Saturday, December 31, 2022

Best Books of 2022

Happy final day of 2022 :D Another year gone by. I feel like this year went by way too fast. I had planned on reading much more, but that did not happen. Simply felt like I did not have the time. But also not the energy, as my health still sucks, always. Rude. But I have still managed to read 20 books this year, same as last year. And so I'm going to be happy about this :) As it is better than nothing. A few re-reads and a couple of short stories. And new books. Most of them that I loved, which is great. This year I am sharing about six books, all five stars. All loved. I'm hoping to be able to read more next year. I got so many new books to read, ha. Crossing my fingers that I will feel more up to it. Plus side, I still love reading the very most. I still get lost in the books that I love. And so I know I will not stop reading. I just need to be better at finding the time for it. Other things I have done this year: spent so much time with my family. <3 Also still playing Animal Crossing New Horizons every day :) Now also Animal Crossing Pocket Camp. Oops. And Pokemon Go, of course. And trying to play many others games, when I have time for it. So the days are going by fast. But I have had a good year, despite not reading that much. And so I am happy about this year :) Hope to read a little more next year. Fingers crossed. What were your best books of this year? :)

Best Books of 2012. Best Books of 2013. Best Books of 2014. Best Books of 2015. Best Books of 2016. Best Books of 2017. Best Re-Reads of 2015. Best Re-Reads of 2017. Best Four Stars of 2018.
Best Books of 2018
. Best Four Stars of 2019. Best Books of 2019. Best Four Stars of 2020.
Best Books of 2020
. Best Books of 2021. Goodreads 2022 Challenge. Goodreads 2022 Year in Books.

1. Lightbringer. This final book broke me. The most pain. But such an incredible end to this story. Sobs.
2. Cursed. Such an exciting end to a fantastic duology. I loved the magic the most. Best romance as well.
3. Phoenix Flight. A most amazing series with such a great main character and story. Loved this ending.

4. Bluebird. The most heartbreaking story. But fully important and so good. I loved this so very much.
5. For the Wolf. I adored the couple in this story way too much. Great magic and such a stunning story.
6. For the Throne. A second book that was just as good as the first. Thrilling story and best characters.

HAPPY NEW YEAR :D

In My Mailbox #582

Another week gone by. I have loved this Christmas week so very much. <3 Lots of good food and good time with my family. Loved the presents that I got, eee :D Sharing some of them below. <3 The week has been a little exhausting, but so good. I have had a great Christmas. And I hope all of you have as well :) Sharing my best books of 2022 list later today. <3 This week I'm waiting on Together We Rot :D Hope you are all having the most wonderful Holiday season. <3 And staying safe these days. Merry Christmas. <3

Stranger Things Pop-Up. Eee. Had to wish for this precious :D And oh. It is all kinds of awesome. Love.
This Savage Song. Got this gorgeous for Christmas :D A newish special editions; I so so loved this book.
Animal Crossing. A whole bunch of awesome :D Love the light. Love the beads. Love the Switch cases.
Pokemon. Love the pokeball, eee. It is gorgeous. And the Pikachu box. Had wished for these as well :)
Stranger Things Funko. Only item that I have bought that arrived this week :) Love this pop figure lots.
Monkee. EEE! I am SO happy about getting this one for Christmas :D Ahh! He is SO awesome. Love!

More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #584

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

TOGETHER WE ROT BY SKYLA ARNDT

Goodreads Description:

A teen girl looking for the truth about her missing mother forms a reluctant alliance with her former best friend...in exchange for hiding him from his cult-leading family.

Wil Greene's mom has been missing for over a year, and the police are ready to call the case closed--they claim she skipped town and you can't find a woman who wants to disappear. But she knows her mom wouldn't just leave...and she knows the family of her former best friend, Elwood Clarke, has something to do with it.

Elwood has been counting down the days until his 18th birthday--in dread. It marks leaving school and joining his pastor father in dedicating his life to their congregation, the Garden of Adam. But when he comes home after one night of after a final goodbye with his friends, already self-flagellating for the sins of drinking and disobeying his father, he discovers his path is not as virtuous as he thought. He's not his father's successor, but his sacrifice. For the woods he's grown up with are thirsty, and must be paid in blood.

Now on the run from a family that wants him dead, he turns to the only one who will believe him: Wil. Together, they form a reluctant partnership; she'll help him hide if he helps her find evidence that his family killed her mother. But in the end they dig up more secrets than they bargained for, unraveling decades of dark cult dealings in their town, led by the Clarke family.

And there's a reason they need Elwood's blood for their satanic rituals. Something inhuman is growing inside of him. Everywhere he goes, the plants come alive and the forest calls to him, and Wil isn't sure if she can save the boy she can't help but love.


Format: 272 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: August 29, 2023 by Viking Books for Young Readers
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

Oh. I saw this cover on twitter. And ahh! I need this book already :D It looks gooorgeous. And sounds amazing too. I think I will love it lots, eee. Hope it has a happy ending, though, haha :) Wish it was out.
What are you waiting for on this growing Wednesday?

Saturday, December 24, 2022

In My Mailbox #581

Merry Christmas :D Eee! Today is Christmas day here in Norway, where we celebrate everything; eating and opening presents, haha. <3 As it ended up being a Saturday this year, I have put together this post a few days before and scheduled it for today. I hope you are all having the best Christmas :D I am. <3 And am so excited for today; turkey and presents, haha. It will be such a good day :) And a good week too. <3 Not sharing much more. No new books this time, but a bunch of pop figures, oops. I shared my review of The Phantom of Linkshire Manor. <3 This week I'm waiting on Team Chu and the Epic Hero Quest :D And shared my review of This Appearing House :) I hope you are all having the most wonderful Christmas. <3

Funko Nordic. The four in boxes pop figures were a gift from Funko Nordic :D Eee! Love! Thank you. <3
Funko Europe. Oh. And all the rest is two orders that I placed from Funko Europe. Sobs. So very much money. Oh. But so much awesome, eee. I love them all so much. Sigh. Three of six Sodas were chase versions. The Batman one was a free gift. I did not really want the other two as Chase versions, haha, so I have now ordered them again, oops, to most likely get the regular versions :) Oh! Wait. Some of the pop figures were from an EMP order. All the new Disney ones and the dragon. Love all of them :D I got more mystery mini Disney; three new ones. Yesss. Now I have 9 of the 12 :D Love! Tried more Villainous ones. No new ones. Rude. And ahh. Love my Maleficent. And my Binx cat. <3 I am too addicted to funko pops.


Funko Europe. Oops! I ordered this on Thursday. And it arrived already Friday. Ahh! I.. could not resist buying these new exclusives. Oh. So much awesome, eee. <3 Bought more Disney mystery mini. But no new ones now, though. But I'm just missing three, and they are rarer, so might not get them at all, ha :) But I will try a few more times, haha. Love my new Stitch. <3 And my new Toto :D Eee. SO cute. I bought a new Winifred Soda. Got the regular, ha :) Bought new Santa Jack; got the chase AGAIN. What even.

More Instagram photos here. <3

MERRY CHRISTMAS. <3

Friday, December 23, 2022

Review: This Appearing House by Ally Malinenko

This cover was too awesome for me not to buy this book. It also sounded creepy and amazing. I was sure I would end up loving it. Finally managed to read it, and I did like it a whole lot. But did not love it, sadly. It was not scary to me. Not at all. But I'm giving it three stars, as it had a lot of heart and I liked the girl so much.

I will not be sharing too much about this book, as I felt that it was a short and easy book to read, and so I do not have that much to write about it. But sharing a few of my thoughts. The writing was mostly good, and I liked getting to know the characters. I did not connect as well as I wanted to, but I liked the story well enough.

This is a book about twelve-year-old Jac. She has now been five years without cancer. Five years healthy. It has not been easy for her. This is the part that I liked about this book, her cancer story. This was sad to read about and I felt like it was written well too. I have been sick myself since I was five years old. Not cancer, but I am still sick, and have been in hospitals so many times since I was little. It sucks. And I liked reading a little about it in this book. Felt like there could have been even more of it all, though. Wish a little that there had been some more details. But I liked it too. Jac lives alone with her mom and I liked getting to know them both. They just moved to their place a few months ago, but she already has a great friend, Hazel. I liked him a whole lot. We get to read a little of their friendship and I liked that very much.

This book tells the story of Jac. About how a huge house suddenly appears at the end of her street. The house does not feel right or look right. She and Hazel are dared to enter this house. Jac does it, and she is so curious about this creepy house. It seems to know her and all her secrets. I suppose all of this was supposed to be creepy and exciting. But I honestly thought it was a little boring. Oops. I wish I had liked it more, but I sadly did not. Some things that happened inside the house were interesting, but wasn't scary.

Though I wish this book had been better, I still liked it. Because it was also about Jac learning new things about herself and her health. Learning to better deal with things. Learning to talk better with her mother. It was not written all that well, this book, but it was good. I think many will love this. This Appearing House was a book with heart and I liked that a lot. I'm glad I gave this one a try. Although, I must be a little more honest, ha. I thought the ending was a bit disappointing. Wanted it to be more fantasy. But was good too.


Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #583

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

TEAM CHU AND THE EPIC HERO QUEST
(Team Chu #2) BY JULIE C. DAO

Goodreads Description:

Check out acclaimed author Julie C. Dao's debut middle grade series, featuring a team of kids ready for any challenge-even saving the fantasy world of Pantaera from dark forces and certain ruin!

The popular fantasy video game War of Gods and Men is being adapted for reality television, and Team Chu and company are competing for the title of child hero: the young person destined to unite the forces of Pantaera to save it from a sinister fate. Over the next week, they'll be challenged by sirens, vampires, elves, and more in Tests of Courage, Determination, Humility, Intelligence, and Strength.

Popular athlete Clip is confident he'll take the prize, if it weren't for that test of humility. And despite claiming not to care about the game, Sadie finds herself pulled into the immersive world of Pantaera and rising to meet the challenges thrown her way. And her best friend, Jeremy, proud nerd and last pick for P.E. teams, wants more than anything to save the world of the game he loves, no matter the cost.

Join Clip, Sadie, Jeremy, and their friends on a thrilling adventure through an extraordinary fantasy world to learn who among them has what it takes to become Pantaera's child hero!


Format: 416 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: May 2, 2023 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (Byr)
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

I know, I know. I haven't read book one yet. Oops! But I own it, and I will be getting this second one too, as I think I will adore this series by Julie :) At least hoping to love it. Will read both next year, though :)
What are you waiting for on this epic Wednesday?

Sunday, December 18, 2022

Review: The Phantom of Linkshire Manor by Marissa Meyer

As with every story by Marissa Meyer, this tale was exciting. Such a short story, but full of heart even so. I'm giving this one five stars. I only wish it had been much longer, as I so wanted to know more. But as a short story, it was all kinds of awesome. A little creepy, a little romance, a good mystery. Great writing too.

I shall not write much about this one, as it truly was very short. But I will say a little bit. I liked that it was a story set in the past, as I find those to be all kinds of interesting to read. I like those kinds of settings. It was so good in this story as well. Although this book was short, it was easy and fast to read. I loved that.

This story had many details, yet not too many. Which I also very much liked. I liked that it was quick to get to the point of all that happened. But I would have liked even more if this had been a full-sized book, haha, with even more details. As I liked these characters a whole bunch and would have loved to get to know them even more. This one is told from the point of view of Anna. She is a training to be a doctor, one of the first women to do so. And I loved that. She was awesome. And I loved that the male doctor she worked for did not seem to look down at her, but seemed to respect her. Of course, the servants in the manor she end up in did not seem as positive at first. How rude. I hope they got better. I did like getting to know those three as well, though.

This is a story about a mystery. Anna is trying to figure out why her patient, Mr. Rothwell, is so ill. It ends up looking like poison. But who would want to poison him, and why? I liked figuring it out. This manor had many mysteries, despite only having a handful of people inside it. There is the mystery of the death of the wife of Mr. Rothwell, seven years past. A suicide, they say. But was it really? I liked getting to know it all. A little ghostly and mysterious. Just wish it had been longer. But it was a great story and I enjoyed it lots.

The Phantom of Linkshire Manor was all kinds of incredible. Short and exciting. With a good mystery and a good ending too. I was lucky enough to get a copy of this ebook for free as a pre-order bonus for Gilded last year. But you can now buy it too, from the links below. It is a story worth reading and I'm so glad that I read it at last. Now just waiting for more books by Marissa to come out. If you still have not read anything by her, you are truly missing out. All her books have been incredible. The Cinder series is the very best.

 

Saturday, December 17, 2022

In My Mailbox #580

ALMOST CHRISTMAS :D In just one week! AHH! I am SO excited. Time to start watching Christmas movies, I think. But I am so behind on reading too. Hmm. Will try my best to read two more books in the next two weeks. Ack! I might manage it, as I'm planning on reading a short ebook story by Marissa Meyer first, ha :D It's on Goodreads, so it definitely counts, lol. <3 Then I'm thinking of reading one of my many new middle grade books :) So I'm hoping to manage it. I had wanted to read my eARC of A Crown of Ivy and Glass this year. But.. I'm hoping to be able to get a print ARC of it to read instead, ack :) So waiting a little more. <3 Anyway. I'm still playing pokemon violet :D Though a few days now without playing. Ack. Been too busy and just haven't had time for anything. How rude. Done a buunch of shopping this week. Oops. But it's all good :) Not feeling the best, though. Everything hurts. But I'm good enough, I guess :) This week I'm waiting on The Isles of the Gods :D Hope you're all doing the best. <3 Merry Christmas :D


Lumara. I'm excited about this new book by Melissa Landers :D Loved her first book, years ago. <3
Funko Pop. Oh. A couple of new orders from Funko Europe, haha :D I just.. cannot stop ordering from them. Sobs. It has cost me way, way too much. And taken way too much space. Oops. I shall do better from now on. Probably. May already be waiting on two more orders.. hahaha. Oh. Anyway :D Love my exclusives. Love the new Disney Mystery Mini boxes. A little sad to have gotten three of nine doubles.. but they are adorable :) Still not gotten the last two I'm missing from the Villainous Valentines minis. Ugh.

More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #582

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

THE ISLES OF THE GODS BY AMIE KAUFMAN

Goodreads Description:

Magic, romance, and slumbering gods clash in the start of a riveting fantasy series that spans gangsters' dens, forgotten temples, and the high seas from the New York Times bestselling author of the Aurora Cycle.

When Selly's father leaves her high and dry in the port of Kirkpool, she has no intention of riding out the winter on land while he sails to adventure in the north seas. But any plans to follow him are dashed when a handsome stranger with tell-tale magician's marks on his arm boards her ship, presenting her and the crew with a dangerous mission: to cross the Crescent Sea without detection so he can complete a ritual on the sacred Isles of the Gods. What starts as a leisure cruise will lead to acts of treason and sheer terror on the high seas, bringing two countries to the brink of war, two strangers closer than they ever thought possible and stirring two dangerous gods from centuries of slumber...


Format: 464 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: May 2, 2023 by Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

EEE! I am SO excited about this most gorgeous book :D Gosh. Been a fan of Amie for years now. <3 And this newest book by her sounds aaaamazing. Ahh! And that cover! I am dying a little. It is stunning. Sigh. I love it so. I am certain that I will love this book and this series :) Wishing it was May already. <3 Excited :)
What are you waiting for on this dangerous Wednesday?

