Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #320

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

DEVILS UNTO DUST BY EMMA BERQUIST

Goodreads Description:

Ten years ago, a horrifying disease began spreading across the West Texas desert. Infected people—shakes—attacked the living and created havoc and destruction. No one has ever survived the infection. Daisy Wilcox, known as Willie, has been protecting her siblings within the relatively safe walls of Glory, Texas. When Willie’s good-for-nothing father steals a fortune from one of the most dangerous shake-hunters in town, she finds herself on the hook for his debt. With two hunters, including the gruff and handsome Ben, to accompany her, she sets out across the desert in search of her father. But the desert is not kind to travelers, and not everyone will pass through alive.

Western meets horror for this riveting story about survival, family, and inner strength. Tense, short chapters propel readers from one action-packed scene to the next, while Willie’s distinctive, introspective voice deepens the emotional stakes with every turn of the page. High concept and character-driven, Emma Berquist’s debut will satisfy fans of The Magnificent Seven, Rae Carson’s Walk on Earth a Stranger, and HBO’s Westworld.
'

Hardcover, 496 pages
Expected publication: April 10th 2018 by Greenwillow
Pre-Order here and here

This cover is so so lovely. The book sounds so awesome; reminds me a lot of Walk on Earth a Stranger, which is a series that I love. Hoping this will be a book I will end up loving too :D I have it via Edelweiss, just need to make myself start it. Ack. Very soon, I think. I'm pretty curious about this very gorgeous book.
What are you waiting for on this desert Wednesday?

Monday, November 27, 2017

Review: There's Someone Inside Your House by Stephanie Perkins

I simply couldn't not get this when I saw that awesome cover and read the summary. It sounded like such an amazing thriller story. And so I was pretty excited to finally start this book now. But ah, I ended up being pretty disappointed about this book. There were parts of the book that I enjoyed a whole lot, but it wasn't enough.

My biggest issue with this book was the writing. I couldn't stand it. It bothered me from start to finish. I sadly never got used to it, or started to like it. And so it was even more difficult to enjoy this story. Not sure how to describe it, just that it was not well enough written at all. I never felt connected to the characters or the story.

I thought this book would be all about murders. With characters getting killed often, in brutal ways, and them all trying to find the killer, with it being possible that it could be anyone. It was sort of like that. But then again, not. It focused way more on the main girl, and her relationship with a boy. I actually liked the romance. But yeah, I wanted this to be a thriller book. Sigh. There are point of views from all the characters that end up getting killed, just a few pages. Sadly they weren't thrilling at all. Probably because of how I didn't like the writing. I did not feel scared, and I need to feel scared in a good thriller. Hmph. All the murders are done pretty brutally. It was not good enough for me to feel creeped out, or feel scared by it. There were a few exciting scenes, sure.

But then again, most scenes were not. And that is why I am disappointed by this book. I liked the few exciting scenes there was. And I liked most of the romance. But the writing bothered me so much. And I had issues with Makani's friends. And I even had issues with the killer. Like, how did this person have the strength to kill all those teenagers, and in such brutal ways? It didn't make a whole lot of sense. And I'm not sure I liked that ending at all. A little rushed, and could have used at least twenty more pages. Hmph.

But anyway. I'm going to talk about some of the things that I enjoyed about this book. It's a story about a girl named Makani. She's half hawaiian and half black. Which I loved a whole bunch. She moved from her home in Hawaii about a year ago, to live with her grandmother in a small town in America. I liked reading about Makani a whole lot. She has a secret past. And while I found that past to be incredibly weird and not exciting, I still liked reading about the girl. She was sweet and pretty fierce. I pretty much adored her.

But I adored her grandmother a whole lot more. She was very awesome. And I simply adored reading about her. Makani has two best friends, Darby and Alex. And ugh, I am not sure how to feel about these two girls. They were interesting to read about, and they could be great friends too. But they were also too quick to judge this one person, and I couldn't help but really dislike them for that. It bothered me. Even so, they were being good friends, despite that. Sometimes. I just could not make myself love them. Shrugs.

Then there was the boy. Because most of this book is about Makani and a boy. Aka Ollie. And oh, I did love this boy a whole bunch. He was awesome. And I loved getting to know him. And I adored reading about him and Makani together. But there was another reason for why I did not love this. The swoony scenes had no swoon. So disappointing. Makani and Ollie had a past that happened in the summer that just pissed me off. I just wish there had been more swoon. Could have been written lots better. Sad face.

But anyway. Enough about all of that. This book was supposed to be about a bunch of murders. And it was. There are a lot of teenagers in their school getting killed. And some parts of it were a bit freaky, but yeah, I wish it had been written better, so that I could have loved it more. Aw. But even so. There were parts of this book I liked a lot. Only wishing it had been better. And so I'm giving There's Someone Inside Your House two stars. It wasn't perfect. But I liked parts of it. Think I would recommend reading it, though.


