It's time for one of my favorite posts of the year: time to share my top 12 books of the year! For those wondering, I read a total of 106 books in 2013. I would have liked to get through a few more, but I managed to cultivate some other interests this year. More on that later.
Books that end up on my favorites list are books of good literary quality that I enjoyed reading. In many cases, they're of exceptional literary quality. I try to address whether I think something is intended as a literary or fluffy in a review. I haven't reviewed all of these books yet, so if I haven't reviewed it, the link will go back to GoodReads instead of my review.
The books are listed in no real order.
1.) Cinder by Marissa Meyer
A cyborg retelling of Cinderella? Cinder was somehow ten times more awesome than it sounded, and it sounded damn awesome.
2.) by Jessi Kirby
Kirby's third novel captivated me all the way through and left me asking what I plan to do with my one wild and precious life.
3.) Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
My heart ached for Cath, I swooned over the love interests, and found this story compelling and relatable. An emotional read for sure.
4.) This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales
I connected so well with Elise, and was happy to see that the DJ plotline worked, instead of being unbelievable. Win!
5.) by Rachel Hawkins
Rachel Hawkins' writing is just as funny as her Tweets. I love a lighthearted take on the paranormal genre. Hex Hall is precisely that.
6.) A Midsummer's Nightmare by Kody Keplinger
Keplinger filled my need for a summer story and tied in some serious issues. This could be my favorite novel by her.
7.) Where the Stars Still Shine by Trish Doller
I may have drooled over the Greek food, Alex, the used bookstore, the writing, everything.
8.) Across A Star-Swept Sea by Diana Peterfreund
The setting. The romance. The everything. More from Peterfreund, please!
9.) by Andrew Smith
Ryan Dean West is the most endearing character I read in 2013, and Winger broke my heart.
10.) Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
A fantastic and gutting book, worthy of the praise and honors its received.
11.) by Lauren Morrill
So. Much. FUN! Bonus points for all the 90s movies it reminded me of.
12.) by E. Lockhart
Lockhart's upcoming book has so many twists and turns that there were several points where I was convinced I wouldn't like it. Once I knew how it ended, I felt so many emotions, including a new found love for this book.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Monday, December 30, 2013
4th Annual End of Year Book Survey--2013 Edition!
-->Hey guys! If you believe it or not, the end of 2013 is finally here, and as usual, Jamie of The Perpetual Page-Turner created her . So if you want to know all about what I loved, was disappointed by, and read in 2013, here are the answers! I haven't had the chance to review all these books, but I'll be working on that in 2014.
1. Best Book You Read In 2013? (If you have to cheat — you can break it down by genre if you want or 2013 release vs. backlist)
I adored by Andrew Smith and Cinder by Marissa Meyer. told an amazing story with enthralling characters, and Cinder managed to be something that was both different and totally awesome. My third pick won't be out until 2014: by E. Lockhart, but believe me when I tell you that you need this book. You'll see a full list tomorrow when I tell you about my top books of the year. I still have to decide if there will be 10 or 12 books on the list!
2. Book You Were Excited About Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?
I finally broke down and read this year, and it wasn't what I hoped it would be. While I haven't reviewed it yet, I'll tell you that I found the romance unoriginal and wasn't pleased with the worldbuilding. by Cornelia Funke proved to be an astoundingly boring read for me. I was a little dubious because I saw Misty of didn't like it, but i thought maybe it'd have some redeeming quality that I'd like. As cool as the concept was, it was horribly boring and long.
3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2013?
by Andrew Smith, which is impressive because I only read it in September. I was blown away by the quality of the writing and it's been a long time since I've found a character as endearing as Ryan Dean West.
I've also been trying to get more people to read Black Helicopters by Blythe Woolston. This is a seriously messed up little book, which is pretty clear from the synopsis, and I'm worried that's scaring other people away. It's an extremely literary and thought-provoking read, though, and I love that Woolston tackled a topic that isn't often addressed in YA literature.
