Best of 2014

As the end of one year, and the beginning of another approaches, it's time to reflect. This means all those Best Of lists begin to pop up everywhere, and this blog is no exception.

Here are the top 15 books I've read this year. I couldn't stop at 10. It was impossible. I even cheated a little and included two books in the same series together.

These are in no particular order, that would have been even more impossible.

Each selection links to my review (where available) if you wanted more information.

1 We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

Beautiful writing, and a story that blends together sadness, summer, and a fantastic mystery. The "don't reveal the ending" marketing plan was buzz worthy, and in this case I happen to agree. Knowing the minimal amount about the story going in increases your enjoyment of this story as this is one to experience with the character.

2 The Winner's Curse/The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski

I cheated and included both books under this as I've read both this year. The characters will ensnare you and keep you riveted with every single twist and bump during their journey. A story full of secrets, lies, hidden truths and political intrigue, it's one that keeps you guessing and crushes your heart (in the best way).

3 Half Bad by Sally Green

This story succeeds because of Nathan. His story will stay with you long after you finish the book. The potential for the rest of the series is evident in this first installment and I am excited to continue Nathan's journey and discover more of this rich world Sally Green has created.

4 Love Letters To The Dead Ava Dellaira

Told in letter format, this story offers a unique and satisfying experience. Through letters to deceased celebrities we learn Laurel's story. It's a story that isn't always a happy one. It's a mix of hopeful and heartbreaking and looks at the long road back from grief and forgiveness.

5 Since You've Gone by Morgan Matson

This novel will immediately leave you with the Kelly Clarkson song stuck in your head, and a smile on your face. Filled with a sweet romance, and friendship that has the starring role, and characters you want to be friends with, it's a lighter read that has a lot of depth. You'll want to create your own 'to do' list for your BFF when you turn that final page.

6 Brazen by Katherine Longshore

All of Katherine's novels have an underlying message of finding your voice, and standing up for what you believe in. Something that resonates no matter what year we're in. This story is of finding your own self worth, and embracing it. It's a story that is filled with sharp writing, and the lasting desire to live life with no regrets.

7 Famous In Love by Rebecca Serle

Any fan of Hollywood gossip, CW TV shows, and love triangles will devour this novel and immediately beg for more. It's depth, and characterization however will have you utterly smitten. It's a story of falling in love while everyone watches, of finding yourself while under the spotlight, and adjusting to drastic changes. You may end up being either Team Jordan or Team Rainer, but you'll undoubtedly end up finishing the novel Team Paige.

8 The Vanishing Season by Jodi Lynn Anderson

Jodi's breathtaking writing combined with her ability to create the kind of characters that get under your skin made this one a heartbreaking, crushing read. The mystery of the missing girls is secondary to the destructive relationships between the central characters, and it's aftermath.

9 I'll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson

My first Jandy Nelson book stunned me. I expect this one will pop up on quite a few of these lists and for good reason. Two distinct and unique voices, two unforgettable narrators, and a story that is capable of breaking your heart and mending it all at once. The sibling relationship is the heart of this story, and it's beautifully done. This novel also gave me Oscar, my new book boyfriend.

10 Open Road Summer by Emery Lord

If you ever wondered what it might be like to be BFFs with Taylor Swift, this novel is for you. Underneath the lightness and fun is an insanely enjoyable story. A friendship at it's heart, and a swoon worthy romance make for a quick paced read that is a fave debut for many. There is plenty of emotion packed into this read, and you'll end it being an Emery Lord fan.

11 The Iron Trial by Cassandra Clare and Holly Black

This novel takes fantasy tropes and flips them. You think you know this story, and where it's going only for Holly Black and Cassandra Clare to show you just how wrong that assumption was. It packs a surprising punch, and is perfect for middle grade and young adult fans alike. I cannot wait to see these characters grow and progress over the coarse of this story.

12 Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

A finale that was more than worth the wait. While I may prefer Etienne to any of the other boys Stephanie Perkins has created, Isla is perhaps my favourite girl. She endeared herself to me immediately, and is perhaps the most like me. A romantic, achingly realistic, beautifully written conclusion to a stellar set of companion novels. Stephanie Perkins may just be the Queen of Contemporary novels (for me she shares the title with Gayle Forman).

13 The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

The buzz around this one started when Emma Watson signed on to be the main character in the movie adaptation. Kelsea is a protagonist that quickly makes you fall in love with her. The Fetch is an intriguing element to the story and adds an air of mystery. The world building is one of my favourite parts of this story and seeing Kelsea grow and change is the heart of the story.

14 Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Danielle Paige takes something beloved and makes it all her own. She twists Oz in fascinating ways all while maintaining the recognizable elements of the classic. The clear and concise set up allows for a tightly woven story that begs to be turned into a CW TV show. Those who want what made The Wizard of Oz so speical will find it here, just twisted beyond belief.

15 Exquisite Captive by Heather Demetrois

Heather Demetrois' writing is often praised (and her 2015 release I'll Meet You There) is already gaining a lot of praise for it's writing). This novel is no exception. Combined with her writing is fantastic world building, and a love triangle that works because it really isn't a love triangle. This novel has magic, wonder, and a fantastic lead character that all equal up to a great read.

I could have easily made it 20, but decided to at least try to limit myself. Have you read any of these books? Did they make your Best Of list? 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.

Here are my obsessions this week.

BOOK

Joyride by Anna Banks (goodreads)

I came across this recently It's been described as Bonnie and Clyde meets Pretty In Pink. So obviously I need it. I am very excited to read this.

The Queen of the Tearling (goodreads)

I haven't been able to stop thinking about this since I finished reading it. I am dying to discuss it with people, so if you've read it let me know on Twitter or something and we can discuss! I have feelings about The Fetch in particular.

TV/MOVIE

Gotham Teaser Trailer #2

Loving everything I've seen so far from this movie. It might be wishful thinking but that Welcome Home message written across that newspaper screams of The Joker, no? I am very excited to see what they do with the show, but everything seems very promising so far.

OTHER

2015 Most Anticipated Event

I am busy planning my 2015 Most Anticipated Event. I tend to plan things really early, and get things set well in advance. I am in the process of contacting authors and publishers and such. I am really excited to share these titles with you though in Nov and Dec.

What are you obsessed with this week?

The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

Release Date - July 8, 2014
Publisher Website - Harper Collins
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy
Pages -  448 pages
My Rating - 4.5/5
**received in exchange for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

On her nineteenth birthday, Princess Kelsea Raleigh Glynn, raised in exile, sets out on a perilous journey back to the castle of her birth to ascend her rightful throne. Plain and serious, a girl who loves books and learning, Kelsea bears little resemblance to her mother, the vain and frivolous Queen Elyssa. But though she may be inexperienced and sheltered, Kelsea is not defenseless: Around her neck hangs the Tearling sapphire, a jewel of immense magical power; and accompanying her is the Queen’s Guard, a cadre of brave knights led by the enigmatic and dedicated Lazarus. Kelsea will need them all to survive a cabal of enemies who will use every weapon—from crimson-caped assassins to the darkest blood magic—to prevent her from wearing the crown.

Despite her royal blood, Kelsea feels like nothing so much as an insecure girl, a child called upon to lead a people and a kingdom about which she knows almost nothing. But what she discovers in the capital will change everything, confronting her with horrors she never imagined. An act of singular daring will throw Kelsea’s kingdom into tumult, unleashing the vengeance of the tyrannical ruler of neighboring Mortmesne: the Red Queen, a sorceress possessed of the darkest magic. Now Kelsea will begin to discover whom among the servants, aristocracy, and her own guard she can trust.

But the quest to save her kingdom and meet her destiny has only just begun—a wondrous journey of self-discovery and a trial by fire that will make her a legend…if she can survive.

The Queen of the Tearling introduces readers to a world as fully imagined and terrifying as that of The Hunger Games, with characters as vivid and intriguing as those of The Game of Thrones, and a wholly original heroine. Combining thrilling action and twisting plot turns, it is a magnificent debut from the talented Erika Johansen.

Just by reading the synopsis it's easy to see that The Queen of the Tearling has a lot to live up to. That's not even taking news of Emma Watson being lined up to headline the movie adaptation into account. Needless to say there was definitely some high expectations going into this novel. Those expectations were surpassed by this novel's wonderfully constructed world, and the enthralling story found within it's pages.

The novel's strongest element, in a novel filled with stunning characterization and world building, is it's protagonist. Kelsea is girl who was groomed to be queen, even if it's not something she would have chosen on her own. She finds this perilous throne thrust upon her and she fiercely rises to the challenge. She is driven, determined, and intelligent. Her character is woven so that there are many layers to her. She's someone who will rule rigidly but still do what is best for her people. She's a mixture of hardness and understanding. Her treatment of her country's people show her caring side, while her desire to better the country via education shows her intellect and forethought. The character growth from the beginning of this novel to it's conclusion is staggering, and I breathlessly awaiting seeing how she grows next.

The beginning of the novel is a little slow, but once you allow the book to get into it's stride, it becomes consumingly addictive. You're immersed into the story, and it grips you. I easily tore through 3/4 of this novel because I was compelled to continue the story. I needed to see how it would end.

The characters, from Kelsea right down to the more minor ones, grow on you. It's a slow process, but one that is worth the time it takes. Without giving spoilers, there is a moment when everything the novel has been building towards finally happens, and it's heart crushing. Horrible things are going to happen, and it's devastating because you realize how much these characters have endeared themselves to you. You ache for Kelsea as she has to do something that crushes her. This moment of anguish shows the strength she has inside though, and is such a powerful character moment that will be felt throughout the entire series, I predict.

The romance is more a quiet simmer with potential suitors being introduced. Within the confines of this story we have a woman who is finding her footing, and everyone wants to use her a chess piece. Allegiances are still being determined. Hidden agendas are still a possibility. This scenario creates the potential for heartbreak and betrayal. This still will not stop the potential romances from being a delicious part of the story, and I will relish the journey to finding out who will fit into Kelsea's life as she builds her reign on the throne.

The Fetch, a scandalously handsome thief makes a case for being the character that steals every scene he's in. He's compelling, and even if we got off to a rocky start, a character I wanted more of. The mystery of who he is, and his past, only serves to fuel the fascination. I predict this role, when it comes to movie casting time, will be a huge get for Hollywood's young actors.

The most striking aspect of the story is the suffering the Tear people have endured. We hear many stories of slave trade, murder, and other unspeakable crimes. These are often followed by drug and alcohol addictions. The believably of this world, and it's inhabitants, is part of what draws you into the story. Kelsea's determination to make things better is mirrored by the reader.

The fantasy elements of the story are intriguing, and that aspect is still being built and unraveled. However, it's the more human elements that I found myself connecting to. I think this novel, while having fantasy elements is a very human story. A guard learning to trust his new queen, a young woman learning to trust herself, and the flaws that are within us all.

A stunning debut that for all it's fantasy elements has a very human heart to it's story. Erika Johansen easily held me under her spell, and Kelsea is a protagonist you won't soon forget.

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 is packed with Harper goodness this week!

How To Build A Girl by Caitlin Moran (goodreads)
Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen (goodreads)
Darling, You Can't Do Both by Janet Kestin and Nancy Vonk (goodreads)

Illusions of Fate by Kiersten White (goodreads)

A huge thank you to Harper Collins Canada and Edelweiss for the review copies. Excited to start reading all of them.

What books made their way into your mailbox this week?

Happy weekend, and happy reading!

My Summer Reading List

I saw a little while back that people were listing their summer reading lists. Now that summer is officially here I thought I would share my own list.

I tend to plan well in advance and have review books schedule in a calendar. It doesn't mean I don't sneak a few books in when I can though.

Here are the books I am most anticipating reading this summer -

Tiger Lily by Jodi Lynn Anderson

This will be a re-read for the Sisterhood of the Traveling Bookclub discussion. I am pretty much forcing this on people at this point and am looking forward to reading it and falling in love all over again.

The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

The lovely Harper Canada girls (Suman and Kaiti) have been gushing about this one, and once Emma Watson signed on for the movie, I was sold. I am really excited as I get to start this one VERY soon.

Veronica Mars : The Thousand Dollar Tan Line by Rob Thomas and Jennifer Graham

Now that I have watched the entire series, and the movie I am ready to dive into this one. I am seriously missing Neptune, Veronica, and the rest of the gang. I'll be insanely happy if Deputy Leo makes a cameo. Oh, and Logan and Veronica should make out. 

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

Counting down the days until I have this book in my hands. It's going to be reading material for the train ride back from my Toronto trip. I loved Stephanie Perkins' previous novels, and feel safe saying that I will adore this one too. It's possibly my most anticipated of the summer.

Open Road Summer by Emery Lord

A Taylor Swift-ish character, a swoon worthy boy and a whole lot of buzz has made this a must read for me. I'll be devouring it soon, preferably with ice cream while at a park.

I also have a few fall releases that I am hoping to sneak in this summer!

Falling Into Place by Amy Zhang

I've been hearing nothing but amazing things about this one. Jamie (The Perpetual Page Turner/Broke and Bookish) raved about it, and the Harper Collins Canada ladies have also spoken highly of it. It may have to sneak it's way up the 'to be read' pile.

I'll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson

Another one of those books that the buzz has made me stop and pay attention. I am hoping to sneak this one in because it not only sounds wonderful, but I hear the writing is utterly beautiful.

What books will you be reading this summer? Any of my selections also on your reading list?

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

The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

The ladies from Harper Collins Canada were chatting about this one on Twitter, and I am immediately intrigued. After reading the Goodreads synopsis, I am SOLD! I want to get my hands on this immediately. Emma Watson is already set to star in the movie adaptation of this fantasy series. This is certainly going to be one with buzz going into summer of 2014.

MOVIE/TV

Disney Descendants 

Disney key art for the TV Movie Descendants

It was recently announced that a Disney channel movie would be made that revolved around the son of Belle and Beast  (among other Disney character children). Obviously, I am excited for this. It also has made me want someone to write a series about the children of iconic fairytale characters. Imagine the possibilities for couples, family feuds, and redemption. What if a villain's child fell in love with one of the children of the 'heroes'? I need this to happen. I want someone to write this story, immediately.

OTHER

Ottawa Blogettes Secret Santa

 
My secret Santa got me the most amazing gift! Katie from Bookishly Yours had my name and got me this amazing Peter Pan print (which is framed). I LOVE IT! She also included a 3 pack of Disney Kinder Eggs (totally a theme happening here). I've already thanked her, but again a huge thank you to Katie for this amazing gift! Can not wait to hang it up in my apartment.
So what are you obsessed with this week?