I’m accidentally quite a picky reader in my incredibly old readerly age. (I’m like 22 but considering I’ve read nine gazillion books, in book years I’m very very old. Don’t question this logic.) This means it does take a LOT for a book to please me. My average rating on Goodreads is about 3.4-stars. SHEESH. But, alternately, when I do read a mammothly pleasing book, it is EVERYTHING and I flail about it for days and days and days and maybe even more days.
I am like a very rare bimonthly shiny papery dragon fangirl of only the BEST books.
(Really, just don’t even question that either. Seriously my posts are best read WITHOUT QUESTIONING. My logic is very unique.)
Today I’m linking up with Broke and Bookish for the Top Ten Tuesday prompt of “10 Of My Most Recent 5 or 1 Star Reads”. I’m doing BOTH because I’m an indecisive beast and can’t be forced to pick. They won’t be solely 2016 releases because some of us lazy creatures are still catching up from last year. And also 2013. And also like THE 1900S BECAUSE GAWSH WHY ARE THERE SO MANY BOOKS TO READ.*
* If the publishers just took a small holiday maybe we could catch up? Except….I kind of don’t mean this because 2017 has SO MANY BOOKS I neeeeeed.
BOOKS I AM PLEASED TO HAVE EATEN
- REBEL OF THE SANDS: Persian mythology and monsters and girl who is an excellent shot…all set in a dusty fantasy world? This book calls to me. It basically is everything and I LOVE IT. Also ridiculously pretty?! Like that cover. I mean.
- THE RAVEN CYCLE: Does this count? Because it’s a re-read? OF COURSE IT COUNTS. IT’S STIEFVATER. Who is secretly my favourite author of the world. I never talk about how much I adore her books. Never.
Also: FYI, re-reading this series is the best decision you can ever make because there are SO MANY THEORIES to be made. Like is Gansey actually Glendower? I SAY YES. There is also me falling in love with 4 Raven boys simultaneously and being very un-sorry about it all.
- THIS SAVAGE SONG: It’s becoming a new habit to mention VE Schwab every week?! WHAT YOU PEOPLE DONE TO ME?!?!?? Ahem. I actually have no regrets. Also TSS doesn’t come out until May but OH GLORIOUS PAPER UNIVERSE I got approved for the eARC. And devoured it. And maybe cried happy tears. It is about monsters and music and the stabbiest of stabby characters. Not a lot going on plot wise. But I can forgive anything in the face of an adorable monster named August who plays violins and eats your soul.
- CARRY ON: I didn’t expect to like this because HELLO — Harry Potter rip-off much?! Even though I wouldn’t consider myself a HP loyal fan…I still dislike rip-offs…but somehow this book just ATE ME WITH HAPPINESS?! The writing was gorgeous and the characters were tragic little onions. And there was so. many. scones. I literally had such a scone craving afterwards. Also it gave me the opportunity to shout “CARRY OOOOON MY WAYWWAAARD SONNNNN” at least 93 times a day while I read it. #winning
- THE SUMMER OF CHASING MERMAIDS: This was such a squishily happy surprise. I am not a contemporary lover. I mean, where are my dragons? WHERE? But I not only survived this dragon-less book…I loved it! Beaches and Little Mermaid-retelling and a mute protagonist and diversity and messages about equality…I just. I am so pleased. More books need to talk about equality. MORE BOOKS.
BOOKS I AM MONSTROUSLY DISAPPOINTED IN
- ICE LIKE FIRE: How do I even sum up my feelings here…hmm..
There. That about does it. IT WAS SO VERY BORING. And after the enormous wonderfulness that was Snow Like Ashes…my mind is BOGGLED at this. Basically nothing happened but walking around a world looking for keys and locks and other dull things. Also: my ship sank. There was no interesting food. WHAT EVEN IS TO LIKE HERE?
- PASSENGER: I don’t even give out 1-star ratings very much but ohhhhhh clams and crackers — THIS BOOK ANNOYED ME. Again with the boredom. Let’s describe that button on your coat and spend 10-pages in a conversation that MEANS NOTHING LATER ON. I could weep, quite honestly.
- TRUTHWITCH: I’ve ranted quite profusely over this one, but just to sum up: a) the hypes lies, b) the witches aren’t even witchy, and c) worst world building of my life. BUT IN GOOD NEWS I really liked the villain and rooted for him quite severely! #mybad
- FOLLOW ME BACK: Another slightly, um, scathing 1-star review? See the problem with YA “thrillers” that centre around internet crime is a) the book ALWAYS makes the internet out to be a Big Bad Thing, and b) it assumes all teenagers are IDIOTS ON THE INTERNET, and c) they’re never thrilling. Nope. Also this book was full of quotes about how evil and dangerous it was that the missing girl had friends SHE’D NEVER MET IN REAL LIFE on the internet. How dastardly! How scary! How irresponsibly stupid could she be! All strangers on the internet are BAD EVIL PEOPLE!… So in other news I am probably a spork murdering marmot and am here to ruin your lives. Just sayin’.
- RAGING STAR: I’m glad this was titled “raging” star because honestly the author legit thought “How can I make the audience so so so so mad?” and then proceeded to do so. Like, I do enjoy a tragic and feels smashing story. I DO. But I felt this book cancelled out EVERYTHING the first two books had built. AND I LOVED THE FIRST TWO BOOKS. I was so unhappy on finishing that I cried over my dog and he
ran away in disgust at me because he’s an unfeeling brutecomforted me by bringing me warm pretzels.
i definitely absolutely monstrously want to know what the BEST and WORST books you’ve read this year are. tell me ALL in the comments! also do you find yourself being a more “picky” reader the more you devour books? (hopefully it’s not just my cantankerous dragon soul…)
Goodness you’ve read tons of books already this year.
I still need to read Carry On. I wasn’t too keen reading the excerpts in Fangirl, but nevertheless I still HAVE to read it! Anything by Rainbow Rowell is worth to read, tbh. Besides, yes it’s a rip-off, but it’s a HP rip-off! Might bring back good ol’ memories 🙂
hehe, I have read a few. 😂 I honestly skipped ALL the Carry On excerpts in Fangirl…because I wanted to read about CATH and ONLY CATH. But omg the book itself was pure perfection, if that helps. :’)
I read them in the first read. After that I skipped them all as well hahaha.
SAME, Cait, SAME. I never really read excerpts of other stuff (and quotes at the beginnings of chapters, too), because I WANT TO GET TO THE STORY.
Yay, sporks!
Also, in German, marmots are Murmeltiere. How can anything with a name that cute be bad?
OMG THAT IS SUCH A CUTE NAME. I agree. Marmots are permanently adorable now.
Best? I read The Mortal Instruments last year (well, I tried) and I HATED it. Like, I honestly wanted to chuck it at the wall. But for some weird reason I decided to read The Infernal Devices, and I loved it. So. Damn. Much. Considering how much I hated TMI, I’m really surprised, and I have a feeling I’ll be reading a bit more Cassie Clare this year. Disappointing? Probably One by Sarah Crossan. Everyone LOVED it… And I just didn’t click with it. I was most undoubtedly the black sheep on that one!
Ahhh, SAD FACE. I love the Mortal Instruments. 😂 But then I didn’t love TID. So we’re opposites?! BUT IT’S STILL ALL GOOD IF YOU LIKE SOME OF CLARE’S BOOKS. Are you going to read Lady Midnight too then? I’m actually ashamed that I haven’t started it yet. 😛
I wasn’t wowed by One either. It felt kind of half told? I think it was the prose…the story just didn’t seem very DEEP because it said so little.
*whispers* I think it’s about time I read The Raven Cycle? (Don’t shun me okay? I’ve been MEANING TO READ IT SINCE YOU STARTED SHRIEKING ABOUT IT but I’m scared – it’s like that post you wrote about prcrastinating books we know we’ll love – I WILL READ IT THOUGH I PROMISE.
Also, CARRY ON. oh my goodness I can’t even – I LOVE Carry On I was SO against the Harry Potter type rip-off thing but I LOVED IT ALMOST AS MUCH AS I LOVE MY CAT.
Enjoy the hiatus (can you even enjoy such things) and I CAN’T WAIT TO READ The Never Never PrInce. 😄
WAIT.
WUT.
KAT.
HAVE YOU NOT READ THEM YET???!! *THROWS THE SERIES AT YOU* Seriously go go ggoooooooo. I WILL NEVER STOP SHRIEKING FOR YOU TO READ THEM ERMAGERD. *collapses* These are like ONLY books one cannot procrastinate. One must read them and then re-read them and then sob with me because FEELINGS.
AHHHH, CARRY ON. <3 Simon. <333 And omg your poor cat, it probably feels misplaced.
(I always feel a bit undone on blogging hiatuses tbh. 😂 BUT WE'LL SEE HOW IT GOES. Hopefully I'll be very busy writing.)
Oh, I so needed this post. I already know what my best read of 2016 so far is and that is A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Mass, because re-reads do count. Some more 5 stars from me are Vicious by V.E. Schwab, Allegiant by Veronica Roth (I finally read these I’m late to the bandwagon), and it’s only March I still got time to add to this list. Right? I agree with you on Passenger, I thought that book was slow. I don’t really have a big 1-star rated pile. I don’t usually finish books that I don’t like by the 5th chapter.
