2017 End of Year Survey

What a strange year 2017 was.

With all the good and terrible things going on in the world, my personal year was both fun and stressful. I started my first year of Masters and met some wonderful, life-long friends. I also worked much more on my blog this year, and the results paid off.

I would like to say a massive thank you to all the lovely people who followed me this year, and to all the wonderful bloggers who continue to support me. I’m so thankful I’ve found such an amazing community of people on here. ❤️❤️❤️

I want to give a quick shoutout to two fabulous people that I’ve formed such strong friendships with – Nadwa and Silvia. These two girls have supported me through everything, and I honestly don’t think I’d be the person I am today without talking to them daily. Thanks for always being there for me – love you two lots 😘.

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This survey was created by the awesome Jaime @ The Perpetual Page Turner in 2010 – it has become a massive end of year event that many bloggers enjoy doing, and I did one myself last year too! It’s a great way to end the year by reflecting on all the books we’ve read. To join in on the fun, check out Jaime’s blog for a blank copy of the survey.

Number Of Books You Read: 160
Number of Re-Reads: Three: Leo Loves Aries by Anyta Sunday, The Summer Palace by C.S. Pacat, and Fence #1 by C.S. Pacat
Genre You Read The Most From: ROMANCE! I’m sure no one is surprised. I read 106 romance novels this year, and the second genre I read the most from was, actually surprisingly, contemporary: 70 contemporary novels.

1. Best Book You Read In 2017?

The Uncrossing by Melissa Eastlake was AMAZING. Months after reading it, I still can’t get over the gorgeousness of that novel. For those who haven’t heard of it, The Uncrossing follows Luke and Jeremy and a seventeen year long curse. Jeremy is cursed and the only person who is able to break it is his one true love … and he’s hoping that’s Luke, the boy he’s been in love with since he was six years old.

The setting is incredible too: urban fantasy interwoven in a modern New York City setting. The magical system was fascinating and so unique. Eastlake has seriously created something so amazing here, but my absolute favourite part of this novel was the characters, Jeremy and Luke. They’re sweet, loveable, and work so well together. Can I please have a book two?? Please?

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?

After the perfectness that was A Court of Mist and Fury, to say A Court of Wings and Ruin was my most anticipated 2017 read would be an understatement. However, when I finally read the thing, I was more than disappointed. ACOWAR was good at times, but Sarah J. Maas’s writing has really gone downhill, and I’m starting to despise the characters.

SJM has a real gift for writing new characters, but the longer she writes a character, the worse they become. I don’t know why that is though. Feyre was The Worst™, Rhys was a sook, Tamlin was the dues ex machina in human form, and the bad guy was defeated by the shittiest person ever. I just. UGHHHHHH.

 3. Most surprising (in a good way or bad way) book you read?  

When I first picked up this book, I thought it was an historical UA about Lady Jane Grey, the nine-day Queen of England. And … it sort of was. In a very loose sense.

The authors rewrote Jane’s horrible real-life death and gave her a happily ever after … with shape shifts mixed in for some reason. Jane was so inspiring, and her love interest, the horse shape shifter, was sweet. I loved them so much together.

I know, this book sounds insane. And it is. But it’s also amazing and hilarious and such a worthy read. It was definitely a surprising book and one I highly recommend if you’re looking for a comedy!

 4. Book You “Pushed” The Most People To Read (And They Did)?

I got a few people in real life, and in my blogging life, to read the Captive Prince series and they ALL loved it. So, like, you should read it too!!

 5. Best series you started in 2017? Best Sequel of 2017? Best Series Ender of 2017?

Fence comic is incredible, and while there are only two issues out so far, it is already a favourite of mine.

These Ruthless Deeds was an amazing sequel that I can’t get out of my head. I read it in February and still remember everything. Especially that ending.  

Interborough concludes David and Ray’s story and it was beautiful and wonderful and angsty. I want more stories about them, but this was a great ending.

6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2017?

Santino Hassell!! I only discovered this author after my friend Silvia convinced me to read this co-authored series Cyberlove with Megan Erickson. I also read his amazing Illegal Contact novel.

After I finished that series, I went out and bought his entire Five Boroughs collection on Kindle. I also have his The Community series, but I’ve yet to read it. I also really want to read In the Company of Shadows, but that series is massive, so I’m waiting for when I have no books on my immediate TBR to dive into that world.

7. Best book from a genre you don’t typically read/was out of your comfort zone?

My Dark Knight is a very dark, paranormal romance, and while I have read my far share of paranormal romances in the past, I haven’t read one in years. This is the second book in the Kings of Hell MC series by K.A. Merikan, but it is by far the best.

It was, however, out of my comfort zone, particularly due to one of the main characters, Elliot. Elliot is obsessed with a dad serial killer, thinks cannibalism is sexy, wishes he was strong enough to kill people, and constantly returns to abusive partners. Despite the issues he has, he was a very engaging character, and you can’t help but want to protect him. The storyline, though, is very intriguing, and I can’t wait to see what else happens in the final book in the series, coming out next year.

 8. Most action-packed/thrilling/unputdownable book of the year?

Vicious was freaking incredible. I know everyone is obsessed with V.E. Schwab, and I never really understood the reason why (I still kind of don’t), but Vicious is an unputdownable book.

The characters are so engaging – all of them are villains, and the two main characters are obsessed with killing each other.

The story also features superheroes, science, death, and ambition. It’s a thrilling novel, that keeps you guessing at every turn. I’m pretty sure the next novel in the duology is coming out next year, and I am so excited for it!

 9. Book You Read In 2017 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?

I read this book in, like, one sitting, and really enjoyed it. The storyline was so unique – you really never see anything like this in paranormal werewolf romances.

The characters were so good together – Joe and Ox complimented each other, and so desperately loved each other, it was obvious from their very first interaction on page.

I also loved the writing, although it could get a little overwhelming at times. I think if I am to reread it, I would have to read in in sessions, not all at once, to give myself a break. If anyone wants to do a buddy read, hit me up!

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2017?

11. Most memorable character of 2017?

Theo Wallace from Leo Loves Aries is honestly the cutest, sweetest character. I love him so much, and because of him, I’ve read this book twice.

 12. Most beautifully written book read in 2017?

Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley is such a beautiful book. It’s a #LoveOzYA novel – which means it’s Australian YA – and everything from the writing, to the characters, to the storyline is just beautiful.

The book is set in a bookstore that features a ‘Love Letter Library’ where people leave letters in books and in the margins of books to strangers, or to someone specific. The library is gorgeous, and you get a glimpse at a few letters, which were just lovely and sad all at once.

I highly recommend this book if you want to read more Aussie YA. It’s a great book to start with.

13. Most Thought-Provoking/ Life-Changing Book of 2017?

Definitely The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. I couldn’t believe how incredible this book was. It is the most important novel of 2017, and so thought-provoking.

It was inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, and follows a young black teenager who witnesses the death of her friend at the hands of a white police officer. It talks about racism (institutional and casual) and stereotypes, but also about the importance of family, friendship, and supporting what you believe in even if it brings you harm or people are against you.

 14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2017 to finally read? 

Nimona is one of the cutest graphic novels I have ever read! I can’t believe I waited until this year to read it!

This graphic novel is not about what I thought it was either. I thought it was about medieval knights, and it kind of is. But it’s also about dragons, shapeshifters, science fused with magic, villains and heroes, and a corporation that runs it all.

It’s so unique and just wonderful. Seriously, pick up a copy and read it! Don’t wait as long as I did!!

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2017?

“Without his books, his room felt like a body with its hearts cut out.”

— Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor

16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2017?

 17. Book That Shocked You The Most

This book is the second in the These Vicious Masks series and it is INCREDIBLE. I can’t deal with how amazing it is, especially because of a surprise twist at the end.

The series is like a mix of X-Men and magic, set in the 18th century. It follows Evelyn after her sister is kidnapped, and Evelyn is the only one who can find her.

The first book is great, but the second book, These Ruthless Deeds, was insanely amazing.

Read it, read it, read it.

18. OTP OF THE YEAR (you will go down with this ship!)

David and Raymond from Sunset Park and Interborough by Santino Hassell. I love everything about these two: they started off as friends after David tracks down Ray after his brother, Michael, is sent to rehab, and they hit it off straight away. The become really close for like six months, before Ray starts questioning his sexuality, and David is there to help him. Ray eventually realises he’s bisexual, and he and David become a couple after a few issues keeping them apart. I love them – their relationship is realistic, and so loving. They’re so amazing together. I just recently discovered Santino Hassell had a bunch of shorts and extras on his website and there’s a whole section on David and Ray, including their ‘meet cute.’ Check it out!

19. Favorite Non-Romantic Relationship Of The Year

I absolutely love the friendship between Sam and his best friend, Mike, in Life in Outer Space. Mike comes out to Sam and Sam is so supportive.

They have a few issues in the novel as Mike is hiding a secret, but Sam literally gets beaten up so he can prove to Mike how much Mike’s friendship means to him.

And Mike helps Sam as much as he can when he realises Sam is falling in love with the new girl, Camilla.

I just love their friendship so much – BFFs for life.

20. Favorite Book You Read in 2017 From An Author You’ve Read Previously

Benjamin Alire Saenz wins again with this amazing book! Sam is trying to get his life on track, but he’s having issues: he’s getting angry for no reason and he’s starting to think he’s turning into his birth father (who he’s never met), his best friend is struggling after the death of her mother, and his father may have lost the love of his life because of him years ago.

Sam’s issues are so relatable, and Saenz really knows how to write realistic, gritty teen characters. I highly recommend this, especially if you have read Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe.

21. Best Book You Read In 2017 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else/Peer Pressure:

My friend Steph shoved this book in my face and said, ‘Read it!’, and I did and loved it.

It’s about a young girl named Sana who is caving under the stress of all the secrets she’s hiding, including her sexuality and her father’s affair.

It’s a very cute novel, and it’s super diverse too. It also focuses a lot on issues of racism and stereotypes. It includes important conversations that we should all consider. I definitely recommend this one! (And thanks Steph, for making me read it!)

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2017?

Bobby from Fence comic! Look at this beautiful kid – just look at him, and tell me you don’t have a crush on him!

23. Best 2017 debut you read?

Dare Mighty Things was such a freaking awesome debut! It has aliens, science, NASA, a conspiracy, a questioning protagonist who is also a genius – like what more could you want?!

24. Best Worldbuilding/Most Vivid Setting You Read This Year?

Y’all, Strange the Dreamer was amazing. I can’t even begin to explain how beautifully unique this book was, but the setting was what really made the book.

The world in Strange the Dreamer is fascinating, but my favourite part of the novel was the city of Weep, which was a city ruled by gods.

Once the gods were killed, the name of the city was erased from the minds of everyone in the entire world. I just … wow. Please read it!!

25. Book That Put A Smile On Your Face/Was The Most FUN To Read?

I have read this book twice and it never disappoints. It’s about a college student named Theo (the Leo), who’s girlfriend breaks up with him and get engaged to his sister’s boyfriend. Theo and his sister, Leone, make it their mission to get each other dates for their exs’ wedding. And in come Theo’s old tutor, Jaime, who Theo thinks is into Leone. This book was just so freaking cute, I was gonna die. Because Jaime isn’t into Leone … he’s into Theo, and Theo is so painfully oblivious, he just thinks their flirtatious banter is friends being friends. Oh Theo. Anyway, not only is the book super cute, it’s also hilarious. Like I was on the floor laughing at some of the scenes, most likely due to Theo. Seriously, do yourselves a favour and read this gem.

26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2017?

I bawled my eyes out reading this collection of poetry. I can’t adequately explain how beautiful this collection is, but I read it in perhaps an hour, cried, then read it again.

The poems were just beautiful, but inspiring and empowering as well. Once I finished the book, I felt like I could take anyone on (although I’m usually feisty anyway).

Please support the author by buying her collection, because you need it in your life. But be warned that the collection also deals with some heavy topics. I’m also very excited for her next collection too!

27. Hidden Gem Of The Year?

Among the Red Stars by Gwen C. Katz is such a hidden gem, especially with 90 ratings on Goodreads. Seriously, get a copy of this book as soon as possible.

It’s based on a true story about an important part of WWII history that hardly anyone knows about: a  female Russian bomber unit, that were instrumental in bringing down Nazi Germany.

The book focuses on the importance of female friendship, as well as a super soft romance (and one is even between two women which was so awesome because this is an historical novel).

28. Book That Crushed Your Soul?

Abroad by Liz Jacobs is one of the most relatable novels I’ve ever read.

It follows Nick, a young Russian-American immigrant, as he moves to England for a semester abroad. He suffers from intense anxiety, and finds it difficult interacting with people. It’s also the reason he hasn’t properly come out to himself. But then he meets Dex, and he starts living a little more.

This book is also about Nick’s new friend Isabelle, who undergoes an awakening as she realises that she’s bi. The novel features some amazing friendships and relationships, and is also incredibly diverse. But the main reason I loved it is the representation of anxiety. Was so on point.

29. Most Unique Book You Read In 2017?

This book is a steam-punk YA about time, clocks, and an alternative London. So epic.

30. Book That Made You The Most Mad (doesn’t necessarily mean you didn’t like it)?

Ok, They Both Die at the End was an amazing novel, but it made me so mad. And I can’t even tell why without spoiling the novel for anyone!

It was so beautiful, but omg it made me cry so much too. It follows two boys who get a phone call letting them know they’re going to die today, so they have one day left to live, and decide to spend it together.

It’s a book that teaches you the importance of living your life to the fullest.

Read this if you want to cry.

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2017?

Bec and Bones! Becca has a great blog, and writes such thought-provoking reviews! I also love her blog’s aesthetic (especially the awesome skull), and every time I go onto her profile, I basically just stare at how pretty it is. Becca is also a very lovely person to talk t0o, and a massive supporter of diverse literature. And she’s Australian! Yay to Aussie bloggers ❤️ Please check out her wonderful blog here!

2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2017?

Definitely my review of They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera. It was a short review, but I felt that I wrote about every important thing about the novel that needed to be said, without giving away the plot. Also, this review was responsible for gaining me the ‘Top Reviewer’ badge on Netgalley! Yay!

3. Best discussion/non-review post you had on your blog?

I wrote an open letter to Netgalley and Goodreads due to their decisions to cut out international readers from their sites. The support for my letter has been overwhelming, but I’m very thankful to everyone who liked/reblogged/commented. I got a little bit of hate for this letter (from American bloggers), but the response has mainly been supportive. Please take a look at the letter if you believe international readers are just as important as American ones.

4. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?

I went to the launch party for the release of C.S. Pacat’s new comic series, Fence, and wrote up a post about everything I learnt there! Take a look at the post and make sure to support this amazing comic!

5. Best moment of bookish/blogging life in 2017?

When I reached 500 followers!! Thank you all so so so so much!! I appreciate every single one of you. 💕

6. Most challenging thing about blogging or your reading life this year?

Trying to juggle my blog and university commitments. For those of you who don’t know, I just completed my first year of Masters, so uni was a priority this year. My blog, while I still updated it, was put on the back burner a little bit. I’m going to try to stick to a regular posting schedule in 2018, so I don’t feel like I’m ignoring my blog as much as I did in 2017.

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?

Definitely my open letter to Netgalley and Goodreads. It currently has 1,625 views and 155 comments.

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

My author interview with Gwen C. Katz! Gwen was an amazing interviewee, and I absolutely adored her novel, Among the Red Stars. Please support the book!

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?

I am so late to the party, but I recently discovered the book site, Abebooks. It is such a cheap site, I’m honestly floored – cheaper then Book Depository even! And that’s for international (non-American) people, which is very rare. I bought Radio Silence by Alice Oseman on there for $3, and then shipping to Australia was $5. So that book cost me $8. Amazing.

10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2017 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2018?

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2018 (non-debut)?

100% here for Circe. It follows the life of the Greek witch Circe from her birth, to exile, to Odysseus. I am dying to read this one.

Down by Contact is the second book in Hassell’s The Barons series and it’s an enemies to lovers romance. *screams* I love enemies to lovers. That trope is everything. 

3. 2018 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?

Throw Your Arm Across Your Eyes and Scream by Christian McKay Herdicker. (No cover yet).

‘Pitched as Pleasantville meets Cloverfield, the novel follows 15-year-old Phoebe, daughter of the woman who was carried to the top of the Empire State Building by King Kong, in a world where the horrors of 1940s and 50s sci-fi movies are everyday occurrences.’

Ummm….. HELL YES.

4. Series Ending/A Sequel You Are Most Anticipating in 2018?

Queen of Air and Darkness concludes my favourite author’s Dark Artifices series and I already know I’ll be crying bucketloads. Here’s what I want to happen:

• For Emma and Julian to get together
• For Christina to realise she don’t need no man
• For Mark and Kieran to get together
• For Ty to grow closer to Kit, and to learn how to live without his sister
• For Annabel to get her comeuppance
• For Dru to get a better storyline and not be taken advantage of/die

These Vengeful Souls concludes the These Vicious Masks series, an historical X-men/magical YA. Here’s what I want to happen:

• For Evelyn and Sebastian to get together
• For Captain Goode to die
• For Nicholas to get his happily ever after – alternatively, for Evelyn, Sebastian and Nicholas to become a triad/throuple (I’m just saying…)
• For Rose to get a happily ever after, my poor baby

5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging Life In 2018?

I hope to read at least 10 classics novels. For those who don’t know, I joined a Classics book club this year, with the goal of reading at least 50 classics books in five years. So far I’ve read two from my list of 50, and next year I hope to read 10!! Wish me luck!

6. A 2018 Release You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone (if applicable):

I haven’t read any yet, but I have heaps of ARCs! (Omg help me.)

What is your favourite 2017 read? Can’t pick just one? Then write a list/or use this survey!