Book Review

March 8, 2022May 28, 2022 - Bunny 2 Comments

Author: Mikki Daughtry and Rachael Lippincott
Published: 2020
Genre: Young Adult/Romance/Mental Health
Rating:

Synopsis
Kyle and Kimberly have been the perfect couple all through high school, but when Kimberly breaks up with him on the night of their graduation party, Kyle’s entire world upends – literally. Their car crashes and when he awakes, he has a brain injury. Kimberly is dead. And no one in his life could possibly understand. Until Marley. Marley is suffering from her own loss, a loss she thinks was her fault. As Kyle and Marley work to heal each other’s wounds, their feelings for each other grow stronger. But Kyle can’t shake the sense that he’s headed for another crashing moment that will blow up his life as soon as he’s started to put it back together. And he’s right.

I was very excited to read this book, since I was a huge fan of ‘Five Feet Apart’ by this author duo. The only thing I knew about this story was that it was going to be a hard-hitting contemporary. Or so I thought. The story has a very interesting concept, with a few twist and turns.

The plot is less about death and grief, more about life and healing. One of the most interesting factors was that for the first half of the book, you think you are reading one story, but the second half is a completely different story.

The twists were somewhat shocking, but I figured out one of them pretty early. For me, that isn’t necessarily a con, but I know some people would prefer more of a surprise.

“That’s the first thing you said to me, remember? Once upon a time.”

I thought that I was going to bawl my eyes out, as I did with ‘Five Feet Apart’, but that wasn’t the case. I’m not going to say that the book wasn’t touching. Still, I didn’t find it too hard-hitting. In my opinion, if you aren’t into heartbreaking books, then you should be safe reading this one.

The ending was nice, and wrapped up the story well. We should always remember the ones we love, and how they made us feel. Keep their memory alive in our hearts. But there does come a point when the grieving should end. We shouldn’t let loss consume us.

The writing was great. I find the authors to be great storytellers, and I will for sure be picking up more of their books. Let me know in the comments if you have read, or are planning on reading, this book. You can always follow the blog, which really helps it to grow!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Radio Silence // 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

Late To The Party // Book Review

February 23, 2022May 28, 2022 - Bunny 1 Comment

Author: Kelly Quindlen
Published: 2020
Genre: Young Adult/Contemporary
Rating:

Synopsis
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.

This story is much more than your typical high-school set contemporary. It had a sense of realness to it that many young adult books fail to capture. The main character, Codi, was awkward and atypical. She didn’t go to parties, and had a small tight-knit group of friends. However, there were times that I found her to be a bit irritating and selfish, which does reflect some everyday teens. I found her treatment of her brother to be a tad unkind, but I do realize that some siblings don’t get along, and she was trying to find herself without the opinions of others.

Once Codi is accidentally introduced to high school parties, new friends, and teenage antics, she discovers a whole new side of herself. The book showcases that as teenagers, kids are still finding themselves, and no two people are alike. However, it is okay to put yourself out there and meet new people. This is a lesson that many of us forget as we grow into adulthood and find it harder to make friends.

There were so many different types of personalities that teenagers could easily relate too. Not everyone is outgoing and social. Some people are scared to share who they truly are with others. And, some of us are shy and introverts. Along with the mixed personalities, there was a lot of focus on different sexualities. There were bisexual, gay, straight, and sexually unsure characters. Codi was, in fact, a lesbian. So the book was very diverse in a lot ways.

The overall premise was enjoyable and entertaining, but boring at times. It was as if I was reading about the lives of daily teenagers. I mentioned that this gave the story a sense of relatability, but a bunch of teens’ everyday lives can only be entertaining to a point. However, I am an adult reader, which makes me not the target audience for the book.

“Saying what you’re afraid of makes you brave.”
The main con with the plot was how much focus these kids put on relationships. As someone that was home-schooled and very sheltered, I didn’t have my first dating experience until my twenties, so I can’t say for certain if teenagers are all about finding a relationship. Also, I found the negative outlook on meeting someone online and a Tumblr forged relationship hurtful.

True, one must be super cautious when talking to people online, and must go in a group when meeting anyone from the internet. But, I for one found my husband on Tumblr of all places. Best thing that has ever happened to me. So, I am kind of biased in that front. I was pleasantly surprised that a book published in twenty-twenty featured Tumblr, since it is kind of a forgotten about platform. Does anyone still have a Tumblr?

Overall, the story was cute, and something that a lot of teenagers could find comfort in. If you are a more mature reader, then the book probably isn’t for you. Although, it might bring you back to your teenage years, and give you the nostalgia feels. For me, it was just an okay read with a solid enough plot. Please let me know your thoughts on the book in the comments below. Also, what were you like as a teenager? If you enjoy my blog, then give it a follow to get notified about all my new posts.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

5 Star Predictions #3 // 2022

January 26, 2022January 26, 2022 - Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
I thought it was time to guess some 5 star reads. I picked 5 books that I believe will be highly rated books for me. All of the books are young adult books, because that is what I primarily read. Weirdly enough, my last five star predictions post included some 2022 releases. This time I will be including some 2022 releases as well as previously released books.

Tweet Cute by Emma Lord (January 2020)
I have seen mixed reviews on this book, but I have a feeling that I’d love it. It is a YA enemies-to-lovers that includes food and Twitter. You all know that I am a sucker for a cute YA contemporary.

The Mary Shelley Club by Goldy Moldavsky (April 2021)
Don’t know why I am predicting this to be five stars. If nothing else, it has to do with the fact that Mary Shelley interests me. The premise is very intriguing, and it is bound to have a lot of twists.

You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus (November 2021)
This is described as a dark ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’. Three friends’ ditch day turns scary, when things go fatally wrong. I am always in the mood for a good YA thriller, and Karen McManus books usually rank pretty high for me.

Places We’ve Never Been by Kasie West (May 2022)
This one might be a letdown, since West’s last book release, Sunkissed, was a big disappointment. Still, I normally always rate her books around 5 stars. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this will be another amazing book from her.

I Guess I Live Here Now by Claire Ahn (May 2022)
This one is giving me Katharine McGee’s ‘American Royals’ meets ‘The Princess Diaries’ vibes. This book takes places in Korea, and is a ‘found family’ story, which isn’t typically something I gravitate to. But I hear it includes a lot of family drama and hidden secrets, which is something I do love.

I am not sure how accurate these predictions will turn out to be, but I am hoping for the best. Check back for my reviews on each book (if I actually read them) to see my final rating and thoughts. Better yet, follow the blog to get post notifications.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Holiday Switch // Book Review

January 16, 2022May 28, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Title: The Holiday Switch
Author: Tif Marcelo
Published: 2021
Genre: YA/Contemporary/Holiday
Rating:

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

January 11, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

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

Books That Missed The Mark // 2021 Disappointments

January 5, 2022 - 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

To Be Read // January 2022

January 3, 2022May 28, 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

5 Star Predictions #2

December 22, 2021May 28, 2022 - Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
Today, I am doing a “5 Star Book Prediction” post. I have done one of these in the past, which didn’t go so well. Unfortunately, I only managed to read one book from that list, and it didn’t turn out to be a 5 star read, either. So, I don’t have high hopes that I will actually pick up any of these books. Still, it is a fun post to do. I decided to do a mix of older titles and 2022 book releases, since my TBRs include a mix of old and new books.

How to Break a Boy by Laurie Devore (2017)
Who doesn’t like a good fake-dating story? The plot reminds me of “If I’m Being Honest” by Austin Siegemund-Broka and Emily Wibberley, which I gave 5 stars. There is something real about somebody choosing to be a better version of themselves. Maybe this stems from my love of “A Christmas Carol”, but I usually enjoy that type of story. Also, the fake-dating aspect gives me even more reassurance that it will turn out to be a 5 star book.

Lovely War by Julie Berry (2019)
This one might be wishful thinking, because I am not 100% sure that it will get a 5 star rating from me. It is on the list for the sole reason that it is beloved by tons of readers. I want to be one of those readers. So, I am using the power of positivity to believe that I will love this book as much as other. The plot sounds amazing and unique, but historical fiction has never really been my thing. Here’s hoping this book changed my opinion of the genre.

All This Time by Mikki Daughtry, Rachael Lippincott (2020)
I predict that this book will be an automatic 5 star read for me. This year, I read “Five Feet Apart” by these two authors, and loved it. Honestly, that book broke me. The plot sounds heartbreaking, which I seem to be drawn to these days. And, it is my favorite genre, YA contemporary. I don’t think this book will let me down, so my expectations are set pretty high.

These Deadly Games by Diana Urban (2022)
This sounds like a horror/thriller movie that would give me the chills. If you know me and horror movies, then you know that making my skin crawl is pretty hard. The whole kidnapping and dangerous game plot is thrilling. I am going to bet that this will be a 5 star book that might even spook me a but.

No Filter and Other Lies by Crystal Maldonado (2022)
When I read the plot for this book my jaw dropped, and I want to read it like now. It is a mix of high school drama, social media, going viral and catfishing. I haven’t read anything similar, but I am betting that I am going to have a great time reading it. 5 star read? I think yes!

Practice Girl by Estelle Laure (2022)
This book reminds be a lot of “The Duff” by Kody Keplinger. I haven’t had the chance to read that book, but I am a big fan of the movie adaption. The book focuses on labeling people, and making them loose their self worth. It can be a form of bullying. I don’t read a ton of books where the characters push the boundaries of social norms, and that is something I need to work on. Still, I am almost certain that this book will get a 5 star rating from me. However, I could be projecting my love of the film version of “The Duff” on to the book. Let’s hope that’s not the case

That is going to be it for my 5 star predictions. While writing this post, I realize that it is harder than you think to foreseen a books rating. Especially, when one has been disappointment by many books that seemed like 5 star reads. Anyhow, I am thinking good thoughts and know that there will be more 5 star reads in 2022. Give me a like, share and follow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny