Bookish Gift Guide | Holiday 2024

Hi Friends,
Today I’m sharing my 2024 holiday book gift guide. These gift ideas are perfect for any bookworm in your life. Personally, I know I’d love to receive every single thing I’m going to talk about in this post. I tried to make this a very budget-friendly gift guide and not too repetitive from my previous ones. However, there may be some overlap of gift ideas.

Some of these gifts can be found on Amazon; however, I’m a big supporter of small businesses, so I’ve worked hard to recommend gifts that can also be found on Etsy. I’ve also included some books that I think many readers would enjoy.


Blind Date With A Book
I think this is such a timeless gift, and I’ll continue to recommend it year after year. You just can’t go wrong with a blind date with a book! There are so many Etsy shops that specialize in this type of gift, and a lot of the time, you can include your Goodreads link (or the recipient’s) to make sure they don’t receive a book they’ve already read or own. These blind date packages often include cute little extras like highlighters, bookmarks, or even sweet treats. Most of the time, they range anywhere from $15–$22, which I think is a great price for such a fun gift.


Special Editions
Let’s face it—book lovers get so much joy from a pretty book! I’ve definitely bought books based on their covers or sprayed edges alone. This holiday season, gifting them a special edition of their favorite book or a new release with sprayed edges would be a wonderful idea. You can go the simple route and buy one off Amazon—I’d recommend the Lightlark: Collector’s Edition or Legends & Lattes: Deluxe Edition. However, I suggest checking out Etsy! There are so many small businesses like ColorfulNarrative and SprayedBookEdges. Just keep in mind that Etsy options are typically more expensive than shopping on Amazon or at Barnes & Noble, but you’ll be supporting a small business, and the book will be more unique.


Kindle
This is probably the most expensive gift I’m going to recommend, but it’s such a staple for readers. I think it’s the perfect big gift for someone who loves physical books but doesn’t have space for a personal library—or for a reader looking to try out ebooks. If you want to go all out, you could preload it with a few books as well. There are lots of Kindle models to choose from, but I know the Kindle Paperwhite is the most loved. That said, the regular Kindle is a great option too.


Kindle Unlimited Subscription
You might think it’s silly to gift a Kindle Unlimited subscription if they don’t already own a Kindle, but the Kindle app works on most devices! So, if buying an actual e-reader is out of your budget, I recommend gifting a KU subscription instead. The only downside is that Amazon only offers gift subscriptions in 6-, 12-, and 24-month increments, which can make it a bit pricey. I do hope they add a 3-month option soon. Still, I think it’s a great idea and probably not something most people would think to gift.


Blue Light Glasses
This is a great gift idea for anyone who spends a lot of time reading on their phone or iPad. It’s also perfect for bookish social media addicts like me! Blue light glasses help reduce eye strain and make screen time more comfortable. They’re available in a variety of price points and styles, so you’re bound to find something that fits.


MP3 Player
I’ll be honest—I find these a bit silly. That said, I can see their appeal, and I wouldn’t be upset to receive one as a gift. Essentially, these MP3 players let you download music as well as audiobook apps and the Kindle app. They’re great for younger readers who don’t have cell phones, but they’re also good for teenagers and adults who get distracted by social media while trying to read.


Bookish Merch
I’m grouping all bookish merchandise into one category because this post would be way too long otherwise. Every reader I know would love to get a shirt or mug inspired by their favorite books—or just catered toward book lovers in general. You can find plenty of options on Amazon, but I think Etsy is 100% the way to go for this type of gift. There are so many small businesses focused on selling bookish merchandise. I even have my own bookish Etsy shop, BlackheartBookshelf!


