Book Review: Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Today, here is a review of Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell. 

Cath is a Simon Snow fan.

Okay, the whole world is a Simon Snow fan...

But for Cath, being a fan is her life—and she’s really good at it. She and her twin sister, Wren, ensconced themselves in the Simon Snow series when they were just kids; it’s what got them through their mother leaving. Reading. Rereading. Hanging out in Simon Snow forums, writing Simon Snow fan fiction, dressing up like the characters for every movie premiere.

Cath’s sister has mostly grown away from fandom, but Cath can’t let go. She doesn’t want to.

Now that they’re going to college, Wren has told Cath she doesn’t want to be roommates. Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She’s got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend, a fiction-writing professor who thinks fan fiction is the end of the civilized world, a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words... And she can’t stop worrying about her dad, who’s loving and fragile and has never really been alone.

For Cath, the question is: Can she do this? Can she make it without Wren holding her hand? Is she ready to start living her own life? Writing her own stories?

And does she even want to move on if it means leaving Simon Snow behind?

~ ~ ~

I was sucked into the world of Fangirl through Cath almost straight away. The first sentence saying there was a boy in her room immediately made me curious. While these days I would say I am more of a fantasy/sci-fi reader I do enjoy reading a contemporary every now and then. This is one of the best contemporaries I've read. 

It's about Cath who really didn't want to move away and go to college learn to grow from being a child to being a more independent adult. She moves to College, but isn't really happy about being there. She meets a boy and think it's her roommates boyfriend. It's about getting hurt and being a writer, learning to grow out of childhood. But maybe not completely.

~ ~ ~

"It's college," Wren said, exasperated, covering her face with her hands. "It's supposed to be an adventure." 

~ ~ ~

I love this quote because I've often said to myself that life is adventure. You can't really go through life timidly. There will always be things that are thrown our that we don't expect. It's in learning that we seek adventure. This is something that Cath learnt through the course of the book. She learnt to be more confident in herself. I think in some ways this quote explains

~ 

"I still wish you'd get a dog," she said.
"I'd never remember to feed it."
"Maybe we could train it to feed you."

(Cath to her Dad)
~

I loved how much that Cath worried about her Dad. I think in any YA story there often seems to be a neglect of the parental figures. Here, as Cath and her twin sister Wren, were away at college their father didn't appear in the story much, but he still was very much involved.

I love this conversation between Cath and her Dad mostly because it's quite funny but also shows a little bit how much Cath and Wren looked out for their Dad when they used to live at home.

Cath was very relatable. She had anxiety but still tried even though that meant surviving off energy bars and peanut butter jars because she couldn't bring herself to actually try something new like say finding the dining room. "I feel sorry for you, and I'm going to be your friend." Is basically how not only Reagan and Cath's strange friendship began, but also how she first found the dining room.


Her anxiety was also visible in other areas of her life. Like when she did want to text her then boyfriend because she wasn't in a good mood and didn't want that to come through the text. 'You can't take back texts.' It's always a concern when texting someone because accidentally saying something different than it was meant to sound could very well mean embarrassment and no take backs.

A Few Things

There was a very touchy feely moment that made me feel uncomfortable. Also Cath's fan fiction that she wrote had a same sex couple which is something that I was also uncomfortable with as a Christian. I also really didn't understand Cath and Wren's mother. I feel like there's more that can happen in that part of the story.

I think the twins names were kind of cool too. Cather and Wren

Overall I loved Fangirl. It certainly was a story about growing up and figuring things out. It's very relatable too I think because I am around her age and entering the world as an adult whether it be University or into the workforce. It's definitely relatable. I rate it 4.5 stars out of 5.

Have you read Fangirl before? What do you think? Feel free to tell me your thoughts in the comments. 

That Word: Tempestuous

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you. This week's word is...

Tempestuous 

Where I Discovered It

I discovered 'tempestuous' while watching the anime, Your Lie in April.

Defintion/s 

1. Characterised by or subject to tempests
2. the nature of or resembling a tempest
3. tumultuous; turbulent 

Example Sentence

She was tempestuous...  ~Your Lie in April

The tempestuous feeling in her stomach did not bode well. 

She was as fiery as they came, a tempestuous one. 

My Thoughts

Tempestuous is a word I have heard before. Although I'm not sure that it is entirely uncommon. It wasn't till I heard it again that it struck me more. I found it not so surprising what the word meant. I had had an idea partly from the context it was used in and partly that the prefix of the word is tempest. And many people would be aware that a tempest is a storm.

I kind of love saying tempestuous. It is a word with many syllables, yet looking at the word I feel that I could say them right every time. Unlike some words in the English language that seemed made to trick us, is written with an easy understanding of how it's pronounced. At least that's how I see it. 

I definitely want to use it in my writing. In some way. Tempestuous I believe is another word that we can use to explain when someone is angry or the weather if is particular tempestuous. I dare say it is becoming a favourite of mine. 

What do you think of 'tempestuous'? Have you seen or heard it around before? Have you used it? Would you use it? Comment below and feel free to tell me your thoughts. 

That Word: Flivver

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you. This week's word is...

Flivver

Where I Discovered It

Turns out I didn't write down where I found it. Whoops. 

Defintion/s 

1. (Old Slang) an automobile, especially one that is small, inexpensive, and old. 
2. (Slang) something of unsatisfactory quality or inferior grade.

Example Sentence

"Flivver," she said as she stared at her piece of artwork. 

My Thoughts

I think this is a unique word to describe a car, but obviously as it is termed as old slang would probably be used better in a book set some years ago where it would fit. 

Besides that the word almost reminds me of the word 'flipper'. Of course the v's make an obvious difference. I think because it sounds unique and would definitely be an interesting word to include in a story that may surprise people because it is something they are likely not to have heard or seen often before. 

What do you think? Have you heard or seen 'flivver' before? Have you used it before? Do you think you would use it in the future? Feel free to tell me your thoughts. 

That Word: Facetious

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Facetious

Where I Discovered It

I discovered this word while reading The Sky So Heavy by Clair Zorn

Definition/s 

1. Not meant to be taken seriously or literally
2. amusing; humorous
3. lacking serious intent; concerned with something nonessential, amusing or frivolous: 

Example Sentences

"These facetious kids. I doubt they could accomplish it."

This facetious joke was never meant to make the final cut, but it did.

"I'm not being facetious Fin. I'm trying to figure this out." - Arnold, p. 200.

My Thoughts

I like this word for it's definition. It's a different word to use for  something seemingly simple like 'amusing' or 'humorous'. I like that although simple this would can be used in a more complex way. Although it is also a word not many people may know. Still, I definitely think I would want to use it sometime.

What are your thoughts? Have you heard of 'Facetious' before? Have you used it yourself? What sentence would you create with it? Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments. 

Book Tour for The Coronation by Olivia Jarmusch

Today I am participating in a blog tour for Olivia Jarmusch's  new book The Coronation (Tales of Tarsurella). I've tried to keep this as spoiler free as possible, but be warned there is spoilers in this review.

Prince Addison is only several weeks away from inheriting the Kingdom of Tarsurella. The entire Palace is ablaze with excitement, as the Royal Family prepares for the event of a lifetime. Despite the exciting event which is near at hand, Addison and his younger siblings (all seven of them!) must carry on with their daily activities. Addison’s sisters, Princesses Bridget, Chasity, and Hope, have their struggles with being iconic European starlets of a modern day monarchy. The teen heiresses grace magazine covers, smile for photoshoots, and gracefully glide through important interviews–until a certain American popstar arrives on the scene. 

Kennetic Energy, the wildly popular band from the United States, is chosen to play at Addison’s Coronation. David Carter, the band’s handsome lead singer, fumbles through awkward moments with Princess Hope–in front of the cameras. When an embarrassing rumor sparks that Princess Hope is dating the young fellow, she is determined to get the band fired from their Royal gig.  

Meanwhile, Princess Chasity is dealing with her own fragile affairs of the heart. Her new security guard, Hanson Fletcher, is completely captivating, yet entirely frustrating. She attempts to keep the entrance of her heart firmly protected, while following the wisdom of Proverbs 4:23. But can she be successful in guarding her heart, from her security guard?

The Coronation is Book #1 in The Tales of Tarsurella Trilogy.

The Story

The story is largely focused on characters. We see it through many perspectives. And even though we do it never feels heavy or too much. The characters are each unique. They all have their own passions and fears. Addison loves spending time with his family and wants to be a good leader but is afraid of being a bad one. Very relatable. We all fear not doing well at something we love. As he head towards his place as king he must soon decide on a wife. A decision he does not want to take lightly. For many of the characters they are forced to face decisions involving feelings and romances possibly blooming and each dealt with this differently. In most books that have romance it often resolves sole around the fact and you expect in the end they will end up together. Without saying too much, I loved how, Livy, did something unexpected with the romances developing in this book.

For a lot of the story I didn't necessarily see where it was heading. There were people introduced and feelings clearly being developed. One major undergoing current appeared to be a decision Hanson didn't want to make but had to make. As I read on I trying to anticipate what his move was. I knew very well what I wanted him to do, but also knew that likely wasn't going to happen. Through this I think a large focus was placed on all the character's relationships with each other. Whether it be sibling, friendship or something more or even little relationship at all. I caught onto the climatic event not to long before it happened. The resolution to the end of the story happened and after the story seemed kind of slow.

That being said here is a small list of things

Things I loved

• I loved how much the royal family was so family orientated. It's not something I actually read a lot of in fiction. 
• The Christians have a very natural focus on God in some books it can seem really forced and in this one it didn't. 
• I learnt how the media impact between those who are famous and the rest of the world can be false.

Things I noticed

• The major conflict and antagonist that was the climax reminded me of a terrorist group in the world today. Just one major similarity that drew me away from the story a bit. 
• The book is so full of Christian messages, however sometimes it can seem like there is a lot of someone saying it and could almost seen to drag on a bit. 

Largely I would say it is a story about the relationships between both family and friends and even a kingdom. I loved each of the characters I met and was definitely drawn in right from the beginning. While sometimes it did feel like it slowed down and there were a few longer passages of people talking, overall I loved it. It's definitely a book I would recommend to anyone looking for a very clean, Christian read. While most characters are girls because there are more of them there are definitely some boys perspective that allows it to appeal to both genders. I'm definitely looking forward to see what the next books hold.


You can find Livy through
Instagram
Goodreads
Amazon
Livy Lynn Blog- Don't forget to check the other blog stops.

Have you read The Coronation? What did you think? Are you interested in reading it? 

That Word: Gumption

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Gumption 

Where I Discovered It

While a word that certain has some familiarity it particularly struck me while reading Cinder by Marissa Meyer. 

Definition/s

1. initiative; aggressiveness; resourcefulness
2. courage; spunk; guts;
3. common sense; shrewdness

Example Sentences

"I was hoping you would have inherited more gumption from our people." ~ Dr. Erland to Cinder p. 276 of Cinder 

Michael gather his gumption. This would be no easy task. 

"Use your gumption. Don't be stupid." Michael said. 

My Thoughts

I love the sound of this word 'gumption'. It sounds cool. Just imagine saying "I've got gumption." 

It is a good word to use instead of courage or common sense, but at the same I also think it wouldn't suit all characters. It isn't a word you would hear or see everyday. I think I would love to see it around more.

What are your thoughts? Have you heard or seen gumption around before? Have you used it? Do you think you would use it? 

Monthly Scripture Insight:

This is a new segment on my blog where I will bring a small segment of scripture each month that has taught or spoken to me in the past month.

The Verse

"- I will celebrate the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. " 2 Samuel 6: 21-22

Background

I have been reading through 1 and 2nd Samuel primarily to read up on King David. I have realised that as I have read on that he is one of my favourite Bible characters and why he is. But as I was reading about him this verse stood out to me. It was familiar and I wanted to keep it in mind.

In chapter 6 David has been focusing on getting the Ark of the Lord to Jerusalem, the capital of Israel. As they entered Jerusalem, David had been dancing with nothing but a linen loincloth.

My Thoughts 

I like this verse because David wasn't afraid. He danced even though he knew he would be humiliated. He really didn't care what others thought because he was doing it for the Lord. He was doing it as an act of worship. He was showing his love for the Lord.

I know especially in this day and age it can be hard to not focus on what other people are thinking. There is always this pressure to align with the world and what they are doing. As Christians it isn't always easy to say no.

An example from my own life is at Church I choose to worship by dancing. It is something I haven't seen many people do before. I have been doing it for many months now, but I used to be so afraid to do it. My main concern was what other people were thinking about me until I got to this place where I not only wanted to dance before the Lord but felt I needed to. I was so overcome by his joy and presence that I just had to.

It can be so easy to just listen to the ways of the world, but I think I would like to be more like David and in all areas of my life to focus on God and not be worried about if I look silly or undignified even if I will be humiliated.

When I thought of this verse I also thought of this song by Matt Redman which was based around it.

What do you think? Have you thought much about this verse before?

That Word: Dint

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that have newly discovered or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Dint

Where I Discovered It?

This is another word I discovered while playing Words with friends.

Definition/s  

1. force; power:
2. a dent.
3. a blow; stroke
4. to make a dent or dents in.
5. to impress or drive in with force.

An Example Sentence

It took all the dint he had to make it all the way up the cliff.

My Thoughts

The first thing I think of with this word is dent. They sound alike with only one vowel in difference. The meaning I think is relatively simple. Although it has several meanings they relatively similar. 'Dint' is quite a simple word to say, one of those words that is spelt like it sounds. Not like some other words of the English language.

What did you think of this word? Have you come across it before? Have you used it before? Would you use it?

That Word: Penitent

Where I Discovered It

I found it on page 139 of Anne of Green Gables. It was a chapter, Good Imagination Gone Wrong. She burnt the pie. 

Definition/s

1. Feeling or expressing sorrow for sin or wrongdoing and disposed to atonement and amendment; amendment; contrite.
2. a penitent person
3. A person who confesses sin and submits to a penance. (Roman Catholic Church)

Example Sentences

"Oh, I'm so sorry," said Anne penitently. - p. 139 Anne of Green Gables

"I'm so sorry, I wish, i wish I could take back what I said and did." Priscilla said penitently.

My Thoughts

When I first came across the word I had some idea of what it meant because of the context. I didn't remember ever really coming across the word before. I think it is a word that could quite easily be used in writing. 

One thing I've noticed is when I say it I forget to include the 'i' and say pentent. It's one of those words that can be glanced over quickly and you mind picks up not quite the right way to sound it. 

Monthly Recap: June 2017

Life in General

School has been a bit busier with mid-year exams coming up. I've also been working on my mid-year English Writing folio.

I took a study at my youth group  a week ago which I felt pretty happy about, too. 

Writing 

This month I had planned on writing between 5-7000 words more on my Lisa De Haven Project  but instead decided to do some more plotting. I think a bit more plotting will help my story get out better.

A new story idea came and I plotted one scene for it. As well as making a prologue that went into my English writing folio.

My writer's Facebook page reached 10 likes. Most family and friends. Although I haven't invited a lot of people to like it yet. It's a bit of a nervous experience.

I won a short short story competition that my Writer's Club at school ran. The basic instructions we were given was to base it off this picture and that it had to be a short short story. There wasn't a specific word count mentioned. The prize was Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, The movie.

In July I plan plot more on my Lisa De haven Project so that when I start writing again that it will be able to be more fully written with not so much breaks in-between.

Books

This month I read The Coronation by Olivia REST OF NAME. It's currently available for pre-order on kindle.

Current Read/s

I'm still slowly making my way through This Changes Everything: Subtitle by Jaquelle Crowe. It definitely a great read and has much in it.

On Jumbled Thoughts

I'm back: With updates
That Word: Twilit
I fell in love with stories
That Word: Zarf
That Word: Kemp

What's coming in July

There's one more That Word post coming in June before July even begins.

Scripture

That Word

Story Post

That Word

July 13th: Something special

That Word

Writing Post: Beautiful People or the Writer's Tag

That Word 

Monthly Recap.

How was your June? What did you do?

That Word: Kemp

Kemp

Where I Discovered It

I came across this word while playing words with friends. Although, I don not remember if it was I who played it or a friend.

Defintion/s

1. a) a strong, brave warrior, b) an athlete, especially a champion, c) a professional fighter, d) an impetuous or roguish young man.
2. a contest as between two athletes or two groups of workers, especially a reaping contest between farm workers.
3. to contest, fight,  or strive, especially to strive in a reaping contest.
4. a short coarse, brittle finer used chiefly in the manufacture of carpets.

An Example Sentence

Before his disappearance Hector was an intellectual teen, but after his return he became known as the kemp.

My Thoughts

There are those words on Words with friends that surprise me. This was likely one of those. Kemp rhymes with hemp. I was surprised to find it had multiple meanings. For some raisin I had an idea that the meaning would be fairly simple. I really like the meaning, especially the first one. I think that is one I am more like to use most often if and when I use it. 

What are your thoughts? Have you seen or heard of the word Kemp before? Do you think you would use it in the future? 

That Word: Zarf

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that have newly discovered or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Zarf

This is a zarf! 

Where I Discovered It

This is another of those words I discovered while playing words with friends. 

Definiton/s

1. (in the levant) a holder, usually of ornamental metal, for a coffee cup without a handle. 

Example Sentence

Jayden held his cup by the the zarf, raising an eyebrow. He wasn't particularly fond of coffee.

My Thoughts

I love this word word because it is so unique. It is a word I certainly hadn't heard of before. It excites me because I didn't know there was such a thing as a zarf. If someone were to call it be it's actual name I would wonder it was a real word. 

As for how to say it. It sounds just like it looks. 

What are your thoughts? Have you heard of the word 'zarf' before? Have you seen or used it yourself before? Would  you use it if the opportunity came up? Let me know in the comments.

I fell in love... with stories

As a bookworm it's no surprise that I am a lover of stories. In fact I'm not sure I would be able to tell you of a time I wasn't in love with stories. If I'm not reading one or even watching one through t.v shows and movies I'm sure to have one running through my mind. There is one question that I thought would be really interesting to address. 

Why did I fall in love with stories?

Now there really isn't a simple answer to that question. If I was to say it simply it would be this. 

Every story is an adventure.

For me no matter what type of story it is it is an adventure. It doesn't have to be a mystery or a fantasy story even a romance novel brings adventure. 

Why do I think This? 

You open each book likely intrigued by the blurb or maybe the cover has enticed you. Either way you begin to read. You are introduced to characters. They are the story. You are likely on edge trying to guess and imagine what they will do next. Is it a stupid decision where you feel embarrassed for them? Do you agree or disagree with them? Do you think they are making good choices or heading down the wrong path? Are you happy as they are happy, sad as they are sad or trustful and they are trusting and distrusting as they are? Are you in love as they are in love? 

Every story is unique. Every one holds a lesson something to be learned and all are an adventure. We could learn a new love in something we didn't know we had before (not necessarily with a character, either). It could what the story was trying to convey, too. There are so many things you can learn including interesting facts that may or may not ever be relevant but still are cool to know. 

What did you think? Did I convince you that stories are indeed an adventure? Or do you need to try it out more to find out? Remember there are different mediums of stories, find the one you love. Feel free to comment and come back next Saturday for a post on writing. 

That Word: Twilit

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Twilit

Where I Found It

This is yet another word that I found on a list on my phone. I think I have a fair idea of what this word could mean, though.

Defintion/s

1. lighted by or as by Twilight

An Example Sentence

The twilit desert was all anyone could see for miles.

My Thoughts

I think this is a bit of an unusual word. When I first read it and when I read it I do think of the word twilight. However putting it into a sentence is not necessarily easy. The word itself sounds quite similar to twilight, only the ending is different. I think it would be a good word to use to describe something at twilight, however it really would depend on the story to whether I would use it.

What did you think of the word? Is twilit a word you have come across before? Is it one you have used before? Would you use it? Feel free to comment and tell me your thoughts.

I'm Back: With Updates

I took a sudden hiatus recently. It wasn't really planned hence the sudden. Part of it was a quite sudden lack of motivation in blogging, but also I wanted to look at what I was posting and see what I could do to make it more meaningful which in turn would help me to write on here more consistently.  

Blogversary 

June marks the month of my blogging anniversary. A year of blogging. It's almost hard to believe. Yeah it hasn't been full of consistencies but as with any writing, it's a journey.

I posted my first introductory post in April last year, but then was stalled when my computer had to be sent way to be fixed. When it arrived back in June, I soon got to planning and blogging. My first post was a book review of Magnus Chase and The Sword of Summer. It was the 19th of the June. However I've counts it as the month due to it being where it began to shoot off for me with some regularity.  I may not have many followers as such yet, but I'm okay with that. It's not about the attention but rather my contest and what I want to write about.

A Schedule

I have put some thought into it and decided on a schedule. One that I hope to keep more.

Tuesdays- Expect a That Word post each week. 

• 1st Saturday of the month - Scripture

In this post I will be choosing one or more verses and discussing them. It's something I've always thought of doing on here but haven't done. So Next month I will be starting that. 

• 2nd Saturday of the month - Story Posts

Originally I was going to call this my bookish posts, but while it will include book reviews and things I've discovered I love through books I also want to include other forms of stories that I have come to love. An example will be T.V shows and movies.

• 3rd Saturday of the month - My Writing

This Saturday I will focus a post on my writing. It is likely that I will often be posting a Beautiful People link-up which means you will likely be learning more about my characters. Other times I will post updates and things I have been learning lately too. 

• 4th Saturday of the month - My monthly Recap. 

This is the post where I will recap what's been happening in my life this month. What's been happening on the blog and around other forms of media. I will inform you of the books I've read and am currently reading. Just an all round recap really. 

Of course this schedule could be prone to slight change and surprise posts, but generally this is the one I hope to keep. 

Other News

In May I set up my very own writer's page on Facebook. It's something I've been thinking about doing for a long while and finally got and did it after a friend asked about it recently. I hope to keep it updated consistently.

Some Fun Stats

All Time Pageviews: 1,874
Post with most views: August monthly recap with 62 page views.
Top 3 countries for page views are: United States (924), Australia (481) and France (300)

I hope you will join me for a new year of blogging. Next Saturday expect a story/bookish themed post. Thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment. 

That Word: Promontory

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you or if you're a writer looking for different words to describe something this post may also be for you. I find most of these words using Dictionary.com. 

Promontory 

Where I Discovered It

This is another word that was found in a list on my phone. There has been a long line of them. 

Definiton/s

1. a high point of land or rock projecting into the sea or other water beyond the line of coast; headland 
2. a bluff; or part of a plateau, overlooking a lowland. 
3. Anatomy. a prominent or protrudent part.  

That Word: Ostentatious

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you or if you're a writer looking for different words to describe something this post may also be for you. I generally find all these definitions using Dictionary.com.  

Ostentatious 

Where I Discovered It

This is another of those words I've listed in the notes on my phone some time back and just don't really remember exactly why, but it must've stood out to me in some way. It's quite possible I didn't fully understand the meaning behind the word. Also it was listed as unostentatious. 

Definition/s

1. characterised by or given to pretentious or conspicuous show in a attempt to impress others:
2. intended to attract notice:

An Example Sentence

Because she was different, people often assumed she was trying to be ostentatious.

My Thoughts

When I looked up the first definition to this word I chuckled. It was using a couple of other longer words to describe it and without reading the end of the sentence I wouldn't have read on. The second definition however is much clearer. I think it makes it much more simpler. This is one of those words I may not use often, but I think it would be wonderful to use in a sentence to describe a character who may or may not be trying to attract notice purposely. It would be something different that another word that perhaps could be used. 

Ostentatious is one of those words that sounds exactly how I was saying it. Sometimes that's a score in our complicated English language. 

What are your thoughts? Have you seen or heard the word before? Did you realise what it meant? Have you used the word before? If not do you think you would use it in the future? Thanks for reading and feel free to comment. Visit this time next word for That Word: Promontory. 

My Favourite Bible Verses

In this post I am sharing with you my current 5 favourite verses from the Bible. I would say that it is a bit different from my other posts but in a way it isn't. Here I am sharing with a few small parts of my favourite book.

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. 

~  Philippians 4:13

This has been a verse I've known for just about as long as I can remember. Whenever I was trying to think of a verse I had been memorising for school, this one would be the first one to enter my head even if it wasn't the one I was trying to think of.

This is such an important verse to me. Sometimes even with knowing this verse I don't think and say I can't do something. This verse reminds me that even If I can't do something, I don't actually have to do it alone. I always have Jesus within me. He will help me.

One area I know I can't do alone is writing a novel. I have so many story ideas and sometimes I am unsure which one and how to go about them. Sometimes it's better for me to pray and hand it to God. Know that with Him I can do it and he will be my guide.

(I almost wrote Philippians 4:13 again instead of the second verse I was thinking of.)

That Word: Apotheosis

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  This week's word is...

Apotheosis

Where I Found It

Once again Apotheosis follows the trend of words that I had listed on my phone that I didn't know or was unsure of the exact meaning but have no idea where I read it originally. 

Defintion/s

1. the elevation or exaltation of a person to the rank of a god
2. the ideal example; epitome; quintessence 
3. the glorification of a person or thing

An Example Sentence

Luke was an apotheosis. The ideal example of how pressure from a nation can affect one child.

An apotheosis of a king was finally beginning to equal out.

My Thoughts

Honestly when I see this word I think hypothesis. I mean most of the word looks like it. I imagine if one was not paying very much attention they might even think it meant that. I kind laughed when I saw the first meaning. It was not what I had expected. Rising to the rank of a god. I can't quite imagine me using the first definition very much. However the second one I definitely think would be a more common use if I did indeed use it. I think it would be fun to use especially because my first reaction to the word. It's something I may indeed use sometime in the near future.

Apotheosis is also one of those words that actually sounds like it reads pretty much. In other words I listened to it and saw that how I was saying it was quite accurate. That's not something that happens all the time with this English language of ours. 

What did you think of Apotheosis? Have you seen or heard of the word before? Have you used Apotheosis before? If you haven't used it do you think you would use it?

Monthly Recap: March

March began with a craziness that only school knows. I had a week of a lot of homework all of a sudden.

Life

This month I made a goal for writing but craziness of school and perhaps a little procrastination got the best of me. It seemed March was the month where grade 12 and homework amped up. I could never truly say I hated school though. I'm enjoying it.

I never did reach my goal of 20,000 words nor did I reach even half of that but I'm okay with it. I'm not condemning myself for not reaching it. I did feel that I kept a mostly steady pace and in those small moments like waiting for the bus or walking down the street am exploring the story and characters in my mind. A lot of the story is being developed that way. As next month is April I will take part in Camp Nanowrimo. I think again I will set my goal for 20,000 words and just see how I go. I know that I have two weeks holidays coming up this April so I'm sure that will give me plenty more time to write. 

Something new I did this month was teach my first Sunday School lesson. I've been a helper in Sunday School for several years and last year I wanted to teach but didn't really put enough mind into doing so. This year I felt like it was right. I was praying in the room before had and as I did came up with ideas how to teach the lesson to be more interactive with the kids. Another thing was that I surprised myself by being more excited than nervous for it. I can't wait now to teach again in the future. 

In youth group this month we were given homework. One week to research a Bible character we had to blindly pick out of a box. I picked out John, the disciple. I've found it interesting and a bit fun. I was able to dive into some of Dad's Bible college books briefly to find more on him. This experience had inspired me to do more in-depth character studies of other people in the Bible. I was tossing up with either doing Esther or David. In the end I decided David because I felt he was more on my heart. I'm kind of excited to teach some of the Sunday School kids what I learn about him. Maybe something different about the most popular story of David. 

At school I would say my favourite class has been English Writing. It's been exciting learning more about writing. I've especially been learning about choices. That there are so many choices we make like what genre, POV, plot, setting. Some of these for are some that I didn't really know how many choices I was making as I wrote some of my short stories and was planning my novel. 

I haven't been very consistent with my bookstagram this month either, but I have started to pick that up again this last week. I realised taking pictures ahead of time is very helpful. 

On Jumbled Thoughts

• Mini Reviews
• Conscience
• Admonition
• Beautiful People: March Edition
• Laconic 
• Echelon 

In April

I planning another writing desire post this month this time telling you about some of my favourite quotes. 

I also going to put more thinking into my content on the blog. Lately I've been posting mostly That Word's and Monthly recaps and few in-between. I think I need to take a slight step back and decide more on the content I want to share. 

This month I am also participating in Camp Nanowrimo once again. I've set a goal for round about 15,000 -20,000 words. I would be happy with a minimum of 10,000 words written. 

That was a brief of my month and my plans for April. How was your month? What did you do? Are you doing Camp Nanowrimo this month? What's goal?

That Word: Echelon

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  I find all my definitions on Dictionary.com 

Echelon

Where I Discovered It

I do believe that this was another word hanging around on the notes of my phone.

Defintion/s

1. a level of command, authority, or rank;
2. a level of worthiness, achievement, or reputation

An Example Sentence

Pricilla's echelon is the lowest of her school. 

My Thoughts

Contrary to what I originally thought the Echelon is pronounced Esh-uh-lon. I originally kept pronouncing it how it look with a ck sound. The English language is an amazingly vastly strange yet my language. I literally had no idea what it would mean. Although I did think it would be more, I don't know. I think it sounds almost scientific. 

What do you think? Have you heard of this word before? Have you used Echelon before? Do you think you would use it often or is it a one word that brings limited use?

That Word: Laconic

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Laconic

Where I Discovered it?

As where the last few of late, this one comes from a list on the notes on my phone. All I know is that I must have listed it there for a reason. The word actually listed in my notes was Laconically the adverb version of the word. 

Defintion/s

1. using few words; expressing much in few words; concise; 

Beautiful People: March Edition

Beautiful People is a linkup hosted by Cait @ Paperfury and Sky @ Further Up and Further In. I find it helpful in developing and learning more about my characters. 

1.  What's their favourite book or movie/play/etc? 

Priscilla's favourite book is one that has been too well used. It's fraying and worn, but still she reads it. I just don't know what it's called yet. It will come to me though at some point.

2.  Is there anything they regret doing?

When she was quite young Priscilla severely bullied a girl so much that the girl dropped out of school to be homeschooled and eventually moved away. Now while Priscilla comes to an understanding of why she did it she still finds it hard to forgive herself even if she is forgiven.

3.  If they were sick and wounded, who would take care of them and how? 

If Priscilla were sick her older brother would look after her. He would keep her entertained with games and movies and books. Her father was not in the picture and her mother unable to care for her.

4.  Is there an object they can't bear to part with and why?

The book is one I suppose, it's written in her home language and isn't available in Pliera (the country she currently lives in).

5.  What are five ways to win their heart (or friendship)? 

1. Become friends with her (She has few at the beginning of her story)
2. Give books, discuss books, Anything books
3. Speak her language

I can't think of any others at the moment but I'm sure there are more.

6.  Describe a typical outfit for them from top to bottom. 

Priscilla's home country is a rather warm country that in no way gets snow, ever. So typical clothing most especially in the warmer months are a loose t-shirt with a pair of 3 quarter length shorts. In winter or the cooler months she isn't big into jeans or trackies. Maybe these parachute pants would suit her. She won't usually wear t-shirts but instead ops for t-shirts with 3 quart sleeves. She is very much a summer girl at heart.

7.  What's their favourite type of weather? 

I think Priscilla would most love calm weather. Yes. Her life has been a bit of a confusing mess so I think she would love to be outside and go somewhere where there were hills and lots of space and enjoy the slight breeze and clear blue skies. Sadly living in the city limits her ability to achieve this. But she does have this one memory from long ago where she remembers going with her family and they are having a picnic on such a day as that. 

8.  What's the worst fight they've ever been in? 

The worst fight Priscilla's been in is quite complicated to explain. It's one that will end up with a bloody nose but the other factor or people in such a fight began it long ago. She can only fight it for so long. That obviously doesn't tell you much but that is because it would be a spoiler. 

9.  What names or nicknames have they been called throughout their life?

Bully, criminal. Bad with people. Priscilla has notable trouble keeping her mouth shut in certain circumstances. It's not that she talks too much. No, she is actually quite careful with her words. It's just that her mind won't allow her to not say something at certain times and because of this she is often labelled as a bully.

10.  What makes their heart feel alive? 

Priscilla is a bookworm at heart and to feel alive would sometimes be burying herself into some enthralling story alas interruptions in her life are about to happen. Another thing she finds captivating is learning about the five countries of their content. She feels that not enough is known about each one individually and wants to research how in their past they combined to form an alliance. She is passionate about this subject and wishes to pursue it into some sort of career.

Here is a bit about Priscilla, a main character in my current WIP. What do you think of her? Do you have any questions for her? Did you participate in Beautiful People this month or have you done it in the past?

That Word: Admonition

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you.  

Admonition 

Where I discovered It

This is another word that I discovered in a list on the notes on my phone. I think I have a vague idea of what it means.

Defintion/s 

1. an act of admonishing 
2. counsel, advice or caution
3. a gentle reproof 
4. a warning or reproof given by an ecclesiastical authority 

An Example Sentence

The admonition had not been harsh but still it hurt to have one's idea shot down.

My Thoughts

Admonition is a familiar word that I did have a fair idea of what it meant. It's also one of those words that can be easily broken into syllables to learn which was just a thought I had. I like how the flow from ad to mon. It's not a smooth flow between the two but it isn't jarring either. I think it is this part that aids to being able to hear how the word sounds better. From that part it flows nicely to the rest of the word. 

Have you heard of admonition before? Do you agree with my thoughts? Is it a word you've used before? Would you use it in the future? Please feel free to leave a comment. I love hearing your thoughts. 

That Word: Conscience

That Word is the segment on my blog where I post new words that I discover newly or have jumped out at me once again. If you love finding new words this post is for you. If you're a writer looking for different words to describe some this post may also be for you. 

Conscience 

Where I Discovered It

This is another word that found it's way onto a list on my phone for whatever reason. I suspect I did not entirely know what the word meant at the time or it was one that confused me. 

Mini Reviews

Mini Reviews

This week I've decided to do a mini book reviews. This shows you a brief glimpse about a few books I've liked but haven't reviewed fully giving you what I thought were strength and weaknesses. Enjoy.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

I almost didn't buy this book, but I am really glad I did.

Strengths 

• A quick read that gripped me every second along the way
• Jacob was sad in the beginning. 
• Didn't really have a place in the world
• Largely about Jacob finding his place in the world

Weaknesses

• We really only get to know a small portion of the peculiar children well. 

Looking Forward: In the next books I look to meeting new and just as whacky (or even more so) characters as well as a further development of their world. There is so much potential and I can't wait to see what comes.

Page (Protector of the Small) by Tamora Pierce

I read the first book in this series a couple of years ago and thought recently that maybe I should continue the series. Even though I was still hesitant in reading it because of some concerns I had from reading the first novel. 

Strengths

• Kel starts with getting into lots of fights than later on it happens less. Partly due to growing partly because she was smart.
• She challenged herself with her fear of heights when she stopped getting punishments that forced her to. 
• The first book only covered one year, while this covered her last three years.
• Joren a thorn in Kel's side appears to change, although I think it's more his tactics that change. Still better and more sly. 

Weaknesses

• Several years could also be a weakness. There's a lot of time where Kel has to grow but I didn't feel that her voice over all changed too much even though she grew from a young girl into more of a young women. 
• It shows a lot of discrimination against girls becoming knights. Although we see them changing for some I would like to see some more people be more for it. 

I'm glad I read it because in the end I immensely enjoyed it.

Dragonborn by Toby Forward.

I reread Dragonborn because I decided it was about time I read the rest of the series. 

Strengths

• A young Sam, going through neglect that makes me care about him
• A decision to make about his future. relatable because we all have that to make. 
• A wizarding world with interesting creatures and rules. 
• People who try and help and harm Sam. He is important, although he doesn't realise this. 
• A complex story.

Weaknesses

• Often mentioning of the wizarding way. Standing in such a way that you know it's a wizard. Okay. More details what makes them a wizard.
• Perhaps too many characters. There is trouble connecting with so many wizards.

Overall I did enjoy the book and hope to read the rest of the series sometime soon. 

I hoped you enjoyed my mini reviews. 

Have you read any of these books? What did you think of them? Feel free to comment and tell me your thoughts.