Sunday, December 30, 2018

{Reading Challenge} A-Z Reading Challenge ~ 2018 Edition


Hey, guys!

It's time for the A-Z Reading Challenge! I had such a fun time doing this challenge in 2017 that I decided to do a chill version in 2018. I managed to read 20/26 of the letters. Maybe I'll commit to doing the challenge for real in 2019. Who knows!

Original Goodreads Challenge: {click here}

The Goal: 
✩ Read 26 books in which titles begin with the letters of the alphabet. 

The Guidelines: 
✩ Articles like "A", "An" and "The" at the beginning of the title can be ignored.
✩ For the letter "X", it's acceptable to use any book title with the letter "X" in it. 
✩ Feel free to join the challenge any time during the year. As long as the books were read in 2017, you can go ahead and backdate. 
✩ Have fun! Be sure to check out the lists of other players...it's a great way to find new TBR's!



Here are the books that I read that fulfilled this challenge!

~~~

A - A Court of Frost & Starlight by Sarah J. Maas
C - Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat
E - 
H - (The) Hating Game by Sally Thorne
I - It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
J - Josh & Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren
N - November 9 by Colleen Hoover
O- 
P - Paper Princess by Erin Watt
U - Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover
V - 
X -
Y -
Z -

I will be posting reviews for the review-less books in the new year. The books that need reviews will most likely be grouped in either a series review or a "new adult reads" review!  Stay tuned, all!

Happy reading, guys!
Olivia
~Liv the Book Nerd~
Twitter // Instagram // Tumblr // Goodreads // YouTube // Bloglovin // Book Depository Affiliate Code




Saturday, December 29, 2018

December/Christmas Book Haul



Hey, guys!

I managed to acquire so many books this month. My family and friends are so good to me. Thank you all for fueling the addiction.  This month, I didn't just keep adding books to my never-ending shelves. I also gifted, donated, and sold a bunch of my books to my friends and family and to Half Priced Books. I'm constantly unhauling and taking books out of my collection. Next year I will be doing specialized blog posts on my unhauling endeavors and my unhauling stacks. Stay tuned for those! Did you get any books for Christmas? What is your favorite book that you received? 




Christmas Gifts:
  • The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw
    • Thank you so much, Julie! You are the best. I was so pleased to receive this. I definitely was not surprised to get this from you.
    • Check out Julie's YouTube {here}
    • Check out Julie's Instagram {here}
  • The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle
    • This book was recommended to me by the queen herself, Sarah J. Maas. This book was on her list of 10 books that she recommends to her readers, so of course, I put it on my wish list. 
    • A massive thank you to my sister, Sarah, for gifting me this. I'm very excited to read this!
  • Talking As Fast As I Can by Lauren Graham
    • Shoutout to my mama for gifting me this book. I've been wanting to read this book for AGES! I absolutely adore Lauren Graham. She's so lovely and I love her acting work. I can't wait to read/listen to this book.
  • The Immortals Quartet by Tamora Pierce
    • Consists of: Wild Magic, Wolf-Speaker, Emperor Mage, and The Realms of the Gods by Tamora Pierce
    • A massive thank you to my Aunt and Uncle for gifting me this box set. I absolutely adore Tamora Pierce. I can't wait to reread these books soon.
  • Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell (dark pink Barnes & Noble edition)
    • Shoutout to the loveliest of boyfriends for gifting me this book! He's such a beautiful and wonderful and committed partner. He drove 45 minutes to and from Barnes and Noble to get me this book and I feel so blessed to have it. Fangirl is one of my all time favorite books and I'm so excited to add this to my collection. Alex, darling, you are perfect. 
  • The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
    • A massive thank you to Alex's parents for gifting me this book. TKQ is one of my all-time favorite books of the year and an instant favorite. I'm so excited to have another edition on my shelves. I can't wait to reread this book and to read The Bride Test in 2019 (May 7! Preorder now!)!