Belladaonna By Adalyn Grace
I couldn’t create a gift guide without mentioning this book! If you’re looking for a fantasy that leans more toward romantasy as the series progresses, this is the one to go for. I think this series works for both new and longtime fantasy readers. And don’t worry about it being YA—it feels much closer to New Adult. You can gift the entire series or just the first book, depending on your budget.
Related Post: Belladaonna | Book Review


The Hunger Games: Illustrated Edition By Suzanne Collins
This series is timeless, and everyone should read it! I loved how well-written it was, and Katniss is such an incredible protagonist. It’s a dystopian fantasy that’s action-packed and light on romance, making it a great pick for a variety of readers.


Winter Books
This is more of a broad recommendation. I wouldn’t necessarily suggest a holiday-themed book—especially if the recipient isn’t into feel-good, Hallmark-style romances. A winter-themed book is a great alternative. One option is ‘One Day in December‘ by Josie Silver. I’ll be honest—I didn’t personally enjoy it. However, I think that’s more of a “me” problem, as I can see many readers loving it. What I did enjoy was the writing style—it kept me hooked even when I wasn’t into the story itself, which makes it a solid gift choice.
Related Post: One Day In December | Book Review


Let me know if you enjoyed this bookish gift guide, and please share any other bookish gift ideas you might have in the comments. If you’d like, you can check out my Amazon book wishlist to see some of the books I’d love to receive this year. Don’t forget to follow the blog before you go!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Happy Holidays | Bookmas 2024

Hi Friends,
I’m excited to announce Bookmas 2024! I’ve participated in this fun blogging challenge for the past two years. So, this will be my third year of creating Bookmas content. Starting December 1st, you’ll get a new blog post from me every day for the next 24 days!

The tradition of Bookmas started on YouTube and, from what I know, was created by the BookTuber Hailey in Bookland. Over time, many bookish creators have joined in and put their own spin on it. I’d love it if you left me some post suggestions in the comments below—I always enjoy creating content my readers request!

Before you go, don’t forget to hit the follow button so you never miss a Bookmas post. You can also share this post with other book lovers and follow my Facebook page, where I post updates whenever new content is live.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Stuff Your Kindle | November 2024

Hi Friends,
Today, I’m excited to share all the November Stuff Your Kindle days—or at least all the ones I could find. These events offer a fantastic way to support indie authors while discovering some great new reads for free. Save the graphic below so you can easily reference it throughout the month and make sure you don’t miss any of these events.

Which day are you most excited for? Personally, as an audiobook lover, I can’t wait for the Stuff Your Earbuds event. And if you don’t have a Kindle or use the Kindle app, no worries—during the event, you can usually download the books to Apple Books, Nook, Kobo, and BookFunnel as well. Don’t forget to like this post and share it with fellow readers! And before you go, show some love for my blog by giving it a follow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

All Hallows | Book Tag

Hi Friends,
Today, I’m doing the All Hallows Book Tag, created by Quirinus on Twitter. This tag has two parts, a bookish ‘this or that’ template and some bookish and non-bookish Halloween-related questions. In this post, I’ll only be answering the questions. However, if you’d like to see my ‘this or that’ answers, visit my Instagram or TikTok accounts.



My favorite genre to read during the spooky season is definitely witchy or magic books. I love reading books with magical elements all year round, but I think witchy books really put you in the spooky season mood.
Related Post: The Kiss Curse | Book Review



I definitely recommend thrillers and mysteries for the fall season. One of my favorites is Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney. I can’t believe how long it took me to read this book, but it’s such a good, twisty adult thriller.
Related Post: Daisy Darker | Book Review



I have so many books that I love reading during the spooky season, but one of my most anticipated reads has to be The Very Secret Society Of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna. I’ve been wanting to read this book for years, and I hear it’s such a cute witchy romcom.



Yes, 100%! Honestly, my family is completely convinced that my childhood home is haunted. There have been way too many weird and paranormal occurrences there throughout my upbringing to ignore. We could all be totally delusional, but I, for one, completely believe in ghosts.



Of course, I love classic Halloween movies like Hocus Pocus and Halloweentown. But every Halloween night, my husband and I watch Corpse Bride. It’s one of our favorite movies, and since it’s about a wedding, it makes it even more special because we got married on Halloween.



