3 Things That Help Me Cope // Anxiety and Depression

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Hi Friends,
Today I wanted to talk about, I guess, a more serious topic – anxiety and depression. I suffer from both of those, along with other mental illnesses. Most days it can be a struggle. I know that a vast majority of people have anxiety in some way, and there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ way to ease one’s anxiety. But, I thought I’d share the things that help me when my anxiety and depression are running wild.

Reading
This is probably an obvious one, but reading helps me get out of my own mind. I get to follow characters lives and escape the real world, if only, for a little while. Another great thing about reading is that there is something for everyone. Whether you enjoy mysteries or fantasy, or even a cute romance there a tons of genres to choose from that could help free you mind and keep you calm.

A Hug
For me, a hug from someone I love always helps. It might seem like the simplest of things, but when ever I’m feeling sad or anxious, I know that a hug from my husband will help get me through until the feeling passes. Sometimes all you need is to be embraced by a person that loves and cares for you and your happiness.

Exercise
Let’s be honest, nobody really likes working out. Yet, it can be beneficial for not only staying healthy, but while struggling with anxiety and depression. Exercise releases endorphins, which make you happy. After a workout, you will feel energized, stronger, and (hopefully) happier. If nothing else, you will get such a burn and be so exhausted that you forget all about your anxiety and depression.

These are the 3 things that have helped me when dealing with my mental health. Another tip, as taboo as it might be, therapy and medication can really help. Taking care of your mental health is important, and you shouldn’t be afraid to seek help. Don’t let the judgement of others stop you from doing what is best for you and your health.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

If You Could Only Read One // Coffee Break

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Hi Friends,
Which author would you choose if you could only read one for the rest of your days? Which standalone? Book series? I saw Kathryn Books do this post, and it seemed like so much fun. So, I thought that I would do it too! Essentially, I will be sharing with you the author, standalone, and book series I would choose to only read forever.

Author
I don’t know if this comes as a surprise, but it would be Kasie West. Her YA contemporaries are adorable, and I typically enjoy all her books. She is a great author, who I don’t think gets enough hype.

Standalone
Yep, I talk about this book way too much. But, I would be lying if I picked any other book. I couldn’t imagine not being able to read ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. As you know by now, it is my favorite book ever.

Series
This one might seem random, but I loved these books when I was younger. It was the book series that got me into reading. So, even though I haven’t read the books in years, I would hate not being able to reread this series.

Interestingly enough, I didn’t have to think too hard about my answers. However, I am glad that I get to read any book I can, and am not limited to only certain books or authors. Leave me a comment with your answers. Don’t forget to like and share this post. And, follow my blog for more bookish and lifestyle content.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Tips For Productivity And Motivation

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Hi Friends,
I am very happy that 2022 has arrived. I feel like every new year is a time to reflect, set goals, and have a fresh start. I have made my goals for the year, but I want to share some things that I will be implementing in order to stay productive and motivated. I know that everyone’s life is different, but I still hope that you can get something out of this post.

Vision Board: I have never been a vision board kind of girl. However, I do believe that creating one can help give you a visual and clear view of your hopes for the year. The easiest way to create a vision board is by using Pinterest. You can make the board private or public, depending on your preference. I am a big supporter of dreaming big, but try to keep your goals within the realm of possibility, as well.

Make A Plan: One of my biggest tips for staying on top of your game is to make some sort of list or plan. Now you don’t have to be this major planner lover, but I encourage you to plan at least for the important tasks. Something as simple as making a list of your goals for the month can minimize stress, and help you accomplish more.

Limit Screen Time: I think we are all guilty of this, myself included, but we spend way too much time staring at a screen. This can be scrolling on social media, playing video games, or watching television. It isn’t the healthy thing, or the best use of our time. I am not going to preach about how TV kills brain cells or video games encourage violence, because I don’t buy into that nonsense. However, it is good to limit your screen time, so you can get the most out of your days. Try to disconnect from social media two hours before bed, or turn off the computer by 5 pm. I believe that this can really help productivity in the long run.

Environment: A big key to staying productive and motivated is having a nice, clean, and peaceful environment. I know that for some, their surroundings are…less than ideal. But try to work with what you have. If possible, find a place to call your own, where you can effectively work. Make it one that makes you feel happy and energized. Also, a good idea to switch up your surroundings every once in a while. Try working outside, or even at a coffee shop, for a nice change of scenery.

Reward Yourself: Who says bribery doesn’t work? I know that a way to help me stay motivated all week is to set little accomplishment rewards for myself. These rewards can be as small as an at-home spa day, Starbucks, or a cheat meal. Remember, prizes do not replace the feeling that comes with completing weekly tasks, but they are a nice treat.

I hope that you found this post helpful, and here’s to a productive 2022. Share your thoughts on this post, and other tips you might have in the comments. If you’d like to support my blog, give a follow! It’s totally free, and you get updates on new content.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The January Book Tag

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Hi Friends,
Today I’m going to do a tag that I saw in my YouTube subscriptions. It is call ‘January Book Tag’ and was created by ‘Jan Agaton’ on YouTube. However, the person I saw do the tag was ‘MyThicPages’ on YouTube as well.

What was the last (& first, if you remember) book you read last year?
I did have to check my GoodReads account for this question, but apparently the first book I read was ‘Geekerella’ by Ashley Poston. The last book was ‘The Toymakers Apprentice’ by Sherri L. Smith.

What is your first read this year?
I started the year off by reading ‘Late To The Party’ by Kelly Quindlen. It wasn’t the best book to kickstart my reading year, but it could have been worse.


Share 3 of your reading goals this year.
I have a whole post up on my bookish (and more) goals for 2022. Nevertheless, some are to read more of my owned books, to finish some series, to get around to more backlist titles. Honestly, most of these goals sound pretty simple, so hopefully I accomplish them.

Share 3 of your most anticipated titles.
‘Blaine For The Win’ by Robbie Couch (April 2022): The plot of this book makes me predict that it will be a funny and cute YA contemporary. The story is about a high school boy that wants to prove he’s serious to win back his ex. Anyone else getting ‘Legally Blonde’ vibes? Also, the name Blaine always makes me think of Glee, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

‘I Kissed Shara Wheeler’ by Casey McQuiston (May 2022): This is a surprising pick for two reasons. The first being that I wasn’t a fan of ‘One Last Stop’ by Casey McQuiston, which I read in 2021. Still, I’d like to give her a second chance. The second reason being that the plot is similar to ‘Paper Towns’ by John Green, which I hated. But for some reason I am very interested in picking this book up.

‘Nothing More to Tell’ by Karen M. McManus (August 2022): I know nothing about this book, but I would probably read any book Karen McManus releases. Her YA thrillers are always interesting. Even if the plot is slow moving, there is just something that I love about her books.

Which goals did you reach/not reach last year?
I managed to not only reach my GoodReads goal for the year, but I surpassed it. As for a goal I didn’t reach, I kept saying I was going to finish some book series, but instead I started new book series. So that was a big fail.

Are there 2022 releases you’ve heard of that you have no desire to read?
‘House Of Sky And Breath’ by Sarah J. Mass (February 2022): I never got into all the hype surrounding this author. Especially because she is a bit of a problematic author. Also, I have no desire to read a series with some seriously chunky books.

‘Belladonna’ by Adalyn Grace (August 2022): I have heard some good things about Adalyn Grace books, but this series just seems weird to me. Maybe I need the plot more simplified, but after reading the synopsis, I am confused. I still have no idea what this book is about. I wish that I cared enough to read this, because the title brings back so many memories for me. I played the role of ‘Belladonna’ in my college’s production of “Sleeping Beauty.”

What are some reading habits you want to change this year, if any?
I don’t really have any habits that I would like to change. I have been pretty happy with how I read.

Are there any adaptations you’re excited about?
I did have to look up some adaptations to answer this question, since I don’t typically stay up to date with book adaptation releases. Still, I am looking forward to the adaptations of ‘Daisy Jones and the Six’ by Taylor Jeinks Reed, ‘The Nightingale’ by Kristin Hannah, and ‘Death on the Nile’ by Agatha Christie. I actually haven’t read any of these books, so I would like to do that before seeing the adaptations.

