2018 BIG BLOG POST

January 1, 2019January 1, 20194 Comments

2018 READING STATS

Number Of Books You Read: 162
Number of Re-Reads: 0
Genre You Read The Most From: Fantasy?

1. Best Book You Read In 2018?

YA – Scythe. MG – The Nowhere Emporium

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?

Out of the Blue – I didn’t NOT like it… I just didn’t love it as much as lots of other people did.

3. Most surprising (in a good way or bad way) book you read?

Show Stopper by Hayley Barker. I’d heard quite a lot about it and it took me a few months to actually pick it up and read it.. but my god guys. I’m sorry I ever slept on that duology.

4. Book You “Pushed” The Most People To Read (And They Did)?

LOL. Anything Melinda Salisbury or Maz Evans have ever written.

5. Best series you started in 2018? Best Sequel of 2018? Best Series Ender of 2018?

Best series? Amelia Fang series by Laura Ellen Anderson. Those books are such fun!
Best sequel? THIS IS A HARD ONE. I read a LOT of sequels in 2018. I’m gonna have to say Fierce Fragile Hearts by Sara Barnard though, because I consumed that book in like 3 hours in the middle of a total reading block.
Best series ender? Hero at the Fall by Alwyn Hamilton

6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2018?

Leigh Bardugo. I wanna worship the ground that woman walks on having read Six of Crows.

7. Best book from a genre you don’t typically read/was out of your comfort zone?

Notes on a Nervous Planet by Matt Haig. I’m not a massive non-fiction (??) reader, but I will read ANYTHING that man writes.

8. Most action-packed/thrilling/unputdownable book of the year?

WHAT? JUST ONE? Rude. Scythe by Neal Shusterman. That book seriously blew my mind. I loved it.

9. Book You Read In 2018 That You Would Be MOST Likely To Re-Read Next Year?

The Truth Pixie by Matt Haig. I have big plans for that book in the classroom!

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2018?

Pages and Co by Anna James.

11. Most memorable character of 2018?

Kaz bloody Brekker. *swoon*

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2018?

Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell. I just adored that story.

13. Most Thought-Provoking/ Life-Changing Book of 2018?

More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera. It REALLY made me think about me as a person and how I identify and how others see me. Basically, that book ruined my soul.

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2018 to finally read?

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo.

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2018?

OH LORD KNOWS.

16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2018?

Shortest? Shona, Word Detective by John Agard
Longest? Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

17. Book That Shocked You The Most

Shocked in WHICH way my friends? Like scary shock? Like unbelievable shock? I think White Rabbit, Red Wolf by Tom Palmer gets ALL THOSE ACOLADES. That book BLEW MY MIND repeatedly.

18. OTP OF THE YEAR (you will go down with this ship!)

Amani and Jin 4LIFE. But also Kaz and Inej.

19. Favorite Non-Romantic Relationship Of The Year

The friendship of the girls in Fierce Fragile Hearts. Sara Barnard writes female friendships so BLOODY well.

20. Favorite Book You Read in 2018 From An Author You’ve Read Previously

Fierce Fragile Hearts by Sara Barnard.

21. Best Book You Read In 2018 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else/Peer Pressure/Bookstagram, Etc.:

Oh god. I read Six of Crows because Kelly (of Rambles fame) kept telling me I had to. So I did and my god.

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2018?

LOL ALL OF THEM? I mean Jin isn’t a NEW crush, but he’s 100% my top fictional crush of ever.

23. Best 2018 debut you read?

SHUT UP MAN. How rude. SO SO MANY. Jack of Hearts and Other Parts by Lev Rosen. (I THINK that’s a debut??)

24. Best Worldbuilding/Most Vivid Setting You Read This Year?

Show Stopper and Show Stealer by Hayley Barker. Bloody yes.

25. Book That Put A Smile On Your Face/Was The Most FUN To Read?

Theatrical by Maggie Harcourt. I hope she keeps writing books that just MAKE ME SMILE.

26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2018?

HELLO FRIENDS, DO YOU KNOW ME AT ALL? I cry at ALL of the books. The ones that made me cry most however were: A Thousand Perfect Notes by C.G.Drews or More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera.

27. Hidden Gem Of The Year?

Slay by Kim Curran. PROPER GOOD.

