Summer Reading

It's a proven fact that summer and reading are meant for each other. There's nothing better than a great mystery while by the pool, spending a lazy day lost in a fantastic contemporary or devouring a fantasy while also devouring ice cream.

I am going to let you know what will be in my beach tote this summer, and offer up a few suggestions if you're looking for books to stash in yours!

MY PICKS FOR SUMMER READS

Here are some books you should check out if you haven't already read them! I loved all of them and any of them would make great summer reads.

1 Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

This is a perfect mystery/thriller that will keep you guessing. It's totally the type of book that is pretty much a sunburn waiting to happen. You'll becomes obsessed with Nick, Amy, and what really happened. Afterwards, be sure to check out the movie! One of my favourite book to movie adaptations ever.

2 Since You've Been Gone by Morgan Matson

A sweet, fun read that has a lot of depth. This one will make you want to create some lists of your own for your friends. I totally made a "How To Have The Best Summer Ever" list for one of my friends after reading this one. You'll fall for the characters, the soundtrack (that can totally be the music of your summer) and Morgan's writing. Her other novels are just as amazing if you're looking for more after finishing this one.

3 Tarnish by Katherine Longshore

The entire Royal Circle 'series' should be on this list. Tarnish just happens to be my favourite as I adore Anne Boleyn and Katherine's portrayal of Anne is one of my favourites (EVER). Her writing is beautiful, and fans of Reign will love the Tudor court drama and romance that graces these pages.

4 Stolen by Lucy Christopher

This book will never not be on a list like this from me. It's one of my most favourite books, and one I tell everyone to read. The letter style format works wonderfully for this story of a girl writing to her kidnapper. It's a clever, well written look at what might be Stockholm Syndrome (or what could be something else entirely). One thing is for sure however, you'll never forget Gemma and Ty's story.

5 Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

I feel like this should come with a warning - you will need tissues to make it through this one. The beautiful story of Will and Lou. A young man who feels he has nothing left to live for after an accident leaves him paralysed and the young woman hired to help him. It's a story that poses many thought provoking questions and is the perfect book for when you're looking for something a little different than the usual beach read.

6 The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan 

If you're obsessed with all things relating to the royal family, you'll want to devour this book. It's fun, charming, and has just the right amount of romance and drama. An often funny, but touching, love story filled with some unforgettable characters. You'll close this one praying for a companion novel that focuses on Freddie as you'll be dying to enter this world again.

7 The Start of Me and You by Emery Lord

I could easily also recommend Open Road Summer by Emery Lord (so totally read both). The Start Of Me And You earns bonus points for it's clever nod to Pride and Prejudice, and the most adorable romance I've read in a while. It's a feel good read that will leave you feeling happy, and ready to try a few new things yourself.

8 Just One Day/Just One Year by Gayle Forman

This will make you want to pack your bags and head to Europe on a summer vacation. It's a lighter read mixed in with some pretty deep topics and all with the classic Gayle Forman romance. A story of a girl who agrees to spend one day in Paris with a cute guy she just meets ends up being about much more than the romance. Fall in love with Europe, and these characters as you follow first Allyson and then Willem on their journeys to where they are supposed to be.

9 Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

This novel is seriously on fire. It is the next big thing in YA as evident by it's impressive debut on the New York Time's bestseller lists at number one. It's got a movie in the works, and it honestly could be the next big YA series adaptations. A novel that promises that anyone can betray anyone will leave you turning the pages (and most likely sunburned in the process) as you become engrossed in Mare's world.

10 Tiger Lily by Jodi Lynn Anderson

Another novel that will always be on these kinds of list for me. A beautifully written take on the Peter Pan tale that asks what if before Wendy entered the picture, Peter was in love with the girl with the crow feathers in her hair (that would be Tiger Lily). An often heartbreaking story that touched me, and remains one of my favourite Peter Pan retellings ever.


WHAT I AM READING

Here are the books I am going to be enjoying in the summer sun! So excited about all of these!

1 Dumplin' by Julie Murphy

Pretty much every person I know that has read this has gushed. Not just a little, but A LOT. I am hoping to get to it ASAP because I am not sure I can wait much longer.

2 Tonight The Streets Are Ours by Leila Sales

I am extremely curious about this one, and I am a sucker for the whole 'one magical night' aspect of the storyline, and am even more intrigued that this one seems to have a twist that perhaps it's not what it first appears. I am sure it'll be fantastic as I've heard nothing by raves about her first novel.

3 The Rest Of Us Just Live Here by Patrick Ness

Described as Buffy The Vampire Slayer but from the perspective of the 'non chosen' students. It's basically the story of the kids who just want to go to prom without their school being attacked by vampires (or similar) and I think it sounds hilarious. I've never read anything by Patrick Ness before but he made me want to bump this one up during his panel at Book Con this year.

4 The Young Elites by Marie Lu

I have had this one on my list for a long time now, and I keep hearing how amazing it is. I am finally going to read it this summer. I've been told to have wine ready (and possibly chocolate) so I am going to be sure to stock up before diving in.

5 Sweet Filthy Boy by Christina Lauren

I've been told I have to read this from Emilie and Katie. It sounds sexy, fun and a great beach book. I am considering binging all the books that are out right now in time for the next one.

Have you read any of the books I've mentioned? What is on your summer reading list? Read something that I simply must make time to read this summer? Let me know in the comments! I would love some suggestions.

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).

I was sort of spoiled with all the awesome book that made their way into my book closet this week

Ashes To Ashes by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian (goodreads)
The Bane Chronicles by Cassandra Clare, Maureen Johnson and Sarah Rees Brennan (goodreads)
 Brazen by Katherine Longshore (goodreads)
The Vanishing Season by Jodi Lynn Anderson (goodreads)

A huge thank you to Kelly for snagging me Ashes to Ashes! I have already read it, and felt it was an enjoyable end to the season.

A big thank you also goes out to Simon and Schuster Canada for The Bane Chronicles. I adore Magnus (he's my favourite character in these books) and cannot wait to read more about him.

And I got one e-galley that I am VERY excited about. If you haven't read Dangerous Girls make it your top read of the summer.

Dangerous Boys by Abigail Haas (goodreads)

I want to think Abigail for the opportunity to help promote this book in August! After Dangerous Girls I am obsessed with starting this book immediately.

What books made their way into your mailbox this week?

Happy weekend, and happy reading!

Best Of 2014.... So Far

The halfway point of 2014 is quickly approaching and with it many best of (so far at least) lists. Since I typically do one, I figured now was as good a time as any.

Here are the ten books that I would consider my best of 2014...so far. These are in no particular order and are not ranked in any way.

We Were Liars by E Lockheart

The less said about this one the better. Just read it. Become a liar. You'll thank me after you've recovered.

Brazen by Katherine Longshore

Fans of Reign are being told to pick this one up. I completely agree. It's got scandalous Tudor drama, some rather adorable flirting, and some of my favourite friendships portrayed in a novel. Katherine also happens to be a fantastic writer, so the overall book is amazing.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Taking a beloved character and putting a deliciously sinful twist on her? Perfection. Danielle Paige's precision style writing, and attention to detail made this an intricate read. It left me dying for book two, and pretty sure I would never look at Dorothy the same way again.

Half Bad by Sally Green

A beautifully written book that puts a twist on the whole nature vs nurture question. A boy witch who has been ostracized his whole life for being 'half bad' offers heartbreaking moments, and a fascinating look at society in general.

Love Letters To The Dead by Ava Dellaria

This will leave you weepy, and may inspire you to write your own love letter to the dead. An impact debut novel that uses a letter style format to tell it's heartbreaking yet hopeful story. I easily got swept away.

Since You've Been Gone by Morgan Matson

A fun novel that has depth and layers. This one is perfect for the summer, and will leave you wanting to touch base with your own best friend...and maybe write them a list or two.

The Winner's Cure by Marie Rutkoski

Beautifully written, and some amazing world building mixed with incredible characters made Marie's novel a fantastic start to a new series. It's sneaks up on you and leaves you breathless as you feel it's full impact. Book two now, please!

Famous In Love by Rebecca Serle

Fun! Fun! Fun! If Hollywood love triangles, CW television shows, and novels that explore more than just the romance are your thing, YOU NEED TO PICK UP THIS BOOK. The characters, the setting, and the romance all won me over. My review will come closer to the date, but Rebecca had me hooked from the first paragraph. I basically need book two immediately.

Exquisite Captive by Heather Demetrois

Intricate world building, a driven and determined female lead character, and some scorchingly sexy scenes made this a favourite. The interweaving of the all too real issue of the slave trade made this one resonate a little deeper. Full review to come soon (along with some other fun things) but this one easily charmed me.

The Blonde by Anna Godbersen

Marilyn Monroe as a spy is the premise for this tightly woven novel. Surprisingly this works much better than perhaps thought at first glance, and the author makes it seem entirely all to plausible. The romance between Marilyn and John F Kennedy provided a romantic backdrop that raised the stakes. A fantastic beach thriller for this summer!

Each of these links to my review (where available) if you wish to check it out.

What books made your list? Did you read any that are on mine? If so, what did you think?

Brazen by Katherine Longshore

Brazen by Katherine Longshore 

Release Date - June 12, 2014

Publisher Website - Penguin/Razorbill
Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages - 528 pages
My Rating - 5/5
**received in exchange for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Mary Howard has always lived in the shadow of her powerful family. But when she’s married off to Henry Fitzroy, King Henry VIII’s illegitimate son, she rockets into the Tudor court’s inner circle. Mary and “Fitz” join a tight clique of rebels who test the boundaries of court’s strict rules with their games, dares, and flirtations. The more Mary gets to know Fitz, the harder she falls for him, but is forbidden from seeing him alone. The rules of court were made to be pushed…but pushing them too far means certain death. Is true love worth dying for?

Words have weight. Words matter. Words,when used in a certain way, can be a weapon that cuts as deep as any knife. Words can also heal. In Brazen, Katherine Longshore shows that three little words can break your heart. As a result, it's Katherine Longshore's words that truly shine in the finale to the Tudor Court trilogy of companion novels.

Words fascinate Mary Howard. To her they have a taste. Words, and finding the right ones, consume her. This aspect of her personality endeared her to me, and provided some rather poetic lines of writing that were breathtaking. Marys longs, like Anne before her, to be her own person. She wants to do things for herself, and not because she's ordered to. I fell in love with her character effortlessly. Her journey to coming into her own, and finding her own unique voice mirrors those teenage years where you're discovering yourself. The stakes are just raised for Mary because, for her, the wrong move could mean death.

Mary's declaration that she does not need anyone to give her an identity because she has her own was possibly one of my favourite moments in not just this novel, but any novel. The message of finding your own self worth, and embracing it is such a huge part of Mary's journey, but it's a lesson everyone should learn. 

Forbidden romances are plentiful in Brazen. Mary and Fitz are the primary focus. Forbidden from acting on their desire to be together, even though they are married, presented a sort of delicious torture. Each almost kiss, each stolen moment, every whispered promise cemented their star crossed love story. I couldn't imagine being prevented from consummating my marriage just so that it might be annulled if 'something better' came along. Held at the King's mercy Mary and Fitz fall in love against the odds, and it is this choice that gives them strength. Being together is something they chose themselves. They may have been forced together, but they chose to fall in love. In a world without many choices, this would feel incredible. It made all the feelings more deep, and everything tinged with a sense or urgency because it could be ripped away at any moment.

While the romance is certainly swoon worthy, it was the friendships that impacted me the most. Each interaction between Mary, Madge and Margaret shows the bonds they've formed. Their friendship is integral to the plot, and defines each of the women more than their romances ever could. They protect, console, and listen to each other. Refreshing, and often times missing from novels, Brazen allowed the friendship to take the focus, even as the romance was woven within. 

Regrets are a vital theme of this novel. It sometimes aches from the characters in waves, other times it's a wistful whisper glimpsed only briefly. Allowing fear to prevent us from acting and seizing something we want can haunt us. That fear can also be crippling. Katherine masterfully shows the courage it takes to live so you don't have those regrets, and the sadness of living with them. 

The second half of the novel doesn't hold back. The build up and execution is brilliantly done. I was left emotionally drained as everything came crashing down, and unraveled. Novels that offer a satisfying culmination, even if torturous, after an intelligently planned build up are incredibly rewarding, and Brazen pulls this off immensely. 

Any historical novel that can surprise you has done what it set out to do. We know the ending of the story before we begin. It's the journey you take to get there, the connections you make with the characters, and the feelings it compels out of you that make the difference. Katherine brings these characters to life in a way that feels deeply authentic and she uses every single page to show us why historical novels are still relevant. 

Each of Katherine's novels seem to get richer and more stunning than the last. Brazen is filled with sharp writing, courtly intrigue, and a main character that broke my heart, mended it, and left me wanting to live my life with no regrets. Fans of historical novels will adore this one, but non historical readers will fall just as deeply under it's spell.

Q and A with Katherine Longshore

Tomorrow is the release day for Katherine Longshore's BRAZEN! I could not be more excited that this amazing novel will soon be available for everyone to read. To kick off the celebration I have Katherine stopping by for a Q and A today, and tomorrow I will be posting my review.

If you don't already know, here is a little bit about BRAZEN

Mary Howard has always lived in the shadow of her powerful family. But when she’s married off to Henry Fitzroy, King Henry VIII’s illegitimate son, she rockets into the Tudor court’s inner circle. Mary and “Fitz” join a tight clique of rebels who test the boundaries of court’s strict rules with their games, dares, and flirtations. The more Mary gets to know Fitz, the harder she falls for him, but is forbidden from seeing him alone. The rules of court were made to be pushed…but pushing them too far means certain death. Is true love worth dying for?

I got Katherine to spill on Tudor gossip, her next project, and writing those heartbreaking scenes that are plentiful in this series.

1 This book closes out the 'trilogy'. Did you do anything special to celebrate finishing a full series? 

While I was working on BRAZEN, my youngest somehow got the idea into his head that we needed to celebrate with pink champagne cake. So when I finished my final draft, that’s exactly what we did. More personally, I’m celebrating the publication by savoring every moment. The debut publication is rife with uncertainties and angst and the desire to do ALL THE THINGS, which makes it a little more nerve-wracking. This time around, I’m having a lot more fun, and making the moments count.

2 The previous two books featured women who were Henry's wives. What about Mary Howard made you want to break from that mold?

I wrote GILT as a stand-alone novel, never expecting to get a three-book deal, so all of my decisions on which characters to write about came from a very gut level. Catherine Howard was Henry’s only teenaged wife and I felt that scenario came with built-in conflict. I never intended to write about Anne Boleyn, but she hit me upside the head out of left field. I loved the idea of exploring the girl who became the queen. And through my research, I discovered the Devonshire Manuscript—a little book in which several different people wrote poetry and notes and possibly even coded messages. That book belonged to Mary Howard, and I loved that she belonged to this kind of literary brat pack who shared words in such a unique way. Her marriage at the age of fourteen seemed the perfect starting point. And, the Howard family is absolutely drowning in tales of intrigue, ambition and deception.

3 Part of writing historically based novels is the inflexibility the path these characters take. There are two heartbreaking moments in BRAZEN that are aching and tragic. Did you ever wish you could re-write these character's endings?

All the time! The scenes you mention were the most difficult to write. In fact, they weren’t in the first draft at all, because I couldn’t face writing them. And there was one point in every revision that I had to stop, close the document, and walk away. Every single time. Because I couldn’t believe I was going through with it.

4 The Anne Boleyn we meet in this novel is quite a bit different from the hopeful, driven woman we meet in Tarnish. This Anne is desperate, and at times frantic. The contrast is striking but the character we meet in Tarnish is still very evident. Did you have to get back into that character in order to show her natural progression?

One of the hardest things about writing the first draft of BRAZEN was that I couldn’t get the voice of Anne Boleyn out of my head. She kept trying to take over. Eventually, I had to cut all of her scenes, and put them in a separate reserve document. Only then could I focus on Mary’s voice. When I finally got Mary’s story straight, I brought Anne back in. She had changed a little—just like people do over time. I’m glad to know it worked!

5 With Reign burning up the television charts, historically based entertainment looks to be set to make a splash right now. What do you think draws people to these stories all these years later? 

I think it has something to do with the fact that it reads and looks like fantasy or dystopian, but was written down as truths long before we got here. Sometimes, I read historical accounts and think, “you can’t make this stuff up.” Something like Reign—that adds fictional elements to enhance the story—or even Game of Thrones—which was inspired by the Wars of the Roses—only proves the point. The reality was so Machiavellian, so brutal, so emotionally spellbinding that no matter which way it’s framed—reality-based or fantasy-based or even science fiction-based—it can’t help but be compelling.

6 A big theme of this novel is regrets. Mary has to choose to act before she regrets not doing so. Anne shows signs of wistful regrets at choices she could have made. Was this theme something that shaped the novel (considering it's set during Anne's downfall) or was it something that happened as the novel came together?

I think it was a little bit of both. Because I began the novel directly after finishing TARNISH, the Anne in my mind had regrets. She was never the type of person to let them consume her–she was always looking forward rather than looking back. But in our bleakest moments our regrets catch up with us. So Anne expressed regrets early on. Mary’s interpretation of it grew from that as I went through revisions. It’s a balancing act we all have to practice—is the action worth the regret?

7 During your research for this novel did you find out anything surprising? 

I did a lot of research on Anne’s execution. It was never the thing about her story that interested me most, and it was painful to imagine the demise of a beloved character. But as I read, I discovered that I could distance myself, and look at the various accounts with a more dispassionate eye. I had never known there were so many different transcripts of her final speech. Nor had I known that her women–the ones who accompanied her–were the ones to clean the body and carry her to the chapel. I found that fact so compelling and so tragic, and yet so appropriate that I had to include it in my book.

8 Can you tease anything about anything that might be next for you?

I’ll have a short story in the PISTOLS & PETTICOATS anthology edited by Jessica Spotswood (publication date tentatively set for Spring 2016). I’m relishing the chance to explore some American history for that one!

And I’m currently working on a contemporary novel. It’s fun to work with the same kinds of themes—love, friendship, self-reliance—in a setting that at first glance isn’t so restrictive. In modern-day America, women are not considered chattel. Children are not required to marry a much older man for the betterment of their family fortunes. But my characters still face great limitations imposed upon them by a society that doesn’t always see past the nose on its face. So where there’s freedom and dynamism, there is also seemingly insurmountable odds to growth and the life they crave. But there’s still intrigue and secrets. And kissing.

A huge thank you to Katherine for taking the time to answer my questions! 

You can add Brazen to your Goodreads shelf, and the previous novels Gilt and Tarnish are also available to add while you're there!

You find Katherine on Twitter, her website, and more information is available on Penguin's website as well.

You can purchase BRAZEN from Barnes and Noble // Chapters 

Tudor Thursdays Blog Stop

Today I am hosting Katherine Longshore as part of the Tudor Thursdays blog tour that I am hosting. I've got the next location of Katherine's tour of some of her favourite historical sites, and a romantic BRAZEN teaser (complete with kissing!).

Without further ado I turn this over to Katherine......

Trafalgar Square

The name of this particular historic site refers to an event (the Battle of Trafalgar, where Admiral Nelson defeated the French) that occurred 250 years after Henry VIII’s death, so how can it possibly be one of my favorite places?  Well, the easy answer is that I’m interested in more than Tudor history, but it’s really more complex than that.

The area has a long history (the site originally housed the king’s horses and hawks), but I love this area for three reasons:  the National Gallery (and National Portrait Gallery, where you can see original paintings of Henry, Anne Boleyn, and many other prime Tudor players), the VE (Victory in Europe) celebrations on May 8, 1945 (wonderfully imagined by Connie Willis in All Clear) and the four lions that surround Nelson’s column.  The lions are a part of my own personal history, as my family and I take a picture on one of them every time we visit London.

Katherine at Trafalgar Square. Copyright @Katherine Longshore

Of course, Trafalgar Square doesn’t feature at all in BRAZEN, so for this post, I’m just going to share with you one of my favorite scenes:

“You want to know what love feels like?” Fitz asks, and his voice is now low and sweet, twining darkness and sugar.

I can’t answer out loud, so I just nod.

“It feels like when you’re separated, you can’t think of anyone else.”

I keep my eyes on the space between us. But I think of how Fitz—and seeing him again—remained in the forefront of my mind throughout the entire spring.

“It feels like you’re a child again. And every new day is a discovery.”

He leans forward. I see the jeweled buttons of his doublet, the gold braid at the hem of his jacket. I think of the kingfisher. The sunrise. The taste of his skin.

“It feels warm.”

He puts his hands on my shoulders, and strokes them down to my wrists. The heat that follows his touch feels like it could never be extinguished.

“It feels”—he lowers his forehead onto mine—“right.”

I tilt my face upward just a little, our foreheads still touching.

“How do you know?” I ask, my lips so close to brushing his.

His answer is a kiss.

This kiss is like the dawn. Slow and graceful and gilded. It is right and warm and a childlike discovery, and it answers all of my questions and erases all of my doubts.

*Swoon* I am thrilled that I got to unveil a kissing teaser! They are my favourites.

I want to thank Katherine for the teasers, and the tour through some of her favourite historical sites. More will be revealed at the next stop of the tour. In the meantime you probably want to get your hands on a copy of BRAZEN. We have two contests below. One is USA/Canada and one is International. Be sure to enter the correct Rafflecopter. Winners will be emailed after the completion of the tour/contest.

USA/Canada Giveaway  a Rafflecopter giveaway International Giveaway  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tudor Tuesdays is now Tudor Thursdays!

With the final book in the Royal Circle trilogy coming out, we're going to send the series off with a extra special Tudor Tuesdays.

Since the book is coming out on a Thursday we've moved the event accordingly, and here are the official stops

08 May - Emilie from Emilie's Book World - http://www.emiliebookworld.com/ 
15 May - Andrea from Bookish - http://evie-bookish.blogspot.ca/ 
22 May - Kathryn at A Bibliotaph's Reviews - http://expatiatemiscellanarian.blogspot.com/ 
29 May - Kathy from A Glass of Wine - http://glass-of-wine.blogspot.com/ 
05 June - Kelly from Belle of the Literati - http://belleoftheliterati.blogspot.ca/ 
12 June - Jess from Read My Breath Away - http://readmybreathaway.blogspot.ca/

There will be some awesome teasers and an amazing prize pack up up for giveaway. As this will be the last event, Katherine is also going to be taking us on a tour of her favourite historical spots in Europe! 

Lots to look forward to so be sure to check out all the stops as we countdown to Brazen's release day!

Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore

Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore      
Release Date - January 28, 2014
Publisher Website - Scholastic
Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages - 320 pages
My Rating - 4.5/5
**received in exchange for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .

Lady Charlotte Edmonds: Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.

Janie Seward: Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.

Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.

An author's talent can be displayed in many ways. My favourite is when an author writes something a little different than their previous works, and still manages to captivate the reader. With Manor of Secrets, Katherine Longshore, manages to entertain with a much more lighthearted, fun read that is filled with delicious secrets.

Katherine's knack for creating a setting that perfectly captures the time frame of the story is once again spot on. She effortlessly brings every aspect of the manor to life. She manages to make the novel feel both timeless, and historical. Part of it's charm is that has modern feel while still completely capturing the history.

This novel hinges on it's characters. It's a character driven plot, and all of the characters are wonderfully captured. With a plot that revolves around family, it was wonderful to see parents play such an active role in a young adult novel. The blending of friendship, family, and romance was perfectly managed. There is just enough of each to satisfy without any aspect of the novel taking over. It allows a balance that keeps the novel moving, and prevents the focus from wearing thin.

Both Charlotte and Janie want to create their own path. They both want something more than what they currently have. It's this yearning for betterment that grounds the story as relevant today. Finding yourself, determining who you are, is part of growing up. Following your own heart, rather than the wishes of someone else, is something everyone grapples with. Disappointing others, feeling selfish, scared, and unsure. All these feelings are part of leaving your teen years behind and setting off down your own path. It reminds us that even historical novels can shine a light on current social issues.

The twists, and secrets that come out are incredibly fun. There is one that, while I expected it, came about in the most unexpected way. The exact nature of the secret, and connection, manged to surprise me. It creates a dizzying, giddy last part to the novel that left a smile on my face.

Fans of Downton Abbey will immediately adore this book, but I think anyone will fall for it's charms. A well written, quaint tale of friendship, standing up for yourself, and taking that leap faith. It left me happy, content, and I eagerly anticipate any future novels Katherine Longshore writes as her skill only continues to improve.

Manor of Secrets Blog Tour

Today as part of the blog tour for Manor of Secrets I have Katherine Longshore stopping by with a guest post. Be sure to enter the US ONLY giveaway at the bottom as well! 

First here is a little about Manor of Secrets

Release Date: January 28, 2014

Pages: 320

Publisher: Point (Scholastic)

Goodreads/Amazon/Barnes & Noble

The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .

Lady Charlotte Edmonds: Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.

Janie Seward: Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.

Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.

Accuracy in historical fiction is something that is normally discussed when reviewing. I always wondered if remaining historically accurate helped or hurt while writing/plotting a novel. I got to ask Katherine that exact question and here is her amazing answer:

Here’s a secret: people who write historical fiction are a little obsessive.

 

Historical accuracy is important to us.

I once heard that Hilary Mantel (author of WOLF HALL, and BRING UP THE BODIES) claimed that she would invent the thoughts in a character’s head, but would research the color of his wallpaper.  (This is not a direct quote, and I can’t remember where I read it, but you get the gist).  With that level of obsession, how does one ever write a book?

Research is, of course, the foundation.  Events, important historical figures, societal dictates and attitudes, basic daily structures.  But once you start researching, the rest becomes important, too.  What was the weather like on a certain day?  How did one travel by train from Romney Marsh to Penshust Station in 1911?  What kind of car would a duke’s son drive?  And what color could it be?  And what word would they use to describe that color?

Next thing you know, five hours have passed and you’ve written one sentence.

One.

During the next round of revisions, that sentence gets cut because it’s extraneous.

Now, some people might throw up their hands in disgust and cry, “What a waste of time!”  But we don’t see it that way.  Because in the course of all that research and all that extraneous detail, we also got a better idea of what life was like for our characters. How much it would cost and what kind of effort it would take to buy that make, model and color of car.  Which might give us an idea of the kind of person who would buy it.

My Tudor novels (GILT, TARNISH and BRAZEN) are all about real people living through real events.  Historical accuracy is absolutely essential in these stories because, as we all know, history cannot be changed.  Anne Boleyn has to marry Henry VIII, and then she has to die.  There is no way around it.  But even with that knowledge, those events are not what drives the stories forward in my Tudor books.  The stories are about the characters—their choices move the story forward.

MANOR OF SECRETS was, in some ways, a little easier.  The historical events are background.  During the summer of 1911, King George V was crowned, the Ballets Russes came to London and caused a sensation, dockworkers went on strike and an extended period of record-breaking temperatures pushed the country into drought.  All of these events are mentioned in MANOR, but again, none of them are the impetus behind the stories of these two girls.

What affects these characters are societal dictates.  What’s expected of them.  What their communities have said they can and cannot do.  And again, historical accuracy is key.  Lady Charlotte doesn’t have the freedom to wander off on her own, to go to university or even to get her hands dirty.  Janie is not allowed to see three quarters of the house she lives in, have a boyfriend or take a day off work.

These are the rules of the story world.  But part of the fun of writing fiction is having characters break a few rules (because, obviously, if they just did what they were told all the time, the story would be quite boring).  Perhaps it’s not historically accurate for a lady of the house to befriend a servant.  But it makes for a good story, because therein the tension lies.

However, you can only break the rules of the story world once they’ve been established—once you’ve done the research.  So even when dedication to historical accuracy can seem like a hindrance (having to cut a sentence that took five hours to write), it’s still really a help.  Because every single detail—used or unused—cements the author and the reader further into the story world, and can be used to propel the story forward.

Katherine Longshore grew up on the northern California coast. At university, she created her own major in Cross-Cultural Studies and Communications, planning to travel and write. Forever. Four years, six continents and countless pairs of shoes later, she went to England for two weeks, stayed five years and discovered history. She now lives in California with her husband, two children and a sun-worshiping dog.

Website/Blog/Twitter/Facebook/Goodreads

Here are the rest of the Manor of Secrets tour stops! Please, do check them out!

Week One:

1/27/2014- Fiktshun- Guest Post

1/28/2014- Two Chicks on Books- Guest Post

1/29/2014- Good Books and Good Wine- Review

1/30/2014- Hobbitsies- Review

1/31/2014- Magical Urban Fantasy Reads- Interview

Week Two:

2/3/2014- A Glass Of Wine- Guest Post

2/4/2014- Mundie Moms- Interview & Review

2/5/2014- Read My Breath Away- Guest Post

2/6/2014- Page Turners- Review

2/7/2014- Tales of a Ravenous Reader- Guest Post

Do not forget to enter the giveaway below. FIVE copies of Manor of Secrets are up for grabs, so be sure to fill out the Rafflecopter, and good luck!

A huge thank you to both Katherine, and the Rockstar Book Tours ladies for organizing this (and letting me take part). My review will go up tomorrow (spoiler, I LOVED this novel) so stop by to check it out.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Top 5 Most Interesting Characters from 2013

There are characters who stand out more than others while you are reading. It could be for a variety of reasons. Some you love and some you love to hate, but either way you're fascinated by them. Here is my list of the top five characters who made sure I wouldn't forget them when 2014 rolls around.

1 Anne Boleyn from Tarnish by Katherine Longshore

I would expect putting your own take on a character like Anne Boleyn would be daunting. She's been written about many times, and is probably the most well known of Henry's wives. Katherine Longshore created an Anne who was passionate, desperate to be heard, a woman who believed her voice was important. She also created an Anne who was clever, sharp tongued, and impulsive. She allowed the 'flaws' (as seen by those at court) to become the very thing that endears us to her. We also know they'll be her downfall. It results in a sympathetic, and vivid character. I've said before that Tarnish reads as extremely accurate and it's because Anne feels all too real.

2 Celeste from Tampa by Alissa Nutting (**ADULT CONTENT**)

Celeste is an enigma. You want to hate her. She's unflinchingly, unabashedly a predator. She's also very self aware, and doesn't make excuses for herself (or her behaviour). She's someone you won't soon forget, and neither is Tampa itself. She hides her true nature from everyone but herself. She's darkly funny, and there are a few moments where, as a reader, I found myself thinking she was clever. I've said that nobody in Celeste's life matters but Celeste and that is the reality. She is selfish, driven to make herself happy no matter what the consequences for others. Consequences for anyone but herself barely enter her thoughts. Alissa has created a character who leaves you conflicted, angry, and hopefully changed the way you look at predators.

3 Cress from Cress by Marissa Meyer

As this title has yet to hit shelves, I will keep this brief and spoiler free. I will say that Cress will win over your heart. She's everything I wanted out of a Rapunzel inspired character. She's adorably naive, braver than she gives herself credit for, and a hopeless romantic. She's resourceful, and eager to please. Marissa always manages to make her characters come to life, and Cress is no exception. Marissa also manages to make them use the skills and talents they do have, without denying them flaws. People are not perfect, and they certainly aren't capable at everything. Cress uses what she can do to help, and remains completely in character the whole time. This makes her character leap off the pages, and makes her easy to relate to.

4 Victor and Eli from Vicious by VE Schwab

I am including both of them, because each is intertwined with the other. Victor wouldn't be the Victor we know without Eli (and vice versa). Two incredibly intelligent, and driven young man who are both beyond competitive. Their friendship is always borderline antagonistic and that's woven in perfectly throughout the story. They are both a little skewed and while this leads them to become friends, it also allows for them to turn on each other. Two man who are obsessed with power and harness it to create superpowers ultimately show that power does corrupt. Victoria uses both of these characters to twist how you view villains and heroes. These two characters are so well written that you'll want to visit them again (and perhaps beg Victoria for a sequel).

5 Judith from All The Truth That's In Me by Julie Berry

Judith is a survivor. She's resilient, strong and brave. She is also clever, determined, and due to inability to talk she's quite perceptive. Following her story as she tries to reclaim her voice that has been ripped away from her is inspiring and that's how you end up feeling about Judith.

When I first picked up All The Truth That's In Me, I wasn't expecting to adore Judith as much as I did. She lets you in slowly, but it's worth the way. She's a remarkable character who hasn't let her spirit be crushed by the unthinkable. That makes her voice not only memorable, but engaging.

2014 Most Anticipated - Brazen and Manor of Secrets

The next book I've selected for the 2014 Most Anticipated Event is actually two books for the price of one. This author has TWO amazing sounding novels coming out in 2014 and I couldn't pick just one. Katherine Longshore's Brazen and Manor of Secrets.

Here is the Goodreads synopsis for Brazen

Mary Howard has always lived in the shadow of her powerful family. But when she’s married off to Henry Fitzroy, King Henry VIII’s illegitimate son, she rockets into the Tudor court’s inner circle. Mary and “Fitz” join a tight clique of rebels who test the boundaries of court’s strict rules with their games, dares, and flirtations. The more Mary gets to know Fitz, the harder she falls for him, but is forbidden from seeing him alone. The rules of court were made to be pushed…but pushing them too far means certain death. Is true love worth dying for?