  • Fight or Flight by Samantha Young 
    • Another massive thank you to Alex's parents for gifting me this book! This book was listed on a really fun Goodreads blog post about the new adult genre. I'm really interested to read this book and see what I think of it. 
  • Norroway (The Black Book of Norroway Book 1) by Kit and Cat Seaton
    • My best friend, Emmie bought me this for Christmas and I'm so into the art style, the story, and the characters. I've already read it and I'm very very interested in seeing what the next installment holds. I need Book 2 ASAP.
  • Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1) by Sarah J. Maas
    • My beautiful best friend, Julia, gifted me this amazing hardback edition of TOG. I'm so excited to add this to my TOG collection. 
Review Copies
  • Bloodleaf by Crystal Smith 
    • Thank you, HMH Teen for sending me this intriguing book! I'm excited to add it to my TBR!
Twitter Trades

  • THE WICKED KING (Folk of the Air #2) BY HOLLY BLACK --- ARC!!!!!
    • Thank you so much, Megan (@underthebkcover on Twitter)! I'm so excited to read this ARC! I'm so glad that I get to read this before I go back to school!

Personal Purchases

Physical Purchases


  • A Reaper at the Gates (An Ember in the Ashes #3) by Sabaa Tahir  - SIGNED!
  • Prince's Gambit (Captive Prince #2) by C.S. Pacat
  • King's Rising (Captive Prince #3) by C.S. Pacat
  • Saga Volume 5 by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples
  • Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young
  • Brisinger (The Inheritance Cycle #3) by Christopher Paolini

E-book purchases:

I purchased all of these books because they were under $3, a Kindle daily deal, or free. I'm very excited to read these books. I love reading ebooks and physical books at the same time and switching back and forth between the two formats at my convenience.
  • The Foxhole Court by Nora Sakavic (free)
  • Shadow Me by Tahereh Mafi (preorder/$3.99!)
  • Pride by Ibi Zoboi ($1.99!)
  • A Court of Frost & Starlight by Sarah J. Maas (Full price- my first read on my new Kindle!)
  • Bellamy & the Brute by Alicia Michaels (free)
  • The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller ($2.99)
  • Eragon (The Inheritance Cycle #1) by Christopher Paolini ($2.99)
  • Catwoman Soulstealer by Sarah J. Maas ($2.99)

Twitter Trades

  • THE WICKED KING (Folk of the Air #2) BY HOLLY BLACK --- ARC!!!!!
    • Thank you so much, Megan (@underthebkcover on Twitter)! I'm so excited to read this ARC! I'm so glad that I get to read this before I go back to school!

Number of Books Read: 10
Number of Unread Books: 10
Number of Books I'm Currently Reading: 2
(stats do not count ebooks)

Happy reading, all!

~Liv the Book Nerd~



Saturday, December 22, 2018

{Graphic Novel Mini- Reviews #29-32} Partial and Incomplete Series



Hey, guys!

Pairing up and grouping my 2018 reads has been so much fun, but this group is just very random. Here are some fun graphic novels that I read this year! 


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Rat Queens Volume 1: Sass and Sorcery and Volume 2: The Far Reaching Tentacles of N'rygoth by Kurtis J. Wiebe, Roc Upchurch, and Stjepan Sejic

Published on: March 2014, May 2015
Published by: Image Comics
Genres: Sequential Art, Graphic Novel, Comics, Fantasy, Fiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Who are the Rat Queens? 

They're a pack of booze-guzzling, death-dealing battle maidens-for-hire and they're in the business of killing all the god's creatures for profit. Meet Hannah the Rockabilly Elven Mage, Violet the Hipster Dwarven Fighter, Dee the Atheist Human Cleric and Betty the Hippy Smidgen Thief. 

This modern spin on an old school genre is a violent, monster-killing epic that is like Buffy meets Tank Girl in a Lord of the Rings world on crack! 

~~~

These two volumes were a lot of fun to read. I really enjoyed the art style and the story that was introduced. I also really enjoyed the relationships that developed, the dialogue styles, and characterization. I love the female friendships and relationships in this series. I don't plan on continuing on with this series, but if they come my way in the future, I'm not against picking them back up.