OH GOOD. Re-reads must count. 😂 I mean, rereads can change our opinions anyway right?! (Except I just want to give even MORE stars to Maggie Stiefvater’s books and they already have 5-stars so…I have a problem here.) Zomg isn’t Vicious amazing?!? I AM SO GLAD IT’S GETTING A SEQUEL. NEED.
I’m a bit of an idiot because I ALWAYS finish books even when I loathe them. Gah. I need to learn the art of abandonment and save myself time and energy. 😂
I’m a new follower of your blog, and may I just say thank you for entertaining me? I giggle so much at your posts, though I love the balance between humour and valid information.
Also, I clearly need to read more. *scurries off to find EVERY book on your list*
OMG WELCOME, NICKY!! *gives you welcome cake* And squeee, your comment just MAKES MY DAY. 😀 I’m so so glad.
I haven’t read Follow Me Back Yet … but I’ll admit your rant made me snort some of my coffee. I’m in my late twenties now and I’ve had “internet friends” since I was twelve. Between online gaming, the ‘zine community, the fan fiction community and now the writing community, I’ve probably had over 1000 online friends in 15 years that I’ve spoken with regularly and considered true friends. Out of that number, I only ever spoke with 2 that were truly sketchy. 2/1000!! I think the proportion of creeps I’ve met IRL is significantly higher.
Zomg, yesyes, I thoroughly agree. ALL MY FRIENDS ARE ONLINE FRIENDS. I know people online better than I know some IRL. Gah. I think these kind of “internet crime thrillers” are written by people who are terrified of the internet and KNOW ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. *throws a book at them*
I haven’t read any of these five star reads! *sobs* What am I doing? I have the whole Raven Cycle sitting here waiting to be read and I love Shiver so I know I love Stiefvater and I’m scared of Carry On because I didn’t like Rowell’s Eleanor & Park and duh, anything remotely HP that isn’t HP isn’t okay. But Rebel of the Sands and The Summer of Chasing Mermaids sounds amazing… and I have no good excuse not to gobble them up immediately. I’ll have to get around to that…
I wasn’t a fan of Passenger either. It was just so deathly dull, and I didn’t understand the appeal of Etta. And the lack of music and overly descriptive writing style annoyed me. The only thing I liked was the ending and Nicholas… because I always distract myself from disappointing novels with handsome pirates when appropriate. And oh no, I just ordered Trutchwitch because of the hype and how good it sounded and how pretty the Aussie cover is so pretty.
OMG CLEARLY YOUR PRIORITIES ARE NOT IN ORDER. hehe just kidding. Except about the Raven Cycle. GET THEE ONTO THAT, RACHEL. I only talk about her books like every 2 seconds.
(I didn’t actually like Eleanor and Park either, if that helps. 😂 But I suspect avid HP fans will be frustrated because Carry On honestly DOES rip it off in several places. It got more original towards the end, but sometimes I actually wondered how it was published without … ya know..copyright infringement on HP!?!! Ahem.)
Well I’m glad I’m not alone in my Passenger boredom. 😂 IT WAS SO SO BORING and I wanted music! And we didn’t even get a full song. LIKE WHAT IS THIS LIFE.
(Maybe you’ll like Truthwitch, though?! I am a black sheep for that one.)
I definitely think I’m getting pickier in my “old age” (I’m 22 too). However I think it just makes me more selective in the books I pick up in the first place. Because of that I’m rarely giving books a low rating because I’m rarely picking up books I won’t like. I’m rather an unadventurous reader.
22 is REALLY old, we can just be honest about this. *heavy sigh* Especially in book years. I’m probably 2,000 years old in book years. But good for you for knowing what kind of books you’ll like! I’ve been picking up a ton I SHOULD like and haven’t. 😭
YES! Always mention VE Schwab 😛 I’m currently reading A Gathering of Shadows and loving it. Sadly, as I haven’t finished it yet it couldn’t go on my list this week but I bet it will be a 5 Star book! Glad to here Savage Song awesome though, I’ve pre-ordered it.
On nooo, I have Follow Me Back and Passenger to read for review 🙁 This could be a disaster, I’ve read so many pants books recently I’ve had enough. I do own Rebel of the Sands though so perhaps I’ll just ignore my review copies and read that instead lol
Always love the way you arrange your photographs,
Happy Reading
Rachel @ paein-and-ms4tune
AHHH ISn’T VE SCHWAB JUST FLAWLESS?! *cries of Kell and Rhy* And This Savage Song doesn’t let down at all. :’) I need to read her Archived series though. aSAP!
Awk, sorry for putting you off Follow Me Back and Passenger. *buries self* MAYBE YOU MIGHT LIKE THEM BETTER tHAN I DID?!?
Hum, I’ve definitely read more this year than last year, but I don’t know that I’ve really read anything that I loved or hated so far. Everything’s been kinda meah. This included Maze Runner, which, I’M SORRY, I really wasn’t that into it like everyone else. I was pretty impressed with Batman Hush, but that’s a comic so it doesn’t really count? Enders Game was pretty cool though. The end was brilliant. And I’m rereading To Kill a Mockingbird which is one of my favorites. <3
HOW COULD YOU, KATHERINE. I THOUGHT WE WERE FRIENDS. *collapses on the floor howling*
(Okay actually I’m not even surprised! 😛 Most people don’t really adore The Maze Runner. I am the weirdest squid of them all.)
Enders Game IS brilliant. Have you seen the movie?! THE MOVIE IS SO GOOD TOO. And I want to re-read TKAM! Like…ya know, after I Re-read a zillion other books to because my memory. is. the. worst. (I want to re-read it and then read Go Set A Watchman, but frankly I’m terrified of that book. I’ve heard Atticus is awful, and that’s awkward because I named my dog after him…)
I’M SORRY I FAILED YOU. But, yes, sadly, I wasn’t that into it. I was a very mean potato in my Goodreads review. (I did stay up till two am to finish it though, SO THAT’S SOMETHING.)
I haven’t seen the movie. It’s on my list though.
OMG I know. I’m so scared to read about Atticus. How is he bad? He’s like the best fictional father ever. Why Harper Lee? Why?
I can’t believe I didn’t realise it was Tuesday. There’s an oversight and a half.
I didn’t re-read the Raven Cycle, but I did flick through them and I saw one word that made me think oh my God, I know where this series is going. Except I probably don’t. Because this is a Stiefvater series. I want to read the Summer of Chasing Mermaids because mermaids.
All I seem to be reading at the moment are course books and manga. 🙁 The bestthings I’ve read so far this year are See How They Run, Magnus Chase, the end of the Deadman Wonderland manga, and Noises Off (play). The worst things I’ve read are Beowulf (epic poem) and Blasted (play).
Good luck on your adventure! 😉
Hehe, sometimes the days do get away on us, don’t they. :’) Although you made me panic for a second and CHECK THAT IT INDEED IS TUESDAY. 😂 Omg. I tell you, it’s Easter’s fault. Easter messes up everything.
I’m sure Maggie Stiefvater will flaw us. I’m sure she’s out there somewhere, very pleased to break so many hearts. I JUST HAVE THIS FEELING. *weeps*
Oh oh Magnus Chase was WONDERFUL. But I barely ever read magna. I should probably fix that…but my library has an awful selection. #bookwormproblems
Gah! I’m so annoyed at myself that I haven’t read Rebel of the Sands yet – I know I’m going to love it but I keep going ‘ooh let’s read that now- *distracted by shiny thing*’, ’tis a tough life. I would honestly have been disappointed is a Stiefvater book hadn’t made it onto this list. You have me somewhat
veryslightly worried to read both Truthwitch and Passenger now – but that being said I’m finding it quite hilarious how you’ve shot both of them down amongst all the other screaming fangirls/boys, YOU’RE ANGST MAY HAVE SAVED ME FROM THE EXCESSIVE HYPE, *slaps people with spoons*. I am deeply indebted to you *doffs hat* (well, I will be if I like them, that is).OH OH YOU HAVE TO READ IT SOON, KIRSTIE IT IS JUST SOOOO GOOD!! But I understand getting distracted by other shinies. 😂 Me = always.
Zomg I am a little bit of a black sheep for 2016, aren’t I?! 😂 Everyone else is screeching their love and I’m over here, being the MOODY ONE. *sighs* Old age, I tell you.
Carry On also made my list!! There was so much cuteness and food I could barely handle it.
I’m going to be rereading The Raven Cylce in anticipation for The Raven King and I am not prepared!! It’s possibly my all time favourite fantasy (although I say this about every fantasy) and I am concerned for all of the characters.
I’ve only read ADSOM but I need more Schwab books in my life – and by more I mean all of them. Her writing is so fresh and I just adore it.
I’m glad you added Rebel of the Sands – I didn’t plan on reading it until I realised it included Persian Mythology. I’m from a Persian background myself and it makes me very happy when books link to the culture (although I must say I know very little about the mythology).
I’m glad you liked all of these books – I hope the rest of 2016 is filled with books that are just as wonderful 😀
AHHH TWINS FOR CARRY ON! *hi fives* And omg the cuteness and the shippiness was rather marvellous. :’) SO MANY SCONES.
Oh oh re-reading The Raven cycle is the BEST idea of the universe. There are so many little nuggets of things I didn’t get the first time and now make sooo much sense the second. BUT MY HEART IS PROBABLY GOING TO BE BROKEN PRESENTLY. #SaveGansey
Yes yes ALL the Schwab books is the only answer. I have to read her Archived series yet. But also, YUS to the Rebel of the Sands. I REALLY HOPE YOU LIKE IT!! *flings confetti in the air*
Glad to see you liked Carry On. I don’t really care that it’s based on Harry Potter tbh. I can’t NOT like it then I suppose? I’m sorry to see you didn’t like Ice Like Fire though. I enjoyed Snow Like Ashes and am going to pick up Ice Like Fire in the near future (meaning: in the next 10 years or so) but also trust your judgement so now I’m kinda unsure.
I ADORED Snow Like Ashes so I’m honestly really sad that I didn’t like the sequel. You might?!? I HOPE YOU DO ANYWAY. 😂 But omg I totally hear ya with the “near future” being “in the next 10 years or so”. There are sooo many books to read. SO MANY. *dies under a mountainous TBR*
Oh boy did my ship sank in Ice Like Fire.
SANK WITH FIRE. < -- see what I did there. 😂
This was a good and bad post. Kinda like the books! (sorry not sorry). I actually really liked Ice Like Fire? And of course Maggie Stiefvater is life. A book I’ve LOVED this year was The Game of Love and Death. A book I didn’t like so much was The girl At Midnight (more like the girl of cliches) and The Accident Season (Sorry!) I think reading books more makes you a) better at knowing what you like and b) better at spotting cliches, so I don’t think my pickiness has changed.
I’m glad you liked ILF though!! I mean, I did like the world building, but it lacked any sort of interesting plot for me. 😂 Ah well. PICKY CAIT. And omg The Game of Love and Death is INCREDIBLE! I read it last year and it’s easily on my “favourite of ever” shelf. <3
I'll forgive you for The Accident Season just because we have mutual Stiefvater love. ;D 😂 😂
Soooo happy to see This Savage Song and The Summer of Chasing Mermaids on your 5 star list since I have both of those to read! I bought Truthwitch and I was really excited to pick it up, but then I promptly put it back down within the first 20ish pages. Not sure if I’ll pick it back up again or not. I’m really sad to see Passenger on your not so good list though! I was really excited about that one :/
Agh, I hear ya with Truthwitch. I kept waiting for it to start making sense??? AND IT NEVER DID. :O
Passenger was so disappointing and it’s like 600 or something pages and nothing happens 😭 I rarely give 1 star too but that book was asdfghjkl 😭😭😭 and there is nothing to SHIP!! Nicholas and Etta aren’t ship worthy.
AGHHHH, I KNOOOW RIGHT!?!? It was so very boring. I am not picking up the next book at ALL. GAh.
I would like a range of inappropriate children’s books about a spork murdering marmot, and I would like it yesterday! 😉
Also, I liked Carry On a lot more than I thought I would. Because it was like HP fanfiction on steroids, and that’s really what we all secretly want, of course.
YOUR WISH IS MY COMMAND. I shall become famous for these books, FAMOUS. Ahem. 😂 But omg HP fanfiction on steroids = perfect description of Carry On. 😂 😂
I expect an acknowledgement at the front of these books 😉
Yes – it is an awesome description, and I’m very proud of it XD
I am very sad that I haven’t read any of your “best of” . . . I’m getting Rebel of the Sands as soon as my library actually has it, though. And I have the first Raven Boys book out; I just need to actually read it.
Agh, I think 2016 is either being a little bit slim for GRAND books or else I’m just far too picky. 😂 Tbh, I thought it would be an exceptional year?!? But the hyped books aren’t turning out great. :O
DUDE. GO READ THE RAVEN BOYS. *shoos you off to do that immediately*
I really liked Rebel of the Sands too. And I didn’t like Truthwitch either. I liked Ice Like Fire okay, but you’re right. It was kind of boring. And it was waaaay predictable! I still haven’t finished Passenger, so I guess I’ll see about it soon, Oh, I haven’t finished the Raven Cycle (only read the first book). But loved it so far! Great list! New follower 🙂
Christina @ Books & Prejudice
GOod luck with finishing Passenger!! I hope you like it better. 😂 AND OMG YAYY FOR ANOTHER RAVEN BOYS FAN. Quiiiiiick. The 4th one comes out on April 26th. YOU HAVE TIME.
YESSS The Summer of Chasing Mermaids! I love that one too (mostly because of that adorable little mermaid Sebastian, and yes, the diversity too). I have yet to read Carry On, though I have a copy of it (what am I waiting for?!), but so glad you enjoyed it too. Anyway, great list Cait! Will check out the other books.
SEBASTIAN WAS AMAZING. <3 He was a wonderful mermaid...and omg the themes of equality in there just gave me LIFE.
Haha, great list Cait, I like how you split your list this week between best and worst books you’ve read so far. It’s funny you raised the question about being a “picky” reader because I was actually ruminating over my TBR pile yesterday trying to figure out what to read next and found myself wondering if I’ve become rather selective in my tastes (what kind of stories I want to read, what I look for in character developments, beautiful writing, what mood I’m in, etc.). All these recent wonderful novels I’ve read has spoiled me! 😛
I feel like the more we read, the higher our standards get, right?!??! WHICH MIGHT NOT BE A BAD THING….although it does make that 5-star rating rather elusive. *cries* And omg authors like Maggie Stiefvater absolutely SPOIL me. Why would I have time for subpar writing after drowning in such goooood writing!?
I am with oyu on Raging Star, SUCH a disappointment!!!
And once I finish Clash of Kings I am starting Raven Cycle. So hopefully I will be bale to fangirl with you over this series very soon 🙂
IT RUINED A GRAND GRAND SERIES. *cries* It made the first two books POINTLESS. Like, wut even. Omg.
AHHHHH I hope you like the Raven Cycle! No pressure if you don’t of course. *smiles nicely and hides axe under bed*
I think my recent 5 star reads are The Wrath and The Dawn and My Heart and Other Black Holes. I kind of expect TWATD to be a 5 stars read, because of the hype and stuffs, but MHAOBH really took me by surprise! I don’t really read contemporary, but this one really makes me happy<3 As for the lowest, it's definitely Bad Romeo by Leisa Rayven. The characters just make me cringe and the plot is nonexistent! And Carry On dissapointed me, but I did enjoy singing Carry On My Wayward Son at the end of the book (and everytime I see that book basically). It's just too similar with HP. I'm mentally preparing myself to read The Raven Cycle. I hear it will burn my heart to ashes, so I really need to prepare myself!
Ooh, I’m not much of a contemporary reader either but you make me keen to find MHAOBH!!! 😀 And I’m finding it wonderful that it’s about black holes and it makes you happy. 😂 I NEED IT OFFICIALLY. hehe.
Omg, I got offered a review-copy of Bad Romeo last year and decided no, looks like I made the right choice?!? 😂 And I absolutely agree that Carry On ripped off Harry Potter. I want to know how it’s legal, tbh….
I loved Carry On. It was one of my favorite books last year, and I really want to read it again.
I kind of want to reread it too! SIMON + BAZ = SO STINKIN’ ADORABLE.
I feel like I’m a super picky pickle sometimes when it comes to reading. And there are certain types of books I try to avoid because I feel like I already know I won’t be satisfied with them, and I don’t want to waste my precious reading time suffering through an aggravating book instead of reading a gem of a book that I’m really interested in.
The BEST books I’ve read so far this year are probably: BONE GAP, The Weight of Feathers, Winter by Marissa Meyer, The Orphan Queen by Jodi Meadows, The Impostor Queen by Sarah Fine, The Girl From Everywhere by Heidi Heillig, and Infinite by Jodi Meadows
BUT THERE ARE A LOT AND IT’S SO HARD TO CHOOSE.
The WORST book I’ve read so far this year is definitely: The Storyteller, because I loved the writing and certain parts of the story but the rest was depressing and devastated me and the ending tore me into little angry and horrified pieces and I will never be the same.
Have fun writing your book!
You are smarter than me! 😂 I tend to read EVERYTHING and then totally regret it, omg, because I’m so so picky these days. OMGGGGG DID YOU JUST SAY BONE GAP?! AUTUMN. YOU ARE MY FAVOURITE. THAT BOOK WAS MY FAVOURITE OF LAST YEAR. *shrieks with love for it* And The Impostor Queen and the Girl From Everywhere…afjdksalfdjakld. I loved them so much. I think our tastes must be VERY similar. Which is excellent news for me because I just bought The Weight Of Feathers and now I’m super excited for it.!! 😀
The funny thing is sometimes I get the urge to read something I totally wouldn’t read any other time and then I either end up hating it or loving it with my whole soul. YES YES BONE GAP. Pshaw 😀 (YOU ARE ALSO MY FAVORITE). I hope you enjoy reading The Weight of Feathers!!
The best books I’ve read this year are Ten Thousand Skies Above You, The Wrath & the Dawn, and Anne of Green Gables. As for the worst…I don’t know? I’ve read two 2-star books this year (an Indiana Jones comic book and an incredibly boring French book for school) and no 1-star books. Which brings me to the other thing – I think I’m becoming a pickier reader, but in a weird way. I’m rating a lot more books as 3 and 4 stars, but not very many at all as 2 or 5 stars. I guess I’m just becoming harder to impress either way.
And I’m sorry you didn’t like Passenger! I liked it, but I definitely understand the things you’re complaining about. The setup and world-building were pretty slow.
Ohh The Wrath and the Dawn is AMAZING. *shrieks with love for it* And I cannot wait for the sequel!!! EEEEEP. Agh, but I think the more we read, the more logical it is for us to be harder to impress, right? Our standards go up!
Your blog is soooo cool too ! Love it !
Great list btw even if i don’t know every book you talk about. 🙂
I love the pictures you make so muuuch ! 🙂 You’re very talented.
Have a nice day ! ^^
Omg thank you so much! YOU ARE REALLY VERY KIND. *shares cake with you*
The Summer of Chasing Mermaids sounds fabulous!! I’m going to have to pick up a copy of that. Hahaha oh my gosh “… So in other news I am probably a spork murdering marmot and am here to ruin your lives. Just sayin’.”. Cait, you kill me XD
IT IS. Omg, it is wonderful and clever and sends an excellent message. :’)
BUT BE CAREFUL. I MIGHT ACTUALLY BE TRULY THAT MURDEROUS MARMOT. *cackles dreadfully*
DIVULGE YOUR READING SECRETS, CAIT. HOW DO YOU READ SO MONSTROUSLY FAST? HOOOOOWWW?
I haven’t read a good book so far this year except for ADSOM. Like, all the books out there were disappointing me? Or am I making very bad decisions? 😅
I HAVE 9 EYEBALLS. THAT’S THE SECRET.
And omg, this year started out REALLY strong for me, with a ton of high rated books and then…*watches everything faceplant into disaster* Agh. All the hyped books are BLEH. *cries* But VE Schwab never disappoints so there’s that. <3
I SO AGREE with you about Truthwitch *grumbles* AND YES THE RAVEN CYCLE COUNTS! I HAD to put Blue Lily, Lily Blue, even though I read it last year. I MUST do a reread of that series^^ if not before The Raven King comes out, I’ll definitely marathon the entire series this year ♥ I still need to read Carry On, This Savage Song and Rebel of the Sands but they’re on the old, buckling tbr shelf XD Great picks Cait! xx
YESSS REREAD THE RAVEN CYCLE FOR SURE. Honestly, it gets better with rereading because there’s sooo much foreshadowing. *screams* I feel like it could be a series I marathon every year and no regrets. :’)
I am not that much of a picky ready and I think I need to start becoming more picky! I haven’t read any of the books on your list, but I have heard a lot of people don’t really enjoy Passengers so I might have to skip this one. I 100% agree with you if the publishers could just take a little time off it would give everyone the time to catch up! Also, this is my first time stopping by your blog and it is gorgeous!
Oh don’t feel like you have to be picky!! Just whatever kind of reader you are don’t worry about it. ;D And hehe wouldn’t it be nice to catch up?!? I want to read EVERYTHING BUT OMG I NEED A TIME TURNER. (And eeeep! thank you so much! YOU ARE SO KIND!)
GOSH I STILL NEED REBEL OF THE SANDS. Next time I go to a bookstore I’m totally snatching it up. And it’s funny…it’s since I’ve become a book blogger that I’m more picky about the books I do and don’t like? I mean, there are still the books I love uncontrolably even though I KNOW they’re not perfect, but at the same time I’m way more critical of the books I do read. And I don’t know if it’s because I started reviewing or if it’s because I started reading truly great books or what.
Omg ME TOO…before book blogging I rarely hated books. I mean, I felt meh about them, or whatever, but now I get so passionate about my love/hate. But I had lower standards back then. 😂
First of all, A+ for all the Supernatural gifs, i’m in love. Also it’s nice to see some unpopular opinions on some of these books, I get bore pretty easily as well and it’s nice to know when a book can be kind of over hyped. 🙂
It’s always a good time for a Supernatural gif, right?!? <3 And omg I'm glad you didn't mind the unpopular opinions. 😂 I did get a bit ranty though, I confess!!
I ADORE THE SUPERNATURAL GIFS AAAAHHH! I’ve heard a lot of mix reviews about truthwitch and passenger lately. Some people absolutely adored it while some are just disappointed. It makes me have second thoughts about purchasing the book…
SO MUCH SUPERNATURAL LOVE. <3 I'm ashamed I haven't caught up on S11 though, shhhh. I'm too worried about the darlings dying. *cries* Ahem. Anyway! Maybe Truthwitch/Passenger would be best libraried?!?
I also read Follow Me Back and pretty much felt the same way about it that you did, such a weird book!
Kinda sad about Truthwitch and Passenger, I was looking forward to both of these but your review of Truthwitch was enough to make me never want to pick this up ever 😀
I got SO MAD at Follow Me Back. 😂 I mean, it just assumed that all teenagers were idiots and everyone online was a psychopath. Waaaaaat.
OK, let’s start with the good ones. Carry On is amazing book and I too was singing Carry on my wayward soooooon while reading it. Maybe more than I should but who cares 😀 And I must confess, I haven’t read the Raven boys even though the book is sitting on my shelf for three years. I know, I know, I ashamed. BUT, this year should be slovak translation so, it’s happening. I will finally read it. Also, the thought of having two editions is very pleasing.
Now to the negative ones. When I saw ILF I almost started crying. This is why I haven’t read it yet. I don’t want my ship to go down. I don’t want to be dissapointed. I want to be happy. I want unicorns and rainbows and amazingly written fantasy!!! T_T
I’m at the beginning of Truthwith but I don’t like it either. The first chapter was so confusing that I haven’t picked it up for a month. Honestly, I don’t even want to pick it up again.
My best one this year must be… The Impostor Queen! That was awesome. And also Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe.
The worst one this year must be Riders by Veronica Rossi. I was so excited for that book and it wasn’t bad I was just bored.
Yayyyy for Carry On My Wayward Son singers. WE KNOW WHAT’S UP. 😂 But dude. DUDE. The Raven Boys = GET THEE TO READING THAT IMMEDIATELY. *shrieks* It is THE series of the world, honestly, and I could reread them 39839 times and still find awesomeness. :’)
I heard a ton of mopey stuff about ILF but I thought “nah, I’ll still love it” WRONG. *cries* But then maaabye you’ll be okay?!? I just thought it was so hopelessly slow and nothing really happened. It felt like a filler. D:
THE IMPOSTOR QUEEN IS AMAZING AND EVERYTHING I TOTALLY AGREE. <3
Raging Star was one I was disappointed in too Smushy. I just expected so much more action, not a hippy love fest which is what it felt like. My my, how quickly Saba changed her tune. I loved Snow Like Ashes but are yet to pick up Ice Like Fire but it sounds like it suffered from middle book syndrome sadly. I really like the concept of duologies. There’s no need for middle books anymore than are just filler to extend a series. I applaud an author who can cut out the storyline padding and just produce two really incredible books rather than three. It just leaves you feeling really meh about a series.
*cries for the mess that was Raging Star* Like usually I’m biased to love a book when I so fiercely loved the first ones??? But I honestly wish I’d stopped at bk 2. D: RAGING STAR RUINED IT FOR ME. And why aren’t duologies a thing?!? I hate this middle-book-syndrome and it happens ALL THE TIME. How dare it. *stamps foot* Clearly the publishing world needs to hire me and have me get their trilogies into line.
Hahaha when I clicked on this I was like what kind of post is this?!?! Eating papery creatures?! 🙂 I’ve gotten much pickier, which conversely means my ratings are consistently higher bc I’m getting better at picking Morgan books. Which is lovelyyyyy. Plus I’ve read so many of certain kinds that I know when a trope is working for me or when a book seems engaging/well written.
Okay. I need to read Rebel of the Sands asap and yessssss I just finished rereading The Raven Boys (for the 4th time). It is one of the very best series to reread, there is SO MUCH packed into every word and so many theoriessss (I love that Gansey one btw. He’s always described as So Old and time is circular and whatnot). I lovd all the scones in Carry On 😀 It was such a fun book, I’m definitely an original Potterhead but I still enjoyed the book. It knew it was being a rip off and yet, that made it charming in a way. Plus. SHIP.
Oh nooooo I still need to read Snow Like Ashes. And Passenger. TRUTHWITCH. That was a 2 star book for me and yes, massively overhyped. The villain was the best part. Sometimes Merek.
Best I’ve read this year: My Lady Jane is SPECTACULAR AND SO MUCH FUN- hilarious, romantic, adventurous, and fun history twists. I also adored The Only Thing Worse Than Me Is You (such ship, nerdy talk), Starflight, The Impostor Queen, and The Anatomical Shape of a Heart. Massively disappointed in Truthwitch and Kissing Ted Callahan. UGHHHHHH.
My titles are INSANE. 😂 Ahem. But omg that is awesome that you pick up books you know you’ll like more easily! I get a lot of unsolicited review-copies? So I kind of feel obligated to read them even though I would NOT have chosen them. *sad noises* But I want to be grateful and you never know when you’ll find a hidden gem, right?! 😛
FADSAKLFJDSAK YOU RAVEN BOYS DEDICATION IS AMAZING AND WONDERFUL AND GO YOU. I feel like I’m going to have an annual series reread every year now because REASONS. <3
Agh to Truthwitch. So so overhyped. *cries* But omg I want to read My Lady Jane! AND THE IMPOSTOR QUEEN. <3<3 That should be on this list, honestly, but i ran out of room!! It's so underrated!!
Oh, gosh, yes. I’m getting pickier and pickier as I age. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve read more books or because I’m becoming an old grouch. Ahem. Well, I do think it could be because of the amount I’ve read, and a lot of that has to do with the novelty of a genre (I mean, I gave Hush, Hush four stars and Twilight three… but then, I hadn’t been bombarded by angels and vampires at the time I read them). I know that, when I was a younger reader, I thought pretty much every book that I finished was great; it was the ones I didn’t bother to finish that I didn’t much care for.
Also, learning about the craft of writing can put a damper on your enjoyment. Once you recognize the problems in the books you’re reading, it’s kind of hard to ignore them! (Not that I regret reading all those non-fiction “how-to-write” books. They can also help you recognize when an author is kind of a genius who’s done things right.)
We’ll just be old grouches together, eh? *shares grouchy cookies with you* And I do think we have higher standards the more we read, right?! Like I KNOW for a fact some books I gave 5-stars about 3 years ago would NOT be favourites now. Gah.
And I totally agree about the writing side of things! It makes me frustrated when I see lazy techniques and tropes because I KNOW as writers we can and should do better than that. 🙁
I think I was able to enjoy Carry On because it was so obvious a Harry Potter rip-off and I don’t think Rowell tried to hide that. I really loved the characters and the story was so much fun, although I did feel a tad like I was starting the book having not read the first 3 in the series – if that makes sense – because they don’t exist. I look forward to meeting the villain in Truthwitch.
How is it legal though?!? omg. It was fanfiction and I didn’t think you could PUBLISH fanfiction?! (but the ending was so original, so I’m baffled. 😂)
AHH CARRY ON IS PERFECTION! And Rebel of the Sands! AND OMG I NEED TO GET MY HANDS ON THE NEW V.E. SCHWAB! I read an excerpt and it seemed so good and I need it in my life! I’m soooo glad to know you loved it! Stabbiest of stabby characters? I’m sold.
I’m so ashamed but I still haven’t read Maggie Stiefvater!
I haven’t read any of the books you’re disappointed in but… thanks for the warning!!
*gasps* ANNIKA. WHERE ARE YOUR PRIORITIES??!?!? GET THEE TO A RAVEN BOY BOOK IMMEDIATELY.
I’m intrigued by ‘Summer Chasing Mermaids’. I’ll have to add it to my TBR list! You’re list is wonderful – I’m taking note of what I should read (or not!). Great choices! 🙂
IT IS RIDICULOUSLY GOOD. Such powerful messages and so sweet. <3 Also sea-ish. I like sea-ish books.
I’m laughing so hard right now at your 1-star reads. Like all of them. Because the rage in your descriptions is LETHAL, and I adore it. ALSO, who says you can’t root for the villain?! I MEAN HELLOOOOO, somebody has to, right?! (I’m currently rooting for the *villain* in my own book…because I can…because he’s adorable. He may not actually BE a villain, though?! I dunno I’m only halfway through it.)
And…you’re going to write a book…in a few DAYS?! Are you crazy?! LOL but seriously, good luck with the writing! I have my fingers crossed good things will happen for you!
Here’s my TTT (for when you get back, if you want to check it out.)
I’M SO GLAD IT WAS FUNNY 😂. I think I was a liiiiitle too ranty, but omg, some of them sure got me fired up. BUT YES TO THE VILLAINS! We totally can root for them. No shame. (I always write antiheroes personally because reasons. <3) And yes! I finished it in 5 days, which is why I'm so slow replying to comments, but omg thank you for stopping by!
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR WRITING CAIT!!!!
Also, I refuse to read any books about the internet because they’re just all wrong. Like, no, most teenagers are NOT dumb enough to put their address on their Facebook. Or to meet a stranger in a random place. Grr. Maybe I’m getting cantankerous in my old age as well??
BUT OMG I’M LOVING PASSENGER. Long train rides make anything interesting though.
THANK YOU EMILY. LUCK WAS WELCOMED.
And omg you are the wise one here. 😂 I mean I got an unsolicited ARC…it definitely isn’t the kind of book I’d request, but I’m just so MAD. I don’t like to be mean to authors or anything…but seriously, I felt like she totally had NO IDEA who her target audience was and probably easily offended and turned off 90% of them.
My favourite book this year was probably Songkeeper (Gillian Bronte Adams), aaand I got a ARC for it with totally rocks! I haven’t really read any completely annoying books yet (they’ll pounce on me when I’m least expecting it) but the one that disappointed me the most was ‘Alanna: The First Adventure’ (Tamora Pierce) because I expected it to be interesting but it turned out to be very clichéd.
Not cool.
Omg congrats to you!! THAT IS AWESOME. I haven’t read Tamora Pierce yet, but agh, cliche is the worst. >_> Sometimes I get frustrated with books because I feel like the authors aren’t reading what’s already out there and therefore just repeating what we’ve already had??
*SQUEALS* AEDUAN MY BEAN. I actually want him to do well??? Oops??? I JUST WANT TO SMOTHER HIM IN BLANKETS AND HUGS THE POOR BABY.
Okay so I read Truthwitch a week or so ago and I actually have to say I really, really love it. I thought the world building was very thought-through and creative – although we weren’t given many details in the book, I could sense a whole encyclopedia just behind the pages. I’ve never heard of any high fantasy world where witchery is so common before – IT IS VERY COOL. I would want to be a Wordwitch, tbh. Mathew is wickedly cool. And Iseult is awesome too. And MERIK AND SAFI I SHIP IT. ALSO MATHEW AND HABIM IS THAT A GAY COUPLE I SENSE??? Assuming “heart-thread” means “soul mate”, I’m going to go with yes.
Plus Vaness and Evrane both kick serious ass. And it’s nice to have the “old mentor” for the MCs (Evrane) be female instead of male. I AM DYING WAITING FOR THE NEXT BOOK CATE. I could gush about this thing forever man oh man.
Okay, so for me two amazing books I recently read are The Vampire Armand and Merrick, both by Anne Rice. MERRICK MAYFAIR IS MY NEW FAVORITE FEMALE CHARACTER IN ALL BOOKS EVER, HANDS DOWN. And LOUIS AND ARMAND MY POOR BEANS. They are like Aeduan – hugs and blankets all the way. A book I’ve been a bit disappointed in is Let’s Explore Diabetes With Owls by David Sedaris. Idk, it’s not nearly as funny as his other books I’ve read. “sighs*
Ellie | On the Other Side of Reality
Omg I want the bloodwitch to do well too. He could be the star of the series and I would be SO much more interested. 😂 I’m glad you liked the book though! I honestly felt there was no world-building but generic phrases that were never explained…but that just goes to show how subjective books are right??! 😂
OMG I can’t wait to read This Savage Song! I love anything and everything VE Schwab! Her books are magic!!
~Sara
IT WILL DEFINITELY NOT LET YOU DOWN OMGGGG. *flails madly*
I have not read any of the books on your best list and that is seriously tragic, I’ll be honest: I was not super sure I wanted to read Carry One by Rainbow Rowell. I love her, but I wasn’t sure about the premise. But I have heard so many great things about it that I really need to read it. And I was so disappointed by Ice Like Fire too. Gah, it was not a good sequel AT ALL. It was just boring. I have Passenger and it is next up on my TBR. I am so sorry you didn’t like it! I have heard mixed reviews: some people loved it and some people didn’t.
I was the same about Carry On! I actually skipped ALL the Simon/Baz scenes in Fangirl. 😂 But yet, as a novel on its own, it was perfect and fll of her trademark glorious banter and romanceyness. (Totally a word, shh.)
I hope you have better luck with Passenger!! 😀
I’m so looking forward to read Rebel of Sand and The Raven Boys! (Well…I haven’t read tw first one yet, I heard it is a great series.)
But I’m quite curious about Passagener…I know a lot of people love this book…a it sure does have a amazing cover. But after reading your rate…I’m not sure whether to read it or not.
They are both AMAZING. Seriously. AMAZING. Definitely bump them up your TBR. ;D But omg I’m sorry for being so grumpy about Passenger…gah. I know people do love it, so I might be just being too picky?!
CAIT I JUST READ YOUR ICE LIKE FIRE REVIEW AND I SWEAR IT MADE ME CRY. I had no idea it was THAT BAD!!! Snow Like Ashes was flat-out amazing. WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED!?
AND THERON. OMG THERON. HOW CAN THAT HAPPEN TO THERON!?
(Sorry for the all caps, and I feel like this comment should be on your review instead but MY HEART. MY FEELS ARE ALL OVER THE PLACE UGHHHHHHH)
Anyway, I’m glad you enjoyed Rebel of the Sands – I loved everything about that book! The writing, the characters, the world-building… it felt so unique!
I’ve yet to read The Raven Boys series (I’ve been waiting for The Raven King to come out first) but damn it I can’t wait to fall in love with all four Raven Boys!!!
