Twenty Questions Book Tag

Hey guys! I elected *myself* to participate in this book tag 🙂 I realize that I’ve never participated in tags before, and it’s kind of fun to think of answers to them in my head–so why not put them on the page?

1. How many books is too many books in a book series?

That depends on the series, really; JK Rowling wrote a *masterpiece* in the Harry Potter series, and that was 7+ books! For me, I think it comes down to the content and whether or not I feel like it needs to be drawn out. I can’t stand when a book is split apart that doesn’t need to be–if it’s 200 pages each, that could have *easily* been one book and now it’s just a cash grab. I really like books that aren’t necessarily in a series, but set in the same universe, if that makes sense! Each book just focuses on separate individual or aspect of the universe. Holly Black is very good at that! Also mad respect to her for still making great standalone books too.

2. How do you feel about Cliffhangers?

I think that in this world we live in, with *soooo* many series and sequels, cliffhangers are a necessary evil. The suspense! The Wonder! I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers. They’re stressful, but at the same time it’s a great way to keep me excited/invested in a story. It’s that difference between going to sleep on time, or failing to function as a human the morning after a late night 🙂 (Or getting anything else done, really).

(“Just oneeee more chapter!)

3. Hardback or Paperback?

I LOVE  hardback books! To me, they are easier to keep nice & they look good on the shelf. Lately though, I’ve been reading more & more E-books. Since I don’t go to the library, I usually buy my books–I’m trying this thing called “quality over quantity” were I read the E-book and if I absolutely love it, I buy a hardback copy. It saves space for the best ones on the shelf!!

4. Favorite Book?

It comes and goes. (Except Harry Potter, because *Always* is the best answer.) Aside from HP though, I would have to say The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black, Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell, or Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynn Jones.

5. Least Favorite Book?

Glitter by Aprilynn Pike makes me pretty angry; the main character was narcissistic and completely without emotion for anyone but herself, and I couldn’t stand it. I talk about it more in-depth on this post.

6. Love Triangles, Yes or No?

Someone in the story will always get their feelings hurt, which means that *I* in turn will get my feelings hurt, so no. I don’t enjoy them. I also feel like it lessens the value of each person’s experience, and in some cases, creates the “special snowflake” effect. *cough*Twilight*cough*

 

7. The Most Recent Book You Just Couldn’t Finish

Amy Tan’s Valley of Amazement; I don’t know why, but I had a really hard time with that one. I DNF’d it back at the beginning of summer–I loved the other books I’ve read by her, but this one was not my cup of tea.

8. A Book You’re Currently Reading

Right now, I’m reading a few–so far I love them all so much!

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Red Winter trilogy by Annette Marie

9. Last Book You Recommended to Someone

You’ll Miss Me When I’m Gone by Rachel Lynn Solomon was a complete Dark Horse for me; I stumbled on a retweet from the author about it being on sale, so I scooped it up on iBooks for $2.99 and BOY I was not disappointed. It was so good–it pulled me apart and quietly put me back together again. I would recommend that to anyone looking for something new and different to read.

10. Oldest Thing You’ve Read (Publication Date)

uhh…does it count if I read it for a class? The oldest things I’ve read (and enjoyed) are Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, anything by Jane Austin, Shakespeare, or Charles Dickens.

11. Newest Book You’ve Read (Publication Date)

The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert, or You’ll Miss Me When I’m Gone by Rachel Lynn Solomon.

12. Favorite Author?

J.K Rowling, Holly Black and Rainbow Rowell ❤ (No, I can’t choose just one. That’s impossible!)

13. Buying Books or Borrowing Books?

I prefer to buy mine! It makes me nervous to borrow from friends, and I never have time to go to the library. Maybe once I leave my second job I’ll give it a shot!

14. A Book You Dislike That Everyone Seems to Love?

Eliza and Her Monsters. I disliked that one so much–the relationship between her and Wes was so unhealthy (more specifically, something he did later on), and Eliza was a jerk more often than not. There was a lot of problematic behavior. And yes, I *understand* the important representation of depression in the story–I related to a few of her struggles. But I just can’t get over the mentality that all of her mistakes/bad things that happen in her life are the result of someone else–the mental blame game. She blamed everyone else for her problems. I’ll talk more about my feelings in another post…next question please!

15. Bookmarks or Dog-Ears?

I’ll take crumpled CVS receipts for 500, Alex!

16. A Book You can Always Re-Read

Harry Potter is number one, but pretty much anything on my favorite books list above!

17. Can You Read While Hearing Music?

Unless I’m reading subtitles on the TV…nope!

18. One POV or Multiple POV’s?

I think that books with multiple POV’s can go really well or horribly wrong, and when they go horribly wrong sometimes it’s hard for me to tell because I feel like maybe I’m just not understanding it. So, while I enjoy that multiple POV’s help you see ever side of the story, I like on POV better. Also, I don’t like when the multiple POV pulls you away from something big happening to one character. (That’s the kind of cliffhanger I *don’t* like. I’m looking at  you, George R.R. Martin.)

19. Do You Read a Book in One Sitting, or Multiple Sittings?

That honestly depends on the book, but most days it will take me more than one since I never seem to have time to read consecutively.

20. Who do you Tag?

Everyone!! (Seriously, I want to see them.)

 

As always, thanks for reading! I hope to have some posts with a bit more content in the upcoming months.

Lux

 

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My Autumn Reading List

While it may be summer now, autumn is just around the corner; & with the Autumn comes….*spooky* things! (I know, I know–it’s still super early). But when it comes to things like reading lists, I have to give myself a head start! I work two jobs, so I average maybe 2 books a month. (I’m trying to go easy on myself, here). More than that, I want to have goals and it’s always better to start small, right?? Take a look, and please feel free to recommend anything else that’s spooky and/reminiscent of the season to me! With that, let’s move on with the list here shall we? (Starting in no particular order, because my thoughts are a mess) :

Possessed: The True Story of an Exorcism

Alright, *clearly* I started off pretty strong here. If you all don’t know, William P. Blatty’s book The Exorcist was based off of something that happened to a 13-year old boy in St. Louis, Missouri in the winter/spring of 1949. This account by Thomas Allen is an in-depth analysis of his ordeal, which is equal parts horrifying and…educational? This book was a bit hard to read for several reasons (yes, I’ve just finished reading it) which mostly involves the subject matter, but also because it delved so deeply into parts of Christianity that I am vastly unfamiliar with. That’s not to say that I didn’t enjoy it–what I genuinely appreciated about this piece is that it was meticulous very well researched; I felt that Thomas left no stone unturned. If you’re up for it, I would give this one a chance! (I don’t know that I can read The Exorcist itself yet. I’m so not brave.)

The Cruel Prince

This one has been on my reading list for quite some time, actually–since last year if I remember correctly! At the time, I had just finished The Darkest Part of the Forest and I was *so* in love! I’ve been reading Holly’s works since I was a freshman in high school, and everything from her just blows my mind–her stories just get better and better. Now, Forest had more of an eerie, Fairy Tale fall-time feel to it and I don’t know that Prince does–but I somehow have a feeling it will put me right in that cozy, spooky mindset that I’m looking for! Fae, court intrigue, macabre masquerades, vengeance, antiheroes—Sign. Me. UP!

The Dark Beneath the Ice

This one gives me chills just *Looking* at it. That cover, though! That, and all it takes is reading the Google “synopsis” to get me hooked:

“Black Swan meets Paranormal Activity in this compelling ghost story about a former dancer whose grip on reality slips when she begins to think a dark entity is stalking her.

Something is wrong with Marianne.”

What? WHAT. From my understand, there is good LGTBQ+ representation in here as well. Once again, I can’t wait!!

