Hello friends, happy Wednesday! I am a little late for my wrap-up this month, because of my small break, but NO FEAR, friends, I am back, up and running and ready to bother you all again.
I’m sorry. I can’t get enough of that scene.
February has been, thankfully, way quicker than January…. why doesn’t January have 28 days, I do not know, but I wish it did, because it’s always the worst month.
To be honest, nothing really too exciting happened this February worth sharing. I’m settled on a routine of working, going outside with tons of layers in order not to pass out from the cold – have I mentioned that I hate winter? I might have a couple times. I could never live in Canada or Iceland or something – , working on my blog, reading books and crying because The Good Place is on a break and I AM NOT OKAY WITH THAT.
Otherwise, I spent the last couple days of the month chilling out and watching Netflix and having a couple days off and THAT WAS REALLY NICE.
Oh, okay. So there is one thing I could share that happened this February. I booked a weekend getaway with my sister and this March, we are going to….
Paris.
To eat macarons, see the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame… we already went there a couple times and happen to know the city quite well, but…
This time we also might be going to the biggest book fair in France, Livre Paris. It also happens that both Marissa Meyer and V.E. Schwab are attending. I don’t want to spoil my luck, so I’m not going to say I might meet them, but…..
As I’m writing this, I am three books ahead of my Goodreads schedule, so things are going pretty good. Also, I have read / am reading some pretty amazing books, so I am happy about that.
Books I read
I am so, so happy to have loved that one – interesting world, amazing characters and GREAT relationships. You can already read my full review here.
Great friendships and family ties in this one – I just wish I connected to it a bit more. Full review coming soon!
Look at me, reading old popular dystopian books. I quite enjoyed that one, the concept was great and so were the characters.
I LOVED THAT ONE SO MUCH! THE REP! THE CHARACTERS! ME SCREAMING ABOUT IT!! . You can read my full review here!
My love for The Lunar Chronicles is endless and these graphic novels were such a wonderful addition. IKO is fabulouuuuuuuuuuus.
Yeah so the world building in this was FABULOUS and I realllyyyyyyyy loved it. Full review coming soon.
Should be done with that one when this post is up, but… for now, I read one chapter and I cried. So that should be good…
I actually finished re-reading my WIP??? So obviously, I haven’t re-opened my Word doc ever since this happened. I think I might be called a slow writer / editor / procrastinator / I have no idea what I’m doing, so I’m taking this as slowly as I can.
Still, I have to say that I am pretty proud of being able to re-read my entire WIP without throwing my computer away or screaming or wanting to tear my eyeballs out, so I’d call that a success.
My main goal, as March is coming around, is to figure out how to edit this damn thing with the little notes I made. Should I rewrite the whole thing, or just parts of it? Should I leave it alone for another six months? WHAT SHOULD I DO. If you have editing experience or / and experience at screaming while editing or avoiding this altogether, I’d love to hear from you.
February has been sort of hectic, when it comes to blogging. I have been having peaks of inspiration, I have been blessed by the blogging Gods with all of your awesomeness and sweetness falling on me all month long, and I could not be more grateful.
Yet, I have also been starting to feel pressured again, to blog, to deliver content, to… I don’t know, but I’ve been feeling like I have to, more than I want to.
I took a little week break, where I didn’t post anything and refrained myself from checking out any blogs, blog-hopping, avoided twitter as much as I could. I failed, since I answered a couple of comments anyway, but… I didn’t over do it and I certainly did way less than I usually do, so… that’s still a little break… RIGHT?? I’m thrilled to be back to blogging and I hope that I can try and chill a little more about this whole blogging thing. Fingers crossed.
Book reviews
Click on the book covers to be redirected to my reviews.
Discussions
- My book buying habits and influences
- On rating books: how, why and the complicated feelings of it all
Book Blogging
Writing
Nyx’s Corner
I am going to do something slightly crazy this month, friends. You have been warned. You know me, I love blog hopping and I happened to have bookmarked fabulous blog posts, ever since the month started… which gives me a GIGANTIC list of blog posts I loved reading, this month. So I put this thing in a hidden section, so you won’t have a heart attack. Have fun blog-hopping!
Click here to see all the blog posts
This Chick’s Sunday Commentary: Reading Challenges- why participate? – The Reading Chick
We Live and Breathe Books: Discussion: Why I Follow You
Pros and Cons of Being a New Book Blogger | That’s What I’ll Write Thursdays 01
Why I’m Happy to be Positive ALWAYS – the orang-utan librarian
Wishes and Pages (EN): Reading wrap-up + Favourites // January 2018
[Cam’s Bookish Tales] Social Media & The Introvert – Camillea Reads
10 Bookish Pet Peeves – Pages Unbound | Book Reviews & Discussions
Discussion – Is hype help or harm? – Bionic Book Worm
What happened to New Adult books? – The Pixie Chronicles
Let’s Chat! Should we keep each and every book? – Sophie’s Corner
The Innocent Smiley: How To Survive A Book Buying Ban
Discussion: Why blogging makes me read things I dislike, and not read what I do like – Virtually Read
Discussion Time: Series Vs. Standalones – Reading Every Night
What Makes A Good Book : How I rate my 5 stars book – Bookidote | Book Reviews
Diversity in YA: Should We Comment If We’re Not Diverse? Ft. Opinions. – It’s Lu Again
Online Friendships & The Blogging Community | Lindsey Reads
How Bookstagram Helped Me Fall Back In Love With Reading | Discussion
Blogger Insecurities // What Are They and How Do They Affect Me & My Blog. – Book Adventures
Some Soft Romance Tropes That Melt My Frozen Hart (and yet haha NO) – Dragon Waffles
On College – NA & YA Recommendations – The Cursed Books
Five Books That Deserve More Love – Green Tea & Paperbacks
dear Goodreads, please make these changes and we’ll all be happier. – Mixed Margins
Self-Hosted Blog – The In’s and Out’s!