28. Book That Crushed Your Soul?

LOL ALL OF THEM. A Thousand Perfect Notes by C.G.Drews can take that title though.

29. Most Unique Book You Read In 2018?

A Darkness of Dragons by S.A.Patrick. I loved the infusion of a “traditional tale” with magic.

30. Book That Made You The Most Mad (doesn’t necessarily mean you didn’t like it)?

Leah on the Offbeat. Dear my lord, don’t let me get started.

1. New favorite book blog/Bookstagram/Youtube channel you discovered in 2018?

GEORGE LESTER IS MY FAVOURITE.

2. Favorite post you wrote in 2018?

Oooooooh. An interesting question. It’s not ONE, but it’s a type of post I love writing – my happy posts.

3. Favorite bookish related photo you took in 2018?

Haha, any time I took a good picture which showed off the metallic of a front cover?

4. Best bookish event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, etc.)?

I’m gonna have to say when I got to chair Melinda Salisbury and Alice Broadway at Waterstones Newcastle. EASILY one of my favourite memories of 2018. All of my favourite people were in the same room, watching me interview two of my favourite authors in the world.

5. Best moment of bookish/blogging life in 2018?

Any time someone said “I read your review and I knew I needed to buy that book”. That’s the big winner for me.

6. Most challenging thing about blogging or your reading life this year?

I think this year I experienced, for the first time, a total reading block. I don’t know whether it was tiredness, or what, but I had a good month where I read very little.

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?

Of course it is my one and only queen: Melinda Salisbury. This here review of State of Sorrow had almost 4000 views this year!

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

Hmmm… I do not know!

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?

Another one, I’m not entirely sure!

10. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?

I did! I set out to read 52 books in 2018 (that’s a book a week) and I SMASHED it. And no, I won’t be upping that for 2019.

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2018 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2019?

I guess 2019 is when I should finally get round to reading The Hate U Give or A Darker Shade Of Magic.

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2019 (non-debut)?

SONG OF SORROW OK? I’VE BEEN WAITING A YEAR.

BUT ALSO. AGAINST ALL GODS. COME ON GUYS.

3. 2019 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?

A Pocketful of Stars by Aisha Bushby.

4. Series Ending/A Sequel You Are Most Anticipating in 2019?

Again… SONG OF SORROW OK? I’VE BEEN WAITING A YEAR.

BUT ALSO. AGAINST ALL GODS. COME ON GUYS.

5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging Life In 2019?

Keep blogging. Keep reading. Get to as many bookish events as I can.

6. A 2019 Release You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone (if applicable):

FIERCE FRAGILE HEARTS BY SARA BARNARD.

Thank you and goodnight! If you got all the way down here, congratulations, you earn a star.

S x

Christmas Cracker Tag

December 21, 2018December 16, 20182 Comments

Hello there! It’s Friday again… it’s FINALLY ALMOST THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. There’ll be a “first term wrap up” post coming… but today just a bit of fun. I’m taking on the Christmas Cracker Tag, which I first saw on my friend Cora’s blog. Check out her post here.

Lets get on!

Pick A Book With A Wintry Cover

Sky Song by Abi Elphinstone: you don’t get much more wintry than actual ice and the Northern Lights. This book is BRILLIANT too. Would recommend!

Pick A Book You’re Likely To Buy As A Present

The Truth Pixie by Matt Haig: there is something incredibly special about this book. I definitely think everyone needs to read this book.

Pick A Festive Themed Book

The Night I Met Father Christmas by Ben Miller: I finished this last weekend and it is SO BRILLIANT. It’s like the most brilliant version of a Christmas story ever. I wish I’d read it before now, cause I’d love to share it with the kids I teach.

Pick A Book You Can Curl Up With By The Fireplace

A Quiet Kind of Thunder by Sara Barnard: for me sitting by the fireplace is dedicated to romance and loveliness. This book is one that’s stuck with me. I will need to find time to reread it. I just adore Steffi and Rhys.

Pick A Book You Want To Read Over The Festive Period

Dry by Neal and Jarrod Shusterman: the absolute angels of Walker sent me a copy of this last week… in perfect time for my Christmas holidays!

Pick A Book That’s So Good It Gives You Chills

A Darkness of Dragons by S.A.Patrick: I recently finished this and man, I just loved it! As a massive MG fan, it’s really great to come across a book that ticks so many boxes!

Pick A Book Going On Your Christmas Wishlist

Six of Crows Collector’s Edition by Leigh Bardugo: I’ve not actually told Santa this is on my list… so I might have to treat myself post Christmas!

Let me know your thoughts!

S x

Christmas Songs book tag

December 14, 2018December 9, 20182 Comments

Halo, halo, halo!

It’s Friday… that means it’s TAG DAY. (I should start posting tags on a Thursday cause alliteration is my jam… but old habits die hard, maybe in the new year!)

Today I’m taking on the Christmas Songs Book Tag. I saw this while browsing the interwebs for different tags and thought it was the perfect FESTIVE tag to be involved it. Plus, I bloody love a Christmas song! If you fancy joining in the fun, feel free! I don’t remember where I saw this first!

“You’re a Mean One, Mr Grinch” – Name a Villainous Character You Couldn’t Help But Love.

I’ve gone with Kaz Brekker for this one. I don’t know that he’s VILLAINOUS to be honest, but he’s not a good man… but my gosh, I adore him.

“All I Want For Christmas Is You” – Which Book Do You Most Hope To See Under Your Christmas Tree.

Song of Sorrow by Melinda Salisbury. It’s not out til next year, but my word. I am SO READY for this book. (Hello Mel, or Scholastic, I love you guys).

“Rudolph, The Red Nosed Reindeer” – Name a Character That Overcomes Major Obstacles and Learns To Believe in Themselves.

Steffi from A Quiet Kind of Thunder by Sara Barnard. I think this book is one of the greatest things to exist. I love everything about it.

“Santa Claus is Coming to Town”:
a) Which character do you think would be on the top of the naughty list?
b) Which character do you think would be at the top of the nice list?

Top of the nice list for me would be Rhys from A Quiet Kind of Thunder.
Top of the naughty list for me is Scythe Goddard from Scythe. He is a TERRIBLE man.

“Frosty the Snowman”: Which book just melts your heart.

All of them?! I cry at EVERYTHING. However, Simon vs the Homosapiens Agenda made me so happy. I ship Simon and Blue so so much.

“Feliz Navidad”: Choose a book that takes place in a country other than your own.

Jack of Hearts and Other Parts by L.C. Rosen. Set in America, but I’m not sure why this was the first one to pop into my head since a lot of the books I read aren’t even set in the UK.

“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”: Which holiday themed book do you use to spread the Christmas joy?

I’ll Be Home for Christmas. This is an anthology that I read last Christmas that I just ADORED. I don’t read many Christmas books, but this one is MAGNIFICENT.

“Sleigh Ride”: Which fictional character would you choose to spend the holidays with (doesn’t have to be a love interest!)?

Hahaha! I went down the “not love interest” route, and decided on Tilly from Pages and Co by Anna James because I’d like to spend my Christmas holidays reading and book wandering please!

“Baby It’s Cold Outside”: Which book that you didn’t like would you sacrifice to a fire to warm yourself up in the cold?

Either Caraval or Freshers. I don’t hate either of them, but I didn’t particularly enjoy them either.

“Do You Hear What I Hear?”: Which book do you think everyone should read?

The Truth Pixie by Matt Haig. It’s just exceptional. It will 100% be in my ‘Best Books of the Year’ list. Please, all of you, go and buy it, get it from the library: something. Read it. You won’t regret it.

And there you have it! My take on the Christmas songs book tag!

Are you surprised by any of my answers?
Would you agree or disagree with any of them?
Are you brave enough to take on the tag?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

S x

The Bookish Naughty or Nice tag

December 7, 2018December 2, 20182 Comments

Morning troops!

How are we all? What’s going down this here Friday morning? Has Christmas reached your house yet?

As we all know, Christmas is the time when you are deemed “naughty or nice”, so I thought I’d find a naughty or nice themed tag to do! I luckily found the perfect one… a bookish one on my friend Amy’s blog. You should check out her post here.

Received an ARC and not reviewed it: Naughty

Now I have never done this on PURPOSE, but I can imagine there’s an ARC or two in my collection that I’ve not reviewed.