Practical Magic

I watched the film version of this years ago, and fell in love. The story was much darker than I anticipated, and I found that to be a nice surprise. Just as well, my favorite actress of all time, Sandra Bullock, played a leading role! (Of course, I also love Nicole Kidman as well–so gorgeous and talented!) The book has also been on my list for a few years now, so I’m excited to delve into it. Curses, magic, family secrets…yes, please.

Interview with the Vampire

The story is similar here–I *finally* watched the 90’s film version with my best friend, and fell so in love with it. It was…beautiful, dark, and macabre. (Also a bit sad!) Basically, everything I would have wanted in a Vampire tale. I stared to read the novel a while back , but didn’t have the focus at the time to push through. Not to say I didn’t enjoy it–I just wasn’t in the right mindset! Hopefully this reading list will get me to the place I want to be 🙂

Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women & Witchcraft

This is a newer YA (I’m assuming) release! I’ve read the preview on iBooks and it’s left me hungry for more. It’s been a long time since I’ve read an anthology/short story collection, and judging by the subject matter–this one has come out at just the right time! I can’t wait to see what it’s all about.

 

As I go along on this Booklist, check back for some full reviews as they will be coming! I think that would be a fun way to track my progress, and to see what you all think 🙂

What are some of your most anticipated Fall reads? Do you see anything I’ve missed here? I’m open to  any and all suggestions.

One month ’till Fall!

Happy reading 🙂

–Lux

Currently Playing/Watching/Reading V

Hey guys! It’s been a minute since I’ve done this type of post, so I’m ready for a bit of an update 🙂 Lately, more than anything, I’ve been doing SO much reading, and that makes me happy. Back in March, I decided to join in on Goodreads and that has helped me so much! I feel like I’ve regained my passion for books and good stories. Lately it’s been really hard for me to find the time to do anything creative, because of work and many other things (That will be coming in my next life update post!) For now, let’s get on with the show!

Currently Playing

This space is sadly lacking for the last few months; I simply haven’t had the time to really engage in anything, and that makes me sad. BUT, I have found some pretty cool mobile games that I’ve been trying out!

Pokemon Shuffle

This one I’ve actually been playing for quite a while; it’s fun, simple, and rewarding! It’s a puzzle game, the likes of which we have all seen before–you match the Pokemon together to make them “disappear”, attack, and win the game!

You battle a different Pokemon each time, and every time you win, you get a chance to “catch” that Pokemon if you haven’t already. It’s a good time to play if you need a brain stimulant every once in a while 🙂 Plus it’s really fun, and cute as well.

If you play, Add me! My friend code is:

ZBNJ-FAQE

Currently Watching

Dark Tourist on Netflix

This is a docu-series in which you follow the adventures of a chronically uncomfortable New Zealander to “unconventional” vacation spots. (Of course, when they say “uncomfortable” they mean eerie and macabre.)

(I mean, just look at that face).

“Dark Tourists” are people who forgo sandy beaches and soothing resorts, & instead choose to vacation in less desirable destinations such as nuclear sites, murder houses, and haunted places (Just to name a few).

This show is incredibly interesting, dark, and (yes) educational. Here, he talks about the ugly side of history, and how it impacts our society today. It’s fascinating, really–I tend to be drawn to darker stories to begin with. I’ve only seen a few episodes so far, but I’ve enjoyed every one of them. It’s been a minute since I left school, so it’s nice to continue learning in one small way or another 🙂

Currently Reading

Your Lie in April

I mentioned watching the anime a while back in a post just like this one–after watching, I definitely wanted to give the books a try. I am so glad that I did.

This broke my heart into pieces, and quietly put it all back together. It’s a cruel lesson in humanity, and love, and growth. If you’re feeling depressed, or unmotivated, or afraid, read this. The writing was superb, and the characters were all lovable in their own way.

I’ve watched the anime before, and to all those who say that it’s “better” because you can actually hear the music–I urge you to give it another chance. As with most book-to-media translations, I think the books go more in-depth; however it’s in much more subtle ways. I better understand the motives of the characters, and the depth of their feelings. It’s all in the writing and the emotions which-my God-Naoshi does so well. The art was beautiful and just as expressive, if not more, than the writing. This is an important story that will stay with me for a very long time.