5. Best series you discovered in 2013?
No contest--the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer. I fell in love with the quirky concept, fast-paced plot, and world building of Cinder. I love how so many fairy tales are being tied into this epic saga. And I love Thorne so much.
Honorable mention also goes to by Rachel Hawkins. has been out since 2010, and all three books are already released, so I'm definitely behind. I'm hoping to read more of the books in this series in 2013!
6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2013?
I'm sticking with authors that are new to me, so some of the authors I'm mentioning have been published for a while. Because I read two books by her this year, I'll have to go with Rainbow Rowell this year, but honorable mention also goes to E. Lockhart, Andrew Smith, Leila Sales, Rachel Hawkins, and Holly Black.
7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?
Definitely by Kendare Blake. You could argue that this book is horror, and this is a genre I've been nervous to read for fear of nightmares. I was proud of myself for diving into it and am hoping to read more horror in 2014!
8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2013?
Cinder by Marissa Meyer. I got completely sucked into Meyer's story and world.
9. Book You Read In 2013 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?
I'm planning on rereading by E. Lockhart. This is seriously intense book that completely messes with your mind, and the first time you read it, it's so hard to figure out what's going on until you reach the very end. I want to reread it so I can feel all of the emotions.
10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2013?
11. Most memorable character in 2013?
Without a doubt, Ryan Dean West from by Andrew Smith. I found him hilarious, sweet, and incredibly endearing. His decisions weren't always the best, but he had a good heart, even if it took him a while to discover that side of himself.
12. Most beautifully written book read in 2013?
by Jessi Kirby. The storyline of this book was compelling and the message left me thinking afterwards.
13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2013?
Also by Jessi Kirby, because it left thinking so much about how taking risks, pursing your passions, and having lots of different life experiences is a good thing, even if they don't always end well.
I think might have also had this impact on me, but that one had a slightly ambiguous ending, and I saw more of myself in Parker from than Alyson in . I will say I liked better than .
14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2013 to finally read?
I have to go with a book that my parents gave to me in Christmas of 1998: by Suzanne Fisher Staples. I imagine my parents gave this book to ten-year-old Liz with the hopes of enlightening her about other cultures. Mom and Dad, if you're reading this, I'd just like to point out that 25 still found this book an enlightening and important novel worth reading.
15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2013?
16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2013?
Shortest– Probably by Sara Varon and Cecil Castellucci. No surprise here as this is a picture book/graphic novel hybrid.
Longest — by Patrick Ness. This is also not a surprise, as it took me from May to September to read this book. Admittedly, I had hard time getting into it because I didn't remember every single detail from books one and two. As always, though, there were many feels involved when I read this book, and I really enjoyed it on the whole.
17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!
Absolutely by E. Lockhart. There wasn't a specific scene so much as the entire book. Thankfully Ally was available via text and Jamie and Mitali had also already read it.
18. Favorite Relationship From A Book You Read In 2013 (be it romantic, friendship, etc).
Friendship has to be Maddie and "Verity" from Code NameVerity. I'm torn about reading Rose Under Fire because I adored Code NameVerity and cannot wait to continue their story, but I also know my heart will be ripped out. Joey and Ryan Dean West from also have a great friendship.
Family has to be Callie and her father from Trish Doller's .
I was going to make three sub-categories for romance, but one of them would be spoilery, so I'll tell you it involves two characters from .
For a romantic swoony relationship, I have to say Justen and Persis from Across A Star-Swept Sea. Justen really is a romantic.
However, Callie and Alex from takes the cake for romantic steamy. DAMN.
19. Favorite Book You Read in 2013 From An Author You’ve Read Previously
I have to go with by Jessi Kirby. I was dubious about it because I'd only sort of enjoyed In Honor, but picked this one up because the gorgeous cover and rave reviews sucked me in. I adored this book.
20. Best Book You Read In 2013 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else:
Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock on recommendation from Jamie and April. I don't think I loved it quite as much as they did, but it was a solid read regardless.
21. Genre You Read The Most From in 2013?
Contemporary, without a doubt. I'm addicted.
22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2013?
Alex from . It doesn't hurt that I want to visit him in Tarpon Springs and eat Greek food while I do it. I should probably take some ice water and a fan with me.
23. Best 2013 debut you read?
It's an honest toss-up between by Ashley Elston and These Broken Stars by Meagan Spooner and Aimee Kaufman.
24. Most vivid world/imagery in a book you read in 2013?
I was really wowed by how vivid the world in These Broken Stars is, but The Coldest Girl In Coldtown was also fantastic. Another tie. Aren't we all astounded?
25. Book That Was The Most Fun To Read in 2013?
by Lauren Morill. There were a few serious issues presented, but overall it reminded me of The Cutting Edge and The Parent Trap. It also reminded me of Cool Runnings, because if there is a sport that involves ice in the mix, I will be reminded of Cool Runnings.
26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2013?
So many of them! I've already mentioned and a lot, and they both made me cry. I also have to mention and .
27. Book You Read in 2013 That You Think Got Overlooked This Year Or When It Came Out?
Black Helicopters by Blythe Woolston. I talked about this one earlier, so I won't reiterate the points I've already made. If you want a thought-provoking read, pick it up.
There were lots! Maggie from and I have already had some great bookish discussions on Twitter, and she's read a lot of books that are on my TBR. I also learned that Ellie, someone I went to grad school with, started . She has some great recommendations for fantasy if you need some. is also really fun and has some great discussions.
2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2013?
My review of 50 Shades of Grey is pretty hilarious. Aside from that I think I did a nice job reviewing Black Helicopters and Across A Star-Swept Sea.
3. Best discussion you had on your blog?
Definitely my I'm Not Cool. I loved reading the comments and hearing how many of you agreed with what I had to say, or had your own thoughts to add. This especially mad me feel good because I was nervous about posting it.
4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else’s blog?
On a bookish note, I love . Otherwise, the posts that stuck with me this year were largely personal. I really enjoyed Jamie's feature. I liked how she talked about her real life problems in her post, which I don't always feel free to do because I have colleagues who follow this blog. was really touching to read.
5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?
I didn't participate in a lot of events, but I got to attend the launch party for Carrie Mesrobian's . Elmo cupcakes and cherry lick were involved! Apparently Elmo cupcakes play a role in the book, which I have yet to read. Anyways, we played a drinking game with the cherry lick when Carrie read aloud from the book, which was super fun. I loved how Carrie took her launch party and made it a little more creative that way.
Not an event, but Corey Whaley happened to be at a conference I was at in April, and we had the chance to get dinner. It was fun to chat and Corey was very tolerant of my awkwardness.
6. Best moment of book blogging/your book life in 2013?
I got approved to be a part of a blog tour for an author I really admire this January! You guys will find out more about that soon. Otherwise I have to say I've really enjoyed working with Ksenia at Macmillan this year.
7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?
Once again, my I'm Not Cool post. Those of you who have supported my uncoolness are the best.
8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?
I'm surprised my So You Want to Be A Librarian post didn't get more love, only because so many bloggers I know have pondered the idea of pursuing an MLS/MLIS. I'd also like it if my While You Wait posts got more comments.
9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?
in Saint Paul! I was surprised to hear about a bookstore that I didn't know about, but as it turns out they're relatively new. For being in a small space, they have an amazing selection. Based on their website, they clearly hold tons of awesome events. I only made it to Carrie Mesrobian's launch in 2013, but I plan to make it to lots more in 2014.
10. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?
I set the goal of reading 100 books this year, and I've read 106. While I would have liked to squeeze in a few more, this was a crazy year, especially personally. And honestly? I had a little more reading time when I didn't have a full-time job.
1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2013 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2014?
Because I am eternally behind on my TBR pile (remember how I just finished a books my parents gave me in 1998?), I have three answers to this question. Since is a finalist for the Morris award, I'll definitely read it. I was also pumped for but just didn't fit it into 2013. For a backlist title, I'd really like to read by Jandy Nelson. A lot of my friends love this book, and I was reminded of this fact when Rachel mentioned it in her End of Year Bookish Survey.
2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2014 (non-debut)?
by Morgan Matson. Both of her previous novels have made great summer reads, and I'm hoping this will be no exception. And how cute is that cover?
3. 2014 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?
by Julie Murphy. The premise sounds fantastic, it's gotten rave reviews, and once again, I adore the cover.
4. Series Ending You Are Most Anticipating in 2014?
Honestly? I think I'm still hoping to start most of the series that are ending in 2014, but I have read Shadow and Bone and Daughter of Smoke and Bone. Although those were both iffy reads for me, I do want to see how both of these stories wrap up.
5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2014?
I'll set a goal to read 100 books again. I'd also love to have more discussion posts on this blog, so I hope I can make it happen.
Best In Books 2013
1. Best Book You Read In 2013? (If you have to cheat — you can break it down by genre if you want or 2013 release vs. backlist)
I adored by Andrew Smith and Cinder by Marissa Meyer. told an amazing story with enthralling characters, and Cinder managed to be something that was both different and totally awesome. My third pick won't be out until 2014: by E. Lockhart, but believe me when I tell you that you need this book. You'll see a full list tomorrow when I tell you about my top books of the year. I still have to decide if there will be 10 or 12 books on the list!
2. Book You Were Excited About Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?
I finally broke down and read this year, and it wasn't what I hoped it would be. While I haven't reviewed it yet, I'll tell you that I found the romance unoriginal and wasn't pleased with the worldbuilding. by Cornelia Funke proved to be an astoundingly boring read for me. I was a little dubious because I saw Misty of didn't like it, but i thought maybe it'd have some redeeming quality that I'd like. As cool as the concept was, it was horribly boring and long.
3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2013?
Definitely This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales. I listen to pop and random obscure bands, so I was worried this book would consist primarily of references to indie 80s musicians that I don't listen to. Of course, because Elise is a DJ, music plays a big role, but I found myself really engrossed in her story of discovering and embracing herself.
4. Book you read in 2013 that you recommended to people most in 2013?
by Andrew Smith, which is impressive because I only read it in September. I was blown away by the quality of the writing and it's been a long time since I've found a character as endearing as Ryan Dean West.
I've also been trying to get more people to read Black Helicopters by Blythe Woolston. This is a seriously messed up little book, which is pretty clear from the synopsis, and I'm worried that's scaring other people away. It's an extremely literary and thought-provoking read, though, and I love that Woolston tackled a topic that isn't often addressed in YA literature.
5. Best series you discovered in 2013?
No contest--the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer. I fell in love with the quirky concept, fast-paced plot, and world building of Cinder. I love how so many fairy tales are being tied into this epic saga. And I love Thorne so much.
Honorable mention also goes to by Rachel Hawkins. has been out since 2010, and all three books are already released, so I'm definitely behind. I'm hoping to read more of the books in this series in 2013!
6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2013?
I'm sticking with authors that are new to me, so some of the authors I'm mentioning have been published for a while. Because I read two books by her this year, I'll have to go with Rainbow Rowell this year, but honorable mention also goes to E. Lockhart, Andrew Smith, Leila Sales, Rachel Hawkins, and Holly Black.
7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?
Definitely by Kendare Blake. You could argue that this book is horror, and this is a genre I've been nervous to read for fear of nightmares. I was proud of myself for diving into it and am hoping to read more horror in 2014!
8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2013?
Cinder by Marissa Meyer. I got completely sucked into Meyer's story and world.
9. Book You Read In 2013 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?
I'm planning on rereading by E. Lockhart. This is seriously intense book that completely messes with your mind, and the first time you read it, it's so hard to figure out what's going on until you reach the very end. I want to reread it so I can feel all of the emotions.
10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2013?
11. Most memorable character in 2013?
Without a doubt, Ryan Dean West from by Andrew Smith. I found him hilarious, sweet, and incredibly endearing. His decisions weren't always the best, but he had a good heart, even if it took him a while to discover that side of himself.
12. Most beautifully written book read in 2013?
by Jessi Kirby. The storyline of this book was compelling and the message left me thinking afterwards.
13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2013?
Also by Jessi Kirby, because it left thinking so much about how taking risks, pursing your passions, and having lots of different life experiences is a good thing, even if they don't always end well.
I think might have also had this impact on me, but that one had a slightly ambiguous ending, and I saw more of myself in Parker from than Alyson in . I will say I liked better than .
14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2013 to finally read?
I have to go with a book that my parents gave to me in Christmas of 1998: by Suzanne Fisher Staples. I imagine my parents gave this book to ten-year-old Liz with the hopes of enlightening her about other cultures. Mom and Dad, if you're reading this, I'd just like to point out that 25 still found this book an enlightening and important novel worth reading.
15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2013?
And she know it's nothing but a collection of minutes, all of them sitting together like popcorn on a tree, she can see now how easily they become hours, how quickly the months might have turned to years in just the same way, how close she'd come to losing something so important to the unrelenting movement of time.--This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith
We sang almost the entire way there. I don't know how Coach M put up with it. It was like he was deaf or something, because he never showed the slightest expression when the songs got completely vulgar. It was like singing was the only time he'd tolerate our cussing, and he'd just keep his attention pinned on his notebook, where he'd organize rosters, medical forms, and notes on plays. But I could tell the singing was making the driver of our chartered bus really agitated. He started looking so frustrated and mad, but i could hear Coach M explain to him in his Henry Higgins tone of voice, "They are a rugby team. They sing. There's nothing I, you, or God can do about it beyond hope that they will eventually tire."-- by Andrew Smith
16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2013?
Shortest– Probably by Sara Varon and Cecil Castellucci. No surprise here as this is a picture book/graphic novel hybrid.
Longest — by Patrick Ness. This is also not a surprise, as it took me from May to September to read this book. Admittedly, I had hard time getting into it because I didn't remember every single detail from books one and two. As always, though, there were many feels involved when I read this book, and I really enjoyed it on the whole.
17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!
Absolutely by E. Lockhart. There wasn't a specific scene so much as the entire book. Thankfully Ally was available via text and Jamie and Mitali had also already read it.
18. Favorite Relationship From A Book You Read In 2013 (be it romantic, friendship, etc).
Friendship has to be Maddie and "Verity" from Code NameVerity. I'm torn about reading Rose Under Fire because I adored Code NameVerity and cannot wait to continue their story, but I also know my heart will be ripped out. Joey and Ryan Dean West from also have a great friendship.
Family has to be Callie and her father from Trish Doller's .
I was going to make three sub-categories for romance, but one of them would be spoilery, so I'll tell you it involves two characters from .
For a romantic swoony relationship, I have to say Justen and Persis from Across A Star-Swept Sea. Justen really is a romantic.
However, Callie and Alex from takes the cake for romantic steamy. DAMN.
19. Favorite Book You Read in 2013 From An Author You’ve Read Previously
I have to go with by Jessi Kirby. I was dubious about it because I'd only sort of enjoyed In Honor, but picked this one up because the gorgeous cover and rave reviews sucked me in. I adored this book.
20. Best Book You Read In 2013 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else:
Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock on recommendation from Jamie and April. I don't think I loved it quite as much as they did, but it was a solid read regardless.
21. Genre You Read The Most From in 2013?
Contemporary, without a doubt. I'm addicted.
22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2013?
Alex from . It doesn't hurt that I want to visit him in Tarpon Springs and eat Greek food while I do it. I should probably take some ice water and a fan with me.
23. Best 2013 debut you read?
It's an honest toss-up between by Ashley Elston and These Broken Stars by Meagan Spooner and Aimee Kaufman.
24. Most vivid world/imagery in a book you read in 2013?
I was really wowed by how vivid the world in These Broken Stars is, but The Coldest Girl In Coldtown was also fantastic. Another tie. Aren't we all astounded?
25. Book That Was The Most Fun To Read in 2013?
by Lauren Morill. There were a few serious issues presented, but overall it reminded me of The Cutting Edge and The Parent Trap. It also reminded me of Cool Runnings, because if there is a sport that involves ice in the mix, I will be reminded of Cool Runnings.
26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2013?
So many of them! I've already mentioned and a lot, and they both made me cry. I also have to mention and .
27. Book You Read in 2013 That You Think Got Overlooked This Year Or When It Came Out?
Black Helicopters by Blythe Woolston. I talked about this one earlier, so I won't reiterate the points I've already made. If you want a thought-provoking read, pick it up.
Book Blogging/Reading Life 2013
1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2013?
There were lots! Maggie from and I have already had some great bookish discussions on Twitter, and she's read a lot of books that are on my TBR. I also learned that Ellie, someone I went to grad school with, started . She has some great recommendations for fantasy if you need some. is also really fun and has some great discussions.
2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2013?
My review of 50 Shades of Grey is pretty hilarious. Aside from that I think I did a nice job reviewing Black Helicopters and Across A Star-Swept Sea.
3. Best discussion you had on your blog?
Definitely my I'm Not Cool. I loved reading the comments and hearing how many of you agreed with what I had to say, or had your own thoughts to add. This especially mad me feel good because I was nervous about posting it.
4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else’s blog?
On a bookish note, I love . Otherwise, the posts that stuck with me this year were largely personal. I really enjoyed Jamie's feature. I liked how she talked about her real life problems in her post, which I don't always feel free to do because I have colleagues who follow this blog. was really touching to read.
5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?
I didn't participate in a lot of events, but I got to attend the launch party for Carrie Mesrobian's . Elmo cupcakes and cherry lick were involved! Apparently Elmo cupcakes play a role in the book, which I have yet to read. Anyways, we played a drinking game with the cherry lick when Carrie read aloud from the book, which was super fun. I loved how Carrie took her launch party and made it a little more creative that way.
Not an event, but Corey Whaley happened to be at a conference I was at in April, and we had the chance to get dinner. It was fun to chat and Corey was very tolerant of my awkwardness.
6. Best moment of book blogging/your book life in 2013?
I got approved to be a part of a blog tour for an author I really admire this January! You guys will find out more about that soon. Otherwise I have to say I've really enjoyed working with Ksenia at Macmillan this year.
7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?
Once again, my I'm Not Cool post. Those of you who have supported my uncoolness are the best.
8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?
I'm surprised my So You Want to Be A Librarian post didn't get more love, only because so many bloggers I know have pondered the idea of pursuing an MLS/MLIS. I'd also like it if my While You Wait posts got more comments.
9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?
in Saint Paul! I was surprised to hear about a bookstore that I didn't know about, but as it turns out they're relatively new. For being in a small space, they have an amazing selection. Based on their website, they clearly hold tons of awesome events. I only made it to Carrie Mesrobian's launch in 2013, but I plan to make it to lots more in 2014.
10. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?
I set the goal of reading 100 books this year, and I've read 106. While I would have liked to squeeze in a few more, this was a crazy year, especially personally. And honestly? I had a little more reading time when I didn't have a full-time job.
Looking Ahead…
1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2013 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2014?
Because I am eternally behind on my TBR pile (remember how I just finished a books my parents gave me in 1998?), I have three answers to this question. Since is a finalist for the Morris award, I'll definitely read it. I was also pumped for but just didn't fit it into 2013. For a backlist title, I'd really like to read by Jandy Nelson. A lot of my friends love this book, and I was reminded of this fact when Rachel mentioned it in her End of Year Bookish Survey.
2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2014 (non-debut)?
by Morgan Matson. Both of her previous novels have made great summer reads, and I'm hoping this will be no exception. And how cute is that cover?
3. 2014 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?
by Julie Murphy. The premise sounds fantastic, it's gotten rave reviews, and once again, I adore the cover.
4. Series Ending You Are Most Anticipating in 2014?
Honestly? I think I'm still hoping to start most of the series that are ending in 2014, but I have read Shadow and Bone and Daughter of Smoke and Bone. Although those were both iffy reads for me, I do want to see how both of these stories wrap up.
5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2014?
I'll set a goal to read 100 books again. I'd also love to have more discussion posts on this blog, so I hope I can make it happen.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Christmas with Liz
December is one of my favorite times of the year! I love reading everyone's end of year favorites lists, surveys, and goals for the next year. Outside of books and blogging, there's a lot to enjoy about this season. Since this is the first Christmas I find myself living in my own place and not preoccupied with graduate school, I've started some of my own traditions.
I also made red velvet cinnamon rolls last weekend, after Jamie shared a photo of some her husband made. Those, however, I did not share.
Baking aside, I also decided to do a Secret Santa this year. I have so many books that my family doesn't like to get them for me as gifts, so I like to sign up for Secret Santa in order to spread bookish cheer. This year I decided to do The Broke and Bookish Secret Santa. Of all the Secret Santas I've done, I've found this one has been the most enjoyable both in terms of shopping for someone else and getting to know other bloggers. It was especially fun because I had this year, who I know from Twitter. I hadn't read any of the books on her wishlist, but since she is a Whovian and fellow chocolate lover, I really enjoyed shopping for her--I wound up getting her Doctor Who socks as one of her goodies!
Naturally, I have my own small tree in my apartment. I put it up in mid-November because I absolutely adore this particular holiday. Baking is always a big deal for me at this time of year, in addition to decorating. I drove home last night and plan to make sugar cookies with my brother today, but I did some baking for my women's group earlier this month. We sold 100 holiday goody trays, so I had to bake 200 snickerdoodles and dip 150 pretzels. This was a big adventure as I had never made a snickerdoodle before in my life, or dipped a pretzel, for that matter. Thank goodness for my Better Homes and Gardens cookbook, where I got my snickerdoodle recipe.
I also made red velvet cinnamon rolls last weekend, after Jamie shared a photo of some her husband made. Those, however, I did not share.
Baking aside, I also decided to do a Secret Santa this year. I have so many books that my family doesn't like to get them for me as gifts, so I like to sign up for Secret Santa in order to spread bookish cheer. This year I decided to do The Broke and Bookish Secret Santa. Of all the Secret Santas I've done, I've found this one has been the most enjoyable both in terms of shopping for someone else and getting to know other bloggers. It was especially fun because I had this year, who I know from Twitter. I hadn't read any of the books on her wishlist, but since she is a Whovian and fellow chocolate lover, I really enjoyed shopping for her--I wound up getting her Doctor Who socks as one of her goodies!
However, the person who gave to me was someone I didn't really know previously: of ! I'm so excited for the goodies she got me. She was kind enough to pick out two books I wanted and send some fun Doctor Who related things! You can take a peek at what I got on my . You'll also see that Misty over at kindly sent me a book and some awesome holiday socks.
I love having bookish friends to exchange gifts with, but I also ask for items that aren't books. Inspired by the that Alexa of Alexa Loves Books wrote, here are some things I asked my family for.
As I'm sure you can imagine, I'm low on shelving space. I've been admiring this Expedit bookshelf for awhile. I might've gotten this myself by now, but the closest IKEA to me is a 4.5 hour drive, were my parents are. Everyone I know who has these shelves seems to love them!
Do I need this plush Dalek? Probably not. However, I have checked them out in stores and they look outrageously fun. I already have a plush T.A.R.D.I.S. and Adipose, so this would complete my trifecta.
When I'm not reading or blogging, I enjoy running. I love that tools like MapMyRun can help me figure out how far I've gone, but that gets tricky if I want to run on a bike trail, for example. I'd love to give this watch a try and see if it's useful to me.
So there it is. A few new traditions, some gifts I've received, and items I have in mind for Santa. Are you asking for anything bookish or geeky? Let me know. I hope you all have a happy holiday whatever you celebrate (or may have already celebrated) and that you all get to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Book Haul (64) and What Are You Reading?
For review:
by Eric Walters
by Cecil Castellucci
by Lynne Matson
by Elizabeth Fama
by Ava Dellaira
by Lindsay Smith
Bought:
by V.E. Schwab
by Carrie Mesrobian
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Across A Star-Swept Sea by Diana Peterfreund
by Holly Black
by Veronica Roth
by Elizabeth Wein
by Robin LaFevers
by Rick Yancey
by Mac Barnett
Read:
by Cornelia Funke
by Christa Desir
by Jeff Kinney
by Tom Angleberger
by Kendare Blake
These Broken Stars by Aimee Kaufman and Meagan Spooner
by Chris Duffy
by Lauren Morill
by Marissa Meyer
Currently reading:
by Merrie Haskell
by Suzanne Fisher Staples
by Wendy Delsol
What I plan to read:
by Robin Constantine
by Gillian Flynn
by Tamara Ireland Stone
by Carrie Mesrobian
Friday, December 13, 2013
Review of The Coldest Girl In Coldtown by Holly Black
Tana lives in a world where walled cities called Coldtowns exist. In them, quarantined monsters and humans mingle in a decadently bloody mix of predator and prey. The only problem is, once you pass through Coldtown’s gates, you can never leave.
One morning, after a perfectly ordinary party, Tana wakes up surrounded by corpses. The only other survivors of this massacre are her exasperatingly endearing ex-boyfriend, infected and on the edge, and a mysterious boy burdened with a terrible secret. Shaken and determined, Tana enters a race against the clock to save the three of them the only way she knows how: by going straight to the wicked, opulent heart of Coldtown itself.
The Coldest Girl in Coldtown is a wholly original story of rage and revenge, of guilt and horror, and of love and loathing from bestselling and acclaimed author Holly Black.
(Summary from GoodReads)
If you have ever complained that YA vampire books aren’t scary enough, The Coldest Girl In Coldtown is the book for you. If you want to read a story whose prose will show you how a world can be simultaneously filled with glamor and horror, The Coldest Girl In Coldtown is the book for you. If you want a novel that has a post-apocalyptic feel and is filled with horror, The Coldest Girl In Coldtown is the book for you. Simply put, Black’s latest is an ideal pick for readers who aren’t afraid to be scared, but expect high literary quality.
Tana’s world may be filled with vampires and the constant threat of them, but she is still human in many ways. In the interest of self-preservation, Tana puts herself in a situation that feels ethically right but makes her feel incredibly vulnerable. Throughout all of it she is filled with determination, and I loved that about her. She constantly tries to stay a step ahead of people who want to outsmart her and firmly stands by what she believes in. I wouldn’t peg her as likable, but she’s one of my favorite female protagonist in 2013.
It took me a while to keep the worldbuilding straight, but once I had it down, I really appreciated it. Black’s world isn’t overly complex, but it’s still carefully thought through enough to feel realistic. One particular image when the crew first arrived in Coldtown has stuck with me as particularly macabre. Even outside of Coldtown, I appreciated the fact that Black’s world felt like one where people lived in constant fear of vampires.
The imagery and overall writing this book are fantastic. Every page felt wrought with emotion and atmosphere. It was almost like eating a dense chocolate dessert: slow, but so rich and delicious that you have to keep going.
In the past, I've felt that literary quality and vampires haven't really been paired together, and Black completely changed that. The Coldest Girl in Coldtown is a thoughtful yet action packed read. If you've ever wanted more from a vampire book, you can find it here.
Disclosure: My boss picked up an ARC of this book for me at ALA.
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)
LinkWithin