Saturday, November 25, 2017

In My Mailbox #316

I have been pretty behind on things this week. I just have not had the energy at all. Not to read, not to catch up. Just done nothing, most of the time. I got a new medicine at the hospital on Tuesday, but I am not feeling any better at all, because this new medicine might take up to 14 weeks before it begins to work. Ahhh. I am not pleased. But it was the only one that might have any effect at all. But yeah. It sucks. Because I am still in pain, all the time. But yeah, hoping the medicine might start working sooner. Fingers crossed. Besides this, I have been a bit lazy too. Just haven't felt like doing anything. I will start reading a book today. Then start reading more. I hope, at least :D My pictures from now on will be a bit darker, with light from inside, as the sun is now gone here for many weeks. How rude. But it's almost Christmas now, eee. I'm super excited. Because I didn't do much this week, I also didn't blog much. But I did post twice, so yay for that. I shared my review of Renegades :D Which I loved. This week I'm waiting on Everless. <3 I also got the most awesome mail this week. A bunch of books that I have traded for. Eeee. Cost me a lot of money, gosh, but worth it. They all look GORGEOUS. I'm dying a little. So so so happy with them all.

Giveaway over at Instagram: Win a Nevernight Bookmark set. Enter here.


Taylor Swift. Yesss. My gorgeous magazines+cd has arrived :D They look gorgeous. Love the songs.
Supernatural Coloring Book. Another Supernatural coloring book :D Yesss. Love this show so much.
Frozen. I couldn't resist buying this cute coloring book. Super excited about the new Frozen short movie.
Hotel Transylvania. I adore these movies so so much. And I cannot wait for the third one next year. Yess.
One Dark Throne. Finally got the international paperback version of this :D Collection almost complete.
47 Meters Down. I loved this movie. Ordered in September; but didn't get shipped until now. Hmph.
Taylor Swift: Reputation. Also got a regular CD version of this soundtrack :D I love it so so much. Sigh.
Pop Figures + Plush. Yay for Snow White :D Adorable. And eee, new Bukowski plush. It's so so precious.
Rosemarked + Invictus + Unearthed + The Map to Everywhere + City of Thirst. Ahhh :D Thank you so much God of Wax for trading these books with me. And to Becky, for helping me get them to Norway. Eee. I am dying. They all look SO PERFECT. I have read and enjoyed them all; love that I now own all.
Tess of the Road. EEE! Thank you so much for trading this with me Kelly :D I am dying. It's so perfect.
All Our Yesterdays + Here Lies Daniel Tate + Deception + Deliverance + Daughter of the Siren Queen + Vengeance Road + The Raven Boys ARC Box + Reign the Earth. Oh my god. I am dying of amazing books :D Eee. Thank you so, so much for trading with me Kelly :D I'm so happy. They are all so perfect. Ahh. So happy to add them all to my collections, eee. I already have a Raven Boys ARC, so I am thrilled with this box :D And gosh. Just all of these ARCs. I'm dying. Love them so so much. Thank you Kelly. <3


More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #319

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

EVERLESS BY SARA HOLLAND

Goodreads Description:

In the land of Sempera, time is extracted from blood and used as payment. Jules Ember and her father were once servants at Everless, the wealthy Gerling family’s estate, but were cast out after of a fateful accident a decade ago. Now, Jules’s father is reaching his last hour, and she will do anything to save him. Desperate to earn time, she arrives at the palace as it prepares for a royal wedding, ready to begin her search into childhood secrets that she once believed to be no more than myths. As she uncovers lost truths, Jules spirals deeper into a past she hardly recognizes, and faces an ancient and dangerous foe who threatens her future and the future of time itself. 

Hardcover, 336 pages
Expected publication: January 2nd 2018 by HarperTeen
Pre-Order here and here

I'm both excited and nervous about this book. I have had it via Edelweiss for weeks now, but have yet to start it. Ack. I wish so badly to love it, because it looks gooorgeous, and sounds pretty awesome too. But nervous even so, as I kind of peeked, haha. But yess. I will be reading it soon. Hope I will love it lots :D
What are you waiting for on this timeless Wednesday?

Sunday, November 19, 2017

Review: Renegades by Marissa Meyer

After having waited so long for this book, I have finally gotten to read it. I can honestly say that it was very much worth the wait. Because Renegades was all kinds of perfection. Loved this one so much. And I'm so, so happy about it. I am the biggest fan of Marissa; adore her and have loved all of her books so far. Yess.

And I'm thrilled that Renegades is another book of hers that I love like crazy. But ahh, the wait for the next and final book is going to be torture. I need to know what will happen right now. That ending was so rude. Yet so awesome too. But I'm nervous about what will happen. Want a happy ending for these people.

It is a lot more difficult to write reviews for books that I love so much. But trying my best to put my thoughts together to share why I loved this precious thing. First, the writing is the best. Like with every book by Marissa. I had no issues with connecting to the story or the characters. I loved how the book is told from the point of view of Nova and Adrian. They are both such amazing characters, and I loved reading about them oh so much. There is so much about Renegades that I loved. I don't know where to begin with describing it all. The book is long, yet not nearly long enough. There is still so much that has yet to be revealed. I'm very sure I know what happened with Nova's parents, and Adrian's mom. So curious to know if I'm fully right. And excited.

This is very much a superhero book. And it was all kinds of awesome. Pretty funny too. Yet also beyond heartbreaking at times. Like with that first chapter, about Nova's past, and how she watched her family get murdered. It was so cruel and written so well. I loved it, yet hated it too. There is a huge story there, about what happened to her family. And I feel like there were tons of clues, yet Nova hasn't realized it yet, and ahh. I hope it happens the way I want it to. So excited for the next book. It is all going to be so good.

Nova was such an interesting girl to read about. I loved her tons. Though I am still a bit unsure about her, because she is very much a villain. And while I was unsure at times whether she was bad or not, there were also times when she wasn't a good person. Yet I loved her at every moment. But gosh, that ending. Makes me see her even more as a villain, yet it might just be because I have strong feelings about her uncle Ace, and how I see him as the biggest villain there was. Though Nova did not see him as a villain.

