Dust on The Altar Review

Dust on the Altar is a dark urban adult fantasy with magical witches and a touch of sci-fi. It's set in an alternate Earth timeline, where cities are ruled by technology and their citizens have marginalized witches to the townships, where they can practice magic with little fear of reprisal.

Jade loves her life in Sun City: their technology is cutting edge, she's right-hand woman to the country's most powerful business owner, and no one suspects she's a Witch. But when her old coven's High Priestess and last remaining family member is murdered, she’s expected to leave her beloved city life behind, regain the powers she abandoned years ago, and take her place as coven leader.

Going back to Sugar Hill won't be easy. She'll have to find a way to reconcile with her former best friend who's the man she must now call partner, find the keys to her ascension ritual, and stop a Witch who will do anything to bring his daughter back from the dead.

With the coven's magic fading and a whole township counting on her to bring it back, will she find the strength to face the ghosts of her tragic past, or will she run from her responsibilities, again?

Michelle and I met online several years ago and I read an EARLY EARLY EARLY version of this book (and she’s ready early versions of mine too!) so when it turned out we were going to release our books in the same month, I was so excited! I was even more excited when she asked me to be part of her blog tour.

This is such beautiful urban fantasy. It has mystery, love, friendship, and of course - magic! Michelle Winkler offers an intricate and unique world where magic and technology are at odds, and our heroine Jade is caught in the middle.

Jade is both admirable and relatable, and all of her side characters are charming and heartwarming. You quickly grow to love each and every one of them and wish you could bury yourself in this book and join the coven of Sugar Hill! I read this book in one day, and it was a delight from start to finish. If you are looking for a fresh new urban fantasy, you need to pick this book up!

Michelle’s Website

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Praise for Issued by Paris Wynters

Title: Issued

Series: Navy Seals of Little Creek (Book 1)

Author: Paris Wynters

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Description as found on Goodreads:

She needs a total life reboot… even if it means marrying a stranger

Taya Maverick has just volunteered to marry a random Navy SEAL as part of the military’s new spouse-matching program. What other choice does she have? Her former best friend killed her father and torched her house. Taya’s determined to start over, but to be safe she has to disappear. The program is the perfect opportunity, complete with refuge and a built-in bodyguard. Her Navy SEAL husband can keep her safe, right?

After one spectacularly disastrous marriage, Jim Stephens nixes round two. But his commanding officer never accepts no for an order. While an injury may have sidelined him temporarily, Jim still needs to salvage his career after a mistake in combat puts him in leadership’s cross-hairs. Being the first in the pilot program guarantees him his rank and eventual active duty clearance…as long as he can last the trial year.

The I dos are barely uttered before Jim and Taya realize they’ve each miscalculated. Their sizzling chemistry might lead to bed, but neither is prepared to open their heart. And then Taya’s past comes knocking...

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://buff.ly/3b95Zvy

Apple Books: https://buff.ly/2WwHdkC

Nook: https://buff.ly/2vAHxE8

Kobo: https://buff.ly/2Wo0Xag

Google Play: https://buff.ly/3a2Cv23

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I was so excited when Paris asked me to read her latest book! I’ve read a lot of contemporary romance but I haven’t ventured into the military end of it much, so I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from Issued. I know almost next to nothing about Navy SEALs. I even had to double check to be sure I put SEAL in all caps just now. I know… you all are probably shaking your heads at me. What I did know is that I love Paris’ writing, brooding heroes, girls with an attitude (and she’s Mongolian!), and any sort of trope that’s a fake or arranged relationship that turns into love is good in my book!

I was not disappointed. This was such a great read!

One of the first things I noticed was while Jim and Taya may not have gotten along right away, it wasn’t exactly hate to love. Instead, it was about them gradually getting to know one another, overcoming their differences, and learning to build each other into their lives. The attraction was immediate, but I loved watching them fall in love as they got to know one another naturally.

Another element I love about Paris’ writing is that even in romance, she’s not afraid to dig deep and give her characters deep and dark wounds. There is some heavy stuff to deal with in this book, and it was done in such a great way where it honored and didn’t shy away from those wounds. But at the same time, you still had the classic contemporary romance feel where you could escape for a little while and be reminded that no matter how dark our world and pasts can get, you can still have a happily ever after.

Then on top of all of that - you have elements of an action packed action book where you want to know more about what’s going on and wonder how the characters are going to get out of the situations they’ve found themselves in. There are a few nail biting moments in there!

Of course… if you couldn’t tell from the cover… it is SEXY SEXY SEXY! ::fans self:: If you like some intense sex scenes that’ll have you blasting your AC to cool down - this is for you!

Some content warnings: there is some intense backstory about war, fires, murder, and if you aren’t feeling pro-military/pro-police books right now, this might not be up your alley.

Overall, Issued is a fast, sexy, and intense contemporary romance that will have you on the edge of your seat while swooning at the same time, reminding you how even after darkness you can still have a happily ever after.

Beat the Backlist 2019: Check-In No. 1

Remember back in January when I said I was going to join this “Beat the Backlist” challenge so I could finally really all of the books on my shelves that I haven’t gotten to yet?

Haha yeah… about that…

Technically, I have done well in the Beat the Backlist Challenge. The only requirement is to read book which have been published before the current year (2019). I’ve read plenty of books that aren’t new releases! Out of the 22 books I’ve read so far this year, 16 of them were published in 2018 or earlier. Many of which I have been meaning to read for quite some time. The problem is that they aren’t ones I already own…

This is what happens when you put in a ton of requests for books at the library and you forget about them and they all arrive at the same time. Whatever plans you had for books you’ve already purchased go out the window.

Here’s what I’ve read so far though!

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Certain Dark Things* by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: Horror/Urban Fantasy, Published 2016

This is a book where people have been telling me to read it for FOREVER and for some reason I never did. Then, I finally put a hold on at the library and it was wonderful!

One Day in December* by Josie Silver: Contemporary Romance, Published 2018

I saw a ton of people reading this book over the holidays so I had it in my head this was a Christmas book. The first chapter or so is Christmas, but the book actually expands over a 10 year time period. When I learned that I put a hold on at the library. The wait list was FOREVER long, but totally worth it. I loved every moment of this book.

My Favorite Half-Night Stand* by Christina Lauren, Contemporary Romance Published 2018

I’m officially a Christina Lauren fangirl. I’ve read two of their books this year and have been obsessed with both. With this one, I adored the friend group and there were a lot of elements which really hit home for me and got me super emotional in spite of how light and fluffy it is. It was wonderful.

Kill the Queen* (Crown of Shards #1) by Jennifer Estep, Epic Fantasy Published in 2018

This book came out at the end of last year and I’ve been itching to get to it but for some reason I never did until now. However, there’s something to be said about reading books at certain times and when I did read it in April, it was the perfect timing! I’ve been trying to find fantasy authors who have similar writing styles to mine who aren’t YA, and this fit perfectly! It’s dark, rich world building, and wonderful characters. Yet, it doesn’t have the same dense feel as some other fantasy writers like George RR Martin or Patrick Rothfuss. I loved this book SO MUCH and I can’t wait for the next one.

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices #1)* by Cassandra Clare, YA Urban Fantasy, Published 2016

Lord of Shadows* (The Dark Artifices #3) by Cassandra Clare, YA Urban Fantasy, Published 2017

I’m super late to the train for this trilogy in the Shadowhunter world. But I’ll be honest, it’s not my favorite. I love the concept but something isn’t striking a chord with me.

But it didn’t stop me from reading book two! It almost did because there were a few times I almost DNF’d this one. I kept going though. I”ll get to last one… eventually.

A Hope Divided* (The Loyal League #2) by Alyssa Cole, Historical Romance Published 2017

Then we have the amazing Alyssa Cole! I love everything this woman writes and this was no exception! If you want awesome historical romance set during the Civil War (or just historical in general to be honest…), read The Loyal League series. It’s so amazing.

The Sisters of the Winter Wood* by Rena Rossner, Fantasy Published 2018

This was a book recommended to me because it’s a fairy tale-esque book which features sisters like the one I’m currently writing. I’d seen it around but hadn’t picked it up, so I got it from the library. This book was lovely. If you want a “quiter” fantasy that isn’t all sword fights and dragons and could be comparable to Naomi Novak’s Uprooted or Spinning Silver, you’ll enjoy this one.

Lethal White* (Cormoran Strike #4) by Robert Galbraith, Thriller/Mystery Published 2018

Technically, I started this book last year but read a majority of it this year so I’m totally counting it for this challenge! This one is a beast of a book so it took me forever. I also found the audio went much better for me than reading the physical book. My favorite of the series is still Career of Evil, but I love these characters and the ending was SO GOOD.

