The January Wrap Party

As in every year, January seems to last about four months. I put a lot on my plate as far as goals, and overall am very pleased with how the month has turned out. Because there is more positive than negative, I'm going to talk about my failures before my successes.

The only aspect of my monthly goals that I failed was my journey with 75 hard. The rules were simple: 2 45 minute workouts a day (one being outside), 1 gallon of water, 10 pages of self development book, stick to a pre-determined meal plan, and a daily progress selfie. A couple weeks ago, my husband and I had an unplanned cheat meal and I didn't finish my water for the day.

Whoops. Life happens. Mistakes happen. When you fail at this program you're supposed to start over again; however, I have decided not to. I'm still doing most of the requirements; however, I am just making them a part of my life instead of creating a finish line. My life has been happier since. The best thing I got out of this experiment was daily reading of self development books. I read Gretchen Rubin's "Better than Before" and have recently started reading through "The Art of War for Writers" by James Scott Bell. I am so excited to finally be reading writing books as it is absolutely expanding my mind and desire to continue to write.

Now, for the successes, and there are a few. At the beginning of the month I talked a bit about planting flowers, the concept of practicing positive self-talk/love. It wasn't a perfect month especially where my day job is concerned; however, the rest of my life has been on the up. I am learning to appreciate the small things that I do that are not only a positive in my own life, but in those around me. I have given myself the space and grace to pursue writing as an imperfect experience in order to fulfill lifelong dreams. But allowing myself the grace to make mistakes, I find myself more active in my writing environment and I look forward to continuing to water those flowers into bloom.

Writing is present in multiple ways. For starters, I've blogged everyday this month and in a lot of ways it has been easy. I find myself planning ahead and scheduling posts which allows me more freedom in my days. I have my Lead for my novel and will beginning free writing scenes to learn more about her personality and the journey she will be embarking on this year. Reading has also greatly enhanced both my ability and desire to write. I read and see examples of what I want to do (and what I don't want to do). I am looking forward to doing more writing exercises to develop myself and by practicing daily, I feel my growth as both a person and as a writer. This delights me. Heck, I've even got my short fan fiction planned for Alice's birthday in May. I am well on my way to achieving my goals for this year.

The biggest surprise for me in the month of January is how much I read. If you have been following along, or if we're friends on Good Reads (find me @ Shethinks23), then you know that in the month of January, I read 27 books. No, there is no typo there. I cannot even tell you how I managed this (well okay, audio books during my workouts/puppy walks), reading before work, after work, and before bed, but I also managed to work a full time job and live my life well.

This year, it is my desire to not only tackle my TBR (to be read) list from my home library, but to continue/get current or finish series' that I've started either this year or prior years. Below you will see the books that I've read this month, and tomorrow you will be my February 2020 TBR list, which is going to be slightly different due to a MASSIVE classic I plan on reading. Because when I read classics, I read so slowly. I know it's hard to believe after the month I've had, but trust me... it's true! If you look back at my January 2020 TBR list, it will show that I read every single book on that list. YAY ME! :)

Favorite book of January 2020: Becoming by Michelle Obama
Favorite series of January 2020: The Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop
Least favorite book of January 2020: Based on ratings, probably both novella's by Victoria Aveyard; however, probably The Path Made Clear by Oprah Winfrey mostly because it just wasn't what I was hoping it to be.

Books read (in order) for January 2020

1. Becoming by Michelle Obama
2. Daughter of the Blood (The Black Jewels, #1) by Anne Bishop
3. Wildflower by Drew Barrymore
4. The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life's Direction and Purpose by Oprah Winfrey
5. Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher
6. Shockaholic by Carrie Fisher
7. Postcards from the Edge by Carrie Fisher
8. The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher
9. Heir to the Shadows (The Black Jewels, #2) by Anne Bishop
10. Queen of the Darkness (The Black Jewels, #3) by Anne Bishop
11. The Elite (The Selection, #2) by Kiera Cass
12. Queen Song (Red Queen, #0.1) by Victoria Aveyard
13. Steel Scars (Red Queen, #0.2) by Victoria Aveyard
14. The One (The Selection, #3) by Kiera Cass
15. Dare to Lead by Brene Brown
16. The Heir (The Selection, #4) by Kiera Cass
17. The Crown (The Selection, #5) by Kiera Cass
18. The Prince (The Selection, #0.5) by Kiera Cass
19. The Guard (The Selection, #2.5) by Kiera Cass
20. Better than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives by Gretchen Rubin
21. The Favorite (The Selection, #3.5) by Kiera Cass
22. The Dream Theives (The Raven Cycle, #2) by Maggie Stiefvater
23. The Hazel Wood (The Hazel Wood, #1) by Melissa Albert
24. The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton
25. Blue Lily, Lily Blue (The Raven Cycle, #3) by Maggie Stiefvater
26. Twisted Twenty-Six (Stephanie Plum, #26) by Janet Evanovich
27. The Raven King (The Raven Cycle, #4) by Maggie Stiefvater

If you've made it this far in my blog, hi! I hope you're doing well. How are your goals going? Are you making progress? What has been the biggest challenge? Your biggest success? Please remember that goals are not set in stone. You can adjust them at any time. Your desires change. The amount of free time you have in a day can change. Your dreams can change. Goal setting is ultimately about making a plan and achieving your dreams. If things are not jiving right, redo the goals, but never give up on the desires of your heart.  You are worth it.

The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater

It has been said that all good things must come to an end. I have said so must things that you know were good, but you didn't fully connect with. Let me preface the rest of my review with my rating of the final installment in the Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater. This book scored a four out of five stars.

Blue, Gansey, Noah, and Ronan's story comes to a breaking point as the mystery of Glendower and Cabeswater are resolved. We also discover the true meaning behind the psychic reading that has been haunting Blue for most of her life.

I felt the Glendower reveal was anti-climatic. Stiefvater spent the better part of four novels building the mythology around this ancient sleeping king, and I was let down by the reveal.

The biggest surprise came by all that Ronan had created once you are able to look back to the very first novel.

Ultimately; however, I think that Maggie Stiefvater has a brilliant imagination. I just don't think this series was the right fit for me. It was very good, no question. I rated the series as a whole four out of five stars. I'm older than the age range this was intended for, and I'm guessing that is what was missing out for me. If I had read this as a teen, I have a feeling my reaction would have been much different.

Twisted Twenty-Six by Janet Evanovich

The year was 2019, and I read the first 25 books in the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. This is a series that my mom has read for years. I wanted to have something else that she and I could talk about so last year I tackled the series (on audio book).

Book 26 was released while I was in Europe, so after I got home, I put it on hold through the Libby App through my local library. I listen to this series on audio book because I really enjoy listening to the narrator, Lorelai King. I think she voices Stephanie and the entire cast very well.

Here's the thing about this book series: It's all be done before, many times, and better. Evanovich has a cookie cutter formula for her Stephanie Plum novels, and it works for her (even if it is predictable). What we basically learned in book one through 26: Stephanie Plum is a not great bounty hunter. She can't decide between the two men in her life. Her Grandma Mazur is a riot. Even though everything has literally been done before, I still enjoy these books. They are light, mildly funny, and they are familiar to me. I spent several years of my youth in Jersey, so that part is a little bit about bringing myself home.

Janet Evanovich

The big cliff hanger from book 25 ended within the first few sentences of the new book. Disappointing as the prior book actually had me super invested in coming back thinking more was going to happen. We have our big story arch with the missing keys and Grandma's now deceased husband. In the middle of things we have a few skips Stephanie and Lula catch, and a ton of donuts and cookies were consumed. Grandma gets kidnapped (again) and so does Stephanie (again). What did I learn about this book? That when necessary, Stephanie can drive a cement truck down the road at 80 miles per hour. Because I still enjoy the familiar, I rated this three stars out of five. I'm sure I will put the next one on hold through my library this November when 27 is released (just a guess, it's been November every year for years).

First DNF of 2020

I knew this day was bound to come. In fact, it is two years in the making. When Alice and I became friends almost exactly two years ago (feels like a lifetime though... in a good way, really!), she introduced me to the concept of DNFing (Did Not Finish) books. I am a completionist; however, the premise behind the concept was good. Life is to short to waste time on books that do not bring you joy.

I trudged through several terrible books over the last two years and managed to not DNF a single book. It's important to note that I didn't realize this until this morning. Love the concept, I was terrible at the follow through. That is, until today.

A few days ago, I began "Olive Kitteridge" by Elizabeth Strout. I had recently purchased "Olive, Again" at a local thrift shop and didn't know it was a sequel. Thankfully, Alice is also my most commonly used library and I was able to borrow the first from her. The concept of this Pulitzer Prize winning novel (don't think I don't realize that I should want to read this) is 13 unique short stories in this small town that all somehow have Olive in each and every one. I made it two and a half stories in before I finally admitted to myself that this was not for me and that it was time to move on.

I gave my borrowed copy back to Alice today and UN-hauled the second book. If Alice likes it, she can read it. If not, I will be taking it to McKay's so that I can try my hand at other books that I am interested in.

I was worried I would be overwhelmed with guilt over DNFing (which I aptly called DNR (do not resuscitate) this morning to my husband, Steve); however, I feel free to now focus on books that I will actually enjoy reading instead of slowing my pacing down.

Blue Lily, Lily Blue by Maggie Stiefvater

Well, well, well. Color me corrected. It took me three books to finally hop onto the Raven train, but I am 100% in. For those not following along, "Blue Lily, Lily Blue" is the third book in the Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater. And shit is getting real. Really weird, but in the best of ways.

If you've not read my previous review on this book collection, although it has scored decently, it hadn't taken me to any wow moments. I like it, but I wasn't connecting with any of the characters, and the fantasy aspect of the story... well, I was just trudging along. I was basically at the point of reading to finish the series and not reading to find out what happens next.That is no longer the case. I'll be starting the final book today.

In this book, we continue our search for the Welsh King Glendower as Ronan continues to dream walk, Adam embraces Cabeswater, and we finally discover more about Blue and her powers to amplify other people's magic. The stakes are raised when Blue's mother disappears, and death becomes a very real reality in their lives. The power of magic and the consequences are through the roof as Blue and the Raven Boys get closer to waking the king.

This book has a little bit of everything: magic, a touch of romance, suspense, danger, and mystery. My first five out of five star rating for a Maggie Stiefvater book. Well done.

The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton

I have owned "The Strange and Beautiful Sorrow of Ava Lavender" by Leslye Walton since September of 2019. It had been a book that I had heard about for more than a year. I was interested in the concept and wanted to read it; however, I let it sit on my shelves for months. I had decided that I needed to be in the right mood for such a book. In a lot of ways, that is true. There are some absolutely heartbreaking moments; however, this book deserves to be read. To call this book strange or odd would be an understatement, yet at the same time, it is undeniably beautiful.

This book has a very slow start. You don't start right with Ava Lavender and her life, but you go back generations before and learn about her family line. The first fifty or so pages had me wondering if this was going to go on my did not finish list which left me quite disappointed because there were several people I trust in book reviews and they all gave this book five stars. I made a commitment to read at least the first 100 pages and then decide. After about 75 pages I was completely hooked and I could not finish this fast enough. I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and am very familiar with its rain and grey days. I felt right at home among these pages and didn't want to leave. Despite the slow start, I rated this book five out of five stars.

Leslye Walton

I have read magical realism before; however, I did not know its name. I would call it realistic fantasy or not put it in a genre at all; however, I think magical realism sounds a little more mysterious, and I like it very much. According to Dictionary.com, the official definition is "a style of painting and literature in which fantastic or imaginary and often unsettling images or events are depicted in a sharply detailed, realistic manner." Knowing this, it brings a lot of perspective to this novel that has a strange fairy tale feel to it.

This was an incredible debut novel for Leslye Walton. I know that in 2018 she published a book called "The Price Guide to the Occult" that I will keep a look out for because I definitely want to read more of her stuff as this story is also set in the Pacific Northwest.

The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert

My interest in this first began with it's title, "The Hazel Wood." From there, I was enchanted by the cover. I know you're not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but it was just so darn pretty. The complexities of the cover lighted my imagination and I knew that I had to know more.

I will be the first to admit that I never read the teaser and when I started reading this book, I had no idea where it would go. I had no idea how dark it would get. It delighted me to my soul.

This story tells of a girl, Alice Proserpine, and her mother Ella, the grand daughter and daughter of the mysterious cult-fairy tale writer are running from bad luck/curses.

You get a brief history of all of the places Ella and Alice lived over the years before settling in New York City.

After her grandmother passes we are engulfed in this massive mystery of very dark fairy tales and a journey that takes Alice and her friend Finch to upstate New York into the Hinterlands in search of the home that was left for her, The Hazel Wood.

We are given a few of the fairy tales in full and the rest are left to mystery (hopefully unraveled in the sequel, "The Night Country" that was released on January 7, 2020. I have my copy on hold with the Libby application through my local library. I still have about eight weeks to wait on that one, but I am very excited to see where Melissa Albert takes this story and these unique fairy tales.

I rated this book four stars out of five because I feel as though more/most of the time should have been spent in the Hinterlands, the half woods, and The Hazel Wood. Of the ten fairy tales they alluded to, only a couple were divulged. That, in all honesty, just wasn't enough.

I was shocked by the quality and darkness that surrounded the fairy tales and I cannot wait to get back into this world. It was much better than I expected it to be.

The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater

"The Dream Thieves" is the second book in the Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater. I read "The Raven Boys" last year and rated it a four out of five stars. The only reason I didn't give it five stars was because it took nearly two-thirds of the book to get interesting. It was from a nearly 'Did Not Finish' (DNF) to its current score. "The Dream Thieves" kind of sat in the middle of the road for me.

The journey to search for a long dead king named Glendower continues in Henrietta, Virginia for Blue Sargent and the Raven Boys. This book focus's a lot on Ronan Lynch and his secrets. There are many, but the main one is his ability to pull objects from his dreams into reality. As we discover more about Ronan, the gang gets closer than ever to the mysteries that surround their town. I do have to say I did like what we learn about his mother and the powers of Cabeswater.

We learn more about the characters and how they're all connected

Maggie Stiefvater

to the mythical and mystical in this small town. I had absolutely no connection or interest in the Gray Man. Most of the characters in this book are teenage boys. That is very likely why I'm not connecting with it. I scored this book three stars out of five.

Will I finish the final two book in the series? Yes. I own the last two books and have already started book three "Blue Lily, Lily Blue." I'm about a third of the way in, and I dare say that there is still hope. Is there a series out there that you like (not love) but cannot seem to not finish it anyway? This is that series for me.

The Favorite by Kiera Cass

I would like to start by saying this novella, "The Favorite" by Kiera Cass was far too short. This story (briefly) tells the story of how Marlee goes from being the people's favorite to marry Prince Maxon in the selection, to meeting and falling for one of the guards, Carter.

The present time story takes place after Carter and Marlee have been caught together and sent into the prison to being caned and demoted to eights. During this period there is flash backs of how the first met and fell for each other. I'm not typically one for flashbacks; however, this was subtle and added a dynamic that would have been missing without it. I also greatly enjoyed the ending how Carter and Marlee were the first official caste-less people as America and Maxon attempt to change their world for the better. Also, seeing America as a young queen was great and I wish there was more of that in this series. I rated this novella a four out of five stars. If there was more substance it would have scored a five, easily.

One more book left in this world that I hope to get to this month before moving on to a different adventure.

Better Than Before by Gretchen Rubin

"Better than Before" by Gretchen Rubin was the first self development book I chose for the 75 hard challenge that I started at the beginning of the year. It took me three weeks to read because the goal was to read ten pages a day (maybe it was at least ten). My favorite, most real quote from this book is: "Keeping up is easier than catching up." (p 68) This rings true especially when it comes to house cleaning. If you do a little a day, there is no build up and you have a nice house if people stop by. If you know me at all, you know that I hate cleaning. I like being organized, but hate the act of cleaning.

Gretchen Rubin

In the past, I was always a tomorrow girl. I'll do the laundry tomorrow. I'll wash those dishes tomorrow. Guess what? If everything is tomorrow, then you don't have to clean! YAY! Oh wait, that can't be what this book taught me. We can talk about that tomorrow. :)

"The desire to start something at the 'right' time is usually just a justification for delay. In almost every case, the best time to start is now." (p 77) This one has always been surrounded by food. In the past, I would always plan my new eating habits after a holiday, with the new year, on a Monday... no, not this Monday, next Monday. The only  best time to start is now. This day, whatever meal you're on. This can be with more than just food too. It could be with looking for a new job, getting a hair cut, moving out, writing, school... the sky is the limit here.

"Don't get it perfect, get it going." (p 103) I wouldn't call myself a perfectionist; however, there are some things that I like getting just right. I like my groceries bagged a certain way. I like organizing my refrigerator a certain way. I like to do tons of research and planning before a writing project and then end up not writing because it's not perfect yet. This year, 2020, is different. I'm allowing myself for my first draft of my new novel to be a shitty first draft (SFD). Because you know what?A SFD is 75,000 times better than nothing at all. Embrace what you want to accomplish and do it bad. Learn and grow from your mistakes, but just go do it.

"It's natural to think, "Oh, I did this before, it will be easy to do it again," but often it's much harder to start again." (p 113) Starting again is probably one of the single most difficult things one can do. There was a point where we were basically just eating chicken and vegetables (no carbs, no sugar) and we lost a ton of weight. I've tried in recent years and starting over is the single hardest thing I've ever done. And guess what... it lasted for about three days (maybe less) before I gave up. I just couldn't get back into that groove again.

Overall, I've given this book four out of five stars. I thought it had a great deal of information and advice on habits (several I want to incorporate into my life). I learned that of the four tendencies, Rubin discusses: Obliger, Questioner, Upholder, Rebel, I am an upholder. I like creating rules and goals and I enjoy ticking off when I complete something. One of my favorite parts of the book is the realization that everyone practices their habits differently and there is no wrong way to do them. You do you. Always. Be you. Are you interested in what your tendency is? Try Gretchen Rubin's official Four Tendencies Quiz!

Now that I have completed Gretchen Rubin's "Better than Before" I will be starting on James Scott Bell's "The Art of War for Writers" to continue my self development journey with 75 hard. This is a smaller book about fiction writing strategies, tactics, and exercises. I am very much looking forward to diving into this.

The Prince and The Guard by Kiera Cass

I read both novella's from The Selection series today. "The Prince" is considered to be book number 0.5 and "The Guard" is considered to be book number 2.5. Both novellas earned a 3.5 rating out of five.

In "The Prince" we follow Maxon prior to and until the first encounter with America out on the gardens shortly after the selection begins. I found the brief look into Maxon's home life prior to 35 girls moving in trying to win his heart to be interesting. I would have liked more between him and King Clarkson too. We know his level of evil, but seeing their interactions and how Clarkson manipulated made for an intriguing story.

I knew "The Guard" would be about Aspen Ledger; however, I thought it was going to be how he fell in love with Lucy, and I suppose, in a small way it did toward the end. It was mostly about Aspen's life as a guard, how he helped Marlee and Carter after the beatings, and how he fell out of love with America... or how he saw her falling in love with Prince Maxon. The story was good, and even though it was short it felt a little long.

I've always been team Maxon, so I preferred his story to Aspen's.

One more book in the series to go! Just kidding. I found another novella called "The Favorite". I guess I have two more to read!

The Crown by Kiera Cass

"The Crown" by Kiera Cass is the book end of The Selection series (Although there is a full length companion book called "Happily Ever After" and two novella #0.5 and #2.5 are also available). I rated this book four out of five stars. I will talk about the series as a whole after I have finished Happily.

In the wake of Eadlyn's mother's heart attack, and her father (the king) decides to say by her side, Eadlyn, even with all of her other duties, becomes reagent queen while her mother's life is in balance. If being interim queen wasn't enough, Eadlyn still needed to settle on a husband and winner of the selection.

I think the tension from outside forces was pretty non-existent, and that was something that had previously interested me. I wanted to know the people of the former castes not just the royals. Those outside stories mattered and they only touched on them briefly.

What I liked the most is that I wasn't 100% sure who Eadlyn was going to pick for at least the first half of the book. At the beginning of "The Heir" I instantly rolled my eyes and wondered if this was going to be enemies to lovers story between her and Kyle, where the love of her life is right under her nose; however, how focused they became on Kyle's desire to get out of the palace and implementing his talents with architecture.

Cookie cutter isn't the word I am looking for; however, by the end of the novel, it seems that Eadlyn gets all sorts of happily ever afters, and although this is a novel and fantasy... it still feels super unrealistic. Bad guy out witted. She gets to be queen and marry the one she loves. All is right with the world. Happy. Happy. Happy.

Don't get me wrong, I still loved it. I think the later half of the series really hones in on true emotions and there were lots of times where my heart strings were pulled tight that a tear or two slipped from my eyes. Another quick read, but quite enjoyable overall.

January Progress Report

We are nearly three weeks into the new year, and I am still going strong. Writing my goals down and how I am going to accomplish them has been a game changer for me this year. I know exactly what I want and I know what I need to do to accomplish them.

Let's consider this an update of sorts, a mid-month progress report.

Writing: I've maintained my blog posting to every day, even on days I absolutely did not want to write or look at a computer screen. A great example was last night. Let me tell you, even the idea of opening my computer was off putting to me. But I had made myself a promise, and I deserved to hold myself to the promise of writing. I'd only be disappointing myself otherwise, and I'm worth more than that.

Novel brain storming has been a little slower than I would like; however, I did give myself 75 days of planning so official novel writing won't begin until the middle of March. My plan; however, is to have a full outline before the focused writing starts.

I also have a drabble about Bucky Barnes to complete before my friend's birthday in May. That one should be interesting. She'll appreciate seeing it in writing that after two years I'm finally committing to writing it AND I've given myself a deadline. What have I gotten myself into...

Reading: I've been kicking ass at reading. As of today, I've read 17 books in 19 days. I have one that only has about 50 pages left too. I've added a few unplanned reads along the way, but I'm still pushing to get to the rest of the to be read list I created for January.

What do I have left? I have the three remaining books from The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater and The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton. Four books is totally doable. I think I will also throw in the three novellas that are attached to The Selection series if I can manage it. I know this is a lot, but "The Hazel Wood" by Melissa Albert is also looming in my mind. I've heard mixed reviews about it, but I am still interested.

I haven't even begun to think about what will be on my February TBR list aside from the BBC (Badassery Book Club) read of The Count of Monte Cristo. We have a three month time limit read on it since it's massive... but part of me wants to do it all in one month. If I do that though, I might not read anything else.

Health/Wellness: I've changed my eating habits yet again. Well, not changed... just refined. I'm getting better with my portion sizes and I'm very pleased to be eating very clean. My body seems to like it for the most part. I've also got a daily vegan chocolate and banana smoothie with unsweetened vanilla almond milk that I adore! Eating can still be fun even when you eat healthy.

Fitness: I am still going strong on my 75 hard journey. It's mentally gotten tougher as I feel exhausted all of the time. Two work outs a day is a lot when you don't have a ton of spare time. My pup; however, is enjoying her longer walk in the evening. I'm also doing a Barre Blend workout everyday as well. What I'm loving about this is that it's reintroducing me to ballet. I haven't danced in about 25 years, and I didn't realize how much I miss it. It kicks my butt each and everyday, but I love how quickly my balance and strength is improving (I have a LONG way to go). I'm in the middle of my second week of that.

Planting Flowers: Positive self-talk hasn't been 100% over the past three weeks, but I didn't expect it to. I am; however, greatly improving in that department. I am an intelligent and capable woman and can do anything I put my mind to. See y'all, I did that with a straight face! Progress.

Ultimately, this year is starting out so incredibly strong. I have had some really good boundary work with some of my closer relationships and I'm learning to open up more and allow vulnerability into my life. I'm excited to finish this month off strong and head into our leap year month.

I'm not really a sports fan... but... TITAN UP!

The Heir by Kiera Cass

*NOTE* This review contains spoilers from previous books... and this one.

"The Heir" by Kiera Cass is the fourth installment of The Selection series. This book takes place 18 plus years after America and Maxon get married and become the king and queen and is centered around their daughter Eadlyn. Even though America and Maxon got rid of the caste system soon after their reign began, an uprising has started and they are looking for ways to rally the country together again.

Princess Eadlyn has no need for a husband and fully intends to reign alone when it is her time. In order to bring joy and unity back into the country, she has agreed to a selection of her own. Thirty five young men from across the country (and beyond) are selected and Eadlyn is full of ideas about how to make them run.

In the midst of dating and keeping up with her duties, Eadlyn has to face adversity and very real fear. Her twin brother (born seven minutes after her), Ahren elopes with his French princess, and her mother, America suffers a life threatening heart attack.

I rated this book four out of five stars. The time jump confused me going into this book as I was fully expecting more America and Maxon. I didn't mind Eadlyn's attitude and behavior because it allowed for a decent progression throughout the novel. It's clear that there is more to this story and look forward to reading the next in the series, "The Crown." (16/100)

Dare to Lead by Brene Brown

Self-development non-fiction has seriously been rocking my world this year. This is not my first rodeo with Brene Brown, and it will not be my last. I was first introduced to her in 2017 with her book "Rising Strong" through a Chipperish Media podcast called "Big Strong Yes". If you have read Brene Brown and enjoy her research on shame as much as I do, I highly recommend the podcast. It changed my life.

I've been focusing a lot of my time on leadership in the past couple of years and "Dare to Lead" truly brought my desires for leadership and vulnerability together. Easily a five out of five star rating.

If I were to give a critique, and I would be super nit picky... and I get why she does it, but she recycles topics from other books... a lot. Why I didn't take away any stars from this review? Because even if I hear the same advice from her over and over again, I will still embrace it as if I'm hearing/reading it for the very first time. I always learning from her, and I'm always needing to humble myself and redirect my thinking.


Anyone interested in human behavior, shame culture, becoming a leader, getting vulnerable... Brene Brown invites them (us) to step into the arena... and rumble.

The One by Kiera Cass

Look, I'm not trying to be stingy as the giver of stars; however, I am trying this year to only rate novels that absolutely wow me with the magical five out of five; therefore, "The One" by Kiera Cass has earned 4.5 out of 5 stars.

This is the third installment of "The Selection" series. The selected have gone from thirty five young women down to the top four. Each candidate to be princess has her own unique view and motives where Prince Maxon is concerned. Loyalties are questioned, motives are revealed, and Maxon finally (FINALLY) picks "The One."

The emotional pull in this third book really struck me on multiple occasions throughout the novel. You know there is something there when you yell, "Holy Shit!" and throw down (gently place) the book to the floor. The happily ever after moment could have gone either way, and all I will say is that it went the way I hoped it would from the beginning.

There was a TV movie released of The Selection in 2012, and as of October 2019, Warner Brothers has purchased the rights to the series. There seems to be a full cast attached already (I have not verified any information officially), but color me very interested. Any Buffy fans out there? Anthony Stewart Head as King Clarkson. Enough said. (14/100)

Steel Scars by Victoria Aveyard

"Steel Scars" by Victoria Aveyard is considered a novella set before the first book in the Red Queen series. This story gives us a background on Farley and how she eventually connects with Mare Barrow, the protagonist of Red Queen.

I scored this a 2.5 out of 5 stars. I probably should have rated it lower too. It's not that it was bad, because it wasn't, but it wasn't good enough to want to read any more. This novella was very military focused and apparently that is seriously NOT my thing. The secret missives that never seemed to end bored me from start to finish. If I were more invested in the story, then maybe I would want to take the time to try to decipher them. As it stands, I'm glad I read it, and I am glad it is gone.

Of all the stories in the Red Queen world, this was my least favorite. I am very happy to move on from this series, probably for good. "Broken Throne" is a collection of three novels coming out in April and I just can't think of anything that might spark my interest. Maybe Maven... Maybe Cal... Maybe not. I think I'm done and that is okay.

What I am currently reading:

"Dare to Lead" by Brene Brown
"More than This" by Gretchen Rubin
"The One" by Kiera Cass

What is upcoming over the next couple of weeks:

Finishing up The Selection series by Kiera Cass (2 books)
Finishing up The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater (3 books)
The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton
The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert

Current Podcasts being listened to by me:

http://www.chipperish.com

David Tennant Does a Podcast with... by David Tennant
Awegasm by Chipperish Media

Current Writing Projects:

Novel brain storming planned for the next couple of months. Now that I have my protagonist's name, I can start building her world.

Upcoming goals:

Join a writing/writers group.

Queen Song by Victoria Aveyard

"Queen Song" by Victoria Aveyard is the novella set prior to book one of the Red Queen series. This story tells us about the the young Coriane (Cal's mother), meets, courts, falls in love with, and marries the crown prince (aka soon to be king) Tiberias and her decent into madness bringing about her unfortunate demise.

I rated this novella 2.5 out of 5 stars. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't that great or necessary. I think anyone that has read this series could guess who the evil mastermind is. That was part of the reason for the lower rating. The other is that I read this series between September and December of 2019 and I for the life of me couldn't recall anything about all of the books that I read. It's still pretty empty. Cal (which I only remembered from this novella), Norta (sounded familiar), and Silvers/Reds (which I also got part way through this read). Part of this is not the story though, it's my memory.



Ultimately in reading order, I think it's better to read the main books and then the additional novellas added later. PS. This cover is absolutely breath-taking!

Do you have a favorite fantasy series? What makes it unique through your eyes?

The Elite by Kiera Cass

It's been months since I read the first book in The Selection series and I am so glad I am back. "The Elite" is book two in the series and is focused on the remaining six young women from the original cast of 36. Readers have called this a cross between "The Hunger Games" series and the television show "The Bachelor." I've never watched "The Bachelor"; however, I understand the premise, and I think that is an accurate description.

We have the dystopian world that is what remains of the United States after World War IV with a numbered caste system and a king and queen for rulers instead of a presidency. There are Northern and Southern rebels that have an unknown agenda but continue to attack the palace. That is the Hunger Games portion. The Bachelor aspect has to do with the girls that apply to be a part of what is called "the selection" in order to be in the running to be princess, and to marry the handsome Prince Maxon.




The stakes have been raised in this second novel as the threat of rebel attack is ever present as well as the elimination of girl after girl. I both appreciate and am annoyed by our protagonist, America. She is fiery, fiercely loyal; however, gets caught up in just a little too much pettiness for my tastes.


Ultimately, this is an easy read and for me is considered the purest definition of a guilty pleasure. There is a love triangle, and in pretty much every aspect, it's pretty annoying; however, it does not deter from my enjoyment of this book. Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.

I'm thankful I own the final three books in this series, because I will be starting "The One" tonight.

Queen of the Darkness by Anne Bishop

Mother night! If you don't know what that means, you probably haven't read this trilogy before, and that's a shame. Let me tell you, 1204 pages of epic dark fantasy and it wasn't enough. The final installment of the Black Jewels Trilogy (and the trilogy as a whole) has earned a five out of five star rating.

There are so many themes that run deep within these darkened pages such as love, loyalty, cruelty, war, and slavery to name a few. These books definitely contain triggers for those that have sensitivities to excessive violence and rape (it wasn't described in extreme detail; however, still not a pleasant... nor should it be).

The world was was built with just enough detail to give me an idea of what this fantasy world looks like; however, leaves the perfect amount to the imagination to let your mind run wild. No two worlds are the same. I really enjoyed the colored jewel caste system and the colored winds for travel.