Saturday, December 10, 2022

In My Mailbox #579

Oh. This past week have gone by so fast. I spent the first part of the week waiting for my newest amiibo cards to arrive, ha :) Got them, and at last got the final cards I needed to complete my collection. <3 I am so excited :D Eee! This week I have played a bunch of pokemon violet. And oh gosh, I love it so so much. Sigh. So much to do, though, ha :) I sadly have not started reading anything yet, as I am not sure what to read next. Hmm. Want something easy and fast. Hopefully deciding soon. I love this Christmas month so much. <3 And so I'm just also trying not to do anything, ha :) But ah. This week was also medicine week. And it sucked. Still feel exhausted. But hoping it will pass shortly. I have done a bunch this week, which is why it feels like it has gone by so fast too. Too much, haha. But enough updates for now :) I'm doing good enough. This week I'm waiting on The Sun and the Star :D Hope you're all doing well. Happy Holidays :D

Cursed. Got the AUS paperback edition :D Of course I had to buy this version too, haha. It is so pretty. <3
Saint. So far behind on books by Adrienne. Oops. But I'm still buying them all, so I'm ready to catch up :)
Animal Crossing amiibo cards. Oops. Got my final batch of cards :D And I got the final two I was missing! EEE! At last :D My collection is complete. <3 Gosh. I am so so happy. Sigh. I love these cards the most.

More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #581

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

THE SUN AND THE STAR
BY RICK RIORDAN & MARK OSHIRO


Goodreads Description:

Demigods Nico di Angelo and Will Solace must endure the terrors of Tartarus to rescue an old friend in this thrilling adventure co-written by New York Times #1 best-selling author Rick Riordan and award-winning author Mark Oshiro.


Percy Jackson fans, rejoice! Nico and Will have a book of their own!

As the son of Hades, Nico di Angelo has been through so much, from the premature deaths of his mother and sister, to being outed against his will, to losing his friend Jason during the trials of Apollo. But there is a ray of sunshine in his life–literally: his boyfriend, Will Solace, the son of Apollo. Together the two demigods can overcome any obstacle or foe. At least, that’s been the case so far . . .

Now Nico is being plagued by a voice calling out to him from Tartarus, the lowest part of the Underworld. He thinks he knows who it is: a reformed Titan named Bob whom Percy and Annabeth had to leave behind when they escaped Hades’s realm. Nico’s dreams and Rachel Dare’s latest prophecy leave little doubt in Nico’s mind that Bob is in some kind of trouble. Nico has to go on this quest, whether Mr. D and Chiron like it or not. And of course Will insists on coming with. But can a being made of light survive in the darkest part of the world? and what does the prophecy mean that Nico will have to “leave something of equal value behind?”

Nico will have to face demons both internal and external as his relationship with Will is tested to the core in this standalone adventure featuring two of the most popular characters in the Percy Jackson saga.

Format: 480 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: May 2, 2023 by Disney Hyperion
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

Oh. I am so behind on the Percy Jackson books. Oops. When I first read them, now years ago, I think I read about the nine that were out right then. And then I just didn't continue when the next ones came out. Oops. But I will re-read them one day, hopefully soonish :D I'm excited to finally read these books again, to finally finish the series too, ha. This Nico and Will book sounds and looks aaamazing. Sigh. Excited. <3
What are you waiting for on this dark Wednesday?

Saturday, December 3, 2022

In My Mailbox #578

It is December at last :D Eee! Christmas is almost here, finally. Gosh. I'm too excited. <3 Just wishing we would get snow too. Hmph. Hoping it will arrive soon :) I have been exhausted this week too. But happy as well. Got a bunch of great mail. <3 And finally played some pokemon violet too :) I'm loving it so much, eee. It's the best. I don't have much to share this week, so I'm cutting it short this time, ha :) This week I'm waiting on The Only Survivors :) Hope you are all doing well. <3 Have you gotten Christmas up yet? :D

The Fall of Numenor. Eee. I bought this because of the tv-show, haha :) First I must read LotR, though :D
Strike the Zither. Lovely UK paperback edition :D Hope to be able to read this gorgeous soon. Excited :)
Switch Games. More Pokemon, to get steelbooks, ha :D They are gorgeous. Curious about Fenyx Rising.
Animal Crossing. Oh. Norway had sale on the amiibo cards at black friday. Sobs. SO happy :D Got many.
Pop Figures. Oh again. Funko Europe got in a bunch of pop figures I needed and had wanted for ages. Ahh! Had to get them all, haha :D SO so happy to finally have those two The Witcher specials. <3 LOVE.

More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #580

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

THE ONLY SURVIVORS BY MEGAN MIRANDA

Goodreads Description:




From the New York Times bestselling author of All the Missing Girls and “master of suspense, Megan Miranda” (Mary Kubica, New York Times bestselling author of The Good Girl), a thrilling mystery about a group of former classmates who reunite to mark the tenth anniversary of a tragic accident—only to have one of the survivors disappear, casting fear and suspicion on the original tragedy.



 

Format: 368 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: April 11, 2023 by Scribner / Marysue Rucci Books
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

Ohh. New book by Megan Miranda :D Yesss. I haven't read her newest one yet, oops, but soon. I have read pretty much all her books. And I am so excited for this newest adult one as well. It looks stunning. And sounds awesome too :D Though the summary hasn't been released for real yet. Know I will love it :)
What are you waiting for on this tragic Wednesday?