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Plutona (Plutona #1-5) by Jeff Lemire, Emi Lenox, Jordie Ballaire, Steve Wands

Published on: July 26, 2016
Published by: Image Comics
Genres: Sequential Art, Graphic Novel, Comics, Fantasy, Fiction, Superheroes, Fiction, YA
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Five suburban kids make a shocking discovery while exploring the woods one day after school... the body of the world's greatest superhero, Plutona, laying dead among the mud and grass. This discovery sends them on a journey that will threaten to tear apart their friendship and their lives.

~~~

This graphic novel has a really fun premise, but the execution wasn't done well. This novel is compiled of 5 issues that follow the characters. I liked these characters, but they weren't as captivating or intriguing as I would have hoped. I would have thought that this book would have continued on after reading the ending, but as of right now it does not have a sequel lined up. This book was just underwhelming and I don't plan on continuing on with this.


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The Wicked + The Divine Volume 7: Mothering Invention by Kieron Gillen, Jamie McKelvie, and Matt Wilson

Published on: October 9, 2017
Published by: Image Comics
Genres: Sequential Art, Graphic Novel, Comics, Fantasy, Fiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 4.5 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

In the past: awful stuff. In the present: awful stuff. But, increasingly, answers.

Collects THE WICKED + THE DIVINE #34-39

~~~

This is the seventh volume in the fantastic and completely addicting and wonderful The Wicked + The Divine series. This addition to the story was so much fun to read. I loved how the authors delved into the history behind the divine mythos and the character's stories. I cannot wait for the next volume. There are two more volumes left; and while I'm dreading the end, I'm so excited to move forward with these characters. 

Review for Volumes 1-6 + the Christmas Single Issue: {click here}


I hope you guys enjoyed these mini-reviews! 
Happy reading!
Olivia 
~Liv the Book Nerd~



Friday, December 21, 2018

{Graphic Novel Series Review #25-28} Picture Books



Hey, guys!

I read three picture books this year and I thought they were just so much fun. Here are my thoughts on these books. I definitely recommend them for younger readers. 


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Page Count: 40
Published on: September 12, 2017
Published bySimon Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books
Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Education (Language and Writing), Fiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 5 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

From E.B. White Read Aloud author Adam Lehrhaupt comes an inspiring new picture book that takes apart the pieces of a story—hero, heroine, setting, conflict—and asks the reader to put the story back together again. This is a good story…or is it?

As a child takes her pencil and begins to draw pictures for a story, the narrator takes her and the reader through a rollicking sequence of events in this classic tale of bad guys and townsfolk and dungeons. With simplicity and flair, Adam tells a story and then a meta-story of the parts of the story at once! This Is a Good Story is a wonderful primer on the parts of a story and an imaginative way to encourage creative thinking, writing, and storytelling.

~~~

This was such a fun book for educational use. My sister, who is studying to become a teacher, was gushing about the concept of this book and I had to check it out. This story basically breaks down the parts of a story in a way for children to learn about them in an engaging and entertaining way. As an English major, this book made me so happy. I loved this book. I think that it should be used in school curriculum regularly. 


127058

Page Count: 32
Published on: April 1, 2006
Published byHMH Books For Young Readers
Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Animals, Nonfiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Set during the devastating tsunami of 2004, MAMA is the touching true story of a baby hippo that was separated from his mother when the wave hit. After struggling alone for several days, the baby was rescued by Kenyan wildlife officers and brought to live in an animal refuge. There, all by himself, he adopted a new "mother"--that just happened to be a 130-year-old giant male tortoise. And they've been inseparable ever since.

Although MAMA takes place against the backdrop of a terrible human tragedy, at the heart of this story is a moving and original tale of adoption--and of finding love and companionship in the least likely of circumstances. 

~~~~

I picked this picture book up on a whim while on my break at my job at the library. I thought this was so touching. I loved the art style and the overall story. I loved the story of the baby hippo and I loved the pictures at the end of the book that tied it all together. The art style was so nice and the color scheme was probably my favorite part of the book.