The Kiss Quotient* by Helen Hoang, Contemporary Romance Published 2018

This book was on a lot of people’s “favorites” list for 2018 and it’s a PitchWars success story and I knew I had to read it at some point. Oh goodness! I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did! This gender bend Pretty Woman style love story was adorable, sexy, and I couldn’t get enough!

Muse of Nightmares* (Strange the Dreamer #2) by Laini Taylor, YA Fantasy Published 2018

I finally read the sequel to Strange the Dreamer! It didn’t quite suck me in as much as the first book did, and these books definitely have the feel of being all one book which had to be divided into two parts, vs. being a first book and a sequel. I loved seeing these characters again though and how it all wrapped up!

Alanna: The First Adventure* (Song of the Lioness #1) by Tamora Pierce, Middle Grade/YA Fantasy Published 1983

I feel like I’m the last YA fantasy fan of my generation who hasn’t read anything by Tamora Pierce. I finally did! This book was good. Not an all time favorite, but I wish I’d read it when I was younger and the age it was targeted at. I think I would have adored this book as a young teen or pre-teen. I can see myself keeping this book to hand to my niece when she’s old enough.

Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating* by Christina Lauren, Contemporary Romance Published 2018

YES CHRISTINA LAUREN! I love this book so much. I am such a Hazel sometimes and a sucker for friends to lovers romance and aaaaahhhhhh I need more.

A Week to be Wicked* (Spindle Cove #2) by Tessa Dare, Historical Romance Published 2012

If you want straight up historical romance - look no further than Tessa Dare. This is the second book in her Spindle Cove series and it was delightful. At first I thought I didn’t like it as much as the first book, but as I look back I’ve found I think about this couple and they dynamic way more than I did the first book. I love how our heroine is a scientist and a wallflower and our hero is this playboy adventurous type and they are so cute together!

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo* by Taylor Jenkins Reid, Contemporary & Historical, Published in 2017

I didn’t plan to read this book this year, but everyone was talking about it and it was the Kindle daily deal one day so I got myself a copy. Then, about a week ago I had a quiet afternoon and was like “I guess I can give it a shot and see how it goes.” Well…. I didn’t want to do anything else once I started. This book was totally worth the hype and now I want to watch all of the golden age of Hollywod movies with glamorous “it girls” of the time.

Save the Cat! Writes a Novel * by Jessica Brody, Non-Fiction, Published in 2018

Can you believe I’ve never read a book about the craft of writing before this one? I know… it’s awful. But this was a fantastic place to start! I’m the worst at plotting and this book helped me figure out what was going wrong and what to do and now I’m shoving it in all of my writer friends faces and being a total pusher. Every writer needs to read this book!

So, there you have it! The 16 books I’ve read so far for the Beat the Backlist Challenge. I haven’t read as many books on my own shelves as I’d liked, but my goal was to have read 16 books published before 2019 by the end of April which I totally accomplished! Now I just need to get to the ones I actually own…

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Like what you read? Consider buying me a coffee.

March Wrap-Up: Reading, Watching, Listening, Favorites

Happy Spring, everyone!

I had so many grand plans for my blog this month. There were ideas for posts, I even made drafts of them and knew when they’d go up. Did any of that happen? Obviously not. I’m not entirely sure what’s wrong with me other than that things at work have been super bizzare and hectic lately, that when I get home, my brain is fried and I don’t want to do anything but sit in front of the TV and zone out.

It happens.

But, I did get reading done and I have a few other things that have been going on in March I can share with you all!

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Reading

(Click on the image on the far right to scroll through to see all the covers!)

Once Ghosted, Twice Shy* (Reluctant Royals #2.5) by Alyssa Cole: Contemporary F/F Romance

This past year I’ve totally jumped on the Alyssa Cole bandwagon. She's so fantastic! She has two series going right now, her historical romance during the Civil War called The Loyal Leauge which is amazing! Then this one, Reluctant Royals which is a contemporary romance series. This novella follows one of the side characters we met in book one and it was cute and fun!

Mortal Heart *(His Fair Assassin #3) by Robin LaFevers: Historical Fantasy

I finally finished my re-read of the His Fair Asassin trilogy before I jump into the new book! I decided to listen to it via audio this time around and it was super long so it took me longer than usual. Which was fine though because I liked being able to sink into it and let it last as long as it wanted because Annith is my favorite.

My Favorite Half Night Stand* by Christina Lauren: Contemporary Romance

I read my second Christina Lauren book this month! After falling IN LOVE with Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating in January I had high expectations for this one and it did not disappoint! In fact, this one hit me so hard in the feels, which I did not expect! There were so many elements with this amazing friend group, friends to lovers romance, and online dating that I could relate to SO HARD and brought up some memories for me. (Some which were hard to bring back, but it’s okay!) I’m officially a Christina Lauren fangirl now and already have two more of their books lined up to read.

Certain Dark Things* by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: Vampire/Horror/Urban Fantasy

I’ve been meaning to read this book literally for years! It was fantastic. This Aztec inspired vampire story was right up my alley. I loved the different take on vampires and while at first it took me a bit to get into the characters, by the end I was far more attached than I realized!

Save the Cat! Writes a Novel * by Jessica Brody: Non-Fiction

Full disclosure: I’ve never taken a writing class or really read any books or anything about writing. The only “training” I’ve had is maybe a panel or two at a con and listening to podcasts. I decided it’s high time that changed! I’d read a blog post about the Save the Cat outlining method and it helped me so much when outlining my revisions. So, I decided to pick up the book. OH MY GOODNESS this was so great! It helped me SO MUCH in figuring out what was going wrong in my book and how to fix it and now I’ve been telling every writer I know to read this book and I’m craving even more resources on story structure.

Water Runs Red * by Jenna Clare: Poetry

I had the privilege to read an early draft of my friend Jenna’s poetry book several months back and I’m so proud of her and how she’s been able to self-publish this book about friend break ups! (Which we really don’t talk about enough.) To be completely honest, I know nothing about poetry and rarely read it. That being said, I fully enjoyed this book and I think it’s going to resonate with a lot of people.

One Day in December * by Josie Silver: Contemporary Romance

I’d seen a bunch of people read this book over Christmas and a friend said I’d probably really enjoy it. At first I thought it was a Christmas book, and while the first chapter takes place at Christmastime and there are a few Christmas scenes, it truly is a year-round book so I decided to place a hold on it at the library. (GOODNESS that line was long though!) I was blown away by how much I loved this love story. It takes place over 10 years and following these characters through the years and I could completely relate to our heroine! It’s super heartwarming and even people who aren’t big romance fans I can picture enjoying this book.

Kill the Queen (Crown of Shards #1)* by Jennifer Estep: Dark Fantasy

This is the book I’m currently reading. It’s been sitting on my shelf for months and I’m so glad I’m finally getting to it. It’s taking longer than I’d like, but it’s only because I’m also really needing to get writing done and I’ve been busy with a writing workshop. So, sadly my free time has been taken by that and not by reading this book. I was able to get a good chunk read the other day and I’m about half through and it is SO SO GOOD. This is exactly my type of epic fantasy where the world building is rich but easily weaved into the narrative, the characters who jump off the page, but the story still moves. It’s one of those where while it’s over 400 pages, it doesn’t feel like it is.

Watching

Queer Eye on Netflix

YES! The Fab 5 is back and I couldn’t be more excited! I’ve already binged all of season 3 and like everyone else, I basically cried in each episode. But seriously, how can you not love these guys? There are seriously days when I start to feel down about myself, or I get frustrated with something in life, or even just can’t figure out what to wear and I think “what would the Fab 5 tell me right now?” and it honestly helps! If we all could live our lives the way they do and learn to embrace other people and genuinely love them, imagine how much better this world would be.

Can we have season 4 now?

American Idol on ABC

I usually don’t get into American Idol. The only season I ever got really into was season 2 with Clay Aiken. (My BFF and I were obsessed with him in high school.) I watched it last year but the people who were my favorites didn’t make it very far. Then, I caught the first few episodes of the auditions and now I’m hooked.

Especially because of this guy. I need his album immediately.

Vampire Diaries on Netflix

Yes, I’m kind of rolling my eyes at myself with this one. I’d watched this series a few years ago and while it was ridiculous, I also loved it. Then, I fell off the wagon and last year I binged the last couple of seasons. Which then made me miss the early seasons which were the best ones. Of course, I then went right back to episode one. I’d watch it on and off until finally this past month I was finished with all of the other shows I was watching and figured I might as well just complete the rewatch. By the time we get to the last couple seasons though, I’m basically just living for the last two episodes where Katherine comes back.

Boy Meets World on Hulu

Boy Meets World - AKA the greatest sit com out of all the 90s sit coms. I WILL FIGHT YOU.

Seriously though, I adore this show. It’s one of my all time favorites. It has the same cheesy plot lines as some of the other 90s sit coms, but there’s something a bit more genuine and heartfelt about it. Also, it’s hilarious. Also, Cory and Topanga is the greatest love story of my generation. I have all the seasons on DVD, but the lazy side of me is very happy it’s all on Hulu. I just finished season one, and can’t wait for season two. (Which is one of the best seasons in my personal opinion.) It’s one of those shows where I’ve seen every episode so many times I can have it on in the background and not fully pay attention but will know exactly what’s happening when I do, and laugh at all of the jokes no matter how many times I’ve heard them.

Listening

David Tennant Does a Podcast With…

I’d heard while back that David Tennant (aka the best Doctor) started a podcast and I meant to subscribe, then for some reason never did. I finally started it a couple weeks ago and it’s so great! It’s basically him sitting down and interviewing people and I don’t even care who he’s talking to because I love him and his voice so much. It’s a relaxing and fun show.

Showmance with Kevin McHale and Jenna Ushkowitz

In case you don’t know who Kevin and Jenna are - they’re Artie and Tina from Glee.

Yup! They started a podcast together and while they’ve only had one episode so far, my little Gleek heart could not be more delighted.

Kevin and Jenna are IRL BFFs and (kinda/sorta/it’s complicated) had a small romance during their time on Glee. They said there’s a lot of other performers out there who also are either good friends or in romantic relationships while also working together, and it creates an interesting dynamic and on their show they interview them about it. The first episode they interview one another and it’s wonderful. I love listening to them relive their Glee days.

“Flamingo - Virginia Hill” parts 1 & 2 on Female Criminals

I’ve mentioned the Female Criminals podcast in the past and I’m still morbidly obsessed with it. The most recent story I can’t get enough of is about Virginia Hill who to this day the most influential female in the mob. She’s gone now, but no other woman has matched her status. By the time she was in her early 20s, she had connections to the mobs in Chicago, New York, LA, and Mexico.

Not that we should aspire to be high profile criminals but… when I listening to her story I couldn’t help but be at least a little impressed.

My Favorite Things

NYX Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray*

Oddly enough, I’ve never tried a setting spray for my makeup before. I thought I’d give this one a go since I’ve been using some of other NYX’s products and have had good results. This is fantastic! I should have been using it before. I tend to use long lasting makeup anyway because I don’t have time for many touch ups at work, and this helps to give it that extra boost to keep it all in place.

Colour Pop No Filter Matte Concealer

I was running low on concealer and I love ColourPop’s lip products and decided to give their concealer a go. It’s great so far! Surprisingly enough, the shade I bought is slightly too pale for me so next time I need to get it a tad darker. But, it still works just fine!

Smashbox Primers*

Yes, another product I’ve never used before is a primer. I got a bunch of samples with an Ulta order recently and it came with some primers from Smashbox. They were so great! How have I not used these before? I have no idea what they’re supposed to do, but my skin was surprisingly soft all day and that was enough to sell me on them. However… the full Smashbox product is a bit out of my price range. If anyone has recs for a more budget friendly primer, let me know!

Things I Did This Month

Dear Evan Hanson

For Broadway fans, I’m way behind on this bandwagon. I’d listened to the cast album for this show a couple of times and watched the performance on the Tony Awards, but didn’t really “get it.” It came to Chicago and some friends and I decided to go. The tickets were out of my usual budget for these things, but since it’s so popular I kind of expected it. Well… I get it now. This show is so wonderful! I will say this though - with your ticket they should also include a box of tissues, a therapy session, and a comfort dog.

C2E2 (Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo)

This event is basically Chicago’s ComiCon. (We have one of those too I’m pretty sure, but this one is more popular.) I’ve gone a couple of times before and some friends from out of state were coming in for it. Besides…. they were having a Clueless reunion.

Yes. Yes, that is four members of the Clueless cast hanging out. I was in the same room as them. I was way closer to the stage than it appears in the photo, but due to my lack of height I still had to just look at the screen. But, I was still there!

Even beyond the Clueless reunion, this was such a fun event. I love seeing all of the cosplayers, I met one of my favorite authors, hung out in artist alley, and got to catch up with one of the artists I met last year. This has quickly become one of my high priority events of the year and I’m going to need to start considering getting a 2 or 3 day pass instead of just one. It’s more expensive of course, but I’d love to have more time to see everything I want to. I mean… the day after I went David Tennant had a pannel!

Anastasia

Yes! I saw not only one, but two musicals this month! Which basically means this was a big win for me. My sister and I went together a few days after her birthday. I was slightly nervous about it because I knew they’d made some pretty major changes from the movie to the musical. The story itself was still the same, and they had the songs, but still some big changes. However, I had nothing to worry about. It was done in a way where I could keep the animated movie as something separate from the stage show and see how while they were the same story, they were still their own thing. For what they wanted to do on stage, the changes made complete sense and worked so well! My sister and I cried a couple of times and it was wonderful.

On The Writing Front

Plotting Your Novel Bootcamp

An author who’s been helping me out the last several months was taking part in the workshop and said she thought I’d enjoy it as well. It was the first time I’d forked over money beyond buying a book to learn about writing, so it was a bit different for me. But it was helpful! I got started in it late and didn’t totally catch up to where everyone else in the workshop was, but I got all of these great resources and am still going through the workbook.

Revisions

Yes, I’m still working on my revisions for White Rose. I don’t know how long revisions usually take people, but I feel like mine have been taking forever. Far longer than I’d like. Then, I had a break through. On March 31st. And now I’m changing almost everything. Yet again.

Revising is weird my friends.

New Ideas

Yes! I have a new book idea! I won’t share much about it yet, but it’s in a new genre I haven’t really played around with before. Which… I’m slightly nervous about but also excited. I don’t have a whole lot done on it yet because I’m still working on White Rose, but I have characters and some plot ideas jotted down. When I (finally) get White Rose revisions done I’m hoping I’ll have enough brainstorming done for this new book idea where I can jump into it while beta readers are working through White Rose.

Speaking of beta readers - if you like fantasy, fairy tales, and romance, let me know! Cause I’m looking for a reader or two to give me feedback. No set date yet since revisions are taking so long, but I will be needing them!

There’s my March! While writing and revising hasn’t been going as I’d hoped, with all of the events I went to March ended up being a pretty great month. What did you do in March? Read anything you fell in love with? Do you have podcasts, movies, or TV shows to rec?

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Like what you read? Consider buying me a coffee.

January Reading Round Up

From what I’ve been seeing around the Internet these days, everyone has been talking about how long January felt. Usually it feels like that for me too - but for some reason it flew by! Which is particularly weird considering Chicago just got out of some of the coldest days we’ve ever had in the history of ever.

Or at least how long they’ve been recording the temperatures.

My friends… it was COLD. But, we survived.

Oh… you’re not here to listen to me talk about the weather and how cold it was here? You want to know about the books I read this month? Well… that’s fair considering that’s the title of this blog post.

I read a total of 6 books in January and 4 of them counted towards the Beat the Backlist Challenge which was a great start! I enjoyed all of them for the most part which is even better.

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices #1) by Cassandra Clare

• Genre: YA Urban Fantasy

• Format: Library Hardcover

• Rating: 3.75 Stars

Quick Summary: Five years after the final Mortal Instruments book, Emma and her squad illegally investigate murders in LA which may lead to information about her own parents deaths.

First off, this trilogy is a spin off of the Mortal Instruments series. Previously with Cassandra Clare books, you could read The Mortal Instruments alone, or you could read The Infernal Devices alone, but you would get a better experience reading all of them. This is not the case with The Dark Artifices. You really need to have read both of the previous series to get everything that’s happening. That being said - I’m not going to attempt hiding any spoilers for the other two series. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

I’d been intending to read The Dark Artifices for awhile now, and while I do enjoy the Shadowhunter books, I’m not the fangirl of them that I used to be. I re-read most of the other two series a couple of years ago. The Infernal Devices are better, and I like The Mortal Instruments enough as long as I can just skip over the Jace chapters. I’d heard this trilogy got even better than the others. Her writing and inclusivity were better than they had been before and now that all three books are out, I figured it was high time I binged them.

This book took me forever to get into. I could see how I would like the new characters, but the first quarter of the book is basically just a bunch of name dropping for the previous books and GUSHING about how AMAZING JACE AND CLARY ARE. (Newsflash- they’re not that great. Literally all of the other characters are better than Jace and Clary.) The moment I’d start getting into the new characters and story, memories and mentions of the other books would get in the way. So much so, that I almost DNF’d this book.

Then, when I finally sat down to really read, and not just a few pages at a time, I was able to get into it. Yes, this book is still pretty typical Cassandra Clare. Forbidden romances, family drama, love triangles, SO MUCH ANGST, using the word parabatti WAY too much. (For people who make fun of Sarah J Maas for using “mate” too often, I make fun of Cassandra Clare for using parabatti too much.) But, I also expect this when I read her books. When I was able to push aside all of the throwbacks to previous books and characters, I was able to see why everyone liked this one so much. Mark is definitely one of the most interesting characters so far, and I do like Emma and Jullian a lot. The ending was a bit eye-rolly for me, and a bit heart breaking, but also not surprising. Basically… it was a Shadowhunter ending.

Compared to The Mortal Instruments, I would say this one is better quality, but I’m not sure if I like it more than The Infernal Devices yet. I have the next book waiting for me at the library so we’ll see how I feel once the trilogy is over!

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter #7) by JK Rowling - Re-read

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Format: Hardcover

• Rating: 5 Stars

Quick Summary: Harry has to defeat Voldemort!

In December I did a re-read of Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell which is basically about a girl who loves a made up version of Harry Potter which made me super in the mood for Harry Potter. I’d started re-reading the series maybe a year or two ago but for some reason stopped when I got to book seven. No time like the present, right?

I started re-reading it at the end of December and finished at the start of January and IT WAS WONDERFUL. Gosh, I forgot how good of a finale this was. I know some fans weren’t satisfied with the ending, but I totally was and that hasn’t changed. I love seeing Harry’s growth in this book and the journey he takes from “I’m doing this because Dumbledore told me to” to stepping up and taking it on as his own and growing as a leader. Then we also get Neville being a TOTAL BAD ASS (which the movie did a fine job with… but he’s so much more so in the book) and all of the heartbreaking moments still got to me and just… bravo. I love it.

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Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren

• Genre: Contemporary Romance

• Format: Library Paperback

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

Quick Summary: It’s been years since Hazel threw up on Josh’s shoes in college, but a friendship is ignited in a whirlwind and they decide to set each other up with friends and go on double dates together as an excuse to hang out.

This book was SO ADORABLE. I can’t even handle it. Hazel is a complete hot mess - and completely fabulous. While I don’t think I’m quite as eccentric as she is, I still totally related to her and the feeling of being “too much” for people. She’s the type of hot mess a person aspires to be. She’s hilarious, loves animals and kids, and always says inappropriate things at the total wrong time but you love her for it. Josh really was that “perfect” guy Hazel kept on describing him to be, while also feeling like a real character vs. just that “dream man” you get in romance novels sometimes. (Also Korean-American rep!)

When reading other reviews on Goodreads I saw some people weren’t fans of one of the plot lines later in the book. There were a couple which came to mind which could have been what they were referring to. Neither of them bothered me though. The book was slightly light on plot, but when it comes to romance I don’t mind that and just want to fall in love with the characters which totally happened!

Literally the only complaint I had is that there’s a plot point where people have sex while drunk and just… ugh. It seemed like they were sober enough to consent but… UGH. It bothered me enough though to bump it half a star. I can’t give a book that hinges on that plot point a full 5 stars and apparently this is a common thing with this writing duo. I’ll read more of their books, but I’ll also never be happy about this aspect of them.

It’s 2019 people! (And this book was published in 2018 so it’s not like it’s dated or anything.) Can we remove drunken sex from being an okay thing to move a relationship along????

But seriously. Beyond that I loved everything else about this book.

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Even If I Fall by Abigail Johnson

• Genre: YA Contemporary

• Format: Library Hardcover

• Rating: 4.5 Stars

Quick Summary: Brooke falls for the brother of the guy her brother confessed to murdering.

This was one of my most anticipated books of 2019! (Although in my blog post I described one of this author’s other books… whoops! Sorry!) I’d never read a book about the family of a convicted murderer and the concept sounded super fascinating to me! This book for sure filled my high expectations for it. I got super attached to the characters, it hit me in ALL THE FEELS, it was raw and real, and I got caught up in the whole figuring out what happened the night of the murder aspect.

That being said , this was also an incredibly difficult book to read. I mean… our main character’s brother is in prison for murder. Then she falls for the brother of the guy her brother killed. Basically, no one is happy in this book and you’re dealing with some really intense issues. When I first started I was only able to get through a couple of chapters at a time before having to put it down because any more than that would have left me emotionally drained. About the halfway mark (maybe 2/3rds) I was able to get into a better groove and then binge read the remainder of the book.

It’s so well done and a beautiful book. But be warned: it’s tough.

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Lord of Shadows (The Dark Artifices #2) by Cassandra Clare

• Genre: YA Urban Fantasy

• Format: Library Paperback

• Rating: 3.5 Stars

Quick Summary: Emma, Jullian, and the squad all deal with the aftermath of the first book. Angst, forbidden romance, and other Shadowhunting things ensue.

Then I came to this book. ::heavy sigh:: I won’t lie - once again I was tempted to DNF it after only a couple of chapters. There was just SO MUCH ANGST then Jace and Clary appeared RIGHT AWAY which made me roll my eyes so hard and just… ugh. Maybe it was because I’d just finished an intense book so I wasn’t ready for more angst? But this is such a different type of emotional and angst than If I Fall was and… it was rough.

All of the elements that I enjoy in books is in the Dark Artifices trilogy. I love forbidden romance, ALL OF THE FEELS, magic, adventure, squad goals, themes about family, etc. The ideas and characters for the Shadowhunter books are SO GOOD. But then I read it and the way they’re written I’m like “WHY AREN’T YOU BETTER?” I don’t know. Yet, I still love the characters and I keep coming back for more. My relationship with Cassandra Clare’s books is so complicated.

Anyway. I got through it. Lord of Shadows was weaker than Lady Midnight and while I didn’t mind the direction it was going and I liked all of the fae elements, it still wasn’t great. I think it could have been a lot shorter and there were elements which were dragged out that didn’t need to be dragged out.

The final book in this trilogy should be waiting for me to pick up at the library soon and I’ll push through and get this trilogy done! Woo!

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Alanna The First Adventure (Song of the Lioness #1) by Tamora Pierce

• Genre: Middle Grade (maybe younger YA) Fantasy

• Format: Paperback

• Rating: 4 Stars

Quick Summary: 10 year old Alanna doesn’t want to go to the convent. Her twin brother doesn’t want to be a knight. What’s a kid to do? Swap places of course.

I feel like I’m one of the last people to read Tamora Pierce’s books. So many people grew up with them and she’s a staple for YA Fantasy. I even remember seeing her books at the store when I was in high school and always intended to read them, but never did. So - I finally read one!

This is one of those books that now I’m like “man… I should have read this when I was 14 (or younger).” You know… the age it’s intended to be read at. Alanna is a great heroine: disguising herself Mulan style to become a knight, challenging her bullies, growing stronger, taking care of herself, etc. When this book was published in the ‘80s, I can imagine it was pretty ground breaking. Back then (and to a lot of an extent, today) the science-fiction and fantasy genres was a boys club. A book featuring a young girl training to be a knight, talking about getting her first period, discussing birth control, and her not shying away from violence, I’m imagining was not something which happened often. Especially for such a young age group. This book paved the way for the girl power YA fantasy novels we have today. If I read this in jr. high or high school before all of the YA fantasy we have now, I would have been ALL ABOUT IT.

But I didn’t read it back then and I have read the other YA fantasy novels we have now. In comparison, it wasn’t as good. Also, this was much more middle grade than YA. (But I’m pretty sure the books age up as the character gets older.) For my personal enjoyment, this book was more like 3.5 stars because it wasn’t as good as others I’ve read in this genre. But, I still really liked the premise and the short fast and fun read was welcome after If I Fall and Lord of Shadows. Also considering how ground breaking it was back when it was published, I bumped it up to 4 stars.

I’ll check out the rest of the series from the library and I can definitely see myself passing this book onto my niece and/or my cousins kids to read so they can read it at the appropriate age.

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Currently Reading

Lethal White (Cormoran Strike #4) by Robert Galbraith (AKA JK Rowling)

• Genre: Adult Mystery/Thriller

• Format: Library Audiobook

Quick Summary: Let’s be real… those of us reading Lethal White aren’t here for the plot. We’re here to see what happens between Strike and Robin. But if you are interested- basically it’s political intrigue, murder, blackmail, the Olympics when it was in London, and parliament.

I started to read this book last year when it came out, but after the prologue and I found out what happened in the aftermath of the previous book, it felt so slow so I put it down temporarily. I’d read two of the others via audiobook and really enjoyed them, so I decided to give that a try.

So far, it is SO MUCH BETTER. However, I wasn’t able to finish the book before it was due back at the library and it wouldn’t let me renew it so… I’m back on the wait list.

::heavy sigh::

Tune in several months from now when I can check out the audiobook again and can finally finish this bad boy. We’ll see if I attempt to read the physical book again.

What did you all read in January? Anything I should check out? Have you read any of these books? What were your thoughts?

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Like what you read? Consider buying me a coffee.

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If you enjoyed this post you might also enjoy…

My 18 Favorite Books of 2018

2018 Year in Review & 2019 Goals

My Most Anticipated Books of 2019

Beat the Backlist 2019

Beat the Backlist 2019

There’s a constant joke about avid readers and how our “to be read” pile is never ending. Or how they have a million unread books on their shelves and yet they can’t resist going into a bookstore or a library to pick up even more.

I am absolutely not exempt from this joke. In fact, there are days I wonder if it was inspired by me and my life because the amount of books I have sitting at home, and on my Kindle, is not only full - but it’s getting to be embarrassing. I have over 20 unread physical books that I own then on my Kindle… well… let’s say it’s in the 3-digits.

I told you it was embarrassing.

Particularly with ebooks it’s just so easy! You see one that’s only $.99 and you’re all “I’d be a fool to not get it! Only a dollar!” Then before you know it you have a huge list of unread books sitting there untouched. It’s so bad, my friends. SO BAD.

Then when Barnes and Noble sends you coupons all of the time…

I know.

It’s no excuse.

I have a serious, serious, problem, and I’m sorry.

A friend of mine decided she wanted to have all of the books she owned to be read by the time she turned 30. Her birthday is coming up and it’s kind of incredible how far she’s gotten. While it’s been stressful, I’m also slightly envious that in a couple of weeks she’ll no longer have a backlist of books sitting around the house.

Then, a couple months ago, another friend of mine told me about Beat the Baklist hosted by NovelKnight. (You can read all of the details by clicking here!) Apparently, this book blogger/Bookstagramer hosts this challenge every year and people use it to get through all of the books which have been published in previous years that they haven’t gotten to yet. It could be books that they own that they haven’t read yet (like me) or simply books they’ve been meaning to pick up but haven’t gotten around to it.

The only rule is that your books need to be published before the current year. (So for 2019, all of the books for the challenge need to be from 2018 or prior.)

People (like my friend) do their own challenges like this all of the time. But, there’s something about a more organized challenge like this one which helps me with the whole accountability thing. You can sign up, join a Hogwarts House if you want, join in on the Instagram challenge, and even fill out Bingo cards! (All of this is optional of course. Again - you can check out the details on her website here!) It seems like an answer to my problem!

To officially sign up, you need to have somewhere on the Internet your TBR for the Beat the Backlist Challenge then share it on the links provided on her blog. (In case you missed it before… click here!) This TBR doesn’t have to be the one you’ll ABSOLUTELY STICK TO NO MATTER WHAT. Just something to get started. You also can post it anywhere on social media. I just chose my blog because it’s my “main hub.”

My main focus is going to be my physical books. Yes, I’ll absolutely be reading the ones on my Kindle as well, but since that list is so overwhelming, I think I’ll feel much more of a sense of accomplishment with my physical TBR.

I don’t know if I’ll be able to get through all of them, but I’m going to try as much as I can! If I can read at leas 2-3 of them a month all year, I’ll be in good shape.

So… without much further ado, here’s at least part of my TBR for Beat the Backlist! (If you want to see all of them, you can check out my shelves on Goodreads.)

Consider this the official book-shaming of me.

Rose Under Fire (Verity #2) by Elizabeth Wein

• Genre: YA Historical

• Published: 2014

• Format: Paperback

This is most likely the book that has been sitting on my shelf the longest and I have zero excuses for not having read it yet. It’s WW2 which is one of my favorite time periods, it’s all girl power, and I loved Code Name Verity . I picked this book up not long after I finished it…. around when it was published… almost 5 years ago.

I know. I know.

It’s A REALLY BAD PROBLEM I TOLD YOU.

I think what’s been stopping me is that the first book made me cry a lot and had ALL THE FEELS and I’ve been told this one is even worse. But… you’d think after five years I’d be prepared for it by now.

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Alana: The First Adventure (Song of the Lioness #1) by Tamora Pierce

• Genre: YA/MG Fantasy

• Published: 2010

• Format: Paperback

I’m fairly sure I’m one of the last people ever to read this series. So many people love Tamora Pierce and I haven’t read a single one of her books. NONE of them. I can almost feel every single one of her fans groaning and judging me right now. I’M SORRY. This book was given to me a couple of years ago by a fellow Booktuber and I was so excited because I finally had no reason to not read it!

Did that happen?

Nope.

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Six Gun Snow White by Cathrynne M Valente

• Genre: Adult Historical Fantasy

• Published: 2013

• Format: Paperback

I won this book a couple of years ago in a giveaway through Booktube and I was so happy! It’s a Snow White retelling! Look at that beautiful woman of color on the cover! It’s short! It looks like a unique take on the classic fairy tale! It looks amazing!

And yet… here it is.

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Scarlet (Scarlet #1) By AC Gaughen

• Genre: YA Historical Fantasy

• Published: 2012

• Format: Paperback

This was another book I got as a gift, I want to say a year ago now. It’s a Robin Hood retelling about a girl in his band of merry men who happens to be posing as a guy.

Sounds amazing, right?

I need to get on it.

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This Darkness Mine by Mindy McGinnis

• Genre: YA Thriller

• Published: 2017

• Format: Hardcover

Yet another gift… and I love Mindy McGinnis! This book was on my wish list! I knew I wanted to read it! When I got it as a gift in the mail I was SO HAPPY!

Then it sat on my shelf for months.

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The Outlaw Knight (FitzWaren #2) by Elizabeth Chadwick

• Genre: Adult Historical

• Published: 2013

• Format: Paperback

Elizabeth Chadwick is one of my favorite authors! Every single one of her books I’ve read so far I’ve completely loved. The first book in this duology was fantastic. Naturally, I picked up the next one.

I guess I just haven’t been in the mood for a more dense historical fiction? Who. Even. Knows.

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Muse of Nightmares (Strange the Dreamer #2) by Laini Taylor

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Published: 2018

• Format: Hardcover

Now, this one isn’t quite so embarrassing in the sense that it was was released back in October of 2018. Only three months ago!

However… this was one of my most anticipated of 2018. Strange the Dreamer was one of my FAVORITE books last year. It was AMAZING and the way it ended I needed the next one immediately! I went out to the store the day it was released and almost had a heart attack when they said my pre-order hadn’t arrived yet! When it did arrive it was one of the happiest days!

It’s just… so many books came out in October my friends. SO MANY. I couldn’t keep up with all of the new releases and this one for some reason just fell to the side and just…

I’m sorry.

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The Ghost Rebellion (The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences #5) by Pip Ballentine and Tee Morris

• Genre: Adult Steampunk

• Published: 2016

• Format: ARC

I really love this opposites attract fun steampunk series. It’s witty and charming and funny and full of adventure! When the authors switched to self-publishing I signed up to donate to them so they could complete the series and in exchange I got an ARC for the next book.

Well… the book after this (which is the final one) was already released and I have a copy of that one too. But have I read this ARC? NOPE.

This is why I don’t request ARCs often.

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Renegades (Renegades #1) by Marissa Meyer

• Genre: YA Sci-Fi

• Published: 2017

• Format: Hardcover

I picked up this book at the start of last year because I LOVE LOVE LOVE The Lunar Chronicles by this author, and I enjoyed Heartless by her as well. But then… I don’t know. It never called to me since then and has been collecting dust.

Your time is coming, Renegades!

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Six of Crows (Six of Crows #1) by Leigh Bardugo

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Published: 2015

• Format: ebook

I know. I know. I know. I’m WAY LATE to the party on this one. I was to reading The Grisha Trilogy too. I read The Grisha Trilogy last year and it was good. I enjoyed it. But I also wasn’t all OMG BEST BOOKS EVER the way other people were. So, I’ve been dragging my feet with Six of Crows. I know I’ll read it and probably enjoy it. Everyone says it’s even better than The Grisha Trilogy but just… sigh. At this point I feel like it’s been hyped up SO MUCH that there’s no way it’s going to live up to it and I’m just going to have the same reaction I did with the others. It’s good, but not amazing.

But, it was on sale a few months ago for Kindle and I decided to just download it so I had less of an excuse to not read it. I know I said I was going to focus on my physical TBR, but since this one is SO POPULAR and one I know I should get to and Netflix now is making these books a movie or a TV show or whatever… I decided I need to get it done this year.

Okay… enough humiliation for one blog post, don’t you think? This is only the tip of the iceberg though!

I have finished one book so far. It wasn’t one I’d purchased and kept forever, but I had been meaning to start which is Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare. It’s the first book in her Dark Artifices trilogy and the final book came out at the end of 2018. I thought it was a good time to just binge the whole thing.

Then, I’ve started the audiobook for Lethal White, the fourth book in the Cormoran Strike series by Robert Galbraith (JK Rowling). I bought the book last year and I started it, but it went so slow. I’d read two of the others in the series via audio book so I thought I’d give it a shot. So far, it’s much better!

So… at least I’ve made a little progress?

Please bring me some comfort and tell me your backlist is as long as mine! What embarrassing stories do you have to tell about books which have been sitting on your shelves or your e-reader for far longer than any book should? Are you joining the Beat the Backlist Challenge too? Again… in case you missed it… click here for info!

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Like what you read? Consider buying me a coffee.

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If you enjoyed this post you might also enjoy…

My 18 Favorite Books of 2018

2018 Year in Review & 2019 Goals

My Most Anticipated Books of 2019

My 18 Favorite Books of 2018

I read 100 books in 2018!

Which amounted to 38,099 pages. The average length of book I read this year was between 300-399 pages.

While it’s not the most amount of books I’ve read in a year… it’s still a lot.

The genres were…

35.2% fantasy

26.7% romance

12.4% contemporary

8.6% urban fantasy

7.6% science fiction

6.7% historical fiction

1.9% graphic novels

As for age groups…

51.4% adult

26.7% young adult

19.0% new adult

2.9% middle grade

But you all don’t care about my nerdy numbers do you? Fine… fine… we’ll get to my favorites of the year.

All in all, I enjoyed a vast majority of what I read. I’ve been able to figure out pretty easily which I’ll enjoy, so it’s rare when I find a book I hate. Let alone, one that I hate and will finish. (Life is too short to read books you don’t like. Aren’t liking a book? Just stop reading and find one you do!) Which is great! But… it does make it difficult to narrow down which ones were my absolute favorite.

Here’s the list I came up with. They’re in no particular order, just what popped up on Goodreads as I looked through to see which ones I’d rated the highest.

If you ask me, it’s a good variety of books. You’ve got a mix of adult, new adult, and young adult, sci-fi, fantasy, contemporary, romance, historical… it’s all there! I tried to see if there were any similar threads, genres, or plot lines, but there weren’t really. At first I thought that they all maybe had a great romance even if it was a side plot, but even that wasn’t a commonality!

What I did notice was, they all have fantastic characters. Ones that I am fascinated by, root for, or connect to. You could have a fairly predictable plot, but if the characters are ones who stand out and I connect with, I’ll be wanting even more!

The other commonality was that every single book was written by a woman except for one - where it was co-written by a male author and a female author. I have noticed this tends to be a trend with me the last few years. It wasn’t intentional, but the more I notice it, the more I’m actively seeking out female authors. One, because apparently I’m drawn to their writing. Two, particularly in Sci-Fi/Fantasy (adult mostly), it’s still a bit of a boys club. Women for sure are staking their claim and leaving their mark, but as I search for high/epic fantasy, a majority of the books are written by men. I want to let the women shine!

Also - as you’ll notice, I am much more into romance this last year than I have been in previous years, and that genre is mostly written by women.

Men, you need to step up your game. Sorry, not sorry.

I also want to point out how many debut authors I loved in 2018. I made a note of each of them and WOW did they kill it!

So, here you go. My favorites of 2018 in no particular order!

* = own voices

*Trail of Lightning (The Sixth World #1) by Rebecca Roanhorse (Debut author)

Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy

Quick Summary: Monster hunter Maggie travels through the rez to investigate mysterious disappearances and discovers something more evil and powerful than she originally thought.

I love the urban fantasy genre, and there’s a part of me that so sad it’s not really in the market right now. Unless it’s this amazing book that is!

This book was super intense right from the start - so not for the feint of heart! Maggie was such a fantastic and bad ass heroine though, Kai was swoony and loveable and amazing, and having all of the Native American lore/setting/themes was such a refreshing take on this genre. The characters were ripping my heart out in the best way, and the end has me BEGGING for the next book.

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*Children of Blood and Bone (Legacy of Orisha #1) by Tomi Adeyemi (Debut author)

Genre: Young Adult Epic Fantasy

Quick Summary: Zeile goes on a quest to bring magic back to her land and rebel against the monarchy.

This book was one of the most hyped for YA fantasy in 2018 and it definitely lived up. It is Adeyemi’s debut, was sold for 7 figures AND already has a movie deal.

Oh. And she’s only 24.

So… that slightly puts your life into perspective, doesn’t it? Haha.

But seriously. This was a phenomenal young adult epic fantasy. Think of it as The Hate U Give - but in fantasy with Black Panther vibes. The characters are vivid and complex, and you have your classic fantasy staples of revolution and freeing magic. You all need to hop on board this train before the next book is released in 2019!

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*Song of Blood and Stone (Earthsinger Chronicles #1) by L Penelope (Debut in traditional publishing)

Genre: Adult Fantasy Romance

Quick Summary: After soldier Jack is held captive in Jasminda’s home by mutual enemies, they team together to save Elsira.

I buddy-read this with my friend Caitlin of BookChats and we immediately became obsessed! This is a debut book -but only for the traditionally published realm. L. Penelope originally self-published this book then it got picked up by a publisher and after a lot of editing and revising, it was released in this form. So, if you read the original, I’ve been told this one is much different and her readers should give it a try!

It’s another black lives matters type of a book set in a fantasy world - but this time it’s for adults and there’s more focus on the romance. Which I LOVED. I was completely on board for Jasminda and Jack from the start and I loved this world and concept. I only wish we had a release date for the second book!

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Illuminae (The Illuminae Files #1) by Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufmann

Genre: Young Adult Sci-Fi

Quick Summary: The morning Ezra and Katy break up, their planet is invaded and they find themselves on two different spaceships in a race to reach safety before the invaders strike again.

I’ve had this book sitting on my shelf for over a year, and the ebook version on my kindle for even longer. I knew I would like it, but I also knew I would need to be in the right mindset and have the right focus for it due to the multi-media format. I’m so glad I waited until I knew I had that focus because it was wonderful!

The multi-media format was surprisingly compelling. I was worried it would make me feel removed from the story and the characters, but it didn’t at all. There were some surprisingly dark twists which brought even more to the book, and I was completely hooked!

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*Relationship Goals by Christina C Jones

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance Novella

Quick Summary: After a spontaneous kiss at an airport, Nick and Noah discover something deeper.

This one took me by surprise! Usually when books try to incorporate social media and technology into their story, it feels clunky and forced. The way Jones did it was spot on! Their kiss goes viral and they start to chat via Instagram messages and it all goes from there. Then, our hero has sickle cell disease, and it was handled so well. I was able to connect with so much about his thoughts on living with the disease and her learning to deal with it at his side. Their relationship felt so real and I loved how they actually talked through things. Definitely a great quick read!

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Tessa Ever After (Reluctant Hearts #2) by Brighton Walsh

Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance

Quick Summary: Jason promised his BFF to watch after his sister and niece after he moves away. What he didn’t expect was to fall in love.

This was another pleasant surprise. I read the first book, Caged in Winter, and enjoyed it but wasn’t OMG BEST BOOK EVER. Then when I heard Jason was our hero in book two, I was skeptical.

BUT JASON IS OUR HERO AND GOODNESS WAS I WRONG ABOUT HIM.

Seeing him grow and change through the story was fantastic, and how can you not love a guy who’ll dress up and play tea party with the daughter of his heart’s desire? I mean… seriously. Then Tessa was an awesome heroine and seeing her open up and start to relax around Jason was wonderful to watch.

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*An Extraordinary Union (The Loyal League #1) by Alyssa Cole

Genre: Adult Historical Romance

Quick Summary: A spy for the Union, Elle poses as a slave on a plantation to gather information has to team up with Scotsman Malcom to uncover a plot which could turn the tide of the Civil War.

I have finally jumped on the Alyssa Cole train and I’m so glad I did! I’d heard about this author and this book in particular. It was another that for sure lived up to the hype! I love classic historical romance novels along with everyone else. But, it was refreshing to have one that wasn’t filled with balls and carriage rides, and instead was focused on spies for the Civil War. On top of all of that, we have a Scottish hero who reminded me of Jamie Fraser but without the problematic elements of Outlander.

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A Night to Surrender (Spindle Cove #1) by Tessa Dare

Genre: Adult Historical Romance

Quick Summary: Susanna spends her life helping women find their inner strength. Then, a new earl comes into town to form a militia and she must stop him from ruining her utopia.

Another romance author who I’ve finally jumped on the train for! This book literally had me laughing out loud with it’s battle of the sexes theme. It’s ridiculous, funny, and completely swoon worthy. Then, our hero had a disability due to a war injury which is always great to see that representation which didn’t make me want to roll my eyes! Everything about it was great and I literally had zero complaints. I need to read all of Tessa Dare’s books now.

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*The Poppy War (The Poppy War #1) by RF Kuang (Debut author)

Genre: Adult Epic Fantasy

Quick Summary: Against all odds, Rin earns a place at the elite military school in Nikan and discovers unearthly power.

Another book which was so hyped up and it totally lived up to it! Part of what makes this book stand out so much is that the school element is only the first half because the students in the second half are thrown into a war they’re not prepared for.

It’s intense, heavy, and full of inspiration from Chinese history. There are moments when it’s difficult to read because of that, but trust me it’s 100% worth it.

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The Queen’s Rising (The Queen’s Rising #1) by Rebecca Ross (Debut author)

Genre: Young Adult High Fantasy

Quick Summary: When Valenia is not chosen by a patron at her 17th solstice, she waits for months for someone to take her on. Then, she is found in the midst of a rebellion and must decide her loyalty.

This book was on my radar but I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read it nor not. Then, a friend messaged me and was like “YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK” so I picked it up from the library. Well… she was right.

At first you think it’s going to be a pretty cliche/typical YA fantasy. There’s magic, the characters go to a boarding school, we have a lost queen/princess, the main character is an orphan, etc. But, all of these tropes still feel fresh and new as you read. I loved these characters and the themes of found family and identity. This book could definitely be a stand alone, but there are more coming and I can’t wait!

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Dreamer’s Pool (Blackthorn and Grim #1) by Juliet Mariller

Genre: Adult Historical Fantasy

Quick Summary: Healer Blackthorn has been held in prison for years and will do anything to get her revenge. But when a fae offers her the opportunity for her freedom and in exchange she must help anyone, she must set aside her own goals. At least for the next seven years.

This was a lovely subtle historical fantasy. Blackthorn is a fierce heroine and it was refreshing to have a character who is so bent on revenge being forced to take a step back from it. I love a good dark fantasy along with everyone else. But, having a book where they’re not just ripping apart bodies the whole time was nice to have for a change. Grimm is my precious but also frightening baby that I want to protect from all of the dangers of the world. The prince and his love interest… I’ll be honest were kind of meh. But everything else in the book made up for it!

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*New Heights by Quinn Anderson

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance Novella (M/M relationship)

Quick Summary: While stuck at the airport, Mika and James start a feud, but can’t deny their opposites attract connection.

These novellas for sure show that you don’t need a book to be long to be well done!

I read this in the course of just a couple of hours and it was the most delightful couple of hours ever. I loved the opposites attract chemistry and all of their shenanigans around the airport while they were waiting for their delayed flights. The couple was so cute and perfect for each other, I was shipping them from the first paragraph.

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The Calculating Stars (Lady Astronaut #1) by Mary Robinette Kowal

Genre: Adult Historical Sci-Fi

Quick Summary: When a meteorite hits the US’s East Coast post WWII and wipes out part of the country, the space race is on so people can colonize Mars, and Elma wants to be on that rocket.

I AM SO OBSESSED WITH THIS BOOK.

Mary Robinette Kowal is one of the hosts on the Writing Excuses podcast and she’s one of my favorites. I’ve started her Glamourist Histories series which is a fun magical regency England setting. But this one - WOW. I’m not one for sci-fi usually, but it was so well done. I am completely in love with Elma and her husband Nathaniel (The ultimate relationship goals for real. Nathaniel has raised the bar for all men everywhere and I will never settle for less than him now that I’ve read this book.), it has this great Hidden Figures feel, is basically a handbook for how white authors should handle their privilege, and of course - SPACE.

I mean… freaking real life astronauts helped her write the book and have reviewed it saying how great it is. I read the sequel and the original novelette which inspired the whole series as well and all three are excellent. I’ve heard she’s signed to write more of these books and I cannot wait.

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If I Fix You by Abigail Johnson

Genre: Young Adult Contemporary

Quick Summary: Jill is the only one who knows the reason her mom walked out on them. Now, months later, she tries to pick up the pieces.

I’d listened to an interview with this author on the Writer Writer Pants on Fire podcast by Mindy McGinnis and I loved her! She has a new book coming out in 2019 that I found the most interesting but decided to check out her debut to see if I liked her writing style. Also, the author is a wheelchair user and I wanted to support her!

This book was such a pleasant surprise! It’s pretty dramatic, but not so much in a way where you feel drained either. Jill is a teen mechanic, which was awesome! She has a great relationship with her dad, and while there is technically a “love triangle” it’s definitely a different twist on it. So, don’t let that scare you away if you typically don’t like that trope.

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Vengeful (Villains #2) by VE Schwab

Genre: Adult Sci-Fi

Quick Summary: Five years after Vicious, a new EO wants to take over the city of Merit.

This is the highly anticipated sequel to the first book, Vicious which made my favorites list a few years ago. I wasn’t sure what to expect out of the sequel, but it was amazing! She introduced awesome new characters and you dug even deeper into the ones we already know. It is more character driven than action, which is a preference of mine. The story keeps moving so you’re not bored, but it’s also not “ACTION SCENES ALL THE TIME!” either. If you want a book to study writing and characterization craft, pick this up.

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Kingdom of Ash (Throne of Glass #7) by Sarah J Maas

Genre: New Adult Epic Fantasy

Quick Summary: It’s the final battles for the freedom of Terrasen.

OMG I STILL CAN’T BELIEVE THE THRONE OF GLASS SERIES IS OVER.

I can’t go into too much detail because if I did I’d spoil THE WHOLE SERIES for you. But believe me when I say, this was a fantastic conclusion. I cried for basically all 900 pages, yet still felt so satisfied at the end. Which, that’s really hard to do when you’re wrapping up a 7 book series.

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How the Dukes Stole Christmas by Tessa Dare, Sarah MacLean, Sophie Jordan, and Joanna Shupe

Genre: Adult Historical Romance

Quick Summary: Four popular historical romance authors share novellas inspired by classic holiday stories all featuring dukes and terrible shortbread.

THIS BOOK WAS SO DELIGHTFUL. I knew I would probably enjoy it because with those authors and that title and that premise? How could I not? But seriously, I loved it way more than I thought I would. The first three novellas were the best, but the last one was also great. (I can’t figure out which holiday story it’s inspired by! If anyone knows, please tell me.) Each one is fast, fun, sexy, and festive. I’ll for sure be adding it to my pile of books to revisit for future Decembers.

*Empire of Sand (The Books of Ambha #1) by Tasha Suri (Debut Author)

Genre: New Adult Fantasy

Quick Summary: Mehr is the illegitimate daughter of a governor with magic in her blood and her powers become noticed by the Emperor’s most feared mystics.

This was the last new release I read in 2018 and it was SO GOOD. I have to say, the fantasy debut authors this year really killed it. They were all fantastic and this was no exception.

I wasn’t sure what to expect going into it because the back of the book doesn’t have a very detailed description. Don’t let that deter you from reading it though because it’s so good! With the dagger on the front, you expect it to be super dark and violent, but it’s not. There definitely dark and violent moments, but it’s much more character driven than you’d think. I loved the India-inspired religion, magic, and setting, but the characters truly were the best. I need more of them in my life!

What do you think of my list? Did you read any of these? Any that you want to check out in the future? What were your favorites of 2018?

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Like what you read? Consider buying me a coffee.

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My Most Anticipated Books for 2019

We only have a few more weeks left of 2018! What even is this life? But… it means we have a whole new batch of books to be excited for in the next year! I’m already making my list of books I want to be sure I pre-order and have holds at my library set to go!

Here are my most anticipated books of 2019 in order of release date. (At least the ones I’m aware of thus far.)

Even If I Fall by Abigail Johnson

• Genre: YA Contemporary

• Release Date: January 8

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary: Dana takes a DNA test and discovers she has a secret half brother.

Back in July I read Abigail Johnson’s first book, If I Fix You, and absolutely loved it! In fact, I read it because I’d heard about this one which is being released in 2019 and wanted to get a taste of her writing beforehand. It did not disappoint and I can’t wait to see how this one is!

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

• Genre: YA Contemporary

• Release Date: February 5

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Already pre-ordered

• Quick Summary: Bri wants to follow in the footsteps of her rapper dad who died before he could make it big, but plans change when her mom loses her job.

In case you haven’t heard, the book The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is kind of a big deal. I absolutely loved it, but I sadly haven’t seen the movie yet. (I know… I fail at life. I’m sorry.) When I heard she had a second book coming out, I pre-ordered it almost immediately. I thought I heard On the Come Up was a sequel to THUG but it doesn’t say anything about that in the description on Goodreads. Either way, it’s gonna be fantastic if it’s anything like her first book.

The Ruin of Kings by Jenn Lyons

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: January 5

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary: When Kihrin finds out he’s a long lost prince, he finds it’s not all he expected it to be and instead of saving the kingdom, he needs to destroy it.

This is Jenn Lyons debut novel and OH GOODNESS doesn’t it look epic? It has all of those classic epic fantasy elements, but looks like it’ll have all new spins. I can’t wait.

Courting Darkness by Robin LaFevers

• Genre: YA Historical Fantasy

• Release Date: February 5

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: To help protect her sisters, Sybella travels to France with the duchess only to find herself surrounded by enemies and she must find her fellow death handmaidens.

I am obsessed with the original trilogy, His Fair Assassins. I mean… nuns who serve the god of death and work as his assassins? HOW CAN YOU NOT WANT TO READ THAT? All three books are completely fantastic and I fell in love with them. But… then that was it. The trilogy was over and I had to move on with my life.

But then. BUT THEN.

I saw on Goodreads maybe a year or two ago that she was writing another book set in the same world. YEARS LATER! This hardly ever happens! I thought Robin LaFevers had put down her writing hat. NOW WE HAVE A SPIN OFF DUOLOGY AND IT’S FINALLY HERE!

If you can’t tell… I’m really pumped for this book. I can’t wait to be reunited with these characters and meet new ones. It’s going to be amazing.

Children of Virtue and Vengeance (Legacy of Orisha #2) by Tomi Adeyami

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Release Date: March 5

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: Zeile and Amari must deal with the consequences of the previous book and unite the maji.

The first book, Children of Blood and Bone was one of the big ones for 2018 and one of those “overnight success” author stories we all dream about. The book was fantastic (think The Hate U Give… but also epic fantasy with multiple POVs and a bit more romance) and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series will go!

The Queen’s Resistance (The Queens’s Rising #2) by Rebecca Ross

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Release Date: March 5

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: Brianna is settling into her new roles and must learn to balance them as well as prepare for the future.

The Queen’s Rising was a happy surprise for me this year and I immediately became obsessed with the book, the world, and these characters! The quick summary I provided is a poor representation of how great it looks, and I want to see what happens next!

The Women’s War by Jenna Glass

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: March 5

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary (I stole this from Goodreads because it was too good): “In a high fantasy feminist epic, a revolutionary spell gives women the ability to control their own fertility—with consequences that rock their patriarchal society to its core.”

I found this book as I was perusing Goodreads to find 2019 releases for this blog post in case I missed any.

Um… did you read that summary? I read that in the book description and didn’t need to go further to know I had to read it immediately. High fantasy where the women control their fertility and it breaks down the patriarchy?

YES PLEASE!

Heroine by Mindy McGinnis

• Genre: YA Contemporary

• Release Date: March 12

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: Mickey never understood the stories about teens who would overdose. But when she gets into a car accident and can’t play softball, she finds her answers in that small white pill given to deal with the pain.

Mindy McGinnis has become one of my auto-read authors, and there are hardly any other authors I’d trust more than her to handle this sensitive topic.

The Perfect Assassin by KA Doore

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: March 19

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary: Amastan serves the assassins of Ghadid who are now being murdered and she must find the culprit before she’s the next victim.

I’ve been following KA Doore on Twitter for some time now thanks to PitchWars, and I am so excited her debut novel is finally being released and that it’s already being hyped as one of 2019’s most anticipated fantasies!

The Red Scrolls of Magic by Cassandra Clare and Wesley Chu

• Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy/Paranormal

• Release Date: April 2

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary: Magnus and Alec take a trip around the world while carrying The Book of White, and must evade those who want the book for themselves.

When the Shadowhunter books were first released, I was all about them. (The Infernal Devices are my fave and TEAM JEM FOREVER.) But, I’ve kind of gotten over the hype. I started to re-read them a year or two ago, then never finished.

Do you know who I’ll never tire of though from this series? MAGNUS BANE AND ALEC LIGHTWOOD.

There’s going to be a trilogy about them and written for an adult audience?

Yes please.

Storm of Locusts (The Sixth World #2) by Rebecca Roanhorse

• Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy

• Release Date: April 23

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary: Maggie finds out a friend may have fallen in with a cult and goes on the search for them.

The first book in this new urban fantasy, Trail of Lightning, was SO SO good! It was dark, intense, and Maggie is a fantastic leading character. But then how it ended? I couldn’t believe she left it like that and I needed to know what happens next like…. yesterday.

Lady Hotspur by Tessa Gratton

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: April 30

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Library

• Quick Summary: A retelling of Henry IV where centuries after The Queens of Innis Lear, we follow the story of women who are heirs to the thrones of warring kingdoms.

I read The Queens of Innis Lear in October and it was good - but not amazing. However, I did love the concept and I’m totally willing to read this author again. It’s another Shakespeare play I’m not totally familiar with - but I expect a lot of bloody deaths led by three fantastic women.

The Dragon Republic (The Poppy Wars #2) by RF Kuang

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: May 2

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: After the third poppy war ends, Rin is on the run and out for revenge.

I cannot say enough good things about the first book and Kuang’s debut novel, The Poppy War. It’s safe to say I’m 100% here for all of the fantasy novels featuring bad ass women who have intense dark streaks. Rin is a compelling character, the magic is fascinating, and it’s an amazing look into Chinese history and folklore. Also, isn’t this cover completely gorgeous?

The World of Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Release Date: September 3

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: It’s a guide to the world of Throne of Glass.

Do I need a guide/encyclopedia for the Throne of Glass books? Probably not.

Do I want one?

Obviously.

Is it just a marketing ploy so they can get more money?

Probably.

Do I care?

Not really.

Besides, there are so many names and places in this series that even ridiculous fangirls like me have a hard time keeping them straight.

Darkdawn (Nevernight Chronicles #3) by Jay Kristoff

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: September 3

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: In the final book of the Nevernight trilogy, Mia goes on a quest to find the origins of the darkin.

AHHHHHHHH THE FINAL NEVERNIGHT BOOK IS COMING!

I don’t know if I can handle it. This trilogy is so intense, but amazing. This book was supposed to come out in 2018 but the release date got pushed back to 2019. (Considering it was supposed to be the same day as Kingdom of Ash, for me personally this was probably a good thing because my feels would be a mess.) If you want a dark fantasy with a unique and snarky voice, you absolutely need to read these books!

Crescent City by Sarah J Maas

No cover has been given yet! Not even a stand in.

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: September 3? Maybe?

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: After her best friend is brutally murdered, Sidhe goes on the hunt for the killer.

Sarah J Maas is writing a new fantasy series but this time it’s not YA and it’s written for adults. (As some of her other books should have been…)

Have you not met me?????

I need it immediately.

I don’t need to know anything else. Just take my money.

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

• Genre: Adult Fantasy

• Release Date: November 5

• How I Plan To Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: When graduate student Zachary picks up an old book and is entranced, he discovers a story about his own childhood and a mysterious doorway to a subterranean library.

Sorry Sarah J Maas… in a matter of a single Instagram post, Erin Morgernstern beat you for most anticipated book of 2019.

Some context for you all: Morgenstern’s debut novel, The Night Circus, is my all time favorite book (other than Harry Potter - obviously). She hasn’t written anything in the last 7 years. Then she posted on Instagram that she has a new book being released in November of 2019.

I’m pretty sure I had a panic attack. Or maybe a fangirl attack. I couldn’t really breathe.

I would read this author’s grocery lists. I don’t care what she writes. I need it in my possession. I can’t believe I have to wait a whole year for this book. If someone were to put a gun to my head and demanded I read only one new release for 2019, it would be this one hands down no questions asked.

Wicked Hour (Heirs of Chicagoland #2) by Chloe Neill

• Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy

• Release Date: December 3

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: No description yet!

The first book in Chloe’ Neill’s spin off series from the Chicagoland Vampires wasn’t the greatest of all time. However, I still really enjoyed it and I love the world she’s created, and the end did make me curious as to where the series was going. Besides, the characters are all great and even if I just have glimpses of my faves from the original series I’ll be happy!

Wayward Son by Rainbow Rowell

• Genre: YA Fantasy

• Release Date: TBA

• How I Plan to Obtain It: Purchase

• Quick Summary: All we know is that this is the sequel to her book Carry On.

Why yes, I will be singing “Carry On My Wayward Son” and think about the TV show Supernatural every time this book appears or comes up in conversation. You’ve been warned.

Anyway. This book was supposed to release in 2020, but it was bumped up to 2019! Woo hoo! We don’t have an exact date yet, but it’s coming. Carry On isn’t my all time favorite of Rainbow Rowell’s books, but I do love Simon and Baz (aka - Harry/Draco slash fiction) and am totally on board for reading more of their adventures.

What books are you all looking forward to in 2019? What makes something an absolute read for you?

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Like what you read? Consider buying me a coffee.