I’M SO SORRY, LYRA. I FEEL BAD. Snow Like Ashes WAS amazing. It was everything, omg, I thought this would be one of my top-favourite fantasies but nooooo. (Maybe you might like it better?!) I BREAK WITH MY SHIP, I SWEAR, I CANNOT HANDLE THIS. Theron was amazing and now…*cries*
(duuuuude you MUST read The Raven Cycle ASAP!)
I don’t think I see Carry On as a rip-off. I see it as a tribute to the fandom. It’s TOO intertwined with HP to be a rip-off, you know? It’s more like an inside joke between fans.
That said, it turns into something really original halfway in and I REALLY WANT MORE OF THAT. It doesn’t need to lean so much on HP to be wonderful. =)
Well, I mean, yeah? But I can’t see how that’s legal!! 😂 But that’s just me, so I’m glad you thought it was more tribute than rip off! hehe And omg the second half was PERFECTLY original and that’s what won me over. :’)
I totally agree with you on Passenger UGH it was so boring. Honestly it was a cover buy for me and I was like ahh time travel that sounds good (but actually it was just the pretty cover, shame on me)
I also own Truthwitch but have yet to read it. I kind of feel a pressure on me, because Sarah J Maas is my all time fav author and Susan is her best friend and it’s based on their friendship or what ever. I’ve been putting it off, honestly
Besides Passenger I’ve actually only read amazing books this year. I reread Queen Of Shadows and A Court Of Thorns And Roses and I read all 3 of the Infernal Devices books for the first time, which were absolutely amazing. Clockwork Princess is my new all time fav novel.
Right now I’m rereading Red Queen bc I forgot 95% of the book and I don’t want to go into Glass Sword blind haha. And yesterday I started reading Lady Midnight and I ALREADY LOVE IT
x Amber
The Passenger cover is EVERYTHING and yet it kiiiills with it’s boringness. *cries bitterly* The Girl From Everywhere was a much better time travelling bookish creature.
Tbh, I think Truthwitch really ripped off Throne of Glass? Like I KNOW the authors are besties, but I still think that must be awkward! Even some of the names are similar and the protagonists act the same way. >_>
AHHH I LOVE THE INFERNAL DEVICES. Jem <3 Will <3 MAGNUS <3333 And I need to read Lady Midnight. 😂
You love the Raven Cycle? I NEVER NOTICED!!! Ahum. But yesss, I need to read Rebel of the Sands and if I in any way contributed to the Schwab love, I’m not even sorry. I also think of that song whenever I see that title. But I only know this much: CARRY ON MY WAYWARD SOOOON THERE WILL BE PEACE WHEN YOU ARE GONE. That’s it. xD And Summer of Chasing Mermaids was soooo good!
I’m kind of not going to read Ice Like Fire. I haven’t heard any good about it so. Unless the third book is suddenly fabulous, I’ll probably not continue the series. So sad for Truthwitch and Passenger though. 🙁
I KINDA TRY TO KEEP THAT LITTLE LOVE OF MINE UNDER WRAPS. It’s not like I EVER talk about it. Nopity no. And I’m definitely sure you contributed to my need to read all the Schwab. Hopefully I’ll get to the Archvied this month!! 😀
omg THE RAVEN CYCLE. YES. It’s literally my favourite series and I would read ANYTHING Maggie writes tbh. I’m so picky with what books I read now, I try very hard not to read all of these “filler” books that I know will only really ever end up disappointing me and the more beautiful writing I’ve read *cough* maggie stiefvater *cough* the more critical I get of other people’s writing because it’s just not as good omg I HAVE A PROBLEM.
SAME. SAAAAAME. *CRIES WITH LOVE FOR THOSE BOOKS* And they get better with rereading because you see all this FORESHADOWING which makes me think of what The Raven King is going to allude because there was mention of Ronan dying at one point, like Adam just said something offhanded and I just SCREAMED because I don’t want that to be foreshadowing. NOOOOO. Okay, okay. Caaalming down. Caaalming down.
(But truth. Maggie Stiefvater books have ruined me for lesser ones. 😂)
You know what I love about reading your thoughts whether positive or negative? It always opens up for a good conversation about the book. … like why liked/disliked vs. Why someone else felt the opposite. It gets people talking I have not read any of these books and I have high hopes for quite a few, even some of the ones you didn’t enjoy. But I always love seeing someone else’s point of view.
Omgggg this genuinely MAKES MY DAY because that is exactly what I want! I never want to say “you shouldn’t read this book” or anything, because reading is subjective. We have to acknowledge that! (Although I was probably a bit harsh here… 😂)
You didn’t like Raging Star!? That makes me edgy. It’s been sitting on my bedroom floor in a stack of other TBRs. *bites nails* BUT I’ve got to read it. I can’t just go on in life ignoring the fact that there is one more book with Saba and Jack that I have not read.
I really, really want to read Rebel of the Sands and This Savage Song. And I need to finish TRC. I think Winter was really good and I liked Jackoby although I admit it moved super slow and was too predicable. Right now I’m reading a book the author requested me to review and now I’m regretting it. It needed so much more editing before being published; it makes me sad. Also, I’m reading Stitching Snow which is really interesting. For some reason, I can’t connect with the characters. But I love the concept and the story. Plus it’s easy to read. Since you read faster, you could probably finish it in one sitting.
It makes ME edgy. *cries* I honestly thought I would still like it? But I felt like it had some plot twists that made the first 2 books kind of pointless and I hate that. *criiiiiies*
Dude. Yes. Finish The Raven Cycle. IMMEDIATELY. WHERE ARE YOUR PRIORITIES. (Omg I hear ya with regretting accepting review requests. I just don’t accept any requests anymore because I almost think it’s more harmful for indie authors to have a negative review? And I’m a VERY picky reader. Agh.) Oh I did want to read Stitching Snow, so that is sadness. D:
I’ve started to read books in English not long ago, so don’t think I’m able to catch all I’ve missed (especially with the amount of new releases). One of the reasons that I read a lot of old releases is that I can choose better, since most of my friends already read and reviewed them. Not all of us have a supernatural speed reading (I’m amazed by the amount of books you read per month, Cait!), so if I manage to read only one book, I want to pick up a good one.
Actually all books you pleased to have eaten are on my tbr-list. Yes, I haven’t started Raven Cycle series, because I’m waiting when the whole series would be released. And yes, I definitely became a more “picky” reader the more I read books. Your photos are gorgeous as always!
It’s so hard to try and catch up right?! *wails* I feel like I’m still playing catch up with 2015…and 2014 and…well, you get the picture. 😂 IMPOSSIBLE. There are too many good books out there! hehe I do have a lot of time to read, so we can blame it on that. 😉
(And afjdkslad I really hope you do like The Raven Cycle. They are the TOP series of my entire life.)
I just finished Blue Lily, Lily Blue and loved it, Omigoodness those books, those boys, and Blue I just love her. Thank you for recommending these books to me, my life is 100% better with them.
AFJDSKLAD I AM SO SO SO GLAD YOU LOVED THEM SKYE. YOUR LIFE IS DEFINITELY BETTER FOR THEM. THEY ARE BEYOND PERFECT. I COULD CRY.
I’ve been DYING to read The Summer of Chasing Mermaids and this has only made me want it more! But I do not possess it! (Crys a little).
YES YES GO FIND IT AND READ IT IMMEDIATELY. It was so adorable and had such good messages. Library? I libraried mine! 😀
Huh, you make me worry about bothering to read Snow Like Ashes now, since I don’t think it stands alone? Hmm…
I actually can’t remember the end of Snow Like Ashes, omg. I don’t think it was a wild cliffhanger?
I can’t wait to read Rebel of the Sands! The cover ALONE is enough to get me to read that book but it helps that the story sounds super interesting. I also bought The Summer of Chasing Mermaids on an impulse (because internet deals aren’t good for my wallet) and I haven’t picked it up xD Maybe I should give it a try lol
I think Passenger is a book I’ll never pick up. Most of the people I trust with their opinions on books don’t like it sooo….. BUT I’M SO NERVOUS FOR TRUTHWITCH. Like, I was anticipating that one SO MUCH and you don’t like it. I’ve seen several others complain as well so MAN I’m nervous. I own it so I WILL read that one :/
IT IS SO SHINY. It is really literally absolutely GORGEOUSLY shiny IRL. It is not a book one can eread, let me tell you. The cover needs petting. Ahem. And The Summer of Chasing Mermaids is SO worth it!! I’d heard about it vaguely for a while and then requested my library get it…and they did (cue happy flails).
I did warn you about Ice Like Fire and Passenger, didn’t I? 😉 Sorry to hear you didn’t like them either, though I can’t say I’m surprised. I feel they both would have been 100x better if the pacing was just a little bit faster, you know?
And I am so excited for Rebel of Sands and This Savage Song! I have them both on hold at the library and can’t wait to read them. Thanks for sharing Cait and, as always, fabulous post! ♥
YESSS YOU DID. Idek why I keep thinking “Nah, I’ll be okay with it!” I’ve learned my lesson. ALWAYS LISTEN TO ZOE. 😂 And omg what is it with books being such bricks these days?!? It is possible to tell a story in 300-pages. gah. Rebel of the Sands is excellent proof of that. World building, awesome dialogue, and great plot = 300 pages.
