Top Ten Best / Worst Series Endings

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme created by The Broke and the Bookish 

When I started gathering my answers I found out two things: First, that I'm hopelessly behind in a LOT of series (aka unfinished!), and second, that fortunately I have more 'Best' endings than 'Worst'

BEST

1. Harry Potter and the Deadly Hallows by J.K. Rowling (Harry Potter series) - I don't have to explain, do I?

2.  Timeless by Gail Carriger (Parasol Protectorate) - This series is steampunk at its best.  I'm very happy with the ending, even if there is wide open for much more and I think I read somewhere that there will be a companion series soon. 

3.  Into the Still Blue by Veronica Rossi (Under the Never Sky series) - I just finished this one yesterday and this book is AMAZING!  If you haven't read this series, you really should. 

4.  The Bitter Kingdom by Rae Carson (Fire and Thorns series) - Another beloved series that ended recently.  I'm so happy for Hector and Elisa and their kingdom. An epic ending :)

5.  The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa (Iron Fey series) - A book from Ash's point of view, a quest, and Puck to boot. What else could you ask for?

6.  Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead (Vampire Academy series) - Dimitri, Rose... You get the idea, right?

7.  Return to Paradise by Simone Elkeles (Leaving Paradise series) - This is a duet and it's so good!  I love this series, the ending was perfection!

Worst

8. Gone by Lisa McMann (Wake series) - I really enjoyed the series, up until this book actually.  Janie turned into an indecisive mess and the ending was so open that it drove me crazy.

9. Sever by Lauren DeStefano (The Chemical Garden series) - Honestly, this series redemption is DeStefano's writing.  The magic of Wither was gone in the second book and this one was a hot mess. And everything got fixed and honky dory in the last chapter :(

10. We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han (The Summer series) - What was that? Belly wanting to get married at 18?  Everyone falling in place for the weirdest wedding in history?  And then we get a sort of epilogue for an ending?  What happened in between?!

What is in your top ten this week? Have you read any of these? Do you agree or disagree with me?

The Bookish Museum (#2)

You know how there’s a museum for everything?  I mean dolls, postage, cars, planes … you name it, there’s a museum about it!  I started a plan in this devious mind of mine to start one of my own.

This museum is for artifacts (and I use the word loosely here) based on books and movies that are based on books.  Here’s the first installment of my Bookish Museum!

1.  Katniss Everdeen’s  Mockingjay Pin – What started like an attempt for comfort when Katniss volunteer for the Hunger Games, turned out to be the symbol against oppression and a symbol for the revels. 

2.  Rose Hathaway’s Stake – Such an awesome heroine, Rose is one of my favorite parts of the Vampire Academy series.  When thinking of something of hers to include in the museum, the only think I could think of was her stake (how kick ass is that?)

3.  Price Ash’s Sword – I adore Julie Kagawa’s Iron Fey series and the main reason for that is Ash.  I love Ash, he is one of my favorite characters ever! 

That’s it, three new artifacts going to the museum today!

If you like the idea and would like to join me, I’ll be happy to provide a “linky”  of some sort in future posts.

Short Reviews: Vampire Academy Graphic Novel and Almost a Scandal

Title: Vampire Academy Graphic Novel by Richelle Mead, Leigh Dragoon and Emma Vieceli

Published: August 23^rd, 2011 by Razorbill

Source: Purchased

Format: Paperback

Age group: Young Adult

Genre: Graphic novel, paranormal

Grade rate: A

After two years on the run, best friends Rose and Lissa are caught and returned to St. Vladimir’s Academy, a private high school for vampires and half-bloods. It’s filled with intrigue, danger—and even romance. Enter their dark, fascinating world through a new series of 144-page full-color graphic novels. The entire first Vampire Academy novel has been adapted for book one by Leigh Dragoon and overseen by Richelle Mead, while the beautiful art of acclaimed British illustrator Emma Vieceli brings the story to life.

My Review

Vampire Academy is one of my favorite YA series. Ever. Therefore, you can imagine my reaction to the graphic novel.

I won’t go in depth on the review of the actual story, as it’s not a new one for many of Mead’s fans.  I did like the graphic novel because it gave faces to these amazing characters, especially Rose, Dimitri, Lissa and Christian.  The essence of the characters remains, thankfully, the same. Likewise, the graphic novel gives the reader a summarized version of the full novel and in my opinion the adaptation was really good.  It is interesting to see what the Strigoi look like; I always thought they look more… human.

VA Graphic Novel is a short and entertaining read and a must for VA fans.  How awesome is this cover?

I’m very excited to introduce Damaris to you!  She is the daughter of a dear friend, a teenager (in high school) and fellow book lover.  This is her first review at Reading with ABC.

Title: Almost a Scandal by Elizabeth Essex (The Reckless Brides #1)

Published: July 31^st, 2012 by St. Martin’s

Source: Purchased

Format: Paperback

Age group: Adult

Genre: Historical romance

Grade rate: B

Bold, brazen, and beautiful, the Reckless Brides refuse to play by society’s rules of courtship. But—come hell or high water—they  always get their man… For generations, the Kents have served proudly with the British Royal Navy. So when her younger brother refuses to report for duty, Sally Kent slips into a uniform and takes his place—at least until he comes to his senses. Boldly climbing aboard the Audacious, Sally is as able-bodied as any sailor there. But one man is making her feel tantalizingly aware of the full-bodied woman beneath her navy blues… Dedicated to his ship, sworn to his duty—and distractingly gorgeous—Lieutenant David Colyear sees through Sally’s charade, and he’s furious. But he must admit she’s the best midshipman on board—and a woman who tempts him like no other. With his own secrets to hide and his career at stake, Col agrees to keep her on. But can the passion they hide survive the perils of a battle at sea? Soon, their love and devotion will be put to the test… 

Damaris’ Review

I have to say this book intrigued me in every way possible. You might think it an older version of Mulan but it is in no way so. The story behind it called out to my attention in a quick second. I must say it was worth the purchase this book will be a keeper and I will recommended. It will keep you on your toes because you don't quite know what it is to come. You know her intentions but it is not as easy to make out what is to come next. I will say the ending of it was not my favorite I wanted to see the interaction between Col and Sal's family I wanted that and the very end needed a bit more...it felt to me as if she wanted to finish the book as soon as possible went it came to the last page or so. Over all I rate it a four start.

Stacking the Shelves #37

Stacking the Shelves is a meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews in which we feature all the book goodness that we received, borrowed or purchased during the previous week. All links are to Goodreads.

Hi gorgeous people!  I didn't posted my STS last week as I had out-of-town visitors. Here's two week's worth of books:

Purchased (or Free for Kindle)

Waiting for You by Shey Stahl - I saw this book while browsing in Amazon and it has amazing reviews there and in Goodreads.  It sounds like a great road-trip book and the cover is so pretty.

Sanctum by Sarah Fine - I saw a review for this book from Ashley at Book Nook and couldn't help but give it a try.

Vain by Amelie Fisher - I think I found out about this book from my dashboard in GoodReads.  It looks awesome!

Rapture by Phillip Simpson - I've been meaning to read this one forever!  Now  I can. 

Painted Blind by Michelle Hansen - I love Greek mythology and this book is a re-telling of Psyche and Cupid's myth.

Library

Crash by Lisa McMann - Love this author and this cover is so pretty, the flames in her eye are shiny!

The Spindlers by Lauren Oliver - I'm probably the only person in the planet that hasn't read the Delirium series! Anyway, this MG book looks so cute, right?

Burn for Burn by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian - I have a copy of the book, but picked the audio book from the library

Changeless by Gail Garriger - I read Soulless a while back and checked book #2 of the series in audio format to continue.

Keeping the Castle by Patrice Kindl - It just looks so sweet :)

Audible

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare - No explanation needed!

For Review

Strands of Bronze and Gold by Jane Nickerson - I had this one as my WoW a few months ago, can't wait to read it!

The Eternity Cure by Julie Kagawa - By Julie!  I guess now I have to read the first book...

Gameboard of the Gods by Richelle Meade - By Richelle Meade!  Another one I can't wait to read.

What's is stacking your shelves this week?  Have you read any of these?  

Stacking the Shelves #32

Stacking the Shelves is a meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews in which we feature all the book goodness that we received, borrowed or purchased during the previous week. All links are to Goodreads.

Hi there gorgeous people!  This week I went back to work after a restful few days off.  I did have a good book week, I hope you did too :)

Purchased - Physical Books

Vampire Academy: The Graphic Novel by Richelle Meade, Emma Vieceli and Leigh Dragoon - I have been waiting to get my hands on this one for a while.  I love the VA series and this one should be just as awesome.

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson - This books is one of my favorites and yet I didn't have my own copy, now I do :)

Blood-Kissed Sky by J.A. London - I enjoyed the first book in the series and I want to know what comes next.

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis - I went to BAM on Thursday and imagine my surprise when I saw this lovely there!  For some reason I thought it was coming out next week and instead I can start reading right now! 

Purchased (or Free) for Kindle

Ready or Not by Chautona Havig - This sound like so much fun!  I cannot imagine raising eight children, I think I would go bonkers is a week :)

Hopeless by Colleen Hoover - Don't shoot me, but I haven't read any books by Coleen Hoover and this one has off the charts ratings in Amazon and Goodreads, I just couldn't resist it.

Collections for Kindle Fire App - One of the things that I really missed about my Kindle 2 was the ability to put my books into collections, this app promises to do just that (for $2.99!) for Kindle Fire.  I'll let you guys know later if it works.

Library

Valkyrie Rising by Ingrid Paulson - So pretty!  Oh, and I love mythology.

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini - Again, I love mythology and I've only heard great things about this one.

Review

Shy Town Girls by M.G. Wilson, Jennifer Yih - Thanks to Networdling Publishing for the opportunity.

Jack Templar, Monster Hunter by Jeff Gunhus - For a blog tour next month

In other news, hubby got me another bookshelf, that totals now four 'Billy' shelves (from Ikea).  The poor thing is hoping that I stop buying books (of course, not going to happen!)

What is stacking your shelves this week?

Top Ten Bookish People I Want to Meet

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme created by The Broke and the Bookish

1.  John Green - I can't wait to meet him (he is going to be at the DC National Book Festival this weekend) and tell him how good The Fault in Our Stars is!

2.  Cassandra Clare - The creator of an amazing world has to be an extraordinary lady :)

3.  J.K. Rowling - This lady has a serious imagination, I would love to talk to her for five minutes!

4.  Richelle Mead - Vampire Academy. Rose and Dimitri.  Need I say more?

5.  Sarah Maas - I LOVE Throne of Glass, if you haven't read it yet you are missing an awesome story and amazing characters. 

6.  Rick Riordan - I love Greek mythology and it really doesn't get better than this.

7.  Scott Westerfeld - Barking spiders!  The Leviathan series is amazing... (reading Goliath right now!)

8.  Veronica Roth - Wouldn't you love to talk about 'Four' with her? 

9.  Julia Quinn - Ms. Quinn is my favorite historical romance author. Her books are so funny that having a conversation with her should be a riot :)

10. Gail Carriger - She is the author of the Parasol Protectorate series, I would love to have tea with her (and scones too!)

I have been lucky enough to meet some of my favorite authors at book signings before, such as Sarah Dessen, Julie Kagawa, Rachel Vincent, Maggie Stiefvater, Maria Snyder, Jonathan Maberry, and Rachel Vincent. 

What author or blogger do you want to meet? 

Stacking the Shelves #15

Stacking the Shelves is a meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews in which we feature all the book goodness that we received, borrowed or purchased during the previous week. All links are to Goodreads.

What a week!  I sure I'm glad is almost over (I just have to survive today :) I won't bore you with the details, but lets say it involves a flat tire while going home at rush hour on 295, being stuck in traffic due to the Grand Prix (in Baltimore this weekend), an infection and an adverse reaction to the antibiotics to cure said infection.  Anyway!  It was also my birthday and I had a good time that day.

I didn't buy a lot of books this week because I'm planning on attending the Baltimore Book Festival (September 28-30) and the National Book Festival (in DC, September 22-23) and I need to save my money for that.

Library

The Calling by Kelley Armstrong - I love Ms. Armstrong's Darkest Powers series and really enjoy The Gathering, can't wait to listen to this book :)

Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore - This books needs no introduction or explanation, right?

Keep Holding On by Susane Colasanti - Looks like a romantic sort of book...

Purchased (or Free) for Kindle

Wings of Shadow by Anna Kyss - I believe this book was free for Kindle, I just fell in love with the cover.

Trouble in Mudbug by Jana DeLeon - This book sounds like so much fun!

Inbetween by Tara A. Fuller - I've heard good things about this one.

Purchased (Physical Books)

Foretold: 14 Tales of Prophecy and Prediction edited by Carrie Ryan - This is an anthology from fabulous authors, like Richelle Meade, Lisa McMann, Laini Taylor, Meg Cabot and more.  Is bound to be amazing!

Enchanted by Alethea Kontis - Can't resist a fairy tale re-telling or that beautiful cover.

I also received a beautiful Vera Bradley messenger bag and matching lunch box from hubby and kids.

What is stacking your shelves this week?

Please remember to enter the "Back to the Books" Giveaway 

Feature and Follow Friday

Feature and Follow Friday is an awesome blog-hop hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read

This week's features are @ Books and Blossoms and Sarah @Head Study In A Book this week's question is:

If you could "unread" a book, which one would it be? Is it because you want to start over and experience it again for the first time? Or because it was THAT bad?

I always wait anxiously for the last book in a series, but at the same time I'm a little sad that I have to say good bye to an old 'friend'.  I think some of the series that I was most sad to 'end' were:  Harry Potter, Vampire Academy, The Hunger Games, Wolves of Mercy Falls and Wondrous Strange.  Of course, with there being so many series to go around, I am always repeating the cycle :)

The only book I can think of that I would unread if I could is That was Then, This is Now by S.E. Hinton - did not like the ending at all!

How about you? Leave me a comment!

Top Ten Books Written in the Past 10 Years that I Hope People Are Still Reading in 30 Years (that's a mouthful!)

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme created by The Broke and the Bookish

These are some of my favorite books and series and I hope they will be known and read by all for years to come!

1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - One of the best series ever!

2. The Iron Fey Series by Julie Kagawa - You know this was going to be in this list, right?

3. Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer - Again, I'm a Twilight fan and I hope people read the books and watch the movies forever.

4. Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling - Ditto

5. Percy Jason Series by Rick Riordan - An amazing series for the MG and YA audience.

6. The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen - This is my favorite Dessen book, but I could easily list all of her books here. 

7. The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson - One of by favorite books ever!

8. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins - I hope Perkins keeps writing these amazing books and 30 years from now we have 20 of her books to read.

9. Divergent by Veronica Roth - Amazing!

10. Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead - An awesome series :)

  

What is in your top ten this week?

My Top Ten Favorite Series

This week is kind of a freebie, so I decided to create a list of my favorite series.  The problems is that I have way more than ten, so it might turned out to be my top 20 instead.  Sorry!  I couldn't help myself :)

1.  The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
2.  The Wolves of Mercy Falls by Maggie Stiefvater
3.  Soul Screamers by Rachel Vincent
4.  Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer 
5.  The Iron Fey by Julie Kagawa
6.  Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday
7.  Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
8.  The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare
9. Graceling Realm by Kristin Cashore
10. Divergent by Veronica Roth 

11. The Bridgertons by Julia Quinn
12. The Southern Vampires by Charlaine Harris
13. Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz
14. Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins
15. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
16. Benny Immura by Jonathan Mayberry 
17.  Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston
18. Die for Me by Amy Plum
19. Clarity by Kim Harrington
20. Steampunk Chronicles by Kady Cross


Told you I have more than 10!


What did you pick for your Top Ten this week?  What are your favorite series?


Please come celebrate Reading with ABC's first Blogiversary with me!  Click here for the giveaways and remember to check often as I will post more giveaways throughout the month. 

Top Ten All Time Favorite Characters in Books

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme created by The Broke and the Bookish

This week's Top Ten is hard (or too easy!) as I cannot manage to narrow it down to just ten, so please forgive my cheating : -)

1.  Ash from The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa - Dear reader, if you have visited this blog before you know that I LOVE Ash.  He is handsome, loyal, loving, brave and just pure awesome. 

2.  Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - I love Mr. Darcy and how he tried to change and to fix things for Elizabeth, just because he loved her.

3.  Rose from The Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead - Rose is one awesome protagonist.  She is also loyal and brave. 

4.  Dash and Lilly from Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan (told you I was cheating!) - Funniest couple ever!

5.  Harry Potter and Hermaine Granger from the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling - Need I say more?

6.  Jax Stone from Breathe by Abbi Glines - So very romantic (*sigh*).  I know is corny, but I just love a take-care-of-me, fall-head-over-heals kind of guy.

7.  Edward Cullen from the Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer - I just love Edward, I wish Stephenie would have finished Midnight Sun.

8.  Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins - What an incredible woman this is!  The inspiration and the catalyst for change, so brave, resourceful and caring.

9.  Hartley Featherstone from Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday - Another funny lady, a bit of an airhead, but with her heart in the right place.

10. Four and Tris from Divergent by Veronica Roth - Another pair of remarkable people that are not afraid to do what's right.

And because I couldn't stop at ten, here are some more:

Vincent from Die for Me by Amy Plum, Tamani from the Wings series by Aprlynne Pike, Sookie Stackhouse from the Southern Vampire series by Charlaine Harris, Etienne St. Clair from Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, Evie from Supernaturally by Kristen White, and the list could go on and on and on...

What is in your Top Ten this week?

Remember to enter Reading with ABC's Shower of Books Giveaway here