Mid-Year Book Freak Out Tag:2021
Can you believe the year in already half gone? What better way to track the passing time than reviewing the books we’ve read so far this year. Currently I am at 11 books, putting me one book ahead on my goal. I have completed two series (almost three as I’m currently reading Ruin & Rising), two non-fiction, a collection of short stories and a collection of poetry. Some of these I will review below and also talk about some of the books I want to get to before the end of the year.
1. Best Book You’ve Read So Far in 2021:
That would definitely have to be Fence: Disarmed by Sarah Rees Brennan, sequel to Fence: Striking Distance which was probably my favorite read from last year. Like the first, I binged it in one day. It is funny and angsty and fluffy, full of friendship and fencing. The cast of characters is unique and I love every single one of them. This book honestly could answer all the questions on this tag. My only disappointment with it is there is no date for another book.
2. Best Sequel You’ve Read So Far in 2021:
The Wicked King by Holly Black. I finally picked up the rest of this series and I’m so glad I did. It has all my favorites, fantasy creatures in the modern world, enemies-to-lovers and dark faeries. This was definitely the slowest book in the series, but not by much for they are all fast-pace easy reads and I enjoyed marathoning it.
3. New Release You Haven’t Read Yet, But Want to:
Mister Impossible by Maggie Stiefvater! This is the second book in The Dreamer Trilogy and I am so ready to hang out with many of my faves from The Raven Cycle.
4. Most Anticipated Release for the Second Half of the Year:
Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat. The Captive Prince Trilogy remains one of my all-time favorite series and I am so ready for more from C.S. Pacat. The summery is very intense, but gives very little away.
5. Biggest Disappointment:
Shadow & Bone by Leigh Bardugo. I think I gave it three stars on GoodReads which is my lowest rating of a book. It was fast-paced and interesting, but it didn’t blow me away especially when compared to Six of Crows. The second book did pick up more and I am just about finished with the final one so I can now go binge the TV show before picking up King of Scars.
6. Biggest Surprise:
Sex Witch by Sophie Saint Thomas. It has been a while since I read a book on witchcraft that really made me want to spice up my practice, but this is now one of my favorite references. And the best part is is is written for everyone. Even if you aren’t really into the idea of tapping into sex magic, this book gives you alternatives to all the spells and practices discussed. Beautifully written and honestly flawless.
7. Favorite New Author (Debut or New to You):
Aiden Thomas, the wonderful author of Cemetery Boys which was originally going to be my best book of the year. Except for some minor plot imbalances, this book was pretty much flawless and I am excited to read more from this author.
8. Newest Fictional Crush
High King Cardan Greenbriar from the Folk of the Air Trilogy. Everyone loves a dark snarky bastard with a soft spot.
9. Newest Favorite Character
Not new, but it still goes to Aiden Kane from the Fence series. Someone get this boy therapy and a hug.
10-11. Book That Made You Cry / Book That Made You Happy
Fence: Disarmed made me feel all the emotions in such a short time. I will not forgive SRB for leaving Aiden and Harvard’s makeup until the last twenty pages.
12. Most Beautiful Book You’ve Bought (or Received) So Far This Year:
How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories by Holly Black. I’m a sucker for white covers and illustrations.
13. What Books Do You Need to Read Before the End of the Year:
Chain of Gold and Chain of Iron by Cassandra Clare. There are many others, but I hate to be behind on Cassie’s work. And these books are thick!
Hope your reading is going well this year.