Looking back at it now, it was a really solid reading year. I mean, it did its usual (for me) thing and meandered its merry way, here and there, up and down, and in fits and starts across the span of all twelve months. But it really did shape up nicely. Which is a good thing, because it was—shockingly, I know—another year in which we so desperately needed the authors and books and words of the world to come through for us. And they did, didn't they? I am, as ever, so grateful for them and their willingness to push through every barrier and battle that I know must try to keep them from putting their visions on paper. And so, as has long been my custom, I record here my list of published books that saw me through the year. Gifts, every one. (listed in the order in which I read them) The Atlas Complex by Olivie Blake Bride by Ali Hazelwood You Should Be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian Once Persuaded, Twice Shy by Melodie Edwards Lucky Bounce by Cait Nary Lips Like Sugar by Jes...
Just when I was all set to sulk the day away, this little package shows up on my doorstep. I am having difficulty containing my glee. Then I thought of something, went and checked, and sure enough, a surprisingly similar package showed up on my porch a year ago almost to the day! I believe this constitutes the making of a new tradition. A Shinn/Marillier Halloween package tradition. I'll take one every year, thanks! Now the only question is....which one first?
ooo. That's a hard one. Both looks AMAZING. Though, I think I'd pick up Gateway first... but I'm not in the situation who knows what I'd pick when the pressure was on! lol
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, I'm so jealous! I was just looking at the Juliet Marillier book and thinking man, I wish it would come out soonner.
ReplyDeleteAHHH! Did you get those early or can I go get them right now!
ReplyDeleteBoth look awesome! I've heard great things about these authors, and it sounds like I definitely need to go check out their books some time. Happy reading with either one though! :)
ReplyDeleteYeah! My vote is for Marillier, but that's just because I think I'm in the mood for a Beauty & the Beast retelling around this time of year.
ReplyDeleteWith either title you can't go wrong, though.
Sweet! My vote is for Gateway because I've already decided that I want to read Heart's Blood (or Marillier, in general)... so I'm more eager for your thoughts on the former.
ReplyDeleteEither way, enjoy your porch loot! :)
Ahhh! I'm jealous. ;)
ReplyDeleteSara, lol. The pressure is on! Ahh!
ReplyDeleteLan, B&N.com appears to have it in stock...
Elisa, it's sixes. GATEWAY's out but our stores don't seem to have it in for some stupid reason. HEART'S BLOOD is due out Nov. 3rd. But as I said, B&N.com...:)
Jenn, they are both decidedly awesome. With Marillier you've absolutely got to start with DAUGHTER OF THE FOREST--the first Sevenwaters book. With Shinn it's a toss-up for me between ARCHANGEL (the first Samaria book) or MYSTIC & RIDER (the first 12 Houses book). But you can't go wrong.
Samantha, you're so right. I am totally in the mood for B&B retelling.
Christine, enjoyment is in the cards. :) I will definitely get going on them and give you my thoughts asap.
Holly, will be in touch. ;)
Ooo read Juliet Marillier's first! I love Sharon Shinn though... nvm, it is a hard choice, isn't it?
ReplyDelete--Sharry
Hi. Good friend of mine got the book Gateway as a birthday present few weeks ago. I don't know whether she has already finished this book but she was very happy when she got that book and said that it was exactly what she wanted. So my choice would be Gateway.
ReplyDeleteTake care,
Jay
Both of these authors are on my TBR list because I know I will love them both. I should go with Marillier first though seeing as she is an Aussie!
ReplyDeleteThat is one mighty fine package to have received. I can't wait to hear what you think about the Marillier, but I also really want to read GATEWAY and would love to know what you think before I do. Either way, enjoy!
ReplyDeleteOooh fun! Not familiar with either book but they both have awesome covers!
ReplyDeleteAww, really? Thanks! I am the first in line at Provo. We'll see how long the processing takes. :)
ReplyDeleteSharry, it is a hard choice!
ReplyDeleteJay, hey, that's good to hear! I'm glad she was pleased with it and I can't wait to jump in.
Marg, there you go. Way to make a decision!
Chelle, I have been dying to get a hold of and read the Marillier so we could talk about it. :)
Britt, that's just what I was thinking. Such attractive packaging. Why can't they all be that way? Also you really must read both Marillier and Shinn. They are superb and based on your taste, I think you'd really like them.
Holly, well done getting the plum spot in line! Let me know if it comes in!
I so want Gateway. Even though I haven't YET opened Heart's Blood.
ReplyDeleteSo many books, so little time.
am sitting here most definitely coveting that awesome Halloween package. hopefully reviews will be coming soon?
ReplyDeleteThese both look great! I'm going to check out Daughter of the Forest.
ReplyDeleteLi, *gasp* You must open it! I'm 50 pages in and it's sooo good.
ReplyDeleteMichelle, reviews will most definitely be coming soon. ;)
fictionfanatic, ooh, I can't wait to hear what you think! It is one of my all-time favorite books.