Tag: bookworm

Book Review: Daughter of the Moon Goddess – Sue Lynn Tan

Posted on by

It’s been a little minute since I shared a book review with you guys. Or, rather, six weeks… It’s fair to say I’m long overdue sharing my opinion on a book! Today’s feature is Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan.

This Asian inspired fantasy was already on my radar. However, when a reader and reviewer I follow on instagram read this book with their Fable book club, I wanted to read along too!


Daughter of the Moon Goddess – Sue Lynn Tan

Genre: Asian Fantasy

Pages: 503

Audience: Young Adult

Publisher: Harper Voyager

Publication Date: 11 Jan 2022

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Goodreads – Daughter of the Moon Goddess

 

The bestselling debut fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess.

A young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm, setting her on a dangerous path where those she loves are not the only ones at risk…

THERE ARE MANY LEGENDS ABOUT MY MOTHER…

Raised far away on the moon, Xingyin was unaware she was being hidden from the Celestial Emperor – who exiled her mother for stealing the elixir of immortality. But when her magic flares and reveals her, Xingyin is forced to flee her home, leaving her mother behind.

Alone, powerless, and afraid, Xingyin makes her way to the Celestial Kingdom, a land of wonder and secrets. In disguise, she trains alongside the Emperor’s son, mastering archery and magic, despite the passion which flames between them.

Vowing to rescue her mother, Xingyin embarks on a quest, confronting legendary creatures and vicious enemies. But when forbidden magic threatens the kingdom, Xingyin must challenge the ruthless Emperor, leaving her torn between losing all she loves or plunging the realm into chaos…

Inspired by the legend of Chang’e the Moon Goddess, this captivating debut weaves Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure of love and family, immortals and magic.


My Thoughts


Plot

I love that the inspiration of the plot is based on Asian mythology. It’s not something I am familiar with, so it was nice to try it in a genre I already know and love – fantasy. As a result of reading both this book and its sequel, Heart of the Sun Warrior, I’d like to take a look at Asian mythology in future.

Because it’s based on mythology, the plot is fantastical in nature. However, I loved it! I love fantasy, so that’s hardly a stretch. It’s a well developed narrative and fits the ultimate page count the author developed for it. There is plenty of detail to dive into and immerse yourself into the world and the action taking place.


Characters

Firstly, I love that the main protagonist of the story is female. So often gender bias presents itself in western fantasy;  main characters are typically male. I don’t know if this is a thing in the same way with Asian mythology. Is there the same kind of gender bias? Or, maybe it’s the other way? I’m completely uninformed, so that’s something I would like to learn about.

In addition to Xingyin, we have a full cast of characters. Some help her train to become the powerful young woman she is, and others try to hold her back.

I think there is the perfect amount of side characters. Again, not being familiar with Asian mythology or even Asian literature, things like names and identities will be completely different for me to learn. They don’t fit typical norms I expect. Even still, I was able to follow exactly who is who, what their history was and what their relationship was to Xingyin.

If you love a love triangle, then Daughter of the Moon Goddess will appeal. Personally, this is not something I actively look for in my literature. I would’ve been just as happy with the book without it. However, although I’m not a fan generally, I didn’t hate it. It added tension to the narrative throughout, so even if I wasn’t rooting behind any of the individuals within the triangle, it added to the storyline well.


Setting

The various settings across this book were enchanting, and it’s inspired me to pick up more Asian fantasy in future.

The vivid descriptions made it really easy for me to imagine where we were and what was going on. Although the setting of the book is broadly unfamiliar, there was plenty enough description for me to be able to make my own interpretation. There isn’t any assumed knowledge that leaves holes in understanding.

Moving away from the physical and more towards the cultural differences portrayed this book, I enjoyed this aspect. It’s a completely different experience and perspective to read from somebody who has grown up in a different culture than I. I especially loved the emphasis and adoration of protecting one’s family. That’s something that’s important to me, so even though it doesn’t necessarily fit with my cultural norm in the same way, I found it very relatable.


Narrative Style

Daughter of the Moon Goddess was very easy to read. Although the book weighs in at over 500 pages, this narrative is accessible for teenage readers. The writing style flows nice and easily and the chapters are well broken down so that we’re not taking in too much at one time.

I read the whole of this book in just over a week, coincidentally finishing it nearly two years ago to the day of this review! Spooky…

What I really enjoyed about the narrative is that the way in which setting and plot are balanced well so that we get vivid descriptions of both without compromising on the other. Even though Asian literature and fantasy isn’t something I read a lot of, I had no trouble following where we were or what was going on.


Summary

Daughter of the Moon Goddess has inspired me to pick up more Asian literature in the future. If it’s fantasy, then even better!