Which is why I'm a bit conflicted about how I felt about her. She was so awesome and fierce and badass and gentle too. I loved her to pieces. But I feel like she might end up ruining a whole bunch of things, and I'm so nervous about it. Ahh. But even so, she was amazing to read about and I loved her so. She is an Anarchist, aka a villain, along with a few other people she has lived with for years. They are in hiding, as the Renegades, aka the heroes, are currently in charge of this town. And so she lives in subway tunnels.

There is so much about this plot with the Anarchists and the Renegades. There are tons of Renegades, but most of the Anarchists have been killed, years ago. And so Nova only lives with a few of them, and reading about them all were pretty fun. I disliked some, but adored a few of them too. Honey was pretty exciting to read about. Nervous about Phobia, and Winston was creepy yet exciting to read about. And oh, this whole town. And the whole superhero plot. I won't share about it, but it was so very interesting.

Then there was Adrian. And ah, I very much loved this boy. He is a Renegade, and the adopted son of two of the biggest heroes in this time. Reading about him was so awesome, and I loved his two dads a whole bunch. And just this boy was perfect. A bit flawed, of course, and made some mistakes too. But he was adorable. And his superhero power was all kinds of fun; wish I had that. He also has a secret, which gets him into some trouble, but I liked it a lot. And reading about Adrian and Nova together was the best.

There is still so much I could say about this book. But my review is already getting long enough. But do know that this book was epic and I loved every moment of it. I loved when Nova and Adrian meet, and how they spend time together, and how they start having feelings for each other. It was the cutest, and I ship them so badly, and I need it to happen in book two. There are also tons of other amazing characters in this book, like their team, and they were all awesome. Just, everything about this book was so good.

Renegades was everything I wanted it to be and more. It ruined my heart at times, yet most of the time it was all kinds of fun and exciting. The characters were the best to read about, and I loved all of them so much. The story was interesting and mysterious too. Pretty much dying to read the final book. Nervous, yet beyond excited. It's going to be so perfect, I hope. If you haven't read Renegades yet, then you really need to. Because this is not a book you should be missing out on. It was so perfect. And is so gorgeous.


Saturday, November 18, 2017

In My Mailbox #315

I'm just so exhausted all the time. Ugh. But trying my best to still get things done :) I'm reading a little, and catching up a little too. I'm currently reading and loving Renegades, finally, eee. It's so good. This week I also got a lot of stunning mail; love it all. And waiting on so much awesome. Ahh. So excited about it all. But also feeling pretty sad, because my laptop has been dead for two weeks now. The service place still haven't gotten the spare parts for it, so I'm still waiting to know about all my stuff on it. I need it. I want it back, now. I do love my new laptop, though. It's awesome. Though, well, it's still really slow, and I can't figure out how to fix that. Ugh. Might even have to send it in o.O But not until I get my old laptop back, at least. Blogged a bit. I shared my review of Batman: Nightwalker :D I shared the cover for Queen of Air and Darkness. <3 Then shared my review of Snow & Rose. And this week I'm waiting on Ash Princess :) This week have sort of been good. Just busy and exhausting. My health sucks the very most, and it's not getting any better. The wait for the 30th is taking forever. Sigh. I hope the new medicine then will work, and work fast. Fingers crossed. But right now I just want to feel okay for a few hours, which is just about impossible. Rude. So I'm still a bit behind, and slow in reading too. But still getting things done, even so :)


Renegades. Second hardcover has arrived :D And it is so gorgeous. Sigh. Currently reading and loving it.
Fragments of the Lost. Eee, I really liked this book. And finally have the finished copy. It's beyond pretty.
Flashtide + Flashfall. These books are both so good. Love my finished hardcover and paperback. Yess.
Renegades. And lovely audiobook has arrived too :D It's gorgeous. I own all of Marissa's audios too. <3
Trolls. Ohh, new Trolls short is coming up :D Couldn't resist buying the CD from it too, eee. Adore this.
City of Bones. Eee! 10th year edition; US version :D SO beautiful. Graphic novel too. Ahh. Love them.
Whichwood. I still haven't read her first middle grade book, ack. But now I own them both; reading soon.
Tangled. I can't help but buy these gorgeous new Tangled books. I adore this new animated series so.
The Wind Rises + When Marnie Was There. Yay for Studio Ghibli movies :D Haven't seen Marnie yet.
Flashfall/Flashtide Swag. EEE! Thank you so so much Jenny :D I am in love with all of this. Sniffs. Ahh.
Feisty Pets. Ahh :D I couldn't not have this precious thing. Cost a bunch, but it is beyond awesome. Love.


More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #318

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

ASH PRINCESS BY LAURA SEBASTIAN

Goodreads Description:

Theodosia was six when her country was invaded and her mother, the Queen of Flame and Fury, was murdered before her eyes. Ten years later, Theo has learned to survive under the relentless abuse of the Kaiser and his court as the ridiculed “Ash Princess.” Pretending to be empty-headed and naive when she's not enduring brutal whippings, she pushes down all other thoughts but one: Keep the Kaiser happy and he will keep you safe.