Have less than 60% feedback rating on Netgalley: Nice

I’ve not used Netgalley for ages as my Kindle has been dead for a good few months. I need to find my charger lead. There’s so many brilliant books on the old NG that I need to get on!

Rated a book on Goodreads and promised a full review was to come on your blog (and never did): Naughty

Again, not purposefully. I ALWAYS intend on reviewing, but there’s bound to be one that’s slipped under the net. I always review on GR as I use it to track my books.

Folded down the page of a book: Nice

This is sheer heracy. I am a page rememberer (much to the dismay of my best friend!)

Accidentally spilled on a book: Nice?

I PROBABLY have in the past, but keep your hot drinks away from my books thanks.

DNF’d a book this year: Nice

Nope. I’ve read and finished EVERY book I started this year. I’m not one who DNFs very often.

Bought a book purely because it was pretty with no intention of reading it: Nice?

I THINK. But let’s be real… I probably have. I’m sure one of my friends will correct me on this one haha!

Read whilst you were meant to be doing something else (like homework): Naughty

Guilty as sin. Some weekends all I need to do is switch off and read.

Skim read a book: Naughty

Yep. Who hasn’t?!

Completely missed your Goodreads goal: Nice

Nope, I always hit my goal. I aim for a book a week, so I always hit it.

Borrowed a book and not returned it: Naughty

I still have one of my friend Charlotte’s books from like a few months ago. I’ll get round to reading it EVENTUALLY.

Broke a book buying ban: Naughty

MORE THAN LIKELY.

Started a review, left it for ages then forgot what the book was about: Naughty

LOL, I’m a book blogger. What do you expect?

Wrote in a book you were reading: Naughty

My friends and I used to do a thing where we’d send a book around – it was so lush to see what each of us thought of the different scenes!

Finished a book and not added it to your Goodreads: Nice

TECHNICALLY, I’m naughty for this because I don’t add picture books to my GR… I know I know, I need to.

Let me know your thoughts about my responses! I’d love to hear how you would answer these prompts!

S x

The Beauty and the Beast Book Tag

November 30, 2018November 25, 20184 Comments

Y’all know by now that I am utter BATB trash. I love it so much. Belle is my ULTIMATE Disney princess, I think she’s just a wonderful, wonderful person. When I saw the Beauty and the Beast book tag floating around, I knew I needed to engage, because, well, I’m predictable AF.

‘Tale as Old as Time’ – A popular theme, trope or setting you will never get bored of reading.

I’m not a massive “trope” lover. However, I am a SUCKER for anything romantic. I read a book recently where they were like “oh yeah we know it’s not going to go anywhere” and to everyone around them, it was CLEAR AS DAY something was going on. So yeah. Or the bad boy who is secretly a proper softie.

Belle – A book you bought for it’s beautiful cover that’s just as beautiful inside too.

Let’s be real, I buy a LOT of books because of their covers. I’m a TOTAL cover fiend. You can’t beat Sara Barnard books though. They have the ultimate sheld appeal – all that metallic sparkly goodness.

Beast – A book you didn’t expect much from but pleasantly surprised you.

Hmmm… this is hard. I don’t know that I have an answer for this one! Let me think about it!

Gaston – A book everyone loves but you don’t.

Oh man, Caraval. Now I don’t NOT love it… but I was just decidely underwhelmed by it. I’m still totally on the fence as to whether I want to read the second one.

Lefou – A loyal sidekick you can’t help but love more than their counterpart.

Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell has some absolutely amazing “sidekicks”. That story is VERY special.

Mrs. Potts, Chip, Lumiér, and Cogsworth – A book that helped you through a difficult time or that taught you something valuable.

Oh man, so so many books. I’m going to have to go for Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig. That book is one that I truly believe everyone should own, or at least read once in their lives.

‘Something There’ – A book or a series that you weren’t into at first but picked up towards the end.

The Smoke Thieves by Sally Green. I struggled so hard to get into this book because the first 80% is just set up. I just found it quite a hard slog… but by the end I was into it.

‘Be Our Guest’ – A fictional character you’d love to have over for dinner.

SO MANY. I’d love to have Belle over most though I reckon.

And there you go! Don’t forget to tag me in any tags you’d like to see me do. Tags are becoming a Friday staple on here!

Let me know your thoughts!

