BOOKS, mythology and Feels.
Hello lovelies!
I had a 24hour readathon on the last sunday of June and I finally picked up One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston which was one of my most ancitipates releases of 2021! I am happy to say that it lived up to my expectations! 🥰
Continue reading “One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston – Book review, aka marry me Jane Su 💕✨”Hello lovelies!
A little bit of a later post today, but I’m back with a list of my most anticipated releases of 2021. I’l really excited for these books to come out and I think a lot of these are going to be 5 stars reads.
Synopsis: From the New York Times bestselling author of Red, White & Royal Blue comes a new romantic comedy that puts a queer spin on Kate & Leopold.
A 23-year-old realises her subway crush is displaced from 1970’s Brooklyn, and she must do everything in her power to help her – and try not to fall in love with the girl lost in time – before it’s too late . . .
Why I want to read it: Red, White and Royal Blue is one of my all-time favourite books and I’m so excited that this romance is going to be sapphic!
Synopsis: Crazy Rich Asians meets The Princess Diaries in this irresistible story about Izumi, a Japanese-American girl who discovers her senior year of high school that she’s really a princess of Japan. Izumi Tanaka has never really felt like she fit in—it isn’t easy being Japanese American in her small, mostly white, northern California town. Raised by a single mother, it’s always been Izumi—or Izzy, because “It’s easier this way”—and her mom against the world. But then Izzy discovers a clue to her previously unknown father’s identity…and he’s none other than the Crown Prince of Japan. Which means outspoken, irreverent Izzy is literally a princess. In a whirlwind, Izzy travels to Japan to meet the father she never knew and discover the country she always dreamed of. But being a princess isn’t all ball gowns and tiaras. There are conniving cousins, a hungry press, a scowling but handsome bodyguard who just might be her soulmate, and thousands of years of tradition and customs to learn practically overnight. Izzy soon finds herself caught between worlds, and between versions of herself—back home, she was never “American” enough, and in Japan, she must prove she’s “Japanese” enough. Will Izumi crumble under the weight of the crown, or will she live out her fairytale, happily ever after
Why I want to read it: you had me at “The Princess Diaries”!! I love the hidden princess trope and also the Japanese rep!! Very excited about this.
Synopsis: Sixteen-year-old Tessa Johnson has never felt like the protagonist in her own life. She’s rarely seen herself reflected in the pages of the romance novels she loves. The only place she’s a true leading lady is in her own writing—in the swoony love stories she shares only with Caroline, her best friend and #1 devoted reader.When Tessa is accepted into the creative writing program of a prestigious art school, she’s excited to finally let her stories shine. But when she goes to her first workshop, the words are just…gone. Fortunately, Caroline has a solution: Tessa just needs to find some inspiration in a real-life love story of her own. And she’s ready with a list of romance novel-inspired steps to a happily ever after. Nico, the brooding artist who looks like he walked out of one of Tessa’s stories, is cast as the perfect Prince Charming.But as Tessa checks off each item off Caroline’s list, she gets further and further away from herself. She risks losing everything she cares about—including the surprising bond she develops with sweet Sam, who lives across the street. She’s well on her way to having her own real-life love story, but is it the one she wants, after all?
Why I want to read it: this seems like such a cute romance and I love the fact that the main character is a person of colour! It also reminds me of To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before and since I really enjoyed the series I can’t wait to read this.
Synopsis: Reena Manji doesn’t love her career, her single status, and most of all, her family inserting themselves into every detail of her life. But when caring for her precious sourdough starters, Reena can drown it all out. At least until her father moves his newest employee across the hall–with hopes that Reena will marry him. But Nadim’s not like the other Muslim bachelors-du-jour that her parents have dug up. If the Captain America body and the British accent weren’t enough, the man appears to love eating her bread creations as much as she loves making them. She sure as hell would never marry a man who works for her father, but friendship with a neighbor is okay, right? And when Reena’s career takes a nosedive, Nadim happily agrees to fake an engagement so they can enter a couples video cooking contest to win the artisan bread course of her dreams. As cooking at home together brings them closer, things turn physical, but Reena isn’t worried. She knows Nadim is keeping secrets, but it’s fine— secrets are always on the menu where her family is concerned. And her heart is protected… she’s not marrying the man. But even secrets kept for self preservation have a way of getting out, especially when meddling parents and gossiping families are involved.
Why I want to read it: the Fake dating trope when the characters slowly realize they are in fact, not faking it???? Yes, yes yes.
At thirty-three-years old Evangeline Starling’s life in Chicago is missing that special something. And when she’s passed over for promotion at work, Evie realizes she needs to make a change. Some time away to regain perspective might be just the thing. In a burst of impulsivity, she plans a holiday in a quaint English village. The holiday package comes with a temporary position at Much Ado About Books, the bookstore located beneath her rental apartment. There’s no better dream vacation for the bookish Evie, a life-long Shakespeare lover. Not only is Evie swept up in running the delightful store as soon as she arrives, she’s drawn into the lives, loves and drama of the friendly villagers. Including Roane Robson, the charismatic and sexy farmer who tempts Evie every day with his friendly flirtations. Evie is determined to keep him at bay because a holiday romance can only end in heartbreak, right? But Evie can’t deny their connection and longs to trust in her handsome farmer that their whirlwind romance could turn in to the forever kind of love.
Why I want to read it: any reference to Shakespeare will do, thank you very much.
Synopsis: Shiori, the only princess of Kiata, has a secret. Forbidden magic runs through her veins. Normally she conceals it well, but on the morning of her betrothal ceremony, Shiori loses control. At first, her mistake seems like a stroke of luck, forestalling the wedding she never wanted, but it also catches the attention of Raikama, her stepmother.
Raikama has dark magic of her own, and she banishes the young princess, turning her brothers into cranes, and warning Shiori that she must speak of it to no one: for with every word that escapes her lips, one of her brothers will die.
Peniless, voiceless, and alone, Shiori searches for her brothers, and, on her journey, uncovers a conspiracy to overtake the throne—a conspiracy more twisted and deceitful, more cunning and complex, than even Raikama’s betrayal. Only Shiori can set the kingdom to rights, but to do so she must place her trust in the very boy she fought so hard not to marry. And she must embrace the magic she’s been taught all her life to contain—no matter what it costs her.
Why I want to read it: I think this is a retelling of Snow White and there’s nothing I love more than fairtytale retellings. Also this has Asian rep and a beautiful cover! What more could I need?
Synopsis: Nesta Archeron has always been prickly-proud, swift to anger, and slow to forgive. And ever since being forced into the Cauldron and becoming High Fae against her will, she’s struggled to find a place for herself within the strange, deadly world she inhabits. Worse, she can’t seem to move past the horrors of the war with Hybern and all she lost in it. The one person who ignites her temper more than any other is Cassian, the battle-scarred warrior whose position in Rhysand and Feyre’s Night Court keeps him constantly in Nesta’s orbit. But her temper isn’t the only thing Cassian ignites. The fire between them is undeniable, and only burns hotter as they are forced into close quarters with each other. Meanwhile, the treacherous human queens who returned to the Continent during the last war have forged a dangerous new alliance, threatening the fragile peace that has settled over the realms. And the key to halting them might very well rely on Cassian and Nesta facing their haunting pasts. Against the sweeping backdrop of a world seared by war and plagued with uncertainty, Nesta and Cassian battle monsters from within and without as they search for acceptance-and healing-in each other’s arms.
Why I want to read it: WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS BOOK SINCE FOREVER. I’m not really a fan of Nesta but I care about Cassian and I really just want to see all of my babies together again.
Synopsis: A queen foretold to save the world.
A dragon in search of his destiny.
New enemies change the game as the final battle draws near…
Why I want to read it: I have been fortunate enough to receive ARCS for the first and second book in the series and I adored it. It’s initially a retelling of Tristan and Isolde (classic star-crossed lovers) but then it evolves into its own story. I love this series for the phenomenal world building . Can’t wait for book 3! You can see my reviews for the first two books here and here.
Synopsis: Eve Brown is a certified hot mess. No matter how hard she strives to do right, her life always goes horribly wrong—so she’s given up trying. But when her personal brand of chaos ruins an expensive wedding (someone had to liberate those poor doves), her parents draw the line. It’s time for Eve to grow up and prove herself—even though she’s not entirely sure how… Jacob Wayne is in control. Always. The bed and breakfast owner’s on a mission to dominate the hospitality industry—and he expects nothing less than perfection. So when a purple-haired tornado of a woman turns up out of the blue to interview for his open chef position, he tells her the brutal truth: not a chance in hell. Then she hits him with her car—supposedly by accident. Yeah, right. Now his arm is broken, his B&B is understaffed, and the dangerously unpredictable Eve is fluttering around, trying to help. Before long, she’s infiltrated his work, his kitchen—and his spare bedroom. Jacob hates everything about it. Or rather, he should. Sunny, chaotic Eve is his natural-born nemesis, but the longer these two enemies spend in close quarters, the more their animosity turns into something else. Like Eve, the heat between them is impossible to ignore—and it’s melting Jacob’s frosty exterior
Why I want to read it: The Brown sisters series is one of the best romance series I’ve read this year and I’m very existed about Eve Brown’s story. And the autism rep!!! Both of the main character are so chaotic and that’s how I like my characters.
Untitled (legacy of Orïsha #3) by Tomi Adeyemi
This is a very unpopular opinion but book two was extremely disappointing. I really want to see how book 3 wraps up the story and if it redeems some of my favourite characters. I hope I get the joy I felt when I read the first book.
Gods and Monsters (Serpent and Dove #3) by Shelby Mahurin
Serpent and Dove is one of my favourite book and Blood and Honey was my most anticipated book of the year but I read so many bad reviews that I’m scared to pick it up. I will read it eventually though because I love the characters and I also want to see how it all ends.
Untitled (Crescent City #2) by Sarah J. Maas
I haven’t read House of Earth and Blood yet but I trust Sarah J, Maas with my life so I’m sure both the first and second book in the series are going to be amazing.
Which books are you excited to read in 2021? Let me know in the comments!
Karla xx
All the synopses are from Goodreads.
Hello lovelies! Welcome to day #2 of Blogmas!
I found this tag from Sam’s Nonsense‘s Youtube Channel and I thought it might be nice to properly kick off this Christmas season with a Christmas- related book tag! Let’s go!
1) Anticipation: The Christmas excitement is real, what book release(s) are you most anticipating? ❆☃
I’m going to dedicate a post to my most anticipated releases soon, but to name a few I’m really excited for A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas, Excuse me While I ugly Cry by Joya Goffney One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston, Act your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert and Gods and Monster by Shelby Mahurin!
2) Christmas Songs & Carols: What book or author can you not help but sing its praises? ❅☃
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey Mcquiston! Last Christmas I gifted it to my sister (who loved it) and recently gave it to a friend who wanted to get back into reading; cannot recommend this enough!
3) Gingerbread Houses: What book or series has wonderful world building? ❅☃
The Folk of the Air series and the A Court Of Thorns and Roses series have incredible world building! Have you noticed a pattern? I seem to love the Fae and I wish I lived in a world where they were present.
4) A Christmas Carol: Favorite classic or one that you want to read ❅☃
I have a few favourites that are perfect for this season: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott and Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. Perfect cozy holiday reads.
5) Christmas Sweets: What book would you love to receive for Christmas ❅☃
These Violent Delights, From Blood and Ash, Fable more than anything! (Kerstin my sister if you read this….you know what to get me for Christmas haha) -; These are the books I’m going to buy as soon as I get through my current TBR.
6) Candles in the Window: What book gives you that warm fuzzy feeling ❅☃
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, always.
7) Christmas Trees & Decorations: What are some of your favorite book covers? ❅☃
Some of my favourite covers are these:
I really like intricate designs as well as art on my covers!
8) Christmas Joy: What are some of your favorite things about Christmas And/Or some of your favorite Christmas memories? ❅☃
I know it’s weird since I’m dedicating a whole blogging month to Christmas but I’m not a fan of Christmas in itself, but rather, the feeling, the happiness in the air, the songs, the snow, Christmas lights and Christmas markets..It’s not really about Christmas but more what it represents.
What did you think? Let me know in the comments!
Karla xx
Hello lovelies!
I don’t necessarily judge a book by its cover but a good book cover is still very much appreciated. And there’s nothing more satisfying than having shelves full of beautiful covers. This week (I think?) three of my favorite authors have revealed the covers for their upcoming releases and I wanted to share them here.
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert
Synopsis: Eve Brown is a certified hot mess. No matter how hard she strives to do right, her life always goes horribly wrong—so she’s given up trying. But when her personal brand of chaos ruins an expensive wedding (someone had to liberate those poor doves), her parents draw the line. It’s time for Eve to grow up and prove herself—even though she’s not entirely sure how…
Jacob Wayne is in control. Always. The bed and breakfast owner’s on a mission to dominate the hospitality industry—and he expects nothing less than perfection. So when a purple-haired tornado of a woman turns up out of the blue to interview for his open chef position, he tells her the brutal truth: not a chance in hell. Then she hits him with her car—supposedly by accident. Yeah, right.
Now his arm is broken, his B&B is understaffed, and the dangerously unpredictable Eve is fluttering around, trying to help. Before long, she’s infiltrated his work, his kitchen—and his spare bedroom. Jacob hates everything about it. Or rather, he should. Sunny, chaotic Eve is his natural-born nemesis, but the longer these two enemies spend in close quarters, the more their animosity turns into something else. Like Eve, the heat between them is impossible to ignore—and it’s melting Jacob’s frosty exterior. (Goodreads)
My thoughts: Well, Talia Hibbert is my new favourite auto-buy author because I will read anything this woman writes. I read both of the Brow Sisters’ romances and loved them so much. You can only imagine my excitement when Talia Hibbert released the cover and full synopsis for Act Your Age, Eve Brown! I LOVEEEE THIS COVER. I think it really compliments the other two and I like the colour contrasts. Can’t wait to get this book in my hands.
One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
Synopsis : From the New York Times bestselling author of Red, White & Royal Blue comes a new romantic comedy that puts a queer spin on Kate & Leopold. A 23-year-old realises her subway crush is displaced from 1970’s Brooklyn, and she must do everything in her power to help her – and try not to fall in love with the girl lost in time – before it’s too late. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts: Red, White and Royal Blue, is one of my favourite books ever. I loved the attention to detail, the love “letters” or should I say, emails?, the political intrigue and the friend group. I know this book will be completely different but I am in love with Casey McQuiston’s writing and I can’t wait to see how she will tell this story. The book cover is beautiful and I think it would catch my eye if I were to see it in a bookstore. I really like the soft, pastel colours of the cover and maybe it’s far-fetched but the colours actually remind me of the lesbian flag; is it just me? Or maybe that was the intend and it’s very obvious? Bottom line: I love this cover.
Rule of Wolves by Leigh Bardugo
King of Scars synopsis: Nikolai Lantsov has always had a gift for the impossible. No one knows what he endured in his country’s bloody civil war—and he intends to keep it that way. Now, as enemies gather at his weakened borders, the young king must find a way to refill Ravka’s coffers, forge new alliances, and stop a rising threat to the once-great Grisha Army. Yet with every day a dark magic within him grows stronger, threatening to destroy all he has built. With the help of a young monk and a legendary Grisha Squaller, Nikolai will journey to the places in Ravka where the deepest magic survives to vanquish the terrible legacy inside him. He will risk everything to save his country and himself. But some secrets aren’t meant to stay buried—and some wounds aren’t meant to heal. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts: I actually haven’t read King of Scars yet but I read the Shadow and Bone trilogy and really enjoyed it so I can’t wait to follow King Nikolai; he was one of my favourite characters of the trilogy. I think the cover of Rule of Wolves compliments the other one very well and that it’s very coherent as the art is similar but the colours and design change. I think both of the books would look great together on a bookshelf. I really like the background since it looks like it’s engraved and that’s pretty cool. The person who designed these covers is very talented and did a fantastic job.
What do you think? Let know in the comments!
Karla xx
Author’s note: I’m also releasing this post the date of Chadwick Boseman’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace. He was a true hero and role model and he will never be forgotten.
Hello lovelies!
I hope you are all safe, well and that you are taking this time to take care of yourselves.
I am back for a book tag! This tag was created by Becky (Blogs of a Bookaholic) and it seems sooo much fun; I mean pancakes and books? Life couldn’t be more perfect.
Thank you to the lovely Pavani @ The Voracious Bibliophile for tagging me! I love your blog and you continuously inspire me!
Happy New Year lovelies!
May you accomplish everything you want, may you have health, success, love (in any form) and read wonderful books!
I think 2019 was my favourite reading year yet. I have read books that have truly shaken me to my core, made me laugh and cry, made me wish the story never ended and for that I am grateful. I am going to share my list and explain in a few words why I loved them.
Continue reading “19 Favourite Books of 2019”Hello lovelies!
How does one begin with such a wonderful book? I always think it’s ironic how words fail me when I need to convey how amazing a book was. I wish I had Henry’s gift with words.
Title: Red, White and Royal Blue
Author: Casey McQuiston
Summary: When his mother became President, Alex Claremont-Diaz was promptly cast as the American equivalent of a young royal. Handsome, charismatic, genius—his image is pure millennial-marketing gold for the White House. There’s only one problem: Alex has a beef with the actual prince, Henry, across the pond. And when the tabloids get hold of a photo involving an Alex-Henry altercation, U.S./British relations take a turn for the worse. (Goodreads)
Rating: FIVE FANTASTIC STARS
Continue reading “Red, White and Royal Blue – Book Review”
Anotherbookworm 