9 Things in Books that Make Me Run Towards Them with Open Arms aka What Compels Me to Read Certain Books – Forever and Everly
Do Standalone Books Get Enough Credit? + My Favorites
How to Style Your Book Reviews to Make Your Readers Love You!
let’s chat // arcs and all that stuff??? – Paperbackdreamer.com
What I’ve Noticed Since I’ve Started Blogging
Things I Wish Non-Readers Stopped Doing – The Cursed Books
Minor things about books that send me into a RAGE (feat. Edna Mode) – Feed Me Books
What Inspired You to Book Blog? – Reverie Society
Types of Bookstagram Accounts (Feat. My Opinions on Each One) – Blots of Ink and Words
All about the fam: Types of families in YA // ft. lists and books – Book Snacks
Unpopular opinion: On hating huge TBRs – The bookworm of Notre-Dame
How to be a minimalist bookworm in 6 steps (+ shelfie!) – Sophie’s Corner
We Live and Breathe Books: Tell Me Something Tuesday: How Do You Find Time to Read?
Great Reasons to Get to Know Your Bookish Friends Better – Feed Your Fiction Addiction
I Don’t Like Books, and Here’s Why… | Reading Under The Blankie
How to blog when you have a busy life – Virtually Read
Norrie says
Aaah, The Good Place!! I actually started watching it as “background noise” but realised 15 minutes in that i’m totally hooked! It’s so funny!
I was also watching Crazy Ex Girlfriend, but since season 3 i don’t really like it anymore.
Marie says
I KNOW RIGHT? The Good Place is sooooo good, I love it so much and I miss it. I can’t wait to get some new episodes. I wish we didn’t have to wait haha.
OH I haven’t watched Crazy Ex Girlfriend at all – that’s too abd you’re not enjoying it too much anymore. some shows seem to lose their appeal after a couple of seasons :/
Thank you so much for your sweet comment, Norrie! <3 <3
Kristin @ Kristin Kraves Books says
You had a great month! I am so jealous that you might meet V.E. Schwab!!!
I just finished The Beauty That Remains last week and if was amazing. Hit me right in the feels!
Marie says
Aww thank you so much! Still keeping my fingers crossed about that haha, we will see 🙂 x
I KNOW RIGHT?? I’m so glad you felt the same way, that book gave me all.the.emotions. I loved it 🙂
Thank you so much for your comment! <3
abigailsbooks32 says
I’m so glad you liked one of my posts! I feel so honored. Also, looks like you read some good books 😀
Marie says
Oh of course, you are such a sweet and great blogger! <3 <3
Thank you so much! 🙂 x
thebookprophet says
Paris omg!!! Have fun!!! Hope you’ll be able to meet Schwab and Meyer!! You did pretty good with reading – and i’m LOVING all of the blogger love!!
Marie says
Thank you!! I really hope so, fingers crossed! 😀
booksandblends says
you had a great month Marie! Off to check out you’re reviews of Eliza and Her Monsters and Girls Made of Snow and Glass!
Marie says
Aww thank you so much! I hope you’ll be convinced and will add them to your TBR 😀
thebookwormofnotredame says
Ahhh thank you for mentionning me, Marie!! AND YES I MISSED YOU (even though I somehow deserted the blogosphere myself) February has been a hard month for me but at least I’m still here and ready to fight. My favourite book was Renegades by Marissa Meyer AND I’LL NEVER STOP TALKING ABOUT IT (sorry not sorry)
Marie says
OF COURSE. I should start a bookstagram feature as well on my wrap up posts, so I could quote every single picture you post as well on here. You deserve ALL THE LOVE, you are brilliant and awesome <3
I'm so glad you're ready to fight, I'll be here to fight by your side if you need me 😉
And yes, please, don't ever stop talkin about that book, you will be there to remind me that I need to get it as soon as I can, ahah 🙂 Thank you so, so much! <3 <3
MetalPhantasmReads says
Great wrap up 🙂 that big event sounds really fun too! Hopefully we’ll see pictures 🙂
Marie says
Oh thank you so much!! I will be sharing pictures of the city and the book fair and everything for sure 😀
Jackie @ Too Much of a Booknerd says
OH MY GOSH YOU MIGHT MEET VE SCHWAB AND MARISSA MEYER???? THAT’S SO COOL, I’M KEEPING MY FINGERS CROSSED FOR YOU!!! this better happen omg you deserve it so much Marie <3
congrats on being ahead with your reading challenge YAY! i've been reading so many books lately that I'm also a couple books ahead—although I didn't really set an overall high goal for myself this year because I want my reading to be more relaxed! AHHH I'm so happy that you loved Eliza and her Monsters!!! it's a book that I've been meaning to read for ages because I KNOW I will love it but I'm a little scared to pick it up because it might be triggering for me?? Idk I'll have to wait until I'm in a good headspace so I can finally pick it up.
And I just picked up The Belles and I honestly don't know what to think yet.. but I'm glad you liked the world-building! And congrats on rereading your WIP!!! I already don't want to reread mine and I'm only like two chapters into writing it lol so that's a big achievment and you deserve applause XD
I hope your March will be amazing and don't stress yourself out too much <3
Marie says
AHHHH THANK YOU, I don’t know I think I’ll only realize it if it actually happens next week haha, for now I’m sort of… in a funk about it or something, haha. BUT I AM EXCITED TOO BUT I DON’T KNOW I am scared, I mean what will I say??? Knowing me, probably nothing? Yes, I am freaking out actually, hahahaha. Thank you Jackie, you are so, so sweet <3 <3
Having a more relaxed reading year is the best, I'd rather do that and not aim for a crazy challenge, it's the best thing to do, I agree 🙂 Oh I do hope you'll get around to reading Eliza, it was brilliant, I loved it so much. I understand where you come from though, I think it can be a bit triggering :/ I hope you'll read it when you're in a good headspace so that you can enjoy it <3
I understand your thoughts about The Belles. I loved it, but I was surprised by the slow start, too. I hope you'll fall in love with it though 🙂
RE-reading is the worst hahaha I'm glad it's over but… I was also surprised in a good way, by some things? I'm sure you'll end up feeling the same way once you re-read your own WIP 😀
Thank you SO much, I hope you are having a wonderful month so far <3 <3
Jackie @ Too Much of a Booknerd says
Oh my god SAME my social skills are totally non-existens and I can’t imagine what it must be like to meet an author?? I’d be the most awkward person ever XD
and I just ordered Eliza yesterday!!! I hope to pick it up soon because I’m actually quite excited about it! Thank you <3
Thanks Marie, you too!
Marie says
I know right?? I am just so nervous about it and I don’t know I will probably say nothing and it will be REALLY AWKWARD. I am here panicking about things one week before, send help hahaha.
OH YES that makes me so happy, I hope you’ll love it 😀 <3
Jackie @ Too Much of a Booknerd says
Hahahaha oh gosh I feel you ?? but don’t you worry, I think we’ve all been there and the authors will understand! Just tell them that you love their books, I think you’ll be on the safe side ?? I am here if you need any moral support hehe ❤️
Marie says
Ahah thank you, I will probably just be my very awkward-self ? I’ll remember that for sure 🙂 <3 <3
Swetlana @ The Caffeinated Bookworm Life says
I’m so happy to hear that you had a nice and relaxing break from blogging even though you came back a bit to answer some comments – I think as long as you did it because you WANTED to rather than feeling like you HAD to it still counts as a break! 🙂
Also, would you mind handing over that paperback because I might be hyperventilating a bit on your behalf too! I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you to meet Marissa and Victoria because OH MY GOD that would be so exciting! Is it weird that I’m already looking forward to seeing your Instagram posts from Paris? Because I am SO excited. Take allll the pictures and then make sure to share them on Instagram! Pleeeaaassseee.
I still haven’t read Gone Rogue but I am SO ready for it! Iko is such a fantastic character and I just simply NEED to know how that story wraps up! You now also have me really curious about The Beauty That Remains – I mean, how often does the FIRST chapter make us cry in a book??? I hope the rest of the book was as fantastic for you, Marie! <3
SO many posts and blogs to check out! :O I 100% need to find some new blogs to read so hopefully I'll be able to read through some/most of those posts in the future and find more great blogs! Thank you for sharing them with us!
My favorite book of February was HANDS DOWN An Ember In The Ashes! I was starting to think that I lost my ability to binge read books because everything else took me SO LONG to finish but then I listened to the audiobook for AEITA while reading along in my physical copy and it took me about 3 days to finish the book? So yeah, I still CAN binge read. That's a relief! xD And I actually ended up loving it even more the second time around and now I can't wait to move into the sequel and then Reaper in a few months! I AM READY FOR IT. But also worried that Sabaa Tahir is going to destroy me by the end of this series. xD
And what do you mean, did we miss you??? Of course we did! <3
Marie says
Oh yes you’re right about that. I think I’m always putting too much pressure on myself about that and being on top of everything. I want to try and be more relaxed, take things one day at a time and slowly haha. Let’s hope I can do this. (spoiler alert: I probably can’t, but watch me try hahaha).
OH NO that’s so not weird, I’m so happy to hear you saying that!! I will be posting pictures over on Instagram for sure and on the blog as well and I will let you know EVERYTHING, I am so excited but also so very nervous haha. You’re so sweet thank you!! <3 <3
I hope you will get to read Gone Rogue, it was a GREAT graphic novel for sure and I enjoyed getting back with Iko, she's an amazing character <3 The Beauty That Remains was REALLY good, it was quite intense and emotional at times, but I really loved it. Impressive it's a debut, that's for sure. My review's coming on Friday 😀
OH YES for An Ember in the Ashes, I really loved that book! Did you read A Torch Against the Night already, or will this be your first time reading it? I can't wait to get to this sequel someday <3
AWW thank you so, so much for your sweet words, your comments ALWAYS make my day, you're the best <3 <3
Swetlana @ The Caffeinated Bookworm Life says
I’ll be looking forward to your review, then! And intense and emotional you say? Huh, that sounds like it would be right up my alley! I’ll add it to my TBR right away and hopefully, I’ll be able to get to it during my little readathon with Caro next weekend!
Yeah, I’ll be rereading A Torch Against The Night too! I knew I had to go back into that world and read the first two books before I was able to continue reading the series because I remembered so little and nothing in detail which I hate whenever reading a series’ newest release!
Marie says
OH yes, I hope you’ll be able to get it soon, I’d love to know what you think of it 🙂 It was really great <3
I understand – I hate it when I can't remember a thing about a series. That often happens when there is a big chunk of time before the last book is released… more often than not, I'm too lazy to re-read the previous books though, so I admire you for that haha :p
Corner of the Forest says
I recently binge watched The Good Place and I am obsessed. How am I supposed to wait till September for new episodes?
I’ve been super stressed out lately and instead of handling it well I stopped doing things that i enjoy and let my blog and reading in general fall to the wayside. I didn’t even read any books in the month of Feburary, but i just found out that I am off for Spring Break so I plan on reading as many books as possible during this time to catch up on my GoodReads goal. For now I am hoping to get back into the swing of things.
Marie says
I KNOW right??? I can’t wait for September either, it is WAY too far away, I need the new episodes now. It’s especially frustrating when you binge–watched everything and now… it just stops, haha.
OH I’m so sorry you’ve been feeling stressed out :/ I hope that this month will be better for you and that you will be able to relax, focus on yourself and take care of yourself before anything else, that’s what matters <3 <3
Thank you so, so much for your sweet comment! <3 <3
Me On Focus says
Hi great to have you back… my favourite book of the month was Mom, Me & Mom by Maya Angelou
Marie says
Oh thank you so much! 🙂 I hope you’ll have a lovely March 🙂 x
PaperbackCassie says
I appreciate that you link to so many other bloggers post, I always discover new blogs to follow through your links!
Marie says
Oh you’re so welcome, I’m doing my very best to spread some book blogging love as much as I can 🙂 I hope you’ll find bloggers you love there 🙂
Thank you so much for your comment! <3
Olivia @ Purely Olivia says
AGH thank you for the link to my post! You are the sweetest ever.❤️❤️Also, PARIS! Wow, that will be amazing, I hope you have an amazing time. And I’ve been wanting to read Eliza and Her Monsters so hopefully I get around to that soon! I’m glad to see you enjoyed it. Here’s to a wonderful March!?
Marie says
Oh you’re welcome Olivia, thank you for writing such a lovely post <3
I can't wait for you to read Eliza, I hope you will be able to soon, it was such a great book 🙂
Thank you so much for your comment! I wish you a wonderful month! x
Marieke says
I started blogging in February, so it was a bit stressful, but so much fun already! And it was my birthday-month and I read a lot of books. So it was a very good month for me^^
Marie says
OH yay I’m so glad to hear you had a lovely month, and happy belated birthday! 😀
Thank you so much for your sweet comment! I hope you’ll have a wonderful March 🙂 x
The Candid Cover says
I love acting as a tourist in my own town, too. There is so much to explore, although I am sure that the Eiffel Tower is much more majestic than the CN tower. lol
I am so happy that you enjoyed Eliza and Her Monsters so much because it is one that I am dying to read. Have a wonderful March! 🙂
Marie says
Ahahah, oh really, well you think about it… it’s not that majestic, but I may be a little biased as I’ve seen it multiple times before / am French? 😛 I’d like to see the CN Tower A LOT, haha 😛
I hope you will get to read Eliza sometime soon, it was such a great book <3 Thank you so much!! <3 <3
Lois says
With the exception of my parents birthdays, February just felt like a filler month, at least it did socially aka my social life is non-existent these days. I am so excited about your Paris trip and I’m sending you all the lucky magic in the world and hope you meet Marissa Meyer and V.E. Schwab. I’m also very happy to see that you read Under the Never Sky. I may not be a big dystopia reader these days, but that series is definitely up there with the favourites and the second book is epic.
It’s always a good idea to take a step back from the blog when it feels like an obligation than fun. I’m always beating myself up for not doing as much blog-hopping/blogging but at the end of the day, I’ll write when I want to, not when I should do.
I didn’t read a lot in Feb, but I loved Brooklynaire by Sarina Bowen. When it comes to romances, she’s my go-to author.
I hope March has been kind to you so far. 😀
Marie says
ugh believe me, I get that, there are months where my social life and everything is just non-existent, I’m glad I got blogging to keep me chatting with people and everything haha.
Thank you so much, I’ll keep my fingers crossed I get to meet both of them, too <3 <3
Oh I'm so glad you think the second book is epic – I can't WAIT to read it now. I have to admit, I'm really curious about how this series will go on, the first book was quite promising 🙂
Thank you so much, Lois! I hope your month is going well so far <3 <3
Shanti says
I DID MISS YOU MARIE and I’m so glad you’re back! Good on you for surviving February, ugh to winter hey. I on’t know if I read any really standout books this month, but I really liked Spellbook of the Lost and Found and Talking to My Daughter About the Economy. February was an okay month (well, I guess I wrote a whole wrap up about it on Daylight Differentials) and I read quite a bit and started university which was good
Marie says
OH YES, Spellbook of the lost and found! I read this book a little while ago and really enjoyed it. Moïra Fowley-Doyle writes great books and I love the atmosphere she always sets in them 🙂
I hope university has been good to you so far, Shanti! <3 I wish you all the best for this month and the next ones <3 <3
thank you so much for your sweet comment <3
LairOfBooks says
February felt like it flew right by me without a care in the world about all of the books I needed to have read! haha! I’m glad you gave yourself a bit of a break Marie, self-care is also important and sometimes it helps re-up the creative juices. You read some amazing books! I am definitely going to go check out you Eliza review next 🙂 Looking forward to your review for The Belles 🙂
Happy reading in March! <3 <3 <3
Marie says
Oh thank you so much, Lilly! I hope to have my review for The Belles up soon, but I really really enjoyed it 😀
Thank you, happy reading to you too! 😀
Dania says
Gonna need to dedicate a chunk of time to read all those blog posts, thanks for that! I love blog-hopping too (athough I didn’t know the term before you used it)
Marie says
Oh you’re so welcome, I hope you will find bloggers and posts you love there 🙂 x thank you! 🙂
Lindsi says
I know I’m late to the party, but I *just* finished Scarlett in the Lunar Chronicles. I’m quickly making my way through them because THEY ARE SO GOOD.
I’ve been meaning to read Eliza and Her Monsters, so I’m happy to see you enjoyed it!
Congrats on your WIP progress!
Do You Dog-ear?
Marie says
AHHHHHH yes I am so happy to hear this, I LOVE The Lunar chronicles series so much. I hope you’ll keep on loving them until the last book. I’d love to know what you think of the series overall, so feel free to scream at me once you’re done with it so that we can chat 😀
Thank you so, so much for your sweet words and comment! <3 I hope you're having a lovely month 🙂 x
Jamie @BubblyBooks says
Great recap Marie!!! Looks like you read some amazing books this month!! I totally understand needing a break from blogging (it literally sucks up all my extra time these days). Love all the posts you linked too! I’ve already checked out a few 🙂
Happy reading!
Marie says
It’s funny how quickly this blogging thing is taking over our whole lives hahaha 🙂
Thank you so much, Jamie! I hope you’re having a great month so far and HAPPY READING 😀 x
May @ Forever and Everly says
MARIE. I clicked that toggle thingy to look at all the posts you would feature and then a WHOLE BIG LIST pops out of me. (But of course, what else could I have expected. ??) Thank you so much for linking to my post, though!! <3
I'm so happy that you managed to reread your whole WIP, Marie! That's an amazing accomplishment aahhh. And ooh I'm excited to hear your thoughts on The Belles, especially since I know that was one of your most anticipated books! And AAHHH Livre Paris sounds so great! I hope you get all the good books and meet all the fabulous authors <3
Have a great March, lovely!!
Marie says
I am sorry, I’m the worst ?? No, I think the worst is that I’m already bookmarking a bunch of blog posts for my next wrap up and… I need to stop, but I also want to share the love. SOMEONE STOP ME ?
Thank you so, so much, I ended up really enjoying The Belles and I hope I’ll get to write my review soon 😀 AND YES I AM EXCITED ABOUT PARIS AND I AM SCREAMING a lot ??
Thank you, I hope March is treating you well so far <3 <3
noor says
The Good Place is SO SO GOOD ahhh I love it :’)
Also the January being insanely long thing and February being super quick thing? I FELT THE SAME WAY. AND congrats on rereading the WIP! I know how hard that can be, I often feel like hiding under my bed in a ball after reading my writing because of how much it terrifies me 😛
Have a lovely March <33
Marie says
YES THE GOOD PLACE IS AMAZING I LOVE IT SO MUCHHHHH <3
I get that, I hid for a LONG time before re-reading my WIP and I will probably be still hiding for a little while before getting back to it ? it IS terrifying ?
Thank you so much! I hope you're having a lovely month so far! x
Valerie says
YOU’RE ALWAYS ALLOWED TO BOTHER ME!!! I’m always so excited when ya do hahaha.
I’m not a huge fan of February either, so I’m glad it goes by so quickly. But at the same time, I’m not ready for all the stuff I have to do in the future! Wah. Guess I will power through. Like editing. I feel you about the editing, it sucks! Although I think I like it more than the writing part, but I wish you luck on your WIP!!!!!
So excited about The Beauty That Remains! I hope you enjoy it!!!
YAY thanks for linking to my discussion post thingy!!! Probably going to go through everyone’s post at some point 😀
Marie says
AHHH this makes me so happy haha, get ready for me bothering you ALL THE TIME ?
Oh well if you ever need to talk / rant about anything or everything you have to do, or just need someone to procrastinate by your side, I am always here 🙂 <3
Thank you so much, here's to hoping I can do this editing thing, haha 🙂
I LOVED The Beauty That Remains, it was beautiful and made me cry and I really enjoyed all the characters <3 I hope you'll get to read it soon!! <3
Thank you so much, I hope you're having a great month so far! <3
Chloe says
Just started editing my first draft and it’s intense and feels like there is mountain to climb especially when only your eyes have only ever seen/read your book ahhh. Will be getting to the point soon where I need to find BETA readers or honest/harsh people to read it so I can make a third draft. Good luck with your writing!!!!
Marie says
OH I hope you will be able to edit your draft successfully, I’m here to cheer you on, YOU CAN DO THIS! 😀
Thank you so much for your support! <3 <3
Chloe says
That’s such a cute response thank you! I hope your editing goes well also I’ll cheer you on in return ??
Marie says
Oh of course, you’re welcome! Thank you, that’s so sweet of you!! <3 <3
Fanna says
Three books ahead on your GR challenge? You’re doing so good, Marie!! And you’ll be attending a book fair where Marissa Meyer and VE Schwab would be there?? Oh my God, this would be huge! I’m so glad your WIP is reaching somewhere and you’ve been able to make some progress on it. Can’t wait to keep a track of it as and when you post about it 😀 I think Feb was generally not a very exciting month though I hope the next months can be amazing for us all <3
Marie says
I didn’t set my challenge too high, because I didn’t want to stress out too much, so… it’s not that impressive, really, but it’s great to see that I am ahead anyway ?
I will believe it once I’m there and if I manage to meet them both, for now I’m just in sort of a funk haha, I am kind of excited but also not believing it soo much ?
Thank you so, so much Fanna!! I hope you are having an amazing month so far! <3 <3
Angela says
OMG, so jealous that you are going to Paris!! I hope you have such a wonderful time and enjoy the book fair!
Marie says
Ahhh thank you so much Angela!! <3 <3
Shanah - Bionic Book Worm says
Glad you’re back! And glad you enjoyed your time away. Sometimes it’s nice to just step back and relax. Not having to worry about obligations and just BE!
Marie says
Yes exactly, sometimes it feels good to relax for sure 🙂 thank you so much, shanah, I hope you’re having an amazin month so far! <3
Lydia Tewkesbury says
Welcome back! I miss The Good Place too 🙁 Don’t they realise we need that joy in our lives?!
Omg it would be CRAZY if you got to meet Marissa Meyer and V.E. Shwab. I have my fingers crossed for you!
Marie says
I know right. I can’t function right without that show on, I need it. It makes me so happy and it’s so much fun and always unexpected. I can’t WAIT for it to be back.
CRAZY is the right word there, I can’t believe it myself ? Thank you so much!! <3 <3
Laura says
AH, editing. I always seem to love it when I’m not doing it, and hate it when I am doing it haha. I’d do it in chunks (I tend to work on five chapters at a time), then send to a CP/beta reader and then incorporate their notes, and then work on the next chunk. Also, don’t try to do everything all at once–you can fix grammar/punctation/clunky sentences in the future, focus on the big changes first.
Marie says
Oh thank you so, SO much for this advice, I will definitely try to do that!! <3 Thank you! 🙂
bookishgirl61 says
I adore your blog! Every time you post, I always have to drop everything to read it right away. You’ve been such an inspiration to me in regards to my own writing projects. In high school, I used to write daily- I finished an entire manuscript but then completely let it sit for way too long. And after reading about your writing journey, you’ve inspired me to get back in the writing game. Thank you so much for that!
I took an Editing course in college and came across some methods that may help. Not every method works with every person so it’s just a process of trial and error. However, you may want to try adding in the extra notes without deleting the entire WIP. From there, you can reread it again, making notes on how each scene flows into the next. I tend to highlight the parts that I’ve added or mean to delete. If the scene still doesn’t flow, try returning to your outline to get a feel of where you want to end up and it may help fill in any possible holes. I hope this helps!
And I haven’t been able to get a copy of Gone Rogue but I am so excited to read it. Iko is my favorite so I can’t wait to continue in Meyer’s world. I’m glad you enjoyed it! Happy reading!
http://www.thebucketlistbookblog.com
Marie says
Oh wow, thank you SO much for your sweet words, this means a lot to me <3 I'm so happy you are enjoying my blog <3 <3
Thank you for the advice, I think I'll have to just… throw myself into editing and try and see how things work out haha, but thank you so much for this method, I'll have to try it this way 🙂
I can't wait for you to read Gone Rogue, it was SO great and I love Iko so, so much <3
Thank you so much for your sweet comment, happy reading to you too 🙂 x
Ashley says
OOOH PARIS! That’ll be really awesome. I’ve always wanted to go to Paris. Really awesome book the book fair that you might be going to! I was able to meet Marissa Meyer last year at BookCon and she was pretty cool. I still need to read Eliza and Her Monsters! I also really want to read The Beauty That Remains, it sounds so good and that book cover is amazing.
Marie says
Aww thank you!! Oh it’s so amazing that you got to meet her already! 😀
I hope you will get some time to read both Eliza and The Beauty That Remains, both books were amazing <3
Thank you so much, Ashley <3
Raven @ Dreamy Addictions says
Great wrap up! You had a good month! Marissa Meyer and V.E. Schwab are wonderful authors! I really hope you meet them! I’m so glad to see that you enjoyed Under The Never Sky! It’s one of my favorite series and I hope you enjoy the rest of the series too.
Anyway, hope you have a great time in Paris! 🙂
Marie says
Oh thank you so much, Raven, you’re so sweet! <3 I'm so glad to hear you enjoy the Under The Never Sky series, I rarely see people mentioning it, so I'm glad you do ahah 🙂 x thank you!! I hope you're having a wonderful month so far <3
Kat Impossible says
I laughed so hard at you hiding the entire blog list of posts to check out! Such a you thing to do, but as always, you are the nicest and best person for highlighting so many people!!
Also, you really did do less on the blog and I am so proud of you for that. Everyone needs a break and no one wants you panicked about HAVING to write. So you enjoy the next days you have off, but also, I expect all the details on the book fair!!!
Marie says
Once I realized just how many things I bookmarked… I knew I had to hide it as best as I could hahahaha.
Thank you so much!! Don’t worry about that, you’ll be the first to get inside pictures and to hear me screaming all the time about everything I do hahahaha 😛 x
Kat Impossible says
I am counting on you hahaha but most of all, have fun at the event! If there’s a moment where you have to decide between taking a picture or experiencing the moment – ALWAYS choose the latter 😉
Marie says
Ahah, I promise, I will 🙂 <3
Caro @ bookcheshirecat says
My February was pretty much not relaxed, I wasn’t feeling very well, but that resulted in me reading a lot, because boosk are life (my fave book of the month was Sightwitch)! I’m glad that you did have fairly good month even if there wasn’t a lot happening 🙂
Ahh I’m so excited that you get to go to Paris and meet some authors! I hope you have the best time ♥ I was going to go on a vacation to Paris in March as well but it was postponed 🙁 Gladly, it wasn’t cancelled so I at least get to go in August! 🙂
I definitely applaud you for rereading your WIP and not getting too frustrated 🙂 It’s really hard to look back on your own work and not hate every single word. I don’t know a lot about editing myself but Susan Dennard has a lot of information on her website (idk if I already mentioned this another time), so maybe that helps you 🙂
And wow that are a lot of posts that you put together ? I’ll probably go through them when I have a spare minute, because I love discovering new blogs 🙂
Marie says
I’m so sorry that February wasn’t the best month for you, I hope that March has been treating you a bit better so far? <3 <3 I'm sending you all the love and hugs <3
YAY, it's so great that you can go there in August, at least, I'm sure that you will have an amazing time there 🙂 x
Oh thank you – I think I've heard about her before, maybe you already mentioned it, but it never hurts to remind me, with my goldfish memory, hahaha 🙂 thank you, I will check it out for sure 😀 x
Caro @ bookcheshirecat says
Thank you! ?? March definitely has been better than February so far, especially since I’ve finished my two papers for university now 🙂
I’m so looking forward to the trip and I’m sure that I’ll love Paris ?
I feel like I always talk about her, so I wasn’t sure ? You’re welcome, I hope it helps you! ♥
Marie says
Oh I’m so happy to hear that 🙂 x
And yes, it really helps, thank you so much for everything <3
Caro @ bookcheshirecat says
Keeping my fingers crossed that the rest of the month turns out okay as well 🙂
Ah I’m glad to hear that ???
Beth (Reading Every Night) says
Thanks so much for featuring my post in your recap Marie (wow you featured a lot so it must have been an incredible month for you for blog hopping). Also congrats on finishing your re-read of your WIP, I guess the next stage is editing so I’ll wish you good luck with that too. 🙂 <3
Seems like you had a decent February, but from the sounds of it your March will be even better. I hope you enjoy Paris and if you and your sister make it to the book festival I hope you have a brilliant time there as well. I've never met Marissa Meyer but I would LOVE to one day because she's one of my all-time favourite authors!
I'm really glad you loved Wires and Nerve 2, also I can't wait to see your review for The Belles because that's one I still need to read.
Great recap, and I hope you have an incredible March. Happy reading! 😀 <3
Marie says
You’re so welcome, Beth, I loved your post! <3 I'm trying to do as much as I can to spread the love, maybe it's a bit much sometimes hahaha, but I just want to hug everyone haha and there were amazing posts this month <3
Oh thank you!! I am really impatient to get there and I hope I won't be too nervous about meeting them, I have never ever met authors in my life so… I'm anxious about it haha 🙂
Thank you! I hope your March is going well so far (and you new job as well?! <3) <3
Beth (Reading Every Night) says
Thanks Marie! 🙂 Yeah I get that, it’s something I wanna try and do as well because there are some brilliant posts out there. Maybe I could add something to my monthly recaps one month.
It’ll be an experience, and I think being nervous is part of it. I’m always really nervous when I meet my favourite authors. I guess it just goes to show how much you love their work right?
That’s all right, and yeah everything’s going well at the moment thanks. 🙂 <3
Marie says
Yes you’re right, I guess that shows how much we admire their work and that’s pretty cool 🙂
I’m so glad to hear it 🙂 <3
Beth (Reading Every Night) says
I always think an authors going to like (probably a better word I could use) when fans get flustered because it means we love their work so much. 🙂
Marie says
Oh yes, I guess you’re right about that 🙂
shar says
OOOH Paris and a book fair sound excellent!! So does meeting VE Schwab or Marissa Meyer! That’s so exciting!! Also, I didn’t even know there was a new Wires and Nerve book, I mudt get myself to a library or something. I’ve been incredibly busy with starting university (which is why I haven’t commented much. So glad you liked Eliza and her Monsters though!) but I’ve been having a great time 🙂 Although I haven’t read much, which is sad.
Marie says
I can’t wait, even if I am really nervous about it all haha 😀
OH yes, it was released… in early January, I think? I forgot about it until I saw that it was released last month, so you’re not alone haha. I hope you will read it soon, it was really great 🙂
I’m so happy you started university and I hope that this new life and rhythm is going well for you <3 <3 Thank you so much, shar! <3
flippingthruthepages says
I am so so jealous right now.. you are going to PARIS!! 🙁 It is my dream destination. God knows, when I’ll have a chance to go there. ANyways, I hope you enjoy your time 🙂
February was bad for me.. I was in a slump almost whole month and read just 3 books. You read quite good books and most of them are already on my TBR 😀
I am glad that you enjoyed your time away. Sometimes it is good to sit back and just relax 🙂 I hope March is much better for you 🙂
Marie says
Aww thank you so, so much, Sim! <3 Not too exotic for me since I live in the same country haha, but I'm thankful for the little getaway for sure 🙂 I will keep my fingers crossed that you'll be able to visit someday, I am sure that you will <3
Oh no, I'm so sorry you were in a slump 🙁 I hope that March has started out a bit better for you and that you will get to read amazing books <3 <3
Thank you so, so much for your sweet comment <3
flippingthruthepages says
Thanks Marie! I hope so too ?
Lais says
i wish i could be complaining about cold weather, but currently it’s so hot in brazil is not even funny. the weather has been difficult to deal with, but apart from that, february was actually a good month! for the carnaval holiday, i got to travel and meet new places, which i always appreciate. it wasn’t as exciting as paris or the eiffel tower, but it was still fun, hahah. school has been overwhelming, so i ended up with only one read, but it was six of crows and it was amazingggg! this book is so deserving of the hype it gets!
i’ve been away from the blogosphere for too long apparently, because i didn’t know about this lunar chronicles graphic novel! iko is my favorite character and this looks so adorable!
i hope you have a fantastic march, marie! <3
Marie says
Oh Lais, I miss you, how have you been? <3
I'd happily send you some of the cold and grey weather, if you want it, ahah 🙂
I'm so glad you had a great month overall, yay for traveling <3 and you've read six of crows so it's official, I am the only one left hahaha, I'm so happy you loved it though. I will read it someday, I promise haha 🙂
If Iko is your favorite, you should LOVE these graphic novels, they were fantastic! I can't wait for you to read them 🙂
I hope you're having an amazing month Lais, take care of yourself! Sending you all the love <3 <3
Danielle Hammelef says
I’ve only read great reviews on The Beauty that Remains so it’s on my must read list for my 2018 debut author challenge. I’m glad you liked The Belles as I’ve read mixed reviews on this one, yet it sounds so unique to me. Paris sounds so much fun and delicious too!
Marie says
Oh yay, I can’t wait for you to read both of these books, I loved them 🙂
Thank you so much, Danielle! I hope you’re having a lovely month 🙂
lry93 says
You had a great month! I have Girls Made Snow and Glass and The Belles only TBR! So glad to see you enjoyed them 🙂
Also, Go you on your WIP! I know a couple of indie authors and they just edit out bits where they need to as opposed to rewriting the whole thing etc. Hope you find a way that works for you! 🙂
Marie says
Oh yay, I’m so glad these books are already on your TBR, I loved both so much. Hopefully, you will feel the same way 😀
Thank you so much for your support, that means a lot <3 I hope you're having a lovely month so far 🙂
Camilla @ Reader in the Attic says
I’m so glad you had a good February, aside from the cold 😉 I’m so glad you will met Meyer and Schwab and that your reads have been great.
I love Paris! I’ve been there some years ago but I never managed to go back again 🙁
And take your time for the writing U_U
*me being vague and trying to bring someone into the dark side of writing “I’ve time but I’m tired so goodbye writing”…. I’m cruel, okay? *
But aside from kidding I will cheer for your editing ❤
Marie says
Oh thank you so much, Camilla! <3 Oh it's amazing that you already went there, hopefully you will be able to go back someday 🙂 <3
I will probably take a lot of time for that ahah, I am in no rush and very nervous about what I should and am supposed to do next… so I'll just wait and go on the dark side a little bit with you 😛 are you having trouble with your own writing? I'm always here if you ever need or want to talk about it 🙂
Thank you so, so much for your sweet words and support <3
Sophie Li says
Hello Marie!
That’s great to hear that you had a good reading month. That is SO exciting that you are going to Paris!! And VE Schwab will be there!!! I am so jealous right now :O :O Let me know about how it goes! I’ll have to live vicariously through you haha :’)
Congrats on re-reading your WIP! I’d say go ahead with the momentum and start editing! As for whether to rewrite small chunks or the entire thing, it depends on how much you want the novel to change. Are you happy with the main plot points and your characters, or are you wanting to make big changes? Are there specific scenes that you think require rewriting or removal from your story? Any that you want to keep? These are some things I had in mind when I was editing. I am by no means an expert but just want to share from my own experience 🙂 hope this helps!!
Thank you for the shoutout 😀 I am happy to have made your list!! Have a happy March Marie <3
Marie says
I promise, I will let you know everything, I might do a recap on the blog or something, I’m still unsure about it. I’m impatient but also reaaaaally nervous, as it is my first big bookish event ?
Thank you SO much, Sophie, you’re always such a huge help when it comes to writing, I’m so grateful to have you for that. I will definitely try to edit soon, I think that so far I need to work maybe on some world building and on some scenes a bit better… I don’t know where to start, but I will ? thank you for everything <3 <3
Sophie Li says
Oh my gosh!!! I would love to see a post about the event!! I get how you can be nervous, however I am sure it will be a great experience!!! 😀
Aw you are welcome Marie <3 Yes I do find it helpful to do some research and world building between edits, especially since I usually discover that that aspect is lacking when I re-read a draft 🙂 Good luck!!
Marie says
Aww thank you Sophie, I will see if I manage to write one or not haha, but I will tell you everything 😀
Thank you so much! 🙂 x
Amanda @Cover2CoverMom says
That’s so exciting that you will be traveling to Paris and attending a book festival! Even more so because V.E. Schwab will be there! She is about as awesome as you would expect in person.
It looks like you had a good reading & blogging month despite taking a week off! I ended up taking 2.5 weeks off myself, because life lol
I’m looking forward to seeing your thoughts on The Belles! I’ve seen lots of positive things about it, particularly where the world building is concerned.
Good luck with the editing process. I am zero help in this area lol
Happy reading & blogging in March 🙂
Marie says
Aww thank you so much Amanda! You already met her? That’s SO cool. I am really, really nervous about everything, it’s my first big event ? but I hope it will go well and that I won’t feel too awkward ?
My review for The Belles should be coming soon, but you’ll be happy to know that I really enjoyed it 🙂
Thank you so, so much! I hope you’re having a wonderful month so far <3 <3
Amanda @Cover2CoverMom says
I met Schwab last year at a small event. She’s just so freaking awesome! I wouldn’t be nervous, most authors are super down to Earth and truly appreciate you coming out to support them.
Marie says
Well, she was REALLY awesome. Still not over it haha.It’s so amazing and they’re all so sweet, you were right 🙂 x
theorangutanlibrarian says
hehe winter and I do not mix either 😉 Ahh have an amazing time in Paris and *fingers (and toes) crossed* that you will get to meet Meyer and Schwab!! Yay I’m always so delighted to see you loved Eliza as well!!! 😀 Well done on rereading your WIP! I definitely think you’ve probably got a good place to start with the list of changes you made- I usually like to start with lists of edits I’ve made, because I can get through them at a decent speed (and that always makes me feel better, cos then I’ve done some editing to get me started 😉 ) I also recommend either printing it out or track changes on word for making more finicky writing changes. I don’t know if any of this helps haha- but I hope it does!! Thank you so much for including my post!! <3 Awesome wrap up!
Marie says
Awww thank you so, so much, yes I’m keeping my fingers crossed, too 😀
This is such a great advice, thank you so much! I think that starting slow this way will maybe help me getting back into things, as I’ve avoided looking at the WIP for a couple weeks now, haha 🙂 this really helps a lot, thank you so much!! <3
theorangutanlibrarian says
You’re welcome!! 😀 I’m glad that’s helpful 🙂 hehe I understand that! You’re welcome!
Kat says
It’s so exciting that you’ll be going to Paris for a book fair, Marie. I hope you enjoy it (and fingers crossed for meeting the authors)! And wow, you’ve read so many books this month. As for the Good Place…AHHH. I feel you! I want it to come back so badly haha.
Marie says
Oh thank you so much, you’re so sweet! <3
YAY I am so glad you love this show as much as I do. I miss it SO BADLY already, ahah, I need it back right now <3
Marta says
Wow, you’re ahead of your challenge, Marie? ? My challenge looks so awful right now, I don’t even glance its way. No challenge for me. Nothing to see there.
I still can’t believe you’re going to meet V.E.Schwab, I’m so excited for you, it’s almost like I’m meeting her myself. As I told you before, please take lots of pictures with her ❤❤
I’m so proud of you for rereading your WIP, if you ever need me cheering on, know that I’m on Twitter! ❤ I know you can do it!!!
You’ve read amazing books this month too, so happy you loved The Belles since it was one of your most anticipated releases of the year!! ❤
Thanks for sharing my posts and other amazing posts as well. As always, you’re a beacon of positivity! ❤ I love youu!
Marie says
Yes, but that’s not too impressive, I didn’t set a high challenge, I just went with the same one from last year… one I knew I could do ??
Aw you are so, so sweet, I will do my best. To be honest, I have no idea if I will be able to take a picture with her, but I will take pictures of the event, my books and the city anyway ?
Thank you so, so much for your sweet words, your comments always make my day, you’re the best <3 <3 <3
Morgane @ Bookworms Eat Brains says
I have experience at screaming when it’s time to editing! ? It’s a small experience though, but I think rewriting– which means open an all-new document, re-type / everything! /, might be boring/painful but worth it!
Marie says
AHHH PLEASE SCREAM WITH ME, I need someone to scream with ?? Thank you so much for the tip… it sounds painful haha but I’ll have to try it out 🙂 x
Summer @ Xingsings says
You so deserve those no blogging (or less blogging in your case, haha) breaks, Marie! <3 And omg, macarons are like my new favorite thing but they are SO EXPENSIVE in the States. Is it the same way in France? Because CRIES I'd visit France just for the macarons (and you, of course!) if they were cheaper there. XD
Anyway, I hope you have a fantastic March, Marie! Don't work too hard. 🙂
– Summer at Xingsings
Marie says
Well…. to be honest, they’re quite expensive in France as well – probably a bit less than in the US, though, but still. It’s kind of an iconic dessert here, so… prices climb high really fast. They are WAY cheaper to make… if you manage to have the skills haha. I am trying 🙂 I’d LOVE to send you some someday but… I don’t know if that would pass in an international package haha 🙂
Thank you so, so much, Summer! <3 <3
Grace @ Rebel Mommy Book Blog says
The Good Place is the best! I am sad it is over. Paris sounds amazing. I have been once and would love to get back. Glad you liked Eliza. I have it and need to get to it. Have a great March!
Marie says
I miss The Good Place SO much. I can’t wait for the show to come back 🙂
Thank you so much, Grace! I hope that March is treating you well so far 🙂 x
Michelle @ Pink Polka Dot Books says
I’ve kinda been in the mood to read old school YA Dystopian too!! I missed the boat when it was a popular thing because I thought it was an annoying thing– but now, I’m like where is it all?? Anyway, glad you enjoyed UNDER THE NEVER SKY. That is definitely one I didn’t read yet. Also, very cool list of bloggers discussions!!! I definitely want to check some of those out 🙂
Marie says
Oh I hope you’ll give under the never sky a shot – I haven’t read dystopia in a while and it felt good to get back in that genre a little bit 🙂 x
thank you so, so much, Michelle! 🙂
Holly says
Feeling pressured to deliver certain content or to blog in a certain way/at a certain frequency is never fun! Breaks are a really great antidote for that situation, at least in my experiences. I hope you’re feeling a bit better about blogging and that your March is lovely! <3
Marie says
Thank you so, so much for your sweet words and your support, Holly, you’re so sweet <3 <3
Darque Dreamer Reads says
I need to jump in to The Belles soon!
Marie says
Oh yees you should, it was a lovely book 🙂 thank you so much for your comment!! 🙂
Darque Dreamer Reads says
?
Aj @ Read All The Things! says
Have fun in Paris! I’d love to go there someday, especially for a book fair. Good luck with your writing. I hope you’re having a great March!
Marie says
Oh thank you so, so much 🙂 I hope you’re having a lovely month as well! 🙂
Poulami @ Daydreaming Books says
Omooo!! Take me with you to the book fair!! *cries*
And I am proud of you too!! <3 You definitely progressed and we will move forward together. <3
Hope your March is going aweeeeesome!
Marie says
Awwww I’d love to, Poulami, if you can teleport yourself over here, you can come haha 🙂 x
Thank you so much!! x
Poulami @ Daydreaming Books says
When is Doraemon when you need him?
You’re welcome. <3
Zoie says
OMG a book fair?? That sounds so fun and cool! I’ve never been to Paris, but I’m looking forward to all your travel pictures during your trip there ? As for your WIP, it doesn’t matter how slow your progress in editing it — just the fact that you re-read your entire WIP is enough! I think it’s best if you let the story sit and grow for a bit if your truly don’t think it’s the right time to go edit it now — no one’s rushing you to edit your WIP but yourself, and you know how we all can sometimes be too hard on ourselves ? And I’m so glad to hear that you were able to take a few days of rest in February! Everyone deserves a break, and it’s nice to remind ourselves of that when we get stressed ? Good luck with working on your WIP, whether that means editing or just thinking about it, and I hope the rest of your March goes wonderfully!
Marie says
Oh thank you so much for your words of support, this means a whole lot to me <3 <3 I know I'm definitely too hard on myself when it comes to this, so I'm trying to take things slow 🙂
Thank you so, so much, I hope that March has been great to you so far! <3 <3