Weekly Obsessions

The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday.

BOOK

Cover of As I Descended by Robin Talley (goodreads)

All of the Fall 2016 covers are starting to be revealed, and I am in love with this cover for Robin Talley's newest novel. It suits the synopsis perfectly.

I love the cover scheme here. The moody/atmospheric cover fits with a Macbeth retelling. This is high on my list for Fall 2016 and the cover is just pretty wrapping on an already amazing sounding story.

Cover of Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake (goodreads)

I am a fan of simplistic covers. Less is more usually. I immediately loved this cover when I saw it. It's simple, but eye catching and immediately piques your interest.

This story of three sisters who must fight for a crown is a must read for me, and this cover just makes me all the more excited to have it in my hands.

paperback cover for Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius (goodreads)

I loved this novel, and I loved the hot pink, eye catching cover that was on the hardcover, BUT this paperback cover? This paperback cover is amazing.

These models perfectly capture Dawn Ius' Anne and Henry and it has a modern feel to it that fits the updated story perfectly. It's fun, and that also fits the novel. I am excited to see this one on shelves (and there may just be a giveaway closer to release!)

TV/MOVIE

Penny Dreadful Season 3 Trailer

This trailer gave me goosebumps. From the haunting cover of 'You Don't Own Me' to Victor Frankenstein's proclamation that he wrote 'the bloody book' on sin, each and every single part of this trailer is phenomenal. 

Eva Green is a goddess and I am so excited to see what surprises her storyline has in store for us. I am so excited for more #Ethanessa goodness and my heart is already aching for my tragically doomed Victor. May cannot get here fast enough!

Sexy Outlander Photoshoot

Outlander graced the cover of Entertainment Weekly this past week. Along with a jaw droppingly sexy cover, there were some incredible photos inside.

Here is my favourite....

This photo, which again shows that I prefer the less is more approach, is one of the tamer photos from the shoot, but it's one of the sexiest in my opinion. The way they are looking at each other is sexy. The placement of their hands is sexy. Check out the entire photo shoot, but been aware that some of the shots are perhaps a little NSFW.

What are you obsessed with this week?

New To My Book Closet

It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews).

Lots of goodies made their way into my mailbox (and inbox) this week. First up, the lovely Dawn Ius gifted me a finished copy of her amazing debut novel!

Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius (goodreads)

I also received quite a few egalleys for review this week! So lucky, and a huge thank you to all the publishers (Harper Collins, Simon and Schuster, Raincoast Books, and Delacorte/Penguin Random House) for the chance to read and review.

First up is one that was compared to the Taylor Swift music video for Wildest Dreams meets Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter. I immediately needed it, for obvious reasons. (All The Stars In The Heavens)

Next up is one that has a small town girl thrust into the spotlight when she becomes the lead singer in a band. Amazing right?! (For The Record)

Next is the story of a girl who goes to meet her online BFF who also happens to be the person she's crushing on...only to find out he hasn't exactly been truthful when she meets him! YES, PLEASE! (In Real Life)

Lastly, is a novel inspired by Blackbeard, which makes it an obvious addition to any to be read list. (Blackhearts)

All The Stars In The Heavens by Adriana Trigiani  (goodreads)
For The Record by Charlotte Huang (goodreads)
In Real Life by Jessica Love (goodreads)
Blackhearts by Nicole Castroman (goodreads)

What books made their way into your mailbox this week?

Happy Weekend and Happy Reading!

Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius

Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius
Release Date - September 1, 2015
Publisher Website - Simon and Schuster
Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages - pages
My Rating - 5/5
**received from publisher for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

In this wonderfully creative retelling of the infamous—and torrid—love affair between Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII, history collides with the present when a sizzling romance ignites in a modern-day high school.

Henry Tudor’s life has been mapped out since the day he was born: student body president, valedictorian, Harvard Law School, and a stunning political career just like his father’s. But ever since the death of his brother, the pressure for Henry to be perfect has doubled. And now he’s trapped: forbidden from pursuing a life as an artist or dating any girl who isn’t Tudor-approved.

Then Anne Boleyn crashes into his life.

