2025 Reading Challenge discussion
ARCHIVE 2022
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TEE can read 60+ in 2022
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Tee I hope you have a blast reading this year!
Blagica wrote: "Tee I hope you have a blast reading this year!"Thanks!
JANUARYThe Wishing Spell - 3 stars. Wanted to like it more. Will probably continue at least to second book of series. I did enjoy it a little, and the potential is there. Fingers crossed I can get into them more.
Bad Girls Never Say Die - 5 stars - LOVED this book. Second book of Jennifer Mathieu I've read and loved. Excited about finding this author.
The Book of Candlelight - 4 stars. Nice, easy, cozy mystery. 3rd in the series by Ellery Adams. The series is a nice break from my YA series and reads.
The Butler - 2 stars - I usually love Danielle Steel but this is a second book from her where I am completely underwhelmed by the characters and writing. Characters were boring and the actual storytelling felt detached.
All of Us Villains - 4 stars - A magical hunger games. Really enjoyed it until the end. I’m not big on cliff hanger endings where nothing is resolved. But I enjoyed the storyline and the characters. Everyone is screwed up but still found myself rooting for them. Sequel = to-read.
Also Known As - 3 stars - Cute, easy read about a teenaged spy in New York. A little corny, but just enough action and comedy to balance that out. I want more books on spies, so I'll probably try the next if there is one.
Cinderella Is Dead - 4 stars - Cinderella's legacy 200 years later has turned into how women "should" act and hope for her fairy tale life. Much more gritty and dark than expected. Rather liked the heroine and story.
Sold on a Monday - 5 stars - Not the tissue-inducer that I was expecting based on the cover and the description, but it was a great read. More about the journalists and not as much about the kids. The story was inspired by a real life picture though, so...
Wild Magic - 5 stars - Read in a day because I was so into it. Didn't want to put it down. Loved the land. Loved the characters. Loved this story. Already got the next in the series and will be looking at some of Tamora Pierce's other series.
Sky Without Stars - 4 stars - A reimagined, Sci-fi version of Les Miserables. Not five stars because it was a slow read. I found myself needing a break. HOWEVER, loved the book. A great version of an amazing story. Will be looking into the next.
Open Book - 5 stars - ❤️❤️❤️ This will be bought and reread whenever I need a reminder to work through anxiety or give myself a break. Great book!
Jan
11 books total
FEBRUARYDeal with the Devil - 4 stars - A bit different than I envisioned from the jacket cover; it said “mercenary librarians.” However, enjoyed it quite a bit mostly due to the characters. Nina is kinda kick-ass.
Wolf-Speaker - 5 stars - Nice follow up to Wild Magic. Missed some of the characters from the previous book, but cute story-line. Who can argue with wolf pups, a baby dragon, and a basilisk team?
The False Prince - 4.75 stars - Honestly, probably 5 stars, but for one tiny issue. It felt like the author thought it was all a big twist, and I liked the secrets the main character kept from us (the reader). But I "highly suspected" 90% of the twists and secrets well before they happened. Still, definitely a great read, and I am actively looking to find the next one to read as quickly as possible. *UPDATED to 5 stars because it set up the rest of the series. LOVE
Gone Girl - 4 stars - Had seen the movie years ago, so none of it was news to me. But oh, the humanity! So twisted and manipulative. Pretty good read.
Emperor Mage - 4 stars - Loving this series. I think my favorite parts of these is meeting all the different animal friends she makes in each book. I mean, who hasn't wanted a baby dragon, a friendly fun squirrel, and a marmoset friend?
The Surrogate - 3 stars - Reminds me of a more serious version of Baby Mama. Not something I would recommend to people, but a nice little read. Some people don't like it, but I enjoyed the non-linear story-telling.
The Runaway King - 5 stars - Second book of Ascension series. Still can't wait to see what happens and how it all ends. Stayed interested and vested throughout. Met new friends.
The Lost Apothecary - 4 stars - More like 3.5 but rounded up. Good story, slightly bored until the end. Got better at the end.
When You Get the Chance - 4 stars - Cute story; Mama Mia updated and reimagined while using proper references to Mama Mia and many other Broadway Musicals.
A Court of Mist and Fury - 5 stars - Actually enjoyed this better than the first, despite the more detailed sex scenes.
The House in the Cerulean Sea - 4 stars - Cute read. Almost a little too "sweet", but definitely worth a read. Lovely characters.
Anna and the French Kiss - 4 stars - Simple, adorable, easy going Teen Romance and feel-good book. The writing style is easy to get into, and I enjoyed the characters. Not having to overthink or overfeel anything was nice. Perfect for a snow day or the opposite and beach day.
Old Music for New People - 3 stars - I wanted to like this more. It was a good book, and I would probably recommend to specific readers. The story was told well, and I liked the characters. I also think the subject matter needs stories. Just...
Feb
13 books read
*24 total
MARCHSadie - 5 stars - Enjoyed this thriller about a girl who goes missing while searching for her sister's murderer. The alternating of the Podcast and Sadie telling her own story kept it interesting. Looking to read another by Courtney Summers.
What's Done in Darkness - 5 stars - Again a book about a girl who goes missing, although a completely different story and MO. Kind of figured the twist, but it kept me guessing until the end.
The Winner's Curse - 4 stars - Grabbed on a whim. Interesting read about the cost of our choices. Would have been 5 stars if the characters were a little more relatable, but still a fun read.
Spells Trouble - 3 stars - Really wanted to like this more, it being about teenage witches. But started it previously and DNF, and this time, I got into it a little more, but not the obsessive read I wanted it to be. Still glad I picked it up.
The Curse of Morton Abbey - 3 stars - Enjoyed this last minute grab, in-between books coming in. Nothing special, just a nice little stand alone.
The Realms of the Gods - 3 stars - Not sure why this one didn't resonate with me as much as the previous three. Still enjoyed it and greatly enjoyed the series.
Only a Monster - 5 stars - Whoa! This book. Wow. Gave me all the feels. The storyline is original and creative. The characters make you think and question your own morals. A must read.
The Turning Pointe - 4 stars - Everyone has their own drama and their own story. This one was cute, tragic, touchy-feely and just real.
The Winner's Crime - 3 stars - Honestly grew bored about half way through. I still think the potential is there; the characters just grew stagnate on me. Still debating reading the next.
Mar
9 books read
*33 total
Joined a Monthly Challenge for March:Wish Upon a Star (Goal is to read books = to 30 stars in ratings)
35/30
See MARCH above
🌟🌟Finished on the last day with 36/30🌟🌟
Really enjoyed the challenge and was interesting to think of a goal for books that way.
APRILA Court of Wings and Ruin - 5 stars - I loved this entire series. Yes, there were some parts that weren't epic. Yes there were sex scenes in far too much graphic detail for what I believe to be YA. But I was enthralled and caught up in this world, story, and characters. I loved how all the characters were so duplicious.
Cracked Up to Be - 5 stars - A struggling teen who has decided it's not worth the hassle to be perfect. She's flawed, she's real, and she owns her attitude. Internally she struggles with what she feels is her fault. Another great read by Courtney Summers.
Everything We Didn't Say - 4 stars - Kept me guessing right to the end. Enjoyed the back and forth of time periods in revealing hints and clues.
On the Come Up - 5 stars - Bri is sassy, outspoken, talented, and caring. She is quick to temper and flawed, but I found she was still likable and relatable. Another strong social injustice story from Angie Thomas. Loved this book.
Along for the Ride - 4 stars - Only reason it wasn't 5 stars is because it was a tad slow. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters, and the lessons. Hit close to home for me.
Red Queen - 4 stars - Found myself a bit annoyed by Mare, then realized I was being unfair. Although told by her point of view, the reader is able to "see" things that she doesn't pick up on. The story was entertaining and I am happy to pick up the next one soon to continue.
The Inheritance Games - 4 stars - Cinderella meets Knives Out in this teen mystery. Would be 5 stars but I didn't care for the "love triangle". Something about the relationships felt forced and disingenuous. Am anxious to see what happens next though. Not enough questions answered at end of the book. :)
Violeta - 3 stars - I enjoyed the book and the narrative. Found the writing slow though and kept having to almost make myself pick it back up. Still, story was good, and the life of Violeta was worth a story.
One of Us Is Lying - 4 stars - Read this for podcast: Book to film adaptations. Can I just say that I thoroughly enjoyed both the series and the book. Twists and turns. Deception. Will definitely be picking up the next one by Karen McManus and will tune in for season 2 - even though they may not coincide.
The Sorority Murder - 4 stars - Another mystery solved with the help of a podcast (See Sadie). But, different and interesting. Also enjoyed the aside about Regan being a former US Marshall.
Apr
10 books read
*43 Total
MAYIn a Garden Burning Gold - 3 stars - Enjoyed this interesting take on gods/immortals and their responsibilities. The storyline was interesting and the writing was good. Just read a little slow. Will try to remember to look out for the next one.
A Court of Frost and Starlight - 3 stars - This was a simple in-between story of the Court of Thorns and Roses. There just wasn't quite enough going on for me, although it was enjoyable. I liked reading from other perspectives, not just Feyre's.
Isle of Swords - 4 stars - Pirates. A girl pirate who is just as cool as the guys. What's not to like? Cute story. I don't usually read Christian fiction, but it worked here.
A Place to Hang the Moon - 4 stars - Super sweet story about 3 orphans in England during WWII. Historical fiction from their POV. Highly recommend.
This Poison Heart - 3 stars - Interesting and new take on Greek Mythology. The characters were quirky and likeable. Seriously wanted it to be better, but I enjoyed the book. It got better once the action started, but definitely a slow read.
I Must Betray You - 5 stars - There just aren't enough words to convey how much I loved this book. Ruta Sepetys is just amazing at her craft! Historical fiction from a teen's point of view. Romanian independence.
The Shadow Throne - 5 stars - Left me wanting the next book right away. I need to know how this all plays out. Agh! Cute series. Love.
Hotel Magnifique - 3 stars - I liked this book even though I wanted just a bit more. I think I was over excited by it and felt let down, but still an interesting book and unique idea.
The Book Jumper - 4 stars - I want the ability to jump into books and meet the characters and explore their worlds. Wouldn't that be fantastic?
Bridget Wilder: Spy-in-Training - 3 stars - I love books about kid spies or spy schools. This one was cute, but doesn't live up to other spy stories I've read. Might try the next one.
Daisy Jones & The Six - 4 stars - Really liked the way this was written as a documentary. As a conversation between the band members. As though I'm hearing them relive these moments. Someone needs to write these songs because I'm fascinated and want to hear them. :)
Ink and Shadows - 4 stars - Back to Ellery Adams and her series about the bookstore cozy mysteries. Always a nice, enjoyable, keeps you guessing read.
City Spies - 4 stars - Another book about spies. This one with a more interesting cast of characters and better storyline. Love their code names and different abilities. Fun!
May
13 books read
*56 Total
Joined a monthly challenge for May.COMPLETED! 5/27
6/5
Meme, Myself & I (Goal is to read 5 books that fit any of the following prompts)
A book that has a word that begins with "M" in the title - A Place to Hang the Moon finished 5/8
A book that has a word that begins with "E" in the title -
A book that has a word that begins with "D" in the title - Daisy Jones & The Six finished 5/25
A book that has a word that begins with "I" in the title - Isle of Swords finished 5/6
A book that has a word that begins with "A" in the title - Ink and Shadows finished 5/27
A book that has been made into a movie -
A book that has to do with entertainment -
A book that has anything to do with social media - Bridget Wilder: Spy-in-Training finished 5/22
A book that has to do with the internet - City Spies finished 5/29
A book that has to do with advertising -
JUNEA Court of Silver Flames - 5 stars - Another in this awesome series; this one more focused on Nesta and Cassian for the win! So glad to get a better look into strong, stubborn Nesta and warrior Cassian. Now, I have to wait for the next book though.
Molly's Game - 3 stars - Have watched the movie a couple times. I normally enjoy the book so much more than the movie, but they were fantastic with this movie. The book was ok. It was well written and interesting, but the movie blows it out of the water.
Nerve - 2 stars - Again, I watched the movie before I read the book. Maybe I would have liked this better had I read it first. As it was, it dragged on just a little and the "dares" and challenges in the book seem really tame comparatively. Then it performs a complete 180 and jumps to guns... I'm completely flabbergasted I enjoy two movies better than their books.
Live and Let Shop - 3 stars - Cute little beginning to a spy school series. The title has nothing to do with the book, but that's not too big a deal. I wish the characters were better developed, but I'm hoping the next one delves into their backstories and personalities more. Quick reads and I'm going to try the second one.
The 100 - 4 stars - Began the Netflix series first, but the book is pretty good. They deviated a bit, but I'm looking forward to the book series and possibly continuing the t.v. series.
Little White Lies - 5 stars - I had been eyeing this book for months now. Bought it. Now I'm already on hold for the next one. Rather innocent start to a YA mystery series. But so well written and the characters are all flawed but interesting and good at heart, I think. Yay! Loving Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor - 4 stars - Love Ally Carter and her adventurous books for teens and middle grade. This one has so much potential in the next book. This was a fun, quick read to draw us in. Now to see where it goes. Perfect for middle grades who want a little adventure and mystery.
Hungry Hearts: 13 Tales of Food & Love - 3 stars - This was an anthology all written by different YA authors. Enjoyed some of the stories; thought others were weird; and still others were not my cup of tea. Enjoyed the book and the idea.
The Immortal Game - 4 stars - Really enjoyed this new take on Greek mythology and the gods/their children. Add in 2 kick-a$$ female heroes and a couple adorable romance threads, and BAM! You have a great read.
Winterborne Home for Mayhem and Mystery - 4 stars - I enjoyed this story. The characters are written well and I love them all. Can't wait to see what they get up to next, although I think I have a small wait in front of me.
June
10 books read
*66 books total
JULYOnce Upon a Wardrobe - 5 stars - So, I cried. Yes, it was beautiful. Yes, it was sad. Mostly, it was artful and inspiring. Patti Callahan is a word smith. This is the first book of hers I have read, but I will be looking her up.
Deadly Little Scandals - 4 stars - The second of the Debutante series by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. I think the last as well which is a little disappointing. Enjoyed the world, the mystery, the characters. Nobody is perfect. Nobody has it all.
The Captive Kingdom - 4 stars - Maybe the final of the False Prince series? I thought that last time. =p These characters have settled into my heart. I love that she elongated their story. Such mischievous, strong, lovable personalities Jennifer Nielsenhas created. Such a horrible kingdom and land. Another great adventure.
Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore - 5 stars - picked up on a whim. So glad I did. It was a mystery, which I prefer anyway, but a different kind. The clues, the bookstore, the past...all quite intriguing individually. Together they made for an emotional, thought-provoking story.
You Should Have Seen This Coming - 5 stars - Loved that back and forth voices from the one who can see the future and the one who can see the past. Which ability would you rather possess? Quick, fun, race to the finish mystery.
Concrete Rose - 4 stars - the prequel to THUG. The story of Starr's dad when he was a gangbanger.
A Magic Steeped in Poison - 4 stars - Honestly, went back and forth between liking this and finding it a bit detailed and slow. I did like it, quite a bit once finished. It picked up at the end of the book and it was what I had been hoping for. However, now I need to know what happens next because most of it was left unresolved. Ugh.
Shadow and Bone - 3.5 stars - Read this because it's so popular. I wouldn't say I was underwhelmed; it is a good story. Just too hyped for me and a little confusing. However, I like the magic, the mystery, and the adventure. I find some of the characters boring, even with their special abilities.
Red, White & Royal Blue - 3 stars - Cute romantic romp, even got a little steamy in parts. Found the story of two of the most iconic young adults rivalry and falling for each other charming.
Slice of Cherry - 2 stars - Gotta admit, I was a little excited about this one, even though it is horror. It sounded messed up and twisted, but in an thoughtful and interesting way. Messed up and twisted it was, but there was no reasoning behind it or even a twisted resolution. I wanted to like it. I kept waiting for it to either go completely berserk or tidy explanations up, not necessarily lives. Instead, the lead characters just found sex (mother was okay with this??? even pulling for it [really?]) and all ends well, still being messed up. So gross. Two stars because the writing was actually good and I would have been okay with it had it had a better ending. I also dislike giving 1 star if I can find anything to give another star credit.
Devil in a Blue Dress - 4 stars - Historical fiction about a black man in L.A. in the 1940's. It moved quickly and kept me guessing, even as to how innocent anyone was. The language could have been a put off, but I know way too many people who still speak so close to the dialect, it made it feel even more genuine. Want to watch the movie now. A real "cool" book. lol
July
11 books read
*77 Total
Joined a Monthly Challenge for JulySHADES OF RED
Read 4 books or more with a red book cover, or a shade of red in the title or author's name.
4 / 4 COMPETED 7/30/22
**Two of these books I'm not sure I would have read if not for this challenge. I love that aspect of challenges. Get me out of my comfort zone.
AUGUSTThe Thorn Birds - 4 stars - Recommended to me as a must-read. I can see why it's a classic. The writing is beautiful (if a little over-detailed and long-winded) and the storyline is interesting and real. Just reads rather slow and is quite long.
The Hawthorne Legacy - 5 stars - I quite enjoyed this sequel to the Inheritance Games. Also quietly excited that there is a third. I wanted more answers than I was supplied by the end of the book. Still not excited about the love triangle and I'm not Team Grayson or Team Jameson. The "romance" feels invisible and any feelings mentioned feels like they aren't sourced anywhere. But the mystery aspect, and the games and clues are what have me enjoying this series.
Part of Your World - 4 stars - A Twisted Tale from Disney, this tells a story of what might've happened had Ariel not defeated Ursula. It takes place 5 years after. I felt the story telling seamless from the movie. I could picture it all. Cute little story.
The Storm Runner - 4 stars - This is another series from the Rick Riordan presents, about the Mayan gods. I enjoy the POV and the humor woven throughout the adventure. Very reminiscent of Riordan himself. Mayan mythology isn't as pretty as Greek, but the characters are fun, likable, and smart.
The Vanishing Type - 3 stars - I'm not sure if I'm getting tired of the series, or if this one just didn't resonate with me as much. Still a good story. Still great writing and enjoyable characters. Maybe it was on a personal level? I do <3 the budding romance of Nora and McCabe.
The Fire Keeper - 4 stars - I enjoyed the adventure and characters in this one a bit more than the first one. Fun, funny, and exciting! Is it just me, or are Maya gods a bit less "eloquent" than other cultures? lol Plenty of shenanigans and mischief to enjoy.
The Last Thing He Told Me - 4 stars - Recommended to me by co-workers. Not quite what I was expecting and the ending brought a sigh (in a very good way). Great writing and realistic plot. A page turner for sure. So glad I read this as it is outside my usual grab.
Nora Goes Off Script - 4 stars - Cute little romance (not too mushy and icky lol) that I read in one day. Would you have the guts to date a celebrity? Fun, strong female protaganist and her children are adorable.
Rebel Spy - 3 stars - I did like this book, but I really wanted to like it more. A runaway (from abusive stepfather) turned "noble lady" turned spy during the American Revolution... For some reason it was just ok. Liked the premise and the potential. I feel it missed a couple opportunities, but understand that the author was writing with limited information to keep it genuine.
August
9 books read
*86 Total
SEPTEMBERThe Princess Trials - 3 stars - Advertised as a Hunger Games / Selection mash up. It's definitely got a little of both ideas in it, but not near as good as either. However, I enjoyed the read, the main character is somewhat easy to get behind, and the 500+ pages flew by as you need to know what happens next.
The Beach Trap - 3 stars - Easy, entertaining little read. Both girls (separated 1/2 sisters) had their flaws and their saving graces. A little romance brewing, house decor, and a cute story about losing a parent but gaining family roots.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - 4 stars - Rereading this first book of the Narnia series to remember. Such a great adventure to take every so often.
Daughter - 4 stars - Interesting book discussing how it might feel growing up as a child of a serial killer. Is evil genetic? Rather dark read, but not gory or scary. I enjoyed it and mostly picked up because it fit a challenge requirement. Yay reading challenges!
Clap When You Land - 5 stars - I'm not the biggest fan of audio books. I just don't pay enough attention sometimes. But this was suggested to me as an audiobook because the author reads this novel in verse with another voice actor. Let me tell you, I don't think I would have read it with as much emotion and just gorgeous timing and rhythm. If more audiobooks were this gorgeous, I would definitely be obsessed.