S x

The ‘Totally Should Have’ Tag

November 23, 2018November 18, 20182 Comments

Hello again! Just me back with more tag goodness! I’m loving the tag lifestyle here.

I don’t remember where I saw this tag, but I’ve had the notes about thgis tag in my blogging notebook for months so I fitured I would get round to posting it finally! This is the ‘Totally Should Have’ tag, where I weigh in on books that totally should have… something or other!

1. Totally should’ve gotten a sequel

Image result for simon vs. the homosapien agenda

Hmmm… Simon vs the HomoSapiens Agenda. To be fair, I just want a sequel of Simon and Blue goodness because my word I ship that HARD.

2. Totally should’ve had a spin off series

Image result for floored cover

Floored! I would’ve loved to see more about the lives of the crew, especially Hugo (despite the fact I thought he was a dick ha!) or Kaitlyn (cause she was an absolute darling).

3. An author who totally should write more books

Image result for emery lord books

Oooooooooooooh, interesting question! Emery Lord would be one of my candidates! Most of the authors who I think should write more books are currently writing more books, so I don’t know that I can nominate them.

(If you’re reading though Barnard, Salisbury, Evans, Hargrave et al… I mean you lot!)

4. A character who totally should’ve ended up with someone else

I have NO idea for an answer for this question. As a serial shipper, this is something I feel strongly about. Let me get back to you!

5. Totally should’ve ended differently

Image result for thunderhead book

The ending of Thunderhead BAFFLED me. I still loved it, but I just didn’t get it. I’m very much looking forward to the third book… but yeah, BAFFLING.

6. Totally should’ve had a movie franchise

Image result for six of crows duology

I stand firm that Six of Crows deserves a movie or 3.

7. Totally should’ve had a TV show

Image result for the extinction trials

The Extinction Trials by S.M.Wilson would make a great TV series in my opinion.

8. Totally should’ve had only one point of view

Again, this is one where I’m torn because I LOVE multiple perspective books. I don’t think I’ve read one that I didn’t like the other perspective. Some books have TOO MANY perspectives, which BAFFLES me to no end.

9. Totally should have a cover change

ANY COVER THAT HAS A PERSON ON THE FRONT. Not an illustration, but an ACTUAL person. Anyone who knows and has ever been book shopping with me will know that this is very much my least favourite thing about covers.

10. Totally should’ve kept the original covers

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOH. Controversial. I do not know though. I think MOST cover changes are done for the GOOD of the covers having shelf appeal.

11. Totally should’ve stopped at book one

Image result for me before you book

Me Before You. That second book I did not believe AT ALL and haven’t gotten round to reading the third book because I disliked the second one so much.

There we go!

Do you agree with any of my answers?
What would your answers be?
Have you got any covers that you hate?
DO you agree with me on the “take people off the covers of books”?

Speak to me! Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

S x

Friends Tag: Aoife edition!

November 21, 2018November 18, 20181 Comment

Hello friends!

Today, my lovely Irish friend Aoife (yes, her of Pretty Purple Polka Dots fame!) is here to give her answers to my Friends tag. I’m loving seeing posts for this tag, so please feel free to join in – I’ll take your posts on my blog, or post your own answers on your blog! Either way, I’m loving all the answers so far! (Check out THIS post for more information!)

So I best hand you over!

Ross: Seems harmless, but problematic – Name a book you had problems with Image result for stags mabennett Strangely, I have read a few books recently that didn’t go down very well with me. I could have picked any of them, but I’m going to go with STAGS by M.A Bennett.

(Hello, just me… I have not read this yet!)

Monica: neat and tidy – Name a book/series that ends satisfyingly

Simon vs the HomoSapiens Agenda. OH BLUE!

(Me again, I couldn’t agree more. This book is adorable!)

Chandler: funny and relatable – Name a firm fave

Holly Bourne has cemented herself as one of my all time favourite authors. She is incredible at not just telling important stories about mental health, but making them funny and relatable.

Phoebe: reliable and friendly – An author you always rely on

If you haven’t read Isabelle Broom yet, make sure you pick up one of her books – pronto. Keep your passport nearby too; all of her books involve travel, and they have some amazing settings.

