Wednesday, March 31, 2021

March Mystery Madness Update 8

So I read my next book for March Mystery Madness, and it was Murder at Sunrise Lake which was for the prompt Number, and I'll be reading Titan Song next! Well I know I'll be reading Titan Song late, but oh, well! I want to finish out all the promtps!

My Reading Journey:

The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson 
Prompt Fulfilled: Place
Started On: March 9th
Finished On: March 9th, 9:19 PM
Pages Read: 400

Her Dark Lies by J.T. Ellison
Prompt Fulfilled: Free Space
Started On: March 20th
Finished On: March 20th, 3:36 PM 
Pages Read: 400

Layla by Colleen Hoover
Prompt Fulfilled: Person
Started On: March 21st
Finished On: March 21st, 4:14 PM
Pages Read: 301

A Wicked Conceit by Anna Lee Huber
Prompt Fulfilled: Weather
Started On: March 21st
Finished On: March 21st, 9:44 PM
Pages Read: 384

Dead Space by Kali Wallace
Prompt Fulfilled: Space
Started On: March 22nd
Finished On: March 22nd, 8:01 PM
Pages Read: 336

A Good Day for Chardonnay by Darynda Jones 
Prompt Fulfilled: Time
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 29th, 12:48 AM
Pages Read: 416

Dead Girl Running by Christina Dodd
Prompt Fulfilled: Single
Started On: March 29th
Finished On: March 29th, 10:21 PM
Pages Read: 384

Murder at Sunrise Lake by Christine Feehan
Prompt Fulfilled: Number
Started On: March 31st
Finished On: March 31st, 10:46 PM 
Pages Read: 432

Titan Song by Dan Stout
Prompt Fulfilled: Color
Started On: April 1st
Currently On: Page 0 of 384

Prompts Left: None!
Read: 8
Pages Read: 3053

Waiting on Wednesday #516, March 31st

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating!

The Warlord by Gena Showalter
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter begins a dark, sexy new series - Rise of the Warlords - with a fan-favourite character from her beloved Lords of the Underworld series, Taliyah Skyhawk. The ice maiden faces off with her greatest enemy, a villain brutal beyond imagining.

For centuries, Taliyah Skyhawk has prepared to become Harpy General, leader of the deadliest female army in existence. One of the requirements? Remain a virgin. But, for a chance to save her people, she must wed the fearless leader of the Astra Planeta, Alaroc Phaethon.

The time has come for Roc to sacrifice another virgin bride to his god. There has never been a woman alluring enough to tempt him from his path. No warrioress powerful enough to overcome his incredible strength. No enchantress desirable enough to make him burn beyond reason. Until now.

With the clock ticking, war between husband and wife ignites. Except Taliyah never expected the merciless king to challenge the future she once envisioned. She certainly never anticipated the thrill of their battles turning into games... The problem is, only one spouse can survive.

Love is a battlefield in Showalter's The Warlord.

The Crown of Gilded Bones by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout comes book three in her Blood and Ash series…

She's been the victim and the survivor…

Poppy never dreamed she would find the love she’s found with Prince Casteel. She wants to revel in her happiness but first they must free his brother and find hers. It’s a dangerous mission and one with far-reaching consequences neither dreamed of. Because Poppy is the Chosen, the Blessed. The true ruler of Atlantia. She carries the blood of the King of Gods within her. By right the crown and the kingdom are hers.

The enemy and the warrior…

Poppy has only ever wanted to control her own life, not the lives of others, but now she must choose to either forsake her birthright or seize the gilded crown and become the Queen of Flesh and Fire. But as the kingdoms’ dark sins and blood-drenched secrets finally unravel, a long-forgotten power rises to pose a genuine threat. And they will stop at nothing to ensure that the crown never sits upon Poppy’s head.

A lover and heartmate…

But the greatest threat to them and to Atlantia is what awaits in the far west, where the Queen of Blood and Ash has her own plans, ones she has waited hundreds of years to carry out. Poppy and Casteel must consider the impossible—travel to the Lands of the Gods and wake the King himself. And as shocking secrets and the harshest betrayals come to light, and enemies emerge to threaten everything Poppy and Casteel have fought for, they will discover just how far they are willing to go for their people—and each other.

And now she will become Queen… 

Dustborn by Erin Bowman
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
Delta of Dead River sets out to rescue her family from a ruthless dictator rising to power in the Wastes and discovers a secret that will reshape her world in this postapocalyptic Western mashup for fans of Mad Max and Gunslinger Girl.

Delta of Dead River has always been told to hide her back, where a map is branded on her skin to a rumored paradise called the Verdant. In a wasteland plagued by dust squalls, geomagnetic storms, and solar flares, many would kill for it—even if no one can read it. So when raiders sent by a man known as the General attack her village, Delta suspects he is searching for her. 

Delta sets out to rescue her family but quickly learns that in the Wastes no one can be trusted—perhaps not even her childhood friend, Asher, who has been missing for nearly a decade. If Delta can trust Asher, she just might decode the map and trade evidence of the Verdant to the General for her family. What Delta doesn’t count on is what waits at the Verdant: a long-forgotten secret that will shake the foundation of her entire world.
 
Witches Steeped in Gold by Ciannon Smsart
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
This Jamaican-inspired fantasy debut about two enemy witches who must enter into a deadly alliance to take down a common enemy has the twisted cat-and-mouse of Killing Eve with the richly imagined fantasy world of Furyborn and Ember in the Ashes.

Divided by their order. United by their vengeance.

Iraya has spent her life in a cell, but every day brings her closer to freedom—and vengeance.

Jazmyne is the Queen’s daughter, but unlike her sister before her, she has no intention of dying to strengthen her mother’s power.

Sworn enemies, these two witches enter a precarious alliance to take down a mutual threat. But power is intoxicating, revenge is a bloody pursuit, and nothing is certain—except the lengths they will go to win this game.