The Messy Lives of Book People - 2 stars - I simply did not care for the main character. I found myself annoyed with her and her constant whining of her life (which she defends in the next moment). I know many of us feel this way. I know many moms (parents) go through empty nest and its all justified and normal. I just couldn't get behind her or root for her. Her choices felt selfish and uncaring. Maybe it was honest and raw. Just not for me this time around. The writing was good and the story should have been entertaining. {shrug}
City of Bones - 3.75 stars - Not sure if I just need a jolt or a really good book. I wanted to like this more than I did. I did finish it in a day and a half, it's quite long. So I must have enjoyed it. And I'm pretty sure I'll read the next one. It just didn't excite me. Maybe it's me?
The Princess Games - 4 stars - Find myself liking this series a bit more. Very far-fetched. Very "everyone wants to kill one girl for no reason". But entertaining and action packed. Looking forward to seeing it wrapped up in the third book.
Wild Born - 4 stars - Listened to this on my way to and from work. Rather enjoyed it better this time. Cute series and I'm already starting the second book. I love the entire idea of a spirit animal and wonder what mine would be. The world is still a bit flat for me, but I can get behind the very likable characters.
September
9 books read
*95 Total
OCTOBERThe Awakening - 4 stars - Great first book in a new Nora Roberts Trilogy about gods, witches, elves, dragons, and Fey. Throw in some romance, an adorable puppy sidekick, a fantasy world, and an evil god of a grandfather, and you've got The Awakening. Can't wait for the next.
The Scorpio Races - 4 stars - Was not sure what to expect for this one. I'd read Maggie Steifvater on her Raven Boy series, so I knew I would at least like the writing. I picked this one up to help complete a reading Challenge [I Spy - Sports]. So pleasantly surprised. The story blew me away. I now want to learn more about water horses. Loved the sassiness / strength / moxie of Puck and the silent confidence of Sean. Lovely read!
A Venom Dark and Sweet - 3 stars - These stories are such a unique and original premise. They take a little for me to get into, but once invested and about 30 pages in, I really get caught up with all the magic of tea. Great duology and writing.
Hunted - 4 stars - Again, listened to and from work in the car. Nicola, reading it, is very delightful to listen to. Enjoying this series via audiobook.
The Recovery Agent - 3 stars - Was quite anticipating this new series by Janet Evanovich. The characters seemed like her usual: quirky, intelligent, and likable. The plot felt adventurous - she "recovers" lost items from all over the world. But the whole thing felt rushed and abrupt. Perhaps it was my own reading, but I was underwhelmed. I may try the next, or even this one again. It wasn't a bad read at all; just not quite the Evanovich writing I remember.
The Lovely Bones - 3 stars - I had seen snippets of the movie several times, but had never sat down and watched. The snippets looked interesting and were the reason I wanted to read the book. Such an intriguing way to write the tragic death of a young girl.
The Becoming - 4.5 stars rounded to 4 - Enjoyed when Breen finally meets and rides her dragon as it is listed as the Dragonheart Legacy trilogy. The writing is quality as with the rest of Nora Roberts stuff that I love. The storyline is captivating. And the characters are fun, loyal, and kicka$$ as usual. I just want more dragons.
Kingdom of the Wicked - 4 stars - Unexpected delight. I'm not huge on dark arts witches. But Emilia and her sister are interesting, brave, and fun to read about, as well as the princes of Hell. Can't wait to read more in this series(?) I hope. It's a world I'm anxious about. Dark, challenging, and morally questionable. But that is also the allure.
The Princess Crown - 3 stars - I feel this last book dragged out for about 100 pages too long, and then, to me it felt, just tidied up a little too easily for the pains to get to the end. But, it was still an adventurous and interesting trilogy. I enjoyed it for the most part and would possibly recommend it for the right person.
October
9 books read
*104 Total
Joined a Quarterly Challenge for the first time. Finding "words" in the books I'm reading. The words come from their list and are related to the monthly themes. Since I have 3 months, I am going to try to get through their entire list of 15 words... *Only can use up to three words per book. Love a good challenge.15 / 15 COMPLETED 12/11/22
Main Words
1. Unknown - Book The Case of the Missing MarquessBy Nancy Springer
Quote: "Lacking any proof that Lord Tewksbury has indeed fallen into the hands of this unknown individual or individuals, the authorities advise against paying the ransom."
Location Pg 187
2. Strange - Book The Traitor's Game By Jennifer A. Nielsen
Quote: "You had a strange way of showing it."
Location Pg 62
3. Mysterious - Book Kingdom of the Wicked By Kerri Maniscalco
Quote: "No matter that they were soulless creatures who belong to the devil, or they'd kill them on sight, the twins were enchanted by these dark and mysterious princes of Hell."
Location: Page 6
4. Secret - Book The Traitor's Game By Jennifer A. Nielsen
Quote: "Kestra nodded, but already seemed lost in another maze of thoughts, secrets she guarded well."
Location Pg 188
5. Peculiar - Book Kingdom of the Cursed By Kerri Maniscalco
Quote: "In a dreamlike state, I watched Wrath perform the most peculiar tasks."
Location Pg 54
6. Curious - Book The Final Gambit By Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Quote: "Fine word, curious, he continued, his voice like velvet."
Location Pg 124
7. Moon - Book The Diamond Eye By Kate Quinn
Quote: "This whole scene seemed as foreign to me as the moon."
Location Pg 273
8. Crescent - Book Kingdom of the Wicked By Kerri Maniscalco
Quote "Bones of the dead, and the dead are dust because I've seen the raven's wings beating against the crescent moon."
9. Celestial - Book Kingdom of the Cursed By Kerri Maniscalco
Quote: "Maybe it was the dreamlike beauty of the celestial scene painted on the ceiling, or the sultry steam of the Crescent Shadows."
Location Pg 151
10. Glass - Book Aces Wild: A Heist By Amanda DeWitt
Quote: "I slipped in between a man with a bristly mustache and a woman with long, red fingernails, testing the waters as I took her empty glass and set it on my tray."
Location: Pg 131
11. Mirror - Book The Awakening by Nora Roberts
Quote "Still, she wished she'd brought the scrying mirror, wished she could talk to her grandmother."
Location Page 394
12. Reflect - Book When Crickets Cry By Charles Martin
Quote: "Annie and Cindy sat in the back, huddled together, their eyes reflecting the dash lights through the rearview mirror."
Location: Pg 286
13. Harmony - Book The Case of the Missing Marquess By Nancy Springer
Quote: "On a corner stood three dark-haired children singing in harmony like angels, in a language I did not know, the middle one with a crockery cup extended for my penny."
Location Pg 182
14. Peace - Book The Guinevere Deception By Kiersten White
Quote: "What peace she could find was in the sway and bump of the horse beneath her."
Location: Pg 6
15. Friendship - Book The Awakening by Nora Roberts
Quote "But real friendship doesn't always take the easy way, does it?"
Location Page 366
NOVEMBERThe Most Likely Club - 2.5 stars - I'm not sure what didn't connect with me. I found it all a bit cliche and didn't really get behind any of the main characters, except maybe Tara, and even that was only just. Writing was okay, I just wanted more. More drama, more comedy, more everything.
Pippi Longstocking - 3 stars - I LOVED this movie growing up. I wanted to be Pippi. She was strong, street smart, and fierce. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy the book as much. Pippi comes off (to me) as rude, a liar, and annoyingly apologetic afterwards, which she doesn't really mean. IDK. Still a cute story, just not as cute a character.
The Traitor's Game - 4 stars - I listened to this to and from work. I would get home and be thinking about what I'd heard, how I thought it would end. I even listened a couple times over my lunch. Couldn't get enough of this story. I think I'll read the next one because there were a few details I missed in the listening, and I had to go back a few times to remember what had happened. But, I love the world. I find myself getting behind and rooting for the main three characters even with their shortcomings and meanness towards each other. Great first book into a (hopefully) entertaining, adventurous, behind-kicking series.
The Case of the Missing Marquess - 4 stars - Cute, cozy middle-grade mystery. Sherlock's little sister (inspired to read based on the movie on Netflix) loses her mom and must discover why and where she left. Great feminine lead. Will probably read another.
The Final Gambit - 5 stars - Great close to this series. And even when you think you've got it all figured out (which most of the time I second guessed myself), Barnes throws in another twist or turn or sometimes stays right where you've guessed but with more... Highly enjoyed and eagerly recommend.
Kingdom of the Cursed - 4.25 stars - This series is so cool it has me all a flutter. The dark and sinful world is compelling, and I am so deep into trying to help Emilia solve her sister's mystery. I do have my thoughts on what is "really" going on, but we will see if I'm right. This did begin it's embarkment into NA rather than YA in the romantic scenes. But it was not off-putting [for me]. Reminds me of Court of Thorn and Roses series.
The Diamond Eye - 5 stars - Loved this historical fiction about the real life female sniper from WWII. The story fit exactly as I would envision a Russian female sniper to be. Or rather, how I always hoped things could be. A female, still female and all things woman, but also a bada$$ shooter with inner strength and integrity. Great read.
Aces Wild: A Heist - 3.5 stars - Fun, easy read about a teen trying to save his mom and their casino [read: home] with his online friends now meeting for the first time IRL. Great characters, adventurous storyline and introduces (but doesn't dwell on) "Ace" romances and/or lack there of.
When Crickets Cry - 5 stars - This was recommended to me by a few people at the library. This author Charles Martin has been gaining traction and I now understand why. While I did not "cry", the tears were there several times throughout the book. Quite seriously, I finished chapter 1 and thought, "this book is going to be good. It's definitely going to make me cry." Beautiful.
November
9 books read
*113 Total
DECEMBERBeneath the Wide Silk Sky - 5 stars - A gorgeous and sad historical fiction story about Japanese Americans during WWII. I love these historical stories told in the voice and visions of a teenager. Beautifully written and heart-wrenching to know that so many had to live through this.
Blood Ties - 4 stars - Still enjoying this series on audiobook to and from work. Fun adventure with teamwork, friendship, and magic spirit animals.
The Boy Who Steals Houses - 3 stars - Found this sweet book while trying to complete a challenge. (I Spy Architecture) Good for a feel good read.
The Guinevere Deception - 3 stars - Also read mostly for completing the I Spy Challenge. (Seasons) It was an introductory book to a gender flip on Merlin and King Arthur. It has a lot of potential for the next couple books. I hope they live up to it.
The Luminaries - 4 stars - Another YA Fantasy that might should be horror and yet I enjoyed it quite a lot. The luminaries are the guardians of the nightmares of the gods/spirits. Nice spin on a fantasy world that I haven't seen a bunch of. Looking forward to more.
A Game of Thrones - reread - 5 stars - Wanted to try to get further in the Game of Thrones series. But realized I needed to remind myself what actually happened in the books. Great reread and I picked up on quite a bit I had missed before or not understood. Hopefully I can keep on getting through them all.
Caraval - 3.5 stars - Nice, unique story. I'm right there with Scarlett. Didn't trust any of the other characters. Enjoyed all of it (characters, world building, use of colors for emotions). Looking forward to the next.
Dust -
2025 Reading Challenge
Books mentioned in this topic
Caraval (other topics)Dust (other topics)
The Diamond Eye (other topics)
Aces Wild: A Heist (other topics)
The Guinevere Deception (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Janet Evanovich (other topics)Nora Roberts (other topics)
Maggie Steifvater (other topics)
Patti Callahan Henry (other topics)
Jennifer Nielsen (other topics)
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✔️Books read: 120 / 90+
✔️Pages Read: 43,242 / 45,000 **Completed 8/22/22 Increased to 45,000 9/13/22
✔️Color challenge: 15 / 15 **Completed 10/17/22 Will try to finish initial list.
I Spy: 25/25 **Completed 12/11/22
TBR: 20/20 Completed 12/26/22
****Edit as of 4/15*** I do believe I need to up my (# of books) goal. At this rate, I'm going to reach my goal of 60 by June at the latest. I tend to not read as much for the summer, but... So, I will now shoot for 90+
Completed 90 books 9/1/22!
*Sick 12/3 - 12/16 Did not read much at all.