Rachel: she grows on you over time – Name a book/series that’s grown on you over time

I felt that Still Me, the final book in the Me Before You trilogy, started off a little slow. I did enjoy it once it got going, and I thought it was a good end to the series.

(I BLOODY loved Me Before You… I didn’t enjoy the second book so much. I’m still on the fence as to whether I want to read this one… this could be convincing me!)

Gunther: always there, always ignored – A book you’ve had on your TBR forever

Good God, I have books that have been on my TBR for years. I try to knock them back as best as possible. This month I will read The C Word by Lisa Lynch as my Beat the Backlist year-long challenge.

Carol and Susan: keeping it diverse – An LGBT+ book you love/hate/wanna read

At the moment I’m reading Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman. I’m not too sure how I feel about it, I’m not really sure I like the narrator’s voice in this!

A massive, massive thanks to Aoife for popping by to answer my Friends Tag! You should go check out her blog – Pretty Purple Polka Dots.

Let me know if you want to join in!

S x

The Reader Problems Tag

November 16, 2018November 11, 20182 Comments

HAPPY FRIDAY. How are we all? Have we all survived another week? What have we all been up to? Today I come to you with a tag I’ve seen floating around for a while. I don’t recall where I first saw it, but I stole the questions from my friend Aoife’s blog (check it out here)

Let’s go with the “reader problems tag”!

1. You have 20,000 books in your TBR, how in the world do you decide what to read next?

I am 100% a mood reader, so I will read whatever I am in the mood to read. If I HAVE to read a book, I am so much less likely to actually enjoy reading it.

2. You’re halfway through a book and you’re just not loving it. Do you put it down or are you committed?

I’m a finisher. I’m stubborn. I will finish a book through thick and thin. Unless I GENUIENLY can’t wade through any more of it, I’ll stick by it.

3. The end of the year is coming and you’re behind on your reading challenge, do you try to catch up? And if so, how?

I’ll just keep reading? If I get to my target, great. If not, no one died because I didn’t read the books I said I would… so it’s all gravy.

4. The covers of a series you love do. not. match. How do you cope?

Lol, I’ll cope because I HAVE TO. If the publishers then release the series with matching covers, you KNOW I will be buying the matching covers. I’m all for matching.

5. Everyone and their mother loves a book that you do not. Who do you bond with over your shared feelings?

Tbh, I’ll survive. I have a merry band of book loving friends who will listen to me. We have differences of opinions on books and that’s cool.

6. You’re reading a book in public and you’re about to start crying. How do you deal?

Cry, lol. I always tell the story of coming back from YALC last year, when I was reading The Last Wild by Piers Torday (brilliant MG book, would recommend to all of the humans) and I was genuinely bawling. The man beside me tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I was OK because I was crying so hard, ha!

7. The sequel to a book you loved just came out but you’ve forgotten a lot of what happens. Are you going to reread it?

Not likely. I might reread my review or check out the synopsis on the internet. Or I’ll ask one of my friends to remind me of the plot.

8. You do not want anyone to borrow your books, how do you politely say no when someone asks?

I don’t generally say no? I dunno, my books are very precious to me… but I wouldn’t deny someone.

9. You have picked up and put down 5 books in the last month. How do you get over this reading slump?

I’m not often in a slump, but if I ever am… I try and read something OUT of that type. I’ll read an MG if YA isn’t tickling my fancy, and vice versa.

10. There are so many books coming out that you are dying to read, how many do you end up buying?

Most of them? I work hard for my money, so why shouldn’t I treat myself?

11. After you purchase all of these books that you’re dying to read how long do they sit on your shelves before you get to them?

It all depends on WHO it is and how much time I’ve been waiting (Salisbury, Barnard, Evans… I’m looking at you!)

If you fancy taking on this tag, go for it! I’d love to hear your thoughts on my answers!

S x

An EPIC book tag!

November 9, 2018November 4, 20181 Comment

Hello pals! I saw this tag on My Little Book Blog and thought “you know what I want to do? Answer 50 questions about books” (ha!) so here we go… I hope you have a cup of tea at the ready or something! (In fact, let me know what kind of tea you have… and if you have a biscuit!)

1. What was the last book you read?
The last book I finished was Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman.

2. Was it a good one?
I really enjoyed it! I want the next book now!

3. What made it good?
It was amazing to be back in that world, and they’re brilliantly paced.

4. Would you recommend it to other people?
Absolutely! Read Scythe first though!

5. How often do you read?
I’d say daily! There’s odd days where I don’t read, but I aim to read every day.

6. Do you like to read?
No, it’s the worst (LOL)

7.What was the last bad book you read?
Bad book? OOOH. The only one that springs to mind is The Smoke Thieves… but only because it takes 80% of the book to get anywhere.

8. What made you dislike it?
It’s just a bit slow. I did get to the end and think “ah that wasn’t too bad”, it just took SO LONG to get anywhere.

9. Do you wish to be a writer?
I go between yes and no for this. I love writing, but I don’t think I’ll ever write anything publish-worthy.

10. Has any book every influenced you greatly?
Yes, 100%.

11. Do you read fan fiction?
I used to.

12. Do you write fan fiction?
Nope!

13. What’s your favorite book?
Ever? Matilda.

14. What’s your least favorite book?
Ever? WHO EVEN KNOWS.

15. Do you prefer physical books or ready on a device (like a kindle)?
Physical books > kindle. I love my kindle, but I’m a bigger fan of reading physical books.

16. When did you learn to read?
I do not know the answer to this, but I’d presume when I was at school?

17. What is your favorite book you had to read in school?
1984. We did it for GCSE English and I bloody loved it.

18. What is your favorite book series?
The Sin Eater’s Daughter series by Melinda Salisbury.

19. Who is your favorite author?
REALLY? That’s the worst question.

20. What is your favorite genre?
Fantasy… but not high fantasy. I’m all about magic and potions and poison.

21. Who is your favorite character in a book series?
Jin from Rebel of the Sands for aesthetically pleasing reasons. Twylla from The Sin Eater’s Daughter series for badass. Kaz Brekker from Six of Crows for wit.

22. Has a book ever transported you somewhere else?
Every time I open a book.

23.Which book do you wish had a sequel?
Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda. Tbf, I just want a book all about Simon and Blue.

24. Which book do you wish DIDNT have a sequel?
Oh, I’m a massive fan of sequels, so I dunno if there’s going to be one I could name.

25. How long does it take you to read a book?
How long is a piece of string? Genuinely though, it depends on so many factors.

26. Do you like when books become movies?
I don’t watch that many movies so I don’t know that I have that many opinions.

27. Which book was ruined by its movie adaptation?
Again, I don’t know that I have enough experience in this to give you an answer.

28. Which movie has done a book justice?
I loved Me Before You – both the film and the book. So let’s go with that.

29. Do you read newspapers?
Yes?

30: Do you read magazines?
Not very often!

31. Do you prefer newspapers or magazines?
It depends what I’m after.

32. Do you read while in bed?
I’d say 70% of my reading happens in bed.

33. Do you read while on the toilet?
No?

34. Do you read while in the car?
I’m not in a car often enough to read in it.

35. Do you read while in the bath?
I’m not much of a bath person, I much prefer showers. It is not recommended to read in the shower.

36. Are you a fast reader?
Other people say I am, so I guess so?

37. Are you a slow reader?
Nope!

38. Where is your favorite place to read?
On a train or a bus.

39. Is it hard for you to concentrate while you read?
Concentrate on reading? No. I’m generally only focused on reading as I read.

40.Do you need a room to be silent while you read?
Ha, this is where I’m a bit bizarre. If I’m on a bus/train, I need noise. But if I’m at home, then it has to be silent.

41. Who gave you your love for reading?
I’ve never not been surrounded by books.

42. What book is next on your list to read?
I’m currently reading The Boneless Mercies by April Tucholke.

43. When did you start to read chapter books?
I remember reading Matilda and The Secret Garden when I was like 7 or 8, so probably just before then!

44. Who is your favorite children’s book author?
You can’t beat Roald Dahl, but of recent years? Maz Evans, Kiran Milwood Hargrave, Ross Mackenzie, Abi Elphinstone.

45. Which author would you most want to interview?
Anna James – I’ve had the joy of meeting her at events, but I’d love to sit down and have a chat with her.

46. Which author do you think you’d be friends with?
I’d love to be friends with Chloe Coles – she’s hilaarious.

47.What book have you reread the most?
There’s only one book I’ve ever reread… Matilda.

48. Which books do you consider “classics”?
Books written a canny few years ago. I’m not really a reader of classics.

49. Which books do you think should be taught in every school?
OH THIS IS A GOOD QUESTION, which right now I don’t have an answer for. But this could be a good question for a blog post!

50. Which books should be banned from all schools?
Should any books be banned? This is an interesting question. I shall mull over it. “Banning” books doesn’t sit well with me.

And there we have it! I will be WELL IMPRESSED if anyone managed to stick with me through those 50 questions. Let me know if you did, you deserve a sticker!

S x

The 90s Movie Tag

October 26, 2018October 21, 20183 Comments

Hello there!

How are we all? It’s Friday again! It is FINALLY half term. My first half term over as a teacher – prepare yourself for quite a mammoth blog post next week about what I got up to in my first 8 weeks as a teacher!

Today I’m taking on the ’90s Movie Tag’ which I saw on my brilliant friend Aoife’s blog. You should go read her post and follow her blog! I loved the premise of this tag, so thought I’d take it on.

She’s All That – Name a book couple that is an odd pairing but they still fit perfectly together

Lukas and Nell from The Hurting by Lucy van Smit. He’s pretty much a rich wolf boy and she was brought up with a drunken dad, a poorly mam and a little sister. They have an interesting dynamic. The Hurting is one of those books that pushes you to think for a while after you read it.

10 Things I Hate About You – A book/series you have a love/hate relationship with

OH MY WORD. For me, there is only one candidate. Gone Girl. I have SUCH a complex relationship with this book. I HATED the characters. So much. Man, I think I need to write a blog post about my feelings about this book. However, I did think it was so cleverly written. But yeah, this book makes me want to shake my fist (yknow, like the gif of the little girl?)

Clueless – A character who is totally clueless but you love them anyway

I don’t know that I have a character who is Clueless quite like Cher. I’ve gone for Citra and Rowan from Scythe. They had NO idea about the corruption and horrendous acts in Scythedom, but I loved them.

Titanic – Name a book that made you cry

LOLOL. Hello, do you know me AT ALL? I could list almost every book I’ve ever read. I am a crier. You’ll get used to it. However, if we’re going for books that have had a lasting impact on my emotions, I’d have to go with Countless by Karen Gregory. I can’t think about that book and not tear up.

American Pie – A book that makes you laugh

This was another one where I was like ‘I KNOW THE ANSWER STRAIGHT AWAY’. Guys, if you’re yet to read The Exact Opposite of Okay by Laura Steven, then you need to get on it. I remember reading the first chapter of that book and cackling SO SO MUCH. Izzy O’Neill is just remarkable and hilarious. Everyone needs her in their life.

Can’t Hardly Wait – A book with a crazy party

I don’t know that I can recall many books with parties in (which, considering I read a lot of YA books, does blow my mind slightly). But, after some thought, Clean by Juno Dawson features some wild parties. It must, right? It’s all about drugs and alcohol and sex.

Cruel Intentions – Name a character you can never fully trust

I 100% do not trust Mael from State of Sorrow (by the Queen Salisbury). I am still suspicious of him. I won’t say what it is, incase you haven’t read it, but if you have and wanna know… hit me up. I NEED SORROW 2 NOW PLZ THANKS.

Drive Me Crazy – Name your favourite “boy next door” or “girl next door” couple

I mean, Simon and Blue from Simon vs the Homosapiens Agenda are pretty much “boy next door/boy next door” vibes for me. I adore them. I want a book of just Simon and Blue romantic fluff.

Scream – A book with a memorable villain

Every time I do one of these tags and a question about vilains comes up, I think of the SAME character. J from The Loneliest Girl in the Universe by Lauren James. I mean, that’s gotta be some memorable character.

The Craft – Name a book with witches

The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw was my first thought. A brilliant book about witches and falling in love and being who you really are.

Why don’t you take on this tag? I’d love to know your thoughts on my choices!

ALSO, if you do a tag you’d like me to take part in, let me know! I’m loving tag life!

Speak to you soon!

S x

February 2019
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18	19	20	21	22	23	24
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**2018 READING STATS**

Number Of Books You Read: 162 Number of Re-Reads: 0 Genre You Read The Most From: Fantasy?