Waiting On Wednesday Updates

Hello beautiful people of the blogoshpere! Today is Wednesday, but as you can see, this is not a "Waiting On Wednesday" post. If you care to look at the post before this, it was my WoW post last week. Meaning, I haven't been able to put in some substantial blog content for the past seven days, and I aplogize for that. I don't want to be that kind of blogger who just posts memes or scripted weekly features, so I'd rather not post at all. Sorry for the weeks worth of inactivity. I have been distracted quite a lot, and I was really not in the mood to read lately, so my planned book reviews and posts did not materialize immediately.

Now, I am posting to give you a short update on the things I have been up to these past few days, the stuff that kept me busy and the distracted me from drafting blog posts, and the like...

BOOKS AMINO Ruined My Day (Sort Of)

This post was initially called BOOKS AMINO (Kinda) Ruined My Life. But I changed it, and opted for a milder title because there people who only look at titles, and they might get too worried and condemn Books Amino without reading the whole content of the blog post. And NO, my life is not actually ruined. I'm perfectly fine. Thank you for your concern. But although I am somehow exaggerating with that blog post title, I can tell you there's a hint of truth to that.

Before anything else, let me introduce you to Books Amino.

Books Amino is a free iOS/Android application that lets bookworms and book lovers from all over the world interact. It's like a social media app for book lovers that lets them post and share pictures and blog posts, vote on polls, ask questions and let other people answer, and the like. It's a book community - a bit like Goodreads or BookLikes in a sense, where you will find a lot of bookish people posting what they are currently reading, their book reviews and joining book discussions. But unlike Goodreads, I think Books Amino is geared towards user interaction more than actually reviewing and managing the books you have read (or to read).

Now, let me tell you how it kinda ruined day (Yes, I'm exaggerating.)

A Short LOVE LETTER From Me to You

Dear Friends,

Before anything else, HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

To be honest, I did not prepare a Valentine blog post because I can't think of any new ideas for a bookish post related to today's heart-filled holiday. Most of the blog posts today are probably book recommendations, favorite couples, best romance books etc... And I'm just not in the mood for that this year. (Maybe next time)

February Reading Challenge (Kind of)

After finishing my last book for the month of January, an idea just randomly popped in my head while I was deciding what book to read next. With the "Love Month" just hours away, I thought, "Why not read contemporary young adult or new adult romance books all throughout the month of February?' So, that was the plan... Contemporary and Romance books all month long.Until I decided to tweak the initial idea into another plan -  to read as many books as I can with the word "LOVE" on the title (regardless of the genre).

I know most of you probably has a February TBR List already, but if you want to join me, feel free. There are no official sign ups or anything like that. All you have to do is read a book with "Love" on the title, keep track of what you read, and share away. There are no restrictions to the challenge. Just to read as many "Love" books as you can. (Disclaimer: This was just a random last minute idea. I do not know if there has been or there is currently a reading challenge with the same idea as this one. If there was or there is, I have no intention of copying it.) 

Books of 2015 and A Look Towards 2016

Before anything else, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I know, I know... It's almost a month since 2016 started. But better late than never, right?

If you read my previous blog post, you probably know that I've been very busy last year. In fact, back in January, I already anticipated this and set my 2015 Goodreads Reading Challenge to only 30 books. Compared to my 50 last 2014, and 75 last 2013, that's not very promising. But at least I did not deprive myself of reading novels.

So, here it is - the rundown of every book I bought or read last year, and the things I would like to accomplish this 2016.

That "Random Post" explaining everything...

It is that time of the year again where we look back to the things we accomplished, paths and adventures we took, and of course, the books we have read for the past twelve months. This year has been one hell of roller coaster ride for me. It is the year of many accomplishments and a few downfalls. Nevertheless, it has been one great year. Despite the many hardships and problems encountered, I can still say I faced them proudly (although not very gracefully).

