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[thebooknearme]

Featured Blog Tour: Chilling Holidays from Vault (12/05/2022-01/13/2022)

the book near me is thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Chilling Holidays from Vault Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway! 

WINTER is the second scariest time of year. And it’s not just because of the terror of last-minute gift buying, frightening crowds, and haunting memories of holiday gatherings past. Specters cast dark shadows in snow, frost covers every inch of your sanctuary, and a variety of monsters from world legend and lore stalk your dreams from the child-eating Icelandic Yule Cat, to Northern Europe’s icy wielder of justice Frau Hölle and her Wild Hunt, to Germany’s devilish anti-Santa, Krampus, the Kallikantzaros evil goblins from Greece, and the Alpine witch Frau Perchta and her Krampus-like minions, the Perchten.

VAULT Comics knows this terror, feels your pain, and wants to share the horror…

Enter VAULT’s bone-chilling list of most popular horror, fantasy, and science fiction titles, with the best talent in SFFH comics with a CHILLING HOLIDAY, Holiday Special!  This Winter, slay/sleigh those demons of indecision with the best in creator-owned Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror!

Here’s a list of all of the titles & authors participating in the tour! Check out each individual blog/Instagram/or booktok (schedule below) for more details on each book!

Book Cover Video:

The Autumnal: The Complete Series by Daniel Kraus, Chris Shehan (Illustrator), Jason Wordie (Colorist), Jim Campbell (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

Resonant

Now in Series Development for BET+ - with Gerard McMurray as the executive producer, director, and writer!

Resonant Vol. 1 by David DB Andry, Ale Aragon (Illustrator), Jason Wordie (Colorist), and Deron Bennett (Letterer)

Resonant Vol. 2: Spiraling by David DB Andry, Skylar Patridge (Illustrator), Jason Wordie (Colorist), Deron Bennett (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

The Rush by Si Spurrier, Nathan C. Gooden (Illustrator), Addison Duke (Colorist), Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

Barbaric Vol. 1: Murderable Offenses by Michael Moreci, Nathan C. Gooden (Illustrator), Addison Duke (Colorist), Jim Campbell (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

The Plot

The Plot Vol. 1 by Michael Moreci, Tim Daniel, Jordan Boyd (Colorist), Joshua Hixson (Illustrator), and Jim Campbell (Letterer)

The Plot Vol. 2 by Michael Moreci, Tim Daniel, Joshua Hixson (Illustrator), Kurt Michael Russell (Colorist), and Jim Campbell (Letterer)

Spree by Gary Dauberman, Michael Moreci, Zak Hartong (Illustrator), Addison Duke (Colorist), and Jim Campbell (Letterer)

Shadow Service

Shadow Service Vol. 1: Dark Arts by Cavan Scott, Corin Howell (Illustrator), Andworld Design (Letterer), and Triona Farrell (Colorist)

Shadow Service Vol. 2: Mission Infernal by Cavan Scott, Corin Howell (Illustrator), Triona Farrell (Colorist), Andworld Design (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

Human Remains by Peter Milligan, Sally Cantirino (Illustrator), Dearbhla Kelly (Colorist), Andworld Design (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

I Walk With Monsters by Paul Cornell, Sally Cantirino (Illustrator), Dearbhla Kelly (Colorist), Andworld Design (Letterer), and Adrian F. Wassel (Editor)

Vampire: The Masquerade

Vampire: The Masquerade Vol. 1: Winter’s Teeth by Blake Howard, Tini Howard, Tim Seeley, Nathan Gooden (Illustrator), and Dev Pramanik (Illustrator)

Vampire: The Masquerade Vol. 2: Winter’s Teeth: The Mortician’s Army by Blake Howard, Tini Howard, Tim Seeley, Nathan Gooden (Illustrator), and Dev Pramanik (Illustrator)

Bleed Them Dry by Eliot Rahal, Hiroshi Koizumi (Created by), Dike Ruan (Illustrator), Miquel Muerto (Colorist), and Andworld (Letterer)

Heathen: The Complete Series Omnibus Edition by Natasha Alterici, Ashley A. Woods (Illustrator), Rachel Deering (Letterer), and Morgan Martinez (Letterer)

Rockstars: The Complete Series by Joe Harris, Megan Hutchison (Illustrator), Kelly Fitzpatrick (Colorist), and Michael David Thomas (Letterer)

Book Review:

Heathen: The Complete Series Omnibus Edition by Natasha Alterici, Ashley A. Woods (Illustrator), Rachel Deering (Letterer), and Morgan Martinez (Letterer)

Giveaway:

1 winner will win finished copies of every book featured in the CHILLING HOLIDAYS from VAULT tour, US Only.

1 winner will win eBooks of every book featured in the Chilling Holidays from Vault Blog Tour from iBooks, International.

Ends January 17th, 11:00 A.M. CDT.

Rafflecopter makes it crazy-simple to create, run, and enter online giveaways and sweepstakes.

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

12/5/2022

Mythical Books

Feature HUMAN REMAINS/IG Post

12/6/2022

Sadie's Spotlight

Feature I WALK WITH MONSTERS /IG Post

12/7/2022

Lady Hawkeye

Feature SHADOW SERVICE /IG Post

12/8/2022

Author Z. Knight

Feature RESONANT EXCERPTS/IG Post

12/9/2022

Two Chicks on Books

Feature THE PLOT/IG Post

Week Two:

12/12/2022

Book Sniffers Anonymous

Feature THE AUTUMNAL /IG Post

12/13/2022

A Dream Within A Dream

Feature HEATHEN

12/14/2022

The Momma Spot

Feature THE RUSH

12/15/2022

Jazzy Book Reviews

Feature BLEED THEM DRY /IG Post

12/16/2022

#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog

Feature ROCKSTARS 

Week Three:

12/19/2022

Nerdophiles

Review 

12/20/2022

Bookdreamr

Review/IG Post

12/21/2022

the book near me

Review/IG Post

12/22/2022

GryffindorBookishNerd 

Review/IG Post

12/23/2022

Brandi Danielle Davis 

IG Review/TikTok Post

[thebooknearme]

Heathen: The Complete Series Omnibus Edition

About The Book:

Title: HEATHEN: The Complete Series Omnibus Edition

Author: Natasha Alterici & Ashley A. Woods (Illustrations)

