Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas to all - thank you for visiting my blog! Happy Holidays!

I will write again soon for the new year. :)

Travel the United States with Books!

Long time, no post! Happy December!

It's that time of the year again when everyone is going crazy over the holidays and all the different book sites are giving out their "Best of the best!" book lists! I will save that for next month's post, as it is not quite end-of-the-year, yet!

Instead of being in the cold, I am wishing I was somewhere warmer right now.

So, in that spirit, here is a list of books I recommend for you to take a vacation with:

• Alabama
• Rebel Belle by Rachel Hawkins
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (to-read list)

• Alaska
• Julie of the Wolves by  Jean Craighead George (to-read list)

• Arizona
• The Secret of Shadow Ranch by Carolyn Keene 
• P.S. I Like You by Kasie West

• Arkansas
• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls (to-read list)

• California
• Wild by Cheryl Strayed (to-read list)

• Colorado
• A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies
• Adaline Falling Star by Mary Osborne Pope (to-read list)

• Connecticut
• Down the Rabbit Hole (An Echo Falls Mystery) by Peter Abrahams
• The Courage of Sarah Noble by Alice Dalgliesh (to-read list)

• Delaware
• Dark Shade by Jane Louise Curry (to-read list)
• Red Bird by Barbara Mitchell (to-read list, for children)

• Florida
• Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

• Georgia
• Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins
• Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell (to-read list)

• Hawaii
• Pele and the Rivers of Fire by Michael Nordenstrom (to-read list, children's book)
• Hawaii by James A. Michener (to-read list) 

• Idaho
• Fire Storm by Jean Craighead George and Wendell Minor (to-read list)

• Illinois 
• Divergent by Veronica Roth
• The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

• Indiana
• Mum's the Word by Kate Collins

• Iowa
• Cherry Blossom Princess by Marjorie Holmes (to-read list)

• Kansas
• The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum (to-read list)

• Kentucky
• Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech

• Louisiana
• Poison Princess by Kresley Cole

• Maine
• Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney (children's book) 
• A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord (to-read list)

• Maryland
• Blood and Chocolate by Annette Curtis Klause

• Massachusetts
• Boston Jacky by L.A. Meyer
• The Crucible by Arthur Miller

• Michigan
• Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton
• The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
• Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye (Psychic Eye Mystery, #1) by Victoria Laurie (to-read list)

• Minnesota
• The Twisted Tragedy of Miss Natalie Stewart by Leanna Renee Hieber (to-read list)
• Main Street by Sinclair Lewis (to-read list)

• Mississippi
• Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain 
• The Mirk and the Midnight Hour by Jane Nickerson (to-read list)

• Missouri
• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

• Montana
• Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (to-read list)
• Shep: Our Most Loyal Dog by Sneed B. Collard III (to-read list, children's book)

• Nebraska
• Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell (to-read list)

• Nevada
• Undeadly by Michele Vail (to-read list)
• Rhyolite: The True Story of a Ghost Town by Diane Siebert (to-read list, children's book)

• New Hampshire
• Asylum by Madeleine Roux
• Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

• New Jersey
• Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

• New Mexico
• Variant by Robison Wells (to-read list)

• New York
• Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan
• The Great Gatsby by F.Scott Fitzgerald

• North Carolina
• Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep (to-read list)

• North Dakota
• Beauty in the Breakdown by Tegan Anderson (to-read list)

• Ohio
• Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld (to-read list)

• Oklahoma
• Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse

• Oregon
• A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young
• One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey (to-read list)

• Pennsylvania
• Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard (to-read list)

• Rhode Island
•  Season of for Fireflies by Rebecca Maizel (to-read list)

• South Carolina
• Compulsion by Martina Boone
• Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl (to-read list)
• The Girl from Felony Bay by J.E. Thompson (to-read list)

• South Dakota
• Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow (to-read list)

• Tennessee
• Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

• Texas
• Glass Houses by Rachel Caine

• Utah
• Everneath by Brodi Ashton
• By Your Side by Kasie West
• Haunted Utah by Andy Weeks (to-read)

• Vermont
• Robert Frost's Poems by Robert Frost

• Virginia
• To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han (to-read list)

• Washington
• The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie 

• West Virginia
• Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

• Wisconsin
• No One Else Can Have You  by Kathleen Hale

• Wyoming
• Black Ice by Becca Fitzpatrick
• My Friend Flicka by Mary O'Hara (to-read list)

Note: This list was harder than I thought it would be, due to the amount of fiction I tend to read (fantasy worlds do not count!). Also, it is interesting how if you search for a particular state, the books show what the state is famous for (i.e. hauntings, baseball, shopping, crime, etc.). It seems I read many books out of the states, too, so that may call for another list in the future...

Note to self: Read more non-fiction in the upcoming year--or at least some with history mixed in!

What books are on your to-read list?

Fall YA Scavenger Hunt

Are you a fan of scavenger hunts? Are you ever stuck in a book depression after reading a really good book and don't know what to read next?

Well, twice a year, there is a young adult scavenger hunt hosted by author Collen Houck that challenges you to read different authors' blogs and find their favorite number. Different? Yes. The challenge allows you sneak peeks into new, up and coming books by your favorite author or author to be!

This past week I took part in the fall YA Scavenger Hunt (Go Red Team/Orange Team). This hunt is hosted twice a year, once in the spring, and again in the fall. 140 authors are split into teams of 20, who will share the hunt details on their respective blog pages. The authors will showcase another author (on their team) and share that author's new book details. Somewhere in the blog post she or he will mention her/his favorite number and a link to the next author to see the next showcase and number. At the end of all 20 authors, you must add together all the numbers and enter them on the YA Scavenger Hunt main website.

It is very helpful to have Excel in this hunt!





I implore you to try this hunt next spring, as it is fun and you get to read a lot of new book excerpts! If you do not like to read young adult, there is also a sister scavenger hunter for adult reads! See here for the YA Scavenger Hunt details and here for the New Adult Scavenger Hunt details.

My book count: 37
Currently reading: Lucky in Love by Kasie West

Until next time!

B_nn_d B__ks?

It is that period of time between September 24 and September 30. Have you guessed it? 

It is Banned Books Week! 

Image from American Library Association Press Kit

The display at one of my local libraries to celebrate the awareness this week!

It is the time of the year that we can reflect and celebrate our access to information, why it is important, and to challenge those who challenge the right to read certain titles! Censorship is harmful to everyone, and books (and other media) continue to be banned and challenged even to today. Thanks to those who stand up and speak out for the freedom to read and enjoy such works, we have Banned Books week, an event that celebrates our freedom to read!

So why have certain books been challenged in the past? Some of the reasons have been due to gender roles, violence, religious viewpoints, racism, drugs, political viewpoints, LGBT, and inaccuracy. Who challenges the books? The two largest groups have been the people who buy and read them and also the parents of those who the books may influence (31% and 42%, respectively). 

The breakdown: 

Statistics and information per the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom.

Here is a short list of books that are a) controversial, b) banned, or c) have been banned (you may have read a few of these in the past!):

• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
• On the Bright Side, I'm Now the Girlfriend of a Sex God: Further Confessions by Georgia Nicolson by Louise Rennison
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
• The Color Purple by Alice Walker
• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
  
• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald 
• Animal Farm by George Orwell
• A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway
• Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
• The Jungle by Upton Sinclair
• The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
• I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
• The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
• Carrie by Stephen King
• The Fighting Ground by Avi
• James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
• Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
• A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein
• The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

Are any of them surprising? Even if something is offensive/bad/insensitive, it is good to read and see another viewpoint. You may not agree with it, but you can see why and how others think the way they do. Others may not agree with your viewpoint, either! It is an avenue for all of us to come together and learn from each other. 

The American Library Association has a lovely description of intellectual freedom that I would like to share with you (to the left), and also ask you:

"Why is the freedom to read important to YOU?" 