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The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

Page Count: 32
Published on: April 1, 2006
Published byHMH Books For Young Readers
Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Animals, Nonfiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

A book with no pictures? 
What could be fun about that?
After all, if a book has no pictures, there's nothing to look at but the words on the page. 
Words that might make you say silly sounds... In ridiculous voices...
Hey, what kind of book is this, anyway?


~~~

I picked this book up for three minutes at a super market and quickly zoomed through it. I thought that this was a super fun and quirky children's book. I know B.J. Novak from the Office and from some videos on YouTube, but I was really suprised to see his name on a children's book. I'm actually quite impressed with the cleverness of this book 


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The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat

Page Count: 40
Published on: April 8, 2014
Published byLittle Brown Books For Young Readers
Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Fiction, Fantasy
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars


Goodreads synopsis:

This magical story begins on an island far away where an imaginary friend is born. He patiently waits his turn to be chosen by a real child, but when he is overlooked time and again, he sets off on an incredible journey to the bustling city, where he finally meets his perfect match and-at long last-is given his special name: Beekle.

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator Dan Santat combines classic storytelling with breathtaking art, creating an unforgettable tale about friendship, imagination, and the courage to find one's place in the world.


~~~

This story is super cute. Beekle reminded me of the little creatures from Doctor Who that were made up from fat in humans. This story is so colorful and beautiful. I loved the illustrations. I love the focus on the imaginary worlds of children and the real-life world. This was just really lovely and delightful. I recommend this for bed-time reading for younger readers (and older readers too!)


Which picture books are you jazzed about this year?

Happy reading and happy holidays!
Olivia
~Liv the Book Nerd~
Twitter // Instagram // Tumblr // Goodreads // YouTube // Bloglovin // Book Depository Affiliate Code


Thursday, December 20, 2018

2019 Most Anticipated Releases



Hey, guys!! 

There are quite a few books that I'm excited about for the next year. I've already preordered quite a few, but I'm sure there are more that will be announced after the New Year. 2019 is shaping up to be an exciting release year. 

The titles that are bolded are the books that I've already preordered. I will be posting again in June or July and updating my anticipated reads for the second half of the year. Stay tuned! 




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January

  • The Wicked King by Holly Black ~ 8th
  • A Curse So Dark & Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer ~29th
  • Famous in a Small Town by Emma Mills ~ 15th
  • King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo ~ 29th
  • Echo North by Joanna Ruth Meyer ~ 15th
  • 99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne ~ 29th
  • Stain by A.G. Howard ~ 15th (preordered for me by my sister for Christmas)

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February

  • Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon ~ 26th

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March

  • Children of Virtue and Vengence by Tomi Adeyemi ~ 5th (preordered for me by my boyfriend for Christmas)


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April

  • The Princess and the Fangirl by Ashley Poston ~ 2nd



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May

  • We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal ~ 14th
  • Again, But Better by Christine Riccio ~ 7th
  • The Bride Test by Helen Hoang ~ 7th
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June

  • Sorcery Of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson ~ 4th
  • Find Me Their Bones (Bring Me Their Hearts #2) by Sara Wolf ~ June 4 (no cover yet)


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July


  • Teen Titans: Raven by Kami Garcia and Gabriel Picolo ~ ND



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August


  • Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell ~ 27th


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September

  • The World of Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas ~ 3rd
  • The Tyrant's Tomb (The Trials of Apollo #4) by Rick Riordan ~ 24th


October

  • Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo ~ 1st (no cover)



Un-Announced Publication

  • Wayward Son (Simon Snow #2) by Rainbow Rowell
  • Crescent City by Sarah J. Maas
  • Tunnel of Bones (Cassidy Blake #2) by Victoria Schwab
  • The Circus Rose by Betsy Cornwell



I am so freaking excited for these books. I wish I could just preorder them all now, but my wallet and bank account would hate me so much. You'll probably see these books in my future hauls! Stay tuned!

Which 2019 releases are you the most excited for?


Happy reading and Merry Christmas!
Olivia
~Liv the Book Nerd~
Twitter // Instagram // Tumblr // Goodreads // YouTube // Bloglovin // Book



Tuesday, December 18, 2018

2018 Favorites: Graphic Novels


Hey, guys! 

This year I read 43 graphic novels, comics, and picture books. This is such a massive amount and I'm sure that is why I was able to read over 100 books this year. I absolutely love this form of literature. They are so much fun to immerse myself into. Artists and illustrators are so talented and the writers that they work with are just as amazing! I'm excited to see which graphic novels, comics, and picture books that I pick up in 2019! Here are my top 4 favorite graphic novels and series that I read this year!


Related imageImage result for saga brian k vaughan all covers

1. The Saga Series by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples

This series just takes the cake for 2018. I absolutely adore everything about this series. I cannot wait to read Volume 10 in 2019. I'm already in withdrawls. Rereading the first two volumes and continuing on with the next five volumes has been such an amazing reading experience. I cannot wait for volume 10. The end of 9 left me completely broken and dead.

Reviews:
Volumes 1-3: {click here}
Volumes 4-9: {click here}



Image result for the wicked + the divine all covers

2. The Wicked + The Divine series by Kieron Gillen, Jamie McKelvie, and Matt Wilson

This series is so freaking addicting. When I started this series in January I could not put it down. I read the first several issues within 2 or 3 days, putting off all responsiblity. I cannot wait for the next issue to come out! I'm so excited to see where this story goes on!

Reviews
Volumes 1-6 + Christmas Single Issue: {click here}
Volume 7: Review coming soon!


Image result for the prince and the dressmakerImage result for the prince and the dressmaker

3. The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang

This summer, Julia and I read this gorgeous book for one of our book club picks. This has quickly become one of my all time favorite stories. If you haven't picked up this beautiful book, you need to! Quickly!

Review: {click here}

Image result for rainbow rowell the runaways

4. The Runaways by Rainbow Rowell and Kris Anka

I've only read the first 7 issues of this awesome series, but I'm absolutely obsessed with Rainbow's writing and Kris's art style. I'm so excited about this series. I'm definitely trying to keep up with it! 

Issues #1-6: {click here}

What kind of graphic novels did you read this year? Do you have a favorite? Let's discuss in the comments!


Happy reading!
Olivia
~Liv the Book Nerd~


Thursday, December 13, 2018

{2018 Mini Reviews} Contemporary & Romance Novels


Hey, guys!

      I read so many enjoyable books this year, but I managed to overwhelm myself with schoolwork and attempting to continue on with my blog. Over the next few weeks, I will be writing a bunch of blog posts and reviews for the books I've been reading this past year, but I will also be combining reviews and condensing my thoughts. I'm just calling them "mini-reviews". I'll try to combine them into groups that have a similar genre, theme, etc., but maybe the grouping won't make sense either. They will be complete reviews with my full thoughts, nonetheless. I hope you enjoy this temporary method of reviewing!

In this review, I will be discussing: 
  • The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
  • Geekerella by Ashley Poston
  • Save the Date by Morgan Matson
  • The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chobosky
  • The Leading Edge of Now by Marci Lyn Curtis
  • Kiss Me in Paris by Catherine Rider
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Page Count: 336
Published on: June 5, 2018
Published by: Berkley
Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Adult, New Adult
Contains adult content that may not be suitable for younger readersWhere To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 5 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Stella Lane thinks math is the only thing that unites the universe. She comes up with algorithms to predict customer purchases — a job that has given her more money than she knows what to do with, and way less experience in the dating department than the average thirty-year-old.

It doesn't help that Stella has Asperger's and French kissing reminds her of a shark getting its teeth cleaned by pilot fish. Her conclusion: she needs lots of practice — with a professional. Which is why she hires escort Michael Phan. The Vietnamese and Swedish stunner can't afford to turn down Stella's offer, and agrees to help her check off all the boxes on her lesson plan — from foreplay to more-than-missionary position...

Before long, Stella not only learns to appreciate his kisses, but to crave all the other things he's making her feel. Soon, their no-nonsense partnership starts making a strange kind of sense. And the pattern that emerges will convince Stella that love is the best kind of logic...

~~~

Back in June, I purchased this book through the Book of the Month club box. I was instantly intrigued by the synopsis and the characters sounded so original and unique. Not only was this book even better than my expectations, but it has also become one of my favorite books of the year. Helen Hoang's writing style is so charming, intelligent, and clever and her characters are so well thought out and fun to follow. I couldn't put this book down! I absolutely adore everything about this book. The autistic representation is spot on and the ethnic diversity of the characters is so freaking great.

I have been recommending this book to anyone who asks me for a romance, contemporary, or diverse reading recommendation. I think that this book has the potential to become a worldwide favorite for anyone who loves a great love story. I cannot wait to read more from Helen. I've already pre-ordered her 2019 release, The Bride Test.

I definitely recommend this book! 

My initial thoughts from Goodreads:

INITIAL THOUGHTS. These are a ramble and were not spell-or-grammar checked. Literally, I was in a car wreck today and I finished this book but I’m not going to write a review right now but I have SO MANY THOUGHTS.

4 or 5 stars? TBD

I really liked this book. It wasn’t my favorite romance that I’ve read but I genuinely enjoyed it. It had fantastic characters, fantastic autism rep, a lovely diverse cast, and the characters themselves were so emotionally fleshed out. I absolutely adored their emotional and mental growth. 

The discussion and thoughts that were inspired as I read this book were awesome. I love how this book made me think about things that I do not typically think about. When the media often portrays those with autism, they are either VERY high functioning and conventionally awkward or they are very low functioning and represented incorrectly. Well, either way, they aren’t represented in a way that educates the consumers of the media. This book represents those with high functioning autism (formerly classified as Aspergers) quite well. I have so many friends, colleagues, and even family members who have been diagnosed with some form of autism. 

One of my best friends from middle and high school had been diagnosed with Aspergers (I assume that because of the change in diagnosis they would also just be considered as high functioning? I’m not a professional) and I felt like Stella was a fairly accurate representation of those I know. (Though I cannot and will not claim that those people would relate to her. I just made connections through my familiarity with those I know.) I just adored being a part of Stella’s world. Her perspective was done so freaking well. She’s so lovely and I love how quirky and different she is. I loved her story. 

I loved Michael. I thought he was so well rounded. He is the perfect match for Stella and I loved reading about this interactions and seeing their attraction and love grow for each other. His family was a true JOY! I love realistic family dynamics. I loved his inner turmoil and search for inner morality. He’s so adorable. 

Okay, the sex scenes? Really well done. Really steamy. Was I really going into it for the sexy bits? Absolutely not. Were they appreciated? I will admit, yes. They were freaking fun. 


Michael and Stella made my awkward nerdy self giggle throughout the whole book. I loved this book.


~~~

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Page Count: 320
Published on: April 4, 2017
Published by: Quirk Books
Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Young Adult, Retelling
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 5 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Geek girl Elle Wittimer lives and breathes Starfield, the classic science-fiction series she grew up watching with her late father. So when she sees a cosplay contest for a new Starfield movie, she has to enter. The prize? An invitation to the ExcelsiCon Cosplay Ball and a meet-and-greet with the actor slated to play Federation Prince Carmindor in the reboot. With savings from her gig at the Magic Pumpkin food truck and her dad's old costume, Elle's determined to win - unless her stepsisters get there first.

Teen actor Darien Freeman used to live for cons - before he was famous. Now they're nothing but autographs and awkward meet-and-greets. Playing Carmindor is all he has ever wanted, but Starfield fandom has written him off as just another dumb heartthrob. As ExcelsiCon draws near, Darien feels more and more like a fake - until he meets a girl who shows him otherwise. But when she disappears at midnight, will he ever be able to find her again?

Part-romance, part-love letter to nerd culture, and all totally adorbs, Geekerella is a fairy tale for anyone who believes in the magic of fandom.

~~~

This story was just a roller coaster ride that I didn't want to get off. The Cinderella aspect of this book was done so well. I loved the modern setting and the references to nerd/geek culture. This story was everything that I could have hoped for. Elle was such a wonderful narrator. Her narration style was so addicting to read and her commentary was hilarious and her journey to a better life was so delightful to read about. I loved the friendships that she developed with others throughout the book. Darien was so much fun too. I loved his life and his journey to find himself through his career. I loved reading about his passion for his craft and his friendships and struggles. I don't know much about the expectations and lives of those who are publicly famous, but his life just seemed so realistic.

If you like fairy tale retellings, nerd culture, well thought out characters, and adorable, fluffy romance, this book is for you! I definitely recommend! I've already preordered the companion sequel: The Princess and the Fangirl

~~~

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Page Count: 432
Published on: June 5, 2018
Published by: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Young Adult, Realistic Fiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 4.75 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Charlie Grant's older sister is getting married this weekend at their family home, and Charlie can't wait for the first time in years, all four of her older siblings will be under one roof. Charlie is desperate for one last perfect weekend, before the house is sold and everything changes. The house will be filled with jokes and games and laughs again. Making decisions about things like what college to attend and reuniting with longstanding crush Jesse Foster all that can wait. She wants to focus on making the weekend perfect.

The only problem? The weekend is shaping up to be an absolute disaster. There's the unexpected dog with a penchant for howling, house alarm that won't stop going off, and a papergirl with a grudge.

There are the relatives who aren't speaking, the (awful) girl her favorite brother brought home unannounced, and a missing tuxedo. Not to mention the neighbor who seems to be bent on sabotage and a storm that is bent on drenching everything. The justice of the peace is missing. The band will only play covers. The guests are all crazy. And the wedding planner's nephew is unexpectedly, distractedly cute.

Over the course of three ridiculously chaotic days, Charlie will learn more than she ever expected about the family she thought she knew by heart. And she'll realize that sometimes, trying to keep everything like it was in the past means missing out on the future.

~~~

Morgan Matson has been one of my favorite YA contemporary/romance writers of all time for the longest time. However, this was not my favorite of the books she has written. I felt slightly disconnected from the characters for a part of the time, but that was quickly remedied towards the middle of the book. I also felt like this was just so slow for a YA contemporary, but the characters made up for the slower pace.

Though this wasn't as impressed with this as I anticipated, I still really enjoyed this story. I absolutely adore the family relationships and the family dynamic that is established. It's so realistic and fun. I never felt like the actions of the characters were solely based on keeping the plot to chug along. It just felt super natural and realistic. I loved that there was a focus on family and friend relationships, rather than a focus on romantic relationships...also there was a beagle and he was amazing. The romantic subplots throughout this book were still quite fluffy and sweet, but didn't overpower the main themes on family. The Grant family was so much fun to follow. They were loud, crazy, and completely insane. I hope that Morgan incorporates more crazy families in her future novels.

Overall, this wasn't my favorite MM book, but it was still quite fun to read. I can't wait for her next book. I needed it yesterday.

~~~

22628

Page Count: 213
Published on: February 1999
Published by: MTV/Pocket Books
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult, Realistic Fiction
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

The critically acclaimed debut novel from Stephen Chbosky, Perks follows observant “wallflower” Charlie as he charts a course through the strange world between adolescence and adulthood. First dates, family drama, and new friends. Sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Devastating loss, young love, and life on the fringes. Caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it, Charlie must learn to navigate those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up.
~~~

I have been meaning to read Perks for the longest time, but I finally picked it up after Alex bought it for me back in October 2017. I'm definitely glad that I read this book, but I'm not as impressed as I anticipated. This book has been one of Courtney's favorite books since 2015 and I'm sure that they hype that she built up added to my high expectations. After reading the book, I watched the movie with Emma Watson and (don't kill me) I sort of liked the movie more? Granted, it's not as similar to the book as it could be, but I think that the movie adds a different element to the story that makes it more enjoyable. While reading the book, I couldn't get passed how juvenile Charlie's narration was. It just didn't seem realistic for a kid in high school. This issue was later remedied after finishing the book, but I felt like the movie added a depth to his character that was missing in the book. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this story, but I didn't like the narration style. I absolutely admire the popularity of this book, but it just wasn't my favorite story.

~~~

34520598

Page Count: 213
Published on: February 1999
Published by: MTV/Pocket Books
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult, Realistic Fiction
Trigger Warning: Rape, sexual violence, and discussions surrounding rape
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3.5 stars


Goodreads synopsis:

Just when Grace is beginning to get used to being an orphan, her estranged uncle suddenly comes forward to claim her. That might have been okay if he'd spoken to her even once since her father died. Or if moving in with Uncle Rusty didn't mean returning to New Harbor. 

Grace once spent the best summers of her life in New Harbor. Now the place just reminds her of all she's lost: her best friend, her boyfriend and any memory of the night that changed her forever. 

People say the truth will set you free, but Grace isn't sure about that. Once she starts looking for it, the truth about that night is hard to find --- and what happens when her healing hurts the people she cares about the most?

~~~

I was sent this book for an honest review from KCP Loft.

Overall, I felt like this story had a really deep and thought provoking premise. The characters were fleshed out enough that I liked them while reading the book, but I honestly do not remember their names. 

Though I did not remember Grace's name or the other character's names, this story was still very moving and impactful. The writing style was beautiful and the pacing was very nicely done. Grace was such a relatable and poignant person to read about. Her methods to handle her trauma and grief are so realistic and I just couldn't stop reading her story. 

Though this isn't my favorite book, I think that the way Marci developed her characters and their stories was so well done. This topic is so relevant and this story really opened my eyes to what others have gone through. 

~~~

38088333

Page Count: 213
Published on: February 1999
Published by: MTV/Pocket Books
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult, Realistic Fiction
Trigger Warning: Rape, sexual violence, and discussions surrounding rape
Where To Find ItGoodreads // Amazon

My Rating: 3 stars


Goodreads synopsis:

Serena has just flown all the way to Paris for a special pre-Christmas weekend with her sister, Lara. They plan to retrace the steps of their parents' long-ago honeymoon in Paris, and create a scrapbook for their bereaved mother to remember it by. 

It's supposed to be serious sister bonding...until Lara takes off with her boyfriend instead.

Jean-Luc is Serena's Plan B, a friend of a friend of Lara's, who has some space in a place where Serena can stay. Just like his latest relationship, his photography final has been an epic fail. He has one night to retake all his pictures if he is to stay in school. 

Jean-Luc can't stand Serena's loud voice or her bright orange sneakers.

Serena can't stand his haughty manners or the way his camera is always in her face.

Together, though, they set out into a cold night that will warm their hearts, creating unforgettable photos and fresh romantic sparks in the City of Lights.

~~~

I was sent this book for an honest review from KCP Loft.

Not unlike Kiss Me In New York, this light romance novel was very character driven and solely relied on a sort of "meet-cute" tactic to continue the romance along. Though the romance throughout this book was subtle and sweet, it wasn't realistic and I really couldn't get behind it. 

This book reads like a draft. I really have not liked Catherine Rider's work thus far. I just think that she could continue developing her characters and plot. I really love cheesy romance novels, but this was just cringey and annoying at times. I liked the growth that Serana and Jean-Luc go through, but it was just not enough to convince me to thoroughly enjoy this book.

It was definitely better than Kiss Me In New York, but not as good as I could see it to be. The relationship and interactions between Serena and her mother really amped up my reading experience; however, the interaction did not happen until about 90% through the novel.

~~~


Overall, there were quite a few romance novels that I really really enjoyed this year. I'm really excited to discuss my Top 18 of 2018 this year, so stay tuned for more of my thoughts on my favorite 2018 reads!


Happy reading, guys!
Olivia
~Liv the Book Nerd~
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