I’ve read so many other books in the last few months, too many to talk about at once! Your Lie in April is the one that’s impacted me the most lately, so I wanted to talk about that.

Sorry guys, I know it’s not much–life has just been too crazy for me to sit down and enjoy a thing! But I’ll get more into that in my next post. I hope you’ve all been well!

Tell me about what you’re reading, watching or playing! Or heck, even just something you’ve found that you’re really excited about! I want to hear about it. 

Thank you so much of taking the time to read my posts! Until next time.

–Lux

Book Review: Uprooted by Naomi Novik

 

As the title suggests, today I will be talking about one of the books on my recently read list! Going into this story, I was quite excited. It has been getting rave reviews, and the fantasy community seems to really love it. I was excited to love it too! I mean, just look at those beautiful covers. Even without them, the premise alone was enough to catch my eye.

Set in a fictional world based on Polish folklore, we follow Agnieszka on her journey from fellow peasant haunted by The Wood, to her transformation as the captive magician in the Tower.

Every ten years, The Dragon takes a girl from the village and holds her in The Tower. Nobody knows what happens to them during this time; all they know is, by the time she’s returned, she’s no longer the daughter they once knew. It all sounds dark and mysterious, like a retelling of Beauty and the Beast (My favorite story of all time).

However, in the end I was a bit disappointed.

Final Rating: 2.5 to a 3 out of 5 (Okay, maybe it’s not so final.)

I have very…mixed feelings about this book, and the last 100 pages are the only thing that bumped it up to a solid three stars. The world-building, or rather the mythology that she was drawing from as inspiration, was beautiful. I loved the idea of the “corrupted” Wood, and how it transformed the lives of the people around it. However, most everything else in the book fell flat. It has the skeleton of a great story, but nothing to keep it upright.

The Wood was the most captivating part of this book, and honestly what kept me reading more. I was always excited to see what would happen next in that regard.

However, the characterization just wasn’t there; the book was plot-driven alone, and that wasn’t enough to keep it moving forward (as evidenced by the long, drawn out middle half that seemingly would not end…I was bored.) The characters had no story to them whatsoever, and it made me not care about them at all. I knew nothing of Agnieszka’s family, or the townspeople, or even the secondary characters like the Dragon or her best friend, Kasia. The only description allowed to The Dragon was constant irritation & impatience; Kasia seemed to know nothing except how to grasp Agnieszka’s hands. There was no real dialogue or humanity to any of their interactions.

The Dragon’s part in the “love” story bothered me a bit, because it’s the same (very dangerous) trope of “He’s mean because he loves me” or that he just doesn’t know how to express his feelings. I’ll tell you right now, that’s the first step to getting trapped in an abusive relationship. The Dragon had the emotional range of a *very angry* spoon. I was not a fan, though I do very much appreciate that the love story wasn’t the center of the plot.

I enjoyed that Prince Marek & Solya had morally grey areas, and I appreciate the part they had to play in the story–but most of the time I couldn’t focus on what was happening. I also couldn’t get a read on their personalities, but their…*actions* were more human. (Keep in mind, with everything Marek has done…he’s still the SCUM of the Earth.)

There were some thinly veiled political movements in the book, and I liked that Agnieszka faced consequences for every small action, like anyone in power has to deal with. But that’s about as deep as the characterization went. (except for the last 100 pages, which I won’t spoil now).

The magic system was not fleshed out at all, but that actually didn’t bother me. I wouldn’t count that as a negative, because I felt like *how* magic was done wasn’t the important thing, and I think that’s what the author was trying to say. Maybe in her world, there isn’t a set way to do things; it all comes down to your intent and emotion. I really loved the descriptions of how Agnieszca felt when she was working to make the magic happen. I felt that those moments were the most well thought out passages.

There were definitely some beautifully written phrases in here, but for the most part there was a lot of repetition of words, usually in the same sentence or entire paragraph. This caused my mind to wander a bit.