Pub. Date: May 17, 2022

Publisher: Vault Comics

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 336

Find it: Goodreads, https://books2read.com/Heathen-The-Complete-Series 

WOMAN. WARRIOR. VIKING. HEATHEN. OUTCAST.  THE GODS MUST PAY… Born into a time of warfare, suffering, and subjugation of women, and exiled from her village for kissing another woman, the lesbian Viking warrior, Aydis, sets out to destroy the god-king Odin and end his oppressive reign. She is a friend to many as she is joined by mermaids, immortals, Valkyries, and the talking horse, Saga. But she is also a fearsome enemy to the demons and fantastic monsters that populate the land.  Heathen – The Complete Series Omnibus Edition trade paperback collects the entire twelve-issue series. Soon to be movie directed by Catherine Hardwicke (Twilight, Red Riding Hood, & Lords of Dogtown) Perfect for fans of Monstress, Helheim, and Northlanders.

Reviews:

“These declarations of self from women and queer characters fit so elegantly into the mythology Alterici uses to weave her tale, it reminds us that these narratives belonged there all along.”- The Mary Sue

“I want epics with female leads, and fortunately HEATHEN fulfills that desire in a big way, while also adding its own unique touch with themes that are as contemporary as they are timeless.”- Women Write About Comics

“One look at the cover and I knew this book was right up my alley. If you are into Norse mythology and aching for a lesbian angle, then this book is for you. If you want a love story that is more than a romance, a heroine that is truly honourable and fierce, then I urge you to pick this … up.”- The Lesbian Review

“Natasha Alterici's Heathen, has single-handedly redeemed the disaster that pop culture has been making of Norse mythology. It’s a smart, funny, feminist, queer and sex-positive take on the Viking world; one with a wide cast of diverse and endearing characters. Heathen is a must-read for comics (and mythology) lovers of all sorts and those in quest of superb queer and feminist comics in particular. RATING: 10/10”- Pop Matter

About Natasha Alterici:

Natasha Alterici is a writer and artist living in Tulsa, OK who has been working as a freelance artist for over ten years. Works include Heathen (Vault Comics), Dinosaur Project, Gotham Academy: Yearbook, Grayson Annual, The Lez Film Review, Mixed Signals, Lovers and Other Strangers, Transcience, and a number of others. When not drawing, she enjoys watching cooking shows with her wife and their two cats, Cheshire and Louise.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

About Ashley A. Woods:

Ashley A. Woods is a comic book artist, writer, & creator from Chicago known for her work on the "Niobe", "Ladycastle" and "Tomb Raider" series. She got her start through self-publishing her action-fantasy comic series “Millennia War” which led to her career in comics and TV. After earning her degree in Film and Animation from IADT, she traveled to Kyoto, Japan where she presented her work in a gallery showcase called, “Out Of Sequence”. Recognized for her female illustrations and designs, her most prominent work is "Niobe: She is Life" with Stranger Comics. Her latest work can be seen on HBO's "Lovecraft Country", DC’s “Wonder Woman Black & Gold 2” and "Jupiter Invincible" with Pulitzer Prize winning author Yusef Komunyakaa which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival June 2021.

Website | Twitter | Instagram

What was your inspiration for writing your graphic novel?

Heathen began with a simple Ren Faire costume design, I wanted to go as a barbarian, and the outfit I came up with wasn't far off from what Aydis wears in the book. After that I found myself drawing it again and again, and realized it was developing into a character. So the next steps were obvious; give her a horse and then write her a story. 

List your favorite graphic novels or comics from when you were a child and talk about how you see them as an adult.

I never got the chance to read any comics as a kid. I was too busy obsessing over a different Eyewitness book every month and then later Mary Higgins Clark mysteries and Lurlene McDaniel romance books. I got into comics in college after my English Comp teacher assigned Maus, and from there I sought out the classics like V for Vendetta, Persepolis, and some Sandman. I've always been a seasonal kind of reader, sometimes I'm devouring everything I can, other times I almost forget books exist. Just how I'm wired I suppose. 

List your favorite graphic novels this year and why you like them.

I've honestly only read one so far this year, but it was a great one! Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me by Mariko Tamaki and Rosemary Valero-O'Connell. It's so refreshing to read about queer characters who are neither role models nor tragedies (both are perfectly valid, just oversaturated). They're just normal kids with normal relationship problems that they have to learn to navigate. I really enjoy down-to-earth stories like that. 

Talk about your favorite kind of character to write about

I love messy flawed characters, the kind who want to be better but aren't quite sure how to go about it. I also love writing flirty characters, they're hands down the most fun to write. And if a flirt happens to be messy and flawed themself, well that's the perfect combination. 

Talk about your least favorite kind of character to write about

This is a difficult one, because if I were to describe the kind of character I don't like I'd inevitably be describing the kind of people I don't like  and I try to find the likable part of anyone I'm writing. Otherwise it's hard to empathize with them, and empathy is the most important part. I guess I'd say I find it hard to write about people who find joy in being cruel. 

Describe your ideal writing space.

Comfy chair with a foot rest, view of the forest or a field, music playing, unlimited access to some kind of sweet treat like peach rings or twizzlers, and plants to fuss over while I run through scenes and dialog in my head. 

Describe your ideal home library.

I'd love to have floor to ceiling shelves, with one of those rolling ladders. Everything is organized by Library of Congress call number system (I worked as a university librarian for a while), and it's dust and mold free somehow. And there's a big pile of cushions and pillows to lay in to read. 

What are some of your favorite video games?

I'm really into Ark: Survival Evolved right now, I enjoy finding and taming all my favorite dinosaurs and building things. I also play Phasmophobia, Minecraft, Katamari, House Flipper, and I like colony sim games like Oxygen Not Included and Banished.

[thebooknearme]

KEYANA LOVES HER FAMILY by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley & Charnelle Pinkney Barlow Blog Tour

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the KEYANA LOVES HER FAMILY by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley & Charnelle Pinkney Barlow Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway! 

About The Book:

Title: KEYANA LOVES HER FAMILY

Author: Natasha Anastasia Tarpley & Charnelle Pinkney Barlow (Illustrator)

Pub. Date: December 13, 2022

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Formats: Hardcover, eBook

Pages: 40

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N, TBD, Bookshop.org

Natasha Anastasia Tarpley returns with a breakout new picture book series all about Keyana, the protagonist of her bestselling title I Love My Hair!, and the people and places she adores. Keyana’s always full of big ideas. Her latest and greatest plan is to host a perfect family movie night. From aunts to uncles to her five favorite cousins, everyone is invited! She knows the best way to impress her guests is with a fabulous soiree, and there’s a lot on her to-do list. But when the night doesn’t go as planned, she’ll have to rely on a little help from the people she loves most.   With warm illustrations by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, this character-centric new picture book series from Natasha Anastasia Tarpley will give Keyana a fresh, commercial update that's perfect for today's young readers.

Book Review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Keyana Loves Her Family is a heartfelt children's' picture book that will teach an important lesson to young ones about the meaning and importance of family. I personally felt as if there were some words that could do with more explanation, especially if reading aloud to kids. However, this was a small issue, and I love everything otherwise. Highly recommended!

About Natasha Anastasia Tarpley:

Natasha Anastasia Tarpley started writing when she was seven years old, and from that young age she understood that stories could change the world. She is the author of the bestselling picture book I Love My Hair!, Bippity Bop Barbershop, The Me I Choose to Be, among other titles. Natasha is the recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship and is the cofounder of Voonderbar! Media, a project seeking to expand the depictions of children of color in media. She lives with her family in Chicago, Illinois.

Website | Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads  

About Charnelle Pinkney Barlow:

Charnelle Pinkney Barlow was born and raised in Poughkeepsie, New York. She received her BFA in Illustration from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and her MFA in Illustration as Visual Essay from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Creating images and stories that speak to the hearts of children and those that guide them is her greatest joy. Charnelle currently lives in Indianapolis, Indiana with her husband. She is the illustrator of Remember to Dream, Ebere, The Real Santa, Just Like Mama, and many other titles.

Website | Instagram | TikTok | Pinterest | Goodreads 

Giveaway Details: 

1 winner will receive a finished copy of KEYANA LOVES HER FAMILY, US Only.

Ends December 27th, midnight EST.

Rafflecopter Code:

<a class="rcptr" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e2389ba21589/" rel="nofollow" data-raflid="e2389ba21589" data-theme="classic" data-template="" id="rcwidget_h7dsmgng">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>

<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>

Rafflecopter Link:

Rafflecopter makes it crazy-simple to create, run, and enter online giveaways and sweepstakes.

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

12/12/2022

Mythical Books

Excerpt/IG Post

12/12/2022

yabookscentral.com

Guest Post or Excerpt

12/13/2022

Lady Hawkeye

Excerpt/IG Post

12/13/2022

@jael_and_jenessa_reads

Review/IG Post

12/14/2022

Bea's Book Nook

Review

12/14/2022

popthebutterfly

Review/IG Post

12/15/2022

Emily Ashlyn

Review/IG Post

12/15/2022

the book near me

Review/IG Post

12/16/2022

onemused

IG Post

12/16/2022

The Momma Spot

Review/IG Post

Week Two:

12/19/2022

Kim"s Book Reviews and Writing Aha's 

Review/IG Post

12/19/2022

@carlysunshinebooks

IG Review

12/20/2022

A Blue Box Full of Books

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic

12/20/2022

One More Exclamation 

Review/IG Post

12/21/2022

More Books Please blog

Review

12/21/2022

@allyluvsbooksalatte 

IG Review

12/22/2022

@froggyreadteach

IG Review/Read Aloud

12/22/2022

Author Z. Knight

Review/IG Post

12/23/2022

Books with Brandie Shanae 

Youtube Review/IG Post

12/23/2022

two points of interest

Review

[thebooknearme]

Quitting: A Life Strategy

The Myth of Perseverance—and How the New Science of Giving Up Can Set You Free

by Julia Keller

Request Desk/Exam Copy

Available In: 

Hardcover, eBook, and Audiobook (Unabridged)

$29

Buy On:

Amazon Barnes & Noble Books-A-Million Indiebound Bookshop Target Walmart

On Sale:

Apr 18, 2023

Page Count:

256 Pages

Publisher:

GCP Balance

ISBN-13:

9781538722343

Genre:

Mind, Body, Spirit / Self-help / Personal Growth / Happiness

Description:

“Compelling,” (Cal Newport) “Liberating,” (Amy Dickinson) and “as entertaining as it is important” (Steven Levitt) — How to Do Nothing meets Think Again in this lively and inspiring exploration of how quitting is, counterintuitively, the key to success.

“If you’re thinking about quitting a job or leaving a marriage, don’t—at least not until you have read Quitting: A Life Strategy. It’s a thoughtful book that challenges conventional wisdom about giving up. Blending scientific research with stories of real-life decisions, Keller shows how quitting can be a powerful way to take control of your life.” Joseph T. Hallinan, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author of Why We Make Mistakes

Simone Biles quit the Olympics. Harry and Meghan quit The Firm. Millions of people have quit their jobs, seeking happiness and defining success on their own terms. Is it a mistake? As Pulitzer prize-winning journalist Julia Keller found out, it’s not. And, in fact, it might even save your life. 

Diving into the neuroscience of nope and the cultural messages that drive our reluctance to throw in the towel, Keller dismantles the myth of perseverance once and for all. Because grit isn't always great. Sticking it out doesn't always pay off. And quitting can be an unexpected act of self-love.

Quitting: A Life Strategy humanely reminds us that, in order to live meaningful, satisfying lives, sometimes we have to say “no”—full stop. With Keller’s guidance, readers will learn the art of the quasi quit, see how quitting makes space for key breakthroughs, navigate the relationship between quitting and our public lives, manage quitter's guilt, and more.

As she weaves reportage from the front lines of scientific research, incisive pop culture commentary, and conversations with people who have made profound change in their own lives, Keller gives readers the rationale and confidence they need to pull the plug. Ultimately, quitting becomes a chance to shape our lives without fear—at work, at home, in our relationships, and beyond.