When the Kaiser forces her to execute her last hope of rescue, Theo can't keep her feelings and memories pushed down any longer. She vows revenge, throwing herself into a plot to seduce and murder the Kaiser's warrior son with the help of a group of magically gifted and volatile rebels. But Theo doesn't expect to develop feelings for the Prinz. Or for her rebel allies to challenge her friendship with the one person who's been kind to her throughout the last hopeless decade: her heart's sister, Cress.

Cornered into impossible choices and unable to trust even those who are on her side, Theo will have to decide how far she's willing to go to save her people and how much of herself she's willing to sacrifice to become queen.
 

Hardcover, 432 pages
Expected publication: April 24th 2018 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Pre-Order here and here

Look at that gorgeous cover. Ahhh. I love it so. And oh my gosh, that summary is amazing. I must admit that I just recently read all of it, because I knew I wouldn't be able to wait if I knew all the details of the book. Hmph. And this was true. Because now I want this book so, so badly. It sounds amazing. And epic. And full of romance, I hope. Hoping that it will all end well. Fingers crossed. Hope to get to read it early.
What are you waiting for on this revengeful Wednesday?

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Review: Snow & Rose by Emily Winfield Martin

When I saw this gorgeous cover, I could not resist buying this book. I also adore reading middle grade stories, and fairy tales, so this one sounded amazing. And so I couldn't resist reading it when my hardcover has arrived. But oh, I'm so sad to say that I was disappointed. I thought it would be amazing. But it was not.

My biggest issue with this book was the writing. It all sort of felt awkward. I didn't enjoy it at all. I didn't connect with the story or the characters. To me, it was written in a weird way and I didn't like it. Which was depressing. Good writing is a must, and sadly this wasn't good at all. Also felt like it maybe tried a bit too hard.

If that makes any sense at all. It was written like it was telling a story, a story about Snow and Rose. It just wasn't written good. At least not for me. I'm positive that others will enjoy this writing, but I did not. And so I am giving this two stars. Because since I wasn't able to connect with the writing, I also didn't feel anything for the story. Though that was not the only reason for why I did not like this book. I felt like this story was too little, too childish and too boring. I adore middle grade books. But this felt like it was written for way younger kids, and not in a good way. Aw. Snow is nine years old, and Rose is eleven. They are sisters and live with their mother in the woods. Their father went missing some time ago, which meant they had to leave their nice house.

I'm not sure what to say about this book. It's pretty short, and fast to read. I sadly wasn't that interested in the story, so it was a bit boring for me. The book also takes place over a year, and with just about nothing happening. We learn a little bit about both girls, and they were pretty adorable to read about. Their mom is a bit distant, missing her husband. But because of the weird writing, I didn't get to know the girls nearly enough, and so I did not love them. They just spend their days in the forest, walking around all the time.

Which I must admit was all kinds of boring. Sigh. There are a few animals included in this book, but I also felt like that was a bit awkward too. Some parts of the book were interesting, as there was a curse in the woods. Kind of. But there was too little focus on it, so it grew boring again. There is also a big bear, which was kind of interesting, but also very unrealistic, so I did not enjoy that very much either. Rose and Snow becomes friends with a boy who also lives in the woods, Ivo. He was kind of cute. Too little of him as well.

There truly isn't much I can say about this book. Because there really wasn't much happening. I suppose that the plot is about people going missing in the woods, and the girls being able to save the forest. But it wasn't focused on at all, so it wasn't that great. And I thought the ending was way too good, way too easy. So yeah. I was just pretty much disappointed by Snow & Rose. I had hoped it would be much more, with how gorgeous it looks. At least there are pretty illustrations inside. Curious to know what others think of it.


Monday, November 13, 2017

Cover Reveal: Queen of Air and Darkness by Cassandra Clare

Ahh, I am SO dying to read this book. It's going to be so perfect. And rude. And awful. And heartbreaking. I cannot wait. Book one was Emma, book two Julian, and this one is Annabel. She looks GORGEOUS. The colors. The girl. The dress. Everything. It's beautiful. And ahh, look at all three of them together. Love how they have changed the colors of title and author and series name for each of the books. Looks so so awesome. There isn't any kind of summary for this book yet, sobs, and it's not possible to pre-order it yet either. But that's because this book is not out until December 4th, 2018. Which is forever away. But worth the wait. Though the wait is already so painful. Hmph. I loved the first two books so, so much. And I am simply dying to read what happens next. It will be so awesome. What do you think of this lovely cover? :D
Update: There is now a summary! Eeee. I am SO excited. And nervous. Love it so. And amazon link too.


Dark secrets and forbidden love threaten the very survival of the Shadowhunters in Cassandra Clare’s Queen of Air and Darkness, the final novel in the #1 New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling The Dark Artifices trilogy. Queen of Air and Darkness is a Shadowhunters novel.

What if damnation is the price of true love?

Innocent blood has been spilled on the steps of the Council Hall, the sacred stronghold of the Shadowhunters. In the wake of the tragic death of Livia Blackthorn, the Clave teeters on the brink of civil war. One fragment of the Blackthorn family flees to Los Angeles, seeking to discover the source of the blight that is destroying the race of warlocks. Meanwhile, Julian and Emma take desperate measures to put their forbidden love aside and undertake a perilous mission to Faerie to retrieve the Black Volume of the Dead. What they find in the Courts is a secret that may tear the Shadow World asunder and open a dark path into a future they could never have imagined. Caught in a race against time, Emma and Julian must save the world of Shadowhunters before the deadly power of the parabatai curse destroys them and everyone they love.

