Juniper Lemon's Happiness Index by Julie Israel

 Juniper Lemon's Happiness Index by Julies Israel
Release Date: May 30, 2017
Pages: 338
Rating:💜💜💜💜💜
Buy it: Amazon | Book Depository
Sixty-five days after the death of her sister, Juniper Lemon discovers a letter addressed to 'You' which was written by Camille the day she died. Juni is shocked- she knew nothing of this 'You' , and the hole in her life has grown bigger. She is determined to uncover the identity of You and deliver the letter. But what Juniper doesn't expect is that in searching for You she will unearth many other secrets- and that may be what she needs to sort out her own mess. 

I will admit I picked this book up for the cover and would have happily read it without looking at the synopsis. The picture really doesn't give the cover enough credit because it is much more colourful in real life. I love this cover so much!

This book is your stereotypical high-school contemporary but I loved it so much. Maybe it was the time I was reading it or the mood I was in but for some reason this book did all the right things for me. It is very cliched and stereotypical so if you get easily annoyed by that I would avoid this book. However I didn't mind the cliches and loved the whole high school setting that this book took place in.

One of the things that set this book aside from all the other contemporaries was the amount of 'heavy' topics this book addressed. There was obviously the topic of death and acceptance, which I felt was dealt with really well. Juniper is still trying to accept her sister's death and it is definitely something that drives the plot along throughout this book. There are other themes, like abuse and mental health, which are mentioned a couple of times in this story and are important in their own ways. I won't talk about how these themes are involved in the story but I loved how such dark topics were dealt with.

When I was reading about Juniper and her group of friends I felt so cosy and happy. They are literally the definition of squad goals; they all support each other and give each other advice when it is needed. Julie Israel did an awesome job at creating unique and individual characters that I fell in love immediately. They all so real that when I finished this book I felt liked I'd lost a group of friends.

I adore this book. It is definitely up there with my all time favourite books that I've read this year and I wish that more people would read this book. I would recommend it to people who want a slightly deeper contemporary novel with a cute romance or people who suffer from anxiety or depression. This book shows you how to be happy with your life and cope with the down days. Honestly I could go into so much more detail about this book, but I don't want to spoil anything bout this story (also the review would be about 10 pages long)!

All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
Release Date: January 6, 2015
Pages: 388
Rating: 💜💜💜💜
Buy it: Amazon | Book Depository
When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school, it's unclear who saves whom. And when they pair up on a project to discover the 'natural wonders' of their state, both Finch and Violet make more important discoveries: It's only with Violet that Finch can be himself - a weird, funny, live-out-loud guy who's not such a freak after all. And it's only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet's world grows, Finch's begins to shrink. 

I'm not sure what I think of this book. It is simultaneously a heart-breaking and uplifting story of love and loss and I really have no idea what to think of it. There were parts of it that I adored but now on reflection there were a couple of things that I did not agree with at all.

Things I loved:

1. The whole travelling and adventure plot of the book. I love going on adventures to different monuments around the world so to see it in this book was incredible. I loved the descriptions of each place and I got intense wanderlust from it.
2. The mental illness representation in this book was actually pretty good. Okay, it wasn't great but it was pretty incredible. The funny thing (possibly not funny but kind of) is that it deals with two different types of mental illness, PTSD and bipolar, without making it very obvious.
3. The writing style was incredible in this book. I flew through it and actually managed to finish it in a day. The chapters alternate between Finch and Violet which leads to an interesting reading experience as they are both so different. Finch is a raw ball of energy that has no limits whereas Violet is calm and gentle, just trying to get through each day.
4. The fact that nothing particularly special happened throughout the course of this book set it apart from all the other YA books I've read recently. It was just a book about two people doing ordinary things and living their lives.

Things I didn't like:

1. I thought the relationship between Finch and Violet was a little abusive. Finch would 'force' Violet to do things with him and then leave her months on end without talking to her. I understand that he wasn't in the best place mentally but I do think that more YA books need to promote healthy relationships.
2. Both of the characters became their mental illnesses at certain points in the book which is also not a healthy message to send to young people. Neither of them seemed to have a life outside of their feelings so it became hard to identify with them. Finch was literally always consumed by his mental illness and Violet dipped in and out. I would have loved to have seen both the characters as humans rather than mental illnesses because it would have made the story more interesting.

It wasn't the best book in the world, but I didn't hate it like some people did. I loved the whole plot and premise of this story but I felt it could have been executed better. If you do suffer from any mental illness this book might not be the best read for you as it does romanticise suicide and depression, but it is for you to judge. Personally I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a fun adventure contemporary with a darker undertone.

New Year's Resolutions Book Tag

I only have two resolutions this year: read more and be happy. Whenever I come up with more resolutions I always break them, so I feel like these two are a good place to start. 

This tag was created by Emily and Shivalika so please go check out their original posts!

Get in shape:

A book that doesn't quite fit on your shelf correctly.

It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini.
This book is taller than all my books and sticks out more on my shelves so I've compromised by hiding it in my cupboard with the other awkward books I own.

Eat healthily:

A book you feel was good for you to read.

This might shock a few of you but I'm going to say Girl Online by Zoe Sugg. Sure it wasn't the greatest work of literature ever created but it helped me to come to grips with my anxiety whilst making me laugh at the same time!

Read more:

A book you keep telling yourself to read but haven't yet.

A lot of people are saying this but The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien. Seriously, I'll get to it one day, but I'm too busy right now...

Quit smoking:

A book you keep going back to even though you've finished it.

Harry Potter. This is really the only book/series that I've read multiple times, and the only book I want to keep re-reading even now!

Save more money:

A book you got for a great price.

I recently bought Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare for only £2 which made me so happy because everywhere else I looked it was £10!

Be more organised:

How do you organise your bookshelf?

My organisational method is very strange because it is different with each shelf. My top two shelves are series, then rainbow TBR books, then rainbow read books with a few TBR books scattered in there and then hardcovers with a few paperbacks as well!

Be punctual:

Shortest and longest time you've spent on a book.

Shortest time was 20 minutes when I read Amulet: The Stonekeeper.
The longest time was 3 months when I had to read Spies by Michael Frayn for school!

Go out more:

A book that isolated you from the outside world.

Literally any book I read that gets a four or five star rating. Or last books in a series. Or books by my favourite authors. Or first books in a series. 

Be unique:

Favourite book from 2017.

That's like asking a mother who is her favourite child! I'll have to go with Faceless by Alyssa.B. Sheinmel though because I haven't been able to stop thinking about it.

Be more personal:

Your most anticipated book of 2018.

The Long Forever by Eugene Lambert.
I have followed this series from birth and I can't wait for the  third book in this series!
(Also Eugene Lambert liked my review of Into the No-Zone!!)

Really, Resolutions?:
A book you promise to read this year.

I have absolutely no idea what I want to read next year! I just hope I can shrink my TBR to 100 books!


What was your favourite book from 2017? What book do you want to read next year? Have you done this tag? 
Let me know in the comments below!

And until next time, keep reading!

Books I need now (because next year is too far away!)

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme hosted by the ladies over at The Broke and Bookish.

There were a lot of amazing new releases this year, as well as lots of amazing books that I discovered for the first time. From all the blogs I've been reading there seem to be even more amazing books being released next year and this week I'm going to share the 10 books I'm most excited for in 2018. They are in no particular order because I really don't know which one I'm most excited for.

1- The Other Side Of Lost by Jessi Kirby

2- When My Heart Joins The Thousand by A.J. Steiger

3- A Thousand Perfect Notes by C.G. Drews

4- The Long Forever by Eugene Lambert

5- The Complication by Suzanne Young

6- Queen of Air and Darkness by Cassandra Clare

7- Restore Me by Tahereh Mafi

(and a couple of books that don't have covers yet!)

8- The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee
9- On The Come Up by Angie Thomas
10- His Fair Assassin #4 by Robin LaFevers

What books are you looking forward to in 2018? Are any of them on this list?
Let me know in the comments below!

And until next time, keep reading!

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
Release Date: February 5, 2013
Pages: 452
Rating: 💜💜💜💜
Buy it: Amazon | Book Depository

Scarlet's grandmother is missing. The police has closed her case. The only person who can help her is Wolf, a untrustworthy street fighter.
In New Beijing, Cinder becomes the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive when she breaks out of prison to escape the vicious Queen Levana.



I honestly don't know how to review this book without spoiling everything because I have so many emotions that I need to release and talk about! However, I'll try hard to not ruin anything for you.

I liked this book a lot more that Cinder; the world and plot felt more developed, there was more action and the characters were just as likeable. I loved that we got a split narrative between Cinder and Scarlet as it meant the world we are in grew and expanded more than it did in Cinder.

I loved all the characters; Scarlet has become my favourite character of the series, although Cinder still has a special place in my heart. I love all the boys in this universe as well because they are both fighters who protect what they care about, but they are also humans who have emotions. In fact every single character is so well written because there is not a moment where you can forget that they are humans with emotions, which often happens in books. It was also nice to see how much diversity is coming through in this book, with all different ethnicities coming together.

This book follows on immediately after the end of Cinder so I would recommend binge-reading this series so you don't get lost. The majority of the chapters do focus on Scarlet although there are a few that focus on Cinder, which was nice to see. It was fun to see how their story lines were becoming intertwined without them realising.

I love the sci-fi retelling of one of my favourite fairy tales because it was so well done. There were parts of it that stuck to the original plot (Scarlet does deliveries, there is a wolf) but the majority of it is a new concept that I've never seen before. I was getting major Red vibes though (if you watch Once Upon A Time you'll know what I mean).

Obviously you'd have to read Cinder before you read this book so it's a little hard to recommend this book to people. However I would recommend this series to anyone who loves retellings or sci-fi books.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Release Date: February 14, 2012
Pages: 315
Rating:💜💜💜💜
Buy it: Amazon | Book Depository

My name is August.
I won't describe what I look like.
Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse.



This book was the perfect mixture of heart-breaking and heart-warming. It deserves all the hype that it has received because it was such a beautiful and thought-provoking read.

I loved the fact that the book was split up into different characters perspectives because it meant you got to see inside everyone's minds and discover what they are really thinking in a situation. It showed the reader that things aren't always as simple as they seem and that you really have to get into a person's head to understand what is going on. I especially loved the fact that the different sections were in different fonts so you could see the difference between characters (and the fact that the font matched the character's personality made me too happy).

The writing style was simple but effective. The book read like a diary and I felt immersed the entire time I was reading this book. There were times when I put down the book and forget that this story wasn't actually happening to me and that what I was reading was just a story.

I also loved the fact that each section was separated by a quote that related to what was going on. It was like playing pass the parcel and always winning a prize. My favourite quotes had to be the ones from Bowie because who doesn't love a bit of Bowie.

The only reason why I gave this book four stars is because I'm trying to define what a five star book is for me. For me this was a beautiful book that made me think about how I treat people, but it only really affected me in the moment. Since finishing this book I haven't thought about it much and I have liked other books more than this one, so for the moment I'm giving Wonder four stars.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. My mum read it and loved it, my 11-year old friend read it and loved it, I read it and loved it. It is the kind of book that anyone of any background and age can read and enjoy because it is such a universal story of love, loss and friendship.

Jingle All The Way Tag

This tag was created by Lefty Reads so go give her some love!

4 days until Christmas! Who else is super excited?
I love listening to Christmas songs and basically just listen to them on loop throughout December. When I found a book tag that was all about Christmas songs, I knew I had to share a little festive cheer with all of you ! 

Jingle Bells

A fun, light hearted book/series

Although this book isn't my favourite book ever it was definitely a fun, light-hearted read. It does seem very long (500 pages!) but I flew through it in no time at all.

I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus

A book/series with a scandalous romance

I mean, this is the original scandalous romance. Everyone knows this story and everyone knows what makes this romance so scandalous.

I'll Be Home Again For Christmmas

A book/series that you are determined to re-read

I haven't read this book in 7 years but it still remains my favourite series of all time. I've been meaning to re-read it for years so hopefully I'll get to it soon!

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Your most anticipated read for 2018

His Fair Assasssians Book 4 is coming out in 2018! I haven't even finished reading the books that are out but I can't wait for this book to come out! Ahhhhhh!

Silent Night

A beautiful book/series that everyone knows

Both the cover and the writing is beautiful in this book. I'm pretty sure almost everyone in the book community has heard of this book, and love it or hate you can't deny that the cover is beautiful.

Winter Wonderland

A book/series with great worldbuilding

Basically all of Cassie's books have amazing world-building but City Of Bones was the book that started the awesome Shadowhunter adventures so I thought this one should get the spotlight.

Go Tell It On The Mountain

An under-hyped book/series that needs more attention

I meant this book in literally every post I write but Faceless is such a great book that I think more people should hear about it!

I Saw Three Ships

Favourite Triology

I know I've already mentioned this trilogy before in this tag but it is my favourite trilogy of all time currently. However The Infernal Devices is threatening to knock The Sign of One of the top spot!  

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer

A book series with an underdog protagonist that rises up

I've only just finished this series but I absolutely love Violet as an underdog protagonist. I won't spoil anything in case you want to read this series but I love the character development she goes though.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

A book that helped you through troubling times

This book has become such an important book to me and I've read it so many times that my copy is actually starting to fall apart. 

What's your favourite Christmas song? Which is your most anticipated book of 2018?

Let me know in the comments below!

And until next time, keep reading!

Ten books I want to see under the Christmas tree

Christmas is next week!

Can you believe that Christmas is so close?! Where has the time gone?

Basically all I get for Christmas is books or bookish items so I'm pretty sure I'll get at least a few of the books on this list. My family have been asking me over the last few months what I want for Christmas, and I gave them this list.

1- Secrets for the Mad by Dodie

First of all, look how pretty this book is! It is actually gorgeous!

I absolutely adore Dodie; her videos are like a virtual hug and I love listening to her voice. She gives out all sorts of advice that I find really helpful, so hopeful I'll get this book!

2- Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy by Cassie Clare (and others)

In my quest to catch up with the Shadowhunter world I've been trying to read all the books that have been released so far. I have 7 books left (I know, I'm not doing great!) but I don't actually own this book or Lord of Shadows. Also I love Simon and can't wait to read more about him!

3- This Savage Song by V.E. Schwab 

I haven't read any V.E. Schwab books yet, but this cover is too pretty is pass by. I do want to get into V.E. Schwab, because all of her books sound interesting and right up my street. And of course it does help that the cover is gorgeous.

4- Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers

I read the first book in this series earlier on the year, and was instantly hooked. I loved Grave Mercy so much and I'd love to carry on with this series.

5- The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher

Growing up, Leia was a major role model for me. I have always looked up to her because of how strong and badass she is, and the fact that she always stands up for herself.  Now, since Carrie Fisher passed away, I've been wanting to learn more about the actress who played my biggest role model, and I figure this is the place to start.

6- Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco 

I love the legend (is it a legend?) of Jack the Ripper and whenever an author puts a twist on it, I have to read the book. This book sounds that it could be a really interesting twist, especially as it has a strong female lead in a male driven era of history.

7- The Murder Complex by Lindsey Cummings

This book is quite dark, especially for the Christmas season, but it does sound amazing. The whole idea that a murder rate could be higher than the birth rate seems very different from all the other dystopian books I've read. And this cover is pretty awesome.

8- Everyday Sexism by Laura Bates

Feminism is a very important subject to me; I believe that everyone should have equal rights and opportunities. As a result, I am constantly looking for ways to expand my knowledge of feminism and sexism, and this book is just one of many that I would like to read.

9- Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow

Once again, another dark book but it does seem like an important subject to me. If a book has a mental health sub-plot in it then I try to read it. Mental health has played a big part in my life, so I enjoy seeing other people's interpretation or experiences of mental health.

10- Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Stardust is one of my favourite films of all time, so I want to read the original book version to see how similar it is to the film. And, one last time, look at that cover!

Do you celebrate Christmas? What books would you like to get this holiday season?

Let me know in the comments below!

And until next time, keep reading!

'Tis the Season Tag

My first Christmassy tag of month is definitely one of my favourites; it is such a simple introduction to one of the best seasons.

This tag was created by Richard so go check him out!

Do you have a favourite winter read?

I don't really have a specific book that I read in Winter although I do tend to read a lot of Christmas themed books. At the moment I'm reading Let It Snow and feeling very Christmassy!

Find a book with blue on the cover.

There are so many books I could choose for this one but to stay with a Christmas theme I'm going to choose My True Love Gave To Me. It is such a beautiful blue colour!

Find a book you would use as the star on top of the tree.

Fun random fact about me: our family has a koala star that we always place at the top of the tree.
I think Apple and Rain would make a good tree star because it is such a bright yellow.

Pick a fictional place that would be perfect for Christmas holidays.

My first thought was Narnia because have you seen Narnia in Winter? However I would love to visit Hogwarts at Christmas to see all the Christmas decorations. Plus there would probably be time for me to visit a snowy Hogsmeade!

Pick a fictional character you'd take on holiday with you.

I'd take Dash from The 12 Days of Dash and Lily because I think he would be perfect to help me stay in the Christmas mood all holiday.

Name one book on your wishlist this year!

Only one?! My entire wishlist is made up of books; how am I meant to choose my favourite?!
If I had to choose one I'd go with Secrets for the Mad by Dodie Clark because I honestly can't wait to get my hands on that book!

Favourite Christmas drink, treat and movie?

Favourite drink: Hot chocolate! Is there any other answer for that question?
Favourite treat: Being Austrian we always have an Austrian food on Christmas Eve which is a special treat for us.
Favourite movie: Father Christmas or The Snowman or Arthur Christmas.


What holiday do you celebrate? Which fictional place would you like to visit this Winter?
Let me know in the comments below!

And until next time, keep reading!

December TBR

100 points to your Hogwarts house if you can guess what this month's theme is.

...

...

If you guessed Christmas than well done! You're correct!

I love the Christmas period so much. For me Christmas has always been a happy occasion (apart from one year when my uncle went to hospital and I had a 3 hour nose bleed), so I'm always especially happy when December comes around. This month I trying to read lots of happy festive books to keep in line with the festive spirit.

On to the books!

1-Angels at the Table by Debbie Macomber

2-The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas by Carole Matthews

3-My True Love Gave To Me edited by Stephanie Perkins
4- Let it Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Laurie Myracle

 I feel like there will be so much going on that I won't have time to read (which probably isn't true)! However I excited for all these books and I can't wait to read them!

Have you read any of the books on my list? Do you celebrate Christmas?

Let me know in the comments below!

And until next time, keep reading!