It really had a lot of beautiful components to it; I just wish that it had focused on other parts of the story too. I’m glad that I read it, and I love the world and the scenery that Naomi painted for us. I think I just wanted more–I’m sad that it took until the very end of the book to be engrossed in the story.

 

What did you all think of the story? What are some things that you loved about it?

Top 5 Classics I’ve Never Seen

We’ve all been there, right? (Please nod your head silently with me, so that I don’t feel alone.) Somehow, someway, I’ve missed out on what I’ve been told are the BEST stories to watch. How did I do this? How did I fall so far behind? You might be asking yourself (as though you want to ask me) “Who hurt you?” And the answer is….I PLAYED MYSELF. I straight up LIED to myself, saying “I’ll watch it sometime or other.” Well, 15 years later I still haven’t reached that “sometime.” Listed below are a few of the greatest things I’ve been missing–complete with my rambling thoughts of first impressions. Maybe now that I have all my dirty laundry out in the open, I’ll work to correct it by watching them one by one 🙂

 

1. Forrest Gump

I don’t know much about Forrest Gump, other than that he’s a kind and handicapped individual who only wants the best in the world for those around him. (Is my first impression incorrect? Somebody help ya girl out!) I know that Jenny is a hot topic and that there’s no middle ground–you love her, or you absolutely hate her. Missing out on this one is a bit of a shock to me really, since I love Tom Hanks so much. How does this one rate on your scale of “This is the best?” After missing out on it for so long, would you recommend that I absolutely see it? Also, as long as we’re still talking Tom Hanks here–you should all watch Splash because mermaids and New York and everything else you could possibly want.

 

2. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Okay, this one I have *purposefully* avoided because I know that it’s sad, and existential. I’ve also heard here and there that the ending is rushed, and sort of goes unexplained. Is that why they’re re-releasing it in movie form? Is that why they’re doing that thing? It’s really hard for me to watch something so depressing. I really do want to give it a good shot one day, because from my understanding there are a lot of meaningful messages wrapped up in there. From my view on the outside, it looks like “The world sucks and we’re all gonna die and would anybody even care?” If you’re reading this, and you feel like I don’t understand, PLEASE educate me!

 

3. Gilmore Girls

I know, TRUST ME I know. This honestly looks like a thing that would be right up my ally–bookish friends, and quaint little town, witty comebacks. And here’s the thing–I’ve seen bits and pieces of it, so this *technically* shouldn’t be on my list, but here it is anyway. I’ll be honest, while what I’ve seen of it is vaguely interesting, I’m mostly bored by it. I don’t know why, but my attention doesn’t stay there long. I would like to give it a real run-through before I cast my final judgement, of course! Would you guys like it if I took you along for the ride when I do? Would you read them if I posted blogs along the way?

4. The Labyrinth

Okay, this one HURTS ME. I don’t know HOW I have gone so long without seeing this cult classic! I guess I was more wrapped up in Beetlejuice when I was younger–but even so, I am still SO EXCITED about this one and I’ve been too busy (let’s be honest, probably just lazy) to give it a watch. It looks dark and mysterious and wonderful, and I’ve recently picked up Wintersong by S. Jae-Jones, which I’ve been told has that same vibe to it. I will DEFINITELY be talking about this one when I get around to watching it.

 

5. Indiana Jones

Believe me, I know this was a mistake. The adventure, the thrill!! Maybe at this point it would be best to mention that I had very restricted viewing habits growing up–my parents were very careful about what they would let us watch (my sisters and I) because we were pretty wild and would tend to emulate some of the more…creative…stunts. (Power Rangers lasted all of two weeks before being abruptly shut off.) Regardless, this one is a timeless classic with a stunning score by John Williams (who *hasn’t* heard the Indie theme? I’ve at least done that, I’m not SO uncultured okay). I definitely want to add it to my top ten favorite films! I hope it lives up to the hype.