I love your posts they make my day so much better.
I am also slightly disappointing that you were not impressed with Ice like Fire since I adored Snow like Ashes and couldn’t get myself to read Ice like Fire out of fear for what you said about the book.
And since you continually rave about Stiefvater especially the Raven Cycle i might just have to finally buy and read that series so that i at least can have my own option to compare to yours 😉
I am also extremely happy to see Schwab on your list with the book i am really exited about and such a positive mentioned on top of that 🙂
Great list and post as always 🙂
Dawnie
OMG DAWNIE, THAT IS LIKE THE NICEST THING OF EVER TO HEAR. <3 LET ME JUST GIVE YOU CAKE OF HAPPINESS. EEEEP.
And omg I'm glad I'm not along about the declining splat that was Ice Like Fire. :O I honestly thought I would like it still (even though I heard tons of negative stuff) because Snow Like Ashes was AMAZING. But nope. Thank goodness we have glorious things like THE RAVEN CYCLE that never fail...never never never. *flails in wild circles* You so much read it. YOU SO MUST.
I KEEP seeing Rebel of the Sands on so many people’s blogs with such positive comments! I think that one might be a keeper, despite hype. And now I don’t know if I even want Passenger. Hmm. I don’t like buttons. They are such tricky little monsters, and whatever they are attached to never fits me well.
YES THE HYPE DOESN’T LIE FOR THAT ONE. *shrieks* And it’s also super shiny IRL. And I don’t know about you, but my dragon soul gravitates to shiny books.
I read An Ember in the Ashes, and it had language and other stuff and stuff, but other than that, it was soooooo epic! I attempted the dystopian Partials, but it was sooooo boring, TBH.
I did like Partials but the rest of the series was BLAH. I mean, it’s cool that it was so detailed, but but but couldn’t it have been less boring??!
I’ve heard a lot about the Raven Cycle, but I still haven’t made it to those books. They are on the list!
Odd as it is, I have a really hard time rating books and only figured out a few months ago that if I can’t finish a book it’s because I don’t like it. So, I honestly don’t know whether I have gotten more picky about books or not. I think the problem may be that if I don’t like how a book is going, I spend quite a lot of time filling in a different story between the lines, and that becomes what I remember about the book.
DUUUUDE. YOU MUST! YOU MUST! The Raven Cycle is THE series of the universe. I could read them 39830 times and not get bored. <33
I read too quickly for me to think of alternate realities, but I still know what you mean! Agh. I guess not all books are for everyone, right? Which is OKAY because that's why there are so many. :')
I’m definitely digging the GORGEOUS photos!!! 🙂 Annnnnddddddd I may have added a few of these to my wishlist. You know, because if you love them, then I MUST read them! 🙂
Omg thank you, Lisa. <3 That's such a nice compliment from you, Queen of Bookstagram!!
Rebel of The Sands has been my favourite read of the year so far, glad you enjoyed it too. I am so excited for The Raven King, I can’t even! It’s finally getting close now! That would be so cool if Gansey really was Glendower.
I AM LITERALLY EXPIRING WITH THE NEED FOR THE RAVEN KING OMGGGG. *cries excessive fangirl tears*
I’m in that horrible place of not knowing if I have commented or not already. And too lazy to check. Ooops. We shall see, if you have two comments from me then I am sorry. I read all your posts on my phone almost immediately, but need my laptop to comment because WHY ARE TOUCHSCREEN PHONE KEYPADS SO TINY!?!?! WHO HAS FINGERS SMALL ENOUGH FOR THAT CRAP??!?!? This is coming from someone with baby sized hands.
MOVING ON!!! I am super happy with all the books you were happy with, as they are either books I loved myself OR books I want to read – so now you give me high hope that I will also love devouring them. But the ones you were disappointed by gives me sad faces… AS I WANT TO READ THEM ALL OR PLAN TO READ THEM ALL. Now I am scared to get to them in case they are super disappointing. Everything I have read recently has disappointed me… NOT GOOD!
Omg you’re hilarious. 😂 (You can go “control F” or “command F” if you’re on a mac and it brings up a search box. THAT’S WHAT I DO, NO SHAME.) And also I can accomplish NOTHING on a phone-sized screen. NotHING. 😂
Agh, sorry for putting you off so many books though!! You might like them better?!? I think you might like Truthwitch because you’re still a huge fan of Throne of Glass? (Unless you don’t like books that rip-off other books because omg I honestly think it does. *winces*)
I have heard good things about Rebel in the Sands! I am going to have to check it out. And I have yet to read a Stiefvater book…I have started The Raven Boys a couple times, but always end up putting it down.
It is EXCELLENT and if you hang around me long enough you’ll just here MORE good things and you’ll eventually read it just to shut me up. BUT OMG YOU DON’T LIKE THE RAVEN BOYS??!? *cries 9 lakes of tears*
First of all, I agree with all of your points up there! I haven’t finished any V.E. Schwab books (DON’T THROW THE PINEAPPLES, DON’T THROW THE PINEAPPLES! <<repetition is key, ok?), but I've read a little of ADSOM. Truthwitch was a real bummer.
If I (Helen is taking a risk of using html tags – the question is: ARE THEY GOING TO WORK?!) were 22, I’d wake up every day being like, “I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT I’M FEELING TWENTY-TWO…. TWENTY-TWO OOH-OOH….” Heck, I’d probably do that even AFTER 22. I’m just a Swiftie – imagine an old Helen croaking that out and then ironically dying XD.
OMG IT WORKED HALLELUJAH! (the HTML tags) (yes now I am shrieking) (Cait, you have accomplished this in life – HTML tags work in your comments!) (!!!!)
HTML tags work here?! :O This is marvelous!
@Helen: YOU ARE MOST WELCOME FOR THE GIFT THAT IS HTML TAGS. (Even though, like I had nothing to do with it, but I’ll totally take credit.) Ahem. And omg I cannot throw pineapples! I only started read VE Schwab this year. 😂 I don’t even know why I procrastinated so long though?? Her books are LIFE.
I ACTUALLY DON’T LISTEN TO TAYLOR SWIFT SO I ONLY VAGUELY KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT. Please do sing 22 on your deathbed though, because that would be iconic. YOU GENIUS, HELEN.
Oh no! I was just about to read Ice like Fire! I shall go into it wary 🙂 and I COMPLETELY agree with you about books that revolve around the internet. Bad things always seem to happen to some very naïve characters and it’s hard to sympathise…
I hope you have a better time with Ice Like Fire! Maybe it was just me??! hehe.
I have to say, I am with you on a lot of these! Let’s start with the ugly messes! Ice Like Fire..,, I fell asleep at the mere mention. Am I still asleep? Who knows. I could have just read the last two chapters and skipped to Book 3, Whatever Like Whatever. (I know it has a real title, but who even cares about it.) Raging Star is absolutely titled that way for a reason. And I think it’s no coincidence that the author has been MIA since its release. (Some bookdragon probably ate her after that, I assume?) Follow Me Back sounds SO BAD. I enjoyed your review though 😉
Now, onto the good! I have only read Rebel of the Sands, but liked it! And the rest of these I must read ASAP, so yes, yes, this is very good news!!
Now, best books of the year so far: The Serpent King and Water’s Wrath
Worst: Marked. GAH I thought I had blocked it out of my mind, but alas, nope.
I’m like 99% sure if you fell asleep in Ice Like Fire you missed exactly NOTHING. Except for angst and weirdness. Raging Star…gah, I should’ve listened to you. BUT I HAD TO KNOW FOR MYSELF, YOU KNOW? I mean, how could everything get so destroyed?? I’m…I’m not okay, Shannon. NOT OKAY AT ALL.
I neeeeed to read The Serpent’s Wrath! 😀 I have it on my kindle, demanding I pay attention to it. 😂
CAIT I LOVE THIS POST! I HAVE to agree when you said that Truthwitch was a bit of a let down! I DNFed this book! I AM READING THE RAVEN BOYS SOON BECAUSE OF THIS!
YESSS GO READ THE RAVEN BOYS. OMG. BEST LIFE DECISION YOU SHALL EVER MAKE.
Ugh, Follow Me Back sounds like just the sort of book that would really annoy me too. As a creature of the internet, I take offense to the idea that it and the inhabitants are all bad. But more books and TV shows present such a negative view. WE ARE NICE PEOPLE HERE. WE HAVE CAKE. (virtual cake, but it still counts)..And yesss. The more I read, the more I definitely become a picky reader. Especially as I have less time to waste on less than stellar books right now. My time is precious. It shall go only to the most deserving books!
SAME. I take so much offence. There are literally passages that said it was bad to have internet friends. I mean, wut!?! Who the HECK does the author think her audience is??? Gah. Of course the internet can be dangerous. So can going grocery shopping. Hruphgmph.
I know this will grieve you, but I very much did not like Six of Crows. :O I could almost say I hated it. *apologetic grimace*
Also, I just read this old classic called the Lady of Camille… well, I tried to, but I couldn’t finish, because it was BORING and STUPID and sorry, was I getting opinionated there? *grumbles under breath* Let’s just say that book wasn’t what I expected it to be.
Um, but for books I liked… well, I loved all the Throne of Glass books I read this year, and also everything I read by H.G. Wells. ^_^ So, there. A bit of modern lit *and* classics in both categories!
*cries bitterly* YOU HAVE BETRAYED MYT RUST, BRIANNA. WAAAAAH. (Okay, just kidding. 😂 I forgive you…because I hate Throne of Glass so we’re even! 😂 😂) And tbh, I almost always hate classics so I just avoid them permanently. My brain doth not compute their weird language.
:O We are definitely even if you hate Throne of Glass and classic literature!! xD Ah, I love the richness of old writing. But I used to feel the same way you do, so I understand. 😉
P.S. I love how “my trust” became “myt rust”. I was really confused when I read that at first. I was like, “I betrayed her rust? What is this idiom? What does this mean??”
oMG SORRY ABOUT THAT TYPO. 😂 I am honestly the Typo Queen. You should see my novel writing…🙈🙊
Haha, I end up with really weird typos in my novel writing, too. xD
AH-WAIT WHAT IS GANSEY GLENDOWER HECK FLIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
oH My GoSh whAT?!?!? Caiiiit. Maybe I should just abandon my April reading plans and reread TRC?!??! I MEAN, MAYBE I SHOULD. Seriously. Dang.
Also ohmygosh how’s your book!?!?
YES JUST ABANDON EVERYTHING AND REREAD. THERE ARE SO MANY THEORIES TO BE HAD. And Maggie Stiefvater ALWAYS says that every word counts. every. word. *SHRIIIIIEKS*
I have read tones of books this year but I haven’t read much compared to you. The books you listed out are unfortunately still on my to read list! (And quite frankly it’s too too long!) But like I said I have read quite a few books these past few months including the Winners series that I absolutely adore 😍. If I had to choose a book I was utterly disappointed in it would be The 5th wave. I disliked it because it was slow and contained to much suspense. I book that I still can’t get over is Glass Sword, I know it’s been long (like a month or so but Shhh!) that it is been out but I have been an emotional wreck the whole week or so. I don’t know if you read those books but I would like to know your opinion on them, please?
Omg the TBR is ENDLESS isn’t it?! *shrieks* Not that I’m particularly sad because I’d rather have too many books than not enough. 😂 Omggg, I love The Winner’s Curse series! I just re-read the first two books in preparation for the last one and EEEEP. And I was disappointed in The 5th Wave too. Worst. romance. ever. D:
(I have read the Red Queen books, but I didn’t like the first one. 😂 SORRY!!)
I’m legit cringing at seeing both Passenger and Truthwitch on your hate list. THAT HYPE made it seem like it was amazing. Now I’m so scared *cries*. I have Rebel of the Sands and I want to read it so badly!
THE HYPE LIED! *crieS* Okay, maybe it didn’t…maybe you might like them better?!??! (Rebel of the Sands, at least, is beyond perfect.)
I’m actually a super easy reader to please. I rarely rate a book less than 3 stars. My favorite book that I’ve read in 2016 has to be Truthwitch, or Glass Sword(which incidentally has ruined my life and devoured my soul.)
Omg you are a NICE person. 😂I feel like I’m just getting picky and crabbily in my old age. hehe. (Omg I’m sorry I hated on Truthwitch when it’s your favourite. I’m SUPER glad you loved it!)
Uh …. *awkward silence* I haven’t read ANY of these, good or bad. I suppose I have just read your middling books, the 2-4 star ones. But I am forewarned about those you didn’t like. ( Snow Like Ashes really wasn’t for me, so decided to stop reading the series there.)
Hope you are enjoying your hiatus!
Thanks so much for stopping by! Jen @ YA Romantics
I’m honestly considering skipping the last Snow Like Ashes book after this. *howls with loss* I haven’t had a book series mood-swing so badly for a long time. D:
I am like a very rare bimonthly shiny papery dragon fangirl of only the BEST books.
I don’t even know what that means, but pretty sure I like it.
Completely agree with Raging Star, I liked it, but come on, Saba was FIERCE in books one and two. She was bloody cage fighting FFS, and then it turns into some sort of hippy love festival? I felt it was such a cop out. I wanted blood and gore and her to ride of into the sunset with Demalo.
TRB and popular opinion time, It’s just not my thing. I’ve tried, oh how I’ve tried but nope. It’s too dry and wordy for me
*runs for life screaming DON’T HURT ME*
OMG YOU DID NOT JUST SAY THAT ABOUT DEMALO. *breaks a plate* *screams* JACK JACK JACK JACK. I just hated how EVERYTHING Saba worked towards was…worth nothing by the end? I mean, wut? I felt so cheated. I could cry. I will cry. So there.
Why would I hurt you pfft of course not I am kind. *slowly slides axe back under the bed*
The Summer of Chasing Mermaids looks like a cute summery read (it’d be nice to relive some of that now that the cooler months are upon us!). I haven’t read a mermaid book since ‘The Tail of Emily Windsnap’ when I was younger, so it’d be nice to read something new. Passenger wasn’t my favourite read either – it wasn’t necessarily *bad* for me, but I did have my qualms with it. Thanks for sharing a brilliant post as always! 🙂
The Summer of Chasing Mermaids doesn’t actually HAVE mermaids in it though. 😂 Just so you know!! It’s a contemporary..but ajfdklsad so cute and diverse and amazing. <3
The Raven Cycle makes me sooooooo happy!!!! I LOVE Gnasey so much; I totally think he’s Glendower. I’m bracing myself for the Raven King but I’m just so terrified.
AFDJSAKLD I AM SO SO EXCITED AND ALSO TERRIFIED AND MAYBE CRYING. *shrieks*
I totally feel you on a spiritual level re: Ice Like Fire. I loved SLA so much, what even happened to the writing? The pacing was awful, I gave 0 shit about the new characters. Plus the old characters all had a personality transplant? My ship sank too! *grabs you and wail*
I am gearing up to marathon The Raven Cycle after I finish my current read because I want to jump onto the hype train before it departs forever – plus Maggie Stiefvater has all the talents in the world, hopefully by reading her book some of it will rub off on me haha!
AGh, I knoooow, right?!? It was literally the biggest mood swing of the world. D: Everything I liked was GONE. HOW DARE THE SHIP SINK. HOW DARE WE EVEN CARE ABOUT MATHER. ARGHRUGHRUGH. Ahem.
Also, marathoning The Raven Cycle = the best news of ever. I HOPE YOU LIKE IT.
I just got an ARC of This Savage Song and I’m soooo exciteeeed! Always happy with more Schwab (currently reading A Gathering of Shadows!) Oh and Rebel of the Sand is on my TBR are.
Hmm, Truthwitch was middle ground for me, I liked parts but it didn’t live up to the hype unfortunately. Aww, I’m sad about Passenger not being good ): Oh well.
I think I get picker with more books, expectations of awesomeness definitely goes up with each really great book I read!
YESSS THIS SAVAGE SONG IS EVERYTHING OMG. *flails wildly* I was so happy with it and I can’t wait till it’s closer to the release date to review it. EEEP. And I do think Truthwitch was way overhyped (although I’m glad some of it was great for you!)…but definitely one where the hype was too much. Also too early?! I was seeing promos for that book over 6 months before it released.
I am so in tune with your lists, but you’re the FIRST PERSON I’ve seen who didn’t care for Passenger. *sends you all of the cake* “Let’s describe that button on your coat” is so painfully accurate that I don’t even know what to say.
I’ve found that as I read more YA, I’ve become a lot pickier about what I love. I’ve started re-reading a book that was read for the first time years ago when I was just starting in YA to see if I feel the same way about it. It’s been…interesting.
As always, your blog and your photos are gorgeous.
Great post!!
Oh oh so you didn’t like Passenger either?! Because if that’s the case WE SHOULD STICK TOGETHER BECAUSE WE ARE SUCH A MINORITY. 😂
I kind of want to read some of my old favourites I read a few years back to see if my opinions changed…but I’m also too scared to. 😂 I KNOW I won’t love them so much because my standards have gotten so high! (Omg thank you about the photos. <3 THAT IS SO KIND OF YOU.)
How did I miss this? Ha ha. My worst book so far this year has got to be The Girl In The Well Is Me. It is about a girl who falls into a well and then the rest of the book is hearing her thoughts while in the well. It was pretty much thoughts about all pretty girls being stupid and mean, and all dad type guys smelling bad. It was really boringly repetitive. The best book is a tie between The Smell Of Other People’s Houses and The Serpent King. I think everyone has me convinced to read Carry on. I have never read any Rainbow Rowell. 🙂
Eep, now I’m mildly terrified to read Truthwitch and Passenger because I hate giving books low ratings. xD They looked so good, that’s disappointing that you didn’t end up liking them. BUT YAY FOR Carry On!
My average rating is 3.86, so . . . ehh? I thought I was more generous than that, but apparently not.
But yoooou might like them!! 😀 I am pretty picky these days, right?! Eeek. And I was actually surprised my average rating isn’t LOWER. I seemed to have had a rough reading your last year, but this year is looking up! 🎉
To be honest I don’t know about most of the books here! I think I’ll like THE SUMMER OF CHASING MERMAIDS! Thanks for the recommendations! 🙂
I hope you enjoy it if you do get a chance to try it! 😂 IT’s VERY GOOD hehe