My Favourite Halloween Entertainment- Books, Films and TV Shows| CarenzaOnBooks

Back in the day, when I first started this blog, I used to do something called Spooky Week. As the title suggested, for a week, I would post spooky related content. I did it for two or three years, but for various reasons I stopped. However, I still love making Halloween content. In today's post, I thought I would share my favourite/ultimate Halloween entertainment guide. I am going to pick one book, film and TV show to share and talk about how much I love them. These are just my personal preferences, but these are guaranteed to put my in a Halloweeny mood.

Book- Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin

You are probably sick to death of me talking about how much I love this book and this series, but that's not going to stop me from talking about it. I believe Serpent and Dove is the perfect Halloween/autumnal series because of two things- witches and a gritty/dark tone. These books aren't perfect, they have their flaws, but they're so entertaining. If you love an enemies to lover romance, witches and witch-hunters, iconic characters and a beautiful magic system, then look no further. 

Shoutouts for other books that could have featured in this category are The Diviners series, The Once and Future Witches, The Devil and the Dark Water and If We Were Villains. 

Film- The Nightmare Before Christmas

Taken from Google Images

I am one of those people where it isn't Halloween unless I've watched this film. The story is great, the songs are great, the characters are great, the art style is great. In summary, it's great. It can also pass for a Christmas film, so you can watch it twice a year. I've watched this so many times I've lost count. Having now seen Schitt's Creek, I refuse to believe that the same person who played Moria Rose, also played Sally and one of the spooky kids. My brain can't cope.

TV Show- The Living and the Dead 

Taken from Google Images

This is probably the most unknown on this list as it's a criminally underrated show. If you like historical fiction, supernatural things that go bump in the night and Colin Morgan, then you'll love this show. It was a BBC show that got cancelled even before it aired, so the ending leaves you wanting more, but sadly you'll never get it. I have watched this at least once a year every year since it came out (in 2016). Some of the things that happen in it are genuinely quite scary and it's one of those shows I have to watch with the light on because it kinda terrifies me. It has a wonderful story, with a beautiful soundtrack and incredible performances. It is on BritBox or you can buy it on DVD. If you take anything from this list, then please take this show because I need more people to watch it. 

What are your go to Halloween entertainments??

Gods&Monsters by Shelby Mahurin Book Review (Contain Spoilers)| Carenza Bramwell

Title- Gods&Monsters

Author- Shelby Mahurin

Series- Serpent&Dove Trilogy 

Published- 2021

Page Count- 612 pages

Publishing House- HarperTeen

Genre- YA High Fantasy

Rating- 4.5/5 stars

About the Author

Shelby Mahurin is the New York Times and indie bestselling author of Serpent & Dove and Blood & Honey. She grew up on a small farm in rural Indiana, where sticks became wands and cows became dragons. Her rampant imagination didn’t fade with age, so she continues to play make-believe every day—with words now instead of cows. When not writing, Shelby watches the Office and obsesses over her Instagram feed. She still lives near that childhood farm with her very tall husband, semi-feral children, two dogs, and one cat.

Taken from Shelby's website. 

Plot

The spellbinding conclusion to the New York Times and IndieBound bestselling trilogy Serpent & Dove. This stunning fantasy take on French witches and forbidden love is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas.

Evil always seeks a foothold. We must not give it one.

After a heartbreaking loss, Lou, Reid, Beau, and Coco are bent on vengeance more than ever before—and none more so than Lou.

But this is no longer the Lou they thought they knew. No longer the Lou that captured a chasseur’s heart. A darkness has settled over her, and this time it will take more than love to drive it out.

Taken from Goodreads.

Opinions 

To read my review of Serpent&Dove, click here. To read my review of Blood&Honey, click here. 

The time has finally come to share my thoughts on Gods&Monsters. This series has had an iron tight grip on me since October 2019 and now it's over. To get straight to the point, I loved this book. I reread the first two books in preparation for this and changed my ratings. I gave Serpent&Dove 4.5/5 stars and Blood&Honey 3.5/5 stars. I'll be honest and say I was nervous going into G&M because of how I felt about B&H. It did lead to me being pleasantly surprised. 

From where we first met them to their journey throughout this book, I thought the character developments were quite strong. Lou and Reid's relationship was tested thoroughly, firstly by Nicholina possessing Lou and then Reid loosing all his memories of Lou. I liked that they were able to overcome those in a healthy way. It was never forced. Beau has to be the character that grew on me the most. I wasn't a big fan in book one, but I came to really like him in the gang. Adding Jean Luc and Celié to the group really changed up the dynamic. You could tell that these were characters who had been through an incredible amount of pain and trauma, yet they felt real. I have loved these characters since page one and can't believe we've reached the end of their stories. 

Ending's are notoriously difficult to get right. I think my favourite of all time is Clockwork Princess as it just feels right and like it is an ending. I got that feeling from this as well. It felt right and was satisfying. Yes, I can maybe see some short stories or novellas in the future, but this does mark the end of their journey. I wasn't left wanting more, which isn't something you want in a finale. Shelby nailed this ending and gave us what we wanted. 

