November Wrap Up 2015

This year has flown by. I am shocked November is over. And that it's December. Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know I did. Even though I failed at NaNoWriMo. I did however read some pretty awesome books. Without further distractions. Here's a look back at what I read in November.

November Wrap Up 2015

1. Blood Bound by Rachel Vincent 5/5 stars 463 pages
2. Reckless in Love by Bella Andre and Jennifer Skully 5/5 stars 400 pages
3. Shadow Bound by Rachel Vincent 5/5 stars 439 pages
4. November 9 by Colleen Hoover 5/5 stars 307 pages
5. Oath Bound by Rachel Vincent 5/5 stars 432 pages
6. Petals on the Wind by V.C. Andrews 5/5 stars 439 pages

I think my favorite book of the month was the Unbound trilogy by Rachel Vincent. It was different from anything I've read before.

Total number of pages: 2, 480
Series completed: 1

I am so glad I read six books in November!! What did you read in November? Did you read any of the books I mentioned? Let me know!!
Happy Reading, Ashley

September and October Wrap-Ups

Fall is a wonderful time to huddle inside to read.

September:

1. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling 5/5 stars (re-read)
2. Bared to You by Syliva Day 3/5 stars
3. The Copper Gauntlet by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare 4/5 stars
4. The Accident Season by Moria Fowley-Doyle 2/5 stars
5. Deviant by Callie Hart 3/5 stars
6. Dave the Brave Sawfish by Nirit Littaney 4/5 stars
7. The Lost Girl by R.L. Stine 5/5 stars


October:

1. Halloween Is.... by Gail Gibbons 5/5 stars
2. Mean Streak by Sandra Brown 5/5 stars
3. Attachments by Rainbow Rowell 5/5 stars
4. Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas 5/5 stars
5. The New Girl by R.L. Stine 5/5 stars
6. Under the hill by Sheila Connolly 3/5 stars
7. Halloween Stories for kids by Arnie Lightning 3/5 stars

July/ August Wrap Up 2015

Here is a look back at the books I read in July as well as my rating.

1. Revenge Volume #3 by JJ Knight 3/5 stars
2. Revenge Volume #4 by JJ Knight 3/5 stars
3. Revenge Volume #5 by JJ Knight 4/5 stars
4. Dark Places by Gillian Flynn 4/5 stars
5. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling 5/5 stars (re-read)
6. Blue Shoes Volume 1 by JJ Knight 3/5 stars
7. Mitosis by Brandon Sanderson 5/5 stars
8. Mosquitoland by David Arnold
9. Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant by Tony Cliff 4/5 stars
10. The Heart of Betrayal by Mary E. Pearson 4/5 stars
11. Impulse by Ellen Hopkins 5/5 stars
12. Zigi the Alien and the Stinky Socks by Nirit Littaney 3/5 stars

A look back at what I read in August:

1. Werewolf Skin by R.L. Stine 5/5 stars
2. Armanda by Ernest Cline 5/5 stars
3. The Waltz by Angelica Chase 3/5 stars
4. The Tango by Angelica Chase 4/5 stars
5. Possess by Gretchen McNeil 5/5 stars
6. My Favorite Mistake by Chelesa M. Cameron 5/5 stars
7. Grey by E.L. James 5/5 stars
8. End of Days by Susan Ee 5/5 stars

June Wrap-Up 2015

Here is a look back at the books I read in June. I'm surprised by how much I read. Hoping to read even more in July.

1. The Heir by Kiera Cass 3/5 stars 342 pages (kindle)
2. Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour 5/5 stars 307  pages
Writing was just beautiful
3. Morning Glories Volume One: For A Better Future by Nick Spencer 2/5 stars 188 pages
Honestly I was lost in trying to understand what was going on. I feel like I wasted time by reading this.
4. Breathless in Love by Bella Andre and Jennifer Skully 5/5 stars 400 pages (kindle)
5. Firefight by Brandon Sanderson 5/5 stars 416 pages
6. Stepbrother Anonymous by Jenn Marlow 3/5 stars 44 pages (kindle)
7. Daimon by Jennifer L. Armentrout 5/5 stars 89 pages (kindle) (re-read)
8. Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn 3.75/5 stars 254 pages
9. Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover 5/5 stars 322pages (kindle)
10. Revenge Volume 2 by J.J.  Knight 4/5  stars 150 pages (kindle  )
Total  number of  books:10
Total number of pages:2,468
Series finished: 0
Favorite book of the month: Everything Leads to You, this book was lovely!! I'm so glad I borrowed it from the library.

Well that's my June Wrap-Up. Let me know what  you read in June. Did you read any of the books I mentioned. If so you agree or disagree with my ratings?

Happy Reading, Ashley

Catching Up

I'm slowly catching up on the books I haven't posted a review for. There are some I don't think I'll post a review for. However if in any of my Wrap Ups for the year there is a title you'd like to see a review for please let me know.

I'd love to hear your input. Thank you for reading my reviews and anything else I post on this blog. I know I'm not the most dedicated blogger. I know in the past I've promised to do better and fallen flat. I still feel so unsure of my blog and reviews. I don't think I'm the best at this. But I do want to do better in the future.

Again I'd love to hear your input. Please leave me a comment. You can email me at booksarediamonds@yahoo.com if that would be easier.

Happy Reading, Ashley.

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas
Released: September 2nd, 2014
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children
Series: Throne of Glass, Book Three
Page Amount: 562, US hardcover edition
Source: own


"She was the heir of ash and fire, and she would bow to no one.

Celaena Sardothien has survived deadly contests and shattering heartbreak—but at an unspeakable cost. Now she must travel to a new land to confront her darkest truth...a truth about her heritage that could change her life—and her future—forever.

Meanwhile, brutal and monstrous forces are gathering on the horizon, intent on enslaving her world. To defeat them, Celaena must find the strength to not only fight her inner demons but to battle the evil that is about to be unleashed.

The king's assassin takes on an even greater destiny and burns brighter than ever before in this follow-up to the New York Times bestselling Crown of Midnight."
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
How do I begin my review? This was amazing and just I can't even form words right now. All I can is Sarah you did it again. I loved everything about Heir of Fire.

I'm in desperate need for Queen of Shadows. Can I have the book now?

I know my review is short. But it's so hard reviewing a third book in a series without giving everything away. If you loved the first and second books in this series. You must read this installment.
5/5 stars Happy Reading, Ashley.
 

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Released: August 27th, 2013 (first released January 1st, 2013)
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children
Series: Throne of Glass, Book Two
Page Amount: 418, US hardcover edition
Source: own

"A line that should never be crossed is about to be breached.

It puts this entire castle in jeopardy—and the life of your friend."

From the throne of glass rules a king with a fist of iron and a soul as black as pitch. Assassin Celaena Sardothien won a brutal contest to become his Champion. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown. She hides her secret vigilantly; she knows that the man she serves is bent on evil.

Keeping up the deadly charade becomes increasingly difficult when Celaena realizes she is not the only one seeking justice. As she tries to untangle the mysteries buried deep within the glass castle, her closest relationships suffer. It seems no one is above questioning her allegiances—not the Crown Prince Dorian; not Chaol, the Captain of the Guard; not even her best friend, Nehemia, a foreign princess with a rebel heart.

Then one terrible night, the secrets they have all been keeping lead to an unspeakable tragedy. As Celaena's world shatters, she will be forced to give up the very thing most precious to her and decide once and for all where her true loyalties lie... and whom she is ultimately willing to fight for. "
-Information from Goodreads.com


My Thoughts:
How do I began on my love for this book? Throne of Glass was amazing so how the sequel even better? Crown of Midnight blew my mind and the ending makes me crave Heir of Fire NOW!!!!

Although I sorta had a guess about something in regards to Celesana. I am even more enchanted by this medieval fantasy series then before. I loved the new characters we met and saddened by the loss of others.

Sarah J. Maas is becoming one of my favorite authors. Can't wait to see where the series goes next.

5/5 stars, to be honest all the stars and more!!!

Happy Reading, Ashley.

Reread in February 2015
Just as amazing as the first time round. I'm excited to have everything refreshed in my mind for Heir of Fire.

Breathless In Love by Bella Andre and Jennifer Skully

Breathless in Love by Bella Andre and Jennifer Skully
Released: June 10th, 2015
Publisher: Maverick Oak Press, LLC
Series: Maverick Billonaires, Book One
Page Amount:400 kindle edition
Source: Publisher

"Will Franconi has a dark past that he’s kept a closely guarded secret―very few people have ever heard his real story and he plans to keep it that way. After surviving a hellish childhood, he’s now living the dream life where everything he touches turns to gold. But something’s missing. He doesn’t quite know what until a simple letter from a teenage boy brings Harper Newman into his life. A woman who just might fill up the empty places inside him…if only he could ever be worthy of her love.

When a man has more money than he could possibly spend in five lifetimes, Harper has to ask herself what Will Franconi could possibly want from a woman like her? She’s learned the hard way that rich men always get what they want no matter the cost. If it was just herself she had to worry about, Harper would manage, but she’s guardian to her younger brother who depends on her for everything. After nearly losing his life in a car crash, she’s vowed never to let anyone hurt him ever again.

Still, sometimes Harper can’t help but long to change her story from one of an always-cautious woman to an adventurous tale of a heroine who’s wild and free…especially when Will’s kisses and caresses make her utterly breathless. And as he begins to reveal his story to her, she discovers that he’s so much more than just another wealthy, privileged man. He’s kind and giving, and he fills up all the spaces inside of her heart that have been empty for so long. Together, can they rewrite their stories into a happily-ever-after that neither of them had previously thought was possible?"
-Information from Goodreads.com


My Thoughts:
Will and Harper meet when her younger brother Jeremy writes to Will. Wanting to see vast car collection. Becoming fast friends with him and spending more time with Harper. Will longs to become a part of their little family. When Will and Harper slowly become a couple they are faced with some challenges along the way. When something bad occurs will it make or break them? You will Have to read to see where things go for them.

I've read a few books by Bella Andre and she is quickly becoming a new favorite romance write of mine. I've never read or heard of Jennifer Skully but I do want to read more of her novels in the future. I was so happy to be able to read and review their new book. I'm looking forward to Reckless in Love which is set to come out November 11th, 2015.

I recommend this to anyone who loves a bad boy that has a very good side to him. Fast cars, family, and love.

I'd give this more stars if I could. 5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley.

May Wrap Up 2015

Another month has come and gone. Although I didn't read everything I had planned for my TBR. I'm still happy with what I did read. I had unexpected surgery for my cat come up. Nothing serious just had Bam get fixed. So I took care of him. He's all healed and back to his normal self again.

Anyways you're hear to see what I read and my thoughts. I will say I managed to finish my Goodreads Reading Challenge for the year. 5 months into 2015 and I've read 41 books. My challenge was set to 40.

May Wrap Up 2015:

1. I Was Here by Gayle Forman 5/5 stars pages:288

2. The Iron King by Julie Kagawa 5/5 stars pages:368 (reread)

3. Revenge Volume One by J.J. Knight 3/5 stars pages:166

4. That Night With My Boss by J.S. Cooper and Helen Cooper 4/5 stars pages:44

5.A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas 5/5 stars pages:432

My favorite book for 2015!!!!!

6. Rogue by Julie Kagawa 5/5 stars pages:460

7. My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One Night Stands by Chelsea Handler 5/5 stars pages:230
8. The Walking Dead: Volume One Days Gone Bye by Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore 5/5 stars pages:144

Total number of books:8
Total number of pages:2,132

May TBR 2015

May should be a good reading month for me. I'm participating in two readathons. So here is what I'm hoping to get through / want to read right now.

May 4th - 10th is #ayearthon this month's theme is reread month

The Iron King by Julia Kagawa (currently reading about 35% done)

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling 

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Maybes:

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

Winter's Passage by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

Summer's Crossing by Julie Kagawa

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

May 11th-17th is Bout of Books 13.0

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas (I need this NOW)

Some Like it Hot by Louisa Edwards

The World Before Us by Aislinn Hunter (review)

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare

The Iron Prophecy by Julie Kagawa

The Lost Prince by Julie Kagawa

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

If I can read all that I'd be happy. Super excited for A Court of Thorns and Roses, my parents were nice enough to preorder it for my birthday back in January. What book are you excited to read in May?

Happy Reading, Ashley!!

April Wrap Up 2015

Here's an overview of the books I've read in April. With a little bit of my thoughts.

Beastkeeper by Cat Hellisen 5/5 stars 208 pages
A Beauty and the Beast retelling. I loved the story, it was beautiful and magical. Beauty and the Beast is my favorite Disney movie. I've never read the original tale yet.

Don't Stay Up Late by R.L. Stine 5/5 stars  304 pages
Being a child of the 90s, and owning most of the Goosebumps series. R. L. Stine is the kind of scary I can read without the nightmares. I loved this one. It's a new Fear Street novel.

Endlessly by Kiersten White 5/5 stars  385 pages
The third and final installment to the Paranormalcy trilogy. I've come to love everything about these books and Evie. Sad that I finished this trilogy but happy at the same time

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater 5/5 stars 416 pages
Booktube is why I picked up The Raven Boys. That being said, hearing how confusing the first 100 pages is. I was worried but I wasn't confused at all.

Seraphina by Rachel Hartman 5/5 stars 499 pages (re-read)
A reread for me.

Shadow Scale by Rachel Hartman 5/5 stars 608 pages
The sequel and conclusion to this dulogy. Oh the feels. I'm sad it's over. I wish there could be 5 or 10 years down the road just to see where the characters to see where they are.

The Dream Thieves 4/5 stars 439 pages

Harry Potter and the Sorecerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (re-read) 5/5 stars 310 pages
Half listen to the audio narrated by Jim Dale and read the last few chapters.

The Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room by Stan and Jan Berenstain 5/5 stars 32 pages
Childhood memories

A Light In the Attic by Shel Sliverstein 5/5 stars 176 pages (re-read)
Read this during the Deweys 24 hour readathon.

Total number of books: 11
Total number of pages: 3,377
Series finished: 2

Only have seven books to go for my Goodreads challenge.
That is all for April. What books did you read in April? Did you want or already have read the books I mentioned. Let me know!!!
Happy Reading, Ashley.

Bout of Books 13.0

This is my official post for participating in the Bout of Books 13.0.

The Bout of Books read-a-thon is organized by Amanda @ On a Book Bender and Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal. It is a week long read-a-thon that begins 12:01am Monday, May 11th and runs through Sunday, May 17th in whatever time zone you are in. Bout of Books is low-pressure. There are challenges, giveaways, and a grand prize, but all of these are completely optional. For all Bout of Books 13 information and updates, be sure to visit the Bout of Books blog. - From the Bout of Books team

I will be posting my reading updates on here. As well as marking the book's I've read on my Goodreads account.

TBR:
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
The Iron Legends by Julie Kagawa
The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa
The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa
Summer's Crossing by Julie Kagawa
The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Updates:

Monday:

Number of pages I've read: 18 of The Iron Legends, 14 of A Court of Thorns and Roses

Total number of pages I've read: 32

Books: The Iron Legends, A Court of Thorns and Roses

Tuesday:

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Don't Stay Up Late by R.L. Stine

Don't Stay Up Late by R.L. Stine
Released: April 7th, 2015
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Series: Fear Street Relaunch, #2
Page Amount: 304, ebook edition
Source:NetGalley

"In the small town of Shadyside, don’t stay up late, because horrible things can happen...

 

Both day and night, Lisa Brooks is plagued with nightmares and hallucinations. Could they be caused by the horrifying accident that landed her in the hospital for weeks? When Lisa finds out that a neighbor is looking for a babysitter for her little boy, Lisa jumps at the chance to keep busy and take her mind off of her troubling thoughts. But then the murders start -- and her friends begin dying one by one. Are Lisa's nightmares coming true? Find out in the next installment of R.L. Stine's Fear Street series, Don't Stay Up Late."
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
R.L. Stine has always been one of my favorite authors since Goosebumps. So when I saw he was relaunching the Fear Street series I was excited. 

Don't Stay Up Late is classic R.L. Stine, with spooky creatures, crazy things happening at Shadyside, Fear Street. My heart raced was turning the pages to see what would happen next.

If you love R.L. Stine, I totally recommend this. Looking forward to what other stories are released in the Fear Street relaunch.

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review.

5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley.

Currently Reading (1)

Just wanted to share what I'm currently reading at the moment. For the weekend, most likely won't finish until Tuesday. Endlessley by Kiersten White which is the third and finale book to the Paranormalcy trilogy. I'm sad to be finishing this trilogy but happy at the same time. But I cannot for the life of me remember what happened in book two Supernaturally. I'm reading and they bring up events that happened.
Also reading on my kindle Don't Stay Up Late by R.L. Stine which I recieved from NetGalley. I'm really loving this. R.L. Stine is one of my childhood favortie authors. He's just creepy enough that I can read and not be freaked out. Stephen King he's to much for me. Which is odd considering R.L. Stine is said to be the children version of Stephen King.

Are any of you reading anything good over the weekend/holiday? Have you read or want to read the books I mentioned? Let me know in the comments. Don't Stay Up Late is set to be released on April 7th, 2015.

Happy Reading, Ashley

At Any Price by Brenna Aubrey

At Any Price by Brenna Aubrey
Released: December 3rd, 2013
Publisher: Silver Griffon Associates
Series: Gaming the System,#1
Page Amount: 298, Kindle Edition
Source:Kindle

"Achievement Unlocked: Geek Virgin

When Mia Strong, proud geek-girl and popular gaming blogger, auctions off her virginity online, she knows she'll make waves. But what she will not be making is a love connection. Her rules are set in stone: One night. No further contact.

It's a desperate step, but it's the only way she can go to medical school and pay her mother's mounting hospital bills.

Difficulty Level: Millionaire CEO 

Adam Drake, the enigmatic auction winner, is a software prodigy who made his first million at seventeen. Now, in his mid-twenties, he's sexy, driven and--as CEO of his own gaming company--he's used to making the rules. Before Mia knows what's happening, he's found the loophole in the rules of her auction. Every stipulation she's made to protect her heart gets tossed by the wayside.

She can't tell if he's playing her...or if he's playing for keeps.

This New Adult book is intended for readers over the age of 18 due to adult language, sexual content and adult situations. "
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
I picked this up on the recommendation from Misty from TheBookRat. To be honest it took a while for me to get into the plot. But once I was hooked, I started to care about Mia and Adam. How would their relationship play out?

I'm glad I read this and didn't just DNF it. I loved the geek references. I will read books two and three to see what becomes of Mia and Adam's relationship.

4/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley.

Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson

Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson
Released: September 24th, 2013 (first released January 1st, ,2013)
Publisher: Delacorte Books For Young Readers
Series: Reckoners,#1
Page Amount:384, Kindle Edition
Source:Overdrive library


"Ten years ago, Calamity came. It was a burst in the sky that gave ordinary men and women extraordinary powers. The awed public started calling them Epics.

But Epics are no friend of man. With incredible gifts came the desire to rule. And to rule man you must crush his wills. 

Nobody fights the Epics...nobody but the Reckoners. A shadowy group of ordinary humans, they spend their lives studying Epics, finding their weaknesses, and then assassinating them.

And David wants in. He wants Steelheart — the Epic who is said to be invincible. The Epic who killed David's father. For years, like the Reckoners, David's been studying, and planning—and he has something they need. Not an object, but an experience. 

He's seen Steelheart bleed. And he wants revenge."
-Information from Goodreads.com


My Thoughts:
This isn't just an anti hero story. There's so more than meets the eye. This is my introduction into Brandon Sanderson's writing. I truly loved every moment in Steelheart. The story and characters really make you cheer for good to win.

I'm so glad I gave Steelheart a chance. After all the hype surrounding this I wasn't sure I'd like it as much as everyone else. Brandon has a magical way of writing and keeps you second guessing all the way to the end.

I will pick up Firefight, which is the sequel as soon as I can.

5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley.

Library Haul

Yesterday I picked up 11 books I had on hold at the library. It's fitting since in 2 weeks will be National Library Week. I love going to the library. Libraries are the best additions to our communities. Visit one today, tomorrow, always. Check out one book or 20. Just keep the libraries alive!!!


Now onto the books I'm.excited to read:

Beastkeeper by Cat Hellisen
Beauty and Beast retelling, yes please. Currently reading this one. I'm loving it.
Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George
Another fairy tale retelling.
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
The Dream Thieves by Maggie Siefvater
Blue Lily, Lily Blue by Maggie Stiefvater
The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black
The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black
Firefight by Brandon Sanderson
Endlessly by Kiersten White
Seraphina by Rachel Hartman (reread)
Shadow Scale by Rachel Hartman

One of my reading goals for 2015 is to finish series. By reading the dulogy by Rachel Hartman that is one closed series. Endlessly is the third in the Paranormlacy. I've read nothing but good things about The Raven Boys series. Why not read all three to be read for the last one.

That is my library haul for April. Have you read any of these books? Do you want to read any of them?

Let me know your thoughts, Happy Reading, Ashley.

The Nightmare Before Christmas by Tim Burton

The Nightmare Before Christmas by Tim Burton
Released: August 6th, 2013 (first released September 1st, 1993)
Publisher: Disney Press
Page Amount: 56, US Hardcover edition
Source: Own

"In this beloved picture book that could only come from the visionary mind of author and illustrator TIM BURTON, we meet Jack Skellington-- a well-intentioned inhabitant of Halloweenland. Jack is bored of "the scaring, the terror, the fright....tired of being something that goes bump in the night." And so, in an effort to bring to joy to his town, Jack kidnaps Santa and takes his place as the jolly old elf. But instead of bringing joy to the world Jack, who is a little more than a grinning skeleton, brings fear by delivering creepy toys and riding a sleigh carried by skeletal reindeer. Only through a number of things going horribly wrong does Jack learn the true meaning of Christmas." -Goodreads.com



My Thoughts:

I adore this movie. Upon seeing this on Amazon and learning it was a children's story book I had to get it. I loved reading this charming, creepy book. It's everything I love in the movie. The illustrations are beautiful, Tim Burton is a very talented artist. I'm so happy to have this apart of my library. I think I'll be re-reading this at both Halloween and Christmas. 5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley.

March Wrap-Up 2015/ April TBR

March was a good reading month. I read 11 books. But for the last week I haven't picked up a single book. One of the books I read and have a review for has put me into a bit of a reading slump. But anyways here is a look back at what I did manage to get through.

1. Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James 4/5 stars (re-read)
I reread this because I had wanted to go see the movie. Although that hasn't happened just yet. All in do time.
2. Monster Blood by R.L. Stine 3/5 stars
I remember loving this as a kid. Now not so much. It's lost some of the magic for me. R.L. Stine is still one of my all time favorite authors and always will be!!
3. Red by Alyxandra Harvey 3.75/5 stars
I've never given a book a half stars rating before. However I was very confused with this novel and what was going on. I found myself not really caring about the characters. I have since found out this was a Red Riding Hood retelling. That information before reading Red would have been helpful.
4. Grim edited by Christine Johnson 5/5 stars
I wanted this book since learning about it last year. I loved the majority of the short stories only a few that were okay. But the book itself is beautiful
5. Oh, the Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss 4/5 stars
This was a free audiobook download through Random House on Facebook. I figured why not give it a listen to. Very inspiring for anyone both children and adults alike.
6. Something Great by M. Clarke 5/5 stars
New Adult, was free on Kindle. Might still be. It was light, a little serious, but what I needed. Sometimes you need the fluffy reads.
7. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard 5/5 stars
I'm going to be completely honest all of the hyper surrounding this book on Booktube. Made me a bit hesitant to pick it up. I'm glad I did though. I loved Mare. The plot twists were something I didn't see coming. Red Queen deserves all the love it's getting.
8.Girl of Nightmares by Kendare Blake 5/5 stars
Completed my first dulogy of the year!!! I loved every minute of this sequel to Anna Dressed in Blood. I wish there was one more book.
9. Confess by Colleen Hoover 5/5 stars
Another book getting hyped up on BookTube. Another new adult book. I loved the idea of the story. The confessions were a great addition. I'm looking for to the sequel November 9. The art work was stunning.
10. Grimms Complete Fairy Tales by Grimm Brothers 4/5 stars
It's great to see where the fairy tales came from. That Disney changed.
11. Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson 3/5 stars
This book isn't what I had hoped it would be. I do have a review posted if you want more of my thoughts. But after reading this I'm now in a reading slump.

April TBR
I'm not sure what I'll read in April. I have some books on hold at the library. Picking them up tomorrow (Tuesday).
I did try to slowly rereading The Iron King by Julie Kagawa and Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare. Didn't help my slump.
Hoping it passes soon!!!

Let me know what you read in March. Did you read any of the books I mentioned or want to? What is your April TBR?

Happy Reading, Ashley.

Dead Wake:The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson

Released: March 10th, 2015 (first released March 3rd, 2015)
Publisher: Crown
Page Amount: 448, US Hardcover edition
Source: Review

"On May 1, 1915, a luxury ocean liner as richly appointed as an English country house sailed out of New York, bound for Liverpool, carrying a record number of children and infants. The passengers were anxious. Germany had declared the seas around Britain to be a war zone, and for months, its U-boats had brought terror to the North Atlantic. But the Lusitania was one of the era's great transatlantic "Greyhounds" and her captain, William Thomas Turner, placed tremendous faith in the gentlemanly strictures of warfare that for a century had kept civilian ships safe from attack. He knew, moreover, that his ship--the fastest then in service--could outrun any threat. 

Germany, however, was determined to change the rules of the game, and Walther Schwieger, the captain of Unterseeboot-20, was happy to oblige. Meanwhile, an ultra-secret British intelligence unit tracked Schwieger's U-boat, but told no one. As U-20 and the Lusitania made their way toward Liverpool, an array of forces both grand and achingly small--hubris, a chance fog, a closely guarded secret, and more--all converged to produce one of the great disasters of history.

It is a story that many of us think we know but don't, and Erik Larson tells it thrillingly, switching between hunter and hunted while painting a larger portrait of America at the height of the Progressive Era. Full of glamour, mystery, and real-life suspense, Dead Wake brings to life a cast of evocative characters, from famed Boston bookseller Charles Lauriat to pioneering female architect Theodate Pope Riddle to President Wilson, a man lost to grief, dreading the widening war but also captivated by the prospect of new love. Gripping and important, Dead Wake captures the sheer drama and emotional power of a disaster that helped place America on the road to war. "
-Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
I received this book from Blogging For Books, exchange for an honest review.

I am a history buff. I was intrigued to look more about the Lusitania. However the chapters in between about President Wilson and about the submarine weren't my favorite parts.

It was heartbreaking reading about the moment The ship sank and all those lives lost. However there was warning signs that something could happen if they went in those waters.

I am glad to have read this novel. There parts like I said Didn't care for but all in all it was a good read

I'm giving this 3/5 stars.
Happy Reading, Ashley.

March Book Haul 2015

It's been a few months since I've got books. I'm only showing the book's I got in the past few days. A good friend of mine sends me books she no longer wants or has read the first in the series and is not going to continue on with the series.

Review Books:
Don't Stay Up Late by R.L. Stine (via NetGalley)
Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson (via Blogging For Books) non-fiction

Stack of Books:
Blood Bound by Rachel Vincent
Shadow Bound by Rachel Vincent
Oath Bound by Rachel Vincent
The Lost Code by Kevin Emerson
Deception by Lee Nichols
Echoes:Echoes, Haunted, and Trust by Melinda Metz
The 57 Lives of Alex Wayfare by MG Buehlen
Feral Sins by Suzanne Wright
Wicked Things by Suzanne Wright
The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney
The Wood Queen by Karen Mahoney
The Stone Queen by Karen Mahoney

Library:
Confess by Colleen Hoover


These are the books I've gotten in March. Please let me know if you've read any of them. Or the ones you are most looking forward to reading. Which ones should I move up on my TBR Pile.
Happy Reading, Ashley

January/February Wrap Ups 2015

Here's a quick insight to what I read in January and February. With a brief explanation if I loved the books or didn't. If you wish to have a review on any of these please feel free to let me know in the comments.

January:

To be honest I was in a reading slump in the first two weeks of January. I was burnt out from 2014. I read 104 books. That's the most I've ever read in a year. Anyway here is the five books I read in the new year.

1. A Seal's Surrender (Uniformly Hot Seal's#2) by Tawny Weber 3/5 stars Having been in a reading slump. I decided an adult romance was the fix. I did have some issues with this one. Which is was its only a three. I do have book one on my kindle. Might read it at some point.

2. The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak 5/5 stars (reread)

My first reread in 2015. I read this in January of last year. I loved it then and still do. Although this time around there were tears.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas by Tim Burton 5/5 stars

How did I not know this was a book? I adore the movie. Halloween is my favorite holiday. So of course I asked for this as a birthday gift. Read it one sitting was a short book.

4. Steelheart( The Reckoners,#1) by Brandon Sanderson 5/5 stars

To be honest hearing this hyped up on BookTube is my reasoning for reading this one. But Brandon did not disappoint. Sooo good. I want Firelight now!!

5. Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass,#1) by Sarah J. Maas 5/5 stars (reread)

Kickass female lead. Amazing loved even more the second time around.

Favorite book of the month: Steelheart.

February:

Was a better reading month for me. Managed to read seven books.

1. The Assassin's Blade (Throne of Glass, #0.1-0. 5) by Sarah J. Maas 5/5 stars

Loved it. Need I say more about this series?

2. At Any Price (Gaming the System,#1) by Brenna Price 4/5 stars

Quick new adult romance.

3. A Court of Thorns and Roses eSampler by Sarah J. Maas5/5 stars

Reading this four chapter sampler, has me craving this book even more!!

4. Crown of  Midnight (Throne of Glass, #2) by Sarah J. Maas 5/5 stars (reread)

5. Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, #3) by Sarah J. Maas 5/5 stars

Caught up with the series. Want Queen of Shadows!!

6. The Black Mage:Apprentice by Rachel E. Carter 5/5 stars

To be a few chapters to remember the events of book one.

7. O'Hurley Born by Nora Roberts 5/5 stars

Needed an adult romance.

Favorite book of the month:

Heir of Fire

Phew, that's my wrap ups for the past 2 months.

Not going to post a March TBR. I never really stick to them. I have a few books on hold on the overdrive library.

Let me know what you read in January and February. Did you read ant if the books I mentioned?

Happy Reading, Ashley.

My Top 15 Most Anticipated Books of 2015

A new year of great books are upon us. I'm super excited for them all. But here are my Top 15 I'm most excited for.

1. Queen of Shadows, (Throne of Glass, #4) by Sarah J. Maas

I freaking love this series so much. I haven't read Heir of Fire but when I do I know I will need this ASAP!!!

Release date: September 1st 2015

2. End of Days (Penryn and the End of Days, 3) by Susan Ee

Angels have attacked earth. I loved Angelfall and World After. Can I just have this already?

Release date: May 5th 2015

3. A Court of Thorns and Roses( A Court of Thorns and Roses,#1) by Sarah J. Maas

A new book series from my new favorite author. Yes, please!! Have this previous already pre-order.

Release date: May 5th 2015

4. Red Queen(Red Quuen,#1) by Victoria Aveyard

Hearing alot of good things about this one. I love the cover!!

Release date: February 10th 2015

5. Armada by Ernest Cline

I loved Ready Player One. Was one of my top 14 of 2014. Can't wait to see what this one is about.

6. Shadow Scale(Seraphina,#2) by Rachel Hartman

Seraphina was one of the first dragon books I read back in 2012. So I've been wanting for this sequel for a while.

Release date: March 10th 2015

7. Don't Stay Late: A Fear Street Novel by R.L. Stone

R.L. Stine is a favorite author of mine since Goosebumps (yes, I grew up in the 90s) I'm excited for a new book from him. His scary stories I can handle.

Release date: April 7th 2015

8. I Was Here by Gayle Forman

I heard nothing but amazing things about Gayle's writing.

Release date: January 27th 2015

9. All the Rage by Courtney Summers

I've only read one of her books. Fall For Anything really loved it.

Release date: April 14th 2015

10. The Liar by Nora Roberts

New novel from Nora Roberts, enough said.

Release date: April 16th 2015

11. The Heir (The Selection,#4) by Keira Cass

The Selection series got me out of a reading slump last year. Excited where the characters are now.

Release date: May 5th 2015

12. The Heart of Betrayal( The Remnant Chronicles,#2) by Mary E. Pearson

The Kiss of Deception which is the first book. Had a crazy plot twist. I'm excited for the sequel.

Release date: July 7th 2015

13. The Copper Gauntlet (Magisterium,#2) by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

The Iron Trial is book one. Loved it, want to read book two.

Release date: September 1st 2015

14. Rogue(Talon,#2) by Julie Kagawa

Julie always blows my mind. Her world of dragons is no exception.

Release date: April 28th 2015

15. The Black Mage: Apprentice (The Black Mage,#2) by Rachel E. Carter

The sequel to The Black Mage:First Year.

Alanna mixed with Throne of Glass.

Release date: February 17th 2015

Are you excited for any of these books I mentioned? What are some books you're looking forward to in 2015.

Happy Reading, Ashley.

Benefits of Rereading

I know some readers never reread a book. They feel like it's a waste of time. When they could be reading a new book. I however love to reread a book whether it is a stand alone or series. I think rereading a book that is apart of a series helps put the past events fresh in your mind. Especially if the first novel came out and then a year or two later the sequel comes out.

Sometimes rereading a favorite book can help you get out of a reading slump. I have done that a few times in the past. You fall back in love with the story, characters, and it gets your passion for reading up again.

Rereading a favorite series for example the Harry Potter series. Is like revisiting old friends. No matter how,many times I read them I still feel the same as I did when I read them for the first time.

Do my question to you my lovely readers, Do you reread books? If so what are your favorites to revisit?

Happy Reading, Ashley

ReVamped Time

Hello My lovely readers, I've been MIA since September of last year. Bad book blogger. I even started a new blog to try and get back into blogging again but then I realized why would I abandon this one. It's where I started and I feel like it's my child. So I'm going to revamp it and get back to sharing my love of books with you all. I'm sorry for not being the best book blogger. I hope you all are going to join me on this journey.

I'm going to put the posts I shared on the other blog I started. I think I'm going to delete it then. Focus on BooksAreDiamonds again. Because books are my diamonds.

Excited to get the ball going. Happy Reading, Ashley!!!