2025 Reading Challenge discussion

Goal of 50 books, Here is the outline for 2016!

Genre/Type
Biography/Memoir:
Classics:
Fantasy: 12
Graphic Novel:
Historical Fiction: 4
Horror:
General Fiction:
Mystery:
Other Nonfiction:
Science Fiction: 6
Poetry:

Length
Short (<250 pages): 1
Medium (250-500 pages): 6
Long (501-750 pages): 7
Very Long (>750 pages): 5

Author Gender
Female: 16
Male: 6

New to Me or Repeat Author?
New to Me: 7
Repeat: 15

Series or Novel?
Series: 20
Novel: 2

Owned or Borrowed?
Owned Book: 22
eBook: 0
Audiobook: 0
Library:

Rating:
5: 9
4: 11
3: 1
2: 1
1:

Good luck with your challenge, Patricia! If I may ask, who is Oswin Oswald?

The list for my 80 books:


1. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling
2. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
3. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
4. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
5. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
6. Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
7. Doctor Who: The Clockwise Man by Justin Richards
8. Doctor Who: The Monsters Inside by Stephen Cole
9. Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon
10. Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
11. Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas
12. The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas
13. Cinder by Marissa Meyer
14. Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
15. Cress by Marissa Meyer
16. Fairest by Marissa Meyer
17. The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon
18. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
19. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
20. Academ's Fury by Jim Butcher
21. Cursor's Fury byJim Butcher
22. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.

good luck!

Resolutions:

1) I will read from at least 3 new genres this year
2/3

2) I will finish the Outlander series this year
5/8

3) I will reduce my TBR pile to half
22/48

✓ 4) I will reach 3000 points on my Plum Points reward card (hopefully more)
3000+/3000

5) I will review at least 40 out of the 50 books I plan to read; and
14/45

6) Give a star rating for all.
22/50

Cassandra wrote: "Good luck with your challenge, Patricia! If I may ask, who is Oswin Oswald?"

Its a character from my favourite show, Doctor Who! I love her character so I just thought "why not" and chose that instead! thank you!

I love your adopted name! Whovians unite! Now I want to be River Song. Darn it. Oh well, I am not on top of it like you. :) Good luck on your challenge!

Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "I love your adopted name! Whovians unite! Now I want to be River Song. Darn it. Oh well, I am not on top of it like you. :) Good luck on your challenge!"

Thanks! I'm glad to see a fellow Whovian who also enjoys the spoils of literature :)

Patricia wrote: "Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "I love your adopted name! Whovians unite! Now I want to be River Song. Darn it. Oh well, I am not on top of it like you. :) Good luck on your challenge!"

Thanks! I'm glad t..."

Whovians that enjoy the spoils of literature are the best kind :) On that note, I know there are about a million Doctor Who Books. Have you read any? Do you have any recommendations? I would like to start reading them, but like I said there are about a million and I can't seem to make up my mind.

Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "Patricia wrote: "Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "I love your adopted name! Whovians unite! Now I want to be River Song. Darn it. Oh well, I am not on top of it like you. :) Good luck on your challenge!"

T..."

Unfortunately, I have not got the chance to begin on the novels either but i have a few that im planning to read this year that sound interesting. Here are three that I'm looking forward to:

Doctor Who: Prisoner of the Daleks is with David Tennant as the Doctor and i think without a usual companion

Doctor Who: The Silent Stars Go By with Matt Smith, Amy and Rory

and from the classics, Doctor Who: The Three Doctors with the first three original Doctors


Sorry i couldn't be more helpful!

Patricia wrote: "Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "Patricia wrote: "Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "I love your adopted name! Whovians unite! Now I want to be River Song. Darn it. Oh well, I am not on top of it like you. :) Good luc..."

Ideas are always helpful. :) It's actually really smart to read the old series like that- sometimes (unless it is #2) I have a hard time looking past the technology issues in Classic Who. I don't have that same issue with the second Doctor, but his episodes are so hard to find. Good stuff. (All three of those made my To Read shelf, though. That Matt Smith one looked particularly interesting. The Maintainers...just their name, you know? Anyway, thanks. I really appreciate it.

Book #:

Title:
Author:

Rating: ★★★★★ ☆☆☆☆☆
Finished:
Pages:

Review:

Categories:
Challenges:

Just stealing this from Cassandra's corner to use throughout 2016!

Awesome! I'm glad you like the stats and things. I'm still trying to decide what stats I want to track for 2016.

Finished on January 1

Oswin! I love her! Yeah, one Whovian here too.. :D

Title: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Harry Potter #5)
Author: J.K. Rowling

Rating: ★★★★★
Finished: January 1
Pages: 800

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

WARNING: this review contains SPOILERS. If I did not have spoilers I wouldn't be able to give a review.

Where do I begin? I suppose I'll start with the plot. Be warned that seeing how this book contains Delores Umbridge and Percy Weasly, the review will contain not-so-classy language.

As I commenced the book I was once again thrown into the Harry Potter universe with Harry back at 4 Pivet Drive, more excited than ever because of how the last book ended. Skipping to the more dire parts, Harry faces two Dementors while his cousin, Dudley almost receives the kiss of a Dementor. Luckily Harry chases them off and is escorted back to Pivet Drive by Mrs. Figg who we discover is a squib. Harry is sent to trial for using magic in front of a muggle. It is here where my anger commences. Mr. Fugde is a dumbass. Harry is telling them about how he was saving a life and Fudge has the audacity to tell the council that Harry is nothing more than a babbling fool on the look out for attention. This is a serious matter and Fudge chooses to ignore it out of the fear of admitting the Dark Lord has returned. Then the character that is Delores Umbridge is revealed. She sits there with her pink outfit, frog like appearance and annoyingly hollow smile and treats Harry like he is a fool. You find out how much of a disloyal, arrogant jackass Percy is, when it is written that he abandoned their family, said he was ashamed to be a Weasly and trusted the Ministry more than his own family. How he got into Gryffindor, I will never know. Anyway, back to the plot, when Harry returns to Hogwarts, you discover all of the lies that have been put into the newspaper. As a reader of the novels, it felt like I was being betrayed and ignored because I lived through Cederic's death and Voldemort's return just like Harry. I was offended, which is testimony to the amazing writing skills of Rowling. Umbride takes over the school by trying to expel students and teachers alike, and setting up her rules which made me want to strangle her. The ending of the book had me heart broken. Sirius was one of my favourite characters. He was the only family that Harry had and he was taken from our lives. Bellatrix Lestrange is one of the most well written characters I have ever had the displeasure of reading. The ending of the book closed nicely as it explained everything to the reader in a heart crushing way.