This blog post will generally be about the pressing issue the bothers me the most… my absence and the complete silence in my little blog. Yes, I was away, and I am truly and terribly sorry for not being able to post reviews or book hauls for the past few months. As I have said, many things have happened in the past couple of months (which you will know in a little while if you continue to read this blog post). I do not know how I will be able to manage reading, writing reviews, responding to comments and being up to date with all the bookish stuff while thinking of school requirements, studying for the boards and all that important life stuff that will help build your career in the future. So again, I apologize and thank everyone who came to visit the blog when I was away.

When January 2015 came, I knew I had to make a very difficult decision to leave the blog unattended for a while. I will be graduating on March, and I will be taking a professional board examination a few months after. To cut things short, I will be very busy studying and I really need to focus. Thankfully, I was able to graduate last March 2015, and I passed the Board Examination last October 2015. It took months, years even, of hard work, sleepless nights, a lot of sacrifice (Oh, the horror of not being able to read novels because of exams and recitations!), and heart-felt prayers. And now, I finally did it.

That is the main reason why I was not able to blog for several months. I was very busy, and I swear it hurts to see the blog very quiet. Also, the number of books I've read this year disappoints me (I will tell all about that in another post). However, I am back, and I am ready for another year (I think). Hopefully, my 2016 in the blogosphere will be way better than 2015.

To all those people who visited, followed, read, commented or whatever you did, thank you! May your new year be better than the last. And HELLO all the way from the Philippines.

NBS Book Signing Events (Mid 2015)

For the past years, National Book Store has been graciously bringing authors to the Philippines for book signing events and blogger forums. They have brought both Ransom Riggs and Tahereh Mafi, Veronica Rossi, Gayle Forman, Jennifer E. Smith, Jenny Han, Mitch Albom, Marie Lu and a lot more authors closer to their Filipino fans. And although it is extremely frustrating that I haven't attended any of these book signing events (not even once), there is still that exciting thought that, for a moment, we are all in the same time zone, stepping on the same land, breathing the same air, and all that cheesy stuff you say to try and convince yourself to get over that crappy feeling of not being there.

This coming June and July, four beloved authors are coming to the Philippines to meet some of their Filipino fans and grant them the privilege of having their books signed. We have National Book Store to thank for that.

So, who are we (we does not include me, probably) going to meet this coming months? Drum roll, please...

Confessions of a Self-Proclaimed Shadowhunter Fan

When I first read City of Bones a few years ago, I got totally hooked. I really liked the plot (the plot twists are crazy), the characters, and the way Cassandra Clare just winds up your emotions as you read the story. It has lengthy descriptions making the book very vivid and detailed. Some might find it a little too much, or a little too wordy for their tastes, but I was okay with it. In fact, I immediately became a fan of Cassandra Clare's Shadowhunter books. 

I went through the first three books like it was nothing, and I really enjoyed the whole reading experience. But when I picked up and started the fourth book, City of Fallen Angels, all the eagerness to read it was nowhere to be found. I don't know why, but I didn't feel like reading it. This happened two years ago, and up until now I haven't gotten past the first few pages of the book.

I have a few bits of theories as to why I haven't gotten past the third book.

#1 I was (sort of) satisfied with City of Glass' ending. There was an epic battle, characters died, relationships were mended and started, etc... And from what I remember, The Mortal Instruments was originally just a trilogy: City of Bones, City of Ashes and City of Glass. I don't know exactly what happened, but the story continued, and the trilogy became a six-book series. I guess my mind never got over the fact that City of Glass is not the last book. It is not yet the end. 

#2 This second theory is a little harder to explain, and it's a little weird. 

Have you ever felt kinda bored reading about a YA couple? See, I have this girl-boy fictional relationship problem. In my mind, there are stages of a YA Romantic Relationship: (1) the first encounter; (2) the largest and most significant part, the relationship-building and development; (3) the "it's official" stage; (4) the stage of conflicts and misunderstandings; and lastly (5) the "getting back together" stage. That's the normal course of a typical YA relationship for me. I love reading about the first two stages. But a little after the third and the fourth stages are my most hated parts. And guess what stage Jace and Clary's relationship are in? I'm not trying to be judgmental or anything, but I guess that'show my brain works these days. 