Saturday, November 26, 2022

In My Mailbox #577

This week have been good and bad. I'm goddamn exhausted all the time and things take forever to get done. It took me ages to read Cursed. But I finally managed to finish it yesterday, eee :D By staying up way too late to read. Oops. But it was so good. Sigh. And I feel a little more relaxed now, that I can do other things too, finally, ha :) So I'm right now watching 1899 on Netflix, which I'm excited about. I liked Dark a lot. So far this is pretty good too. Anyway. This week. I ordered way too much stuff. Sobs. All my money, gone. But worth it, to me :) I went to my first Christmas concert, with Chris Medina and Alejandro Fuentes. <3 See instagram photo below :) It was awesome. Other than that, the week has been busy. I hurt all over. But keep trying to do everything even so. The sun is now officially gone for weeeks. No more daylight. So have started taking Christmas tree photos to share on instagram, ha :) I don't really like the darker images. Sigh. But it will have to do, for a while now :) I like the photos I have taken, somewhat. <3 Got a bunch of gorgeous mail this week too, ha :D And more next week. Sobs. This week I'm waiting on A Crown of Ivy and Glass. <3 And shared my review of Cursed :D I hope that you are all doing well. <3

Cursed. My second hardcover has arrived, oops. <3 One for reading, one for not. Only my favorites :)
Scattered Showers. I bought this for the Simon Snow short stories, despite having only read book one.
Demon in the Wood. Waterstones edition :) Though.. only a one page letter as a bonus? So little, ack :)
Pokemon Scarlet/Violet. Yesss. Love the gold steelbook version. <3 Playing Violet. Loving it very much.
Smurfs Vileaf. I couldn't resist buying this game for my Switch. Looks pretty adorable. I love the Smurfs.
Pokemon GO. Bought the final two trading card tin boxes I didn't have, ha :) They are just too cute. Love.
Funko Europe. Oops. They got in more new pop figures. Sobs. Help. I'm buying too much. But ahh. Got to buy the Jaws boat moment, finally :D It is awesome. Love my Miguel. Love Baymax. And Stitch. But I wish I had gotten the chase version of them both, ha :) More minis, finally a new one :D Missing two now.

More Instagram photos here. <3

Review: Cursed by Marissa Meyer

This final book ruined me. It was the rudest. Every kind of perfect too. Such an amazing second book. Giving this one five stars, of course. I do wish there had been a little more at the ending, that it had been a bit longer. But oh, this book was incredible. I loved every moment of it, even when my heart was fully broken. Hmph.

I do not know where to begin with this review of mine. Feeling a little out of words. Cursed ruined me. How rude. It was exciting from beginning to end, and I could not stop reading the last few hundred pages. As always, the writing was completely stunning and I was fully lost in this world. This most terrible world created.

There was so much happening in this final book. So much going on. So many new things to learn, secrets to know. And I loved it so very much. Though my heart may be broken for such a long time now. As there were so so many bad things happening. With Serilda. With everyone around them too. It was so heartbreaking to read about how the Erlking kept hunting for creatures. How he treated them. It was so sad to read about all the ghosts too, that he kept. Especially the five small children. Shudders. But they made the best of it. And I loved the happy scenes with Serilda and the kids. It was pretty adorable. They did not deserve their fate at all. But I will say that I very much loved what happened to them later on. Felt that it was written so well and so good.

I will do my best to not write too much about the plot of this second book. Will share only a little. Probably. It takes place a little after Gilded. Serilda is now a special type of spirit, just like Gild. Cursed to this castle for all of time. And also pregnant. But not feeling this herself, as she is not attached to her body anymore. And that was truly the saddest thing to read about. Oh. Wait. One thing I very much did not like. How she did not tell Gild the truth, that he was the father, for such a long time. And let him believe otherwise. Sobs.

And yet I understood it, of course. But oh gosh, it was painful. So very painful, to go so long and have her not telling him the truth. Shudders. Yet, there was so much else going on. There wasn't really much time to think about it at all. There was hunting of the beasts. Waiting on the full moons. Time moved pretty fast in this book, as most of the plot could only happen every four weeks. I didn't mind. It was such an exciting story. Also, I truly hated the Erlking. Hmph. He was the most evil. I did like learning more about him, still.

But oh. Gild and Serilda spent so little time together in this book. That truly hurt my heart. They had the best romance. And I loved them together so very much. I just wish we had gotten to see more of them actually being together. Sigh. But they were together, of course. And their moments with each other was the best. And oh, the story of Gild and his family was still the very worst thing. So rude. So evil. And so very sad. He deserved the happiest of endings. I wish it had been possible to change the past, though.

I shall not share too much more about this book. It was too exciting and I loved it so. It was so evil and it ruined me. Yet it was hopeful too and I had to know how it all ended. I loved getting to know more about Serilda and her god gift of story telling. We got to know more about her mother too and I loved that. This book was so painful but so good. Full of evil twists. But happy too. There was a whole scene with the god of death that I loved very much. So sad, so great. I could write so much more of this book, but I shall not.