Umbridge. How do i begin to describe her? Theres no other way to put it-- Umberidge is a bitch. She tortures students if they dont' follow her truth. She doesn't listen to Harry or Dumbledore who actually know what they are doing. She insults teachers and students. Shows no respect. She struts around the school deducting points from anyone who she just doesn't like. She is the worst character in existence. Written well but just so unlikable. GARAGGHHH there are not enough hateful words in existence to describe the human-toad that is Umbridge. She was going to use an unforgivable curse just to fit her well being. Her pink outfits and falsely polite gestures, her toad-smile, all contributed to my hatred to that racist old hag. Her discrimination against other races is appalling. Percy is a prick who betrayed his family. Neville is one of the bravest and strongest characters I have ever read about.

This review is unbelievably long, but this book made me feel rage like I've never felt before. Order of the Phoenix is truly a literary brilliance and will definitely be re-read many enjoyable times. (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Fantasy, Books that will boil your blood
Challenges: None

Merja wrote: "Oswin! I love her! Yeah, one Whovian here too.. :D"

Fellow Whovian I see! Glad to see us Whovians sticking together!

And seems like we are also school mates! Though I'm Hufflepuff, wanting to be Ravenclaw, but Sorting Hat thinks I'm more Huffle..

Congrats on finishing your first book on January 1!

Megan wrote: "Congrats on finishing your first book on January 1!"

Thank you!

Merja wrote: "And seems like we are also school mates! Though I'm Hufflepuff, wanting to be Ravenclaw, but Sorting Hat thinks I'm more Huffle.."

I thought I was Gryffindor and then I took two quizzes and discovered that I was a Gryffindor! My results said that my second house is Hufflepuff.

Finished on January 22

Book #: 2

Title: All the Light We Cannot See
Author: Anthony Doerr

Rating: ★★★★☆
Finished: January 22 2016
Pages: 530

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:
This book was a journey-- a heartbreaking, yet brilliant journey. At the beginning of the book, it already had me in deep thought when Marie-Laure lost her vision completely. It is unimaginable to know how it would feel for your vision to all of a sudden disappear. At such a young age too. Everyone would whisper about how her father should have given her away and she most likely felt as though she was a burden. Kids bullied her and she had such a difficult time learning to walk without sight. On the other end of the spectrum, Werner was living in an orphanage. I loved his character from the start, always willing to learn, constantly experimenting and asking wild questions. He was kind to his sister and the people around him, making him extremely likeable. I love the concept of the boxes Henri gave Marie-Laure on her birthday. They were like an adventure to open the box and the reward was a nice piece of candy. I love how Henri was such a good father to his daughter-- always patient and caring.

Throughout the book I experienced some of the best character development I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Werner begins as this boy who believes in Hitler's cause and joins the Hitler Youth Program to reach his dreams of becoming an inventor in Berlin. Later on, he learns that war is not just black and white. He learns that what they are doing is wrong. He becomes such a strong character at the end, defying orders and saving Marie-Laure's life, that I actually CRIED at two in the morning when (view spoiler)[Werner went through all of that rebellion and pain, just to be captured and get blown up from a land mine (hide spoiler)]. I have never cried over a book before.

Marie-Laure also becomes more independent and incredibly brave when she is faced with Von Rumpel entering her home in search of the Sea of Flames. She learns to survive on her own without her great-uncle or her father.

I love how this book depicts my favourite character, Fredrick. He is a quiet boy who is basically nonexistent to the boys at Schulpforta. He has an obsession with birds and dreams to see a rare one. Out of all the boys at the school, he is the one who sees what they are doing to the people of Europe as wrong. He stands up to everyone when he is asked if he is the weakest boy. People do horrible things to his possessions and bully him. Yet he does not back away. One day, he will not throw ice water at a defenseless man and for his bravery, he gets beaten up to such extremes that he can no longer do much on his own. To read about him in that state broke my heart.

Overall, Anthony Doerr did an amazing job and it really was worth the 10 years of writing. His plot never fails to keep you entertained and style of writing never gets dull or repetitive. This was truly an extraordinary read. (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Historical fiction
Challenges: Popsugar challenge, New Years Resolution, I-Spy

Finished on January 28

Book #: 3

Title: Throne of Glass
Author: Sarah J Maas

Rating: ★★★★★
Finished: January 28
Pages: 404

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

PLOT:
The beginning of the book started at a prison named Endovier where Celeana was serving her time as an assassin. Then Chaol walks into her life and cell, removing her from the world she suffered in for a year. He informs her that the King of Ardalan is hosting a competition in which deadly individuals would compete in a series of tests to determine who is the best fit to serve as the assassin for the king. When Celaena arrives at the castle made of glass, she befriends Nehemia who is the princess of Eyllwe. She has an amazing character as she is the best kind of ruler. She stops at nothing to protect her people and strives for peace. She is so brilliant! Disguising herself as a helpless princess who cant understand common tongue allows her to gather information which others don't believe she can understand, is truly a testament to her brain power.

Later on, they figure out that someone is killing off the competitors one by one. The ghost of Elena appears to Celaena, informing her that darkness is at work and that it is her job to destroy the evil within the castle. Something is going around, violently ripping people to shreds and then eating them.
Celaena befriends the Prince of Aldaran and the captain of the guard Chaol. Anyway that was the wimpy, spoiler free part.

So at the beggining of the book, i found Celaena's character as obnoxious and whiny like a child. Luckily, her character develops well throughout the book and by the end, she is only a badass with a secret tender heart. The choice between Dorian and Chaol TORE ME APART. In the end, I finally decided that I'm team Chaol. At first all the romantic acts of Dorian made me love him and root for him. At the end of the book when (view spoiler)[Celaena tells him they can no longer be together, I thought I would feel heart broken but then I realized I was actually relieved. (hide spoiler)] Chaol is kind and is a fantastic friend who warms up to Celaena through out the book. I ship them so much.

Anyway, I saw the plot twist of (view spoiler)[Cain actually being the summoner of the ridderak. There was just no way, Nehemia coud be the one killing people (hide spoiler)] I love how the book has a mysterious aspect of magic to it with the wyrdmarks. It sent chills down my spine.

The characters were brilliant and the visuals that the words painted in my mind were absolutely stunning. I could visualize every part of the book. The final duel between Celaena and the other champion made me cry to think about her being mentally and physically abused like that. I was ecstatic when (view spoiler)[Choal ran Cain through with his sword (hide spoiler)]

The ending was a great cliff hanger. I cannot wait to pick up the next book and see the fates of all of my favourite characters-- and the ones I despise. (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Fantasy, Romance, Mystery, Dystopian
Challenges: New Years Resolution

Finished on February 18

Book #: 4

Title: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Harry Potter #6)
Author: J.K. Rowling

Rating: ★★★★☆
Finished: February 18
Pages: 542

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

This book was an absolute heartbreaker. I love the mysterious aspect to the novel on who the Half-Blood prince truly was as well as what Malfoy and his cronies were up to. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the end on the identity of the Pince and the workings of the Dark Lord. The plot was thick the entire story with mystery and adventure, keeping me, as a reader, entertained at a mostly thriller paced book.

The character development in this story was extremely well done. Ginny became such a strong and independent character in this book and i found it delightful! In book 1, Ginny couldn't even say hello to Harry. Now, she never gave up on Harry but still moved on, showing that she was a strong character. She also became able to stand up to her friends when she disagreed rather than sit silent. Best of all, Ginny became a full-time SASS MACHINE. Percy returned to the book once again as snobbish as usual, saying only "Hello Mother" after being so rude and disrespectful to his own family, and then ignoring them when they were right. He even stayed a snob after Bill was injured! How could he abandon his family so easily?!

A favourite aspect of mine, is the pieces of the book where Harry and Dumbledore use the Pensieve to revisit memories containing the upbringing of Tome Riddle. This helped form an idea in the reader's mind of how all the horrible events turned from thoughts to actions. It really helped to see what kind of person Tom was before he became Voldemort.

This story line was great when it came to making me laugh. Specifically, my funniest part was firstly when Ginny tells Ron that the only person he's ever snogged is his aunt and that he keeps a photo of her under his pillow. I also enjoyed the small bits of humor like Dumbledore enjoying knitting patterns.

This next bit is about a relationship that happens in this book. I love the idea of Ginny and Harry being together. This relationship never really even became an idea for me until this book. That was probably because of Ginny's fear of speaking to Harry and being comfortable around him

Hermione and Ron are about the most loyal friends a person could have. The fact that they would willingly walk beside Harry into the most danger they have ever been in to retrieve the Horcruxes just to save Harry is truly amazing

Harry Potter novels often evenly characterize in every book, but unfortunately, past books Harry was kind of just a present character who was important but just not as memorable as the other characters. In this book however, Rowling brilliantly fixed that. Harry developed much more than the other characters. This book expanded him into a brave, honourabe and strong individual who had no problem accepting or providing help to those in need. If I ever needed to tel someone about Harry's character, this book would be my focus point.

Here are the faults with this novel which caused me to reduce my rating:

(view spoiler)[-The snogging between Ron and Lavender was annoying as hell. the were kissing ALL. THE. TIME. It also made his seem like he really did not respect Hermione as much as he should. This kind of made me dislike Ron. I really hope Rowling fixes that next book. (hide spoiler)]

-Hermione was a little obnoxious in this novel. She was always talking about how she was right or how much she hated the Half-Blood Prince potions book just because it made Harry better than herself. I really expected more from her.

-Ron was overly childish most of the time, which was extremely irksome because he was SEVENTEEN. His whining was annoying at all times, which pushed my dislike for Ron, further.

This last portion is reserved just for the ENDING. Obviously, SPOILERS

When Dumbledore died, my throat tightened from the swelling result of tears. I felt like I had just lost a friend and mentor. The tears didn't stop until the book was completely over. I knew what was at the end, which is why I put reading this book off for so long. There really is no way to prepare for such a loss of character.

When Harry went after Snape but he wouldn't fight back, I felt useless and hopeless. He had just taken away Harry's friend and he wouldn't fight back. He would just deflect Harry's hexes over and over again, leaving him and myself to feel completely useless.

At the actual funeral, I was outraged when Umbridge showed up. Who's horrible idea was it to let the bitch out of her cage? Yet another shockwave of pure hatred surfaced when Rufus Scrimgeour demanded Harry to reveal all of Dumbledore's plans and secrets to the ministry AT HIS FREAKING FUNERAL. He was ambushing a boy who had seen his friend die at the victim's own funeral. UNBELIEVABLE.

I feel pity for Malfoy. All this time, I was worrying about Dumbledore and Harry. I didn't even stop to think about the kind of mental torment the boy who had to end the headmaster's life was going through. It broke my heart.

Now, I await for the last book, in which Harry will fight the Dark Lord and the fate of Hogwarts is decided

This book is a fantastic read, despite it's faults. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is an adventure of a lifetime. (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Fantasy, Fiction, Mystery
Challenges: New Years Resolution, I-Spy

Finished on February 29

Book #: 5

Title: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter #7)
Author: J.K. Rowling

Rating: ★★★★★
Finished: February 29
Pages: 620

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

I hate endings. I hate the feeling they leave you with. I hate the pit of emptiness in your soul and the sadness in your heart. I have never written a book review on the last book in a series. So here I go.

I would like to first of all say goodbye and thank you.

Sirius Black - who taught me that blood does not determine your family. That friends can be your family and that the bonds you have with them will be forever lasting. Thank you Sirius for showing me that loyalty is a gift we give to others to show our love.

Albus Dumbledore - who taught me that everyone is flawed and that's perfectly okay. That the important thing is to admit your flaws and be happy. Thank you for showing me that even great men have their downfalls and that no one is truly invincible. Most of all, thank you for showing me that love truly does conquer all.

Regulus Black - for showing me that even the worst of people can be turned to good if only people give them a chance.

Alastor Moody - that even the most mad people can have the best intentions and truly be sane in their own way.

Dobby - for showing me that its okay to be different because that means I am free. For showing me the importance of loyalty and the purest form of bravery. Thank you for being a friend until the end. Thank you for embracing your differences and encouraging others to do the same even if they keep rejecting your help, in the hopes that they too, can one day be free.

Fred Weasley - for showing me that following my dreams, no matter how improbable they are, can turn out to be the best decision you have ever made. For showing me that laughing is the best cure for a hurt soul and for showing me that people will try to stop you from pursuing happiness but that it is important to carry on.

Remus Lupin - for showing me that the silent problems we all posses are not to be ashamed of and that letting people help you can change your level of happiness drastically to the positive.

Tonks - for showing me that the pursuit of love is never truly hopeless, even with the most improbable and impossible of pairs.

Severus Snape - for teaching me never to jump to conclusions and that even when a whole world is against you, it is important not to let their shadows stop you from being true to who you are. Thank you for teaching me that the right thing to do is often the hardest, but should be done anyway because of those it will save.

This book stole my heart and my soul. My words fall woefully short of how I feel but I will try to the best of my ability to put them to use.

This book brought me to tears and laughter. It ripped characters I loved out of my arms. Where do I begin? Harry's quest seemed impossible and at the end he had to let himself die. His bravery at this part is truly a testament to the kind of hero he is. The kind of pain George must have endured after Fred scares me.

This book had the perfect ending, not to long yet filling. This series has truly been an adventure. I loved every bit. I cried, laughed, smiled, got scarred, became outraged and so much more. I love this series and i will definitely need to reread this series every year. I don't quite know what else to say.

I'm sorry I couldn't provide a better review. All I can say is that this adventure is truly not one to be missed. This book will become a part of you and its characters will live on through you forever.

In 60 years I'll place down the Deathly Hallows again and will stare at me and say, "after all this time?" and I will simply reply with, "Always."

The last line of the book will be embedded in my heart for the rest of my life.

All was well (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Fantasy, Mystery (a little)
Challenges: New Years Resolution

Patricia, at the risk of sounding soppy, seeing your journey through Harry Potter over these past few months has been a joy and a privilege. Thank you. :)

...So ...if I may ask... what are you going to read next? ;) (Also this means you can watch the movies now [if you want to, of course]! :D :D)

I'm so stoked you finished the Harry Potter books! It's making me nostalgic. I will be really interested to see what you read next too. :)

Paul wrote: "Patricia, at the risk of sounding soppy, seeing your journey through Harry Potter over these past few months has been a joy and a privilege. Thank you. :)

...So ...if I may ask... what are you goi..."

Oh man I am extremely sorry for the late reply. Your welcome for the journey of course! Next I am planning to read some (3 Probably) of the doctor who series followed by the next Outlander book.

After that, I am delighted to say that you can watch me journey through some of Tolkien's books as I will be tackling the Lord of the Rings trilogy as well as the Hobbit, which will lead me to other pieces of his work.

Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "I'm so stoked you finished the Harry Potter books! It's making me nostalgic. I will be really interested to see what you read next too. :)"

Thanks! Above I wrote my book plans and I am absolutely delighted that you felt that nostalgia off of my journey!

Finished on March 17

Book #: 6

Title: Voyager (Outlander #3)
Author: Diana Gabaldon

Rating: ★★★★★
Finished: March 17
Pages: 1059

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

THIS IS A REVIEW FULL OF SPOILERS

The Outlander books are a treasure to readers around the world, as well as pure gold to TV show enthusiasts. This book was definitely the best Outlander book so far.

The first 300 pages were filled with a brief history of what happened to Jamie after Culloden. You discover he had lived in a cave for seven years, only visiting his home to clean himself up and bring food for his people at Lallybroch. It was terrifying to imagine needing to live at the mercies of the raging outdoors, having no contact with any family or friends. Just yourself and your thoughts all alone in a cave of darkness. I can only start to imagine the kind of depression he went to, wanting to die and feeling ashamed for not. Having to hide out alone, puting the lives of his family at risk. FOR SEVEN YEARS.

As the story continues on the other side of the spectrum, Claire, Bree and Roger all look into the supposed "death" of James Alexander Malcolm Mackenzie Fraser. They then discover he didn't die in battle, but was rather hiding out in a cave, followed by his arrest and imprisonment.

It followed his tough life through Ardsmuir prison where he encountered the future Governor, John William Grey. I really do enjoy the idea of a gay character in the book. I imagine it caused quite the controversy between readers when the book was first published in the USA, 1993. I like how bold she was to put it in the third book so that readers were already drawn in which probably enraged the homophones at that time. What can I say? I am a fan of controversy! Anyway, their friendship is really one to be admired but also pitied considerably on behalf of John.

Skipping ahead, Claire then travels through the rocks to find Jamie working at his own printing business. I was so mirth-filled to see him faint and be able to see and hold his Claire once again after 20 years. I love the time jump by the way. It allows Diana to place her characters in new places with new battles etc. rather than having to stick to a limited time line.

Jamie's smuggling business let the characters experience fast paced action as well as the subtle calms before the storm of events.

When Claire found out about that bitch Loaghaire and Jamie's barins, I honestly felt my heart crush under the hurt. He had lied to Claire about a wife-- one that had attempted to kill Claire in the past no less! He lied to Claire greatly. She was headed back to the stones, Claire and Jamie were over. Then that bloody idiot got himself shot. I was glad Claire didn't go back especially after hearing Jamie's side of the story.

Skipping forward, When Ian was caught, I thought he died or eat least was going to soon. Jamie's heart break at the sight of his nephew's kidnapping made my heart break too. He was so scared and so was I about the fate of wee Ian, so much that my hands shook in anticipation and worry of what was to come.

Aboard the Artemis, Claire is given to to Porpoise in order to help with Typhoid fever aboard the ship. It is there where she meets John Grey for the first time, unknowing of his history with Jamie. I really liked the goat lady who helped Claire escape the clutches of that bastard Captain Leonard.

When she escapes and lands in Jamaica, she meets the delight full Priest with his pet coconut and his wife who was very pleasant towards Claire greeting her by saying:

"Who is the white bitch?" in Spanish

Skipping to the end. When Claire meets Geillis Duncan once again I was shocked but happy to see an old friend-- or at least I thought she was. When I found out about her intentions to sacrifice Ian and then take Bree with her to do whatever that witch bitch intended, I was boiling with pure rage. The slaves really creeped me out with their sorcery but helped Claire figure out what was going to happen. When they got to the cave, MY HANDS WERE SHAKING. She shot Jamie in the head and then intended to kill Claire's nephew and then go after her daughter!!! HELL NO. Claire picked up that axe like a boss and killed that horrid bitch.

The next book will take place in America, allowing Claire and Jamie to start over in a new place where no one knows who they are. It will be so interesting to see who Jamie and Claire will get themselves mixed up with next as they know no one.

Voyager is like opium for the soul of a reader and when I get the chance, a reread is definitely in order. (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Historical Fiction
Challenges: New Years Resolution

Finished on March 18

Book #: 7

Title: The Clockwise Man (Doctor Who New Adventures #1)
Author: Justin Richards

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Finished: March 18
Pages: 253

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

When I first laid eyes on The Clockwise Man, I was disappointed that the book got such a low rating. I was pretty reluctant to open the book because I thought it would fall short of a good book, but I was wrong. I really liked this book.

When the book started out, I was trying too hard to force myself into picturing the characters as the Doctor and Rose. It made the beginning less enjoyable for me than I would have hoped. Eventually though I just stopped trying so hard to force an imagination and just let the story carry me away. That was where the fun began.

The characters (Rose and 9) sometimes did not seem like Rose and 9. I pictured them differently and even kept pointing out to myself how they did or said things they wouldn't usually say, making them sort of strangers. As the story continued, I realized that Rose was actually a pretty cool character in the books. I'm not a very big Rose fan and I was happy to see her go in the TV show. However, in the books I found her witty and smart as well as brave, making her the perfect companion. Well done Justin!

The plot at the beginning seemed boring and slow, hence the 3.5 stars. They took a lot of time going to unnecessary places or just poking around. That being said, there were parts of the beginning that I really did love such as the sass from characters etc.. As I entered into the second part of the story, I LOVED it.

The plot was fast paced and really vivid in my mind. I could picture the doctor and Rose clearly and they really did act like themselves. I liked the suspense at the end. I really loved the clockwork aspect. A great character was Freddie-- a hero in the stars.

I really liked how the author mislead the reader into thinking certain characters were villains and then suddenly yanking the carpet from under your feet.

This story was well done but the first part needed improvement in a lot of areas. To any future reader: Dont force your mind to see the characters or plots, let your mind do the work on its own! (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Science Fiction
Challenges: New Years Resolution, I-Spy

Finished on March 24

Book #: 8

Title: The Monsters Inside (Doctor Who #2)
Author: Stephen Cole

Rating: ★★★★☆
Finished: March 24
Pages: 253

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

I actually quite enjoyed this book more than the first one. The problem with the first book was that they pulled away too much from the story line at the beginning and the characters did not feel like they were believable.

In this book however, the story almost immediately threw you into the plot, as the Doctor and Rose were captured quickly after setting foot upon Justicia. They were separated which I enjoyed because it gave me time to evaluate the strengths of the two of them on their own. This book actually helped me find a new appreciation for Rose. Her character in the book is much better than the TV show version. While on her own, Rose demonstrated that she is also capable and strong willed. Not only did she exceed my expectations, but I think of her as a better companion now.

I liked how they reintroduced the Slitheen family from Raxacoricofallapatorius once again. I also enjoyed that they were not the actual enemies in this book, but rather the Blathereen family. This allowed me to see that the Slitheen family continued on and as a result, became better in character.

I really enjoyed the aspect that the Slitheen family helped the Doctor and basically saved the lives of everyone on Justicia. I also liked how the people in the brostal aided the Doctor and retaliated against the Raxacoricofallapatorians. It showed that Rose could encourage and inspire others to fight for their freedom.

Because it is a book, they loosened the reigns a bit in this one. They added some grousem scenes which you would never see on the show, and even added some swears! I enjoy being able to see this side of Doctor Who which makes the experience all the better.

The lack of 5 stars came into play at the end of the book. The author spent almost all of the book building up to the big retaliation. By the end, he kind of disappointed me by wrapping it up in the last 40 pages. I felt like the fact that they were running on a short time limit at the end of the book cheapened the ending further because they had used that exact same ending in the first book.

Overall, this Doctor Who book is the reason why reading the books as well as watching the show is a good idea. You can see new sides of characters and species.

I would recommend this book to any Whovian out there. Enjoy! (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Science Fiction
Challenges: New Years Resolution, Decade Challenge

Finished on April 13

Book #: 9

Title: Drums of Autumn (Outlander #4)
Author: Diana Gabaldon

Rating: ★★★★★
Finished: April 13
Pages: 1070

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

This review is genuinely FILLED to the BRIM with SPOILERS


Diana has once again outdone herself with another amazing addition to the widely known Outlander series. Throughout the entire book, Diana never failed to keep me entertained or questioning the future of beloved characters.

The story began with the Jamie and Claire starting their lives in America after being unexpectedly thrown into the country. Right from the start I disliked Stephen Bonnet. What kind of person is aided by two people who could have (should have) turned him in and then later robs them and rapes their daughter? He is truly the definition of a monster.

Anyway, Jamie and Claire head to their aunt's house to go start a new life, free from the clutches of the imposing British who were threatening to any Scot after Culloden. It is at her estate that they begin creating a community for Scottish folk. Meanwhile, Jamie is desperate to claw at any details about Brianna that he can, questioning Claire at every opportunity on what his daughter was like. It broke my heart that a man so loving was not able to see his own daughter, trapped in a web of time.

Now, people were on the fence about this book because for quite a big portion of the book, the two keep getting themselves into small situations and then getting themselves out. I found it absolutely delightful that Diana wrote about life, not some extravagant, non-stop action thriller. She used situations to show the reader how life was different then than it is now and how actions affect everything we do. I loved that her book is encouraging readers to learn a trade or skill because it comes of use no matter how pointless it seems.

She used this book to develop Jamie and Claire's relationship further. The last book had so much running around that they often did not have much time to themselves to get reunited.

I adored having the colourful characters who are Fergus and Ian (Jr.) join Jamie on the expedition. It was amazing to watch Ian turn from a boy who just wanted to be like his uncle, become his uncle at the end of the book.

When Brianna figured out that Jamie and Claire were supposed to die in a fire, I knew what she was going to do but I still wasn't prepared. When I read that she went through the stones, my heart was racing and I flew through the pages at break-neck speed. I needed to walk around and collapse all at the same time out of fear and excitement.

When she gets thrown back in time and finally meets Jamie, I have to say I was slightly disappointed. I expected a little more than basically "hey, it's me". I was honestly more content with how she was treated when she met Ian (Sr.) and Jenny. Oh well, you can't win them all...

When Claire finds out about Brianna's pregnancy and how it came to be, I was horror struck. That evil son of a bitch, Bonnet deserves to burn in hell. I still refuse to believe that the child is not Roger's. There's no actual way of telling yet until the child grows anyway.

Jamie pummeling the living daylights out of Roger because of a MISUNDERSTANDING was just about the funniest scene I've ever read in my life-- until I realised what actual danger he was in. The ending of the book was saddening with the way the relationship between Bree and Jamie worked out after she learned of what he had done.

The last 200 pages were the most exciting to read. Burning rituals? Helping Roger escape? Avoiding almost certain death? sign me up. It was horrifying to read about what torment the priest went through yet I couldn't look away. When Roger and Jamie finally met (both injured and weak) I was jovial at the proper introductions, yet heart-thumpingly worried over their fates.

When I read that Ian was going to sacrifice himself for the sake of the people he cared about, it was heart-wrenching and brave and amazing all at the same time. It was wonderful to see the soft follower that was Ian turn into a strong leader.

This book will forever be branded on my heart and soul, long live the Frasers.

Points:

- I enjoy Diana's writing but Jamie seems unbelievably perfect. She has said that the Frasers were "luckily" tall people, that they "miraculously" took extreme care of oral hygiene and that they were basically gods among men. I love Jamie but I wouldn't mind if for once the Frasers weren't the overly perfect family.

Categories: Historical Fiction
Challenges: New Years Resolution (hide spoiler)]

Finished on April 18

Book #: 10

Title: Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2)
Author: Sarah J. Maas

Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.5)
Finished: April 18
Pages: 418

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

I have finally gotten around to starting Throne of Glass book 2 and MAN AM I disappointed.

The first half of the book was supposed to be exciting and grasping-- Celaena, a bad-ass assassin had just finished defeating creatures of unspeakable magic and was now serving a king she loathed. Instead, the first half was a snooze fest. If revolved around Celaena sitting in her room and stuffing her face, which would be alright if the WHOLE BLOODY KINGDOM WASN'T IN SHAMBLES. It was nearly impossible for me to push through that wad of gum.

What kept me going was as follows:

1) Sarah did an excellent job creating the different locations and colourful characters Celaena met throughout the first half.

2) When exciting events did occur, Sarah managed to keep me really interested in the story and what would happen next-- until the exciting part ended for another 30 pages in anticipation for the next burst of excitement

3) I was really interested in what romances would unfurl between the three (I am totally team Celorian BTW, Chaol is not my cup of tea, I'll get into that soon)

Anyway, when the excitement did begin to happen, IT WAS EPIC. she unleashed her inner bad-ass by showing up to that warehouse and KICKING ASS. No body messes with Celaena, and hell do I know it now.

All of a sudden that boredom created by the first half seemed to vanish when Sarah decided to throw plot twist after plot twist at the reader.

(view spoiler)[ My heart STOPPED when I read about Nehemia's death and how brutal it was. Honestly though, I was just like WTF when Celaena got so mad at Chaol, that she was prepared to kill him when her death was like 1% his fault. Literally the guards surrounding her in that room were more to blame because they somehow let a ruddy assassin pass by them and yet she decided to take it out on Chaol. (hide spoiler)]

The ending was good with a dozen more plot twists and a battle that will be remembered throughout literature history.

(view spoiler)[
- Celaena is Fae
- Celaena is Aelin, a princess and future queen
- Dorian has magic
- Archer was the true culprit
etc. were all spoilers I would have never seen coming.

Dorian having magic was an unexpected yet extremely welcome change to his character. With this, he will be able to stand up for what he believes in now and I can forsee some impeccable character growth. (hide spoiler)]

Lets talk characters. They were screwed up.

Celaena was all over the place. She is an assassin, yet she leaves her post to dance alone in the middle of the street? She spent half the book talking about chocolate cake and sneaking around (view spoiler)[ to go have sex with Chaol literally every where. (a broom closet that was probably a square meter, really?) (hide spoiler)] She was dumb at times which was really unpleasant because asaassins are good at their job because of stealth and wisdom, not because they sneak into peoples' rooms to get information without even making A DAMN PLAN or finding out ANY info whatsoever about their targets.

Chaol was a little bit of a snooze to read about. "oh I love my king so much even though I have undisputable evidence that he is an evil murdering bastard, who should I trust?", obviously is a good judge of character especially for the captain of the guard.

I hated how he was no fun. He would just force the two to run early in the morning and then have no fun with Celaena at all. Sure there were a few brief moments when he would be spontaneous, but it was mostly Celaena surprising him and being enough fun for the both of them instead of him actually doing stuff. He never wanted to help her explore or uncover more secrets either.

Dorian on the other end, was brilliant in this book. At the beginning he didn't appear much so I was worried it would just be him and Celaena being awkward around each other and that we would barely get to see him, but I have to learn to stop doubting Maas! She gave his an incredible subplot which was SO worth the wait and now we get to see him develop and become a stronger character. We got to witness him try and get over the fact that Celaena had ended everything (view spoiler)[ and was now humping Chaol on a daily basis (hide spoiler)] and he had to watch her, knowing he wouldn't be at her side. It was heart crushing.

TEAM CELORIAN FOR LIFE

(view spoiler)[The second half, although entertaining, was not perfect either. Sarah just shoved all the big revelations in one section and it was really throwing me off. I got confused at some parts (one second their in a room, the next Celaena is a Fae warrior tearing up alternate sides of the portals) which sort of made it hard to follow. I just wish Sarah had spread it out more to make the beginning more bearable and the ending just less overwhelming.

Another thing that bugged me was that Celaena couldn't just be a Fae, she also had to be the future Queen, have fire powers and be able to transform.

When Chaol sends her away, their relationship still doesn't add up but I'm just glad that in book 3 she will be able to step away from all that romance and be herself again. (hide spoiler)]

This book, although not what I was hoping it would be, was still enjoyable. It is still recommended and I cannot wait to see whether the characters and plot improve in Book 3! (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Fantasy
Challenges: New Years Resolution

Finished on April 26

Book #: 11

Title: Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3)
Author: Sarah J. Maas

Rating: ★★★★★
Finished: April 26
Pages: 562

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

Let me start off by saying I was left literally breathless and gasping for more at every part of this book which will forever be one of my favourites. This book was honestly perfection of the highest kind and Sarah truly created a masterpiece!

Because of the over all length and plot size of this book, this review will be broken down into three different view points-- Celaena and Rowan, Dorian and Chaol and lastly, Manon and Abraxos.


So HERE WE GO!


Celaena
At the beginning of the book, Celaena has left Ardalan to go save the world by gathering information about the wyrdkeys. I was glad that she got time away from Chaol because honestly, I ANTI-ship that. He doesn't accept Celaena for who she truly is, not even her assassin side. He's so caught up in the romance that he doesn't want to accept who she is which really bugs me.

Anyway, rant over, it was nice to get her away from that. It was at that land of her youth that she meets that evil bitch, Queen Maeve who, instead of helping her niece, forces her to train and bring out her inner fae. I guess Maeve set herself up to be destroyed because guess what sweetie? Celaena came out more bad ass and powerful than ever with one less boulder holding her back and more fire in her blood. WHO'S LAUGHING NOW? I AM. HAHAHAHAHAHA



Wow okay then... So plus side, Celaena gets to meet this amazing character named Rowan who has become my favourite character of all time. At first he seems like a total jerkwad, being rude and not approving of a single thing Celaena does. For about 99% of people at this point, everyone just wanted to puch Rowan in the face. I was the 1%.

Here's why: for all the books so far (an the beginning of this one) Celaena has been a pain in my ass. She is a strong character but every time I'm about to like her, that arrogant side of her would spring up. I can't stand arrogant people for the life of me so naturally liking Celaena very much was not an opinion that sat well with me. Rowan however, didn't stand for her crap. If she tried to pull that arrogance on him he would knock her face into the ground while blind and with one hand behind his back. He showed her that discipline she needed, even if he was a jerkface at times.

By the end of the book, Celaena was all cleaned up with an improved personality.

I loved how throughout the book she learned to accept herself for what and who she truly is. At first she tried to keep it as far away from her as possible but by the end she wore it like an honour. She trained herself to overcome her fear of her inner fire and by doing so, was able to become someone stronger in both body and mind. She trained like crazy to embrace herself and I truly loved that.

My favourite part was when it came to a life and death situation and she unleashed her fae and fire and leapt off of a cliff, shooting flames at the creature that threatened her. It was like PORGGHHH WUUUSHHH PUURGGGCHOOO

Lastly, by the end, I fell in love with the idea of Rowaelin becoming an item. After all the crap they have both had to endure through their lives, loss that only they can imagine, scars of incredible proportions and wounds that will never heal, I think it will be nice if they can lean back on each other and work through it together. Best of all, he accepts her for everything she is inside, not the mask she wears over top.

Manon
Like almost every other person, at first I found Manon's point of view a bit of a snore and honestly, I disliked her quite a bit because of the kind upbringing of twisted morals she was brought up in.

Eventually, as more chapters of her went on, I felt myself get really invested. She began to have... *cringes* feelings. She began to question what was really right and what was wrong.

I became fully invested in her story once Abraxos entered the picture. Here came this enormous, beautiful beast that Manon wanted more than any other wyvern and just as the decision for her wyvern is set, BAM! here comes Abraxos, the under-wyvern who, when released from his chains, does not cower or try to escape, but defends Manon to the best of his ability. Even though he has been used as a meet-bag on feet he still mustered up all his strength to save Manon.

She was his

I love how her story ends with an amazing fight for dominance in which her true colours are finally revealed when she decides that the life of the Blueblood heir was far more important than retrieving an egg. I believe Manon's character will evolve into someone unexpected. I'm thoroughly intrigued to see how she crosses paths with Celaena.

Dorian
I'll say it: I didn't like Scorsha very much from the start, nor at the end. I think it was the fact that she basically had the mindset of "He's the prince, I know him, he doesn't know me but I'm deeply in love" which just makes my blood boil.

The fact that Dorian had to go through an internal struggle really caught me on. He had to make up his mind and keep his powers a secret and do nothing against his father or help Chaol and Aedion in a fight that would eventually become against the king.

Chaol had to FINALLY decide where his loyalties lay. I mean, it really bugged me in book 2 that he couldn't decide because here are the sides:

a) a king who murders people, enslaves them, uses them, disposes of them, tortures them and basically commits genocide not to mention manipulation and uses dark magic to open realms to unleash creatures that will do these things for him

or

b) the side fighting for freedom and basically against everything the king does

but yeah Chaol, take almost 3 books to decide, seems legit.

I like how he had to help Aedion who was really a total sweetheart and forever best friend to Aelin. I cannot wait to see the reunited at last, to feel that indescribable joy of two people meeting again after being torn apart.

ending
The ending LEFT ME BREATHLESS. Honestly, BRING ME OXYGEN. so many questions are swimming in my soul. IS DORIAN EVIL NOW?????? Will Manon finally realise what is right and wrong? Will Chaol learn to accept Celaena? Is Aedion still alive? WILL ROWAN AND AELIN BE AN ITEM???

Overall, a FANTASTIC read and one that I recommend for any fantasy lover. (hide spoiler)]



Categories: Fantasy
Challenges: New Years Resolution

Finished on May 2

Book #: 12

Title: The Assassin's Blade
Author: Sarah J. Maas

Rating: ★★★★☆
Finished: May 2
Pages: 448


Categories: Fantasy
Challenges: New Years

Finished on May 7

Book #: 13

Title: Cinder (Lunar Chronicles #1)
Author: Marissa Meyer

Rating: ★★★★☆
Finished: May 7
Pages: 387

As my Reviews are HUGE, all actual reviews are put in the "spoiler" hidden feature.

(view spoiler)[Review:

What an entertaining read! I have to admit, when I heard it was a fairy tale retelling, I was a little bit skeptical about whether or not I would enjoy this book. Have to say though, that I'm glad I did.

Marissa was able to deliver a brilliant plot to the readers that really took my breath away while reading.

I loved reading about how Cinder was seen as an outcast in this world that they live in because of her foot and forearm being mechanical, hence making her a cyborg. Children were literally kept away from Cinder as if she were a mutant. I felt pity towards Cinder for a split second before she showed her true colours.

I hate when authors make a helpless character that when life gets tough, they just get sad and do nothing to actually make a difference. Marissa did not do that. She made Cinder this amazing character who instead of whining over her parts, she makes snappy comments in her head and is annoyed, not whiny. Her inner thoughts are truly entertaining for the readers and I was glad Marissa made her the way she did.

Soon after your introduced with Cinder, you get to meet Kai. I liked how Marissa established their relationship from the start of the book, even though it was just friendly conversation, Kai still had that spark in his eye.

Cinder is established to be a mechanic, which just made my day because I love characters with wholesome skills that come in use later on. Give me mechanics and blacksmiths, not accountants and lawyers! Anyway, it was good to see the prince fall for a "lowly" mechanic cyborg, even if he didn't know about that second part yet.

When the breakout began, I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat in anticipation. The fact that Marissa made the downfall of medical science a plague was somehow amusing.

When Cinder returns to her house, we get to see her at her home life. Her mom is an asshole and her daughter is too. They constantly make Cinder work herself over and then use her income to purchase fancy clothing. Her mother and sister see her the same way-- an ungrateful mutant.

Peony however, is so sweet and innocent that it just made my day whenever she said or did something.

When Cinder is sent down to the junkyard, my heart popped. The sound of Peony's scream still haunts me (isn't the imagination wonderfully haunting?). My heart slowed and I just couldn't believe that Meyer would just take her away from me! It was truly saddening.

You know a book is good when you've only read 50 pages and you have already established connections and feelings with and towards all of the characters. You also know that tissues and a defibrillator should be added to your grocery list.

What Adri did next just made me EXPLODE. Adri refuses to acknowledge that Cinder also lost Peony, her only friend in the entire universe. The only person to ever care for her or not look at her as if she were trash. Adri sends her away to be tested and probed and eventually killed by the hands of medical scientists FOR THE MONEY.

Skipping ahead a bit, when Cinder is injected with the plague, I saw it coming that she would be immune. I mean, only Satan (or George R.R Martin) would kill the main character within the first 100 pages, but I still let out a breath of relief when the doctors began gasping over her immune-ness.

The minute Dr. Erland said she was Lunar, I knew she was Princess Selene. When she returned home, I was glad to see Adri's face shocked. That faded quickly when Adri still started insulting her and treating her like a lesser.

Something I really love about Cinder and Kai's persistent requests for her to go to the ball is that Cinder refused. Yes, I did want her to end up with Kai, before you throw potatoes at me. I liked that she had a responsibility and made a promise and she still stuck with it even though the Prince's offers were very tempting. It takes a real leader to know when responsibility becomes more important than fun.

The ending made my heart shatter. She shows up to save his life and everyone just sops and looks at her with disgust. She gets to dance with the prince even with her crumpled and stained dress but he doesn't care which is just adorable.

Then he tells her about his plans to marry Levana and she kisses him IN FRONT OF EVERYONE. I literally had to put the book down and breath because I was getting context embarrassment. My cheeks were burning. She literally smooched him while the entire city was staring at her and HE DIDN'T EVEN KISS HER BACK SO IT WAS AWKWARD TOO!!!!! I'm feeling anxious just thinking about it!

When the queen started threatening lives with guns and henchmen was when Cinder's little world fell apart. The feeling of disappointment when Kai laid eyes on her with repulsion and betrayal SHATTERED me.

It seemed like all was lost until Dr. Erland saved her from jail and brought her new parts and OMG I'M SO READY FOR BOOK 2!

Amazing read! (hide spoiler)]

Categories: Science Fiction
Challenges: New Years

Finished on May 11