To nitpick, I feel as though for how long it took two characters to get finally be in the right places emotionally to be together, that it left one lacking. I am fascinated with the kindred and love the additional elements they bring to heighten the fantasy world. I would have also loved the story about how Lucivar met Marion.

I love stories that have a strong female lead. Everything that Jaenelle went through and the choices that she had to make were nothing short of incredible.



Over the past couple of years I have started to dip my toes into the world of fantasy, and I've got to say, I'm really loving my journey. I will definitely read more from this author and the fantasy genre. Soon.

Saturday Scheduled, Saturday Slayed

Today I woke up so incredibly sore from my first Barre work out last night. Let's be honest, I didn't even want to get out of bed let alone walk the dog, workout again, and head to Spring Hill for a lunch. I know from past experience that getting out of the bed is the hardest; however, the rest gets better as long as you keep going.

I got out of bed (gingerly) and got ready to take my excited fully grown puppy for a walk. I always check the weather so I can brace myself for the elements. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was nearly 70 degrees; however, it was crazy windy (the wind woke me up a lot last night). Kaylee and I ventured into the wide world of our apartment complex roads and enjoyed waking up to the 40 MPH winds gently slapping me in the face.

I knew Barre needed to be before breakfast otherwise I wasn't likely to do it today so I got right to it. I've got to tell you, friends, that workout kicked my butt. I cannot remember the last time I sweated that much. I struggled with a lot of the exercises and I am no where near working out to the tempo, but I am pushing myself, and it feels amazing. The mantra for the day was "I am well-rounded." It was also Booty day... the pun did not make it to full laughter. I did give it a good snicker though.

Workout and shower out of the way I made breakfast. I've been experimenting with making steel cut oats in my insta pot and it was incredible. I love that I push a button and don't have to worry about it. I make it once a week and then portion it out for the week. I add chia seeds for the extra fiber boost as well as some sliced (or slivered) almonds, a sprinkling of cacao powder, and blueberries. It was hearty and filling. I'm a fan. I also had a cherry Greek yogurt (not a fan of the cherry flavoring).

Because I made a list the night before, I had some guidance to work from to accomplish things. I emailed my friend and my grandmother, and it felt great. We drove to Spring Hill and had lunch with a Realtor friend of Steve's. Post lunch we headed out to his listing, viewed the property, and put up his For Sale sign. I am so thankful I got to be a part of that.

Once home, we had a friend stop by for 30 minutes or so and it was very nice catching up with him. Next I went for my second workout of the day which was a 45 minute walk with the pup. We made it about 35 minutes before we got stuck in a downpour. The rain was picked up by the wind and for a second time today I was getting slapped in the face by the elements. Kaylee and I ran most of the way home because she was terrified, poor girl. By the time we got home; however, I had only walked 42 minutes so I went back out to the covered area and walked for 3 more to ensure I got my full workout in.

I'm prepping our chicken for the week now in our insta pot as I write this blog post. I cannot tell you the last time I got so much done in one day. What's even better is that it's only 7:10pm which means I have several hours of reading time that have opened up, and my book is getting really good!






What do you to get yourself motivated on the weekends? It's so easy to slack off saying that we deserve rest (which we absolutely do), but it the main time to get things done we keep putting off during the week because we don't have the time. Don't play the "I'll get to it tomorrow" game, because tomorrow is everlasting and nothing will ever get done.

Heir To The Shadows by Anne Bishop

I finished "Heir To The Shadows", book two of Anne Bishop's Black Jewel Trilogy several hours ago, and I am still processing everything. In recent years, thanks to someone I know, have been very skeptical in regards to the second book in any series. For me, the cycle has been broken. I loved this book. Easily five out of five stars.

The main story line of Jaenelle as she grows up, and the young woman she becomes despite all that transpired in the previous book is astonishing. Her relationship with Lucivar as the big guardian brother was brilliantly written.

Throughout the novel, I laughed, cried, was shocked speechless, and left with chills. There is some description of the world, but it is the exceptionally crafted characters that has blown me away. The darkness and inner turmoil Daemon Sadi experiences in his decent into the Twisted Kingdom broke my heart. 

Anne Bishop

The stakes continually get raised as Dorothea and Heckatah are quietly planning the destruction of all that is good in the world. I'm interested to see if Jaenelle's sister will show up again and the dynamics between Jaenelle and Daemon once he returns from a place that no one is meant to escape from.

For dark fantasy, I am really enjoying this trilogy. The writing is clear and engaging. I played "just one more chapter" throughout the entire novel. I will be starting "Queen of the Darkness," the final book in the Black Jewels trilogy tonight.