Have you read any other Asian inspired fantasy that you would recommend to me based on my love of Daughter of the Moon Goddess?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Sunday Summary – 8th December 2024

Posted on by

It’s been a stormy weekend here folks, but I haven’t been blown away thankfully! In today’s Sunday Summary, I’m still here – and I’ll update you on my reading and blogging adventures for the week.

The first post I shared with you was my monthly wrap-up for November. It was a month of catching up with ongoing reads, and getting to those I had already set on previous TBR’s and not started. If you want to find out what my reading progress was like, here’s a link to take a look.

Next, my final TBR of 2024 went live on Friday. Given I’m nowhere near my 2024 reading goals, this TBR is about finishing the year on a high with some good books instead of furiously trying to hit my targets. Again, if you want to take a look, here’s a link to do so!


Books Read


The Eye of the World

Progress continues with The Eye of the World. As of last week’s Sunday Summary I was a third of the way into the book. Over the course of this week, I’ve read around another 120 pages to bring myself to around 50% progress.

Ironically, the storm this weekend helped with that! I stayed in most of Saturday and took advantage of the time to pick up my book. Then, when we lost power last night, plans of catching up with TV (I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here) changed to reading. I swapped from my physical copy of the book to my kindle instead! Fortunately I also have an e-book copy that I bought a few years ago…

I’m really happy with the progress I’ve made so far this week. It’s a chunky narrative and there’s a lot to keep up with. Especially now characters are separated, I have two timelines and settings to keep track of. It does feel a little like one thing is happening straight after another without a breather between, but I’m intrigued by the characters and people in play.


Three Sisters

As of my last Sunday Summary post I was 25% into Three Sisters by Heather Morris.

I’ve made really good headway with this audio, more than I have done of late anyway. The setting and story has gripped me, making me want to keep listening and make the time for it. As a result, I’ve listened to another 3 and a half hours this week bringing me a bit over halfway through.

Three Sisters is everything I expected and I’m loving the book so far! Whilst it’s not a fun narrative given its subject, I’m really invested nonetheless.


Books Discovered

After a few weeks of new books trickling into the household, this week I’ve been good. Hard to believe I know, but Christmas is on the way you know. I have to behave until then at least!

 

Coming Up…

So, what’s on the agenda next week? I did debate taking part in next week’s Top Ten Tuesday post, as the subject is topical. Books to read during a storm? Well I chose The Eye of the World. It’s dark and atmospheric to go with the weather, but it’s not for that reason I chose it. The easiest choice during a power cut is whatever you have available on a decently charged and backlit kindle!

No. Instead I’ve decided to share a book review with you. I’m overdue one of those. This week’s feature is an Eastern inspired fantasy, which contrasts a lot from the heavily westernised fantasy I read more of generally, but also I’m reading right now. I’m talking about Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan.

On Friday I’ll return with a First Lines Friday post. As for the book I choose to feature, well, you’ll just have to wait to find out. I haven’t decided as yet on either the feature or whether there I’ll get a theme or challenge. We’ll both find out in due course I guess!

Last, but certainly not least, I’m back again next Sunday with my next Sunday Summary update. Will I finish Three Sisters or The Eye of the World, or at least be close to a finish? Let’s hope so!

Thanks for reading!

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Monthly TBR – December 2024

Posted on by

Today’s post is my last monthly TBR of the year, so I want to make it great! Rather than quantity, my focus is to enjoy some great quality books to round up a fun year.

There is no way I’m going to be able to meet my 2024 reading goals with what I pick up in December. I’m just too far behind. However, although I am behind on them all, I am ‘proportionately’ behind based on the amount of books I’ve read this year. I’ve been reading the right amount of non-fiction and finishing series to meet my goals were I nearer to my overall goal reading 60 books this year.

However, I’m not. I’m also not going to tailor this reading list to try and get those smaller targets either. It’s more important that I enjoy what I’m reading and the books I share in today’s post reflect that. Two of the books I feature on today’s list are also quite chunky.

Let’s take a look!

 

Fixed Reads

The Eye of the World

I’ll start off this list by covering my two ongoing reads as of drafting this post.

The Eye of the World is carried forward from November, but I’ve already made a good amount of progress in the book so far. As of drafting this post, I have another 420 odd pages to read to get to the end of the book. That’s not an insignificant amount as it is, but I’m already a good 350 pages into the story. Events of the book are well underway and I’m pretty immersed in what’s going on.

I’m hopeful to keep up progress with this book and be able to complete by the end of the year!

 

Three Sisters

My second ongoing read, or listen, is Three Sisters by Heather Morris.

I’m really enjoying this third instalment of The Tattooist of Auschwitz series. I love how the characters in prior books tie together. Not only are we seeing characters from the previous books pop into the narratives of the later ones, but I suspect one of the main characters in this book was also in the earlier ones – we just didn’t know it yet.

As this is a kind of narrative I’m really on board with, I’m finding listening to the audiobook quite easy. I’ve been lucky in that in the last few evenings I’ve been able to squeeze in some listening alongside other hobbies. I’ve only got 7 hours of audio left – I don’t think it’ll be long before I share completion!

 

Mood Reads

The Woman Who Would Be King

I debated what to pick up for this next choice. Originally I was in the mindset for a Greek retelling. However, when looking through my reading list to find one I stumbled upon The Woman Who Would Be King and set my heart on that instead.

The Woman Who Would Be King is a biography of a little known female Egyptian pharaoh. What intrigues me about her story is that a lot of her records in history has been destroyed despite being a successful pharaoh by all accounts. Why would a society who benefited and supported her 20+ year rule at the time then want to scratch her from the record? She is little known to me as a result and so I wanted to read about her.

I’ve also enjoyed narratives (both books and TV) about Cleopatra before, so I have every confidence that I’m going to enjoy reading the short biography.

 

The Priory of the Orange Tree

Given that I’ve got some time off coming later this month, I want to take advantage and pick up a chunky audiobook. The Priory of the Orange Tree in print format is around 850 pages. In audio terms, that translates to 26 hours. I have a lot of listening to do…

Honestly, I half expect this to run over into January’s monthly TBR, but that’s okay. It’s been a while since I’ve listened to a fantasy on audio. Especially with one so large, my only slight concern is that there is going to be a lot of detail in here for me to follow. That’s not entirely a bad thing, but in the past I’ve struggled to do this with audio and I’m far better at following what’s going on when reading. I can only see how it goes!

I’m also looking forward to trying Samantha Shannon‘s writing. I’ve had the audio of The Priory of the Orange Tree since 2019, so it’s about time I got to it, right? If it’s good, I’ve already got A Day of Fallen Night to listen to and I’m intrigued by The Bone Season.

 

Summary

Fingers crossed I’m not pushing myself too much for December, because that’s not my goal! I’m mixing up book lengths and formats to make this monthly TBR as approachable as I can with the time I have available in the month.

Thanks for reading this Monthly TBR post! What is your next read? Do you read seasonally for the festive season?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Monthly Wrap-Up – November 2024

Posted on by

Today’s monthly wrap-up for November 2024 is the last I’ll share this side of the new year. New Year. 2025 is round the corner and I am not ready 😂

Before I start looking my too far ahead though, we need to look back. Specifically, we need to look back at what I read over the course of November. For the most part, it was a month of catching up on ongoing and upcoming reads after my exam. Nothing too groundbreaking, but after slower reading progress in the last three months or so, it was needed!


Books Read


The Squiggly Career

When I shared my prior monthly wrap-up post at the end of October, my aim was to finish The Squiggly Career by the end of that week.

However, I ended up putting aside for last minute study. Ultimately I think that was the right decision. So, I finished the book around third of the way into November instead.

It was handy actually as the book was a good size to take away with me to London for the weekend. Again, I didn’t do a lot of reading there – mainly on the plane there and back. Still, I’m glad I took it with me. Whilst I had some quality time to sit down and think, it gave me some ideas about things I want to incorporate into my squiggly career.


Carrie

Throughout November I read the second half of Carrie, and once I picked it up I devoured it pretty quickly!

I started Carrie as I wanted to pick up an iconic horror over Halloween (or Hop Tu Naa as it’s known here). As a short book, it also suited my circumstances of being very close to my exam deadline and not being able to take on anything too chunky.

I confess that I didn’t love the first half of Carrie, however the narrative from the point of prom night really picked it up for me. Honestly, I’m not a fan of the way Carrie was described or treated throughout. However, the drama really ramps up in the latter section of the book to make it worth it. I also enjoy the allusion to multiple ‘sources’ compiling the story of Carrie White. It’s a very minimal mixed media set up, but it worked.


Defiant

Defiant was a great conclusion to the Skyward series, even if it did take me a couple of months to listen to it!

Audiobooks are great, but they are also my least ‘read’ format. I don’t listen to books very quickly, and there are some genres I struggle to successfully listen to full stop. Whilst I had no trouble with this side of things with Defiant, time became my biggest constraint.

I started listening to this in early September. However, I’m slow at progressing through audio and the further I got on, the closer I ended up being to my exam deadline. Reading almost fell away during this period as well. Not totally, obviously, but I was doing a lot less of it.

However, after a good couple of months, I’m pleased to share that I have now finished Defiant. Not only that, but I was very satisfied with the ending. Not unexpected for Brandon Sanderson (at least in my book), but it was a great series that wrapped up well. If you enjoy sci-fi or YA fiction, please please please give this a go!


The Eye of the World

I was in the mood for an epic fantasy after finishing Carrie. I do enjoy a short book now and then, but equally I also enjoy an epic! The Eye of the World wasn’t on my TBR, so it’s a surprise feature in this monthly wrap-up post. 

This is the second time I’ve attempted to read The Eye of the World and so far, progress is good. I’m enjoying taking my time over a chunky, in-depth read. It doesn’t feel forced and I’m equally not pressuring myself for a quick completion either. I think that has been my trouble in the past.

Long books naturally take longer to read. The page count alone justifies this, but at the same time the stories are often more complex. They aren’t books I can binge-read quickly and get the most out of. I’d then feel like I wasn’t upholding a standard and get frustrated with myself. It’s silly really.

I picked up The Eye of the World to enjoy it and get started in a brand new series. I’m here for the fun of it, not to count my reading speed or kick myself if it takes a little longer. It’s about the journey, not the destination.


Three Sisters

On the very last day of the month, I made a good couple hours of progress in Three Sisters by Heather Morris.

It’s great to be back with The Tattooist of Auschwitz series. I’ve loved the stories, and especially the audiobooks, so far. Although I’ve just started this book, I’m optimistic it won’t be long on my reading list before I can tick it off as complete. What’s great about that is that it’s also a series completion for me once done.

I’ll be back to talk more about Three Sisters in my upcoming TBR and Sunday Summaries.


Summary

November was a productive month and I’m glad to have time for more reading in my life again.

Thanks for checking out this latest monthly wrap-up instalment! What have you been reading lately? Do you have any recommendations for books to pick up before the end of the year?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Shelf Control #82 – 29/11/2024

Posted on by

Good evening and happy Friday friends! Welcome to today’s Shelf Control feature post!

I’m glad to be back sharing my regular Friday features. Although they are quite easy content for me to do, I do enjoy the benefits of looking ahead and around my TBR to get a feel for what books I have on the list. It helps me get excited for when I finally get to them.

Today’s feature is a pretty big name author. I have yet to try any of his books, which is a reason of itself for why I’m looking forward to giving this a go.

Before I share the deets though, here’s a recap on what my Shelf Control posts look like: –

Shelf Control is a meme run by Lisa at Bookshelf Fantasies. It’s a celebration of the unread books on our shelves! The idea is to pick a book you own but haven’t read and write a post about it (suggestions: include what it’s about, why you want to read it, and when you got it), and link up.

If you want to read more about the Shelf Control feature, check out Lisa’s introductory post.


Memory Man – David Baldacci

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Pages: 416

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing

Publication Date: 21 Apr 2015

 

Goodreads – Memory Man

When Amos Decker returned home eighteen months ago to find the bodies of his wife and only daughter, he didn’t think he could carry on living. Overwhelmed with grief, he saw his life spiral out of control, losing his job as a detective, his house and his self-respect.

But when his former partner in the police, Mary Lancaster, visits to tell him that someone has confessed to the murder of his family, he knows he owes it to his wife and child to seek justice for them.

As Decker comes to terms with the news, tragedy strikes at the local school. Thirteen teenagers are gunned down, and the killer is at large. Following the serious brain injury Amos suffered as a professional footballer, he gained a remarkable gift – and the police believe that this unusual skill will assist in the hunt for the killer.

Amos must endure the memories he would rather forget, and when new evidence links the murders, he is left with only one option.


My Thoughts

I’m always willing to try new authors. The great thing about giving them a go is that if you enjoy their books, you’ve got plenty more of their work to try.

That’s especially the case with big names like David Baldacci. Memory Man itself is the first of 7 primary works as of drafting this post. On top of that, he’s published books in 11 other series and a number of standalones! I doubt his fans are bored…

I added Memory Man to the TBR for a few reasons. Firstly, the synopsis caught my eye. Murder and memories best forgotten? Sign me up! Secondly, it’s a reasonably recent book in terms of David’s career as an author. Rather than going back to a book when he first started out, I want to see what his established style is. Then, if I’m happy I like it I can work my way back through his works if I’m interested.

Personally, I’m surprised I’ve gotten so far into my blog and reading hobby and still not picked up books by household names such as David. But then, I guess it’s also personal preference. Eventually I’ll get there, and I’ll always try everyone at least once. That’s only fair, right?

Have you read books by David Baldacci? Do you have any recommendations you would like to share?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Sunday Summary – 24th November 2024

Posted on by

I’m back with another Sunday Summary post to update you on my latest reads, as well as what I’ve shared on my blog this week!

I’m enjoying being back to my previous schedule of three posts per week. It’s a good amount that I feel like I’m actively working on the blog, but also not so much that I feel overwhelmed. Really, it is good to be able to put some time and energy back into my posts. Before I felt I was just keeping things ticking along.

So, what have I shared this week? The first post that went live on my blog this week was my Ten Ten Tuesday post. In that post, I shared 10 books that are the ‘oldest’ on my TBR in terms of publication year. I had more than I expected, honestly. If you want to find out which books I’ve got coming up on the reading list that were published earlier, check out that post.

Next, I shared my first First Lines Friday post in about three months. I really enjoy these posts. That’s because I get to feature a variety of books – and more often than not, get excited about reading them. This week’s feature was a book I acquired a physical copy of recently. It’s already on my TBR, and I’m hoping to get to it before too long.


Books Read


The Eye of the World

Whereas last week I binge-read after getting my free time back, this week I’ve done the opposite. Not only have I been enjoying some of my other hobbies that I had set aside, such as knitting, but I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here started.

I’m not big on reality TV, but this is the only program I will make an exception for. Because I’ve been watching this, out for a work social and seen a show this weekend, I’ve not been reading much.

Truthfully, I’ve read chapter 14 this week. But, as of drafting this post, I’m planning to pick this up for a bit tonight after publishing this Sunday Summary. I will be looking to return more reading next week too, so stay tuned!


Defiant

Progress with Defiant was a little scuppered this week as well. Whilst I had listened to a little bit of audio in the week, my plan was to finish this audiobook yesterday whilst my boyfriend was at work. Unfortunately though, this didn’t pan out.

Because of storm Bert this weekend, Shane actually got yesterday off work. It meant we got to spend the day together, but it also meant I didn’t get to listen to my audiobook as planned. Instead, I’ll be listening to this over the next few days to get my finish. I’ve got a fraction over 2 hours of the audio left.


Books Discovered


I was a little bit naughty today. We popped into Tesco for a few groceries and the store we went into also has a small book selection. Of course I had to look! I purchased a copy of The Templar Secret by Scott Mariani as I like the sound of the synopsis. I have an interest in the Templars from playing Assassin’s Creed as a teenager; I’ve got a number of books on my TBR featuring them.

 

As well, I also purchased a copy of Think Twice by Harlan Coben. I liked the sound of the synopsis anyway, but I am especially interested to read the book after watching Fool Me Once. They were also 2 for £9.50… so it would have been rude not too, right? 


Coming Up…

I recently read Zee Zee’s anything but books tag. Given I’ve spent the last week or so doing ‘other than books’ things, it might be a fun one to talk about!

On Friday I’ll be back with my next instalment of my Shelf Control series. My next feature is by a big name suspense and thriller writer, an attorney by trade. Maybe you have an inkling of who this could be – either way, check out my post on Friday to find out who!

Last, but by no means least, I’ll be back at the same time next week to tell you what reading progress I’ve made in the last seven days. I’m hoping for at least one finish to share with you in next week’s Sunday Summary – let’s see what I can achieve between now and then!

Until next time, see you around!

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Top Ten Tuesday – ‘Oldest’ Books on my TBR

Posted on by

In today’s Top Ten Tuesday, I’m sharing a number of classic books. If this post has highlighted anything to me, it’s that generally I read books that have been published within the last decade. This isn’t a surprise. If you read my Sunday Summary post where I shared that I was going to publish this post, I said that exact same thing.

However, I am surprised by how many there are that have an ‘older’ publication date. Honestly, I thought I’d have a handful to share in this Top Ten Tuesday and that would be it. Given that I’ve not been able to sort my Goodreads reading list by the original publication year (I use the mobile app), I’ve had to do a bit of digging comparing the versions I’ve added to my reading list with the original publication date. I’ve done my best to make this list as accurate as possible, but there is a possibility of human error in here.


The Hunchback of Notre Dame – 1831

It was almost a given that Victor Hugo was going to be on this list! I also surprised myself because I then expected Les Mis to feature on this list. Only, I realised I’ve not actually added Les Mis to my TBR even though I have a copy of the book…

So, sticking to the rules of the post, I’m not featuring that one here but talking about The Hunchback of Notre Dame instead. This is the kind of book I mean when I talk about being able to tell that it’s written earlier. Personally, I have to have my head screwed on when I try to read a classic. It doesn’t read quite so fluidly and I have to really concentrate.


The Three Musketeers – 1844

The Three Musketeers was also almost guaranteed to make it to this list. I wasn’t sure exactly when this book was published, but I knew for certain it was going to be one of the oldest I had.

Weirdly, I added this to my reading list after watching a show based on the musketeers on Netflix many moons ago. We’ll see how it lives up to expectations.


Jane Eyre – 1847

I haven’t read any books by the Brontë sisters so honestly, I have no idea what to expect with these. Admittedly I’d forgotten I had this one on my TBR at all.

One day I’ll get to it and be able to tell you more about it. Let’s hope sooner rather than later!


The Grapes of Wrath – 1939

The Grapes of Wrath will be my second read by John Steinbeck when I get to it. I had mixed feelings about Of Mice and Men when I first picked it up for school. However, since then I re-read the book in my own time and enjoyed it.

I added The Grapes of Wrath after reading that because I want to try more by this author.


Catch-22 – 1961

Catch-22 is weirdly further down the list than I thought it would be. Equally, it was in the works a while before being published, so maybe that’s why.

Hardly surprising that it’s another classic/iconic read is it?!


The Colour Purple – 1982

I first picked up and sampled a copy of The Colour Purple in my school library a long time ago now. I never really got very far into it, so it is a book I’m look forward to reading properly sometime.

Again, it’s a pretty well known title. If not a classic, it takes on some pretty important themes including religion as well as domestic and sexual abuse.

Why do I want to read this again? It’s not so much that I enjoy reading about such things. I hate the idea of anyone going through that. However, I think it’s important that we do.


A Darkness at Sethanon – 1987

If there was a genre that wasn’t a classic or iconic fiction that still made it into this Top Ten Tuesday, it would be fantasy. There is enough of it on the TBR that something should have made it on here.

And yes, it did! There is only one book that qualifies on account of having read the earlier books in the series already. A Darkness at Sethanon is the final book in the Riftwar Saga by Raymond E Feist. I have mixed opinions on the series so far. But, it’ll be good to see it through to the end and make up my mind on it once and for all!


Pillars of the Earth – 1989

I’m actually excited this is on the list as I purchased a copy of it just the other day. Admittedly, it’s a far more up to date edition than 1989, but it still stands on this list.


The Eye of the World – 1990

It’s a pure coincidence, but also refreshing, that my current read features on this list. I suspected the Wheel of Time series had to have been written some time ago given the length of the series and the fact that it needed to be finished by another author.

I almost didn’t check the date on this one, so that goes to show that the book doesn’t really read as being that old. And it’s not.

In my opinion, I can only really tell when books are written 100+ years ago because the language style is different across the board. There is naturally a bit of this from one author to another, but it’s far broader than that too. Sentences are longer and their structure is more complicated. Word ordering is a little bit different. It’s little things, but the things I can pick up on.


Alias Grace – 1996

It’s great to feature a Margaret Atwood novel on this Top Ten Tuesday list. I have absolutely no idea about the story of Alias Grace other than the synopsis appealed to me. When we think of Margaret Atwood, we think of books like The Handmaid‘s Tale, or more recently the sequel The Testaments.

In truth, she’s written many books other than those, but those are the one she’s known for and the ones I know her for. I’m looking forward to branching out a little and trying some of her other reads.


Summary

The fact that I managed to feature 10 books in this Top Ten Tuesday post with an original publication date of pre-2000 surprises me. I thought I’d have a lot more in the way of current books. That’s not a bad thing though! It means I’m reading a little more diversely than I expected, and there is nothing wrong with a backlist book. To be honest, that’s what I read most of!

Do you have any of today’s Top Ten Tuesday features on your TBR?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Sunday Summary – 17th November 2024

Posted on by

Welcome to my latest Sunday Summary update gang! Can I say, it’s good to be back!

I appreciate I’ve been here and posting updates and content to the blog, but it’s not been a focus for a little while. Rather, I’ve kept it going but not put my whole self into it for the last few months. Posts have been quite short and updates on reading progress minimal. Now studying is over and I’m able to dedicate more time to reading and content again, I hope you’ll notice an improvement.

On the reading front I’ve read and listened to nearly 500 pages in the second half of this week alone! It’s fair to say I’m back in the game for sure… 

So, what else have I been up to? After sitting my exam midweek I was able to dedicate more time to the blog and so I have two posts to share with you. Firstly, I published a very late monthly TBR on Thursday. With the timing of my exam and a trip away for a gig last weekend, unfortunately this post got pushed back a lot later than I’d have liked. Still, better late than never right?

Then, I posted again on Friday and shared my first Shelf Control post for a few months. My Friday features got axed whilst I was studying to help make time, so I’m glad to be back to doing those. As a result, I trimmed my TBR by two books I’ve changed my mind on since adding them and I featured a historical fiction by an author I’ve only read once so far, but loved!


Books Read

Carrie

I initially picked up Carrie just before Halloween as I wanted an iconic horror to read around spooky season.

In my last Sunday Summary Carrie didn’t feature as I hadn’t gotten any further than the 108 pages I reported the week prior. However, I picked up from there midweek this week and I finished the book by Friday!

Carrie was the first book on my hit list for a couple of reasons; firstly, I wanted to finish this book sooner as Halloween season is over. Secondly, it’s a short book and I only had around 130 pages left. Quick wins are great motivators, and I wanted that to help me get back into the swing of reading regularly again.

A couple of weeks ago I shared that I was unsure about the book. I have to say, once we got past the set up and to prom night it got a lot more interesting. Overall, I rated the book 4 stars and I’m glad I picked it up.


The Eye of the World

This is my second attempt at reading The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan and I’m feeling optimistic.

Last time I tried to read this, I was struggling with the size and scope of the book. I love a chunky read, but sometimes I need shorter or lighter reads. That was my problem last time and because I wasn’t in the mood for the epicness of this story, I DNF’d around 60% in.

This week, I picked up from the start of chapter 2 and as of this Sunday Summary, I’ve read a further 140 pages to get a total of 21% progress.

The reading experience is going much better this time as I am in the mood for a longer read. I’ve had a lot of shorter ones running up to this and I picked it up as a mood read last month. I’m looking forward to seeing how I get on over the next week or so and really getting into the story. All is going great so far. What helps is that this book/series comes highly recommended by my friend Rachael, so I’m very confident I’ll love it!


Defiant

For the last month, or maybe even two, progress in Defiant has been slow. I’ve not been in the mood for an audiobook and so I’ve not listened much. That changed this week. I’ve had a few days home alone on leave from work and so I’ve used that time to make a good chunk of progress.

Since the last time this audiobook featured on a Sunday Summary, I’ve listened to nearly half the audiobook. That’s just in the last few days I’ve done that! It’s getting to the point now where I can’t wait to see what happens, but I’m also sad it’s coming to an end. Defiant is the last book in the series!

Now I’m close, I won’t be long finishing this audiobook. I have less than three hours left – I can fit that into my reading schedule next week. Easy.


Books Discovered

No news is good news again! My TBR has no new additions and since completing Carrie (and removing two books on Friday), it’s going in the right direction.

I did buy one book this week during a trip to town, but it’s one that is already on my TBR so it doesn’t REALLY count. I set myself that rule when I went in. I’ve been recommended Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett twice now by people I trust. Plus, I used credit on my Waterstones loyalty card so it was free too!


Coming Up…

I’ll kick off next week with sharing a Top Ten Tuesday post. This week’s topic is to share the books on our reading lists with the oldest publication date. Personally, I’m interested to see how many I have that aren’t ‘current’. I’m expecting some classics to pop up, but broadly, I suspect my reading list has a lot more recent books.

My next Friday feature is my First Lines Friday post. It’s been months since I shared one of these, so I’m keeping the subject entirely open so I have freedom of choice on the book I feature!

Lastly, you know the drill. Next week I’m back with my next Sunday Summary update post. Find out if I finish Defiant and progress further with The Eye of the World. Plus, catch up on any content you might have missed in the week!

Until next time, have a great week and I’ll see you in my next post!

Happy reading!

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Shelf Control #81 – 15/11/2024

Posted on by

It’s been a good while since I shared a Shelf Control post… or a regular Friday feature at that! After a brief spell of scaling back the blogging I’m now back to regular scheduling and ready to dive in!

The author I feature in today’s Shelf Control post is one I have read once before. That first book I read was a whopping five star read and I’ve been excited to read more of her stuff ever since!

Before I share the details on this week’s feature, this is what this Shelf Control feature is about.

Shelf Control is a meme run by Lisa at Bookshelf Fantasies. It’s a celebration of the unread books on our shelves! The idea is to pick a book you own but haven’t read and write a post about it (suggestions: include what it’s about, why you want to read it, and when you got it), and link up.

If you want to read more about the Shelf Control feature, check out Lisa’s introductory post.


Rose Under Fire – Elizabeth Wein

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 360

Audience: Young Adult

Publisher:Hyperion

Publication Date: 10 Sept 2013


Goodreads – Rose Under Fire

 

Elizabeth Wein, author of the critically-acclaimed and best-selling Code Name Verity, delivers another stunning World War II thriller where a young female pilot will have to confront the realities of hope and bravery if she wants to survive capture.

While ferrying an Allied fighter plane from Paris to England, American ATA pilot and amateur poet, Rose Justice, is captured by the Nazis and sent to Ravensbrück, the notorious women’s concentration camp. There, she meets an unforgettable group of women, including a once glamorous French novelist; a resilient young Polish girl who has been used as a human guinea pig by Nazi doctors; and a female fighter pilot for the Soviet air force.

Trapped in this bleak place under horrific circumstances, Rose finds hope in the impossible through the loyalty, bravery, and friendship of her fellow prisoners. But will that be enough to enable Rose to endure the fate that is in store for her?

The unforgettable story of Rose Justice is forged from heart-wrenching courage, resolve, and the slim, bright chance of survival.


My Thoughts

I loved Code Name Verity. It was a fantastic and very cleverly written story set in a World War II setting. Rose Under Fire is a completely new storyline but set in a similar timeframe.  It’s also one of my favourites to read about, fiction or non-fiction. Call me weird if you wish, but I love learning about the conflict and listening to the experiences of people who had to endure the worst of World War II. I’m a firm believer of learning from these experiences by educating ourselves about them as opposed to burying them in the sand.

I’m looking forward to reading a second World War II based story from this author. I’m also intrigued on reading books set in specifically a woman’s concentration camp as this is an angle I’ve not yet read about. I’m hoping it’s every bit as engaging and clever as Code Name Verity. As to whether I do enjoy it as much remains to be seen. But, hopefully I’ll be able to answer that question for you shortly!

Have you read Rose Under Fire or Code Name Verity?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads

Monthly TBR – November 2024

Posted on by

This monthly TBR is late as earlier this month I was squeezed on free time to blog. When I originally planned to share this in my first Sunday Summary of the month, I didn’t take into account that I was away that weekend. Then, I hoped to share this post with you earlier this week before I sat my exam yesterday. In the end, I prioritised revision for that. It was worth it as I passed! So, finally I’m here today, nearly halfway through November, to tell you what I plan to read this month. Apologies this is much later than billed.

I’m not piling loads of books on the reading list this month anyway. I have a chunky book to get through, and I want to wrap-up those I’ve already started and have on-the-go. Plus, I want to ease myself back in now that my free time is my own again!

 

Fixed Reads


The Squiggly Career


As of drafting this monthly TBR post, I have in fact already finished The Squiggly Career. The Squiggly Career is a non-fiction book I knew I wanted to pick up this year. Having read You Coach You a few months ago, I wanted to continue with picking up content from Helen and Sarah and also doing so in a way that gives me resources to help with my own development at work.

If you are looking for this kind of content, then I cannot recommendThe Squiggly Career enough. It is a fantastic resource giving you the opportunity to challenge yourself and make space for asking questions about what you want to get out of your time at work (aside from the pay check).


Defiant

I’ve had the audiobook for Defiant on the go for a little while now. Last month I didn’t pick it up very much (to a degree just out of preference for physical books), but also because of my exam.

I have already made an effort to start listening to this again. Just today, I have made progress from around a third of audiobook in to halfway complete. Hopefully I’ll have a lot more progress to share with you in the next week or so. I’m not planning on rushing this listen, but I’ll make the most of time I have off and at home on my own to make progress.


Carrie

I started reading Carrie around Halloween because I wanted to pick up an iconic horror for the spooky season. I’m still reading this book as of drafting this post. However, I’m a good halfway through and optimistic that I’ll make some quick progress before the end of this week.

I’m not sure what to make of the book overall at the moment. It’s perfectly enjoyable, but I’m not sure it’s what I expected. At least, not yet. We’ll see if that changes as I progress further through the story to the conclusion.


The Eye of the World

The chunkiest book on this monthly TBR is one I just started before the beginning of the month. I’m in the mood for an epic fantasy and so I took the decision to start The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan.

You may remember I have picked up this book before. I tried to read it at a time when big chunky books wasn’t suiting me, and so I ended up DNF’ing it at around 60%. However, I always knew I wanted to come back to it. I enjoyed the story I had read up to that point and I’m looking forward to getting back into it properly this time. Fortunately, I own this book both in physical format and also on Kindle giving me flexibility in reading this however best suits me at the time.

 

Summary

For the first time in a little while, I’m not setting myself any particular mood reads this month. If I’m honest, I’m not sure I’d even get to them anyway. My real priority is to catch up on the books I’ve already started so I have a clean slate ready for next month. If I do, I’ll update you as and when. 

Thanks for checking out this very late monthly TBR post. What have you been reading recently? What is on your reading list?

signature

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Threads