Lady Midnight. Lord of Shadows. Queen of Air and Darkness. Cassandra Clare. Amazon.


Saturday, November 11, 2017

Review: Batman: Nightwalker by Marie Lu

This book was pretty incredible. The writing was gorgeous and the story was exciting. The book is fast to read and sort of short, yet so interesting. I loved this modern story about eighteen year old Bruce Wayne aka Batman. I'm giving this precious book four stars, as I didn't fully love everything, yet still enjoyed it so much.

I'm not a big fan of Batman, as I haven't seen much of him. But I do enjoy the show Gotham. And this book reminded me a lot of that, although this was not incredibly dark like the show. Just felt that Bruce and Alfred was a bit similar, and I liked that lots. Think that this book made me like Batman a whole lot. So yay for that.

Batman: Nightwalker tells the story of Bruce Wayne, just turned eighteen years old. His parents were killed when he was eight years old, and he has been living with his butler turned guardian, Alfred, ever since then. I really liked getting to read about Bruce. He was fun to get to know. He's a kind and gentle person. He's full of money, of course. And he lives in a mansion. But he isn't horrible. I loved that about him. He has two best friends, Dianne and Harvey. And I adored those friends of his. Though the book is short, they both have their own story that is hinted at. And I loved getting to know them both a little bit. They were also such excellent friends, always, which was the best. I very much liked reading about a great friendship. Plus, adorable characters.

This book starts with Bruce not following police orders on the night of his birthday party, and ending up stopping a criminal with his car. Doing this makes him have to do community service, at Arkham Asylum for five weeks. He does a lot of cleaning there. And all the inmates yell ugly things at him, which was a bit disturbing. Though I wish that the things they said had been mentioned, as I felt like it should have been. But anyway. Reading about Bruce doing work at the Asylum was pretty great and horrible and interesting.

While he's there, he starts noticing a girl his own age that is in this prison for three murders. He can't help but wonder why, as she looks so innocent. She has been in this Asylum for four months, and she has not said a word to anyone in all that time. Until she starts talking to Bruce. I am unsure about how I felt about this girl. She was interesting to read about, sure, but she was also a killer, and Bruce started to feel things for her pretty fast. But did like that a bunch. And their talks were always fun and interesting to read about.

I'm not going to say much about this book, as it's pretty short, but it was such an exciting read. And I liked all the things that happened. Do wish there had been more about it all, though. Bruce is trying to help the police with talking to the criminal, Madeleine. There have been murders and money stolen. This book was very modern, and I liked that. It wasn't all that dark, so I wish it had been a bit more brutal. But it was dark enough, in a way. There are a few bad guys. And Bruce was such an amazing character. I loved him lots.

The only reason for why I didn't love this book was because I felt like not that much happened in it. The story was pretty short, and involved very little. But despite that, I liked this book oh so much and I really adored reading about Bruce. The ending was good, a bit bittersweet. But I do wish there had been more romance. Ack. And wish there would be a second book, because I do want more of these characters very much. I adore Marie. And I have enjoyed every book I have read by her so far. Cannot wait to read more.

Huge thank you to the lovely Penguin Random House International for sending me this ARC for review. Means the most to me. I'm thrilled to have been able to read and review this book early. And I can't wait to get the finished copies of it in early January. If you love Batman, or Marie, then you really need to get this book when it comes out. It's fast and fun and just really exciting. Batman: Nightwalker was a thrilling book to read. Bruce was amazing to read about, and the story was exciting. I liked it a bunch. As will you.



In My Mailbox #314

Eee, I'm currently using my new laptop :D It's gorgeous. But is a little bit different to write on, so need to get used to that. But oh, update on my old laptop, which I need all of my things from, is that they finally got it and checked it yesterday. And ordered spare parts. Which means it will probably take at least two more weeks before I get it back. Sobs. Not sure how I will survive without all of my things until then. New laptop is nice, but none of my things except for Firefox. Ugh. Shall maybe survive. Despite that, week was mostly good. I read and loved Furyborn. Went to hospital on Thursday, supposed to start new medicine. But that was a waste of trip, as they needed the results from some blood first, so not getting medicine for another three weeks. What. They could have called to let me know that. Ugh. So rude. But I did do a bit of shopping, so yay for that. Still, I'm exhausted. And tired of being in pain all the time. It sucks. Anyway. I got a bunch of stunning mail this week :D Eee. I love it all so so much. Also busy reading Batman; review up in a couple of hours. Hoping to read even more next week. Fingers crossed. Blogged a bit this week too. I posted my review of Furyborn :D Ahhh. So good. <3 And shared a launch post for Rosemarked :) And this week I'm waiting on Contagion :D So anyway. Despite not feeling very good, my week has been pretty great even so. Though my new laptop is currently really slow o.O I must find out how to fix that.



Renegades. Ahhh :D Finally have a hardcover of this precious. <3 More copies to come. Reading shortly.
Retribution Rails. This book looks so, so gorgeous. I enjoyed it a lot too. Just, ahh, such a stunning copy.
Rosemarked. While I didn't fully like this book, I couldn't not own it. Because it is gorgeous. Love it.
Quests for Glory. The gorgeous UK paperback :D It's so pretty. Sigh. And I loved this book so, so much.
Lodestar. I.. am very behind on reading these lovely books, ahh. But have to own them all :D Gorgeous.
Supernatural EW. Eee! Thank you so much Becky for getting these for me :D I love them beyond words.
Northern Lights. Now I own all the versions of this graphic novel :D Yay. It looks gorgeous. Must read it.
Almost Midnight. This tiny book is beyond gorgeous. I love how pretty it is. I must read these stories :D
Pop + Plush. Eee, The Lion King! Adorable. And final Pet plush I was missing. And octopus! Perfection.
The Burning Sky Swag. Oh my gosh, thank you so much lovely. <3 Red is a tote bag. Beyond gorgeous.