Favourite bookish memory of last year?
Starting my book blog! I am so happy that I decided to start my blog and share my love of books with all of you! Also, early last year I participated in the ‘Tis The Damn Season’ Taylor Swift readathon created by a bunch of wonderful BookTubers. That was my first readathon of the year, and it really gave me a desire to read more.

Carryovers from last year that you still plan on finishing?
For sure the ‘Caraval’ trilogy by Stephanie Garber. I have been wanting to read these books for what seems like forever. I also need to read the entire ‘Twilight’ series by Stephanie Meyer, since I started the first book last year.

Those were all the questions, and I want to tag all of you to do this as well! It was a nice tag to kick off a new year of reading. Please give my post a like and share. And, if you would be so kind, follow my blog as well to get notified whenever I post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Holiday Switch // Book Review

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Title: The Holiday Switch
Author: Tif Marcelo
Published: 2021
Genre: YA/Contemporary/Holiday
Rating:Full, star, bookmark, favorite, favourite, like, rating icon - Download on IconfinderFull, star, bookmark, favorite, favourite, like, rating icon - Download on Iconfinder

Synopsis
A bookish Filipino-American girl who crosses paths with the innkeeper’s aggravating nephew–but when they accidentally switch phones, their newly discovered secrets draw them together.

With a title like ‘The Holiday Switch’, you’d think this going to be some swap story. However, it has little to do with an actual switch. The main character, Lila, has worked at the cozy local inn for a while, and fancies herself as their best employee. But everything changes, when over winter break, she has to train a new employee, Teddy, who happens to be the nephew of inn’s owner.

First off, this is not some cute enemies-to-lovers swap story. The switch happens fairly early on when the two accidentally swapping phones. However, this gets resolved in a day. That being the end of any switch plot line. While they have each other’s phones, for literally just a few hours. They learn each other’s most deepest secrets.

Lila is hiding her book blog from her overprotective, non-social media loving parents. Teddy has a secret passion of rock climbing that he is very serious about, but he is afraid his family will think it is too dangerous.

“Sometimes it takes a snowstorm to bring two people together, but sometimes it takes one person—and someone you least expect—to help save the day.”

The plot took awhile to get into, and for the first half of the book, I wasn’t invested in the story or supposed romance that was going to happen. I didn’t feel any connection between Lila and Teddy. Sure, Teddy wasn’t the best worker, and was preoccupied with his rock climbing training. But, I found that Lila judged him right off the bat. It seemed that she didn’t like him, because he took away her chance to get extra hours working at the inn. In short, she was just being petty and bitter. Didn’t she ever hear not to judge a book buy it’s cover? Which is ironic seeing as she is a book blogger.

Speaking of her book blog, throughout the book there were review excerpts that she wrote on her blog. It was a nice touch, yet most the books where rated 4 or 5 stars. A little more diversity ratings would have been nice, since not every book can be a 4 star read. However, if all her books are that good, then she is one lucky reader.

This book does focus a lot on both their secrets. And, sharing these secrets help them form a bond. Still, I felt like their friendship and relationship came out of nowhere. Did they even like each other? Or did the mutual agreement to keep each other’s secrets make them want to be together. It really seems like it could be the latter.

As for the side characters, they were all very one dimensional. The author put less thought in everyone surrounding Lila and Teddy. I know a book needs it’s lead, but I like a well round group of supporting character as well. It wasn’t necessarily a bad book, it just wasn’t anything new or exciting. It was pretty forgettable. And overall, there was rather little romance involved in the story.

Also, one of my biggest pet peeves in books is the portrayal of writing as a career. In most every book where a main character wants to be a writer, there is one person that doesn’t believe it is a real career. Seriously, it’s 2022, if people can make a living on social media, then you can be a successful writer. Than again, maybe these authors were judged for their career choice, and are speaking from personal experience.

Please keep in mind that this solely my opinion. I try to be transparent and honest in my reviews. But, I would never want my reading experience to shy you away from reading a book that interests you. If you have any positives about the book, leave them in the comments. If you want to like and share this post, that would be amazing. And, follow my blog for all things bookish, and more!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

12 In 2022 // Yearly TBR

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Hi Friends,
I knew that I wanted to do some kind of 2022 TBR, but I decided not to include any new releases. Of course, I will be reading many 2021 and 2022 releases throughout the year, but I wanted to do more of a backlist TBR for the year. If you read my resolutions post, then you know that one of my bookish goals is to read more older titles. I want to read all the books that came out years ago that I have forgotten about. So, here are the 12 books I would like to read this year. Also, keep in mind that I am counting a book series as one book.

Divergent by Veronica Roth: I have heard a lot of mixed things about this series. But, I really want to read it this year. My husband read the entire trilogy, and we’ve seen the first two movies. I would like to read all the books, and possibly the companion novel ‘Four.’

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: I started this series a while ago, but never finished it. I attempted book two, ‘Catching Fire,’ but I put it down and never picked it back up. Now I think it’s time to see if all the hype about the series is true. I have seen the final two movies in the film adaptations, weirdly enough, so I kind of have an idea on how the books end.

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer: In 2020, I got the boxed-set for Christmas. Last year, I started the first book on audio, but I loaned it from the library, and had to return it before I was finished. I would like to at least read two or more books in this vampire romance series.

Burn for Burn by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian:

I haven’t read a Jenny Han book in a minute. I would love to see what this trilogy is all about. It is the only Jenny Han series that I have yet to read, yet my opinions on her books have been fairly mixed. I hope that I enjoy this one as much as I did the ‘To All The Boys’ trilogy.

A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi: I have heard nothing but good things about this book, and love the premise of it. This book follows a Muslim-American teenage girl. Although, I was born in American, I was raised Muslim. Today, I wouldn’t necessarily consider myself Muslim, but it was a big part of my upbringing. We don’t get a lot of Persian and Muslim representation in books, so I’m excited to read a book that deals with a character that I can relate too.

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo: I have been very intrigued by this author since I discovered that she writes some books in verse. I am trying to learn more about this type of writing, because it is something I am very interested in. Now I don’t know much about this story, except that people love it. I would also like to read ‘With The Fire On High’ from her as well.

Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali: This is a Muslim teen romance that sounds very sweet and wholesome. I have had this on my overall TBR for a while, but never got around to it. However, I would love to pick it up this year if only because I just learned that the female character is named Zayneb. Fun fact that is my older sister’s name just spelled slightly different.

Tweet Cute by Emma Lord: I am shocked that I haven’t read this yet. It is an adorable YA contemporary that I know I am going to love. I need to read this as soon as possible, because I love all things cute and contemporary. Honestly, I haven’t seen one negative review of this book.

House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland: I used to be in love with this book cover, because it is so different. But then I found out the plot, and knew it was going to be a crazy read. It has sister and mystery elements, with maybe a touch of horror. I haven’t seen too many people reviewing it, so I will be going into it with an open mind.

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig: I am going to be honest, but this book sounds an awful lot like the one before. However, I have been wanting to read it since it was released two years ago. It is supposedly a ‘Twelve Dancing Princess’ retelling with a dark twist. I have become a big fan of horror and thriller books, and this one sounds pretty good.

American Royals by Katharine McGee: I cannot explain why I desperately want to read the series. Everyone in my life knows that me and royal plots don’t mix. But for some reason I am dying to jump into this trilogy. I have heard that the first book is great, but the second book falls flat. All I know is that this book has a cute romance and drama, and I am here for it.

Lore by Alexandra Bracken: This book was very hyped, leading up it’s release in January 2021. After the book came out, I noticed the hype died down quite a bit. There have been a lot of mixed reviews, with some recommending the book. Others, not so much. It is a YA Greek Gods story, that, despite the polarized opinions, I would still like to read.

I am going to stop myself here, so that this post isn’t novel length. Let me know any of the books on your yearly TBR in the comments. Don’t forget to follow my blog before you go to get notifications on all my new content.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

I Wrote FanFiction // Coffee Chat

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Hi Friends,
Today I thought I would share something slightly embarrassing with you all. I use to write FanFiction. Now writing fanfic isn’t embarrassing in the slightest, but the terrible fanfic I wrote is cringe worthy.

I loved writing at a young age, and would come up with crazy stories for my favorite shows. The stories I wrote weren’t necessarily bad, but funny to look back on. The first one I ever wrote was about ‘Phil Of The Future,’ which was a super cheesy Disney Channel show. It was about this family from the future. I am not sure what time they were from, but I want to say it was the year 2525. They end up getting stuck in the past, which was our present at the time.

In my story, Phil and his family finally make it home. But this means Phil has to say goodbye to his best friend, Keely. He ends up trying to find her in the future. Thus, my story was called ‘Finding Future Keely.’ Aly Michalka played Keely, and if you know anything about her she has a younger sister AJ. So, I imagined that AJ would play her great granddaughter in the future that Phil meets.

The next story was a fanfiction of this underrated French animated series ‘Code Lyoko.’ In the show, these group of 4 kids find a super computer that transports 3 of them to a cyber world where they all have special abilities. They meet Aelita, who is a virtual girl, about their age, that lives in Lyoko. However, when they turned on the computer it awoke Xana who is sort of this evil computer virus that is trying to destroy the world. Now, they must help Aelita stop all of Xana’s evil cyber attacks.

My story was called ‘Lyoko Lockdown’ where Aelita and the other get stuck in Lyoko. It is up to Jeremie their friend and tech genius, who is not in Lyoko, to help get them out before Xana does something horrible. It was a fun story and a silly story, and I honestly didn’t know where I was going with it.


Lastly, I wrote the beginning of what was going to be a Destiel (Supernatural’s Dean and Castiel) story.It was going to be completely smuty. But, again I had no clear direction for the story. None of these stories actually got completed, and writing wasn’t my best. Grammar and spelling were, in my opinion, terrible.

I don’t even know if you can find my ‘Phil Of The Future’ or ‘Code Lyoko’ storie on the fanfiction website anymore. Yep, I posted them online. However, I never posted my Destiel one, since it was literally one page long. I hope that you enjoyed this post about my short lived time as a fanfiction writer. Please leave me a comment letting me know if you ever wrote or still write fanfiction. Also, what are some of your favorite stories? Don’t forget to share and like this post. If you want more posts like this follow the blog.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Books That Missed The Mark // 2021 Disappointments

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
I talked about my favorite books of 2021, but I thought it was time I mentioned some of the books I didn’t love. These books are ones that I didn’t really enjoy, but keep in mind that this is only my opinion. Also, I will link any reviews I have for each book.

Sunkissed by Kasie West
This was probably my biggest disappointment, because Kasie West is an auto read author for me. I usually love all her books, but this one was infuriating to say the least.

One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
This book bored and annoyed me. The concept of a, sort of, time travel romance seemed so cool. Yet, I didn’t connect with the story or writing. Also, I wasn’t a fan of the ending at all.

The Final Girls Support Group by Grady Hendrix
I heard how great this book was for months, but to me it wasn’t worth the hype. However, that could be due to the fact that I am not a big adult book reader. Still, I think it had more to do with the plot than anything.

So, This Is Christmas by Tracy Andreen
Ugh, this book was such a let down. Honestly, I hate that I have to talk about it since I kind of ranted in my review. It was a major disappointment, enough said.

The Holiday Switch by Tif Marcelo
I can’t fault this one too much for being on the list, since I was just excepting something different from the plot. There isn’t necessarily a problem with the book itself. Although, from the title one naturally assumes it will be a cute holiday swap story but sadly it isn’t.

Time Of Our Lives by Austin Siegemund-Broka and Emily Wibberley
This is another book that I couldn’t stand. Truthfully, I don’t have anything good to say about this book, which is very unfortunate. The plot fell flat and the female love interest was extremely unlikable.

What’s Not To Love by Austin Siegemund-Broka and Emily Wibberley
Yep, there are two books from this author duo on this list. The plot promises an enemies to lovers YA contemporary, which is only half true. The romance was very random and instant lovey. And, don’t even get me started on are female lead.