I can't help but share some of my spoiler thoughts. I must put it down or I might go a little insane. I loved this book with all my heart. Truly. But there was this one thing I was not happy about. And that still hurts me. Gild and Serilda spent so much of this book away from each other. And Serilda never got to feel the baby in her body. That was so rude. Sobs. And I am heartbroken about it. It fit the story, of course. But my poor heart. I wanted more at the end, more happiness. Even just one page more of Gild and Serilda. Oh.

But even so. This duology was truly the very best. Full of heartbreak and despair. But some hope and love too. Full of magic and danger. I loved every part of it, eee. It was so exciting and thrilling at all times. It had so many dark and heartbreaking moments. But the final battle, of sorts, at the ending was amazing. I loved how it all ended. Yes, I wanted more at the very end, but what happened before that was so good. Can't wait for Marissa to write more fairy tales. She has the best books. Gilded and Cursed was magical.

 

Wednesday, November 23, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #579

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

A CROWN OF IVY AND GLASS BY CLAIRE LEGRAND

Goodreads Description:

Lady Gemma Ashbourne seemingly has it all. She's young, gorgeous, and rich. Her family was Anointed by the gods, blessed with incredible abilities. But underneath her glittering façade, Gemma is deeply sad. Years ago, her sister Mara was taken to the Middlemist to guard against treacherous magic. Her mother abandoned the family. Her father and eldest sister, Farrin—embroiled in a deadly blood feud with the mysterious Bask family—often forget Gemma exists.

Worst of all, Gemma is the only Ashbourne to possess no magic. Instead, her body fights it like poison. Constantly ill, aching with loneliness, Gemma craves love and yearns to belong.

Then she meets the devastatingly handsome Talan d'Astier. His family destroyed themselves, seduced by a demon, and Talan, the only survivor, is determined to redeem their honor. Intrigued and enchanted, Gemma proposes a bargain: She'll help Talan navigate high society if he helps her destroy the Basks. According to popular legend, a demon called The Man With the Three-Eyed Crown is behind the families' blood feud—slay the demon, end the feud.

But attacks on the Middlemist are increasing. The plot against the Basks quickly spirals out of control. And something immense and terrifying is awakening in Gemma, drawing her inexorably toward Talan and an all-consuming passion that could destroy her—or show her the true strength of her power at last.


Format: 560 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: May 9, 2023 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

EEEEEE! I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS ONE :D Yessss. Had planned on sharing a cover reveal post for it, but then time went away, and it has now been ages. Oops. So I'm finally doing a WoW post instead :D Because.. I have an eARC of this one :D AHH! And I will be reading it before the end of this year. <3 And I could not be more excited. Sobs. Okay, I need the print ARC, of course, but reading it as soon as I can, either way ;) It is Claire. Whom I love the most. And it looks eepic. Sigh. I will love this one to pieces. <3
What are you waiting for on this passionate Wednesday?

Saturday, November 19, 2022

In My Mailbox #576

This week have been exhausting. But good. I finished re-reading Gilded earlier this week. <3 And have started Cursed, but only 20 pages, and that was days ago. Ahh! Finally reading a little more tonight. <3 Just been too busy these past few days. Hmph. How rude. But loving these books soso much. Sigh. My health still sucks, and today was not a good day. But I'm doing my best :) Ordered some more Christmas presents today, ha. Almost done with my family now :) Yay. Just love that it's almost Christmas, eee. Got a bit of lovely mail too, of course, ha :D A couple of new blog posts. I shared my second review of Gilded. <3 And this week I'm waiting on Stars and Smoke :) I hope that you're all doing well and staying safe. <3

Seasparrow. Finally got my US hardcover as well :D Pretty huge and stunning. Hoping to read this soon.
Cursed. UK paperback edition. <3 The edges are stained! And so gorgeous :D Ahh! I love it so much. <3
Smurfs Kart. I couldn't resist buying this new Switch game, haha :D It looks awesome. I love the Smurfs :)
Pop Figures. First three I bought from EMP :) Three I have wanted for a while. <3 Love my new Jaskier.
Funko Europe. Another order from here. Oops. I just love that Harry Potter moment. And that Stitch. <3






A Crown of Ivy and Glass.
Oh. I got this precious as a read-now on Netgalley, eee :D I AM SO EXCITED. Newest Claire book :D Yesss. It's going to be epic, of course. <3 As all her books are :) Desperately need the print ARC for my collection, though. But I will of course be reading this eARC, ha :D After I finish reading my current read. I cannot wait. <3 So very thankful and happy :)


More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #578

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

STARS AND SMOKE BY MARIE LU

Goodreads Description:

The Hating Game meets Mission: Impossible in Stars and Smoke, a smoldering new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Marie Lu about a superstar tapped to become a secret agent and the reluctant young spy assigned to be his partner.

Meet Winter Young—rookie backup dancer turned global pop phenomenon. His star power has smashed records, selling out stadiums from LA to London. Now he’s bringing his swoon worthy assets to a whole new arena. . .

Infamous criminal tycoon Eli Morrison has just one weakness—his daughter, Penelope. And Penelope has just one wish for her nineteenth birthday—a private concert with Winter Young. When covert ops organization The Panacea Group approaches Winter with this once-in-a-lifetime chance to infiltrate Morrison’s inner circle, Winter must use his fame, cunning, and charisma to pull it off—only he won’t be on his own.

Posing as Winter’s bodyguard is the fiery Sydney Cossette, Panacea’s youngest spy. Sydney may be the only person alive impervious to Winter's charms, but as the mission brings them closer, she's forced to admit there's more to this A-lister than slick dance moves and a handsome face. Panacea's unlikeliest partners just might become its biggest heroes—and maybe even more—if they can survive each other first.


Format: 336 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: Expected publication April 4, 2023
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

I have read a lot of books by Marie Lu. Not all of them, though. But I have, mostly, loved her books. A little meh about some of them, though. And yet I'm still willing to try what she writes next, ha :D Despite being a little unsure about this book. Not really my kind of plot. But the cover is stunning. And since it is Marie, I am willing to give it a try :) Now just hoping that I will end up liking this book, haha. But I think I might :)
What are you waiting for on this smoky Wednesday?

Review: Gilded by Marissa Meyer

My heart is breaking a little. I had not truly planned on re-reading Gilded before reading Cursed. Thought I would not need to, as it has not yet been a year since I read it. But then I got the second book in the mail. I peeked at the very end. And I just had to start reading this first book again. Oops. I don't regret it for a moment.

Okay, I regret it a little. Had forgotten how very painful this book was. How heartbreaking this story truly is. Shudders. I am a little broken right now. But oh, how good it was. I needed this second read, before reading the final book. I needed to be reminded of all the small details, as there were many of those. All of the pain.

Gilded is a true fairy tale. A different version of Rumpelstiltskin. Where he is not the villain, but a cursed boy. And the true villain is way, way worse. The girl is also cursed, in a way. And oh, she goes through so much pain. Sobs. This story pretty much broke me. But it was so good. Sigh. And I loved Serilda and Gild's story the very most. But it is not complete. Not at all. This one ends so painfully. And I am most ready to start reading Cursed next. Love that it is only two books, that I must not wait any longer to know how it all ends. I honestly don't remember much of my first review, and I do not read them again. But I see that it was long. And this time I will not be writing that much. Will do my best to share only a little of my love for this story. Though my love is infinite.

I don't know where to begin. I won't do a recap of the story, as I don't tend to do that when I write second reviews. But I will still share a little. Simply because I loved this book so much. And I cannot stop thinking about how it just broke my heart all over again. Hmph. There are parts of this that are a little slow, where nothing much happens. And yet I loved those parts as well. The book is only told from the point of view of Serilda, and I adored her to pieces. She's such an amazing girl. Full of love and bravery. Full of pain too.

Which is just another reason for why I loved her so much. I adored reading again about her life with her father. They live alone and they have it good enough. She spends most of her time teaching five young children, whom she adores. They were awesome to read about too. Serilda is all kinds of lonely, though. Because of the gold in her eyes. Because she was given a gift by a god before she was born. The god of truth and lies. The god of stories. And so everyone thinks she is a liar and stays away from her. So rude.

Getting to read about her curse again was the best thing. Now knowing that the stories she tells, which everyone believes to be lies, are not so. It was all kinds of awesome. And I so cannot wait to read more about it all. I simply loved getting to know Serilda all over again. I loved reading about her meeting the people in the town next to the haunted castle. They were great to read about. Hope to see more of them in book two, but I'm worried, ha. This book was full of different characters, mostly ghosts. All awesome.

I truly shall not say much more about this story. There is so much I could say, though. So much I want to say too, ha. But trying to control myself, as I just need to share that I loved this book so, so very much this second time of reading as well. I think it may have been even better this time. I think I loved it more. Oh. What was most precious to me was reading about Serilda and Gild together. He was a most precious almost-ghost. Loved them growing closer, with how little time they had together. It was just the sweetest.

But then there were all the dark parts of this story. The Erlking. The wild hunt. The dark ones. All the ghosts, all their gruesome deaths. And then the story. The story about the castle, who once lived there. What happened to them all. We learn a little at a time. And oh, it still breaks me. It is the most painful story. Shudders. But oh so good. But oh so sad and such a heartbreaking ending. Gosh. But anyway. Gilded was still the most perfect book. I am so glad I read it again. You need this book in your life too.


Saturday, November 12, 2022

In My Mailbox #575

Another week gone by. And oh gosh, this week have been busy for me. Busy and good. I decided to get Christmas ready, eee :D Got everything up, even my tree. <3 I am so excited. Everything looks gorgeous. Sigh. And we got snow this week too, so it's white outside. I love it. Christmas is the best time of year, so I like having everything up for a longer time, ha :) But gosh, I'm so exhausted. I got a type of sprain in my neck, I think, as it has been hurting for days and days now. Been so painful. Slowly getting better, though. So, yeah. Exhausted. But good. I finished my re-read of The Scorpio Races. <3 And I am already reading a new book, eee. Okay. Re-reading Gilded. But it is huge, so it definitely counts as reading. I just had to, after I peeked at Cursed, haha. Needed to know all the details again, ha. I am excited. Fingers crossed I will actually get to read more each day, though, so it takes me less time to read. I got very much mail this week, though. Sobs. I need to stop buying things. No money, no room. But it is so hard. Sigh. I shared my newest review of The Scorpio Races. <3 This week I'm waiting on Fall of the School for Good and Evil :D Hope you're all doing well. <3 At what time do you decorate for Christmas? Have you started, like me? :)


The Amber Spyglass: Illustrated edition. Own the first two, now all three. It's huge. Gosh. But so pretty.
Empire of the Vampire. I haven't read this yet. Ahh! But bought the special edition even so, ha. Had to :)
Demon in the Wood. Personalized copy, eee :D Thank you Vroman's Bookstore and Leigh. <3 Love it so.
Cursed. EEE! I am SO excited for this second and final book :D Gosh. I peeked at ending. Too excited.
Seasparrow. Eee! Some editions have made it. <3 SO excited for this. UK hback, intl pback. Love them.
The Invisible Spy. Still so behind on books by Lisa. Aaack. And yet I'm still buying them all, ha :D Cute.
The Amber Spyglass. Of course I had to get the tv-show tie-in for this third one too, ha :) Looks gorgeous.
The Luminaries. I'm hoping to feel like reading this one very soon :D Been excited for this for a long time.
Mario Rabbids: Sparks of Hope. EEE! Prize pack from Ubisoft Nordic :D Thank you so much. That plush!
Taylor Swift: Midnights. Got my final two album versions, the clean one just to own, and special one. <3


Funko Europe. Another order placed. Oops. Got the Luffy with Going Merry because I saw so many want it, and I was lucky and fast enough to buy it, ha :D It's cute. I have never seen the show. Will look it up :) And more new Stranger Things and Harry Potter. <3 Love them all. Tried more minis. All doubles. Rude.

More Instagram photos here. <3

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

Waiting on Wednesday #577

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

FALL OF THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL
BY SOMAN CHAINANI


Goodreads Description:

THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL is the #1 movie now streaming on Netflix--starring Academy Award winner Charlize Theron, Kerry Washington, Laurence Fishburne, Michelle Yeoh, Sofia Wylie, Sophie Anne Caruso, Jamie Flatters, Earl Cave, Kit Young, and many others!

What rises . . . must fall.

Two brothers

One Good.

One Evil.

In exchange for power and immortality,

they watch over the Endless Woods

and rule the School for Good and Evil.

Yet all School Masters must face a test.

Theirs is loyalty.

But what happens when loyalty is corrupted? When the bonds of blood are broken?

Who will survive? Who will die? And what will become of the school and its students?

The journey that started a hundred years ago throttles towards its end. This final chapter in the duology that began with the RISE OF THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL brings the tale of the twin School Masters to the brink of war and a shocking conclusion that will change the course of the school forever.


Format: 368 pages, Hardcover
Expected Publication: May 2, 2023 by HarperCollins
Pre-Order: Book Depository and Blackwells and Amazon

I may be a little behind, as I have not read the first book yet. But I'm thinking it will be smarter to read this duology together, ha :D And so I am very excited about this one. <3 Of course, a huge fan of The School for Good and Evil series, eeee. Loved them so much. <3 And always excited for more books by Soman :)
What are you waiting for on this powerful Wednesday?

Monday, November 7, 2022

Review: The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

This is the book I have read more than any other. For the twelfth time now. It is my most favorite story. The book I love more than any other. And I still do not tire of reading this. I still do not find a single part of it boring. I still look forward to all my favorite parts, which are many. Finishing this book still brings me so much joy.

Will do my best to write a short review. Just sharing my love for this story. Reading about Puck and Sean again was simply the best. I love them beyond words. I love them together so much. And their story is the best. This whole book is incredible. I can't truly believe that I still love it just as much, every time I read it.

But I do. With my whole heart. I was not able to re-read it last year, and I still regret that. It had now been two years since my last read. But this was still my twelfth read of it. Oh, how badly I love it. And I will be reading it again and again. It is a book I will always love. It makes me so happy. Maggie is an amazing writer. I have loved all books I have read by her, but nothing is as good as The Scorpio Races. Nothing ever will be. Unless she finally writes a sequel, eee. I know. This book ends so well. There does not need to be more. But I want more. There is still so many things I want to know. And I honestly just want to read about Puck and Sean being together and being in love and being with Corr and Dove. And more of Finn and Holly too. I want all of it.

Only sharing my love for this book this time. Not sharing any of the plot. If you have not read this book, still, shame on you. It is most precious and must be adored by all. It is impossible to not fall in love with Puck and Sean. And their whole lives. It makes me so happy to read about Puck. She is so brave and loving and I just love her to pieces. She's grumpy and oh so lovely. I love her brother Finn. He is still the most adorable. Their barn cat Puffin too. I am still mad at Gabe, despite understanding him too. Hmph.

This book is deadly and heartbreaking. It is full of sad moments. Full of things that make me angry. Like Mutt. And his father. But it is also full of hope and love and family. Full of Puck and Sean getting to know each other. Falling in love, in their quiet way. It is most lovely and I love them together so much. Best love story, despite being so little of it. I love how the book ends with the races. It was so epic. I love how Puck have the three sisters in her life. They are awesome. I loved meeting Holly. Love all of them. Sean most.

It is easy for me to say that I love this book. That I love this story more than anything. And yet, honestly, it should not really have been a book for me. I don't even like horses. They have never been an animal for me. And yet. In this book, I love them. Well, I love Corr and Dove. But they are also not what makes this book for me. Sean and Puck do. Their bravery. Their love. How they love their horses, despite how very different they are. The Scorpio Races is everything. And I love it the very most. And I hope you love it too.