Disney Store. Ahh, my final Disney purchase have arrived :D Moana doll is perfection. The rest is too.


More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #317

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

CONTAGION BY ERIN BOWMAN

Goodreads Description:

IT GOT IN US

After receiving an urgent SOS from a work detail on a distant planet, a skeleton crew is dispatched to perform a standard search-and-rescue mission.

MOST ARE DEAD

But when the crew arrives, they find an abandoned site, littered with rotten food, discarded weapons…and dead bodies.

DON’T SET FOOT HERE AGAIN

As they try to piece together who—or what—could have decimated an entire operation, they discover that some things are best left buried—and some monsters are only too ready to awaken.

 
Hardcover, 432 pages
Expected publication: July 24th 2018 by HarperTeen
Pre-Order here and here

Ahh, this book sounds so good. Dark and lovely. Please let it be all kinds of dark and awesome :D It looks beyond gorgeous. And sounds so so very good. Oh, how I can't wait to read this book. Think I'll adore it.
What are you waiting for on this monstrous Wednesday?

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Rosemarked by Livia Blackburne Launch Day Post + Giveaway

Today is the release day for Rosemarked by Livia Blackburne :D I'm so excited for you all to read this gorgeous book. I'm sure tons of people will love it. I'm still waiting on my hardcover to arrive, but I'm sure it will look stunning. I'm so in love with this cover. And I adore Livia. She's awesome. Today I'm taking part in the amazing launch day posting of the book, where I'm sharing a bunch about it, and sharing this lovely giveaway that Livia is hosting. You should enter. Go buy the book too. My review of it can be found here.


Hi Everyone!
 

This is Livia Blackburne, and I'm thrilled to share ROSEMARKED with you at long last. There are a lot of elements to this book, including a love story, a spy story, reflections on trauma and mortality, medical ethics, and political intrigue.  Perhaps because of this, my research for the book was equally eclectic, from archery and stick fighting lessons, to chats with memory researchers and soldiers, and lots and lots of reading, including books about leper colonies, hospice care, and PTSD. Hopefully, I wove it all into an entertaining and thought-provoking story!

This story centers on Zivah, a talented healer with an incurable illness, and Dineas, a traumatized soldier. The two couldn't be more different, and I had a lot of fun writing their unlikely love story.  In order to work together, they both have to let go of their own prejudices and preconceptions. It's a painful process, with fights and misunderstandings, anger, laughter and tears, but in the end, they both come out as stronger people.

To celebrate the ROSEMARKED release, I’m offering 3 lucky winners a ROSEMARKED swag pack, which includes a copy of ROSEMARKED and a signed bookplate! Due to sweepstakes laws, entrants must be 18 years or older to participate. Best of luck, and happy reading!

***


A healer who cannot be healed . . .

When Zivah falls prey to the deadly rose plague, she knows it’s only a matter of time before she fully succumbs. Now she’s destined to live her last days in isolation, cut off from her people and unable to practice her art—until a threat to her village creates a need that only she can fill.

A soldier shattered by war . . .

Broken by torture at the hands of the Amparan Empire, Dineas thirsts for revenge against his captors. Now escaped and reunited with his tribe, he’ll do anything to free them from Amparan rule—even if it means undertaking a plan that risks not only his life but his very self.

Thrust together on a high-stakes mission to spy on the capital, the two couldn’t be more different: Zivah, deeply committed to her vow of healing, and Dineas, yearning for vengeance. But as they grow closer, they must find common ground to protect those they love. And amidst the constant fear of discovery, the two grapple with a mutual attraction that could break both of their carefully guarded hearts.

This smart, sweeping fantasy with a political edge and a slow-burning romance will capture fans of The Lumatere Chronicles and An Ember in the Ashes.
 



The first in a duology, ROSEMARKED (Hyperion | On Sale November 7, 2017) by New York Times bestselling author Livia Blackburne follows a healer and a solider on a high-stakes mission to spy on the Empire to uncover a deadly secret. With sizzling chemistry and a heartrending ethical dilemma, this thrilling fantasy with nuanced characters will capture fans of An Ember in the Ashes and The Lumatere Chronicles.

New York Times best-selling author LIVIA BLACKBURNE has a PhD in neuroscience from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she conducted research on the neural correlates of reading. She still blogs on the intersection of writing and brain science, and she now lives in Los Angeles with her family. Livia is also the author of Midnight Thief, an Indies Introduce New Voices selection, and its sequel, Daughter of Dusk.

ROSEMARKED by Livia Blackburne 
Hardcover: Amazon | B&N | Indiebound | Book Depository
Ebook: Kindle | Nook | iBooks | Kobo


Monday, November 6, 2017

Review: Furyborn by Claire Legrand

I can't believe I have gotten to read this precious book already. It's not out until next May, which is months from now. I was lucky enough to be able to get this ARC personalized via an awesome cause on Kickstarter. So worth it, because Furyborn was beyond amazing. It's such a big book, and so long. Worth every second.

I'm also the biggest fan of Claire; have read and loved all of her books. And I'm beyond excited about reading more by her. She's the best. Eee. And her books are simply incredible. I don't know what to share about this lovely story. Still forever until the book is out, so I will try my best not to share anything too much about it.

Even so, I will still be sharing things about this book, because I loved it a whole lot, and I need to discuss all of these stunning characters. But oh, where do I even begin. My mind feels a bit ruined, having just finished reading this huge thing. There is so much happening, at every moment. And my heart is all kinds of broken, because of what is coming in the next book. I'm not sure if I can take it. Ahh. Yet I am dying to know everything, of course. Shall start talking a little bit about the writing. Which was all kinds of gorgeous. I just love the writing that Claire has. It's stunning. And this book especially so. And oh, that first chapter. It still kills me. I've read it three times. It's of the future, and it's so rude. I cannot deal with it. Ahh. This whole book ruined my heart.

There are certain things that are obvious when you are reading the book, about things that happen in the first chapter. But I'm not going to mention them. You'll have to wait and see. But trust me, that very first chapter, which is two years in the future, is beyond heartbreaking and terrible and all kinds of exciting. I don't want it to become true, though, yet I know that it will, sometime. It is going to destroy me, though, when it does become true. My heart may never recover. Gosh. Yet even so, I'm so so excited for it. Ack.

Furyborn is a story told from two different point of views. Rielle and Eliana. They are both eighteen years old. Rielle is from a kingdom set around one thousand years ago, and Eliana is from the present time, or, you know, a thousand years in the future. I will admit that I loved reading about Rielle a tiny bit more, but gosh, how I loved both of these girls. And oh, reading their story was the most exciting thing. They do not ever meet, yet they are connected in a way. And learning all about it was both heartbreaking and thrilling.

There is so much to get to know about both girls. And I'm not going to say too much about them. Just that their story was the best thing and I loved everything oh so much. Rielle was really strong and kind and so fierce and brave too. She goes through so much in this book. A whole bunch of trials. It was very exciting. Except for that whole Corien thing. I'm not sure I will forgive about Corien being in this book at all. Hmph. But I will say that I found him to be a pretty awesome villain. If that is what he was supposed to be. Ahh.

Then there was Eliana. The reason for why I didn't love her just as much as I loved Rielle was because she was pretty gruesome at times. She does have the biggest heart, I think, but it was hidden way down deep. She's had to do a lot to survive. And I loved her for it. But she could be pretty cold, and that made me a bit wary. But I grew to love her more and more, and I enjoyed reading about her so much. There is a lot of scenes with her and Simon. I'm still unsure how I felt about this man. Liked him sometimes, maybe.

There is so much happening in Furyborn. And I loved reading ever moment of it. Sigh. There is also a lot of mature scenes, aka some lovely smut and kisses, and I very much loved that. It felt real and beautiful. Though there were some mind scenes that I did not approve of very much, that made it feel almost like a triangle at times, yet not that at all, but a bit complicated. My heart is a bit bruised. But I'm dealing with it. Because the rest was perfect. And I am hoping it will not end up being too big of a deal. Fingers crossed.

Despite those awesome kissing scenes, there weren't too much romance in this book. Rielle has been in love with Audric for years now, but nothing has happened between them. Yet. And their growing feelings killed me a little. I ship them so much. They are adorable together. Eee. And oh, Eliana. I don't know what to say about her. I shipped her with a boy at first. But that went badly. I am not sure if I ship her with this new man or not. It felt a bit wrong to me, yet nothing has happened yet, which was good. I'm just unsure.

And that is all I will say about the romance. Which is more than I thought I would share. I will say, though, that I adored all of the relationships in this book. The friendship between Rielle and Audric and Ludivine was so beautiful. They were such great friends. And the sibling relationship between Eliana and Remy was so cute. And the growing friendship with Eliana and Navi was great to read about too. Because this girl was so fierce and always shut away and so when she opened up a tiny bit, it was the best moments.

This book is such an epic fantasy tale. I have already written my review to be way longer than I thought it would be. I simply can't stop writing about this lovely thing. I haven't spoiled any big things, just talked a little about some details. This book is long and so beautiful. There is so much going on. Many surprises. And it was all beyond exciting to read about. You are all going to love this book. As I did. I'm giving it five stars for sure, despite my shredded heart. This book is all kinds of dark and lovely. Ack. Loved it so much.

Furyborn was everything I wanted it to be and much more. It was well worth the wait. The story is beyond heartbreaking and exciting, and every moment hurt to read. I never wanted this book to end. And I'm now counting down the seconds until I can get to read the next book. Thrilled that I loved this book so much. I mean, I knew I would, but I worried a little bit still. But no need for that. Because Furyborn was perfection. It ruined me. And I loved it for it. You all need to get a hold of this book next May. If not, you will regret it.

Huge thank you to Claire for sending me this amazing personalized ARC. It means the most to me. And big thank you to The Book Smugglers too, for the awesome Kickstarter project that I supported to be able to get this book. I will treasure it forever. It's so gorgeous. I cannot wait to get to own every single copy of this book. Which I need. My Claire collection is the biggest; I have all of her ARCs and all of her finished copies too. I simply adore reading her words and her worlds. And I can't wait to read more books by her.