As I just mentioned, I got married on Halloween, so not only is it a holiday, but it’s also my anniversary. My husband and I typically celebrate at home by watching Halloween movies and, of course, some of The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror episodes. We always have pizza and the same cake every year.


I hope you enjoyed seeing my answers to these questions! Let me know your own answers in the comments below. Don’t forget to check out my Instagram or TikTok for the ‘this or that’ portion of this tag. I’ll also have a blank ‘this or that’ template in my Instagram story for you to use. If you love book tags and all other book content, please hit the follow button so you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Horror | 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards

Hi Friends,
I am back with my final 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards predictions. This time around, I am giving my predictions for the horror category. I have just started reading horror books this year, so I don’t have many predictions for this category, which is why I only have five books on this list. Still, I am pretty confident that some of these books, if not all, will be nominated.


We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer
This book has been one of the most talked about and raved about horror books released this year. However, I was shocked to discover that its Goodreads rating wasn’t as high as you’d expect from a super hyped book. I do predict that this will be nominated, and I could see it winning the award depending on how many bookish creators that I follow vote.


Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman
This book has recently been getting a lot of buzz, and its rating is past the 3.5 minimum for the awards. I don’t know much about the plot, but I have heard that it is pretty scary. A lot of reviews have said that it has a Paranormal Activity feel to it, which does sound very interesting. I don’t believe that this will win or have a shot at making it into the top 10, but I could see it getting a nomination.


The Eyes Are the Best Part by Monika Kim
I don’t know what is going on with horror books these days, but this is another fairly popular book with a Goodreads rating that is under 4.0. However, the cover of this book always creeps me out, and I love it! I know nothing about the story, but it has been all over the book side of social media. A lot of people are recommending this book and talking about what a roller-coaster ride it is.


Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle
This is a very highly rated horror book that came out this year, so I think it has a good chance of being nominated. I am curious to give it a read since I actually don’t know anyone who has read it. I hear that it mixes horror with comedy, which is a pretty interesting take on the genre.


So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison
This book has a 3.63 rating on Goodreads, so there is still a possibility of it being a choice in the horror category. However, I am sure there are more 2024 horror books with better ratings that I have yet to hear about. My gut is telling me that, with Rachel Harrison being a well-known and somewhat popular horror author, it will snag a nomination.


I know that compared to my other Goodreads Choice Awards predictions, this one was quite short, but that is because it was hard to pick my predictions. Not only have I not read any of these books—I know, I’m ashamed—but some of the books I thought would be nominated had ratings that were too low. In the comments, let me know if you have read any of these books. And if you enjoy content like this, give my blog a follow so that you never miss a post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

My Dream Book Haul | Amazon BOGO Edition

Hi Friends,
Amazon is currently offering a buy-one, get-one 50% off deal on select books. I always try to take advantage of a good book sale, but I’m on a small book-buying ban at the moment. So, instead, I thought I’d share the books I would get if I were shopping the sale.


Buy The Book

The Women by Kristin Hannah
I haven’t read a Kristin Hannah book yet, as historical fiction isn’t necessarily a genre I gravitate toward. But I’ve heard wonderful things about her writing, and so much praise surrounds this novel in particular. The plot follows the journey of an Army Nurse in 1965. I can tell that this will be an impactful story. Fun fact about me, I love nursing and think it’s one of the most incredible careers.


Buy The Book

The Wedding People by Alison Espach
This book is known to be an emotional read, with a few trigger warnings, one being for miscarriage. As someone currently going through fertility challenges, I may not be emotionally ready for it right now, but I’ve heard it’s a beautifully written story. Although I don’t often read literary fiction, I think this one would be something I’d enjoy. Plus, the cover is gorgeous.


Buy The Book

Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz
If you know my reading taste, you’ll know I’m usually not a nonfiction girl. However, as a huge fan of One Tree Hill—where Bethany Joy Lenz played Haley James Scott—this memoir is definitely tempting. The show was a big part of my teens, so I’d love to support her by reading it. I’ll just have to overlook the controversy surrounding the book.


Buy The Book

Spectacular by Stephanie Garber
This is a holiday book set in the Caraval world. I don’t know much about the plot, except that it once again follows sisters Scarlett and Tella. I loved the Caraval trilogy, so reading another book with these characters at Christmastime sounds perfect.
Related Post: Caraval | Book Review


Buy The Book

Bloodguard by Cecy Robson
This book has the most beautiful sprayed edges, and it’s about gladiators! The plot sounds incredibly unique, with a deadly tournament and a tortured male lead. Plus, it features an enemies-to-lovers romance, a trope I adore (and probably most romance readers do too).


Buy The Book

The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen
This is a mythology-based romantasy retelling that’s been getting a lot of buzz. It’s said to be super fast-paced, with excellent writing and an amazing romance. This book has blown up in the book community, and I’m excited to see if it lives up to the hype.


Buy The Book

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
I’ve never seriously considered diving into the Sarah J. Maas world, mainly because her series are so long and I’m unsure if the plots would interest me. However, I think I’d like to try her books, and what better time to get them than on sale? Throne of Glass seems like the right place to start, so I’d be tempted to pick it up for 50% off.


These are the six books I’d pick up if I were shopping the current Amazon book sale. If you’re not on a book-buying ban, I highly recommend checking them out and maybe adding a few to your cart. Don’t forget to like and share this post, and hit that follow button—your support really helps the blog reach other readers!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Romantasy | 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards

Hi Friends,
We’re talking about the 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards again! This time, I’m sharing my predictions for the romantasy category. I’m officially in my romantasy era, so I had a lot of fun picking out five books that I feel confident will be nominated. For many, voting in this category will be tough!


Bride by Ali Hazelwood
People seem to have mixed opinions on whether this is actually a romantasy or paranormal romance. However, since it’s tagged as fantasy romance on Goodreads, it’s safe to say that if it gets nominated, it will fall under the romantasy category. Currently, it has about a 4.0 rating on Goodreads, and Ali Hazelwood is a very popular author. That said, it seems to be one of those books you either love or hate, so while I expect it to be nominated, I don’t see it winning.


A Fate Inked In Blood by Danielle L. Jensen
This book was widely talked about when it came out earlier this year and received great reviews. Although it only has a 3.97 rating on Goodreads, I think it has the potential to be nominated due to all the attention it received. I’m not sure how it will fare compared to other romantasies that will be nominated, but I’m positive we’ll see this as one of the choices in the romantasy category.


Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli
This is a book I can’t wait to read and definitely see making it to the top ten of the awards. It has a solid rating, and most of the reviews are positive. I’ve been dying to read it since I’ve heard nothing but good things about it. I know it’s a witch and witch hunter story, which is a plot that many readers, including myself, tend to really enjoy.


When The Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker
This book has been all over the bookish side of TikTok and Instagram. It wasn’t on my radar before all the hype, but now it’s at the top of my must-read list! I could see this book winning the romantasy category, but I’m not 100% confident that it will be the winner. There have been a lot of good fantasy romances released, but this one is extremely popular, which makes it a strong contender.


The Ashes & The Star-Cursed King by Carissa Broadbent
This is the sequel to ‘The Serpent & The Wings of Night’, a book I loved! I can almost guarantee it will be nominated, and if it isn’t, I’ll be so upset. This romantasy series has become incredibly popular and well-loved. I haven’t read this book yet, but I really need to because I predict it will probably make it into the top 5 in the romantasy category.
Related Post: The Serpent and the Wings of Night | Book Review


There you have my predictions for the romantasy category of the 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards! Please leave your predictions in the comments below and let me know your favorite romantasy reads of 2024. Don’t forget, you can read some of these books on Everand [Here]. Before you go, hit the follow button so you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Mystery & Thriller | 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards

Hi Friends,
It’s almost time for the 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards, so I thought it would be fun to share my predictions for certain categories. I might have more predictions in some categories than others, depending on how often I read that genre. In this post, I’ll discuss the mystery and thriller category and talk about ten books I think will be nominated. Please keep in mind that a book needs a Goodreads rating of at least 3.5 to be nominated for the Goodreads Choice Awards.


First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
This 2024 mystery thriller release surprised everyone. While it leans more toward mystery and suspense, it still fits within the mystery and thriller category according to Goodreads. With a solid rating and overwhelmingly positive reviews, I expect it to receive a nomination.
Related Post: First Lie Wins | Book Review


The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley
Lucy Foley has not only been nominated before but also won in 2020 with her book ‘The Guest List’. However, this book hasn’t generated much discussion, and I haven’t heard many opinions about it. Still, considering she’s a past winner, I don’t see her getting left out as a nominee. However, I don’t think it will win or make it into the top 10.
Related Post: The Guest List | Book Review


Middle of the Night by Riley Sager
I’ll be shocked if Riley Sager’s newest book isn’t nominated or doesn’t make it into the top 5. He’s pretty much a staple in the mystery thriller genre, and I believe he’s received nominations for almost every new release. While this book didn’t receive as much hype as some of his previous ones, its average rating is decent enough for a nomination.


The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak
This is probably just wishful thinking on my part because I loved ‘Hidden Pictures’ by this author, which won the horror category in 2022. I have high hopes for his latest book to be nominated. I’m placing it in the mystery and thriller category since Goodreads lists thriller as the primary genre, but it could just as easily fit into the horror category.
Related Post: Hidden Pictures | Book Review


The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden
I have no doubt that this book will be nominated. Honestly, I predict that multiple Freida books may receive nominations, as they did last year. However, I hope that doesn’t happen again, since nominating only one book per author would give other writers a better chance of winning. Still, given the popularity of the Housemaid books, I see this as an automatic nominee.
Related Post: The Housemaid | Book Review



Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
This book was one of the most hyped mystery thrillers of the past year. I haven’t read it yet, which is a bit disappointing, but I’ve heard the story and twists are amazing. I’m pretty sure it gained popularity with the help of Bookstagram and is still being recommended frequently. So, if they select books based on ratings and popularity, it will most likely be a contender in the mystery and thriller category.


The Night We Lost Him by Laura Dave
This book released in September, and while the ratings aren’t incredibly strong, they’re still good enough for a nomination. Given that her book ‘The Last Thing He Told Me’ won in the mystery and thriller category, I don’t think she’ll get snubbed this year. However, I don’t predict a win, as this book has been overshadowed by other 2024 releases.


We Solve Murders by Richard Osman
I haven’t seen much buzz about this book, but it has a fairly high rating. Plus, Richard Osman has a solid fanbase and has received nominations in the past. His book ‘The Last Devil to Die’ placed fourth in the mystery and thriller category in 2023, but that was the last book in a series. Since this is the first book in a new mystery series, it could give him a better chance of winning.


The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This book could be a strong contender for the mystery and thriller category this year. Not only does it have over a 4.20 rating on Goodreads, but I also haven’t seen many reviews below 4 stars. While I don’t know much about the plot, it seems to lean more toward the mystery and fiction side of things. Liz Moore received a Goodreads Choice Award nomination in 2020 and made it into the top 10 that year.


Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth
TThis might be the underdog of my predictions. Sally Hepworth is a successful mystery and thriller author, but she doesn’t get much attention in the book community. I was surprised to learn she’s only been nominated once for the Goodreads Choice Awards, back in 2019, despite her books having decent ratings. I’ve heard great things about this one and have been wanting to read it. I’d be pleasantly surprised to see it nominated.


And that wraps up my predictions for the Mystery and Thriller category on Goodreads. In the comments, let me know if you agree or disagree with my predictions, and feel free to share any books you think will be nominated. I’m unsure how many of these books are available on Everand, but you can get a free trial using my link [here]. Don’t forget to share this post with others and hit the like button as well. If you love bookish content, follow the blog so you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

5 October Reads | Book Recommendations

Hi Friends,
The spooky season is ending soon, so I thought it would be fun to share some books that I think would make great October reads. I’ve put together a list of 5 books to recommend that will work for many different types of readers. I understand that not all of us enjoy thrillers and mysteries but still want a book to get us in the mood for the season.


House of Hollow By Krystal Sutherland
I think this is a great book for anyone who wants a tamer horror story. This book nails the creepy and mysterious elements, but since it’s a young adult book, it isn’t too scary.
Related Post: House Of Hollow | Book Review


Hidden Pictures By Jason Rekulak
This is one of my all-time favorite thrillers! If you love a suspenseful page-turner, you’ll enjoy this book. It has plenty of twists and turns and played out like a thriller movie in my head. Hopefully, we’ll get a screen adaptation one day.
Related Post: Hidden Pictures | Book Review


The Only One Left By Riley Sager
This book got me to jump on the Riley Sager bandwagon. The fact that it’s a Lizzie Borden retelling of sorts makes the plot even more intriguing. I found the story captivating, thrilling, and the twists were really good.
Related Post: The Only One Left | Book Review


How To Survive Your Murder By Danielle Valentine
This book isn’t the most complex plot, and some might find it over the top and a little far-fetched. However, I loved it! It’s a classic teen slasher with a twist. The book is set on Halloween, which makes it perfect for October, and the ending was wild.
Related Post: How To Survive Your Murder | Book Review


The Ex Hex By Erin Sterling
I found this to be a cute, witchy romcom! It kind of has a Good Witch feel to it, which I found quite fun. I’m not the biggest fan of second-chance romances, but I think this book really embraces Halloween vibes. If you’re someone who only reads romances, this is a great fall book option.
Related Post: The Ex Hex | Book Review


In the comments, leave me some fall book recommendations. You can find all of these books in my Amazon storefront! And don’t forget to use my link [Here] to sign up for a free trial of the audiobook and ebook service Everand, so you can read some of these books. Are you a fan of book recommendations? Let me know by giving this post a like and following the blog.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Gilmore Girls 2024 Readathon | Days 9 & 10 Highlights

Hi Friends,
I’m back with my updates for days 9 and 10 of the Gilmore Girls readathon! We’re well past the one-week mark, and it’s crazy to think there are only a few days left in the readathon.


Day 9: October 15, 2024

Morning Update: This morning was pretty boring. I had a cup of coffee and then decided to do some blog work. As far as reading goes, I didn’t do much. I was focused on getting my ‘Days 7 & 8 Highlights’ post up.

Afternoon Update: I pre-filmed a couple of BookTok videos, and afterward, I worked out. Other than that, I didn’t do much and wasn’t really in the mood to read.

Evening Wrap-Up: I decided to finish reading ‘The Pumpkin Spice Café‘ before my husband and I watched a Halloween movie. It was a quick read, and I probably could have finished it in a day if I’d really tried. I ended the night with some hot chocolate while watching Halloweentown 2.


Day 10: October 16, 2024

Morning Update: I didn’t have the best night’s sleep and woke up around 3 a.m., which seems to be a trend for me these days. On the bright side, I had a yummy big breakfast and enjoyed a cup of peppermint coffee.

Afternoon Update: I needed to reorganize my bookshelves and decided to start my next read. I picked ‘Mistletoe Season‘, a collection of three holiday short stories. They’re all set around Christmas, so they fit the prompt of “a book set in my favorite season.” If you couldn’t already guess, my favorite season is winter.

Evening Wrap-Up: I had a pretty crazy night—let’s just say life with pets is never easy! I ended the evening with some more reading and made it through 70% of the book. The stories are really cute and quick reads.


I hope you’re enjoying these updates. Please feel free to share this post with other readers and give it a like as well. Don’t forget that following the blog really helps it grow, so please consider clicking the follow button before you go.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny