2014 Reading Challenge

2014 Reading Challenge
Michael has read 1 book toward his goal of 50 books.
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Monday, June 2, 2014

Monday's Novel Talk (81)

Hey Chroniclers! Happy Monday! As much as we hate it, it comes around every single week and we can't do anything about it. But Monday allows me to say what I've been reading and get you guys to talk about what you've been reading!

I'm still reading A Feast For Crows by George R. R. Martin and I'm on page 100 of 684 so I still have a while to go but things are getting exciting and I can't wait to jump right back into it. Plus the show is getting super amazing and OH MY JESUS!

I'm currently reading Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan. I'm on page 32 of 196 and it is so good! So far there has been no kissing at all but there has been crying on my part because things are just too real in the book. I love it already though and I can't wait to continue after this post!

That's all I've been reading, hopefully next week I'll have read more!

What are you guys reading? Let me know down in the comments below and we can discuss!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

To Be Read Pile (June 2014)

Hey Chroniclers! This post is actually on time which is super amazing because, well I've been slacking with everything. Anyway, June has begun and with the new month comes the special post, and with that I present to thee.... the To Be Read Pile of June 2014!

To Be Read Pile (June 2014)
So I'll just go out and say it in case you don't notice but I had to add the small case full of DVD's to the picture because there was no space left to add books! I couldn't stack them too high because they would topple over so as you can see, something was added. There, it's all out now. Clearly the pile has gone up, jokes aside. But I don't even care, I'm super happy!

To Be Read Pile (May 2014)
In the month of May I received 18 books and bought 3 for a grand total of 21! All the books I received was from a lovely friend who sent me more boxes, another friend who helped me celebrate the site's birthday and an ARC from an author! I was at 62 books but now I am at 82 books! Like I said earlier, I'm not mad because I'm excited for the books I did get and I can not wait to read them!

I finished reading 1 books, started reading 1 and am still reading 1. Hopefully next month it'll be better because I've been lacking!

My plan for this month is to read the majority of the smaller books and get them out of the way! We'll see how it goes...

Do you have a picture of your TBR Pile? Leave the link to it down below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Saturday, May 31, 2014

To Be Read Pile (May 2014)

Hey Chroniclers! Again, this post is a month overdue but I have started working and some exciting things have been taking up my time, as well as a week of vacation where I had no access to a computer! But either way, I have gotten back into reading although not as normal as I would have hoped or liked! But, I present to thee... the To Be Read Pile of May 2014!

To Be Read Pile (May 2014)
Clearly I can tell that it's gone up and that there are a lot more books than usual. Lucky for me, the majority of the books aren't that big so I'm safe. Hopefully.

To Be Read Pile (April 2014)
In the month of April I received 7 books! All from a lovely friend who is also a blogger and you will definitely hear about her soon! I can't wait to read them though and I seriously do thank her for the books because she spoils me! I was at 57 books and now I'm at 62! I'm not even mad because I got some amazing books and I've come to terms that the pile will never be as low as I want it to. Which is also good because it means I'll keep getting new books to read!

I finished reading only 1 book and have started my 2nd. Like I said I started work and wasn't home for a week and been super busy with exciting things you will hear about soon!

My plan this month is to read whatever I can so we shall see how that goes.

Do you have a picture of your TBR Pile? Leave a link of it down below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Happy 4th Birthday!!

Hey guys! Today The Subtle Chronicler turns 4-years-old!

As much as it's time for celebration, I won't be celebrating just yet. I've started a new job today so things are back to being hectic. I will be doing some giveaways very soon but I just want to thank each and every one of you guys. I love you all and if it wasn't for you guys, I would have just given up on this site. But there's still hope!

So be on the lookout for actual posts and giveaways and here's to another year!

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

To Be Read Pile (April 2014)

Hey Chroniclers! So I know this post is a month overdue but trust me when I say things have just been going on. A lot of things that has taken my time and energy and just it's been horrible really. It also explains the lack of posts. I'm not going to go into detail as of yet but I even stopped reading which has been horrible. But I think there's still time so I present to thee.... the To Be Read Pile of April 2014!

To Be Read Pile (April 2014)
It looks the same as it did in the beginning of March. It hasn't gone down nor up but it's just there. I'm not even mad at this point.

To Be Read Pile (March 2014)
In the month of March I bought 1 book! It was all because of my friend but I'm proud that it was only one book. I was at 59 books but it went down to 57 books. Not bad, considering it looks the same to me! I hope it goes lower (although it actually didn't) but we shall see. I finished reading 3 books and have started my 4th! Not bad.

My plan this month is just whatever. We'll see how it all goes. I predict bad! We'll see though!

Do you have a picture of your TBR pile? Leave a link of it down below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Monday, April 21, 2014

Monday's Novel Talk (80)

Hey guys! So I know it's been a while, but this time things were super serious and I backed away from everything. You can say times were dark, I was barely reading and just doing things I'm not proud of but screw that onto better times! It's like a do-over of sort. So let's begin!

The post will be shortish since I haven't been reading but hey! It's something!

I'm currently reading A Feast For Crows by George R. R. Martin and I've only read the Prologue so far but it's so good. I've missed the world, the show is back and it's definitely something to get me back on track. The story is told from the POVs of people we haven't met before or were minor characters. So, I'm pretty excited for that!

That's all I've been reading though. Like I said, reading was kind of put on hold during the "dark times" but I promise to get back on it! For sure!

What are you guys reading? Let me know down in the comments below and we can discuss!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks


Sunday, March 23, 2014

What A Scene! (2)

Hey Chroniclers! What's up?! It's Sunday once more which means it's time for another post of What A Scene! What A Scene! is a new weekly post, hosted by yours truly, where I give you a schedule of what shows I watched during the week and my thoughts on the episode. I love to watch shows as much as I love reading and I know a lot of you do too, so this way we can discuss if you guys have watched it as well. There might be spoilers even though I try not to post them.


(SUNDAY) - 1 SHOW, 1 EPISODE
The Walking Dead 4.14 "The Grove" - Oh my god! If you guys don't watch this show than you must. Everyone seems turned off by the idea of zombies but the majority of the show is about humanity and this episode killed me. As well as some other people. The show continues to prove that the main character doesn't need to be in the show for it to be amazing. This is actually the third episode without Rick and has been focusing on only one group. The deaths were tragic and I did tear up a couple of times because just wow. Everything was so sad yet so beautifully done. This show will be my death.

(MONDAY) - 5 SHOWS, 6 EPISODES
*The Crazy Ones 1.08 "The Stan Wood Account"
*Supernatural 2.02 "Everybody Loves a Clown" | 2.03 "Bloodlust"
How I Met Your Mother 9.21 "Gary Blauman" - This episode is making the end of the show too real. With each episode, it gets clearer that the end is near and this episode is shaping the show to an amazing ending. We see Ted out on a date with the Mother and he's telling her what happened before the wedding with a character. At the end of the episode, we see what happens to a lot of not all of the side characters we meet. How their lives turned out and what they went on to do. It was such a bittersweet episode and they're finally starting their goodbyes.
2 Broke Girls 3.19 "And The Kilt Trip" - This episode was all about my favorite day, St. Patrick's Day! Green beer, green clothes, green everything. As always this show delivered some funny lines that actually made me laugh out loud. I love how the show doesn't hold anything back with its jokes and is funny if you have an open mind and don't take offense to everything. Hopefully we get more seasons.
Teen Wolf 3.23 "Insatiable" - Holy crap! Does every show want to kill me?! The time has come and so has the death and as much as I called it I still couldn't believe it. It's so crazy but it'll be interesting to see how the show and next seasons continue without this character. It's going to get good!

(TUESDAY) - 6 SHOWS, 7 EPISODES
Bates Motel 2.03 "Caleb" - I freaking love Emma! She's just so cute and I hope the weed boy treats her well. About Norma's brother, I kind of guessed his secret when we first saw him but when it was revealed my jaw still dropped because I didn't think it would actually be true. The season is picking up and getting really good and I can't wait until the next episode.
*Supernatural 2.04 "Children Shouldn't Play with Dead Things" | 2.05 "Simon Said"
*The Crazy Ones 1.09 "Sixteen-Inch Softball"
Pretty Little Liars 4.24 "A is for Answers" - So this was the season finale and finally Allison tells us almost everything about the night she went missing! Finally questions were answered! But, questioned were also asked and left open. What did Spencer's sister tell her dad? Who did Allison's mom see? And who the hell is A?! The season ended with a huge cliff-hanger that leaves the fate of one character on the line and we'll have to wait until June to see what happens. 
Bad Girls All Star Battle 2.10 "Winner Take All" - I knew who was going to win because of spoilers but I'm still happy. I'm also glad the challenges were definitely stepped up which only means it's going to get bigger and badder. It's mindless fun that I like to watch and I can't wait until the reunion.
Glee 5.11 "100" - The 100th episode and everyone returned! Almost everyone, where the hell is Sugar?! Anyway, the cast did remixes of songs they sang previously which is pretty cool and it's also as epic seeing everyone together. The show feels like it's gearing up to its series finale which in a way it is. Season 6 will be its last but won't feature the High School. There were some exciting things that happened and I can't wait to see where it goes from there.