The only reason I'm not giving this five stars is because I wasn't the biggest fan of the POV for the finale. While it was sweet that we got to read from Ansel's POV, I found it a bit jarring that for the final ever chapter we weren't with Lou or Reid. I understand why it was Ansel as he is a ghost (I think) and could show us both Lou and Reid's stories at once, but I just missed it being Lou or Reid. I've grown so attached to them and I wish we could get the POV from Lou or Reid one last time.

I read this book in three days, unable to put it down as I simply needed to know what happened next. These characters and this world have captured my heart and I cannot believe their story is over. I am very excited to see what Shelby does next as I think she is a great writer. Until then, I will have a sticky bun in Lou's honour and be proud to be a Virgo like Reid. 

What I've Been Reading Recently- Summer Edition 2021| Carenza Bramwell

Summer is officially over. Autumn and spooky season are here. As summer is now over, it's time for me to share my wrap up for the last couple of months. Between July and August, I read 22 books. I'm really happy with the amount I'm reading at the moment as when I was finishing my degree, I didn't have as much time to read and that made me sad. I'm hoping for some more good reading months this autumn. 

July

This July I read 14 books! This is the most I have read in a very long time. This was because I was only holiday for ten days and I was staying with a friend and she lent me a lot of graphic novels to read. I am so happy with how much I read in July.

Cruel Crown by Victoria Aveyard

A reread from my read or go shelf, I'm still not sure why I'm continuing with the Red Queen series when I'm not really enjoying it. There's a part of me that wants to know how this series ends. I wasn't wowed by either of these short stories and since reading them, I have donated my copy to charity. It got a 3/5 stars from me. 

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo 

This was my first time reading a book in prose and it was an enjoyable experience. I know Elizabeth Acevedo is a beloved author in the book community and after owning this for almost a year, it was time to read it. I have a full spoiler filled review, which you can read here. While I enjoyed it, I struggled with the dual POV. I would read another book from Elizabeth in the future. I gave it 4/5 stars. 

Magonia by Maria Dahvana Headley

Another book that I had had on my TBR for quite some time and am glad that I read. I would class this as sci-fi, which is a genre I struggle with reading. I thought the premise was very original. I found it easy to read and for once didn't mind the first person perspective. I thought it was good, but I wasn't wowed by it. I am going to read the sequel. It got 3/5 stars from me. 

The Familiars by Stacey Halls

The Familiars is a contender for a favourite book of the year. Set in my home county, I adored this book. As it has a gothic, witchy undertone, I do wish I had read it in spooky season, but I'm glad I finally read it. I have a full, spoiler filled review, which you can read here. Stacey Halls has become an autobuy author and I am very excited to read her next book. I gave it 4/5 stars. 

Avatar the Last Airbender- The Search

The first book I borrowed from my friend. We're both big Avatar fans and I've been meaning to continue with the comics since last August, but life got in the way. This was probably my favourite of the three Avatar ones I've read. It answered a question that I had wanted to know about since I was a child. Loved the story and the art. It got 4/5 stars from me. 

The Tea Dragon Society by Kay O'Neill

This was one I actually recommended to my friend after seeing a lot of positive reviews and while I was staying with her, she lent it to me. This was the cutest graphic novel I have ever read. I love the Tea Dragons and want one of my own. It had great LGBT rep. I cannot wait to continue with this trilogy. An instant favourite. I gave it 4/5 stars.

Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo

I had seen this floating around bookstagram for a while and bought it during one of my "I'm stressed about my degree" book buying binges. After a rocky start, this became an incredibly powerful read. It will make you feel a lot of things. I have a full spoiler filled review, which you can read here. If you are interested in feminist books or translated fiction, then I'd recommend this one. It got 4/5 stars from me. 

Avatar the Last Airbender- The Rift

We're now into a run of books that I borrowed from my friend. This was the other Avatar comic that I hadn't read. My main complaint was that I didn't like the direction it took one of the characters in. It didn't feel entirely in character for them. Aside from that, I enjoyed this one, just not as much as The Search. I gave it 4/5 stars.  

Legend of Korra- Turf Wars Part One-Three 

After finishing my friends Avatar comics, I then read her Legend of Korra ones. I read the three volumes of Turf Wars. This picks up where the show leaves off. I really liked the relationship that we see in this one. It was a strong story. It got 4/5 stars from me. 

Legend of Korra- Ruins of the Empire Part One-Three 

My final reads for July were the other three volumes in the Korra series. Compared to the other story, I didn't enjoy it as much. I can't go into too much detail as that would include spoilers. There was just something about this one that didn't quite work for me. I still enjoyed it. I gave it 4/5 stars. 

August

In August, I read 8 books. A lot of these were fantasy books as that was clearly what I was in the mood for. August actually ended up being the month where I read the most pages as I read a lot of big books. 