 

So, there you have it folks–

A comprehensive list of all the things I’ve been missing out on. Now that it’s all out in front of me, it leaves me wondering what I actually *did* watch as a child. (The Last Unicorn, Disney, Sailor Moon, Pokemon….I see another blog post coming on!)

 

What film classics did you miss out on? Are there any more that you would recommend for me? Thanks for reading!

-Lux

 

Currently Playing/Watching/Reading IV

Looking back at my previous posts, this seems to be the majority of what I’ve been writing on here–I promise my inspiration will return one of these days, when I’m not working 60+ hours a week! Until then, mini reviews and gushing about the media I’ve been taking in (Which, to be honest, is not much lately) is a very nice reprieve. As always, this post was inspired by my girl Flavia, check out her blog for more wonderful content! I hope you guys enjoy, and I look forward to keeping up with writing in the next year! (I imagine an end-of-the-year post will be coming before then, I hope.) Without further ado….

Currently Watching: Recovery of an MMO Junkie

I figured this would be another immersion anime in which you see very little of the characters outside of the fantasy world–but I was wrong for it, and so glad to be. This story presents a healthy balance of both the character as they appear in the game, and who they are outside of that as real-life working adults. (“working” is a relative term…)

For those of you who haven’t heard about the show, here’s a small synopsis:

Moriko Morioka is a 30-year old elite businesswoman-turned-NEET, after feeling unfulfilled in her professional life. (Her reasoning is revealed throughout the run of the show, which shall remain unsaid here.) She joins and MMO called Fruits de Mer, & thus “starts over” with a new persona AND a new gender! That’s right, she effectively makes her own new beginning by moonlighting as a male character named Hayashi, who is quickly invited to join a guild called @home. There, (s)he meets friends to play with and begins to feel more fulfilled in her fantasy life. (s)he also meets another player named Lilli, your typical mild-mannered healer who is kind, and shy, on only wants the best for those around her (?). It’s fun to see the characters both in and out of the game, and watch as they are all slowly drawn together in both worlds!

I’m only about five episodes in, but so far I’ve found that I really enjoy it–it presents a nice slice-of-life situation and I feel it accurately describes what it feels like to be directionless/unable to move forward; it is a gentle reminder that no failure is permanent or, at the very least, that we are not as bad as we think we are. It presents a nice “study” of gender roles, and flips expectations on their head (Something I will never not enjoy.) I don’t know how quickly I’ll be able to finish it, but I’m excited to keep going on this journey!

Currently Playing: Kingdom Hearts-Final Mix

I picked up the new PS4 release for Kingdom Hearts earlier in the year, but haven’t messed with it too much until now. (Have I finished any of the other games I’ve started this year yet? No  whoops (: ). I only ever had the first three games available to me when I was younger, because I only owned a PS2 & a Gameboy Advance–needless to say, I am thrilled that I get to experience the magic all over again, and to complete the series before the third installment finally hits shelves! I love the soundtrack and of course the characters. I remember loving these games so much, and I’m grateful to have this opportunity again. If you’re a fan of Final Fantasy & Disney alike, then I urge you to please pick this up! It is so worth it. I hope that the third one will be released while I’m still at least in my twenties……

As an added bonus, I was able to purchase this game WITHOUT using a credit card, and that made my day all the more. For those of you that don’t know, I’ve been on a journey the last few months to eliminate as much debt from my life as humanly possible, and that’s why I have two jobs. It was a huge sense of accomplishment to purchase this without worry of having to pay anything back 🙂 Baby steps, but it all works out in the end.

I have one day off this month, and that’s New Year’s Day–you better believe I’m going to spend it as a human potato, playing as much of this game as I possibly can before I walk into the office again!

Currently Reading:

I….I’ve got nothing for you guys here…it’s so sad! I DO have a huge TBR list though, and you can check out what I’ve been lusting after here.

Since I’m currently lacking in one department, I thought I’d make a little bonus round for you guys (& it’s not because I have another obsession that I want to gush about AT ALL….)

Currently Listening: Lights, Skin & Earth

Lights is my GIRL. I love her so much, and I’m so pleased with her latest creative endeavor! I love all of her previous work, but she really blew me out of the water with this one. If you haven’t heard anything by Lights, you should definitely check her out! She’s generally got a Synth-pop-rock vibe going on, and each of her albums reflects a different theme or time in her life. She’s big into video games and comic book culture, and she’s really good at creating her own story through her music.

With this one, she’s taken it a step further and actually written her own comic book! (Excuse me, written AND DREW. This is all her own original artwork, how cool is that?)

It’s very post-modern and apocalyptic, and this is a rare exception to my general dislike of the post-modern genre. She totally kills it, and I’m all in for this ride.

Well guys,

That’s about all I’ve had time for this month, unfortunately! I know the 60 hour work weeks won’t last, so I’m grateful to just keep adding to my library when I can, to catch up on later. Hopefully I can keep the momentum going with all of these wonderful things I started this month!

I hope you’ve all been enjoying your holidays 🙂

–Lux

Top Five Books on my Amazon Wish List

I love the wish list feature on Amazon–it allows me to keep track of all the things I want to have, but either have no motivation to spend the money (or, I straight-up don’t have the money and like to torture myself.) I have no self control, so I have several lists (broken down into category–how did I become so organized?) that are pushing 50 items plus….

BUT I think one of the great things about this feature is that it allows me to keep a virtual TBR, and doesn’t let me forget all of the wonderful literature that I one day plan to get my hands on.

(Now, you might rightfully so be asking yourself, “why don’t you just get a library card if you don’t wanna spend the money?” Well my friends, that’s because I have a horrible memory and cannot for the life of me return anything on time. Hello, double-digit library fine….)

In no particular order, here are my top 5 most desired books!

1. The Only Pirate at the Party

By Lindsey Stirling

I LOVE Lindsey Stirling so much; she’s so talented, and seemingly so kind. I love that she is unafraid to be herself, and I love that she does so many covers of original music from video games! Whenever I have a bad day, I watch a few of her music videos and especially her “behind the scenes” shorts that she does on YouTube. It’s hard not to smile when she’s so excited about the little things, and it reminds me to be grateful for the little things as well. This has been on my TBR list for a good year and a half now, and I STILL haven’t bought the dang thing. (I mean, better yet I still haven’t purchased her latest CD….& yes, I still buy CD’s because I’m in the stone age.)

 

2. The Cruel Prince

By Holly Black

This one won’t be released until January 2nd, but it’s been on my radar for a while now. I read the Tithe series when I was in high school, but I hadn’t followed much of her work after that. Until last summer that is–I bought The Darkest Part of the Forest & let it sit on my shelf for ages, but I finally got around to it in August. It was simply amazing, and rekindled my adoration of dark fairy tales. I’ve got this one on preorder for sure!

3. The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice & Virtue

By Mackenzie Lee

People have been talking about this one non-stop all summer, and I can’t wait to read it myself! I enjoy a good love story, no matter the gender or the sexual identity. (& this one sounds like it’s got plenty of shenanigans along the way!)

4. The Joy Luck Club

By Amy Tan

This one has been floating around in my peripheral vision for YEARS, but now I think I’m finally in a good place to read it–I’m much more mindful of characterization and the character driven story than I was when I was younger. I also really enjoy historical fiction, or fiction that has historical/social/economical elements to it. Plus, the cover is lovely.

5. The Bear and the Nightingale

By Katherine Arden

I think out of all the books on my list, this is the one that I’m most excited for. For my birthday, my best friend gave me about about the “Beauty and the Beast” story as told around the world, and all the myths surrounding it. This book, from what I’ve seen, looks to be a retelling of an old Russian folktale of the same nature. It’s beautifully written (again, from what I’ve seen) and I wanted to read so much more than the Amazon sneak peak would allow me! This will probably be the first on my list to make it to the cart.

 

So there you have it, folks! What are some things from your wishlist that you’ve been the most excited about?

–Lux