End of Year Book Survey - 2014 Ed.

Welcome to my End of Year Book Survey, hosted by the fabulous Jamie @ Perpetual Page-Turner! I totally hadn't planned on taking part in this as I felt I hadn't read enough to answer it decently. But I wanted a way to reflect and chat about my favourite books and here I am. FYI, I've adapted it to suit me and so I won't be answering all the questions. Still - fun!

Best books you read in 2014? (I was supposed to choose one book, but instead I chose five. Oh well!)
- Six Impossible Things by Fiona Wood - Refreshing, honest and awesome book, oh how I loved you! 
- To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han - I had super high hopes and this book didn't disappoint. So sweet and lovely, can't wait for #2!
- Open Road Summer by Emery Lord - So glad I was finally compelled to pick this up. Lives up to the hype!
- 17 First Kisses by Rachael Allen - I get why this isn't some peoples cup of tea, but it was mine. It made me think about slut-shaming and the vicious cycle of it.
- The Last Leaves Falling by Sarah Benwell - My favourite kind of book - thoughtful. As you are going to learn very soon, I loved this A LOT. Add it to your TBR, stat! (RTC in January.)

Most surprising book you read in 2014? 
- Where She Went by Gayle Forman - I wasn't a fan of If I Stay, so I was skeptical when I was told to check this out. I went in with no expectations, and ended up loving it! I'm so glad people told me to give Went a go and that I gave it a chance otherwise I would have missed out on something special.

- The Sky So Heavy by Claire Zorn - I got this Aussie YA out from the library in preparation for a book event in January. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. And I especially hadn’t expected to cry. Looking forward to Zorns' sophomore novel.

Most unputdownable book of the year?
The Summer I Wasn't Me by Jessica Verdi - I'm not a fast reader, but I read this in a day. Once I started it, I couldn't put it down.

Best 2014 debut you read?
There are a few I could mention here, but since this book can always use some more love: 17 First Kisses by Rachael Allen

Best Worldbuilding/Most Vivid Setting You Read This Year?
Nil by Lynne Mattoon - This book was not only entertaining, but the vivid setting was amazing to picture in my head.

Book That Put A Smile On Your Face/Was The Most FUN To Read?
The Intern by Gabrielle Tozer - This was such a fun book. It was light and it made me grin a lot. I think it was because I related with the awkwardness so much. And awkward is funny. Oh, is it!

Book That Crushed Your Soul? // Most Thought-Provoking/Life-Changing Book of 2014? // That Made You Cry in 2014? // Favourite cover of a book you read in 2014? // Most memorable character of 2014? (Yes, I'm awarding all these to the one book. That is correct!)

And (all) the awards goes to… The Last Leaves Faliing by Sarah Benwell. This book - wow. I'll never forget the main character or how much it made me think and question or the amount of tissues I went through. The US covers wins at life. It's gorgeous!

Your Blogging/Bookish Life

New favorite book blog you discovered in 2014?   
I've really enjoyed reading and supporting Aussie blogs this year. Most recently - Jess @ My Reading Dress, who seems to be my twin/kindred spirit in many ways. She's lovely!

Favorite review that you wrote in 2014?    
17 First Kisses by Rachael Allen.

Best bookish moment in 2014?
Discovering the awesomeness of Becky Albertalli. Oh, the love!

Looking Ahead

One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2014 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2015? 
Every Breath by Ellie Marney. I'm coming for you, book!

A 2015 Release You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone:
In case you didn't get the memo: the love is strong for The Last Leaves Falling by Sarah Benwell.

What were your best bookish highlights and favourites of 2014? Feel free to leave a link to your post/survey or tell me in the comments! Have I convinced you on any of these titles? *wink wink*

What Do Non-Bloggers Want? If that's YOU, it's turbo (oops, survey) time!

Yesterday I posted a discussion about catering for non-bloggers and I've already had a few responses (thank you - I love, read and appreciate every comment) and others helping spread the word on Twitter. I want to continue making my blog a more reader and non-blogger friendly zone so I've made a survey and I'd appreciate your feedback.

So if you are a non-blogger who loves to read, please help me, help you, by answering this short survey. To say thanks, I'll be sending out swag to EVERYONE (just as long as the numbers don't get too crazy...or until my swag collection runs out) who takes part and it's open to all!

What are you waiting for? Get surveying! 

*Results may be shared at a later date but all responses will be anonymous. Promise!

2013 End of Year Survey

It's that time of year again - time to look back and reflect on all the books read this year! If you want to join in, you can find out all about it by visiting the creator, Jamie @ The Perpetual Page-Turner. Read on for my answers:

Best in Books 2013

1. Best Book You Read In 2013? (If you have to cheat — you can break it down by genre if you want or 2013 release vs. backlist)
That’s easy - hands down, Friday Brown by Vikki Wakefield. I haven’t reviewed this one because I don’t think I can coherently do it justice but maybe one day. AMAZING.

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?
Everbound by Brodi Ashton – I loved Everneath and had high for the sequel but if you’ve read my review, you’ll know I wasn’t a fan.

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2013?
Just One Day by Gayle Forman – Last year I read If I Stay and wasn’t a fan but I decided to try Forman’s new series and I LOVED IT. I rated it 5 stars.

4. Book you read in 2013 that you recommended to people most in 2013?
Considering how much I loved it, probably Friday Brown.

5. Best series you discovered in 2013?
Pivot Point by Kasie West – Need. Sequel. Now.

6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2013?
Vikki Wakefield – After Friday Brown, I will happily read whatever she writes and I’m anxiously anticipating her future books.

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?
Matilda by Roald Dahl (the audiobook) – I’ve never had success with audiobooks until April reviewed and bought this recent audiobook edition with Kate Winslet reading, to my attention. I wholeheartedly recommend; this would make a great gift for children (and even the parents. My mum loved it).

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2013?
Pivot Point by Kasie West – I couldn’t bear to part with it so I walked around the house with it, trying not to bump into things. I mostly succeeded.

9. Book You Read In 2013 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?
Friday Brown by Vikki Wakefield – Did I mention I loved this? LOVE. (I must be crazy though as this book tore my heart to shreds.)

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2013?
These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner

11. Most memorable character in 2013?
Alaska Young from Looking for Alaska by John Green

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2013?
The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson – Beautiful and a new favourite. I’m SO excited for Jandy’s upcoming book in 2014.

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2013?
Friday Brown by Vikki Wakefield – This book hurt my soul and my heart. I love it even more so because of it.

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2013 to finally read?
Again: The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson – Beautiful, achy goodness. I must try and review this if I can!

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2013?
“When I was little, I used to go to the local ice-skating rink. In my mind, I always felt like I could twirl and jump, but when I got out onto the ice, I could barely keep my blades straight. When I got older, that's how it was with people: In my mind, I am bold and forthright, but what comes out always seems to be so meek and polite. Even with Evan, my boyfriend for junior and most of senior year, I never quite managed to be that skating, twirling, leaping person I suspected I could be. But today, apparently, I can skate.” -- Just One Day by Gayle Forman

16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2013?
Shortest - The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald, F. Scott (171 pgs)
Longest – Boundless by Cynthia Hand (448 pgs) OR The Diviners by Libba Bray, if I manage to finish it

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!
A certain scene from Boundless by Cynthia Hand was definitely a WTF moment for me. I won’t spoil it for those who haven’t read it but I don’t think I’ve forgiven the author for it yet and I haven’t reviewed it because it made me too angry. (pg 403-412)

18. Favorite Relationship From A Book You Read In 2013 (be it romantic, friendship, etc).
The friendship between Friday and Silence in Friday Brown.

19. Favorite Book You Read in 2013 From An Author You’ve Read Previously
Where the Stars Still Shine by Trish Doller

20. Best Book You Read In 2013 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else:
No idea. People need to recommend me more books! (Not that I need any help growing a bigger TBR pile...)

21. Genre You Read The Most From in 2013?
YA Contemporary, as always.

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2013?
Alex from Where the Stars Still Shine

23. Best 2013 debut you read?
Pivot Point by Kasie West

24. Most vivid world/imagery in a book you read in 2013?
Shatter Me (Shatter Me, #1) by Tahereh Mafi

25. Book That Was The Most Fun To Read in 2013?
Spy Society by Robin Benway – Why so fun? Spies! This was adorable and I read it in less than 24 hours because it was so entertaining.

26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2013?
I went through a lot of tissues with books this year but Boundless (Unearthly, #3) by Cynthia Hand (the WTF moment I featured above) made me ugly cry.

27. Book You Read in 2013 That You Think Got Overlooked This Year Or When It Came Out?
Confessions of an Almost-Girlfriend (Confessions #2) by Louise Rozett – I think this series in general is overlooked. It’s cute, realistic, relatable, fun, entertaining.

Book Blogging/Reading Life 2013

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2013?
I know I followed new blogs this year but I can’t think of a favourite. I'll let you know if I remember.

2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2013?
Probably my review of Just One Day.

3. Best discussion you had on your blog?
I really loved writing the Banned Books Week post, offering my teen perspective.

4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else’s blog?
This post about How to Convert a YA Doubter into a YA Believer – awesome stuff, especially to those who have friends who hate on YA.

5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?
The Perth Writers Festival was great. I heard Vikki Wakefield speak (author of Friday Brown, the book I can't stop mentioning in this post) and then met her as she signed my book and multiple copies. I was lost for words, managed to choke out "Friday Brown is one of the best books I've read all year" (which is stupid for two reasons because I'd only read like 3 other books so far and it's not just a favorite of the year but of ALL TIME). I'm so awkward.

6. Best moment of book blogging/your book life in 2013?
Can I say being mentioned in the Spirit by Brigid Kemmerer acknowledgments? I’ve never been blurbed (which is a dream for book bloggers) but this is just (if not more) as good. It makes me feel honored to be mentioned in such an awesome book!

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?
Apparently my Just One Day review got the most love! Who knew?

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?
The Banned Books Week post I mentioned above as I put a lot of love into it. I’d love if you checked it out and gave me your thoughts on the matter!

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?
I can't say I discovered something new and bookish...

10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?
I failed. It was epic and not of the good kind. As I always say, there’s always next year.

Looking Ahead

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2013 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2014?
No idea. I WANT TO READ ALL THE BOOKS.

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2014 (non-debut)?
Isla by Stephanie Perkins and Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson – these are just two of the many books I’m anticipating and I’ll stop thinking or I won’t be able to stop.

3. 2014 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?
I want to read them all because they sound FANTASTIC. Pointe by Brandy Colbert is one of many on my wishlist.

4. Series Ending You Are Most Anticipating in 2014?
Most series have lost or disappointed me and no longer interest me but The Elemental series is still going strong so yay! That’s another reason why I love these books – Brigid never fails to write an entertaining instalment and seems to better with each book in some way. I’m both anticipating and sad to see this series ending.

5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2014?
Read more (blogging so easily gets in the way of reading time) and continue to discover more amazing books that remind me of why I read. I love those kind of books.

My 2012 End of Year Book Survey

It's that time of the year again! Jamie from The Perpetual Page-Turner is hosting the 3rd annual End of Year Book Survey! With the year coming to a close, let's rewind and reflect on all the good books (and not-so good ones) we've read this year. Want to join in and link up? Awesome, head on over here to find out more! And without further ado, my answers!

1. Best Book You Read In 2012? (You can break it down by genre if you want)
The Best: Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta (so good I've yet to write my review...)
Best 2012 Debut: Something Like Normal by Trish Doller,
Best 2012 Release: Every Day by David Levithan
Best Becca-ish Book: The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jess Rothenberg

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?
Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard - I was SO excited for this. Awesome-sounding premise, mention of travel, pretty cover, early rave reviews – everything about Wanderlove intrigued me but sadly I didn’t love it like I thought I would. It seems like I’m one of the very few people who are out of the loop on this one…

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2012? 
Every Day by David Levithan – Before this I’d never really liked Levithan’s novels; I’d always muddled through them. So it surprised me that not only did I end up liking it but loving it. So glad I gave him another go!

4. Book you recommended to people most in 2012?
For the first half of the year I really recommended The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jess Rothenberg and for the second half, Something Like Normal.

5. Best series you discovered in 2012?

6. Favourite new authors you discovered in 2012?
Jess Rothenberg, Trish Doller, Richelle Mead and Kody Keplinger – These ladies could write absolutely anything and I would read it – even their shopping lists! I only discovered John Green this year but I'm definitely excited to read more of his work - definitely my favourite male author of the year!

L - R: Jess Rothenberg, John Green, Kody Keplinger, Trish Doller, Richelle Mead

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?
Night Beach by Kirsty Eagar – Kirsty is awesome but this sounded too creepy for my liking. However, after winning a copy I gave it a go and though I might have wiggled and jumped a little, I really liked it. Stunning, dark and creepy.

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2012?
Speechless by Hannah Harrington – I loved Speechless from beginning to end and was invested in it that much that I muted the Olympics on the ad breaks just so I could squeeze in a few pages.

My Lift Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick – As soon as the plot twist kicked in I couldn’t put this down! As a result, I ended up staying up until 2 o’clock in the morning just so I could finish which is very unlike me.

9. Book You Read In 2012 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year:
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta – I’ve already read it twice this year and can’t wait to dive in for a third time. I’m also very likely to re-read Something Like Normal by Trish Doller.

10. Favourite cover of a book you read in 2012?

Too bad they won't be continuing with these covers... *cries*

11. Most memorable character in 2012?
Male: Travis from Something Like Normal – He really struck a chord with me and his voice still lingers in my head even after months of turning the last page.

Female: Rose from Vampire Academy – She’s snarky, feisty, confident and the fight-now-think-later type. Her voice is so big it almost explodes right off the page! I sure do miss her...

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2012?
The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2012?
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver – That ending wrecked me completely. I was a sobbing mess.

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2012 to finally read?
Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

15. Favourite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2012?
“I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, then all at once.” – John Green, The Fault in Our Stars (this quote slays me every. single. time.)

“Hate is... It's too easy. Love. Love takes courage.” – Hannah Harrington, Speechless (so beautiful)

16. Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2012?
Longest (594 pages) - Blood Promise (Vampire Academy #4) by Richelle Mead
Shortest (132) – The Gorgon in the Gully by Melina Marchetta

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta – The entire book; in the beginning as I was (purposefully) left in the dark but once the puzzle pieces started coming together my brain started working overtime to the point where I was reeling that much I just had to read it again straight after! Also, both endings of Unravelling by Elizabeth Norris and Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver.

18. Favourite Relationship From A Book You Read In 2012 (be it romantic, friendship, etc).
That’s easy! The Garrett Family in My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick. Chaotic, entertaining, loving and so much more, what’s not to love?!

19. Favourite Book You Read in 2012 From An Author You Read Previously
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta – Love this book so much! Melina is a writing goddess.

20. Best Book You Read That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else:
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver (recommend to me by Huntley) – The beginning was a little slow but I’m glad I continued as it gradually got better and in the end I loved it.

Book Blogging/Reading Life in 2012 (optional)

1. New favourite book blog you discovered in 2012? 
Novel Sounds – Such pretty graphics and I love how Elena combines her love of music and books into her reviews, it’s so unique and creative!

Alexa Loves Books – Alexa writes really thoughtful reviews, is an all-round great blogger and is lovely to chat with on twitter.

If you’re not already following these two, get on it! You will not regret it.

2. Favourite review that you wrote in 2012?
Something Like Normal by Trish Doller.

3. Best discussion you had on your blog?
I only wrote one discussion this year and that was on book slumps, but I am making it my goal for next year to write more!

4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else’s blog?
I’m not sure about the most thought-provoking discussion I’ve read this year but pretty much every discussion by Jamie’s @ The Perpetual Page-Turner is awesome. She always gets everyone sharing their own experience and thoughts and that’s what really makes a great discussion. I also really loved the one Ashley @ BookNook wrote, The Worst Feeling in the Book Blogging World.

5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?
Attending the Melina Marchetta signing and then grabbing a bite to eat after with other Perth bloggers was amazing and such a fantastic night! I also really co-hosting my first ever event, Author Appreciation August – it was a lot of work but so exciting, plus I couldn’t have asked for a better co-host than the amazing Sarah.

6. Best moment of book blogging in 2012?
Receiving an email from Australian author, Bill Condon saying thanks for being a fan of A Straight Line To My Heart (a book which I read last year and absolutely loved; it’s awesomely Aussie and a complete gem!) and for always saying good things about it. It was random, out of the blue, unexpected and though a short email, it completely made my day and even going back to read it now makes me grin!

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?
Views – Updates and Birthday Fun which is absolutely bonkers since I hardly talk about anything…
Comments – Review: Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?
Series Overview: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead as I put a lot of effort and work into writing it. I understand it contains spoilers but the majority of readers have read the books, plus it got a HUGE amount of page views so it looks like a lot of people stopped by but just didn’t comment…

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?
YA Book Central

10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?
Successful:
2012 Debut Author Challenge: The goal was 15 books, and I've read 22 books!
2012 Stand Alone Reading Challenge: The goal was 15 books, and I've  read 23 books!

Close, but not quite:
2012 Completely Contemporary Challenge: The goal was 15 books, and I've read 14 books!

Looking Ahead…

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2012 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2013?
Cinder (Lunar Chronicles, #1) by Marissa Meyer

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2013?
Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins *dreams*

3. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2013?
Enjoy it! I haven’t been as in love with reading and blogging as of late, especially after the very bad book slump I went through a little while back, and I’d really love to get that spark back like I had when I first started out blogging.

2012 Reader Survey

Reading Wishes is over a year old and I really want to gain some feedback from my readers, especially with the year coming to a close and 2013 fast approaching. I value your opinion and would appreciate it if you took a few minutes out of your day to answer a quick survey. Answer as many or as little questions as you like and since comments are anonymous (unless you choose to leave your name), you’re free so be honest. Thank you in advance for taking part, I REALLY appreciate it.

To fill in the survey, go HERE.

2011 - End Of Year Book Survey

2011 is almost over, so when I saw a heard about The Perpertual Page-Turner and the End Of Year Book Survey they run, I decided to take part as it sounded like fun to recap your blogging adventures for 2011! So here it is, enjoy!

1. Best Book You Read In 2011?

That’s a tough question and I can’t choose just one! But a few of my favourites that I read this year include,

- Saving June by Hannah Harrington

- Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

- Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

- Perfect Chemistry book 1&2.

2. Most Disappointing Book/Book You Wish You Loved More Than You Did?

Good Oil by Laura Buzo, And Then Things Fall Apart by Arlaina Tibensky and The Future Of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler.

I was expecting a lot from these and I’m sad to say they fell short for me.

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2011?

- A Straight Line To My Heart by Bill Condon – I’d heard some great reviews about it, so I picked it up not expecting much. The blurb does not do this book justice!

- Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson– I’ve only recently started reading paranormal, but this book is amazing! Don’t even get me started on the swoony romance!

4. Book you recommended to people most in 2011?

- Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins – Once I found out that this book wasn’t cheesy like the cover suggests, I recommened it to a lot of people. I’ll say it again, read it if haven’t already!

5. Best series you discovered in 2011?

- Hush, Hush series  by Becca Fitzpatrick– Mystery, action, romance and swoony Patch, what more could you want!

6. Favourite new authors you discovered in 2011?

- Stephanie Perkins – Lovely prose alert!!

- Sarah Alderson – I fell in love with her debut, Hunting Lila, and can’t wait to read more books by her!!

- Simone Elkeles – Loved Book 1&2 of her Perfect Chemistry series, I can’t wait to read some of her other work.

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?

- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – After hearing rave reviews about this book I gave it ago. And I am glad I did! So not what I’d normally read, as I dislike killing and blood, but wow oh, wow! Great choice for your first dystopian book!!

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2011?

- Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick– Read it in less than 24 hours. Lots of swoons, lots of action – I loved it!

- The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard – This book grabbed me from page and didn’t let me go til the last page. I read this in a couple of hours

9. Book you most anticipated in 2011?

- Ten Things We Did (and probably shouldn’t have) by Sarah Mlynowski – Loved her Rachel In Manhattan series, so when I found out she had a new book, I pre-ordered it and I was not disappointed!

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2011?

11. Most memorable character in 2011?

- Harper from Saving June

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2011?

- Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler – A beautiful, lyrical prose.

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2011?

- Love is the High Law by David Levithan – I didn’t love this book, but it definitely impacted on me. 

14. Book you can't believe you waited UNTIL 2011 to finally read?

- Jennifer Echols books Endless Summer and Going Too Far – She’s an awesome contemporary  writer and look forward to reading more by her very soon!

15. Favourite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2011?

“He took his pain and turned it into something beautiful. Into something that people connect to. And that's what good music does. It speaks to you. It changes you.” --- Hannah Harrington, Saving June

“Tomorrow will be better.”
“But what if it’s not?” I asked.

“Then you say it again tomorrow. Because it might be. You never know, right? At some point, tomorrow will be better.”--- Morgan Matson, Amy and Roger’s Epic Detour

“A moment of reserve. "That was it? The whole story?"

"Yes. God, you're right. That was pants."
I sidestep another aggressive couscous vendor. "Pants?"

"Rubbish. Crap. Shite."
Pants. Oh heavens, that's cute.”--- Stephanie Perkins, Anna and the French Kiss

16. Book That You Read In 2011 That Would Be Most Likely To Reread In 2012?
- Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

- Saving June by Hannah Harrington

- Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!

Pretty much all moments featuring Harper and Jake from Saving June.

Book Blogging/Reading Life in 2011

1. New favourite book blog you discovered in 2011?

This is such a hard question and I don’t think I could give you a straight answer, but after much thought my favourite blog that I found in 2011, would be Mimi Valentine! I just love everything aboout her blog! Her reviews are awesome and she reads a wide range of YA, so you can exect a little bit of everything. She also reminds me a bit of myself, I don't know why though... Oh, and I love her energy that radiates of her raving reviews, you can tell how much she loved the book! If you haven't checked out her blog  yet, go do that now!! :D

2. Favourite review that you wrote in 2011?

I have three favourites.  Anna and the French Kiss. The Hunger Games. And most recently, Silence, which I like because it has a different vibe from my other reviews and I’m digging it, whatever it is.

3. Best discussion you had on your blog?

I haven’t really had any discussion on my blog yet, but I really want to in 2012! Why not leave some suggestions in the comments!!!! I’d love your input!

4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else's blog?

I have no idea…?

5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?

The Skype session with Becca Fitzpatrick was fun. I’m also really looking forward to meeting Sarah Alderson!

6. Best moment of book blogging in 2011?

So many things! Getting to meet bloggers in real life, talking to authors and connecting with others who share your passion for books!

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?

The post with the most comments and views was the Christmas Giveaway I held.

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

Anything!! When you put so much time and effort into a blog you appreciate any comment!

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?

Goodreads!! I found this site and I’m so grateful, as I’ve met so many great people and lots of great books. My to-read list has never been bigger!

10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?

No I was too late to the blogging game - all the challenges had ended sign-ups. But I am taking part in some excellent ones next year that I’m really excited about. Click on the tab: 2012 Reading Challenges to see what I’m participating in 2012!

Looking Ahead...

1. One Book You Didn't Get To In 2011 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2012?

Chain Reaction – I love the Perfect Chemistry series and I’m making this my top priority…as soon as it comes out in paperback. That’ll learn it’s lesson for coming out in hardback!!

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2012?

So many!! Really looking forward to Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins, and Losing Lila by Sarah Alderson, Second Chance Summer by Matson Morgan along with lots more 2012 releases! Dont't even get me started on the amazing looking debuts!!

3. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2012?

- Post more often, at least a couple of times a week, I’m gonna *try* and plan ahead! Let’s get cracking!

- Read lots!

- Stick to my challenges and complete them!

- Meet more fantastic bloggers and authors online and in person!