Wild, brash, and outspoken, Anne is everything Henry isn’t allowed to be—or want. But soon Anne is all he can think about. His mother, his friends, and even his girlfriend warn him away, but his desire for Anne consumes him.

Henry is willing to do anything to be with her, but once they’re together, will their romance destroy them both?

Inspired by the true story of Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII, Anne & Henry beautifully reimagines the intensity, love, and betrayal between one of the most infamous couples of all time. 

Modernizing has always been a favourite way of retelling classic stories for me. There is something about turning something historical on it's head and twisting it with modern influences to make it feel like something entirely new. This novel is, pretty much, the literary equivalent of Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet. Loud, vibrant, sleek, modern, and delicious.

It should be obvious from that opening that this retelling is more a situation of being 'inspired by' than a straight retelling. Those looking for a historically accurate retelling will not find that within these pages. However, the large, important pieces of this doomed romance are represented, and the feel of the story is intact. The unfairness of Anne's real life fate, the combustible nature of their feelings, and the pressure they both felt, is all included here. Dawn was respectful of the true story she was pulling inspiration from, while allowing herself a freedom to tell her version of the story.

The changes made to the story were necessary for the modernization of the plot. Henry, for instance, may be the king of the high school in this interpretation, but he's not an actual king. This means his power, and what he could get away with, would have to be diminished. Some of the elements would not lend themselves to modernization, but in adapting the story where needed, Dawn Ius has successfully modernized something that feels like it shouldn't work in modern times.

This novel may be titled Anne and Henry but make no mistake - this is Anne's story. This Anne joins the ranks of some of my favourite interpretations of her, and deservedly so. This Anne has some seriously sexy swagger. She owns her sexiness, even when others try to use it to humiliate her. She has the quick wit, and intelligence that the real life Anne was known for. She displays a heartbreaking recklessness and fierceness that is unstoppable. Equal attention is paid to Henry, and one cannot exist without the other, but it's Anne who steals the spotlight (and in the process the reader's heart).

The dual narration worked for this story, and ended up making it feel complete. As mentioned, one cannot exist without the other and that includes the narration. The voices both feel unique and vivid along with being vital. Each of these characters came to life through the author's writing. She embraces both the positive and negative aspects of their personalities to create fully developed characters. This Anne is both reckless, and passionate. She's intelligent, and self destructive. She's sharp tongued, and broken. This Henry is charming and fickle. He's steadfast in his convictions, but easily swayed. He's disloyal, but enticing. They both are full of complexities and nuances that bring their characters to life. It's the characters, and the chemistry between them, that make the story work. There is plenty of sexual tension and you feel how dangerous these characters are together.

The ending, particularly the last few lines, are like a lightening bolt. It's filled with cinematic flair, and drama. It is the exclamation point on a stunning debut and something you'll long to discuss with anyone who has read it. It's bold, unforgettable, and the perfect way to close out this Anne's story.

Dawn Ius has shown herself to be a new talent to watch. Sharp writing, careful characterization and a knack for the killer ending lines, she shows that she's only just getting started. I, for one, cannot wait to see what she writes next. 

New To My Book Closet

It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews).

My mailbox was AMAZING this week. Amazing beyond words. We're talking freak out at the mailbox levels of awesome.

First up I received a copy of this lovely! It made me squeal at the mailbox because I've been looking forward to this since it was first announced.

Blood and Salt by Kim Liggett (goodreads)

This cover is even more stunning in person. I love the black ribbon inside it too. A huge thank you to Kim Liggett for the chance to read this.

The second was a huge package that honestly brightened my day.

First in the package was this very exciting book! As you can see I've already read it and loved it. Review will be posted release week along with other surprises.

Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius (goodreads)

The package also included this amazing assortment of swag!

These bookmarks are amazing! The crown swag is also pretty amazing. I love the note card and note book!

Lastly, the package also included something that reflected my love of wine (Dawn also loves it, and we've bonded over our shared love).

These are cute little wine charms! The initials A and H and a little crown. I love them! A huge thank you to Dawn Ius for this! I loved all of it.

What books made their way into your mailbox this week?

Happy Weekend and Happy Reading!

Waiting On Wednesday ..... Anne and Henry

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My pick this week is Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Anne
Wild, brazen, mischievous, bewitching

Henry
Driven, haunted, charming, magnetic

Apart, they are bound to destroy themselves. Together, they are bound to destroy each other.

Henry Tudor's life has been mapped out since the day he was born: student president, valedictorian, Harvard Law School, and a stunning political career just like his father's. But ever since the death of Henry's brother—perfect, high-achieving Arthur—his family has been twice as demanding. And now Henry's trapped: forbidden from pursuing a life as an artist or dating any girl who's not Tudor approved.

Then Anne Boleyn crashes into his life.

Anne is wild, brash and outspoken. She is everything Henry is not allowed to be—or to want. But soon Anne is all he can think about. His mother, his friends, and even his girlfriend warn him away, yet his desire for Anne consumes him. Henry is willing to do anything to be with her. But once he has her, their romance could destroy them both.

Inspired by the true story of Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII, Anne & Henry reimagines the intensity, love, and betrayal between one of the most infamous couples of all time. 

I've been fangirling about this for quite some time now and am definitely pining waiting for it's release. It's no secret that I am kind of obsessed with Tudor history and this retelling sounds rather fun (and hopefully sexy, heartbreaking and maybe a little scandalous!). I'll be a long summer pining for this one as it doesn't come out until the autumn.

Expected release date - September, 2015 (exact date to be announced)

2015 Most Anticipated ...... Anne and Henry

Next up is a modernized version of a real life tragic romance. Everyone knows the story of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn...and it's ending. This next pick sets the iconic story in highschool and I am officially dying to read it.

Read this Goodreads synopsis and you'll be itching to read this one as well. If you're fascinated by The Tudors you'll definitely want to add this one to your watch list.

Anne
Wild, brazen, mischievous, bewitching

Henry
Driven, haunted, charming, magnetic

Apart, they are bound to destroy themselves. Together, they are bound to destroy each other.

Henry Tudor's life has been mapped out since the day he was born: student president, valedictorian, Harvard Law School, and a stunning political career just like his father's. But ever since the death of Henry's brother—perfect, high-achieving Arthur—his family has been twice as demanding. And now Henry's trapped: forbidden from pursuing a life as an artist or dating any girl who's not Tudor approved.

Then Anne Boleyn crashes into his life.

Anne is wild, brash and outspoken. She is everything Henry is not allowed to be—or to want. But soon Anne is all he can think about. His mother, his friends, and even his girlfriend warn him away, yet his desire for Anne consumes him. Henry is willing to do anything to be with her. But once he has her, their romance could destroy them both.

Inspired by the true story of Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII, Anne & Henry reimagines the intensity, love, and betrayal between one of the most infamous couples of all time. 

I got Dawn to spill some secrets, design some amazing sounding tea, and dish on bringing the historical into modern times.

1. Describe Anne and Henry in Twitter format (140 characters or less)

Inspired by Tudor history, Anne & Henry reimagines the intensity, love & betrayal between one of the most infamous couples of all time. (YA)

2. If someone were to make a tea flavour in honour of your book, what might be included?

I love this question! The base ingredient would have to be cacao, not only because chocolate is delicious, but also because it’s soothing—and this story is a rollercoaster of emotion. The “tea chemist” (is that a thing?) would then add a heaping teaspoon of nutmeg (known for it’s ability to attract love and increase desire), cinnamon (for its aphrodisiac properties), a hint of cumin (for its ability to strengthen relationship bonds), and of course, a dash of deadly nightshade.  Though, in retrospect, the “tea chemist” should probably have added a lot more cumin ;-)  

3. Can you share a secret about your book (either it's world, it's characters, or something that helped inspire the story)?

This book began as a development project initiated by D4EO Literary super agents Mandy Hubbard and Bree Ogden. Both were on my “most desired agent” list, and so when Mandy put out the “audition call” I leapt at the chance, not knowing at the time that the super secret project would be a reimagining of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII as a high school romance. How lucky!