I am going to end this list here. After looking at all the books I read in 2021 I realize there are more I could add to this list. I guess my reading year 2021 wasn’t the best at all. Nevertheless, these are just my opinions and not every book is intended for every reader. Please tell me if you enjoyed any of these books in the comments. Don’t forget to follow the blog, share and like this post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Books With Bunny

Bookish, Blog & More // 2022 Goals

- Bunny 3 Comments

Hi Friends,
In this post, I am going to be sharing my bookish, blog and personal resolutions. I love the start of a New Year because it means new beginnings and adventures. I always like to make resolutions even if I sometimes don’t stick to them.

Blog Goals
– Be More Flexible: I don’t want to be so hard on myself when it comes to a posting schedule. I try to post three times a week, but I don’t want to stress out if that isn’t always possible.
– Branch Out: This is a book blog, and books will forever be the main focus. However, I want to post some lifestyle content every once in a while. I would like to share my other interests outside of books.
– Engage More: I want to read more blogs and engage with other bloggers. I don’t ever seem to make time to read blogs, which is something I hope to change.

Bookish Goals
– GoodReads Goal: As per-usual I would like to achieve my GoodReads goal. I have set it at 50 books, and I think it is doable.
– Read My Shelf: I own a lot of unread books, and that stresses me out. I want to make reading my own books a priority this year.
– Backlist Books: I tend to pick up new releases or hyped books. This year, I want to make an effort of reading older titles that I never got around too.

Personal Goals
– Mental Health: My mental health is very important to me. I want to remember to stay on top of my mental health, and take care of myself.
– Routine: I would like to have more of a set morning and night routine. Something that will put me in a good mood, and help start the day off right. As for night, I want to have a routine that I can look forward to at the end of the day.
– Stay Active: I wouldn’t say that I am not an active person, but I do go weeks without doing any kind of fitness. I would like to consistently be active and healthy.

Those are some of my goals for the year. I have other goals, and one major personal goal. But I thought I would just share a few with you all. Do you make New Year’s resolutions? What are some of yours? Don’t forget to start off the year right by following my blog!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

To Be Read // January 2022

- Bunny 3 Comments

Hi Friends,
It is a new month, which means a new TBR! I decided to have my husband pick my TBR for January. To make it easy, I just had him chose five books off my GoodReads ‘Want To Read’ shelve. So what books did he end up picking?

“From author Kelly Quindlen comes a poignant and deeply relatable story about friendship, self-acceptance, and what it means to be a Real Teenager. Late to the Party is an ode to late bloomers and wallflowers everywhere.”

I didn’t remember the plot for this book, or why I added it to my TBR, but it seems like a contemporary about self-confidence and breaking out of your shell. Not sure I am still interested in it, but as you can see I am going to be reading it.

“Boarding school has never been more dangerous. What if your roommate is a murderer? Or what if he’s being framed and only you can save him?”

I have been into YA thrillers lately, so I am happy that he ended picking this book. It is also a book I own, and I have been wanting to read from my shelf more this year.

“Two sisters. One brutal murder. A quest for vengeance that will unleash Hell itself… And an intoxicating romance.”

Apparently, he wants me to start a new series this year. I have only read ‘Stalking Jack The Ripper’ by Kerri Maniscalco, but I found her writing to be very atmospheric, which added to the reading experience. I am excited to see where this series takes me.

“Frances Janvier spends most of her time studying. Everyone knows Aled Last as that quiet boy who gets straight A’ s. You probably think that they are going to fall in love or something. Since he is a boy and she is a girl. They don’t. They make a podcast.”

The synopsis baffles me completely. I am very curious to see why so many people love this book.

“In this “raw and well-crafted romance” (Kirkus Reviews), Bea learns that some things just can’t be controlled.”

This is another book that I just so happen to own. He picked this one because of my love for contemporaries and my OCD. But, I am not mad about it.

Those are the books that I have on my TBR for the month. However, if I somehow manage to get to all of them before the end of the month, I might end up doing some mood reading. Let me know the books on your January TBR in the comments.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny