Top 10 Books I Can't Wait To Get My Greedy Hands On In 2014

With each new year come some amazing new books. And that means that I'll be completely and utterly broke this coming year (nothing new....). So worth it. Here are some books that I definitely plan on spending my hard-earned money on (in no particular order).

The Queen's Choice (Heirs of Chrior #1)

by Cayla Kluver

So, this is kind of a weird one because I'm not terribly excited about the synopsis of this book, yet, at the same time I strangely am excited for the book....weird. I have a love/hate relationship with Cayla Kluver's previous books (Legacy), yet they have stuck with me so obviously there is something there (the side characters). So, I'm actually looking forward to her newest series.

Cruel Beauty

by Rosamund Hodge

Fairy-tale retelling? Check. Tough chick for a protagonist? Yup. An intriguing, mysterious guy lead? You betcha. Add in a hate-turned-love relationship and I'm sold. Here's to hoping I get an ARC!

Cress (The Lunar Chronicles #3)

by Marissa Meyer

AHHHHHH!!!! OWIEJFAEKFJWOAIEFJALDKSFJWOIEJFAOWJF
OMG!!!!!I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!! AHHHHHH I NEED AN ARC NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AND MORE CAPTAIN THORNE!!!!! Okay, okay. I think I've calmed down a bit. But just a bit. I'm so excited for this book. This series is amazingly fun and you can't help but love all the characters. If there is one ARC I would do anything for, it's this one. 

Death Sworn (Death Sworn #1)

by Leah Cypess

One word: assassins.
I'm sold. 

*Side note - Totally in love with that cover! 

Sea of Shadows (Age of Legends #1)

by Kelley Armstrong 

"Accompanied by a stubborn imperial guard and a dashing condemned thief, the girls cross a once-empty wasteland, now filled with reawakened monsters of legend, as they travel to warn the emperor. But a terrible secret awaits them at court—one that will alter the balance of their world forever."

Dashing men, monsters and court politics makes this book sound like one fantastical fantasy adventure. 

Ruin and Rising (The Grisha #3)

by Leigh Bardugo
*Cover not final

I was blown away by the first book, and, although I didn't love (but still enjoyed) the second book (except for Sturmhond who is beyond amazing), I'm eagerly and impatiently awaiting this next installment. Also, with the other covers being so beautiful, I can't wait to see what this one is like!

The Murder Complex (The Murder Complex #1)

by Lindsay Cummings 

Sounds dark, bloody and action-packed....my kind of book. Add in an assassin and I think I'm in love. 

Midnight Thief (Midnight Thief #1)

by Livia Blackburne 

I love a good book about a talented thief! And more assassins! Yay! And sounds like there are some deliciously hot men in this book so I'm definitely looking forward to it.

The Blood of Olympus (The Heroes of Olympus #5)

by Rick Riordan
*Cover not final

This is the last and final (so far as I know) book of the Heroes of Olympus series and I can't be more sad, nostalgic and happy for it. I've yet to read the previous book, something which I hope to remedy soon, but I absolutely love this series. Rick Riordan is definitely one of my favorite authors and one of the few authors of which I'm actually glad decided to continue in the world they created after the conclusion of the original series. October is too far away. 

No Cover Yet: The Forever Song (Blood of Eden #3) by Julie Kagawa
After loving the first two books, how could I not look forward to the third installment? And after that ending?!?! Gah!

*Also, the third book in the Throne of Glass series should be on this list. However, since it doesn't have a cover, synopsis, or title, I didn't count it as one of the "10" per se, just an honorary mention. Even without these things I want it to get the love it deserves because this series is phenomenal :) Hint. Hint.

Quite frankly, these are but a few of the many books I'm looking forward to this new year. So many books, so little time.

So what books are y'all looking forward to this new year? Let me know in the comments below!

All the best ♥

Mackenzie 

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Life of a Blogger: Favorite Movies

I've been a huge fan of Jessi over at Novel Heartbeat (what used to be Aunti Spinelli Reads) for a while now so when I saw that she started this new post I just had to join in! What a novel idea (hehehe). Okay, that was corny, but I'm proud of it. This weeks topic?

Favorite Movies

Okay, for those of you who don't know, I may have a slight addiction to movies and TV. Alright, maybe "slight" is too soft a word. Ughhh...okay! It's a straight up addiction but NO SHAME! I love movies. There is a dollar theater next to my college and let me tell you I take advantage of it. 

So, to say this is a hard topic is an understatement. I'm usually rather easygoing when it comes to movies. A movie has to be really bad for me not to at least enjoy it a bit. My favorite genre? Action. If its got guns, car chases, sword fights or explosions, I'm happy. But I definitely have some favorites. Here are the movies that I love. Heck, that's an understatement. My joy, excitement and love for these movies cannot be described in sufficient words. These are truly phenomenal.

1. MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL. 

There are simply no words to describe how awesome this movie is. So, I thought I'd let the GIFs convince you.

Honestly, if these don't convince you, I don't know what will....

2. LORD OF THE RINGS TRILOGY:

The epicness that is these movies is indescribable. I have never gotten so involved in the characters and plot of a movie. The brotherhood, loyalty, and courage that is shown by these characters is beyond expression. And the bromances! Ugh....love them. These movies are simply phenomenal (with plenty of hot men!!).

Yes you do....

And best of all....

The Fresh Prince of Gondor

How have I never seen this before?!?!

3. HARRY POTTER MOVIES:

Okay, let me say this first: the movies are not nearly as good as the books. However, I love these movies because I love seeing what is perhaps my favorite books series come to life. I love seeing all these amazing characters brought to life and all the adventures they go through. Whenever the marathons come on ABC family you can bet that I'm sitting on my butt watching em!

4. LION KING: 

I simply had to add in my favorite Disney movie!

Just look at those moves. Sassy.

5. MAJOR PAYNE:

Damon Wayan. 'Nuff said. 

Words of Wisdom

Just look at those moves. 

In all honesty, this is a very short list and in no way lists all of my favorite movies. I have a ton. However, these are definitely movies that have stuck with me and that I could watch over and over again. And, I just wanted to keep it short and sweet. In short, I love stupid humor and EPIC ACTION MOVIES!

So, what are some of y'all favorite movies? Did they make my list? 

All the best ♥

Mackenzie 

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MERRY CHRISTMAS! and here are my "Top 12 books of 2013"

First off,

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

I hope y'all have an absolutely wonderful holiday filled with love, family, and, of course, presents! I know the holidays can be hectic but just remember that even when family is crazy (and believe me when I say I know how this is), it's still a blessing to get to spend time with them. And, as always, please remember our soldiers overseas who are unable to spend time with their family while fighting for your right to spend time with yours. 

Now, onto my Top Twleve List. 

 Even though 2013 has been a bust for me blogging wise, I did read some amazing books this year. So, without further ado, here are my top 12 of 2013 (in no particular order):

Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices #3)

by Cassandra Clare

OMGOMGOIMGFOAIJFOWIEJFOW!!!!!

Ok, now that that is out of my system, LSKDFJOWIJFOSDLKSF. Whoops, had a bit more in me :P

This book was amazing. Throughout this book my emotions were all over the place. Honestly, I didn't even want to read this book because I didn't want this series to end! This series was a pleasant surprise considering I didn't fall in love with her original series. But THIS series was phenomenal! Even months later I still haven't gotten my emotions together enough to write a review. In short: LOVEEEEE!

Falling Kingdoms (Falling Kingdoms #1)

by Morgan Rhodes (aka Michelle Rowan)

Fantasy = YESSSSSSS. 

I loved the diversity of the characters, the world, everything! Blood? Yes. Destruction? You bet. Rebellion? Absolutely. 

Endlessly (Paranormalcy #3) 

by Kiersten White

Another fantastic end to a fantastic series. I hated to see this series full of magic, wit, and action come to an end, but what a wonderful end it was! 

The Eternity Cure (Blood of Eden #2)

by Julie Kagawa 

AHHHHH!!! 

Just read my review and you'll understand. 

Scarlet (Lunar Chronicles #2) 

by Marissa Meyer 

First: A feisty and fiery heroine.

Second: Wolf - a hot street fighter. 

Third, and most importantly: Captain Thorne. DIBS!

While most sequels tend to fall short, this sequel did no such thing! Although this book is a sequel, it has it's own plot and set of characters that tie in with it's predecessor without being the same book. Meyers, I commend you. 

My Review

Dark Triumph (His Fair Assassin #2)

by Robin LaFevers

THE EMOTIONS!!!!!

Again, this is another book that had my emotions running so high that I've yet to write a review! While I absolutely adored Grave Mercy, that book was more politically based while this one was more of a personal story (and a sad one at that). While I prefer Grave Mercy for it's plot line, I couldn't help but feel lots of feels for Sybella and her hardships.

Something Strange and Deadly (Something Strange and Deadly #1)

by Susan Dennard

I thought I'd enjoy this book, but I didn't realize just how much! This book blew apart my expectations! 

First off, zombies. Add in a daring, caring, and risk-taking young woman, a dashing if not grumpy inventor, and action, you've got yourself a wonderful book.

Siege and Storm (The Grisha #2)

by Leigh Bardugo 

Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed with this book. But, wanna know who saved the day? Sturmhond.

Oh, you witty, charismatic, sarcasitic son-of-a-gun you. YOU made this book worth reading. Your wit and swagger made me swoon for you. See you in book 3.

Sweet Venom (Medusa Girls #1)

by Tara Lynn Childs 

Another book I was pleasantly surprised. Triplets who just happen to be the daughters of Medusa? Sounds fun. This book was chock full of fun with each daughter being unique and lovable in their own ways. Hoping to read book 2 soon!

Defiance (Defiance #1)

C.J. Redwine 

Rachel doesn't like the restrictions set upon her by the Commander all because she's a girl. Nope. She'd much rather track, hunt and get all fancy with the knives. My kinda gal. Add in Logan, a man who actually respects Rachel and is quiet, intelligent, loyal and kicks-butt and you've got yourself a fantastic set of protagonists. This book was a surprising roller coaster of emotions. And the Cursed One? I have a weird mix of confusion and intrigue when it comes to this creature and can't wait to read the second book!

The Mark of Athena (The Heroes of Olympus #3)

by Rick Riordan

Oh, Riordan. You never fail to bring the wit and action. This book, like all of its predecessors, is fantastic. Even though I still have the last couple chapters left, I've already added it to this list because it's that good. And that part that just happened? WHAT?!?! 

Okay, so I did save the best for last....

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2)

by Sarah J. Maas 

ALDKSFOQWIEJFADKSFQOWEIFJOAWDFIJOWQIRHGEOIGJASKDFJOWQIERFJOSGHAOWIERFJOAWJEFSAWJEFOAWIHFGOIAWRGHIUWHRFGISADFHIWJEFHIAWSUGBHIAWHFAWEFHILAFA

MY EMOTIONS!!!!!!! 

I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT TO WRITE! THIS SEQUEL EVEN BLEW IT'S PREDECESSOR OUT OF THE WATER! THE EMOTIONS! THE TURMOIL! THE ACTION! THE INTRIGUE!

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

All the best and Merry Christmas ♥

Mackenzie 

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Hex Hall (Hex Hall #1) by Rachel Hawkins

Hex Hall (Hex Hall #1)
by Rachel Hawkins
Source: Library
Pages: 323
Format: Hardback

Rating: DNF (but not for a bad reason!)

Goodreads Synopsis: 

Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.

By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.

As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

My Review: 

I know my rating says DNF, but don't jump to conclusions yet! Most of the time I DNF because, well, quite frankly, the book was flat out boring or I just hated it with the passion of a thousand fiery suns. Not the case. I actually really enjoyed this book! 

So why the DNF? Unfortunately, I had to return this book before I left the state. I know. So sad. But, even though this was a DNF for me, I wanted to spread the love I had for what few pages I read! Even though I didn't complete it, it was no doubt a fun book already. Sophie was wonderfully sarcastic and stubborn. Always a plus in my book. And Jenna? A pink loving vamp? Sure. Why not? ;) 

Overall:

A very good start! While I can't give a definitive rating because I failed to finish, what I did read was incredibly fun and I had a really good feeling about this book! I hope to pick it up again soon and give y'all a much better and more thorough review. 

All the best (and Happy late Thanksgiving!) ♥

Mackenzie 

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Waiting on Wednesday (34)

Waiting on Wednesday is a meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine in which we showcase upcoming releases we are eagerly anticipating. 

Across a Star Swept Sea (For Darkness Shows the Stars #2)

by Diana Peterfreund

Release Date: October 15, 2013

Goodreads Synopsis:

Centuries after wars nearly destroyed civilization, the two islands of New Pacifica stand alone, a terraformed paradise where even the Reduction—the devastating brain disorder that sparked the wars—is a distant memory. Yet on the isle of Galatea, an uprising against the ruling aristocrats has turned deadly. The revolutionaries’ weapon is a drug that damages their enemies’ brains, and the only hope is rescue by a mysterious spy known as the Wild Poppy.

On the neighboring island of Albion, no one suspects that the Wild Poppy is actually famously frivolous aristocrat Persis Blake. The teenager uses her shallow, socialite trappings to hide her true purpose: her gossipy flutternotes are encrypted plans, her pampered sea mink is genetically engineered for spying, and her well-publicized new romance with handsome Galatean medic Justen Helo… is her most dangerous mission ever.

Though Persis is falling for Justen, she can’t risk showing him her true self, especially once she learns he’s hiding far more than simply his disenchantment with his country’s revolution and his undeniable attraction to the silly socialite he’s pretending to love. His darkest secret could plunge both islands into a new dark age, and Persis realizes that when it comes to Justen Helo, she’s not only risking her heart, she’s risking the world she’s sworn to protect.

In this thrilling adventure inspired by The Scarlet Pimpernel, Diana Peterfreund creates an exquisitely rendered world where nothing is as it seems and two teens with very different pasts fight for a future only they dare to imagine.

Why I'm Waiting:

I know this book is already out, but I'm technically still waiting on it since I haven't been able to read it yet :) Besides, this deserves its own post because it sounds amazing! A ditzy socialite who is actually and incredible spy?! A hottie with a secret?! This book just sounds chock full of secrets and mysteries tangled up in one epic book! 

So what are y'all waiting on this fine Wednesday?
Be sure to let me know in the comments below!

All the best ♥
Mackenzie 

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Waiting on Wednesday (33): A day late

Waiting on Wednesday is a meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine in which we showcase upcoming releases we are eagerly anticipating. 

Inhuman (Fetch #1)

by Kat Falls

Goodreads Synopsis:

In a world ravaged by mutation, a teenage girl must travel into the forbidden Savage Zone to recover lost artifacts or her father’s life is forfeit.

America has been ravaged by a war that has left the eastern half of the country riddled with mutation. Many of the people there exhibit varying degrees of animal traits. Even the plantlife has gone feral.

Crossing from west to east is supposed to be forbidden, but sometimes it’s necessary. Some enter the Savage Zone to provide humanitarian relief. Sixteen-year-old Lane’s father goes there to retrieve lost artifacts—he is a Fetch. It’s a dangerous life, but rewarding—until he’s caught.

