Friday Raves: My Top 5 Favorite Books I Read In 2019

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about authors, book events, books, novelties, and/or other bookish announcements.

Wow, I cannot believe it is now 2020. 2019 was a messy reading year for me. I read 200 books, but my average rating was a 3.2. I went through about 5 reading slumps. And for the first year in a long time, I read more adult/romance books than young adult books. But out of 2019, I read and adored a few books, and what a great way to start off 2020 than by raving about them.

Please feel free to click on the book cover to be directed to the book’s Goodreads’ page.

★★★★★
I read Paper Hearts five (YES, 5!) times in 2019. Just thinking about it and writing about it, makes me want to read it again. Mia and Jensen’s relationship was achingly beautiful and heartbreaking and heartwarming and just so damn frustrating and sweet all at the same time. While I was sulking with Mia and relating to all her stubborn decisions, I was also secretly cheering on Jensen to win back Mia’s favor. You guys, I fell so hard for this best friends to lovers to enemies to lovers story. The dramatic moments were not uncalled for and the story provides so much hope for second chances and forgiveness. 

★★★★★

I am a huge fanatic of Jenn Bennett’s YA contemporary novels, and I just want to say that her writing a historical novel did not disappoint. The Lady Rogue eloquently melded adventure, history, romance, Gothic scenery, cursed objects, and magic into the perfect historical tome. The Lady Rogue gave me extreme The Mummy vibes (the best kind of vibes, in my opinion), and, of course, the angsty, swoon-worthy feels that are the epitome of Jenn Bennett’s novels. GIVE ME ALL THE BENNETT BOOKS NOW!

★★★★

Every Ravenclaw (and any book lover) needs to read Sorcery of Thorns. Margaret Rogerson’s enchanted story is dedicated to loving books, protecting books, and enjoying books. As a novel filled with my favorite Bs, books, banter, and a brooding boy, Sorcery of Thorns had me quickly turning every page . . . tightly holding on to the magic of the words and fast-paced story. Filled with grimoires, demon-infused magic, and a dash of enchanting scenes of frost and snow (I love winter, so these wintry scenes stuck to me like binding glue), Rogerson created a beautiful novel about love, friendships, and sacrifice. She teams up the most unforgettable main characters: Elisabeth, a devoted book-lover; Nathaniel, a brooding sorcerer who definitely had my “Byronic” meter ticking; and Silas, Nathaniel’s demon, who provides great comic relief and witticisms throughout the pages. I fell deeply entranced by Sorcery of Thorns, and I think any book lover will too.

★★★★

2019 was the year I became obsessed with Motorcycle Club (MC) books. I binge read Jeanne St. James’ series in a matter of days, and Diesel was my favorite character and book out of the entire series. He’s quiet, grumpy, stubborn, but so protective. You guys, I have a type, and I won’t stop loving all the brooding men characters out there. It was fun watching this complex biker’s world turn upside down by love. Please note that James’ books do highlight some realistic and triggering topics, but overall I really enjoyed the series because they’re funny, fast-paced, and the female characters are so feisty and strong. If you do read the series, I highly recommend Zak, Diesel, and Dex.

★★★★★

Crier’s War took me by surprise, and after reading it a few months ago, I am still thinking about this novel and the characters. This rich and lush story is filled with elements of rebellion, revenge, political power, humanity, and elaborate world-building. The characters are so vibrant and dynamic, and I really enjoyed watching them evolve throughout the book. My favorite component in the book is that it meshed fantasy and science together so well, which allowed the author to masterfully mold so many complex scenes and elements into the most beautiful and enthralling story. I cannot wait to read book 2.

What were some of your favorite books that you read in 2019?

Friday Raves: Binge Reading Contemporary Romance (Claire Contreras)

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about authors, book events, books, novelties, and/or other bookish announcements.

Well, it’s been awhile since I have done a Friday Raves post, lol. But I just had to shout out to the world my latest obsession. In the month of February (and usually in April too, for some odd reason), I binge read numerous New Adult and Adult contemporary romances. And over the past weekend I discovered and fell in love with  Claire Contreras‘s books. The romance was angsty and heated, the characters were realistic and fully-developed, and the stories were so heartfelt and beautifully written. 

Below are a few of Claire’s stories that I read and adored. 

★★
This was the first book I read by Claire. I am a sucker for enemies-to-lovers and former lovers-to-lovers tropes, so this story was the perfect book to sink into. There is angst, heated conversations, drama, and the perfect dash of swoons. 

★★★
I think this is the book that really made me fall in love with Claire’s writing style. Once again, I was enamored by a favourite trope of former lovers-to-lovers along with the idea of childhood friends falling in love. Elle and Oliver’s relationship is an emotional roller coaster and I was buckled up tightly for all their twists, turns, and loops. 

★★★★★
Gah! This is definitely my favourite book out of all the books I binge read over the weekend. Mia and Jensen’s relationship was achingly beautiful and heartbreaking and heartwarming and just so damn frustrating and sweet all at the same time. I adored both characters so much. While I was sulking with Mia and relating to all her stubborn decisions, I was also secretly cheering on Jensen to win back Mia’s favor. You guys, I fell so hard for this best friends to lovers to enemies to lovers story. The dramatic moments were not uncalled for and the story provides so much hope for second chances and forgiveness. I cannot wait to reread this story again.

What are some of your favourite contemporary romance novels? Comment below, I would love to hear your recommendations. 

Friday Raves: Wonderland Booktique

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about authors, book events, books, novelties, and/or other bookish announcements.

You guys, I have such happy news. A few days ago, I was announced as a Rep for Wonderland Booktique. AHHH!!!

I have been following Alison, the owner and creator of Wonderland Booktique, on Instagram for awhile. After purchasing some candles from her new shop at the end of the July, Alison asked if I would like to be a Rep for her shop. Of course, I said “OMG, YES!” So far I have bought and loved two candles from Wonderland Booktique:

“Dreaming of Luna” smells so sweet and yummy. It reminds me of my childhood. And of course, I love love love the Gilmore Girls-inspired candle “Coffee at Luke’s,” which smells like sweet cup of coffee while burning.

If you are interested in purchasing from Wonderland Booktique, you can visit the shop HERE. And please feel free to use my Rep Code–  CASS15 — and you can save 15% on any candle order. Alison currently has candles inspired by pop culture, books, fandoms, and TV shows. Right now, I am most excited for the AMOK! candle, because I love Hocus Pocus and I am so ready for autumn to be here!

Friday Raves: Canterbury Road Co.’s Candles

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about authors, book events, books, novelties, and/or other bookish announcements.

Hi guys! I haven’t done a Friday Raves in such a long time (it’s been almost a year…AHHHH).

But before April ends, I wanted to RAVE about my love for one of my favorite people in the world and her candle company, Canterbury Road Co. Shannon opened up her candle shop last year and since my first order, I have adored her candle blends and scents, her excellent customer service, and how much passion she puts into her work and creations. 

Pictured Above: Part of my personal Canterbury Road Co. candle collection

At the end of March, Shannon asked me if I wanted to be an April Rep for Canterbury Road Co. So, of course, my answer was “OMG….YASSS!” but internally I was freaking out because I don’t think I can do Shan’s candles justice. With every candle she creates, I am always blown away by her scent magic and the beautiful labels.  So without further ado, below please find a few of my latest pictures of Canterbury Road Co.’s April candles.

If you are interested in purchasing any of these candles, you can visit Canterbury Road Co. HERE, or click on the picture of the candle and it will link you to that specific candle. And please feel free to use my April Rep Code–  CASS17 — and you can save 17% on any candle order. 

I love Shannon’s “Currently Reading” line. Currently Reading: Spring Edition smells just like a coffee mocha with a hint of cherry flavoring. I LOVE IT!

I have burning this candle non-stop since I bought it. It smells so fresh. It’s the perfect candle to burn while reading on a rainy day.

I don’t like to pick favorites, but One More Chapter: Fantasy Edition is by far my favorite April candle. The candle smells sweet and smoky. It reminds me of trips the Renaissance Festival.

One More Chapter: Fairy Tale Edition smells so yummy. I can definetly smell the pumpkin and apples notes while burning it. 

Do you own any Canterbury Road Co. candles? And if so, which ones? I would love to fangirl with you about them. 

Friday Raves: Author Signings with Emery Lord, Emily Henry, and Brittany Cavallaro

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about authors, book events, books, novelties, and/or other bookish announcements.

This week my local bookstore, Joseph Beth Booksellers in Cincinnati, hosted two author signing/book events. I am currently on a “book-signing high,” and I cannot wait to share my pictures and memories from each event. 

Monday, May 15, 2017
Emery Lord with The Names They Gave Us

I love whenever Emery is able to stop by and visit the bookstore. She’s a local author, so I never miss a chance to see her again. She’s so funny and smart, and every time I meet her I feel like I can conquer the world and write my own book. Emery also brought along some homemade treats (chocolate chip cookies with toffee pieces and potato chips in them) to share with us, and they were delicious!

Emery was able to sign both my ARC and hardcover of The Names They Gave Us. Thanks, Emery!

Tuesday, May 16, 2017
Release Day of A Million Junes
with Emily Henry and Brittany Cavallaro

On Tuesday, I got to meet these authors for the very first time: Emily Henry and Brittany Cavallaro. Both of these women writers are so witty, funny, and courageous. I asked both authors, “what was the initial dandelion seed that inspired each of their books?” Brittany pointed out that there are hundreds of adaptations of Sherlock Holmes, but only one female adaptation, so out of fury she wrote her own Sherlock Holmes series with a female lead. YES!!! Emily emotionally explained that A Million Junes is her grief book and that it all began with the passing of her dog two years ago. 😦

Emily’s mom made these Jack’s Tart Cherry Cupcakes, which were inspired by the book.

And when I went up to meet Emily, she gave me a hug and I thought we were both going to cry. I love my dog, and I shared with her that two years ago I also lost my best friend, my poodle named MiaBella. At that moment, I think I found a new understanding of why I love A Million Junes so much (which, by the way, is my favorite book of 2017). Emily also gifted me an A Million Junes poster, which I cannot wait to find a frame for this weekend. I also got both of Brittany’s books signed, and I’m really looking forward to reading this series! 

Wow! I feel really spoiled with all the local book-event love, and I cannot wait to attend the next one.

What has been your best author/book event you have attended? 

Friday Raves & Giveaway: Meeting Stephanie Garber

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about authors, book events, books, novelties, and/or other bookish announcements.

WELCOME, WELCOME TO MY TRIP TO CARAVAL…I MEAN TO NAPERVILLE, ILLINOIS…

Over the weekend, I went on a trip to Naperville, Illinois to meet Stephanie Garber, the author of Caraval. On Friday morning, my brother, sister, and I packed our bags, loaded up the car, and headed out on a 5-6 hour drive. I was so excited to get my books signed and meet Stephanie Garber!

After making a few stops, we had to grab lunch and pick up Starbucks, we finally arrived at Naperville around 4:00 pm. We purchased our copies/tickets for the Saturday event at Anderson’s Bookstore, and then explored the town before we decided to head to the hotel to rest. I may have bought a few Funko Pops at the local Barnes and Noble (sorry not sorry!).

Day of the Event

Of course, when I’m on a trip, I fail to sleep in. So around 8:30 a.m., we headed out to breakfast to celebrate my sister’s birthday, and then explored Naperville a little more. We ended up going to their Super Target and my sister bought me this cute little mug as a Valentine’s gift.

We also stopped by the shop called 2nd & Charles, where I once again bought some Funko Pops and books. 

For lunch, we were going to meet up with some blogger friends, but we were running late and then couldn’t find a parking spot. Around 1:00 we finally found parking, and headed to the bookstore. 

My ticket number was 36, and when I went up to meet Stephanie, she flipped open one of my books and excitedly asked, “Are you CassieopiaB from Twitter? Were you not going to tell me who you were?” Of course I was shocked that she recognized me, and we talked for what seemed like 10 minutes, but I really hope it wasn’t that long, because there were still a lot of people lined up behind me. Because of my long travel, Stephanie gifted me an extra set of the US pre-order incentives, and asked if I wanted a picture. I don’t take a lot of pictures, but I couldn’t pass this awesome opportunity up. I also finally got to meet my friend Heidi at YA Bibliophile, who I have been friends with on Twitter for quite awhile! It was so great to finally meet her in person!!! 

After a 5-6 hour drive back home, we finally made it back to Cincinnati, Ohio, and I was able to unload all my books from the signing. I still can’t believe I met Stephanie. She is so humble, sincere, and passionate about her work. If she ever comes to a city near you, I highly recommend that you go to her signing and meet her. Thank you to Stephanie Garber, Flatiron Books, and Anderson’s Bookstore for the event and for making my Caraval dreams come true.  

GIVEAWAY

While I was at the signing, I got an extra copy of Caraval signed just for my followers. Click on the picture below, which will lead you to my Twitter giveaway. Be sure to Follow me on Twitter and Retweet my Twitter post to enter. GOOD LUCK!

 

 

FRIDAY RAVES: YUREKA Subscription Box

FRIDAY RAVES is a feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about important news, authors, books, novelties, and other bookish announcements that all bibliophiles should know about.

Today I’m RAVING about…YUREKA Subscription Box

If you don’t know already, I am a self-proclaimed Subscription Box addict *cough cough,* I mean fanatic, especially when it comes to bookish subscription boxes. This month I bought and tried out Yureka Books‘ subscription box. In regards to subscribers in the USA, there are three box options to pick from: 

$15 SUBSCRIPTION = 2 paperback books

$25 SUBSCRIPTION =1 hardcover and 1 paperback book OR 3 paperback books

$35 SUBSCRIPTION = 1 hardcover and 2 paperbacks OR 4 paperback books

Personally, after selecting the $15.00 Subscription Box, I took a survey/questionnaire regarding books and genres that I have enjoyed, loved, and disliked. And around mid-May I received this beautiful package in the mail:

Contents Inside:

As you can see, I received a beautifully written welcome letter, which explained the books I received this month: a fantasy novel and a dystopian novel (both of which I do not already own…WOOHOO!). I also enjoyed the little bookish items that came along with the package: a magnetic owl bookmark and some pretty bookplates. After scrolling through Instagram pictures of other people’s Yureka packages, I noticed that a lot of subscribers received different books than me, which is awesome, because Yureka sends out books based on genres that you like reading. I also noticed that some subscribers even received extra swag like The Winner’s Trilogy items. I sadly did not receive these extra items.

Overall, I am happy with the books and bookish items I received, the great pricing of the subscription package, and more importantly, I was really blown away by the packaging/wrapping. 

If you love books and bookish items, this inexpensive subscription box is for you. 

Want to learn more about Yureka Books? Visit their main website, Yureka Books, or click on the link, How it Works.

FEEL FREE TO COMMENT:

Are you obsessed with subscription boxes, too? Which subscription box(es) do you subscribe to? Which box(es) do you highly recommend? 

 

Note: I bought this box with my own money. I was not asked or paid to write a review for this subscription box or company. All statements, pictures, and opinions are my own. 

FRIDAY RAVES: Join Kristen Simmons’ Newsletter

FRIDAY RAVES is a new feature on my blog, in which I “RAVE” about important news, authors, books, novelties, and other bookish announcements that all bibliophiles should know about.

PRESS BACK and join @kris10writes’s newsletter to learn more about her newest novel, METALTOWN

Title: METALTOWN
By:  Kristen Simmons
Release Date: September 20, 2016
Pages: 384 (Hardcover)
Publisher: Tor Teen
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction

Synopsis:

Metaltown, where factories rule, food is scarce, and hope is in short supply.

The rules of Metaltown are simple: Work hard, keep your head down, and watch your back. You look out for number one, and no one knows that better than Ty. She’s been surviving on the factory line as long as she can remember. But now Ty has Colin. She’s no longer alone; it’s the two of them against the world. That’s something even a town this brutal can’t take away from her. Until it does.

Lena’s future depends on her family’s factory, a beast that demands a ruthless master, and Lena is prepared to be as ruthless as it takes if it means finally proving herself to her father. But when a chance encounter with Colin, a dreamer despite his circumstances, exposes Lena to the consequences of her actions, she’ll risk everything to do what’s right.

In Lena, Ty sees an heiress with a chip on her shoulder. Colin sees something more. In a world of disease and war, tragedy and betrayal, allies and enemies, all three of them must learn that challenging what they thought was true can change all the rules.

An enthralling story of friendship and rebellion, Metaltown will have you believing in the power of hope.

Release Date: 9.20.16

PRESS BACK, SIGN UP FOR THE CHARTER NEWSLETTER

JOIN HERE

THANKS FOR JOINING!