Top Ten Favorite Heroines From Books

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner.

I haven’t had much time to blog these days due to work commitments. Nevertheless I always makes some time for #TopTenTuesday particularly when the topics are something I am familiar with. The topic for today is ‘Top Ten Favorite Heroines From Books’. Since the books that I read tend to be romantic in nature, it’s hard to shortlist my list of favourite heroines. After giving it much thought, I decided to write my ten favourite heroines as well as some snippets from their books or fans’ reviews that describe their characteristics/personality:

Louise Downe in ‘Silver Lining’ by Maggie Osbourne

‘Silver Lining’ by Maggie Osborne

I love this scene (refer below) where Mother McCord told her son Max about Louise’s character. It perfectly describes one of Louise’s characteristics.

“I’ve always known what you were thinking. You’re squeezing that marble in your pocket and you’re thinking your cattle wouldn’t be at risk if it weren’t for Louise. And maybe you’re right. But take a hard look, son. When you see that woman working up a sweat pitching hay like a hired hand … you’re looking at character.”

“And if we ever have another family dinner that goes like the last one did, you pay attention. I have an idea that your Louise doesn’t sit still for too many insults, and I imagine she could cut someone down to size in about three sentences if she wanted to. But she sat silent while Philadelphia ridiculed and belittled her. Louise did this out of respect for you and this family. That is also character.”

Katherine James in ‘Naked Edge’ by Pamela Clare

Katherine James is proud of her Native American heritage and wants to be a voice for the Navajo community. She is a modern woman who lives in a big city but she still practices the traditional values. She isn’t easily offended when people questioned about her old-fashioned beliefs. She educates those who are unaware of Navajo customs.

If you’d like to read about the inspiration for Naked Edge, click here.

‘Naked Edge’ by Pamela Clare

Alyssa Locke in Suzanne Brockmann‘s Troubleshooters series

‘Gone Too Far’ by Suzanne Brockmann

Alyssa Locke is a kickass FBI agent. Her story is told in several books in the Troubleshooter series. This blog post perfectly summarises the characteristics of Alyssa Locke.

Marguerite Perruquet in Joey W. Hill‘s ‘Nature of Desire’ series

Marguerite was prominently featured in ‘Ice Queen’ & Mirror of My Soul’

Forget Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy. If you want to read emotionally-gripping BDSM romance book(s), read Joey W. Hill’s Nature of Desire series. Marguerite is my favourite character because of her vulnerability. Plus she owns a tea shop and teaches tea drinking ceremony!

Laurel Wilkins in ‘Mouth to Mouth’ by Erin McCarthy

‘Mouth to Mouth’ by Erin McCarthy

This book is refreshing because it features a heroine who has hearing impairment. Laurel is caught between the deaf and hearing worlds. Laurel is able to live a pretty normal life because she doesn’t allow her disability to define her.

Risa Clay in ‘Sweet Southern Betrayal’ by Robin Covington

‘Sweet Southern Betrayal’ by Robin Covington

I ❤ Risa because of her sassiness and confidence. She also one of the toughest, kindest and most affectionate heroines I have encountered. Another reason I like Risa: her vulnerability. She wasn’t afraid to tell about her misfortunes.

“You deserve to have someone take care of you once in a while.”

Risa stiffened at his words, her back rigid and tight. “That kind of thinking is for princesses who grew up in castles, not for girls who’d gone from one crappy foster home to another.”

“You don’t think you deserve that?

“You learn not to want stuff like that when…” She cleared her throat, unable to explain her life to someone with his background. “You just don’t.”

Liberty Jones in ‘Sugar Daddy’ by Lisa Kleypas

‘Sugar Daddy’ by Lisa Kleypas

What I love about Liberty Jones is that she takes her responsibilities very seriously. She could have placed her younger sister in foster care when their mother died but she took the guardianship of her sister. She forgives Carrington even when she throws tantrum (as seen in this scene):

I went to the far end of the kitchen where my sister was standing. Her small face was tense and anxious, her hair comically wild like a troll doll’s. She looked as if she were going to cry. “Liberty…”

When you love a child, you forgive her before she can even ask. Basically you’ve already forgiven her for things she hasn’t even done yet. “It’s okay,” I murmured, reaching for her. “It’s okay, baby.”

Carrington rushed forward, her skinny arms closing tight around me. “I’m sorry,” she said tearfully. “I didn’t mean the stuff I said, any of it—.”

“I know.”

Clare Abshire in ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ by Audrey Niffenegger

‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ by Audrey Niffenegger

Although this story has a science fiction element (time-travelling) in its plot, in essence it is a love story that is relatable. I love Clare’s strength in dealing with Henry’s curse – she’s so patient and loyal. She believes in fate and doesn’t want to change its course even though she could (by choosing another man).