Desperate to save her father, Lane agrees to complete his latest job. That means leaving behind her life of comfort and risking life and limb—and her very DNA—in the Savage Zone. But she’s not alone. In order to complete her objective, Lane strikes a deal with handsome, roguish Rafe. In exchange for his help as a guide, Lane is supposed to sneak him back west. But though Rafe doesn’t exhibit any signs of “manimal” mutation, he’s hardly civilized . . . and he may not be trustworthy.

Why I'm Waiting:

She had me at "handsome, roguish Rafe". Need I say more?

Okay, I'll say more ;) 

Here are 3 reasons, besides the obvious rogue, that I'm looking forward to this book.

1. Post-apocalyptic-ish. I'm a sucker for that.

2. Mutations? I'm game.

3. Kick-butt heroine? I can only hope. 

So are y'all looking forward to this seemingly action/adventure packed book? Let me know in the comments below!

All the best ♥

Mackenzie 

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Sorry for the unexplained absence!

Hey guys! 

So, in case y'all haven't noticed, I've been MIA these past couple weeks. Sorry about that. I headed back to school and was getting all my classes, books, dorm and life in general together. But, alas, I am back. I know y'all are excited to hear that. 

So what do I have planned? Well, this week will probably only be two memes (Waiting on Wednesday and Stacking the Shelves), but come next week I'll start back up with reviews! Woohoo!!!! 

Now, to get to writing those reviews!

All the best ♥

Mackenzie 

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Waiting on Wednesday (32)

Waiting on Wednesday is a meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine in which we showcase upcoming releases we are eagerly anticipating. 

What I'm Waiting on:

The Falconer (The Falconer #1)

by Elizabeth May

Goodreads Synopsis:

Heiress. Debutant. Murderer. A new generation of heroines has arrived.

Edinburgh, Scotland, 1844

Lady Aileana Kameron, the only daughter of the Marquess of Douglas, was destined for a life carefully planned around Edinburgh’s social events – right up until a faery killed her mother.

Now it’s the 1844 winter season and Aileana slaughters faeries in secret, in between the endless round of parties, tea and balls. Armed with modified percussion pistols and explosives, she sheds her aristocratic facade every night to go hunting. She’s determined to track down the faery who murdered her mother, and to destroy any who prey on humans in the city’s many dark alleyways.

But the balance between high society and her private war is a delicate one, and as the fae infiltrate the ballroom and Aileana’s father returns home, she has decisions to make. How much is she willing to lose – and just how far will Aileana go for revenge?

Why I'm Waiting:

Read the cover -

"Deputante, Fae-slayer, Murderer"

Um.......awesome! 

I'm sold. 

Must. Have. Nowwwww.

All the best ♥

Mackenzie

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Beat the Heat Readathon Progress Report (Updated Daily!)

*Format inspired by Auntie Spinelli's awesome blog progress post! 

Monday 7/29
Currently reading: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Progress: 40%
Books completed: None

Tuesday 7/30
Currently reading: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Progress: 64%
Books completed: none

Notes: Unfortunately, I didn't read as much as I wanted. I got sidetracked by Pretty Little Liars. Curse Netflix and it's many seasons of shows....

Wednesday 7/31
Currently reading: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Progress:  NONE
Books completed: NONE!
Notes: I read nothing. Absolutely nothing yesterday. I didn't even pick up my Kindle, much less turn the freaking thing on. I'll be better today. I promise! My goal is to finish this book by tomorrow morning and get started on the next. What should I read? 

Thursday 8/1
Currently reading: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Progress: 70%
Books completed today: None
Notes: Um....hardly read any. Yet again. 

Friday 8/2
Currently reading: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Progress: 74%
Books completed today: None
Notes: Wow....a whopping 4%...I'm just that good :P It seems whenever I plan to read, I never actually do. It has to be spontaneous! But I WILL finish this book by tomorrow. Challenge accepted. 

Saturday 8/3
Currently reading: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Progress: 100%
Books completed today: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Notes: I honestly am at a loss of words for how absolutely amazing this book was. If I could give it a thousand stars I would. Actually, even that wouldn't cover it. Hopefully I will be able to make a coherent review of this absolutely wonderful book. 

Sunday 8/4
Currently reading: Nothing
Progress: Nothing
Books completed today: None

WEEK 1 SUMMARY

Books I completed this week: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

                                                                                                                       

Monday 8/5
Currently reading: Sweet Venom by Tara Lynn Childs
Progress: 100 of 344
Books completed today: None

Tuesday 8/6
Currently reading: Sweet Venom by Tara Lynn Childs
Progress: 261
Books completed today: None

Notes: So far, Sweet Venom is a fun, mythological adventure! The three girls are about as different as you can possibly get, yet I love all three of them! Though, Greer is a bit hard to like, I understand where she's coming from so I feel as if she'll redeem herself :) 

Wednesday 8/7
Currently reading: Sweet Venom by Tara Lynn Childs
Progress: COMPLETED!!
Books completed today: Sweet Venom by Tara Lynn Childs
Notes: What a fun adventure! I love how distinctly different the girls are! However, I was wishing for a bit more plot wise. Overall, definitely worth reading!

Thursday 8/8
Currently reading: Defiance by C. J. Redwine
Progress: 6%
Books completed today: None
Notes: This one has been on my radar for a while so I'm excited to get started! 

Friday 8/9
Currently reading: Defiance by C. J. Redwine 
Progress: 26%
Books completed today: None

Saturday 8/10
Currently reading: 
Progress: 
Books completed today:

Sunday 8/11
Currently reading: 
Progress:
Books completed today:

WEEK 2 SUMMARY

Books I completed this week:  

2 WEEK FINAL SUMMARY
Total # pages read: 
Total time spent reading: 
All books completed:  

All the best ♥

Mackenzie

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Beat the Heat Read-A-Thon!

• The Beat the Heat Readathon runs from July 29th through August 11th. What does this readathon entail, you ask? Well, read as much or as little as you want – the main point is to READ! You set your own goal, and for two weeks you read as many books as you can/want to reach your goal!
• There will be mini-challenges throughout the Readathon for participants, along with a grand prize giveaway at the end!
• Sign up at Auntie Spinelli Reads or Phantasmic Reads. You may join whenever you like, but to be eligible for our grand prize giveaway, you must sign up by August 5th.
• To join, all you have to do is make a sign-up post – even if it’s just a “Let’s do this!” thing - and add your post URL to the linky below! You can put your goals and progress (will be required for the final giveaway) in your sign-up post, or you can make it separate. Totally up to you! Feel free to copy and paste this handy little list for your post. We don’t mind. :)
• In order to enter for the grand prize, you must have a post to keep track of your progress so we can see that you participated.

*Progress post coming later tonight!*

So...I know I said I probably wouldn't participate in another read-a-thon, but I lied. Sue me. This one is totally worth it! This is the last leg of summer before school starts up again so I decided to go out with a bang! Well, probably not a bang because, let's face it, who knows how much I'll read. But, it'll be fun participating in the challenges and at least pushing myself. Both of the other challenges I participated in I only set my goal at 3 books, which I barely finished, if I finished at all. I admit it, I can be a slow reader and I also don't know how much time I'll have to read because of my volunteering and getting last minute stuff ready for school, so my goal will be small but that's okay! Honestly, if I finish 3 or 4 books I'll be incredibly happy! 

I'm currently reading Crown of Midnight and OKMSDFLKAJGADKLSFSDFISFL!!! Okay....calming down. It's good. Obviously.

Future books - I don't really know for sure what books I'm going to read, but here's a list of books I'm going to choose from (a lot of them have sequels coming out or I've had them a while and just want to read em!): 

        

I really don't know what books I want to read so I'm asking y'all to help me out. What books do y'all recommend? 

And are y'all participating? 

Let me know in the comments below!

All the best ♥

Mackenzie 

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