Top Ten books read in 2015

Another year is almost over. That means it's time to share what books I read in 2015 were my favorite.




10. Emily books by L.M. Montgomery







  If you have followed my blog for a long you know I'm kinda obsessed with all things Anne of Green Gables.  It's not a surprise then that I really enjoyed  L.M. Montgomery's other popular series, the Emily books.
L.M. Montgomery had a way with words that make her books posses a special quality.




9. Across a Star-Swept Sea by Dian Peterfreund







  This Scarlet Pimpernel inspired dystopian is unlike other YA sci-fi. If your looking for a unique and fun read I highly recommend you give this book a try.
Link to my full review here.




8. First Date by Krista McGee







  This is by far the best contemporary YA book I read this year. It's inspired by the life of Esther and her faith in God. A must read for fans of Jenny B. Jones and Kiera Cass.
Link to my full review here.




7. Entwined by Heather Dixon





  This retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses is just beautiful. The author is fantastic at writing detailed descriptions, making this a lovely read.
Link to my full review here.






6.  Homecoming by Kate Hasbrouck





  I really enjoyed this Christian fantasy. Not only is it unique and adorable, it also portrays a wonderful example of a personal relationship with God.
Link to my full review here.




5. Dreamtreader by Wayne Thomas Batson





  Dreamtreaders is a contemporary - fantasty crossover. It features a fantastical dream world unlike any other. It also has a great message about temptation and persecution.
Link to my full review here.






4. Shadow Hand by Anne Elisabeth Stengl





  What can I say? Anne Elisabeth Stengl is a master of writing Fantasy. This book wraps up some plot points found in the previous books in the Tales of Goldstone Wood series nicely.






3. Cress by Marissa Meyer





  This is my favorite book (so far) of  Lunar Chronicles. It's full a great characters and funny humor. Can't wait to see how Winter picks up were this book left off.
Link to my full review here.




2. Golden Daughter by Anne Elisabeth Stengl





  This book features a set characters and setting not previously  found in the other books in this series.  I hope the author will write more books featuring these characters in the future.
Link to my full review here.




1. Safely Home by Randy Alcorn







  This book really changed my perspective of the global church and persecution. It both convicted me and encouraged me in so many ways. I highly recommend this to people of all ages and walks in life.
Link to my full review here.




What about you?
Have you read any of these books?
What are some of your favorite books you read in 2015?

Top ten books on my 2016 TBR.

With 2015 coming to a close, it's time to think about the coming year ahead.
Here are the top ten books that I want to read in 2016.








10. Shadow Key by Wayne Thomas Batson





  I read Dreamtreader several months ago and really , really liked it. I never got around to pick up the sequel. I hope to give it a go in 2016.
   




9. The Heir by Kiera Cass







    The Selection series isn't my favorite. However, there is something about this series that makes it fun to read.
This book has a whole new set of characters, plus some of the characters from the previous books. Who knows, maybe it will be the best in the series so far.






8. Starring Me by Krista McGee





  First Date is such a cute contemporary book. Starring Me is a sequel ,of sorts, to First Date. It sounds like it will be a fun read, as well.






7. Storm Siren by Mary Weber







  I have heard so many fantastic things about this book and its sequels from fellow bloggers.  Plus the cover is just wonderful!






6. A Spark Unseen by Sharon Cameron







  I read A Dark Unwinding at the end of 2014. It ended on a huge  cliff hanger. I meant to purchase this at the beginning of 2015, but never got around to it.




5. Draven's Light by Anne Elisabeth Stengl







  This is the second novella in the Tales of GoldstoneWood series.
It supposed to explain a very important backstory and underlying theme found in the main books in the series.






4. Illusionarium by Heather Dixon







  I don't know really know anything about this book. Entwined, Heather Dixon's first and only other book, is a whimsical and well- written read. Hopefully this book will be just as good.






3.  Deluge by Lisa T. Bergren







  The River of Time series is one of my top series of all time. It's hard to believe I didn't read this fifth and final book of the series in 2015. I need to give this a read soon.




2. Winter by Marissa Meyer







  This book, which concludes the Lunar Chronicles ,was released recently. I can't wait to find out how it ends!




1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.













  This much beloved classic has been on my tbr for two or three years now. I finally started reading it early in the  month. However ,like most classics , it's several hundred pages long. I hope to finish reading it by the end of January.




What about you?
Have you read any of these books?
What are some books you want to read in 2016?

Finding Father Christmas book review

Title: Finding Father Christmas - a novella


Author: Robin Jones Gunn


Genre: Christian Christmas Fiction


Plot:
Miranda Carson spent her childhood traveling with her mother, an actress. Miranda never knew who her father was. The search for his identity brings Miranda to England at Christmas- time. When Miranda finds out the identity of her father it turns her world upside down. Can She find the strength to face the truth?


My thoughts:


Miranda's struggles are dealt with in a honest way. Redemption, truth, and forgiveness are a portrayed in a relatable way.


This story brings an English Christmas-time to life. The descriptions of English traditions and ways of life are just wonderful.


All in all a wonderful Christmas-time read.


My rating: 3

// Monthly Favorites// November 2015

   November was a jam-packed month for me. I didn't get to do as much reading as I would 've liked; because of that I only posted one book review this month.  I'm planning on reading a lot during Christmas break, so be on the look out for reviews in the future.


Without any further ado , here are some of my favorite things from the month of November.




                             // Movies & TV Shows//








// Once Upon a Time season 5//






 




There's been several plot-twists this season that is taking OUAT to new places. The Mid-season finale aired last night ( which I haven't seen, by the way).I 'm interested to see how this season will wrap up in the spring.






// The Hunger Games : Mockingjay -Part Two//






 




 MockingJay: part 2 was emotional and sad.  It was also a wonderfully made film and a great end to the Hunger Games films. I hope to re-watch the other films in this series soon.










// The Heirs//






          




This K-Drama stars some of Korea's most popular and talented actors. Because of that, it's a high quality drama with a good storyline. If you're new to K-Dramas and are looking for a emotional and romantic show , give this one a watch.








                                         // Music//




// The Voyage , by Amanda Cook //




 




This song is a great reminder that God will faithfully guide you as you do His will.




// Luhan's music//




Luhan is a former member of the kpop group , EXO. He recently started his own solo career in China.  Luhan's songs , Promises and Medals, are  beautiful. They also have thought - provoking music videos, as well.






                                 
                                // Miscellaneous//




Psalm 63




 


I was skimming through my Bible a few a weeks ago when I stopped at this Psalm. It's a wonderful description of our desire to be closer to God and how to rest in His presence.












What about you?


What did you enjoy in
the month of November?

The Selection Stories : The Prince & The Guard book review

Title: The Selection stories: The Prince & The Guard


Series: The Selection series


Number in series : 0 (Novellas)


Author: Kiera Cass


Plot:
 These two novellas show Maxon and Aspen's perspective on The Selection and their relationship with America.
In The Prince , Maxon is extremely nervous about The Selection. Once it's starts , he is unsure of when and who he will choose to be his wife. When Maxon meets America , he is struck by how honest and real she is. Maxon wonders if America might be the one.
In The Guard Aspen is enjoying the life of a soldier in the Palace. After witnessing Maxon and America's closeness, Aspen begins to doubt he and America's future. Aspen will do whatever it takes to keep America by his side.


My thoughts:
I really enjoyed these two Selection novellas. The main books in the series focus on America's experiences during The Selection.
So, it was interesting to see how Maxon and Aspen's lives were also affected by The Selection. After reading both novellas I think I understand Maxon and Aspen better.
These books are defiantly worth a read if you like The Selection series.


My rating: 3

Monthly Favorites // October 2015 //

Yet another month is ending. The holidays are fast approaching, along with the close of 2015.
Anyhow, here are a few things I've enjoyed in the month of October.




      


                                     //Music//




//  Pieces by Amanda Cook  //


       




I listened to Amanda Cook's music for the first time recently. Her songs are just lovely, especially 'Pieces'.








// Kpop//







I started listening to a few select kpop songs a few months ago. This month I've been branching out and listening to bands and singers that are new to me. A few of my favorite artists are CNBlue , Got7 , IU, and EXO.






 




                               // Movies and Tv Shows//






// The Avengers : Age of Ultron//


   



There is something about Marvel movies that keep us fans coming back again and again. This movie was no exception.
In my opinion this sequel was even better than the original. I'm eager to see what movies Marvel comes out with next.





// Faith : The Great Doctor //






 


                                                 

        

I started this  K-Drama a couple of months ago, but due to my busy semester , I just finished it this month. It's a historical drama , with elements of fantasy,  which makes it's unique.  Definitely a must watch for K-Drama fans.








                     
                                   // Miscellaneous//





// Sesame seed sticks //
This snack, which is found at health food stores, is so delicious. It tastes like something in between chips and French fries. 
FIY, they taste really good with swiss cheese spread.










What about you?
What are some things you've liked this month? 

The One book review

Title : The One


Series : The Selection series


Number in series : 3


Author : Kiera Cass


Genre : Young Adult Fiction


Plot:
America and only three other girls are left the selection.
The country is in chaos due to the rebel force, putting everyone in danger. America must make a choice to for her future. Will she make the right one?


My thoughts:


If you read my review of  'The Elite' , you knew I had expectations for this book. I wanted America to be more decisive. She was, to a point, in this book.  She (finally) made some important choices, although I personally think someone of them were unwise.


Like the other two books in the series, the story kept my attention.
A few thinsg I didn't see coming happened , including a few sad things.


Overall I didn't love this book, but I didn't hate it either. I'm not sure if I will read 'The Heir' , since The One wrapped up the story pretty nicely.


Content:
Two characters makeout passionately while only dressed in underclothes; they stop short of having sex, due to circumstances. They later fall asleep together. In the morning they are discovered in bed together and people assume they were having sex.




My rating : 2.5

The Sweater Weather Tag

I was tagged by Grace from Fictionally to do The Sweater Weather Tag. Thanks for tagging me Grace!


In case you didn't know fall is my favorite season. So I'm excited to do this festive tag.




The questions:


1. Favorite Candle Scent?
The North Pole candle from Yankee Candle. Although it's a Christmas candle, I like it year round. It has a sweet peppermint scent that is fresh.




2. Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate?
It depends. I've been drinking coffee a lot recently, so I will go with it.


3. What's the best fall memory you have?
I don't have a specific one. I have several great memories from bonfires, trunk-or-treats, and hayrides throughout the years.


4. Best fragrance for Fall?
Spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg.


5. Favorite Thanksgiving food?
Chicken n' dumplings. Their a family tradition.


6. Most worn sweater?
A green and white striped sweater I got for Christmas several years ago. It's so cozy!


7.Football games or jumping in leaf piles?
Jumping in leaf piles, although I don't remember the last time I did that.


8. Skinny jeans or leggings?
Skinny jeans. I love to wear them with tunics and cardigans.


9. Combat boots or Uggs?
Combat boots. I don't currently own any, but I do like how they look.


10. Is pumpkin spice worth the hype?
Yeah, I think so. It's one of my favorite season flavors.


11. Favorite fall tv show?
Newhart. It's an 80s show that is set at a Bed-and Breakfast in Vermont. Most of the episodes take place in the fall or winter, so I think it's a perfect choice.


12. What do you want to be for Halloween?
I haven't dressed up for Halloween for several years, and I won't again this year. However if money wasn't a concern,  I would buy a historically accurate dress from the regency era and dress up as Jane Austen.


13. Hat or scarves?
Scarves!


14. What you number #1 favorite thing about fall?
The gorgeous weather that makes hiking and bonfires possible.






If you liked this tag and want to do it, consider yourself tagged by me.

The Elite book review

Title: The Elite


Series: The Selection series


Number in series: 2


Author: Kiera Cass


Genre: Young Adult Fiction


Plot:  America Singer is now a part of The Elite, the group of 6 girls left in The Selection.  America struggles over whether she should return to her old life or if she is meant to start something knew. Just when America thinks she has it figured out something happens to change her mind again. Can She figure out who to trust amidst the chaos?






My thought:


I have a love / hate relationship with series. I can't decide if this series will become a new favorite of mine or something I don't like at all.


Kiera Cass is such a talented author. Her writing style is so engaging and fun to read. I find it really hard to put down her books. I've lost track of the times I've uttered ''Just one more chapter'' and then finally stop reading three chapters later.
  Her characters seem so real and it feels like you actually know them. It makes you want to find out what will happen to them and the future of their country.


The thing that disappointed  me was America and her relationships with Aspen and Prince Maxon in this book. 
  America would declare that she was loyal and cared deeply about Prince Maxon. Then the next moment America would seek out Aspen and tell him that they still had a chance ( and vice versa). This really annoyed me. It seemed like she was constantly leading both Prince Maxon and Aspen on without being really loyal to either of them. I hope in The One  America will be more decisive on what she wants.






*content*  Couples makeout and snuggle with each other  ( They don't have sex).  One character is beaten after being caught in an intimate situation with someone ( It isn't talked about in much detail). Intimacy in marriage is alluded.  H**l and d**n are used a few times.










My rating: 3

Daughter of Venice book review

Title: Daughter of Venice


Author: Donna Jo Napoli


Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction


Plot: 
  Donata, and her twin Laura, are Venetian nobility. In Venetian nobility only the oldest son and two oldest daughter marry. The other daughters are sent to a convent to become nuns.
Donata desperately hopes that both she and her twin will find love and marry, despite the odds.
  When Donata learns that she will soon be sent to a convent she takes matters in her own hands. As she explores Venice, Donata realizes that her life is changing. She must make careful choices that will change her and her families way of life.


My thoughts:
    This book has wonderful details about Italian, in particular Venetian, culture during the Middle Ages.  The setting and time period of this book is close to that of The River of Time series.  Because of that I thought this was really interesting.


I did have a little trouble connecting with some of the characters. At times the characters seemed flat and lifeless. However, I did like the main character, Donata. She was a strong and independent young woman who was curious about the way things work.


If you are looking for a detailed book about the culture and lives of Venetians, I think you would enjoy this.








*Content* Prostitution and pre-martial sex is talked about often throughout the book ( both are seen negatively). It's hinted at that a character is promiscuous. Characters manipulate and lie to get what they want. A character dresses up as a boy and has a few rough experiences because of it.






My rating:  2

// Monthly Favorites // Septemeber 2015

Another month is nearly gone.  I only posted twice on my blog this month, sadly. I started school in August and with school comes homework.  Because of that, I also only read one book this month.
I do have some plans for my blog next month. I want post reviews,  discussions, and other book-related stuff on a somewhat regular basis.


Now to the things I've enjoyed in the month of September.






// K-Drama Webseries //


These shows have 12-18 episodes that are only around 15 minutes each.  I really like watching these types of shows when I don't have time to watch a normal hour-long episode of a tv show.


Exo Next Door and To Be Continued are both so adorable and fun. I hope to find more webseries like these two.




        










// Doctor Who season 8 //






       






Netflix recently added season 8, much to the excitement of my family and I. I was, however, skeptical of Peter Capaldi's portrayal of the Doctor when I first started this series. By the end though I started to warm up to him. The Doctor and Clara had many dramatic things happen to them at the end, so this season ended in a bit of a cliffhanger. I'm looking forward to season 9 's release.






//  She Reads Truth App//





This free app has The Bible in it and allows you to add notes, highlight, and bookmark verses. Plus, it also comes with free, beautiful lockscreens for iphones.








// DramaFever App//







This app, which is very similar to Hulu,  has a lot of Asian tv shows ( I watch k-dramas on it). The app and a account are free. If you want to watch new episodes and have no commercials you get a premium account, which is a few dollars a month. I just use the free services, and it works great for me.






// Hi- Chew candy //





These delicious candies actually taste like whatever fruit flavor they are. I want to try out the other flavors really soon.




What about you?


What are some things you've enjoyed this month?

Discussion : Christian Romance Novels

  This video got me thinking (please watch it before reading the rest of the post).
 Now, I don't hate Christian romance novels; Julie Klassen and Jen Turano are two of my favorite authors. However, I do think Katie Gregoire made some good points.
Just because a book is labeled as 'Christian' doesn't mean that it's brings Glory to God and is appropriate. I think it's good to be careful what you read, even if it's techinically 'Christian'.
For me, moderation is the key to reading Christian romance novels.  I find if all I'm reading are those type of books I start thinking things , like " I wonder if/when I will meet the right man'' or ''I wish I knew guys like the guys in this book''.


I know this could be a controversial topic.
I also know that most of you enjoy reading Christian romance novels. I'm not trying to put you down or trying to convince you to give them up. I just wanted to bring up a topic that isn't discussed much in the Christian blogging world.
Now that you've heard my opinion on this subject, I want to hear yours.


Do you agree with what Katie said in the video?
Why or why not?


All I ask is that you keep it a friendly and open discussion.

//Monthly Favorites// August 2015

It's time again for monthly favorites. August was a jam-packed month for me, so I didn't have as much time to check out new stuff as I normally do. Below are just a few things I really liked this month.








    






// The Secret (2007) movie//






          




This movie is absolutely beautiful! It has wonderful camera work, an intriguing storyline, and a gorgeous piano soundtrack.






// Time Travel piano song from Secret (2007)//


Time Travel is brilliant song from the movie above. It's hard to believe how fast this song is played.
I have the sheet music to this. I'm making progress on it, but I don't think I will ever be able to play it that well and that fast. One can dream, right?






// Photograph by Ed Sheeran//











There's something about this lovely acoustic song that gives me warm and wishful feelings. I never get tired of listening to it, which means it's now one of my favorite songs.








// Makeup: Your life guide to beauty, style, and success-online and off, by Michelle Phan//









While browsing for books at my local library I came across this book. Michelle Phan, an extremely famous youtuber, has amazing beauty tutorials on her youtube channel. I really like her Natural Parisian Look ; it's so simple, yet elegant.
This book contains easy makeup and fashion tips and discusses success and the business world.
(Disclaimer: Michelle Phan's views on success and life aren't from a Christian perspective, so I don't agree with every thing she says in the book).






// What about you?//
// What are some things that you've enjoyed in the month of August?//