Loved Unveiled by J.R. Ward
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
The #1 New York Times bestselling Black Dagger Brotherhood series returns with Sahvage, a powerful MMA fighter with a buried secret that can change the world of Caldwell forever.

 
Kate in Waiting by Becky Albertalli
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
Contrary to popular belief, best friends Kate Garfield and Anderson Walker are not codependent. Carpooling to and from theater rehearsals? Environmentally sound and efficient. Consulting each other on every single life decision? Basic good judgment. Pining for the same guys from afar? Shared crushes are more fun anyway.

But when Kate and Andy’s latest long-distance crush shows up at their school, everything goes off script. Matt Olsson is talented and sweet, and Kate likes him. She really likes him. The only problem? So does Anderson.

Turns out, communal crushes aren’t so fun when real feelings are involved. This one might even bring the curtains down on Kate and Anderson’s friendship.

 
Where Secrets Lie by Eva V. Gibson
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
Told in two interwoven timelines—the summer when everything changed, and the summer that changes everything—Where Secrets Lie is a seductive thriller as dark as it is enthralling.

Amy Larsen has spent every summer with her cousin Ben and their best friend Teddy in River Run, Kentucky, loving country life and welcoming the break from her intensive ambitions and overbearing mother—until the summer she and Teddy confront the changing feelings and simmering sexual tension growing between them, destroying the threesome's friendship in a dramatic face-off.

One year later, Amy returns to River Run dreading what she might find. But when Teddy's sister disappears, Amy, Ben and Teddy agree to put aside their differences to search for her. As they dig deeper into the dark history of their small town, all three friends must unearth the truths that tie their families to tragedy, cope with their own toxic upbringings and beliefs, and atone for the damage done to each other and themselves. 

These Feathered Flames by Alexandra Overy
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
A queer retelling of “The Firebird,” a Russian folktale

When twin heirs are born in Tourin, their fates are decided at a young age. While Izaveta remained at court to learn the skills she’d need as the future queen, Asya was taken away to train with her aunt, the mysterious Firebird, who ensured magic remained balanced in the realm.

But before Asya’s training is completed, the ancient power blooms inside her, which can mean only one thing: the queen is dead, and a new ruler must be crowned.

As the princesses come to understand everything their roles entail, they’ll discover who they can trust, who they can love—and who killed their mother. 
 
In Deeper Waters by F.T. Lukens
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
A young prince must rely on a mysterious stranger to save him when he is kidnapped during his coming-of-age tour in this swoony adventure that is The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue meets Pirates of the Caribbean.

Prince Tal has long awaited his coming-of-age tour. After spending most of his life cloistered behind palace walls as he learns to keep his forbidden magic secret, he can finally see his family’s kingdom for the first time. His first taste of adventure comes just two days into the journey, when their crew discovers a mysterious prisoner on a burning derelict vessel.

Tasked with watching over the prisoner, Tal is surprised to feel an intense connection with the roguish Athlen. So when Athlen leaps overboard and disappears, Tal feels responsible and heartbroken, knowing Athlen could not have survived in the open ocean.

That is, until Tal runs into Athlen days later on dry land, very much alive, and as charming—and secretive—as ever. But before they can pursue anything further, Tal is kidnapped by pirates and held ransom in a plot to reveal his rumored powers and instigate a war. Tal must escape if he hopes to save his family and the kingdom. And Athlen might just be his only hope…

The Key to You and Me by Jaye Robin Brown
Expected Publication: April 20th, 2021
From Goodreads:
A sweet and funny #ownvoices LGBTQ+ romance perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Julie Murphy, from the critically acclaimed author of Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit!

Piper Kitts is spending the summer living with her grandmother, training at the barn of a former Olympic horseback rider, and trying to get over her ex-girlfriend. Much to Piper’s dismay, her grandmother is making her face her fear of driving head-on by taking lessons from a girl in town.

Kat Pearson has always suspected that she likes girls but fears her North Carolina town is too small to color outside the lines. But when Piper’s grandmother hires Kat to give her driving lessons, everything changes.

Piper’s not sure if she’s ready to let go of her ex. Kat’s navigating uncharted territory with her new crush. With the summer running out, will they be able to unlock a future together? 

Yeah,, there's some more amazing books coming out in on April 20th that I'm so excited for! Can't wait for these books! What about you guys? Happy reading! 

WWW Wednesday #520, March 31st

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?
• What did you recently finish reading?
• What do you think you'll read next?

Thanks to MizB of Should Be Writing now A Daily Rhythm for starting this meme! And thanks now to Taking on a World of Words for reviving it! 

I'm currently reading The Diabolic, and I'm really enjoying it again!
I read Last Guard, and it was really fantastic, and a wonderful sequel! 
I'm going to be reading Murder at Sunrise Lake, and I can't wait, it sounds really thrilling!

What about you guys? Happy reading!

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

Book Battle April 2021 TBR

 Well it's time to choose my April TBR for Book Battle. So here are the books that I've picked this month: 
5pts-Book about preservation - A Danger to Herself and Others by Alyssa Sheinmel
5pts-Survival book - The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau
5pts-Book about being caged - Winter by Marissa Meyer
5pts-Animal in the title - Gilded Serpent by Danielle L. Jensen
5pts-Book with wildlife in it - Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, Maureen Johnson, and Robin Wasserman
5pts-Exotic book - The Bane Chronicles by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, and Maureen Johnson 
5pts-CRITERIA CHOICE 1 - Book that starts with D - Dustborn by Erin Bowman 
5pts-CRITERIA CHOICE 2 - Shape shifter book - The Empress Remarried by Alphatart 16-20
10pts-CLUB READ 1 - The Empress Remarried by Alphatart 1-5
10pts-CLUB READ 2 - The Empress Remarried by Alphatart 6-10
10pts-Character that has a "pet name" - Unchosen by Kathayrn Blair
10pts-Animal POV - My Contrary Mary by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows 
10pts-Set in a temporate biome - The Empress Remarried by Alphatart 11-15
15pts-Animalistic personality - Cress by Marissa Meyer
20pts-Book about your team - The Merciful Crow by Margaret Owen

How did I do last month?
5pts-Witch main character - Million Dollar Demon by by Kim Harrison - Read! 
5pts-Book about the elements - Chill Factor by Rachel Caine - Read! 
5pts-Book with a change in it - The Segonian by Dianne Duvall - Read! 
5pts-Set in a different country - The Cabin by Natasha Preston - Read! 
5pts-CRITERIA CHOICE 1 - ARC - The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson - Read! 
5pts-CRITERIA CHOICE 2 - Book that starts with C - Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare - Read!  
10pts-CLUB READ 1 - A River of Royal Blood by Amanda Joy - Read! 
10pts-CLUB READ 2 - A ​Queen of Gilded Horns by Amanda Joy - Read! 
10pts-Astrology book - Zodiac by Romina Russell - Read!
15pts-Book about tarot - The Diviners by Libba Bray - Read! 
20pts-Book about your team - The Lovers - Meant to Be Immortal by Lynsay Sands - Read! 

Well, I didn't put it off as badly as I did last time, but it did come down to the wire there! And yeah, can't wait for next month!  What about you guys? Happy reading! 

We Have the Cover of The Aurora Cycle #3!!!!

Yeah, we have the cover of (and title of) Aurora Burning by Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman! And it's pretty fantastic!

Teaser Tuesday #520, March 30th

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by Ambrosia of The Purple Booker. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
  • Grab your current read
  • Open to a random page
  • Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away! You don't want to ruin the book for others!)
  • Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
Today's teaser comes from Scarlet by Marissa Meyer, page 14.

"After a hesitant moment, he released his drinking glass and picked up the two slabs of tomato and shoved them into his mouth. His expression froze mid-chew."

Well that's unconventional! Must read more! What about you guys? Happy reading!

Monday, March 29, 2021

March Mystery Madness Update 7

So I read my next book for March Mystery Madness, and it was Dead Girl Running which was for the prompt Single, and I'll be reading Murder at Sunrise Lake next! 

My Reading Journey:

The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson 
Prompt Fulfilled: Place
Started On: March 9th
Finished On: March 9th, 9:19 PM
Pages Read: 400

Her Dark Lies by J.T. Ellison
Prompt Fulfilled: Free Space
Started On: March 20th
Finished On: March 20th, 3:36 PM 
Pages Read: 400

Layla by Colleen Hoover
Prompt Fulfilled: Person
Started On: March 21st
Finished On: March 21st, 4:14 PM
Pages Read: 301

A Wicked Conceit by Anna Lee Huber
Prompt Fulfilled: Weather
Started On: March 21st
Finished On: March 21st, 9:44 PM
Pages Read: 384

Dead Space by Kali Wallace
Prompt Fulfilled: Space
Started On: March 22nd
Finished On: March 22nd, 8:01 PM
Pages Read: 336

A Good Day for Chardonnay by Darynda Jones 
Prompt Fulfilled: Time
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 29th, 12:48 AM
Pages Read: 416

Dead Girl Running by Christina Dodd
Prompt Fulfilled: Single
Started On: March 29th
Finished On: March 29th, 10:21 PM
Pages Read: 384

Murder at Sunrise Lake by Christine Feehan
Prompt Fulfilled: Number
Started On: March 30th
Currently On: Page 0 of 432

Prompts Left: Color
Read: 7
Pages Read: 2621

TBR Trail March Update 5 and Wrap Up

So I read my final book from TBR Trail, Black River Falls, for the prompt STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 2, and yeah, I'm pretty happy. I did read a book for all prompts, though I wish I'd read the last book for the one prompt, but I read 2 of them, so yeah! And it did come right down to the wire! But I'm glad for all the books that I read!

Reading Journey:

Dark One, Volume 1 by Brandon Sanderson, Jackson Lanzing, Collin Kelly, Nathan C. Gooden, Kurt Michael Russell
Prompt Fulfilled: Free Choice - Read a format rarely used
Started On: March 16th
Finished On: March 16th
Pages Read: 224

Dead Space by Kali Wallace
Prompt Fulfilled: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 3
Started On: March 22nd
Finished On: March  22nd, 10:01 PM
Pages Read: 336

Amid the Crowd of Stars by Stephen Leigh
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 28th, 5:16 PM
Pages Read: 352 

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins
Prompt Fulfilled: 2021 TBR - Read a Book Set in a Country Different to Your Own
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 28th, 9:30 PM
Pages Read: 339

Black River Falls by Jeff Hirsch
Prompt Fulfilled: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 2
Started On: March 29th
Finished On: March 29th, 8:49 PM
Pages Read: 328

Prompts Left: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 1?
Read: 5
Pages Read: 1669

It's Monday! What Are You Reading #512, March 29th

It's Monday! What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Date where we share what we read this past week, what we hope to read this week...and anything in between! This is a great way to plan out your reading week and see what others are currently reading as well...you never know where that next "must read" book will come from!

What happened in the past week:

Weekly Memes:
It's Monday! What Are You Reading #511
Teaser Tuesday #519
WWW Wednesday #519
WOW #515
Will the Time Come #512
Third Sentence Thursday #502
Random Reads #488
First Lines Friday #515
Book Blogger Hop #181

TBR Trail March: 

March Mystery Madness: 

Random:

OK, so I got 29 posts in 7 days, so it was a pretty good week, I read some really fantastic books! What about you guys? Happy reading!

So this week I want to read whatever I feel like from my TBR, because the month is quickly coming to a close! 

Sunday, March 28, 2021

Dan Stout Author Page

The Story: I saw Titanshade on NetGalley, and it sounded really fantastic, and it was, and I've gotten the rest of the series so far, and I can't wait to continue it! 

Website 

Series: The Carter Archives

TBR Trail March Update 4

So I read my next book from TBR Trail, Isla and the Happily Ever After, for the prompt 2021 TBR - Read a Book Set in a Country Different to Your Own, and I'll be reading Black River Falls next!

Reading Journey:

Dark One, Volume 1 by Brandon Sanderson, Jackson Lanzing, Collin Kelly, Nathan C. Gooden, Kurt Michael Russell
Prompt Fulfilled: Free Choice - Read a format rarely used
Started On: March 16th
Finished On: March 16th
Pages Read: 224

Dead Space by Kali Wallace
Prompt Fulfilled: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 3
Started On: March 22nd
Finished On: March  22nd, 10:01 PM
Pages Read: 336

Amid the Crowd of Stars by Stephen Leigh
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 28th, 5:16 PM
Pages Read: 352 

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins
Prompt Fulfilled: 2021 TBR - Read a Book Set in a Country Different to Your Own
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 28th, 9:30 PM
Pages Read: 339

Black River Falls by Jeff Hirsch
Prompt Fulfilled: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 2
Started On: March 29th
Currently On: Page 0 of 328

Prompts Left: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 1?
Read: 4
Pages Read: 1341



TBR Trail March Update 3

So I read my next book from TBR Trail, Amid the Crowd of Stars, for the prompt Fiction/Free Choice - Read a book with red on the cover, and I'll be reading Isla and the Happily Ever After next!

Reading Journey:

Dark One, Volume 1 by Brandon Sanderson, Jackson Lanzing, Collin Kelly, Nathan C. Gooden, Kurt Michael Russell
Prompt Fulfilled: Free Choice - Read a format rarely used
Started On: March 16th
Finished On: March 16th
Pages Read: 224

Dead Space by Kali Wallace
Prompt Fulfilled: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 3
Started On: March 22nd
Finished On: March  22nd, 10:01 PM
Pages Read: 336

Amid the Crowd of Stars by Stephen Leigh
Prompt Fulfilled: Fiction/Free Choice - Read a book with red on the cover
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 28th, 5:16 PM
Pages Read: 352 

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins
Prompt Fulfilled: 2021 TBR - Read a Book Set in a Country Different to Your Own
Started On: March 28th
Currently On: Page 0 of 339

Prompts Left: STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 1?, STEM - Read a book with green on the cover, Book 2?
Read: 3
Pages Read: 902



Wrote that Review Update #346, March 28th

Create your own banner at mybannermaker.com!
If you want to participate, set a certain amount of reviews to write, and once you make that goal, you can get a reward!

My reviews to reward is writing all of the reviews of the week, and I motivated myself to write my review for Her Dark Lies, Chill Factor, Tattoo, Layla, A Wicked Conceit, Dead Space, Zodiac, A River of Royal Blood and A Queen of Gilded Horns, Cast in Conflict , so I have 9 of 9 reviews written!

And as always, I want to review this week's reviews!

What about you guys? Happy reading!

How Well I Stuck to It #349, March 28th

So I decided that I should have accountability on sticking to what should be in a week, so I'm doing How Well I Stuck to It every Sunday, because my schedule should be fixed in by now!

Week 13:
Nothing Planned! 

A free week, so I can read whatever I want, which I need with so many books to read before the end of the month! 

Week 12:
Nothing Planned! 

vs.

Her Dark Lies by J.T. Ellison, Chill Factor by Rachel Caine, Tattoo by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Layla by Colleen Hoover, A Wicked Conceit by Anna Lee Huber, Dead Space by Kali Wallace, Zodiac by Romina Russell, A River of Royal Blood by Amanda Joy, A Queen of Gilded Horns by Amanda Joy, Cast in Conflict by Michelle Sagara

Yeah, this was another free week, so I could read whatever I wanted, and I did, and I'm glad for what I read, and I can't wait for this next week! What about you guys? Happy reading!

Wheel of TBR #44, March 28th

I saw Codie's Book Corner doing the Wheel of TBR, and I thought that sounded like a great way to pick what to read from your TBR. So thanks to her! I'll only do 3 spins, because I'm doing this every week, and so it won't make up my total TBR of the week, but it'll be a start!

Rules:
1. On the first week of the month, I'll do 12 spins, for books that I'll have all month to read. For each week for the rest of the month, I'll do 3 spins each week to read each week though I do have the rest of the month to read them. Once a prompt is used, I'll randomly choose one from the list, keeping track of how often a colour comes up. If colour comes up 4 or more times in a month, I'll do another spin once it comes up 4 times.
2. If I don't read a book that week or at least start it, then for my next week of spins, I have to add a punishment for each book unread. I'll roll for each unread book, and have to apply each and every punishment chosen to the week.
3. On the other hand, for reward, if I go 4 weeks in a row making my TBR, then I have one opportunity  to have a grace on a book-if I haven't read it in the week or month I was supposed to, than I don't have to read it (though I'll still try and read it shortly thereafter). The reward can work for only one book. Which would prevent me from getting a punishment, but it takes 4 weeks to get a reward, so I'm fine with that. It evens out for me!

Of the books from the last week, I read A Wicked Conceit by Anna Lee Huber, Zodiac by Romina Russell, A Good Day for Chardonnay by Darynda Jones, and I started Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins. 

I'm doing things a little differently. One of prompts below, well, I couldn't wait to read it, so I already did. So I'm going to swap it with a book of similar length, so I have next month to read one this month's monthly roll to read next month. And that's Kingdom of Shadow and Light by Karen Marie Moning. But I'm also going to swap one of the below books for Tears of Frost by Bree Barton. 

Of the books from the monthly roll, I read the book I swapped, so I have The Diabolic by S.J. Kincaid, Havenfall by Sara Holland, Black River Falls by Jeff Hirsch, Scarlet by Marissa Meyer, left.

Of the books from my 1 month save, I didn't read any, and it's getting close, though I'm going to be reading as much of these as I can in the end of this month, so I have The Chaos of Standing Still by Jessica Brody, Dead Girl Running by Christina Dodd, Here So Far Away by Hadley Dyer, One Perfect Summer by Brenda Novak, left.

For the rewards, and I have 3(+2?)/4 needed for the next reward, so I have 4 rewards saved up.

Prompts Used This Week:
DAC Book, Most Anticipated, Restart the Series, Word, 2021 Purchase, #Bookstagram, ARC To Be Published, Steal a Book, Mood Read, Louisa Pick, Book Battle, Page Count, Physical Book. 

DAC Book-Orange-The Once and Future Queen by Clara O'Connor-This is the first book by this author, so it works! 

Most Anticipated-Spring Green-The Crown of Gilded Bones by Jennifer L. Armentrout-Of all the books coming out in April that I know about and want to read, this is the one I most want to read that I haven't yet! And I know it'd doesn't come out until April 20th, but I can wait!

Restart the Series-Azure-Soulbound by Z Brewer-I read this book around the time it came out. Book 2 only recently came out, so I need to reread the first book, so I'm restarting this series! 

Word-Yellow-Push-Pushing Perfect by Michelle Falkoff-This has the word in the title, so it works! 

2021 Purchase-Orange-Zenith by Lindsay Cummings and Sasha Alsberg-I bought this book this year, so it works! 

#Bookstagram-Violet-Cress by Marissa Meyer-The user betterwithabookinmyhand, posted about this book here!

ARC To Be Published-Orange-Murder at Sunrise Lake by Christine Feehan-This book comes out in June, so it's going to be published at the time of this post going live! And it's the one I'm swapping with Tears of Frost by Bree Barton. Yeah. I know, I'm making all sorts of outlandish choices! 

Steal a Book-Cyan-Reign the Earth by A.C. Gaughen-Melanie from Completely Melanie, had this book in her Have I Read It for April, so I'm stealing it! Might switch this out since most April TBR's haven't gone out yet, but right now, this is one I'd love to read!

Mood Read-Blue-This'll be whatever I want to read this month! 

Louisa Pick-Orange-Cast in Conflict by Michelle Sagara-I really, really want to read this book. Which is why I already have, and it's the one that I'm swapping with Kingdom of Shadow and Light by Karen Marie Moning. 

Book Battle-Magenta-TBD! The Merciful Crow by Margaret Owen-This book is on my Book Battle TBR (and is the one with the most points) so I'm adding it to this TBR! 

Page Count-Green-395-Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski-This book is 398 pages long, so it works! 

Bonus Spin for Orange-Physical Book-Red-TBD! I hope to pick a book that also works with Book Battle here, so I'll update once that happens! The Bane Chronicles by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, and Maureen Johnson-I have a paperback copy of this book, so it works! 

Colour Totals:
Red: 1
Orange: 4
Yellow: 1
Chartreuse: 0
Green: 1 
Spring Green: 1
Cyan: 1 
Azure: 1
Blue: 0
Violet: 1
Magneta: 1 
Rose: 0

Prompts for Next Week:
Coin Toss-Red
Month-Orange
ARC-Edelweiss-Yellow
Stand Alone-Chartreuse
Blurbed-Green
Author As Last Read-Spring Green
TBR Cart-Cyan
Book to Read in 2021-Azure
End the Series-Blue
More Than 1000 Ratings-Violet
Year-Magenta
Goodreads Update Feed-Rose 

So those are some of the books I'm going to try to read this week. What about you guys? Happy reading!

The Reward Challenge Update #497, March 28th

The Reward Challenge is almost the complete opposite to a book buying ban as you'll end up buying lots of new books throughout the challenge but only after you've completed a certain amount of reading. It was hosted by Good Golly Miss Holly, so thanks to her for starting it!

OK, so I read Her Dark Lies which counts 4 times as a Edelweiss Book, SAC 2021 Book and a WoW Book, Chill Factor which counts twice as a Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book, Tattoo which counts 4 times as a Physical Book to Read in 2021, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WTC Book,
Layla which counts twice as a SAC 2021 Book, A Wicked Conceit which counts 5 times as a Historical Fiction 2021 Book, NetGalley Book, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WoW Book, Dead Space which counts 4 times as a Edelweiss Book, SAC 2021 Book and a WoW Book, Zodiac which counts 4 times as a 2021 Dystopia Book, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WoW Book, A River of Royal Blood which counts 3 times as a DAC Book and a Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book, Cast in Conflict which counts 4 times as a Edelweiss Book, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WoW Book, A Queen of Gilded Horns which counts 4 times as a End of Series 2021 Book, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book, and a Sophomore Challenge Book.

So I have 36 counts which translates to $18 this week! I'll use it to buy books!

March Mystery Madness Update 6

So I read my next book for March Mystery Madness, and it was A Good Day for Chardonnay which was for the prompt Time, and I'll be reading Dead Girl Running next! 

My Reading Journey:

The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson 
Prompt Fulfilled: Place
Started On: March 9th
Finished On: March 9th, 9:19 PM
Pages Read: 400

Her Dark Lies by J.T. Ellison
Prompt Fulfilled: Free Space
Started On: March 20th
Finished On: March 20th, 3:36 PM 
Pages Read: 400

Layla by Colleen Hoover
Prompt Fulfilled: Person
Started On: March 21st
Finished On: March 21st, 4:14 PM
Pages Read: 301

A Wicked Conceit by Anna Lee Huber
Prompt Fulfilled: Weather
Started On: March 21st
Finished On: March 21st, 9:44 PM
Pages Read: 384

Dead Space by Kali Wallace
Prompt Fulfilled: Space
Started On: March 22nd
Finished On: March 22nd, 8:01 PM
Pages Read: 336

A Good Day for Chardonnay by Darynda Jones 
Prompt Fulfilled: Time
Started On: March 28th
Finished On: March 29th, 12:48 AM
Pages Read: 416

Dead Girl Running by Christina Dodd
Prompt Fulfilled: Single
Started On: March 29th
Currently On: Page 0 of 384

Prompts Left: Number, Color
Read: 6
Pages Read: 2237

Saturday, March 27, 2021

Week 12 Review: Cast in Conflict

From Goodreads:
Cast in Conflict is the sixteenth book in the New York Times bestselling Chronicles of Elantra saga, following detective/mage Kaylin Neya as she struggles to protect the city of Elantra from the darkness that is determined to take root.

