by Yann Martel
A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness
Golden Hill by Francis Spufford
The Curious Case of the Dog in the Night Garden by Mark Haddon
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
Everything Everything by Nicola Yoon
Milkman by Anna Burns
The Places I've Cried in Public by Holly Bourne
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
The White Road by Sarah Lotz
The Wolves of Winter by Tyrell Johnson
The Last of the Bowmans by J. Paul Henderson
The Stepney Doorstep Society by Kate Thompson
The Choice by Edith Egar
This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay
The Land of Roar by Jenny McLachlan
War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
Ink, Spark and Scar by Alice Broadway
Then FINALLY we have my horror/thriller/whodunnit books. There is:
The Taking of Annie Thorne by C.J Tudor
One of Us is Lying and Two Can Keep a Secret by Karen M. McManus
Friend Request by Laura Marshall
The Lady in the Lake by Raymond Chandler
The Tattoo Thief by Alison Belsham
And lastly on this shelf, is my Caraval series by Stephanie Garber, which consists of Caraval, Legendary & Finale.
AND BREATHE.
I've started writing this review whilst only 150 or so pages into the book because there are THAT many feeling towards this book and the characters in it already, and I need to rant.
The book jumps between 1985 and 2002. It details Kate and Callum's intense love affair that began when Callum's wife, Belinda, was heavily pregnant with their 3rd child. Kate was 22 when the affair began and Callum was 39. She was an aspiring actress picking up some shifts at Callum's brother's pub, and he was giving his brother a helping hand. Their affair ended in heartbreak, but is rekindled again in 2002 after a chance encounter when Kate, now a famous British actress, meets Callum again at the school he now teaches at.
I HATE THESE CHARACTERS. Like, truly, deeply hate them.
But I think that the point is to dislike them. The author hasn't created characters we're supposed to like, they purposefully unlikeable, especially Kate.
Kate is so beyond self absorbed. She is irritating and makes harmful and hurtful decisions. It's clear that Ruth Jones is trying to hint at something internally deeper and disturbing going on with her character, but this is never fully explored and we are left knowing that there's possibly something, but without any closure on these enclosed issues with Kate are, we are essentially left with a character who is unlikeable and destructive, not only to herself and Callum, but her husband and daughter along with Callum's family too, and whilst we might get some interesting insight of Kate on set and feeling the burden that people are constantly scrutinising her, we never really see the true reasons why she acts out the way she does.
Don't get me wrong, it's a good book, but it's telling the wrong story. Kate and Callum are boring, but they have so much potential not to be. Okay yes we get it, they are have all the very good sex and they are basically shagging at any given opportunity - but they have no redeemable or creditable qualities. The only real character of interest for me, is Belinda, Callum's wife.
Her husband has an affair with a stunningly beautiful, and not to mention, now famous, actress. Her background is far more interesting and lends itself to an obvious - and hopeful - re-emergence arc. Even the very brief story of how she and Callum first me hints at a more characteristic heroine than all of what we read in Kate! Frankly, Belinda is far more compelling. She is the wronged wife and so much more of a natural protagonist for women's fiction narrative.
There are no happy endings here. But there is also no big climatic reveal. Just a little bit of realism that portrays the consequences of the of hurt and heartache caused by Kate and Callum's actions. I like that there is no happy ever after for these characters. I like that the ending isn't cheesy. But there is also no sense of emotion moving forward. The book kinda just ends, with a bit of a thud. Whilst the last 100 or so pages have a better sense of pace, it still amounts to, well, not a lot, really.
Having said all that and putting my own personal dislike for the characters to one side, Ruth Jones' writing style is actually effortless and the story does just naturally flow. It was the wrong story, but told well and given the fact that I didn't like the majority of the characters within this book, I didn't not enjoy it, which I think is a testament to her writing skills. The book wasn't cheesy or followed the typical rom-com setup, which is a refreshing change from this genre, and I would pick up another Ruth Jones book because the story of Never Greener was so easy to absorb and get into.
There are a tonne more soppier, love-struck chicklit books on the market, and if that's what you're after, don't go for this one. But if you're looking for a modern twist on a typical rom-com novel, then I think you would enjoy this.
Verdict: ★★★
It's Christmas, the season to be snowed under. Merry Smith is overworked. Between family responsibilities, preparing for Christmas, and staying out of the crosshairs of her boss there's room for little else. Her social life is the last thing on her mind, much less finding love.
Jayson Bright is feeling the pressure. Christmas is his most stressful time of year. Deadlines are looming, the holidays are coming, and employees are winding down. He's the one left in the office pulling late and lonely nights. Luckily for these two, their friends and family take matters into their own hands, and Merry and Bright are about to discover that love can be found where you least expect it . . .
This is my first Debbie Macomber book and I only bought this because of a book club I'm a part of, otherwise, I don't think I'd have picked this up. In fact, I thought my first Christmas read of the year would have been from either Carole Matthews or Milly Johnson, but I decided to give this a go because it's the first book I've read that was a book club pick and because I was fancying something festive (I know, it's October blah blah blah).
This was very cutesy, fluffy read. Like ULTRA lovey-dovey, and that's not something I'm overly into. Obviously, this is a book from the chicklit genre so an exaggerated level of romance is to be expected, but this was just a little ***too much*** for my personal liking.
Even the play-on-words of their names (Merry Smith and Jason Bright... Merry & Bright... getit?) is a little too much for me to swallow. One aspect of the book I just couldn't click with, was how Jason had "feelings" for a woman he had only chatted to online after two weeks (seriously) and the same for Merry. Then, after a somewhat bumpy working relationship, Jason and Merry start getting along in real life (he doesn't know Merry is the one he's been chatting to all along) and then he starts to develop an attraction to her for some unknown reason he can't put his finger on - it's all just too convenient and all too easy.
However, I think the main issue lies with the lack of Christmas spirt in this book. Apart from a Christmas party at the very end of the book and the mention of baking Christmas cookies a few times, this book could have been set at any point during the year. This was my first festive read of the year and it wasn't really, well, festive. There's no snow, no Christmas tress, no mince pies, no jingle bells... no festive cheer whatsoever.
I did, however, really love the relationship between Merry and her bother, Patrick, who has down syndrome. I liked how Merry knew the telltale signs that he was fibbing and I liked how Patrick just wanted his sister to be happy and find someone.
Overall, though, this book just didn't quite cut it for me. There wasn't enough storyline, even less festiveness, and it was all just too easy.
Verdict: ★★★
Let me start off by saying that I haven't read a who-dunnit style thriller in a very, very long time, but I saw a couple of fellow book bloggers review this book recently, despite it being a couple of years old now.
It's also my first read by this author too, and you might be sat there thinking err, right but why does this matter but let me tell you that personally, and I'm not sure if other readers follow the same suit, but the first book I read by any author is usually make or break on weather or not I'll pick up any more books by the same author.
So, the story follows Jemma, who is on her dream honeymoon on a luxurious island in the Maldives with her newlywed husband, Jamie. But one night, Jamie disappears, and there is absolutely no trace of him. Of course, nothing is as it seems and everyone is suddenly a suspect... even Jemma.
First off, this book starts off soooooooo painfully slow that it's almost at the point of being tedious. Up until the second half of the book, I was bored. Like, on the verge of DFN bored. The only reason I kept on going with this book is because this was my commute read, and if I didn't have to dedicate only 20 minutes or so at a time reading this, I would have probably gave up on it well before the half way point.
There are only so many descriptive passages I can read about the ocean and the beautiful setting of the Maldives that I can take before I'm over it. One of my biggest pet peeves is when books are TOO descriptive. Okay, granted, set the scene and paint the picture, but please, leave enough for my own imagination to come up with the rest. And for the love of all things holy and good in books - please don't give me a page long description of what the waves sound like as they crash upon a sandy beach.
The first half of the book is set in alternating chapters between the past and the present - the past being the very tedious and not-at-all engaging story of how Jemma and Jamie end up getting together, and the present being Jemma on her husband-less honeymoon. The middle section of the book is set in different POVs and the last part of the book, well, did the author just give up because there seemed to be no structure to the chapters whatsoever?
As for the characters, I did not care for any of them. Jemma, being the forefront of this story, is so self absorbed and, dare I say it, a complete brat. I had no sympathy for her whatsoever. She was selfish and destructive and only interested in what the world thought of her and no-one else. Jamie lacked any personality whatsoever that he might as well have been an actual real life potato. I genuinely did not care about him, or what had happened to him. I didn't care about Dan, Jamie's brother, either. And Chrissy & Kenny... why were they even in the book? My mind is stumped on why they needed to be in there. Chrissy especially - there was a whole section of the book dedicated to her POV and, well, her character amounted to absolutely nothing.
The redeeming factor of this book was the last half of it, when the pace seemed to really pick up and we actually got some decent storytelling, even though it was a bit over-the-top-would-this-ever-really-happen kinda storytelling. I will even go as far as saying that I enjoyed the last half of this book, and would have preferred it if the story started here and we could just skip 90% of the first half. If I'm being completely honest, and there are no spoilers here, I kinda semi-guessed the outcome, but I was still surprised when the big reveal happened.
I didn't not enjoy this book, but I had to get the the second half of it to reach that point, but at the same time, I'm not going to go and rush out to buy any more books from this author anytime soon.
And I'll be writing the Maldives off my list of honeymoon destinations.
Verdict: ★★
We've all been there. Hit a bit of a reading slump. Not been in the mood to pick up a book, or not knowing what book to pick up to begin with. When you haven't read a book for a while & generally just haven't been on top of your reading game, it's hard to get back into the swing of things. I've put together a little list of ideas that help me get back into reading when I want to pick up a book but am unsure where to start.
Stick with authors and genres you know and love
If you're trying to get back into reading, then now probably isn't the right time to pick out a thriller book if you're used to reading chicklit. Stick to authors whose writing style you are familiar with, or genres that know you enjoy, and then who knows, perhaps when you have got your reading bug back, you can read a different genre to what you're used to and branch out a bit more!
Set aside reading time
If ~ like me ~ you are a bit (alright, a lot) strapped for time, then it's important to set aside allocated time for you to sit down and enjoy your book. I usually read in bed for 30-45 minutes at a time, and not only does it help me wind down after a long day, but its my time and it's what I look forward to at the end of the day!
Join a book club
None of my friends are bookworms like I am, so I struggle to find someone to encourage me to pick up a book. I'm part of a book club on Instagram and it's such a refreshing way to engage in natter about what books we are loving (and equally, not loving) and everyone keeps each other motivated to want to read, which is great if you've found yourself in a bit of a reading slump. I've discovered so many wonderful books & authors I would probably have never have considered by joining a book club!
Create a distraction free environment
This kind of goes hand in hand with setting aside reading time, but it's important to set aside time for yourself with no distractions. When you have a toddler in tow like I have, it's near impossible to sit down and enjoy reading a chapter or two without being asked a million times for a snack or leaping from your seat to stop said small human from pulling over the 5th houseplant of the day. This is why I choose to read before bed; because I know that my toddler is in bed, the housework is done, the dogs have been walked and there is literally nothing else for me to do!
Listen to audio books
If you're really, really strapped for time, then perhaps listening to audio books is the way to go. You can listen to them on your commute to and from work, when you're popping to the shops, or plug your earphones in when you're doing the housework or when you're cooking tea. I think I'll always prefer to have a physical book in front of me, but if I had no other choice then I'd go down the audio book route - and they're great just to listen to with minimal effort and could help you get out of that reading slump & you don't have to do much except press a button!
Give up on books you're not enjoying
The last thing on earth that is going to help you get out of a reading slump is reading a book you aren't enjoying. There's absolutely nothing wrong with not finishing a book if you're not enjoying it. I can't even count the amount of books I've started reading because the blurb sold me (or let's face it, the cover was pretty) and it's turned out to be nothing like I expected. I often find that if I finish a book that I haven't enjoyed, it puts me more into a reading slump. Give up on a book you're not enjoying and move on to something else.
These are the things I do to help my get my reading bug back. Hopefully someone finds these useful as well.
Last month I set myself 4 books to read and I feel like that was a comfortable amount, so I have done the same this time around too.
The first book I've picked out is House of Salt and Sorrow by Erin A. Craig. This is a fairly new release and I think it is the author's debut novel. I've heard amazing things about this book already. It's a retelling of "The 12 Dancing Princesses" fairytale and it sounds amazing. I've heard it's a little creepy in places too - perfect for this time of year!
The second book I've chosen is The White Road by Sarah Lotz. I've had this sitting on my self for a while now and I'm trying to do this thing where I actually read the books I have on my bookshelf - even the ones that have been overlooked for a short while. This again sounds like a good concept and one that I've also heard has an eerie, spooky feel to it.
The third book is completely opposite of the other two, and that's An Autumn Crush by Millie Johnson. I'm trying to read one chick-lit book a month because I have SO many of them and I figured this was the best fitting one for this time of year!
The fourth and final book is Birthrights by Carly Rheilan, which was very kindly sent to me by the author. From what I can gather, this is a who-dunnit and mysterious book based around a doctor and her medical patients. It sounds really interesting and not like anything I've ever read before!
Admit it, we all have a couple of books sitting on our bookshelf that we have no desire to pick up. Or it could be that that do interest you, but you've got far too many other books sitting way higher up on your TBR list. Most of mine are because I've bought them in some kind of bundle deal just to make the offer up. I'm not saying these are bad books (hey, I wouldn't know cos I haven't read them), I'm just saying that for one reason or another, they don't immediately spark my interest.
After by Anna Todd
I bought this because I saw the film on Netflix and then a couple of weeks later I saw the book in The Works for £3 and figured why not. There's a few reasons why I'm not immediately rushing to pick this up, the first being that I didn't particularly enjoy the film adaptation, so why I bothered to buy the book I do not know. The second being that this book is fairly hefty, and lately I've been into quick, light reads because TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE, PEOPLE. And thirdly, this is the first book in a five book series, and at the moment, I have little desire to put time and effort in a series.
Flawed by Cecelia Ahern
This is going to sound pathetic but the only reason I haven't picked this up yet is because the colour theme is very pink and I don't particularly like the imagery on the cover. The blurb sounds like it's right up my street, but I every time I'm compiling my TBR lists, this one just never makes the cut because there's always a prettier book I'd rather pick up.
A Place To Call Home by Carole Matthews
I really don't like books that are based around domestic violence. I don't know what it is about that topic that I don't enjoy reading about. Of course it's a serious topic and I'm glad authors are writing about it, but I just can't fathom why I steer clear of books based around this issue. That being said, I'm happy to have this in my collection as I now own all of Carole Matthews' books, but I probably won't be reaching for this anytime soon.
Friend Request by Laura Marshall
Whilst we're on the subject of topics we don't like, I don't like books that are centred around social media - Facebook particularly. The story doesn't exactly draw me in, either. I do usually like mystery in a book, but this is one that doesn't intrigue me in the slightest. It's got good ratings on Goodreads but I just keep not picking this up. Perhaps I'll pass this one on to a friend or donate it to charity!
I have been on a fantasy kick lately, and I'd heard nothing but wonderful things about the Caraval series by Stephanie Garber. The way it was described to me was this - Harry Potter meets Hunger Games but not.
The blurb instantly had me hooked:
"Welcome to Caraval, where nothing is quite what it seems.
Scarlett has never left the tiny isle of Trisda, pining from afar for the wonder of Caraval, a once-a-year, week-long performance where the audience participates in the show. Caraval is magic, mystery adventure and for Scarlett and her beloved sister Tella it represents freedom and an escape from their ruthless, abusive father. When Scarlett discovers her father has arranged a marriage for her she believes all her hopes of escape have been dashed.
Then the sisters' long-awaited invitations to Caraval finally arrive and it seems their dreams have come true. Yet, no sooner have they entered the confines of Caraval than Tella vanishes, kidnapped by the show's mastermind organiser, Legend.
Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. But nonetheless she quickly becomes enmeshed in a dangerous game of love, magic and heartbreak. Real or not, she must find Tella before the game is over, and her sister disappears forever."
Caraval - an annual, invitation-only secluded game on a secluded island, giving players the chance to win the ultimate prize - one wish.
Scarlett Dragna has been writing to Master Legend all of her life, and surprisingly, a fortnight before her arranged wedding to a count she has never met, Scarlett receives an invitation from Legend himself, inviting her and her fiancee to join them at the next Caraval - in 3 days time.
But Scarlett and her sister have lived in fear their whole lives - fear of their cruel and violent father. Scarlett knows that risking missing her own wedding will mean risking a life away from her bully father, and to Scarlett, the risk is too much. But her adventurous and risk-taking sister had other ideas, and soon enough, Scarlett, Tella and a rouge sailor boy, Julian, find themselves at the forefront of Caraval.
This book was everything I wanted it to be and more. It was amazing, so much so, that I'm kinda sad it's over and I'm hesitant to pick up the other two books in this series because a) I don't ever want this story to be over, and b) what if they're not as good?
This is the kind of book you just want to devour because you simply cannot get enough. Each new chapter brings a new character, a new obstacle for Scarlett to overcome, or a new setting that is dark and magical as the last.
The setting of Caraval is beautiful, yet dark and mysterious, but fun and magical all at the same time. The author does an amazing job at bringing Caraval and all it's characters to life through her fairytale-esque writing style and narration. Everything within Caraval is vivid and bold and enchantingly imaginative.
I loved the sisterly bond between Scarlett an Tella and the clash of personalities between them and how it somehow it worked so well. I usually dislike the whole "good sister / bad sister" scenario, but because we saw so little of Tella in this book, I think the author got away with it.
Despite the main character being Scarlett, my favourite character was Julian. He started off as a seemingly secondary character, but soon enough finds his place as one of the main characters. There are so many layers to his character and I genuinely couldn't work out throughout the whole book which direction his character was going to go.
And then there's Legend. He is a total mystery to me, and that's what I really loved about his character. Is he a genius, a villain or a saviour? As someone who is seen so little, but mentioned so much in the book, it really does create a whole mystery element behind his character and adds an extra layer of secrecy that ties in so well with the magical setting of Caraval.
Okay yes, there are a lot of cliches, especially in the romance area, but at the end of the book, nothing is as it seems to be.
I really would not hesitate to read this book. I genuinely had no idea how the story was going to pan out, and the many twists and turns throughout had me hooked and gave me major just one more chapter syndrome.
Verdict: ★★★★
1. How many books are too many for a series?
I'd say anything more than 3. A beginning, middle and end seems like the perfect amount to complete a series. I find a lot of series that have more than 3 books kind of just fill the gaps that no one asked to be filled.
2. How do you feel about cliffhangers?
If it's a series, then fine. But if it's a standalone, then I don't tend to particularly enjoy cliffhangers; I need closure on the story and the characters!
3. Hardcover or paperback?
The majority of my collection are paperback, but I LOVE hardback books. There's just something about them that feels more 'proper'.
4. Favourite book?
Tough one! But I would have to say Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronté.
5. Least favourite book?
I don't think I've ever read a book that I've truly hated. The two most recent ones I've not enjoyed are Let's Meet on Platform 8 by Carole Matthews and The Last of the Bowmans by J. Paul Henderson.
6. Love triangles - yes or no?
I read a lot of chicklit books and there's often a love triangle. If it's based around infidelity, then no (hence why I didn't like Let's Meet on Platform 8).
7. The most recent book you couldn't finish?
I've never not finished a book, sorry to be ***that*** person.
8. A book you're currently reading?
I'm rereading Wuthering Heights by Emily Broné. But I'm also 100 pages into Caraval by Stephanie Garber, and my current commute read is The Honeymoon by Tina Seskis.
9. The last book you recommended to someone?
Scythe by Neal Shusterman. In fact I've just lent my copy to a work colleague. It's SO BLOODY GOOD.
10. The oldest book you've read by publication date?
Wuthering Heights (which has been mentioned far too much in this blog post already!) I've also read the original version of Peter Pan by James Matthew Barrie, and most books by the Bronté sisters.
11. The newest book you've read by publication date?
I'm really bad at buying books as soon as they are released, and then taking forever to actually read them. The newest is probably Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman.
12. Favourite author?
Again, a really difficult one as I have a favourite author for different genres. Carole Matthews & Milly Johnson are my favourite chicklit authors. But I really do love all the Bronté sisters novels, too! After reading Scythe and Thunderhead, I'm really keen to pick up more of Neal Shusterman's books too!
13. Buying books or borrowing books?
Mainly buying. My bank account is screaming at me to get a library card.
14. A book you dislike that everyone else seems to love?
You. Everyone seemed to rave about this, but I just couldn't gel with any of the characters. I liked the TV series even less.
15. Bookmarks or dog ears?
Bookmarks, 100%.
16. A book you can always reread?
Drumroll... Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronté. I just loved the flawed characters and the atmospheric setting.
17. Can you read whilst listening to music?
Absolutely not. I like to read in complete silence.
18. One POV or multiple?
One - I love being taken on a complete journey with a character. I find I don't warm towards characters if the story is told in multiple POVs.
19. Do you read a book in one sitting or multiple days?
Pre-toddler I could easily read a book in a day. These days, time is a little tight & on average I get through a book a week (sob).
20. Who do you tag?
Everyone!
House of Salt and Sorrow by Erin. A Craig
"Annaleigh lives a sheltered life at Highmoor, a manor by the sea, with her sisters, their father, and stepmother. Once they were twelve, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls' lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last—the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge—and there are whispers throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods.
Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that the deaths were no accidents. Her sisters have been sneaking out every night to attend glittering balls, dancing until dawn in silk gowns and shimmering slippers, and Annaleigh isn't sure whether to try to stop them or to join their forbidden trysts. Because who—or what—are they really dancing with?
When Annaleigh's involvement with a mysterious stranger who has secrets of his own intensifies, it's a race to unravel the darkness that has fallen over her family—before it claims her next."
This is a retelling of "The Twelve Dancing Princesses" fairytale - albeit a darker, creepier version and it sounds amazing. This is one that has been raved about lately which makes me even more excited to pick it up!
The Toll (Arc of a Scythe #3) by Neal Shusterman
"It’s been three years since Rowan and Citra disappeared; since Scythe Goddard came into power; since the Thunderhead closed itself off to everyone but Grayson Tolliver.
In this pulse-pounding conclusion to New York Times bestselling author Neal Shusterman’s Arc of a Scythe trilogy, constitutions are tested and old friends are brought back from the dead."
This is the third and final book in the Arc of a Scythe series by Neal Shusterman and I cannot wait until it is released in November. I read (and reviewed!) both the prequels, Scythe & Thunderhead and I NEED to know what happens.
Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales by Angela Carter
"This stunning collection contains lyrical tales, bloody tales and hilariously funny and ripely bawdy stories from countries all around the world- from the Arctic to Asia - and no dippy princesses or soppy fairies. Instead, we have pretty maids and old crones; crafty women and bad girls; enchantresses and midwives; rascal aunts and odd sisters.
This fabulous celebration of strong minds, low cunning, black arts and dirty tricks could only have been collected by the unique and much-missed Angela Carter."
I love short stories, and what better short stories than grown-up fairytales?
The Flat Share by Beth O'Leary
"Tiffy Moore needs a cheap flat, and fast. Leon Twomey works nights and needs cash. Their friends think they're crazy, but it's the perfect solution: Leon occupies the one-bed flat while Tiffy's at work in the day, and she has the run of the place the rest of the time.
But with obsessive ex-boyfriends, demanding clients at work, wrongly imprisoned brothers and, of course, the fact that they still haven't met yet, they're about to discover that if you want the perfect home you need to throw the rulebook out the window..."
This sounds like a really light-hearted read, and I saw a fair bit of hype about this book a few months ago.
The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
"Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.
Summoned to Evelyn's luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the `80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn's story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique's own in tragic and irreversible ways."
People have sung this books' praise left, right and centre and I absolutely love anything to do with old Hollywood.
Our Song by Dani Atkins
"This is the story of Ally and Charlotte, whose paths have intersected over the years though they've never really been close friends. Charlotte married Ally's ex and first true love, David. Fate is about to bring them together one last, dramatic time and change their lives forever.
Full of Dani's signature warmth and emotion, this is a gripping and emotional family drama. With breath-taking plot twists, Dani explores themes of serendipity, friendship and love. What would you do if your husband was the love of somebody else's life? And when faced with an agonising decision, could you put the past behind you and do the right thing?"
I'm all for a tear-jerker, and I've heard this one will rip your heart out and shit all over it. SIGN ME UP.
A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigit Kemmerer
"Break the curse, save the kingdom. Prince Rhen, the heir to Emberfall, is cursed. Forced to repeat the autumn of his eighteenth year over and over, he can only be freed by love. But at the end of each autumn he is transformed into a beast hell-bent on destruction, and after so many failed attempts, his kingdom and its people are barely holding on. Harper's life has never been easy, but she's learned to be tough enough to survive. She won't let anything hold her back, not her cerebral palsy or her mother's deteriorating health. But when she is sucked into Rhen's world, nothing is as it seems. Powerful forces are standing against Emberfalll ... and it will take more than a broken curse to save it from utter ruin."
This Beauty and the Beast retelling has been top of my TBR for a while but I just never seem to find the time to pick it up. The sequel is out in March next year, so I definitely want to squeeze in reading it this year!
The Girl the Sea Gave Back by Adrienne Young
"For as long as she can remember, Tova has lived among the Svell, the people who found her washed ashore as a child and use her for her gift as a Truthtongue. Her own home and clan are long-faded memories, but the sacred symbols and staves inked over every inch of her skin mark her as one who can cast the rune stones and see into the future. She has found a fragile place among those who fear her, but when two clans to the east bury their age-old blood feud and join together as one, her world is dangerously close to collapse. For the first time in generations, the leaders of the Svell are divided. Should they maintain peace or go to war with the allied clans to protect their newfound power? And when their chieftain looks to Tova to cast the stones, she sets into motion a series of events that will not only change the landscape of the mainland forever but will give her something she believed she could never have again-a home."
There's two things that instantly intrigue me... books set on or near the ocean, and strong female characters, and this book has both!
Rachel’s Pudding Pantry follows Rachel, who is a farmer in the modern world, living with her mum Jill and her five year old daughter, Maisy. Rachel and her mum have been dealing with a lot of grief in the last couple of years since Rachel's father's death, and are struggling financially to keep the farm running.
The one thing that glues this family together and keeps them happy, is baking and making a variety of puddings. Rachel has the idea to open up their very own pudding pantry at the farm to help the farm out financially, and after convincing her mum to give it a go, they set up The Pudding Pantry.
Of course, no chick-lit is complete without a love interest, and that love interest comes in the form of Tom, Rachel's next-door neighbouring farmer, but then there's Rachel's ex - the father of her daughter - who shows up unexpectedly too.
I loved the farming aspect of the book. Rachel's day-to-day life wasn't painted as a pretty picture of her walking around the farm looking flawless and living the dream. No, the farming aspect of this book was clearly very well researched - there was talking of lambing season, birthing of farmyard animals, and the nitty gritty day-to-day tasks of farming life.
I loved that this book covers a wide variety of topics - friendship, single parenthood, starting up a business, friendships, relationship and loss. But it does so in a way that isn't forced or too "trying". I instantly warmed to Rachel and her ability to keep the farm running and keep the family afloat despite all the hurdles thrown her way.
I really enjoyed this book. It was my first time reading a Caroline Roberts book and I found it very easy to follow along to and the writing style just seemed to flow nicely. It was a very quick read for me too - I read this book in a day as it was just a really lovely read. It was entertaining yet a little predictable, but I did really enjoy it - one thing to note from this book, it will make you hungry! I believe there is a sequel to this book coming out at the end of October called Christmas at Rachel's Pudding Pantry and I'll be sure to pick it up!
Verdict: ★★★
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