Praise:

“Acompelling mix of science, social critique, and pragmatism, Quitting: A Life Strategy upends the dominant narratives about giving up. Sometimes stepping back really is the right way to move forward in life.” Cal Newport, New York Times bestselling author of Digital Minimalism and A World Without Email

“The world needs more quitters. In her fabulous new book, Julia Keller lays out the compelling case for quitting—explaining why we should quit sooner and more often, and also how to quit. Quitting is as entertaining as it is important.” Steven Levitt, New York Times bestselling author of Freakonomics

“Julia Keller's Quitting offers a timely corrective in a world that's forever telling us to do (and endure) more. This book is a celebration of people learning their limits, standing by their boundaries, and forging new paths when old, back-breaking ways of being have failed them.” Dr. Devon Price, author of Laziness Does Not Exist

“If you’re thinking about quitting a job or leaving a marriage, don’t—at least not until you have read Quitting: A Life Strategy. It’s a thoughtful book that challenges conventional wisdom about giving up. In fun, readable prose, Julia Keller blends scientific research with stories of real-life decisions to show how quitting can actually be a powerful way to take control of your life.” Joseph T. Hallinan, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author of Why We Make Mistakes

“Julia Keller weaves science, pop culture, and scholarship into a forceful and often funny book that finally settles the argument: Winners DO quit. Keller's book proves that whether you're an impetuous Jerry Maguire type or react with the speed of a slime mold, quitting will be the launchpad into the liberating realm of ‘what's next.’” Amy Dickinson, nationally syndicated advice columnist ("Ask Amy") and New York Times bestselling author

“In her beguiling mix of uncanny insight, scientific evidence and human stories, Julia Keller debunks America’s deeply ingrained faith in perseverance—in a book that's just unquittable.” Elizabeth Taylor, co-author of American Pharoah: Richard J. Daley - His Battle for Chicago and the Nation

Book Review:

[thebooknearme]

A Crown Forged By Victory’s Consequence (The Blackened Tablet Series, #1) by Marlayna James & Aaryanna Abbott Blog Tour

the book near me is thrilled to be hosting a spot on the A Crown Forged By Victory’s Consequence (The Blackened Tablet Series, #1) by Marlayna James & Aaryanna Abbott Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway! 

About The Book:

Title: A Crown Forged By Victory’s Consequence (The Blackened Tablet Series, #1)

Author: Aaryanna Abbott & Marlayna James

Pub. Date: January 3, 2023

Publisher: Friends with Pens Author Group

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 438

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

The Blackened Tablet Series is an epic fantasy quest story with corrupt politics, wondrous magic, and illicit encounters in a supernatural world where no one is safe.

Three hundred years ago, the sacred tablet granted by their god, Jezabet, turned black, and eight kingdoms broke free, plummeting into the bottomless sea. There was no warning, and no one knows why.

Now, a strange illness plagues Aldersward. Crowned Prince Aedyn's sisters, Achelle and Annora, his father, and countrymen are desperate and grief-stricken. All hope is lost...

Until someone dreams, and Aedyn leaves behind his mistress and his betrothed to cure their nation. He enlists his friends; a brazen playboy, a gentle strongman, and an ancient mentor. Together, they set out on a perilous journey-few believe they will survive.

This isn't a fairy tale-s3x becomes currency, murder is ordinary, and love doesn't conquer all.

Everyone loves a hero-good triumphs evil. But few dare to question how victory ripples into consequences. Explore this exciting concept in the Blackened Tablet Series.

INSERT YOUR POST OR REVIEW HERE!

About Marlayna James:

Marlayna lives in Canada where she writes romance, erotica, women's fiction, and fantasy. She loves video games, TV, reading, and writing.

About Aaryanna Abbott:

This is another of my pen names. For every pen name, I use a different part of who I am. I imagine this is how she looks.

What’s this part of me like?

I was a daddy’s girl. The very epitome of spoilt.

I love to be wild and crazy—experience everything the world has to offer. I’m adventurous and my carefree disposition is contagious.

I’m loyal to a fault and don’t care what expectations or labels society has bestowed upon me. I believe one’s truth is more valuable than anyone’s perception.

This part of me writes for escapism—to be free of my mundane day to day and live in a magical world almost as real to me as earth. Except in my imaginary world, I control all things and it pleases me to no end.

Do you know how happy you would be living there?

Find all of Marlayna James & Aaryanna Abbott’s Links HERE- https://friendswithpensauthorgroup.com/letshookup/ 

Giveaway Details: 

5 winners will receive an eBook of A CROWN FORGED BY VICTORY'S CONSEQUENCE, International.

Ends January 10th, midnight EST.

Rafflecopter Link:

Rafflecopter makes it crazy-simple to create, run, and enter online giveaways and sweepstakes.

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

12/1/2022

Mythical Books

Guest Post/IG Post

12/2/2022

The Momma Spot

Guest Post

12/3/2022

Sadie's Spotlight

Guest Post/IG Post

Week Two:

12/4/2022

#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog

Guest Post/IG Post

12/5/2022

A Dream Within A Dream

Guest Post

12/6/2022

Jazzy Book Reviews

Guest Post/IG Post

12/7/2022

Lady Hawkeye

Guest Post/IG Post

12/8/2022

Books and Kats

Guest Post

12/9/2022

Living in a Bookworld

Guest Post

12/10/2022

Two Chicks on Books

Guest Post

Week Three:

12/11/2022

@jaimerockstarbooktours

IG Post

12/12/2022

Nagma | TakeALookAtMyBookshelf

IG Review

12/13/2022

Books With A Chance of Traveling

Review/IG Post

12/14/2022

Nerdophiles

Review

12/15/2022

The Book Countess

Review

12/16/2022

Books a Plenty Book Reviews

Review

12/17/2022

Fire and Ice

Review

Week Four:

12/18/2022

Rajiv's Reviews

Review/IG Post

12/19/2022

More Books Please blog

Review/IG Post

12/20/2022

Forthenovellovers 

Review

12/21/2022

@allyluvsbooksalatte 

IG Review/TikTok Post

12/22/2022

OneMoreExclamation

Review/IG Post

12/23/2022

The Girl Who Reads

Review/IG Post

12/24/2022

NO POST

NA

Week Five:

12/25/2022

NO POST

NA

12/26/2022

Ashe_and_ink

IG Review 

12/27/2022

the book near me

Review/IG Post

12/28/2022

@froggyreadteach

IG Review

12/29/2022

Emily Ashlyn

IG & Facebook Review

12/30/2022

@booksrn_rashi

IG Review

12/31/2022

Lifestyle of Me

Review

[thebooknearme]

Cover Reveal: The Last Minute First Lady by Tinia Montford

Today Tinia Montford and Rockstar Book Tours are revealing the cover for THE LAST MINUTE FIRST LADY, her new rom-com which releases December 22, 2022! Check out the awesome cover and enter the giveaway!

