Top Ten Tuesday Archives

Top 10 Book Series I am Curious About

For this week’s Top 10 Tuesday, we get a freebie. So, I am tackling a topic that I have been thinking about for ages. Basically, I want to tell you about series that I am curiously eyeing.

10. Maximum Ride by James Patterson

James Patterson has been coming up a lot in my book searches. He is introducing a lot of writers. The author of Gunslinger Girl, and the author of Stalking Jack the Ripper, too, they are both published with that kind of heading on their books. So, this peaked my interest and, lo, and behold, I have seen a bunch of books written by him on the ThriftBooks site.

I have noticed that there is a movie of the first book in that series up on Netflix. For now, I am keeping the first book on my wish list.

9. Discworld by Terry Pratchett

I have no clue what this series is about, but my friend Annemieke is a fan of it. The covers give me the impression that these books would be quick reads. It just seems like a lot of books and that scares me a bit because part of the joy of reading is when things wrap up. I like when things end. It’s comforting.

8. N.k. Jemisin’s The Inheritance trilogy

Jemisin’s work keeps popping up all over the Internet. My friend Emily has recently also told me that she’s read this author’s work too. And, if anyone reads cool books, it’d be Emily.

7. Fallen by Lauren Kate

A lot of people make fun of these books, but I am embracing my love for paranormal young adult literature. I am just here for this, okay? I am hoping to get the first book in the series at some point this year because I actually find it really compelling and interesting. Luce and Daniel are fascinating, and they have such an intense bond. Sure, they start off kind of mean to each other but it’s the best when there’s all this history between two people.

6. Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin

Okay. This one is complicated. Or, maybe not. Here is the deal. After finishing my first Gail Carriger novel, this one came up on Goodreads as a recommendation. I fell in love with the cover, and, besides, I found out this novel is a steampunk story, which made me even more interested. Look at that cover, though!

5. The Magician’s Guide by Trudi Canavan

My friend Jolien is fond of this series and for good reason. A woman entering into the world of magicians in an epic high fantasy series? I find this premise amazing particularly because of the long history of men dominating the high fantasy leagues. It’ll be nice to see a female writer tackle such a vast genre.

4. Robin hobb’s books

Jolien kind of loves the Fool in this series of trilogies. I am interested in reading high fantasy novels that feature complex characters. Just the idea of a Fool character is promising because the jester-type of archetype can be a nice thing to mess with.

3. Ryan Graudin

I have been eyeing Wolf by Wolf for a while now, and I just keep hesitating because I am not a history buff at all. In fact, if I am being honest with you, I am not that good at keeping timelines of events. Thus, my hesitation blooms quite a bit as I see mostly history fans talking about this author’s work.

2. Michael J. Sullivan books

I like friendships and adventures. But I have not met my match for fair portrayals of male friendships. To an extent, Locke Lamora had an interesting central friendship, however, I remain uncertain about Sullivan’s books because, for some reason, this genre can be a bit too…over the top in terms of human relationships. I want honest and real friendships that feature men. Can I just get that, please?

1. Kate Elliot’s books

Ever get an author’s work recommended in multiple spots? This is what happened with Kate Elliott. The funny thing is that I know nothing about her stuff. What does she write? And, why is it being recommended to me? No clue. But, I am curious to find out.

Top 10 Books I Loved But Won’t Reread (for a While)

For this week’s Top 10 Tuesday, I am tweaking the prompt a bit to fit my own attitude toward books I loved but won’t reread. Essentially, I function under a “never say never” rule. Many of the books I want to reread are ones I thought of giving away at some point or another. So, I am going to share books I loved but won’t be rereading for a while. By the way, I’ll explain why, too.

10. The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkowski

This trilogy was an agonizing experience for me. I read the books to see what will happen next, out of a sense of duty. However, I am not reading them for a long while because they drag on. I think there is way too much “oh, you misunderstood me” kind of conflict in there. While I am intrigued by the two main characters and the political tensions, I do not think there was enough to keep the story worth extending to a full-on trilogy.

9. queens of geek by Jen Wilde

Oh man. I actually struggled to finish this book because I understand the author is trying to be inclusive. But, they ended up creating a very forced plot. I like the representation in the story and the very idea of a story including such a wide spectrum of minorities and intersections. Still, the characters were like cardboard cut-outs, not people.

