End Of The Year 2023 // Book Tag

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Hi Friends,
Last year, I posted a video doing the ‘End Of The Year’ book tag, so I thought I should make it a yearly tradition. Just as I am a seasonal reader, I love a good seasonal tag too!


I have been reading ‘Furyborn’ by Claire Legrand since March, and I am only 50% into the book. This is an adult fantasy that is interesting, but I do not ever seem to be in the mood to read it. The book follows two female characters in different worlds, or possibly timelines, honestly, I am a bit confused. However, my main issue is that I am liking one of the characters’ storylines much more than the other. Still, I would like to finish it by the end of the year.


I read ‘Coraline‘ every October because it is the perfect spooky middle-grade read for fall. I love how fast-paced it is. and the fact that it is creepy, but not scary. The writing is so good and the animated film adaptation is one of my favorite fall movies as well.
Related Post: Coraline // Book Review


Last winter, I read ‘A Merry Little Meet Cute’ by Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone, which was my first baby step into the world of smutty books. So, when I heard there was a companion novel being released on October 10th, titled ‘A Holly Jolly Ever After,’ I was excited! It is definitely a new release at the top of my TBR.
Related Post: A Merry Little Meet Cute // Book Review


I want to complete the book series that I have started. My focus is on trying to finish a duology or two because I only have one book left to read. I have been wanting to read the sequel to ‘These Violent Delights‘ for a while and ‘A Magic Steeped in Poison‘ is another duology I should be able to complete soon. I would also like to see what all the hype around ‘Fourth Wing’ by Rebecca Yarros is about. Especially, since I have already pre-ordered the sequel that comes out in November.
Related Post: These Violent Delights // Book Review


If I find myself able to pick up ‘Once Upon A Broken Heart’ by Stephanie Garber, it could be my favorite book of the year. This is a 5 star book prediction. I am a huge fan of the ‘Caraval’ series by this author, and I hear that it is even better.
Related Post: Caraval // Book Review


Although I am a huge planner, I usually save making my reading plans for the next year until December. I have some goals I would like to accomplish. but I have not actually begun to make plans.

In the comments, let me know if you have done this tag before. If you are a fan of book tags, then like this post and follow the blog!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Selection Series – From Cover To Closet // Toss-Up Tuesday

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Hi Friends,
It’s been a while since I have done a fashion post here on the blog, but they are some of my favorite posts to create. This time, I took inspiration from ‘The Selection‘ trilogy by Kiera Cass book covers. These covers are stunning, and I created outfits inspired by them. I have only read the first book in the series, but I do know that it is a classic young adult dystopian trilogy. Therefore, I hope that you find that these outfits embodied the covers as much as I thought they did.

In the comments, leave me with your thoughts on the book series. In addition, tell me which outfit is your favorite. Do not forget that you can follow me on Instagram (@books.with.bunny) and like my Facebook page. Before you leave, give this post a like and follow the blog, because your support really does mean a lot to me.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Nothing More To Tell // Book Review

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About The Book
Four years ago, Brynn left Saint Ambrose School following the shocking murder of her favorite teacher—a story that made headlines after the teacher’s body was found by three Saint Ambrose students in the woods behind their school. Now that Brynn is moving home and starting her dream internship at a true-crime show, she’s determined to find out what really happened. The kids who found Mr. Larkin are her way in, and her ex–best friend, Tripp Talbot, was one of them.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/46s76D4

My Rating

I am a huge fan of Karen M. McManus, but I was sadly disappointed with this book. The plot follows high school student Brynn, who gets an internship at a true crime podcast. She has a perfect case for the show to follow – the unsolved murder of her favorite teacher, Mr. Larkin, at Saint Ambrose School. However, this means reconnecting with her ex-best friend Tripp, one of the three students who discovered Mr. Larkin’s body.

This book did not live up to my expectations. The plot was not very intriguing, and the characters were simply okay. There were some twists and turns, but nothing left me shocked. The entire book was very slow moving. I wanted more excitement, thrilling, and heart-pounding moments.

Don’t get me wrong, McManus has impeccable writing, which really helped me enjoy the book. However, I did not care about the mystery, which is the whole point of a mystery/thriller book? Furthermore, the plot in general was not all too interesting, but maybe I was just expecting too much from the book, since I have loved most of her other releases.

As for the podcast show element, it was not something I cared for either. It felt as though that was just away to get the characters digging into Mr. Larkin’s murder. I am not the biggest fan of books that follow podcasts or true crime lovers since they usually seem like they are trying to be relevant. Not that they’re bad, I just have not enjoyed any of the books I read with that plot device.

“I know that secrets can eat you alive, and the truth can break your heart, and sometimes it’s hard to know which is worse.”

There was a romance in the book that you could see coming to, but the main question was whether it was needed. Not every young adult book requires a love story. I felt that the book could achieve the same outcome without any sort of second-chance romance side plot.

Now the ending was fairly shocking, and truth be told, I am not sure how I feel about it. The author went a rather unexpected and interesting route that I did not see coming at all. The book was left somewhat open and ended. If you know me, I am not a fan of cliffhangers, so this ending bothered me.

Overall, I still love Karen M. McManus and will continue to read anything she will release. This story was not my favorite, but the writing was phenomenal and the ending was quite unexcepted. I would probably only recommend it if you were very new to the YA mystery/thriller genre.

In the comments, let me know if you have read the book. Do not forget to help support my blog by giving it a follow before you leave.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Fall 2023 // To Be Read

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
As you probably know, I am a mood reader. So, I decided instead of sharing a monthly TBR, I would talk about some books that I would like to read this Fall! I have 12 books that I would like to pick up soon. I’m not sure I’m actually going to get to any of these, but they are currently on my radar.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: I recently bought a beautiful edition of this book, but I’ve never read it before. Of course, I know the premise of the story and have read a retelling of it. It is one of the only classic novels that insterest me, so I would like to read it sometime this fall.
Related Post: The Dark Descent Of Elizabeth Frankenstein // Book Review

The Daughter of Doctor Moreau by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: This is apparently loosely based on the classic story ‘The Island of Doctor Moreau.’ I have never heard of Doctor Moreau before, but I enjoyed Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s writing in the past.
Related Post: Mexican Gothic // Book Review


New Moon by Stephenie Meyer: What better time to jump back into the Twilight universe than during the spooky season. I have heard that this is probably the worst book in the series, but I would like to read it before the end of the year.
Related Post: Twilight // Book Review

Mere Mortals by Erin Jade Lange: This is a book I have been wanting to read since its release last year. It is a young adult comedic take-on a vampire story, so I am excited to see if I enjoy it. I did not hear a lot of people talking about it last year, but I think it is going to be a fun read.


Coraline by Neil Gaiman: Does this book really need much explanation? I read this book every fall because it is a perfect cozy-spooky read. I love me a good spooky middle-grade book, and this one is my go to every autumn.
Related Post: Coraline // Book Review

The ​Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman: Like I said, I love a good spooky middle-grade read. I have heard that this is a great October read, and since I love Coraline so much, I thought I should pick this book up, too. I do not know much about it, but I cannot wait to see if it will be another must read for me every fall.


Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros: Everyone has read this book, and truthfully, I am not sure I am going to get to it before the end of the year. I hear it is a fantasy that will give you ‘Hunger Games’ and ‘Divergent’ vibes. Honestly, that sounds amazing! I just do not know if I am going to be in the mood to start a new fantasy series.

The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw: I believe this is a witchy book and that it is really creepy. Even the title seems spooky. I am not sure if this is a middle-grade or young adult, but I am always up for a good creepy magical witch story. The fall time is when I try to read more books centered on magic and witches, so this book should be perfect.
Related Post: Long Live The Pumpkin Queen // Book Review


The September House by Carissa Orlando: I have been dying to read this since I heard about it. I love me a good creepy haunted house story, so I am very excited to get into this book. It is an adult horror novel where a couple moves into a seemingly normal house, but every September, the walls start to bleed. I have only heard good things about this book, and the cover is eerie.

Clown in a Cornfield by Adam Cesare: I have heard so much about this book in 2023 alone. It sounds like a perfect young adult slasher book, and I cannot wait to pick it up. As someone who loves a good campy horror film, this is right up my alley. I am excited to see if I enjoy it as much as others have.


You, Again by Kate Goldbeck: Since I have become more of an adult romance reader, I l’ve been in the mood for a good fall love story. The concept of this book sounds amazing because it’s frenemies-without-benefits turned possibly lovers. And, it takes place in New York City during the fall season. I am instantly obsessed.

Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter: This book has been a must read for me since it was released. I am a Stan for Lynn Painter, ever since I read ‘Better Than The Movies.’ If I am not mistaken, this is an office-romance/enemies-to-lovers story. The fact that the blurb mentions Pumpkin Spice Latte automatically makes me think of fall time.
Related Post: Better Than The Movies // Book Review

In the comments, let me know what you are planning to read this fall. Remember that you can always follow the blog to get post notifications and it really helps my blog grow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Gallant // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
Everything casts a shadow. Even the world we live in. And as with every shadow, there is a place where it must touch. A seam, where the shadow meets its source. New York Times–bestselling author V. E. Schwab crafts a vivid and lush novel that grapples with the demons that are often locked behind closed doors. An eerie, stand-alone saga about life, death, and the young woman beckoned by both.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3Ru38pj

My Rating

I did not know what to expect going into this book because I had not heard much about it. The only thing I knew was that it was supposedly a creepy-haunted house story. However, the first chapter had me immediately intrigued, which is not surprising since V.E. Schwab books are always well written. This is one author who knows how to capture readers’ attention in the first few chapters.

The book follows Olivia, who spent her whole life thinking that she was an orphan with no family. The only personal item she had and cherished was her mother’s journal. However, the journal warns Olivia that she should stay away from Gallant. However, there would not be much of a story if the main character listened to her mother’s warning, so, of course, she receives a letter saying she should return home to Gallant and her family.

As a main character, Olivia was very interesting because I have not read many books with nonverbal characters, let alone a nonverbal protagonist. However, this means that the story is told in a third person, which did not bother me or hinder my reading experience. Because she is mute, there is sign language representation and what I believe is dyslexia representation in one of the other characters.

“Home is a choice.”

Although the characters are the root of the story, we follow Olivia as she learns about her family and all the secrets of Gallant. I would actually say that the book was much more plot driven. Besides Olivia, the story did not dive too much into the background and personalities of the other characters. In addition, the book is not very heavy in terms of it side characters.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and it reminded me a lot of ‘Horrid’ by Katrina Leno. I would say that the book falls more into the middle grade category, for me, but I feel that way about most V.E. Schwab’s young adult work. However, it should be noted that this story might not be for everyone, since it is somewhat unique. Moreover, the plot was quite sad at certain times.

Before you go, hit the follow button to show your support for my blog. In addition, if you do not know, I have a Facebook page as well, where you can get blog updates, post links, and more fun bookish content. If you know any other book lovers, share this post with them.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

 

Bloody Fool For Love // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
New York Times best-selling author William Ritter marks the beginning of an all-new series that explores prequel stories about fan-favorite Buffy characters. A verified villain. A slayer killer. A god among vampires. And most of all? A hopeless romantic… This rompy, action-packed novel inspired by one of Buffy’s most infamous bad boys is part Bonnie and Clyde, part Sherlock and Watson, with just a bit more bloodsucking.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/455nU1s

My Rating

When I heard about a ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ reimagining based on the character of Spike, I immediately added this to my TBR. I was not exactly sure of the plot before going into the book, and probably could not give you a good description of it. Unfortunately, the story is quite forgettable.

The concept of a book that explored the backstory of Spike, a beloved character, had a great deal of promise. While I have always been a fan of Spike, I found that the execution of the story was somewhat lacking. The plot left much to be desired and was difficult to follow at times. There was too much going on for my liking.

One thing I enjoyed was the setting of the book. It took place in the UK, and we got to see the side of Spike, which was a slayer-killer. However, the author did not capture the essence of the characters. Spike is supposed to be this big bad vampire, but comes off too lighthearted. Personally, I think the book generally needed to be darker and more eerie.

“Eat your heart out, Count Dracula.”

However, I appreciate the addition of Drusilla and Darla to this story. This helped connect the story slightly more to the Buffy Universe. Also, I think the author did a wonderful job bringing both these lady vampires to life. Darla reminded me very much of the one from the show. Drusilla was similar to her series counterpart as well. But I admit that I  was never really a fan of these two.

Overall, it did not capture the iconic Buffy vibes that I was hoping for. That said, it was still a good read, and the writing, although not amazing, was decent. I particularly liked the audiobook format since it helped me have a better reading experience. While this prequel did not fully meet my expectations, I would be open to reading more reimaginings in the Buffyverse.

If you enjoy bookish content like this, do not forget to like and share this post. Make sure to follow as well, to get notifications whenever I have new content!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Divergent // Book Review

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About The Book
One choice can transform you. Beatrice Prior’s society is divided into five factions—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). Beatrice must choose between staying with her Abnegation family and transferring factions. Her choice will shock her community and herself.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3ZrgwfZ

My Rating

For me, the book fell somewhere in the middle of the dystopian pack, and earned three modest stars. While it had some enjoyable qualities, it also had a share of drawbacks that kept me from fully loving the story as much as others. Because, let us face it, the book holds a special place in the dystopian genre.

Tris, our central character, left me feeling somewhat disconnected. In my opinion, her journey from self-centeredness to a heroic figure was a rocky road, and it was difficult to shake the feeling that she remained somewhat self-absorbed throughout the story. For a story centered around “divergence,” she did not embody the divergent nature I expected.

On the other hand, Four, the mysterious love interest, was a more likable character but was still a cookie-cutter love interest. He was very similar to other male main characters I had previously seen in young adult novels. However, I was interested in his backstory and learning more about his character. However, we did not instantly see a connection between him and Tris.

“I am not Abnegation. I am not Dauntless. I am Divergent. And I can’t be controlled.”

The plot had potential, but I feel as though the writing style did not do the book justice. It lacked a certain engaging quality that would have helped make the story come to life. The pacing, in particular, felt slow at times, making me want action and something to drive the story forward.

That said, I must admit that the book managed to redeem itself somewhat with an intense ending. It brought many things to light and was very action-packed. I already know that the sequel is going to be much more complex. I am interested in seeing where the author takes the story and the character development that is bound to occur.

Overall, the plot leans heavily on the classic “chosen one” trope, and while it isn’t a ground breaking take on it, it’s does a great job creating a world that is basically formed by our personalities. If you are new to the dystopian genre, this is a good book to start with, since the world building is not too complex. This is a great introduction to the genre, but it is a very typical YA dystopian.

In the comments, let me know when you first read ‘Divergent.’ Don’t forget to share this post with other book addicts. Before you go, hit the follow button to receive post notifications.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

All The Bright Places // Book Review

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About The Book
Theodore Finch is fascinated by death. Violet Markey lives for the future. When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school—six stories above the ground— it’s unclear who saves whom. Soon it’s only with Violet that Finch can be himself. And it’s only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet’s world grows, Finch’s begins to shrink.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3Lrv6Ow

My Rating

I love a good heartbreaking young adult romance, but this book hit me too close to home. In this book, we follow two teenagers. Violet, who is still grieving the death of her sister, and Finch, who is struggling with bipolar disorder. The two have a chance encounter that sets them on a path to self-growth and love.

I knew that this book would be heartbreaking, but as someone who struggles with bipolar disorder and has a spouse with the disease, it was a lot to take in, emotionally. The author did a great job portraying somebody with a mood disorder. And I could definitely relate to Finch’s ups and downs.

I did not have the same connection to Violet, but I could see how these two characters were drawn to one another. I enjoyed watching them grow closer and develop feelings toward one another. Their relationship was very ‘we found love in a hopeless place.’ Both clearly fought their own internal demons and found happiness with each other. It was very sweet and, as the reader, you knew that it was not going to last.

“I can’t promise I won’t pick you apart, piece by piece, until you’re in a thousand pieces, just like me.”

This is a basic contemporary young adult romance. The plot is not complex, but the characters are really what makes up the book. We get inside their minds and watch them as they help each other grow as people. You can tell that Finch really wanted to help Violet let go of her grief. I think that the plot dealt with grief and overcome survivor’s guilt in a good way. In addition, the book does a great job of showcasing the difficulties of loving someone with mental health problems.

Overall, the ending is what made this book gut wrenching. Although I enjoyed the overall plot of the book, I was not a fan of the outcome since I had almost been there with my love before. It was just a little too much for me. Still, I can see why others love the book and love the story that develops.