With the Academia safe, Corporal Kaylin Neya is looking forward to a bit of boring and normal. Clearly she hasn't been paying attention to her life in the past year. Kaylin's dragon friend, Bellusdeo, is intent on claiming the seat in the empty Tower of Candallar in order to secure its power for the continuing war against Shadow. But Bellusdeo isn't the only one who wishes to take the Tower seat, and the other happens to be Sedarias, the leader of the cohort also living with Kaylin. To Sedarias, Bellusdeo is an outsider, a danger, and a rival—and neither side of this rivalry is without power or will. But the Tower might have its own goals...

My Review:
Whenever I see that a Michelle Sagara book is avaible to read (and they seem to be available for review since Cast in Sorrow) then I drop everything to read that book. They're just so freaking amazing, and this book was no different, I loved reading it so much!

I loved this book, which explored the other Towers, and given what happened with the Academia, how that affects them. We got tot learn so much, and it was utterly fantastic! 

A big part of this book was that both Bellusdeo and Sedarias want the empty Tower. And they both have valid reasons for wanting it. So that was a tough place for Kaylin to be, because she's close to both of them, and she lives with both of them. But that the Tower was formerly a dragon, well, that complicates matters!

That ending, oh my, that ending! That was just crazy, just so much going on, and in such dire straits, as well! I just couldn't put it down, it was utterly amazing! What with the dangers coming from heart of Ravellon, things are building, and I can't wait to see where they go from here!

This was another amazing, wonderful book, and I can't wait for the next Sevren book and the next Cast book!

Author: Michelle Sagara 
Series: Chronicles of Elantra #16
Read: March 26th, 2021
Source: Edelweiss
Reason Why: I love her writing and this series, and it's a Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WoW Book! 
Publisher: MIRA
Expected Publication: June 29th 2021

5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars

Week 12 Review: A River of Royal Blood, A Queen of Gilded Horns


An enthralling debut perfect for fans of Children of Blood and Bone set in a North African-inspired fantasy world where two sisters must fight to the death to win the crown.

Sixteen-year-old Eva is a princess, born with the magick of blood and marrow--a dark and terrible magick that hasn't been seen for generations in the vibrant but fractured country of Myre. Its last known practitioner was Queen Raina, who toppled the native khimaer royalty and massacred thousands, including her own sister, eight generations ago, thus beginning the Rival Heir tradition. Living in Raina's long and dark shadow, Eva must now face her older sister, Isa, in a battle to the death if she hopes to ascend to the Ivory Throne--because in the Queendom of Myre only the strongest, most ruthless rulers survive.

When Eva is attacked by an assassin just weeks before the battle with her sister, she discovers there is more to the attempt on her life than meets the eye--and it isn't just her sister who wants to see her dead. As tensions escalate, Eva is forced to turn to a fey instructor of mythic proportions and a mysterious and handsome khimaer prince for help in growing her magick into something to fear. Because despite the love she still has for her sister, Eva will have to choose: Isa's death or her own.

A River of Royal Blood is an enthralling debut set in a lush North African inspired fantasy world that subtly but powerfully challenges our notions of power, history, and identity.

In this sequel to A River of Royal Blood, Eva and Isa must find a way to work together if they want to save their queendom in the thrilling conclusion to this royal fantasy duology.

Now on the run, Eva is desperate for answers about her transformation and her true heritage. Along with Aketo, a small contingent of guards, and the sister she could not kill, Eva flees Ternain in hopes of finding friends and allies to the north--not to mention Baccha--to help her decide what to do next. Princess Isa is a difficult, unremorseful captive, and Eva knows better than to trust her sister, but she wants to. Despite their history, Eva is convinced that to survive the growing unrest in the queendom, she and her sister must make peace. Since the Entwining ceremony, Eva's and Isa's lives have been bonded, and each can only die by the other's hand. This perhaps provides an opening for a truce and a more hopeful future for both the sisters and the queendom, if only Isa would see reason and give up the battle for the throne.

With the two princesses on the run, the Queendom of Myre is on the brink of a revolution. And without Baccha to guide and train her magick, Eva must find a way not only to survive her own metamorphosis, but to unite all the people of Myre, including her sister, by finally taking the Ivory Throne.

My Review:
Well these were two fantastic books! They weren't on my radar, but once I heard of them, once I picked up the first book, well, I couldn't stop! This world was so detailed and wonderful and horrible to these characters, and I needed more!

I loved this world, though there were certain elements that were disturbingly related to how people of colour are treated, with the different races in this world. And there's a bloody history with the monarchy, with the Rival Heir. To have to kill your own sister to get power, it's awful.

Watching Eva's journey progress, learning these truths about herself, learning how to use her magic, it was a really great journey! And it all comes to a head at the end of Royal Blood, and I loved how it turned out! That was really great! 

And then Gilded Horns was even better, because we also got Isa's perspective, and I really enjoyed seeing things from her eyes, and things that we learned from her. It all kept the plot flowing so quickly, and I couldn't put either of them down! Such great reads! 

These were such wonderful reads, and I can't wait to read more by Amanda Joy! 

Author: Amanda Joy
Series: A River of Royal Blood #1, 2
Read: March 25th, 26th, 2021
Source: Ebook.bike
Reason Why: Sounded really good, they're Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Books! And A River of Royal Blood is a DAC Book, and A Queen of Gilded Horns is a End of Series 2021 Book and a Sophomore Challenge Book! 
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
Published: October 1st 2019, March 16th 2021

A River of Royal Blood: 
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars








A Queen of Gilded Horns:
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars

Week 12 Review: Zodiac

From Goodreads:
At the dawn of time, there were 13 Houses in the Zodiac Galaxy. Now only 12 remain….

Rhoma Grace is a 16-year-old student from House Cancer with an unusual way of reading the stars. While her classmates use measurements to make accurate astrological predictions, Rho can't solve for 'x' to save her life—so instead, she looks up at the night sky and makes up stories.

When a violent blast strikes the moons of Cancer, sending its ocean planet off-kilter and killing thousands of citizens—including its beloved Guardian—Rho is more surprised than anyone when she is named the House's new leader. But, a true Cancerian who loves her home fiercely and will protect her people no matter what, Rho accepts.

Then, when more Houses fall victim to freak weather catastrophes, Rho starts seeing a pattern in the stars. She suspects Ophiuchus—the exiled 13th Guardian of Zodiac legend—has returned to exact his revenge across the Galaxy. Now Rho—along with Hysan Dax, a young envoy from House Libra, and Mathias, her guide and a member of her Royal Guard—must travel through the Zodiac to warn the other Guardians.

But who will believe anything this young novice says? Whom can Rho trust in a universe defined by differences? And how can she convince twelve worlds to unite as one Zodiac?

Embark on a dazzling journey with ZODIAC, the first novel in an epic sci-fi-meets-high-fantasy series set in a galaxy inspired by the astrological signs. 

My Review:
Man, this was a fantastic read! This world, where there's different planets and each is a sign in the zodiac, it's such a cool idea! And that Rho was suddenly thrust in a position of power, at such a chaotic time, it's insane, and I had to know how she was going to deal with it.

Rho was a great character to read about, she's a Cancer, and her mom trained her for greatness, but then disaster strikes, she becomes the leader for Cancer-and she discovers the threat of Ophiuchus. So she's got a recovering planet to help-but there's also warning the others that they're in danger.

Watching her journey, with the group of people that come along, to the various other houses of the zodiac, was fantastic. There were definite bumps in the road, of different attitudes, and values, but there were also some wins as well! 

And that ending though? That was just awful, but I knew things couldn't go that right with just the first book in a 4 book series. But oh, that was devastating, and then to come back to some bad news, but some good news as well? Loved it! 

This was an epic read, and I can't wait to read more! 

Author: Romina Russell
Series: Zodiac #1
Read: March 23rd, 2021
Source: Bought
Reason Why: Sounded really good, and it's a 2021 Dystopia Book, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WoW Book!
Publisher: Razerbill
Published: December 9th 2014
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars

Week 12 Review: Dead Space

From Goodreads:
An investigator must solve a brutal murder on a claustrophobic asteroid mine in this tense science fiction thriller from the author of Salvation Day.

Hester Marley used to have a plan for her life. But when a catastrophic attack left her injured, indebted, and stranded far from home, she was forced to take a dead-end security job with a powerful mining company in the asteroid belt. Now she spends her days investigating petty crimes to help her employer maximize its profits. She's surprised to hear from an old friend and fellow victim of the terrorist attack that ruined her life--and that surprise quickly turns to suspicion when he claims to have discovered something shocking about their shared history and the tragedy that neither of them can leave behind.

Before Hester can learn more, her friend is violently murdered at a remote asteroid mine. Hester joins the investigation to find the truth, both about her friend's death and the information he believed he had uncovered. But catching a killer is only the beginning of Hester's worries, and she soon realizes that everything she learns about her friend, his fellow miners, and the outpost they call home brings her closer to revealing secrets that very powerful and very dangerous people would rather keep hidden in the depths of space.

My Review:
Oh, man, this was a fantastic read! I loved this read, this world, and this mystery! It was thrilling and I had such a great time reading it! There were some really thrilling moments, some huge twists, and I loved seeing it all play out! 

Hester has had it rough. Between the attack, and the the subsequent injuries and bills, she's in a tough spot in life, working for a company that is making her work off those bills in a position different from the one she earned. And then she's called by a former coworker, and things really start going down! 

This is basically a locked room mystery in space. There were only 11 people on the mine, so there were limited suspects. But at least this case lets her utilize her A.I. skills, to work with the mine's Overseer, the one that was David's job. So that was great! 

When we got that reveal, wow, was that shocking, but it made utter sense! And so did everything that played out after, and was it oh, so satisfying! There were some really intense scenes, and that was really great. And there were some really clever bits, and I loved that! 

Loved reading this book, and I can't wait for more sci fi from Kali Wallace!

Author: Kali Wallace 
Read: March 22nd, 2021
Source: Edelweiss
Reason Why: Love her writing and it sounded great, and it's a SAC 2021 Book and a WoW Book! 
Publisher: Berkley Books
Published: March 2nd 2021 
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars

Week 12 Review: A Wicked Conceit

From Goodreads:
Soon-to-be new parents Kiera and her husband, Sebastian Gage, have been hoping for a respite from their inquiries, but murder and mayhem have a startling way of dropping into their laps in the all-new historical mystery in this national bestselling series.

Edinburgh, Scotland. March 1832. Kiera and Gage have been eagerly awaiting their bundle of joy, but trouble has been brewing in the form of the roguish criminal, Bonnie Brock Kincaid. A new book and subsequent play features some of Kincaid's daringly heinous exploits, although he swears he had nothing to do with it or the characters which are obvious representations of Kiera and Gage. While the scoundrel's fury seems genuine, as well as his determined quest to uncover the real identity of the author, the Gages still hold doubts about his innocence.

A rash of crimes break out across the city, seemingly inspired by the play and book. When the publisher is found brutally murdered—in an imitation of a gruesome scene—the finger not only points to Bonnie Brock as the possible culprit, but also the Gages, who have been outspoken in their condemnation of the tale. Now, the Gages are on a hunt to unmask the killer. Between the infamy garnered by the play, the cholera outbreak still wreaking havoc throughout the city, and the impending birth of their child, they will need all the resources they can garner.

But family quarrels and the revelation of a secret Kiera has been keeping from Sebastian threaten to undermine everything they have overcome. When they find themselves in the crosshairs of the killer, trapped in the squalid underground vaults of the city, they will soon discover that the truth does not always set you free, and death can lurk around any corner.

My Review:
I had such a great time reading this book! I love this series so much, and now that Kier and Gage are just about to be parents, well, things have definitely changed since the first book, and I've really enjoyed going along on the journey! 

The fact that this case is about Bonnie Brock and the book that was written about him, and the play that was based off of the book-with Kiera and Gage being portrayed, as well, meant that this was a case that they took on, vs. being asked to.

There was a lot going on in this book, from the murder of the publisher of the book, the baby coming soon, and Alana disproving of Kiera's life choices. I really enjoyed how Kiera balanced them all, investigating the case and keeping things up in her personal life! 

One thing that I was interesting to know, was if Gage was going to learn about his half-brother. Kiera is sitting on that secret, and it's a tough place, he's her husband, she wants to tell him, but she promised to let the brother tell Gage, and it's a tough spot. Really enjoyed how that all played out! 

Really enjoyed this book, and really enjoyed the ending, and I can't wait for the next! 

Author: Anna Lee Huber
Series: Lady Darby Mystery #9
Read: March 21st, 2021
Source: NetGalley 
Reason Why: Love her writing and this series, and it's a Historical Fiction 2021 Book, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WoW Book! 
Publisher: Berkley 
Expected Publication: April 6th 2021
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars

Week 12 Review: Layla

From Goodreads:
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover comes a novel that explores life after tragedy and the enduring spirit of love.

When Leeds meets Layla, he's convinced he'll spend the rest of his life with her—until an unexpected attack leaves Layla fighting for her life. After weeks in the hospital, Layla recovers physically, but the emotional and mental scarring has altered the woman Leeds fell in love with. In order to put their relationship back on track, Leeds whisks Layla away to the bed-and-breakfast where they first met. Once they arrive, Layla's behavior takes a bizarre turn. And that's just one of many inexplicable occurrences.

Feeling distant from Layla, Leeds soon finds solace in Willow—another guest of the B&B with whom he forms a connection through their shared concerns. As his curiosity for Willow grows, his decision to help her find answers puts him in direct conflict with Layla's well-being. Leeds soon realizes he has to make a choice because he can't help both of them. But if he makes the wrong choice, it could be detrimental for all of them.

My Review:
Man, this was a fantastic read! I loved her other thriller, and I was excited to see what this one would be like. And boy, was it a great atmospheric book, I just wanted to know what the heck was going on! It was just so great!

I didn't know what to feel like at the beginning. Layla was injured saving his life, and afterwards, it's like he doesn't know her, doesn't know what to do with her, even though before, he was madly in love with her. But as the book progressed, there was just something off, and I needed to know what! 

And then we meet Willow, and things get even more complicated, for so many reasons, for his feelings for her, and certain things that were going on. I had to read more because I wanted to know what was going to happen next! 

Oh, and there were some fantastic twists and reveals in this book! But that final one, when we finally know what actually is going on? Yeah, that was epic, and made the whole book make sense. It really sucks that they had to go through that, but they're stronger for it! Loved how it wrapped up! 

Loved reading this book, and I can't wait to read more by Colleen Hoover! 

Author: Colleen Hoover 
Read: March 21st, 2021
Source: Ebook.bike
Reason Why: I enjoy her writing and it sounded really good, and it's a SAC 2021 Book! 
Publisher: Montlake
Published: December 8th 2020
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars

Week 12 Review: Tattoo

From Goodreads:
Bailey Morgan isn't the type of girl who shows a lot of skin, but somehow, she ends up in a dressing room at the mall with her friend Delia applying a temporary tattoo to her lower back. Never one to suffer fashion doubt, trendsetter Delia knows exactly where she wants her own tattoo: on her stomach, right where her shirt ends—can you say "midriff"? Annabelle, the quiet one, chooses the back of her neck, and tomboy Zo plasters hers on the top of her foot. The tattoos will last for three days, and Delia's sure that with them, the four friends will absolutely kill at the school dance.

Unfortunately, killing is just what someone has in mind, and Bailey, Delia, Annabelle, and Zo are in for the battle of their lives. Along with her tattoo, each girl receives a gift—a supernatural power to help them in their fight. As Bailey's increasingly frightening dreams reveal the nature of their enemy, it becomes clear to the girls that it's up to them to save the world. And if they can get Delia to stop using her newfound power to turn gum wrappers into Prada pumps, they might actually stand a chance.

My Review:
Oh, I really enjoyed reading this book! I've read almost all of Jennifer Lynn Barnes books at this point, I think I just have the sequel, and I'll have read everything. I was just slightly nervous because this is one of her earlier books, but I shouldn't have been, because it was fantastic!

The idea of these tattoos giving these girls these abilities was pretty cool. I loved how this group of friends dealt with everything, and I really enjoyed their relationships with one another. They were just so great to read about! 

Watching the investigation into the tattoos, and what they were learning from them, was really fantastic. This world with this magic was just so interesting, and I really enjoyed the lore and how it works! And oh, that reveal about the bad guy was so great! 

I really enjoyed that ending, and how it all went down, and this is a duology, so I'm really excited to see where things will go from here! Things have changed for them all, but espcailly Bailey, and I can't wait to watch the rest of her journey! 

Loved reading this book, and I can't wait to read the sequel! 

Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Series: Tattoo #1
Read: March 20th, 2021
Source: Own
Reason Why: Love her writing and it sounded really great, and it's a Physical Book to Read in 2021, Prequel & Sequel Challenge 2021 Book and a WTC Book! 
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Published: January 1st 2007
5/5 Hearts
5/5 Books
5/5 Stars