A Fangirl's Opinion

She’s back baby! This month I managed to read SIX books, participate in my own mini character-inspired read-a-thon and complete five TBR reading challenges. I really enjoyed setting challenges for myself rather than making a monthly TBR that I usually ignore, it gives me a bit more freedom and I don’t feel as bad if I don’t finish my monthly TBR!

This month has already started off with a bang with the start of NaNoWriMo 2020! After much deliberation I’ve decided that I wanted to participate and I’ll a link to my post here if you’re interested in my writing projects! My plan is to write 30,000 words so wish me luck! I had booked a little writing retreat away but since the UK is going back into lockdown it looks like I’ll just be working from reading nook at home! I might have to treat myself to a few new books to make up for my missing my mini holiday!

As I’ve mentioned last month I participated in my own character inspired read-a-thon by reading like Rory Gilmore for a Week and it was honestly so much fun! I channelled my inner Rory Gilmore and she’s inspired me to include more classics and modern fiction into my TBR, as you never know when you’ll find one of your next favourite reads. This read-a-thon also showed me that I have a borderline caffeine addiction and that its always nice to get dressed up and have a family dinner once in a while. Anyway, I had so much doing it that I’ve started to plan another character read-a-thon for November, so keep your eyes peeled for that!

October Wrap Up

Read Something Off Your NetGalley Shelf:

The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue by V.E.Schwab – I ADORE this book, everything about it perfect, it is truly a beautiful masterpiece! It’s been over a week and I’m still trying to articulate all my thoughts and feelings because this book left me broken. This book is definitely one of my favourite reads of the year!

Read Something Spooky:

The Witchling’s Girl by Helena Coggan – I wanted something spooky to read in the lead up to Halloween and this book was ideal! The unique world building paired with the wonderfully evocative writing style and character development makes this beautifully original story so powerful. I tend to prefer books that are more ‘plot focused’ rather than a slow character driven story, but nevertheless this was still a good read.

Read Something with Orange/Red or Yellow on the Cover:

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller – Another book that I fell absolutely head over heels for! Miller has a gift when it comes to Greek Mythology and I just need more!

Read a Classic:

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde – Another unintentional spooky read that I absolutely loved, this is a true masterpiece that is filled with beautiful quotes that will stay with you long after finishing! I didn’t know what to expect going into this book, but I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and enjoyable it was to read, I certainly wasn’t expecting the intrusively personal thoughts it left me with.

Read a Book That’s Been On Your Bookshelf for a Year:

The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky – This has been on my TBR for ages so it was good to finally tick it off. For me, this didn’t live up to expectations and I hate to say it but I think I prefer the film adaptation to the book!

Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes – This book was so intense and unique! The writing style was something that I instantly clicked with and was element that helped highlight Charlies heartbreakingly intense character development.

November TBR/Challenges

Blood, Metal, Bone by Lindsay Cummings – I received this book from NetGalley so this one is 100% on my TBR for November. I’m curious to explore more about this book and the world Lindsay has created! Years ago I remember reading her Murder Complex series and really enjoying her writing style so I’m looking forward to reading another one of adventures.

The Cup and The Prince by Day Leitao – Another book I received from NetGalley and one which I really hope lives up to my expectations. The synopsis sounded so fun and something I knew I was going to love as I’m a sucker for any form of ‘fantasy competition’! The story follows Zora who steals the ex-boyfriends place in the legendary Blood Cup, to prove her worth and that she’s more than just a pretty face.

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro – This is our book club book of the month for November and it just so happens that this book also features on my TBR for my next character read-a-thon!

Winter Nights: Read a Book with Black on the Cover

Lockdown #2: Read a Book by an Author you’ve Read Before

Leftover Halloween Chocolate: Read a Book you Forgot was on your TBR