Here is the Goodreads synopsis for Manor of Secrets

The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .

Lady Charlotte Edmonds: Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.

Janie Seward: Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.

Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.

One is being compared to Downton Abbey and the other is historical Tudor goodness. I can not wait to get my hands on either of them. Katherine was kind enough to answer a few questions about BOTH novels for me. Here is our Q and A

1. Describe Manor of Secrets in three words.

The tagline on the front cover pretty much sums it up:

Upstairs.  Downstairs.  Drama.

2. Can you give us a little tease about the third Royal Circle book (which we now know is called Brazen)?

BRAZEN takes place in the time period between TARNISH and GILT and follows the story of Mary Howard (daughter of the Duke of Norfolk, who we also see in GILT).  There are weddings and funerals, secrets, betrayals, friendship, ruination, love and hope.  It was also the most difficult book I've ever written, possibly because I was being more brave with my writing and the emotion often struck close to home.  My editor says it’s my best work yet.

3. Both novels are historical, but sound quite different. How did the research differ for each book?

Because I have already done so much reading and research on the Tudor era, my research for BRAZEN was very specific to time, place and character.  Unfortunately, there’s not much written about Mary, so I had to do quite a lot of digging!  Many, many hours in front of the computer trolling through the Letters and Papers of Henry VIII.

Researching MANOR OF SECRETS was completely different.  I wasn't’t writing about real people, so I didn’t have to research hair color or personality quirks or who was where, when.  But I did have to catch up on my history.  Before I started writing, all of my early 20th century knowledge came from E.M. Forster novels, my costume design classes, and Downton Abbey. I had an absolutely wonderful time reading about how a Manor house was run, what daily life would have been like (dressing for dinner every night?) and what events shaped the summer of 1911.  My favorite part of that research was reading the biographies of women in service—kitchen maids and cooks, especially.  Even now that MANOR is finished, I read these books for fun!

4. How would the main character in Manor of Secrets describe the main character in the third Tudor book and vice versa?

Charlotte (the duke’s daughter in MANOR) would probably think that Mary’s life is romantic and adventurous—the royalty, the opulence of the court, falling in love.  Janie (the kitchen maid) would possibly think Mary was spoiled—she never had to work a day in her life.  But Janie would also see the difficulty and tragedy beneath the romantic veneer of the Tudor world.

Mary would recognize a kindred spirit in Charlotte—leading a life that on the surface is perfect, but in reality is full of demands and disappointment.  And Mary might almost be jealous of Janie—a girl who can earn her own wage and therefore has control of her own life.

But when they really got to know each other, I have a feeling that all three girls would be friends.

5 What 2014 release are you most looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to so many!  INTO THE STILL BLUE by Veronica Rossi, A MAD, WICKED FOLLY by Sharon Biggs Waller, MAID OF DECEPTION by Jennifer McGowan, ISLA AND THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER by Stephanie Perkins, THE SOUND OF LETTING GO by Stasia Ward Kehoe, WHAT I THOUGHT WAS TRUE by Huntley Fitzpatrick…I could go on—so many wonderful books coming out next year!

A huge thank you to Katherine for taking the time to answer these. Brazen will be in stores June 12, 2014. Manor of Secrets will be in stores January 28, 2014.

If you want to learn more you can visit the author's website, or the Scholastic/Penguin websites.

You can pre-order Brazen at the following retailers

Amazon
Barnes and Noble

You can pre-order Manor of Secrets at the following retailers

Chapters
Amazon
Barnes and Noble

You'll have a chance to win one of these titles soon, as I will be hosting a giveaway that these interviews may help you win!

Be sure to let me know what you think of either of these titles, Katherine's Q and A, or anything else in the comments!

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).

Mailbox of awesome this week! It was a packed on filled with awesome books!

First up I won an Allegiant prize pack from Chapters (a main book retailer in Canada). It included that huge Four poster you see in the photo (it's a full sized poster, and AWESOME). I couldn't fit it all in the picture. It also included a button (not pictured).

I went to the Ontario Blogger Meet Up and my goodie bag held

The Offering by Kimberly Derting (Goodreads)

The Unlikely Hero of Room 13b by Teresa Toten (Goodreads)

Hover by Melissa West (Goodreads)

Pawn by Aimee Carter (Goodreads)

The Girl With All The Gifts by M.R. Carey (Goodreads)

Waterfell by Amalie Howard (Goodreads)

The Blessings by Elise Juska (Goodreads)

Harper sent me a title that has one of the prettiest covers EVER and is part of my 2014 Most Anticipated event. If you missed the Q & A I did with Rosamund, do check it out.

Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge (Goodreads) 

Lastly I may have squealed with this one showed up in my mailbox!

Brazen by Katherine Longshore (Goodreads)

She also included some bookmarks for Manor of Secrets in there! The cover of Brazen is prettier in person, and I am looking forward to starting it ASAP!

Happy Reading, and Happy Weekend!

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).

Mailbox of awesome this week!

Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore (Goodreads)

Last Night At The Viper Room by Gavin Edwards (Goodreads)

The Killing Woods by Lucy Christopher (Goodreads)

Huge thank you to Scholastic, and Harper Collins USA for the books this week. The hardcover of Last Night At The Viper Room is pretty, and there are some amazing photographs inside. Lucy Christopher's Stolen is still one of my favourite reads and I am excited to read The Killing Woods. It goes without saying that I fangirl over Katherine Longshore's books. I am excited to read Manor of Secrets as I've been hearing good things!

Happy Reading, and Happy Weekend!

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.

Here are my obsessions this week:

BOOK

Cover of Katherine Longshore's Brazen

I revealed this earlier in the week, and have a great contest going on. It reminds me of chocolate, and therefore I love it. The teaser excerpt also makes me want to READ IT IMMEDIATELY.

OTHER

Ontario Blogger Meet Up

This time next week I will be in Toronto taking part in a huge meet up that is sure to be filled with bookish fun. I am very excited about seeing everyone again, and getting to chat with fellow bloggers about all things bookish.

So what are you obsessed with this week?

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.

Here are my obsessions this week:

**SPOILERS FOR AMERICAN HORROR STORY: COVEN**

BOOK

Cover reveal for Brazen by Katherine Longshore

This Wednesday I have the honour of revealing the cover for Katherine Longshore's newest novel. Brazen sounds amazing, and the cover matches Gilt and Tarnish perfect. Be sure to stop by to check it out! 

Reader/Blogger Wishlist

If you don't know what Reader/Blogger Wishlist is Jessica from Read My Breath Away describes it much better than I could. Basically, if you have Twitter, join readers and bloggers who will be posting their wishlist of books they wish existed. I am taking part, and can not wait to see what everyone wants to read. The twitter party is happening THIS Monday.

Cover of Jodi Lynn Anderson's The Vanishing Season

It's so pretty! I am a huge fan of Jodi Lynn Anderson's Tigerlily. One of the most beautifully written books I've ever read. Its one I push people to read. I am excited to get my hands on this beacause I know the writing will be amazing, and the synopsis sounds AMAZING!

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

This Tuesday everyone! THIS TUESDAY! I have the day off work. Wine and cupcakes shall be purchased. Pizza shall be ordered for dinner. My day shall be spent reading. I've, sadly, already been spoiled for this, but I am none the less excited to finally finish Tris and Four's story.

TV/MOVIE

Endless Love Trailer

Risque, sexy and intense.This is a remake of an older movie, and seems to be all about obsessive love. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Bookclub will be reading this one just in time for the movie to come out in February. The music is rather chilling. A slowed down version of Addicted To Love sort of fits this story perfectly. Oh, and I fully expect this to be rated R.

Dracula

The new TV series, Dracula is premiering on Oct 25th! That's this week. I am beyond excited. I hope they twist the original story a little bit and make it incredibly fun.

Evan Peters in American Horror Story: Coven

Episode 2! That is the episode that Even Peters BLEW ME AWAY! This is something different from what he's previously played on this show. He's done it brilliantly, and I am so excited about his storyline for this season. The Frankenstein aspect to his story, and how he portrayed someone being pieced back together and brought back to life is pretty amazing. He totally impressed me with those few scenes and I expect many more as he slowly regains his personality, and control.

OTHER

Ontario Blogger Meet Up

We are getting so close! The other Ottawa Blogettes and myself will be traveling to Ottawa to hang out with our fellow book lovers. I am really looking forward to a fun weekend.

So what are you obsessed with this week?

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.

Here are my obsessions this week:

BOOKS

Third Book In The Royal Circle trilogy by Katherine Longshore

We have a title!! BRAZEN will be the final book in the trilogy, and I can not wait for more details. Details, and a synopsis will be coming from Penguin shortly, and I can't wait. I am curious to learn more about the main character, and what events may be woven into the story based on the timing. Be sure to add it to your Goodreads to get all the details when available.

Dangerous Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

The Castor Chronicles is getting a spin off! Ridley and Link are taking centre stage in this New York City set companion series to Beautiful Creatures. I am excited to see what's next, and this gives me an excuse to finish the first series ASAP! You can add this to your Goodreads, and check out the full synopsis.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

A Wizard of Oz where Dorothy is not the hero? SIGN ME UP! Deadline, who announced that the CW has optioned this for a TV Show described the  book/show this way

the magically-ever-youthful Dorothy has stayed in Oz, presiding over a now fascist fairyland with her perfectly manicured iron fist and the help of her henchmen - the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion. But when another young woman from Kansas is swept up in a tornado and magically dropped into this war-torn Oz, our hero discovers a revolutionary underground of witches and enchanted beings only to learn that she is destined to lead their people in the fight to reclaim Oz from a power-hungry Dorothy's ruthless clutches.

Yup, pretty much LET ME HAVE IT NOW! I am going to be really excited when this comes out in April 2014. This one has flown under the radar a little, but I expect that is about to change. Also, keep an eye out for this in my 2014 Most Antcipated Reads event *wink* . If you haven't already, be sure to add it to your Goodreads.

Cover of Sisters' Fate by Jessica Spotswood 

I love this series, so much. The last book ripped my heart out, and left me a mess when all was said and done. I am dying to get my hands on this one. The last little bit of the synopsis? SHIVERS! *Obvious spoilers for the first two books in the series in the synopsis, so tread carefully*. I am also in love with this cover. The colours are so pretty.

TV/MOVIE

Dexter Series Finale

We're saying goodbye to Dexter. This makes me sad. Watching the following teaser for end made me anxious and terrified as to what is going to happen.


 
Dexter saying "This is all my fault" and the FBI closing in on Hannah! EEEP! Poor little Harrison better have a happy ending in all of this, that's all I am saying. 

So what are you obsessed with this week?

Waiting on Wednesda.... Manor of Secrets

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 Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .

Lady Charlotte Edmonds: Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance. 

Janie Seward: Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.

Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.

It's no secret I adore Katherine Longshore's books. I am intrigued by the sound of this one. It's exactly what you'd expect from Katherine, but still seems so different from her previous novels. 

Expected release date - January 28, 2014