I was curious whether or not blogging would work out, and if I'd be able to squeeze it in around the rest of my life, but I think I've found a pretty good balance. There are days when I'm not able to post anything, and days when I have posts scheduled in advance -- it just depends! I haven't put a lot of pressure on myself, and just want to enjoy this blog for what it is -- a way to share and discuss books with people.
I feel like I've already made some wonderful friends this year, and really enjoy reading and responding to all of your comments! You're wonderful people and I'm happy to have met you.
I've read a lot of amazing books this past year, and wanted to list a few of my favorites! I also want to do a giveaway, so look for the Rafflecopter form at the bottom. One winner will be randomly selected, and that person will get to choose one of the books listed below. Good luck! Thank you again for the friendships, the conversations, and for understanding that reading is an essential part of who we are.
This giveaway officially starts on September 25, 2018 and ends on October 9, 2018 (two weeks!). The winner will be announced on October 10, 2018 on this post within the Rafflecopter form, and also notified by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or I will choose another winner (read my full giveaway policy here).
International entries are okay as long as The Book Depository ships to you. Click here to check!
To enter – fill out the Rafflecopter form and answer the question! Easy!
Extra Entries:
+3 if you follow this blog (Bloglovin', email, or Feedburner) *links in the sidebar
Happy first blogoversary! 🎂 I hope you can continue to "squeeze it around the rest of your life" in the months and years ahead! It sounds like you've found a pretty good balance, so I'm sure you'll be able to 😉.
ReplyDeleteTo answer your giveaway question (thank you so much for doing this!), I'm intrigued by The Archived, but I'm not sure if I want to commit to the series (because if I read Book 1, I will probably want to finish the whole thing anyway LOL). Or I might choose THUG and see if it's worth the hype.
THUG is totally worth the hype! I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. It's a powerful story that shows a perspective we don't often see. The Archived was such a unique read! I was surprised by a few of the twists, too. I'm trying to think if there's anything that would put you off... there's no love triangle, no insta-love, very little romance at all, and plenty of ghosts and mystery. I think it's one you'd enjoy!
DeleteThank you! I hope that this is something I will be able to find time for in the future! The kids are getting older, so it like I have both more and less time -- haha. Only time will tell! <3
LOL, I'm difficult, aren't I? Thank you for the book check-up!
DeleteTo answer the question I think it would be the Kelley Armstrong one as I've had a great time with her Otherworld books and I've always wondered whether to try this series!
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean about time passing quickly. As a kid the summer felt like it was lasting forever as did every school term! Now, I can't believe we're headed for another winter. It's scary!
I devoured that series! I loved the alternating perspectives of the sisters (twins), and how very different they were. They could both be faced with the same problem, but would choose to handle it in very different ways. Also, the have bond beasts, which were awesome all on their own. I haven't had a chance to read her Otherworld books, but I want to. I love Kelley Armstrong!
DeleteYes! As kids, the summer seems to last an eternity! School would drag on and on, and summers would last forever. Now all of it blurs by into a single year and then I'm left wondering where the seasons went, haha.
Happy blogoversary!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you! I really cannot believe it's already been a year. :)
DeleteHappy, happy blogoversary! And congrats on one year! I'm so glad I came across your blog. I never miss your posts (even if lately I'm always late on commenting LOL).
ReplyDeleteSo many good books!! I'd probably choose Josh and Hazel. Christina Lauren have fast become a go-to author duo.
Thank you, Tanya! I'm so happy we met through blogging! I always look for your reviews and value your opinion -- it's the reason I read (and loved) the Royally series! You have a beautiful way of expressing your thoughts and feelings, and I love popping by your blog (sometimes more than once in a single day, haha). You're never late on commenting! I appreciate the time you take to stop by. <3
DeleteChristina Lauren are now an auto-buy for me! I inhale their books! :)
Oh boy, your comments really made my day, Lindsi! Thank you!!! ♥
Delete<3 <3 <3
DeleteHappy Blogaversary! It is always exciting to have an anniversary and to know that you've been dong something you love for a while now and it's actually working out LOL! Glad I've gotten to know you and as for books, no idea what I would choose but there is always something out there I want to try that I don't have yet. ;) Glad I've gotten to know you a little over the last few months!!
ReplyDeleteRight? It really doesn't feel like it's been a year, and I think that's because I've just enjoyed doing it. My kids also keep me insanely busy (and make me a little crazy), so that could have something to do with it. ;)
DeleteI'm happy we've met through blogging, and I love your concise and informative reviews. You usually read something right before I do, so I know I can check your blog for a sneak peak opinion. <3
HAPPY BLOGOVERSARY, L!!!! I can't believe I've been following this blog for so long already as well. I've loved all the content you've brought to the community so far, and I know I'll continue to love whatever you write!
ReplyDeleteI would LOVE to win The Kiss Quotient or The Hate U Give. Thanks so much for the chance!
THANK YOU, AIMEE! I remember your blog was one of the first ones I came across when I started doing this. I loved how much effort you put into your posts, and how creative the content was. You also have such lovely designs! I've always wondered -- is that your own handwriting, or a font? You do so much more than review books! You have discussions and informative posts, too. Love it!
DeleteThe Kiss Quotient was delicious! I'm surprised you haven't read it yet! THUG is a really great read, too. :)
Happy blogoversary! I love your blog. It’s very polished for being only a year old. Mine was still a massive, inconsistent mess after 1 year. Thanks for the giveaway! I’d choose They Both Die At The End, The Archived, or Two Boys Kissing. I can’t decide!
ReplyDeleteAj @ Read All The Things!
To be fair... this is actually my second book review blog. I had one in college, too. I did that for about five years before kids invaded my life, haha. I had very little time after our first, and then twins made it impossible for me to do anything for awhile. They're finally old enough for me to start doing a few things on my own and for myself. It's bittersweet! I miss my babies, but love watching them grow and learn new things.
DeleteThey Both Die at the End and Two Boys Kissing left me in tears, but they are both beautiful stories that I hope to re-read in the future (when my heart can take it). The Archived is full of mystery and a really fun story! :)
Happy Blogoversary! I remember my first year of blogging and it's no easy thing to get through so good job!
ReplyDeleteI won't be entering the giveaway, but good luck to everyone else ^_^
Thanks for sharing,
~Brittany @ Brittany's Book Rambles
It doesn't feel like a year has gone by! I love reading and sharing my thoughts on books, so this has been a lot of fun. I love the friendships I've made, and the discussions we've had. It's great to be around people that love books as much as I do!
DeleteThank you for stopping by!
Happy Blogoversary! I’m glad you’re still loving it.
ReplyDeleteThanks! You're one of the first friends I made on here, Jenny! Thanks for always making a point to stop by, it means a lot! I love how honest your reviews are, even when it's an unpopular opinion -- sometimes those are the reviews we need to make better, more well-rounded, decisions. <3
DeleteHappy blogiversary!! ✨��
ReplyDeleteI’d pick The Cruel Prince, I absolutely loved it. ☺️
Thank you!
DeleteNice! How excited are you for The Wicked King?? I thought The Cruel Prince was full of surprises that I was not expecting. I also like that there's a potential love interest, but then there's not... it's wonderfully complicated. :)
Oh happy blogoversary girl! It's so much fun and I want to tell you that I'm always really happy to read your posts!
ReplyDeleteAs for the book, well that's a good question because there are many I"m curious about. Welson because I heard great things of the author. Autoboyography because I loved so much the book about Hazel. But that's some example. Fortunately I have read a few from your list lol
Thanks! Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating was hilarious and sweet! I loved Hazel's personality, and the way she chose to live her life. She knew who she was, and she wasn't willing to change for anyone. Thank the gods for Josh! He was the best. Autobiography made my cheeks hurt -- sooo much smiling! I loved the main character's personality, and the way he perceived the world around him. He's also incredibly funny! That one brings the tears, too.
DeleteChristina Lauren are now an auto-buy for me! Love them! <3
I would pick Lick by Kylie Scott. I've read reviews for this one and I like that they are in Las Vegas (where I live). That book sounds all kinds of fun.
ReplyDeleteHappy 1st blogoversary!I'm really glad I found your blog. I really like your posts. I always find it interesting to see how long someone has been blogging. I had no idea it's only been a year for you.
Lick is wonderful! I love a good Rockstar romance, and Kylie Scott delivers! Imagine waking up and being married to someone famous?? Haha! I think Mal's story might be my favorite of the series, but Jimmy's was good... it's so hard to pick!
DeleteThank you, Mary! One year has gone by... it's crazy. <3
HAPPY BLOGOVERSARY!! :D I followed you on BlogLovin, had no idea you were on there Lol!
ReplyDeleteYes! I know a lot of people use Bloglovin' (myself included), so it's one of the first things I set up when I started this blog. It's easier to keep up with, but I still have the Feedburner option that comes with Blogger. Everyone can choose whatever is easiest for them!
DeleteHappy blogoversay! I hope you're still blogging for many years to come! It's almost been ten years for me, and I haven't looked back! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the giveaway! I think I would choose The Archived by Victoria Schwab! Everyone raves about her books, and I'm intrigued by this one. Otherwise, Autoboyography. Thanks again!
Thank you! 10 years?? Nice! That's a really awesome achievement, and I'm happy you're still enjoying it. :)
DeleteI've only read The Archived and The Near Witch, but I loved them both! I know there are others people are raving about, like you said, but I've only read her older books. I guess I should remedy that soon?
Autoboyography was wonderful! Have you read any of their other books? <3
Yay! Happy blogoversary :) Thank you so much for the giveaway, if I was lucky enough to win I think I'd pick Starry Eyes :)
ReplyDeleteMegan S.
Jenn Bennett is my jam! Starry Eyes was such an adventure! It actually made me want to go camping, haha. Normally, my version of camping is a cabin with plumbing inside or nearby (preferably inside), but I really enjoyed Bennett's story and how the two characters combined their tents in the rain... *sighs*
Deletelove and gelato! it looks so cute and happy blogoversary!
ReplyDeleteLove & Gelato was an amazing summer read! I loved the setting and the story. I'm so happy the author has written a second book, Love & Luck that was released a few months ago. I borrowed the audiobook from my library, and I cannot wait to start it! <3
DeleteHappy Blogoversary!!!! I'm not quite sure which one I'd pick, maybe The Hate U Give!
ReplyDeleteThe Hate U Give is an incredible story with a powerful message. I think Angie Thomas did a brilliant job conveying a perspective and a situation we don't often see. I'm really excited to see the movie!
DeleteHappy Blogoversary!! I continue to be amazed at all you guys, who not only make time to read a lot of books but also to create content for other readers and bloggers: reviews, vlogs, recommendations, lists... There's so much passion and humor and artistry in this community, it's great. So, I hope doing this makes you happy and that you can keep on doing it for as long as you want to :)
ReplyDeletehhmmm, I think i'd chose The Cruel Prince, because I loved how morally grey everyone was, but you don't kame the choice easy! Cinder, Autoboyography, The Archived and Two Boys Kissing are also already on my wishlist, for example. Gotta check out a few of the others that I don't know btw
Blogging does make me happy! It's an outlet for my thoughts on books, and I love sharing them with others. I also enjoy visiting other book blogs and seeing what they've been reading, and what I can add to my list! The discussions and conversations are the best part! Everyone is creative in their own way, and it really shows when someone is passionate about books. You can see it in the way they choose to present their blog, and how they write their reviews.
DeleteThe Cruel Prince was an exceptional story! Sometimes the wrong thing was right and vice versa. It was hard to like the characters, but I understood them. And that ending! I hope this post helped you find more books to add to your list. ;)
Cheers to one year, and here's to many more!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sam! Your blog is one I visit often! You always have wonderful discussions and informative reviews. I can never stop by your blog without adding at least one book to my TBR. <3
DeleteHappy 1st blog birthday!! I've really enjoyed reading your posts and I look forward to many more!
ReplyDeleteI might choose Royally Screwed or Cruel Prince, I've heard good things about both!
Thank you! I love stopping by your blog and reading your reviews. You often read books that I wouldn't think to grab, and you easily convince me to add them to my TBR. ;)
DeleteIf you're in the mood for romance, definitely Royally Screwed. If you want your mind to be warped and twisted (because there's no other way to predict some of the things that happen), go with The Cruel Prince.
I had no idea you'd been blogging only a year - happy blogoversary and glad to have you as a fellow blogger!
ReplyDeleteJen Ryland Reviews
Right? It doesn't feel like it's been that long! I remember starting before the holidays last year, so it makes sense... I just can't believe that much time has gone by.
DeleteI'm glad I can finally comment on your blog, haha! <3
Happy blogoversary!!!! *throws confetti* I think you're doing it right- not putting too much pressure on yourself, keeping it relaxed. It's so easy to burn out as a blogger, I think. And yes does time fly now or what? Geez.
ReplyDeleteOoh nice stack of books! I'd have to choose between Cruel Prince or Starry eyes- probably Starry Eyes. :)
*dances in confetti* It's been better this time around, because I allow myself to take breaks when I need to. I don't feel like I have to post something every single day, but sometimes it works out that way. I also don't ask or request too many ARCs so I can stay on top of the ones I have. There are a lot of backlogged books I want to get to, and old favorites I want to re-read.
DeleteThere is no time. It's just there when before it wasn't. ;)
Yes! Starry Eyes (only because Jenn Bennett is the best), but The Cruel Prince is twisty in a way that you would like.
I would pick Heartless or Sea of Shadows
ReplyDeleteHeartless was my first Marissa Meyer book! I loved that she focused on who the Red Queen was before we see her in Alice in Wonderland. Brilliant! Sea of Shadows was one of my more recent reads, and I devoured the trilogy in just a few days. I enjoyed the POVs (twin sisters) and the world Armstrong created. Both would be lovely choices!
DeleteHappy Blogoversary! I'm pretty new to your blog but I think it looks great :)
ReplyDeleteI'd pick Heartless. I think Marissa Meyer did a good job on the villain origin story and I liked how it was predictable but also unpredictable?
Thank you! I appreciate that. :)
DeleteRight?? We know how the Queen of Hearts behaves in Alice in Wonderland, but it was so fun reading about her life before that. She was a normal girl that wanted to own a bakery, and then she fell in love. It wasn't her fault things got so twisted, but she did make a choice that caused the downfall of more than one person. It was a heartbreaking story! Jack was so kind...
Happy blogoversary, Lindsi!! It seems hard to believe that you've only been blogging for a year---it feels like longer than that. If I were to win the giveaway, I think I'd choose Autoboyography because I've seen lots of people rave about that book!
ReplyDeleteNicole @ Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Thank you, Nicole! Autoboyography would be a marvelous choice! My cheeks hurt from smiling so much. The main character is hilarious when he's thinking and speaking -- loved it. It was also interesting to see inside of a mostly LDS community. I'm not super familiar with it, and I enjoyed the different perspective. There were some sweet and heartbreaking moments, but it's well worth the read. <3
DeleteHappy blogoversary! You have great reads. I would choose The Kiss Quotient because I've read an ecopy and I loved it. Thank you for the chance.
ReplyDeleteI adored The Kiss Quotient! It was lovely! I thought Stella and Michael were perfect, and enjoyed watching them work out their personal problems while trying to figure out their relationship. Stella doesn't want to let her Asperger's define her, and Michael struggles with his dreams and lingering issues over his father. It wasn't a perfect relationship, but quirky and realistic. Great choice! :)
DeleteSo many to choose from. I think I would choose the Hate U Give.
ReplyDeleteHave you read The Hate U Give? It's an incredible book! I'm so happy they're making a movie. It'll be in theaters in October! I believe Angie Thomas has been involved with the process, so the movie should be pretty accurate. :)
DeleteHappy Blogoversary! I love your blog, and I hope one year turns into many, many more! Fun giveaway too. I think I'd go with Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating. It sounds fantastic!!
ReplyDelete-Lauren
www.shootingstarsmag.net
Thank you! Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating was hilarious! Hazel's character was refreshing and not a personality often seen in books. She embraces her eccentricities and wants someone that will love her as is. Josh is a beautiful man. <3
DeleteHappy Blogoversary! I'd probably choose Love & Gelato.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I'd choose it just because the title caught my eye. I read a lot of books based on whether the title catches my attention.
DeleteI base my books on covers all the time! Sometimes I don't have time to read the synopsis, but if the cover is good -- boom. It's added to my TBR. I've also stopped reading a lot of blubs for books, because they've started to give too much away. I don't want to know the highlights, or the big details before I read a book. I want everything to be unexpected and surprising! Love & Gelato is a wonderful choice! It's the perfect summer read, but I'm sure it'll still give you warm feelings in the colder months. :)
DeleteOhmygosh congrats!!! (Also, you seem to have things far more under control than most 1-year bloggers!)
ReplyDeleteHaha -- thanks! I had a book blog in college for nearly five years, so this wasn't my first rodeo. It took a few months for me to find my groove, but I've finally settled into a routine. I like where things are now. <3
DeleteHappy blogoversary! I'm glad your blog has worked out :-) I would choose either Cruel Prince or Bitter Spirits!
ReplyDeletePersonally, I hope you choose Bitter Spirits! It has a little romance, haha. I really need to finish the rest of that series, too. Thanks, Kristen! <3
DeleteHappy Blogoversary!! *throws confetti* I would choose Josh & Hazel, since I've read and enjoyed so many of the books you have loved.
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised you haven't already read Josh and Hazel! It's such a fun book! The romance was sweet and only happened after years of knowing each other (and months of friendship). I loved their relationship and how Hazel refused to change who she was. Josh was delicious perfection. <3
DeleteHappy Blogoversary!! That's great you were able to squeeze in the time to blog - it's definitely a struggle at times, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteIt can be difficult to post as often as I want to, but I try not to stress over it. I know that when I'm not able to post something, it's because I was spending more time with family, or something unavoidable came up. I'm okay with those things! I'll keep squeezing it in as often as I can. <3
Delete