December Wrap Up (2016)

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And this feels like a cop out, considering I promised a Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them review, but as it is the last available time I will be able to post in December (and even in 2016), I'm going to be doing my December Wrap Up!

December Wrap Up (2016)

This month I actually surprised myself and finished all the books that I had on my TBR! I read a total of 4 books this month, which was exactly what I needed to complete my reading goal of this year! (50 books)

1. Champion (Legend #3), by Marie Lu

2. Flawed (Flawed #1), by Cecelia Ahern

3. Paper Towns, by John Green

4. Demon Road (Demon Road #1), by Derek Landy

I may not have read much this month, but I did enjoy everything, even if they weren't the biggest of books. Feel free to check out the reviews, because they're all on Post Pandemonium!

(Also feel free to comment on any of those reviews.)

So that is my December Wrap Up! And officially the last post I will do in 2016!

But that's not all I have to say.

This year has been amazing. I've received requests to review some books by published authors, and for the most part, I've read them! (Well, one!) I reached 5,000 views, then 10, then 20,000.

And it's all because of you guys. I wouldn't have reached these massive number of views if it hadn't been for all the support and the comments, so thank-you!

(Even if you've only been on this blog a couple of times, it still makes a difference, so thank-you!)

So that is all I have to say today! I hope you liked the post, sorry it was a tiny bit (very) short, but one of my goals for 2017 is to make regularly longer posts.

So I will see you in 2017! (On Monday, when I will be posting my January TBR!)

So I hope you all have an amazing day, and I will see you then!

Byeeeee!

-Abi xxxxxxx

Favourite Books of 2016!

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And it's the end of 2016! (Where did the time even go? Who knows!)
But over the course of the year, I've read some fantastic books, and today I am going to be sharing my absolute favourites!
By the way, not all these books came out this year, I only read them this year!
So, enjoy!

Favourite Books of 2016!

1. The Book Thief, by Marcus Zusak

It's a rare thing, when a book exceeds expectations, especially mine (and considering the hype surrounding this book, I did have quite high expectations). But this book completely blew me away. The characters were flawed, which made me like them even more; it was narrated by Death (can't get any more unique than that); she steals books! (That's not like it sounds if you haven't read it). The writing style is kind of poetic and descriptive, which I loved; and what I loved most was how realistic it was- the fact that it was set in Germany in World War II, and it was totally realistic!

2. Unbecoming, by Jenny Downham

For those of you that have been watching my blog for a while, you will know that I am a huge Jenny Downham fan. This book focuses on three generations of one family, each struggling with a problem of their own. This book has a ton of serious subjects (including sexuality, dementia, and divorce), and it doesn't shy away from any of them. This book shows what real life is like, her characters are flawed, and one thing she is absolutely amazing at is showing people what being a teenager is about. And that's what I loved about this book.

3. Me Before You, by Jojo Moyes

This was one out of two books that I gave 5/5 stars this year. This book had me sobbing for hours at a time. And then once I started crying, I couldn't stop, until the last page. As there is a film for this, most of you will know the storyline, you will know what I was thinking. You just hope that it's all gonna work out, and so it's that much more heart-wrenching when it turns out differently. You put everything into hoping for it to happen, and you're that much more disappointed and heart-broken. (You'll know what I'm talking about, hopefully). Definitely recommend for anyone who feels like sobbing their heart out.

4. Bomb, by Sarah Mussi

Even though this was one of the first books that I read this year, it still sticks in my mind when I think of my favourites. I got this from the library, and it looked interesting (the Books with Bite logo was also on the back, and since my favourite series is with Books with Bite, I always express an interest in any of their books). And I'm so glad it picked me up. The concept was attention grabbing, and I feel like put in the type of situation the protag ends up in would have anyone panicking, to be honest. (She wakes up strapped to a bomb, and if she tries to escape, they'll set it off, how terrifying is that?) But this book grabbed my attention from the get-go and it kept me guessing through to the very end, as she tried to figure why she, of all people, was strapped to a bomb, and also, what she had to do to stay alive. Totally recommend this to anyone that loves action, with a bit of thriller thrown in.

5. Songs About A Girl (Songs About A Girl #1), by Chris Russell

This was the other book that I rated 5/5 stars, and it took me on this whirlwind journey that juggled first love (with two different guys, that are both so appealing, just in pole opposite ways: the good, hopeful guy; and the brooding mysterious guy (that is a lot more than just the stereotype: I swear!)), dreams, haters and jealousy, in a search for the truth for the protagonist's family life. It may not seem like much, but trust me, it's amazing and beautiful and character heavy, which I love to see in a book like this one! One of my favourites, by far!

6. Cold Spell (Fairytale Retellings #4), by Jackson Pearce

This was the last book in the fairytale retellings series, and it was such a conclusion. The only critique I have is that I hoped more of the characters I'd read about in previous books would have made an appearance. You get to hear about them, but they never made an appearance. Other than that, this was definitely a favourite book this year. I loved the description: the cold seemed real when you were reading it, and you really felt like it was winter from the description, it was so brittle and frozen, but there were delicate and beautiful moments as well. The characters were incredibly relatable and lifelike, and the way they progressed didn't seem fake at all. AND THERE WERE MORE REYNOLDS BROTHERS TOO! That's never a bad thing. This book was definitely the perfect ending to the series. Props, Jackson Pearce.

7. The Legend Trilogy, by Marie Lu

I can't possibly choose between these three, as they belong as a trio. This is the story of two characters, Day, the world's youngest and most unattainable criminal; and June, a prodigy of the test with a perfect score of 1500. In this Sci-fi based world, these two characters live on polar-opposite sides: The Republic, and the Colonies, that have been at war for centuries. They are classed as enemies, but when they meet (June is undercover, trying to avenge her brother; Day killed her brother, and is trying to scratch a living) they have immediate chemistry. Things just escalade from there. This trilogy is captivating, fast paced and exciting, and even though I wish I'd read it sooner, I'm so glad that I've read it now. Any Sci-fi lover needs to read this trilogy. Soon.

8. I'll Give You The Sun, by Jandy Nelson

From the outside, this book seems like every other cute contemporary out there in YA to date. But it's not. It's anything but that, to be honest. This book tells the story of twins Noah and Jude, that were once close, but aren't any longer, after a certain massive event. This book jumps from both twins' perspectives, but these perspectives take place three years apart, before and after this certain massive event. What's good about this book, is that you never get lost on who's perspective you're reading about, even though they're discussing different issues, and different times. Also, the writing is hope. Its full of hopeful, and at the end of the book, you're left feeling hopeful and fulfilled. This is a truly beautiful story, and it appeals to everyone, no matter your age and gender.

So those were my favourite books of 2016! I hope you enjoyed the list, and if you haven't read any of these books, I highly suggest you do, because they're all brilliant! (At least in my opinion they are.)

I will see you all on Friday, when I will be posting my Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them review, so look out for that!

I hope you all have a brilliant day and I will see you then.

Byeeeee!

-Abi xxxxx

Flawed (Flawed #1), by Cecelia Ahern

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And I thought that since I have two book reviews (plus one movie review) to get through before the end of the year, I thought I'd do one now!
So, this is my Flawed review, by Cecelia Ahern!
I hope you enjoyed it, because I really did love this book.
So, enjoy!

Flawed (Flawed #1), by Cecelia Ahern

Title: Flawed

Author: Cecelia Ahern

Genre: Sci-fi and Dystopian

Release date: 24th March, 2016

Pages: 402

Blurb: "Celestine North lives a perfect life.

She's a model daughter and sister, she's

well-liked by her classmates and

teachers, and she's dating the

impossibly charming Art Crevan.

But then Celestine encounters

a situation in which she makes an

instinctive decision. She breaks a

rule and now faces life-changing

repercussions. She could be

imprisoned. She could be branded.

She could be found FLAWED.

In this stunning novel, bestselling

author Cecelia Ahern depicts a society

in which perfection is paramount

and mistakes are punished.

And where one young woman

decides to take a stand that could

cost her everything."

My Thoughts

I'd been brooding over this book for nine months before I got the chance to read it, and if I thought I was excited back in March, it didn't even begin to compare how much I was anticipating it by December. Even if it is a dystopian, it still sounded unique and interesting.

Flawed is set in a world, where there are two types of people: Normal people; and flawed people. Imagine a world where people can become flawed for making a moral or ethnic decision. That decision will cause you to become known as 'flawed', which means that you will be isolated, and despised by the rest of society for the rest of your life. This is the world that the story takes place in.

This concept makes for an interesting story, especially as something as mediocre as helping someone who is flawed when they are mistreated can label you with the same thing, and land you in the same position, being despised by the rest of society. It's anything that can be seen as 'morally incorrect' that could land you as flawed, really. And that's not just for the week either.

Okay, enough backstory. This book was amazing. Honest and blunt, it stabs you right in the feels, and you become ingested in the story almost instantly. There isn't a lot wrong with this to be honest.

Slap band in what people seem to thing is a tired genre that seems to have been done way too much (dystopian), new releases in this genre can either sink or swim. This one swam.

What can I say about the plot? The plot was captivating and interesting from the start. It started off with where Celestine was before she her 'morally incorrect' decision', when her neighbour was carried off by officials, having been accused of being flawed. (This is not a spoiler, this happens in the first page). But from that point onwards, the plot has you captivated, from chapter to chapter.

A big part of this story is the world building, and a big part of that is that this is a very likely future for our world, because everything is the same as it is today, expect for the flawed law, and that is scary when you are reading this book, how similar this world and ours is, right now, is strange.

Also, with a story this good, you'd expect there to be some holes with the characters, but I truly couldn't detect any, even with the smaller characters. The characters were constantly surprising me with their reactions to the events in the stories. Characters that weren't so close to Celestine at the start in particularly, surprised me with their compassion and support, and vice versa. They all had enough character development that they didn't look two dimensional, and they all played a vital piece to the story, so there weren't any pointless characters.

Another point I'd like to make is that there was a real family element to this book, particularly between Celestine and her sister, Juniper.

As for the sequel, I really am looking forward to seeing how it ends. I also don't want it to end, but I want to see what happens, so I will definitely be reading the sequel as soon as it comes out, (30th March, 2017). There's more to this story, and I am really excited to see what it is.

So that is my review for Flawed, by Cecelia Ahern! If you enjoyed it, let me know! What are your thoughts on this book, and are you interested in reading it? Let me know in the comments!

So I will see you all on Wednesday, when I will be reviewing Paper Towns, by John Green!

Have a wonderful day, and I will see you then!

Byeeee!

-Abi xxxxx

Books 41-50 of 2016

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And today I'm breaking the pattern of late posts, because I actually feel enthusiastic about this one!
At one point this year, it actually seemed like I wouldn't get to do this post this year, because it ties in with my yearly reading goal for Goodreads.
So everybody, here's my post looking over the past ten books I've read recently!

Books 41-50 of 2016

41. Cold Spell (Fairytale Retellings #4), by Jackson Pearce

This was an amazing conclusion to an already incredible series, in my opinion. You heard about some other characters in earlier books, and you met yet more Reynolds children (that's not a bad thing, believe me, I have book crushes on all the male Reynolds family- that were my age in the book), It was as action packed as the rest of them, and the description and world building was on point as well. Highly recommend the whole series.

42. Nerve, by Jeanne Ryan

This book was so quick paced, that I read it in near enough one sitting (two sittings, one day). The characters could have been a bit more developed, because they were a bit cliché, but it got your heart beating, the way the plot went (the way the game got the biggest introvert to do the most terrifying things imaginable) it was easy to put yourself into the Protagonist's shoes, and that's part of what made the whole book so good. Let's just say that it was easy to see why they made it into a film.

43. Songs About A Girl (Songs About A Girl #1), by Chris Russell

Did I tell you that Chris Russell actually replied to my review on Twitter for this? I have to say, I was so surprised and happy when I say his message! :D. But this has to be one of my favourite this year, definitely. This is the story of a shy and introverted photographer that gets the chance to take some photos for the biggest band around, when some of the members went to the school that the protagonist goes to now (they left to join the band). I can't say anymore, because it would ruin the story, but I really loved the story, the characters, and especially the writing. It didn't feel like a story, it felt real, that's how good it is. Totally and completely recommend.

44. House Rules, by Jodi Picoult

This book was kind of meh. I did enjoy it, a fair amount actually, but I didn't go "Wow! This book is amazing!" And fly through it. It had a fair amount of information about aspergers, so it was part information, part plot and characters. The different perspectives, as usual with Jodi Picoult, gave me the opportunity to see what other characters saw, and I was able to piece together some things, but you can't predict everything, and you will never be bored reading this book. I recommend if you're up for reading a 500 page book (depending on what format).

45. Legend (Legend #1), by Marie Lu

46. Prodigy (Legend #2), by Marie Lu

47. Champion (Legend #3), by Marie Lu

I loved this entire trilogy, full details on the side of the page (the links to all the reviews are also on Post Pandemonium (2016), see my full thoughts and feelings on there).

48. Flawed (Flawed #1), by Cecelia Ahern

Again, one of my favourite books this year. This book was for my TBR Jar Challenge, and the finale for this duology comes out on the 30th March, if anyone is interested. What stood out most of this book was that the society that I saw in this book was a big part in the plot. Of course, everything else was absolutely amazing, and I wish everybody would read this trilogy, so we can talk about it. This story is about a girl, where one decision marks her flawed. And trust me, in this world, it is a horrific thing. Just read it, and my review will be up on Monday. Promise.

49. Paper Towns, by John Green

Now, you all know this book, because a film company made it into a film earlier this year. So after a poll revealed this to be the most popular out of the choices, I read it. And it was an easy read. It was short, not a time commitment, with characters that, I didn't actually hate. They were quirky and fun, and they didn't try to be anything other than what they are. The story was fun and interesting, and I enjoyed the story. I gave it 3.5 stars.

Now, you may be thinking that there's one book left. But that book is

The Call, by Paedar O Guilin

For some reason, I forgot to add this book to Goodreads whilst reading it. And so, I don't know what date I finished it. I know it was vaguely around the end of September, but that's because It's the last book on my September Wrap Up. As for what I thought about it, my review is in the same place as the Legend trilogy, on Post Pandemonium, and you can find my review over there, if your interested in my thoughts and feelings on this book.

So those are Books 41-50 of 2016! This will probably be the last one of these I do this year, as I doubt I'll be able to read another ten before the year is out! But I hope you enjoyed the post, and I will see you all on Monday, when I will be posting my review of Flawed, by Cecelia Ahern!

Have a wonderful day, and I will see you all then!

Byeeeee!

-Abi xxxxxx

Books and Music

Hey guys! This is Abi here,
And...
I'll be honest, I was a bit stuck on what to post today.
But finally, I decided to start a discussion on what sort of an impact music has on your reading (or writing) experience.
Because, I think most people use music to either read or write, to be honest (and if you are the exception, then sorry).
I'm even listening to music now, when I'm writing this post!
So sit back, turn on some music, put your headphones on, and enjoy this post!

Books and Music

Music is everywhere. There's no point denying it. Music plays a part in all of our lives. We can love music, or hate it, and we all have our different tastes (mine ranges from Disney soundtrack and musicals, to punk metal).

But the point is that most readers do use music to get into the story, as well as writers. For writers, you can listen to a certain song because they're trying to portray a certain emotion in their writing. It's a way to create writing that the reader can relate to.

(At least, that's what I try to do).

When I'm reading, I turn the music down, so I can concentrate on the words, and it helps me block out the rest of the world, so I can focus on the book.

People even listen to music when they are working on essays, and they want to type fast.

But listening to music that you don't know too well, might be lethal, so be sure to know the music inside out so it doesn't distract you, instead of helping you focus.

Everyone has their own playlist that they listen to to get their work done.

But whether you listen to music or not does depend on the person, and whether they are able to concentrate whilst listening to music, even though it can have a massive impact. You subconsciously read to the speed of the music, and you can read a mile a minute (trust me, this happens). And you take the story in at same time.

Of course, whether you read or write with music is your own choice, but honestly, I think writing and reading with music is great!

But overall, music in general is great, whenever we listen to it. It can inspire, motivate, or act as a block when you want to ignore someone (being the introvert I am, I use this rather a lot! :D)

So that was my music and books post, sorry it was rather short, but I should do a rather long one within the next couple of days (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them review should be up next, so stay alert for that, because it will be long!)

So I will see you all soon! I hope you have an amazing day, especially as Christmas is on Sunday!

Byeeeee!

-Abi xxxxxx

Champion (Legend #3), by Marie Lu

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And I think I've left you waiting long enough: Here is my review for the concluding book in the Legend trilogy: Champion!
Enjoy!

Champion (Legend #3), by Marie Lu

Title: Champion

Author: Marie Lu

Genre: Sci-fi, dystopian, romance

Release date: 5th November, 2013

Pages: 353

Blurb: " HE IS A LEGEND.

SHE IS A PRODIGY.

THEY THOUGHT THEIR

CONUTRY WAS ON THE

BRINK OF A PEACEFUL

EXISTENCE.

But a plague outbreak deadlier than any other

has arisen and war threatens.

June is the only one who can save her country, but

Day would lose everything he has as a consequence.

WHO WILL BE CHAMPION?"

My Thoughts

This book- OMG, it didn't take me long at all to read this! It took me, I think, 5 or so hours to read- that was spread out over three days (I only read this book on the bus), but even so, it didn't take me long at all to read it, because I flew through it!

From the first page, all the way through, I didn't know what was up, this book had me on that much of a rollercoaster about what was happening!

The second book in the trilogy was the perfect book to set the foundation for this amazing conclusion to the trilogy, which I really liked. But because of that foundation that Prodigy provided, it meant that the entire book was just... jam packed, really!

But seriously, I think this was the best out of all three. And if you agree, comment below!

The start of this book starts maybe a month after Prodigy ended, and in that time some themes that we got introduced to at the end of the last book have escaladed a great deal (I'm not going to divulge more information than that, but those that have read Champion know what I'm talking about) and the time jump is lethal for one character in particular *sigh*.

But anyway, on to the review.

This book kept me hooked from start to finish, I swear! You were given just enough information to be captivated, and the description was so clear and easy to picture (it was also incredibly original) that you were right there in the thick of things, with the characters.

Also, I was both excited to see the end of this book, but also dreading how this trilogy was going to end, to be honest. And this book delivered with the end. I was actually sobbing at some parts (it takes a lot to make me cry in a book).

Now, the characters. There weren't any new characters introduced, but the characters we already knew (and had formed a connection to, I might say) were being destroyed enough for us. (Particularly one character- I was legitimately sobbing by the end of the book regarding this character).

These characters- you were just right along with them the whole time. You saw them die, suffer, and cry. And you were right along with them.

This book was just a whole bunch of misery and heartbreak, which is both good and bad. It's good, because, the book wouldn't be interesting if people aren't suffering; it's also bad, because... well they we're suffering.

Now, THE ENDING. I was happy with it, but I was also in tears, BECAUSE IT WAS SO TRAGIC AND WHAT IF? My heart was breaking. Honestly.

I was just left saying, WHAT?

But I did like the ending. Kind of. If you read the book, you'll get it. I hope.

So overall, I've really enjoyed this trilogy. It was tragic, heart-breaking, action packed, and fast paced. It truly contained everything, and I am very glad that I read it. If you have read this trilogy, please feel free to comment what you thought of it, and we can chat about it!

So that was my review of Champion, the final book in the Legend trilogy! I hope you enjoyed it! I hope you have a wonderful day and I will see you all soon!

Byeeee!

-Abi xxxxx

Year 2017!

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And since 3 out of the last 5 posts I've done have been reviews, I thought I'd give you guys a break and talk about what I plan to post next year: 2017!
I know this is a little early as it isn't anywhere near the end of 2016 yet, but I wanted to post about it anyway.
So everybody, this is my Year 2017 post! (I hope you enjoy it :D ).

Year 2017!

Reading Goals

So, 2017 is going to be the year that I focus on finish all the series and trilogies that I started this year. I did manage to finish a couple this year, but I still have a ton left to finish. These series and trilogies include:

1. The 5th Wave trilogy, by Rick Yansey

2. Demon Road trilogy, by Derek Landy (this one will most likely first, as Demon Road is what I am reading next, and Derek Landy is releasing another book in March, I think, so I want to catch up on his work before that).

3. The Raven Boys series, by Maggie Stiefvater- everybody has been raving about this series, especially as the final book in the series came out a couple months ago. I also recently obtained Dream Thieves, the second book in the series, so it's a good reason to read the series in 2017.

4. The Infernal Devices, by Cassandra Clare- I currently have 2/3 of the books for this popular trilogy at the moment, and I will definitely be getting the third book in the trilogy at some point during the year.

5. The Flawed duology, by Cecelia Ahern- I read this book less than a month ago, and I can't wait to read the concluding book, which is released at the end of March!

Other than finishing some series and trilogies, I would like to re-read some of my favourite series: The Slated trilogy, Mind Games, all by Teri Terry; I'll Give You The Sun, by Jandy Nelson; and the much mentioned Skulduggery Pleasant series! :D

Writing Goals

As for the writing side, my main goal is to final my first draft! I would also love to start my second draft, but the first draft is the main goal.

So those are my goals for 2017! I hope you enjoyed it!

I hope you have a wonderful day and I will see you all on Monday!

Byeeee!

-Abi xxxxx

Prodigy (Legend #2), by Marie Lu

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And... today I am posting my review for the middle book for the genius Legend trilogy, by Marie Lu: Prodigy!
Enjoy!

Prodigy (Legend #2), by Marie Lu

Title: Prodigy

Author: Marie Lu

Genre: Sci-fi, fantasy, dystopian, romance.

Release date: 29th January, 2013

Pages: 354

Blurb: " MISSING

JUNE IPARIS

AGENT, LOS ANGELES CITY PATROL,

15, FEMALE, 5 FT 4 IN.

350,000 REPLUBLIC NOTES REWARD

IF SEEN, REPORT

IMMEDIATELY TO YOUR

LOCAL OFFICIAL

That's what the Republic wants their people to think.

That I'm 'missing'.

What they don't say is they want me dead.

I helped Day, the country's most notorious criminal,

escape his execution, aided the rebel patriots in a

staged uprising and turned my back on the republic,

But I won't turn my back on Day..."

My Thoughts

I have kind of mixed thoughts on this one. It felt kind of like a filler book, the book that starts off with the smaller velocity of the first book, and just builds and builds and builds until- the plot consumes you.

It goes from one point, twists something, turns the entire plot on it's head, and forms the foundation for the final book in the trilogy.

If I thought this trilogy started off predictable, that ended at that book. Because it was like a rollercoaster, to be honest.

Marie Lu packs one hell of a punch, I'll say that much. It went from strength to strength, then there was a development in the plot because a character found out some information, then bullets and chaos, and then, when all hope seemed lost, BAM! Ending....

And then something heart-breaking that shapes the last book.

This book gripped me and didn't let go.

As for the characters, they were the same characters as they were in Legend, only more developed, which tied into the plot really nicely. There were a couple of new characters, one of which changed the entire story massively, and the impact that this character had on the rest of them, shaped how the story continued from the moment they were introduced. They caused quite a stir with some of the characters as well, which was good to see.

Also, (extra plot point) the events that took place in this book were sharp. Talking knife on cheek sharp. There were casualties left and right, suspicions and loyalties up and down, and rebellion all around.

Which brings me to the feeling of rebellion. A big part of this book is the rebellion, and the whole thing would have failed had the rebellion not felt real enough. (The rebellion was a constant threat, because any move that any character of power could do would throw them back into war with the colonies). But the feeling that the world would descend into chaos with the war between the colonies, and the Republic, fortunately, did work really well.

As for the writing, it remained the same as before,  (that's a good thing), and I have no complaints whatsoever.

So what can I say about Prodigy? For a second book in the trilogy, it definitely packed a punch. It was a link from the first book, that ended in a whirlwind of events, to what was certain to be an amazing finale. It was sharp; the way the events hit you was like a knife to the cheek. In short, I really enjoyed it.

So that was my review of the second book in the Legend trilogy: Prodigy! I hope you enjoyed it, and I will see you all soon.

Byeeee!

-Abi xxxxx

Festive Christmas Book Tag

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And it's been so long since I've done a tag, so I thought it would be fun to do one!
And since Christmas is just round the corner (it almost doesn't feel like Christmas is a week on Sunday :) ) it felt fitting to do the Festive Christmas Book Tag!
I did not get tagged for this tag, but when have I let that reason stop me from doing a tag?
So here's the book tag!

Festive Christmas Book Tag

1. A fictional family you would like to spend Christmas dinner with.

Of course the Weasley family went through my mind first. But that's not the family I'm choosing. The family I am choosing is (drumroll please) *drumroll* the Baudelaire family! (The whole family, you know, before the parents kicked the bucket). But it would just be so cool to spend Christmas day with this family because they are all caring and intelligent and quirky, and I just feel like I would be welcomed as part of this incredible family.

And let's be honest, they would be interesting as heck to talk to.

2. A bookish item you would like to receive as a gift.

A bookish mug, with a quote, or an inspirational sentence, anything! I just want a mug that marks me as a reader (and I'm proud!)

3. A fictional character you think would make the perfect Christmas elf?

Okay, I haven't mentioned this character in a while, but I just think this character would make the perfect house elf!

Fletcher Renn! He would just be the perfect Christmas elf, because he'd be just so excited and giddy and... cute, because he is the cutest and most innocent character in existent.

He'd just be so excited to be experiencing being a Christmas elf (though he'd play it off- this is just one of the reasons that I love this character...)

READ SKULDUGGERY PLEASANT.

:D

4. Match a book to it's perfect Christmas song.

I feel like this song has been done so much, but I cannot think of another song, so I am going with... All I Want For Christmas Is You, and...

Songs About A Girl, because even though it does have more than just romance in this book, a large part of the plot is centred around the romance.

5. Bah Humbag- a book or fictional character you've been disappointed in and should be put on the Naughty list.

Snow Like Ashes, by Sara Raasch.

I don't know what it was about this book (might have been the cover), but it took me 10 days to finish this. To be honest, I know I should have loved it, because of the world building, and the action, but it just didn't seem to click with me. Was kind of disappointed by this one.

6. A book or fictional character you think deserves more love and appreciation and deserves to be put on the Nice list.

MIND GAMES, BY TERI TERRY

This sci-fi book is one of my favourites (possibly my very favourite as Teri Terry is my favourite author and this is my favourite book by her), and it is just perfect! The world building, the pacing, the characters, the writing. I just love this book so much!

7. Red, green and gold: a book cover that has a wonderfully Christmas feel to it.

Even though this book is set during Christmas, it does have an awesome Christmas feel to it. Might be either the snowflake, or the silver, both things that I associate with Christmas. This cover is just so adorable.

8. A book or series you love so much that you want everyone to find it under their Christmas  tree this year so they can read and love it too.

The Skulduggery Pleasant series! One of my favourite series'! It may be middle-grade, but it is packed to the teeth with kick-ass characters, explosive plotlines, and dynamic writing! Here are some of the covers that I love (because the covers are magnificent)

  

And these are just a couple of the books in this series! (There are 9 books in the series, and two spin-offs).

So that was the Festive Christmas Book Tag! I tag:

• Savannah at The Book Prophet
• Lisa at Read. Breathe. Relax
• The YA Bookworm Blogger

So that was the Festive Christmas Book Tag! I hope you enjoyed it, and I will see you all soon!

Goodbye!

-Abi xxxxx

Legend (Legend #1), by Marie Lu

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And before I forget... regarding the poll concerning, I'm going to be reading Paper Towns (including the Google+ vote as well, because then the two books are equal). especially as the majority of people I've asked have chosen Paper Towns.
So, back to the post!
Even though I read this book a good month ago, I still have yet to do a review for it.
So here is my review on Legend, the first book in the Legend trilogy!
Also, even though I have already finished the trilogy before posting this review, I will do all I can to stop spoiling the rest of the trilogy for those that have not read the trilogy yet!
And... review!

Legend (Legend #1), by Marie Lu

Title: Legend

Author: Marie Lu

Genre: Sci-fi/ fantasy/dystopian/ romance, I'd say.

Release date: 29th November, 2011

Pages: 295

Blurb: "LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA,

REPUBLIC OF AMERICA

HE IS DAY,

THE BOY WHO WALKS

IN THE LIGHT

SHE IS JUNE,

THE GIRL WHO SEEKS

HER BROTHER'S KILLER.

On the run and undercover, they meet by chance.

Irresistibly drawn together,

neither knows the other's past.

But Day murdered June's Brother.

AND SHE HAS SWORN TO AVENGE HIS DEATH."

My Thoughts

Damn, this book! This book was explosive and exciting, with characters that didn't just surprise you with their actions, but also because they seemed real and raw, and everything that makes you relate to people! It wasn't just some sci-fi, black and while action book like I was expecting, but so much more!

I mean, it wasn't completely perfect, but this book kept me interested from the starting page, all the way to the ending sentence.

This book wasn't super original, but there were significant parts (mostly from the character's personalities) that stood out, and gave the book a completely different feel to the rest of the dystopian trilogy's in the market.

The story was kind of predictable to start off with; ongoing war, two perspectives, one trying to catch her brother's killer, then they meet and have undeniable chemistry; it wasn't the most original. There were also a couple of scenes that didn't fit into the plot straight away; I knew these were going to be gaps that would lead on to the following books in the trilogy. But overall, the plot was pretty amazing, considering what the foundation of it all was. There were twists and turns even I wasn't expecting. And then, suddenly it was hit, wham, PUNCH! Knockout. And the Sci-fi element made sure that it didn't read like it was out of date either.

Now, the characters. They read like a breath of fresh air. Two perspectives: Day and June. Completely different backgrounds, brought up differently, in two different sides of the war that is currently taking place. Day failed his test, whereas June got a perfect score.

Yet they have this undeniable chemistry. In terms of their characters and personality, they are both extremely brave and clever. June in experience, in the way she fights, but Day in his ability to escape. And both ruthless and desperate. Makes for very interesting characters and an interesting story.

The writing was infectious. It sucked me in from the moment. Absolutely no complaints about the writing. I could actually picture everything that was happening, and that doesn't happen much. The events of the story were happening that I could keep track of everything, but fast enough that I was excited about the scene that Lu was portraying before my very eyes.

This was the sort of story that in theory shouldn't work. BUT IT DID. And I am so happy about that, as I loved it!

The characters, the story, the writing, everything. It was an amazing first book to the trilogy, and I hope the rest of the trilogy is as good (it is).

So that is my review of Legend! I know it is fairly short, but it is also detailed, so I hope that makes up for it! I will see you all on Monday. I hope you all have a wonderful wonderful wonderful day, I am reading Paper Towns next, and I will see you then.

Byeeee!

-Abi xxxxxx

House Rules, by Jodi Picoult

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And I haven't done a review in a while it seems. Almost two months, but I'm doing one now- and I will be doing a bunch of them this month, as I was literally just posting NaNoWriMo updates last month (if you're not a writer I apologise, but I will be back to posting about books as of now!)

I also haven't done a Jodi Picoult book recently, though I have read a fair amount of Jodi Picoult this year- three new books that I've read this year, if my count is correct!

So this is my third review year! Here is my House Rules review, by Jodi Picoult!

House Rules, by Jodi Picoult

Title: House Rules

Author: Jodi Picoult

Genre: Contemporary, crime.

Release date: 2nd March, 2010

Pages: 603

Blurb: "When Emma Hunt's son is

diagnosed with Asperger's,

she knows she will do

anything to help him.

She expects people not to understand.

She expects the stares and whispers.

She even expects trouble with the police.

But she doesn't expect Jacob to be

charged with murder.

And when all the hallmarks of your son's condition

-his tics, his inappropriate actions, his inability to look

you in the eye- can be read as guilt; when you cannot

put your hand on your heart and swear he is innocent...

How can you help your child then?"  

My Thoughts

I was quite interested to read this book leading up to it, to be honest. Not only was it because people have talked about how I have some of the traits of a person who suffers with aspergers (and aspergers is a big part of this book), but because I wanted to see how even an aspergers child's (I say child, his disorder makes me act quite like a child, but he's actually 18) behaviour was eratic enough to be accused of murder. It was like an information book with that burst of mystery and suspense, to be honest. 

And unsurprisingly, I loved it. 

This book was actually really easy to get into, I have to admit, despite the massive 500 pages. And that's intimidating. But I didn't choose to read a book that has more than 500 pages, for nothing, and so I started House Rules.

And it was actually very good. It pulled me in straight away. First with shock, because, this kid (Jacob) with aspergers, likes to re-create crime shows.

Also, this book is the type of book where you don't need to pay attention (much), because most of the events in this book will be brought back at another point in the story, but you also do need to pay attention, for the same reason. (If that makes sense???)

Probably doesn't, but you do need to pay attention to the events in this book, because Jodi Picoult has a habit of plot twists.

The plot was actually quite enjoyable (and if that makes me a psycho because it was a thriller, then...)

Anyway, the plot was decent. It had twists and turns, some plot points where unpredictable, others weren't, though I wasn't able to predict what was going to happen much (I do give myself credit for suspecting something that turned out to be a MAJOR plot point :D), but you will never be bored. If you are on the fence as to read this book, I promise you will never be bored.

Because something is ALWAYS happening.

Again, the different perspectives of the family that were surrounding the murder, as well as Jacob's lawyer and a couple of other people were really interesting, (Jodi Picoult is good at different perspectives) and it really helps you to see the whole picture.

As for the writing, it was just enough. It wasn't too much description, and there was enough dialogue. It was just right, and that's the way I like it.

So that is my House Rules review, by Jodi Picoult! I hope you enjoyed it, and sorry for waiting for sooooo long before posting it, BUT I FINALLY POSTED IT!

So I will see you tomorrow (hopefully- if I don't get super lazy again)! Have an amazing day, and I will see you all tomorrow!

And please get voting for which book you want me to read (out of The Wolf Wilder, Paper Towns and Stealing Snow, because right now, two of them are tied- someone voted on Google+ and I am counting it!) Especially as I have like 100 pages left of Flawed, the last book before I read one from this poll! (By the way, in the event of a draw, I will be choosing the book that was chosen first, so at the moment I will be reading Paper Towns!)

 So I will see you tomorrow, when I will likely be doing another review!

Byeeeee!

-Abi xxxxxx

November Wrap Up & December TBR (2016)

Hey guys, this is Abi here,
And it has literally been two months since I've done a wrap up and TBR, so I admit, it does feel strange to be doing one.
But I did actually read some books this month, so it's nice to actually do a wrap up!
So everybody, this is my

November Wrap Up and December TBR (2016)

November Wrap Up (2016)

So I read three book in November, which isn't a huge amount, but it's still a lot better than last month, when I only read one book. Those books were:

1. House Rules, by Jodi Picoult

2. Legend (Legend #1), by Marie Lu

3. Prodigy (Legend #2), by Marie Lu

(I actually finished Prodigy on 23:27, the last night of November, so that was a close shave, but I still finished it!)

The TBR Jar challenge for the month was to read a book of 500+ pages, (the book that I picked was House Rules, so I completed that challenge at least!)

Oh! There will be reviews for all of these books, at some point this month, so look out for those!

December TBR (2016)

So this is the last month of 2016. December. In terms of reading, I've had ups and downs (reading slumps) but pulling into the last month, I only have three books that I need to read, to reach my goal of 50 books (which was actually my original goal at the beginning of the year, funny enough) and I have three books that I need to read to reach that goal. So these are the books that I hope to read in the month of December!

TBR Jar challenge: Read a book by a new-to-you author.

I didn't even have to look in the box to know that this is the TBR jar challenge for this month, because 1) it is the only one left, and 2) I've had the book for this challenge since March.

If you've been here since March, you will know that I did go to see Teri Terry in Birmingham in March, (lovely lady, and I love her books even more now :) ), and while I was there, I did also get a signed copy of Flawed, by Cecelia Ahern! Even though I've wanted to read this book for MANY MONTHS, it's kind of perfect that this TBR jar challenge was saved for December, as the final book in the series will be out in *checks back of Flawed book* the 30th March 2017! So, I actually won't have to wait too long before reading it, and something about this book tells me that I'm going to want to read the final book (it's a duology). If you can't tell, I am really looking forward to reading this! Comment down below if you think this book sounds... interesting?

Other Books

1. Champion (Legend #3), by Marie Lu

I'm about 100 pages into this and to be honest, I'm kind of stressing about how this is going to end, because every time I mention this book, people get this look on their face, so I think something is going to happen. I haven't been spoiled, and I want to get to the end, but I also kind of don't. It's a vicious cycle. So far I am loving this trilogy, and I'm glad I can tick it off my list for series. I love the characters, the plot-line, and the world building. Also, they are tiny, so they're not at all time consuming, so that works! There will definitely be a review for this one, because I will have some thoughts on this book! Comment if you've finished the trilogy and what you thought! (Most likely won't read the comments until I finish, because spoilers, but feel free to comment anyway!)

2. POLL ALERT!

I actually cannot decide what book to read. I've lowered it down to three books, which are actually all winter related. And I'm going to be letting you guys decide which one it is.

Okay, so the three contenders are:

• The Wolf Wilder, by Katherine Rundell
• Paper Towns, by John Green
• Stealing Snow, by Danielle Paige

I will do a poll at the side of my blog, so you guys can vote over which book I should read. The closing date will be when I finish the other two books, so I should take it down by like the 20th December, if I'm on schedule. If I'm ahead, I might even read two of them, who knows? I will also do a temporary text about each individual book, so you know what each book is about, if you don't know them, okay? Great!

Here are the covers for the books!

 

3. (Doubt I'll have the time to read this, but I'm adding it on the list anyway): Demon Road (Demon Road #1), by Derek Landy.

I know, I didn't read this for the first time all that long ago, but I'm re-reading it so I can marathon the rest of the series in the new year, as I know have the rest of the books waiting for me to read them on my shelf. (And they are beautiful :D, here are the covers: )

(Especially as another Skulduggery Pleasant book is coming out in the new year). I probably won't be reviewing the re-read of Demon Road, as I already have the original review on Post Pandemonium (2016), but I will be reviewing Desolation and American Monsters in the new year.

Okay, so that is my November Wrap Up and my December TBR! I hope you enjoyed it, as it was longer than the posts I've done in the past month, and I will get on that poll as soon as possible! Comment down below about any of the books I read in the last month or what I plan to read this month, as your comments make my day! Really!

I hope you have a wonderful day, and I will see you all on Monday! (Not going to be posting on Sunday anymore, sorry guys!) So, Byeeeee!

-Abi xxxxx