T-Swift Book Tag!

A few months back I was looking for a Book Tag and found this awesome Taylor Swift one on Another Blog. It's taken me awhile but I've decided to do it!

The Taylor Swift Book Tag!

1. We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together

(Pick a book or series that you were pretty sure you were in love with, but then wanted to break up with)

The Raven Boys was beautifully written and intriguing. The plot was solid, the characters were great, and there were some incredible friendships. I was pretty sure I loved it. 

However, I decided to never read the series again when an awesome character who was Catholic, a boxer, and one of the most aggressive, protective people you'll ever meet, ended up being gay. It was so out of character. Especially because his "significant other" was in love with a girl for the first three books. I was so upset. Ronan wasn't. He wouldn't. It would not have happened. That twist was obviously just the Writer deciding to go with a popular trend. It makes me mad.

2. Red

(pick a book with a RED cover)

War is coming...

The Shadow Throne by Jennifer Neilson. This book is the last of three so I can't say too much about it without giving anything away. Just go read the Ascendants Trilogy! The characters are well done, the plot is good, and there are some great friendships/romances. Remember, it is Middle Grade so it could have been a little more mature/serious, but ya' know. It's still a good series though! 8-)

3. The Best Day

(pick a book that makes you feel nostalgic)

I'm not sure if this means the book itself makes you feel nostalgic, or whether it's a book that makes you feel nostalgic because it means something to you personally. 

If it's the first option then I would go with The Penderwicks In Spring, which made me feel both very nostalgic and very emotional. Wow. Poor Batty. Poor Ben. Poor Jeffrey. Poor Mr. Penderwick. Poor everyone.

All The Sads!

The other option is probably Winnie The Pooh. (The originals, obviously.) Pooh brings back good memories an a warm achy feeling in my chest. I love the stories and the characters. Even if it's a bad day Pooh can make me feel better. 

Winnie the Pooh has a nostalgia all it's own. It leaves you with the same achy feeling you get after watching Pixar's Inside Out. You rediscover your childhood and then you have to let go of it again. It's sad, but not in a bad way. And it makes you remember important things and reconnect with that childlike wonder and excitement.

4. Love Story

(pick a book with forbidden love)

I don't know if Jane Eyre is necessarily forbidden but it's all that came to mind. I don't read too much romance. Usually because it's dull.

Jane is a young governess in the 1800's who tutors a little girl, Adele, in the country. She falls in love with Adele's guardian, Mr. Rochester and he in turn falls for her. This story has a Forbidden Love angle because Jane had no social standing and worth, whereas Rochester had very high social standing and is a well-known and respected. In that time frame such a thing was strongly frowned upon in disapproval. Their relationship and potential marriage goes against custom, code, and tradition. Besides that, there is Rochester's secret...

5. I Knew You Were Trouble

(pick a book with a bad character you couldn’t help but love)

D. Grayman, Katsura Hoshino

Tyki Mikk

"My Black and White selves - the real fun lies in having both."

Uuuungggggggg. My relationship with this character is "Tyki, Why?" and Tyki is like "TYKI EVIL."

Seriously though. Tyki is a horrible person. I should hate him. I do hate him. But I also I like him. I don't know why I like him. He does terrible things and enjoys them. And I'm just over there, "Why aren't you good? You could be good, if you just gave up your dark side."

Maybe he'll have a giant character arc. The series isn't over yet.

6. Innocent

(pick a book that someone ruined the ending for.)

My sister's are really good about not spoiling book endings. 8-) Sometimes they'll spoil TV shows or movies but with books my family is tight-lipped. The end of Oblivion (the last book of the Gatekeeper series) was spoiled through my own fault. I had a bad feeling about that stupid book, especially in regard to some of my favorite characters, so I asked my sister to please tell me what happened. And my feelings were correct. I'm not reading that book for a while. A long while.


7. Everything Has Changed

(pick a character from a book who goes through extensive character development)

Extensive, hm? Extensive.

Xerxes Break from the Pandora Hearts series.*

"No matter how you suffer, you must go on living anyway."

*Yes, it's a manga. A manga I need to review.

Xerxes Break is one of those manga characters that blew me away. He was such an odd, untrustworthy person at the beginning. I didn't like him. But as I continued to read the series, Break's character arc got me good. He turned into one of my favorite characters. His development was intense, emotional, and beautifully done.

I can't finish this question without taking time for Paul Grey too. Paul Grey from The Last Crescendo goes through an incredible arc. He comes from the lowest of the low, sunk in depression and hatred, and slowly comes back to life and... God. It's like, wow Paul. Look at all the good that is in you. You're so, heroically good. I love that about The Last Crescendo. I love that about Paul. His personal growth as a character, and his growth in regard to religion and Catholicism are both beautiful, realistic, and pure. If you're looking for a good "Christian Fiction" book, Owen Francis Dudley writes fantastic ones. They're all about a Catholic Monk named brother Anselm and the different people he meets and helps.

8. You Belong With Me

(pick your most anticipated book release)

Book Five.

I need this book so badly! I own the first four books and have been desperately waiting for a new one to come out for ages. Really. Book four came on in 2010! And here we are seven years later, Finally getting another book!

Don't be that Writer. 😩

I mean, Megan Whalen Turner is great but geeze. That's a long wait.

The Queen's Thief series is my absolute favorite fantasy series ever. I love how Turner handles character development and growth, and I LOVE her third book! Besides the great stories and individual arcs of characters and plots, Eugenides is the most epic little thief you'll ever read about so....

I NEED BOOK FIVE!

I've pre-ordered but I have fears about betrayal. Please don't betray me Megan! Don't do it!

9. Forever and Always

(pick your favorite book couple)

I don't read romances! 8-( Up there at the top is a book couple I can't give names to without revealing a spoiler, but it's from the Attolia series. Besides that one, my favorite couple is probably Ann and Paul from The Last Crescendo,

BONUS QUESTIONS! (Added by Bella)

10. Never Grow Up
(A book you read when you're feeling sad/emotional)

When I am in need of a comfort book I tend to read Howl's Moving Castle, or one of the many Chrestomanci books. There is something very heart-warming about Diana Wynne Jones' books.

11. Begin Again

A book you've read multiple times but always go back to it because it's that good.

The Queen's Thief series and The Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

"Steal me peace."

"All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to you."

12. Starlight
(A book you hid in bed with/fell asleep reading)

I've fallen asleep reading plenty of times in my life, but some books that stand out in my mind for this, Half Magic, Edward Eager, The Masterful Monk, Owen Francis Dudley, Harry Potter, JK Rowling, and Mariel of Redwall, Brian Jacques. I don't remember which Harry Potter book. I think it was The Prisoner of Azkaban. Of those books, Half Magic is a big one. I remember waking up and finishing it later that night. The joys of a bookworm. 😊 Things like that happened to me fairly often actually.

13. I Know Places
The number one book you would take on a long trip away from home.

The Queen's Thief, or The Hobbit.

14.) Change

(A book you've never read but want and plan to)

This series. Dragonsong, Dragonsingers, Dragondrums. It sounds good and I'm slightly appalled that I've never read it.

This was fun! I think I'll do one for my TV shows/movies next! 8-D

I tag:

Jack

Christine

Treskie

Kat

Amy

And anyone else who wants to give it a whirl! No worries if you can't do the tag either. Fufufu.

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella

So. 2017. *crazed laughter*

As all of you know, I am not a good blogger. I have good intentions but I really don't blog half so much as I ought to. Back in the Summer, I gave my blog a face lift and talked a little bit about being a dreamer and how I was going to make this blog a "safe place" for people like that. Then I promptly crashed, losing any sort of inspiration. Now that the New Year is hear, I am going to try and remember this mission. Part of the problem was that I really didn't know how to approach my new blog idea. However, I think I have an idea now, of what I'd like to do here.

I want to start posting once a week for starters. *More Crazed Laughter* I want to try and post something positive, optimistic, or fanciful about my week. I'd like to start talking a little more seriously about stories, writing, poetry, and the overall stunning glory of God's world, which is so easy to miss out on now-days. I want to post about beautiful things. With this mission in mind, my blog should be much more themed this year. Here's hoping!!!!!!!

As a Kick-Off for the New Year I am going to do the New Year's Tag.

1.) What did you do in 2016 that you'd never done before?

Erm. I went to Frontsight, I got a job. I started writing a musical. Oh! And I visited the ocean with my friend Jack and my younger sisters! 8-D

2.) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make one this year?

I don't properly remember my New Year's resolutions. I don't think I had any for 2016. But I do have tentative resolutions for 2017. Mainly to focus on my writing and take some freaking music theory. (MAYBE ACT???)

3.) Did anyone close to you give birth?

Oh yes! My sister did! His name is Dominic. He's adorable.

4.) Did anyone close to you die?

No, Thank God.

5.) What countries/states did you visit?

I only went to Nevada. That was it and it's not that big of an achievement, seeing as I live fairly close to that state. Probably the biggest thing I did travelling-wise was going to the Ocean. That crap was beautiful, and it was tons of fun. Behold God's untempered magnificence!

6.) What would you like to have in 2017 that you lacked in 2016?

Moooooooooney! Lol. I guess I'd like an actual house to live in, not a flat. A cute little two-room cabin would be nice.

7.) What day in 2016 will remain forever etched in your memory?

November 7th. The last and best day I had at Frontsight. I hope I will never forget it.

8.) Did you move anywhere?

Well, I was briefly in Nevada but then I came back home and am now living with two of my sisters. Otherwise, no.

9.) What was your biggest achievement of the year?

I'd love to say 'I got my license!' but alas, that isn't true. So.... I placed into the third round in the contest at Frontsight. And I can actually shoot now, even though I need to practice on speed.

10.) What was your biggest failure?

Failing my driving test. Twice. Curse you parallel parking! I knew I could do it but my nerves were less sure. *blows smoke from ears.*

I was not this kid.

11.) Did you suffer illness or injury?

Nah. I'm all good.

12.) What was the best thing you bought?

I bought my very own copy of the Fullmetal Alchemist; Brotherhood series. Complete with OVA episodes.

13.) Whose behaviour Merited celebration?

My Mom is the ultimate superwoman. Honourable mentions would be Gavin from the library, my sister Mahri, and my brother.


14.) Whose behaviour made you appalled and depressed?

A person whom I will not say the name of. Such a person made me very appalled and depressed. And angry too. *scowls at said person.*

15.) Where did most of your money go?

Toward books, Anime and Manga, and Reeses.. And I bought gifts for everyone at Christmas, which was very fun, by the way.

16.) What did you get really, really, really excited about?

FRONTSIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT! And of course, my visit to the ocean. I am so grateful that Jack let me come with her to that. Oh! And my brother's wedding, way back at the start of the year!

17.) What was the best concert you've been to this year?

I saw no concert. I did however, see a bootleg of Les Miserables and it was magnificent.

18.) What song/album will always remind you of 2016?

My 2016 song is probably Battle Scars by Paradise Fears. The album would be.... hmmm. Bring Me Giants, by James Barbour.

19.) Compared to this time last year are you:

Determined. Determined to live my life as best and as hopefully as I can, and to make the most of what is given to me. God's got this. I'm determined to be a good, if anxious soldier under His banner.

20.) What do you wish you'd done more of? 

I didn't do any acting at all last year. I'm homesick for the Theatre. I wish I'd done more writing too.

21.) What do you wish you'd done less of? 

I wish I had done less of nothing. I was stuck without a car or anywhere to go within walking distance for most of this year, which meant I did almost none of the things I wanted to do. Like act and Dance

22.) What's your greatest Musical discovery?

Bring Me Giants (James Barbour) Ghost the musical, and as much as I hate the plot and premise, I liked a lot of the songs and music from Bridges of Madison County*. Kelli O'hara has an amazing voice, and that whole album inspires me to write music of my own. It showed me how much music can inflict mood on a scene; from contemplating and hopeful, to excited and bedazzled.

*I don't recommend this musical for a number of reasons, number one being that its about an affair. I only listen to a few select songs from it.

23.) How did you spend your Christmas?

Rather like the others, I spent Christmas at Homebase with my family, good food, and some very great friends. My brother and sister-in-law also came up with their kids, which was wonderful.

24.) How did you/are you spending New Years?

This was a nice New Year. Usually I slog through until midnight, say a small "Happy New Year," and vanish to my room. This year, my family (+friends) completed a Three-Day Lord of the Rings Marathon on New Year's Eve. We were invited to Sammi B's house for the last movie and finished the RoTK just a few minutes before midnight. After an epic count down to midnight, we toasted in the New Year with poppers and horns, and the sound of bagpipes flooding from outside, as they always do.  We kicked 2016 into the past with much ghusto, called out HAPPY NEW YEAR! And went home. We're such party animals it's ridiculous. Our New Year's are pretty freaking lay-back.

I honestly thing there are few better ways to start the New Year than with an LOTR marathon. It stirs up your soul in a big way. Let this be the hour when we draw swords together! Fell deeds awake; Now for wrath! Now for ruin! And the red dawn! ..... RIDE NOW!

25.) Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerm. My sister Tiny and... Jack?

26.) What was the best book you read?

My favourite book of this year was probably The Penderwicks in Spring by Jean Birdsall. Yes, it was a painful book and yes, I cried a lot in it, but it helped me with some of my own struggles. I found a kindred spirit in Batty. She is dear. It also got me back into my clarinet and made me feel like maybe I could write music, so there is that.

Honourable mentions include; Castle in the Air: Diana Wynne Jones, Screaming Staircase; Bartimeus:  Jonathan Stroud. Heist Society: Ally Carter. Pandora Hearts (10): Jun Mochizuki.* Noragami (11-14): Adachitoka**

*Yes, it's a manga.

** Yes, another manga. Don't judge me.

27.) Did you fall in love in 2016?

What? No way! *thrashing anime noises*

No love life for this girl, yet. This is probably good. I don't think I'm ready for that.

28.) What was your favourite TV show?

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.

Honourable mentions include: Hunter x Hunter, Hawaii 5-0, Pandora Hearts, and Lethal Weapon.

29.) Do you have anyone you hate now that you didn't hate this time last year?

Not really. There are some people are strongly dislike. Some that have annoyed me or caused me distress.

For example, I strongly dislike a certain party of people more than normal. #NewAgePharisees

30.) What did you want and get?

I wanted Musical Notation notebooks and by golly, I got them!

31.) What did you want and not get?

Ghost; the musical.

32.) What were your favourite films of this year?

Doctor Strange and The Magnificent Seven.

Mister... - It's Doctor. - Mister Doctor? - It's Strange.

33.) What did you do on your birthday and how old were you?

Here is the thing. My birthday is in January, so sweet 18-year-old me has been around all year. That's a long time folks. What I'll do is briefly recall my last birthday and tell you the plan for my next one.

Well, I was sick with Broncitas for my 18th birthday. *

I work this birthday, but I plan to have a few of my siblings and Jack over for dinner. I think I'll watch either The Giver or .... Something epic. I am on a Lord of the Rings high, so I'll need to watch something emotional and grand. Maybe one of the Marvel movies, or Gladiator.  Or The Eagle.

34.) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2016?

I was basically Vanellope from Wreck it, Ralph!

I'm adorable!


35.) What kept you sane? 

Prayer. Anime. The library. My sister Tiny.

36.) Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

I actually didn't have a celebrity figure that I especially fancied this year. I like Chris Pratt and Il Volo, but that's old news. So, no public figure has made much of an impression on me since 2015.

37.) What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Passing my driving test would have made my year much better. *headdesk*

38.) What political issue stirred you the most?

The freaking Elections man. Oh my gosh. I was in Pahrump learning about guns all day; then I went home that night and worried (and prayed) about our next presidential candidate.

39.) Who did you miss?

Sammi Bender </3. Also, my adorable little nieces.

40.) Who was the best new person you met?

I don't really meet people. I guess Gavin has only been around a year, so I'll count him. He's dear.

41.) Tell  us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2016.

-Noragami

Life is full of suffering and pain, but it is also full of joy and happiness. Everyone has their own crosses, their own burdens and trials that they must undergo, whether for the betterment of themselves, or the betterment of many, or both. I've known this for a while but it really hit me this year. Life is a walk in shadow, but that doesn't mean there isn't any light. And despite all the hardships life is actually worth living. To see a sunset, to feel wild wind, to witness the glory of a waterfall, to have good company and good meals, to enjoy stories and laughter, to experience love and friendship; all of these are good reasons to endure the bad days. The bad weeks. Even the bad years. And no matter how bad things get, one day all the suffering will end. The grey rain curtain of this world rolls back and all turns to silver glass. Then you see it. White shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise. 

42.) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

Rain came pouring down when I was drowning, that's when I could finally breathe... And by morning gone was any trace of you, I think I am finally clean. - (Clean, Taylor Swift.)

Also, this incredibly relateable verse: On and on, like we're living on a broken record, hope is strong, but misery's a little quicker. Sit, and we wait, and we drown there, thinking, 'Why bother playing when it's unfair?' They say life's a waste, I say they lack belief. They tell me luck will travel, I tell 'em that's why I've got feet. Left, right, left, right,  moving along to the pulse of a heartbeat [....] Don't stop. March on. (Battle Scars, Paradise Fears.)

43.) Fiver personally significant events of 2016.

1.) My brother's wedding. We welcomed our new sister into the family with much merry making  and friendly company. Especially my sister Gina, her husband, and her kids. It was a good week.

2.) Visiting the Ocean in July with my best friend and some of my siblings.

3.) FRONTSIIIIIIIIIGHT. NOVEMBER 4-8th!!!

4.) February 16th, when my amazing brother treated the whole family to Disneyland.

5.) November 31st because, reasons.

44.) Five things I want to do in 2017.

1.) Take a music classes.

2.) Audition for a play or musical.

3.) Write at least the rough draft of a musical, and finish at least the first draft of my Cyril book.

4.) Spend more time with my sisters

5.) Pray hard, fight well, and live the life God gave me with fewer fears and more happiness.

45.) Five people I'd like to know better in 2017.

How was your 2016? Are you optimistic about 2017? Can you believe it's 2017??

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella

Six "Unknown" books that You should Read this Winter.

I've realized that there are some masterpieces of literature that not many people know about, so I decided to tell all you all about them. Hopefully you will find at least a couple of them to be good and wholesome reads this season. 8-D

1.) Lark - Sally Watson

Set in seventeenth-century England under Cromwell, Sally Watson's LARK combines historical intrigue with romantic adventure in the high-spirited tale of a young girl who escapes from her uncle's stolid Puritan family.

Thirteen-year-old Lark is forced to stay with her puritan Uncle and his family after her Royalist parents are exiled to France. With an arranged marriage between Lark and her cousin Will-of-God looming in her future, Lark decides to flee to Scotland and stay with her sister who lives there. On the way, she meets young James Trelawney, a Royalist spy who takes her under his wing. At first he hopes to learn where Lark lives and return the curious runaway home, but as the two travel together they  build a strong friendship and grow to care for and protect one another. They find themselves in many complicated, insane situations, some incredibly dangerous. As the book mounts to a climax, members of Lark's family discover her whereabouts, James is caught in the middle of a battle, and a plan to rescue the young King Charles is set in motion - a plan both James and Lark may be a part of. - source.

This is a Must-Read for anyone who wants a soft, gentle romance, an adorable Scott who is seriously fabulous, a spunky, ridiculous girl who's a bit of a brat but definitely a lovable one, and lots of rambunctious adventures.

Ronia the Robber's Daughter - Astrid Lingred

Source

Ronia is the daughter of a robber chief named Matt. They live in a castle in the wilderness. The castle was struck by a bolt of lightning, a bolt which split the ground and divided the castle into two separate buildings, separated by a deep chasm. One half of the chasm is occupied by Ronia's band of Robbers, and the other half is occupied by robbers knows as the Borkas. Animosity grew up between the two robbers, and Ronia was not allowed to visit the opposite half of the castle, or to befriend any of the robbers living there.

One day, however, Ronia meets a boy of her age named Birk. The two  quickly becomes friends, but Birk is the son Borka's chief, and therefore such a friendship is forbidden by Ronia's father. When Matt discovers their secret he tries to end the friendship, but Ronia and Birk won't allow it and after a crucial climax between Ronia and her father, the two friends run away together and hide from their families in the wild, untamed forest. They share some incredible adventures and form a strong, lasting bond which no one can break.


This is a good book for anyone wanting a forest-adventure story with an adorable friendship that may or may not grow into something more, and amazing, well-written characters.


From Anna - Joan Little

From Anna* takes place in the 1930's and revolves around a nine-year old girl and the struggles they face when when they flee Nazi Germany, seeking refuge in Canada. For Anna the change is especially hard. She is a middle child, clumsy, awkward, and to herself, not particularly bright. Once in Canada however, Anna and her family soon discover a crucial predicament: Anna needs glasses. She is practically blind. 

   Once this discovery is made, Anna's life changes. Slowly she finds her own sense of self-worth and realizes that she has a plenty to give. She is like a blossom, just waiting to bloom.

This book is great for any reader who likes historical fiction, family stories, and strong messages about self-worth, hope, and growth.

*If you read From Anna, you'll also want the sequel Listen for the Singing. That one is about her brother joining the army in WW2, and the impact it has on his family, Anna, and himself.

A Charmed Life - Diana Wynne Jones

Cat admires and clings to his older sister Gwendolyn. She is all he has, and he clings to her viciously. Gwendolyn is a very promising young witch, capable of difficult and challenging spells, so there seems to be much for Cat to admire. However, trouble springs to life when the two orphans are summoned to live in Chrestomanci Castle. Elated by the invitation to such a high-standing place of magic, Gwendolyn is eager to try her hand in the new waters, but she soon learns that no one in Chrestomanci Castle seems to acknowledge her incredible talents. With ever growing frustration and anger, she comes up with a scheme that could cause problems for all the worlds, including Cat's.

A Must-Read for anyone in need of a clever, ingenious fantasy with quirky characters and solid writing. (Honestly, if you're looking for those things you should read all the Chrestomanci books.)

The Thief - Megan Whalen

I don't know how 'unknown' this book is, but if you haven't heard of it now is the time to be educated.

"I can steal anything!," - so Gen, the thief proudly proclaims. But this claim soon gets him in trouble when the King's Scholar, the Magus, frees him from prison with the sole purpose of enlisting him in a job. It is no ordinary Job either. The Magnus wants Gen to steal an ancient treasure for the king, a treasure which no one has successfully recovered in generations. In fact it's more of a legend than anything else. Yet the Magnus is convinced the treasure is real, and he is determined to find and take it - and he isn't going to give Gen much choice in the matter.

For anyone who wants beautiful, flawless writing, strong characters, a medieval/mytholigical setting and a freaking amazing male lead who will leave you wishing there was more of him. (There are three other books in this series - and a fifth and sixth one on the way! - so that is something to keep in mind. As the series goes on there is some incredible character development, character perception, world-building and all out magnificent writing and story-telling. )

Bloomability - Claire Calderon

When Dinnie Doone is sent off to an international school in Switzerland, she finds herself uprooted and replanted in a strange, interesting, and beautiful new world. Surrounded by new friends, a new school, and new sights, Dinnie builds herself a home and discovers all the "bloomabilities" that life has to offer.

For anyone wanting a simple, slice-of-life story with interesting characters and a fun, relatable lead girl who will make you feel that you yourself are in Switzerland, studying the Italian language and making new friends.


The Ordinary Princess - M. M. Kaye

When Princess Amelia is born she is given many wonderful, virtuous gifts from the Fairies in the kingdom, and one that is not-so-wonderful from her Fairy god-mother. She is is given the gift of Ordinariness. Unlike her six beautiful sisters, she has brown mousy hair, freckles, and a 'unhealthy' craving for adventure. There aren't many princes who would want such a plain, strange princess. Even her name is ordinary! But when Amy's parents come up with a Knight-and-Dragon scheme to set their daughter up with a husband, Amy runs away. She decides it's time to take fate into her own hands. Since she is so ordinary, she finds it quite easy to get a job as a kitchen maid in a neighboring palace. She finds immense joy in the simplicity of earning her own money, sharing picnics with the woodland creatures, and being free for however short a time, of the demands of royalty. While she enjoys her hard-working freedom, Amy meets a curious man who hangs about the palace. "A Man-of-All-Work," he calls himself. He doesn't have much free time, but he begins to join Amy and her woodland creatures for the Thursday Afternoon picnics. Their friendship quickly grows, for Perry is a funny, venturesome man and even better, he is just as ordinary as she is! Has Amy found her prince-charming after all?

This book is a short, easy read, the kind of book you could finish in a couple hours or less. It is fun, and quirky, and don't let the princess-fleeing-from-marriage dissuade you. The Ordinary Princess is a heart-warming story full of odd traits and vagary that separate it from any other runaway-princess story you've every read or ever will read. It's comical, sweet, and engaging, with just enough romantic flair to be touching and emotional. (Not bad emotional, but that-was-so-cute-I-might-actually-cry emotional.)

I hope this have given you some reading ideas! Cold months always make me think of books and Hot Cocoa, so I thought I'd share some of my favourite books, books for curling up by the Fireplace with.

Peace out y'all!

*swings around cape and leaps off sage*

Bella

Writers Camp [ Day Twelve ] Conquering Writer's Block.

Day Twelve: Conquering Writer's Block.

Writer's Block is the biggest pain a writer can face. Your creativity runs dry. Your characters get themselves into a bad predicament and you can't figure a way out. You can't figure out how to make something to work no matter how many times you try editing. Sometimes your pen just won't flow, and the words just won't come. It sucks.

Here are ten effective ways to help you when you're struggling with Writer's Block.

1.) Make a playlist for your book.

Play-lists are incredibly helpful for me. I usually have at least fifteen songs, each one pertaining in some way to my characters and plot. It can really help fuel inspiration.

2.) Make a Pinterest board. 

Pinterest can be very distracting for a Writer. I know that first hand. But it can be really helpful to have a {interest board for your story. If you can scroll through it, sometimes it can help you get your inspiration back.

3.) Watch/read something that will inspire you to write. 

Reading good books and watching good shows can do wonders for your writers block. When I'm in a bad place with writing I do lots of reading and watch shows that I know will inspire me to write. Since I mostly write fantasy, I usually read lots of Tolkien, some C.S. Lewis, Diana Wynn Jones, and some Jessica Day George. I'll also watch BBC Merlin, Inkheart, Narnia.... Actually, Avatar. The Last Airbender really helped inspire my writing too. Depending on what your writing, read stories and watch shows that reflect your ideas. Like, reading Heist Society helped inspire Juliette Walgrey.  So did watching Psych. Read and watch things that will help you get new, fresh ideas for your story.

4.) Look up writing prompts.

Writing prompts are a lot of fun to look through, and they might be able to get those creative juices flowing again. See if you can use some of their ideas/themes to fuel a chapter or two. Even if you just write a few short scenes that have nothing to do with your characters, you may come back to your story with fresh ideas, better prepared to continue.

5.) Talk the scene out to yourself in your head. 

Talk the plot through in your head as well. This helps me a ton. If you say things out loud to yourself, it can sometimes help you figure out the problem.

6.) Talk to other Writers.

We writers need to band together. If your stuck in your story, talk to other writers. Ask for advice, or even just vent to them for a bit. That can put you in a much better place for writing. Plus, your fellow writers might be able to give you ideas and help get through your Writer's Block.

7.) If you like to draw, doodle a bit. 

Sometimes being creative in other ways can help you be creative with your writing as well.

8.) Take a walk/bike ride.

Writers can often stay indoors for too long. If you have bad Writer's Block, go out for a long walk/ride and let yourself be calm. Stop stressing about your story. Don't worry, things will work out. It will come to you!

9.) Follow blogs for writers. 

Be in contact with other writers. Some writers have Tumblrs, and while I'm not a huge fan of tumblr, some post pretty great gifs and pictures that can help light up your inspiration.

10.) Work on something else!

This is important. Sometimes you just need to take a break from your story for a bit. There's no shame in that. Try working on other stuff for a bit.

Sometimes your Writer's Block is so bad you'll just have to punch through it ... which means you write until you figure out how to continue your story.

What are some things you do when you have Writer's Block?

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella

Writer's Camp [ Day Eleven ] Would You Rather/What Now

Day Eleven: Would You Rather/What If

Today we are going to send one of your characters on an adventure! Take a character from one of your stories and give us a brief summary of who he is. Then answer the questions below. This game will help you think like your character, making choices he would make as apposed to ones you would. It might help you understand and know your character better too. Plus, it's fun. 8-D

Juliette Walgrey. Private Detective. AOA.

1.) Would You Rather Be Hot or Cold?

I like being warm. When I'm cold I wrap up in a big blankets and drink tea.

2.) Would you rather work at night or during the day? 

I like evenings. They make me feel calm and creative.

3.) Someone knocks on your door. What now?

Uhm, I army-crawl to the window and peak out to make sure it's not someone I don't want to see.

4.) Would you rather go without food or water for a day?

I guess food, because you can survive longer without that. But I'd rather not be without either.

5.) Someone tells you your life is a lie. What now?

I wouldn't believe them unless they could prove it. If they proved my life was a lie, I'd probably panic and have a meltdown.

6.) Would you rather be settled or have the open road?

Oh, I like being settled. It's good to have a place called home. 8-D

7.) Would you rather loose sight or hearing? 

WHAT KIND OF QUESTION IS THAT??? I think... maybe... sight. Just because I love music so much.

8.)  Would you rather have a dog or cat?

A dog, obviously!

9.) How do you respond to betrayal, pain, loss?

I get sad. Like, I'll get angry, but it's the sad-angry which means if I try to tell you off I'll probably cry, and I'll feel achy and empty....  Yeah.

10.) Do you like music?

OH YES! Especially classical musical. Though there are some pop singers I like too.

11.) Do you like reading?

Absolutely. I read at least one book a week, usually.

12.) Would you Rather face a lion or a bear?

A bear. A brown bear.

13.) What is something that scares you?

Not being able to help the people I care about, or failing the people I care about. I'm also scared of spiders, wasps, and creep dark forests.

14.) Would you rather be in a crowd or alone?

It depends on my mood, but I tend to wander off on my own a lot.

15.) You're family is threatened. What now?

I plan to take down the people threatening my family and bring them to justice. I'd probably enlist help from people I trusted.

16.) Do you put a lot of importance on family? (Answer honestly.)

Yeah. Family is really important to me. And not just blood, but like, friends too.

17.) Do you believe in God/heaven/angels, or something of the like?

Yep! I'm Catholic.

18.) Would you rather have coffee or tea?

Coffee in the morning, Tea at night.

19.) Would you rather take a long walk in the forest, or a bike ride down a parkway?

I like riding my bike a lot. But I like riding it on the back roads, just me, no one else.

20.) Do you like snow?

Yeah, but I don't like lots of it for long periods of time.

21.) Do you like rain?

I love rainstorms, I don't like it when it's just drizzly and grey.

22.) What is your favorite thing to do?

Read, write, and listen to music.

23.) Would you rather spend the day indoors or outdoors?

Outdoors!

24. Do you like summer days?

Spring and Summer are my favorite seasons, so yes, summer days are great!

25.) If there was one person you would drop everything for in their time of need, who would it be?


I need to pick just one? There's lots of people I'd run to if they needed me. Zoe, Martin, my Mom and Dad, my sisters, my cousins.... there's too many to just pick one.

So. What do you think? Peace out y'all!

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella

Writers Camp [ Day Ten ] Sample Time!

I'm still behind. What can I say? This week has been something of a dark well of doom. I totally failed my driving test. Parallel parking is the stupidest thing ever invented.

Stupid parallel parking. Why is it even a thing?

Today you get to sample some of my writing! I know I've shared some stuff before, but today I will share some lyrics from one of my new musicals, as well as the first page of the Juliette Private Detective; AOA book.  8-) Please enjoy!!

LYRICS FROM THE MUSICAL I'M WRITING!!! This isn't the one about the world turning grey. I don't have a name for that one yet, nor many actual melodies. I want to call it Colored in Love but I'm not sure about that name. Anyway! Here are lyrics from my Fan-Musical, the musical I'm writing in honor of one of my favorite books. I'm not ready to share the name of it yet. But Hopefully one I'm done I can plan some sort of Concept Fan-Cast of some kind. I dunno. Thoughts! Anyway, these next lines are taken from one of the love songs. I quite like it. It's called Curious.

FEMALE

MALE

Curious...

Curious.

What is this feeling / curious

What is this? Curious.

For a moment was there something?

For a moment could I almost...?

It's builds inside me / curious.

It wants to build / how curious

Concern... for me...

For a moment did my heart just run?

For a moment did I just...?

Running through me / this feeling.

Something trying / to break into me...

Curious,

Curious!

strangely disturbing and strong

Strangely disturbing, it almost won!

What is this curiously in me?

What is this curiosity beyond my reach?

YARRRR? YE LIKE? CAUSE I'M SCARED ABOUT SHARING LYRICS.



Onward!! Here's a little sneak peek at my detective book!

Juliette, Private Detective AOA. 

Juliette was her name. Juliette Veronica Walgrey. Though usually she just went by Juliette, and sometimes just plain "J" which is what her brother called her. She was an even 5-2 1/2, and rather on odd sight to behold. She preferred skirts to pants, and had thick auburn hair which she kept tightly french braided whenever she worked a case. On the window of her flat was a sign that read "Juliette Walgrey. AOA." Among other things she liked to call herself a consulting detective, or Private Detective. She was the last one you'd expect.
   Juliette's office was small. It was downstairs from a restaurant and it wasn't even properly hers. It was borrowed. But for a girl so curious, she did pretty well for herself, and quite a few people knew in in the little City. She made lovely coffee at Revive. Even Tonia, the coffee shop owner said so, and she wasn't big on giving compliments. At this time, however, Juliette wasn't at her part-time, four hours-a-day job. She was standing over a dead body and feeling grumpy about it.
   Now, most days Juliette didn't mind being called in to inspect. It usually meant a paycheck. Yay! This morning, unfortunately, the call came at four thirty A.M., and Juliette thought, as she stood there with her lukewarm cappuccino, that murders should wait until at least six. Seven was better. She felt very out of sorts, and most of her mind was still back at home in her bed. She was wearing knee boots even though it was June because she hadn't been able to find her sandals by the light of the moon, nor matching socks either. She felt like a potato this morning. A grouchy potato. 
  She felt someone coming up behind her and turned. It was Deputy Rogner with a small brown bag and a cup of coffee. "Oh," he said. "I didn't you you already had coffee. I thought you might like something to eat." He held out the bag. Juliette took it gladly, and then, because her coffee was practically cold anyway, she took the coffee off his hands too. "Thanks, Ace! Much appreciated." She cured her hands around the warm cup and felt slightly better. She took a sip. Aaaaah. now she could focus on the task at her. She turned her attention back to the unfortunate victim.
   The man in question was a certain Political Science teacher by the name of William Smass. He was slouched in the chair behind his desk with a nasty bruise on his temple. The police had yet to locate the murder weapon, but it seemed the culprit had been looking for something. The office was torn apart as if in a frenzy. Poor man. A simple teacher caught in a burglary. Though, what could you steal from a teacher's office? Grades? Actually, that wasn't a bad thought. Juliette smiled. Some students might do any number of things to pass a class.  


Snippets from my book Cyril. This is a story about

Killian and his son live in the Kingdom is Farathon, where a terrible Queen by the name of Nelana has set out for ultimate conquest. Four years ago she invaded the Isle of Solvina and captured the powerful and mythical creatures, the Kiera. Now one has escaped. Nevina roots out a Killian as a man who is skilled with these magnificent beasts, one some might call a tamer. When Killian refuses to help, she captures his son and poi his heart poisons his heart, declaring unless he agrees to do her will, he will loose his son forever. Killian is forced to obey, and he and Cyril start a journey that will change the fate of their country - for good, or ill.

CHAPTER TWO:

Killian heard the carriage before he saw it. He was carving at the time. His hands moved up and down the rough wood, rubbing away all the slivers with careful ease. He didn't move too quickly but he there was a restlessness in his work. Carving had always taken longer than most things, but every year he got older it seemed to get harder. He pulled back another layer of wood with his tool and leaned in close. Just a little smack –  Killian heard the wheels creak and the heavy sound of boots coming at the door, one after the other. He gently blew the shavings away from his jewelry box and placed it off to the side with his other creations. He stood and as he did a loud and demanding knock echoed on the door. He brushed his hands on his apron but didn't even bother with his hair. He knew trying to tidy it would only make it worse. With any luck the grey lurking behind his ears would help hide the dust.

The knock came again. Killian grabbed the nob and yanked the door open. A man stood on the other side, tall and thin, with a ridiculous feathered hat and high black boots which rose above his knees. He looked at Killian and was silent. He waited but Killian didn't invite him in.

“Can I help you with something?” The older man asked, when the staring could continue no longer. He knew the look his visitor wore. It was one he was used to.

“I'm sorry," The Visitor said. He was indeed very pale. “Am I right to assume you are Killian Steindaer, former accountant of the Kingdom?”

“No, I am not. What is this about?”

The Visitor didn’t seem to acknowledge his negative answer. “Sir, you must leave your house at once, and in haste. There is not time to delay.”

“What?” Killian’s eyes narrowed. “Who are you?”

“It doesn’t matter. Your life is in danger, sir.”

“In danger from whom?”

The stranger’s eyes studied the hat in hand. “She’s coming for you. ”

“You must have me mistaken for someone else.” Killian tried to close the door but it hit  The Visitor’s palm. “Please sir. I know who you are. She can’t find you here.”

“I’m a carpenter. I have no wealth, no station. I’m no one.”

“Perhaps not now, but you were someone once. Please. You don’t have much time.”

“I’m not who you think I am.”

“Killian Steindaer, former Scola and enemy of the Queen. You went into hiding five years ago. You can’t hide any longer, Sir. She is coming for you even now.”

“Why would you warn me of this?” Killian asked. “How do you know of her plans, and if you do, how can I trust you?

“You don’t know, unfortunately,” said Visitor. “However, this is your best chance. She’s coming with a request and she won’t accept no for an answer.”

Killian weighed the options quickly. He had hoped he was safe from discovery now, but it seemed that maybe he was wrong. On the other hand, this could be some dirty lie or trick, something to lure him into the open. Though, for what purpose?

“You wouldn’t be lying to me would you?”

“I rarely lie,” answered the Visitor.

“That is good. Bad things will often happen to people who lie to me.”

“I wouldn’t lie about this.”

Killian observed the strange visitor on his doorstep and realized he had no choice but to trust him. If the Queen was truly coming here he could not be found. He wouldn’t be used as her pawn, whatever game she was playing.

“Very well,” He said certainly so he couldn’t change his mind. “I’ll do as you ask.” The Visitor relaxed. “Thank you,” he said fervently. “And sir? if you have family in the area, I would get them out too. You don’t want her to have any leverage.”

“Of course. I’ll be sure of it. Thank you.” The Visitor tried to smile, turned, and started to walk.

“What is your name, friend?” Killian called after him. “In case I ever have the need of repaying this service?”

“I am but a humble servant.” Here the visitor bowed, so low his feathers almost touched his shoes.

Killian found himself smiling slightly. “Very well. Thank you, humble one. Maybe we’ll meet again one day.”

“I hope so,” said the Visitor.

SO? What think you??

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella

Writers Camp [ Day Nine ] What are you writing?

OH MY GOSH. I AM SO BEHIIIIIIIIIIIND. MUST PLAY CATCH UP!


Day Nine: What are you writing? Today we are going to share plots/characters from stories we are currently working on. Have fun with this!

Brothers of Mage.

(I'm still working on the title.)

Ten years ago a war started in Brinton, a war which spread into The four empires like a deadly virus. it ended when a seventeen year old Mage named Elliot Blackire invented a terrible weapon which was stolen by the Briatons and used to kill hundreds of civilians. Due to suspicious, damning events Elliot Blackire was convicted as a traitor and exiled, never to return home on pain of death. 

Five years after that fateful day, a man by the name of Evan Blackire is convicted of the murder of the High Mage. Elliot, now a Draek Mage, returns to his home country to help his brother escape. Together, they discover a astonishing, fearful conspiracy festering in the country, and must find someway to stop it. Unable to trust the Office of Mage or the Union Government, the brothers plunge headlong into an undercover mission to save their country from self-destruction, recruiting some very odd allies along the way. The future is warped and strange, and it the more the brothers learn the more they realize that many things may not be what they seem. 

Juliette Greywell A.O.A (A -of the- above)

This series is going to be fun I think! It's about a private detective who lives in a small city. Her name is Juliette, she is twenty-three and she stands at just barely 5'2. She often jokes that sleuthing is her hobby because she doesn't earn enough money to call it a normal job. (She works at Ross to cover all real expenses.) While solving one of her cases she meets up with an ex-hacker named Zoe and together they run around solving crimes. They began to spread out, working in the bigger cities that are close to their own and making quite the name for themselves. I'm excited.

LE SISTER STORY!!!

This story is beautiful. I can't say too much about it yet, but I will give you a basic plot. It's about two sisters, Renetta and Jailene, who live in a slightly steampunk/fantasy world. When they're fourteen and twelve they get separated and from there their lives take very different turns. Renetta grows up learning the art of Earth Lore and, while Jailene learns the art of Energy Lore. As the two girls reach their individual birthdays, seventeen and fifteen, the world begins to slip into darkness and much is at stake. Both will play a key part in the future of the Quinton, but it is quite possible these two keys do not fit they same door.

A MUSICAL!!!!!!!!!!

YES I AM ACTUALLY WORKING ON A MUSICAL! I am working on two, in fact. One is like a fan-musical of sorts so I won't say too much about it yet - the other one is about a widow who's world literally turns grey after her four year old son is killed in a car accident. For three years she can't see color or beauty in anything. It's all black and white, cold and hard. Every day is a struggle. Then a young photographer comes into her little town and things slowly start to change...


What do you think, writers? You like?

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella

Writers Camp [ Day Seven ] Love/Family

Day Seven: Love/Family

I'm like, three days behind. I'm sorry guys. You all know you can post before me, right? Okay.


Today we're going to cover the importance of love. In all forms. Love at its simplest, love at its greatest.

We're going to cover books with the love that exists between families and friendships. Mention some things you'd like to see in these stories, and which stories you would personally like to see in books today.

I am going to update this post when I'm finished, but please feel free to start yours. I feel so bad. Things go insane, and now I'm very behind.  8-( Apologies all around! I'll need to play catch-up.

I am so sorry. This post is shorter than my other ones. My computer shut down and I lost a whole post, and I was sad. I tried my best though. 8-D Today we're going to cover books with the love that exists between families and friendships. Mention some things you'd like to see in these stories, and which stories you would find very rare.

The Ascendants Trilogy: Jennifer Neilson

The Runaway King

For me, The Ascendants Trilogy is one of those books that catch your interest almost instantly, and you're hooked until you finish. It has great character development. I really liked how a bunch of different friendships evolved throughout the series, constantly growing, changing, and getting better.

Franz and Japhet

Franz and Japhet are precious human beings and must be protected at all costs!!!!

Brothers-in-Arms 

Raven's Gate Series: Anthony Horwitz

This series does have a lot of good friendships, and there are some twins that are introduced in book three that I kind of really love. However, it can be incredibly dark, grim, and bleak. It has a very apocalyptic feel, something that has made me struggle with reading them. I have yet to finish the last book. It's just so sad. I have a couple sisters who have read it, and they all say the ending is good, but very sad. And I know why it's sad and I just can't. 

However, the writing is good and the story is good, even if it is serious and war-like. 

Inkworld: Cornelia Funke

Farid and Dustfinger. Black Prince. Mo. These books!!!! I love these books so much!!! 8-D

BBC Merlin

Merlin and Arthur encompass what it means to be best friends. I love that they make fun of each other all time, but they know if necessary. they would die to keep the other safe. It makes me feel warm and happy inside. This friendship is perfect. (I also ignore everything the writers say on this subject, as well as most of the cast. They're annoying.)

Gallager Girls: Ally Carter

Yas!! A Girl's school for the gifted... especially those gifted in the art of secrecy. These books are basically about a spy/special agent school for girls. They're excellent. And they have lots of female friendship. This makes me very happy, because those are very, very rare.

The Penderwicks: Jean Birdsall

I cannot say enough good about these books. They family is perfect. The relationship between the sisters is perfect. The fact that they adopt friends into their family is perfect. Their Daddy is perfect. Everything about this series is perfect. Just read them.

The Ascendants Trilogy: Jennifer Neilson

Oh, lala! Yaaaaaaas! The friendships in this book are golden! There is so much development and change that occurs. I love them. 

The Lord of the Rings: J.R.R. Tolkien

We all know Tolkien is King of friendship stories. "I CAN CARRY YOU." *dies of feels*

What do I think we need in books today? First, more sister stories. Good sister stories, sister stories about two girls who will protect each other, tease each other, die for each other. Second, more brother stories. More friendships. I want friendship where the boys meet when they're little, grow up together, and love each other with all they have. I want friendship where they meet later in life but still grow close and dependent on each other. I want friendship where one person will tear apart time for another. I want friendships where everything falls apart and the only thing left is each other. I want friendships where friends hold hands as everything freaking implodes on itself. I want friendships with love and laughter, friendships with hugs, friendships with shared morning coffee, emotional connections, dinners together, funny car rides, insane deals and sacrifices, long walks, friends having each other for a flat mate... I just want friendships that defy everything society says and prove that you can love someone without it being romantic. 

That's all. 

What are some friendships you all like?

*swings around cape and leaps off stage*

Bella