It took me a while to decide to keep the book, even. Needless to say, I am torn about reading it for a long, long while because I think I can read much better-written stories instead.

8. We are okay by Nina LaCour

Actually, I struggle with LaCour’s writing in general. There are pearls of beautiful wisdom in her writing but the stories tend to drag. In some ways, her writing feels like a practice in patience. I do like the topics she includes in her books, though. For a while, I was sure that I won’t be able to get any benefit from rereading her work.

I ended up changing my mind as I recalled all the things I felt while reading her work. There is this weird identification of parts of me that I experience while reading parts of LaCour’s writing. All the more for me to look forward to while I take a break from reading her work (for a bit).

7. Poison Study by Maria v. Snyder

There was just a lot of “love” from Valik in the last book of the first trilogy. I got mad, okay? Part of these characters’ charm is that they were rough around the edges. When they got domesticated by love and relationships, I kind of cringed. Yelena’s story is empowering and filled to the brim with wonderful relationships. Some of them are a little complex (read: Lief). But, I still found myself thinking of her often, wondering how her story unfolds, and as such, I chose to keep the books on my shelf to be read later.

6. The Hunger Games by Susanne Collins

Katniss Everdeen led an incredible journey throughout these books. I know her story is always going to be special to me but I do not think I can handle a reread anytime soon. Listen, this trilogy has some triggering content. The PTSD, the mental anguish that Katniss and her mom experience, Gale’s awful behavior, Peeta and the lack of consent in his and Katniss’ relationship. It all makes me uncomfortable. I recognize that the story is worthwhile. However, I do not think I can handle reading a story with so much political darkness and hopelessness.

5. The Ruby Circle by Richelle Mead

I actually did not understand the point of this book. Like, to me, the story ended just fine with the book prior to this one, and I was irritated while reading this installment. Before you get upset with me, I want to say that I cherish this series and would not ever choose to give up on it. This is why I kept the whole collection of the books on my shelves for future re-reads. But, I need a break for a bit. Then, many revisits will happen because I love this series and the characters in it.

4. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

My problem with this book is that it made me feel completely unintelligent because the timeline is always mixed up. Many flashbacks happen without any signs of them happening. As a result, yours truly had no idea what was going on in this book.

Still.

There were some funny parts. Besides, I have a couple of friends who enjoyed this book. The chances of me rereading this book are actually pretty slim (okay, I admit. They’re basically nonexistent). While I enjoyed the humor of this book, I don’t want to experience the agony of trying to figure out what exactly the plot is all about.

3. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

I read this one way back in high school and I hated every second of it. But, in retrospect, I hadn’t been reading any science fiction at the time. My hope is to revisit it after I familiarize myself with the genre better. Unlike the book before this one, I actually intend on rereading this book even though I disliked it initially.

2. The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

Sometimes, I get to read things because everyone says they’re inclusive. This book was indeed one that featured intersections of various minorities. But, there was something kind of over the top with how diversity was presented. It reminds me of Queens of Geek where the representation does not feel authentic and well developed enough to communicate about truths. I may reread it later on, maybe a few years from now. The cover is really pretty.

1. Timekeeper by Tara Sim

This book was overall a fun experience but it did lack a sense of depth when it comes to the two main characters. Still, I do think that not all work has to have this amazing development to be a fun read. It took a while for me to bring it back on my shelves. I know there’s a sequel out now, which I’ll probably get used.

Top 10 Young Adult Quotes of 2018 (So Far)

Welcome to another Top 10 Tuesday. This is a meme run by The Artsy Reader Girl. Each week, there is a prompt for a top 10 list. Today, the prompt is to list our top 10 quotes. I’m focusing it on my top 10 young adult quotes of 2018 (so far).

10.Book quote on Anxiety in “The Rest of Us Just Live Here”

Patrick Ness’ The Rest of Us Just Live Here is one of my standout reads of the year thus far. My favorite representation in this book was the one on OCD and anxiety. Therefore, my number 10 top young adult quote of the year has to do with that topic. Here it is, “Feelings don’t try to kill you, even the painful ones. Anxiety is a feeling grown too large. A feeling grown aggressive and dangerous. You’re responsible for its consequences, you’re responsible for treating it”

Another one is, “A feeling may or may not be true, but you still feel it.”

9. opening up in “Always and Forever, Lara Jean”

My number nine spot of top young adult quotes is written by Jenny Han. I feel like this novel showed Lara Jean’s growth beautifully. One quote that stood out to me was this one. “Being vulnerable, letting people in, getting hurt… it’s all part of being in love.” I do not think it is just about falling in love. Instead, I apply this quote to my reflections on friendships.

Another sweet moment from the book is this one,“ Peter will love Lara Jean with all his heart, always”

8.hope in “Whichwood”

Tahereh Mafi owns my heart and I am not even mad about it. She writes such a compelling story in Whicwood. My favorite exploration of hope and collaborations is in this book. Naturally, for my number eight spot of top young adult quotes has to go to a reference of hope. Mafi writes, “But one day, she swore, she’d breathe light and color back into the dimness that had diminished her life.”

7.Queendom in “Three Dark Crowns”

Kendare Blake’s novel focuses on three princesses who have to fight to the death. So, my number seven spot of the top young adult quotes goes to this real moment, “No one really wishes to be a queen.”

6. The Chosen one theme in “Gemina”

AIDAN says the funniest things in Gemina. It wins as a favorite young adult quote for being honest, raw and real. Plus, the authenticity of AIDAN’s voice is moving.

“AIDAN: The concept of fortune is nonsensical, but Kady is insisting I wish you both good luck anyway.
AIDAN: So good luck, Hanna Donnelly.
AIDAN: The universe itself depends on you.
AIDAN: …No pressure.”

5. Hope and moving on in “We Are Okay”

Nina LaCour is not my favorite writer. She is an okay writer for me but she tends to write certain truths that rattle me a bit. One of them has to be shared on this list of favorite 2018 young adult quotes. Here it is, “I was okay just a moment ago. I will learn how to be okay again.” Sometimes, it is the simple things that resonate. Oh, and this gem too, “I wish you more happiness than can fit in a person.”

4. Ambition in “The Cruel Prince”

I have mixed feelings about Holly Black’s The Cruel Prince. Mainly, I had a difficult time enjoying it because the characters were all unlikeable. In retrospect, I celebrate this feat. I love most book characters too easily. It is really hard to have me dislike characters. Anyway, my fourth favorite young adult quote of 2018 so far has to go to this book. Here it is, in all of its glory, “If I cannot be better than them, I will become so much worse.”

So good.

And another breathtaking quote, “If you hurt me, I wouldn’t cry. I would hurt you back.”

3. social expectations and hunger in “Soulless”

Gail Carriger rocked my world with her Soulless novel. I intend on carrying on with her work (preferably forever). It’s serious love between us. My number three favorite (young) adult quote of the year so far goes to Alexa Tarabotti, the main character of Soulless. Check out the interaction:

“You do realise modern social mores exist for a reason?”
“I was hungry, allowances should be made.”

2. Acceptable forms of madness in “A Madness so Discreet”

This book kicked my butt emotionally and mentally. I still think about Mindy McGinnis’ plot in A Madness so Discreet as a commentary on sexual abuse, gender, privilege, and the loose (and very subjective) definitions of normalcy. As we near the absolute top quote of 2018 young adult book quotes for me, I share this one. It is near to me.

“It’s a madness so discreet that it can walk the streets and be applauded in some circles, but it is madness nonetheless.”

1. Revenge and one heck of an ending in “Three Dark Crowns”

I cannot say much about this quote, but it is my absolute favorite 2018 book quote thus far. Here it is.

“I want revenge.” She whispers, and her fingers trail bloody streaks down Natalia’s arms.
“And then I want my crown.”

Top 10 Books I Could Reread Forever

I’m back with another entry for the epic Top 10 Tuesday meme, which is now run by Artsy Reader Girl. Every week, we get a topic for us to list books we find suit the prompt (on a Tuesday). Today, I am bringing it back to the feel-good books that I could reread forever.

10. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

This the only Austen I have read. I could use a reread right now, honestly, because I have read it over ten years ago. Jane and Elizabeth have such a wonderful bond. They are sisterhood and friendship goals. Having a young feminist figure like Elizabeth in this book warms my heart. She is critical of her society while maintaining a timeless charm. Her story with Mr. Darcy is forever dear to me, because it is ultimately a commentary on social interactions and the misgivings of first impressions.

9. The Great Gatsby by F.Scott Fitzgerald

Jolien hates this book, but, to me, it speaks to my longing for the past. It reminds me of my tendencies to romanticize people, collapsing them into stereotypes as I love the idea of them rather than their actual personalities. Gatsby, with his longing to fulfill the American Dream, offered a flaw in a system I once thought was perfect. The nouveau-riche plight for acceptance among the aristocratic class hit home for me. Plus, how can I ever not love Nick and Daisy. My beautiful Daisy, so frail and bitter. Perfection.

8. Always and Forever, Lara Jean by jenny Han

I remember feeling ashamed for liking the first two books of this series. People said Lara Jean was childish. To me, she appeared to be inexperienced with relationships. That did not make her unappealing. Instead, her journey to finding her place in the world, particularly in the final book, created a lovely narrative not entirely reliant on romance. I like the familial tones in this trilogy. Lara Jean is someone I aspire to become. The baking, the pastel colors, the crafting, all of it is endearing and heartwarming. I could never get sick of rereading her story. She is so dear to me.

7. Vampire Academy by richelle mead

You thought this post was going to be all classics and romantic books, didn’t you? I love this series by Richelle Mead because of the central friendship between Rose Hathaway and Lissa Dragomir. I love their bond’s strength despite their differences in personality, ability, and stature. There are varying kinds of greatness and success in this world. Mead is careful not to generalize features of strength. You can be sensitive and powerful. Or, you can be like Rose and kick literal butt all day.

6. Rebel Belle by Rachel Hawkins

I actually love this author’s work in general. From what I have read of Hex Hall, Hawkins seems to have always had humor incorporated into her narratives. She includes interesting characters and places them in a seemingly normal world that is punctuated with notes of the supernatural or paranormal. It’s genius, because her writing is both amusing, engaging, but not exhausting with its fantastical elements. Rebel Belle certainly manifests all these features of Hawkins’ writing.

5. gemina by amie kaufman and jay kristoff

Listen, this series is a ton of fun. The kick-butt main characters and their equally capable love interests, the rather negative artificial intelligence in the series called AIDAN, are memorable and oh so charming. It is hard not to whiz through these books. Gemina in particular was a step up from Illuminae, which was already awesome in and of itself.

4. iron king by julie kagawa

I remember nothing about this series, except that it was a fun time if I don’t think of other people’s perceptions of me. It’s a story about faeries and changelings. Definitely, it is back on my shelves in time for a reread. I was going to give it away but decided against it.

3. Beautiful creatures by kami garcia and margaret stohl

This series is dark and charming with a nice lore for witches. It has lifetimes and reincarnations, a fantastic love story, and wickedly complex characters. The authors do such a wonderful job including a male protagonist who is unlike the typical men in young adult literature, especially paranormal or urban fantasy stories.

2. Hush, Hush by Becca fitzpatrick

I already repurchased the first two books of this series, because I cannot stop thinking about Patch and Nora. They are so sweet, and they endure such miserable circumstances. Besides, the best friend in this series is awesome. What is her name? Vee or Vi? Something like that. I can’t believe I remember her. It’s been a while. I cannot express just how excited I am to reread this series.

1. Twilight by stephenie meyer

Another series I am repurchasing. The first two books are on my shelves, ready to be enjoyed. Bella and Edward’s connection coupled with all the odds against them made for one hell of a story. Alice Cullen, Rosalie, Jacob Black, all of them are characters I think of often. I cannot wait to revisit these books this year and in the years to come.

Your turn

Do we share any books in common? What are your favorite books to reread? Are you rereading any of them in certain seasons or moods? Tell me all about it in the comments.

See you there.

Roaring nerd moment

Top 10 Love-Related Quotes

Top 10 Tuesday is now hosted by the lovely The Artsy Reader Girl. It is essentially a weekly topic meant to spark discussion, lists, and excited chats about books. This week is a freebie, but I decided to copy our host. A list of love-related quotes is in order. Let’s go.

10. p.s. i still love you by jenny han–“So much of love is chance. There’s something scary and wonderful about that.”

While I have never fallen in love romantically, I do like this idea of chance in any relationship. I have always been far too anxious to keep any relationship around for long. This quote reminds me of the very scary nature of friendship so much, it validates my pain. To me, I am still kind of in awe of those who have been friends for years, decades, lifetimes. It’s mind-blowing to me. I wish I could have something like that, with friends, that I may rise above the fear and take a chance on people.

9. I’ll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson-“Maybe some people are just meant to be in the same story.”

When I read this book, I was really lonely. But, I kept feeling this tug from the universe telling me that you don’t have to let your past relationships go. I conflate confronting my past with escaping it too often, even back then. Funnily enough, this story is about two siblings who are not speaking to each other, which is something rather common in my life, because they come to terms with their differences somehow. Here’s hoping I can make my own peace with my inner demons.

8. the dream thieves by maggie stiefvater–“‘I wish you could be kissed, Jane,’ he said. ‘Because I would beg just one off you. Under all this.’ He flailed an arm toward the stars.”

Their love is so pure and sweet. It was a privilege to read their story for four books. Seriously.

Speaking of which…

7. The Raven king by maggie stiefvater-“His feelings for Adam were an oil spill; he’d let them overflow and now there wasn’t a damn place in the ocean that wouldn’t catch fire if he dropped a match.”

Come on. Ronan Lynch, who feels everything so intensely, is a wonder to behold. He scared me at first, because I could kind of identify with him. I yearned to be like him in my past. To see him so vulnerable humanized him, made him a small babe that I wanted to protect.

6.City of Glass by Cassandra Clare-““Not everything is about you,” Clary said furiously.”Possibly,” Jace said, “but you do have to admit that the majority of things are.”’

Listen, Jace just sounds like how I make fun of myself. I love Cassie Clare’s writing. She can do no wrong in my world.

5. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell-“I don’t trust anybody. Not anybody. And the more that I care about someone, the more sure I am they’re going to get tired of me and take off.”

The awkward moment when a fictional character says what is always unspoken for me.

4. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green-“Maybe ‘okay’ will be our ‘always.'”

Sometimes, when people know what you mean, it doesn’t really matter how you phrase things. This is a thought that paralyzes me, because I am often hung up on the semantics. I feel things intensely, and I don’t often find the right words or actions to express my feelings and thoughts. I read this book way back in 2012, and I still think about it and about this moment.

3. more happy than not by adam silvera-“The boy with no direction taught me something unforgettable: happiness comes again if you let it.”

Mental illness tells me many things. There are really tough nights, and I think of this book on those nights especially. It’s easily a favorite of mine.

This leads me to:

2. Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo-“I would have come for you. And if I couldn’t walk, I’d crawl to you, and no matter how broken we were, we’d fight our way out together-knives drawn, pistols blazing. Because that’s what we do. We never stop fighting.”

My tough fighters, Inej and Kaz, are so dear to me. And, as someone who has endured sexual abuse, I identified with Inej and Nina both. Maybe I’ll write about it later. But this post is already long. I like that Kaz and Inej don’t touch. It comforts me a lot.

1. Six of crows by leigh bardugo-“Jesper knocked his head against the hull and cast his eyes heavenward. “Fine. But if Pekka Rollins kills us all, I’m going to get Wylan’s ghost to teach my ghost how to play the flute just so that I can annoy the hell out of your ghost.”
Brekker’s lips quirked. “I’ll just hire Matthias’ ghost to kick your ghost’s ass.”
“My ghost won’t associate with your ghost,” Matthias said primly, and then wondered if the sea air was rotting his brain.”

Because to me, all the interactions between the Dregs is a breathless affectionate whisper. You got to listen to them bickering and see who they become throughout these two books. They are so wonderful, it really makes my heart beat a little faster. Just look at Matthias warming up to them. So good.

Top 10 Books I Liked in the Past But Can’t Remember Much

I have fallen off the Top Ten Tuesday wagon, but I have returned. By the way, this feature was at first hosted by the lovely Broke and the Bookish. However, now it is housed by another sweet peep who I will link here. So, this week, the topic is the Top 10 Books I Liked in the Past But Can’t Remember Much.

10. shatter me by tahereh mafi

I remember things being crossed out a lot. Kenji was awesome, and Juliet was his friend. Their friendship made me happy, but I don’t remember the details of Juliet and Warner’s early interactions. In fact, I don’t remember anything about Warner specifically. No clue what he was like. Maybe he is wealthy? Perhaps he was powerful. It’s kind of embarrassing that I once gave away these books because people were saying that they’re bad. I had read them at the time, loved them, but got ashamed. This happens a lot to me. I’m trying to stop doing that.

9. Tithe by holly black

Hold on. I am laughing at a memory of me lending the books to a former friend, who never gave them back to me. I loved this trilogy. It overlapped with City of Bones and I was just here for it, okay. At any rate, I started to see if I could get it used. Thankfully, I managed to get it again (but with ugly covers). All I remember was a knight in the story. Someone was in love with him, perhaps? Plus, there was a queer character in there who shipped Spock and Kirk. I liked him.

8. the hunger games by suzanne collins

I tried reading this first book with Ely, and I couldn’t keep at it. It’s so different from how I remember it. Yes, there are movies that depict a very loose interpretation of the text. But, I think the dystopia factor is hard to read about, especially if you have mental illness. The idea of the games being popularly watched made the whole thing even worse. So, I forget the details. I don’t remember the second and third books at all. Vague memory of Annie but that’s pretty much it.

7. an abundance of katherines by john green

Nope. Zero clue as to what happens in this book, who the love interest is, or the main character’s features. None of them come to mind. I remember a scene with vomiting taking place early in the book. The main character was really clever. There’s a Muslim side character. Other than that, the details of their adventure are totally blurry.

6. a great and terrible beauty by libba bray

While I did not enjoy it in parts, I remember liking the story just fine. It dragged a little bit, but I was still invested. The group of friends were mean to a plus-size girl. It made me really uncomfortable, so I hid the books in my sister’s room. Then, recently, I put them on my shelves once more in the hopes of remembering to read them one day. I remember really liking the love interest and the main character. They were nice.

5. divergent by veronica roth

Recently, I have seen the first movie with my brother. My mom spoiled me and got me the movies as a gift. You know how some stories have a different impact when they’re written down? Insurgent and Allegiant were very powerful reads. I remember feeling intensely about them, and it scared me a bit to feel so attached to a character. Believe it or not, I look up to Tris Prior and Tobias Eaton. I just wish I could remember what happens in these books. Whatever it was, it hit me quite hard. I don’t know if I can handle that kind of heartbreak once more.

4. lola and the boy next door by stephanie perkins

The main character has colored hair. Or she wears a wig, I am not sure. She was a fashionista who is a little quirky. Love interest is Cricket, which just bothered me as a reader back then. Other than that, zero memory of what happens to them. This extends to the sequel, Isla and the Happily Ever After, which is even more mysterious than this one. I remember really liking this trilogy. It made me smile.

3. the girl of fire and thorns by rae carson

It dragged a little bit, but I remember the main character was supposedly good with strategy (Not quite on Kestrel’s level, though). There were many mishaps in the main character’s journey. I remember snippets, the highlights I guess are what I recall most.

Mostly, I remember food being important in the story, which is why I have books 2 and 3 ready to go. #priorities

2. winner’s crime by marie rutkoski

Nervously laughing while I write this little paragraph on The Winner’s Crime. Deception and double crossing were basically what happens, I know that. However, the details are so foggy, you’d think we’re in a Gothic novel.

1. Daughter of smoke and bone by laini taylor

Why do I think of trampolines when I see this book? No clue. Listen, though, I am reread this first book in 2018 AND I am reading the rest of the trilogy, gosh dang it!

Top 10 Books I Can’t Wait to Get to in 2018

Welcome to Top 10 Tuesday. This week, the topic for my list is the Top 10 Books I Can’t Wait to Get to in 2018. As always, here is a link to the Broke and the Bookish, the folks who created Top 10 Tuesday.

Basically, in the upcoming year, I want to make a dent on the series that I have.

10. cinder by marissa Meyer

I know, I’m way behind on this train. Whenever I see mood boards inspired by the characters in this series, I feel things. No matter how often I see quotes from it, I get hopeful. So, my hope is that I read this series before the spring of 2018. Or at least start it by then.

9. the young elites by marie lu

Villains or anti-heroes are my jam. This is a story of a character descending (or ascending, it’s all about perspective) into villainy. I’m here for this, gosh darn it. I have high hopes for this trilogy.

8. gemina by amie kaufman and jay kristoff

I enjoyed the first book in this series, and I am going to move into Gemina land some time before Obsidio is out. I hope the new cast of characters is easy to like, just as Ezra and Kady were pleasant and humorous. What will AIDAN do this time?

7. caraval by stephanie garber

Judging by the polarized reviews about Caraval and The Night Circus, I am thinking of tackling this novel first. It sounds like it is easier to digest because it is not as hard to follow (so I have gathered, anyway). Besides, I am nervous about Night Circus because Julie and Sam were saying that it is a lot like Uprooted in terms of style.

And I did not like Uprooted.

6. Strange the dreamer by laini taylor

I have her other trilogy, but I am going to slowly get through her books. Right now, I am thinking of starting with this book first. But, it’s also on my mind to try reading Karou’s story first, since I have read some of it before. Either way, I am going to read Laini Taylor’s work, gosh dang it.

5. cinda williams chima

I know. I keep mentioning that I want to read her stuff, but then I don’t follow through. 2018 is going to be the year I catch up on her stuff.

Speaking of which.

4. brandon sanderson

Listen. He broke my heart in one book. This is why I am hesitating, but I will try to get back into his stuff once more. His stories are good. I just need to gather up the courage to do this.

3. neil gaiman

You know, the usual. I have some of his books, and I need to keep reading his work, because, dang. He is talented and he paints the most alluring yet haunting images in his stories. Heartbreak while in awe sounds like a perfect way to spend my time in 2018.

2.gail carriger

I have been collecting her books used for a while now, and I need to give her a shot. She just sounds like the cutest writer and her work seems charming and sweet. I am intrigued.

1. rae carson

I have only read one of her books, and I had mixed feelings about it. But, I got her other books fairly cheap. I’m somewhat intimidated by her, however, I want to continue.

And all the trilogies that I have are also on my most exciting things to get through in 2018.

what about you?

Top 10 Books/Series On my Winter TBR

So, I discovered that I messed up the prompt for last week’s Top Ten Tuesday. Naturally, I am going back and following the prompt I missed over at The Broke and the Bookish. Last week’s prompt was the Top 10 Books on my Winter TBR. Let’s catch up.

10. The Diviners by libba bray

I know, I know. It’s more Halloween-related as a series. However, the books are long, which is very winter-y to me. Besides, I am really curious to see how the books are compared to her Gemma Doyle books (I liked those, but they took a while for me to get into).

9. Dark days club by allison goodman

So, I heard mixed reviews about her Eon/Eona books. But, this series sounds more up my alley. Victorian times and demon hunting lady. Some people said it’s somewhat like The Infernal Devices, which are among my favorites of all time. Plus, it kind of sounds like The Falconer by Elizabeth May. Words don’t quite express how much I loved that trilogy, too.

8. maggie Stiefvater’s shiver series

Werewolves and kissing summarize my knowledge of these books. I could also read The Scorpio Races at some point this winter, too, because this author’s books are rather slow moving but intriguing.

7. rae carson’s books

I have her complete The Girl of Fire and Thorns trilogy. In addition, I have the first book in the Gold Seer trilogy as well. Rae Carson writes rich worlds in terms of tradition and culture. I did like the first book in her stories about Elisa. But, the slowness of the pace wasn’t quite my jam while I tried to read it over the summer. Now, though, may be a better time for this series.

6. and i darken by kiersten white

Silly story: I have never heard of Vlad the Impaler. I picked up this book and its sequel without looking up who that is. In fact, I still don’t know who he is. Part of me prefers it that way. My ignorance could enhance my reading experience. Nevertheless, I promise to look up who that is after reading the first book.

5. Falling Kingdoms by morgan rhodes

The series wraps up in early 2018, and I’d like to catch up. I want to hate on Jonas, and join the masses in shipping these characters.

4. the lunar chronicles by marissa meyer

I mean, the last book is called “Winter.” What more could I ask for? Cinder is part cyborg and the stories are set in space (!!!). But, there are awesome ships to be shipped in these books (from what I noticed on Tumblr).

3. daughter of smoke and bone by laini taylor

Set in Prague, the story involves Karu and her found family. She goes between worlds (right? Am I remembering this correctly?). It just sounds like a cozy time story that could potentially break my heart into a thousand pieces. Oh, and while this trilogy is on my TBR, since we’re dreaming together, I’d like to also read The Girl At Midnight by Melissa Grey. A few people mentioned that it is a lot like Daughter of Smoke and Bone.

2. the young elites by marie lu

A story about a character turning into the villain. Yes, sign me up for this darkness and destruction. It sounds so good. If I do manage to read the trilogy this winter, I’d like to try and read Marie Lu’s Legend series as well.

1. night circus, caraval, and bone gap

Atmospheric books are also something I am really craving this winter. These are the stories I stumble across most often (what a weird sentence). Oh, in addition, Neil Gaiman books are also in this category. I basically have a lot of series that I want to start this season, but I’ll try and read some of these stand-alone novels as well to avoid getting burned out.

Top 10 Bookish Settings I’d Love to Visit

It is time for another Top Ten Tuesday, a meme run by the lovely folks over at Broke and Bookish. This week, the topic is our top 10 bookish settings we’d like to visit. Warning, though, some of these settings are real places. I just want the journey there to be with certain characters from books. Ready? Let’s go.

10. the spiritual/fairy realm in a great and terrible beauty by libba bray

For whatever reason, this story has stuck with me since the early 2010’s. I remember the girls transforming into brilliant, strong, and empowered women in this realm they’d go to. I’d like to be there, explore my identity in such a seemingly idealistic setting.

9. prague–daughter of smoke and bone by laini taylor

I have read snippets of this first book. Even after many years, I still remember this setting, and the shop with the teeth. Karou and her blue hair, her family, and the beautiful world she lives in (even if it is a huge responsibility to be able to cross worlds like this). First, I plan to read the series. But, then, I’ll wait for Karou to show up, and perhaps she can introduce me (or at least put a good word in for me).

8. sitia–poison study by maria v. snyder

While I think the writing and development of this series is a bit weak, I do love Yelena and her journey to belong. Like, Ixia was a scary and dangerous place, and, in comparison, Sitia is so nice. I just like her family a lot (still trying to warm up to Leif). Jungles, and climbing, colorful clothes, and snake charming. I like it a lot. I doubt I’d survive, but maybe I can just sit with her mom while she makes perfumes.

7. Lara Jean’s home–To All the Boys I Loved Before by jenny han

Lara Jean is someone I really love. For a long time, I was embarrassed of that, because I am “too old” to connect with such an immature character. But, I love her family, and her world sounds so endearing. I’d like to have sisters to bake with, write sweet letters, be surrounded with pink stationary and pastel walls. Yep. Sounds like heaven.

6. paris– anna and the french kiss by stephanie perkins

There is something really cute and sweet about this story’s setting. I don’t want to just go to Paris. I want to be there with Anna and St. Claire. Again, a lot of people have mentioned that the love story here is based on cheating. I acknowledge this point. However, I do adore these characters, their journey across Paris and into each others’ hearts.

5. 300 Fox Way–the raven boys by maggie stiefvater

I’d like to hug Blue, and maybe sit with her while she eats her yogurt. Maybe her mom can hang out with us and we’d talk about spirituality and meditation. I can share some essential oils, and we can sit by the candles while Blue and her cousin argue. And, every once in a while, I can interrupt and disrespect Blue’s cousin, because she enrages me quite often.

4. the burrow–harry potter and the chamber of secrets by jk rowling

Part of my need to visit the Weasleys lies in my feelings towards the family (but not Ginny). Ron and his family are delightful and warm, kind, sweet, and very real. I find them to be brave and quirky, honest and loving the Muggle peeps like me. Besides, I have a feeling that Molly Weasley gives nice hugs.

3.furthermore–furthermore by tahereh mafi

This is surprising, because I am not that much of an Alice in Wonderland fan. Still, this world is so colorful, bizarre, and bewildering. It sounds like a scary and fun time (all rolled into one). I don’t know what kind of person I’d be in that world, but I would like to visit anyway.

2.small town–since you’ve been gone by morgan matson

Bike rides, swimming, ice cream, and to do lists of adventures: that’s the kind of setting I like. In other words, I love the open fields with Emily running with Frank. I like the gymnastics place where she picks up her brother. Everything about their little town sounds so charming and peaceful. So, I would like to go there.

1. new york– the sun is also a star by nicola yoon

So, New York is vast and scary to me. I know my anxiety would’ve flared a lot had I ever set foot in there. But, I think with the two main characters, I could be (mostly) okay. We can go to museums, have dinner, maybe sing horrible karaoke. Furthermore, we can smash stereotypes, and laugh a lot, hug each other, have a wonderful time together.