Book Review: Throne of Glass, Book 1

I finally did it. I read the first book to the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, a series endlessly pushed by "booktube" and beautiful fan art on Pinterest, a book which I could ignore no longer.

Throne of Glass is about Celaena Sardothien, a world-reknowned 18 year-old assassin who is taken from the slave camp Endovier and brought to the kingdom of Adarlan to compete in a series of Tests against other assassins, soldiers, and thieves for the role of the King's Champion. Though working for the king who ruined her life isn't her ideal situation, Celaena is promised freedom in four years and finds herself facing an offer she can't refuse. She soon discovers things are not as they seem and finds herself not only in a fight for title, but a fight for her life.

I will say...the hype, centered around this young assassin with extraordinary skills, didn't live up to my expectations. I prepared myself for a dark, grim world and protagonist. While there were a few scenes where we got a glimpse of Celaena's mad skills, I felt her budding romance with one of the characters and her constant self-examinations in the mirror over every detail of her new dresses overshadowed the assassin in her. Granted, she's young and not inhuman, but she's also been through hell and trained to be an assassin by the leader of the Assassin's Guild; I figured there would be less concern over her attire and how dirty her face was and more suspicion and apathy. 

Despite my disappointments, I still feel as though I need to give this series a chance. I haven't heard great things about book 2, but have heard book 3 is where it starts to get interesting. There were elements of the story and characters that I loved, and I thought the world-building was unique (I mean, a castle of glass...C'mon. That's not usual). Book One can be tricky in setting up backstory and characters, so I'm still hopeful that this entertaining but shaky introduction will lead to bigger and better things.

A hopeful 3/5 stars

SaveSave
SaveSave

Book Review : My Ántonia

A cousin of mine recommended this book to me because it was my grandmom's favorite. My grandmom passed away when I was 6, and I have hardly any memory of her, only stories from my dad. So anything that can bring me closer to her spirit, I accept readily.

My Ántonia is a beautiful mess of a book. The story is very slow, and from the moment I started till past halfway through the book, I felt like I'd jumped into a story that started somewhere else. None of the characters are particularly likable; in fact, the main character is downright annoying on many occasions, and the ones that have potential don't get much "page time."

These flaws have kept me from truly enjoying this book, and yet still it holds an element of intrigue. I read most of the book in a day, which is curious as it usually takes me months to struggle through to the end of a book I don't like. Willa Cather's writing is introspective with an autobiographical feeling to it. She lived in Nebraska, which is the story's setting, and it obviously had great impact on her life. Her descriptions are fluid, vivid, and read like none other I've read. When she writes I can smell the prairie, feel the cold of silent, grey winter twilight and the power of sun in a wide Nebraskan sky.

If you want to read a book with what I would call exquisite writing, then I would recommend you give this book a chance.

2.5/5 for the story
4/5 for the writing

Book Review: An Elegant Facade, Hawthorne House #2

To anyone else, Lady Georgina is a typical, spoiled young woman enjoying her first year out in society looking for a husband. Her ridiculous antics especially annoy Colin McCrae, a connected businessman lacking impeccable bloodlines. Little to the knowledge of her family and friends, Georgina is driven by a shameful secret, one that she has carefully hidden through the years and can only be remedied by her high social aspirations. But how long can she keep up this facade?

I haven't enjoyed a Christian fiction book in a while. So many of them are the same, in characters, predictability, storyline, etc. 

However, I enjoyed An Elegant Facade; I always love those stories which give a nod to Jane Austen. From the title character's mistaken first impressions, to chats during ballroom dances and the worry of finding a suitable husband, I think it's safe to say any Janeite interested in the genre would enjoy this story. 

 Kristi Ann Hunter adds mystery, danger, and intrigue, interspersed with delicious foreshadowing, just enough to keep you turning to the next page but distracted from discovering Georgina's secret too early. I thought Hunter did a wonderful job of introducing something new to an otherwise predictable story. I loved the author's writing style, and her characters had me hooked. 

( This is the second book in a series, and while you could read it alone, like I did, I think I would've had a few things cleared up if I'd read the first one. )

4/5 stars

**I received this book for free in exchange for review from Bethany House Publishers. 

I also want to apologize for the font issues in this post. I've tried everything I can think of and can't seem to fix it; hopefully it is a problem Blogger is having that will be sorted out in the next few days. I'll keep an eye on it.

Book Review: Jane's Fame — How Jane Austen Conquered the World

This is the story of how I conquered reading this book.

Don't go ahead and dismiss this review, however. It had its ups and downs, though that does make for a confusing book to review. But to start off on a good note, just look at that cover art; it makes my heart happy.

I purchased (or rather, I believe my mother did?) this book several years ago, started it, stopped. Started it. Stopped. Finally in February of this year I began the book again, determined to cross the finish line. It took me until now, with a month's break, but I was finally able to close the book on the last words. Satisfying.

As I got into the first couple chapters,  I was skeptical. It appeared a lot of what the author was stating as fact were assumptions, but the fact is, Jane Austen's life is shrouded in conflicting accounts and few material evidences of her life. If you're going to write a biography on her life, expect speculation.

By combining family accounts, personal letters, and the views of the time, the biographer Claire Harman is able to give us a glimpse into Jane's life, one that I'd never heard before reading this book. She covers Jane's personal life, her character, her writing and struggle with publication, and eventually modern-day Janeites and adaptations through the years.

I let go of my skepticism and gobbled up the first few chapters. Everyone has their own personal view on Jane, but to receive a personal view influenced by hard facts was fascinating, and made me love Jane Austen even more. (I especially enjoyed reading about what Jane Austen thought of her own writing and the process, gathered mostly from letters and family accounts. It humanized her.) I did notice the author seemed to repeat herself, especially in mentioning that there isn't much information to go on...everyone has a different account...but then continue on with her said assumptions. She could've cut down on these observances.

The middle chapters were rather dull, and that's where I set the book aside for a month. Leaving the personal world of Jane Austen and focusing on more technical aspects, such as publications and numerously mentioned critiques, I found myself skimming through the notes.

Again, this is how Austen conquered the world — her influence on chick lit, feminists, and film, to name a few. You'll get a couple chapters on her life, but if you're a true enthusiast and want to know more about how persuasive she's been over the lives of millions, I highly recommend you read this book. Decide for yourself what you accept as fact or fiction, possible or impossible.

And know that Jane couldn't care less what you think of her.


3.5/5 stars

Audiobook Review: The Red Necklace

   In April I came down with a sinus and ear infection. I've never had the latter, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. The combination of the two rendered me useless, and all I could do was lay on the couch with my eyes closed. Even my fall back, television, was useless.

So came up with the idea to listen to an audiobook. I don't often use audiobooks as I find, unless the words are directly in front of me,  my mind wanders in a thousand different directions. When you literally have nothing else to do, however, they come in quite handy.

I found an audiobook for The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner and read by Tom Hiddleston. I'd never heard of the book or its author before, but what drew me was my like for the charming British actor who would be reading said book to me, and well, there was no way I wasn't taking advantage of that.

The Red Necklace combines historical events from the French revolution and gypsy magic. It's the first book in a series (the second book published in 2009, two years after the first, so I don't know if the author is planning any other books), and young adult. I highlight these two things because the book was slightly shallow and ended rather abruptly in my opinion, and I can only hope the second will flesh out the characters.

Overall, the story was enjoyable and characters entertaining. It took me about halfway through the audiobook to really get caught up in the story, and I feel like some of the character growth was more of a leap rather than a gradual journey. This isn't a story I would rush out and get for my own personal library, but if you want a light story with magic, adventure, and young love interwoven with accurate historical events, then I think you'll have fun with this book... especially if you listen to the audiobook.

Tom Hiddleston is known for being talented with accents and impressions, and he doesn't disappoint. Each character has his or her own unique voice. I sometimes cringe when audiobook readers try to create voices — I have this problem where I feel intensely awkward for someone else. When Hiddleston began the story and voices, I began to feel that "oh no" flush on my cheeks, but then I realized he was doing an amazing job. His narration contributed greatly to the entertainment.

3/5 stars
4.5/5 stars for the audiobook

Book Review: Marley & Me

I am not one for sad dog stories. I locked myself in the bathroom and cried violently after watching Eight Below. After watching Hachi, I was angry at my parents for bringing home such a movie. Don't even get me started on Old Yeller.

However, Marley and Me was the one "sad" dog movie I could watch and enjoy, despite shedding tears at the end. I figured I would try the book, as well. I'm thrilled I did.

Yes, this book is about "the world's worst dog," a dog that was kicked out of obedience school and ate an 18K gold necklace. But this isn't just a dog story. It's about a family, about love, and loyalty. It's about learning to work through the trials and tears life brings you, and always finding the joy in a day.

John Grogan cleverly takes us through Marley's life and the experiences he and his wife went through starting their own marriage and family, making you feel as though you're right there with them. I laughed, I cried, and I walked away unable to stop thinking of the book.

I never thought I'd be able to pick a favorite book, but Marley & Me might just be my answer.

5/5 stars

Advisory: This book contains a little bit of language, and Grogan is fairly open and honest about marital relations as good chunk of the book deals with the Grogans attempting to start a family; some of it is also emotionally heavy. It might be a bit much for younger readers.

2016 Book Shelf : Non-Fiction

Last time I posted my 2016 Book Shelf of fiction books. Now I'm sharing the nonfiction books I plan to read this year. I use to hate nonfiction, but I think you get to a certain age where reading at least some is necessary! 

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

I've read a few chapters of this and as an introvert, I love it. Time to finish.

The Annotated Jane Eyre

I received this book a couple birthdays ago. I'm ashamed I still haven't finished it, so I'm determined to complete reading it this year! (That isn't saying anything for the quality of the book; only that I'm easily distracted and time got split by moving!)

Jane's Fame

Another book given to me a long time ago that I haven't read, which is ridiculous considering how much I love Jane Austen. Plus, that cover is so lovely I could cry. 

Yes, Please

Amy Poehler is a brilliant comedian, and I had started listening to her audiobook version and was completely enthralled, until, you guessed it, something else in life came along. Alas, I exited out of the audiobook and never got back to it. I'll be dedicating an afternoon sometime soon to finish this memoir. 

Living the Invisible Disability

If you've kept up with the blog for a while, you'll know I've suffered a TBI and struggle with depression. I often avoid reading personal accounts of people with similar experiences because it makes me very emotional, but I'm also encouraged hearing stories where others have triumphed. This has been recommended several times, so I believe it's about time I read it. 

Lost in my Mind

Another story detailing the life of someone recovering from TBI and moving on in their life.

Costume Design 101

I adore researching about costume design; my favorite part of behind the scenes features on movies is when the costume department speaks of how they studied characters and came up with the ideas for the beautiful costumes on their shows. A career I've always been interested in, and while I don't necessarily expect to follow through with this dream, it's always good to have more information on your interests. 

Word Painting

I've been told in the past that dialogue is my strong point; whether that is true or not, I KNOW my weak point is descriptive writing. I'm curious as to what this book will cover.

Surprised by Joy

C.S. Lewis is a hero to me, and I'm anxious to find a copy of this partial autobiography.

On Writing

I started this a while back and never finished, but I fell in love with the writing style, stories, and tips. This is a must-read this year! 

If You Want to Write

I've heard this is a must-read for writers. Have you read it?

The Criminal Mind

Thank you, crime TV shows, for making me fascinated in criminal and forensic psychology. This will be perfect for a certain story idea I have been mulling over. 

There you have it. A short list of nonfiction books to read in 2016. These two lists are only the beginning; head over to my new Goodreads page to find an even bigger list! (Profile not complete as the site is giving me some trouble, but you can still find my ever growing 2016 reading list.) I've decided to try reading 100 books this year and have joined K.M. Weiland's Reading Challenge. I might fail miserably, but it's a good challenge!

What's YOUR reading goal for 2016?

2016 Book Shelf : Fiction

I didn't read as much in 2015 (at least the first half of the year) as I usual do, and there were a fair amount of books I started and never finished. So instead of reviewing favorite books of last year, I'm going to share what books are on my agenda for this year. I'm separating these into two posts for fiction/pleasure and technical/biography books (which can be for pleasure as well, of course*).

Hamlet

I started Hamlet last year when I bought tickets for my friend and me to see a screening of the National Theatre Live production of Hamlet. I struggle with verse format and King James' language, so it's been rather slow-going, but I've enjoyed the book and intend to finish it this month.

Catching Fire and Mockingjay

I've listened to the audiobook of the first Hunger Games and greatly enjoyed that. Catching Fire is next and once I see the Mockingjay movies, I'll finish. 

Stella Bain

I saw this book on sale in Barnes and Noble and it basically jumped into my hands. I adore the cover and the plot really intrigued me, especially as I enjoy stories set during the World Wars. 

Fangirl

I feel like I should've read this a long time ago. A story about a quiet, anxious girl who adores reading and writes fan fiction and stresses about making it in the real world? I didn't know they wrote a biography about me... 

A Share in Death

As I'm getting more interested in writing crime-related, mystery genres, it's about time I started reading them! 

Sherlock: Volume 2

And always, there's the classic... I read the first volume quite a while ago now.  Love me some Sherlock!

The Collected Poems of Emily Dickinson

This was probably one of my favorite Christmas gifts this year. I love poetry, but I'm very selective of whom I read. Emily Dickinson has always been a favorite, so to add this to my library made my soul happy. 

The Shock of Night

I grew up reading Christian fiction, but I've never read it in the form of fantasy. I'm not sure how strong the Christian themes are in this book, but I'm still interested how the author will combine the two. 

Chivalrous 

Christian fiction, Arthurian-inspired, seemingly strong female lead... Sounds like a fun time! 

ReRead: The Chronicles of Narnia

Ah, Narnia. My favorite books. I haven't reread these in quite a few years, so I want to get back to them this year, maybe in between my other reads!

There are so many others I'm longing to read, but for now, these are the basics that I want to check off my list. (I was going to include the rest of the Harry Potter series, but I finished the last two books before I even finished writing this post! I love finding a new series I can't put down.)

What books are on YOUR list this year? 

Everyone share your ideas in the comments! 

Book Review: Someday, Someday, Maybe

Synopsis taken from Goodreads: 

Franny Banks is a struggling actress in New York City, with just six months left of the three year deadline she gave herself to succeed. But so far, all she has to show for her efforts is a single line in an ad for ugly Christmas sweaters and a degrading waitressing job. She lives in Brooklyn with two roommates-Jane, her best friend from college, and Dan, a sci-fi writer, who is very definitely not boyfriend material-and is struggling with her feelings for a suspiciously charming guy in her acting class, all while trying to find a hair-product cocktail that actually works. 

... It's hard to tell if she'll run out of time or money first, but either way, failure would mean facing the fact that she has absolutely no skills to make it in the real world...



I saw Gilmore Girls for the first time over the winter and enjoyed the show, especially Lauren Graham's performance, so when I saw that she had authored Someday, Someday, Maybe, I knew it had to be on my Christmas List (thank you, Gommie!).

The coming-of-age story of Franny Banks accurately depicts the anxiety, self-doubt, and wonderment of transitioning into adulthood and discovering yourself. Franny faces embarrassment, naive choices, and denial, all with the good hanging right in front of her eyes. It's a frustrating, comical experience that reminds you to step back and examine life, then trust your gut and leap forward with your dreams.

The author created an excellent character to represent common struggles women face, both personally and in the work place. I often cringed for or laughed with Franny Banks, but at the same time I will say she wasn't developed enough to the point where I felt a connection. I'm assuming this is a slightly autobiographical novel, and I wish Miss Graham had put a little more of herself into the character.

The story had it's flaws. Honestly, I had a hard time getting into the book, forgetting it for long periods of time on my bookshelf before picking it up again. It wasn't until Chapter 14 that things started happening and I began to have interest, but still I was just coasting through it. The ending wrapped up abruptly, and I was left saying, "That's it?" and back on my bookshelf it went.

Graham certainly has potential as a writer and I would read another book by her with the hopes that she had cleaned up some of her prose and developed characters. This book falls flat, but it still had an entertaining protagonist and comical moments that had me laughing out loud. ( And the book cover is one of my all-time favorites ;)  )

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
(I will give a heads up that this book contains some language and sexual innuendo/situations)

Have you read the book? What were your thoughts? Let me know in the comments!

Book Review: Fahrenheit 451

Today, I'm going to do something very simple to ease back into posting, and so I'm going to give a short book review. For school (which, by the way, I have now graduated! Hoorah!) I had to read Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradubury. Often I don't care for the books I'm made to read in school, but this was one of those rare exceptions. I'd heard a lot of good reviews on the book and was interested in seeing if I would end up liking it myself. If you have not read the book, let me give you a little teaser and show you what I saw when I opened to the first chapter...

(Taken from Fahrenheit 451, Chapter One: The Heart and the Salamander)

It was a pleasure to burn.
It was a special pleasure to see things eaten, to see things blackened and changed. With the brass nozzle in his fists, with this great python splitting its venomous kerosene upon the world, the blood pounded in his head, and his hands were the hands of some amazing conductor playing all the symphonies of blazing and burning to bring down the tatters and charcoal ruins of history. With his symbolic helmet numbered 451 on his stolid head, and his eyes all orange flame with the thought of what came next, he flicked the ignitor and the house jumped up in a gorging fire that burned the evening sky red and yellow and black.

Guy Montag lives in the futuristic world. He is a fireman, but in this world, firefighters no longer extinguish the flames - they start them. Books are banned and modern technology has taken over the sensible minds of men, but when a mysterious young woman starts putting ideas of the old ways of world, back when books weren't banned and time was taken slowly, into his mind, Guy begins to wonder if the fires he creates are really that sacred.

This book was short and an easy read but incredibly thought-provoking. Though I may not agree with all of the author's ideas, I was reminded of the quote by Albert Einstein which says, "I fear the day technology will surpass our human interaction. The world will have a generation of idiots." This is exactly what has happened in this book. Cars speed so fast no one has time to see the scenery, and no one cares if they end up running someone over; children are in school "8" days a week, and real families have been replaced by "TV families." There is no true interaction among people, there is no love between husbands and wives. You live for immediate happiness. Bradbury shows the corruptness of this thinking, and perhaps he is no longer so far from the truth.

I would recommend this book to everyone. It is an enjoyable read, if not a little disturbing at times just because of the despicable mindsets of these people, and it truly makes you stop and think of the world around you and your own life. (If you're someone who is sensitive to this, there is language in the book that gets worse towards the middle/end). I highly recommend this book.