Book Review

March 2, 2022May 28, 2022 - Bunny 2 Comments

Author: Alice Oseman
Published: 2016
Genre: Young Adult/Contemporary/Mental Health
Rating:

Synopsis
Engaging with themes of identity, diversity and the freedom to choose, Radio Silence is a tour de force by the most exciting writer of her generation.

This book gave me ‘Catcher in the Rye’ vibes, since both stories don’t have a ‘true’ plot to them; it’s more of an important message. The whole point of the book was about finding yourself, doing what you love, and not conforming to others’ opinions of you. Life isn’t about making other people happy, but making yourself happy.

The characters were enjoyable to read about. And, there wasn’t a true romance plot, which is different than most YA contemporaries out there. It showcased friendship, and how guys and girls can be just friends. The book featured hardship and conflict, something that we all go through.

There were funny moments that made me laugh out loud. Other times it was sad, and making me feel empathy for the characters. Their emotions were raw and real. The plot wasn’t particularly fast paced, but the slower moving story helped to get the message across better.

“Hello. I hope somebody is listening.”

The underlying theme of everyone wants different things in life was amazing. There was such an element of truth within the story that the author captured well. Even when you think you know your life plan, it might not be as straightforward as you believe it to be. Following your heart is sometimes more important than what others expect from you.

There was a lot of focus on college, and if it is the only path in life. As someone that doesn’t have college degree, I know that school isn’t for everyone. At least it wasn’t for me. I want to mention the trigger warnings in this book, since I want other readers to know what to expect before going into the story. There is the death of a pet, suicidal thoughts, depression, and emotional abuse by a family member.

This book was a whirlwind of emotions, and a powerful story. I think it is best suited for older YA readers, who may understand the point of the story better. Please leave me your thoughts in the comments below. And it would make me smile if you shared and liked this post. Following the blog would make that smile even bigger!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

To Be Read // March 2022

March 1, 2022March 30, 2022 - Bunny

Hi Friends,
It is TBR time again, but this month is going to be a little bit different. I was debating on doing the ‘Tis The Damn’ readathon, which is a Taylor Swift inspired readathon. This was the first readathon I participated in when I started my blog, back in March of 2021. However, I would like to do more mood reading. This isn’t to say that I going to stop doing TBR’s, but the way I do them will change. I have come up with three bookish categories. I will only be talking about the books I hope to read from each of them. The rest of the month I will mood read.

Previous TBR: This is a book that I have put on a TBR from the previous year of the current month. Not sure if that makes any sense. But, since we are in March 2022, it would be a book from my March 2021 TBR.

Fall in love with the addictive, suspenseful love story between a teenage girl and a vampire with the book that sparked a “literary phenomenon” and redefined romance for a generation (New York Times).

Next In A Series: This one is pretty self explanatory, but I have a lot of series that I need to finish.

Perfect for fans of Kiera Cass and Anna Godbersen, and with all the drama, romance, and hidden secrets from The Thousandth Floor and The Dazzling Heights, this explosive finale will not disappoint.

Owned TBR: I am really working on reading the books I already own, which is good since I have a lot of options.

From the author of I Believe in a Thing Called Love, a laugh-out-loud story of love, new friendships, and one unique food truck.

I have a list of other books I’d like to read this month. Most of them are YA thrillers and contemporaries. You can follow me on GoodReads and Twitter to stay up to date on what I am reading. And you can follow the blog to see my reviews of the books as I read them.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Reading Helps // Coping With Mental Health

February 24, 2022February 22, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
I have stated before, or at least I believe have, that I suffer from mental health disorders. Well, lately, my mental health hasn’t been the best. I have my highs and lows, and this has definitely been a low month. However, reading has always been a solid coping mechanism for me. So, I wanted to share some ways that reading helps me, and might help you, cope with mental health struggles.

#1. Clears Your Mind
Honestly, reading completely takes your mind off your problems. When you are reading a high fantasy, you aren’t thinking about your everyday struggles. When you are falling in love with the boy next door, you aren’t worrying about the days to come. A good story captivates you, and everything else falls away.

#2. Problem Solving
Reading could possibly solve your problems. You may actually read a book about a character dealing with similar issues, or pick up a self-help book. Advice type books might not be your thing, but they can be useful when dealing with mental health. Books can give you clarity, or a new way to look at something, which is important.

#3. You’re Not Alone
Books featuring characters with mental illnesses are very beneficial, especially if the characters are facing the same diagnosis as you. Simply reading about somebody that is struggling with a disorder can be comforting. You don’t feel so alone, because you can relate to the character in one way or another.

#4. There’s No Competition
This might seem like a weird reason, but pretty much everything we do, or I do, feels like a competition. We see people online, or friends and family, doing these things that make us feel like we aren’t doing enough. Essentially, people are always competing against each other. But you aren’t going to compete with a book character. You can feel at ease and pressure-free.

#5. Happiness
The number one reason that books can help you with your mental health is because they make you happy. If you don’t enjoy reading, then none of the other tips are going to work. You have to read because it brings you joy, if everything else is to fall into place. Honestly, how could reading not ignite happiness?

I must admit that when my mental health is bad, reading doesn’t always do it for me. But, I try to remember these tips during the low periods, and keep reading. Please leave me a comment to brighten my day. And, like always, I ask that you follow the blog.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Winter Book Haul // 2022 #1

February 18, 2022February 18, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
It is finally time for me to share my first book haul of 2022! My husband has been horrible, and amazing, at feeding into my book addiction. However, I did purchase a good chunk of these books with a gift card I received for Christmas. I usually don’t buy this many books over a two month period, but apparently retail therapy has become my thing. Hopefully, I will have more self control in the coming months, but can one ever have too many books.

Little Women by Louisa May: The timeless tale of four sisters – Meg, Jo, Amy and Beth – experiencing both hardship and adventure in Civil War New England. Though the March family may be poor, their lives are rich with colour, as they play games, put on wild theatricals, make new friends, argue, grapple with their vices, learn from their mistakes, nurse each other through sickness and disappointments, and get into all sorts of trouble.

The Accident Season by Moira Fowley Doyle: For fans of We Were Liars and The Ocean at the End of the Lane comes a haunting magically realistic debut about a family caught between a violent history, a taboo romance, and the mysteries lurking in their own backyard.

Bunnicula: Harold the dog and Chester the cat must find out the truth about the newest pet in the Monroe household—a suspicious-looking bunny with unusual habits…and fangs! Could this innocent-seeming rabbit actually be a vampire?

The Smoke Thieves by Sally Green: Unforgivable betrayals, devious motives, and forbidden love collide in the first installment of internationally bestselling author Sally Green’s epic new fantasy series, perfect for Game of Thrones fans.

My Almost Flawless Tokyo Dream Life by Rachel Cohn: My Almost Flawless Tokyo Dream Life is about learning what it is to be a family, and finding the inner strength to be yourself, even in the most extreme circumstances.

Together We Caught Fire by Eva V. Gibson: A forbidden attraction grows even more complicated when the guy Lane Jamison has crushed on for years suddenly becomes her step-brother in this sexy and gorgeously written debut novel about the lines between love, desire, and obsession.

It’s a Whole Spiel: Love, Latkes, and Other Jewish Stories by Various Authors: Get ready to fall in love, experience heartbreak, and discover the true meaning of identity in this poignant collection of short stories about Jewish teens, including entries by David Levithan, Nova Ren Suma, and more!

Layoverland by Gabby Noone: From debut author Gabby Noone comes a darkly hilarious and heartfelt twist on the afterlife about finding second chances, first loves, and new friendships in the most unlikely places.

It Sounded Better in My Head by Nina Kenwood: A compulsively readable love letter to teenage romance in all of its awkward glory, perfect for fans To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and Emergency Contact.

Throw Like a Girl by Sarah Henning: With lovable characters and a charming quarterback love interest, Throw Like a Girl will have readers swooning from the very first page.

We Are the Wildcats by Siobhan Vivian: A toxic coach finds himself outplayed by the high school girls on his team in this deeply suspenseful novel, which unspools over twenty-four hours through six diverse perspectives.

River of Dreams by Jan Nash: Draped in themes of first love and family, secrets and malevolence, and swirling through an exhilarating dream world full of danger, violence, and love, Jan Nash’s exciting debut is a high-stakes adventure full of suspense, romance, and magic, perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Supernatural.

The Best Laid Plans by Cameron Lund: High school senior Keely Collins takes on firsts, lasts, and everything in between in this sweet, sex-positive rom-com for fans of Meg Cabot and Jenny Han.

Geekerella by Ashley Poston: Cinderella goes to the con in this fandom-fueled twist on the classic fairy tale romance.

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood: When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman’s carefully calculated theories on love into chaos.

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur: The book is divided into four chapters, and each chapter serves a different purpose. Deals with a different pain. Heals a different heartache.

The Sun and Her Flowers by Rupi Kaur: Divided into five chapters and illustrated by kaur, the sun and her flowers is a journey of wilting, falling, rooting, rising, and blooming. A celebration of love in all its forms.

Malice by Heather Walter: Once upon a time, there was a wicked fairy who, in an act of vengeance, cursed a line of princesses to die. A curse that could only be broken by true love’s kiss. You’ve heard this before, haven’t you? The handsome prince. The happily ever after. Utter nonsense.

By Your Side by Kasie West: An irresistible story from Kasie West that explores the timeless question: What do you do when you fall for the person you least expect?

Maybe This Time by Kasie West: Beloved author Kasie West brings her signature witty banter and rom-com fun to a bold, fresh format. Think Four Weddings and a Funeral for YA.

Seven Dirty Secrets by Natalie D. Richards: I know seven dirty secrets: One caused the fall. One did nothing. One saw it all. One didn’t care. One used their head. One played the hero. One was left for dead.

The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys: Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys once again shines light into one of history’s darkest corners in this epic, heart-wrenching novel about identity, unforgettable love, repercussions of war, and the hidden violence of silence—inspired by the true postwar struggles of Spain.

Cupcake by Cookie O’Gorman: This new swoon-worthy, feel-good #OwnVoices YA romance from the author of Adorkable celebrates body positivity in all its forms, as well as lifting each other up every day.

Beauty and the Beast by Editors of Studio Fun International: This fresh retelling of Beauty and the Beast follows the story of the classic animated film and includes paintings, sketches, and concept art from the original Disney Studio artists

Happy Dreams, Little Bunny by Leah Hong: This stunningly illustrated debut is The Runaway Bunny for a new generation—a captivating flight of fancy that also helps children lull themselves into dreamland.

This book haul was surprisingly bigger than I originally thought it would be. Sorry not sorry. I would love to know what books you have recently bought or pre-ordered. Also, did you know following my blog really helps it grow? By following you will get notified about all my posts, which I work so hard on. You won’t want to miss any of my upcoming bookish posts!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Book Club and Read Alongs // February 2022 Update

February 16, 2022February 16, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
I have so many announcements coming at you. One of them I still can’t say, but I will be announcing it next month. The first is that I am going to be starting a book club! I have been wanting to do this for a while. I don’t know if anyone will actually join in, but I thought I would give it a shot. There will be a GoodReads page for the group, and it will be the ‘Hop It To Reading’ Book Club.

On the GoodReads page, we can discuss the book, and possibly set a date for a live discussion of the book. I will post a poll for us to pick the book for each month. The first poll is up now! I also might do reading sprints once a week on my Twitter (@bookswithbunny). I really hope some of you will join in on the book club.

Next, I want to host a Vampire Academy read-along, or maybe a buddy read. There is a VA series coming out soon, so I would like to read the books. I know that many people have already read this series, but if you haven’t, or are planning to reread it, please join in the read-along!

Those are all the updates I have for you guys this month. Please check back in March for my other exciting announcement! If you want to buy me a coffee or donate to my blog you can visit my Ko-Fi. All your support means the world to me!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Friday Reads #1

February 11, 2022February 11, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
Today, I am doing my first Friday reads post. I might not always have one of these post every week, but I do enjoy sharing my weekend reading plans with you. So, I will be letting you know what I plan on reading throughout the weekend.

Bunnicula by James and Deborah Howe
I have about two hours left on the audiobook. I am confident that I can finish it by Friday night.

The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
I have been wanting to read this forever! I have the audiobook and plan on starting it on Saturday.

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
In between, Saturday and Sunday I will be trying to finish Twilight with my husband. We are 40% of the way through the first book in the series.

Caraval by Stephanie Garber
I will most likely not get to this book until next week, but I still have hopes that I can pick it up before the weekend is over.

Those are all my weekend reading plans. I would love to know what you are currently, or planning on, reading over the next couple of days. Please support the blog by liking and sharing this post. Also, it would mean a lot if you’d follow me. It really helps withmy blog’s growth.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Some Girls Do // Books Meet Beauty // Toss-Up Tuesday

February 8, 2022May 28, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
Valentine’s Day is is just around the corner, so I thought I would do my first ‘Book Meets Beauty’ post. I picked a book and created a makeup looked based off the cover. I choose my book cover with Valentine’s Day in mind. I loved the purples and pinks in the cover, so I played off of them. I think that the look turned out nice, and it reminds me of the cover. But, keep in mind that I am know makeup professional and just do makeup for fun.

Face
elf Superhydrate Gel Moisturizer
Cate Watermelon Burst Setting Spray
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Glow
Essence Pretty Natural Hydrating Foundation
Wet n’ wild Concealer Make-Up Stick
L.A. Colors Translucent Setting Powder
Almay Smart Shade Blush (Coral)
Mac Extra Dimension Skin Finish Highlighter

Eyes
Elf Putty Eye Primer
I Heart Revolution Eyeshadow Palette (Strawberry Cheesecake)
* Creased Shade: Syrup
* Lid Shade: Drizzle
* Outer Corner Shade: Juicy
*Brow Bone Shade: Butter
L.A. Colors Auto Liner (Black)
Maybelline ‘Sky High’ Mascara (Black)

Lips
Revlon Sheer Lipstick (820 Pink Cognito)

If you like these type of post combining my love of beauty and books please like and share this post with others.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny
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The Toymaker’s Apprentice | Book Review

February 3, 2022December 23, 2024 - Bunny Leave a comment

Title: The Toymaker’s Apprentice
Author: Sherri L. Smith
Published: 2015
Genre: Middle Grade/Fantasy/Retelling
Rating:

Synopsis
Based on the original inspiration for the Nutcracker ballet, Sherri L. Smith brings the Nutcracker Prince to life in this fascinating journey into a world of toymaking, magical curses, clockmaking guilds, talking mice and erudite squirrels.

A lot of the middle grade books I read usually fall some where around the 3-star range. However, this book exceeded my expectations. I learned about this book from BookTube, and the storyline piqued my interest. I had recently read ‘The Nutcracker’, so finding out that this was a retelling of that story made me even more interested.

When we meet the protagonist, Stefan, his mother has just passed away, and he is thinking about his next steps. He questions being a toy maker is his destiny, as it was for his father. Grief has left him confused about the future, and made him guarded. When his estranged cousin, Christian, shows up Stefan immediately finds him suspicious. However, they quickly form a connection and bond while reminiscing about Stefan’s deceased mother.

Stefan accept Christian’s offer to be his apprentice, and become a clock maker. More than anything, it seemed like he desired to forge a new path, due to his mother’s death. Stefan wasn’t necessarily a complex character, but he was clever. He easily combined his love of toy making with his fascination with clock making, which made him unique.

“True survivor swallows is his pride.”
The other characters, such as Christian, Stefan’s father, and Christian’s companion were well rounded characters. However, I found Stefan to be the most enjoyable character. Still, every characters had their own place in the story, even all the mice, and I don’t think the plot would have been complete without all of them. As I mentioned, there are mice characters, because it wouldn’t be a Nutcracker retelling without mice.

I liked how we got a look into the mice kingdom and the evil Mouse Queen. Her mice babies were all different in personality, but you could see how much their mother’s influence affected them. Their thoughts and emotions were very human like, which is an odd thing to say about mice.

The story is slow at first, but around the third chapter, it picked up. There wasn’t a point throughout the story that I was bored, or wanted to put it down in favor of something else. There was so much mystery and excitement within every chapter. Stefan goes on this adventure that changes his life forever, and you can see how it helped him come to terms with his mother’s passing.

There were so many twists and turns throughout the book, that you almost couldn’t tell where the story was going, or what to expect next. Right when you think the ending is near, and everything is wrapping up, the author throws you for a loop, and you are left needing to know how it all turns out.

I couldn’t put down the last few chapters, because the plot was so enticing. The ending was fantastic, while being somewhat sad. I wanted these characters’ journeys to continue. In my opinion, the author needs to write more books that include this cast of characters. Also, if you are new to the fantasy genre, this would be a good book to pick up. It is a gripping fantasy, but it isn’t intimidating. More of a lighter fantasy, in essence.

If you haven’t read this book yet, I really don’t know what you’re waiting for. I would also recommend it to any tween, 12+ years old. Please leave me a like, and share my reviews with others. Remember, something as little as liking my blog means a lot to me.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

These Books Will Self Destruct // Unhaul TBR

February 2, 2022February 2, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
I have been seeing people do these self destruct or unhaul TBR posts and videos for a while. This year, I have made it a goal of mine to read more of my own books. So, I have picked 8 books from my shelves that must be read before the end of the year. If they don’t get read than they must be sold or donated. This is a good way to In courage me to read some books I’ve had forever, and remove unwanted books from my bookshelf.

Renegades by Marissa Meyer: I have a few unread Marissa Meyer books, but this is the first in a YA superhero series that sounds pretty interesting. If nothing less, I will discover whether or not I want to continue with the series.

Long May She Reign by Rhiannon Thomas: I read 40% of this book a couple of years ago. However, I put it aside and never picked it back up. I read liking the story, but I’m unsure if I really care to read it anymore.

Evil Librarian by Michelle Knudsen: In 2014, I received this book from the publisher. It interested me back than, but my reading taste has changed a lot since than. Still, I want to give it a chance.

The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger: I am pretty positive that I won’t be picking this book up. Still, I could be wrong. The only reason I got the book was because I saw the move version, and wanted to read the book to compare it too.

Looking for Alaska by John Green: This book has been on my shelves for a long time now. However, I am hesitant to read it since I haven’t been a fan of any John Green book I have read. Yet, I want to read it before watching the new Hulu series based on the book.

Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson: I tried reading this YA mystery, but I couldn’t get into it. Hopefully, the second time is a charm and it will keep me intrigued enough to want to keep reading. This book series is highly praised, so I want to learn what all the hype is about.

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith: This is actually a short read that I didn’t hate. Yet, the plot was slow moving and the romance was definitely a slow burn, which I don’t typically like. But, I still own it so I would like to finish it.

One Day in December by Josie Silver: This is another book that was sent to me that I haven’t read. I have been reading more adult books, so I think this is the perfect time for me to try to read it.

There you have the eight books that must be read by twenty-twenty three and like them, or must be unhauled. Please, share and like this post, and show your love for my blog by giving it a follow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Pretty Little Liars Fashion Inspiration // Toss-Up Tuesday

February 1, 2022February 1, 2022 - Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
Today, I am doing another fashion inspired by books post. But, this one is also Valentine’s Day inspired. I decided to go with ‘Pretty Little Liars’ since the outfits are very wearable high fashion. I used a mix of their style from the television show, and their book personalities to create these looks. I noticed that on the show there wore a lot of prints, bold colors and boots so I played on those things quite a bit.

I hope that this post gave you some great V-Day style ideas. I am sure you will looks amazing in whatever you choose to wear. Let me know which outfit was your favorite in the comments below. Give this post a share and a like, so I know that you enjoy these fashion posts.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny