2025 Reading Challenge discussion
ARCHIVE 2018
>
Emma's Reading Corner For 2018
date
newest »
newest »
message 1:
by
[deleted user]
(new)
Dec 04, 2017 07:49AM
I know on my challenge page, I said that I wasn't going to make a member corner, but I think I need to for organisation sake. I need a clean area where I can follow what's going on with my books and stats, and this will be it.
reply
|
flag
January Reads:
1.Shadow of Night - 5/5
Re-read : Loved the Tudor setting, the addition of some famous names, and it is where Diana truly came into her own. I also thought the slower writing pace was indicative of the setting and the plot so it worked well.
2.The Book of Life - 5/5
Re-read: I love the mix of the supernatural and the science. I think it was well done and it brought some well-needed freshness to the fantasy pot. It also brought me back into the wonderful world of witchcraft which I want to continue reading more of.
3.Little Women - 4/5
Re-read: A very nice re-read to go alongside the new BBC adaptation which I watched and really liked. I no longer love the book as much as I used to but I still really like it and relate to aspects that I didn't before.
4.Lips Touch: Three Times - 5/5
Re-read: A gorgeous compilation of three stories that remind me why I love Laini Taylor's writing. I was feeling a little slumpy part way through but her plots are always so intriguing and unique that it kept me reading until the end.
5.Strange the Dreamer - 5/5 (audiobook)
Re-read: This is the book where the beauty of Laini Taylor's writing truly comes alive. It is poetic, beautifully rich, and the characters are well-layered. I have a love/hate relationship with Minya but that doesn't stop me loving this book even more than I already did.
6. Le Petit Prince - 5/5
Re-read: A classic little book that will always bring me something new. I also didn't stumble over too many words so that has to be a bonus considering I've not read anything in French for a while now.
7. Let Loose the Dogs - 4.5/5
Re-read: A book that I set down last year for some unknown reason. This is one of the more complex novels and it was interesting to see how everything tied together, although I did know the ending as this book formed the basis for one of the very early Murdoch Mysteries episodes.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Shadow of Night/The Book of Life
Least favourite book - N/A
Number of audiobooks - 1.5 (after Strange the Dreamer I half read Le Petit Prince on audio)
DNFs - 0
Challenges - read something in French.
1.Shadow of Night - 5/5
Re-read : Loved the Tudor setting, the addition of some famous names, and it is where Diana truly came into her own. I also thought the slower writing pace was indicative of the setting and the plot so it worked well.
2.The Book of Life - 5/5
Re-read: I love the mix of the supernatural and the science. I think it was well done and it brought some well-needed freshness to the fantasy pot. It also brought me back into the wonderful world of witchcraft which I want to continue reading more of.
3.Little Women - 4/5
Re-read: A very nice re-read to go alongside the new BBC adaptation which I watched and really liked. I no longer love the book as much as I used to but I still really like it and relate to aspects that I didn't before.
4.Lips Touch: Three Times - 5/5
Re-read: A gorgeous compilation of three stories that remind me why I love Laini Taylor's writing. I was feeling a little slumpy part way through but her plots are always so intriguing and unique that it kept me reading until the end.
5.Strange the Dreamer - 5/5 (audiobook)
Re-read: This is the book where the beauty of Laini Taylor's writing truly comes alive. It is poetic, beautifully rich, and the characters are well-layered. I have a love/hate relationship with Minya but that doesn't stop me loving this book even more than I already did.
6. Le Petit Prince - 5/5
Re-read: A classic little book that will always bring me something new. I also didn't stumble over too many words so that has to be a bonus considering I've not read anything in French for a while now.
7. Let Loose the Dogs - 4.5/5
Re-read: A book that I set down last year for some unknown reason. This is one of the more complex novels and it was interesting to see how everything tied together, although I did know the ending as this book formed the basis for one of the very early Murdoch Mysteries episodes.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Shadow of Night/The Book of Life
Least favourite book - N/A
Number of audiobooks - 1.5 (after Strange the Dreamer I half read Le Petit Prince on audio)
DNFs - 0
Challenges - read something in French.
February Reads:
1. A Second Chance - 5/5 (audiobook)
Another great addition to the St Mary's series, constantly fuelling my desire to read more about the events it covers. However, this one did throw me quite a few curveballs I didn't expect and I'm now even more curious as to how the series continues. It's as if the twists couldn't get any weirder.
2. Witchborn - 2.5/5 (DNF)
The first DNF and one I'm truly annoyed with. I loved the concept but the execution was poor and the pacing was all over the place.
3. A Trail Through Time - 5/5 (audiobook)
So I'm very impressed by Jodi Taylor and how she managed to move the story and the characters forward. Max and Leon 2.0 are interesting to say the least and they adventures are never boring. Luckily the series just keeps on going because I always want more!
4. Illuminae - 4/5 (audiobook)
Re-read: Yes this is one star up from last time and that all comes down to the audiobook. The production was incredible and mind-blowing. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I felt even more engrossed in the story. I'm still not the greatest fan of Kady and Ezra as characters, hence the one-star only upgrade, but I did care about their journey more than last time and they didn't seem as shallow.
5. Terry Jones' Medieval Lives - 3/5 (temporary DNF)
A DNF but hopefully one I will pick up again when the mood strikes me. Social history is what I love the most so it was interesting to read about the lives of different people in the Middle Ages. However it didn't grab me as much as I expected it to, and I found the writing a bit dry.
6. Rebecca - 4.5/5 (audio and paperback)
I don't think I've ever read a book that is so messed up in every aspect, yet so enthralling that I can't think about anything else. This book is why I try to re-read classics I DNFed as a teenager.
https://adreamerslibrary.wordpress.co...
7. Roman Holiday - 4/5 (audiobook)
It's like any other St Mary's story - fun, enjoyable and witty.
8. No Time Like the Past - 4/5
What can I say that hasn't already been said about any of the books in this series. The one thing I can certainly think of is that it was definitely more light-hearted, and less of an emotional rollercoaster.
Statistics:
Favourite book - A Second Chance
Least favourite book - Witchborn
Number of audiobooks - 5
DNFs - 2
Challenges - 1st Quarterly Challenge 2018 - Must Read Books
1. A Second Chance - 5/5 (audiobook)
Another great addition to the St Mary's series, constantly fuelling my desire to read more about the events it covers. However, this one did throw me quite a few curveballs I didn't expect and I'm now even more curious as to how the series continues. It's as if the twists couldn't get any weirder.
2. Witchborn - 2.5/5 (DNF)
The first DNF and one I'm truly annoyed with. I loved the concept but the execution was poor and the pacing was all over the place.
3. A Trail Through Time - 5/5 (audiobook)
So I'm very impressed by Jodi Taylor and how she managed to move the story and the characters forward. Max and Leon 2.0 are interesting to say the least and they adventures are never boring. Luckily the series just keeps on going because I always want more!
4. Illuminae - 4/5 (audiobook)
Re-read: Yes this is one star up from last time and that all comes down to the audiobook. The production was incredible and mind-blowing. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I felt even more engrossed in the story. I'm still not the greatest fan of Kady and Ezra as characters, hence the one-star only upgrade, but I did care about their journey more than last time and they didn't seem as shallow.
5. Terry Jones' Medieval Lives - 3/5 (temporary DNF)
A DNF but hopefully one I will pick up again when the mood strikes me. Social history is what I love the most so it was interesting to read about the lives of different people in the Middle Ages. However it didn't grab me as much as I expected it to, and I found the writing a bit dry.
6. Rebecca - 4.5/5 (audio and paperback)
I don't think I've ever read a book that is so messed up in every aspect, yet so enthralling that I can't think about anything else. This book is why I try to re-read classics I DNFed as a teenager.
https://adreamerslibrary.wordpress.co...
7. Roman Holiday - 4/5 (audiobook)
It's like any other St Mary's story - fun, enjoyable and witty.
8. No Time Like the Past - 4/5
What can I say that hasn't already been said about any of the books in this series. The one thing I can certainly think of is that it was definitely more light-hearted, and less of an emotional rollercoaster.
Statistics:
Favourite book - A Second Chance
Least favourite book - Witchborn
Number of audiobooks - 5
DNFs - 2
Challenges - 1st Quarterly Challenge 2018 - Must Read Books
March Reads:
1. North and South - no rating.
A DNF that I am rather peeved with. A Pride and Prejudice-esque story set in Manchester is a story I expect to like but it felt too dry and boring for me. I'm also gutted because I've loved the other two Elizabeth Gaskell novels I've previously read, those being Wives and Daughters and Cranford. Nonetheless, it doesn't put me off trying anymore of her novels and short stories.
2. Bookworm: A Memoir of Childhood Reading - 4/5
This memoir made for a refreshing change from reading fantasy and going on adventures with time-travelling historians. The beginning of March was also the exact time for me to read this memoir for quite a few reasons and it helped to remind me why I am the reader I am today. I might not have read all the books Lucy talks about but the shared feelings and experiences made it a relatable and comforting read. It's a definite must for all of us who were child bookworms.
3. The Loneliest Girl in the Universe - 5/5
Read in anticipation for the Northern YA Lit Festival and it was fantastic. Romy is someone who I'd easily class as a strong, YA heroine in that she's up in a spacecraft alone, fighting through her anxieties and dealing with whatever is thrown at her. Secondly, the one aspect I worried about liking (falling in love over messages) was actually pretty interesting and it moved the plot forward in a manner I did not see coming. For such a short book, it truly packs a huge punch!
4. Gemina 5/5
A re-read in anticipation for Obsidio (which I now have!!) It took me longer to read this time but I still loved everything about it from the characters, the twisted plot, the creepy as f* insects, and the amazing details. I've heard some amazing things about Obsidio so I cannot wait to dive into it!
5. The Butchering Art: Joseph Lister's Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine 4/5
As someone who is rather interested in the history of medicine and how it transformed in the Victorian era, this book was a fascinating insight into the struggles Lister faced when trying to implement his ideas and methods. Also despite having read about him for one of my university history modules, I never knew that much about him and his presence so it was a real eye-opener into his life and career as a surgeon. It's made me more determined to read further into the wider history of Victorian medicine and look at some of the other influential figures of the time.
6. Fragments of the Lost 3/5
This isn't out in the UK for another couple of weeks but I picked up as an ARC. from the YA Lit Festival. As a YA Mystery, and something I don't really read, I found this to be simply okay. The mystery surrounding the death of Caleb Evers was intriguing enough and the content was all there, but I thought the execution was a little lacking. The story took a while to get going and whilst I get that it wanted to build up momentum to the last 100 or so pages, for me it could have been done a little more quickly. However, what worked well was the vagueness of the secondary characters, especially Caleb's mum Eve and his younger sister Mia. They had a very interesting dynamic with Jessa (the MC) that helped you to slot all the puzzle pieces in place and realise that the situation was very dysfunctional.
I don't say this often but I think this story would make a good film, especially as similar stories like Gone Girl and Girl on the Train have been well received
March Books That I'm Still Reading:
Traitor to the Throne - Whilst I am loving this so far, I don't know what is going on with me and my reading of this at the moment. I was hoping to finish it before the end of the month and that's clearly not happened. I don't mind taking this book and the series slow as I want to savour the richness of the world but I also want to finish it so I can cross off another series on my list.
Night's Child - I only started re-reading this a couple of days ago and it is nice to get back into the time of turn-of-the-century Canada and see a more conservative Detective William Murdoch unfold with every page. Whilst some of the subjects this book covers are a harrowing, I find it a great book for bedtime reading.
Statistics:
Favourite book - The Loneliest Girl in the Universe
Least favourite book - North and South
Number of audiobooks - 0
DNFs - 1
Challenges - 1st Quarterly Challenge - Must Read Books (which I ultimately failed because North and South was a DNF and I didn't get around to reading The Handmaid's Tale)
1. North and South - no rating.
A DNF that I am rather peeved with. A Pride and Prejudice-esque story set in Manchester is a story I expect to like but it felt too dry and boring for me. I'm also gutted because I've loved the other two Elizabeth Gaskell novels I've previously read, those being Wives and Daughters and Cranford. Nonetheless, it doesn't put me off trying anymore of her novels and short stories.
2. Bookworm: A Memoir of Childhood Reading - 4/5
This memoir made for a refreshing change from reading fantasy and going on adventures with time-travelling historians. The beginning of March was also the exact time for me to read this memoir for quite a few reasons and it helped to remind me why I am the reader I am today. I might not have read all the books Lucy talks about but the shared feelings and experiences made it a relatable and comforting read. It's a definite must for all of us who were child bookworms.
3. The Loneliest Girl in the Universe - 5/5
Read in anticipation for the Northern YA Lit Festival and it was fantastic. Romy is someone who I'd easily class as a strong, YA heroine in that she's up in a spacecraft alone, fighting through her anxieties and dealing with whatever is thrown at her. Secondly, the one aspect I worried about liking (falling in love over messages) was actually pretty interesting and it moved the plot forward in a manner I did not see coming. For such a short book, it truly packs a huge punch!
4. Gemina 5/5
A re-read in anticipation for Obsidio (which I now have!!) It took me longer to read this time but I still loved everything about it from the characters, the twisted plot, the creepy as f* insects, and the amazing details. I've heard some amazing things about Obsidio so I cannot wait to dive into it!
5. The Butchering Art: Joseph Lister's Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine 4/5
As someone who is rather interested in the history of medicine and how it transformed in the Victorian era, this book was a fascinating insight into the struggles Lister faced when trying to implement his ideas and methods. Also despite having read about him for one of my university history modules, I never knew that much about him and his presence so it was a real eye-opener into his life and career as a surgeon. It's made me more determined to read further into the wider history of Victorian medicine and look at some of the other influential figures of the time.
6. Fragments of the Lost 3/5
This isn't out in the UK for another couple of weeks but I picked up as an ARC. from the YA Lit Festival. As a YA Mystery, and something I don't really read, I found this to be simply okay. The mystery surrounding the death of Caleb Evers was intriguing enough and the content was all there, but I thought the execution was a little lacking. The story took a while to get going and whilst I get that it wanted to build up momentum to the last 100 or so pages, for me it could have been done a little more quickly. However, what worked well was the vagueness of the secondary characters, especially Caleb's mum Eve and his younger sister Mia. They had a very interesting dynamic with Jessa (the MC) that helped you to slot all the puzzle pieces in place and realise that the situation was very dysfunctional.
I don't say this often but I think this story would make a good film, especially as similar stories like Gone Girl and Girl on the Train have been well received
March Books That I'm Still Reading:
Traitor to the Throne - Whilst I am loving this so far, I don't know what is going on with me and my reading of this at the moment. I was hoping to finish it before the end of the month and that's clearly not happened. I don't mind taking this book and the series slow as I want to savour the richness of the world but I also want to finish it so I can cross off another series on my list.
Night's Child - I only started re-reading this a couple of days ago and it is nice to get back into the time of turn-of-the-century Canada and see a more conservative Detective William Murdoch unfold with every page. Whilst some of the subjects this book covers are a harrowing, I find it a great book for bedtime reading.
Statistics:
Favourite book - The Loneliest Girl in the Universe
Least favourite book - North and South
Number of audiobooks - 0
DNFs - 1
Challenges - 1st Quarterly Challenge - Must Read Books (which I ultimately failed because North and South was a DNF and I didn't get around to reading The Handmaid's Tale)
April Reads:
All of these should be a part of a Birthday Reading Challenge I'm participating in on Twitter
https://twitter.com/laraxbooks/status...
1. Anthem for Doomed Youth - I can't rate this because no rating will give these poems the admiration they are due. They are powerful, emotive and important in remembering the sheer hell soldiers went through during the First World War.
2. Traitor to the Throne 5/5 - This was such an amazing sequel and one I'm glad I pushed through because this series is certainly becoming one of my favourites. I can't wait to finally sit down and read the final book although I will be sad to see it end.
3. Call the Midwife 5/5 (re-read) - I don't know what to say about this book that I haven't said before. The stories are raw, full of mixed emotions and highlight a time that we automatically think is encompassed in relief and peace. It's the opposite. People are picking themselves up off the ground and fighting everything that the Second World War left behind. In Poplar this was poverty, disease, maltreatment, homelessness, and families torn or burst apart at the seams. No matter how many times I re-read this book and its sequels, or watch the BBC show, the stories will always hit me and open up a world that is more similar to ours than we think.
4. Son of the Dawn 5/5 - A nice, nostalgic story in the early world of the Mortal Instruments following Jace and Brother Zachariah. There's not really much to say about it apart from the fact that I liked it and I'm looking forward to seeing how these stories develop.
5. A Study in Scarlet 3/5 - Urgh, a classic that has gone down a little in my favour. I liked it but when we got half way through and the setting changed from Victorian London to some part of the US, I found it rather jarring and the story slowed. It didn't seem to hold my interest as much as I hoped. I still like the camaraderie between Holmes and Watson though, so that's the only thing that keeps me wanting to re-read the other books in the series.
Other books outside of the reading challenge
6. Horses, Heifers and Hairy Pigs: The Life of a Yorkshire Vet 4/5 - Started watching a lot of the Yorkshire Vet on Channel 5 so when I found this book on my kindle, I had to read it. Memoirs like these are easy, comfort reads for me and I never tire of them.
7. What Could Possibly Go Wrong? 5/5 - Hang on to your hats and glasses because this here is the wildest ride in the wilderness. I could use that spiel from Disney's Thunder Mountain Railroad to describe this entire series because it is crazy. However, what do you expect from time travelling historians? I loved this book just as much as the others and I'm intrigued to see where the series goes, although I don't feel ready to pick up the next book yet.
8. The Exact Opposite of Okay 4/5 - I'm still looking for the right words on how to describe my feelings for this book. I think the fact I read 90% of it in one night and felt every emotion under the sun is enough to suggest it meant something to me. It perfectly sums up what is wrong with the world and how it treats women, especially young women. You're damned if you do, and damned if you don't. It is one YA Contemporary that will remain on my shelves so if that doesn't say anything, I don't know what will.
9. Wing Jones 5/5 - Wow. Yet another surprising YA Contemporary that I absolutely adored. I loved the messages of fighting through adversity and doing the best you can for whom you love the most.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Traitor to the Throne
Least favourite book - A Study in Scarlet
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs - 0
Challenges - April Birthday Reading Challenge and YALC TBR.
All of these should be a part of a Birthday Reading Challenge I'm participating in on Twitter
https://twitter.com/laraxbooks/status...
1. Anthem for Doomed Youth - I can't rate this because no rating will give these poems the admiration they are due. They are powerful, emotive and important in remembering the sheer hell soldiers went through during the First World War.
2. Traitor to the Throne 5/5 - This was such an amazing sequel and one I'm glad I pushed through because this series is certainly becoming one of my favourites. I can't wait to finally sit down and read the final book although I will be sad to see it end.
3. Call the Midwife 5/5 (re-read) - I don't know what to say about this book that I haven't said before. The stories are raw, full of mixed emotions and highlight a time that we automatically think is encompassed in relief and peace. It's the opposite. People are picking themselves up off the ground and fighting everything that the Second World War left behind. In Poplar this was poverty, disease, maltreatment, homelessness, and families torn or burst apart at the seams. No matter how many times I re-read this book and its sequels, or watch the BBC show, the stories will always hit me and open up a world that is more similar to ours than we think.
4. Son of the Dawn 5/5 - A nice, nostalgic story in the early world of the Mortal Instruments following Jace and Brother Zachariah. There's not really much to say about it apart from the fact that I liked it and I'm looking forward to seeing how these stories develop.
5. A Study in Scarlet 3/5 - Urgh, a classic that has gone down a little in my favour. I liked it but when we got half way through and the setting changed from Victorian London to some part of the US, I found it rather jarring and the story slowed. It didn't seem to hold my interest as much as I hoped. I still like the camaraderie between Holmes and Watson though, so that's the only thing that keeps me wanting to re-read the other books in the series.
Other books outside of the reading challenge
6. Horses, Heifers and Hairy Pigs: The Life of a Yorkshire Vet 4/5 - Started watching a lot of the Yorkshire Vet on Channel 5 so when I found this book on my kindle, I had to read it. Memoirs like these are easy, comfort reads for me and I never tire of them.
7. What Could Possibly Go Wrong? 5/5 - Hang on to your hats and glasses because this here is the wildest ride in the wilderness. I could use that spiel from Disney's Thunder Mountain Railroad to describe this entire series because it is crazy. However, what do you expect from time travelling historians? I loved this book just as much as the others and I'm intrigued to see where the series goes, although I don't feel ready to pick up the next book yet.
8. The Exact Opposite of Okay 4/5 - I'm still looking for the right words on how to describe my feelings for this book. I think the fact I read 90% of it in one night and felt every emotion under the sun is enough to suggest it meant something to me. It perfectly sums up what is wrong with the world and how it treats women, especially young women. You're damned if you do, and damned if you don't. It is one YA Contemporary that will remain on my shelves so if that doesn't say anything, I don't know what will.
9. Wing Jones 5/5 - Wow. Yet another surprising YA Contemporary that I absolutely adored. I loved the messages of fighting through adversity and doing the best you can for whom you love the most.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Traitor to the Throne
Least favourite book - A Study in Scarlet
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs - 0
Challenges - April Birthday Reading Challenge and YALC TBR.
May Reads:
1. Cast Long Shadows 4/5 - A nice short story based on characters we will get to see in The Last Hours trilogy. I'm also loving all the Jem/Brother Zachariah so I can guarantee this will be one of my favourite Shadowhunter collections.
2. The Taste of Blue Light 5/5 - I can't believe this book isn't the focus of online book chatter because it is such a stunning read. It might be slow to get into, but the writing and the mystery surrounding Lux's blackouts is engrossing and it constantly steps up a gear as the plot unravels. It is a journey of discovery, and that discovery is not what you expect. I can see how some people might find it disappointing but I think it was incredibly well done and relevant to today's world.
3. Lies, Damned Lies, and History - 4/5 - Max bugged me quite a bit in this particular instalment because damn, she never knows when to stop and not cross the blurred line. I've got used to her unpredictability in certain circumstances but I'm scared that sooner or later, she will get some of my favourite characters killed!
4. A Yorkshire Vet Through the Seasons - 5/5 - Witty, charming, fun and super quick to get through. Julian Norton is the 21st Century James Herriot and although he doesn't elaborate his stories as much, they still suck me into the Yorkshire Dales and its varied landscape.
Statistics:
Favourite book - The Taste of Blue Light
Least favourite book -N/A
Number of audiobooks - 0
DNFs - The Hazel Wood Things a Bright Girl Can Do The Graces and Children of Blood and Bone.
I have every intention of picking up and finishing these books at a later date though. I just wasn't very much in the mood for any of them.
Challenges YALC TBR
1. Cast Long Shadows 4/5 - A nice short story based on characters we will get to see in The Last Hours trilogy. I'm also loving all the Jem/Brother Zachariah so I can guarantee this will be one of my favourite Shadowhunter collections.
2. The Taste of Blue Light 5/5 - I can't believe this book isn't the focus of online book chatter because it is such a stunning read. It might be slow to get into, but the writing and the mystery surrounding Lux's blackouts is engrossing and it constantly steps up a gear as the plot unravels. It is a journey of discovery, and that discovery is not what you expect. I can see how some people might find it disappointing but I think it was incredibly well done and relevant to today's world.
3. Lies, Damned Lies, and History - 4/5 - Max bugged me quite a bit in this particular instalment because damn, she never knows when to stop and not cross the blurred line. I've got used to her unpredictability in certain circumstances but I'm scared that sooner or later, she will get some of my favourite characters killed!
4. A Yorkshire Vet Through the Seasons - 5/5 - Witty, charming, fun and super quick to get through. Julian Norton is the 21st Century James Herriot and although he doesn't elaborate his stories as much, they still suck me into the Yorkshire Dales and its varied landscape.
Statistics:
Favourite book - The Taste of Blue Light
Least favourite book -N/A
Number of audiobooks - 0
DNFs - The Hazel Wood Things a Bright Girl Can Do The Graces and Children of Blood and Bone.
I have every intention of picking up and finishing these books at a later date though. I just wasn't very much in the mood for any of them.
Challenges YALC TBR
June Reads:
1. Goodbye, Perfect 3/5 - this is a solid book considering it deals with one of my most hated relationship dynamics. Whilst the writing was gripping enough that I couldn't put the book down, the story was lacking in a couple of places, particularly in regards to the side characters. I felt disappointed that we didn't get a bit more information about Daisy and Eden's background, Connor's life as a carer, Bonnie's sister Rowan, and the ending also felt rather abrupt. (YALC book)
2. The Surface Breaks 3/5 - a good retelling of The Little Mermaid with a few twists that make it more interesting. Whilst I was compelled to read to the very end, it wasn't one of my favourites, however. I think it reminded me too much of why I'm not such a huge fan of the original story. (YALC book)
3. The Other Side of the Dale 5/5
4. Over Hill and Dale 4.5/5
5. Head Over Heels in the Dales 5/5 - The James Herriot of Education worked its magic yet again and I felt at home reading stories full of wit and joy. They're such comfort reads and perfect for me when I've had enough of the fantasy and need something lighthearted.
6. An Ember in the Ashes - 5/5 - Such an unbelievably tense and entrancing read. I actually listened to this on audiobook and it was done so well that I felt I was at Blackcliffe alongside Laia and Elias. It was so good, I feel excited but also terrified to pick up Torch Against The Night.
7. Songe à la douceur (Also called In Paris With You) 4/5 - This is the first book I've ever read that is written in verse and it certainly worked. It made for a quick read, whilst also throwing out emotions that only poetry can portray. What I liked the most about the story was the romance and that it wasn't perfect. Tatiana and Eugene had their problems to overcome and at the end, it wasn't tied up in a neat little bow. (YALC book)
Statistics:
Favourite book - An Ember in the Ashes
Least favourite book - Goodbye Perfect
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs - 0
Challenges - YALC TBR
1. Goodbye, Perfect 3/5 - this is a solid book considering it deals with one of my most hated relationship dynamics. Whilst the writing was gripping enough that I couldn't put the book down, the story was lacking in a couple of places, particularly in regards to the side characters. I felt disappointed that we didn't get a bit more information about Daisy and Eden's background, Connor's life as a carer, Bonnie's sister Rowan, and the ending also felt rather abrupt. (YALC book)
2. The Surface Breaks 3/5 - a good retelling of The Little Mermaid with a few twists that make it more interesting. Whilst I was compelled to read to the very end, it wasn't one of my favourites, however. I think it reminded me too much of why I'm not such a huge fan of the original story. (YALC book)
3. The Other Side of the Dale 5/5
4. Over Hill and Dale 4.5/5
5. Head Over Heels in the Dales 5/5 - The James Herriot of Education worked its magic yet again and I felt at home reading stories full of wit and joy. They're such comfort reads and perfect for me when I've had enough of the fantasy and need something lighthearted.
6. An Ember in the Ashes - 5/5 - Such an unbelievably tense and entrancing read. I actually listened to this on audiobook and it was done so well that I felt I was at Blackcliffe alongside Laia and Elias. It was so good, I feel excited but also terrified to pick up Torch Against The Night.
7. Songe à la douceur (Also called In Paris With You) 4/5 - This is the first book I've ever read that is written in verse and it certainly worked. It made for a quick read, whilst also throwing out emotions that only poetry can portray. What I liked the most about the story was the romance and that it wasn't perfect. Tatiana and Eugene had their problems to overcome and at the end, it wasn't tied up in a neat little bow. (YALC book)
Statistics:
Favourite book - An Ember in the Ashes
Least favourite book - Goodbye Perfect
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs - 0
Challenges - YALC TBR
July Reads:
1. The End We Start From 3/5 - I get what this book was trying to do but it didn't click with me. I wasn't overly fond of the writing style and I didn't particularly like the fact all the names were initials - they detached me from the story. However, the simplicity did make the emotional pull that bit stronger and it was enough to keep me reading until the very end. I'm glad it was quite a short book (at around 126) because had it been any longer and I would have DNFed it.
2. Everless 3.5/5 - I enjoyed this book but it was a little too cliche and predictable for my taste. However, the concept is one of the most original I've read so far in YA fantasy and towards the end, it took a turn I didn't expect.
https://adreamerslibrary.wordpress.co...
3.Runemarks - 4/5 - Interesting, different, and enjoyable. I've never read anything to do with Norse Mythology before and although I know a little about it from the Marvel universe, it was definitely new territory for me. The one stand out character in this has to be Loki because he was so different from how I expected him to be. His trickster ways were fun!
4. A Skinful of Shadows 5/5 - This is my first Frances Hardinge book and one that completely proved how masterful she is at creating really unique, strange and creepy stories. What I loved about this book were the distinct voices of each character, especially the ghosts inside of Makepeace, because they retained their individuality throughout the story. The mix of the history and the supernatural was also very well done and it made me believe I was there too.
Statistics:
Favourite book - A Skinful of Shadows
Least favourite book - The End We Start From
Number of audiobooks - 3 (I flicked back and forth from the audiobooks and paperbacks of all books)
DNFs - 0
Challenges - YALC TBR
1. The End We Start From 3/5 - I get what this book was trying to do but it didn't click with me. I wasn't overly fond of the writing style and I didn't particularly like the fact all the names were initials - they detached me from the story. However, the simplicity did make the emotional pull that bit stronger and it was enough to keep me reading until the very end. I'm glad it was quite a short book (at around 126) because had it been any longer and I would have DNFed it.
2. Everless 3.5/5 - I enjoyed this book but it was a little too cliche and predictable for my taste. However, the concept is one of the most original I've read so far in YA fantasy and towards the end, it took a turn I didn't expect.
https://adreamerslibrary.wordpress.co...
3.Runemarks - 4/5 - Interesting, different, and enjoyable. I've never read anything to do with Norse Mythology before and although I know a little about it from the Marvel universe, it was definitely new territory for me. The one stand out character in this has to be Loki because he was so different from how I expected him to be. His trickster ways were fun!
4. A Skinful of Shadows 5/5 - This is my first Frances Hardinge book and one that completely proved how masterful she is at creating really unique, strange and creepy stories. What I loved about this book were the distinct voices of each character, especially the ghosts inside of Makepeace, because they retained their individuality throughout the story. The mix of the history and the supernatural was also very well done and it made me believe I was there too.
Statistics:
Favourite book - A Skinful of Shadows
Least favourite book - The End We Start From
Number of audiobooks - 3 (I flicked back and forth from the audiobooks and paperbacks of all books)
DNFs - 0
Challenges - YALC TBR
August Reads:
1. The Subtle Knife 5/5 - Re-reading this series is proving to be such a great experience because I'm discovering a lot about it that I completely missed before. It's also more complex than I originally realised and it makes me question things I wouldn't have understood as an 11 year old child.
2. The Chronicles of Narnia (all but the Silver Chair and The Last Battle) - 4.5 stars - Reading and re-reading this series is such a joy because Narnia is still one of my favourite fantasy worlds. It's so incredibly magical and I cannot help but get lost in it.
3. Changeling 3/5 - Okay so the foundations are there for a great story, but I don't think it was particularly well executed. The characters needed a bit more development, dialogue required tuning, and I found the plot a little boring in places. However I do find the concept intriguing, which is enough for me to carry on with the series.
4. Are We All Lemmings and Snowflakes? 5/5 - A full review of this is to come on my blog but this is hands down one of the best YA Contemporaries I've read all year.
5. The Price Guide to the Occult 4/5 - What started out as a mediocre book turned excellent rather quickly and I adored all the magic that comes with witches and the supernatural. If you want my full thoughts, I have a review on my blog:
https://adreamerslibrary.wordpress.co...
6. City of Ghosts 5/5 - VE Schwab has done it yet again. She's managed to craft an excellently written, creepy, and inviting story that is addictive and fun. I love all the characters, and I'm especially glad to hear that we are not finished with Cassidy and Jacob just yet as there will be more stories released in this world - I cannot wait to see what they do next. Also, reading this made me realise I need to make a trip to Edinburgh.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Can't decide between AWALAS, Price Guide to the Occult and City of Ghosts.
Least favourite book -Changeling
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs -
Challenges -
1. The Subtle Knife 5/5 - Re-reading this series is proving to be such a great experience because I'm discovering a lot about it that I completely missed before. It's also more complex than I originally realised and it makes me question things I wouldn't have understood as an 11 year old child.
2. The Chronicles of Narnia (all but the Silver Chair and The Last Battle) - 4.5 stars - Reading and re-reading this series is such a joy because Narnia is still one of my favourite fantasy worlds. It's so incredibly magical and I cannot help but get lost in it.
3. Changeling 3/5 - Okay so the foundations are there for a great story, but I don't think it was particularly well executed. The characters needed a bit more development, dialogue required tuning, and I found the plot a little boring in places. However I do find the concept intriguing, which is enough for me to carry on with the series.
4. Are We All Lemmings and Snowflakes? 5/5 - A full review of this is to come on my blog but this is hands down one of the best YA Contemporaries I've read all year.
5. The Price Guide to the Occult 4/5 - What started out as a mediocre book turned excellent rather quickly and I adored all the magic that comes with witches and the supernatural. If you want my full thoughts, I have a review on my blog:
https://adreamerslibrary.wordpress.co...
6. City of Ghosts 5/5 - VE Schwab has done it yet again. She's managed to craft an excellently written, creepy, and inviting story that is addictive and fun. I love all the characters, and I'm especially glad to hear that we are not finished with Cassidy and Jacob just yet as there will be more stories released in this world - I cannot wait to see what they do next. Also, reading this made me realise I need to make a trip to Edinburgh.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Can't decide between AWALAS, Price Guide to the Occult and City of Ghosts.
Least favourite book -Changeling
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs -
Challenges -
September Reads:
1. Obsidio
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Obsidio
Least favourite book - N/A
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs - too many to count! (curse you reading slump)
Challenges - Finish series (Illuminae Files)
1. Obsidio
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book - Obsidio
Least favourite book - N/A
Number of audiobooks - 1
DNFs - too many to count! (curse you reading slump)
Challenges - Finish series (Illuminae Files)
October Reads:
1. A Discovery of Witches - re-read for the third time and I continue to love it. I hadn't planned to pick this up but I'm hooked on the show and it felt right to read it again. Also, it has got me out of the reading slump which is awesome!
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book -
Least favourite book -
Number of audiobooks -
DNFs -
Challenges -
1. A Discovery of Witches - re-read for the third time and I continue to love it. I hadn't planned to pick this up but I'm hooked on the show and it felt right to read it again. Also, it has got me out of the reading slump which is awesome!
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book -
Least favourite book -
Number of audiobooks -
DNFs -
Challenges -
November Reads:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book -
Least favourite book -
Number of audiobooks -
DNFs -
Challenges -
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book -
Least favourite book -
Number of audiobooks -
DNFs -
Challenges -
December Reads:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book -
Least favourite book -
Number of audiobooks -
DNFs -
Challenges -
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Statistics:
Favourite book -
Least favourite book -
Number of audiobooks -
DNFs -
Challenges -
Yeah I completely forgot about updating all of this when I stopped reading that much due to Christmas Crochet commitments and I don't think I'm going to bother. All the books I've read are on my main challenge page which is linked above.
2025 Reading Challenge
Books mentioned in this topic
A Discovery of Witches (other topics)Obsidio (other topics)
The Price Guide to the Occult (other topics)
Changeling (other topics)
The Chronicles of Narnia (other topics)
More...