On to the reveal!

About The Book:

Title: THE LAST MINUTE FIRST LADY

Author: Tinia Montford

Pub. Date: December 22, 2022

Publisher: Emerald Press LLC

Formats:  eBook

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N, iBooks, Kobo

WHAT’S ONE ITSY, BITSY, LITTLE LIE?

Cassian Anders will be the youngest governor in Illinois history... If he wins.

That’s all everyone seems to talk about these days. Jolie Coldwell isn’t one of them. As a journalist, her priorities comprise digging up dirt on crooked politicians and local cover-ups. When her latest exposé on a congressman lands her in hot water, her days are reduced to covering the senior center’s casino night.

Unexpectedly, news breaks: the on-air investigative segment needs a replacement. This promotion could advance her career.

She needs a breaking story. She needs it now.

The road to office is ruthless compared to the courtroom. Without warning, Cassian Anders’ popularity rating falls, threatening his position on the ballot. He will do whatever it means to secure votes. Now, not only is he engaged, but he’s getting married to his non-existent fiancée...

He’s never relied on luck, but when a convenient but unorthodox wife falls into his lap? He makes her a deal.

He needs a wife. He needs it now.

Will Jolie and Cassian be able to fool the public long enough? Can she handle the public poking around in her past, one she would rather keep under wraps... Above all, can she be a model first lady or are they destined to be a scandal?

THE LAST-MINUTE FIRST LADY IS A STEAMY MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE ROMANCE. PERFECT FOR READERS WHO LOVE OUTRAGEOUS IN-LAWS, HONEYMOONS TO NAPA VALLEY, AND CROOKED POLITICIANS. THIS NOVEL CONTAINS CURSING AND SEX SCENES, AND INTENDED FOR AUDIENCES 18 YEARS AND OLDER.

Excerpt:

“You wanna know why I am running for governor?” he began. “I’ve sat. Watched. Defended in the courtroom, the very people this state is supposed to protect. I’ve been in the trenches with you all.” He pointed to the crowd. “I’ve seen the disadvantages in working-class neighborhoods compared to the elite on the Gold Coast and Millionaire’s Row. I’ve seen families struggling to make ends meet, and youth struggle to stay out of street violence.”

Cassian paused for a second.

“Everything we care about is under siege by Governor William Radcliffe.” The crowd booed. “Our very identities do not fit in the governor’s plan, nor will they ever. I grew up on the South Side of Chicago. Englewood. Chicago’s murder capital. I’ve experienced poverty and crime, and I know the beauty there. I see amazing potential if we were to invest in the people there, not ignore them like Governor Radcliffe has.”

 A calm, collected feeling rolled over Cassian’s body, obliterating the nervousness he’d felt. The crowd watched him with anticipation. It thrilled him. Fueled him.

The crowd roared.

“Illinois is losing jobs and opportunities. Creative minds. The fiber of our communities. If we continue to let Governor Radcliffe lead, there won’t be a state for us to call home.”

Cassian looked down in the crowd. He shouldn’t have noticed, but he did. 

In the center of the room, he spotted a woman. A beautiful woman. As they locked eyes, he recognized her. Jolie Coldwell. He couldn’t forget the fierce reporter. 

He observed at her closely, his practiced speech faltering. She wore a pure white, double-breasted blazer dress. From his position on stage, he could see it stopped mid-thigh, showing off the sexy, thick brown thighs. The dress wrapped around her curvy silhouette with decorative button details down the front that led up to her tasteful cleavage. 

Jolie lifted her chin, meeting his gaze straight on, a small smirk on her lips. That’s when he realized he had stopped talking. Clearing his throat, he returned her steady gaze, and something intense flared through him.

“I’m not here to only make history. I’m here because I love the people of this state. I want to remind everyone We Are The Change.” 

About Tinia Montford:

Tinia (TUH-NIA) Montford is a Pisces who’s a sap for romance, especially when there’s (tons of) kissing. Loves eighties sitcoms and will consume anything with chocolate. She graduated from the University of San Francisco with a degree in English and Graphic Design.

She is a world traveler having climbed a volcano in Nicaragua, scaled Angkor Wat in the blistering sun, and roamed the Acropolis of Athens. Oh, she also dabbles in short stories occasionally.

If you can’t catch her writing, you can bet she’s overindulging on poke bowls, listening to the same four songs, or chilling with her adorbs doggie. She is currently pursuing her MFA in Fiction.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Giveaway Details: 

1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon GC, International.

Ends November 21st, midnight EST.

Rafflecopter Link:

Rafflecopter makes it crazy-simple to create, run, and enter online giveaways and sweepstakes.

[thebooknearme]

Watching RWBY: Fairy Tales of Remnant; Is It Worth Your Time?

No... not quite. Not quite the answer you were expecting either.

If you're looking for extra RWBY content on the loose, or you just need to know all what and why Remnant's about -- I'd check it out. I didn't have the best time watching, but it was okay compared to yesterday's shit-show.

[thebooknearme]

I Just Finished RWBY Volume 8, and Oh Boy, Do We Need To Discuss It..

RWBY Volume 8

(also known as RWBY Vol. 8)

Rating Summary

Look, I spent the last 24 hours binge-watching. I don't know what else to put here.

Composite Rating 4.5/10

Plot/Story 7/10

Animation/Design 8/10

Characters 1/10

Audio/Soundtrack 2/10

Synopsis

Salem's faction finally begins to carry out the full extent of their plans as they begin their invasion of Atlas. Teams RWBY and JNR must rescue as many lives as possible and prepare the rest of Remnant for the (up) oncoming war.

Plot/Story 7/10

As much as I had to force myself to watch the first few episodes, I wasn't that disappointed in the show.

Heck, there were scenes I did genuinely enjoy.

But after RWBY's downfall from Volume 3, things can't and won't be the same for OG fans.

The writers are inconsistent, rushed, and overall, shit.

Animation/Design 8/10

I gotta give them credit. A lot of things have improved while I was gone. The fights are smoother. The hair on characters seems to move now, though not most intended to.

Fine.

The walking is still a little stiff.

CGI and designs for Grimm, we ain't even gonna talk about. You'd think for Salem, they'd make it look somewhat cooler.

I mean, I don't care what they do.

They don't look like Volume 1 and that's progress.

Characters 1/10

Character: Below Average

Depth: Below Average

Development: Below Average

Audio/Soundtrack 2/10

VA: Below Average

Sound Effects: Below Average

Music: Average

Additional Mentions

Originality: Below Average

Impact: Above Average

Sophistication: Average

Conclusion

I have been nice in these negative reviews, as much as others like to point out otherwise. Heck, even if you disagree, at least I've been trying. Now without further ado, final thoughts!

Would I recommend it to others? Yes. Do I think it's only attractive to a specific demographic? Yes.

[thebooknearme]

MAGE OF FOOLS by Eugen Bacon (March 14 thru 25, Book Tour) (Book Review)

Welcome, welcome! Make yourself at home. Yes! This is the book tour for the long awaited MAGE OF FOOLS, by Eugen Bacon, the same author that created the very masterpiece, Claiming T-Mo.. I am super excited, so without further ado, let’s get to it —

RELEASE DATE: March 15, 2022

GENRE: Speculative Fiction / Dystopian / Afrofuturist

BOOK PAGE: Mage of Fools – Meerkat Press

SUMMARY: In the dystopian world of Mafinga, Jasmin must contend with a dictator’s sorcerer to cleanse the socialist state of its deadly pollution.

Mafinga's malevolent king dislikes books and, together with his sorcerer Atari, has collapsed the environment to almost uninhabitable. The sun has killed all the able men, including Jasmin’s husband Godi. But Jasmin has Godi’s secret story machine that tells of a better world, far different from the wastelands of Mafinga. Jasmin’s crime for possessing the machine and its forbidden literature filled with subversive text is punishable by death. Fate grants a cruel reprieve in the service of a childless queen who claims Jasmin’s children as her own. Jasmin is powerless—until she discovers secrets behind the king and his sorcerer.

BUY LINKS:  Meerkat Press | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

BOOK REVIEW: As a long-time fan of Claiming T-Mo, I was more than excited to review this new highly-anticipated work, MAGE OF FOOLS. When I started becoming a book reviewer, not many publishers would offer a free ARC — much less a physical one. I will always owe a lot to Meerkat Press!

Claiming T-Mo is not only of my favorite books; it is also the second ARC I received when I launched this thingamajig one calls a blog. It is not a lot on the surface.. However, time and effort is pushed (tirelessly) out that people rarely think of.

Again, a huge thanks to Meerkat Press and Eugen Bacon for giving me an opportunity — so without further ado, let us get into it!

Speculative fiction is one of those lesser-known genres not many people are willing to try out, much less read a book on.

What's so captivating about Bacon's work is her purpose, the characters, the story, and the world-building. All done with extraordinary detail and description, which can be understandingly hard to describe for someone unfamiliar from Bacon's books.

There's a reason why I had to reread Claiming T-Mo!

While I can sympathize with readers turned off by the dominant complexity of the piece itself, MAGE OF FOOLS is a gem worthy of 4.75. It's something you should check out, especially if you're looking to branch out! Specifically, I was awed at the natures of Jasmin, the queen, and Atari. Jasmin, our main protagonist, is a mother of two children who get(s) captured for using a forbidden story machine. The queen, a soft-spoken but deadly, feminine royal under Atari's control, Atari being an alien with regenerate powers, seeks to destroy civilian kind by mining. It's the relationship dynamic, emotional / avoidant situations, and let's not forget, epic world-building that causes a satisfying "end"

In conclusion, I loved it! Expect a slow start and whoosh! You'll be done in a couple of days. Highly recommended 😊

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Eugen Bacon is African Australian, a computer scientist mentally re-engineered into creative writing. She’s the author of Claiming T-Mo by Meerkat Press and Writing Speculative Fiction by Red Globe Press, Macmillan. Eugen’s work has won, been shortlisted, longlisted or commended in national and international awards, including the Bridport Prize, Copyright Agency Prize, Australian Shadows Awards, Ditmar Awards and Nommo Award for Speculative Fiction by Africans.

Website   |  Twitter  | Facebook

GIVEAWAY: $50 Meerkat Giftcard

GIVEAWAY LINK: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/7f291bd831/?

EXCERPT: It happens in slow motion. Jasmin runs inside the castle that stands atop a hill. She races up the winding staircase, hands moving along its mahogany rail shimmering with sheen. The Heidi dress she’s wearing, a flowing thing that plunges down her waist and touches just above her knees, rises and falls with her running. No belt, just front buttons going down, down. She lights up a flight, up another, up, up. She rises with such thrill, such rush, all the way to the nursery in the northeast tower of the marble-coated monolith.

She flings herself into the rotary room—it slowly moves, revolves: a sundial or a snail-paced merry-go-round. It’s a tavern with faint music in the background, an odd melody. The hiss of a snake, a soft clash of cymbals. Arched doorways, pillars rimmed with gold. Bracelets of orange-flamed candles at half-mast. Along the walls, dimly lit paintings inside veils of cloud, each with a version of the Garden of Eden: Eve leaning toward a behemoth serpent. Eve offering a glowing red apple to Adam. Eve and Adam running naked from an ash-haired god—a voluptuous woman full of breasts.

Jasmin catches sight of the children and her heart swells. Two-year-old Mia in her unicorn pajama set, tiny shorts and a T-shirt. Four-year-old Omar in his all-over flying dragon jammies. They lie on the floor, head-to-head, as the nursery spins.

“My goatlings.”

Mia puckers up at the sight of Jasmin. Omar’s eyes fill with reproach. Days and days of their mother’s absence. She drops to her knees, throws her arms wide. The children yank out of their moment, soar within reach, fall into her breast.

. . . Pause.

Pause for a moment because that’s not the beginning of the story. Rewind, back, back down the stairs. Jasmin tearing backward, down a flight, down another, down, down. Her rush, her thrill ebbing, as she moves away from the nursery, out of the castle with its white walls and white doors, mirrors everywhere. She walks backward along light-splashed lawns and their gardens full of bloodred flowers. She moves, not at a furious pace—just faster than slow. Back, back beyond the Ujamaa monuments of togetherness, sculpted hands of a village holding aloft a naked, black toddler with fat legs and plump cheeks. Back past the courthouse and its long windows, golden drapes in hourglass shapes, bound at the waist by melancholy ribbons. The courthouse splashed with lights from a trail of monster eyes hanging off the ceiling. A dais where the royals sit to give judgment. People go through the entryway peaked with spikes, they never walk out.

Rewind all the way to the egg shuttle—it has no wings—where you enter coordinates into the console and the vessel takes you for an intergalactic ride. The same shuttle that once saw the Neutral Zone, where you gazed at planets like Peridot and Tourmaline and they blinked brighter than jewelry. The shuttle that once lived in the land of Exomoon that had no shortage of xeriscape plants. Its wild blooms, cacti and succulents. Its sky of gargantuan rings by day, tiny moons by night. There, citizens changed color in more spectrum than chameleons.

Same shuttle that airlifts Jasmin to her execution.

Granite enters Jasmin’s stomach as the vessel glides to height, then bullets forward. As the starlit night stretches into the horizon, Jasmin is a prisoner in a silent egg in the sky. She looks down and sees the people of Ujamaa Village in a gather. They gaze up at the egg flickering with incandescent lights as it climbs higher into the skyline with its cargo. Jasmin wonders if, on the face of it, despite the crowd’s helplessness, some question what dies, what lives, and the power of a crowd. She wonders if, one day, a turning point will swing without warning in Mafinga. And when that happens if the same mob—that now stands with limp hands and gazes with bleak eyes at dusk and the egg soaring up the sky toward its scatter of stars—will reach the edge of its stupor, finally tremble and come to life in a murmur that lights to a roar.

[thebooknearme]

I just joined your Discord! What happens when I finish? Am I also supposed to do anything inside those voice channels?

Yes, feel free to discuss it in the tv-shows section. As for your other question, those are completely optional — along with the assignment — because I want you to have fun!

[thebooknearme]

Introducing.. My First Club! Excuse Us, We’re Reading

Have a little something I’ve been keeping secret for a couple of days now.. but, I’m ready to spill — almost! It’s a club, and that’s all I’m gonna reveal for now 😊 (1/?)

Most of you already know I’ve scoured the internet far too long looking for an online club that met all my interests. Then, I realized that I could have just made my own the entire time. It’ll take work if I’m gonna get there. (2/3)

Still debating on using Twitter, Tumblr, or maybe even Discord? Thoughts below, thanks. (3/3)

Copied and pasted from a recent Twitter thread I posted. Follow me at @excusemir for the latest and greatest information!

DISCORD: https://discord.gg/KwpDej8G

Any more questions? Go to the ask section of this website. Remember, it’s still a relative work-in-progress — I’m only asking of your patience right now. Don’t worry about the assignments! They’re always optional regardless.

However, those interested can start on Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt until March 28th. Like I said before, it’s optional unless you choose to do so. Then, at most you have to be willing to view all episodes before the due date.

More details here: https://anilist.co/anime/8795/Panty--Stocking-with-Garterbelt/

Show is rated TV-MA in the US. Per our policy, “Our Services are not directed to and we do not knowingly collect any data from children under the age of 13, or above.”

You are all welcome to contact me with further questions.

[thebooknearme]

Hi 🙂 I’m interested in participating for your book club. Can you give me more information, like when is it coming out?

That’s it! No more — if you want the second clue, you’re gonna have to stay tuned. One thing for sure, we won’t be just doing books 📚

[thebooknearme]

…

[thebooknearme]

Hi 🙂 I’m interested in participating for your book club. Can you give me more information, like when is it coming out?

That’s it! No more — if you want the second clue, you’re gonna have to stay tuned. One thing for sure, we won’t be just doing books 📚

[thebooknearme]

You Season 3 poses a Concern for the Series’ Future

“I thought it was going somewhere. Turns out it was going nowhere.”

An internal scream in my head after exiting Netflix.

Where You is going with Season 3’s ending, I can’t help but think: Season 4 is, probably, fucked. Joe has already killed Love and moved on to Paris.. Paris and bigger things. Still trying to play his cards with Marienne, I see.

Because of the show’s constant inconsistency with the plot and no humanization within the characters, I’m afraid that Season 4 will be the series’ finale. Don’t take my judgment wrong though. I’m not the hugest fan of You, alas, I do love the show. The same reasons I love monster movies, or any other bad high-action blockbuster, they’re addictive.

You has flaws, while we’re being honest, it’s not completely original either. Joe is a stalker, who in Season 1, we see a lot of social media “digging” being dealt with. This same idea is in multiple shows and movies. Season 2 had the parts of that “social media thriller” vibe, only less. Season 3? Barely = none. That’s disappointing.

What Season 1 of You attracts is the undeniable charm to root for the villain, Joe. It’s not when watching Season 3, you can already tell I have an unlikeness for the man. That’s problem #84 to the billions of issues included.

However, for blood and gut fans, it’s an enjoyment to watch. You like the shit, even when it’s not the shit. So when Season 2 ended with a bang, you can bet your biscuits — I was excited for Season 3. AHEM! Love. Is. Exactly. Like. Joe. In all the ways of abandonment and mommy/daddy issues. See, folks? That’s how you make a story! You was more interesting, and gave way for potential.

Potential lost soon.

Season 3 starts off quick. Quick as in good. Having (newer) bigger hopes, I adored the parts wherein Joe and Love pulled into couples’ therapy and the whole Love + Theo dynamic. The two fool you by the first episodes that it might actually work. They’ll change, hey, and live cleaner* lives from having a baby.

It’s only then you remember that both are too emotionally unstable to be in any relationship (much less start a fam) and are ruthless killers who won’t stop until they’ve had their ways. *sighs*

I wonder why the writers don’t try to fix this..

Do they know that this can be fixed? The endless hole it’s going into now.. Well, the more you don’t conclude these characters, the more we stop rooting for them. Halfway through, I was tired. I am a You fan here! What. Is. Going. On. Simply put, folks — This is going into the loop you predicted after finishing Season 1, but were scared to admit, because *ahh* you were reckless then.

Season 1 was a peephole into what viewers would, should, expect from the show. Obviously, every season is going to be different. The very least, make it consistent, even if the story’s not.

Three stars. Most of you who follow my podcast know that’s usually a rating for “decent” flicks. The failures weren’t enough to bump it a 3 and a half. I could not with this season. We’ve reached characters with no development over and over. Maybe it’s the parenting technique, who knows? Whatever it is, the story has successfully gotten me to hate the main characters, if not, gotten me bored, which is a problem the writers already had/need to work on ASAP.

Seriously, I don’t want this show to end. I know there are others out there who’d 100% agree!!! You is a mess, I said earlier— But, your mess. To say I wasn’t satisfied with Season 3, brings no progress for Season 4 to be better. If all goes wrong, at least I can say I was there for the guts..

Check out the official episode of my review: https://anchor.fm/wssexclamationpoint

Shoutout to Variety! Finishing You Season 3 an hour ago, I have (finally) reached my thoughts.. Thanks to the inspiration: https://variety.com/2021/tv/reviews/you-season-3-netflix-review-penn-badgley-1235089127/ Reading it helped me process 😂

*You know, it wasn’t so clean.

[thebooknearme]

I Finished Titanic, is it the Greatest Movie of All Time?

Earning many awards + a total of $2.2 billion in the Box Office (being one of my mom’s favorite movies too), you can tell I couldn’t miss out on Netflix’s soon-to-be-gone flick. Like, seriously? It’s gone by 1 AM..

Anyhoo, away with that mess. Let’s talk about Titanic.

I know I’m not the best, nor a professional, film critic, but I will say it here: I am going to tackle a review of Titanic. Aka, I am going to review Titanic.

Boy, am I scared.

Titanic is one of those pieces that you either love it or you hate it. And if you never watched it, you probably missed out on a crucial part of your 90’s or you weren’t even born then. Whatever more, you’re missing out.

To say Titanic is the best of the best, would have to be thoroughly debated by several groups. 3 hours and something is quite long for a story that could be summed up in less than 2 hours. But, goddammit, this movie was a ride!

I can clearly see how Titanic gave Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet their breakout roles. As well as how this is considered a “beloved classic” by my mother.

The acting, the set, the music — Not to mention, most importantly, the romance, the disaster, the story within. Titanic reached many demographics, no kidding!

For those of you asking, no, I didn’t shed a tear. I almost did, if not for the multiple breaks I took (that’s a disadvantage in watching from home).

Now, I’m going to leave this review as quick as I can, being the noobie critic.. Is it the greatest of all time? It wasn’t a part of my childhood, so my answer will, of course, differ from others. Is it a great movie though? I’d like to say so. The directing is incredibly well done, to make an enjoyable cinema experience. I wasn’t bored once!

I’m leaning on 4 stars, maybe even, 4 and a half for this one 😉

[thebooknearme]

Don’t Look Up, it’s Hard to be Completely Unbiased to Review

“How can we make 2021 even worse than it is?” Qoute by OBig Boy (not a joke) in Google Reviews of Don’t Look Up.

I will not lie, this movie is probably harder to critique than Titanic. With two sides of the coin standing by “leftist propaganda” or an “important message to humankind”, Don’t Look Up gives us lot to unpack. The flick itself is no more redeemable from any other disaster show in theatres.

The ending, predicted, is a bad one. Nothing gets solved, because no one was willing to listen to the astrologists who discovered the very comet. Now, take apart all of those fancy adjectives.. This movie is not far different. Although, I personally would not rate it one star, it’s not deserving of a 3 either.

The plot does get depressing fast, hell, the whole story does. I couldn’t take the stress included with any character crying.

Like, we get it.

The three are repeatedly trying to save the planet, and no goddamn government is listening. And also, pop-stars and their breakups somehow (?!)connect us as a whole. The desperate, sad even, reality of it all makes sense — This is the world we’re living in right now. This situation is not impossible to happen one day.

But, why? Why make a movie that’s less of a calling to stop climate change, instead, more of a long, tired sigh? I’m not trying to be biased here, alas, coming from both sides. This movie just has to suck.

It does.

I didn’t learn much that I didn’t already know. This could be a documentary for those “motherfuckers!!!” out there.. Who aren’t “woke” enough. It wouldn’t change a bit of what’s actually going on. Side characters that were never fully explored upon until the end. Two, or more like one, main character that no one really gave a shit about. Politicians, rich CEOs predicting how “boring” Mindy’s death was gonna be, and a fucking dinosaur ending.

Not to mention, the continuous crying and moaning (wait, i mentioned that).

1 and a half star. $75 million dollars put into the budget and an all celebrity cast can’t save such a wreck of a dump-fire this was.

[thebooknearme]

Reading Books has Always been a Journey

From the past 3 years, or maybe forever, let’s say: Reading has been an on and off passion for me. There are times like now, where I can’t stand to have a book in my hands without getting distracted.

Life is difficult.

Reading and paying attention, in a world that denies that very action, is sodifficult. If you’ve ever heard an avid bookworm say they’ve never struggled with “opening a book”, they’ve either got some great reads on or they’re lying. Because no way, buddy.. I have been reading since I could learn to read.

Only I found as I grow older, the more I lose interest in endless words. The technology is advancing around us, there are too many things to do than, ha — Reading a silly book. It would be pointless, right?

That’s a problem, no kidding. If I could go back to the days where reading was my favorite past-time, sitting alone at lunch tables in school, and getting lost in a book: I definitly would, okay? (besides the sitting alone)

There’s nothing more than that feeling being lost, missing..

But, things have changed. Nobody can say or pretend they haven’t. I lost my love for reading multiple times. For instance, I’m into watching Netflix shit nowadays, instead of turning pages.

All I can conclude is this: Whatever you’re doing or into, make sure it’s worth your time. Practice those skills you lost, from the pandemic or something elsewhere.

Don’t be scared to try again.

I would be fucking with you guys, alright? If I said I got back to loving the words after a week. It takes time, hard work, to get there. You just need a push. Hopefully, this one was it for you.

Anyways, ciao. I gotta get reading again. Best of luck :)