After I was selected as the “winning” writer (I may have cried…a lot), Mandy and Bree gave me a loose outline—and all of the creative freedom I could imagine. I was inspired by several factors: a) Anne Boleyn holds a very special place in Bree Ogden’s heart, and I was driven to do justice to this character for her, b) Mandy Hubbard is a brilliant agent and writer, and I wanted to show her that she had made the right choice by taking me on as both the writer for this story, and also as my agent, and c) My stepfather is obsessed with Anne Boleyn. I grew up listening to his love for her, and so, I wanted to capture not only his love—but the world’s love—for this person. I am amazed by how passionate people are about Anne Boleyn.

I loved researching for this book, and then fell deeply in love with the characters I’d created. I knew I would need to dig deep to bring to life the intensity of their relationship, and honestly, every chapter of this book was an emotionally draining experience. But I couldn’t be more proud of the end result.

4. This is a modernization of historical events. What challenges did you face while bringing it into current times?

The question I am most asked is: So—this is a thriller, right? Because everyone knows Henry chopped off her head. True—he did. But Anne & Henry is definitely not a thriller. (Though, I admit, I toyed with that a bit…because thriller is near and dear to my heart…)

Obviously, some of those historical facts were tricky to replicate, but I had so much fun drawing parallels to the modern world. If anything, my fabulous editor, Sara Sargent, had to reign me in. I may have gotten a little carried away with “royal” references in the first draft.

For me the most challenging part was actually re-envisioning Henry. I knew exactly what I wanted from Anne—flawed, but also strong and redeemable. Whatever version of history you believe, this is something that always resonates about Anne. But in real life, Henry wasn’t the most likeable guy, and in my opinion, not the most handsome. I always thought I would love Anne more—but now, I’m not even sure myself. I really love this Henry, and I hope managed to keep his essence.

5. If you could travel to anywhere, in any time period, when and where would you want travel? 

Before writing this book, my answer may have been slightly different—but now, I’d loved to witness first hand the dynamics of the Tudor Dynasty. It’s not enough to have read the (many) books about this whole period in time or to have watched the (many) movies and TV adaptations. I feel a connection to the era, and would love to see what it was really like. 

6. What three things do you need while revising?

Diet Coke

Chocolate

Thesaurus

While these may seem incredibly cliché, the revision process is both exhilarating and overwhelming for me. I have always associated Diet Coke with my personal creativity (as in, I’m useless without it), and chocolate with calming my nerves. But the thesaurus is new. As my editor notes, I tend to have a lot of breathing, smirking, laughing, blushing, heart racing, and giggling moments in my first drafts. Going through Anne & Henry with my thesaurus at the ready was life-changing.

7. If possible, please share the first line of Anne and Henry. (only answer if not too spoilery).

The Tudor ballroom glitters like we’re backstage at a Vegas burlesque.

I want to thank Dawn for taking the time to answer these questions. I am so glad that so many people who adore Anne Boleyn shaped this novel. I adore her, and it makes me happy to think she'll be treated fairly in this novel.

I have to admit that I am SUPER curious about Anne's fate in this novel. Historically we know what happens, but obviously that cannot happen in this modern adaptation. I wonder what the modern equivalent will be?! If anything, finding out makes this novel worth picking up. It also sounds like one of those novels that surprise attacks you with the sheer amount of feelings you end up having.

Anne and Henry is released Fall 2015 and no pre-order links are available yet but you can add it to your Goodreads account in the meantime.

Be sure to check back later on during the event for a chance to win Anne and Henry (or any one of my featured titles!).

You can follow Dawn Ius on Twitter, visit her official website, and learn more about the book from the publisher website.

Do you like novels that take inspiration from real events? Do you like stories that modernize those events?Let me know in the comments.

Weekly Obsessions

The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday.

BOOK

Cover of Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius (goodreads)

Super cute right? I helped reveal the cover and think it's fun and eye catching! I love the idea of a modernized version of the story of Anne Boleyn and King Henry, too. I think it's going to be a really interesting read.

As I Descended by Robin Talley (goodreads)

Kelly (from Kellyvision) and I were just discussing that when people do a retelling of Shakespeare it's normally Romeo and Juliet. We expressed how badly we wanted a Macbeth retelling and the book gods listened because Harper Collins is giving us one!