Saturday, November 4, 2017

In My Mailbox #313

Well. This week is turning out to be pretty much the worst. Health has been bad all week; new bad pills still isn't working. And so I haven't had the energy to read for days, though I did start Furyborn yesterday, finally. But hahaha.. yesterday. Oh. My laptop decided to not switch on. And I tried all day to fix it. And it still isn't fixed. And I have no idea what to do. Have tried everything. I even got it sent in today. But that will most likely take at least 3 weeks. And they might not even find out what is wrong with it. And if they delete any of my things.. well. Then my life will be over.  My laptop is my whole life. I need all my things. Sniffs. Please, keep all fingers crossed for me that it will get fixed, and fast. That they will not get rid of any of my things. I just need them to be able to switch it on, then send it back to me. Ahh. And will be buying a new laptop. But I still need all my things. Heartbreak. Anyway. This week isn't going very well. I'm upset. So upset. So a bit slow in reading. Will be even more slow in catching up, because I now have to be weeks without everything that I have.. ugh. I have my firefox favorites, and that's it. Nothing else. They better fix it. And fast. Sigh. At least I blogged a bunch in the beginning of the week :) Nothing later, though. I re-read two short stories on Saturday, then read two shorter books too. I posted my review of Lyra's Oxford :D And my review of Once Upon a Time in the North. <3 Then my review of The Secret Files of Fairday Morrow :) And my review of Fairday Morrow and the Talking Library. And this week I'm waiting on Onyx & Ivory. <3 I got so much lovely mail this week, and I am happy about that :D Love it all.


Dæmon Voices. I couldn't resist buying the signed edition of this one :D It looks like such a lovely book.
The Book of Dust. Ahh, more editions arrived :D Oh, how I loved this book. And oh, how gorgeous it is.
Jane, Unlimited. The international paperback edition has finally arrived. And it is so stunning. I love it so.
City of Bones. Eee, 10th year edition :D This is the UK version, getting both. And oh, it's so so gorgeous.
The Glass Spare. Finally got my hardcover in the mail. Hoping to read this book soonish; hope to love it.
Miraculous Ladybug. Couldn't resist buying this stunning sticker book, hih. I love this show oh so much.
Trolls. I adore this movie, and I am dying for the sequel. But first, a holiday version too :D I cannot wait.
All the Crooked Saints + Pip Bartlett. Eee, my newest personalized Maggie books :D They are so so gorgeous. From Fountain Bookstore. <3 See how they are personalized on my instagram, here. Love.
Pop Figures. All my newest Disney ones :D They are beyond gorgeous. All of these are. Love them so.
Furyborn. AHHH! Bid on this via Book Smugglers; and I am SO HAPPY. Thank you Claire :D And all of you. And oh gosh, it's perfection. Mos wanted ARC. And personalized. See here. Dying. Love it most.
Illumicrate. My first bookish box arrived. I love all the items :) But had to pay customs too, and it was not worth one hundred euros. Not at all. Ugh. But I wanted to give it a try, and now I have. First and last box.


Disney Store. Ahh, my newest Disney Store SE package has arrived. <3 And it is all so so lovely. Love it.


More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #316

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

ONYX & IVORY BY MINDEE ARNETT

Goodreads Description:

For fans of Red Queen, Dividing Eden, and Six of Crows comes a stunning new fantasy epic about an outcast girl, the boy she loves, and the kingdom that has torn them apart.

They call her Traitor Kate. It’s a title Kate Brighton inherited from her father after he tried to assassinate the high king years ago. Now Kate lives as an outcast, clinging to the fringes of society as a member of the Relay, the imperial courier service. Only those most skilled in riding and bow hunting ride for the Relay; and only the fastest survive, for when dark falls, the nightdrakes—deadly flightless dragons—come out to hunt. Fortunately, Kate has a secret edge: she is a wilder, born with magic that allows her to influence the minds of animals. But it’s this magic that she needs to keep hidden, as being a wilder is forbidden, punishable by death or exile. And it’s this magic that leads her to a caravan massacred by nightdrakes in broad daylight—the only survivor her childhood friend, her first love, the boy she swore to forget, the boy who broke her heart.

The high king’s second son, Corwin Tormane, never asked to lead. Even as he waits for the uror—the once-in-a-generation ritual to decide which of the king’s children will succeed him—he knows it’s always been his brother who will assume the throne. And that’s fine by him. He’d rather spend his days away from the palace, away from the sight of his father, broken with sickness from the attempt on his life. But the peacekeeping tour Corwin is on has given him too much time to reflect upon the night he saved his father’s life—the night he condemned the would-be killer to death and lost the girl he loved. Which is why he takes it on himself to investigate rumors of unrest in one of the remote city-states, only for his caravan to be attacked—and for him to be saved by Kate.

With their paths once more entangled, Kate and Corwin have to put the past behind them. The threat of drakes who attack in the daylight is only the beginning of a darker menace stirring in the kingdom—one whose origins have dire implications for Kate’s father’s attack upon the king and will thrust them into the middle of a brewing civil war in the kingdom of Rime.

From the acclaimed author of Avalon comes a breathless, adventurous, romantic, and thrilling journey into a fantasy world you won’t soon forget.
 

Hardcover, 512 pages
Expected publication: May 15th 2018 by Balzer + Bray
Pre-Order here and here

I adore Mindee. And her books have been pretty great too. And oh, how this new book of hers sounds awesome :D Eee. That cover is beyond gorgeous. I love it tons. And this summary is so, so awesome. I cannot wait to read this new book. I'm crossing all my fingers that I will love it tons. Which I think I will.
What are you waiting for on this breathless Wednesday?