I'm just going to start this post right off with the amount of books I read in 2016: 47. I began my first year of university (which was incredibly stressful for me) which meant less leisurely reading, so I set my reading goal to 40 books for the year.

Welcome back my beautiful people.
Here today is my September Wrap Up and October TBR, I do have a video up for this which you can view here. I read for books this month, which I was pretty happy with since two of them were not only really good but they were also both over 600 pages long!
Ok, here we go...








1. Queen of Shadows - Sarah J Maas
With the release of Empire of Storms looming over me, I decided to start book four in the Throne of Glass series. I started off with a chapter here and there and then all of sudden I found myself fully immersed in the story and it was so damn hard to put it down to do those other necessary things humans must do. For me, Queen of Shadows is where everything really picked up for me. I felt that the story flowed really nicely and I thoroughly enjoyed all of Aelin's cunning antics. Manon (our fave witch wing leader), soon became my favourite character in the entire series after her first chapter and I could seriously read about her all day. If you're a fantasy/action lover, you should definitely consider picking up this series (book one is Throne of Glass).
5/5

2. A Work in Progress - Connor Franta
Let's be honest here, I picked this book up because of the cover (see above picture), it's nice isn't it? Connor Franta is a YouTuber I've never watched before and this book is his memoir of the past...22 years? Something like that. After finishing this book, I searched for him on YouTube and watched the shortest video I could find - hmmm perhaps not for me right now. People, if you actually watch and like Connor Franta then you can consider picking up the book, do not fall for the pretty cover. I gave the rating I did because I'm sure it would be interesting if I liked him. Also, he switched a lot between years... Why?
A generous 3/5

3. Empire of Storms - Sarah J Maas
Book five in the Throne of Glass series is almost 700 pages long, and oh my lord did I enjoy every part of it. So much so that once I finished it I lay face down on the couch for a good 10 minutes reminiscing (that wasn't even a long time). Personally, this was even more enjoyable than Queen of Shadows. I loved Elide and Lorcan doing their thing together, I loved Aelin and Rowan doing their thing together, I loved whatever is brewing between Lysandra and Aedion, and most of all I loved my Queen Manon and Dorian - whatever is happening between them. My favourite character developments have been Elide and Dorian, they are both just so much better characters - and I already liked their characters before. And Manon... my love.... She is honestly, probably my favourite female character of all books I've ever read (big thing to say!!!) I won't babble too much more, I have a video book talk/review of Empire of Storms that you can watch here if you'd like.
5/5



4. The Fall of Butterflies - Andrea Portes
I decided to go with an easy contemporary as a break from all the fantasy I've been reading. Within a few pages of this book, I didn't really like it and was dreading continuing it. It's written as if the main character, Willa, is speaking to the reader with her thoughts and it felt quite middle grade for me - bit of a no go for me. It follows Willa's journey at her new private fancy rich kid school (she is not rich, but her mother whom she doesn't like nor speak to has connections). I continued reading because it was honestly really easy to read and surprisingly it got better. I felt it matured a little and with the introduction of a couple of other characters it became a lot more interesting. When I finished the book, I was pretty happy with it and would recommend to lovers of contemporaries aged maybe 13 - 21 years old, maybe... I'm not sure. I have a full review here if you want to check it out.
3.5/5






1. Disruption - Jessica Shirvington
2. Corruption - Jessica Shirvington
3. Nevernight - Jay Kristoff
4. Crooked Kingdom - Leigh Bardugo
5. A Torch Against the Night - Sabaa Tahir


Those last two books I haven't got my copies yet and I am praying that they come to me soon because they are two of most highly anticipated reads!!
I have been trying to keep my TBR short and then read whatever my mood wants me to read but I've already finished Disruption and I just REALLY want to read the others so... hopefully I'll get through them all :)

See you later!


WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:
Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Twitter: @erenareads
YouTube: Erena Reads or click here

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"Vika Andreyev can summon the snow and turn ash into gold.
Nikolai Karimov can see through walls and conjure bridges out of thin air.
They are enchanters - the only two in Russia - and with the Ottoman Empire and the Kazakhs threatening, the tsar needs a powerful enchanter by his side. And so he initiates the Crown's Game, an ancient duel of magical skill. The victor becomes the Imperial Enchanter and the tsar's most respected advisor. The defeated is sentenced to death.
Raised on tiny Ovchinin Island her whole life, Vika is eager for the chance to show off her talent in the grand capital of Saint Petersburg. But can she kill another enchanter - even when his magic calls to her like nothing else ever has?
For Nikolai, an orphan, the Crown's Game is the chance of a lifetime. But his deadly opponent is a force to be reckoned with - beautiful, whip smart, imaginative - and he can't stop thinking about her.
And when Pasha, Nikolai's best friend and heir to the throne, also starts to fall for the mysterious enchantress, Nikolai must defeat the girl they both love... or be killed himself.
As long-buried secrets emerge, threatening the future of the empire, it becomes dangerously clear... the Crown's Game is not one to lose."



Now I don't blame you if you didn't read all that, it's all bold and italic words that seem mushed together. So, here it is short and in my words:
The tsar needs an Imperial Enchanter to advise him on all the important stuff going on in the world however, there is two and the tsar needs the strongest one at full strength (think Harry Potter here: "Neither can live while the other survives" - technically that isn't true but it sounds good!) The Crown's Game is a duel of magic where each enchanter shows off their strength whilst possibly aiming to kill the other (the tsar can declare a winner at any time and automatically kill the other if they fail to do so to one another). And it goes on from there...

This book has multiple points of views but they seem to mesh together well; the only slightly negative thing in this entire book was that there was one chapter early on from the Grand Princess and this was her only chapter, which makes it hard to keep track of early on in the story - I would've left it in the tsar's hands. ANYWAY, I very much enjoy multiple POV's as the reader almost feels like a God - we get to know everything, sort of...

Evelyn Skye is a new author on the block and writes absolutely beautifully in this story. The story flows really nicely and draws you in and you'll want to take a day or two off of life because you ain't doing anything else but reading.

The first main character we meet is Vika, a very strong and powerful enchantress (I'm loving the word enchantress right now) who has been trained by her father to become the best she can so she can fulfil the duties of the Imperial Enchanter for Russia. We then meet Nikolai, who was orphaned at birth but was isolated by those he lived with because of the strange things he could do; until his slightly wretched mentor took him to her home to train him to also become the next Imperial Enchanter. He is trained in more of a mechanics sort of way - not visibly as strong as Vika but equally as powerful.


So the problem here, is that there can only be one Enchanter and they must duel against each other (the Crown's Game) to show off not only their power, but to potentially kill the other - because one MUST die. My problem? They are both incredible characters and I love them both.

We also meet Pasha, the tsarverich (crown prince) whom has been excited by Vika's secret magic and falls in love with her; he is also Nikolai's best friend, which could cause some problems.
Throughout the story, the relationship between Vika and Nikolai develops; are they really prepared to kill one another?

The author's writing is captivating and brilliant. She knows how to keep you reading and uses all the right words to get you right in the feels. You'll fall in love with the characters and this is a massive page turner - so get comfy!

Whilst this YA novel is fantasy, those who aren't always keen on the genre will definitely still enjoy this as it isn't too much. That being said, fantasy lovers (like me) will still very much enjoy this incredible story. Please, please, please make sure you read The Crown's Game - it is a must and I'm eagerly awaiting book two in 2017.

I gave this brilliant book 5/5


*This book was sent to me by Harper Collins YA in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:
Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads

Twitter: @erenareads
YouTube: Erena Reads or click here

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"Neve Knightly lives in an ordinary world. Where déjà vu is nothing more than a mind-trick. Where premonitions are dismissed as mere coincidence. Where no one thinks twice about the glitches in their reality.

Neve Knightly is living a lie.

But when her nightmare of a tragedy comes true the very next day, she can no longer seek solace in self-deception. The glossy enamel has been shattered, and she has caught a glimpse of what slithers just beneath the surface.

She now has the opportunity to decipher the enigma that’s been haunting her since childhood. But her quest soon becomes deeply entangled with the last two people she could have ever imagined: the love of her life, Dylan, who mysteriously vanished three years ago, and his estranged best friend, Romer, who seems to be guarding a secret of his own.

Romance, rancor, and redemption plummet as priorities, as their lives become riddled with peculiar happenings lying just outside the realm of science. And in search for salvation, they emerge at the brink of unveiling the best-kept secret in human history."

- Nelou Keramati

Upon reading the synopsis for this book, I was hooked and I hadn't even started yet. I've been reading a lot more science fiction this year and they've all been brilliant; The Fray Theory is no exception. The author writes beautifully throughout the entire book and it was so easy to read - I would have finished sooner had I not been so damn busy!

The prologue was a great beginning to the book after finding out Neve has been hit by a car and doesn't have any physical injuries. This drew me in immediately and I hated having to turn my kindle off to do actual work. This novel follows the concept of dreams and how they are not just dreams, but perhaps glimpses of other dimensions. The characters find out the situation they're in is a lot more complicated than dreams and nightmares and suddenly they're on the run - I'm still wondering what these people want with them!

I loved all the main characters in this book, especially Romer. He has the whole broody male thing going on but he's very loyal (and handsome!) This may not mean a lot to many but I loved that Neve was a college student and not a damn high school student. I loved her character; she let her heart take the lead when it came to Dylan (because who wouldn't?!) but she wasn't naive. I didn't connect with Dylan as much as the other characters but I think I just want to learn more about him first - which I am eager to do!

The end chapter was so damn intriguing and mysterious and I am so ready for book two.
I talked about this earlier but I could never say it enough: this book is written so well. The book was detailed and intricate, yet so easy to read. It flowed really nicely and you may found yourself fully immersed in this book not knowing what's happening around you.

The Fray Theory - Resonance is released later this month on August 31st. Do yourself a favour and add it to your TBR.

5/5

Head to http://www.neloukeramati.com for more info!

*This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.



WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:
Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Twitter: @erenareads
YouTube: Erena Reads or click here

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Hello everyone!

I had all these plans for blog posts in June and then I decided to make a YouTube channel and I ain't even mad! My channel is here, and I will posting videos to do with both books and lifestyle, I would love it if you subscribed!

Ok, down to business... You can watch my video here of my June wrap up and my July TBR however, this will be here if you would rather read it or just have a written version to come back to.
I read a total of five books this month which was actually quite good considering I had all my end of semester uni exams. And all very enjoyable reads!


BOOKS

1. Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban - J.K Rowling
I won't go too much into this one other than it is one of my most favourite series of all time and always will be. I continued my reread of the series in June with one of my faves out of the seven books. If you haven't read Harry Potter, what the heck are you waiting for? 5/5 

2. Cinder - Marissa Meyer
I heard of this series through Bookstagram and I am so glad I finally purchased it earlier this year. While I didn't pick it up for a while, it was worth the wait. Cinder is a Cinderella retelling that follows a half cyborg, half human mechanic living in New Beijing. Cinder discovers she is immune to a deadly virus that has killed so many and is sent to the palace to be tested on. The story flowed really well and I was eager to continue reading. This was a fantastic retelling where I knew that it was stemmed from the classic Cinderella however, it was still an original story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will definitely be getting onto book two: Scarlet soon. 5/5

3. Hidden Bodies - Caroline Kepnes
Following on from the first story You, comes the next part of the story of the crazy Joe Goldberg. Honestly, the story didn't call for a second book but I definitely enjoyed reading into what Joe was up to. He moves to LA to find someone who's wronged him and bring them down. He finds many hiccups along the way and when I say hiccups, I mean he continues his ways of killing those who are in the way. I read this pretty quickly and enjoyed the book overall however, it didn't give me the same feeling when I read You - still brilliant though and I really enjoyed the ending. 4/5

4. Me Before You - Jojo Moyes
I started reading this in anticipation of the movie being released (which I just watched actually - all the tears!). This is about Lou being hired to care and be company for Will Traynor, a quadriplegic who has no wish to continue living. This was written beautifully and I loved how emotional it got and there was definitely a lot of ugly crying going on. While this book is kind of big, the chapters started and ended perfectly and I just wanted to keep on reading. I LOVED Me Before You and I'm really looking forward to reading the next book. 5/5



5. Flawed - Cecelia Ahern
As the author's first YA novel, she has done a brilliant job with this dystopian novel keeping it original and a great page turner. Celestine North lives the perfect life because she follows the rules, until she helps a dying man to a seat. Celestine finds herself in a bit of a pickle and may face a prison sentence or worse - to be found Flawed. There is a lot of potential for good character developments and I'm excited to read book two next year. I felt that the beginning of the book started a bit slow, but it then reached a point where I couldn't wait to continue reading. My full review can be found here. 4/5

JULY TBR

1. Demon Road - Derek Landy
2. The Fray Theory: Resonance - Nelou Keramati
3. Six of Crows - Leigh Bardugo
4. Queen of Shadows - Sarah J Maas
5. Disruption - Jessica Shirvington

And.... if I manage it, I hope to get started on my reread of Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire but that is definitely ambitious for me.

And that's all the books for my wrap up and TBR. I hope you enjoyed reading my mini reviews. Head over to my YouTube channel and subscribe for book and lifestyle videos.
Until next time!

xx


Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
YouTube: Channel link here
Twitter: @erenareads

Goodreads: @erenareads
Society6: @erenareads

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"Celestine North lives a perfect life. She's a model daughter and sister, she's well-liked by her classmates and teachers, and she's dating the impossibly charming Art Crevan.
But then Celestine encounters a situation in which she makes an indistinctive decision. She breaks a rule and now faces life-changing repercussions. She could be imprisoned. She could be branded. She could be FLAWED.
In this stunning novel, bestselling author Cecelia Ahern depicts a society in which perfection is paramount and mistakes are punished.
And where one young woman decides to takes a stand that could cost her everything."



Author Cecelia Ahern's debut YA novel where we fall into a dystopian world where you must follow the rules, otherwise you can be deemed Flawed and live an awful life.

There have been many dystopian stories making the rounds in the past couple of years; some I've loved and some have been quite unoriginal. Flawed is definitely something new, bringing us into a world where your mistakes are punished and you are 'flawed' for life, you're even given a brand that you must live with (literally a brand seared into your skin - ouch!)

As mentioned above, Celestine lives the perfect life. She follows the rules and that is all that anyone cares about. When you break a rule, they will find out and they will find you, fast. Celestine finds herself in a situation where she unexpectedly breaks a rule by helping one of the Flawed. A gesture that is found to be incredibly normal in our everyday life, is deemed a crime in theirs. At first, Celestine thinks she may have to be sentenced to jail however, after a trial led by her boyfriend's father, the outcome is worse - she is Flawed.

Celestine is a likeable character and I'm interested in both her and her sister Juniper's development. I'm not too sure about her boyfriend Art though; I'm sure he has good intentions but I just don't like him a whole bunch. I'm also looking forward to getting to know Carrick more as well, he has a lot of potential to become a great character in this story. The antagonist of the book is Judge Crevan (Art's father), he is actually kind of crazy but definitely makes for a better story.

I felt like the first half of the book was a little slower than needed but flowed enough to be kept interested in the story. Once Celestine was branded, she was constantly in situations that were pushing her newly found Flawed rules which made for an exciting story. There will be times throughout the book where you may find yourself annoyed at some of the characters but try to remember that this is a fictional dystopian - though you're still allowed to dislike them.

As the author's first Young Adult novel, she has done a great job at keeping the story original and interesting for readers of many ages. The cover is beautiful and whilst at first glance it looks like a big book, the chapters are fairly short and the writing isn't too small. You'll find you are eager to know what happens next.

The next book in this series is named Perfect and is out March/April of 2017 and I'm very much looking forward to it.

4/5



*This book was sent to me by Harper Collins Australia in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.


WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads and @erena_b
YouTube: Channel link here
Goodreads: @erenareads
Twitter: @erenareads

Hello friends,

I hope you've been spectacularly well and that you've read plenty. The month of May was a busy one, as will June be (oh lord, I cannot wait for holidays), but I still managed to fit in a few books and I'm on track with my 2016 reading challenge! Two of the books I read this month were sent to me to review (I've linked the full reviews below if you're interested), another was a book I've been waiting to read for months which also left me depressed because I have to wait another year for the next book, and another was a reread. Perhaps a bit all over the place, but I think a good mix. So without further ado...


BOOKS



1. The Yearbook Committee - Sarah Ayoub
I had heard a few good things about this one and I saw it had short chapters and when you are a busy uni student, that is very appealing. The Yearbook Committee is about five very different teenage students in their last year of high school who must come together to produce their yearbook. The attitudes and personalities of the characters constantly collide which is actually quite enjoyable and while you may get annoyed at the arrogance of some of the other minor characters, you also get to experience the good things. I think this book is better aimed at teenagers (especially if in high school) and younger adults as the bigger picture is the stigma of bullying. You can read my full review of The Yearbook Committee here. 3.5/5



2. Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets - J.K Rowling
I'm currently rereading the whole series which I've done multiple times already but I can never get enough Harry Potter. I won't say much about this one but if you haven't read it, you need to read it. Don't ever tell me you haven't read Harry Potter but you've read Twilight or Divergent etc. This series is always 10/10



3. A Court of Mist and Fury - Sarah J Maas
My biggest anticipated release for 2016 comes book two of the A Court of Thorns and Roses series. The story follows on after Feyre's escape and saving of Tamlin from Under the Mountain however, she's having trouble living her life in the Spring Court. We get to see a lot more of my beloved Rhysand (who could quite possibly be #1 Book Boyfriend!!) and the Night Court, as well as new Night Court characters that are charming, hilarious and super badass. A Court of Mist and Fury was my perfect novel; it has fantasy, action, romance, comedy and I'm gonna use the word again, badass-ness. I did a very messy review/discussion here. I give this one a million stars/5.



4. The Crown - Kiera Cass
The final segment in The Selection series. Last year, you may have seen that I read the first four books in about a week, as they are so easy to read, and left me wanting more. The previous book (The Heir) and The Crown is all about Princess Eadlyn, daughter of America and Maxon, and her own Selection. Like the previous books, this one is very easy to read and flows nicely however, I felt it needed a little more... surprise or 'the bad things that happen in stories' to be more... bad? All in all, this book is not perfect but it was pretty much what I hoped for and I'm happy with that. Also, it's a lot better than The Heir. I did a full review here. 4/5

JUNE TBR



1. Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban - J.K Rowling
Continuing my reread of the series. Because I started this in May, I've actually finished this already.

2. Cinder - Marissa Meyer
This was actually on my May TBR but I put it down as I didn't want to continue reading after A Court of Mist and Fury as I was in a massive book hangover and didn't want to not enjoy it, you know?

3. Hidden Bodies - Caroline Kepnes
I started this in May as well but was only reading it when I was at work - which isn't much. This is the second book to 'You' which was friggen brilliant. I'm not sure why Kepnes wrote a second book because it honestly didn't need one BUT, I am enjoying it so far.

4. Me Before You - Jojo Moyes
I've heard great and sad things about this one so I'll make sure to get under a blanket with my box of tissues for this one.

I think I'll also pick up another book this month, but I'm unsure of what it'll be at the moment.

And that's all for this post! I hope you enjoyed my mini reviews for the month of May, feel free to check out the full reviews I did for 3 out of 4 of the books I read - much appreciated.
Let me know what you read in May and what you plan to read in June, I'd love to know!

See you soon!
x



Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Bookstagram: @erenareads
Instagram: @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Snapchat: @erena_b

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"Feyre is immortal.
After rescuing her lover Tamlin from a wicked Faerie Queen, she returns to the Spring Court possessing the powers of the High Fae. But Feyre cannot forget the terrible deeds she performed to save Tamlin's people - nor the bargain she made with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court.
As Feyre is drawn ever deeper into Rhysand's dark web of politics and passion, was is looming and an evil far greater than any queen threatens to destroy everything Feyre has fought for. She must confront her past, embrace her gifts and decide her fate.
She must surrender her heart to heal a world torn in two".
- Sarah J Maas

This is a review/discussion of book two in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series. This review/discussion will most certainly contain MAJOR spoilers because there is no way I cannot talk about it the way I want to without them - sorry! CONSIDER THIS YOUR WARNING.

Just a quick little note: I've called this a review and discussion because I find myself spilling words all over the place and I ain't sorry! So it isn't true review format but it is still kind of a review... I think? Ok, read on.

When I read A Court of Thorns and Roses last year, I deemed it my favourite read of 2015. Honestly, I loved the relationship between Feyre and Tamlin, as I think most people did, but as soon as Rhysand was introduced I was like "DAYUUM, I like you". That is actually very typically me, loving the most beautiful human who also happens to be the so-called 'bad boy'. But I was always have a soft spot for the one who was there first because if the main character (in this case, Feyre) is happy then I'm pretty happy, to an extent. I definitely knew Rhys was coming back, which I was damn excited for.

Literally within the first sentence you know something is up with our girl, Feyre. We all know that Feyre is no princess, so why is Tamlin treating her like one?
For me and I'm assuming many others (?), I stopped liking Tamlin very soon. That may be just me liking to control things but come on?! Who likes being told "no"? Not me, and not Feyre either. And I knew something was up with Ianthe but I couldn't really put my finger on it.


Once Feyre was taken into the Night Court I unashamedly admit that I felt at home. I loved Mor straight away and once we were introduced to the other new characters: Amren, Cassian and Azriel, I fell in love with them too. And then we get introduced to the city of Velaris too? Ahh... I would very much like to live there. How can you not fall in love with Rhys now? He has kept this city secret from everyone and actually loves and cares about it.

I think (one of) my favourite lines from the book was when they go to visit Feyre's sisters Nesta and Elaine, they're at the table eating and Nesta being Nesta, makes some kind of snide remark and Feyre says "I can eat, drink, fuck, and fight just as well as I did before. Better, even". A point for you Feyre because that was hilarious.

There's a scene that we all remember where Lucien finds Feyre and wants to take her back to the Spring Court but she's all badass and here is another favourite line of mine from her: "When you spend so long trapped in darkness, Lucien, you find that the darkness begins to stare back". And then her Illryian wings come out and damn, I wish the picture in my head could be made into a poster. As much as I love Lucien, we do not want to go back to the Spring Court!!

Despite all the emotions I experienced during the sudden kidnapping of Rhys, I was in awe at the devotion and destruction of Feyre as she found her way to him to save him. And soon after when Feyre meets the Suriel again, she discovers her and Rhys are mates (like soulmates, lovers, bonded forever and ever and ever) and that scene made me giggle.

Now, the best part; how good was the cabin scene?!?! I love how we get to know more of Rhys' past and story. And how Feyre then accepts him as her mate with the whole food thing and dear lord, everything after that. Rhys gets his feast (hehe!)

The scene where Velaris is invaded is action packed and awesome but no thanks to those selfish human queens! I liked how Feyre, once again unleashed her power, but now much more than ever before. And Amren, woop woop!


All that commotion with Jurian and the King of Hybern is a bit crazy. Tamlin showing everyone how much of a wanker that he is and Lucien bonding with Elaine. And there was honestly a point in that part where I wanted to throw the book across the room. Alas, I continued reading until I was finished and then thought to myself "What the f***". The extra bond. The extra feels. The way Feyre bullshits about with Tamlin. How Lucien gives her that knowing look but she keeps playing along anyway.

I absolutely that we were given that little chapter in Rhys' point of view. Another one of my favourite parts of the book. A Court of Mist and Fury was the absolute perfect book for me. If you want to know what genre or type of book I love most, this is it. It has fantasy, it has badass romance, crazy messed up scenes with the former lover and new plans to overthrow it all. Sarah J Maas, you are my queen and I am unsure how I'm meant to survive until book three. After I finished reading, I was in a massive book hangover for at least a week. The first few days were the worst and this may be a little embarrassing but I was actually depressed. I began plotting what would happen in book three; I was honestly thinking of what Feyre would do and I reckon I came up with some pretty plausible ideas. I then went on to read a little fanfic and saw many others had ideas similar to me.

I finished this book weeks ago and many people might not even read this or get this far if they do. But many thanks if you did. You can see now why I have called this a discussion (with myself) because this sure isn't review style.

I give A Court of Mist and Fury a billion stars.

Please feel free to talk to me about this book, I'm all for it, even if it's labelled a support group. So comment below, or talk to me on Bookstagram (@erenareads). Sorry for all the mess and see you next time!

x


Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Bookstagram: @erenareads
Instagram: @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Snapchat: @erena_b

Follow me with Bloglovin'!

*This book was sent to me by Harper Collins Australia in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.


Where you can find me!

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Bookstagram: @erena_reads
Instagram: @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Snapchat: @erena_b

Follow me with Bloglovin'!

Bonjour!

I understand we are more than half way through May but I know you guys can't resist a good ol' book haul (or maybe that's just me?!) April was a spectacular month for gaining books, I had received some money for my birthday from my partner's parents and decided I needed some new books despite the ever growing TBR. I also received four books from the ever generous Harper Collins Australia in exchange for honest reviews (you can read my review for The Yearbook Committee here!).

Here are the following books I bought/received:


1. The Winner's Curse - Marie Rutkoski
I have heard so many good things about this series and finally decided to make it mine. I seriously hope to get to it in the next couple of months.

2. Me Before You - Jojo Moyes
Another book I've seen all around the Bookstagram community and even more since the movie trailer came out. I'm aiming to get to it before watching the movie. I'll get my tissues ready!

3. An Ember in the Ashes - Sabaa Tahir
I've already read this one and is definitely one of the best books I've read this year so far. I am now so damn excited for book two: A Torch Against the Night. You can find my mini review here.

4. We Were Liars - E. Lockhart
Another one I've already read (mini review here!) I started reading this soon after I bought it as I wanted something small to take to uni and I finished it pretty quickly, and loved it.

From Harper Collins:

5. Demon Road - Derek Landy
The first in the series (book two below). I've always wanted to read something from Derek Landy so I picked this one up and should hopefully be starting this one soon. Look out for a review!

6. Desolation - Derek Landy
This one was released in.... April I think? So will more than likely jump straight into this one after Demon Road!

7. The Yearbook Committee - Sarah Ayoub
This one I've recently read and reviewed, I would say a really good read for teenagers and young adults (younger than me!) Good sized chapters which is very appealing for me.


8. Flawed - Cecelia Ahern
Recently released is Cecelia Ahern's first YA novel, Flawed. What I get from the blurb is that the main character lives a perfect life until she breaks a rule and becomes...Flawed! Something along those lines. The cover looks good too.

Can't say I usually get 8 books in one month. I should really read a few more until I buy another (but that ain't gonna happen).

This is where I leave you, I always intended for this to be a short post. I hope you enjoyed though! See you soon for something a little different (still about books though!)

Byeee!
x


Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Bookstagram: @erenareads
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"Five teenagers. Five lives. One final year. 
The loner: At school, nobody really notices Matty. But at home, Matty is everything. He's been single-handedly holding things together since his mum's breakdown, and he's never felt so alone. 
The school captain: Ryan has it all... or at least he did, until an accident snatched his dreams away. How will he rebuild his life and what does the future hold for him now? 
The popular girl: Well. the popular girl's nest friend... cool by association. Tammi's always bowed to peer pressure, but when the expectations become too much to handle, will she finally stand up for herself?
The newcomer: Charlie's just moved interstate and she's determined not to fit in. She's just biding her time until Year 12 is over and she can head back to her real life and her real friends...
The MP's daughter: Gillian's dad is one of the most recognisable people in the state and she's learning the hard way that life in the spotlight comes at a very heavy price.
Five unlikely teammates thrust together against their will. Can they find a way to make their final year a memorable one or will their differences tear their world apart?"
- Sarah Ayoub



Set in Sydney, Australia and written by Australian author, Sarah Ayoub, this YA novel revolves around five teenagers who must band together to create the school yearbook for their final year of high school at Holy Family private school. If you didn't catch it, these five teenagers couldn't be more different. You get to know each character very well, delving a little into their past - though I felt that Ryan's past wasn't looked into enough, his 'accident' was mentioned often and you only get a brief story of what happened.

From the start, Gillian (the politician's daughter) was my favourite, Charlie was my least. Gillian is kind hearted and so easy to love, her life isn't easy but she does well to cope. Charlie, has no interest in making friends and goes out of her way to make sure she doesn't; while at first I don't like her, I understand that's what the author was going for. You get introduced to a few other characters whom have a lot of impact on the main characters - Tammi's douchebag boyfriend David and her mean, stuck up best friend Lauren, both who I hated immensely and you will too.

As you can expect, the characters develop some kind of friendship with each other throughout the story - though not really how I first predicted. I enjoyed the easy character development and it flowed nicely. Ayoub not only makes it easy to read but really captured some of the issues that occur during high school years. Some of this is real life and whilst reading it reminded me of my high school years and how cruel some people can be, especially people that are meant to be your friends.

I wished the author had spent more time on the ending, I almost felt cheated. Something I did not see coming happens closer to the end of the book and the build up of it was great however after that, I felt I didn't really have time to process it and therefore did not make too much of a connection with it. I also felt since it is based around the students creating a yearbook, that there would be some snippets of it in the back - well no, there is not.

Overall, this book was still a great read. I think it is more suited to teenagers and possibly younger adults than I but I have seen bookstagrammers only slightly younger than me, enjoy it immensely. I hope that high school students take a chance and read this one; I hope it shines a new light on life for those struggling and those who could be the cause of the struggling.

I gave this book 3/5 on Goodreads albeit, a high three.

If you've read this book, let me know in the comments below what you thought!


*This book was sent to me by Harper Collins Australia in exchange for an honest review.


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Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
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BOOKS

1. End of Days - Susan Ee
The final book of the Angelfall trilogy was not a let down. Having Raffe back in my life (sorry, Penryn's life) made my heart beat a little faster! Whilst you may think the previous two books were pretty full on, this one was super intense with a lot more action and deaths and crazy humans & angels alike. I found the trilogy to be very easy to read and it's definitely not too long so if you're interested, check out the first one. 5/5


2. We Were Liars - E. Lockhart
Talk about pulling on the heartstrings, ripping them off completely and throwing them out to sea. I bought this one early April when I was felt like spending money (not always the best idea as a full time student) and I picked it up to read pretty quickly mainly because it was small and I didn't have a whole heap of time to read. I started reading this while waiting for the tram to university or back home, or if I was waiting for a lecture to start and I was completely hooked. This book has short chapters - this may appeal to some (it does to me!) which I feel makes it much easier to read. This is about four cousins/friends whom spend the summers together on their families island when an accident happens and Cadence (the main character) starts to feel separated from the others. I could feel some emotion coming on, but dear god I didn't see that twist. This story is very easy to read and I would recommend to many - especially those who have trouble keeping up with a book. If you're in Australia - $9 at Kmart! 5/5


 3. Glass Sword - Victoria Aveyard
Following on from Red Queen comes Glass Sword, book #2 in the series. After racing through Red Queen last year and absolutely loving it, my first initial thought when picking up Glass Sword was that I didn't like the way it looked - stupid I know. I didn't start reading straight away and when I eventually picked it up, it took me a long while to get into it. Eventually I kept reading and found myself really enjoying it, so if you're finding it hard - hang in there!
Some people haven't liked Mare's character development however, I'm half and half; there are parts where she just annoyed me and made me really dislike her and then times when I felt I would do some of the same things - though I don't think I'll be developing lightning powers any time soon.
Despite Maven being the douchebag he is, I still a have a soft spot for him. And then I love Cal too, I don't really like Kilorn though - sorry!
All in all, a somewhat enjoyable read for me. I'd say... a low 4/5


4. An Ember in the Ashes - Sabaa Tahir
Holy heck. This has definitely been one of my fave reads of the year so far. You get both main characters views (which I love!); Laia is a slave and Elias is a soldier. *How do you pronounce Laia? I say it like "liar" Tell me!* I pretty much fell in love with Elias straight away. This book had all the feels for all the characters - love, hate and "what the eff are you thinking?!" It's not a heartbreaking story but I fell so in love with this book that it kind of feels like I have no soul now (because I have to wait for book two). An Ember in the Ashes is kind of 'an ember in the ashes', this book will not disappoint. Can I give 6/5 ?


MAY TBR

1. The Yearbook Committee - Sarah Ayoub
2. Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets - JK Rowling (I already began my reread last month and didn't finish - oops!)
3. Cinder - Marissa Meyer
4. Demon Road - Derek Landy

I would love to also read A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas (book two after A Court of Thorns and Roses) and The Crown by Kiera Cass (book five and final in The Selection series) which were both released today (May 3rd). I'm making myself read my May TBR first and be on top of my uni work before I get these books though (excellent motivation I think!)


And that is the end of this ride today my friends. I've got full reviews coming up for a few books, hopefully soon! I'm thinking of doing a quick little April book haul for you later this week too. Until then, happy reading!

x


Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Bookstagram: @erenareads
Instagram: @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads


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Good morning! "And if I don't see ya, good afternoon, good evening and good night!"

Sorry, I've recently re-watched The Truman Show and it popped into my head.

Welcome back to my little blog baby, I hope you've been well. I've been super busy with uni (I also need to be studying right now but I'm on holiday and not in study mode). With that, I haven't read as many books as I usually would in a month, sad I know - they were good books though! I'm hoping to at least read two books in April but my main focus is uni, especially with exams coming up. I really want to get myself properly organised and want to find good motivation to stay on top of everything but still stay sane and be able to do things I want to do.

Here is the total two books I read this month:


1. Heir of Fire - Sarah J Maas
Book three in the Throne of Glass series; I finished Crown of Midnight last year and because I wanted to read so many other books, I didn't pick this one up until recently. I had heard a few people didn't like this book near as much as the first two but each to their own - I friggen loved it. CoM is still my fave so far but I still very much enjoyed this one and loved getting to know Aelin - I feel there is massive character development in this one (not only Aelin) but god damn, the King of Adarlan is an a-hole. If you haven't started this series yet and you've thought about it - do it!!! No regrets. 5/5



2. World After - Susan Ee
Book two in the Penryn & the End of Days trilogy with the handsome Raffe and the badass Penryn and her crazy mother and sister. This was another one that I heard it wasn't as good as book one and three but I still reeeeeally enjoyed it. Penryn is one of my favourite heroic female characters - she knows what's most important to her even if that handsome angel is constantly on her mind. 5/5



April TBR

Now this might be a bit ambitious since I said how busy I am with uni but there is just so many books I want to be reading as soon as possible! And I've also just ordered a couple of books from Book Depository so I'm not really helping myself.

1. Cinder - Marissa Meyer
I've finally bought the first book in The Lunar Chronicles: Cinder, which I'm pretty excited about. I constantly hear the series being talking about and I try to avoid knowing anything extra as much as possible.
2. Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets - J.K Rowling (re-read)
I'm re-reading the series again this year and have already started this one :)

3. Glass Sword - Victoria Aveyard
The next book after Red Queen which was amaaaazing!


This wasn't originally planned but I bought We Were Liars (E. Lockhart) on the weekend and took it to uni with me and started reading when the tram decided to be 15 minutes late. It's a smaller book which is what enticed me to pick it up before anything else.


And that is all! I hope you've enjoyed reading my little reviews and what I'm planning to read in April. Until next time...

xx


Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@gmail.com
Bookstagram: @erenareads
Instagram: @erena_b
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Hello friends,

Welcome back to my little section of the internet.
Today, I bring to you books I want to read this year - including anticipated books and my reading goals for 2016. I understand that it's March but it isn't that late, is it? As you may already know, last year I joined the book community on Instagram (@erenareads) and within days my TBR grew and it continues to grow almost daily. So naturally, I need to read 100+ books this year to make a dent in that list. No doubt I'll carry on with a few books I mention so I better get into it!


BOOKS I WANT TO READ IN 2016/ANTICIPATED BOOKS

1. Queen of Shadows and Empire of Storms - Sarah J Maas
I began reading the Throne of Glass series last year and absolutely loved it! For whatever reason, I didn't continue to read Heir of Fire and started reading other books instead. Though now, I've just finished Heir of Fire and hope to get to QoS in time for book 5.
2. A Court of Mist and Fury - Sarah J Maas
Queen Maas' other series - this retelling of Beauty & The Beast is one of my most favourite books ever and I've waited long enough for book two!
3. An Ember in the Ashes - Sabaa Tahir
4. Glass Sword - Victoria Aveyard
Following on from Red Queen (another fave!) book two was released last month and I've purchased and hope for it to be my next read.
5. Ice Like Fire and book three - Sara Raasch
I read Snow Like Ashes late last year and this too, became another favourite. I absolutely love the world the author created and of course the story, so book two will hopefully be in my hands soon!
6. Six of Crows - Leigh Bardugo
While this is not featuring my beloved Darkling, it is in the same Ravkan world which I loved (!!!)
7. All the Light We Cannot See - Anthony Doerr
8. The Percy Jackson series - Rick Riordan
I read book one late last year and hope to continue this year!
9. A start on all the other Rick Riordan books...
10. Clockwork Prince and Clockwork Princess - Cassandra Clare
I read book one a few months ago and am eager to finish the trilogy!
11. End of Days - Susan Ee
I'm currently reading World After (book two) and loving it!
12. The Crown - Kiera Cass
The final book in The Selection series.
13. Yellow - Megan Jacobson
14. Risk - Fleur Ferris
15. The Ocean at the End of the Lane - Neil Gailman
16. Unearthly series - Cynthia Hand
17. The Lunar Chronicles - Marissa Meyer
18. Ten Thousand Skies Above You & book three - Claudia Gray
19. Illuminae - Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff
This has actually been in my bookshelf for a while now and I'm yet to pick it up, hopefully soon!
20. I also really want to make a dent in my unread books already on my shelves!

That is my current list. I honestly could go on forever but let's be realistic here.
My READING GOAL for this year is a total of 40 books read. It's down from previous years but I've started university this year and while I've only just finished week two of semester one, I can tell I'm going to be incredibly busy. I think 40 is definitely doable, especially since I've already finished 12 and I am hoping to read more but I'll have to wait and see (and possibly binge read during breaks).

Well, here I leave you (for now!) I hope you've enjoyed reading this list and not wasted your time with my mainly young adult and fantasy book list. I would love to know your thoughts on any of these if you've read them or if any of these are on your list too, or perhaps tell me something on your list - I would love to know!

Take care
xx


Where you can find me:

Contact: erenabennett@gmail.com
Bookstagram: @erenareads
Instagram: @erena_b
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Welcome back!

You probably didn't think you'd see me so soon right? Well, a new year brings countless opportunities for multiple blog posts with everything that happened in the previous year. For myself, the only 2015 post will probably be this one - what I read and especially my top 10. I joined the book community on Instagram (Bookstagram) in September and now have 800 followers and a never ending TBR. With the help of Bookstagram, I read so many amazing books that I would have never come across if it weren't for them (thank you!!)

Way back in 2012, I joined Goodreads and hardly used it. Once again, with the help of Bookstagram, I became active once more and made a reading challenge. I had already 20-30 books at the time of making my goal and decided I wanted to get to 52 - one for each week. I surpassed that goal by two, reaching 54 books read in 2015 - success! So without any more rambling, here are those books...

BOOKS READ IN 2015

1. Son - Lois Lowry
2. Fifty Shades of Grey - E.L James*
3. As Dead As It Gets - Katie Alender
4. Fifty Shades Darker - E.L James*
5. Girl Online - Zoe Sugg
6. Not That Kind of Girl - Lena Dunham
7. Fifty Shades Freed - E.L James*
8. Witch & Wizard - James Patterson
9. The Ruby Circle - Richelle Mead
10. The 100 - Kass Morgan
11. Fangirl - Rainbow Rowell
12. Ugly Love - Colleen Hoover
13. Still Alice - Lisa Genova
14. The Last Time We Say Goodbye - Cynthia Hand
15. All the Bright Places - Jennifer Niven
16. Never Never - Colleen Hoover & Tarryn Fisher
17. Slammed - Colleen Hoover
18. A Game of Thrones - George R. Martin
19. Harry Potter & The Philosopher's Stone - J.K Rowling*
20. Point of Retreat - Colleen Hoover
21. This Girl - Colleen Hoover
22. Hopeless - Colleen Hoover
23. Anna & The French Kiss - Stephanie Perkins
24. Lola & The Boy Next Door - Stephanie Perkins
25. Isla & The Happily Ever After - Stephanie Perkins
26. The Girl on the Train - Paula Hawkins
27. Maybe Someday - Colleen Hoover
28. Losing Hope - Colleen Hoover
29. The Sky is Everywhere - Jandy Nelson
30. Attachments - Rainbow Rowell
31. The Enemy - Charlie Higson
32. The Best of Me - Nicholas Sparks
33. I Was Here - Gayle Forman
34. City of Bones - Cassandra Clare
35. Animal Farm - George Orwell
36. I'll Give You the Sun - Jandy Nelson
37. Throne of Glass - Sarah J Maas
38. A Court of Thorns and Roses - Sarah J Maas
39. City of Ashes - Cassandra Clare
40. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee*
41. The Selection - Kiera Cass
42. The Elite - Kiera Cass
43. The One - Kiera Cass
44. Go Set a Watchman - Harper Lee
45. The Heir - Kiera Cass
46. Crown of Midnight - Sarah J Maas
47. Happily Ever After - Kiera Cass
48. Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief - Rick Riordan
49. Clockwork Angel - Cassandra Clare
50. The Assassin's Blade - Sarah J Maas
51. Red Queen - Victoria Aveyard
52. Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda - Becky Albertalli
53. My True Love Gave to Me - Various Authors
54. Snow Like Ashes - Sara Raasch 

*Re-reads

MY TOP 10 BOOKS OF 2015 (In reading order)

1. The Ruby Circle - Richelle Mead (Bloodlines Series)
2. The Last Time We Say Goodbye - Cynthia Hand
3. All the Bright Places - Jennifer Niven
4. A Game of Thrones - George R. Martin
5. A Court of Thorns & Roses - Sarah J Maas
6. Crown of Midnight - Sarah J Maas (Throne of Glass Series)
7. The Assassin's Blade - Sarah J Maas
8. Red Queen - Victoria Aveyard
9. Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda - Becky Albertalli
10. Snow Like Ashes - Sara Raasch

With special mentions to Still Alice (Genova), Never Never (Hoover & Fisher), Maybe Someday (Hoover) - this should actually be in the top 10, I Was Here (Forman), Animal Farm (Orwell), The One (Cass) and Percy Jackson (Riordan).

Re-reads are not included in my top 10 just FYI.

So basically, a decent reading year. I read so many good books in 2015 and rated so many 5/5's on Goodreads and plenty to come for 2016.

I'll see you soon for my next post which will be something along the lines of what I want to read this year and my reading goal.

Until then, take care.
xx

PS - Currently reading: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs


Contact: erenabennett@gmail.com
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Welcome back to another edition of 'Erena Reviews'!
This month started off slow; the first book I read just wasn't screaming "Keep on reading!!" but I got there in the end and managed to finish two books in the last couple of days of August.

BOOKS

1. The Sky is Everywhere - Jandy Nelson
I saw this book recommended quite a bit on Bookstagrams (Book Instagrams) so naturally I wanted to read it. Sorry to the lovers of this book, but it's not something I'd personally recommend. It wasn't bad - it was fine, I just wasn't that interested in the story and some parts annoyed me, but in saying this, there was definitely parts I enjoyed. I'm looking forward to Nelson's other novels. 3/5




2. Attachments - Rainbow Rowell
Yes! This book was hilarious, serious, emotional and I loved it a million times more than Fangirl (though I didn't really enjoy that one). At first I kept getting confused with Beth and Jennifer on who was who - but easily enough got on track. Lincoln has to read their 'flagged' emails for the company they all work for but never does anything about them and just continues to read them. Sounds creepy, but I don't think so. Definitely recommend this one! 5/5






3. The Enemy - Charlie Higson
Another one recommended on the Bookstagram world. It's set in modern England and zombies take over ze world!!!! Or England as far as the first book goes. It seems as though the kids under 14 haven't been affected by the disease and they call the diseased ones 'Grown Ups'. It's actually quite entertaining - though emotional - to read. I wouldn't recommend this series to older adults (unless you're into the Young Adult genre) because all the characters are kids and I find it very 'teenish/kiddish' at times. Nonetheless, I enjoyed it and am onto book two. 4/5


4. The Best of Me - Nicholas Sparks
I've read a couple of Sparks' novels and I can't say I read any of them in two days. From the first page I was drawn into the story and didn't leave it until I literally finished the book. Of course, it was a love story and was super emotional - the usual Nicholas Sparks stuff, but there's a reason he writes these stories - he's god damn good at it. I absolutely loved 'The Best of Me' (even if it tore me apart) and I'm hoping to watch the movie adaptation very soon! 5/5






'The Best of Me' was definitely my favourite of the month and it definitely makes me want to read another Sparks novel this month.

Earlier I was speaking of 'Bookstagram' (Instagram of everything book related) and I have actually just made an account. If you want to follow me I'll leave my user name down below and if you're an active Bookstagrammer I'll definitely follow you back!

I hope you've enjoyed my reviews this month and I'll see you next month for some more!



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