2023 Wrap Up

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I'm back with what should be my last post of the year (not sure when I'll get my Anticipated Releases post out, cos I completely forgot about it until now, so bear with me on that). 

This is the post where I look over the past year, what series I've finished and caught up on, and what I've achieved, as well as my usual wrap up, so I hope you enjoy it. 

~Books Read in December~

Not an amazing month of reading, I'll admit, but I'll definitely be finishing my CR this month- which is why I'll be including it today.(And hopefully one other? If there's no way it'll happen I'll switch to graphic novels in the last couple of days so I end on a high note). 

1. The Missing Sister (The Seven Sisters #7), by Lucinda Riley 

After loving the first six books in the series, I was expecting to love this one just as much. I was aware that it was going to be a little different than it's predecessors, because the first six were about each sister finding out about their heritage and themselves, and in this, they were all banding together to find someone based on a name and a necklace, but I didn't expect it to be as different as it was. The sisters were led on a wild goose chase that had me quickly losing interest in certain sections. I found myself longing for Merry's chapters above characters I'd known and loved reading about. 

I was always going to finish The Missing Sister, I've come too far with this series to bow out now, but I just wish the turn of events had happened differently. 

2. Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt (The Seven Sisters #8), by Lucinda Riley & Harry Whittaker 

I'm just over 3/4 of the way through this, and I know, without question, that I will be finishing this before the year is out! 

Atlas is the eighth and final book of The Seven Sisters series that I have been reading over the past few months, and as I have known from the start, it holds all the answers as for how Maya, Ally, Star, CeCe, Tiggy and Electra all came to be adopted by Pa Salt, as well as to how he grew up. 

I'm extremely nervous about how it all wraps up, because I desperately want to find out, but also want it all to last just that little bit longer. 

I've loved reading all of their individual stories (that have just gotten bigger and bigger with each book, to my delight) and I'm so glad I'm get to find out how it all ties together. 

Those are all the books I have read so far this month, which is fine (I keep telling myself this) but with the time remaining of the year, I will either be reading: 

1. I Invited Her In, by Adele Parks- psychological thriller that has been on my TBR for LITERAL MONTHS. 

2. Heartstopper Vol.1-Vol.5- due to book buying ban I have yet to read the most recent volume so will be prioritising it soon. 

3. Clementime Vol. 2- the same as the Heartstopper. 

~Series Completed in 2023~ 

1. The "Life is Strange" Graphic Novel series, by Emma Vieceli & Claudia Leonardi 

I got this for Christmas last year from my boyfriend, and I jumped straight into it in January, souring through 6 volumes in about 5 days. The first novel takes place a year after the events of the game, when Chloe and Max make their first return back to Arcadia Bay for the official memorial, and follows a series of events that lead to Max being lost in alternate dimensions, trying to find her way back. Gripping and thought-provoking, thoroughly enjoyed. 

2. "The Circle Trilogy" Trilogy, by Teri Terry 

Every time I start a new Teri Terry book, I have no expectations as for what's going to happen in them, and this was no different. The Circle trilogy is basically a Sci-fi, environmentallist war between two sides, that might just end up destroying the world is Tabby and her friends don't stop a company called 'The Circle'. 

Extremely tense and exciting conclusion, which I have been anticipating since the first book came out, approximately three years prior. Glad it finally reached it's end, really enjoyed the way it all wrapped up. 

3. "The Brown Sisters" Trilogy, by Talia Hibbert 

I have been wanting to get to this trilogy since I first heard about it in, I think 2019. As expected, because I put Get A Life, Chloe Brown on my Favourite Books of 2023, I really enjoyed these. Chloe Brown was definitely my favourite POV to read from, but I saw myself in a lot of Dani and Eve too. 

Going into these, I was expecting fun, well-written books that discussed issues with a light-hearted tone. That was what I wanted from these, and that's exactly what I got. 

It was a pleasure to read about these characters and I very much hope I come across them in more Talia Hibbert books (like Morgan Matson does sometimes). 

4. "The Seven Sisters" series, by Lucinda Riley 

*Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt also written by Harry Whittaker 

I really don't think I need to talk about how much I love these books, when you can find out my thoughts about them in these posts:

1. August Wrap Up (2023)

2. September Wrap Up & October TBR (2023)

3. October Wrap Up (2023)

4. November Wrap Up (2023)

5. Seven Sister Review Pt. 1

Not as many series' as I was hoping, but that's only because of a certain series of books below. *cough cough*. 

Now, on to the series I've started and caught up on. 

~Series I Started and Caught Up On~

1."Clementine" Graphic Novel Series, by Tillie Walden 

On 28/12/23- Finished Vol. 1

I found out about this graphic novel series upon completing the Life is Strange one in January, and after that, there was no way I wasn't going to be picking this up as soon as it was released. I mean, come on! Another game turned graphic novel series, much less from a choice based game I had previously loved. 

Honestly, it was better than average, your standard four star, but I didn't love it as much as I thought I would. 

Will probably re-read this before picking up Vol. 2, cos I've forgotten half of it- but Vol. 2 is in my possession and I might even get to it before the end of the year. 

2. "Supernatural Investigations" trilogy, by B.B. Alston 

Finished Amari and the Great Game. 

Okay, I'm glad I managed to keep up with ONE series this year, and I actually remember most of it! 

Of course, I can't disclose that sort of information here because *spoilers* but I will tell you, the Amari series by B.B. Alston has a very Harry Potter-ish feel to it, so if you're looking for something that reminds you of HP, but something that holds it's own, and isn't as dark, then I'd recommend picking it up. They're also fast paced, don't feel rushed, with very likeable characters. 

And honestly, if that hasn't sold you, I don't know what will. 

~What I Achieved in 2023~

1. Raised enough solicitor fees, though didn't actually move out (literally will be in the next month though). 

2. Walked 13.1 miles for Alzheimer's Society with my partner- and raised enough to get a t-shirt too! 

3. Read at least one huge ass series this series- even if it wasn't fantasy. 

4. Actually read a poetry book! 

~What I'm Looking Forward to in 2024~

1. Actually moving out! 

2. Running more- eying up another marathon. 

3. Talking to you all! 

Okay! That is my wrap-up on the year! 

I'm happy with everything I accomplished this year and I hope you are too! 

Let me know in the comments what you're proud of- even if that's just getting through the day. 

I hope you all have a wonderful end to the year, and I'll see you on the flip side! 

Byeeeee! 

-Abi xxxxxx

Favourite Books of 2023

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I'm back with a yearly tradition, which is talking about my Favourite Books of the year! 

Some of these might be completely expected, but a couple others you might be surprised! 

There's a whole lot to get through, so without further ado, let's get into it. 

I hope you enjoy this list. 

1. Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, by Gabrielle Zevin 

I always knew this was a book I was going to like, because it tells the story of two video game developers reuniting again, after years apart. I knew I was going to like it because it gave me a feel for a culture and lifestyle completely different to my own. 

I was not expecting to love it as much as I did- which was mostly due to the turmoil and heartache that I was feeling- due to two characters never being able to say what they were truly feeling. 

I was not expecting to cry whilst reading a book about video game developers- but cry I did. 

And now, several months later, to my delight, I see this book cropping up everywhere- because it's now available in paperback. 

This book is so amazing, I wish everyone would go and read it. 

2. Grown Ups, by Marian Keyes

Where do I find the words to describe this book? Where do I find the words to describe how I feel about this book?

It was so good... all the main characters were engaging and fleshed-out- I loved most of them, hated a couple, and honestly, in a story this good, that just means that the character must have been extremely well-written for me to hate them as much as I did. 

So many nuances, so many plotlines, side-plots or main plots, they all felt equally as good. No chapter was boring, no relationship was badly written- this book was everything that I was looking for and more. I will definitely be picking up more of Marian Keyes in the future. 

3. Where the Crawdads Sing, by Delia Owens

I have all my in-depth thoughts on this book linked into the title, but long story short- I can see why this was winning all the bookish categories on Goodreads and online. It's so beautiful, descriptive but not too much, and the story is mysterious and compelling but oh, so gorgeous at the same time. The language is stunning, Kyla's character is the only one I want to read about. 

Just, an amazing story. 

4. Get A Life, Chloe Brown (The Brown Sisters #1), by Talia Hibbert 

I have always been about reading books that give minority groups representation, and when I heard about Get A Life, Chloe Brown, I knew this was a book for me. There are so few books about young people living with a chronic pain disorder, so that was an interest point, but the main thing for me was this: it's a book about challenging yourself, about trying new things, even when scared to do so. 

Chloe Brown was the perfect protagonist: sensible, caring, but wanting to throw caution to the wind to try the things she wants, but also doesn't, want to do. I was gripped by her POV straight away, and all the way through as well. Thoroughly enjoyed this and so happy I managed to get to it (it had been on my Want to Read shelf for several years). 

5. Long Way Down, by Jason Reynolds 

Basically, I bought this book in a "spur of a moment" moment. 

I walked into a local bookshop, saw the book, read the blurb, picked it up and bought it. 

Not even a few pages in, and I was bawling my eyes out. 

Long Way Down tells the story of Will, on his way to kill the man that killed his brother. 

Because where he's from, there are three rules:

No crying.

No snitching. 

Revenge. 

But as each floor of the lift he's on descends, Will learns a part of the story he never knew. 

The only question at the end is: will this turmoil ever end if Will doesn't get off the elevator?

Bloody emotional, this book. Told in verse, perfectly written, absolutely heart-wrenching. 

The most heart-breaking part is that this can and will still happen in parts of the UK, the US even. 

Wonderful read. 

6. A Man Called Ove, by Fredrik Backman 

Sad and uplifting are the words I would use to describe this. In depth thoughts linked into the title of course, but honestly, this book is perfection. I could be laughing at the start of one chapter and be crying in a single sentence. It's fair to say that this book tugged at my heart-strings A LOT. Arguably my favourite book of the year. How I wish I could go back and read it for the first time again. 

I can't really tell you anything about this book other than it's about a man called Ove but honestly, it's probably better you go into this book blind if you haven't read it yet. And you should. 

Okay, with these last two books, I want to say something first. It's not that I didn't like the other books, honestly I did. It's just that these are the stand-outs in my eyes, the books I still think about the most, even after finishing them a while back (especially with The Storm Sister, which I finished in August)!

7. The Storm Sister (The Seven Sisters #2), by Lucinda Riley

8. The Sun Sister (The Seven Sisters #6), by Lucinda Riley 

So, when you're reading a series on and off for four months, it's easy to merge each novel into one very long story, and forget what parts came from what book. Not with this series. Each book had a new protagonist, a new journey, and a new heritage to seek. I loved every single book in this series, but these two are serious standouts. 

I chose The Storm Sister as a favourite because I just adore Ally as a character. She goes through so much, not only losing Pa Salt, but someone else close to her. But through the storm, she still manages to keep her head, even when everything she knows about herself is gone and make it through. 

I love her passion, her loyalty, and her kindness- she never makes the selfish decision, no matter what she might be going through. If there was one story I wish I could read again, with fresh eyes, it would hands down be this one- I was desperate to read the next book after finishing this. 

As for Electra, her story is so inspiring, I just had to include her. She's very much the modern sister, living with the same pressures that young people face on social media everyday- the need to be perfect, to not have imperfections- or they risk losing everything they've worked for. 

We meet her at a very low point, dealing with everyday stresses with the abuse of drugs and alcohol- and in need of help. But she eventually faces up to her issues and even though it isn't an easy road, you start to see the character you always know she is capable of being- but couldn't before. I love her character arc, and I wish I could read about her forever. 

Okay! Those are my Favourite Books of 2023! 

I hope you enjoyed reading about them, and feel free to let me know in the comments what your favourite books of the year are! 

I hope you have a wonderful evening, wherever in the world you are, and I'll see you all soon! 

Byeeee! 

-Abi xxxxx

December TBR (2023)

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And we're officially going into the final month of 2023! I can hardly believe it! 

And with it, comes the final TBR of the year! 

No xmas books this month, but I do have a few books that I desperately want to finish, so fingers crossed I can! 

I hope you enjoy the TBR, before a new year! 

1. The Missing Sister (The Seven Sisters #7), by Lucinda Riley 

I'm currently 300/800 pages into this, and I'm enjoying it. It's a different story compared to the previous six since those were all character focused, and on this one they're all working together to find something, but I'm liking it. I'm not sure where it'll lead, but it's not taking long to fall back into the story whenever I go to read more, which is a good sign. 

If you didn't know, The Missing Sister is about the six D' Apliése sisters pursuing a ring that will hopefully lead to the seven sister (from the seven star constellation that their names were formed from), but there are things they don't know about Pa Salt, what his relationship is with this missing sister, or why she's determined to stear well clear of it all. 

I'm excited to find out where it all leads, what this girl is hiding, and whether the sisters will catch up to her before their trip together, a year after Pa Salt's death. 

2. Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt (The Seven Sisters #8), by Lucinda Riley & Harry Whittaker

I've been reading these on and off since August, if you can believe it, and honestly, I've loved every single one of them. I'm sad that the series is coming to an end (to be fair, I'm glad it's all getting wrapped up to be honest) but I'm relieved I get to find out all the answers concerning Pa Salt and what it was he was doing all those years. 

I've thoroughly enjoyed these books, they've been a huge part of my life for a good portion of the year and I can't wait to see how it all wraps up. 

3. I Invited Her In, by Adele Parks 

I swear, this has been on so many of my TBR's this year, it's beyond a joke. But I really do need to get to it as it isn't mine, and I want to read it before the year's out. 

I Invited Her In is about Mel, a girl who, out of the blue, receives an email from her oldest friend Abi, telling her she's in trouble, and asking for a place to stay, while she sorts things out. Mel says yes of course, because, you know, it's the least she can do. After all, friends look out for eachother, don't they?

 

I honestly don't know anything else other than that, that's basically the gist of the blurb on the back. But I know it's good; because they made a film for it, and I've heard good things. I'm thinking they'll be some deceit and mystery, and I'm hoping I can be engrossed right from the start, the blurb is engaging enough. 

4. The Alfoxden and Grasmere Journals, by Dorothy Wordsworth

I didn't get to this last month, so it's being added on for my December TBR too. (I really do need to start finishing the books I plan to read, because I keep having to repeat what they're about.) 

From a glance through this, these are basically diary entries of her time in Alfoxden and Grasmere. There are ordinary days, days of leisure, of walks around the countryside, as well as usual cooking and cleaning. 

Let's just say I'm looking forward to finally picking it up. 

Okay! Those are all the books I'm hoping to pick up this month! As always, comment down below what you're hoping to read this month and we can chat about it! 

I hope you have a wonderday day and I'll see you all soon! 

Byeeeee! 

-Abi xxxxx

November Wrap Up (2023)

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I'm back with my November Wrap Up (2023)! 

Not read too many books this month, just haven't found the time. 

I'm one more book through the Seven Sisters series and with just two more books remaining, I'm getting nervous as for how it's going to end! 

I hope you enjoy my wrap up. 

1. Lyrical Ballads, by William Wordsworth and Samuel Coleridge

I finally finished this! After putting it down to read The Moon Sister I dug my heels in and refused to pick anything else up until I finished it! It's never taken me several hours to read 50 pages in my life before but I did it! I've never pretended to be someone who reads a lot of poetry, but it was exciting to delve into this unknown genre with such a well-loved book. Despite it not being a book that I was able to fall into straight away (like I had to push myself to pick it up) I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the language and the storytelling. On to the journals of Dorothy Wordsworth! 

2. The Sun Sister (The Seven Sisters #6), by Lucinda Riley 

Out of all of the sisters, Electra is the sister most like general society, I think I'll say. She's extremely active on social media, she's into drink and drugs in a huge way, and she's a world renowned super-model (okay I know the last one isn't like a typical person, but you get my drift). So because of that, I found it extremely easy to fall into her life become engrossed in her story. 

Basically when her "hobbies" become out of control, (largely due to losing Pa Salt and a mysterious woman that may or may not be her grandmother) she's admitted into a home for addicts. And this is where we see her grow from somebody that needs help, to a kind, compassionate human being that wants to help others. The character grown is amazing, I love Electra as a character, and I wish this book was longer (even though 830 pages is nothing to be sniffed at). 

3. The Midwich Cuckoos, by John Wyndham 

This was a gift from my boyfriend, after we watched the film (remake) and the tv-show this year (which we both adored). I thought it would be a short, gripping book that I could read in a couple of days. Honestly, that it what it was, but I found I had a hard time concentrating with it. Could have been the language, or maybe my attention span wasn't there, but I often found that I'd missed a sentence and had to go back and read it again, even when switching to the audiobook. It was a very good story, I won't lie, but it wasn't my favourite horror book by any means. 

Okay! Those are all the books I finished this month! Currently on to the Missing Sister, really want to finish it soon (but still have time for other books of course). 

Let me know in the comments what you finished this month, and we can chat about them! 

See you soon guys, hope you have a wonderful day! 

Byeeeee! 

-Abi xxxxx

Favourite Audiobooks 2.0!

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I was scrolling through some of my old posts on Post Pandemonium, and I came across one listing my Favourite Audiobooks. And so I thought, why not do an update on that? It might be fun to see if some of my old favourites still make the list? 

So, without further ado, let's jump right in! 

I hope you enjoy it. 

So, I tend to use Audiobooks as a method of convenience. If I'm struggling with the physical copy of a book, I'll download the audiobook. It helps me to see how long the next chapter or part is, especially if it's a chunky one. 

Other than that, if a book's out of print, or just not accessable when I want it, or in my local bookshop, I'll download it. Other than that, I'll download the audiobook for a specific reason (which you'll see with some of these favourites). 

1. Becoming, by Michelle Obama 

This book is one of the specific reasons. The physical book was mega expensive at the time, but the main reason I got this was that Michelle herself had narrated the book. Still to this day I find that I connect with an autobiography a whole lot more when I'm hearing the words from the horse's mouth. It makes it so much easier to feel what the author is speaking about, through the emotion in their voice. 

What's my reason for picking this up? To be honest, I was intrigued. I'd heard Michelle was a kind, caring and intelligent female, and an inspiration to black people everywhere. 

Becoming is a memoir about Michelle's successes and disappointments, both private and public, and it was wonderful to see inside her mind, even if it was several years ago. This one still shapes up as an absolute favourite! 

2. Daisy Jones and the Six, by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

Orchestrated with a number of narratives, this was the perfectly constructed audiobooks, because Daisy Jones and the Six is first and foremost, a series of interview accounts from the band members of Daisy Jones and the Six, as well as a few other token members surrounding the band. 

Totally gripping story, sometimes with conflicting accounts, made for a hugely entertaining read. 

It takes place in the swinging sixties, following Daisy as her voice gets noticed, and she goes on a journey of a lifetime with her band- it follows the highes and lowes, the sex, the drugs, and the times- all in black and white. 

3. Salem's Lot, by Stephen King

This book is for sure, one of the creepiest books I've ever read, purely because I listened to the audiobook. I don't think I would have been half as creeped out as I was if I'd read a paperback. Salem's Lot is the stuff of nightmares guys. If it was ever to come second to another horror book, the only one I would consider to even light a candle to it, is It, another of Stephen King's masterpieces. Just, if you're in the mood for a scare, then pick this up. It's not terribly long and drawn out, but it doesn't need to be. Loved this. 

4. Where Am I Now?, by Mara Wilson 

To say that I was inspired by a film that Mara Wilson starred in when I was young is what I would call a huge understatement. Of course, I'm talking about Matilda. 

But ever since a post on my Facebook Feed about the role Robert DeNiro played in that film, and what he did for Mara's family growing up appeared on my screen, I couldn't stop thinking about this autobiography. (I also wanted to see how Mara Wilson grew from a child actor to the inspirational speaker she is now.) Going into it, I thought I had an idea about what I would find within this book. And although I was right, this book was so much more. It deals with body issues, first kisses, the pressure of fame (amongst other things) with frankly, an extremely candid voice. 

Such a poignant and honest book that I would love to re-read again. 

5. The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue (Montague Siblings #1), by Mackenzie Lee

Sick of never finding this book in any of my local bookshops, I finally opted for the audiobook. I was looking for a funny, historical fiction LGBT romance, and that's exactly what I got. The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue was an instant hit on booktube and I was a part of the hype from the very first chapter. It's been three years since I've read this, and I still think about it from time to time (and how I need to re-read it, because the third and final book in the trilogy has been sat on Audible for at least a year). 

But honestly, what made this book stick out for me was the wonderful writing by Mackenzie Lee, Monty's character arc, and his relationnship with his best-friend Percy. 

I can't wait to re-read this soon and re-immerse myself in this amazing series, starcing with Monty's story. 

Okay! Those are my current favourite audiobooks! I was hoping for some variety, but honestly, I know what I like, so I guess there's something to be said for that! 

I hope you have a wonderful evening and I'll see you all soon! 

Byeeee guys! 

-Abi xxxxx

November TBR (2023)

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I'm back with another TBR! The penultimate one for 2023, in fact. 

With a mountain of books left in my unread books pile, I was blessed to have quite a choice. 

I've got quite a combination of books to talk about, and I'm eager to get stuck in.

 I hope you enjoy it. 

1. Lyrical Ballads, by Samuel Coleridge and William Wordsworth

I started this on the 10th of October and, upon the arrival of the fifth and sixth books in the Seven Sisters series, promptly put the book down. That is actually what I was going to do today, with the next book in the series, but considering how much I still had left, I decided that I want to continue and finish this, before jumping into The Sun Sister. 

After such a long break from this, I think it'll take a while for me to become fully emerged back into this, but I like the writing, and I love the elegant style with which Coleridge and Wordsworth weave a story in their poems. I'm so excited to finally finish this book, that I haven't picked up in so long. 

2. The Sun Sister (The Seven Sisters #6), by Lucinda Riley

The sixth and final shall we say 'autobiography' of the seven sisters series. In the sixth volume, we follow the infamous Electra, the youngest and certainly the most famous D'Aplièse sister. She's also the character we know the least about, and the sister I'm probably the most curious about. From what I know about her currently, she's very much a flawed character, one that I'm very much hoping will see the error of her ways and turn herself around. 

Up to this book, I've always felt that the sisters have shared a likeness, despite their different heritage. But Electra seems to be very different to the others, and I'm very excited to see her story unfold. 

3. The Grasmere and Alfoxden Journals, by Dorothy Wordsworth

When I decided I needed to pick up the novels I'd bought at Dove Cottage, my fingers were itching to pick this up first. For me, the most interesting part of Dove Cottage was the simple lifestyle that Dorothy and William led, scouring every inch of the Lake District, living off the land, wanting for nothing, living a life as free as a bird- this journal was my window into the Wordsworth's world. But I didn't, for the pure reason that if I did pick this up first, I had a feeling I would throw the book of poems into the fire the first chance I got. 

If you didn't know, this is very much an everyday journal of what Dorothy's life was like in Dove Cottage, from 1800-1803 (the Grasmere Journals) and 1797-8, (the Alfoxden Journals- when Dorothy and William were living in Somerset, near Coleridge). They capture their walks, their trips to the market, any common passersby, and just their general experience. 

In short, I'm really looking forward to reading this and, as soon as I finish the books on top, you can bet I'll be picking this up as soon as I can.

4. The Midwich Cuckoos, by John Wyndham 

After watching and loving The Midwich Cuckoos tv show, my wonderful boyfriend ordered me the book to read. At just 220 pages, this feels very much like The Mist, so a book I can knock out in a weekend if I want. If it's anything like the tv show, it'll be an easy book to get into, with twists in every chapter. 

Midwich Cuckoos is about the residents in a town called, you guessed it, Midwich. The story starts when a strange storm results in a number of simultaneous pregnancies of the women of the town. But these pregnancies are anything but ordinary. The children that are born as a result all have blonde hair, and golden eyes. They grow up too fast and all have mind control abilities. And that's only the beginning... 

Like I said, I'm hoping this'll be a quick, engaging and intense read that I'll be able to knock out in a weekend. Really hope I like this. 

5. I Invited Her In, by Adele Parks 

I got this book a couple of months ago, from my auntie. (So I really should have read it by now, but the truth is I got side-tracked.) 

Really simple premise, this. Protagonist Mel, receives a message from an old friend, completely out of the blue. She's in a spot of trouble and needs a place to stay. It's the least Mel can do. 

After all, friends look out for each-other, don't they? 

When I noticed this book, I thought it looked familiar, but now I know why. Fantastic reviews, and a tv show to go with it. Not sure if I'll watch it, I'll see if I like the book first. Pretty sure I will though. 

6. The Missing Sister (The Seven Sisters #7), by Lucinda Riley 

And... the seventh book in the series (cry emoji). These books are so amazing I can't believe it's the penultime book ALREADY. 

(Never mind that I still need to read the sixth first.) 

Okay, I have no idea how far into this TBR I'm going to get, but I'm sticking it on here anyway. This is the book that I've talked about cumulatively since starting the first book, back in August. It's the one where all six sisters join forces to uncover the mystery of why there wasn't a seventh sister, to make the full seven star constellation. I've heard mixed reviews on Goodreads a few times, but I'll be keeping an open mind considering how much I've loved this series so far. 

(Fingers crossed I enjoy this one as much as the rest.) 

Okay! Those are all the books I'm hoping to get to in the month of November! I hope you enjoyed, and as always, feel free to comment what you plan to read this month and we can chat about it! 

I hope you have a wonderful evening and I'll see you all soon! 

Byeeee! 

-Abi xxxxx

October Wrap Up (2023)

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I'm here with my October Wrap Up (2023)!

Due to the 24 readathon I took part in (just a personal one) at the start of October, I have a lot to talk about. So let's get started! 

1. Bad Magic, by Derek Landy 

This is a short (obviously Abi, it's a graphic novel), fast-paced tale that takes place, I'm assuming now- after the events of Until the End, but before the new trilogy starts. Being a graphic novel, it was an absolutely perfect novel to start in the early hours of the morning for my 24 hour readathon, before my brain had woken up. It was a spooky story about possession, with Valkyrie and Skulduggery at the centre, working a case and being their usual awesomeness. I even had the pleasure of meeting Derek Landy on his tour and getting it signed so that was the cherry on top. 

2. Coraline, by Neil Gaiman (Illustrations/Adapter: P. Craig Russell)

I'd been wanting to read Coraline for the longest time, and I'd heard about how creepy the graphic novel was. When I saw it in my local Waterstones, there was no doubt in my mind that I had to have it. Going into this, I honestly wasn't expecting anything more than the film I'd seen a number of times, but the graphic novel actually lended a lot more to Coraline's character than the films did. You could feel the fear she must have felt, going head to head with the other mother and possibility of losing everything if she didn't succeed. 

Oh, and the illustrations for the other mother were just as creepy as everyone had said. 

3. The Pearl Sister (The Seven Sisters #4), by Lucinda Riley 

I have a few more thoughts on this in my Seven Sisters Series' Review, but in short, when I started this book, I wasn't terribly keen on CeCe, because of the other POV's I'd read in the first three books. But reading the book that was all about her, her journey and her growth, really changed my opinion about her. Looking forward to seeing her again in the later books. 

5. Trouble Girls, by Julia Lynn Rubin 

Trouble Girls is about two girls, Trixie and Lux that are off for the weekend on a roadtrip. They haven't seen eachother in months, and for the first time in ages, are free from responsibilities. That is, until one fateful night, something happens, that could honestly happen to anyone, that changes their life forever. What was once a carefree trip with a friend, turns into a desperate attempt to flee the police. 

Honestly, this was such a wonderful book to read. All it took, when I heard about this was: "A queer YA #MeToo reimagining of Thelma & Louise", and I was sold. It's so easy to put yourself in the POV of Trixie and Lux. The anger and vulnerability you feel when viewed as nothing more than a body part, and the confusion about what to do when something unexpected happens. I have no idea what I would do if I were to experience what these two girls have happen to them, but that's just it. Nobody does until faced with it. Wonderful book, amazingly fleshed out characters with a clear voice. Thoroughly enjoyed this. 

6. The Mist, by Stephen King

I bought this, with the idea in mind that I would read it during my 24-hour-readathon. With it being just 180 pages, I knew I'd be able to get through it relatively quickly. But then, with over half of The Pearl Sister still to finish, I decided to put this to one side for a rainy day (which happened to be the following saturday/sunday). 

You guys, this is a short snappy, creepy book that is perfect for this time of year. I've been a fan of the film for several years, which is just as good as the book by the way, but what's impressive about the book is how much they manage to pack into it. I don't feel like it's rushed at all, I had no trouble remembering all the characters, it's really easy to follow if you want a, not nice, but good start to the genre that is horror. I genuinely think it's one of King's best, despite it's short length. Highly recommend. 

7. The Moon Sister (The Seven Sisters #5), by Lucinda Riley 

Okay, I kind of have to include this on the list. I'm currently just shy of page 500/738 and although it's a high order that I finish this in two days, I'm going to try. I really love this book so far, I don't know what it is about Tiggy, but I just love her as a character. Lucia's awesome to read about too, her spirit, her talent as a flamenco dancer, and her passion is endearing, but for me, Tiggy is where it's at. Honestly, it doesn't matter whether I manage to finish this before midnight on tuesday, I just know it's going to be five stars, just like the rest of them.

Update (31/10/23): I finished it! If I like a book, I will always do my damnest to finish it! Loved the ending, loved the ending of Tiggy's arc, and honestly, she's one of my favourite sisters! Can't wait to see what comes next for her!

Okay! Those are all the books I've read this month- so many more than recently! I have to say I'm proud of what I read, given the limited time I've had! 

As always, feel free to comment what you finished this month and we can talk about them in the comments! 

I hope you have a wonderful evening and I'll see you all soon! 

Byeeeee! 

-Abi xxxxxxx

The Seven Sisters Series Pt. 1

 Hey guys, this is Abi here, 

And I don't know if this is a smart idea or not, because I might be digging a hole too deep for myself here, but I'm back with a seven sisters series review for the first four books. 

I've been obsessed with this series since August, and it's only gotten worse with each book. 

I hope you enjoy it. 

The Seven Sisters

This book was very much a realisation for me. I was nervous going into it, because I had just been handed the first book in a very long, very large series, which was something I hadn't attempted in a very long time. Then, when I got a little ways in, I knew that I had the potential to not only love this series, but possible adore it. Even now, when I'm just at the start of the fifth book, I know that this series is the best thing I'm going to read all year. 

Maia was the best sister to enter the series on. The oldest, sensible, responsible, warm, caring, very much in her shell, comfortable at home with Pa Salt. I warmed to her immediately. Although there was a lot of plot to get through before what I knew was to be the main plotline of the book, I didn't feel bored or like I was waiting too long. If I have one critique of this book, it's that I wish, once you jump into the POV of Maia's ancestor, I could have spent a bit more time on Maia's journey, instead of 50-70 page snippets every 170 of her ancestor. But this was a wonderful start to the series, and I still find myself thinking of her, even when I'm reading her other sisters' stories. 

The Storm Sister

At the moment, The Storm Sister is probably my favourite out of all of them (even though I relate to Star's character more). Ally is a headstrong, sailer of the sea, more comfortable on a boat than on land. When she loses someone close to her (other than Pa Salt) she discovers a few home truths that lead her on a journey to find out where she came from. 

Basically I loved everything about this book. The ancestor we read about for a good portion (it felt more balanced this time around, even though it might not have been). I grew more in love with Ally's character the further on I got, I loved the landscape and the way music and the similarities between Ally and Anna were shown.

Anna, the ancestor, is basically a farm girl with a gift for music and singing, who is plucked from the place she knows and loves, to the landscape of Norway, to be made a star. I loved the way her story unfolded, the writing style, and the difference we see in Anna from the start of her parts to the end. 

We see both Ally and Anna love, lose people, make decisions- for the better or worse, hurt and come out the other end. I loved every single word. 

In a sentence, I don't think I've read a more perfect book. 

The Shadow Sister

After reading The Storm Sister, I was anxious for the next book. Which, in hindsight, was probably a good thing when I had to wait a couple weeks to start reading it. 

In The Shadow Sister, we follow Star, a shy girl, who is very much under the thumb of her younger sister CeCe at the start, but over the course of the book, we see her begin to blossom into someone a lot more independant, yet the same sweet, caring person you instantly like upon picking up the book. The only critique I have of this volume is Star kind of gets lost in the story of her ancestor, Flora. Flora was such a wonderful character to read about. Reading from her POV reminded me of everything I loved about Lake District. Not to mention Beatrix Potter was in this! I just didn't want to stop with this one, and no wonder- I finished the 680 page brick in a week. 

The Pearl Sister

Going into this, I wasn't so sure about how much I was going to like CeCe. She often speaks above Star, and comes off as quite brass. But, I was willing to keep an open mind. 

And honestly, CeCe surprised me. There was a lot more to her character, insecurities and fears that overall, made her more likable. I still didn't like the way she treated Star, but I was willing to give her a chance. 

I had a little trouble getting invested, like with the others, because it took a while before I got into the "meat" of the story, but once I was a little ways in, I was in it for the ride. 

I liked the ancestor of CeCe, though I wasn't desperate to find out what was going to happen to Kitty, like with Flora, but I liked it well enough. I liked the fact that I never spent a really long time with either main character, it was pretty well balanced between the past and present. 

Overall, certainly not my favourite book of the bunch, but I feel like I understand CeCe a lot more and I hope I get to read more of her POV with the final two books of the series. 

Okay! Those are my main thoughts for the first four books of the Seven Sisters series guys! I really hope I love the last four books as much as I did these- currently on book 5! 

I hope you have a wonderful evening and I'll see you all soon! 

Byeeee! 

-Abi xxxx