I know that there is a movie adaptation, but I am not sure that I will be able to bring myself to watch it. In the comments, let me know if you have seen the film. Is it worth watching? Don’t forget to like and share this post with other book lovers. Please support me by following this blog.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Summer 2023 // Book Haul

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
I thought I would share the books that I bought this summer. I have been buying too many books, so I definitely need to go on a book-buying ban. However, this is probably not going to occur. What can I say? I am a realist. Nevertheless, these are mostly all the books that I bought during the summer months.


The Deal: Buy Here
The Fine Print: Buy Here
Ninth House: Buy Here
Maybe Meant To Be:Buy Here
The Last Time I Lied: Buy Here
Home Before Dark: Buy Here
The Naturals: Buy Here
Killer Instinct:Buy Here

 

 

 


Secrets Never Die: Buy Here
Priest: Buy Here
A Thousand Boy Kisses: Buy Here
Clown In A Cornfield: Buy Here
Hooked: Buy Here
Court Of The Vampire Queen: Buy Here
Kiss Her Once For Me: Buy Here
None Of This Is True: Buy Here

 

 


The Ex Hex: Buy Here
The Kiss Curse: Buy Here
Fourth Wing: Buy Here
The Writing Retreat: Buy Here
Belladonna: Buy Here
Better Than Fiction: Buy Here
The Sun Down Motel: Buy Here
Coraline: Buy Here

 

 

 

Something interesting that I noticed about my book buying this month is how I’ve been gravitating towards more adult books. From adult thrillers to smutty romances, it is interesting to see how my book taste is starting to change. Let me know in the comments about what books you bought this summer. Alternatively, if you read any of these books. Do not forget to follow my blog to get notified whenever there is a new post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Foxglove // Book Review

- Bunny Leave a comment

About The Book
A duke has been murdered. The lord of Thorn Grove has been framed. And Fate, the elusive brother of Death, has taken up residence in a sumptuous palace nearby. Signa and her cousin Blythe are certain that Fate can save Elijah Hawthorne from wrongful imprisonment. But the more time they spend with him, the more frightening their reality becomes as Signa exhibits dramatic new powers that link her to Fate’s past.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3sSCDQ2

My Rating

If you are looking for a romantasy book series, then this is a perfect read. Since this is the sequel to ‘Belladonna, ’ I am going to try and not spoil too much of the first book. However, this review may contain a few spoilers. The sequel beings right where the first book left off with the duke having been murdered, and Elijah Hawthorne being accused of that murder.

We are immediately introduced to Fate, who is apparently the brother of Death. For years, Fate has been searching for the love of his life, which happens to be Life. He believes that Signa is a reincarnation of Life. However, Signa is hopeless in love and devoted to death. Therefore, in addition to trying to clear Elijah’s name, she deals with Fate trying to win her heart and keep her away from her love, Death.

This time, we also get Blythe’s pov, which I loved. She quickly became my favorite character throughout the book. She is determined to prove her father’s innocence and is still curious about her brother’s disappearance. And let me just say the enemies-to-potential lovers vibe that her and Fate were giving was amazing. I ship them even more than I do Death and Signa, but what can I say I am all about enemies-to-lovers relationships.

The book was so well written, and you got sucked into the story in the first chapter. I could not put the book down and had to know what was going to happen next. I love the magical elements of this book and the fact that we learned more about Signa’s parents. In the first book, she was just discovering her powers, but in this one, she really owns them.

“You may have reign over the dead and dying, but let’s not forget that it’s my hand that controls the fates of the living.”

As mentioned earlier, Blythe was a force of nature in the book. She was smart and cunning, which is a part of her personality that we had not seen before. It made me happy that the author chose to include her perspective in this book, especially since she was important to the plot of the first book. However, it is great that this is a fantasy romance that follows two smart, strong, and magical female characters.

The end was incredible and welldone. It set up the third book perfectly, and now, I cannot wait for it to be released. However, I did see exactly where the plot was going in the first few chapters of the book. However, I am not made about that since I was really hoping for that outcome and I am glad that the author went the route she did.

Overall, this series hooked me, and I think my love for it will continue to grow. If you are not a fantasy reader or do not like romance, you will probably not love the series. However, I still think that this is a wonderful gothic fantasy with romance. However, it could have used a bit more spice, but this is just my opinion.

In the comments, let me know which book you liked better ‘Belladonna‘ or ‘Foxglove.’ Do not forget to share and like this post. Before you leave, please feel free to support my blog by hitting the follow button.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny