2020 End of Year Survey!

 Hi, everyone! Today I'm posting my answers to the 2020 End of Year Survey created by Jamie at The Perpetual Page-Turner! I love filling this out every year, and thank you to Jamie for creating and hosting it!

Here we go!

**2020 READING STATS**

Number Of Books You Read: 90 (Not counting rereads.)

Number of Re-Reads: Around 10?

Genre You Read The Most From: Probably Contemporary?

Best in Books:

1. Best Book You Read In 2020?

There is no way I can list just one, so I'm breaking it down by Picture Book, Middle Grade, YA, Adult, and Graphic Novels! But to keep this to truly my most favorite, I'm only listing five per category, which was hard, but I did it!

Picture Books: Coral by Molly Idle, Follow Me, Flo! by Jarvis, Gross as a Snot Otter (The World of Weird Animals) by Jess Keating, illustrated by David DeGrand, Dewdrop by Katie O'Neill, You're Worth Melting for by Megan Roth.

Middle Grade: Premeditated Myrtle (Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries #1) by Elizabeth C. Bunce, Nikki Tesla and the Fellowship of the Bling (Elements of Genius #2) by Jess Keating, illustrated by Lissy Marlin, The Stitchers (Fright Watch #1) by Lorien Lawrence, The Hunt for the Mad Wolf's Daughter by Diane Magras, Death Sets Sail (Murder Most Unladylike Mystery #9) by Robin Stevens.

YA: Rent a Boyfriend by Gloria Chao, I Love You So Mochi by Sarah Kuhn, The Unstoppable Wasp: Built On Hope by Sam Maggs, Prince in Disguise by Stephanie Kate Strohm, Moment of Truth by Kasie West.

Adult: You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle, Not the Duke’s Darling (Greycourt #1) by Elizabeth Hoyt, Love Your Life by Sophie Kinsella, Death in the Stacks (Library Lover's Mystery #8) by Jenn McKinlay, Ten Rules for Faking It by Sophie Sullivan.

Graphic Novels: In Love & Pajamas: A Collection of Comics about Being Yourself Together by Catana Chetwynd, Bunbun & Bonbon: Fancy Friends (Bunbun & Bonbon #1) by Jess Keating, Shadow of the Batgirl by Sarah Kuhn, illustrated by Nicole Goux, Love Me, Love Me Not, Vol. 1 by Io Sakisaka, The Runaway Princess by Johan Troïanowski.

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

I don't really wanna answer this one...

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

I wasn't sure what book to answer this question with, but I'm going to go with The Runaway Princess by Johan Troïanowski. I thought it looked fun, but I didn't expect to like it as much as I did! It also surprised me with how the story was told!

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

Hmm, maybe Premeditated Myrtle or You Deserve Each Other?

5. Best series you started in 2020? Best Sequel? Best Series Ender of 2020?

Best Series Starter: Not the Duke’s Darling (Greycourt #1) by Elizabeth Hoyt

Best Sequel: Nikki Tesla and the Fellowship of the Bling (Elements of Genius #2) by Jess Keating, illustrated by Lissy Marlin

Best Series Ender: Death Sets Sail (Murder Most Unladylike Mystery #9) by Robin Stevens 

6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2020?

Elizabeth Hoyt!

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

I didn't read too much outside of my comfort zone this year, but I will say that I rarely read scary reads, but I loved The Stitchers!

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

The Unstoppable Wasp: Built on Hope!

9. Book You Read In 2020 That You Would Be MOST Likely To Re-Read Next Year?

I don't reread much anymore, but I think You Deserve Each Other will get reread next year!

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2020?

Ooh, this is hard! But I really like the cover of Love Your Life!

11. Most memorable character of 2020?

Naomi and Nicholas from You Deserve Each Other!

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2020?

I'm never good at answering this question...

13. Most Thought-Provoking/ Life-Changing Book of 2020?

Again, another I always have a hard time answering...

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2020 to finally read? 

Prince in Disguise! Stephanie Kate Strohm is one of my favorite authors, and I can't believe it took me this long to read this book!

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2020?

I didn't keep track of quotes again this year...

16. Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2020?

According to Goodreads,

Shortest: Follow Me Flo, 32 pages.

Longest: Happy Girl Lucky, 480

17. Book That Shocked You The Most

Death Sets Sail!

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

(OTP = one true pairing if you aren’t familiar)

Chloe and Drew from Rent a Boyfriend!

19. Favorite Non-Romantic Relationship Of The Year

I love the friendship in the Murder Most Unladylike series!

20. Favorite Book You Read in 2020 From An Author You’ve Read Previously

There are so many! I can't pick just one!

21. Best Book You Read In 2020 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else/Peer Pressure/Bookstagram, Etc.:

I know there was one this year, but I can't remember...

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2020?

Chris from Ten Rules for Faking It!

23. Best 2020 debut you read?

Again, too many to list just one!

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

Murder Most Unladylike is Historical fiction, but I think the author created a really well thought out world for all the characters!

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

You Deserve Each Other! I laughed so much while reading it!

26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2020?

Death Sets Sail, partly because of events in the story, and partly because of it being the last book in the series!

27. Hidden Gem Of The Year?

I'm going to go with two picture books I read! Follow Me, Flo!, and Dewdrop were adorable, but I hardly heard anyone talk about them!

28. Book That Crushed Your Soul?

I don't know what book to put here...

29. Most Unique Book You Read In 2020?

The Runaway Princess was really unique!

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

I don't know??

Your Blogging/Booksih Life:

1. New favorite book blog/Bookstagram/Youtube channel you discovered in 2020?

I did not discover any new blogs this year, again, I really need to work on that next year.

2. Favorite post you wrote in 2020?

I'm really happy with my review of The Unstoppable Wasp: Built On Hope! And of course I loved hosting the 2020 Debut Author Interviews and Yay For Middle Grade Books! 2020 events again this year!

3. Favorite bookish related photo you took in 2020?

I can't get the photo to work here, but my Christmas Book Tree I posted on Instagram! It took me a little while to build it, but I loved it! 

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

Top Ten Tuesday is always fun!

5. Best moment of bookish/blogging life in 2020?

I have three off the top of my head! First, getting to talk to so many awesome authors, bloggers, and other readers. Second, getting sent e-ARCs to read that I didn't request. And three, being told by some people that they read books because of my writing about them. (Which is the best compliment to get!)

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

Getting the motivation to read. 2020 was awful, and I often didn't feel like picking up a book (or really doing anything), but I've been feeling more like reading recently, so I hope I get more books read in 2021!

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

Let me go look... According to Blogger, it was my Interview with Rebecca McLaughlin!

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

I'm happy with the love my posts got this year!

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

I don't know??

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

Yes! I always set a goal of 25 books for myself, and I exceeded it!

Looking Ahead:

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2020 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2021?

*laughs* There are waaayy too many to list here. I put off reading a lot of books this year, including some highly anticipated ones, because of anxiety and lack of motivation to read (as mentioned before), so I have plenty of books I hope to get to in 2021!

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2021 (non-debut)?

There are sooo many! (Look for my post January 1st listing them all!), but I'm really, really looking forward to Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle!

3. 2021 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?

Again, waaaayy too many to list here!

4. Series Ending/A Sequel You Are Most Anticipating in 2021?

Again, way too many to list here! :)

5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging Life In 2021?

I have a resolutions post going up with some goals on it, but for now I will say I would like to reach 500 followers on Instagram (I don't know if it's possible, but it's good to dream!).

6. A 2021 Release You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone (if applicable):

I thought In Love & Pajamas was awesome!

That's it! There's my end of year survey filled out. Thank you to Jamie for posting it again! What were your favorite books of 2020? :)

Review: Ten Rules for Faking It

 Review: Ten Rules for Faking It by Sophie Sullivan

“Once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down.” - Lyssa Kay Adams, author of The Bromance Book Club

What happens when your love life becomes the talk of the town?

As birthdays go, this year’s for radio producer Everly Dean hit rock-bottom.

Worse than the “tonsillectomy birthday.” Worse than the birthday her parents decided to split (the first time). But catching your boyfriend cheating on you with his assistant?

Even clichés sting.

But this is Everly’s year! She won’t let her anxiety hold her back. She’ll pitch her podcast idea to her boss.

There’s just one problem.

Her boss, Chris, is very cute. (Of course). Also, he's extremely distant (which means he hates her, right? Or is that the anxiety talking)?

And, Stacey the DJ didn’t mute the mic during Everly’s rant about Simon the Snake (syn: Cheating Ex).

That’s three problems.

Suddenly, people are lining up to date her, Bachelorette-style, fans are voting (Reminder: never leave house again), and her interest in Chris might be a two-way street. It’s a lot for a woman who could gold medal in people-avoidance. She’s going to have to fake it ‘till she makes it to get through all of this.

Perhaps she’ll make a list: The Ten Rules for Faking It.

Because sometimes making the rules can find you happiness when you least expect it.

“A funny, sweet rom com from a fresh, sparkling new voice.” – Andie J. Christopher, USA Today bestselling author of Not The Girl You Marry

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Plot: It was fun! Reading about Everly going on the dates was entertaining. And there were plenty of moments that made me laugh, too!

Characters: Everly was a great main character, and I loved that the author had her have social anxiety! As someone with severe anxiety, it was really nice to read a book where the main character had anxiety, but still got a happy ending. (How many times can I say anxiety in one paragraph? Oh, well.) I loved her love interest! And her friendship with Stacey was great.

The Cover: It's really cute! I love illustrated covers.

Overall: I really loved this book! I thought it was a fun romance, while also having more serious parts (though never so much as to overwhelm the book). I hope we get a book with Stacey as the main character, and perhaps one with Noah, too? Overall, I would highly recommend this book!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Mini Review: A Little Country Christmas

 Review: A Little Country Christmas by Carolyn Brown, Rochelle Alers, Hope Ramsay, and A.J. Pine

From matchmaking carolers to a festive lights competition, four bestselling authors explore the magic of the holidays in these heartwarming small towns.

The Perfect Christmas by Carolyn Brown

Rugged cowboy Landon Griffin can't help being smitten by single mom Dixie Boudreaux and her baby girl. To help win their hearts, he wants to give them both the perfect holiday at Longhorn Ranch -- baking cookies, trimming the tree, building snowmen, and the whole works. But when nothing seems to go right, he might need a Christmas miracle to help him out of the mess.

Joy to the World by Hope Ramsay

Retired music teacher Brenda McMillan has lost her holiday spirit, but reluctantly agrees to fill in for the director of the Magnolia Harbor Christmas Chorale -- even though Dr. James Killough, the town's biggest Christmas enthusiast, is the group's accompanist. Will he have enough Christmas magic to mend her broken heart?

Home for the Holidays by Rochelle Alers

Pastry chef Iris Nelson is looking forward to spending Christmas on Cavanaugh Island with her best friend's family. But she wasn't expecting to celebrate with their very handsome visitor on leave from Afghanistan. Is their attraction just the glow of the season or a gift to enjoy forever?

Cowboy Christmas at Heart by A.J. Pine

For Deputy Sheriff Daniela Garcia, no hometown tradition makes her happier than the Meadow Valley Holiday Light Parade. This year she's planning for the sheriff's office to have the most dazzling lights. But when the new mayor -- and certified grinch -- threatens to cancel the event, Dani will have to show him the true meaning of Christmas. 

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Mini Review: This was a delightfully festive read! This was the first time I've read stories by any of these authors, but I will definitely be checking out books from them in the future. My favorite short story in the book was Joy to the World by Hope Ramsay (And after finding out this one is a part of her ongoing series, I plan to read more!), but all the tales were good! If you're looking for a book to get you in the Christmas spirit, I would definitely recommend trying this collection of short stories featuring festive tales!

I received a finished copy of this book from the publisher.

Another Mini Review Round Up!

Hi, everyone! As I posted the other day, I'm attempting to catch up on all the books that released this year I haven't reviewed. I got so far behind on reading and reviewing this year, because of all the stress of 2020. But I am now on track to be all caught up, and can begin to read and review books in a timely fashion in 2021!

1789: Twelve Authors Explore a Year of Rebellion, Revolution, and Change edited by Marc Aronson and Susan Campbell Bartoletti 

This was a very interesting look at the year 1789, which is one of my favorite time periods to read about! I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about this time, with a look at different parts of the world.

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Unyielding Hope by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan

I'm a big fan of the TV show When Hope Calls (and of course, When Calls the Heart!) on Hallmark, so the moment I saw this book on NetGalley, I knew I had to request it! I'm happy I did! It's really different from the TV show, but still a very good book, that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer

This was another good Christian Historical Fiction from Karen Witemeyer (If you want to read my favorite by her, I highly recommend A Worthy Pursuit!). If you think this book sounds interesting, I would recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Woman of Sunlight (Brides of Hope Mountain #2) by Mary Connealy 

I loved the first book in this series, so I knew I had to read the next book, to find out what happens to all the characters from book one! Jo is still my favorite, but Ilsa was a good main character, too! Now, onto the next book!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Her Secret Song (Brides of Hope Mountain #3) by Mary Connealy

I enjoyed reading the first two books in this series, but I was unsure if I would like this one, based on the fact that Ursula was not the most... enjoyable character in the first two books. I was pleasantly surprised with how her narrating the story went, and she is much better to read about, while in her head. I also liked how important music and song was to her. And I loved the epilogue! Overall, this is a Christian Historical series I would definitely recommend trying!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Have you read any of these books? :)

Top Ten Books On My Winter 2020-2021 TBR!

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl blog.

Hi, everyone! The TTT topic today is Top Ten Books On My Winter 2020-2021 TBR! I think of Winter as December, January, and February, so I'm including books releasing during those months for this post. Of course I'll be reading books that don't release during those months (ARCs, backlist, etc.), BUT for the sake of keeping this post to just ten, I'm only including new releases! Here we go!

Listed in no particular order.

Top Ten Books On My Winter 2020-2021 TBR

New Year's Kiss by Lee Matthews

When a Rogue Meets His Match (Greycourt #2) by Elizabeth Hoyt

Danger at the Iron Dragon (Nancy Drew Diaries #21) by Carolyn Keene

Oh My Gods! by Stephanie Cooke and Insha Fitzpatrick, illustrated by Juliana Moon

11 Paper Hearts by Kelsey Hartwell

The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss by Amy Noelle Parks 

A Pho Love Story by Loan Le

Hot British Boyfriend by Kristy Boyce

A Taste for Love by Jennifer Yen 

The Retake by Jen Calonita 

What books are on your Winter TBR list? :)

Mini Review Round Up!

Hi, everyone! This year has been so stressful, and I got behind on so many things, including reading review copies. Which is why, in an attempt to catch up, I've been reading a bunch of them over the past week, and am going to review them here. I want to get back to reviewing books in a timely fashion next year, and catching up on past releases this year will help me do that!

Girl from Nowhere by Tiffany Rosenhan 

This YA book reminded me a little of the later Gallagher Girl books by All Carter (One of my all-time favorite series, and the one that really got me into YA books!), which is always plus. There were a lot of twists and turns throughout! If you think it sounds interesting, I would recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

A Sweet Mess by Jayci Lee

This was a good, enjoyable Adult Romance book! Aubrey and Landon were good main characters, and I liked all the supporting characters, too. And isn't the cover so cute?! I read that a movie is in the works based on this book, and I know I will be watching it!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Four Days of You and Me by Miranda Kenneally 

I get recommended Miranda Kenneally books all the time, and I can definitely understand why she is some peoples favorite author! I liked how the book went back and forth in time (I thought it was a clever way to give you more time with the characters.). If you think this YA book sounds good, I would recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa

This was a fun Adult Romance book! This was the first Mia Sosa book I've read, and I'm interested in reading more books from this author in the future! And just a side note, but I love the cover of it!

I received an e-ARC of this book.

A Taste of Sage by Yaffa S. Santos

All the food descriptions in this book made me really hungry! And the main character, Lumi, being able to tell a persons emotions by eating the food they cooked was pretty neat. I enjoyed reading this Adult Romance book, and I would definitely recommend trying it! 

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Deception by Gaslight (Gilded Gotham Mystery #1) by Kate Belli 

I love Historical Mysteries (They are my favorite type of mystery novel, though I have plenty of Contemporary favorites, too!), so I knew I had to request this one! It was a good mystery, which I won't say more about, for fear of spoiling people about the plot. If you think this Adult Historical Mystery sounds good, I would recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Every Reason We Shouldn't by Sara Fujimura

I love figure skating, and whenever a book features it, it almost always goes on my TBR list. I'm happy I added this one, because I really enjoyed reading this YA novel! Olivia was a great main character, and I enjoyed reading about her going for her dreams. The side characters were good. And I liked that we got a glimpse a year later, to see where some of the characters were. I would definitely recommend reading this YA book!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

A Single Spark by Judith McCoy Miller

This was a well written Historical Christian Romance! The love story was sweet, and I enjoyed how it all wrapped up! If this book sounds interesting to you, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Spies, Lies, and Disguise: The Daring Tricks and Deeds that Won World War II by Jennifer Swanson

This was a really interesting book that I think is great for readers of all ages! History is my favorite subject, and I learned some things I didn't know before, which is always nice. (Including things about Julia Child!) I also really appreciated the fact that women who helped with WWII were featured. I would definitely recommend checking this book out!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden

This was an excellent Historical Christian Romance! A unique perspective, set during a time period I didn't know much about, made this a book I would definitely recommend trying!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

That's it for now! I'm looking forward to being able to read and review books in a more timely manner next year! :)

Mini Review: A Field Guide to Internet Boyfriends: Meme-Worthy Celebrity Crushes from A to Z

Review: A Field Guide to Internet Boyfriends: Meme-Worthy Celebrity Crushes from A to Z by Esther Zuckerman

From Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba to Timothee Chalamet, A Field Guide to Internet Boyfriends is the ultimate celebration of the suave, sexy, sensitive, and silly celebrities who have captured our hearts and memes! Handsome and heartfelt, with winning smiles and pinnable Tweets -- this is what Internet Boyfriends are made of. But who are these meme-able men, and what makes them catch fire online? Discover the answers to these questions and more in A Field Guide to Internet Boyfriends, an interactive exploration of our collective crushes. Entertainment journalist Esther Zuckerman breaks down the world of Internet Boyfriends -- and even a few Internet Girlfriends -- from documentary-style "spotting guides" to discussions on the key categories of boyfriend, like Sensitive Souls, Beautiful Boys and Daddys. A playful, teen magazine-style quiz -- to help readers find their ideal crush -- and in-depth profiles of some of the most beloved Internet Boyfriends and Girlfriends, from Ryan Gosling (the original) to Harry Styles (the Gen Z icon) to Janelle Monae (the space queen), round out this fully-illustrated romp through the celebs behind the memes.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Mini Review: This was such a fun read! Getting to read about celebrity guys I've already had/have crushes on (Hello, Henry Golding, Oscar Isaac, and Harry Styles!), and learning more about a few I didn't know much about (Michael B. Jordan, and Diego Luna!) was really entertaining! I would definitely recommend reading this book of internet boyfriends (and girlfriends) if you're looking for a fun, entertaining way to spend a few hours!

I received a finished copy of this book from the publisher.

Mini Review: All I Want for Christmas

 Review: All I Want for Christmas by Wendy Loggia

This sweet and magical romance about a girl who has just one wish--someone to kiss under the mistletoe--is the perfect holiday escape!

Bailey Briggs is counting down the days to Christmas: she lives for holiday music, baking cookies, going on snowy sleigh rides, and wearing her light-up reindeer ears to work at Winslow's bookstore. But all she really wants this year is the one thing she doesn't have: someone special to kiss under the mistletoe. And she's 100 percent certain that that someone isn't Jacob Marley--athlete, player, and of questionable taste in girlfriends--and that Charlie, the mysterious stranger with the British accent, is the romantic lead of her dreams. Is she right? This will be a December to remember, filled with real-life Christmas magic . . . and, if she stays on Santa's nice list, a wish that just might come true.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Mini Review: This was a cute book! I know if I had read it as a teen (esp. as a younger teen), I would have absolutely loved it! As an adult I thought it was a cute read, and it did have a twist at the end that I did not see coming at all! I won't say anything else, because I don't want to spoil it for people. I do want to add one warning here, TRIGGER WARNING: If sad animal related things upset you, I did want to throw in a warning here. It's a past thing they talk about, but it does have an little bit of an impact on the story, and while I was able to keep reading the book, it definitely brought up some sad memories for me, and I know it would for others. Just wanted to say that. END WARNING But despite that I did enjoy the book, and if you're looking for a festive read, I would recommend trying this one!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

2020 Christmas Songs Book Tag!

 Hi, everyone! Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl posted her annual Christmas Songs book tag, and I thought it would be fun to fill in again! Like Jana, I'm keeping to just books I read in 2020.

Here we go!

1. “All I Want for Christmas Is You”: Favorite bookish couple.

Ooh, this is a difficult question! But I thought Chloe and Drew from Rent a Boyfriend by Gloria Chao were adorable!

2. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”: Name a book where a character is away from home (school, vacation, etc.).

Prince in Disguise by Stephanie Kate Strohm! The character is spending Christmas in Scotland, for her sister's (televised) wedding. This was such a cute book!

3. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”: Name your favorite “little” book (children’s book, short story, novella, etc.).

I didn't read many short stories (I read short story collections, but no individual ones) this year, so I'm going to go with a Picture Book for this question! I loved Ocean Speaks by Jess Keating, and illustrated by Katie Hickey!

4. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town“: What book(s) do you hope Santa brings you this year?

I have a big list, and I know Santa has already bought a bunch from it... :)

5. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”: Which book turned your nose red (made you cry)?

No spoilers, but Death Sets Sail by Robin Stevens (The final book in the Murder Most Unladylike Series.), definitely made me tear up.

6. “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”: Your favorite book/kind of book to read during the holidays.

Definitely Christmas books! Though I don't stop reading other books at this time of year, I do love to throw in more books that take place during the holidays, because it feels so cozy to read them!

7. “We Three Kings”: Your favorite trilogy.

I don't think I read a trilogy this year?? Everything was either shorter or longer.

8. “Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow”: A character you would love to be snowed in with.

Nicholas from You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle!

9. “Last Christmas”: A book that seriously let you down.

I don't really wanna answer this question...

10. “White Christmas”: An upcoming release you’re dreaming about.

There are so many!!! But two that I'm most excited for are Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle, and Sunkissed by Kasie West!

Have you read any of the books I mentioned? :)

Review: The Unstoppable Wasp: Built On Hope

Review: The Unstoppable Wasp: Built On Hope by Sam Maggs 

Bestselling author Sam Maggs brings Nadia Van Dyne (the Unstoppable Wasp) and her genius friends to life in an all-new original YA novel based on the world of The Unstoppable Wasp Marvel comics series.

Nadia Van Dyne is new to this. New to being a Super Hero, new to being a real friend and stepdaughter (to one of the founding Avengers, no less), new to running her own lab, and new to being her own person, far, far away from the clutches of the Red Room-the infamous brainwashing/assassin-training facility. She's adjusting well to all of this newness, channeling her energy into being a good friend, a good scientist, and a good Super Hero. It's taking a toll, though, and Nadia's finding that there are never quite enough hours in a day. So, when she's gifted a virtual assistant powered by the most cutting-edge A.I. technology that the world has to offer, Nadia jumps at the opportunity to "do less, experience more"-just like the advertisements say.

The device works-really works. Nadia has more time to pursue her passion projects and to focus on new discoveries. But it's never quite that simple, and not everything is as it seems. This thrilling adventure finds Nadia confronting her past as she tries to shape her future, and learning that sometimes the best way to effect big change is to think small-maybe even super small, Unstoppable Wasp-style. She'll need the help of her genius G.I.R.L. (Genius In action Research Labs) squad and found family to save herself and (not to be too dramatic) the entire world as we know it. Along the way, Nadia discovers that when she teams up with the people who love her the most, they're totally Unstoppable. Just another day in the life of your way, way above average teenage Super Hero.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Plot: This was such a fun, well thought out plot! There were fun moments, exciting ones, and of course some heartfelt moments, too.

Characters: Nadia is my favorite superhero (I love the Unstoppable Wasp comics!), so the moment I saw that a YA book about her was releasing, I was so happy! Personally, reading a book with a superhero who has mental illness, just means so much. The side characters were all great (and very diverse)! I loved all the references to Marvel universe characters in it. And two of my other favorite Marvel characters (Janet and Bobbi!), were in the book a lot, which was great!

The Cover: I like it!

Overall: I loved this book! As a fan of the comics, I think this was a great adaption of the character into a YA novel, and I hope we get more of them! And I think even if you haven't read the comics, you could still read and enjoy this book, because they have a great introduction towards the beginning, talking about all the main characters, to get you familiar with them. Overall, I loved this book and I know it's going on my best of 2020 list later this month!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Mini Review: Mochi Magic: 50 Traditional and Modern Recipes for the Japanese Treat

Review: Mochi Magic: 50 Traditional and Modern Recipes for the Japanese Treat by Kaori Becker 

Mochi — the traditional Japanese treat made of chewy rice dough — is a popular and versatile vehicle for all kinds of sweet and savory fillings, and easily molded into adorable shapes and characters that define Japan’s culture of cuteness. Food writer Kaori Becker’s easy-to-follow techniques for creating and cooking with mochi deliver the perfect mix of fun and tradition. Each colorful page brims with recipes for hand-pounded, steamed, and modern microwave mochi; fillings like rosewater, Nutella, black sesame, Oreo Cream Cheese, and Japanese plum wine; mochi-focused goodies like Bacon-Wrapped Mochi, Ozoni Soup, baked goods; and inspiration for shaping irresistibly charming mochi flowers, baby chicks, pandas, and more. Kawaii!!

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Mini Review: I didn't get the chance to make any of the recipes from this book, but they all sounded good! I learned a lot about mochi, and how to make it/the ingredients for it. This is definitely a book I'm going to try and check out in the future to make mochi!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

YA and Adult Christmas Book Recommendations!

Hi, everyone! I thought I would recommend some YA and Adult Christmas books today! I love Christmas and this time of year so much, so I thought it would be fun to share some book recommendations for people looking for festive books.

First up, YA!

10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston

This is such a delightful book! I loved how her family played a big role in the story, and I can't recommend this book enough.

All Wrapped Up (Geek Girl #1.5) by Holly Smale

I smiled so much while reading this book, and if you're already a fan of the Geek Girl books, this is a must read.

All I Want for Christmas by Wendy Loggia

As I'm writing this post, I'm in the middle of reading this book, and it's such a cute read!

Snow in Love by Various Authors

My favorite story in this book is Kasie West's book, but all of it is good! Plus, it has a Hanukkah story in it!

My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories by Various Authors

This book features not just Christmas stories, but a bunch of holidays that take place in Winter! I love this collection, and I can't pick just one favorite!

Now, Adult!

Dashing Through the Snow by Debbie Macomber 

One of my favorite Debbie Macomber books! This movie is super cute, too! (Though very different from the book!)

A Princess for Christmas by Jenny Holiday

A very fun romance! I love when royalty is in books.

Christmas Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

I love Sophie Kinsella books, and this one is so festive and fun!

A Christmas to Remember by Jenny Hale

I loved this book! It felt just like a Hallmark movie (A big compliment!)!

When Christmas Comes by Debbie Macomber 

My favorite Debbie Macomber Christmas book, mostly because it is the book that one of my favorite Hallmark movies is based on! :)

There we go! Ten recommendations to give you that festive feeling! What are are some of your favorite Christmas books? :)

Review: Not the Duke’s Darling (Greycourt #1)

Review: Not the Duke’s Darling (Greycourt #1) by Elizabeth Hoyt

New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Hoyt brings us the first book in her sexy and sensual Greycourt Series!

Freya de Moray is many things: a member of the secret order of Wise Women, the daughter of disgraced nobility, and a chaperone living under an assumed name. What she is not is forgiving. So when the Duke of Harlowe, the man who destroyed her brother and led to the downfall of her family, appears at the country house party she's attending, she does what any Wise Woman would do: she starts planning her revenge.

Christopher Renshaw, the Duke of Harlowe, is being blackmailed. Intent on keeping his secrets safe, he agrees to attend a house party where he will put an end to this coercion once and for all. Until he recognizes Freya, masquerading amongst the party revelers, and realizes his troubles have just begun. Freya knows all about his sins—sins he'd much rather forget. But she's also fiery, bold, and sensuous—a temptation he can't resist. When it becomes clear Freya is in grave danger, he'll risk everything to keep her safe. But first, Harlowe will have to earn Freya's trust-by whatever means necessary.

Features a bonus novella from New York Times bestselling author Grace Burrowes!

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Plot: I really liked it! I enjoyed how there was a bit of a mystery in the book (not going to say anything else about it, for fear of spoiling people), and I thought the romance was really well done!

Characters: I really liked Freya and Christopher! Freya being a part of a group called the Wise Women was interesting, and I liked her personality. Christopher (excuse me, the Duke of Harlowe) was swoony! I didn't expect to have chapters from another characters perspective, but I really liked Messalina, and was happy to see that a book about her is next!

The Cover: I like it! And her dress is gorgeous!

Overall: I haven't read any of this author's books before, but I'm definitely interested in reading more now! I had been in a bit of a reading slump, where nothing was catching my attention, but when I received this book I decided to give it a try. I'm so happy I did! This was such a good book, and it drew me in very quickly! I also loved the bonus story by Grace Burrowes (Another author I had never read from before, but will most definitely be seeking out more books from!), which was so fun, and it was set at Christmas, which is always a plus! I highly recommend reading this book! And I can't wait for the next novel in the series!

I received a finished copy of this book from the publisher.

Review: Together, Apart

Review: Together, Apart by Multiple Authors

A collection of original contemporary love stories set during life in lockdown by some of today's most popular YA authors.

Erin Craig "delivers" on a story about a new girl in town and the cute pizza delivery boy, Auriane Desombre captures our hearts with teens communicating through window signs, and Bill Konigsberg takes us along on daily walks with every step bringing us closer to love. There's flirting and romance from Rachael Lippincott, a tale of a determined girl with a mask-making business from Erin Hahn, and a music-inspired love connection from Sajni Patel. Brittney Morris turns enemies to lovers with the help of a balcony herb garden, Jennifer Yen writes an unconventional romance that starts outside a hospital, and Natasha Preston's teens discover each other--and their love story--in a storybook oak tree.

Romantic, realistic, sweet and uplifting, TOGETHER, APART is a collection of finding love in unexpected places during an unprecedented time . . . each with the one thing we all want: a guaranteed happy ending.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Mini Review: This was a great short story collection! I think there is a story for everyone in this book. My favorite was Masked by Erin Hahn (As a girl who has always preferred Danny Kaye to Bing Crosby, it was nice to read a story where the main character agreed! Also, the romance was super cute.) A close runner up was Jennifer Yen's story, Love With A Side Of Fortune! If you're looking for a good short story collection, I would definitely recommend this YA book!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Review: Rent a Boyfriend

 Review: Rent a Boyfriend by Gloria Chao

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before meets The Farewell in this incisive romantic comedy about a college student who hires a fake boyfriend to appease her traditional Taiwanese parents, to disastrous results, from the acclaimed author of American Panda.

Chloe Wang is nervous to introduce her parents to her boyfriend, because the truth is, she hasn’t met him yet either. She hired him from Rent for Your ’Rents, a company specializing in providing fake boyfriends trained to impress even the most traditional Asian parents.

Drew Chan’s passion is art, but after his parents cut him off for dropping out of college to pursue his dreams, he became a Rent for Your ’Rents employee to keep a roof over his head. Luckily, learning protocols like “Type C parents prefer quiet, kind, zero-PDA gestures” comes naturally to him.

When Chloe rents Drew, the mission is simple: convince her parents fake Drew is worthy of their approval so they’ll stop pressuring her to accept a proposal from Hongbo, the wealthiest (and slimiest) young bachelor in their tight-knit Asian American community.

But when Chloe starts to fall for the real Drew—who, unlike his fake persona, is definitely not ’rent-worthy—her carefully curated life begins to unravel. Can she figure out what she wants before she loses everything?

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Mini Review: The fake dating trope is my favorite, so as soon as I read the summary for this book, I knew I had to read it! I'm happy I did! I really enjoyed this book! Chloe and Drew were so cute together, and I loved reading about them. There were moments that made me laugh, and also a lot of heartfelt moments. I really liked the ending. If you're looking for a good YA, I definitely recommend reading this book!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.

Want-To-Read Wednesday: Young Adult Books

 

Want-To-Read Wednesday is a feature on my blog, where every week I share five upcoming books I want to read based on the topic of the week. For more information about it, go here.

Hi, everyone! The topic this week is Young Adult books. I can't wait to read all of these books!

Beautiful Wild by Anna Godbersen

New Year's Kiss by Lee Matthews

Instant Karma by Marissa Meyer 

A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey 

Rebel Rose (The Queen's Council #1) by Emma Theriault 

What YA books are on you TBR list? :)

Review: Love Your Life

Review: Love Your Life by Sophie Kinsella

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of I Owe You One, an utterly delightful novel about a woman who ditches her dating app for a writer's retreat in Italy--only to find that real love comes with its own filters

Call Ava romantic, but she thinks love should be found in the real world, not on apps that filter men by height, job, or astrological sign. She believes in feelings, not algorithms. So after a recent breakup and dating app debacle, she decides to put love on hold and escapes to a remote writers' retreat in coastal Italy. She's determined to finish writing the novel she's been fantasizing about, even though it means leaving her close-knit group of friends and her precious dog, Harold, behind.

At the retreat, she's not allowed to use her real name or reveal any personal information. When the neighboring martial arts retreat is canceled and a few of its attendees join their small writing community, Ava, now going by "Aria," meets "Dutch," a man who seems too good to be true. The two embark on a baggage-free, whirlwind love affair, cliff-jumping into gem-colored Mediterranean waters and exploring the splendor of the Italian coast. Things seem to be perfect for Aria and Dutch.

But then their real identities--Ava and Matt--must return to London. As their fantasy starts to fade, they discover just how different their personal worlds are. From food choices to annoying habits to sauna etiquette . . . are they compatible in anything? And then there's the prickly situation with Matt's ex-girlfriend, who isn't too eager to let him go. As one mishap follows another, it seems while they love each other, they just can't love each other's lives. Can they reconcile their differences to find one life together? 

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Plot: I really liked it! The premise of Ava and Matt falling love, without really knowing anything about each other, then discovering how very different they are, was interesting! I don't want to say too much more about the plot of this one, for fear of spoiling it for people!

Characters: I liked all the characters! Ava was delightful, and I loved all her friends! The scenes with them were some of the ones that made me laugh the most. Also, I wanted to write one thing, but don't know if people would consider this a spoiler, so be warned about this next paragraph!

**SPOILER** I was really happy when I read that Nell's (Ava's friend) chronic condition is Lupus. I have Lupus, so to read a book by one of my favorite authors, that featured a character with it, was really, really nice. I also think the way she portrayed it was really accurate, because Lupus can be very different for each person who has it, with the way it affects the body. A couple of problems Nell faces, were exactly ones I've dealt with. It was also really nice that Nell got a relationship in the book, because so often the "sick friend" doesn't get to be happy, which irritates me, so I'm really happy with that! **SPOILER**

The Cover: Cute! I love illustrated covers, and I really like the ones Sophie Kinsella's book have been getting recently, including the reprints.

Overall: I expected to love this book, because it was a Sophie Kinsella book (One of my all-time favorite authors!), and I'm happy to write I did! I won't say too much here about it, for fear of spoiling it for people, but I highly recommend reading!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.