100 Nasty Women of History by Hannah Jewell

I actually started this in July but ended up finishing it in August. This is a non-fiction book about women from history. I have a lot of feelings about this book. Firstly, I really liked how diverse the women were in it. They were from different times, countries, races, religions, sexuality, classes. You name it, it was probably featured in this book. I had only heard of maybe ten of these women before, so it opened my eyes to a lot of amazing women. Now here are the things I didn't like about this book. Too much swearing, it ended up detracting from the points. A lot of anti-men and anti-British comments that just didn't sit right with me. All of this meant I gave this book 3.5/5 stars. I had wanted to love it, but the writing ended up being a bit off putting.  

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This was one of my most anticipated releases of the year. It actually came out in May, but I decided to read it in August as it's set in August 1983. Taylor Jenkins Reid is an incredible writer. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is one of my favourite books. I loved Malibu Rising. I read over 200 pages in one day because I could not put it down. I am going to be writing a full review, which will come out later this month, because I need to share all my feelings on it. It got 4.5/5 stars from me. 

Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin

I then embarked on my reread of the Serpent and Dove series in preparation of the last book coming out. Having read this book three times, I now have some concrete feelings on this book. Asides from the pacing, I have no issues with this book. Lou and Reid are some of my favourite characters. What I wouldn't give to make this a TV show as I could see it being really good. You can read my review from 2019 (which does have spoilers) here. I've come to the conclusion that this is a 4.5/5 stars for me. 

Blood and Honey by Shelby Mahurin 

Blood and Honey is my least favourite in the series. There's just something about it that doesn't quite work for me. Out of the three, this took me the longest to read at almost a week. I still like it, but not as much as the books either side of it. I do like the dark tone and it reflects the events of book one. You can read my review from 2020 (again, this has spoilers) here. This reread made it a 3.5/5 stars for me. 

Gods and Monsters by Shelby Mahurin 

While I didn't enjoy Blood and Honey as much, Gods and Monsters did not disappoint. The ending was everything I wanted. It went in interesting directions throughout. The character development was great. Lou and Reid are still icons. A full review will be coming very soon as I have so many things to say about this finale. I'll be having a sticky bun in Lou's honour. I of course gave this book 4.5/5 stars.  

Enchantée by Gita Trelease

This was a reread for me as I originally read it back in early 2019. I have it 4/5 stars then, but my reading tastes have changed a lot. I really liked the characters and the setting of the French Revolution, but I struggled to remain engaged with the plot. This could have done with being cut down as I got tired of reading the same scenes over and over. This time around I gave this 3/5 stars. 

Liberté by Gita Trelease

Having seen mixed reviews for the second book in this series, I was a bit unsure of how I would feel. A lot of what I had struggled with in the first book had been removed. The plot about the Lost Girls and Camille's leaflet was probably my favourite storyline. I did feel that there was too many storylines and at times I struggled to keep on top of what was happening. I really liked the characters and the setting again. I gave this 3.5/5 stars in the end.  

Bloodlust and Bonnets by Emily McGovern 

My final read of the month was not one I had on my TBR, but was very enjoyable. I bought this during a recent book trip to Oxford. This is about a group of queer people hunting a vampire in Regency England. If that doesn't make you want to read it, I don't know what will. I found this very funny and silly. I adored the art style, the storyline and the humour. It was a wonderful graphic novel. I gave this 4/5 stars. 

So that concludes my wrap up for the summer. What books did you read this summer?? 

Most Anticipated Releases of 2021| Carenza Bramwell

I know I'm a bit late to posting this, but I've complied a small list of books I'm looking forward to reading in 2021. I'm also going to include an honourable mentions section as I'm trying to be quite select with what books I buy this year.

Most Anticipated 

Liberte by Gita Trelease- February 18th 

Taken from Google Images

The sequel to Enchante in 2019, this is a YA urban fantasy set in revolutionary France. I remember really enjoying Enchante when I read it, but will have to admit that a reread is required. Revolutionary France is one of my favourite historical periods, so after my reread, I know I'll dive straight into this one. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here. 

Chain of Iron by Cassandra Clare- March 1st

Taken from Google Images

It will come as no surprise as I'm a huge Cassandra Clare fan, but a book I'm really looking forward to is Chain of Iron. This is the sequel to Chain of Gold, which is the first book in a new series. This follows the children of The Infernal Devices and their adventures in Edwardian London. Chain of Gold was a book I loved and I will probably reread it before Chain of Iron. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here. 

 

One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston- June 6th  

Taken from Google Images

Casey wrote a book I really enjoyed in 2019, Red, White and Royal Blue. Her latest novel follows a young woman who falls in love with someone she meets on the subway and discovers they are from the 1970s. Casey writes great LGBT comedies. This one comes out in time for summer in hardback, so if you're looking for an LGBT rom-com, then look no further. Just to preface but Casey's books are not YA, they do have explicit sex scenes so be aware of that. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.   

Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman- June 13th

Taken from Google Images

Alice is a favourite writer of mine, so another volume in the Heartstopper series will automatically go on my most anticipated list. This graphic novel series follows Charlie and Nick, two boys who fall in love. It goes from their relationship starting to in this instalment, being ready to say I love you to each other. Alice is an incredible writer and illustrator. Each instalment gets better and better. They do tackle important issues such as mental health. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.     

The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson- June 15th 

Taken from Google Images

This is a spin-off novel from the Truly Devious world. It follows Stevie on her first case as a detective outside of that world. I reread the first two books so I could finish the series, reading the trilogy in just over a week. These a fun and easy mysteries. I've read another book from Maureen, which was just as enjoyable so if you're looking for a fun and addictive mystery, look no further. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

Gods and Monsters by Shelby Mahurin- August 8th 

Taken from Google Images

Quite possibly my most anticipated release is Gods&Monsters by Shelby Mahurin, the final book in the Serpent&Dove series. I adored the first book, but not the second one. I really hope this series has a good conclusion as it deserves one. I will most likely reread the series in the lead up to it's release. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

Honourable Mentions

Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas- January 12th

Taken from Google Images

This is already out, but it's a prequel to The Hate U Give. I read and loved that book back in 2017. This follows Starr's father as he becomes teen father. Like many books on this list, I think THUG is due a reread around the time I read this. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here. 

Girl A by Abigail Dean- January 21st

Taken from Google Images

I stumbled across this book while reading a BBC article about upcoming releases for the year. It's about a young woman raised in abusive, horrific household and what happens when her mother dies in prison. I'm trying to read more adult/modern literature, so this sounds right up my alley. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here. 

The Project by Courtney Summers- February 2nd

Taken from Google Images

Sadie was a favourite book of mine in 2019, so to find out Courtney has a new book coming out is very exciting. This one is about a young woman raised in a cult and returning to investigate. If it is anything like Sadie, it will be a book you won't want to put down. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here. 

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo- March 18th

Taken from Google Images

This is an LGBT historical romance novel set in San Fransisco in the 50s. It follows a lesbian couple looking for somewhere to spend one last evening together before the other is deported. It also tackles the attitudes towards communism at the time. I've really gotten into historical fiction lately, so this sounds like something I'll really enjoy. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid- May 27th

Taken from Google Images

Taylor is a beloved writer of mine, so of course I had to put her newest release on here. Set in the 1980s across one evening, it follows four rich siblings as they throw their annual end of year summer. Across this one evening, secrets will be spilled and by the morning, their relationship won't be the same. Cannot wait for it to come out. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalia Harris- June 1st

Taken from Google Images

Similar to Girl A, I found this book on that BBC article. A satire and thriller rolled into one, it follows two black women working together in a mostly white environment. At first they get along, but strange things start happening around the office and it becomes a race to find out who did it. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

Rise to the Sun by Leah Johnson- July 1st

Taken from Google Images

Leah wrote You Should See Me In A Crown, a YA LGBT black girl romance that I really enjoyed. This one is about two teenage girls who meet at a music festival and their lives are changed forever. If it's as fun and fluffy as the previous one, then this will be another hit. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

Our Violent Ends by Chloe Gong- November 16th

The sequel to These Violent Delights, a 1920s urban fantasy Romeo and Juliet retelling set in Shanghai. I have mixed feelings about the first book, but I'm curious to find out how this duology ends. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here.  

The Black Volume of the Dead by Cassandra Clare and Wesley Chu- N/A 

The conclusion to the Eldest Curses series, the Magnus and Alec spin-off series, comes out at some point in 2021. I like this series, not as much as some of the main series, but am happy to read more about Magnus and Alec. To read the plot summary on Goodreads, click here. 

That concludes my most anticipated list for 2021. What are some books you are looking forward to?

Carenza :) x 

Blood and Honey Fairyloot Collectors Box Review| Carenza Bramwell

If you saw my Chain of Gold Fairyloot box review, then you will know that I was interested in their Blood and Honey box. Well, the time has come for me to unbox it. Be warned, there are detailed spoilers for what is inside this box. 

What Is A Fairyloot Box?

Fairyloot is a UK YA book box that sends out monthly boxes with a new release and a bunch of bookish goodies. In the past year, they have branched out into collectors boxes for certain releases. For more information, click here.

How Much Did this box cost?

This box cost £35 plus postage and taxes. Normal boxes cost £26 plus postage and taxes. These boxes are much bigger than the normal ones.

The Controversy

If you, like me, have been following this box for a while, then we have to address the controversy surrounding this box and Fairyloot at the moment. This box was supposed to go on sale to both active subscribers and members of the public in July. However it was revealed that Fairyloot were having problems with their website and with fraud allegations. The fraud allegations were quite serious, with a number of customers having their online banking details stolen. I believe I was a victim of this myself as I experienced this issue. This resulted in them pushing back the sale for the public and them having a second subscriber sale. This didn't occur until September, after the book had been published. I feel that Fairyloot handled the situation very badly and have left a lot of people disappointed with them. It has certainly made me think about if I want to buy from them again. The boxes then weren't shipped until the end of October, with people finally receiving them almost two months after the book was released. Compared to other companies in similar positions, Fairyloot has been struggling and attitudes towards them have changed. I hope they improve their communication with their audience and fix these issues going forward. Enough about that, let's get on with reviewing the box! 

The Box

This box was designed by Team Fairyloot and in collaboration with Shelby Mahurin herself, who approved each item for this box. 

The first item is quite possibly my favourite and that is the cosy blanket they included. This was one of the items they announced that they would be including. I have been using this every day since I got my box and it is amazing. It keeps me warm and it looks pretty. I couldn't get a photo with the whole design in, which was a shame as I wanted to do it justice. It has a quote from the series and the outlines of the two central characters, Lou and Reid. It also has the iconic serpent and dove on it. It was designed by @noverantale. 

The next item in the box was a favourite of mine to get and one I have gotten many times from Fairyloot, and that was a candle. Inspired by La Foret Des Yeux from Blood and Honey, it smells divine. The scents are wild patchouli, distressed leather and fruits. For the first time ever, I have a candle with a wooden wick, which is meant to crackle as it burns. It smells so nice I'm not sure I'll ever burn it. The label was designed by @blanca.designs and the candle was made by @bookishburns. 

I had been looking at items very similar to this one, so I was so happy when they included a enamel pin set. Designed by @jezhawk, it features key elements from the series, alongside the iconic quote "love makes fools of us all, darling". I plan on getting some display for my pin badges at some point as I have some very pretty ones. I had never received a double pin set before so this was extra special. 

Fairyloot then included a very unique item and that was a storage tin. I will say with these collectors boxes you get items you are unlikely to get in an average subscription box. It was designed by @chattynora. My one complaint with this item is that I think there is a typo on the tin as I cannot read one of the words as it says "hre". Aside from that, this is a stunning item and I'm going to have to find something to put in it. 

Another item Fairyloot announced they would be included was a 22 gilded tarot deck. I have to admit I know nothing about tarot cards, let alone what an arcana deck is. There are 22 cards, each with a different portrait from the series. This made me realise that I don't know who half the characters are so I probably need to reread this series again. They are stunning and it has made me want to learn more about tarot cards. Fairyloot will be explaining each card on their community section of their website at some point. They were designed by @oblivionsdream.

The final item, similar to the Chain of Gold box, is an art print. I have received some very stunning art prints over the years from Fairyloot. It features our four main characters, Lou, Reid, Coco and Ansel. I have been dying to get my hands on some Serpent and Dove character art. It goes without saying that I adore this and will be finding a very special place to display this.  The illustration is by Katherine Britt. 

Lastly, there is the book itself. From the exterior, it looks like an average copy of Blood and Honey. But it isn't! It has shimmery metallic edges. If you got the add on of Serpent and Dove, then you will have a matching edition. Inside, it has exclusive end pages that have been signed by Shelby. Finally, under the dust jacket is some stunning art. I am seriously considering getting this framed as it is absolutely gorgeous.  

Despite the set backs this box faced, I was thoroughly pleased with it. I hope they release a matching edition for Gods and Monsters, the final book in the serious. Fairyloot do make their boxes worth it, with every item being hight quality. I would give this box 4/5 stars. 

Carenza :) x

Blood&Honey by Shelby Mahurin Book Review (Contains Spoilers)| Carenza Bramwell

 

Title- Blood&Honey

Author- Shelby Mahurin

Series- Serpent&Dove

Published- 2020

Page Count- 528 pages

Publishing House- Harper Teen

Genre- YA Fantasy

Rating- 4/5 stars 

About the Author

Shelby Mahurin grew up on a small farm in rural Indiana, where sticks became wands and cows became dragons. Her rampant imagination didn’t fade with age, so she continues to play make-believe every day—with words now instead of cows. She still lives near that childhood farm with her very tall husband and semiferal children. Serpent & Dove is her debut novel and is followed by Blood & Honey. Visit her online at www.shelbymahurin.com.

Taken from HarperCollins Website

Plot

After narrowly escaping death at the hands of the Dames Blanches, Lou, Reid, Coco, and Ansel are on the run from coven, kingdom, and church—fugitives with nowhere to hide.

To elude the scores of witches and throngs of chasseurs at their heels, Lou and Reid need allies. Strong ones. But protection comes at a price, and the group is forced to embark on separate quests to build their forces. As Lou and Reid try to close the widening rift between them, the dastardly Morgane baits them in a lethal game of cat and mouse that threatens to destroy something worth more than any coven.

The hotly anticipated sequel to the New York Times and IndieBound bestseller Serpent & Dove—packed with even steamier romance and darker magic—is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas.

Taken from Goodreads

Opinons 

To read my review of Serpent&Dove, click here. 

For long time readers of my blog, it will come as no surprise that I was very excited for Blood&Honey. After Serpent&Dove became my favourite book of 2019, I would have sold, traded, done anything to get my hands on the sequel. The first release date announced was September 1st, two days after my twentieth birthday. I would have happily skipped my own birthday just to read this book. It didn't end up coming out until September 17th in the UK and I got my copy a couple of days later.  

Something I am very glad I decided to do was reread Serpent&Dove first. It had been almost a year since I read it and turns out I'd forgotten basically the entire plot. A refresher was desperately needed. I read it in about two days and I actually changed my original rating from 5 stars to 4.5 stars. This is something I'll expand on in my review, but while I adored this story, I did spot some things I had issues with. Namely, the writing and the pacing. The writing wasn't as sophisticated as I remember it being, but that necessarily isn't a bad thing. The main thing is the pacing. It takes a while to get going and then it jumps from nought to a hundred very quickly. Those are my only complaints and the reason I changed my star rating on it.

Now, the reason you are here, are my thoughts on Blood&Honey. I'll get straight to it. I wasn't the biggest fan. I think I put so much pressure on myself about this book being amazing that I actually ended up disappointing myself. In essence, I found it too angsty and repetitive. It suffered from second book slump, which is such as a shame as I adore this series. What I mean when I say angsty and repetitive is that the central relationship between Lou and Reid felt off. They were at loggerheads for most of the book through everyone's least favourite trope- lack of communication. This became repetitive as they were like "oh I love you but I'm going to leave you". I was not a fan of this element of their relationship. Also, quite a few chapters ended with at least one of them being injured or knocked out, how many times can a person survive those sorts of injuries? 

Despite my issues with the plot, I was so happy to be back with the characters. They have become some of my favourite fictional characters. Lou is a badass women who doesn't take nothing from nobody. I find it really encouraging that despite all these traumas in her life she has remained the same person. She hasn't changed her personality that much, yet she has still developed as a character. Reid also went through quite a journey in this book, with regards to his relationship with his mother and brother. The characters in this series feel very real, which is something that keeps on drawing me back to them. I want to know more as I do care about them. I think the characters are probably my favourite part of this series. 

A character I loved throughout was Ansel. He was so sweet and the group really needed someone with that dynamic. It was announced before the book came out that a major character was going to die and as I read the book, I slowly realised it was going to be Ansel. He went through a lot. His relationship with Coco and a need to be worthy of his position in the group. While I adore Ansel, he did get a little bit annoying, but that didn't stop his death from being sad. I realised it was going to be Ansel as in theory the group can continue without him, which is so sad as he had a lot of potential. The ending was what really saved this book for me. I think Shelby is fantastic at writing endings. Lou has been possessed by the Dames Rouges and obviously we as readers know this but the characters don't. It shocked me that this was where the book decided to end. 

I am very anxious for book three. I know it is going to be an action packed finale as this is a trilogy. I hope nothing too bad happens to my precious beans as they are my favourites. I have treated myself to a Fairyloot special edition box for Blood&Honey, so keep an eye out for when I do an unboxing for this. 

What did you think of Blood&Honey?

Carenza :) x 

My Favourite Authors- 2020 Edition| Carenza Bramwell

If you scroll into the depths of my blog, you will find an ancient blog post from 2016-17 (oh those were to good days, can we go back to then?) which lists some of my favourite authors from the time. Three to four years later, it's safe to say that my reading tastes have changed a lot, so I am making an updated reading list which includes my current favourite authors. Quite a few authors have been removed from that list for various reasons and lots of new authors have been added. 

Cassandra Clare

Cassandra Clare made the cut in 2016/7 and she makes it again this year. Cassie's books will always hold a special place in my heart as they were the books that led me to discovering YA books. I've always been a bookworm, but these books opened the door for me and made me want to read all the time. I am always excited for the latest release from Cassie and what she's going to do with my precious babies next. The Infernal Devices will always be my favourite series from her and I am enjoying being back in that world so much with The Last Hours. Cassie creates easy to read, yet highly engaging books. She has some of the most diverse book casts out there and there is a book and character for everyone.  

Adam Silvera

Another writer who made the cut on the original list and makes it again is Adam Silvera. Despite the fact that I didn't enjoy his most recent release, Adam is still the king of contemporary novels. I've read all of his contemporary releases to date and each one punches me in the gut harder than the last one, which is just rude. Adam always tackles incredibly important issues, especially LGBT ones and being Latino. He has a way of creating characters that makes you fall for them and get emotionally devastated when he ruins their lives. Just once can't he write a happy contemporary where they have a happy life?   

Laini Taylor

For the first new to this list author, I had to choose Laini Taylor. Exactly a year ago, I read Strange the Dreamer and fell in love with her writing style. She has such a beautifully descriptive style, yet the story and meaning never get lost in the words. Her characters are also so layered that you can't help but fall for them. I had the pleasure of meeting Laini in 2017, after the release of Strange the Dreamer and I was ashamed that I had never read one of her books before. The Strange the Dreamer duology is amongst some of my favourite all time books, from the exterior to the interior, these books are some of the most beautiful I own. I am slowly making my way through the Daughter of Smoke and Bone series and thoroughly enjoying it.  

Shelby Mahurin 

A little book called Serpent and Dove dropped last year and changed my life. It had been a very long time since I had fallen head over heels in love with a book. I am desperate for the sequel to come out in about a months time in the UK. It was a book that I couldn't put down. It was a book I didn't want to put down. I was desperate to find out what would happen to Lou and Reed next. They had one of the best hate to love relationships I have ever seen. The characters were sassy and funny. I hope nothing too bad happens to my little beans in Blood and Honey but knowing what authors are like, they do like to torture their characters and readers.  

Taylor Jenkins Reid 

I remember everyone raving about The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and saying how great it was. For once, they hype was aptly deserved. That book was incredible. It was another one that I couldn't put down and I read it in about two days. I loved how the story moved from the present day to Evelyn's life. The title draws you in, you want to know why she had seven husbands. But ultimately you want to know who was the true love of her life. The characters felt so real and the way it was written, you felt as though you had been dragged into the book. You were going along on this journey with the two main characters. I did also enjoy Daisy Jones and the Six, but not as much as Evelyn. I look forward to what Taylor releases next and to catch up on some of her books that are currently released. 

Alice Oseman 

Finally on this list is one of my new favourite contemporary authors, Alice Oseman. Alice writes the best UK based YA Contemporary novels. I have loved pretty much everything she has released. All her books tackle LGBT themes, which is something you don't see that often in UK based novels. She is also the only British author to make it on this list. The Heartstopper series is so wholesome while tackling quite series issues. She just knows how to craft a story and how to make you care. I will automatically buy anything she releases. She also happens to be an exceptionally talented artist and I am desperate to get my hands on some of her artwork.

So that concludes my new favourite authors list. I imagine I'll update this in about five years time with new favourite authors. Who is your favourite author?

Carenza :) x

Belated 2020 Anticipated Releases| Carenza Bramwell

Yes, I am aware that we are almost a quarter of the way through the year at the time this is being posted, but I still wanted to share with you guys my anticipated releases of the year. On this list, I will be including those that have already been published. I think I have some that might have slipped under the radar for others as well as some popular releases. This list is in publication order. 

Infinity Son

By Adam Silvera

Published January 14th 2020.

Adam Silvera's latest novel is the first entry on this list. I am a huge fan of Adam's other books, so I was super excited when he announced his first fantasy novel. I have read it and sadly it was not for me. For more details why I gave it 3/5 stars, follow the link to my most recent wrap up. 

Yes No Maybe So

By Becky Albertalli and Amed Saeed. 

Published February 4th 2020.

I stumbled across this when I was scrolling through Goodreads and it was recommended for fans of Adam Silvera. I loved Simon Vs and I had read Becky's other collaborative novel. I am a huge fan of politics, so a YA novel centred around politics peaked my interest. It ended up being an okay read in the end. For more details, read my most recent wrap up.   

Heartstopper Volume 3

By Alice Oseman

Published February 6th 2020.

I am a huge fan of the Heartstopper series and the third volume did not disappoint. It's a cute LGBT graphic novel, I adore them. Volume four now please. For more details, read my most recent wrap up. 

The Shadows Between Us

By Tricia Levenseller.

Published March 1st.

The first book on this list that I haven't actually read. I stumbled across this, I think probably watching people's recommended releases. It seems like a really interesting fantasy novel, which revenge at the core. I've ordered a copy and I can't wait for it to arrive. 

A Question of Holmes

By Brittany Cavallaro.

Published March 3rd.

The final book in the Charlotte Holmes series. I loved the first two books, but sadly have not been a fan of the last two. I might have to binge read the series again as I feel reading them in one go might be a better experience than waiting for the newest book. I gave this book 3/5 stars.  

Chain of Gold

By Cassandra Clare.

Published March 3rd.

One of my most anticipated books of the year. My review just went up for this book. I absolutely adored it and am so sad that I now have to wait for the remanding books in this series. Obviously, I gave it 5/5 stars. 

The Gravity of Us

By Phil Stamper.

Published May 14th.

I believe this might already be out in America, however I am still waiting for it to be published in the UK. It's an upcoming LGBT own voices YA novel. The background of this book is the NASA programme and follows two boys who end up being connected by it. I'm really excited for a new LGBT novel.  

Jo&Laurie

By Melissa De La Cruiz.

Published June 2nd.

I'm a bit hesitant to put this book on my list as I haven't heard the best things about it, however, after watching the most recent adaptation of Little Women, I thought this book sounded fun. Melissa has done a bunch of other adaptations, so I think we're in safe hands. I know this is a fun, fluffy book, so I'm not expecting it to be brilliant, just a fun read. 

The Confession

By Jessie Burton.

Published June 2nd.

Technically this book is already out, however, I am waiting for the paperback to be released. I recently read The Muse by Jessie Burton and I loved it. I still need to read The Miniturist, but if the Confession is anything like The Muse, then I know that I'll love it. Jessie Burton has become one of my favourite modern literature authors.  

Loveless

By Alice Oseman.

Published July 9th.

As I've already mentioned my love for Alice's novels, it comes as no surprise that she has not one, but three mentions on this list. Loveless is her newest novel and features an aromantic/asexual character. I haven't read many stories featuring this, so I'm very excited. I also know that Alice is a great contemporary writer, so I can't wait for this book to come out. 

Blood&Honey

By Shelby Mahurin.

Published September 2nd.

Quite possibly my most anticipated release of the year. I cannot put it into words how much I love Serpent&Dove. This comes out a few days after my birthday and I am not joking when I say I would happily skip my birthday (which I love celebrating even though I'm turning 20 this year) so I can read this book. I cannot wait to be reunited with my faves again. 

The Nobleman's Guide to Scandal's and Shipwrecks 

By Mackenzi Lee.

Published September 3rd.

I absolutely adored the first two books in this series, but wasn't the biggest fan of the third one. Mackenzi Lee writes amazing LGBT historical fiction, so I have high hopes for this one. I might have to reread the other books in this series before this one comes out. 

Nick&Charlie 

By Alice Oseman.

Published September 3rd.

Surprise surprise, another Alice Oseman book. This one is actually already out in eBook format, but it is now being published in physical format. It's a short story set a few years after the Heartstopper comics have ended. Like with her other books, I'm so excited to read this. 

The Madness Blooms 

By Mackenzi Lee.

Published November 24th.

Another Mackenzi Lee book. I am a bit hesitant to put this on my list as I have seen a lot of controversy around it before it has even been published. It does seem to be another LGBT historical fiction novel and I'm hoping that once ARCs start being handed out to reviewers, some of the controversy is cleared up.  

That concludes my list of anticipated releases for 2020, what books are you excited for this year?

Carenza :) x

2019 Favourites| Carenza Bramwell

With 2019 well and truly over, and 2020 seemingly turning out to be another chaotic year, it's high time I look back on 2019 and share some of my favourites from the end of the last decade. This list will be comprised of some of my favourite books, cultural moments (TV/Film/Theatre etc) and moments of 2019. 

Books

My 2019 reading year wasn't the best compared to the years since I started using goodreads. That being said, I have picked out 6 books/series that I considered to be my favourites of the past year. I'm going to list them in the order I read them, rather than the order I consider them to be my favourites.  

The Heartstopper Series by Alice Oseman

I had never read an Alice Oseman book before I picked up the Heartstopper series and I've now read most of her published work. Who doesn't love a super cute graphic novel about a gay couple? The story is sweet, the illustrations adorable, it therefore is unsurprising that this series became one of my favourites of the year. I cannot wait to read the third volume this year!

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

Like most people who picked up the Seven Husbands, I was swept away by it. I am a bit hesitant to put it on my favourites list as I didn't love it as much as everyone else and I wasn't 100% with the twist at the end, apart from that I really enjoyed it and I read it in a day. I would love to see a TV series adaptation of this book so badly. 

Beautiful Boy by David Sheff

I picked this book as a bargain copy mainly because I saw that it had been adapted into a movie with Timothee Chalamet in it. I then became engrossed with how beautifully raw this book was. It is a non-fiction book that deals with topics of drug abuse and addiction, but I couldn't put it down. I still need to watch the movie, but if its anywhere near as good as the book, it will be a great movie. 

Strange the Dreamer Duology by Laini Taylor

On my third attempt of reading the Strange the Dreamer duology, I finally fell in love with it and am devastated that I have finished this incredible duology. I cannot recommend the audiobooks enough as I found that it really helped me to get emerged into the world and fully absorb myself in it. I need to read more books by Laini Taylor as Strange the Dreamer swept me away with how beautiful it was.

Sadie by Courtney Summers

This is another book with an amazing audiobook and the only book on this list that I don't actually own a copy of. I know I'm repeating myself at this point, but I was blown away by how good the audiobook was and the ending had me gripped on the edge of my seat. I would love to read another book like this at some point in the future. 

Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin 

I have to admit that this was quite possibly my favourite book of the year. I am dying for the sequel that comes out either a day or two after my birthday this year. I haven't felt like this about a book in a very long time. It was just so refreshing and reminded me why I love books, I did not want to put it down. 

Culture 

2019 was a year for me that I realised how much I enjoyed consuming other medias. This year I had so many TV, film and theatre favourites that I've condensed it down to this small list. 

TV

Here is a list of my favourite TV shows from 2019 with a small summary of why I loved them: 

• Brooklyn Nine-Nine- After hearing everyone raving about it, I finally watched it and understood the hype.
• Sex Education- Opened up some important topics while having a stelar cast, great aesthetics and amazing characters.
• The Politician- A last minute discovery but a very funny comedy about politics, can't wait for the next series.
• Fleabag Season 2- Phoebe is an icon and I don't need to say anything else.
• Buffy the Vampire Slayer- Finally watched Buffy in most of it's glory (I finished it in 2020) and I have a need to watch it again. 

Film

I can't remember how many films I saw in 2019, but the one stand out film of the year was Call Me By Your Name. I adored the book and really enjoyed the film adaptation. Captain Marvel also is worthy of a shout out for being great and female empowerment. 

Theatre

The two theatre highlights of the year were Six the Musical and Fleabag. Both have a special place in my heart and if I could, I'd see them both again tomorrow. 

Moments

This is probably a repeat of something I've said in one of my previous blog posts, but some of my stand out moments of the year include seeing Bastille live in February 2019 and going to Bruges in August 2019. These are memories I will treasure for the rest of my life and wish I could relive.

So that concludes my 2019 favourites, I hope that 2020 is as good as a year as 2019 was.

All the best,

Carenza x