Cole's Art and Books and Stuff

Book reviews and art.

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A Court of Silver Flames (A Court of Thorns and Roses #4)- Sarah J. Maas

-Background: I read the first 3.5 (counting the novella as .5) ACOTAR books over the winter partially in preparation for ACOSF, but also because I wanted too. I don’t dislike Nesta. She isn’t my favorite character, but if she manages to no try to solve every mental breakdown with painting a picture, she’ll already be higher up on the list than Feyre. This supposedly also was more of an adult/new adult book than the previous installments, so I may or may not have to start going back to church once I finish it, because lets be honest the first ones were a different breed.

-Part 1: Novice (Pg 1-268): I’m not hating it. Its been almost 300 pages and to be completely honest there hasn’t been a ton of conflict. I don’t know where the rest of the book is gonna go. Like we’ve had some spiciness.. we’ve had some character development (Nesta is mentally an alcoholic, but not actively participating… She’s too lazy to go to town). Feyre isn’t playing a main role (I’m happy for that, some of you won’t be). I’m not mad, but this section could have been broken down into probably 150 instead of 250. Lots of foreshadowing but it’s gonna be tough to pull all of the pieces together.

-Part 2: The Blade (Pg 271-509): Replacing Feyre’s “it was so beautiful, I couldn’t have painted it even if I tried” from the original trilogy is “like calls to like” as the repeated phrase that makes me incredibly violent. There is a pregnancy storyline (not Nesta) that is also stepping on every one of my nerves. I do not care. I don’t care about Elain either and for some reason she continues to play a role. We are getting real spicy, but it isn’t that big of a difference from the first three. It isn’t 0 to 100 in comparison, its really more like 75 to 100. The only thing that changed for the most part was that now since its marketed as NA/Adult is that SJM can use the f-bomb. Nesta has made some friends, they have a smut book club and I’m here for it. Otherwise, this part of the book could have been split in half, and the second half could have been shorted significantly. There has been a ton of past-shadowing (is that a word? Hinting at a past event) but we still don’t know what happened. There’s 250 pages left, so a lot could be resolved, but I’m not having high hopes for a neat-ribbon-tied conclusion.

-Part 3: Valkyrie (Pg 513-647): Not a whole lot is happening. We had ACOFAS 2.0 kinda, with another winter solstice party. The is a lot of training again, a lot of reading, a lot of ** scenes. But overall, nothing major is happening. There was an important plot point towards the beginning, but most of this part could be cut out. It’s getting repetitive. Frankly, the last 100 pages (Part 4) looks like its gonna be one specific issue that isn’t related to the overall main conflict. I don’t know when SJM started writing this, but its been a while since ACOWAR was published, and ignoring ACOFAS… it’s been almost 6 years between books 3 and 4. I feel like this could have been fleshed out better considering the amount of time she had to think about the future.

-Part 4: Ataraxia (Pg 651-751): This was a little hunger games-ey, there was a trial that no one was expecting. The big threat that was tied over from ACOWAR and a major plot point was solved in a single (very short) chapter. Everything ended pretty much. There isn’t any issue that will lead into a future book.

-Overall: This book didn’t feel like a final draft. Either everything was not fleshed out enough, being very on the surface; or too much was included. I’m not disappointed, but I did expect a little bit more. Unless the synopsis for the future installments draws me in, I probably won’t be reading it on release day. There are 2 more full length books (#5,6), and one more novella (#3.2- is what it’s called on here). All I ask is that the next two books are NOT about Elain. Feyre getting it on, okay fine. Nesta, I’m here for it. I have zero interest in Elain and Lucien, give her a garden off the page and everyone will be happy. 3/5 stars.

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Honey Girl- Morgan Rogers

I’m not entirely up to doing an entire review (I got back from college today and read this book cover to cover today too). So, in exchange of that, here are some of my favorite quotes

- “You may have to make a lot of noice, and the universe’s silence can be oppressive and thick. But you want them to hear you, and they will. So do not, not even for one second stop making noice.” “And if they don’t listen?” Professor MacMillan shrugs. “Don’t give them that choice.”

- “I was too-” -- “Busy. I thought there was something wrong with me, because nobody else seemed as hell-bend on succeeding as me.” -- “It’s just me, there’s just something wrong with me.”

- “I don’t want to feel worthless just because I’m not working myself too hard.”

- “I didn’t give up. I went to college. I went to grad school. I got my fucking doctorate.” -- “You don’t get to say I quit, because I didn’t, because I wanted to make you proud, and you still aren’t. That’s the only thing I need to give up on.”

-Mom gave her a key so she can drive herself around, but Grace doesn’t trust herself not to take the care and never come back

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How to Bang a Billionaire (Arden St. Ives #1)- Alexis Hall

Background: I generally don’t read while at school. I didn’t read any books last semester, and I read like 50 pages earlier this semester just to finish A Court of Frost and Starlight. However, this is week 8 of 15 and when I say that all I have done this semester is study- I’m being very honest. I had previously gone to a used bookstore, and had brought 3 books with me (one being ACOFAS), and then ordered HTBAB, so I had 6 books with me (5 unread atm). I wanted something fun, I loved Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall. This is a gay 50 shades book, and has good reviews. I treated myself.

First half: I have not read 50 Shades, but I know that Ana is a college student. This is very similar. It’s set in England (Arden goes to Oxford), and is STEAMY. There was a whole chapter where Arden just goes down on Caspian (the billionaire). Its slow-ish burn; hook up soon, but don’t kiss until the 100 page mark. They also aren’t dating. Each 50 pages ends at a good moment, so its easy to break up (its 360-ish pages long). I’m enjoying it a lot. I’ve read 150 pages in 36 hours. It is also a trilogy, so there’s that to look for. I’m trying to get into more new adult especially since I’m 20 now and kinda over high school books. I really like this. Its a lot more of a romance than Boyfriend Material or Red, White, and Royal Blue, but the next 2 books have even higher ratings. Arden is a college student and you can really tell. I fell represented pretty well and look forward to the next 200 pages. This is they type of book that I would want to write (not the billionaire-student plot, but college aged romance)

Second Half: This wasn’t as 50 Shades as 50 Shades was. There was some rough action, but overall, it wasn’t as adult as I expected. Granted, I haven’t read 50 Shades, so I’m not sure how in line it was. However, there is still 2 more books in the trilogy, so there is a chance for more adult content to come. I enjoyed the book. Was it a little trophy? Yes. Am I worried about Arden’s professional ambitions (or lack there of)? Also yes. Did I project an unhealthy amount onto Arden? For sure. This was a little bit toxic. I didn’t love it as much as I loved Boyfriend Material, but this was one of Alexis Hall’s earlier works, so that just showed improvement. There aren’t too many new adult books that I can implant myself into. This was one that I could and I am going to certainly read the next two, and probably a lot more of the author’s works.

Overall: Trashy, steamy, and definitely not YA. I’ve got expectations for future installments but I’m glad that I read it. 5 stars.

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Books Coming Out in 2021 That I Can’t Wait For

So, I’m in the middle of a semester right now, but I don’t have the time to read for fun while I’m in classes. Here are the books that are coming out sometime between now and finals week that I will be buying as soon as I can get to the bookstore

-Concrete Rose- Angie Thomas: The Hate U Give and On The Come Up are both absolutely amazing books. I loved both of them and from what everyone is saying, this prequel is even better that its predecessors (1/12)

-A Court of Silver Flames- Sarah J Maas: I have read the first 4 ACOTAR books and I honestly don’t know if I love them or hate them. I will be reading the next ones (at the very high cost of $28 a copy). Supposedly the 2nd novella will be coming out in April, but since we haven’t heard anything I’m guessing its been pushed back. (2/16)

-Chain of Iron- Cassandra Clare: This book is supposedly a new plot from Chain of Gold. That makes me excited- my favorite of the Shadowhunters books were City of Bones/Ash/Glass, where there was a defined plot. The later books were one continuous issue working to be fixed. I will have to reread Chain of Gold, but I already know its gonna be good. (3/2)

-Rule of Wolves- Leigh Bardugo: Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom are 2 of my favorite books, so I will be picking up all grishaverse books. (Also, Shadow and Bone hits netflix in April). This will be the last Grishaverse book for a while (Leigh has said that she has no plans for any more as of now) and I want to see how it all ends. (3/30)

-You Love Me- Caroline Kepnes: You the tv show is crazy. The books take it to a whole new level. I don’t know how connected the third book and third season but either way I have high hopes. (4/6)

-While Justice Sleeps- Stacey Abrams: THE QUEEN OF THE GEORGIA ELECTION WROTE A POLITICAL/LEGAL/SUPREME COURT MYSTERY???? OH BABY I’M DROPPING ALL PLANS TO READ THIS (5/11)

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A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses #3)- Sarah J Maas

Background: ACOMAF was a lot better than ACOTAR in my opinion. I almost loved it. There were a few parts that had me rolling my eyes but I gave it a strong 5 stars. ACOWAR is longer by about a hundred pages and honestly its gonna be a stretch to get through it before I head back to school (Along with ACOFAS). I will not be reading ACOSV until the summer and I’m done with classes for the semester, but I am looking forward to it.

Princess of Carrion (Part 1/ Ch. 1-10): Holy shit Feyre is a bad bitch. We already knew this but she has progressed so far from the “I just want to paint and be a housewife”. Homegirl is telling lies upon lies, has everyone wrapped around her finger, and is absolutely leading everyone exactly to where she wants them. This part ended with her leaving the spring court to return to Rhys, so I’m not sure how much more of a spy novel we’ll be getting, but if we do this could very well be one of my favorite books. I am very much enjoying this so far.

Cursebreaker (Part 2/ Ch. 11-50): Part 2 was very long. It took me a couple days to get through. It started off pretty strong, but this is the first section of any of the books where I feel like it could have been shortened. There have been a lot of small side plots and information revealed about backstories and other characters. Side note, it is so hard to keep track of the different high lords. (One of them is Bi and another is gay? Either way, nice rep). I’m not hating it by any means and depending on the last part, this will either be a strong 4 or a 5 star. Other thoughts include- Nesta is so much better than in the past books; SJM is setting up so many girls up for disappointment in their romantic lives; and Istg if I have to read “mate” 1 more time im going to DNF.

High Lady (Part 3/ Ch. 51-82): A lot happend in the 200ish pages at the end. They went to war. We had a coming out scene (to which Feyre responded- let me be your wingwoman; we love an ally). This part was on par with the first part, and the last 100 pages were the best part of the book. I usually take a break every 50 pages to check my phone, or just recharge when reading- especially when the pages have font as small as SJM books. I didn’t even consider it during the last 100. There were a lot of twists at the end. I don’t know if I would consider them to be “plot twists”, but people will surprise you. And then surprise you again. Lucien dipped out for a large part of this book, so I’m interested for his and Elain’s relationship.

Overall: Everything ended with a nice bow. That is fine if ACOWAR was the end of the series. However, that is not the case. No one die. They fixed everything. I don’t know really where it goes from here. This might be a good thing and helps to separate ACOSF from the original trilogy. Overall, this was my favorite of the three. I really liked the spy aspects, the adventure/heist themes. I really liked that SJM diversified the cast and we got a political novel. 5/5 stars.

*I am going to attempt to read Frost and Starlight before I leave for college (for reference, I posted this at 2:45 am on a Friday morning and leave saturday afternoon, but I also work and have to pack). We’ll see if I can do it

Favorite Quote: “ ‘It is no waste,’ I said. ‘One life may change the world. Where would you all be if someone had deemed saving my life to be a waste of time?’ I pointed to Rhys. ‘If he had deemed saving my life Under the Mountain a waste of time? Even if it’s only twenty families, or ten… They are not a waste. Not to me- or to you.’ “ (pg. 598)

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A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2)- Sarah J. Maas

Overview: I read ACOTAR over 2.5 days-ish. Didn’t love it, liked it a normal amount, but mist and fury is one of my friends’ favorite books of all time so I’ve once again got high hopes. I do already know that Tamlin changes (that’s all I’ll say), and that this book gets steamier. 624 pages is a lot. That’s a thick book. I’m glad that its split up into the different parts, and that’s how I’m gonna attempt to break up my review.

House of Beasts (Part 1/ Ch. 1-13): This book is already so much better than ACOTAR. 1- Feyre isn’t saying “Its so beautiful I could never paint it” every 3 paragraphs. Rhysand is the feminist boyfriend we deserve. It is a lot less tropey and is moving away from the Beauty and the Beast retelling. I didn’t think that both I would hate Tamlin and that his character changes would be believable but they were. Rhys actually treats Feyre as his equal. The writing is a lot better; its a faster read. I was forcing myself to read ACOTAR but with ACOMAF I want to read it. I have been busy and it is still super long, so I’m not sure how long it will take me to finish, but I’m just over 20% done

House of Wind (Part 2/ Ch. 14-51): Everyone is being dramatic and honestly for no damn reason. We can be glad that while Feyre wants to start painting again, she isn’t going overboard. We are getting a lot more information about 1- the night court, but also the world as a whole (both the the fey and human lands). This is a lot more of an adventure novel, there are set tasks that the crew needs to complete in order to stop the coming war. We are also learning about the centuries that came before Feyre’s time and before the 50 years previously discussed. The main issue is that a war is coming and that the opposition is planning to use the Cauldron (which apparently would make it a complete smackdown). There are a few chances to prevent the Cauldrons’ activation (for lack of a better term) and that is the main goal, finding and combining those options. Second to that is Feyre’s flirting with Rhys and her learning to use her abilities. She has at least 1 power from each of the 7 high lords and can use those to fight. Part 2 was by far the longest. It was 365 pages, and a lot happened. I don’t know how large of a cliff hanger part 3 will leave us with, as I could see it going in 2 ways: 1- they stop the war before it starts and A Court of Wings and Ruin covers a completely different problem/plot, or 2- they fail and ACOWAR deals with the actual war. Either way this has been a huge improvement upon ACOTAR. (Also, Rhys is an absolute freak in the sheets)

House of Mists (Part 3/ Ch. 52-69): Everything was planned out. Rhys likes to keep secrets and that turned out to be one of his major flaws. No matter how many times he said “Oh, don’t worry, I’ll be honest from now on” he always had at least one more thing that wasn’t given to the group. This did play out right at the end, where he was playing the LONG game and was honestly like 10 moves ahead. This very much lead into the third book, where there needed to still be resolution to the plot. The first book had a new problem to solve versus the first, but the threat of war has not been resolved. TO be honest it is worse than it was before.

Overall: I liked this. The ending was very good. You ca certainly see how SJM matured as a writer in this book. I am excited for what comes next. This was a vast improvement upon ACOTAR.

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A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1)- Sarah J Maas

*Yes I’m using the new covers because 1- that’s the edition I have (bc i’m late to the game and i want any future books to match), 2- because I’m gonna eventually review ACOSF and I want that picture to match, and 3-bc even though I’m in the minority here; I like the new covers better than the old ones

Background: Y’all are gonna come for me for taking this long to get to ACOTAR. I also haven’t read throne of glass so…. I have read SJM”s cat woman and Crescent City, but ACOTAR just was so far down my TBR. I do own all of the books. I usually split up each installment of a series with another book. However, I have exactly 2 weeks before I leave for college and no books will be coming with me, so that will be close. I might decide to power through all of the books instead. We’ll see.

First Half: This is not a fast read. This is not an easy read. 1- the text is dense. Both in the sense that it is incredibly small. If it was the size of regular YA this book would probably be twice the number of pages. Also it is not simple writing. Its more formal/literary. So far, I don’t hate it. However- there hasn’t been a main issue/goal/problem that is being worked towards. Yes we have the plague, masks, and Feyre wanting to leave; but those have pretty much been labeled as permanent. There have been a couple of steamy scenes but nothing out there. Hopefully it picks up (it does have 4.2 stars on good reads, so its acclaimed) but if it doesn’t I probably won’t go all out to try to finish the series before I leave.

Second Half: I’m not mad. This book was long. It took me hours to finish. It took me about an hour to read the last 50 pages. There were points where if Feyre said “it is so beautiful, I will never be able to paint it” one more time I was gonna be done. The second half certainly picked up. I do think that this could have been split up into 2 different books, but that being said; the first book would not have been as strong. It was dirty- I feel like a sinner having read certain scenes.

Overview: I’m conflicted on this book. I didn’t outright love it, and there were parts that I liked, but I’m not sure if its between a 3 and a 4. However, it was good enough that I’m going to read the sequels right away instead of putting them off. If I had more than 2 weeks before going back to college- that likely wouldn’t be the case. 3.5/5 stars, but I’ll round up to 4

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The Inheritance Games (The Inheritance Games #1)- Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Background: While I did recognize some of the author’s previous books from their covers when I worked at a bookstore, I never read any of them. This book has been getting amazing reviews over Tumblr, instagram, and the internet, so I wanted to get it. I like the plot, I know that its been picked up for a sequel, and a tv show is in the works. I’ve got high hopes.

First half: The hype was worth it. My only real issue is that there are so many names to keep track of- there are multiple generations (4 grandsons, 2 daughters, and the grandfather) in addition to Avery’s family. There are a lot of questions to be answered. Why was Avery chosen? What secrets are the other members of the Hawthorne family keeping? Then there is the puzzle and chain of clues that were left behind by the grandfather. Each clue/riddle/ challenge leads directly to the next one, so the plot goes fast. Other than struggling to stay on top of the names, I’m loving it.

Second Half: Wow. This book didn’t stop racing until the last page. There were so many parts where we thought we knew an answer to one of the questions just for that to be completely turned on its head. I still had a little bit of trouble keeping the different brothers straight, but managed overall. There were 2 queer characters (1 was bi) but they were on the side and one was kind of the villain. I have a lot of questions. We solved the last clue, which lead each character to a letter- but we only know what 2/5 letters said.

Overall: This was an amazing book. I would give it 5 stars without a doubt. I really am looking forward to the sequel and am hoping for multiple additional installments. 5/5 stars.

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King of Scars (Nikolai Duology #1, Grishaverse #6)- Leigh Bardugo

Background: Leigh Bardugo is my favorite author. Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom are my 4th and 3rd favorite books. Nikolai Lantsov is one of my favorite characters. I have been looking forward to this book for a while, so I’ve got high expectations.

The Drowning Man (Part 1): Basically Alina didn’t do shit. The issues from the grisha trilogy are still going on. The issues from six of crows are still going on. Nikolai is still possessed/cursed/harboring a demon in his body, jurda parem is still going on, Fjerda and Shu Han are still targeting grisha. Our good king is trying to keep it together but not super successful. There are 2 parts to the book (The drowning man/The witch in the wood) and not a ton has happened yet. There is a new cult that wants the darkling idolized as a saint, the Apparat is still meddling (can he please die?), and Ravka is facing the treat of debt and war. The first half really just set up the plot. Nina hasn’t interacted with Zoya or Nikolai (these three are the narrators). The plot is interesting, and this feels 100% like a continuation of both the Grisha trilogy and Six of Crows. You can’t read this without knowing what happened previously in the universe. I’ve still got 260 pages to go so the plot could speed up, but until then there just a lot of tension while I’m waiting for shit to hit the fan (more than it already has).

The Witch in the Wood (Part 2): *Usually I wait until I finish a section before writing my thought out- not this time. The first chapter in the second part, shit hit the fan. Hold out until then and you’ll be glad. This book completely redeemed Zoya. I was not a fan of her at all in the first series; she was okay, but not very likable. I loved her in this. My biggest complaint is that Nina never joined in with Nikolai or Zoya. Those were the 3 main narrators, but if her parts weren’t there, the book would have been the same. I enjoyed it, but it was a completely separate plot. Also- there was no romance. I was expecting some relationships and there were none. Barely even implied feelings.

Overall: Should I give this book 5 stars? No. Will I anyways? Of course. I loved the writing, the twists, and parts of the plot. I am nervous for Rule of Wolves. Leigh has said that it could very well be the last grishaverse book- I’m not holding onto hope for Six of Crows 3 (she hasn’t been contracted for it and she wasn’t the one to add it to goodreads). 5 stars.

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Sword in the Stars (Once and Future #2)- Amy Rose Capetta and Cory McCarthy

Background: I read the first book in this duology (Once and Future) over the summer and it was okay. It wasn’t amazing, it wasn’t one of my favorites by any means, but it was a highly diverse cast with many queer characters written by two queer authors, so I felt obligated to support it. The sequel has higher reviews than the first, so I’m hoping that it improves upon it. Either way its a queer fantasy/resistance novel so I doubt that I’ll hate it.

First half: I didn’t love Once and Future, I appreciated the diversity and message, but the plot wasn’t doing much for me. This is the complete opposite. The language is on point, they are sarcastic, rude, and funny. This book has the same feel as any good time travel movie/tv show. The characters are thrown into the past and can’t create too much change that will effect the future (Ex. Back to the Future, Avengers: Endgame, and especially the finale of Runaways). I am falling asleep as I write this, and I already had 2 cups of coffee so I’m at my end. The absolute best plot twists keep coming at the worst times for the characters. I have 175ish pages left and I can’t wait to see how it’s wrapped up.

Second Half: I didn’t cry- but I almost did. The plot goes right up until the last few chapters. Those serve as a few parts of an epilogue that really tug at your heart. This book was amazing. There was so much representation, some of the best twists and misdirects that I’ve ever experienced, ties back to the first book. This was a great book. I

Overall: I loved it. This is probably in my top 10 of all time. 100% recommend reading the first one, and if you so much as didn’t hate it, I suggest finishing the duopoly. 5/5 stars

*Can we just appreciate the gorgeousness that is this cover tho.....

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Kingdom of the Wicked (Kingdom of the Wicked #1)- Kerri Maniscalco

Background: I saw this book trending all over social media around October of 2020, probably bc it’s got spooky vibes and I hadn’t really looked into it. Once I was back home for the semester I was looking in to the best of 2020 YA books and this was on a few list. The plot seemed a little similar to House of Earth and Blood (SJM) and Shadowhunters; and Kerri’s other series (Stalking Jack the Ripper) is very well received (also on my long term TBR). It was not terribly expensive, so I picked it up.

First Half: It’s not bad so far, but I’m not loving it. I saw almost all 5 star reviews for this book and honestly I’m struggling to find motivation to read it. The plot is slow, nothing is really happening. There have been a few points where I was interested but overall its staying around a 3 star read. I’m hoping that it picks up soon, but there’s less than 200 pages left so I don’t know if it can.

Second Half: The second half got better as it went. The last 40 pages were amazing. The second half was 5 stars hands down. Emilia is a bad bitch, she is playing mind games, here for revenge, doesn’t take shit from anyone. I strive to be her. We get some making out between the characters that called me single in every language. Given that the sequel is the author’s “most romantic book yet” I’m excited. There were multiple twists and plot points from the first half become relevant. Everyone had secrets. And when I say everyone, believe me I mean everyone.

Overall: I can’t overlook the first half, so this is stuck at 4 stars for me. I will be ready to pick up the sequel next fall (Kingdom of The Cursed), as soon as I am able. I do feel kinda guilty for simping over a prince of hell, but its fiction so that makes it okay, right? 4/5 stars.

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Ruin and Rising (Grisha Trilogy #3, Grishaverse #3)- Leigh Bardugo

Background: Shadow and Bone was the first book I read when I got home from college, I loved it. I had read six of crows and crooked kingdom over the summer, but didn’t get around to Alina’s books until recently. I gave both Shadow and Bone and Siege and Storm 5 stars. I am hesitant to the plot of Ruin and Rising just because it starts off so differently compared to the other books, I’m also not sure how this will set up King of Scars (which is 3 down after R&R on my TBR). I can’t wait for the TV show, I’ve given every single Leigh Bardugo book 5 stars (I’ve read all but King of Scars) so I’ve got high hopes.

First Half: There have been a lot of events going on, but nothing that has really moved the plot forward. I read the first half in one night, will probably finish it within the next two days (depends on if my job gets new supplies). The writing is there, its the same quality (if not better) than the last 2 books. There have been a lot of funny parts (I would die for Nikolai). We are still focused on the fire bird, but in 200 pages we haven’t attempted to find it. The book is 420ish pages, so not a brick, but also not short. The previous events might have importance later on in the plot, but so far I just feel like we aren’t getting to the end as quickly as we can. That being said, I am not angry about it. I love these characters and want to stay with them. I am very much looking forward to King of Scars (which is on my night stand) and Rule of Wolves (which is set to be released 3/30/21)

Second Half: The plot didn’t slow down until the epilogue. While the pacing wasn’t as fast as it could have gone, things were happening in the second half. There were multiple plot twists that broke my heart (I didn’t cry, but I almost did). Most of the storylines were tied up in a nice way and it was reminiscent of the previous two installments.

Overall: I don’t think that it was the strongest of the books, but I still enjoyed it. If this was a 4 book series, I likely wouldn’t give it 5 stars, but I think that it deserved it as a finale. 5/5 stars.

Favorite Quote: “I am not ruined. I am ruination.” (Pg 162)

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My Auto-Buy Authors

I wanted to make a quick short post about authors that I will automatically buy any books that they publish. I had seen this a little bit around bookstagram and thought I’d give it a shot. 

1- Leigh Bardugo: If King of Scars is as good or better than Six of Crows/Shadow and Bone, there is a very good shot that she will be my favorite author. I have given every of her books 5 stars (the only other two authors with that achievement being Angie Thomas and Holly Black). I am currently finishing Ruin and Rising, and King of Scars is a few down on my TBR. Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom are #4 and #3 of my favorite books of all time. (Desperately holding out for both Six of Crows 3 and Alex Stern 2) *I have rewatched the character trailer for Shadow and Bone on Netflix far too many times- I need that show NOW!

2- Karen M. McManus: My second favorite movie is The Breakfast Club, so when I saw One of Us is Lying for sale, it really could have been hit or miss. I finished it in 2 (very late) nights. Since then I’ve gotten each of her books as soon as I could, and absolutely can not wait until she interprets Ferris Bueler’s Day Off next fall. *Also One of Us is Lying is going to air on Peacock and I will be first in line to stream it. 

3- Becky Albertalli: Simon vs was one of the first books that got me back into reading, with Leah on The Offbeat really drawing me back in. What if Its Us broke my heart and made me want a start dating. Yes, No, Maybe so got me thrown into politics more so than I already was. I love all of her books (I haven’t read Upside yet, but after that I’ll be caught up). She seems like such a genuine author and that trait is found in her characters. We need more books with queer characters and happy endings and for that reason I will always support her. 

4- Angie Thomas: I was LATE to the game on The Hate U Give. When I say late, I mean that I didn’t read it until this summer (I know- it was always checked out of the library and hardcovers are expensive). I picked it and On the Come Up off of book outlet and oh my god was I kicking myself for waiting so long. I will be reading Concrete Rose as soon as I get the chance; straight to the top of the TBR. I would love to see her write a romance with Becky or Adam Silvera, since theyre friends in real life. Similar to Becky, we need more diverse stories and the best way to increase the number of them is to prove to publishers that readers need them too.

5- Cassandra Clare: The Shadowhunter Chronicles is my favorite series. I’ve read them all, including the short stories and spin off series. I know that some people don’t like that there are so many books, but I do. I miss the OG crew (Clary, Izzy, Simon, Jace, and Alec) but the new characters are nice too. That being said, I can’t wait for Sword Catcher to come out and hope that it is even better than TSC.

*Honorable Mentions:

-Sarah J Maas: I’ve only read Crescent City (loved it) and Catwoman, but all 4 ACOTAR books are on my night stand. I’m have 4.5 books to finish before then (I KNOW I KNOW I KNOW), but then I’ll finally start. Once I finish those I’ll get to Throne of Glass (which I do want to read, but to be honest, it likely won’t be until the middle/late summer that I get to start). I’ve heard good things and liked what I read, so I’m sure that once I read some more, its a safe bet that she’ll be one of my auto-buys

-Adam Silvera: I have read all of Adam’s books except for History is all you left me (on my night stand) and More Happy Than Not. I loved What If It’s Us, liked TBDaTE, wasn’t in love with Infinity Son, but I want to give it another shot. Odds are, if he publishes something, I’ll pick it up. I know that it will have diverse characters, but I don’t know if I’ll love it.

-Casey McQuiston: Red, White, and Royal Blue is my second favorite book of all time. It is the reason that I am taking a poli-sci minor and that in turn lead to me wanting to go to law school. It made me want to write my own queer love story (in progress- barely). However, she has only released one book. I will be picking up her sophomore novel (One Last Stop- 6/1/20) as soon as I can get my hands on it, but I can’t say that I’ll pick up everything without her repeatedly releasing books I love. 

*Queer Books: I’m bi, and I worked at a bookstore for over a year. I own most of the queer books that we sold, 1) because I want books I can relate to, and 2) because I feel obligated to support those authors and those stories. That is where I end up with books like “We Contain Multitudes” and “Call Me by Your Name” on my shelves. I hated WCM. I think that it was damaging to the community, it glamorized statutory rape and abuse, it was low quality writing, (my whole review is on my blog). I got rid of it after I read it. I will likely buy a book because it has a queer storyline, but that doesn’t mean that I will keep it. I have a bunch of queer books on my tbr and my shelves that I havent gotten to, but i’ll type them out for recs: Only Mostly Devastated, Fell of Dark, Stay Gold, Late to the Party, Damaged like Us. These are all books that I haven’t gotten around to reviewing, but hopefully will eventually

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The Cousins- Karen M. McManus

Background: So I have read Karen M. McManus’ previous 3 books and have either liked or loved them, so I was gonna pick this one up right away (her next book is based on Ferris Bueler’s Day Off- can’t wait for that). This is also the first main review that I’m writing since the summer, so it might not be as intensive as usual.

1st half: This is her best book yet. Almost every chapter adds a new twist that come out of nowhere, but they all are completely believable. There are 4 POVs; the 3 teenagers (Milly, Aubrey, and Jonah) and Allison (Milly’s mom, but flashbacks to the summer when she is 18). Every character has so many secrets that they are keeping and the keep coming out. I also really appreciate how all of KMM’s books include queer characters and representation of divorce. These aren’t always included. While these characters are often sidelined, it is better than nothing. I am halfway through and although some preliminary questions have been answered, I have no idea where it is going. If it stays on the same track, this will be a 5 star read.

2nd half: Everything came together in both ways that ended the story neatly, and ended it in true KMM fashion; with a line that leaves you breathless. The parents got more involved in the second half, there was a romance, addiction was covered. There was a spot where I thought the plot would end but instead we went in the complete opposite direction. I loved this. It was my favorite of her books yet and I finished it in a day. I 100% recommend. 5/5 stars

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Master of One- Jaida Jones and Dani Bennett

*I just wrapped up finals this week, so I didn’t have a full review- but wanted to put this out there just because I really enjoyed this book. My next read will have a full review (The Cousins- Karen M. McManus)*

The fact that we do not have a confirmation of a sequel is a crime. (especially after that ending).

I'll admit that I feel scammed by this book. The summary on the cover/in any blurbs does not accurately represent the plot. Minor spoilers ahead so read at your own risk- only 4/6 "relics" are even searched for and the "romance of legend" doesn't come to fruition until the last chapter. That being said, I loved it. It reminded me a lot of six of crows (the heist and multi-pov). The best part was the sarcasm and language. We also have disabled rep, queer rep (barely- but holding on for the future), and a trans character. I completely recommend this book- but don't expect exactly what is advertised.

5/5 stars

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Update!!!!

I know that my account has been pretty dead for the past few months (I didn’t read a single book while away at campus) but I’ve picked up the pace since I’ve been back. So far I’ve read:

-Shadow and Bone (Grishaverse #1)- Leigh Barduho 5/5 stars

-How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories (Folk of the Air #3.5)- Holly Black 5/5 stars

-The Lost Book of the White (The Eldest Curses #2)- Cassandra Clare 4/5 stars

-Siege and Storm (Grishaverse #2)- Leigh Bardugo 5/5 stars

I have literally 24 books on my nightstand (and more on my shelves). I am working while I’m back but more reviews and hopefully art will be coming soon!

Feel free to submit recs via “ask me a question”!

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Girls of Storm and Shadow (Girls of Paper and Fire #2)- Natasha Ngan

Background: I read the first book in this trilogy a few months ago after it had sat on my shelf for a while. I ended up liking it, I think that it handled the sexual assault/rape storyline very well. I also have a lot of respect for the author, as she included crisis hotlines in the back of each book, making clear she didn’t include those issues just for the plot, but to help survivors. There is going to be one more book in the trilogy (coming out in March of 2021) but I wanted to get caught up with any series that I was in the middle of before heading off to college. I have 3 days to read 2 more books- so let’s hope I can do it.

First Half: Oh my gosh am I in love. If the first book was The Hunger Games, this is a mix of Catching Fire and Mockingjay. Wren and Lei are on the run from the king but also trying to convince other groups to join the resistance. There is fighting, deals being made, we get flashes into what is happening in the royal palace. It is going so fast. This is the perfect middle book so far. It distances itself from the first book, but doesn’t fall into the problem of running out of plot/getting to the resolution too fast. I think that it is an improvement up on the first book. There are multiple queer characters that just show up and are on the side, but its done in a way that makes it not unimportant, but not outside of social norms if that makes sense. If it stays on the current trajectory, this will be 5 stars.

Second Half: I hate everyone in this book. The good characters get killed off, the ones we used to like turn out to be just as bad as the main villains, there were twists every chapter. I NEED the third book right now. I don’t know how it is all going to end. There was a massive cliff hanger. This wasn’t an easy book to read. The plot, pacing, character development were all amazing, but it was dense. This probably took me double the time to read compared to another book of the same length. I’m not saying that that is a huge problem, but it isn’t exactly a strength.

Overall: This was great. I think it was a huge improvement upon the first book and I can’t wait to see where the final book ends up. 5 stars.