#3 Maybe I'm just not so into the series anymore. Yes, I am a fan of the series, but I really don't feel like continuing it at the moment. 

Anyway...

CITY OF HEAVENLY FIRE

HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!

700+ pages of pain, heartbreak, fury, love,

happiness, and all other intense emotions.
Get your copies now.

In time, I will probably be able to read and finish this series. But tight now, I just wish all the fans a wonderful reading experience (prepare yourselves!). And for those tragically broke, or those who are still saving up to buy the book, will the book trailer make you feel any better?

No, I have not seen the trailer.

I do not want any spoilers for City of Lost Souls and City of Fallen Angels.

Happy reading!!!

BYE!

I'm Here, I'm Still Here

HELLO!

Say "hello" to the cute kitty cat...
take a deep breath, and smile.

Now,  let's proceed.

I have a lot of things I want to say to every reader and follower of my blog, most of it regarding to my completely long absence from the blogger community and my lack of blog and social media activity.

First and foremost, I would like to apologize. I know I have been MIA for months, and the reason for my unannounced absence is that I have been very busy with school. With the end of the academic year approaching, it has been very hectic these past couple of months - a lot of papers and projects need to be submitted, a handful of exams every week, year-end requirements need to accomplished, and the of course, preparing for the dreaded final exams. This accurately describes what I went through every week of February and April, except for the weekend part which I also spent doing take home school work.

I should have informed everyone beforehand of my upcoming busy school schedule. But I didn't I let every one hanging, and I am really, truly  sorry for that. Hope all of you can forgive me.

The next thing I am going to tell you (or you're going to read) might sound a little bizarre. Here it goes...

Spread the Love!

Yes, people! It's Valentine's Day! It is Friday, but it's not Single Awareness Day or Independence Day for people not in relationships. It's Valentine's Day for everybody. Let's stop being bitter and just spread the love. There are so many people (and books) to share the day with, like our friends, our family, or our fellow bloggers and bookworms. Relationship status is not really that important. As long as we are all happy and loved, everything's going to be okay. Yay!

Anyway, for those of you who are single and loving it, or those who proudly wear a no boyfriend since birth shirt, what did you do today? Or what are your plans?

Me? I paid some of the house bills which took so long because of the very long line; bought a few snacks while I was out and pigged out when I got home; read and finished a book: watched a movie; and went online to do some surfing. Sounds very exciting, right?

Happy New Year + Giveaway Winners!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Another year, another reading challenge.

Congratulations to the all the book nerds who completed their reading challenges last year.

Let's push ourselves further this year, and surpass the number of books we read last year.

Sadly, I will lessen the number of books I will pledge to read this year. 2014 will be a very busy and stressful year for me. With the upcoming mock CPA board exam coming up (which I really need to pass), my on the job training this summer, and the start of my last academic year in college, I feel like I need to focus on my studies more.But that doesn't mean I'm going to forget reading and blogging. Ha! I'll be here as frequent as I can.

Year-End Blogger Accomplishment and Appreciation Report

Hello blog followers and readers! First and foremost, I would like to thank each and every one of you for sticking up with my little blog baby for the past year. This has been one crazy year for me, both in my bookish life and my personal life. There had been a lot of ups and downs, but I managed to make it to the end of the year. Hurray!!!

One of the most significant part of 2013 for me was finally having the courage to officially start a book blog. I have been wanting to put up a blog since the moment I knew book blogs existed, but I just had a lot of doubts with myself and you know, the usual "I don't know if I can do it" thoughts. I tried to overcome them, note: tried. Even though I have already been blogging, I'm still doubtful.

Anyway, what happened this 2013?

Top 10 of 2013: Books I’m (Really) Looking Forward to in 2014

Rachel from Fiktshun along with Jaime from Two Chicks on Books and Mindy from Magical Urban Fantasy Reads are back to host the TOP 10 OF 2013!!!

Today's list will be composed of the books to be released in 2014 that I am extremely excited for. Now if that's the case, I think I have a lot on my plate. But to narrow it down, here are my top ten in no particular order, most of which are from authors I have already read.

Top 10 of 2013: Best Book Boyfriends

Rachel from Fiktshun along with Jaime from Two Chicks on Books and Mindy from Magical Urban Fantasy Reads are back to host the TOP 10 OF 2013!!!

Here are my top ten book boyfriends of 2013. But before you look into it, you must know that they may or may not be in order. I'm not really a hundred percent sure if they are in the right ranking. But I'm sure boyfriend #1 is in his rightful position. I'm positive he is my one and only super book boyfriend.

So here it goes...

The Late Christmas Post!

Hello!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I just dropped by to greet every one. I hope everybody had a blast yesterday. :)

Now that the 25th is over, 2014 is just around the corner.

Eeeeep!! Who's excited for the coming new year?

Anyway, may it be Christmas or New Year, I hope it'll always be a good day for every body!

Bye!

 

Birthday Giveaway Part 2: Let's Ship It

The second part of the Birthday Giveaway is now up and running! You'll have a chance to win book swags and a book copy from the wonderful Jennifer L. Armentrout and Huntley Fitzpatrick, respectively.

The vague DETAILS:

If you haven't heard the name Jennifer L. Armentrout or J.Lynn, you probably have been missing out on a lot of bookish updates recently. Why? Because she has been very active lately in the book community and she has released a lot of books and novellas already. It's really hard to miss. Just this year, she has released more than five books! Yeah! How awesome can she be?

Birthday Giveaway Part 1: Fangirl Moments

Let's admit it! All of us has been a fangirl (or fanboy) at least once or twice in our life. Whether it's the amazingly gorgeous lead guy in a movie or television series, the close-to-perfect hero of your favorite book, or the out of this world boy band you have always been dying to meet. There's always that rush of excitement and pleasure whenever you see them, think about them or hear them.

I have experienced that, too. Countless of times, actually. From Logan Lerman, to William Herondale; from Ian Somerhalder/Damon Salvatore to the Jonas Brothers; from Alex Pettyfer to One Direction (and a lot more!) I am a true blue fangirl from head to toe.

Anyway, the point is I have been so busy this year that I haven't really been much of a screaming fangirl like a was before. To add to the despair I am feeling, my ultimate favorite teenage boy band/group, the Jonas Brothers, has disbanded. Yeah, that sucks for me! So to sum up, I haven't been feeling the fangirl buzz for the past few months. Well, not until I read Nikki Godwin's American Girl on Saturn. (and NO! It is not about aliens or a girl who went to outer space!)

The Random Birthday Post

Hey! Guess what? It's December 16 and today is my birthday!!!

I actually have no idea what I want to write about on this "birthday post". I have been squeezing my brain juices for days now, but I still can't think of anything good to share. So if you are reading this right now, you must know that this blog post is the outcome of all the randomness I can think of, and that this has not been extensively prepared for.

Now, what to write about? Hmmmm... Okay! I'll start with some random facts about me (which some of you probably won't be interested in).

1. I am 20 years old today, but I still feel (and probably look) like 16.

2. I am already on my fourth year in college, and I am taking up Accountancy.

3. I am a very shy person. I never had the guts to do anything exciting.

4. I think I suck at English (and writing). I really do. But here I am, book blogging.

5. I love Algebra and Geometry. Yes, I am sort of a Math geek.

6. I don't eat vegetables. I try, but that rarely happens.

7. I collect chocolate wrappers. (My mother thinks this is pointless).

8. I hate sports and I really suck at physical activities, except dancing. I enjoy dancing, but I'm not really good at it.

9. I live in a small city with only one bookstore offering new books, and two secondhand bookstores.

10. Only four of my school friends and my sister know that I have a blog. The rest have no clue what I've been up to.

11. I never had a boyfriend. It is a prohibited topic inside the house (Lol! Kidding!) But seriously, I'm not allowed to have one until I graduate.

12. I have never been inside a bar or a club. I have never even tasted beer in my 20 years of existence.

13. I have a very poor eyesight. If I don't have my glasses on and you're standing a few feet from me, I probably won't recognize you.

14. I am a frustrated singer. I really want to sing. But sadly, I am tone-deaf and my voice is from the land of tralala.

15. I did not want to read when I was younger. I thought it was boring.

16. I am a very short person. As I have mentioned, I am a little over 5 feet but not over 5'1".

17. I am not a teenager anymore!!! *sobs*

18. I am afraid to really grow up.

19. My favorite color is orange. But I don't like orange-flavored stuff.

20. *still thinking*

If by chance some of my life's tidbits had caught your interest and you want to know more, ask away! I'll try to answer if I can.

*additional randomness*

Did you know that I share birthdays with Ludwig van Bethooven and Jane Austen? It's kind of ironic that I share birthdays with a musician and a writer, because I am a crappy writer and I don't have an ear (or voice) for music. Gaaaah! It's a little frustrating whenever I think of it. I also share birthdays with Theo James, who plays Four in the upcoming Divergent movie, and Anna Popplewell, who plays Susan in The Chronicles of Narnia.

Anyway, since it's my birthday, I am expecting gifts from everybody who read this post. Kidding!!! Lol!  It's me who has something for every one today. So, make sure to check out the blog every once in a while today. You'll never know when I'm going to post it.

CLUE: It starts with the letter G and ends in Y.

Update:
Birthday Giveaway Part 1 (INT)
Birthday Giveaway Part 2 (US and INT) 

Books I Want to Read Before 2013 Ends

In less than a month, another year will come to a close. And with that closing comes the end of another annual reading challenge for several bookworms across the globe, including me.

I have not set a very high number of books to read this 2013. It's just enough to fit to my busy school life. And thankfully, I'm a bit ahead of my reading challenge. I'm two books away from completing it (yay!), and there's still a few weeks of December left. So what do I do? Continue reading, of course! (I'm kinda experiencing a bit of  a reading slump these past few weeks, though.)

Here's a list of the books I really want need to read before the year ends (as of December 3, 2013). I feel like I have an obligation to read them this year, not next year, or the year after that (weird!). Most of these books are the last installment in their respective series.

1. Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare

I know! I'm soooooo behind from everyone who loves the TID trilogy. Sorry, I just can't read it when every one was gushing and crying over it. I think I needed people to calm down first before I start reading the conclusion to Tessa, Will and Jem's story. And I just can't say goodbye to Will yet.

2. United We Spy by Ally Carter

This has been one of the books that I was extremely anticipating this year. But when it came out, I just didn't have the chance to read it. I wanted to read it, but maybe I have attachment/detachment issues with books. Lol!

3. Gates of Paradise by Melissa dela Cruz

The Blue Bloods series has been one of the first series that I really liked. And now that it's on its final book, I can't seem to bring myself to grab the book and read it. It's not that I'm lazy (well, maybe I am), I just don't feel like reading it yet.

4. Champion by Marie Lu

I started this trilogy a few months ago (this year), and I immediately got hooked. I am currently reading it, so yay me! :D

5. Time After Time by Tamara Ireland Stone

The second book to the time-travel contemporary that I completely adore. I can't find a copy yet. :(

The next books are sequels, and are less prioritized than the first five.

6. The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater
7. The Fiery Heart by Richelle Mead
8. Sweet Peril by Wendy Higgins
9. Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout
10. Kinslayer by Jay Kristoff

Gift Suggestions For Book Lovers

Let's admit it, not all our friends know what kind of book we like to read, and sometimes they don't know what books we already own and  what we want to own. And we don't know all our friends book preferences as well. It might ruin the element of surprise if we/they ask, wouldn't it? So instead of giving each other books for the Holidays, or some book store gift cards, why not give other bookish stuff?

Here are some suggestions (click on the links to lead you to the stores)

1. Book Ends 

 Book ends are the perfect gift for those book lovers who ran out of shelf space and uses the table top to place their books. And wouldn't you want book ends like this that scream your personality (if you were a girl, of course).

Image: MochiThings.com