Penelope Featherington in ‘Romancing Mister Bridgerton’ by Julia Quinn

‘Romancing Mister Bridgerton’ by Julia Quinn

Penelope is intelligent and independent unlike other women in that era. She is unfazed by what society thinks of her and does not mind poking fun at herself. I love it when Colin realised that Penelope is a truly wonderful woman:

She was amazing. He didn’t know how he hadn’t realized it before, when he’d already known that she was smart and lovely and witty and resourceful. But all those adjectives, and a whole host more he hadn’t yet thought of, did not add up to the true measure of her.

She was amazing.

Rionna McDonald in ‘Never Love a Highlander’ by Maya Banks

‘Never Love a Highlander’ by Maya Banks

Rionna is not a dainty lass; she knows how to wield a sword. She is willing to sacrifice her life to ensure the safety of her beloved. One of my favourite lines from the book indicates her humbleness:

“I wish I could say I thought of all that just before I thrust my sword through Cameron’s back, but ’tis the truth, my only aim was to prevent him from killing my husband,” she said ruefully.

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Forgive me for not including Jane Eyre (‘Jane Eyre’), Emma Woodhoouse (‘Emma’), Daisy Devreaux (‘Kiss an Angel’), Evangeline “Evie” Jenner (‘A Devil in Winter’), Meredith Bancroft (‘Paradise’) and Danika (‘Bad Things’, ‘Rock Bottom’ & ‘Lovely Trigger’). They were already heavily featured in my previous Top Ten Tuesday posts.

What have you selected for today’s topic? Share your list of favourite heroines in the comment box below.

Top Ten Things I Like & Dislike When It Comes to Romances in Books

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner.

Tuesday is my favourite day to blog because of #TopTenTuesday. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so this week’s topic is all about ❤ – ‘Top Ten Things I Like & Dislike When It Comes to Romances in Books’.

Things I Like When It Comes to Romances in Books

• Great character growth

A great example of a romance novel that features this point is ‘Kiss An Angel’ by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. At the start of the book, Daisy Devreaux was a flighty socialite who had money problems. To solve the problem, her father coerced her into marrying a brooding circus worker named Alex Markov. As the story progressed, her views on hard work & money changed:

“I found all kinds of thrift stores and second-hand shops in the towns we’ve visited. Do you know I’d never been in a Wal-Mart until two weeks ago? It’s amazing how far you can stretch a dollar if you’re careful, and-“

Alex too changed over the course of the book. The no-nonsense and uptight hero started to lighten up and became affectionate as he spent more time with his wife.

“It figures,” she grumbled through her own smile. “Alex Markov finally laughs, and it’s at my expense.”

I cannot stop raving about this book so I collect relevant pins. If I’m in mood for a familiar love story, this is my go-to book.

One of the many covers for ‘Kiss an Angel’

• Tender/intimate gestures

When there are many intimate gestures in a love story, it makes the romance more believable. I was pleasantly surprised by Cora Reilly’s ‘Bound by Honor’ because of emotional intensity of Aria’s and Luca’s love. There was a sexual tension between them but they took time to develop their relationship. Ms Reilly used many non-sexual gestures to build up their romance, for example:

I wasn’t sure why but I reached out and put my hand on his leg. His eyes snapped toward me briefly, then he covered my hand with his until he needed it to shift gears again.

He traced my lips with his thumb, then brushed my cheek.

I just swoon whenever these gestures are present. I try to find relevant pins for my Pinterest board about this novel.

‘Bound by Honor’ by Cora Reilly

• Successful heroines

I grew up listening to Destiny’s Child and one of my favourite songs is ‘Independent Women, Pt. 1.’ I love a romance book or movie that features a successful career woman. One of my favourite established heroines is Anne Calhoun‘s Lacey in ‘Liberating Lacey’.

“I take care of me, Hunter.” Now she sounded as flat as he did. “I make my own money. There are very few men in this city who out-earn me and I have a very large trust fund, leaving me with a very small pool from which to choose if my goal were a man who could support me. I married for love the first time and if I marry again, it will be for the same reason. Never for money.”

I feel empowered just by reading that paragraph.

‘Liberating Lacey’ by Anne Calhoun

Top Ten Books I Can’t Believe I Haven’t Read From Romance Genre

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner. This post contains spoilers so kindly skim it to avoid too much information.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original meme started by The Broke and the Bookish. Every week there is a specific bookish topic, which will be discussed and shared among bloggers.

Today’s topic is about books that a blogger cannot believe s/he has not read in a particular genre. Since I am an avid fan of romance novels, here are my top ten romances books that I cannot believe I haven’t read.

‘Pride & Prejudice’ by Jane Austen

I have seen so many adaptations (movies, BBC tv series & even webseries) but somehow I just don’t feel the urge to read its original source. Any tips?

One of the many book covers for ‘Pride and Prejudice’

‘Wuthering Heights’ by Emily Brontë

I have not read the book nor watched any adaptations. I would be more willing to read the book if I had watched a good movie adaptation. What’s the best adaptation of ‘Wuthering Heights’?

One of the many covers for ‘Wuthering Heights’

‘Romeo & Juliet’ by William Shakespeare

I enjoy Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo & Juliet but I think the suicidal pact is silly. Juliet was too young to sacrifice her life to be with her ‘true’ love.

‘One of the many book covers for ‘Romeo & Juliet’

‘Fifty Shades’ trilogy by E.L. James

I don’t mind reading erotic romance but I steer away from bad writing. I manage to avoid these books since the trilogy went mainstream in 2012. However I wouldn’t mind watching the movie though I wish Charlie Hunnam had stayed on to play Christian Grey.

Perhaps the most talked about book in romance genre

‘Tangled’ by Emma Chase

I’ve had this book in my ‘To be read’ list ever since it won Goodreads Choice for Debut Author in 2013. I bought a cheaper copy online last month – I couldn’t wait to read it. I have high expectations!

‘Tangled’ by Emma Chase

‘The Edge of Always’ by J.A. Redmerski

I couldn’t wait for the sequel after reading ‘The Edge of Never’. It’s been almost two years since ‘The Edge of Always’ was published but I always contemplate buying a copy. I’m afraid of disappointment.

‘The Edge of Always’ by J.A. Redmerski

‘Breakable’ by Tammara Webber

I purchased a copy last August but I still haven’t read it. New adult books tend to focus a lot on angst. I’m waiting for the right mood to strike.

‘Breakable’ by Tammara Webber

‘Entice’ by Ella Frank

I simply love ‘Exquisite’, the first book in a trilogy by Ella Frank. Her writing is so brilliant that I was hooked from the start till the end of the novel. What delays me from reading book #2? The price of a paperback copy – it’s twice the cost of a mass-market paperback novel. Fret not, I will read once I the trilogy!

Newer cover for ‘Entice’ by Ella Frank

‘Gone Too Far’ by Suzanne Brockmann

I love reading Sam Starrett and Alyssa Locke’s interactions in books 2, 3 & 4 of Ms Brockmann’s Troubleshooter series. I’ve read reviews of ‘Gone Too Far’ (yay for happy ending) but haven’t had time to read books 1 & 5.

‘Gone too far’ by Suzanne Brockmann

‘Mine Till Midnight’ by Lisa Kleypas

I bought this copy because of the cameos by Sebastian St. Vincent and Evie Jenner (they are one of my favourite book couples). Will pick up this book when I feel like reading meatier romance.

‘Mine Till Midnight’ by Lisa Kleypas

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What do you think of my selection? Which books make into your list of books you couldn’t believe you haven’t read? Share your link below and I’ll visit your entry.

Ten Books I’d Love to Read With My Book Club

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner. This post contains spoilers so kindly skim it to avoid too much information.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original meme started by The Broke and the Bookish. Every week there is a specific bookish topic, which will be discussed and shared among bloggers. Today’s topic excites me because my friends & I initiated a book club for a youth organisation close to our hearts. We have wonderful discussion on a particular book every month. I always look forward to our book discussion.

My choice of Ten Books I’d Love to Read with My Book Club are…

‘The Rosie Project’ by Graeme Simsion

Cover by Simon & Schuster; published in 2013

I noticed this novel a couple of months ago when Sony Pictures bought the rights to adapt the novel. My interest piqued when Bill Gates posted about the book on his Facebook. I got a copy at a book sale and am looking forward to reading it next year.

Possible topics of discussion:

• Is there any difference of writing styles between male and female romance author?
• Can true love be found using a formula? What about matchmaking websites?
• Don Tillman’s peculiarity

 

 

‘The Hunger Games’ trilogy by Suzanne Collins

Cover by Scholastic; published in 2011

I enjoy reading novels with dystopia theme and ‘The Hunger Games’ trilogy is one of my favourites. I believe the books need to be discussed individually. ‘Mockingjay’ is my favourite book because of its darker themes. Therefore I would love to hear other people’s views on:

• Reality tv shows – compare them to ‘The Hunger Games’
• Propaganda & tokenism – Katniss as a “symbol” to unite other districts
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder after winning the Hunger Games – I’d love to read more about Haymitch’s point of view

 

‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell

Cover by Penguin; published in 2008

 

George Orwell’s books are popular for book club discussions and some consider this as a children’s book. So why not use this book to lure more members to come to a book discussion?

Possible topics of discussion:

• Propaganda against communism / Russia
• If George Orwell had used human characters instead of animals, would the novel still be influential?
• How do young readers comprehend the political aspects of the novel? (I’m intrigued that this novel is marketed as a children’s book)

 

 

‘My Sister’s Keeper’ by Jodi Picoult

Cover by Washington Square Press; published in 2005

This novel provokes a lot of after-thoughts, such as:

• The novel is told from many different viewpoints. What do you think if it was written in just single (Anna’s) or double viewpoints (Anna’s & Sarah’s)?
• What do you think of designer baby? In this case, a baby was conceived to save an older sibling.
• What do you think of the parenting style?

 

 

 

Cover by Harper Perennial, published in 2006

 

‘We Need to Talk about Kevin’ by Lionel Shriver

I was emotionally exhausted when I finished reading this book. Nevertheless, I would love to spend 1-2 hours talking about this book. Questions that still linger in my mind:

• Did Kevin respect and love Eva at all?
• Who do you blame for Kevin’s atrocious behaviour? Himself or the parents?
• Contrast the parenting styles of Franklin and those of Eva.

 

 

‘Looking for Alaska’ by John Green

Cover by Speak; published in 2006

I have only read ‘Looking for Alaska’ and ‘The Fault in Our Stars’. I really enjoyed the former than the latter even though ‘Looking for Alaska’ is a much older work and less popular work (this might change once the movie goes into production). I like how human existence is dealt in this book. Some questions I would ask in a book discussion are:

• John Green divided the story into two parts: ‘before’ and ‘after’. What do you think of this structure of storytelling?
• What happened the night Alaska died? Did she kill herself or was it an accident?
• What is the most important question human beings must answer? Choose your question wisely, and then examine how Islam, Buddhism and Christianity attempt to answer it.

 

‘In Cold Blood’ by Truman Capote

Cover by Penguin; published in 2012

I watched ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ a couple of years ago when I was in a ‘Hepburn’ phase. After watching the movie, I assumed he wrote fluff pieces. Whoa, I was so wrong. This book was compelling – I couldn’t believe that ‘In Cold Blood’ is a true crime! There are many questions that I’d like to explore:

• What kind of men were Richard Hickock and Perry Smith? Compare and contrast their backgrounds.
• Do you think Mr Capote give a just/unbiased representation of Richard Hickock and Perry Smith?
• If the murder victims weren’t as white, prosperous, or well-liked as the Clutter family, do you think this book would be well-received and adapted into a movie?

 

‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ by Neil Gaiman

Cover by Headline Publishing Group; published in 2014

 

I have only read one of the author’s work – ‘Neverwhere’. I enjoyed the depictions of London but I dislike Richard Mayhew and the pacing of the story. Nevertheless, I am keen to give Mr Gaiman another go.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘A Monster Calls’ by Patrick Ness 

Cover by Candlewick Press; published in 2013

 

This is another book in my ‘to-be-read’ list. I have never read Patrick Ness’s work before but I purchased this novel after reading about its book-to-movie adaptation. I’d like to recommend this book to my reading group because of (1) the adaptation and (2) the genre – we don’t have a horror book in our list!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Cover by Harcourt, Inc. Published in 2000

 

My former housemate gave me a Spanish copy of ‘The Little Prince’ as a parting gift (hablo un poco español :)). I was curious about the book so I searched for it via Google. The book seems to be a favourite choice amongst book lovers. By adding this book to my book club’s reading list, I hope more members will attend the monthly discussions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Are you part of a book club/reading group? What questions should I ask during a discussion? I would love to read your book suggestions as well as discussion questions. Please share them in the comment box below.

Top Ten Most Eagerly-awaited Book-inspired Movies

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner. This post contains spoilers so kindly skim it if you don’t want too know in detail.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original meme started by The Broke and the Bookish in an effort to encourage bloggers to discuss about books. There is a new topic every Tuesday.

Today, bloggers can choose any topics that they’d like to write about. There are many book-inspired movies that will be released in 2015. Here is a list of ten book adaptations that I look forward to this year.

In the Heart of the Sea

Based on: ‘In the Heart of the Sea’ by Nathaniel Philbrick
Movie release date: 13th of March 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Cast and/or crew – This Ron Howard-directed movie stars Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson & Ben Whishaw
2. Fascinating storyline – it’s a sea adventure that involves a whale!

Watch the trailer below.

Paper Towns

Based on: ‘Paper Towns’ by John Green
Movie release date: 19th of June 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Cast and/or crew – The script is written by Scott Neustadter & Michael H. Weber (the duo who wrote ‘(500) Days of Summer’ and ‘The Fault in Our Stars’). I also like Nat Wolff’s acting in ‘The Fault in Our Stars’.
2. John Green – I have read ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ and ‘Looking for Alaska but not this (yet). I’d like to explore more of his writing so I shall borrow from a friend.

There is no trailer yet but click here to read my blog post on the movie.

Me Before You

Based on: ‘Me Before You’ by Jojo Moyes
Movie release date: 21st of August 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Fascinating storyline – a romance story involving a paralysed man. I haven’t read any of Ms Moyes’s work but this movie prompts me to put this book in my to-be-read pile.
2. Cast and/or crew – In an interview for ‘Love, Rosie’ (another book-turned-movie), Sam Claflin mentioned that he’d like to play a physically and emotionally challenged character. I look forward to seeing him in that role.

There is no trailer yet but click here to read my blog post on the movie.

Black Mass

Based on: ‘Black Mass: The True Story of an Unholy Alliance Between the FBI and the Irish Mob’ by Dick Lehr and Gerard O’neill
Movie release date: 18th of September 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Fascinating storyline – it’s based on a true story about 2 childhood friends who end up on opposite sides of the law – one is a FBI agent while the other is a part of an Irish mob.
2. Cast and/or crew – Benedict Cumberbatch.

Victor Frankenstein

Inspired by: ‘Frankenstein’ by Mary Shelley
Movie release date: 2nd of October 2015
Reasons to watch: 
1. Fascinating storyline – Told from Igor’s perspective, movie goers will get to see how Victor Frankenstein transforms from a medical student to the man who created The Monster.
2. Cast and/or crew – Igor is played by Daniel Radcliffe while James McAvoy takes on the role of Victor Frankenstein.

Mockingjay Part 2

Based on: ‘Mockingjay’ by Suzanne Collins
Movie release date: 20th of November 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Fascinating storyline – It’s my favourite book out of the trilogy. I enjoyed reading the book because of its darker themes (war, post-traumatic stress disorder, displacement, tokenism etc.).
2. Cast and/or crew – Francis Lawrence did a great job directing ‘Catching Fire’ and ‘Mockingjay: Part 1’ – I dislike Gary Ross’s direction in ‘The Hunger Games’. As for the cast, I’d love to see more of Haymitch because he’s my favourite character in the book.

Macbeth

Based on: ‘Macbeth’ by William Shakespeare
Movie release date: 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Cast and/or crew – Michael Fassbender. In my humble opinion, he’s the best actor in his generation.

Michael Fassbender as Macbeth

Dark Places

Based on: ‘Dark Places’ by Gillian Flynn
Movie release date: 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Fascinating storyline – It’s about a woman who survived brutal killing of her parents. She meets crime enthusiasts, revisits the murder case and starts to see the case from a different angle. After reading the synopsis of the book, I am compelled to read the book. Book is now in my to-be-read list.

High-Rise

Based on: ‘High Rise’ by J.G. Ballard
Movie release date: 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. Fascinating storyline – The book has been described as ‘Lord of the Flies inside an apartment’. I’m going to read the book!
2. Cast and/or crew – Tom Hiddleston. As much as I enjoy watching him as Loki, I’d love to watch him in a meatier role.

The Secret Scripture

Based on: ‘The Secret Scripture’ by Sebastian Barry
Movie release date: 2015
Reasons to watch:
1. The book – I started reading this book a couple of weeks ago but put it on hold to start reading another book (for my monthly book club meets). I found out about the movie when I conducted research for this blog post.
2. Cast and/or crew – I haven’t watched Jim Sheridan’s works but I know he has an impressive portfolio. Now that I know about the casting of Vanessa Redgrave (as older Roseanne) Eric Bana (as Dr William Greene), it would be much easier to be immersed in the story.

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Do you have any of these movies in your watchlist? What are your book-inspired movies that you look forward to this year? Check out the links for ideas and then let me know in the comment box below.

• 21 Books To Read Before They Hit The Big Screen In 2015
• 38 Books Becoming 2015 Movies
• 5 Most Anticipated Book Adaptations of 2015
• 8 Books To Read Before They Become Movies in 2015

Top Ten Most Anticipated Debut Novels For 2015

Happy New Year, readers!

Let’s start the year with a fun post – a ‘Top Ten Tuesday’ post. ‘Top Ten Tuesday’ is a weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish in an effort to encourage bloggers to talk about books.

The topic for the first Tuesday in 2015 is ‘ Top Ten Most Anticipated Debut Novels For 2015’. Here is a list of books that would be a great addition to SS Readers Corner:

‘Private Vegas’ by James Patterson

Expected release date: 26th of January 2015
Genre: Thriller

‘Private Vegas’ by James Patterson

‘We are Pirates’ by Daniel Handler

Expected release date: 3rd of February 2015
Genre: General fiction

‘We are Pirates’ by Daniel Handler

‘Mightier than The Sword’ by Jeffrey Archer

Expected release date: 24th of February 2015
Genre: Thriller

‘Mightier than the Sword’ by Jeffrey Archer

‘Prodigal Son’ by Danielle Steel

Expected release date: 24th of February 2015
Genre: General Fiction

‘Prodigal Son’ by Danielle Steel

‘The Buried Giant’ by Kazuo Ishiguro

Expected publication: 5th of March 2015
Genre: General Fiction

‘The Buried Giant’ by Kazuo Ishiguro

‘Memory Man’ by David Baldacci

Expected release date: 21st of April 2015
Genre: Thriller

‘Memory Man’ by David Baldacci

‘Darkest Before Dawn’ by Maya Banks

Expected release: 2nd of June 2015
Genre: Romantic suspense

‘Darkest before Dawn’ by Maya Banks

‘In The Unlikely Event’ by Judy Blume

Expected release date: 2nd of June 2015
Genre: General fiction

‘In the Unlikely Event’ by Judy Blume

‘Hard to Let Go’ by Laura Kaye

Expected release date: 30th of June 2015
Genre: Romantic Suspense

‘Hard to Let Go’ by Laura Kaye

‘Brown-Eyed Girl’ by Lisa Kleypas

Expected release date: 11th of August 2015
Genre: Contemporary romance

‘Brown-Eyed Girl’ by Lisa Kleypas

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Are any of these eagerly-awaited books in your list? What other books that you cannot wait to purchase and read? Share your comments in the comment box below.

Characters I Wish Would Get Their OWN Book

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner. This post contains spoilers so kindly skim it if you don’t want too know in detail.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original concept started by The Broke and the Bookish. Every week there is a specific bookish topic, which will be discussed among bloggers. The topic for today is ‘Characters I Wish Would Get Their OWN Book’.

Haymitch hiding out in District 13

Haymitch (‘The Hunger Games’ trilogy by Suzanne Collins)

Potential storyline: I would like to know what happen AFTER he won the 50th Hunger Games at age 16 till BEFORE Katniss and Peeta participated in the 74th Hunger Games. What did he feel when other District 12 tributes died in the battlefield? He drank a lot because he suffered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). How did this affect his romantic relationships? Other than drinking, how did he deal with PTSD?

Genre: Drama/Science Fiction

Sirius Black’s Most Wanted poster

Sirius Black (‘Harry Potter’ series by J.K. Rowling)

Potential storyline: Sirius Black was blamed for the murder of James and Lily Porter and sent for imprisonment in Azkaban. I would like to get his point of view on the death of his best friend, the unfair prison sentence and his stint in Azkaban. How did he deal with the pain?

Genre: Fantasy

One of the best lines in ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ was spoken by Isaac

Isaac (‘The Fault in Our Stars’ by John Green)

Potential storyline: Cancer is Isaac’s enemy. Because of cancer, he lost his eyesight, girlfriend and his best friend. I would like to find out how he adjusts to life as a visually-impaired individual and find his true love.

Genre: New Adult

Patrick and his Shop class project

Patrick (‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ by Stephen Chbosky)

Potential storyline: Forget Brad! He’d become more comfortable with his identity once he enters college and perhaps be in a happy relationship. I would like to know more about his relationship with his father. Is his father fine with his sexuality?

Genre: New Adult

I need to know Kevin’s point of view

Kevin (‘We Need to Talk about Kevin’ by Lionel Shriver)

Potential storyline: I wish Lional Shriver would write a companion piece to ‘We Need to Talk about Kevin’. I would love to read Kevin’s upbringing and motivations for his crimes from HIS point on view. What really drove him to act so cruel?

Genre: Drama/Mystery/Crime

Heather (‘Kiss an Angel’ by Susan Elizabeth Phillips)

Potential storyline: ‘Kiss an Angel’ is one of the few standalone stories (most of her books belong to series). I want to read Heather’s improved relationship with her father, her bond with her stepmother and most importantly her romance story. I reckon Alex & Daisy (& perhaps their children) would make a cameo in this book.

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Carrington (‘Travis Family’ series by Lisa Kleypas)

Potential storyline: I think Carrington’s biological father wasn’t revealed in ‘Sugar Daddy’ (correct me if I’m wrong; it’s been ages since I last read the book). Despite the unconditional love given by Liberty (her half sister) and Churchill Travis (father figure), I think Carrington craves a connection to her biological father. I would like to read about her meeting her father and her love interest.

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Chick Lit

Eddie (‘Slammed’ by Colleen Hoover)

Potential storyline: Eddie moved to many foster homes when she was young but she later found herself a family. Eddie’s the best character in the book because she’s warm, fun and positive. I’d love to read more about her challenges and perspectives when she is older.

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Alice (‘Twilight’ series by Stephenie Meyer)

Potential storyline: I’m intrigued by Alice’s power because it reminds me of Cordelia Chase’s (of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel tv series) power. I’d like to read more about the time when she first gained her power. How did she feel? Was it overwhelming at the beginning? How does she utilise her power for the greater good? If Ms Meyer were to write Alice’s stories, I hope she’d focus solely on Alice. I don’t care so much about Jasper; he can have his own book but I don’t want him to share the limelight with Alice.

Genre: Fantasy

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I couldn’t think of another character to make a list of 10 characters. Nevertheless, what do you think of my chosen characters?

Which supporting characters that you wish had their own books? Please share your comments and/or links below.

Top Ten Books to Read to Get in The Halloween Spirit

Top Ten Tuesday is an original concept started by The Broke and the Bookish. Every Tuesday a specific bookish topic will be discussed in the blog community. It’s a great way to encourage people to talk about books and to introduce book-loving bloggers to one another.

Today’s topic is ‘Top Ten Books to Read to Get in The Halloween Spirit’. Halloween is a holiday celebrated on the night of 31st of October.  The word Halloween is short for All Hallows’ Evening, also known as Hallowe’en or All Hallows’ Eve. Did you know that Pagans too celebrate the Day of the Dead also known as Samhain (pronounced ‘sow’inn’)? If you would like to read more about Halloween, visit this link.

Here are my book suggestions for this Halloween/Samhain. Kindly take note that these books are available for rent at SS Readers Corner!

Local folklore

I selected these books because they feature local ghosts who are usually known to be restless spirits. If you enjoy watching Thai horror movies, then you may like these books.

‘Nightmares’ series by Pugalenthi

Local horror stories available for rent

‘True Singapore Ghost Stories’ series by Russell Lee

Be spooked by these ghost stories!

Children’s books

This collection is for those who are nostalgic and/or would like to introduce the series to their own children. Mr Midnight series is very popular in Malaysia and Singapore that they outsold Harry Potter series at one time.

‘Mr Midnight’ series by James Lee

‘Mr Midnight’ books for rent

‘Spookville’ by Christopher Pike

Christopher Pike for young readers

Based on television shows

These shows are my favourite tv shows when I was a teenager. If you don’t know anything about it, read this short summary. The shows featured a lot of  supernatural elements such as vampires, werewolf, witches, demons, alternate world etc.

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ series

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’

‘Angel’ series

‘Ange’, a spinoff of ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’

Paranormal romance

Our paranormal romance section features authors such as Sherilyn Kenyon, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, Lyndsay Sands and Charlaine Harris. Sherilyn Kenyon’s books features demons and shapeshifters while Kresley Cole writes about vampires, witches and also demons.

Book series by Sherilyn Kenyon

Check out these books by Sherilyn Kenyon

‘Immortals after Dark’ series by Kresley Cole

Our collection of Kresley Cole’s books

General fiction

‘Doctor Sleep’ by Stephen King

This book is last year’s winner of Goodreads Choice Award in the horror genre. ‘Doctor Sleep’ is the sequel to ‘The Shining’ whereas ‘Odd Thomas’ is about a young man who is able to see dead people.

‘Doctor Sleep’, a sequel to ‘The Shining’

‘Odd Thomas’ series by Dean Koontz

‘Odd Thomas’ by Dean Koontz

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What are your favourite spooky reads? Share your comments and/or list in the comment box below so I could read and comment on your chosen books.

Happy Halloween/Merry Samhain!

Top Ten Childhood Favourites

The Broke and the Bookish hosts a weekly meme called ‘Top Ten Tuesday‘. It aims to: 1) encourage people to talk about books and 2) introduce book-loving bloggers to one another.

Instead of writing about ‘Top New Series I Want To Start’, I would like to post something that promotes SS Readers Corner this week. Therefore I have chosen to take an old topic and write about ‘Childhood Favourites’. Here are 10 children’s books that are available at this book rental store!

‘A Series of Unfortunate Event’ series by Lemony Snicket

Our collection of ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’ books

‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ series by C.S. Lewis

Complete set of ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ in our store

‘Artemis Fowl’ series by Eoin Colfer

‘Artemis Fowl’ collection

Books by Enid Blyton 

Enid Blyton for rent

Books by Terry Pratchett

Our collection of Terry Pratchett books

‘Septimus Heap’ series by Angie Sage

‘Septimus Heap’ available in our store

‘Oliver Twist’ by Charles Dickens

Our classics collection

Books by Jacqueline Wilson

Books by Jacqueline Wilson

‘Nancy Drew’ series by Carolyn Keene

‘Nancy Drew’ books available for rent

‘The Hardy Boys Casefiles’ series by Franklin W. Dixon

Have a look at our Young Readers bookshelf. Call Mr Sam if you are looking for a specific children’s book.

What are your childhood favourites? If you have written about this post before, share your links below.

Ten Places Books Have Made Me Want To Visit

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of SS Readers Corner. This post contains spoilers so kindly skim it if you don’t want too know in detail.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original concept started by The Broke and the Bookish. Every week there is a specific bookish topic, which will be discussed among bloggers. The topic for today is ‘Ten Places Books Have Made Me Want to Visit’.

If I could go on a vacation any time soon, here are my chosen destinations:

Honeymoon spots

‘The Sisterhood of Travelling Pants’ by Ann Brashares

Out of the four main characters in the novel, my favourite is Tibby because of her emotional growth. However for adventure purposes, I’d like to follow Lena’s path because she visits Santorini, Greece. 🙂

‘Santorini’ by Edward Dalmulder / Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

‘A Room with a View’ by E.M. Forster

I have travelled to Italy but didn’t have the opportunity to visit Florence & Tuscany. E.M. Forster described violets so beautifully:

“From her feet the ground sloped sharply into view, and violets ran down in rivulets and streams and cataracts, irrigating the hillside with blue, eddying round the tree stems collecting into pools in the hollows, covering the grass with spots of azure foam. But never again were they in such profusion; this terrace was the well-head, the primal source whence beauty gushed out to water the earth.”

Well actually I really love this scene:

“George had turned at the sound of her arrival. For a moment he contemplated her, as one who had fallen out of heaven. He saw radiant joy in her face, he saw the flowers beat against her dress in blue waves. The bushes above them closed. He stepped quickly forward and kissed her.”

‘The Beach’ by Alex Garland

I haven’t read ‘The Beach’ but have watched the movie. Since the movie’s screenplay was written by the author himself, I reckon the movie is a fair adaptation of the book.

I would love to take a break from daily stress by lounging in Koh Samui, Thailand. However if I knew about the location of that remote island, I don’t think I would pay a visit. I don’t want to risk my life for something illegal.

As seen in the movies/television series

‘The Lord of the Rings’ by J.R.R. Tolkien

Must go destination for LOTR fans! Click here to read more about LOTR tours!

I’d love to go on a road trip in New Zealand but must get fit first! There’ll be plenty of hiking I reckon.

‘Leaving Hobbiton’ by Jeff Hitchcock/Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

‘Harry Potter’ series by J.K. Rowling

I would love to roam around the magnificent Hogwarts compound and check out the Griffindor hall, great hall, library and Hagrid’s hut. Then I would stop by Hogsmeade for a butter beer.

I didn’t go to Warner Bros. Studio Tour when I lived in the UK two years ago and when I went for my graduation ceremony in Canterbury last year. I shall plan a visit with my Harry Potter-loving friends. We could either go to Warner Bros. Studio Tour in the UK or to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the USA.

‘Destination: Hogwarts’ by Scott Smith / Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

‘Outlander’ by Diana Gabaldon

I also didn’t get to visit Scotland when I lived in the UK. I want to visit Edinburgh, the highlands and the castles.

I know that ‘Outlander’ is very popular these days because of the tv series (shown on ‘Starz’ channel in the USA). Fans of the book/tv series, visit this link to explore the magical land of Scotland.

Houses with reputation

‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald

I’d love to dress up in a flapper dress and join a party at the Gatsby mansion. The mansion hosted the most lavish parties in 1920s. I read that the food and music at the party are way over the top:

“On buffet tables, garnished with glistening hors d’oeuvre, spiced baked hams crowded against salads of harlequin designs and pastry pigs and turkeys bewitched to a dark gold. In the main hall a bar with a real brass rail was set up, and stocked with gins and liquors and with cordials so long forgotten that most of his female guests were too young to know one from another.

By seven o’clock the orchestra has arrived, no thin five-piece affair, but a whole pitful of oboes and trombones and saxophones and viols and cornets and piccolos, and low and high drums.”

If you would like some visual aids, visit this link to view Baz Luhrmann’s interpretation of a Gatsby party.

‘Rebecca’ by Daphne du Maurier

I would like to visit the mysterious Manderley house and explore its secrets. This is what Mrs Danvers told to the narrator/readers of the novel:

“Sometimes, when I walk along the corridor here, I fancy I hear her just behind me. That quick, light footstep. I could not mistake it anywhere. And in the minstrel’s gallary above the hall. I’ve seen her leaning there, in the evenings in the old days, looking down at the hall below and calling to the dogs. I can fancy her there now from time to time. It’s almost as though I catch the sound of her dress sweeping the stairs as she comes down to dinner.”

Sounds like a haunted house to me. I’d go with ghostbusters.

Finding oneself

‘The Motorcycle Diaries: Notes on a Latin American Journey’ by Ernesto Guevara

It is inspiring to read Ernesto Guevara’s journey from a privileged medical student to a charismatic and revolutionary leader. Mr Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado travelled to Argentina, Chile, Peru, Columbia, Venezuela by riding a motorcycle. During their journey, they interacted with the locals and discovered the social and economic injustice that happened there.

I’ve always wanted to stay in South America for a few months so I could improve my Spanish. I haven’t decided on the location. Any suggestions?

The diagram on the right is the route used by Ernesto Guevara & Alberto Gra

‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho

For those who haven’t read ‘The Alchemist’, the novel is about a boy who goes on a treasure hunt near the pyramids in Egypt. In essence, the book is not about the destination but actually about the (spiritual) journey.

As a person who photographs buildings and architectures more than selfie shots, I would love to capture the beauty of Egyptian pyramids.

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What do you think of my desired vacation spots? What are the places that you would like to visit after reading a book? I would love to know so please share your comments and/or links below.