8 Books I Absolutely Plan to Read in 2018

Photo by Drew Coffman on Unsplash

I bought a lot of books in 2017. I mean, not as much as I could have, obviously, but compared to how many books I finished and read, it was more than could have possibly been approved if, like, I had an adultier adult telling what I should and shouldn't do with my money.

Last year (and the year before that and the year before that) I also took part in the Goodreads Book Challenge...and failed, miserably (all three years).  So, this year I am trimming things back and hopefully simplifying without cutting out the end goal of reading books.
Instead of saying "I will read 'x amount' of books" I am going to say "THESE are the books that I will have read by the end of the year." If I finish them and happen to read more? great! But if not, if I only finish these, I will still have completed something in its fullness and I can be proud of that.

So without further ado, here are the 8 books that I bought in 2017 that I absolutely, positively, must read in 2018:

• A Court of Mist and Fury // Sarah J. Maas: I bought both ACoTaR and ACoMaF at the same time, and absolutely blitzed through the first book. It...has taken me a bit longer to finish A Court of Mist and Fury and I can only chalk it up as to not wanting Tamlin to change (but, I love Rhys so....that should negate any bad feelings about Tamlin??). I started this book already, so I've already got, say, two chapters down? Honestly, I need to just commit some more time to finish it and I'm sure I'll get through it as fast as the first book.
• The Scarlet Letter // Nathaniel Hawthorne: Listen, not all of us had required reading in high school. For a large portion of my childhood, this was the classic we didn't mention. I'm fairly certain if I had picked it up, I would've been allowed to read it (with the exception of Harry Potter, my mom practically didn't vet what I read due to not being a reader herself) but the content always scared me away.  However, I am a big girl now, and I fully plan on delving into this weighty classic. 
• Wizard's First Rule // Terry Goodkind: When I was younger, I heard about Legend of the Seeker and honestly really wanted to watch the show. However, I could find it nowhere (legally and cheaply) and so I put it off.  Last year, I stumbled upon Wizard's First Rule and instantly went, "hey, isn't that...?" so, since I never got to watch the show (and tbh, I think I can safely say I outgrew the need to watch it), I'm instead opting to go with the book which inspired the show. Surely that can't be an awful trade-off.  This is another book that I have started, and frankly, I'm pretty impressed. Is it a fairly normal fantasy read? hecking yes. Do I like fairly normal fantasy reads? I'm trash for them. So, I think it'll be a good relationship. 
• Norse Mythology // Neil Gaiman: This one will probably be the first to be finished, simply because I'm already about halfway through it and, while I'm reading it, I'm also listening to it in audiobook.  I'm not a big audiobook fan, but I had a 9-hour car ride and, even though I had the book, decided to download the audiobook because it had Neil Gaiman reading it. That was a great idea. Gaiman's reading style is to die for, and he does the voices! Every voice is so pristine and perfect and look at me fangirling.  So, yes, with the combination of an audio-book I love and a collection of Norse Mythology stories that are funny, original and written as only Gaiman could write them, I'm sure it will be a quick finish. 
• The Great Gatsby // F. Scott Fitzgerald: I have a friend who spent the entirety of an almost hour-long car ride passionately discussing the greatness of this book, and frankly, I'd felt left out. The book had never before caught my attention, despite the roaring 20's being perfectly aesthetic. But the way she spoke about it made me feel like I might truly be missing something important. Besides, it's such a thin little book, I'm sure I could read it in no time. 
• A Flame in the Mist // Renee Ahdieh: I don't read much mainstream YA these days. Aside from Maas' series, I honestly didn't find my attention dramatically captured by very many YA books. A Flame in the Mist was one of those rare gems that did catch my eye.  While I've heard from other book bloggers that it cant, reliably, be called a Mulan retelling, the setting, and the storyline offers much to interest me.
• The Orphan's Tale // Pam Jenoff: This was a last minute buy towards the end of the year. It was majorly discounted at work and the synopsis sounded like a new twist on WWII stories. I'm a few chapters in and, honestly, it's remarkably charming.  A young childless mother saves a Jewish infant from a railway car ultimately headed toward's the baby's death, and then joins a circus. In the circus are remarkable people, and a woman who knows, better than most, the fear and terror that she's going through.  What's not to love? 
• Moon Called // Patricia Briggs: I place the full blame of this book on one of my dearest friends. When she got me hooked on this book dripping with fantasy and modern world realism, she opted not to tell me that there are 10 (11, if you count the extra...and even MORE if you count the spin-offs) books in this dang series. I don't know how she ever expects me to finish this series that is chock full of realistic and dang-pretty werewolves (honestly, this is the best, most honest and raw writing of werewolves that I have ever seen. The whole 'alpha male' thing isn't sexualized and they are written as real half-animals, half-men. It's very refreshing).  I guess I'm just going to have to start with finishing one book at a time and hoping to have them all done by the time I'm, I dunno, 40. 

What's on the top of your TBR list? 

Have you read any of the books on this list? 

If you made a similar post, I'd love to read it! Share the links in the comments and I'll be sure to stop by. 

reading of: medieval murder, daughters and high fae

I sit here, armed with a freshly brewed cup of Irish Breakfast Tea (my fave when mixed with a dash of sugar, and just enough cream to make it a pale, cozy color) and prepared to talk about the most wonderful subject to discuss over a warm cuppa: books.

Once upon a time, when I was much younger (read: had much more free time on my hands), I could quite easily be reading seven books at once and finish them in under two weeks.
Now, I'm excited if I can finish one book in a month.  While I am working on getting my reading speed and vigor back up to where it once was, or, at the very least, faintly resembling where it once was, I've had to cut back on how many books I am reading at once.

For example, rather than carrying around a book bag stuffed-to-the-seams with seven books, I am only reading three (I know. Don't look at me like that. I have book ADD. I can't stick with one book for too long or I get restless...no matter how electric and riveting the book actual is).

 Mistress of the Art of Death was a random find and buy from a thrift store; the cover looked pretty, the premise sounded intriguing and...I kinda have a thing for unconventional murder mysteries.  I get bored easily by the regular murder mysteries that crime-solving involve beat cops, or Parish Priests with a cunning mind (sorry, Father Brown. You are one of the better ones, though).
I grew up reading Agatha Christie, and as much as I still love her books, I think I rather burned myself out on them.
About a year ago, however, I discovered S.D. Sykes' Plague Land.  It completely changed the type of murder mystery I was interested in.
A murder mystery book that covered the black plague, a young English Lord trying to do right, a look at old England in a way that was gritty, ugly and far from charming? I absolutely loved it (also it delved into the human spirit and- stop me now because I could talk about Plague Land forever).
Mistress of the Art of Death vaguely reminded me of the same type of murder mystery that Plague Land was.  It's main protagonist, Adelia, an anatomist who was schooled at the University of Salerno, is a woman above her time who is trying to solve the murder of four children before it is pinned on the closest and most unlucky scapegoat. All in the meantime, she has to be careful to not be too above her time because, yo, witch burning was a thing. While I haven't gotten far into it yet, I'm definitely enjoying Ariana Franklin's medieval take on a forensic thriller.

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 In medieval Cambridge, England, four children have been murdered. The crimes are immediately blamed on the town's Jewish community, taken as evidence that Jews sacrifice Christian children in blasphemous ceremonies. To save them from the rioting mob, the king places the Cambridge Jews under his protection and hides them in a castle fortress. King Henry II is no friend of the Jews-or anyone, really-but he is invested in their fate. Without the taxes received from Jewish merchants, his treasuries would go bankrupt. Hoping scientific investigation will exonerate the Jews, Henry calls on his cousin the King of Sicily-whose subjects include the best medical experts in Europe-and asks for his finest "master of the art of death," an early version of the medical examiner. The Italian doctor chosen for the task is a young prodigy from the University of Salerno. But her name is Adelia-the king has been sent a "mistress" of the art of death. Adelia and her companions-Simon, a Jew, and Mansur, a Moor-travel to England to unravel the mystery of the Cambridge murders, which turn out to be the work of a serial killer, most likely one who has been on Crusade with the king. In a backward and superstitious country like England, Adelia must conceal her true identity as a doctor in order to avoid accusations of witchcraft. Along the way, she is assisted by Sir Rowley Picot, one of the king's tax collectors, a man with a personal stake in the investigation. Rowley may be a needed friend, or the fiend for whom they are searching. As Adelia's investigation takes her into Cambridge's shadowy river paths and behind the closed doors of its churches and nunneries, the hunt intensifies and the killer prepares to strike again.

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I had seen A Court of Thorns and Roses on multiple review blogs, bookstagram accounts and in the general bookish buzz.  The concept interested me (cute Fae lords? curses? animal shifters? um...yes??? please???) but there were so many anti-ACOTAR debates and reviews that I was a little scared to get involved into the story.  A chance meeting with the book in a discount book store made me decide to throw caution to the wind and dive in.

boy, oh boy, was it worth it. 

From the first page, I was plunged into a world of pure magic and delight.  Maas' writing style is the trustworthy simple that is frequent in Young Adult novels without being too simple and lacking in glimmer. In short: she writes beautifully.
Sure, there were things I didn't totally agree with.  For example, I can definitely see where Tamlin is pushy, and on a whole I didn't care for the premarital sex (and the whole "We will never see each other again, so might as well do it." I don't understand why that was a good reason, but...ok. whatever).
I'm almost finished, almost ready to start A Court of Mist and Fury...but while I definitely can appreciate Rhys (it doesn't take a genius to see that he's a stunner), but I'm not sure if I like Rhys yet.  Maybe I will in time. But I liked Tamlin from the start and everyone hates Tamlin after ACOMAF (I read the spoilers. I know why. it completely breaks my heart. Come on, Tam. I was rooting for you. I feel personally betrayed by him). But, lets be honest, if Tamlin hadn't done what he had, the fangirls rooting for him vs Rhys would be a lot bigger and there'd be fights. At least like this, there is peace between us.
 But still, knowing all that, I'm not sure is I'm ready for an ACOMAF that mainly focuses on Rhys x Feyre and I'm not sure if I'm ready for bad!Tamlin? At any point, I need to get my hurry on, because book three, A Court of Wings and Ruin came out and guess which girl hunted herself down a copy?

I love all the lesser faes and sprites and the magic in the world and it's just beautiful.  I wouldn't recommend it for younger readers simply because sex before marriage is shown favorably, but I certainly recommend it for people who are older, more mature, and totally down for falling in love with High Fae men. (Lucien ).

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When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.

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Where do I begin with Mr. Darcy's Daughters? Firstly, I suppose, it should be said that this has not yet proven itself to be a great work of legendary fiction, but is more along the lines of a well writ fanfiction bound up and published.  I know there is some very good fanfiction that has been published by some very good authors, but honestly the $3.99 I paid for this book at a thrift store is about as much as I'd be willing to spend. 

It is a light and fluffy read, and delves into the story of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy's five daughters; Letitia, Camilla, Belle, Georgina and Alethea. 

The whole book (so far as to up where I've read), Darcy and Lizzy are both absent, visiting to Constinople and they've left their daughters in the care of a family friend. 

Letitia is absolutely maddening. I cannot honestly believe that Lizzy or Darcy would be capable of raising such a prudish, wilted flower of a daughter.  I think they tried to make her be The-New-Jane, but she lacks the heart, kindness and wistful honesty that Jane possessed and so Letitia just comes out whining, bossing her sisters around and making me want to rip her hair out with every word she says. 

Then we have Camilla. Spoiler: she's essentially Lizzy all over again, but she's more flirty, less dignified.  She's not the best female character I've seen on the pages of a book, but she's by far one of the most tolerable in this book.  Of course, however, with her being Basically-Lizzie, the author has set up two romances for her, one that smells distinctly of Wickham, and the other is basically Darcy all over again. 

I'm fairly certain I know who she will end up with. 

Belle and Georgina, the twins, are basically the same person. They are both flirty, both insanely driven towards men, and are quite likely to get involved in all manners of scandals (sound like anyone we know? I'll give you a hint...they are both fabulously infatuated by their Aunt Kitty...)

But, just so that we can tell them apart, the author made sure to make them look nothing alike. One is as dark as night (whats that even supposed to mean?) and the other is fair and lighter colored.  How handy. 

Last of all, we come to Alethea, the musically genius youngest daughter of the Darcys. She's ok. Thats it. Not super stunned by her. But she's not as awful as Belle, Georgina or Letitia. 

I guess I should save my hard thoughts for the final review, but if asked, right now, if I reccomended it...my first instinct would be to say, "only if you can find it for free."

However, I don't even think that would be a suitable answer because, trust me, there are far, far better things to spend your time reading.  I'm only finishing it because I paid for it and feel I ought to before ditching it.

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It is the year 1818, twenty-one years after the stirring events of Pride and Prejudice.
Mr Darcy and Elizabeth have gone to Constantinople, while their five daughters descend on the dangerous and dashing world of Regency London. The world is changing, but opportunities for women are limited, as intelligent, independent-minded Camilla soon discovers - and Society is unforgiving of those who transgress its rules.

The sisters are assailed on all sides by the temptations of London, with its parties and balls, gossip and scandals, intrigues and schemes, not to mention the inevitable heartbreaks arising from proximity to so many eligible - and ineligible - men. In Mr. Darcy's Daughters, Elizabeth Aston presents a new variation on a Jane Austen theme, introducing a wonderful array of memorable and amusing nineteenth-century characters in a witty, lively and perceptive tale of Regency life.

 

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So, those are the titles I have set to finish reading before I pick up any other books.  

Next up on my to-read list, however, is (naturally), A Court of Mist and Fury (shortly followed by A Court of War and Ruin). Then The Wizard's First Rule, by Terry Goodkind, which is the novel which inspired the tv show that I cant seem to find anywhere, The Legend of the Seeker. Finally, Gone Girl, by Gillian Flynn, is on my list, as it was recommended by a co-worker.  Somewhere in there, I'm also going to attempt to lightly pick my way through the Outlander books and hopefully not be too viciously scarred by Diana Gabaldon's lack of propriety when it comes to writing sex scenes. 

What are you currently reading? Do you recommend it? Why or why not? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below!

paper crowns blog tour + surprise

"Ginger has lived in seclusion, with only her Aunt Malgarel and her blue cat, Halcyon, to keep her company. Her sheltered, idyllic life is turned upside-down when her home is attacked by messengers from the world of fae. Accompanied by Halcyon (who may or may not be more than just a cat), an irascible wysling named Azrael, and a loyal fire elemental named Salazar, Ginger ventures into the world of fae to bring a ruthless Queen to justice."

Mirriam's writing had always fascinated me.  From the moment I met her and began to delve into her written worlds, I was drawn in by the way she poured words into the soup pot and came out with something gourmet.
Paper Crowns is something unique, however.
While most of Mirriam's writing is intense, as sharp as the wit of Oscar Wilde and as bright as a firecracker, Paper Crowns has an aura of magic and drowsy dreaming that fit it more into a chimera world of Howl's Moving Castle and Jim Henson's Labyrinth with maybe a tiny touch of Alice in Wonderland. maybe.
besides, there is a talking blue cat. trust me, you want this.
With the assortment of characters, the whimsy storytelling and the drifting in and out of the fae world and back into ours, the 191 pages of Paper Crowns is a fast read that will make you be glad it happened but sad its over.

(not to go into the spoilers zone but: there is a sequel. I've read it. I know this isn't a common thing to say when talking about a sequel...but I actually think the Paper Crowns world gets better in the sequel. I know, right? freaky)

Today, for your reading pleasure, I have two very special surprises. Oh I know, don't thank me yet.

First up, the marvelous author is here, herself, to answer a few questions about Paper Crowns and its construction.

blog // goodreads // publisher's page // barnes and noble // amazon // email

Unlikely Things: "What three songs were at the top of your playlist while writing Paper Crowns?"

MN.: "Until The Darkness Comes by Colbie Callait, Magnetic by Jessie J. and Lost Boys by Novelette"

Unlikely Things: "Can you remember what the first 'ah ha!' spark of inspiration was?"

MN.: "When I realized I was well and truly irked by Julie Kagawa's 'Iron Fey' series..."

Unlikely Things: "Can you describe Paper Crowns in five words?"

MN.: "Even the muffins are dangerous"

Unlikely Things: "You have a very interesting set of characters within Paper Crowns. Was there any interesting founding-inspiration for any of them?"

MN.: "Not necessarily, no. I'd wanted to write a shape shifting cat for a very long time, but I can't recall exactly where that desire came from." 

Unlikely Things Note: its a shape shifting cat. how much more does that need? I mean you could literally throw the concept of a shape shifting cat around for the sheer joy it brings...

Unlikely Things: "What do you hope readers take away from reading this book?"

MN.: "This is one of my rare novels where I'm not necessarily writing so readers 'take away' anything but some warm, fuzzy feelings and - hopefully - new characters to love."

Unlikely Things: "Is it possible for you to choose one scene that was your favorite? Can you describe it to our readers?"

MN.: "I don't necessarily have a favorite, but to pick one from the pile, I really enjoy the scene with the Mattigan. Who and what the Mattigan is, I can't exactly say. ;)"

I had to fight some bees to get the flowers for this picture. It was not enjoyable.

Unlikely Things: "What about a favorite quote?"

MN.: "Ohh, I can't say a favorite quote. I try to write everything with a quoteable air, if that makes sense. I write things I would want to read, I want to make it all enjoyable."

Unlikely Things Note: pretty much everything that spills from Hal and Azrael's mouths is my favorite quote. Which...seeing how they are mouthy and they happen to poke alongside Ginger throughout the majority of the book...I have way too many favorites. yikes.

Unlikely Things: "This is your second published book, but your first book that has not been independently published. Why did you decide to go the traditional publishing route with Paper Crowns?"

MN.: "Well, technically Indie is a step between self-publishing and traditional. I'm still working towards having a novel published traditionally, and this is the next step towards that goal."

