Top Five Wednesday Archives - Page 4 of 5

T5W: Top 5 Side Ships

It’s another Wednesday around here. So, it’s time for a Top 5 Wednesday (T5W). Here’s a link to the Goodreads group for information and such. Thi week’s topic is our top 5 side ships.

5. Lord of Shadows/Dark Artifices

Diana and Gwyn are adorable and I love their story arc thus far. Gwyn, this huge leader of the Hunt, is in fact a teddy bear. And that’s awesome, because he is so infatuated with Diana; it’s terribly cute and fills me with joy.

4.Paper Towns

Radar and Angela are precious babies. I wish there was more information about them in canon. Angela is sweet and kind while Radar is hilariously anxious about his family’s great secret.

3. The Grisha Trilogy

Tamar Kir Bataar and freaking Nadia are the cutest! I love Tamar and her brother. They are fierce sweethearts. I cannot get over their protective nature toward Alina. Obviously, I wish there was more of these characters, especially since I did not like Mal. We could’ve had cute interactions instead of this dude.

Ahem.

Moving on.

2. Harry Potter

Dean and Seamus were up there in terms of OTPs. I was certain that JK Rowling would announce their status as a couple. But, she didn’t, which is sad. Still, I believe they were meant to be together.

1. The Hunger Games

Finnick and Annie are a couple I wished had more “screen time.” I will forever be fascinated by what happened to Annie, and its connections to how mental illness/trauma work in real life. I wish they had a happier ending. Alas. It’s a rough world in Panem.

Your Turn:

What are your favorite side couples? Share them in the comments!

T5W: My Top 5 Slytherin-y Books on My Shelves

Welcome to another Top 5 Wednesday. Before I begin, here is a link to the group for topics and information. Today’s topic is top 5 books representing our Hogwarts house. As a Slytherin, I will be focusing on my own house.

Let’s begin.

5. Vicious by VE Schwab

Actually, I haven’t read this one yet, but I am so sure that it’ll be a good representation of Slytherin. From what I have gathered, this book is an exploration of villainy and morality. To me, these are questions that I tend to posit for myself often. Am I good? Am I bad? what motivates me?

4. The Raven Boys by Maggie Steifvater

This is a story of 4 boys (5? Do I count Henry or not? Crisis!) and a girl as they search for a dead Welsh king. It is all about ambition at its core. Gansey and his obsession with the Welsh king is an example of this. Also another example to consider is Adam and his struggle to find his place in the world. What about Ronan and the dream thieving? This is a Slytherin book through and through.

3. And I Darken by Kiersten White

Haven’t read this one yet, but I am also sure that I will love it. Like, really sure. We follow a Vlad the Impaler, who happen to be a woman. Come on, power, I assume, would be a part of the story. This is just my gut feeling about this book.

2. The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Um. You may have noticed that this book made quite the impression on me. If this is your assumption, you’d be totally right. Listen, heists are really cool to read about it. But, this is not just a heist. This is overthrowing a ruler. It’s fight scenes with using rare elements to fuel Vin and her homie Kelsier. I adore this book so much. This is ambition.

1. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

Okay, don’t be fooled into thinking that this crew is a bunch of people with no qualms about their morals and ethics. They’re not. They are some of the most morally grey people I have encountered in literature. Kaz may have his reasons for stealing and scheming (“scheming face?” “definitely”). All of them have valid reasons for their actions, though, and this is what makes them truly remarkable. They do “bad” things, and they are often driven by sheer ambition. They are all misfits and they all have some pretty dark backstories. I love them!

T5W: Top Five Former Book Fandoms

Today is Wednesday, which means it’s time for another top five Wednesday (T5W). I will leave a link to the Goodreads group here, for information and topics. This week’s topic is our top 5 former (book) fandoms.

Let’s carry on.

5. Twilight

I read those books so fast, and with so much love, that I don’t really remember all the details. It was in grad school, I think, and everyone was reading those books. I was in a bad place, and the first book was exciting. But, by the last book, I kind of felt queasy about the relationships presented in the overarching story. Plus, Jacob deserved better. I shipped him with Leah, I think?

4. Hush, Hush

After Twilight, I had interest in reading things beyond just classics and articles, so I started reading these books by Becca Fitzpatrick. I don’t remember much, but it involved angels. Patch was strange and charming, and Nora was down to earth. But overtime, my attention to reread the books dwindled. So, I gave them away and stopped being part of the fandom. I mostly participated by watching fanvids.

3. Percy Jackson

I read all the books in this series and even the series that followed it. The story was interesting, but I kind of became weary of the basic concept of the series. Some deity messes up, has kids, then leaves them. Kid has awful quest bestowed upon them, and then random things happen because of deities’ agendas. It was not for me.

2. Divergent

Oh no. This series started out okay. I was even accepting of the first movie, but then the last book came out and I was livid. I passed on the books to my sister, and we gave away the last book. That is how mad I was about this story.

1. Harry Potter

This is the only fandom I truly felt part of. Maybe it’s because I was in it for the longest time? I am not sure. But, as the years went by, the books marinated in my head long enough that I started to see the problems. Having spent two years working on my thesis, I saw holes in this perfect story. I didn’t think critically when it came to Harry Potter until I was in grad school, and it was only then that I saw all the problems with the narrative. Even more damaging is the slew of comments that Rowling makes from time to time. I am still very much in love with some of the characters.

I just wish she’d leave them alone.

T5W: Top 5 Minor Characters

It’s another top 5 Wednesday

(T5W)! Top 5 Wednesday is a Goodreads group that you can find right here. This week’s topic is our top 5minor characters. My Slytherin nature is shown clearly here, because I love so many characters per series, and chose 2 at a time.

Enjoy!

5. The Raven Cycle: Henry Cheng and Kavinsky

I have very mixed feelings about Henry Cheng. Perhaps it is because I didn’t get enough time with him to fully realize what the heck he is all about. On the one hand, I understand his humor and can identify with him. But, on the other hand, I feel like he made me very uncomfortable.

The same thing can be said about Kavinsky. I wish we had more time with him; if we got a story with him and his dream thieving, perhaps he’d make more sense as a person. I like how he pushed Ronan to grow up but how did he get to this point?

4. Beautiful Creatures: Wesley Jefferson Lincoln (and Ridley Duchanne)

Link is one of my favorite characters ever, actually, because he brought this grounded nature to these books with heavy emphasis on the supernatural/paranormal. He was steeped in the culture of the place, too.

In contrast, his relationship with Ridley was so neat. I didn’t read the series focused on the two of them, but I loved just the hint of possibility between this very “real” human and then this dark castor. Perfection.

3. The Grisha Trilogy: Baghra and Genya

There is a very brief exploration of these two characters in the series. Part of me really wanted to see more of these minor characters. Baghra, in particular, and her relationship with the Darkling, was fascinating. I wanted to see more of her as a child and her relationship with family.

Genya is another really close character to my heart, because she is a sexual abuse survivor. She certainly handles it with grace and strength. Definitely something inspiring and encouraging.

2. Mistborn: Elend Venture

I didn’t expect to love this dude as much as I do. But, here we are. I am on the second book in the series, and he has taken on a larger role, which makes me SO glad to see more of him. Mainly, I am curious to see how he will develop as a person, as a noble, as someone in a powerful position, and as someone who has Vin in his life.

1. Paper Towns: Ben and Radar

Minor characters shine bright in John Green’s work. But, among my favorites, are Ben and Radar. I just love them. They make me laugh a lot, and they are intriguing characters. Specifically, I would have liked more adventures with these two guys. Why can’t we hear more about Ben and his relationship woes? What about Radar? How does his family come to collect black Santa figurines? SO MANY QUESTIONS!

T5W: Top 5 Summer Reads

For this week’s Top Five Wednesday (T5W), the discussion will be on the top 5 summer reads. Before we begin, let me link to the awesome Goodreads group for T5W.

Let’s begin.

5. Uprooted by Naomi Novik

I have not finished this book, mainly because I realized that I was reading it at the wrong time. It just feels very summer-y or spring related at the very least. Nature plays a huge role in the story, and there is magic, romance, and beautiful friendship. It’s definitely a book I want to get to this summer.

4. Legacy of Kings by Eleanor Herman

This is a retelling/historical fiction story about Alexander (the Great). I am intrigued by it so much that I picked up the first two books and I am very much hoping to read them to catch up on the series. From what I know, the author is a historian? And that makes the books daunting (I admit) and exciting.

3. Ballad/Lament by Maggie Steifvater

Look, I have read these books a year ago during the summer and it was a fantastic experience. Fae and music! So good.

2. The Siren by Kiera Cass

I have tried reading mermaid books before, and I was interested in the subject matter. This is not quite about mermaids; it’s a little darker (which is great). And, I heard really good things about the book. The sea and death. Plus, Kiera Cass seems brilliant in interviews, and I am curious to see her take on sirens.

1. The Weight of Feathers by Anna-Marie McLemore

This book is something I have been saving till the summer, because it is about performers. For whatever reason, I associate this book with summer and I am keen to read it this summer/spring. McLemore has really atmospheric writing and her characters are beautifully fleshed out. It’ll be a treat to read this book, for sure.

Top 5 Books As Special Events

Hello there, it is Wednesday, which means it is time for Top 5 Wednesday. The topic for this week is top 5 books as special events. I have to warn you that I am not very good at events. But, this list is what I imagine a fun special event could potentially be.

5. Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

I have never finished this trilogy, but from what I remember there was a very interesting atmospheric tone to the first book (I only read the first couple of pages, before deciding to get the trilogy. That’s how good it was). Anyway, the main character designs and draws creatures.

4. The Raven Cycle by Maggie Steifvater

Another very eerie read and it would be a fantastic event. Just setting up a place like Cabeswater or even Blue’s family home would provide ample excitement and interest, I think.

3. Demon’s Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan

The magicians and the demon hunters, the market setting can act as great elements to an event. The dancing to summon demons in particular could be so much fun. I imagine the dancers dressing up for it. It’s not every day you summon a demon.

2. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

I haven’t read this one yet, but from what I understand, there’s a circus that appears. Now, provided that there are no animals in this circus, I am okay with it being held as an event. It sounds like a fun and charming way to socialize.

1. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

The whole atmosphere of a loop day sounds so intriguing. So, on September 3, we live like we’re in 1940. Doesn’t that sound fun? I think also having the dark and lush tone of the story would create a nice scene (well, I have seen the movie. Got the books earlier this year).

T5W: Top 5 Science Fiction and Fantasy Covers

Top 5 Wednesday (T5W) is a Goodreads Group where we discuss topics about books. The link to this awesome place will be included right here. This week, we are discussing our Top 5 Science Fiction and Fantasy Covers. As a genuine attempt to get more excited about the books I have, I want to make this list focused on some of my unread books.

Let’s go!

5. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

For some reason, when I first saw this book, I was kind of terrified. I am easily scared, and I don’t like horror. But, I have seen the movie and it was nice. I like the characters, and the fantastical world Riggs creates in these books.

4. The Bone Gap by Laura Ruby

Well. I’ll be honest: I heard this is fantasy/magical realism and that it is charming. So, I got it. But, other than that, I don’t know much about it.

3. A Shadow Bright and Burning by Jessica Cluess

This cover is just love for me. I am fascinated by magic, particularly when set against very high stakes. The Chosen One narrative is one to be messed with, I believe, because, well…why not? It’s about time we start offering stories that test themes we have had for so long in fiction. This book just sounds like fun.

2. Anything Cinda Williams Chima, especially Flamecaster

Have I discussed how, a while ago, Cinda Williams Chima talked to me on Twitter? She was the nicest and most patient person ever, and so I got the courage to gather her books ever since. Much excitement to experience her writing.

1. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

This book will kill me. I just know it. It’s kind of daunting, I admit. From what I have heard, there’s different points of view and time lines in the story. And, that scares me, because, yo I am just here to have a good time. But, I am also here to learn new things and experience incredible writing. And, this book is apparently written well. Also: the cover is gorgeous.

Your Turn

What are some of the best covers of fantasy and science fiction books on your TBR? Share them in comments!

T5W: Top 5 Queer Reads

This week’s Top 5 Wednesday (T5W) is about our top 5 queer reads. As always, T5W was created by Lainey from Ginger Reads Lainey, and now it is run by Sam from Thoughts on Tomes. Here’s a link to the group. I have a couple of books with my favorite queer relationships in them, or queer characters in general.

Let’s start.

5. The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black

I don’t remember the brother’s name in this book. But, you know, him. The loveliest surprise is when the magical prince falls for the queer boy. Beautiful story, and it is not about the sexual orientation. Like, no one gives these characters a hard time for being queer.

And that makes me so happy. I look forward to live in a world like that.

4. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Enemies to lovers time! I adore the tension between Simon and Baz. It gives me life. I am here for it. Baz, with his cynicism and Simon with his honest fury, are perfect together. Absolutely superb. This is the kind of stuff I wish happened in books often.

In its exploration of “evil,” this book continues to be on my mind. While, yes, great, opposites may attract, I also think of how Simon perceived Baz. It is very reminiscent of some Austen novel. Just the lack of communication, and the grandness of their relationship as it acts as a form of commentary on good, evil, and the chosen ones in stories..

3. Simon Against the Homo Sapiens’ Agenda by Becky Albertalli

I will always hate Martin.

No, seriously, though, I think the whole blackmailing in this novel was heartbreaking. Still, the book has great representation and relationships. Also, Blue is the sweetest and Simon is hilarious. I’d befriend them.

2. Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare

Mark Blackthorn is just so honest about himself. I think his relationships are complicated. I cannot wait to see what will happen with him in the future. He is definitely a fascinating character, as he adjusts to life in the Shadowhunter community after being with faeries.

1. The Raven Cycle by Maggie Steifvater

I live for Ronan Lynch and Adam Parrish. Both of them led rough lives. While I have yet to start the final book, I am hoping that they can lead happy lives.

T5W: Books that Could Be Fun Video Games

Welcome to another Top 5 Wednesday (T5W). Top 5 Wednesday is a Goodreads group that I will link here. This week’s topic is the top 5 books that could be fun video games. I have not played video games in a very long time, so my knowledge of how they work is pretty flimsy. This is guess work. Hope it is interesting.

5. The Summoner by Taran Matharu

I don’t know too much about this book series; it’s on my TBR pile. But, it involves demon summoning (gasp! I am so excited to read this series). And that just sounds like a fun time.

4. A Darker Shade of Magic series by V.E. Schwab

Clearly, I like this series passionately. I just think there’s so much that can be done as a game based on these books. Collecting messages from various Londons. Or, even tournament between various magic users like in A Gathering of Shadows.

It could be a battle between Holland, Kel, Lila, and Alucard! So many options. Or, we could have the games from Lila’s perspective. Thieving, tricking, stabbing as she makes her way through Kel’s London.

3. Illuminae Files by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

From what I have seen in the books, it seems like there is some mystery, code chatter, and tech communication. So, maybe it could be like a problem solving type of game. I hope that makes some semblance of sense.

2. The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black

Anything involving talking to Fairies could make a frustrating game. They are tricky. Also: there is music in this book. Perhaps music can be a part of the game.

The Final Empire (Mistborn) by Brandon Sanderson

Heist game fun time! I just adore this book so far. It’s a bit slow, but it is very unique. It could make such a fun game. There is the matter of being a Mistborn as well. You can do the battle thing, but it could also be a quest.

T5W: Top SFF Books on My TBR

For this week’s T5W, we got the awesome topic of listing our top 5 SFF Books on TBR. Basically, T5W is a weekly discussion where we share our top 5. Today, my focus will be on the top science fiction and fantasy novels on my TBR pile.

Because I don’t want to bore you with the same books on my TBR, I decided to try to focus this Top 5 SFF Books on TBR list more on science fiction books on my shelves.

5. American Gods by Neil Gaiman

Surprise! A Gaiman book on my Top 5 SFF Books on my TBR. I have collected a couple of his most well known stuff, and my goal is to slowly ease into his work. I am intimidated by this one a lot. It’s a possibility for Tome Topple. I don’t know a whole lot about it. I know there’s a show/movie/thing about it coming out soon (My information may be completely inaccurate).

4. Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson

Another crucial element in my Top 5 SFF Books on my TBR is Sanderson’s work. I have heard mixed things about this series by Sanderson, but I am eager to pick up his books. I have gotten some of them used over the past year or so (Jolien, your influence is showing). I think I have most of them now. I want to write fantasy one day. And, in order to do that, I feel like I should learn from the master of it all: Mr. Sanderson himself.

3. Illuminae Files by Aime Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Listen, I don’t read a lot of science fiction. Aware of this, I got the first two books on my birthday last year. I am really excited to read it this year before the final book comes out in the fall. Maybe I’ll ask for the final one on my birthday.

2. The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer

Come on, I am so behind here. I have to read this series, so I can swoon over the cuteness of the characters. All I know is that Cinder is part? cyborg.

1. Gail Carriger books

Yep, I am interested in steampunk fiction, too! I had been gathering the courage to get into her books for years. I have seen interviews with this lady, and I just adore her. She’s so quirky and fun. I look forward to reading her work.