Be sure to celebrate your freedom and right to read with a good book this week! (I'll be reading Edgar Allan Poe!)

New York, New York!

This week I would like to feature the lovely New York Public Library (a.k.a. the NYPL), as featured in many movies and TV shows, such as Ghostbusters and Once Upon A Time. Of course, there are many libraries in New York (92 to be exact, located in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island - per the NYPL's website), but this is the BIG one! I love visiting here, as it has such beautiful architecture, history, and personality. It was also declared a national historical landmark and also a New York City landmark.

Original Winnie the Pooh set! (So cute!)

Located on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, the main branch of the New York Public Library houses the famous Rose Main Reading Room, the original Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal set, and thousands of items to read, watch, or listen to, including research collections. These collections include an original copy of the Declaration of Independence handwritten by Thomas Jefferson, Virginia Woolf's walking stick, and Maya Angelou's archives! (www.nypl.org, At A Glance fact sheet)

New York Public Library - Front View

The front of the main branch is impressive. It beckons you to come in and wander around, get lost in a book. Two lions guard the northern and southern entrances. Their names have changed over the years, but as of the 1930's, they are known as Patience and Fortitude, for "the qualities [Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia] felt New Yorkers would need to survive the economic depression." (www.nypl.org) These figures have been implemented as the library's mascots, as shown in the library's logo.

New York Public Library - Fifth Avenue Fountain

Here is fountain that is in front of the main entrance on Fifth Avenue. This fountain and its partner are the work of Frederick MacMonnies. Fun Fact: He created a piece titled American Monument that was a commissioned gift to the people of France in exchange for the Statue of Liberty! (www.nypl.org) The fountain was not on at the present, as it is currently undergoing restorations. It is a lot smaller than Once Upon A Time leads you to believe, but nonetheless, beautiful!

Rose Main Reading Room famed ceiling mural

Rose Main Reading Room (shhh, people at work)

The Rose Main Reading Room reopened in the Fall of 2016, so I was able to capture a few shoots of the beautiful restorations! The ceiling mural, bookshelves, and sitting room is a real life version of Belle's library from Beauty and the Beast! You are not allowed to take photos of the entire space, as people are actually studying, reading, and doing work, but there are sections allotted for tourists and library enthusiasts to take photos and marvel at the intricacy of the design.

Bookshelves to envy! So many books to discover!

What is your favorite library to explore or that you have visited? Let me know in the comments, or feel free to send me an email! 

As Taylor Swift sang, "Welcome to New York, it's been waiting for you!"

Current # of books read: 34
Currently reading: Wonder Woman: Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo

Happy Booklover's Day + Updates

Hello world!

Yesterday was Booklover's Day, a day bookstores around the country celebrated our love of books with promotions, free bags, and discounts. Happy belated Booklover's Day!

(Image from Pixabay, congerdesign)

You may notice the blog changing a bit, I am working on making it more current and interactive, so please let me know of anything you would like to see (or don't like - be nice, please!) in the comments below!

Current # of books read: 31
Currently reading: Archie comics

Snowspelled by Stephanie Burgis (Coming Soon): It will put a spell on you!

Snowspelled by Stephanie Burgis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Snowspelled by Stephanie Burgis (Coming Soon): It will put a spell on you!

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery, Romance

This novella is a quick read, a must for readers who follow Ms. Stephanie Burgis! I received a copy for reviewing purposes in exchange for my honest feedback.

Reading Snowspelled felt like dipping my toes into a pool - I know the book is short, but I want more! Luckily, more is what will come to be. Snowspelled is Book 1 of the Harwood Spellbook series, and I will definitely be looking forward to more stories on our lovely heroine and her equal partner/hero.

I loved that Ms. Burgis made her heroine able to think her way through her own problems and stand up to others with conviction! It is refreshing to see a strong female lead without a dystopian-type plot. Ms. Cassandra Harwood, as we are introduced, knows much about magic in a world where the women practice politics and the men practice magic. There is much intrigue with her background, as we are introduced to her story by the acknowledgement that something bad has recently happened to her personally, as well as the fact that she is no longer engaged to be married! But, what is a woman to do when a former finance makes his reappearance? Cause a little drama, because you know the book would not be as fun without it!

In all? I really enjoyed reading this book. While understanding that this is book one, I am looking forward to more of a world building experience in the next book. Snowspelled was a great introduction to the characters that I hope to grow closer to in upcoming books, it certainly left me questions about why certain things are run the way they are.



View all my reviews

Gerard Way? (Yes way!)

This weekend, I was able to see Gerard Way in person! If you don't know who that is, he is the former singer of the rock band My Chemical Romance, and current author of the DC comic Doom Patrol. Doom Patrol is also illustrated by Nick Derington and colored by Tamra Bonvillain. You should check out their work--I know I will be soon! (I would have gotten a signed copy, but was too slow and the line was too long. Next time, I will be prepared!)

The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis

The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is just the cutest book! I love reading anything Stephanie Burgis writes, and have been waiting for the North American release since I heard about it!

"The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart" is a quick, fun read, about a female dragon who suddenly finds herself in a predicament. She's human, with a taste for chocolate! What is a now-human female to do? Go on an adventure, find a job, and eat chocolate! A girl on a mission, with a passion to learn all there is to chocolate (where to find it, how to make it, etc.), learns life lessons and the meaning of friendship. I highly recommend this book to all fantasy lovers!



View all my reviews

On The Road

"Think for a moment of the long chain of iron or gold of thorns or flowers that never would have bound you, but for the foundation of the first link on one memorable day..." - Charles Dickens

Happy May!

I wanted to show you an example of a "little free library." This one can be found in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, by the ASU campus and the Victorian houses. The little library contains a small selection of books, of which you can choose a book and later return it, and even add books of your own that you would like to share. These are cute little libraries that can provide much reading pleasure to any neighborhood or area.

Currently Reading: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
Number of Books Read: 16

World Book Day - April 23

World Book Day is as described on the United Nations website:

23 April was first proclaimed as World Book and Copyright Day by UNESCO in 1995. The Day is celebrated by a growing number of partners and since its launch has shown itself to be a great opportunity for reflection and information on a significant theme.

It is observed by millions of people in over 100 countries, in hundreds of voluntary organizations, schools, public bodies, professional groups and private businesses. In this lengthy period, World Book and Copyright Day has won over a considerable number of people from every continent and all cultural backgrounds to the cause of books and copyright. It has enabled them to discover, make the most of and explore in greater depth a multitude of aspects of the publishing world: books as vectors of values and knowledge, and depositories of the intangible heritage; books as windows onto the diversity of cultures and as tools for dialogue; books as sources of material wealth and copyright-protected works of creative artists. All of these aspects have been the subject of numerous awareness-raising and promotional initiatives that have had a genuine impact. There must nevertheless be no let-up in these efforts.

Since 2000, World Book and Copyright Day has inspired another initiative of professional organizations which receives the assistance of UNESCO and backing from States: World Book Capital City. Each year a city is chosen which undertakes to maintain, through its own initiatives, the impetus of the Day’s celebrations until 23 April of the following year. Almost all the regions of the world, in turn, have already been involved in this process, which thus transforms the celebration of books and copyright into a recurrent activity, extending still further the geographical and cultural influence of books.

Over recent years, the World Day has shown that it can be a potent symbol for the launch of major support operations, in particular in Latin America and Africa.

Over the weekend, you can take advantage of reading the beginning chapters of new books for free from Penguin House Books, on their website.

Happy reading!

Current book count: 15  (Recently read: Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard)

 

Libraries, bookstores, and more books, oh my!

Current count of books read for 2017: 13.

I am also in between several books, which is only hindered by me going out and buying more books. It is a cycle that will never end. :)

While it has been a while posting, I have been reading away the days and visiting bookstores and libraries, both familiar and new. For example, the historic Chicago library:

Harold Washington Library in Chicago

I also visited the new Amazon Bookstore that opened in my city. I was super excited for this to open, but disappointed when I finally visited during opening week. It is about the average size for a bookstore, as it does not only sell books, but also electronics, tea sets, and has a cafe inside. The books are impressively displayed, only the majority of them are not new books. I found quite a few books I read a few years ago, and could not find any new ones that I came in to buy. The plus side of this bookstore is that you can use your Amazon Prime membership to receive in-person discounts on items for sale. The downside is that it is not yet at that point of the store being able to provide you with a new book same day. (We can't all be New York!) Either way, I do recommend visiting at least once, as it is an experience in itself.

Amazon Bookstore - Electronics

Books, books, books!

Intriguing murals on the walls.

I will leave you with a couple quotes I found as noteworthy:

From: The Mark of the Tala by Jeffe Kennedy

From: Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard

Until next time!

Beauty and the Beast

A tale as old as time. Disney's latest live-action princess movie features our beloved bookworm heroine, Belle, as she meets the Beast and finds the adventure she was looking for. There are many versions of the story, of course, beginning with the timeless tale from Ms. Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villenue.

I, myself, cannot stop repeating the soundtrack from the new movie, so I bought the deluxe edition to listen on repeat! The score is pretty fun to listen to while reading. :)

If you would like more of the story and are into alternate versions, here are some modern rewrites that may interest you:

1. Cupid and Psyche
1. Greek mythology--that doesn't have a tragic ending!
2. Beastly by Alex Flinn
1. There is also a movie out based on this book. It is equally as good as the book, I recommend reading the book and then watching the film!
3. Belle by Cameron Dokey
1. This Belle has a magic talent that helps her to help the Beast break his curse. This is a quick one day read.
4. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
1. I prefer the sequel, but that is because it is more Hades/Persephone than Beauty and the Beast.
5. Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge 
6. East by Edith Pattou
1. A bit Beauty and the Beast, a bit Snow Queen, yet equally pleasing and a fun read. I read the European published version, I am not sure how different it is from the U.S. published version. I do like the difference in book covers, though. :)
7.  Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George
1. I love Jessica Day George! She has the cutest stories. This book is similar to East, but more for young adults than children. 
8. The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux
1. Of course this needs to be mentioned, especially with the Beast's new song "Evermore," giving him a bit of a "Phantom" moment!

 Is there a book that you think should be added to the list? Let me know, I would love to read another fairy tale retelling!

Poster: The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis

Look what came in the mail this past week! Ms. Stephanie Burgis, author of the Kat Incorrigible series, Masks and Shadows, and Congress of Secrets, has a new book out titled "The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart." It is currently released in the U.K., with pre-orders in the U.S. for a release date of May 30. I am excited for the book, as it promises chocolate and fantasy. Pre-order your copy here. I have hung the poster in my room, among

my other bookish treasures.

Happy Monday everyone!

Wires and Nerve by Marissa Meyer

*Note: There may be spoilers ahead. Not many, and nothing big, but just a warning. :)

     "Wires and Nerve," the first in a line of graphic novels with the story by Marissa Meyer, follows the  popular and successful Lunar Chronicles series. The series is a great retelling of several fairy tales, with a modern steampunk-ish twist. The first book, Cinder, is the story of a cyborg mechanic who captures the eye of the prince. Did I mention she has an evil stepmother AND an evil queen who both want nothing to do with her? Yes, the first book starts off with a twist on the classic Cinderella, followed by a Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and a Snow White retelling. The graphic novel expands on the world created by Ms. Meyer, this time following Cinder's android/best friend Iko.
     A quick read that went too fast, Wires and Nerve is a great beginning story line for Iko and our favorite Lunar/Earthen friends. Following the happy life like ending in Winter, we come across the Lunar crew--Cinder, Kai, Cress, Thorne (ahem, I mean CAPTAIN Thorne), Iko, Scarlet, Wolf, Winter, and Jacin--living their individual lives as we last left them. Except now, Iko is helping Cinder combating the issue of Levana's wolf-hybrids, who are wrecking havoc upon the Earth instead of peacefully returning to Luna to be rehabilitated. Iko, acting as a secret agent of sorts (and doing a great job of it), gives us a glimpse into what will be a fulfilling graphic novel series. This first novel sets the stage for all the characters to cross paths once more and defeat another devious plot, while also setting the stage for Cinder finally seeing Kai again (!!).
     I loved looking at all the character designs, as they were obviously different from what I had imagined, but not so much to the point that it was hard to identify characters. I cannot wait for the next installment, and I think I will read up on "Stars Above," which is the only Lunar Chronicles book that I have not yet read!

Also, just for fun, Marissa Meyer offers a Lunar Chronicles character quiz on her website, which you can find here. My result was Cress (a.k.a. Rapunzel for those not familiar with the series)! Let me know what character you are in the comments below!

The Dog Ate My...Manuscript??

Hello World!

Yes, I'm still around, just have been busy. Also, almost finished with a new book, of which I will review later this week. :)

In response to the title of this post, I would like to talk about the old age expression "The dog ate my homework." While listening to the radio this week, I heard this fun fact and figured I should pass it along to fellow bookworms. Can anyone tell me which classic author wrote a manuscript for a book and had to re-write it, by hand? (Yes, yes this is really a thing! I couldn't believe it either when I first heard it.) Give up? John Steinbeck - Of Mice and Men!

Apparently, Mr. Steinbeck's dog was left alone in the room with the manuscript and the dog tore it to shreds!Thankfully, Mr. Steinbeck was able to double his effort in recreating the manuscript and now we have the book we have come to know and love today. Maybe we should be glad the dog ate his work?

Happy Saturday!

Finished Reading: The Art of War by Paula Stokes
Relevant Song: Battlefield by Jordin Sparks

Happy Saturday!

My favorite place to visit for books, besides the library/bookstores/thrift shops? The dollar store! You would not think it, but Dollar Tree is my absolute favorite place to visit on a Sunday afternoon. They have a plethora of overstock books with some really great choices! They always differ, best sellers, manga, how-to's, etc. I can buy as many books as I want, without the guilt, but with the new book smell.

This past week, during my Dollar Tree visit, I stumbled upon the book, The Art of Lainey, the story plot of which intrigued me. The Art of Lainey is takes from the Art of War, by Sun Tzu, in the way that her boyfriend breaks up with her and she uses ancient Chinese warlord strategies to try and win him back. It is a cute, quick read in the spirit of Valentine's Day. I highly recommend it if you are in the mood for something cutesy, yet with a point and a plot.

I have not yet read The Art of War by Sun Tzu, but it has been on my list for a while. I am making it a point to read it within the few weeks. Also to add to my reading list: More books by Paula Stokes. Seriously, go read this book/her writing! She is creative and funny and you definitely will not regret it. :)

Music and Books

Many authors have song playlists they listen to while they write their masterpieces. I am a fan of many genres of books, as well as many genres of music. Luckily, both of these go hand in hand and create (at least for me) an unforgettable reading experience. I love to listen to songs while reading, so it seems more alive. It is a bit like watching a movie in my head--thank you power of imagination!

Here are a few songs and books I have listened to together in the past:

• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
• Swan Song by Within Temptation (first half of book)
• Angels by Within Temptation (first half of book)
• Splintered Series by A.G. Howard 
• Give You What You Like by Avril Lavigne
• The Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare 
• Clarity by Zedd featuring Foxes

I will list more as I remember them/begin new books. Let me know in the comments: Do you have a music playlist while you read or do you need it to be absolutely quiet?

Happy National Reading Day!

Today is National Reading Day, the day where reading is encouraged among all ages! What have YOU been reading? Let me know in the comments or via the hashtag #currentlyreadingblog. I have been bouncing back and forth between different book series and catching up on the 75th anniversary of Archie comics. Why comics? Well, they are a quick outlet of reading fun, great for bedtime (since you don't have to keep reading "only one more chapter" and end up staying up all night). Also, the new show Riverdale is going to air soon on the CW. As a fellow Archie fan (the early Sabrina shows helped play a part), I am excited! Also, the entire series has been rebooted and I am liking the new Betty and Veronica and can't wait for the new Sabrina special I am hearing rumors on. As for "real" books--I have started a new paranormal series based on a puzzle video game. Rather, the game is based on the book and intrigued my interest in the series. It is called Tiger Eye by Marjorie Liu. I do not have a review on it so far, as I have only played the video game-which is only part one, I do not think there is a part two-and have just started the book today. I do recommend the game, as it is a cute, quick play, and it may spark your interest in the series, too. That is all I have for now. Happy reading!!

First Read of January 2017

Originally posted on January 8, 2017.

Happy new year! What have you been reading?

I myself have just finished a book that is considered one of the best of 2016: The Vegetarian by Han Kang. I honestly thought the story would have been different by the synopsis, but it was an interesting read nonetheless. It had multiple character viewpoints--three to be exact. The main character is a woman who had a disturbing dream and decided to become a vegetarian. Her husband, the first character we hear the story from, is abusive and the story seems a bit like a horror film in slow motion. The main character's brother-in-law is the second perspective, where things become more perverse and at this point, I really didn't want to continue reading. The third point of view, the main character's sister, showed the most depth, in my opinion, and showed the sadness and despair that she herself felt and the main character's insanity (technically schizophrenia, but the things that go on in this book do borderline on insanity at times). The story was first terrifying, then disgusting, then, just sad. It was interesting how it was more about mental health than actual vegetarianism. It was a quick read, but not something I recommend unless you like fiction with a heavy dose of reality (and not the fun parts of reality). A bit heavy for such a short book.

The reason I finished it was to give adult fiction another try and also because my local library is hosting a contest each month this year. They choose a list of books to read and you challenge yourself to read it during the month. It is a fun, quick challenge that definitely inspires different viewpoints. But, I do prefer young adult/younger reader fiction. It can be heavy, but not so much that you feel the need to find another escape route than reading. Reading is the best place to use your imagination, so why imagine the worst?

Let me know what you are reading and if you are feeling up to the challenge of reading a 2016 book! I am quite curious about The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman. It sounds quite less statement piece and more lose yourself in an adventure, which I am now in need of after this last book. 

Happy New Year!!

Originally posted on December 31, 2016.

My goal this year was to read 100 books. I have made it to 91. So close!

That said, here are my top 5 books for 2016 (in no particular order):

1. 23 Minutes by Vivian Vande Velde
2. A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
3. The Boy is Back by Meg Cabot
4. P.S. I Like You by Kasie West
5. Furthermore by Tahereh Mafi

My top 5 to look forward to next year:

1. RoseBlood by A.G. Howard
   1. Yes, technically I read it already, but I really do recommend it! It is sure to make phans of all ages happy and it is a sequel-esque book to the Phantom of the Opera, but with a whole new twist!
2. Arcana Rise (Arcana Chronicles #5) by Kresley Cole
3. A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Rose and Thorns #3) by Sarah J. Maas
4. The Dragon With A Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis
5. By Your Side by Kasie West

I hope you all have a happy new year filled with many good stories to come! Leave a comment below with what book you look forward to in the new year.  :)

Book Contest! (NOT hosted by me)

Originally posted on December 16, 2016.

Secret Santa Giveaway contest! Not hosted by me, but author Kate Collins is sponsoring the secret bonus  prize--isn't that enough to make you want to enter? You have a chance to win a stocking full of ebooks and a $100 Amazon gift card!  To enter, visit this link: http://vy.tc/cHwzX57.

If you refer 3 friends, you will get a copy of one of her earlier romance novels for free! Good luck!

Letter from Meg Cabot?!

Originally posted on December 16, 2016.

I recently wrote to Meg Cabot, author of so many great books and series, such as the iconic Princess Diaries and more recently, the latest edition to her Boy series, The Boy is Back. She sent me a letter (see below), with updates on her writing, which includes the third book, Royal Crush, from the series From the Notebooks of a Middle School Princess. Also, a signed bookplate and a cute bookmark! Nice! :)

If you would like a cool bookmark and an autograph for one of your Meg Cabot books, Ms. Cabot has information on her website www.megcabot.com on the where to send your fan mail/request.

RoseBlood by A.G. Howard

Originally posted on October 9, 2016.

A.G. Howard is one of my favorite authors! We have the same taste in fantasy literature. The first of her writing that I fell in love with is the Splintered series, a modern punk/goth version of Alice in Wonderland. The series is currently finished, with a total of 4 books and novellas. It is a wild ride of a read, one that will be sure to make all Alice fans ponder "How curious, what will happen next?"

Following the series, Ms. Howard has written two more books, the Architect of Song and RoseBlood. RoseBlood, in particular, is a retelling of the Phantom of the Opera. If you do not know me, I am a big fan of the Phantom of the Opera, whether it be the musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the book by Gaston Leroux, or the many other retellings by similar fans of the story. I was lucky enough to win an Advanced Reader Copy (a.k.a. "ARC") that was signed by Ms. Howard and came with a really pretty music note bookmark!

RoseBlood was a great read, it took me about 3 days to finish it (which would have been less if work and other life things did not get in the way). It was fast and exciting to read, I recommend reading with Andrew Lloyd Webber's soundtrack in the background or Lindsey Stirling's Phantom of the Opera melody.

Set in Paris in a school for rising musicians, our young heroine Rune has been sent to study away from home in her mother's attempt for her to overcome her stage fright. Rune, however, knows her condition is more than stage fright, for when she hears certain songs, she cannot help but sing! Upon her arrival to her new school, Rune spies a figure in a black cape holding roses. When she later settles and goes out to see if she was seeing a real person, ghost, or perhaps figment of her overactive imagination, she only finds the remains of dead roses. But, she knows for sure she saw something! Her mother and other students believe that the story of the Phantom of the Opera is getting to her, and that she should rest. But who did she see? And how come she feels that someone is watching her, following her every move through her school and dorm?

RoseBlood is a mix of the Leroux's Phantom and a mix of Webber's musical. It seemed to draw similarities between the song "Don Juan," as when you thought you knew the plot, an unexpected twist occurs! The plot was something I never would have imagined myself, it was great to see a new take on a beloved story. It has romance, paranormal fantasy, and a bittersweet ending. There is no true tragedy in this story, but it will definitely make you feel emotions.

I believe RoseBlood is a great contribution to the Phantom "phan-dom" and I cannot wait to read the Architect of Song. More to come!

Flower Shop Mystery Series by Kate Collins

Originally posted on August 17, 2016.

Fifth in the series, "Acts of Violets" was a pleasant quick mystery read in the Flower Shop Mystery Series by Kate Collins. Abby Knight, our busybody heroine, is a mixture of Nancy Drew and Miss Marple. Set in small (fictional) town New Chapel, Indiana, our story begins with an angry clown, a Pickle Festival, and a variety of characters to set the scene. It seems that trouble seems to follow Abby, or rather she finds it! After a confrontation with an angry clown, Marco, Abby's boyfriend, goes to the rescue. Unfortunately, events take a spin for the worse when Snuggles the Clown is found dead and Marco is the main suspect! Abby must believe in herself and use her newly developed PI abilities to save the day!

The Flower Shop Mystery series is fast-paced and thrilling, a guilty pleasure that is never stale. Each book has a unique story line that is continuous and intriguing. Once you are hooked, you will be sure to be lost in the series! Fans can now watch the two (yes two!) movies from the Hallmark channel that depict the first book, Mum's the Word, and the third book, Dearly Depotted. Do not worry about reading the series and ruining the movies, or vise versa. The movies are more loosely based on plots than true to the series. But, that does not mean they are not worth looking into, either!

I highly recommend the book series, which may get another review as I am closer to finishing the 18 books out currently, and watching the movies if you want a good plot to get lost in for a couple of hours.