December 2019 TBR

Hi Everyone!

I hope you’ve all been doing well and are having a fantastic start to the holiday season! We’re finally into the colder months (my favorites!) and I am so ready to snuggle up and read lots of amazing books. I’ve been on a mission to start catching up on some popular books/series that I’ve been meaning to get to for ages and haven’t yet. So far I’ve been doing pretty well and I’m hoping to keep up the momentum this month. I’ve also done a fantastic job staying on top of new releases so I’ll be trying to continue that as well.

I apologize for my posts being a bit sparse these last couple of months. I’ve been dealing with a lot health-wise and my energy level has taken a massive and unexpected hit. I’ve have been struggling a lot with getting my writing done and I’m incredibly sorry. I am toying with the idea of taking a short hiatus later this month just to heal and recover so I can start strong in the new year with blogging!

On a more positive note, I’ve been reading quite a lot and have some wonderful books I’ve been dying to review for you guys, so I will definitely have plenty coming as I begin to ease back into the swing of things. Thank you all so much for being so supportive and patient with me, it means the world. ❤

Now, onto the books I am hoping to get to this month!

An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson

Winterwood by Shea Ernshaw

Scythe by Neal Schusterman

This Savage Song by Victoria Schwab

Air Awakens by Elise Kova

Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

The Hearts We Sold by Emily Lloyd-Jones

The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

What are you guys planning on reading this month? Let me know in the comments!

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Down the TBR Hole #8

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes!

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1957

____________________________________________________________

Send by Patty Blount

I’m dropping this one off my TBR solely for personal reasons. This is the type of novel that I would have picked up in my mid or late teens, but I feel I’ve grown out of that phase. I also am trying to cut down on some of the books on my TBR that I know I’m not currently in the right emotional place to read.

Judgment: GO

King of the Screwups by K.L. Going

This book has been sitting on my TBR for so long now and I forget how I even found it in the first place. I think this might have been one that I discovered on one of my random expeditions through the library. Anyway, though it still sounds very good, I don’t think I am actually going to get around to it at this point. And, as I need to be a bit stricter with my TBR, it has to go.

Judgment: GO

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

I tried really hard with this series since Divergent is one of my favorite young adult dystopians of all time. But I just could not get past the halfway mark in Insurgent and, though I hate leaving series unfinished, I just don’t think I’m going to get myself to read the rest of it.

Judgment: GO

Asylum by Madeleine Roux

I’ll definitely be keeping this one. This is a book my mom got me because we are both into these types of novels. I’m always looking for some good young adult horror novels and though I’ve heard mix things about this one, I’m still very interested in reading it.

Judgment: KEEP

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

I am tentatively keeping this one on my list for now. I have given this novel a try once because I am constantly hearing such wonderful things about it. However, I just could not get into it and had to put it aside. I hate leaving books unfinished and I do think I was in the wrong mood for it at the time, so I am going to give it another try at some point.

Judgment: KEEP

Letting Ana Go by Anonymous

As I said earlier, I am trying to cut down on some of the books on my TBR that I know I’m not currently in the right emotional place to read. I think this is one of them at the moment. I do own it so I’ll hang on to my copy for a little bit, but for now it’s going off my TBR.

Judgment: GO

The Promise of Stardust by Priscille Sibley

Once again, not in the right emotional place to read this. This is another one I might consider again somewhere down the road. It still sounds like a great novel and I am definitely interested in it. But, to be honest, I don’t feel I’m up to it right now.

Judgment: GO

The Book of David by Anonymous

Sorry to become repetitive, but the same thoughts from the previous two apply to this one as well. This is one I’m slightly more undecided on because I am still extremely interested in it, so the verdict might change. For now, though, I’ll be taking it off my TBR.

Judgment: GO

The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais

This one’s a definite keeper! I saw the movie back when it first came out and absolutely adored it and I was extremely excited when I found out it was actually a book. I’ve been slow getting around to it but yes, I do still plan on reading this one!

Judgment: KEEP

Where the Moon Isn’t by Nathan Filer

This was a tough one to decide on. I remember how eager I was to read this book when I first discovered it. However, it’s another one that I let sit on my TBR for ages and now I’ve lost a lot of that excitement. It does still sound like a wonderful novel, but I think I may have passed that window of interest for me. I feel like I’m just not going to get around to it.

Judgment: GO

The Selection by Kiera Cass

Okay, so any of you who know me and my book preferences are probably wonder just what the heck this is doing on my TBR. I shall explain! Well…basically this was one of the few times I gave in to hype. I was hearing so much about this series and it seemed like it would be a short read so I figured, why not? But now I am older and wiser…and this is a definite nope.

Judgment: GO

Slammed by Colleen Hoover

So the reason this is on my TBR is pretty much the same story as the previous one—I gave into the hype. I figured I should read a Colleen Hoover novel at least once just to see what I think and this one is one of the most interesting sounding ones to me. And (just to make things confusing) I do still plan to do that! However, right now, this is not something I am eager to read. So, even though it is leaving my TBR for now, I will hold onto it and it may return.

Judgment: GO

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

I am definitely keeping this one. I have been hearing so many incredible things about this novel and it sounds like such a heartbreaking but beautiful read. This is exactly my favorite type of historical fiction. I am really hoping I can pick this one up sometime this year.

Judgment: KEEP

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

Keep! Once again, I’ve been slow getting around to it but I am so insanely excited to read this series! Even though I haven’t begun it yet, I already own all the books! 😛

Judgment: KEEP

Eon by Alison Goodman

I’m a bit unsure what to do about this one. It was another discovery from years ago and it does still sound fairly interesting. But, as I’m being strict when it comes to cutting down my TBR, I think this will have to go for now. I may return to it one day, but it’s not something I see myself picking up in the near future.

Judgment: GO

Something Real by Heather Demetrios

I’ll be honest, I thought for sure this would be one I’d take off my TBR. This has been on there for a while and it is another one of those young adult novels that I chose during a very different phase of my reading life. However, this story still sounds really lovely and heartwarming and I do honestly think I will enjoy it. I definitely still feel very motivated to read it.

Judgment: KEEP

The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons

This was another hype one. Historical fiction is definitely a genre I love—romance is always iffy. At the time I discovered this, I was definitely game to give this one a try. However, it’s been quite a long time now and I just don’t see myself getting around to it. I’m not sure it’s still my type of story.

Judgment: GO

Intangible by Jen Meyers

This is an old one from my Kindle that I’m not too sure about anymore. I think its another one from a phase that I’ve outgrown and I don’t know if I would get nearly as much enjoyment out of it now. The motivation to read it is unfortunately not really there.

Judgment: GO

100 Sideways Miles by Andrew Smith

I have been meaning to read a novel by Andrew Smith for quite a while now and I have a few on my TBR. They all still sound interesting to me and like books I will be picking up somewhat soon, so anything by him is staying for sure.

Judgment: KEEP

Midwinterblood by Marcus Sedgwick

For a long time now I’ve been wanting to read a Marcus Sedgwick novel, but I’ve been a bit indecisive about which one to choose. This one sounded pretty good at the time so I figured I would go with it, but now I’m not certain how I feel about it. For now, I’ll be removing this one but I do hope to find another novel by him to read sometime soon.

Judgment: GO

Getting Rid Of: 13/20

TBR Total: 1944

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Down the TBR Hole #7

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes! 

This time around, I didn’t clear out too much, but I thought it would still be fun to share my TBR with you guys! It’s been so long since I did one of these, so my TBR shelf has gotten ever more out of control. I’m hoping to get back to doing these regularly because it’s definitely in desperate need of a clear out.

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1741

____________________________________________________________

The Night My Sister Went Missing by Carol Plum-Ucci

I vaguely remember picking this up somewhere because it was really cheap and sounded intriguing. I’ve never heard anyone talk about this one, so I’m not quite sure what to expect with it. That being said, I do think I still have enough of an interest in it to keep it on my TBR. It’s an extremely short novel and I think I can probably breeze through it.

Judgment: KEEP

Life is But a Dream by Brian James

This is another one I found randomly and have been very interested in for years but I just haven’t gotten to yet. I don’t ever hear about this one either, but it does sound good. I’ve been cutting down on the amount of books I read about mental illness for personal reasons, but this is one of the few I do want to keep on my list for now.

Judgment: KEEP

Witch & Wizard by James Patterson

I’ve had this book—and series as a whole—on my radar for ages but I kept putting it off for some reason. I never seemed to be in the mood for it whenever I thought about picking it up. Between that and the fact that I am now well out of the age range for this one, realistically, I’m probably never actually going to get around to it. I’m going to let this book go.

Judgment: GO

Gone, Gone, Gone by Hannah Moskowitz

I had an incredibly hard time making up my mind about this book. However, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s not likely to be something I read anytime soon and I have too many books on my TBR to keep something I feel that way about. I’m sure this is a great read, but I need to pass my copy off to a better home.

Judgment: GO

Flawed by Kate Avelynn

I don’t actually remember adding this one to my TBR and when I came across it while making this post, I realized I had absolutely no clue what it was about. It also definitely isn’t something I want to read anymore.

Judgment: GO

Dreamsleeves by Coleen Murtagh Paratore

Despite how long it’s been since I discovered and added this book, my desire to pick it up is still pretty strong. It sounds like such a sad but heartwarming story with a very unique concept. I definitely want to try my best to get to this one at some point.

Judgment: KEEP

Nerve by Jeanne Ryan

I remember hearing tons about this when it first came out and it was exactly the kind of novel I was enjoying reading at the time. But I remember my enthusiasm about it dying down somewhat quickly. This also seems like something I would have been a lot more interested in when I was younger anyway. So this one is going off my TBR.

Judgment: GO

Crazy by Amy Reed

As I mentioned earlier, I am cutting down on the amount of mental illness books on my TBR. I read one other book by Amy Reed years ago and I really enjoyed it, so I added some of her other books to my list. However, though I do think she is a good author, I’m not feeling any inclination to read this one anymore.

Judgment: GO

This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald

I am for sure going to keep this one. F. Scott Fitzgerald is one of my favorite authors of all time, and I seriously need to read more of his work. I swear, I will get to this some day!

Judgment: KEEP

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Same reasons as I stated above!

Judgment: KEEP

Carrie by Stephen King

I’ve said before in these posts that almost anything by Stephen King is an automatic keeper and this is no exception. I am a massive fan of his and it’s crazy that I still haven’t gotten around to this one yet. But I am planning to try and work some more of his novels into my reading in the near future and this is toward the top of the list.

Judgment: KEEP

I Hunt Killers by Barry Lyga

I’ve heard lots of great things about this novel—and the entire series—particularly from some friends of mine who I know I have very similar tastes to. And I am still extremely interested in this story. I will admit, I don’t know if I will be getting to this one really soon, but I am definitely going to keep it on my TBR.

Judgment: KEEP

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle

Arthur Conan Doyle is another one of my all-time favorite authors, so any work of his is something I want to read. I’m hoping to get back into this particular series this year and finally finish it. I’ve really missed these stories and I can’t wait to continue on with them.

Judgment: KEEP

The Watch That Ends the Night by Allan Wolf

A combination of a novel in verse with a story about the Titanic? This is a definite keeper! Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been so interested in learning about the Titanic and I also enjoy reading historical fiction about it. It sounds like this will be such a beautiful and poignant way of approaching the topic. I’m still very eager to read it.

Judgment: KEEP

The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon

This is another one of those books that I just randomly found and I know I was also very drawn in by the wonderful cover. It is likely going to be a very heavy and emotional read, but I’m still so interested in the story. I’m keeping this one on my list.

Judgment: KEEP

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

I have been thinking a lot lately about how few series I have read—or at least completed—in my life and I want to change that. This year, I am dedicating myself to expanding that part of my literary experience and Leigh Bardugo’s novels are ones I have at the top of my list. I’m especially eager to get to Six of Crows, but I really want to read this trilogy first, so this should be a book on my monthly TBR very soon.

Judgment: KEEP

Lucy in the Sky by Anonymous

I remember reading Go Ask Alice—which is a book similar to this one—for school many years ago and I enjoyed it a lot. I have a couple of these novels in my collection and, though I don’t think I will like them quite as much as I did when I was younger, I believe they will still be good reads. It might be a while before I get around to this one, but I definitely want to keep it on my list for now.

Judgment: KEEP

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

I am absolutely, 100% determined to read this novel this year. I’ve been meaning to get around to it for ages and I’m sure I will absolutely love it. I think I put this off because I know it will probably be a bit of a slower read for me. But I’m going to try my best to make time for it sometime in the next few months.

Judgment: KEEP

Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr

I have to be honest, this was mainly a cover buy, which is a somewhat rare thing for me. I was also interested in the story, but I don’t remember ever being fully sold on it. It’s another one that I also feel I’ve outgrown. My tastes have changed so much in the last few years and I just know I’m never going to get around to this book.

Judgment: GO

Miles from Ordinary by Carol Lynch Williams

This is one other mental illness story that still makes it onto my list (I feel like I’ve made a ton of exceptions in this post!). I read another novel by Carol Lynch Williams years ago and it became one of my all-time favorites. This also seems like it will be a very quick read, so I believe I will in fact pick this up one day.

Judgment: KEEP

Getting Rid Of: 6/20

TBR Total: 1735

Top 20 Book Quotes of 2018

Hi Everyone!

Since we are nearing the end of the year, it is time to start reflecting back on the reading that we did in 2018. I plan to have some more posts on the topic but for now, I thought I would start off with a short and simple one. Today’s post is my top twenty favorite quotes from books that I read this year!

The sun still rises and sets, like it always has. It seems cruel that it wouldn’t stop, just for a little while, to show how much darker the world is without them in it.” 

― Sarah Glenn Marsh, Reign of the Fallen

But in a solitary life, there are rare moments when another soul dips near yours, as stars once a year brush the earth. Such a constellation was he to me.” 

― Madeline Miller, Circe

There is kindness in the world, if we know how to look for it. If we never start denying it the door.” 

― Seanan McGuire, Beneath the Sugar Sky

Well, now that we have seen each other,” said the unicorn, “if you’ll believe in me, I’ll believe in you.” 

― Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There

Perhaps bravery is simply the face humanity wraps around its collective madness.” 

― Amie Kaufman, Illuminae

That’s why people shouldn’t get too hung up on labels. Sometimes I think that’s part of what we do wrong. We try to make things make sense, even when they’re never going to.” 

― Seanan McGuire, Beneath the Sugar Sky

My behavior is nonetheless, deplorable. Unfortunately, I’m quite prone to such bouts of deplorability–take for instance, my fondness for reading books at the dinner table.”

― Brandon Sanderson, The Final Empire

They are beyond me.These humans.With their brief lives and their tiny dreams and their hopes that seem as fragile as glass.Until you see them by starlight, that is.” 

― Amie Kaufman, Illuminae

 Ah, life—the thing that happens to us while we’re off somewhere else blowing on dandelions & wishing ourselves into the pages of our favorite fairy tales.” 

― Amanda Lovelace, The Princess Saves Herself in This One

Adults can still tumble down rabbit holes and into enchanted wardrobes, but it happens less and less with every year they live. Maybe this is a natural consequence of living in a world where being careful is a necessary survival trait, where logic wears away the potential for something bigger and better than the obvious.” 

― Seanan McGuire, Beneath the Sugar Sky

Almost all grown adults walk around full of regret over a good-bye they wish they’d been able to go back and say better.” 

― Fredrik Backman, And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer

He showed me his scars, and in return he let me pretend that I had none.” 

― Madeline Miller, Circe

Humans, Amelia knew, would do anything for belief. They would proselytize from the highest mountain for belief. They would collect like-minded people and form mobs for belief. They would kill one another for belief.” 

― Christina Henry, The Mermaid

Our belief is often strongest when it should be weakest. That is the nature of hope.”

― Brandon Sanderson, The Final Empire

There are many good things in the world, and each of them happens for the first time only once, and never again.“

― Seanan McGuire, In an Absent Dream

She had been able to find a doorway and disappear into an adventure, instead of living in a world that told her, day after day after grinding, demoralizing day, that adventures were only for boys; that girls had better things to worry about, like making sure those same boys had a safe harbor to come home to.”

― Seanan McGuire, In an Absent Dream

When I use a word, it means just what I choose it to mean—neither more, nor less.” 

― Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There

Let’s build bookshelves together and fill them with our story.”

― Cyrus Parker, DROPKICKromance

Chemistry between people is the strangest science of all.” 

― Bridgett Devoue, Soft Thorns

The truth is, men make terrible pigs.” 

― Madeline Miller, Circe

What are some of your favorite book quotes from your 2018 reading? Share them with me down in the comments!

Down the TBR Hole #6

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes!

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1533

____________________________________________________________

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

There is absolutely no question about this one—definite keeper! The end! 🙂

Judgment: KEEP

The Predicteds by Christine Seifert

This one’s a no go these days. I can understand why this would have interested me at one point, but I’ve simply grown out of it.

Judgment: GO

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

I am definitely holding on to this one. Despite taking so long to get around to it, this series sounds absolutely fantastic and right up my alley!

Judgment: KEEP

Variant by Robison Wells

I had a lot of trouble making a decision with this one. On one hand, I love dystopian novels and this does still sound somewhat interesting for that reason. On the other hand, I’ve had this sitting around for so many years now—am I really going to pick it up? And I think I’ve finally come to the decision to give this one up.

Judgment: GO

The Sleepwalkers by J. Gabriel Gates

Here’s another one that I’ve gone back and forth on quite a bit. It’s one of those novels that isn’t always appealing to me—only when I’m in certain reading moods. I do love creepy/thriller type novels, so there is still enough about it that piques my interest. I feel like I should really get to this soon, though, while I am in that reading mood.

Judgment: KEEP

Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

I’ve never read a Lauren Oliver novel—though I do have at least one other on my TBR—and I tend to keep putting them off. I always hear extremely mixed reviews, and none of her books have personally been really intriguing. However, this one sounds extremely sweet and more like something I would enjoy compared to her other books. I’ll be keeping this one for now.

Judgment: KEEP

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

I feel like most of the reviews I have read or heard about this novel are very polarizing—either people love it or hate it. But there are some that fall in the middle, and that is what pushes me to read it. With the hope that I enjoy it at least enough to continue on with the series, which I’m told gets much better, I do really want to give this a go.

Judgment: KEEP

Article 5 by Kristen Simmons

Coming back to this novel and checking it out again, my initial interest in it is just not there anymore. It sounds like something I would have much preferred when I was younger and first getting into dystopian novels. Don’t get me wrong, I still love a good dystopian, but I’ve definitely become quite a lot picker, and this sounds a bit too “samey” for me these days.

Judgment: GO

Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

I’ll admit, this was sort of a cover buy for me initially. It is normally the type of novel that I would’ve just picked up from the library because I wasn’t totally sold on it. However, I do own it, and honestly, I am definitely still interested enough to give it a try. I’ll be keeping this one.

Judgment: KEEP

Beckoning Light by Alyssa Rose Ivy

I have been interested in this book—and the series as a whole—for quite a long time now. And I’m still just as eager to pick this up as I was back when I first got it. I’d love to get this read at some point in the next few months.

Judgment: KEEP

Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Crutcher

I’ve seen a few of my Goodreads friends read and enjoy this novel, and I think that is where I first picked it up. But I really don’t think it’s for me, and hasn’t been for awhile. So I think it’s time to get rid of this one.

Judgment: GO

Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John

Yes, I know it has been ages since I got this book. But I’m still incredibly excited to read it! And now that it’s being brought to my attention again, I really want to try to finally get to it sometime this year.

Judgment: KEEP

Between by Jessica Warman

I picked this one up toward the very beginning of my Goodreads life, and I remember being extremely interested in it then. I’ve been recently been trying to unhaul some of my books (there will definitely be a post about this!) and found this again. And, to be completely honest, I couldn’t for the life of me remember what exactly had interested me. So, while I’m sure it’s a good novel, it’s just not for me anymore.

Judgment: GO

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

Definitely still want to keep this one. Apart from it just generally sounding fantastic, I’ve heard so many wonderful things about it. My relationship with Stiefvater’s writing had a rocky start, but I’m happy to try some more of her novels (this and The Raven Cycle) and hopefully change my mind.

Judgment: KEEP

Popular by Alissa Grosso

I remember myself being so excited when I first found this—at the age of probably sixteen-ish. However, it really has not aged well, and as an adult, there seems to be just way too much angst and drama for my taste these days. So…nope!

Judgment: GO

Without Tess by Marcella Pixley

I have kept almost picking this up for many many months now. So despite the fact that I do keep putting it aside, I really do still want to read it!

Judgment: KEEP

The Talk-Funny Girl by Roland Merullo

Despite the fact that it has been so many years since I first added this to my TBR, I still really do want to read this. It sounds really bittersweet and funny and heartwarming, and I think it will be a really nice read.

Judgment: KEEP

The Twin’s Daughter by Lauren Baratz-Logstead

Another one of those books that I got way back in the early years of having a Kindle. It was a bit hard to decide whether or not I wanted to keep this one. Part of me thinks it still sounds interesting, but not all of it. And, realistically, there is only a very slim chance I’ll be getting around to it at any point in the near future.

Judgment: GO

Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews

This is not really the type of book that I would normally read. But it is such a hugely popular novel that I hear a lot about. Plus, the main reason I’m keeping it is that one of my best and longest online friends is a massive fan of the entire series, and she has recommended it to me many times. So I definitely still want to read it!

Judgment: KEEP

11/22/63 by Stephen King

I absolutely love Stephen King, and I did have a rule that all of his books were an automatic keep. However, I’m going to have to break my rule for this one. I’ve had this on my Kindle since it first came out, and it does still sound good to some extent. I just don’t think I’m actually going to pick it up at this point, or at the very least, not very soon. So I’m going to remove it for now.

Judgment: GO

Getting Rid Of: 8/20

TBR Total: 1525

Down the TBR Hole #5

Hey guys! I’m so sorry for the spotty posting and comment replying over the last week or two. I haven’t been feeling very well and that’s put me in a bit of an everything slump. But I’m pushing through it and trying to get things back to normal as soon as possible!

And I promise, I will be getting caught up on tags and replying to your comments very soon as well! You guys have been leaving the most wonderful comments that have completely warmed my heart—thank you all so much for your love and support! ❤

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes!

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1440

____________________________________________________________

Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

I’ve had this on my Kindle for a really long time. This isn’t my typical type of story because I believe it is at least part romance novel, but the mystery aspect of it still has me intrigued and seems like the primary focus. So I am totally still up for giving this one a try.

Judgment: KEEP

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

I am definitely keeping this one—in fact, it’s a priority on my reading list for the year. I started it a few times, but I was always too busy to sit down and give it the time it deserves. I’m hoping I’ll be able to do that this year, potentially this summer!

Judgment: KEEP

Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves

Okay, so this one apparently appealed to me at one point, but now it sounds incredibly weird and honestly really disgusting. I mean, I do absolutely love both reading and writing creepy, dark, twisted thriller stories, but this one seems a little much, even for me. And I am also now concerned about my younger self… 😛

Judgment: GO

Happyface by Stephen Emond

I feel a bit bad taking this off my list because it does sound like a sweet and funny story. However, I’m trying to really be hard on myself about eliminating books I’m probably never going to get around to and, unfortunately, this is realistically one of them.

Judgment: GO

Choker by Elizabeth Woods

I’m feeling a bit torn over this one. This is a book I’ve had on my Kindle for years but have never gotten around to. The mystery aspect of the plot is still really intriguing to me, but the rest of it sounds like something I would have preferred as a teenager. I’ve decided to remove it from my TBR for now since I don’t think I will be picking it up any time soon, but it is on my Kindle in case I change my mind at any point.

Judgment: GO

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

I found this through Goodreads/Booktube ages ago, but I ended up picking up A Monster Calls as my first Patrick Ness book (which is now one of my all-time favorite novels!). After reading that, I proceeded to have a Patrick Ness book buying attack and bought the entire Chaos Walking trilogy. Basically yes, this is definitely staying!

Judgment: KEEP

This Gorgeous Game by Donna Freitas

Nope, no…too creepy. I don’t actually remember putting this on my list either.

Judgment: GO

Get Well Soon by Julie Halpern

My initial reason for removing this was the fact that, these days, I’m often avoiding books that focus solely on mental health due to my own current situation. I’m just not in a place where I feel comfortable reading too many books on the topic. However, usually I would just put this aside until I feel better. But upon perusing the Goodreads page, I found out all about how this author has attacked reviewers who have expressed any negative opinions…so no, I’m not even going to consider this in the future.

Judgment: GO

After by Amy Efaw

Clearly, we’re still in the early stages of my TBR, so this is another old addition. I’ve heard a lot of wonderful things about this novel and I think it may have been one I discovered through my Goodreads friends. For some reason, though, I’ve lost interest in it. It definitely gives me that “I would have loved this when I was a teenager” vibe.

Judgment: GO

The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney

Again, another really old addition, and again, one that I have heard many good things about. This is one that I was really eager to read at one time, but (sorry for being repetitive!) I just don’t feel motivated to pick it up anymore. I will keep it in mind though, in case my feelings change in the future.

Judgment: GO

Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles

I remember hearing so much about this book back when it came out—everyone I knew loved it. But taking a look at it now, it’s really not something that I’m particularly interested in anymore. This is one of those contemporary romance novels that seems like it would be a bit darker and thought-provoking, which is typically the only type that appeals to me. But I just think, realistically, I’m not going to be picking this up.

Judgment: GO

Lessons from a Dead Girl by Jo Knowles

I will save you from my repetitive ramblings with this one and just say: I might have read this as a teenager. Which I am not. 😛

Judgment: GO

Beautiful by Amy Reed

Okay, so this might not be a “forever removal”, but I’m taking it out for the time being. I read one novel by Amy Reed years ago and enjoyed it, so I would like to read more of her work. However, between the fact that I’m being cautious with mental health related novels at the moment and the fact that I’m not nearly as eager to read it as I used to be, I’m putting it aside.

Judgment: GO

Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

Don’t let the position on my TBR fool you—I am insanely excited to read this book! I’ve been wanting to read this for so long and I finally bought a couple a little while ago. …Okay, maybe by “a little while ago” I mean over a year ago…but still! Definitely picking it up soon! 😀

Judgment: KEEP

The Invisible Man by H.G. Wells

Another definite keeper! One of the top priority novels on my classics TBR. So excited to read this one!

Judgment: KEEP

Augusta, Gone: A True Story by Martha Tod Dudman

And this is where I have to own up to my Lifetime movie addiction. The majority of the movies I like to watch are…how should I put this…unintentionally hilarious. However, many of their movies that are based off of true stories are actually not bad. One that I really enjoyed was based off of this novel, and I thought it would be interesting to read it. I’ve had it sitting on my TBR for ages, but it’s something I can still see myself picking up at some point.

Judgment: KEEP

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

This is another novel that’s on my classics TBR, and it’s a definite keeper. I think this may have been on reading lists at school, but I always ended up picking other books. Then a few years ago, a bunch of people started recommending it to me and a good friend of mine got me a copy. It sounds like a wonderful story, and I’m excited to check it out and see what they all love about it!

Judgment: KEEP

Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

Again, yet another novel on my classics TBR—so pretty much an automatic keeper! We never did a full read of this novel in school, but we did read excerpts from it in my AP Lit & Comp class. And I really loved all the passages that we studied, so I quickly added it to my TBR. I’m trying to start reading some more classics as I’ve kind of slacked off a bit lately, so this is a priority on that list.

Judgment: KEEP

You Against Me by Jenny Downham

Again, trying to be pretty strict and realistic when it comes to cutting down my TBR, and this one is unfortunately leaving. This novel has some great reviews and I was very interested in it when I first discovered it. But then it just sat there for years and, being honest with myself, I’ve lost too much of my eagerness to read it. It’s just very unlikely that I’m going to pick this up at any point.

Judgment: GO

The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart

The first and only E. Lockhart book I’ve ever read is We Were Liars, which I read back when it first came out. I know that opinions on that novel are very polarizing, and I ended up being one of the readers that really loved it. Ever since then, I’ve been wanting to pick up another one of her novels and this is the one that has been recommended to me the most. I’m definitely going to read this at some point.

Judgment: KEEP

Getting Rid Of: 11/20

TBR Total: 1429

Down the TBR Hole #4

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes!

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1434

____________________________________________________________

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

I remember how insanely excited I was for this novel when it was first released, and yet, somehow it’s still on my TBR. Since then, I’ve heard a ton of mixed things about this series as a whole. However, I’m still interested in at least trying it out to see what I think.

Judgment: KEEP

Breathless by Jessica Warman

I found this at the library one summer and, while I didn’t check it out at the time, I added it to my Goodreads TBR. And though there are some interesting elements to it still, I’ve lost most of my enthusiasm to read it at this point.

Judgment: GO

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

This is a definite keeper. Any of Rick Riordan’s books that I haven’t read yet are automatic keepers!

Judgment: KEEP

Stay by Deb Caletti

Since we are still in the early stages of my TBR, and since I’ve been on Goodreads for quite a while, we’re going to be running into a lot of books I added so long ago that I’ve just lost interest. And this is one of them! I read a number of Deb Caletti’s novels when I was in my early teens and really enjoyed them—however, they don’t appeal to me now like they use to.

Judgment: GO

Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

This is totally not my typical type of novel, but it honestly sounds really sweet and fun. I’ve always heard nothing but fantastic things about Morgan Matson’s books—this one in particular—and I figure I should give it a try. I’ve been trying to add some more lighthearted reads into my TBR to break things up a bit lately anyway.

Judgment: KEEP

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Yes, yes, yes! Definitely staying on the list. I am so eager to check out Ruta Sepetys work, particularly this novel. I know it’s going to destroy my heart, but I’m totally up for it!

Judgment: KEEP

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

Keeping for sure! I’ve started this novel multiple times, but I always end up getting distracted by something else because adulting always seems to interfere with my reading schedule! So I am determined to get to this and the rest of the trilogy as soon as possible.

Judgment: KEEP

Doctor Who: The Clockwise Man by Justin Richards

I’m definitely keeping this for now. I’ve been having the most difficult time trying to find copies of many of the early novels in this series, so I have no idea when I’ll actually be able to get around to this. But I’m hoping I can find it one day!

Judgment: KEEP

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Here’s another book that I can’t believe I still haven’t gotten around to reading. This was originally recommended to me by my grandma, who absolutely loved it. We watched the movie together when it came out and I loved that, so I definitely want to read this sometime soon!

Judgment: KEEP

A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Another definite keeper! I need to get started on this series, so I’m hoping I can read at least this first novel this year. I’m thinking this might be fun to read at the beach this summer.

Judgment: KEEP

Stolen: A Letter to My Captor by Lucy Christopher

I got this novel so long ago, I actually thought that this would be another I had lost interest in. But honestly, I really don’t think I have. Plus, I’ve always heard nothing but good things about it. I’m pretty sure I still want to give this one a read.

Judgment: KEEP

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

I think I’ve made this confession before but, I have never read a John Green novel, at least not all the way through. Years ago, I started one of his novels and just could not get into it. However, I do still want to give him a try and, in this case, I am willing to give into the hype to read this particular book. Not sure how I’ll feel about it (and I’ve already been spoiled on most of it), but we’ll see!

Judgment: KEEP

Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters by Natalie Standiford

I have to be honest, I’m not entirely sure why I ever thought this would be my type of book…but yeah, it’s really not.

Judgment: GO

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Okay, so I’m a bit iffy on this one. I’ve wanted to read it for so long now, but I’ve recently been hesitant due to hearing a fair amount of negative feedback about the series as a whole. For now, though, I still have enough of an interest that I’m willing to give things a try and see how it goes.

Judgment: KEEP

Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer

I think I found this novel because a bunch of my friends were talking about it back when it came out. I’ve also always been a bit of a dystopian addict. However, I’m just not feeling it anymore with this book. I’ll keep it in mind, but for now, I’m removing it.

Judgment: GO

Newes from the Dead by Mary Hooper

Yes, definitely keeping this one! It’s based off a true story, I believe, which means I am probably going to get majorly creeped out, but I’m intrigued!

Judgment: KEEP

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

I have become a bit less interested in this novel over the last few years, but reading some of my Goodreads friends reviews of it has actually piqued my interest again. I’m thinking I’ll probably give this one a go.

Judgment: KEEP

Bruiser by Neal Shusterman

I had a really hard time making up my mind about this one. I have read a few of Neal Shusterman’s novels and I have more I want to pick up, so it seems a bit weird to take this one off. It still sounds like a good story, but I just don’t think it’s for me anymore.

Judgment: GO

Numbers by Rachel Ward

This is another one I am a bit conflicted over. I remember, years ago, hearing people talking about this novel all the time, so I figured I should check it out. Some aspects of the plot still sound interesting, but I don’t feel a huge amount of enthusiasm about picking this up. I’ll keep it on for now though.

Judgment: KEEP

Want to Go Private? by Sarah Darer Littman

And lastly, this one is a keeper as well. It’s an old discovery, but it still sounds equally as interesting as it did when I first found it.

Judgment: KEEP

Getting Rid Of: 5/20

TBR Total: 1429

Down the TBR Hole #3

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes!

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1416

____________________________________________________________

Eve by Anna Carey

This is another book I won through a writing contest years ago, however, I do still have an interest in it. I have a thing for stories with deadly viruses…is that weird? 😛

Judgment: KEEP

Room by Emma Donoghue

Oh yes, definitely keeping this on the list. I have been meaning to read this for so long now, and I really want to see the film as well. Hopefully I’ll have a chance to pick this up soon.

Judgment: KEEP

Ultraviolet by R.J. Anderson

I’ve had this sitting on my Kindle for years and I’ve never gotten around to it. It still sounds incredibly mysterious and intriguing to me though, so I definitely want to keep this on my TBR. I really want to find out what it’s about!

Judgment: KEEP

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

I am tentatively keeping this on my TBR for now. I’ve tried to start this novel twice and haven’t been able to get into it, and it also isn’t the typical type of book I like to read. However, I’ve heard so many good things about it—plus I need some more cheerful reads on my list—so I will probably try again some day.

Judgment: KEEP

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Another definite keeper for the TBR. I honestly can’t believe this is still sitting in my unread book pile! It’s one that I’m going to try to read this year if possible.

Judgment: KEEP

But I Love Him by Amanda Grace

It’s been hard to make a decision about this one because I have heard that it is a very good book. I will admit, this is one of those novels that did just generally appeal to me much more when I was in my teens. I still have a bit of interest in it and it is on a very important topic. But I’ve also been trying to be extra cautious about reading potentially triggering novels due to my personal state of mind currently. Therefore, I’m going to put this aside for now.

Judgment: GO

A Life Revealed by Suzi Katz

I’m not sure why I still have this one on my TBR. I remember the synopsis sounding pretty interesting (I like witness protection program-type mystery novels), but all the reviews I’ve ever read about it make it sound sort of confusing…and bad. Basically, I think there is clearly a reason I have put this off for so many years—and at the moment, I have no problem with continuing to put it off.

Judgment: GO

Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler

Nah, this one’s just never going to happen. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure this is a great novel—I’ve heard nothing but fantastic things about it. But contemporary romance is not my genre in the first place, and I wasn’t particularly certain I wanted to read it back when I added it years ago.

Judgment: GO

Shrinking Violet by Danielle Joseph

Okay, so this is one I am removing from my TBR but am going to keep in consideration. This story sounds absolutely adorable and like it would be very light and fun. But I haven’t gotten around to reading it for so many years, and it is another novel that feels a bit young for me, so I’m putting it aside for now.

Judgment: GO

Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday

Once again, this sounded a lot more interesting to me back when I was in my teens. There are elements that seem intriguing and unique, but I think it is mostly going to be the typical type of storyline meant for a much younger audience.

Judgment: GO

Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin

I’m a little bit sad about this one and the fact that it just doesn’t catch my attention anymore. I have read a number of Gabrielle Zevin’s novels and absolutely loved all of them. However, it has been so long since I found this one that it is just another story that sounds a bit too young for me and my tastes now.

Judgment: GO

The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler

I was so excited about this when it was first released, and I couldn’t wait to pick it up…and then I never did. The whole idea for the plot is good, but between my lack of curiosity and the lukewarm reviews, I don’t think I’ll be reading this one.

Judgment: GO

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

I remember there was a ton of hype surrounding this series for a while, and a number of my friends had spoken about it. I was somewhat interested in it at the time, but it isn’t something that really appeals to me quite as much anymore. So, at least for now, I’m going to remove it.

Judgment: GO

Unlovable by Sherry Gammon

Hmm…this one. I’m not really sure what to say about this one. It’s a book that I have had on my Kindle for so long, and I remember picking it out, but I swear it sounded like a different story then than it does when I read the synopsis now. I’m not too sure about it at this point, so I’m removing it for now but keeping it in my mind given all the wonderful reviews.

Judgment: GO

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Picked up a copy of this one so long ago I can’t even remember when it was, but I am still just as interested in reading it as I was back then. This book—and series as a whole—sounds like a really fast-paced, fun mystery/paranormal story, and I think it will make for a nice light read. I’m actually hoping to pick this one up this year.

Judgment: KEEP

Clarity by Kim Harrington

I’m definitely getting a bit repetitive now, but this is another one that appealed to me more when I was younger. It actually sounds a lot like Deadly Cool, so I’m sort of disinterested in the plot for similar reasons. This is one that I will still keep in mind though.

Judgment: GO

Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

Of course, of course, of course! …OF COURSE! …Need I say more? 😀 Priority read for the year!

Judgment: KEEP

It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini

Wait! Wait! Before you freak out at me about this decision, I have reasons, I promise! I am still incredibly interested in reading this novel. But, as I mentioned a bit earlier, I am trying to be more conscious of my personal mental health lately, which has not been in the best state. It has recently been making reading certain novels harder, particularly those featuring anything that relates too closely to what I’m going through, and this is one that just seems like it would be best to put aside for a little while.

Judgment: GO

The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat and Other Clinical Tales by Oliver Sacks

Any Oliver Sacks book on my TBR is a definite keeper! I’ve been meaning to read his work for so long now, and I’ve final picked up copies of a few of his novels recently. I’m eager to start reading them over the next few months!

Judgment: KEEP

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan

This may be another sort of controversial choice, but I have a reason for this one as well! I am still very interested in this story, so this is most likely not a permanent removal. However, I have not read a single John Green or David Levithan novel, and I have decided to only keep the few individual works I am most interested in by them for now, and begin there to see if I like their work in the first place. If all goes well, this will return!

Judgment: GO

Getting Rid Of: 12/20

TBR Total: 1404

Well, this ended up being MUCH more productive than last time! I’m having so much fun doing these posts—I’m so glad I started them. And I hope you all have been enjoying them so far as well. Plenty more to come!

Down the TBR Hole #2

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes! I’ll actually be putting out two this week since this one went so poorly.

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1414

____________________________________________________________

Bossypants by Tina Fey

Yes, definitely still interested in reading this one—I love Tina Fey. Actually, I would really like to listen to this on audiobook since she narrates it!

Judgment: KEEP

All You Get Is Me by Yvonne Prinz

As I mentioned in the last post, I used to write on a writing website run by HarperTeen called Inkpop, and this was one of the many books I won through writing contests. I was still in my teens when I got this, and honestly this does seem a bit young for me now, but it also sounds interesting enough that I’d be willing to give it a go.

Judgment: KEEP

The Lying Game by Sara Shepard

I just read my first Sara Shepard novel a few weeks ago (The Elizas) and I really enjoyed it. I do want to read more of her work and this is the one that appeals to me the most.

Judgment: KEEP

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

One of the classics I want to read the most, so this must stay on my list! I read and loved Something Wicked This Way Comes back in high school and have been dying to read more Bradbury since then.

Judgment: KEEP

As I Wake by Elizabeth Scott

I have loved all the books I’ve read by Elizabeth Scott, but I’ve been a bit wary about this one. It has a really interesting sounding plot and features an unreliable narrator, which I love. But I have also read a ton of poor reviews for it. I’ll hang onto it for now though and give it a try.

Judgment: KEEP

Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

This was recommended to me years ago by both my grandma and my mom, who absolutely adored it. It still sounds like a wonderful novel, and I’ve been looking to start reading more historical fiction novels lately.

Judgment: KEEP

Here We Go Again: My Life in Television by Betty White

I’ve always absolutely adored Betty White! I read one of her autobiographies a few years back and loved it. She is a fantastic writer, absolutely hilarious, and she has had such an interesting life. I can’t wait to read more about her.

Judgment: KEEP

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

This was so popular among all my friends back in elementary/middle school, but for some reason I never got around to picking it up. It has always sounded like an absolutely adorable story, so I definitely still want to read it.

Judgment: KEEP

Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie

Of course I want to keep this one! This is high priority on my classics reading list, and I just got a beautiful copy this past Christmas!

Judgment: KEEP

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Definitely not the type of book that I would ever go for, but Wendy was a fellow writer on Inkpop back in the day. I really want to read this and support her work, and I have heard a ton of really good things about this series as well, so I’m certainly still interested.

Judgment: KEEP

The End of Everything by Megan Abbott

I forget how I found this one, but I added it years ago. The reviews I’ve read of it have been very mixed, many of them leaning more toward the negative side. Still, I’ve been wanting to read more mystery/crime novels lately, so I’m willing to give this one a go.

Judgment: KEEP

Hate List by Jennifer Brown

This was a very topical book back when I added it to my list years ago and it is sadly even more topical now. I think this is going to be an extremely tough and emotional read, but I am still up for giving it a try.

Judgment: KEEP

I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak

I definitely want to read this book, and hopefully soon! I read The Book Thief last year and utterly adored it. I will read absolutely anything by Zusak!

Judgment: KEEP

The Samurai’s Garden by Gail Tsukiyama

I’ve had this on my TBR for quite a long time and, unfortunately, it doesn’t really pique my interest quite as much anymore. Maybe I’ll come back to it some day, but for now I’m going to take it off.

Judgment: GO

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott

My mom recommended this to me ages ago, and since then, a number of my writing buddies have as well. I’ve been really wanting to read some more non-fiction books about the writing process as I work on my own projects. I think this will be an interesting read.

Judgment: KEEP

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

I purchased a copy of this before I figured out the best order for Cassandra Clare’s novels. Though it feels like a very daunting task, I am planning on trying to dive into the world of the Shadowhunters fairly soon, so this will stay until then.

Judgment: KEEP

The Clearing by Heather Davis

This sounds like an incredibly sweet and heartbreaking story, and I absolutely love novels about people from two different time periods connecting in some way. I added this a long time ago and it still sounds just as interesting as it did then!

Judgment: KEEP

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

A definite must-read for me! Aside from my rule that absolutely all things Stephen King will remain on this list, as an aspiring author, I think this will be a wonderful and incredibly insightful read. Thanks goes to my dad for recommending this to me!

Judgment: KEEP

The Princess Bride by William Goldman

This is a no-brainer: DEFINITELY keep! Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve absolutely adored the movie, and I can’t believe I’ve gone this long without reading the book! I’m hoping I’ll have a chance to read it this year.

Judgment: KEEP

Freakonomics by Stephen D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner

This is not the typical novel that I would read, but it has actually always sounded really interesting. My art teacher recommended this to me back in school, and I’ve always heard a bunch of great things about it since, so I definitely want to read it.

Judgment: KEEP

Getting Rid Of: 1/20

TBR Total: 1413

Well, that was a bit of a fail! But like I said, I’ll be posting an extra one this week and hopefully that will be a bit more productive!

Down the TBR Hole #1

I’ve seen so many people doing these posts lately, in particular, my friend and fellow blogger Heather from The Sassy Book Geek (pssst…she’s an incredible blogger so you should check her out!). I’ve been absolutely loving her posts and just the general idea so I thought I’d try it out! This will probably be tough, but I definitely need to cut down on my Goodreads TBR—it’s getting a bit out of hand! This first post may not be very productive, but as we get further down the list, it should definitely pick up a bit.

This was created by Lia from Lost in a Story. I’m going to attempt to do this post every week as the rules say, but since I have such a massive TBR, I’m going to be picking out 20 books instead of 10. So, let’s see how this goes!

The Rules:

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopses of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

Keep track of where you left off so you can pick up there next week!

Current “To Read” Shelf: 1368

____________________________________________________________

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

I read Hosseini’s first novel, The Kite Runner, back in middle school (which is, frighteningly, over a decade ago!) and absolutely adored it. His writing and storytelling styles are beautiful, and I honestly can’t believe I haven’t read his other works yet!

Judgment: KEEP

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey

I put this one on my TBR because a local theater was putting on a production of it. I’d also heard about it in school, though it was never on any of our reading lists. This may be a bit of a controversial decision—since I know this is well-loved—but I’m not really feeling this one anymore. I may come back to it one day, but I’m taking it off for now.

Judgment: GO

The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom

This is not really the type of story I would usually be drawn to, but I’ve had this recommended to me multiple times by my parents. It sounds like it could be a very beautiful and thought-provoking read, so I’m definitely interested.

Judgment: KEEP

The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards

This one is a bit of a tough decision. I have had this book for so many years and never gotten around to it, and I definitely don’t feel quite as drawn to it anymore. However, I still think I have enough interest in it to keep it on for now.

Judgment: KEEP

It by Stephen King

Any Stephen King book is really a no-brainer for me: definitely staying on! I’ve actually just recently gotten a copy of It. I’m hoping to read it this year and then finally see the movie.

Judgment: KEEP

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

I’ve heard so many amazing things about this novel, and I’ve been meaning to pick it up for ages. This should be a nice, quick read, so I’m pretty sure I’ll pick it up at some point.

Judgment: KEEP

The A.B.C. Murders by Agatha Christie

I’ve really been wanting to read more Agatha Christie lately, and I had forgotten that I’ve owned this book for quite a while. If I have a chance, I’d actually love to pick this up sometime this year.

Judgment: KEEP

Misery by Stephen King

Misery is one of my favorite movies, but I’ve never actually gotten around to reading the novel. This is another one I’d love to pick up this year if possible, so it’s definitely staying. Also…Stephen King…

Judgment: KEEP

The Time Machine by H.G. Wells

This is one of those classics that I feel like I should have read by this point in my life. I’m pretty interested in it too, so I’ll keep it on.

Judgment: KEEP

Impulse by Ellen Hopkins

Back when I was in middle school, I was completely obsessed with Ellen Hopkins’ books, and she was basically an auto buy author for a while. So now, I still own a few of her books that I never got around to. I’m not in a place right now where I feel comfortable reading about these topics, so for now, I’m taking it off.

Judgment: GO

Tricks by Ellen Hopkins

Again, another Hopkins book I bought back in my early teens that I never got around to. Though I love dark, gritty realistic fiction at times, just like the last book, I’m not sure when or if I will be in a place where I am up to reading this. So for now, I’m going to take it off.

Judgment: GO

Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon

I used to be a member of a writing website—created by HarperCollins—called Inkpop, and it was one of my favorite communities ever. Not only did I get to know Leigh on there, this was the first book that was ever taken from Inkpop and published. I, of course, got this in support of Leigh and the community as a whole, and though I have sort of grown out of this type of novel, I do still want to make an effort to read it.

Judgment: KEEP

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Speaking of Inkpop, I won a copy of this novel in one of their writing contests. And this appealed to me back then, but now…not so much. I think this may be one I have to drop.

Judgment: GO

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

This was another prize from winning an Inkpop writing contest. I’m a little iffy about it, but I think I might give it a try at some point.

Judgment: KEEP

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

The film adaptation of Rebecca is one of my all-time favorite movies, so this obviously is staying on my list!

Judgment: KEEP

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

I’m actually not entirely sure why I own this…but since Delirium is out, this has to be as well.

Judgment: GO

Entwined by Heather Dixon

This is just one of those books I added back in my teens and, unfortunately, I’m just not particularly interested in it anymore.

Judgment: GO

Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky

Again, another prize from winning an Inkpop writing contest. This still sounds really interesting to me, and I’ve had a number of people recommend it as well. It is definitely one I’d like to give a read.

Judgment: KEEP

Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay

Another book I picked up in my teens (definitely noticing a trend here…). I always love retellings of my favorite classics, but this just doesn’t sound like anything I want to read anymore.

Judgment: GO

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

And one more time… another prize from winning an Inkpop writing contest. 😛 But, this is one that I am still really interested in. I’ve been wanting to start reading Kiersten White’s books, so this is staying in my TBR pile.

Judgment: KEEP

Getting Rid Of: 7/20

TBR Total: 1361

Well, that was actually more productive (and longer) than I thought it would be! Should I continue to do 20 books going forward or should I cut it down a bit? Let me know in the comments! Also, make sure to let me know your thoughts on any of the books on this list! 😀