Amy Powis's Blog, page 9
June 15, 2020
Five Year Blog Anniversary!
Every year I seem to forget when my blog anniversary is but after 5 years I finally looked to see that my first post was on the 15th June when this is going up.
A lot has happened in five years and I started this blog before I was going to university later that summer and now I have a degree and am finishing my MA degree in September. I'm sure that we can all say that it is an odd time but sometimes it is still nice to talk about the small things that make us happy.
I feel like I am so grateful when my blog is at the moment. I do enjoy the content that I make and do feel like I am part of the community even though I have definitely stepped back from social media recently. I have great opportunities over the years and they keep growing over the years I do this which is nice. I have liked seeing the change in my content and hopefully see my writing progress and I hope that this continues.
Since my first year, I hoped to track the changes in my blogging life especially in terms of my reading life. So let's get started...
Q1) Favourite Book
The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak- This book and me have such a good relationship and I want to read it again badly. It has been my favourite book for at least six years and this has not changed.
Q2) What book do you hope to read in the next year?
My answer for this year was Muse Of Nightmares and I still haven't read I although I do want to. I keep looking at Toffee by Sarah Crossan on my shelf and wanting to read it and not picking it up. So definitely Toffee! And Muse Of Nightmares!
Q3) Most anticipated read?
My answer last year was Let's Call It Doomsday by Katie Henry which I got an early copy of but was not in the right headspace to read it so I still want to read this. But this year it has to be Loveless by Alice Oseman. I identify as Aro Ace and I hope that this book speaks to me in any way as I crave ace representation and love Alice's work.
Q4) Which topic would you most like to write about on the blog within the next year?
As I just mentioned I identified as Aro Ace and I have wanted to write about this topic for the longest time. Also due to recent events such as the murder of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, I wanted to write about how I can be a better ally as I know that I have not done enough to support Black Lives Matter and BIPOC creators so this. If you would like to help with the ongoing movements in America or around the world please click here.
Q5) Favourite Blog Post?
Last year I said that I loved my Dear Amy Powis post as it means a lot to me. But the trilogy of posts that I write about my mental health are also my favourites and I liked writing my feelings out. Here are the links to Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.
Q6) Book you hate?
I dislike a lot of negative things about books but I can not support a book that has Holocaust jokes and this is the November Criminals by Sam Munson so you can guess why I hate this book... This was my answer for the longest time as well and I just haven't read that many really bad books so it stays and it is so bad.
Q7) Which author do you want to meet and why?
John Green- I love John Green. I will probably never meet him but I really want to. This is the same answer as last year but I love the guy in a really platonic and admiration kind of way and have been watching the VlogBrothers channel for the longest time. As I mentioned last year, I met Hank so I want to go two for two on the Green brothers.
Q8) Current read?
The Game Weavers by Rebecca Zahabi- There is a cover for this one I don't have access to this as it doesn't come out until October. Hopefully, I will post a book review in the future for this one.
Q9) Next on your TBR?
I am trying to read all of the asexual and/or aromatic books in the last two weeks in June so I am going to be reading Beneath The Citadel by Destiny Soria as it has an asexual character in the book (obviously that's the point of the challenge.).
Q10) What is next for your blog?
More book reviews. More content. More of everything I guess. Onwards and Upwards as they say! Also, I say it every year but to engage more with other bloggers and their posts!
So that's it! I still can't believe that I have been blogging for five years and hope to see you all next year!
See you soon,
Amy
A lot has happened in five years and I started this blog before I was going to university later that summer and now I have a degree and am finishing my MA degree in September. I'm sure that we can all say that it is an odd time but sometimes it is still nice to talk about the small things that make us happy.
I feel like I am so grateful when my blog is at the moment. I do enjoy the content that I make and do feel like I am part of the community even though I have definitely stepped back from social media recently. I have great opportunities over the years and they keep growing over the years I do this which is nice. I have liked seeing the change in my content and hopefully see my writing progress and I hope that this continues.
Since my first year, I hoped to track the changes in my blogging life especially in terms of my reading life. So let's get started...
Q1) Favourite Book
The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak- This book and me have such a good relationship and I want to read it again badly. It has been my favourite book for at least six years and this has not changed.
Q2) What book do you hope to read in the next year?
My answer for this year was Muse Of Nightmares and I still haven't read I although I do want to. I keep looking at Toffee by Sarah Crossan on my shelf and wanting to read it and not picking it up. So definitely Toffee! And Muse Of Nightmares!
Q3) Most anticipated read?
My answer last year was Let's Call It Doomsday by Katie Henry which I got an early copy of but was not in the right headspace to read it so I still want to read this. But this year it has to be Loveless by Alice Oseman. I identify as Aro Ace and I hope that this book speaks to me in any way as I crave ace representation and love Alice's work.
Q4) Which topic would you most like to write about on the blog within the next year?
As I just mentioned I identified as Aro Ace and I have wanted to write about this topic for the longest time. Also due to recent events such as the murder of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, I wanted to write about how I can be a better ally as I know that I have not done enough to support Black Lives Matter and BIPOC creators so this. If you would like to help with the ongoing movements in America or around the world please click here.
Q5) Favourite Blog Post?
Last year I said that I loved my Dear Amy Powis post as it means a lot to me. But the trilogy of posts that I write about my mental health are also my favourites and I liked writing my feelings out. Here are the links to Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.
Q6) Book you hate?
I dislike a lot of negative things about books but I can not support a book that has Holocaust jokes and this is the November Criminals by Sam Munson so you can guess why I hate this book... This was my answer for the longest time as well and I just haven't read that many really bad books so it stays and it is so bad. Q7) Which author do you want to meet and why?
John Green- I love John Green. I will probably never meet him but I really want to. This is the same answer as last year but I love the guy in a really platonic and admiration kind of way and have been watching the VlogBrothers channel for the longest time. As I mentioned last year, I met Hank so I want to go two for two on the Green brothers.
Q8) Current read?
The Game Weavers by Rebecca Zahabi- There is a cover for this one I don't have access to this as it doesn't come out until October. Hopefully, I will post a book review in the future for this one.
Q9) Next on your TBR?
I am trying to read all of the asexual and/or aromatic books in the last two weeks in June so I am going to be reading Beneath The Citadel by Destiny Soria as it has an asexual character in the book (obviously that's the point of the challenge.).
Q10) What is next for your blog?
More book reviews. More content. More of everything I guess. Onwards and Upwards as they say! Also, I say it every year but to engage more with other bloggers and their posts!
So that's it! I still can't believe that I have been blogging for five years and hope to see you all next year!
See you soon,
Amy
June 11, 2020
Book Review: The Wolf Wilder by Katherine Rundell
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: The Wolf WilderAuthor: Katherine RundellPublisher: Bloomsbury
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
Feodora and her mother live in the snowbound woods of Russia, in a house full of food and fireplaces. Ten minutes away, in a ruined chapel, lives a pack of wolves. Feodora's mother is a wolf wilder, and Feo is a wolf wilder in training. A wolf wilder is the opposite of an animal tamer: it is a person who teaches tamed animals to fend for themselves, and to fight and to run, and to be wary of humans.
When the murderous hostility of the Russian Army threatens her very existence, Feo is left with no option but to go on the run. What follows is a story of revolution and adventure, about standing up for the things you love and fighting back. And, of course, wolves.
Book Review:
When this came out, I remember that this got so much hype and a lot of people liked it. Middle Grade isn't normally my jam but I was going to give it a go. Fast forward to five years later and I still had not read it. I can say that I am happy that I did and the hype is real. The Wolf Wilder is a wonderful exploration into middle grade and the wolves will definitely be running to read this one.
One of the aspects of the book that I enjoyed was the Russian elements. I kept trying to tie it to a specific time but this was not Katherine Rundell's intention when I read the author notes and it does encompass a lot of different time periods. This does work and it helps make an interesting and unique snow setting, which is quite nice when it is 25c outside.
I do really like the attention that was played to the power of friendship and family in the book. I really loved the relationship between Feo and her mother. The lengths that she was willing to go to get her back was a little unrealistic but it's fiction so it doesn't matter. At moments, I thought it was going to get quite sticky but all was well and I love a book that gives a little hope. I also loved Ilya and the relationship that develops with Feo. Together are great and it was nice to see their relationship blossom.
Of course, the main part of this book is wolves and I loved this part. The relationship with the wolves especially Feo and Black were really special and it kind of reminded me of the wolves in Game Of Thrones. On the whole, I knew nothing about wolves going in and this taught me so much about them and how special they actually are.
From the first introduction paragraph about the Wolf Wilderings, I knew that Rundell's writing was something special and this is something that pins the book together and makes it so special. Her writing alone is enough for anyone to read this book.
The Verdict:
The Wolf Wilder is a quiet story that shows the lengths that you will go to find home and family.
Have you read The Wolf Wilder? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
Title: The Wolf WilderAuthor: Katherine RundellPublisher: Bloomsbury
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
Feodora and her mother live in the snowbound woods of Russia, in a house full of food and fireplaces. Ten minutes away, in a ruined chapel, lives a pack of wolves. Feodora's mother is a wolf wilder, and Feo is a wolf wilder in training. A wolf wilder is the opposite of an animal tamer: it is a person who teaches tamed animals to fend for themselves, and to fight and to run, and to be wary of humans.
When the murderous hostility of the Russian Army threatens her very existence, Feo is left with no option but to go on the run. What follows is a story of revolution and adventure, about standing up for the things you love and fighting back. And, of course, wolves.
Book Review:
When this came out, I remember that this got so much hype and a lot of people liked it. Middle Grade isn't normally my jam but I was going to give it a go. Fast forward to five years later and I still had not read it. I can say that I am happy that I did and the hype is real. The Wolf Wilder is a wonderful exploration into middle grade and the wolves will definitely be running to read this one.
One of the aspects of the book that I enjoyed was the Russian elements. I kept trying to tie it to a specific time but this was not Katherine Rundell's intention when I read the author notes and it does encompass a lot of different time periods. This does work and it helps make an interesting and unique snow setting, which is quite nice when it is 25c outside.
I do really like the attention that was played to the power of friendship and family in the book. I really loved the relationship between Feo and her mother. The lengths that she was willing to go to get her back was a little unrealistic but it's fiction so it doesn't matter. At moments, I thought it was going to get quite sticky but all was well and I love a book that gives a little hope. I also loved Ilya and the relationship that develops with Feo. Together are great and it was nice to see their relationship blossom.
Of course, the main part of this book is wolves and I loved this part. The relationship with the wolves especially Feo and Black were really special and it kind of reminded me of the wolves in Game Of Thrones. On the whole, I knew nothing about wolves going in and this taught me so much about them and how special they actually are.
From the first introduction paragraph about the Wolf Wilderings, I knew that Rundell's writing was something special and this is something that pins the book together and makes it so special. Her writing alone is enough for anyone to read this book.
The Verdict:
The Wolf Wilder is a quiet story that shows the lengths that you will go to find home and family.
Have you read The Wolf Wilder? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
June 9, 2020
Book Review: The Witch's Kiss by Katharine & Elizabeth Corr
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: The Witch's KissAuthor: Katharine & Elizabeth CorrPublisher: Harper Collins
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
Sixteeen-year-old Meredith is fed-up with her feuding family and feeling invisible at school – not to mention the witch magic that shoots out of her fingernails when she’s stressed. Then sweet, sensitive Jack comes into her life and she falls for him hard. The only problem is that he is periodically possessed by a destructive centuries-old curse. Meredith has lost her heart, but will she also lose her life? Or in true fairytale tradition, can true love’s kiss save the day?
Book Review:
So I loved this.
I'm kind of annoyed at myself because I have followed Katharine and Elizabeth for the longest time on Twitter and have wanted to read this book for the same amount of time and of course I loved it.
Also side-note, I started playing the audiobook this morning and only after a couple of breaks and my phone dying I finally finished this in one day! I was not expecting that! (Also I really liked the narrator too!)
I loved everything about this book. I loved Merry who was a realistic portrayal of a sixteen-year-old girl and I loved Leo with all of my heart too. I also loved the relationship between the two of them as I don't think sibling relationships are explored that much at all in YA so this was a nice change. Also, I liked Jack and Merry together and apparently, I have to read the third book to find out what happens so...
I was just really captivated from the first page and didn't know when to stop so I didn't. I think there were some nice storytelling and I wasn't sure where the story was going to go to but I enjoyed where it did. I also think that the story was grounded, it still kept Merry's problems relating to school at the centre and a lot of the setting was grounding relying on the family dynamics which again I liked.
It also feels like a nice contained story although you do get glimpses of a sequel so I will be on that soon. I just hope that it is not four years later this time because I will be really sad if that is the case.
Have you read The Witch's Kiss? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
Title: The Witch's KissAuthor: Katharine & Elizabeth CorrPublisher: Harper Collins
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
Sixteeen-year-old Meredith is fed-up with her feuding family and feeling invisible at school – not to mention the witch magic that shoots out of her fingernails when she’s stressed. Then sweet, sensitive Jack comes into her life and she falls for him hard. The only problem is that he is periodically possessed by a destructive centuries-old curse. Meredith has lost her heart, but will she also lose her life? Or in true fairytale tradition, can true love’s kiss save the day?
Book Review:
So I loved this.
I'm kind of annoyed at myself because I have followed Katharine and Elizabeth for the longest time on Twitter and have wanted to read this book for the same amount of time and of course I loved it.
Also side-note, I started playing the audiobook this morning and only after a couple of breaks and my phone dying I finally finished this in one day! I was not expecting that! (Also I really liked the narrator too!)
I loved everything about this book. I loved Merry who was a realistic portrayal of a sixteen-year-old girl and I loved Leo with all of my heart too. I also loved the relationship between the two of them as I don't think sibling relationships are explored that much at all in YA so this was a nice change. Also, I liked Jack and Merry together and apparently, I have to read the third book to find out what happens so...
I was just really captivated from the first page and didn't know when to stop so I didn't. I think there were some nice storytelling and I wasn't sure where the story was going to go to but I enjoyed where it did. I also think that the story was grounded, it still kept Merry's problems relating to school at the centre and a lot of the setting was grounding relying on the family dynamics which again I liked.
It also feels like a nice contained story although you do get glimpses of a sequel so I will be on that soon. I just hope that it is not four years later this time because I will be really sad if that is the case.
Have you read The Witch's Kiss? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
June 7, 2020
Book Review: The Accident Season by Moira Fowley-Doyle
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: The Accident SeasonAuthor: Moira Fowley-DoylePublisher: Penguin
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
A bewitching, dark and beautiful debut novel about a girl living in the shadow of a mysterious curse.
It's the accident season, the same time every year. Bones break, skin tears, bruises bloom.
The accident season has been part of seventeen-year-old Cara's life for as long as she can remember. Towards the end of October, foreshadowed by the deaths of many relatives before them, Cara's family becomes inexplicably accident-prone. They banish knives to locked drawers, cover sharp table edges with padding, switch off electrical items - but injuries follow wherever they go, and the accident season becomes an ever-growing obsession and fear.
But why are they so cursed? And how can they break free?
Book Review:
Moira Fowley-Doyle has been gaining more attraction in recent years due to her most recent release which a lot of people love. I have a copy of this for five years and I only just read it. I think that while a lot of new books are gaining more attention, this book is still worthy of a second look.
Before I get into the review, I do remember this being some controversy over some words that she describes a type of people in the book but when I tried to find it wasn't there so I might have made it up. She does use the word, 'gypsy' in this book so consider this if you want to. Even though I'm not part of this community when I read it, it did make me stop so...
I have to say that I loved writing. From the first page, I was hooked with her words and I just wanted to keep reading. Moira Fowley-Doyle knows how to intertwine fairy-tale style writing with a creepy flare so well and at some points, I was a little creeped out. I never knew what was coming next and I loved the undertones of spooky that are littered throughout the book.
I think that as the story progresses it does get really strange but it goes to an ending that is really fitting and it ties it all together. At points, though I was scared of the characters as the whole notion of the Accident Season is that all lives are at stake and that all the characters could die. You do definitely feel this throughout the book and it does lead to a satisfying ending.
Of course, all of this information would be pointless if you don't like the characters but I really connected to them. I enjoyed that the characters were mainly part of a family and the close bonds that they had. I also connected to Cara as a character and the interest over Elsie was the main reason why I kept reading. Also, this book has some nice romances, although one is kinda problematic, it does resolve itself and one of them is also sapphic.
Basically. I would recommend The Accident Season for a read if you enjoyed Moira Fowley-Doyle's other books or if you are new to her. I would like to read more.
The Verdict:
Moira Fowley-Doyle offers a spooky and captivating read that goes much deeper than a lot of other reads, making you feel creeped out.
Have you read The Accident Season? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
Title: The Accident SeasonAuthor: Moira Fowley-DoylePublisher: Penguin
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
A bewitching, dark and beautiful debut novel about a girl living in the shadow of a mysterious curse.
It's the accident season, the same time every year. Bones break, skin tears, bruises bloom.
The accident season has been part of seventeen-year-old Cara's life for as long as she can remember. Towards the end of October, foreshadowed by the deaths of many relatives before them, Cara's family becomes inexplicably accident-prone. They banish knives to locked drawers, cover sharp table edges with padding, switch off electrical items - but injuries follow wherever they go, and the accident season becomes an ever-growing obsession and fear.
But why are they so cursed? And how can they break free?
Book Review:
Moira Fowley-Doyle has been gaining more attraction in recent years due to her most recent release which a lot of people love. I have a copy of this for five years and I only just read it. I think that while a lot of new books are gaining more attention, this book is still worthy of a second look.
Before I get into the review, I do remember this being some controversy over some words that she describes a type of people in the book but when I tried to find it wasn't there so I might have made it up. She does use the word, 'gypsy' in this book so consider this if you want to. Even though I'm not part of this community when I read it, it did make me stop so...
I have to say that I loved writing. From the first page, I was hooked with her words and I just wanted to keep reading. Moira Fowley-Doyle knows how to intertwine fairy-tale style writing with a creepy flare so well and at some points, I was a little creeped out. I never knew what was coming next and I loved the undertones of spooky that are littered throughout the book.
I think that as the story progresses it does get really strange but it goes to an ending that is really fitting and it ties it all together. At points, though I was scared of the characters as the whole notion of the Accident Season is that all lives are at stake and that all the characters could die. You do definitely feel this throughout the book and it does lead to a satisfying ending.
Of course, all of this information would be pointless if you don't like the characters but I really connected to them. I enjoyed that the characters were mainly part of a family and the close bonds that they had. I also connected to Cara as a character and the interest over Elsie was the main reason why I kept reading. Also, this book has some nice romances, although one is kinda problematic, it does resolve itself and one of them is also sapphic.
Basically. I would recommend The Accident Season for a read if you enjoyed Moira Fowley-Doyle's other books or if you are new to her. I would like to read more.
The Verdict:
Moira Fowley-Doyle offers a spooky and captivating read that goes much deeper than a lot of other reads, making you feel creeped out.
Have you read The Accident Season? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
June 1, 2020
BLOG TOUR: Again, Again by E. Lockhart Book Review
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: Again Again Author: E. LockhartPublisher: Hot Key Books
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
When Adelaide Buchman's younger brother succumbs to a drug overdose, she saves his life. In the aftermath, looking for distraction, she becomes a stylish, bright charmer who blows off school and falls madly in love - even though her heart is shattered. Adelaide is catapulted into a summer of wild possibility, during which she will fall in and out of love a thousand times while finally confronting her brother, their history, and her own strength. A raw and funny story that will surprise you over and over, Adelaide is an indelible heroine grappling with the terrible and wonderful problem of loving other people.
Book Review:
I have enjoyed E. Lockhart's last two books so when I saw this was coming out, I jumped at the chance to read it. While I thought this was going to be one of my favourite reads of the year, it offers a new and interesting take on the time-travel genre.
First I want to say that I got a copy from Netgalley and I had a physical copy and I was swapping between the two of them. I found that the physical copy has clear differences between the parts where times change and this does not happen on my copy. I was then a little confused about the changes happening so a little warning.
One of the reasons why I enjoyed this book so much was the focus on family. I think the relationship with her brother was really special and I love a good sibling relationship but we don't often get a lot of them in YA that I have read before. I also really liked Toby as a character and as a whole, I think the characters are really complex.
I think it is safe to say that Adelaide goes through a lot in this book and I think E. Lockhart shows this and how messy life can be. She is failing school and we are very aware that her boyfriend was not the best and that she is just trying to make the best out of her situation. In this respect, I found her very easy to connect with.
With Jack and the other relationships, it was so easy to see that there was hope with her relationship and that things could be better. I also liked Jack most of the time but the changes allow us to see how different the outcomes can be. This is where a lot of the different outcomes come from and I liked that it was often a small change that could create this massive ripple effect and change. This was a nice way to do the changes and I liked it as part of the story.
I am going to admit that I was so hyped for this book and I was so ready to fall in love with it but it did not happen. It's sad because her writing is so good in parts and I could feel myself being head over heels in love with the book but then it didn't happen. I think some of this might be to do with the ending because I think for me it came out of left-field and the romantic element was really surprising. I think because I was so off guard I couldn't appreciate the story fully and this hindered my enjoyment.
I think that this is one book where I need to reread it because I feel like I would gain so much more on a reread especially because it's a short read anyway.
The Verdict:
Again Again is a new addition to the 'new futures' genre that intertwines family and relationships to create a pitch-perfect contemporary about how the smallest decisions can change everything.
Have you read Again Again? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below!
Title: Again Again Author: E. LockhartPublisher: Hot Key Books
Source: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
When Adelaide Buchman's younger brother succumbs to a drug overdose, she saves his life. In the aftermath, looking for distraction, she becomes a stylish, bright charmer who blows off school and falls madly in love - even though her heart is shattered. Adelaide is catapulted into a summer of wild possibility, during which she will fall in and out of love a thousand times while finally confronting her brother, their history, and her own strength. A raw and funny story that will surprise you over and over, Adelaide is an indelible heroine grappling with the terrible and wonderful problem of loving other people.
Book Review:
I have enjoyed E. Lockhart's last two books so when I saw this was coming out, I jumped at the chance to read it. While I thought this was going to be one of my favourite reads of the year, it offers a new and interesting take on the time-travel genre.
First I want to say that I got a copy from Netgalley and I had a physical copy and I was swapping between the two of them. I found that the physical copy has clear differences between the parts where times change and this does not happen on my copy. I was then a little confused about the changes happening so a little warning.
One of the reasons why I enjoyed this book so much was the focus on family. I think the relationship with her brother was really special and I love a good sibling relationship but we don't often get a lot of them in YA that I have read before. I also really liked Toby as a character and as a whole, I think the characters are really complex.
I think it is safe to say that Adelaide goes through a lot in this book and I think E. Lockhart shows this and how messy life can be. She is failing school and we are very aware that her boyfriend was not the best and that she is just trying to make the best out of her situation. In this respect, I found her very easy to connect with.
With Jack and the other relationships, it was so easy to see that there was hope with her relationship and that things could be better. I also liked Jack most of the time but the changes allow us to see how different the outcomes can be. This is where a lot of the different outcomes come from and I liked that it was often a small change that could create this massive ripple effect and change. This was a nice way to do the changes and I liked it as part of the story.
I am going to admit that I was so hyped for this book and I was so ready to fall in love with it but it did not happen. It's sad because her writing is so good in parts and I could feel myself being head over heels in love with the book but then it didn't happen. I think some of this might be to do with the ending because I think for me it came out of left-field and the romantic element was really surprising. I think because I was so off guard I couldn't appreciate the story fully and this hindered my enjoyment.
I think that this is one book where I need to reread it because I feel like I would gain so much more on a reread especially because it's a short read anyway.
The Verdict:
Again Again is a new addition to the 'new futures' genre that intertwines family and relationships to create a pitch-perfect contemporary about how the smallest decisions can change everything.
Have you read Again Again? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below!
May 28, 2020
April Wrap Up: O.W.L.S. Readathon and Reading The YA Book Prize
So it is safe to say that I have put off writing this wrap up for basically the whole of May because I read 36 books and I didn't want to write about them all. I did OK with reading The YA Book Prize, completing 8 of the 10 books, not reading Furious Thing and Knife Edge but I might get to Furious Thing soon. I also did well in the O. W. L. S. Readathon completing most of the challenges. At least I've learnt sometimes and I wouldn't expect another Wrap Up soon... Let's get started...
Reading The YA Book Prize
I did say that I was going to take part in the Twitter chats that they host although I didn't get a chance to. Here are the nominees:
A Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson
Deeplight by Frances Hardinge
Furious Thing by Jenny Downham
Meat Market by Juno Dawson
The Deathless Girls by Karen Milwood Hargrave
The Gifted, The Talented and Me by William Sutcliffe
The Places I've Cried In Public by Holly Bourne
Crossfire by Malorie Blackman
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
The Quiet At The End Of The Universe by Lauren James
As I previously mentioned, I have already read The Black Flamingo and The Quiet At The End Of The Universe which meant that I read another 6 of the nominees. Here is what I thought of them:
Deeplight by Frances Hardinge
I have wanted to read a Frances Hardinge book for the longest time and I wasn't disappointed with Deeplight. I think that the world that Frances is so intoxicating and believable. I read the book super quickly and can't wait to read more from her.
The Deathless Girls by Karen Milwood Hargrave
I had seen some really mixed reviews for this one and I think that is because it is marketed as a Brides Of Dracula story but this is only really evident at the end of the story. I think that this was probably misleading and if you go in knowing that this is not the case, then you may like it more. I enjoyed myself, again it was a short read and I liked the characters and enjoyed their journeys. It is also queer so...
Meat Market by Juno Dawson
I haven't read a Juno Dawson book for years even though I have a lot of her books and I was so glad that I was able to read Meat Market because it was so good but I should warn about trigger warnings including eating disorders, transphobia, sexual assault, sexual harassment, body shaming, coercion and drug use as well as general mental health awareness. Meat Market offers a vital insight into the modelling world and the #MeToo era which should be read by everyone.
The Gifted, The Talented and Me by William Sutcliffe
This was okay. I think that compared to the other books that I have read for the YA Book Prize this one does not fit the trend. I know I'm not the target audience and I know that this could work well for the people who it is aimed at. Also, boys need YA especially aimed at them. Of course, much of YA is genderless but I think that this is a clear signpost for them. I just think that I have read other things that are similar to this but I did like the writing and some characters so it is was not all bad.
The Places I've Cried In Public by Holly Bourne
The ending of this was really emotional but that basically describes what it was like reading the whole thing. I have loved Holly Bourne's for the longest time and while I thought that was growing out of her books I still liked this one. It was not a favourite read though but I can't question how important this is as a book and I think that the concept was well executed. It was obviously really important for abusive relationships to be covered in YA and this was definitely well done.
A Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson
I think firstly it is good to say that I am not a typical thriller reader as I find them really predictable to not engaging. This was not the case with this book. I really did enjoy it. I think that once I got into I was invested and it had really great (and dislikable) characters and I loved a lot of the dialogue in the book. The mystery is also well done and the red herring definitely got the best of me and I didn't work out what was going to happen. I will definitely read the sequel!
O. W. L. S. Readathon
Set up by Book Roast on Youtube, it was designed to replicate the exams at Hogwarts that take place in April. There are 12 prompts and although you can do as little or as many as you want these can also lead to career projection which is what I did.
I took the easy route which is a Journalist/Writer which meant that I had to complete three prompts but I completed a lot more.
For this I completed the following prompts and books:
History Of Magic- Witch hunts: a book with witches/wizards
I was planning on The Witch's Kiss, I read the first Bane Chronicle short story, What Really Happened in Peru by Cassandra Clare. While I enjoyed the humour and the characters, this short story was just OK but I will carry on with the other stories too.
Muggles Studies- Book from a perspective of a muggle (contemporary)
Rebel With A Cupcake by Anna Mainwaring
While I enjoyed the book, I did think that it was dated in some places. I still think that it holds important messages about body positivity and makes it a worthy read for YA readers. I also liked the key family in the book and how they were developed. Jess also goes on a big journey in the book which I liked and it was good.
Herbology- Mimbulus Mimbletonia - A Book Starting With A M
Meat Market by Juno Dawson (See above)
So those are the definite three but I also do the read these books some of which have been mentioned above:
Arithmancy - Magical Qualities of The Number Two: Balances & Opposites: Read Something Outside Your Favourite Genre
The Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson (See above)
Charms - Lumos Maximus: Read A Book With A White Cover
The Places I've Cried In Public by Holly Bourne (See above)
Defence Against The Dark Arts - Grindylows: A Book Set At Sea/Coast
Deeplight by Frances Hardinge (See above)
Ancient Runes - Heart Rune: Heart in the Title or on Cover
The Witch's Kiss by Katharine & Elizabeth Corr
I have followed the Corrs sisters for years and I finally read their debut and I really liked it. I loved all the characters and I read the whole thing in a day. I can't wait to read the rest of the series to see what happens to Merry!
Astronomy - Night Classes: Read majority of the book when it is dark outside
Invisible Kingdom Vol. 1 by G. Willow Wilson
I was super excited for this one but while the art-style was good, I had no idea what was going on in the story so this was a definite miss from me.
Divination - Third Eye: Assign Numbers To Your TBR and use a random number generator to pick your next read
Paper Girls Vol. 6 by Brian K. Vaughan
I wasn't planning on doing this so I quickly did the random number on some graphic novels and was happy that it landed on this one. Paper Girls has been one of my favourite graphic novel series so I had been putting it off because I didn't want it to end. I think it was a nice end to the series but a little bitter-sweet.
Potions - Shrinking Solution: A Book Under 150 Pages
Avant Guards #1 by Carly Usdin
This was only 28 pages, it was a good start to the series and I can't wait to read more. It looks like a fun read, perfect for a summer pick.
Transfiguration - Animagus Lecture: Book Series That Includes Shapeshifting
A Wizard Of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
I read this for the readathon that was taking place. While it was not my favourite and the worldbuilding was too detailed for my taste, I did prefer the second book that I read in May.
Anything Else
Daughter Of The Zel by Phoebe Ritter
I really enjoyed the world to this one and it often diverted away from stereotypical YA tropes which I liked. The main character was also enjoyable and I really want to read the next one to see where the series goes.
Sweet Sorrow by David Nicolls
I was really interested to read this because even though it is classed as Adult, the main character throughout most of the book is 16. I really loved this book and it was definitely a stand out for the month. The book tackles first loves and mental health so well and I liked it, a lot.
Cosmoknights Vol. 1 by Hannah Templer
The synopsis literally describes this as a ragtag group of space gays. Need I say more. Yes. Please read this. It is really good. I want the next one like now.
The Power by Naomi Alderman
I did like this and it's themes of feminism that are used throughout but it was definitely not a standout favourite. It's weird because BooksandLala read this in April as well and we had similar views. I do think that some views were better than others and I think that it just felt flat in some ways. I was smiling at the last line though and I think that the mix media in the book was a nice touch.
Herding Cats, Adulthood Is A Myth & Big Mushy Happy Lump by Sarah Anderson
These were quick, easy and fun reads. I was literally laughing out loud at some parts and they are obviously highly relatable.
the magic my body becomes by Jess Rizkallah
Jess provides a raw voice that needs to be more evident in poetry. The poems are honest and heart-wrenching and are definitely worth a read.
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
So this was slightly unexpected. I thought I knew where it was going and was kinda right and wrong. I think I enjoyed it but I really don't understand why we had to know what the characters were always wearing? Like seriously why?
The Fire Never Goes Out: A Memoir in Pictures by Noelle Stevenson
I have liked Noelle Stevenson's work since I read Nimona and was excited to read this when it was announced. While it was an important read and I liked what was on the page. I mean Noelle's art style is so good and you can see how much they have grown as an artist. I just wanted more but what we got was still good.
Chew Vol. 3: Just Desserts by John Layman
I really love the Chew graphic novels. I don't know why but every time that I have them I don't want to read them but when I start them, I get really obsessed. I love the characters and really want to continue the series.
Y: The Last Man Vol. 3: One Small Step by Brian K. Vaughan
Another series that I really love. I really like Yorrick and Ambersand and can't wait until this finally gets adapted because I think it will be a great TV show. The female characters are also great and I think that the stakes keep getting higher with each volume.
The Tales Of Beedle The Bard by J. K. Rowling
I decided to give this a reread as I had access to the new audiobook on Audible. It was great to hear a lot of the cast read the audiobook and I definitely recommend it.
Into The Crooked Place by Alexandra Christo
So I went into this with quite low expectations due to the star rating but it wasn't as bad as everyone was saying. I think the similarities are to do with another YA series but I think that by the end they do become completely different books. The characters were likeable and I thought the plot was interesting and engaging. It was a good time.
How To Tell If Your Cat Is Plotting To Kill You by Matthew Inman
I think that while it was funny in parts, some of it just was not at all. I think this was probably my least favourite of the month. Some of the humour just went over my head but it might be your cup of tea.
The Upside of Falling by Alex Light
So this was just a really cute and fluffy read! I was staring at this for weeks and it was falling out for me to read it and I don't regret it. Was it a little bit like To All The Boys? Yes. But I think that is what I needed right now. I just needed a quick and cosy romance and this is what it delivers. Now I just really want to try a Jelly Bells...
Once & Future #2-#7 by Kieron Gillen
I love a lot of Kieron Gillen's work and this was a nice start to the graphic novel series and I already knew that I liked the first one. It is another take of Arthurian legend but I think that it does it differently and it is worth the read.
Nevernight by Jay Kristoff
So a lot of people love this book and I didn't. There are some good parts to the book but on the whole, I couldn't connect to the story. I had problems with the footnotes and the overall writing style but I do recommend the audiobook if you want to give it a read.
Book Love by Debbie Tung
I have wanted to read this for the longest time and I finally did this month obviously. It is a must for all book lovers and it is obviously highly relatable.
Abbott #1 by Saladin Ahmed
This was a really different issue from the others that I read this month and I would like to see where it goes. This one again is only 28 or so pages so I don't really have much to say but good so far.
The Worrier's Guide To Life by Gemma Correll
This was another relatable and funny read that I picked up on Scribd. While there were some parts that I found funny, some I did not connect with but on the whole, it was good.
So that is all the books I read. If you made it this far, I appreciate you so much! Thank you for reading. I know that I am lucky that I have had time to read and that these times have not affected my reading so just know that we will all hopefully get through this. What did you read in April? How many books did you read? Let me know in the comments below.
See you soon,
Amy
Reading The YA Book Prize
I did say that I was going to take part in the Twitter chats that they host although I didn't get a chance to. Here are the nominees:
A Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson
Deeplight by Frances Hardinge
Furious Thing by Jenny Downham
Meat Market by Juno Dawson
The Deathless Girls by Karen Milwood Hargrave
The Gifted, The Talented and Me by William Sutcliffe
The Places I've Cried In Public by Holly Bourne
Crossfire by Malorie Blackman
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
The Quiet At The End Of The Universe by Lauren James
As I previously mentioned, I have already read The Black Flamingo and The Quiet At The End Of The Universe which meant that I read another 6 of the nominees. Here is what I thought of them:
Deeplight by Frances Hardinge
I have wanted to read a Frances Hardinge book for the longest time and I wasn't disappointed with Deeplight. I think that the world that Frances is so intoxicating and believable. I read the book super quickly and can't wait to read more from her.
The Deathless Girls by Karen Milwood Hargrave
I had seen some really mixed reviews for this one and I think that is because it is marketed as a Brides Of Dracula story but this is only really evident at the end of the story. I think that this was probably misleading and if you go in knowing that this is not the case, then you may like it more. I enjoyed myself, again it was a short read and I liked the characters and enjoyed their journeys. It is also queer so...
Meat Market by Juno Dawson
I haven't read a Juno Dawson book for years even though I have a lot of her books and I was so glad that I was able to read Meat Market because it was so good but I should warn about trigger warnings including eating disorders, transphobia, sexual assault, sexual harassment, body shaming, coercion and drug use as well as general mental health awareness. Meat Market offers a vital insight into the modelling world and the #MeToo era which should be read by everyone.
The Gifted, The Talented and Me by William Sutcliffe
This was okay. I think that compared to the other books that I have read for the YA Book Prize this one does not fit the trend. I know I'm not the target audience and I know that this could work well for the people who it is aimed at. Also, boys need YA especially aimed at them. Of course, much of YA is genderless but I think that this is a clear signpost for them. I just think that I have read other things that are similar to this but I did like the writing and some characters so it is was not all bad.
The Places I've Cried In Public by Holly Bourne
The ending of this was really emotional but that basically describes what it was like reading the whole thing. I have loved Holly Bourne's for the longest time and while I thought that was growing out of her books I still liked this one. It was not a favourite read though but I can't question how important this is as a book and I think that the concept was well executed. It was obviously really important for abusive relationships to be covered in YA and this was definitely well done.
A Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson
I think firstly it is good to say that I am not a typical thriller reader as I find them really predictable to not engaging. This was not the case with this book. I really did enjoy it. I think that once I got into I was invested and it had really great (and dislikable) characters and I loved a lot of the dialogue in the book. The mystery is also well done and the red herring definitely got the best of me and I didn't work out what was going to happen. I will definitely read the sequel!
O. W. L. S. Readathon
Set up by Book Roast on Youtube, it was designed to replicate the exams at Hogwarts that take place in April. There are 12 prompts and although you can do as little or as many as you want these can also lead to career projection which is what I did.
I took the easy route which is a Journalist/Writer which meant that I had to complete three prompts but I completed a lot more.
For this I completed the following prompts and books:
History Of Magic- Witch hunts: a book with witches/wizards
I was planning on The Witch's Kiss, I read the first Bane Chronicle short story, What Really Happened in Peru by Cassandra Clare. While I enjoyed the humour and the characters, this short story was just OK but I will carry on with the other stories too.
Muggles Studies- Book from a perspective of a muggle (contemporary)
Rebel With A Cupcake by Anna Mainwaring
While I enjoyed the book, I did think that it was dated in some places. I still think that it holds important messages about body positivity and makes it a worthy read for YA readers. I also liked the key family in the book and how they were developed. Jess also goes on a big journey in the book which I liked and it was good.
Herbology- Mimbulus Mimbletonia - A Book Starting With A M
Meat Market by Juno Dawson (See above)
So those are the definite three but I also do the read these books some of which have been mentioned above:
Arithmancy - Magical Qualities of The Number Two: Balances & Opposites: Read Something Outside Your Favourite Genre
The Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson (See above)
Charms - Lumos Maximus: Read A Book With A White Cover
The Places I've Cried In Public by Holly Bourne (See above)
Defence Against The Dark Arts - Grindylows: A Book Set At Sea/Coast
Deeplight by Frances Hardinge (See above)
Ancient Runes - Heart Rune: Heart in the Title or on Cover
The Witch's Kiss by Katharine & Elizabeth Corr
I have followed the Corrs sisters for years and I finally read their debut and I really liked it. I loved all the characters and I read the whole thing in a day. I can't wait to read the rest of the series to see what happens to Merry!
Astronomy - Night Classes: Read majority of the book when it is dark outside
Invisible Kingdom Vol. 1 by G. Willow Wilson
I was super excited for this one but while the art-style was good, I had no idea what was going on in the story so this was a definite miss from me.
Divination - Third Eye: Assign Numbers To Your TBR and use a random number generator to pick your next read
Paper Girls Vol. 6 by Brian K. Vaughan
I wasn't planning on doing this so I quickly did the random number on some graphic novels and was happy that it landed on this one. Paper Girls has been one of my favourite graphic novel series so I had been putting it off because I didn't want it to end. I think it was a nice end to the series but a little bitter-sweet.
Potions - Shrinking Solution: A Book Under 150 Pages
Avant Guards #1 by Carly Usdin
This was only 28 pages, it was a good start to the series and I can't wait to read more. It looks like a fun read, perfect for a summer pick.
Transfiguration - Animagus Lecture: Book Series That Includes Shapeshifting
A Wizard Of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
I read this for the readathon that was taking place. While it was not my favourite and the worldbuilding was too detailed for my taste, I did prefer the second book that I read in May.
Anything Else
Daughter Of The Zel by Phoebe Ritter
I really enjoyed the world to this one and it often diverted away from stereotypical YA tropes which I liked. The main character was also enjoyable and I really want to read the next one to see where the series goes.
Sweet Sorrow by David Nicolls
I was really interested to read this because even though it is classed as Adult, the main character throughout most of the book is 16. I really loved this book and it was definitely a stand out for the month. The book tackles first loves and mental health so well and I liked it, a lot.
Cosmoknights Vol. 1 by Hannah Templer
The synopsis literally describes this as a ragtag group of space gays. Need I say more. Yes. Please read this. It is really good. I want the next one like now.
The Power by Naomi Alderman
I did like this and it's themes of feminism that are used throughout but it was definitely not a standout favourite. It's weird because BooksandLala read this in April as well and we had similar views. I do think that some views were better than others and I think that it just felt flat in some ways. I was smiling at the last line though and I think that the mix media in the book was a nice touch.
Herding Cats, Adulthood Is A Myth & Big Mushy Happy Lump by Sarah Anderson
These were quick, easy and fun reads. I was literally laughing out loud at some parts and they are obviously highly relatable.
the magic my body becomes by Jess Rizkallah
Jess provides a raw voice that needs to be more evident in poetry. The poems are honest and heart-wrenching and are definitely worth a read.
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
So this was slightly unexpected. I thought I knew where it was going and was kinda right and wrong. I think I enjoyed it but I really don't understand why we had to know what the characters were always wearing? Like seriously why?
The Fire Never Goes Out: A Memoir in Pictures by Noelle Stevenson
I have liked Noelle Stevenson's work since I read Nimona and was excited to read this when it was announced. While it was an important read and I liked what was on the page. I mean Noelle's art style is so good and you can see how much they have grown as an artist. I just wanted more but what we got was still good.
Chew Vol. 3: Just Desserts by John Layman
I really love the Chew graphic novels. I don't know why but every time that I have them I don't want to read them but when I start them, I get really obsessed. I love the characters and really want to continue the series.
Y: The Last Man Vol. 3: One Small Step by Brian K. Vaughan
Another series that I really love. I really like Yorrick and Ambersand and can't wait until this finally gets adapted because I think it will be a great TV show. The female characters are also great and I think that the stakes keep getting higher with each volume.
The Tales Of Beedle The Bard by J. K. Rowling
I decided to give this a reread as I had access to the new audiobook on Audible. It was great to hear a lot of the cast read the audiobook and I definitely recommend it.
Into The Crooked Place by Alexandra Christo
So I went into this with quite low expectations due to the star rating but it wasn't as bad as everyone was saying. I think the similarities are to do with another YA series but I think that by the end they do become completely different books. The characters were likeable and I thought the plot was interesting and engaging. It was a good time.
How To Tell If Your Cat Is Plotting To Kill You by Matthew Inman
I think that while it was funny in parts, some of it just was not at all. I think this was probably my least favourite of the month. Some of the humour just went over my head but it might be your cup of tea.
The Upside of Falling by Alex Light
So this was just a really cute and fluffy read! I was staring at this for weeks and it was falling out for me to read it and I don't regret it. Was it a little bit like To All The Boys? Yes. But I think that is what I needed right now. I just needed a quick and cosy romance and this is what it delivers. Now I just really want to try a Jelly Bells...
Once & Future #2-#7 by Kieron Gillen
I love a lot of Kieron Gillen's work and this was a nice start to the graphic novel series and I already knew that I liked the first one. It is another take of Arthurian legend but I think that it does it differently and it is worth the read.
Nevernight by Jay Kristoff
So a lot of people love this book and I didn't. There are some good parts to the book but on the whole, I couldn't connect to the story. I had problems with the footnotes and the overall writing style but I do recommend the audiobook if you want to give it a read.
Book Love by Debbie Tung
I have wanted to read this for the longest time and I finally did this month obviously. It is a must for all book lovers and it is obviously highly relatable.
Abbott #1 by Saladin Ahmed
This was a really different issue from the others that I read this month and I would like to see where it goes. This one again is only 28 or so pages so I don't really have much to say but good so far.
The Worrier's Guide To Life by Gemma Correll
This was another relatable and funny read that I picked up on Scribd. While there were some parts that I found funny, some I did not connect with but on the whole, it was good.
So that is all the books I read. If you made it this far, I appreciate you so much! Thank you for reading. I know that I am lucky that I have had time to read and that these times have not affected my reading so just know that we will all hopefully get through this. What did you read in April? How many books did you read? Let me know in the comments below.
See you soon,
Amy
May 26, 2020
Book Review: Fall Out by C. G. Moore
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: Fall OutAuthor: C. G. MoorePublisher: UCLan Publishing
Source: Publisher
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
I am Cal Adams – what does that mean?
Sixteen years old.
Black hair.
Blue eyes.
Short.
Gay.
For Cal, coming out is explosive, but that is nothing compared to the fallout from his family, friends and foes. When events in Cal's life reach critical, he is shaken to his core. Can he rely on his loved ones to help avoid meltdown?
Book Review:
I was really excited when I was asked to review Fall Out as I was really interested in the plot to see where it was going to go. I was therefore surprised when I saw how dark that it got but I think that it was made so important.I was surprised at how dark the book was which I don't think that I was expecting. This was because Fall Out was not afraid to go there and tackles so much that LGBTQIA+ story doesn't often tell (that I have read). In the first couple of chapters, we are literally put into Cal's world and I think that the readers are allowed to go to that place. Even though it is dark. The opening chapter was also just so shocking to me and I think that the whole book was quite well-written and I was there for the ride. By mentioning these difficult topics, there are trigger warnings for self-harm, homophobia and grief or loss of a loved one in this book. I think that especially homophobia is often overlooked in YA because readers may want an escape from the real world but this is something that still happens and that needs to be addressed. I think that this was addressed and the book still offers hope in the latter stages in a really emotional scene towards the end of the book. I did really connect to the characters in the book. Cal had such a strong voice and I think that we feel empathy for him from the get-go and I wanted him to succeed throughout the book. He is complicated and he gets put through a lot but again the book offers hope at the end which I did like. I also connected to the friendship in the book, especially Em. I think sometimes the side-characters are often not there to have their own stories but this was not the case and the writing allowed us to see who she was as a character and allowed her to grow as well. I also liked the friendship in the book and how they both managed to get through the book together, even though there were some tough situations. This may be quite weird but I have read a few books later, where the main character seems to have a relationship with an older person and this book kind of kicked it off. Nevertheless, I did really like the relationship with Peggy and she really did not have a care in the world due to the condition that she is in. Her relationship with Cal was complicated and even though not wholly good, I think that it allowed him to learn about himself. This leads to some elements which I have mentioned in the trigger warnings above. I have been one of those people who always mention that class is often an issue especially in UKYA and this was not evident in this book as Cal is working-class. It was interesting to see this play out in the book and even though it made his overall situation worse, working-class representation in books is important as many readers will be in the same situation. Basically, I did enjoy this book and I can't wait to see what C. G. Moore writes next. The Verdict:Fall Out is an honest and brutal portrayal of sexuality and homophobia that is a must for all YA readers who read LGBTQIA+ book.
Have you read Fall Out? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below!
Title: Fall OutAuthor: C. G. MoorePublisher: UCLan PublishingSource: Publisher
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
I am Cal Adams – what does that mean?
Sixteen years old.
Black hair.
Blue eyes.
Short.
Gay.
For Cal, coming out is explosive, but that is nothing compared to the fallout from his family, friends and foes. When events in Cal's life reach critical, he is shaken to his core. Can he rely on his loved ones to help avoid meltdown?
Book Review:
I was really excited when I was asked to review Fall Out as I was really interested in the plot to see where it was going to go. I was therefore surprised when I saw how dark that it got but I think that it was made so important.I was surprised at how dark the book was which I don't think that I was expecting. This was because Fall Out was not afraid to go there and tackles so much that LGBTQIA+ story doesn't often tell (that I have read). In the first couple of chapters, we are literally put into Cal's world and I think that the readers are allowed to go to that place. Even though it is dark. The opening chapter was also just so shocking to me and I think that the whole book was quite well-written and I was there for the ride. By mentioning these difficult topics, there are trigger warnings for self-harm, homophobia and grief or loss of a loved one in this book. I think that especially homophobia is often overlooked in YA because readers may want an escape from the real world but this is something that still happens and that needs to be addressed. I think that this was addressed and the book still offers hope in the latter stages in a really emotional scene towards the end of the book. I did really connect to the characters in the book. Cal had such a strong voice and I think that we feel empathy for him from the get-go and I wanted him to succeed throughout the book. He is complicated and he gets put through a lot but again the book offers hope at the end which I did like. I also connected to the friendship in the book, especially Em. I think sometimes the side-characters are often not there to have their own stories but this was not the case and the writing allowed us to see who she was as a character and allowed her to grow as well. I also liked the friendship in the book and how they both managed to get through the book together, even though there were some tough situations. This may be quite weird but I have read a few books later, where the main character seems to have a relationship with an older person and this book kind of kicked it off. Nevertheless, I did really like the relationship with Peggy and she really did not have a care in the world due to the condition that she is in. Her relationship with Cal was complicated and even though not wholly good, I think that it allowed him to learn about himself. This leads to some elements which I have mentioned in the trigger warnings above. I have been one of those people who always mention that class is often an issue especially in UKYA and this was not evident in this book as Cal is working-class. It was interesting to see this play out in the book and even though it made his overall situation worse, working-class representation in books is important as many readers will be in the same situation. Basically, I did enjoy this book and I can't wait to see what C. G. Moore writes next. The Verdict:Fall Out is an honest and brutal portrayal of sexuality and homophobia that is a must for all YA readers who read LGBTQIA+ book.
Have you read Fall Out? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below!
May 21, 2020
Book Review: Not So Pure and Simple by Lamar Giles
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: Not So Pure and SimpleAuthor: Lamar GilesPublisher: HarperTeenSource: Publisher
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
An Indie Next List Pick!
In his first contemporary teen novel, critically acclaimed author and two-time Edgar Award finalist Lamar Giles spotlights the consequences of societal pressure, confronts toxic masculinity, and explores the complexity of what it means to be a “real man.”
Del has had a crush on Kiera Westing since kindergarten. And now, during their junior year, she’s finally available. So when Kiera volunteers for an opportunity at their church, Del’s right behind her. Though he quickly realizes he’s inadvertently signed up for a Purity Pledge.
His dad thinks his wires are crossed, and his best friend, Qwan, doesn’t believe any girl is worth the long game. But Del’s not about to lose his dream girl, and that’s where fellow pledger Jameer comes in. He can put in the good word. In exchange, Del just has to get answers to the Pledgers’ questions…about sex ed.
With other boys circling Kiera like sharks, Del needs to make his move fast. But as he plots and plans, he neglects to ask the most important question: What does Kiera want? He can’t think about that too much, though, because once he gets the girl, it’ll all sort itself out. Right?
Book Review:
When I first saw Not So Pure and Simple to review, I was obviously attracted to the cover because it is obviously stunning but also it has a great premise. It is safe to say that the book goes beyond the cover, offering an easy to read book with a premise that directly tackles toxic masculinity.
I think for a start, there is so much to say about this book. It tackles so much about religion, masculinity and sexuality and it does so in about 400 pages. Not only does it do it: it does it so well. I think the thing that captured me the most, is the focus on sexuality. A lot of the book, it focused on characters taking a purity pact as part of a church and I think this was so important to cover especially to what it uncovers.
The first part is Del's sister who creates sociology based Youtube channel that deals with sexuality as a result of how women are often shamed in society, important as students in Del's school had a chain of teenage pregnancies and are as a result demonised by the town. The way that the book addresses these issues is done well and I think that it grows Del as a character so much. Also, I loved Del's sister so much and I thought that the progression of her Youtube channel was believable.
The second part is the sex education element which did really show links to the TV show as it highlighted the clueless nature of teenagers and showed so many links to masculinity that I also liked it. It also leads to an ending that I really liked, even though it was a bit cheesy.
This also leads to so much discussion about masculinity and Del discovers so much about himself when trying to get the girl and how masculinity is treated in society. It definitely tries to combat these ideas which again were great to end about. I also liked the relationships in this book, as it showed so complicated love can be and how it really can be staring you in the face all along.
All of this is tried into a religion which I always like to read about in books as I am not religious and it is interesting to read about it. This is linked to the purity pact that I mentioned before and often the complicated notions that happen with it and that it is not so pure and simple. (I'm sorry I couldn't help myself.)
This also leads to some great friendships in the book and some funny moments which I did laugh out loud too. I think on the whole I liked most of the characters and it was a good time. I also liked that Del was a complex character and he often makes mistakes but I think that he goes on a journey where he learns from them and I think that it is great to see this because teenagers make mistakes. That's life.
I also really liked the writing, I found that it was very fast-paced and it flowed really well and I just wanted to keep reading. Also, on a random note, the book features Del as he works in a drive-thru for part of the book and from experience, I can say that it is accurate. The book does also follow story beats but I definitely like that Del is put through a little bit of turmoil as I think that it made him grow a lot as a character.
I think that often I am so used to reading about a character's not labelling their race and assuming that they are white but the book flips this and the main characters are read as black which I really liked and I hope that this becomes more normal.
The Verdict:
Not So Pure and Simple is a book that went under a lot of people's radars but is a must-read tackling important topics that should be more widely discussed in YA.
Have you read Not So Pure and Simple? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
Title: Not So Pure and SimpleAuthor: Lamar GilesPublisher: HarperTeenSource: Publisher
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
An Indie Next List Pick!
In his first contemporary teen novel, critically acclaimed author and two-time Edgar Award finalist Lamar Giles spotlights the consequences of societal pressure, confronts toxic masculinity, and explores the complexity of what it means to be a “real man.”
Del has had a crush on Kiera Westing since kindergarten. And now, during their junior year, she’s finally available. So when Kiera volunteers for an opportunity at their church, Del’s right behind her. Though he quickly realizes he’s inadvertently signed up for a Purity Pledge.
His dad thinks his wires are crossed, and his best friend, Qwan, doesn’t believe any girl is worth the long game. But Del’s not about to lose his dream girl, and that’s where fellow pledger Jameer comes in. He can put in the good word. In exchange, Del just has to get answers to the Pledgers’ questions…about sex ed.
With other boys circling Kiera like sharks, Del needs to make his move fast. But as he plots and plans, he neglects to ask the most important question: What does Kiera want? He can’t think about that too much, though, because once he gets the girl, it’ll all sort itself out. Right?
Book Review:
When I first saw Not So Pure and Simple to review, I was obviously attracted to the cover because it is obviously stunning but also it has a great premise. It is safe to say that the book goes beyond the cover, offering an easy to read book with a premise that directly tackles toxic masculinity.
I think for a start, there is so much to say about this book. It tackles so much about religion, masculinity and sexuality and it does so in about 400 pages. Not only does it do it: it does it so well. I think the thing that captured me the most, is the focus on sexuality. A lot of the book, it focused on characters taking a purity pact as part of a church and I think this was so important to cover especially to what it uncovers.
The first part is Del's sister who creates sociology based Youtube channel that deals with sexuality as a result of how women are often shamed in society, important as students in Del's school had a chain of teenage pregnancies and are as a result demonised by the town. The way that the book addresses these issues is done well and I think that it grows Del as a character so much. Also, I loved Del's sister so much and I thought that the progression of her Youtube channel was believable.
The second part is the sex education element which did really show links to the TV show as it highlighted the clueless nature of teenagers and showed so many links to masculinity that I also liked it. It also leads to an ending that I really liked, even though it was a bit cheesy.
This also leads to so much discussion about masculinity and Del discovers so much about himself when trying to get the girl and how masculinity is treated in society. It definitely tries to combat these ideas which again were great to end about. I also liked the relationships in this book, as it showed so complicated love can be and how it really can be staring you in the face all along.
All of this is tried into a religion which I always like to read about in books as I am not religious and it is interesting to read about it. This is linked to the purity pact that I mentioned before and often the complicated notions that happen with it and that it is not so pure and simple. (I'm sorry I couldn't help myself.)
This also leads to some great friendships in the book and some funny moments which I did laugh out loud too. I think on the whole I liked most of the characters and it was a good time. I also liked that Del was a complex character and he often makes mistakes but I think that he goes on a journey where he learns from them and I think that it is great to see this because teenagers make mistakes. That's life.
I also really liked the writing, I found that it was very fast-paced and it flowed really well and I just wanted to keep reading. Also, on a random note, the book features Del as he works in a drive-thru for part of the book and from experience, I can say that it is accurate. The book does also follow story beats but I definitely like that Del is put through a little bit of turmoil as I think that it made him grow a lot as a character.
I think that often I am so used to reading about a character's not labelling their race and assuming that they are white but the book flips this and the main characters are read as black which I really liked and I hope that this becomes more normal.
The Verdict:
Not So Pure and Simple is a book that went under a lot of people's radars but is a must-read tackling important topics that should be more widely discussed in YA.
Have you read Not So Pure and Simple? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
May 14, 2020
BLOG TOUR: The Enigma Game by Elizabeth Wein Book Review
* I am reviewing this book which I was gifted for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: The Enigma GameAuthor: Elizabeth WeinPublisher: BloomsburySource: Publisher
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
From the internationally acclaimed bestselling author of Code Name Verity comes a thrilling story of wartime secrets, intrigue and wild courage.
Windyedge Airfield, Scotland. World War II.
When her mother is killed in the Blitz, and her father's ship goes down, Louisa Adair feels she has lost everything. The country she has called home since her family left Jamaica is not a friendly place for an orphaned girl with brown skin, and she badly needs money and a roof over her head.
Finally she finds work looking after an old lady at a pub near an airfield in Scotland. There she meets Ellen, a driver for the RAF, and Jamie, a pilot – two other young people just as exhausted by the toll the war has taken on their loved ones, and just as desperate for a way to fight back.
Then the impossible happens. A German defector lands at the airfield carrying a precious package, and Louisa, Jamie and Ellen find themselves hiding a codebreaking machine that could alter the course of the war. But there are powerful people hunting for the machine, and soon Louisa and her friends are playing a deadly game that threatens everything they hold dear.
A thrilling story of wartime secrets, international intrigue and wild courage from the award-winning author of Code Name Verity, with three young heroes you’ll never forget.
Elizabeth Wein is a church bell ringer, a recreational pilot, and the owner of about a thousand maps. She grew up in England, Jamaica, and Pennsylvania, and has lived in Scotland since 2000, where she learned to fly at the Scottish Aero Club. She is best known for her historical fiction about young women as aviators in World War II, including Code Name Verity (2012), which became a New York Times bestseller and was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal. Elizabeth holds both American and British citizenship; she is married to games developer Tim Gatland and they have two grown children.
Book Review:
I have always wanted to read an Elizabeth Wein book so when I got a chance to read The Enigma Game I jumped at the chance. The Enigma Game is a great historical fiction novel that tackles topics that are often forgotten in history.
As a history student who loves reading about underrepresented groups dealing with race and sexuality, it was really great that this book tackled that and included this. Louisa, the main character, is biracial who has a Jamaican father and is well developed and likeable. While there is racism in the book, it is representative of the time and I think that it was tackled in a great way. Please seek out own voices reviews from this area to see further information.
Although a smaller part of the novel, sexuality is also included in the book although again there is some homophobia. Again I think that this was well developed and a great inclusion in the story and it was nice to have this inclusion to the story.
It is also clear that Elizabeth Wein did her research which I can always appreciate. The bibliography was also a nice touch as I even recognised some of the historians used.
The story focuses on the Enigma Code and a machine, which I found to be really interesting and even though fictional, it was nice to read about something that I didn't know about before. There is also a lot to do with the air force which was a nice inclusion to the story and I really did enjoy Jamie and Ellen who were intertwined in this plot.
This is slightly weird but I have read a lot of books recently where a character has a connection to an older person and this is not an exception. I really do think it's something that I enjoy in books and this was no exception. I loved Louisa and Jane and I loved how we saw their relationship develop over the course of the book as well as Jane as a person.
I would also love to read more from Elizabeth Wein in the future because these have just given a small taste into the historical world that she has created.
The Verdict:
The Enigma Game was a truly unique historical fiction story that tackles topics that I would love to see more of in YA.
Have you read The Enigma Game? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
Title: The Enigma GameAuthor: Elizabeth WeinPublisher: BloomsburySource: Publisher
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
From the internationally acclaimed bestselling author of Code Name Verity comes a thrilling story of wartime secrets, intrigue and wild courage.
Windyedge Airfield, Scotland. World War II.
When her mother is killed in the Blitz, and her father's ship goes down, Louisa Adair feels she has lost everything. The country she has called home since her family left Jamaica is not a friendly place for an orphaned girl with brown skin, and she badly needs money and a roof over her head.
Finally she finds work looking after an old lady at a pub near an airfield in Scotland. There she meets Ellen, a driver for the RAF, and Jamie, a pilot – two other young people just as exhausted by the toll the war has taken on their loved ones, and just as desperate for a way to fight back.
Then the impossible happens. A German defector lands at the airfield carrying a precious package, and Louisa, Jamie and Ellen find themselves hiding a codebreaking machine that could alter the course of the war. But there are powerful people hunting for the machine, and soon Louisa and her friends are playing a deadly game that threatens everything they hold dear.
A thrilling story of wartime secrets, international intrigue and wild courage from the award-winning author of Code Name Verity, with three young heroes you’ll never forget.
Elizabeth Wein is a church bell ringer, a recreational pilot, and the owner of about a thousand maps. She grew up in England, Jamaica, and Pennsylvania, and has lived in Scotland since 2000, where she learned to fly at the Scottish Aero Club. She is best known for her historical fiction about young women as aviators in World War II, including Code Name Verity (2012), which became a New York Times bestseller and was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal. Elizabeth holds both American and British citizenship; she is married to games developer Tim Gatland and they have two grown children.
Book Review:
I have always wanted to read an Elizabeth Wein book so when I got a chance to read The Enigma Game I jumped at the chance. The Enigma Game is a great historical fiction novel that tackles topics that are often forgotten in history.
As a history student who loves reading about underrepresented groups dealing with race and sexuality, it was really great that this book tackled that and included this. Louisa, the main character, is biracial who has a Jamaican father and is well developed and likeable. While there is racism in the book, it is representative of the time and I think that it was tackled in a great way. Please seek out own voices reviews from this area to see further information.
Although a smaller part of the novel, sexuality is also included in the book although again there is some homophobia. Again I think that this was well developed and a great inclusion in the story and it was nice to have this inclusion to the story.
It is also clear that Elizabeth Wein did her research which I can always appreciate. The bibliography was also a nice touch as I even recognised some of the historians used.
The story focuses on the Enigma Code and a machine, which I found to be really interesting and even though fictional, it was nice to read about something that I didn't know about before. There is also a lot to do with the air force which was a nice inclusion to the story and I really did enjoy Jamie and Ellen who were intertwined in this plot.
This is slightly weird but I have read a lot of books recently where a character has a connection to an older person and this is not an exception. I really do think it's something that I enjoy in books and this was no exception. I loved Louisa and Jane and I loved how we saw their relationship develop over the course of the book as well as Jane as a person.
I would also love to read more from Elizabeth Wein in the future because these have just given a small taste into the historical world that she has created.
The Verdict:
The Enigma Game was a truly unique historical fiction story that tackles topics that I would love to see more of in YA.
Have you read The Enigma Game? Do you want to? Let me know in the comments below.
April 30, 2020
Book Review: Nevernight by Jay Kristoff
* I am reviewing these books which I was gifted for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. *
Title: Nevernight
Author: Jay Kristoff Publisher: Harper VoyagerSource: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
Destined to destroy empires Mia Covere is only ten years old when she is given her first lesson in death.
Six years later, the child raised in the shadows takes her first steps towards keeping the promise she made on the day that she lost everything.
But the chance to strike against such powerful enemies will be fleeting, so if she is to have her revenge, Mia must become a weapon without equal. She must prove herself against the deadliest of friends and enemies, and survive the tutelage of murderers, liars and demons at the heart of a murder cult.
The Red Church is no Hogwarts, but Mia is no ordinary student. The shadows loves her. And they drink her fear.
Book Review:OK, so this was a journey!
A lot of people have been really loving this book lately so even though I decided to read this like four years ago but gave up before the first chapter I decided to give it a go (again).
So I and Nevernight went on a journey through the month that I started this book. I went through phases of picking up the book and just putting it down and I don't think that I was ever fully invested in the story. I listened to a lot of it on audiobook as well so this may be why as I have been reading physically for a lot of the month.
I think the audiobook definitely did help with a lot of things that I would have disliked with this book, namely the footnotes. The narrator doesn't tell you what is the footnotes so you just hear them as part of the story which was helpful. I did have an e-copy through and when I was reading physically I did skip the footnotes. Maybe I am just lazy but he could have put them in the writing. Were they needed?
Again I think the audiobook helped with the writing because when it is being read to you, you don't notice the flowery language and such and I just drink it in. I also didn't really mind the writing but I can see why.
One of the reasons why I didn't like it last time was because it was quite graphic and as an ace person, the sex scenes were a little bit uncomfortable especially because Mia was 16 but they were well-written. Also, it was quite graphic in terms of violence. I have now read A Game Of Thrones so I think I'm good. Again, the fight scenes were quite good which considering they were a biggish part of the story is a good thing.
I also liked the plot, it did take me a while to get into, I like because I've been reading so much fantasy lately, but again once I was there, I was in for the ride. I did times also feel it was a little bit dense and I think this made it drag for me. There were also some plot twists that I did not expect so they made it more interesting.
I think the main thing that I enjoyed was the characters. I thought that Mia was so interesting and had so many layers that Jay Kristoff revealed even in the later parts of the story. I also loved Tric, who again was a really complex and multi-layered character. Jay Kristoff, in general, has been criticised for his POCs in books so please check that out in this series so please seek out own voices reviewers. I definitely saw this when I was reading the book. I also really liked Mr Kindly as a character and offered a vulnerability that you don't often see in fantasy characters.
The Verdict:
Nevernight was a highly engaging read that will satisfy the blood-lust for any fantasy reader.
Have you read Nevernight? If so did you like it? Let me know in the comments below.
Title: NevernightAuthor: Jay Kristoff Publisher: Harper VoyagerSource: Netgalley
(Amazon|Goodreads)
Book Summary:
Destined to destroy empires Mia Covere is only ten years old when she is given her first lesson in death.
Six years later, the child raised in the shadows takes her first steps towards keeping the promise she made on the day that she lost everything.
But the chance to strike against such powerful enemies will be fleeting, so if she is to have her revenge, Mia must become a weapon without equal. She must prove herself against the deadliest of friends and enemies, and survive the tutelage of murderers, liars and demons at the heart of a murder cult.
The Red Church is no Hogwarts, but Mia is no ordinary student. The shadows loves her. And they drink her fear.
Book Review:OK, so this was a journey!
A lot of people have been really loving this book lately so even though I decided to read this like four years ago but gave up before the first chapter I decided to give it a go (again).
So I and Nevernight went on a journey through the month that I started this book. I went through phases of picking up the book and just putting it down and I don't think that I was ever fully invested in the story. I listened to a lot of it on audiobook as well so this may be why as I have been reading physically for a lot of the month.
I think the audiobook definitely did help with a lot of things that I would have disliked with this book, namely the footnotes. The narrator doesn't tell you what is the footnotes so you just hear them as part of the story which was helpful. I did have an e-copy through and when I was reading physically I did skip the footnotes. Maybe I am just lazy but he could have put them in the writing. Were they needed?
Again I think the audiobook helped with the writing because when it is being read to you, you don't notice the flowery language and such and I just drink it in. I also didn't really mind the writing but I can see why.
One of the reasons why I didn't like it last time was because it was quite graphic and as an ace person, the sex scenes were a little bit uncomfortable especially because Mia was 16 but they were well-written. Also, it was quite graphic in terms of violence. I have now read A Game Of Thrones so I think I'm good. Again, the fight scenes were quite good which considering they were a biggish part of the story is a good thing.
I also liked the plot, it did take me a while to get into, I like because I've been reading so much fantasy lately, but again once I was there, I was in for the ride. I did times also feel it was a little bit dense and I think this made it drag for me. There were also some plot twists that I did not expect so they made it more interesting.
I think the main thing that I enjoyed was the characters. I thought that Mia was so interesting and had so many layers that Jay Kristoff revealed even in the later parts of the story. I also loved Tric, who again was a really complex and multi-layered character. Jay Kristoff, in general, has been criticised for his POCs in books so please check that out in this series so please seek out own voices reviewers. I definitely saw this when I was reading the book. I also really liked Mr Kindly as a character and offered a vulnerability that you don't often see in fantasy characters.
The Verdict:
Nevernight was a highly engaging read that will satisfy the blood-lust for any fantasy reader.
Have you read Nevernight? If so did you like it? Let me know in the comments below.