As I Descended is...

a retelling of Macbeth set at a contemporary Virginia boarding school. It centers around a lesbian couple who set out to dethrone the school's resident Mean Girl, only to find themselves struggling to hang onto their sanity and their lives when they accidentally summon a trio of brutal, manipulative ghosts. 

Sounds amazing right? I basically need this book immediately. It doesn't come out until 2016 though.

TV/MOVIE

Into The Woods trailer

I love this trailer. This is the first time we're hearing the singing part of this musical and I am REALLY excited now. I cannot wait to go see this. I am hoping Boxing Day with some friends.

OTHER

Christmas shopping (and other Christmas stuff)

I've officially started my Christmas shopping. I already have 5 people done (my three nieces included) and hope to be done early this year.

I am also taking part in the Secret Santa thing hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. Last year was a lot of fun so I am excited to go shopping for that. The Ottawa bloggettes are also hosting a holiday celebration and I am excited to shop for my person for that gift exchange.

I am even looking forward to Christmas music. Everything is still shiny, and happy and magical (ask me again mid December) so I am loving it. I am also loving that there is basically candy cane EVERYTHING right now.

What are you obsessed with this week?

Cover Reveal - Anne and Henry by Dawn Ius

Today I get to help unveil the cover for one of my 2015 Most Anticipated reads. A novel that takes a historical story and gives it a contemporary twist!

Before I reveal the cover, I am going to share a little about the novel....

A love worth losing your head over

ANNE

Wild, brazen, mischievous, bewitching

HENRY

Driven, haunted, charming, magnetic

ANNE & HENRY

Apart they are bound to destroy themselves. Together, they are bound to destroy each other.

HENRY TUDOR’S LIFE HAS BEEN mapped out since the day he was born: student president, valedictorian, Harvard Law School, and a stunning political career just like his father’s.

But ever since the death of Henry’s brother—perfect, high-achieving Arthur—his family has been twice as demanding. And now Henry’s trapped: forbidden from pursuing a life as an artist or dating any girl who’s not Tudor-approved.

Then Anne Boleyn crashes into his life.

Anne is wild, brash, and outspoken. She is everything Henry is not allowed to be—or to want. But soon Anne is all he can think about. His mother, his friends, and even his girlfriend warn him away, yet his desire for Anne consumes him. Henry is willing to do anything to be with her. But once he has her, their romance could destroy them both.

Inspired by the true story of Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII, ANNE & HENRY reimagines the intensity, love, and betrayal between one of the most infamous couples of all time.

As someone who is fascinated by Anne Boleyn, and this particular time in history, I am excited to see how this novel will give it that contemporary twist, and how the tragic ending to their story will be dealt with!

Now to unveil the pretty!

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It's fun, flirty, and a little punk rock. I love how it captures the King and Queen aspect but keeps it young and fun. It's rather prefect for this particular blending of the modern and historical.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DAWN IUS is a short-story author, novelist, screenwriter, professional editor, and communications specialist. She is an active member of the International Thriller Writers association, co-founder and senior editor of Vine Leaves Literary Journal, and the author of nine educational graphic novels published by the Alberta Canola Producers Commission. When she’s not slaying fictional monsters, she’s geeking out over fairy tales, Jack Bauer, Halloween, sports cars, and all things that go bump in the night. Dawn lives in Alberta, Canada, with her husband, Jeff, and their giant English Mastiff, Roarke.

Dawn Ius can be contacted/visited online at the following...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordawnius
Twitter: @dawnmius
Blog: www.dawn-ius.blogspot.com
Email: dawnmius@gmail.com

ANNE AND HENRY will be released in Fall of 2015, but in the meantime you can add it to your Goodreads list, and pre-order links will be available in early 2015.

However, one lucky person will win an early copy! Dawn is offering up an advance reader copy to one winner (US residents only). They will not be printed until January, so the prize will not ship until they are available, but you can enter by filling out the rafflecopter below. Be sure to read the terms and conditions for more details.

What do you think of the cover? Let me know in the comments!

a Rafflecopter giveaway