Unlikely Things: "Are you sworn to secrecy, or can you tell us a bit about what project(s) you are working on now?"

MN.: "I'm currently 70,000 words into a futuristic, Japanese, Sci-Fi retelling of Robin Hood; and aside from this Paper Crowns tour, it has most of my focus right now. It has an expansive cast and I would kill to see it turned into an anime. (I didn't say what I would kil, but I would kill.)

Unlikely Things Note: whatever is lined up for the noose/knife/bullet had better not be another character. I can't emotionally take that. 

Unlikely Things: "What is your favorite aspect of the Paper Crowns world?" 

MN.: "I love the back-and-forth between the fae world and ours. Playing mix-and-match is my favorite aspect." 

Unlikely Things: "Tell us about that cover art! Man, I know they say that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but people do. Paper Crowns has some lovely, stunning art, so boast a bit! Tell us how it came to be."

MN.: "MY GIRLBRO EXTRAORDINAIRE LAUREN GIFTED IT TO ME.
She'd wanted to do the cover for Monster originally, but we didn't know each other well and she didn't say anything about it. So with Paper Crowns, she jumped in, told me she had my back, and gave me a cover more gorgeous than I ever dreamed of"

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Mirriam Neal is absolutely beautiful and is sickenly talented. But why take my word for it?

Thats right, its a giveaway! The rules are simple: follow the rules in the rafflecopter, and on Wednesday, June 1, the winner will be contacted to receive their address in order to have the paperback copy mailed to them.  It's going to be worthwhile, trust me.

Want to read more about Paper Crowns and visit more blogs hosting author/book spotlights, reviews and more? Here is a list of blogs and posts to check out!

Adventures of an Annapuppy

 

Pickles's Pens and Trinkets 

Want to enter to win a signed copy of Paper Hearts? do so here. 

An entire, complete list of all the locations and dates that the Paper Crowns tour will be headed is available here. Keep an eye out for more goodies and fun!

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sin to kill the mockingbird

i remember distinctly when i first opened To Kill a Mockingbird. 

my parents aren't big readers, and being the oldest child, i often forged my own way with books.  many of the books i have read have never even been touched by my parents (including 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn'.  I read that book way too young and cannot even attempt a second try due to the scarring that book gave me).  i found TKaM in a box of books that a friend gave us, and as I took it to read, i hardly realized what an impact that book would hold for me.

the characters, the small town setting, it all became near and dear to me as each page drew me in more and more to the story that unfolded.  maybe i was too young to read a book that spoke on weighty matters such as rape, racism and violence.  the book harper lee made handled these topics with a grace and poise that made certain that the subjects did not skip over my head, but neither did they weigh so heavily that i could not focus on the simple subject that poured through every page like liquid gold.

"I think there's just one kind of folks; folks."

lee's book was written as beautiful as a aged poem, but as simply as if a scout herself penned the words in simple childlike prose.

i fell in love with the words that lee spun, but also the characters.

more specifically, atticus and boo radley. 

two very different men came forth from lee's script; one brave who faced the world with his own stance and never once moved.  a man who lifted a gun only in mercy and instead used his wit, his reason and his sense of right to fight the battles that a gun never could.

the other man was...unique. a man who hid himself away and tucked himself into the shadows. a man who wrapped himself into a blanket of hidden security and carried a reputation that caused fear.
a man who, underneath that shadow of security, had a heart as precious and big as could possibly be imagined.

lee was the author who first gave me the book that not only captured my mind and heart, but also stayed there in a place that no other book can take. she stayed out of the limelight, almost like a boo radley of her own (but more beloved).  really, she was only thrust into public attention when she announced the release of her second book, 'Go Set a Watchman'.
but where she was absent, her book(s) were wild fire that blazed through america at a time when they needed it and remained there like a smoldering fire that was ready to catch again when needed.
her books have never gone out of style (not 'popularity', for that is a fickle thing and im not sure scout would approve of the wordage.  style is classier. style doesn't fade like popularity will).

so to ms. lee, i say, thank you. thank you for taking that year off work, for taking that time to sit down and write a book and make it perfect.  thank you for publishing it (because it isn't writing if you don't have naysayers). thank you for your book and it's prequel.

thank you ms. lee. 

you were a gem and now you are a star. 

you wrote a book that became a classic for society and i can only hope to do what you achieved. 

you lived a life well made.

goodbye, ms. lee. 

the pursuit of literature

as a budding writer, i am always game for gaining new advice from published and veteran authors.  and doubtlessly, if you also care to seek out sage authorly advice you will find that the most often uttered words of encouragement and guidance is "Read"
they tell us that to read good books is to write good books, and so lay upon our shoulders the pressing urge to only delve into good novels.
and, 'good' novels, its a complicated place.
do they mean, "good" as in, perfectly constructed plots, worlds, and characters?
can we even find such books?
can we even find enough such books to keep us well in stock?
or, is it only classical novels, great dickens, sweet austin, gothic bronte?
what is a good book?
it's actually rather stressful, when you stop in think about it (please don't. i have done the thinking, far too much of it. thinking is a wonderful thing, but sometimes it is overrated).

as such, i have been thinking, and feeling guilty when i read a book that i know isn't award winning, or a published star trek fan fiction (oh my weakness. i just have a hard time letting go of my enterprise world).  when i secretly fall in love with these books, and stroke their covers and whisper that i love them even despite their flaws, i feel like i am betraying myself inside.
if i love them, does that mean, i will decrease in my ability to write beautiful things?

and so you see my over thinking analysis of things,  to write good books, surely i must only read good books. and to a soul that finds comfort in even the most cheap, cliche ridden, and stereotype filled novels, it was a slight problem.

today, i finished robin mckinley's the blue sword (mrs. mckinley is probably my all time favorite writer. whatever people say about j.k rowling being the goddess of writing, they are looking in the wrong, wrong, wrong place. if i had to describe the perfect book, it would surely come from underneath her pen), and i went to her website, and browsed through her book list, yearning for those i haven't read, and discovering that yesterday she released her newest novel, shadows. and i will not unleash my jubilantly pounding feelings over that matter, but, just know, i am feeling right now.
up at the top, there was a little "faq" page, and i clicked, interested in learning more about her.
and there was a "do you have any advice for people who would like to become writers?" bit, and, as mentioned at the top, i clicked.

oh how glad i am that i did.

she opens with a, "Just this: Read as much as you can and write as much as you can. Reading feeds your own story-telling" which, was rather a bit expected, but, then she continued, "Follow your nose through the library or the bookshop shelves or your friends' recommendations or intriguing reviews on and off line; read what you can feel feeds you, that you can feel yourself sitting up straighter to pay better attention to, that excites you and makes you want to learn more, or want to go to that place again, or think more about something you've only just realised, or only just seen a new angle on. This includes, by the way, a category I will call Good Trash"
 and never had i felt more releaved, seriously, i almost wished to cry.
i very much doubt she knows what she did to this heart of a seventeen year old girl, and how she finally shone a light on my fears, and showed me that there weren't any fears to be afraid of at all.
it made sense.

reading isn't a thing to be honed and skilled, and picky about.
read what pulls you.
just as when you walk into a bakery with the intent upon buying a cake, you don't look at a cake and choose the one that is dry and healthy, but the one that you want because it will taste good, and satisfy what you wanted.
not that all good books are dry and boring, since mrs. mckinley writes phenomenally good books, as does stienbeck, dickens, and bronte. 
but if you have to wrestle yourself to read a book that is 'perfect' just because it is perfect and should, hopefully, help you write perfect, it isn't perfect for you.

i do not believe i have ever read a book, even those which severely lacked in supposed perfectness, that didn't open up the world a little, even a little bit, for me.

no book is perfect, no book has perfect characters. or perfect plot. or perfect writing style.
if you asked me, even i could tell you a bad thing about even robin mckinley's books, though it would pain my heart since i love every single one i have read.

a book is only as perfect as you would like it to be.

don't feel like your taste in reading is any less classy than the girl or boy who carries stienbeck and c.s lewis along in their hands everywhere they go.
don't hide your star trek fan fiction because you are afraid of not having a very 'good' choice in reads.
the fantasy novel you are reading may not be tolkien, but that doesn't matter. it doesn't have to be.

if it pulls you, if it brings you to it's shelf, and reaches for you, then read it.

i am immensely happy reading almost anything.
books on a mass scale just make me happy.
great books.
famous books.
books with parts i skip.
books that keep me glued from blank page before chapter one to blank page after the end.
books that bring me back to the federation space.
books that transport me to1800s england
books that take my hand and guide me through fantasy places.
books that are mainly read as school book reports.
and books that are read for fun and no other reason.

you take something from every book you read and every world you visit.

who is to tell you that a certain world and a certain word is lesser than the next.

or perhaps i just over thought this whole topic.

did i?

pink lemonade tea and hamlet

 Today, a group of our friends gathered at the local park to play soccer.  It wasn't their fault that it rained about an hour before we left, and therefore was a mini sauna outside due to humidity. 
But it was still hot.
My original plans were to just stay home and be a hermit, but I was sworn in as my brother's driver (since, I have my driver's license now. did I say?) and so I gathered up two of my books from my pile (Hamlet and The Beekeeper's Apprentice) and shuffled on out to the park, where I spent the first half laying in the shade on a picnic bench and reading.   I was still hot. but, at least I didn't appear to be, as afterwards, one of my brother's friends came up and said, "While we are out here sweating and looking gross, you are over here, laying down, reading and looking very comfortable"
well thank you.
I did have to leave halfway through to get Gatorade for some red faced brothers who informed me that they would be thirsty, extremely so, afterwards.  And that was a whole adventure. Driving to our locally owned gas station and trying to use my brother's debt card.  And feeling so stupid each time it was rejected. And having the urge to say, "It's not my card, actually", unless they begin to think that this dinged up, scratched debt card was actually your dinged up, scratched debt card (I keep mine beautifully flawless. OCD. ya know).
But then, I realized, saying, "It's not my card, actually" only sounded a whole lot worse. Naturally, I realized that after saying it.
So, in the end, I ended up paying for it, and decided, while I was using my own money, might as well get me something to drink too. And so I bought a Peace Tea company Pink Lemonade Tea to try.
And fell in love.
Hello new favorite.
Peace Tea.
I love you.
Even though my brothers now insist I'm on the road to being a hippie for drinking something with a peace sign and bright colors on it.
It's seriously the best though.
I got back, and they were pretty much finished playing, and therefore, didn't get in as much reading as I'd like to have done. 
But I chatted awhile with my friend Kayla, and that was loverly. I really enjoy talking to her. 
And then, we had to leave.

But, I have a ponponderance, what is the 'pink' that makes Pink lemonade? Is it strawberry? Because Pink Lemonade has a fruity, sweeter, pinkish taste to it, and it has to be more than simply dye coloring.

Anyway, after dinner, I started on Hamlet (since I'd only read The Beekeeper's Apprentice while at the park).  It's the sort that I felt needed to be read aloud, so while my brother washed dishes, I perched on a bar stool, and read it aloud to him.
Is Hamlet supposed to be funny? Because I found the first five pages absolutely hilarious.
Seriously, if you are trying to talk to a ghost, maybe you should actually shut up and give it room to talk.
just my thoughts.
(Horatio, looking at you. shut.up. Ok? The ghost probably walked away because you wouldn't shut the trap).
And then Bernardo, Marcellus and Horatio's whole:

Ber: T'is here!

Hor: T'is here!

 Mar: T'is gone. 

had me laughing. 

was that even supposed to be funny?

Ah, but yes. that was my day. Pink lemonade tea and hamlet.

Tsundoku

i used to be really good about flashing through books.  It was rare that I had a book in my possession that I hadn't read at least twice.  But with age, (and distraction...since I really haven't become any busier, per say) I no longer have difficulty keeping myself stocked with books. 

In fact, its grossly the opposite. 

Right now, sitting on my desk, I have not one, not two, not three, not even six unread books, but a whole, wopping twelve. 

Twelve guys. 

I don't think I've ever had this many books sitting around, unread, before. 

(and thats not counting the Created To Be His Helpmeet my mom bought me to read. I'm kinda purposefully not reading that one because I don't even want to think about getting married. I meet a guy I like, and I'll pick it up. Wrong philosophy, I know).

I really need to finished some of these, since I've started them all, I just haven't actually finished them.

On my bookshelf (eh...desk...) is: 

Son of a Witch: 
I ordered this one right after I ordered Wicked, and while I was in the height of my Wicked craze.  But I didn't realize quite how..*cough cough* the books were.  And, I might have lost most of my interest in the series after Fiyero died.
And then after Elphaba died.
And I just wasn't all that interested in a book about Lir.
Son of a Witch (don't you laugh. don't you dare. I know you are thinking it), from where I got, is good, and delves deeper into the Oz culture, but it just....
it doesn't have Elphie or Fiyero.

The Princess Academy:
I'm on like....chapter 5.  It's the sort of book, if I just spent an hour or two devoted to it, I could whisk through it like nothing.
I just.....haven't.

Kidnapped:
I have an unfortunate malady known as "ooh-Classic-Novel-Find-At-The-Thrift-Store-I-Don't-Even-Need-Another-Book-But-It's-Only-$.99-I'll-Get-It". I don't even particularly fancy Robert Louis Stevenson's novels. But it was a classic. and therefore, had to have it.

A Series of Unfortunate Events (The Austere Acadamy #5): 
I love these books, so why has it taken me so very long to read through them? I actually have all the SoUEs in my reading pile, but I'm only counting The Austere Acadamy, since it's the only one I'm actually reading at the current moment.
And someone needs to shoot Count Olaf.

Red Rock:
I don't even know what this one is about. Mama picked it up at a thrift store, and presented it to me to read and make sure it was okay for younger readers (thats my job since normally I can read a book in a day).  It's one of those ex-library books that are very much aged, and have paper all brown, and normally speak of either a great hidden find, or an utterly boring read.
I need to read it and find out.

War and Peace: 
After months and months of yearning for this book, I received it as a present, and my dad dared me to read it in a week. No doubt I could. And I insist the week hasn't started yet, since I haven't actually started it yet. I kinda just peeped at the insides, and set it on the shelf to read at a later date when I could dedicate myself to it.
It seemed like a piece of brilliance.
and each time I see it, I have a bit of shame for not reading it.

A Most Peculiar Circumstance:
Time and time again, I insist I am not a reader of the romance genre. So why in all the bloody beets do I try and try to get into it? Is it because I feel ashamed of not being a normal girl who can swoon over the too perfect, too handsome, too stereotypical heroes? (they are seriously all.the.same)
Time and time again, I get a new romance novel hoping that maybe this will be the one that commits me into the genre.
and each time, I end up yawning and feeling like I'm eating sweet air.
And can we please have a romance novel where the guy isn't....
perfect?
(and the girl isn't a fierce, independent,but naive, punketta?)

At the Back of the North Wind:
A long, long, long time ago, when I was too young to be interested in those silly classic books, we owned this one. But, something happened to it, and once I became enthralled, obsessed even, with the great classical novels,and I never got to read it.
So when I found this hard back edition at the same thrift store as I found Kidnapped, I snapped it up and bought it in a heart beat.

The Canary List:
this isn't even a horror novel.
and it scares me.
Full of catholic church consperecy, and its just a slow going read because i get creeped out by all the spiritualistic stuff.
I'm discovering I just don't do well with that sort of stuff. The movie 10,000 creeped me out so so much.

The Beekeepers Apprentice:
It's a Sherlock Holmes novel. Come on, Ashley. you've had this book on your wish list for months, and did a happy dance jig in Books-A-Million when you found it. Why has it been three months?
It's really a genius book, and I think the real reason I haven't finished it, is because I'm afraid of it ending it.
Even though there is a sequel. 
 

Confessions of an Ugly Step Sister:
Despite the fact that Wicked was *coughcough* and SoaW hasn't seemed all that much better, Gregory Maguire is one of my favorite authors. He has such a very interesting, gritty writing style, and writes girl characters so accurately. And, when it comes to rewriting old and familiar tales, he is the ace of aces.
This particular Cinderella retelling is so very...wow.
I need to finish it. I really do.
 

The Help: 
I'm almost almost almost done with this one.  It's seriously made it's way to my favorites list, and deserves it 100%. I really want to watch the movie now, because this novel is so beautiful and perfect. And I love almost everyone in it (aside from Hilly. ick). I spent a couple of days just devouring this book, reading it when I ate meals, and staying up as late as I could, until I fell asleep.
 and I just...this book. It deserves all the fame.

And, so, this is my newest quest, lower this list of Currently Reading.

it's hard to believe, but I also want to go to the library.
why Ashley.
you have books to read.
twelve of them, to be exact.

Interview with Author Serena Chase!

This month, I have been claimed by a particular book series,  The Eyes of E'veria by Serena Chase.  As demonstrated clearly in my review, I was held rapt and awed from electronic cover to electronic cover.  I read half of The Ryn during our short, two day camping trip, opting to sit alone most of the time than to make the effort at socialization.   

So, the moment I had finished the last to be read on The Remedy, I plopped myself down at the computer, and sent an email to Ms. Chase, asking, would she mind an interview? 

Granted, I had never done one before, granted I had no idea how to interview someone, granted I was being rosy eyed with my love for these books and,perhaps, I was “too fond of books" and it had turned my brain. 

After about an day or so, I was beginning to clear from my dizzy love, and begin the onslaught of "what have I perceived to do" panic, only to find, that Ms. Chase had agreed. 

If I thought I was panicked before...

But, really, she is an incredibly sweet lady, and talking with her quite eased my worries.  

So, without further ado, ladies and (are there any Gentlemen readers out there? hellooo? I do not hear from you. *taps glass* are you in there?) hypothetical gentlemen, I give you, Ms. Chase!    

 

What was the original inspiration, the original, "ah ha! I must write this" for The Eyes of E'veria?

I was reading Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine because my daughter wanted to read it and, since it had been a while since I had read it, I wanted to make sure it was age-appropriate. When I was finished, I thought: "I wonder if I could retell a fairytale?" But I didn't want to do a well-known one, so I chose one that was lesser-known, but had been one of my childhood favorites, Snow White & Rose Red and, voila!, a mere seven years later--hahaha--we had The Ryn and The Remedy.

To be honest, I've never even read Snow White and Rose Red, but I honestly think that will quite likely change in the near (say, a weekish?) future. 

Rynnaia's name is special, since it's a combination of her position, as a name addict (what writer isn't?) I found that really interesting, does the names of any of the characters hold any special meaning? 

They're all special! (of course!) But there are some that are more "inspired" than others, you might say. Because Veetri is the land of the Storytellers, the three brothers de Whittier are named after three of my all time favorite storytellers: Kinley (Robin McKinley) Lewys (C.S. Lewis) and Rowlen (J.K. Rowling).

I would have never guessed! and yet, its so obvious now. (Also, I might possibly be having a little excitment spazz, because Robin McKinley. ♥ I love her, since she was also the author that held my hand into the fantasy genre, and when I hear her name, I fangirl a bit)

Do you listen to music while writing? 

Obsessively! I listen mostly to instrumental movie soundtracks. As I'm writing book 3, I have a mix including soundtracks from Master & Commander, Pirates of the Caribbean, Thor, Eragon, King Arthur, etc.


if yes, what song was often found playing during the writing of Eyes of E'veria?

... BUT... strangely enough, while I was writing the first two books, I listened (again, rather obsessively) to Chris Tomlin's album, ARRIVING (not an instrumental!)

You've published two books, do you have any advice for those of us who still hold that as a future dream? 

Work hard, seek professional advice and editing, and never give up the study of your craft! I thought the first draft of The Ryn was awesome, best-seller material. (It wasn't.) It took me 7 years to get it ready for publication, mainly because I waited too long to consult professional editors. Save yourself some time: admit there is always room for improvement, and seek professional assistance to make your book SHINE!

And here is a big, huge huge huge question, alright? it's huge. it's very important.

Tea, or coffee?  COFFEE!!!!! (Yes, very important!)

Do you write easier where there is a pleasant background chatter of people (example, a cafe, or mall's cafeteria) or alone, secluded from all other humans like Gollum? (I know. I could've used a more attractive example....)

I'm a Gollum. And since I sometimes forget to shower until about noon, I may actually look a bit like him, too, while I'm secluded in my writing cave! But seriously, the only sound I want to hear is my music and my clickety-clacking fingers on the keys. That's why summer writing is so difficult. Everyone is home (my husband even, sometimes, since he is a public school administrator and gets a few weeks off in the summer!) and there is always noise and interruptions. I love having the relaxed pace of summer and having my family at home with me,  but the author in me (who is starting to get a bit anxious about her October 1st deadline!) is sort of looking forward to school starting up again!

 What are you working on now? 

I am working on books 3 and 4 of the Eyes of E'veria series (as of yet untitled!) which will spotlight minor characters from the first two books (Cazien and Erielle) in leading roles. The first two books (The Ryn and The Remedy) were a re-imagining of the Grimm fairy tale, Snow White & Rose Red. Books 3 and 4 will be an entirely upended retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. Did I just let that slip? Heehee! This may be the first "official" place I've let that little nugget out!  I am really excited about this story and I guarantee you have never imagined The Twelve Dancing Princesses to be retold in this way! If I stay on track, book 3 will release late spring or summer 2014 and book 4 will release late fall 2014.

Can I say, I'm EXTREMELY relieved to hear that Cazien and Erielle are getting their own stories? I'm looking forward to them. :)

how much chocolate was used in the making of these books? 

I consumed immeasurable amounts of chocolate while writing--and there is no foreseeable end to the masacre. Like I said, it took 7 years to get these first two books out the door and, being that I'm a chocoholic... wow. That's a lot of chocolate!

One last fun question: if you could bring one of your characters from The Eyes of E'veria to our world and spend a day with them, who would you choose?

Cazien. HA! Okay, that was my first, gut-level reaction. I do love that pirate!  But on second thought, perhaps I would choose Rowlen de Whittier. With his Storyteller's Gift, he could make it seem like ALL the characters were right here with me!

 I know, I supposedly said that question above was the last, but I'm going to ask but one more, where can others find you, and your books?

Currently, my books are only available at Amazon for Kindle and Kindle apps--but readers should watch my Facebook page and my website this fall for some announcements pertaining to the expansion of availability!

The Ryn. 
The Remedy

Readers can find me here: 

website: http://www.serenachase.com

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Serena-Chase/484250238321951

Twitter: @Serena_Chase

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/serenachase/boards/

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/112400750164790230319/posts

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7012702.Serena_Chase

it was so so very much fun, having Ms. Chase on here, and she was such a sweet person to converse with!
by all means, I urge you, verily verily, to read The Ryn and The Remedy, as not only are they well written, beautiful and captivating, they have also become favorites, but I think I've already said that.  :)

Double Review// The Ryn and The Remedy

This morning, while I was still in my sailor stripe pajamas (they are quite comfy, and look all nautical), I was curled up with my nice, comfy, grey blanket, kindle in hand, and finished the second book in this little series.
And smiled my head off at the ending.

These books are simply beautiful in every way, and had me smiling, and clutching at my heart, or biting my tongue in worry more than once.

The moment I began The Ryn, and met my first Cobeld to the end, when a very important event had just transpired (no spoilers, darling), my heart had remained attached dearly to E’veria and it's people.
What natural thought, but to review these two books who have quickly made it to my favorites? And can we just talk about the beautiful cover art? And she is self published! I'm awed.

Publisher Description: 

  The Ryn

DESTINED by prophecy. GUARDED by deception. PURSUED by Love.

Centuries ago, an oracle foretold of the young woman who would defeat E’veria’s most ancient enemy, the Cobelds. But after two centuries of relative peace, both the prophecy and the Cobelds have been relegated to lore—and only a few remain watchful for the promised Ryn.

Finally, a child is born who matches the oracle’s description, but a Cobeld curse accompanies her birth. Led to believe they succeeded in killing the prophesied child, the Cobelds emerge from hiding with plans to overtake the Kingdom.

But the child survived.

Secreted away and called “Rose” for the first nineteen years of her life, Rynnaia E’veri has no idea of her true identity until a chance meeting with an injured knight reveals not only her parentage and true name, but the task assigned her by the oracle: discover the Remedy that will destroy the Cobelds’ power.

Now, her time has come.

Offered the assistance of pirates, scribes, storytellers, a young woman who died centuries ago, and the knight who is quickly working his way into her heart, Rynnaia is fortified with friends. But if the Ryn is to complete her task, she must come to terms with not only who she is, but for whom she must be willing to die. For the kingdom’s survival depends on her.

The Remedy

 PURPOSED by birth. DESTINED by prophecy. REVEALED by Truth.
Now, her time has come.

Having come to terms with her long-hidden identity, Princess Rynnaia E’veri is ready to take her rightful place. But before she can join her father at Castle Rynwyk, she must endeavor to fulfill a 200-year-old prophecy and defeat the Kingdom’s ancient enemy, the Cobelds. Joined by her faithful knight, Sir Julien de Gladiel, and a gifted group of friends, Rynnaia must trek a dangerous path through canyons, forests, and into the very depths of a mountain where, if the prophetic scrolls prove correct, she will face an unknown foe, alone. Treacheries will be discovered, sacrifices will be made, friends will be lost, and love will be tested, but if even one line of the riddled prophecy is misinterpreted, Rynnaia will fail . . . and the Kingdom will fall.

Beginning at the point THE RYN ended, THE REMEDY concludes an epic re-imagining of the classic Grimm fairy tale, SNOW WHITE & ROSE RED, but the Eyes of E’veria series is only beginning . . .

:info to know:

Author: Serena Chase

My recommended age: 13+

Their recommended age: NA

Publisher: Candent Gate

Number of Pages: 380 (The Ryn) and 390 (the Remedy)

 

Characters:

I fell in love with absolutely everyone in this book, aside from the Cobelds, of course.   It was a wonderful crew of new people to meet and watch, and the way Ms. Chase introduces each character is fresh and lively, and never leaves you feeling like you've missed something in transit.    And each character was so entirely their own person, and I could see them each so very clearly in my head, even before I found E'veria's Pinterest Board.  Though, I must admit, the only major differing looks between the way Ms. Chase pictured her characters and the way I did, was in Risson. For some reason, my mind gave him an almost Elvish look, with long blond hair, and, just, like a slightler Thranduil.  Strange, perhaps, I know.
But for everyone else, even though her descriptions weren't bogging and overdone, the way I pictured each character was exactly as she pictured them as viewed in the pinterest board. 

Plot:

There was never a moment when I was bored by the plot.  Ever.  It was fun and lively while still have the carefully moving grace of something that moves gracefully.  I was kept enthralled, and at some places, couldn't put it down (which is why I ate a cold breakfast this morning, because I couldn't get myself to put down The Remedy until I had finished it).

Writing Style:

Ms. Chase writing style is so very very nice.  and thats an understatement.  It has a poetic feel, and just reading it made me want to go out and write something half as beautiful myself.

Ending:

I'm not sure how the end of The Ryn made me feel, because it took all of five seconds for me to start The Remedy after it.  But, I'm just going to say, if you read The Ryn without having The Remedy within five seconds grasp, you will be tormented by what happens next. Because its just that way.
But the end to The Remedy...I loved it. my heart was in a manner of happiness because it was a happy time.  I know, I've read some books, a great many, actually, that when I've reached the end, I've felt desperate. I didn't want it to end, or I didn't feel like it was a good ending place.  But, for better or worse, those weren't the emotions I was struck by at the final turning of the page (electronic, kindle page).
It rounded out nicely, and left me full of knowing that Rynnaia (and a certain someone) were very happy together, and I didn't have to read that to know that it was so.
(However, it left me one very big question, that I am hoping Ms. Chase makes a third book to answer...because, Cazian and his darned cryptic speech is very confusing and must be answered).

World Building:

wow.
just wow.
ok?
just let 'wow' be enough to express what a wonderful job Ms. Chase did in this area.

Language:

None

Drugs and Drink:

wine is drunk on more than one occasion, but never in a foolish way. 

There is a substance called Ebonsworth root which has the ability to bewitch, if you will, whomever consumes it, and it was used a few times by those with ill means in mind. 

Romance and Sexual content:

The romance was actually slow in coming for me. I kept wanting to rush their feelings along, and get them to hug or something, but it was very perfect.
And the first kiss doesn't come until near the end of book two.
that was a spoiler.
but until that point, all the romance is this sort of fluffy oh-goodness-help-my-heart-is-bubbling-with-pink-puffy-cloud-feelings sort of thing and I loved it.
And then, I think Ms. Chase has probably written the most lovely wedding night (oops. another spoiler. I'm trying, ok?) scenes I have ever read. ever. You can read over it, and not even know what it is almost, until you realize its more than, gah this is so hard to explain.
It was pure.
Thats the perfect word for it.
It was pure light.
And nothing a Christian can feel bad about reading.

Violence:

Well, there is a battle, and people die, and Cobelds curse people to death, and so, yes, there is minor violence, but nothing that caused me to cringe, and nothing that would cause me to cringe or cover young children's eyes if it was in movie form. 

Rating:

You don't need me to tell you how much I loved these books, as I hope I made that clear enough through my review above.
It was it was a christian novel, one of the few, that did not leave you feeling bogged down by the preaching.  It was allegorical, and beautiful, and splendid.  And I kinda really need it to come out in print form....*hint*

Without further ado, gladly yea, most gladly, I give a most appropriate:

and I think it (meaning both books, of course) deserve nothing less.

You can buy The Ryn and The Remedy both on Amazon as Kindle reads.