(WEDNESDAY) - 3 SHOWS, 8 EPISODES
*Arrow 1.01 "Pilot" | 1.02 "Honor Thy Father" | 1.03 "Lone Gunman" | 1.04 "An Innocent Man" | 1.05 "Damaged" | 1.06 "Legacies"
The 100 1.01 "Pilot" - The show holds a lot of promise. I'm curios to see how Earth looks and what's changed and see who the hell threw that spear at the end. It's pretty cool how the storylines alternate between Earth and Space and I hope the show gets picked up for a full season and then more.
The Real World: Ex-Plosion 29.10 "Burned to Ashes" - The show is almost done but the relationships are getting crazier than ever. More hookups and breakups and fights have happened. And I'm not even ashamed to say I love this show. I just want more seasons.

(THURSDAY) 4 EPISODES, 1 SHOW
*Arrow 1.07 "Muse of Fire" | 1.08 "Vendetta" | 1.09 "Year's End" | 1.10 "Burned"

(FRIDAY) 1 SHOW, 3 EPISODE
*Arrow 1.11 "Trust but Verify" | 1.12 "Vertigo" | 1.13 "Betrayal"

(SATURDAY) 1 SHOW, 8 EPISODES
*Arrow 1.14 "The Odyssey" | 1.15 "Dodger" | 1.16 "Dead to Rights" | 1.17 "The Huntress Returns" | 1.18 "Salvation" | 1.19 "Unfinished Business" | 1.20 "Home Invasion" | 1.21 "The Undertaking"

*Supernatural - Season 2 is seeming to be better than Season 1. The tone has gotten lighter, as well as the lighting and picture. There's some jokes here and there that keeps everything from getting too serious. Haven't exactly watched that much of Season 2 but I hope to get further in the coming week.
*The Crazy Ones - This show is super hilarious. I love the actors and hope it gets picked up for a second season. I love the bloopers that give at the end of every episode. I seriously do need to catch up though and hope that I will very soon.
*Arrow - I fell in love with this show and I fell for it hard! I love everything about it, the characters, the story, everything! I love all the little hints to other DC characters that they give and hopefully I can catch up on Season 2 so I can watch it weekly. My love for this show is so strong that it leaves me speechless. 

What have you guys been watching? Let me know down in the comments below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks


Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Cover Reveal: Rumble by Ellen Hopkins

Hey Chroniclers! Today is such an exciting day because the cover for one of my most anticipated books along my second most favorite author has been revealed!


Rumble by Ellen Hopkins!

Let me just say, when the title was first announced, I called the cover being blue. I mean, she didn't have a blue book and the title just screams blue at me but this is amazing! I love the blue in the middle but then the other colors around it. It's like stained glass.

The thing about her covers is that every cover has a different feel to it. So I can only imagine that the glass will be glossy, while the metal holding them will feel normal maybe. And then you can feel the crack and the scratches of the title on the glossy cover.

The book comes out August 26th but I need this book now. I hope it's as good as I expect it to be but knowing Ellen Hopkins it's gonna be even greater!

What do you guys think of the cover? Leave your comments down below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Sunday, March 16, 2014

What A Scene! (1)

Hey Chroniclers! I do apologize for the lateness of this post. It's Sunday and if you guys liked my Facebook page you would know that I have a new idea for posts on Sundays. Basically, I watch a lot of television shows and love to discover new shows and so I decided to start keeping track of what I watched and give my small opinion on the episodes. The post might include spoilers so if you don't want to be spoiled, proceed with caution. I'll try to avoid them but I can't make any promises.


(SUNDAY
Did not watch anything.

(MONDAY)
*Supernatural 1.10 "Asylum"
The Walking Dead 4.13 "Alone" - The show continues to deliver! I'm so afraid someone is going to die before they all manage to get back together, especially with people running off on their own. It's just making me all jumpy. I think the show is giving us some amazing character development which is really adding to the story.
How I Met Your Mother 9.20 "Daisy" - Oh my Jesus! This episode made me love the show all over again! I also teared up a little bit or a lot during it. Mostly at the end when we find out Lily's secret. I'm so sad the show is coming to an end and I'm going to miss it so freaking much. It's almost time for the series finale.
Bates Motel 2.02 "Shadows of a Doubt" - The episode was a bit slow and mostly just a filler for the season. Not much happened except one or two major things, especially at the end. Although the promo for next weeks is making it to look so freaking good!
Teen Wolf 3.22 "De-Void" - There were some parts that made me get all giddy! Especially when Allison and Kira fought side by side. The part that really made me get all excited was when they switched weapons. I think that was such a deep moment that meant a lot more than it just them switching weapons. It was fantastic and I can't wait to see who dies at the end.

(TUESDAY
*Supernatural 1.11 "Scarecrow" | 1.12 "Faith" | 1.13 "Route 666" 
Bad Girls All Star Battle 2.09 "The Battle Dome" - I'm a sucker for reality competition shows. Especially when it involves people from a show that I already watch. We finally see the top 4 and I'm excited for it even though I was spoiled with who wins. Now that I know who wins, the edits make me see it going to happen. I just hope it keeps getting renewed.

(WEDNESDAY)
*Supernatural 1.14 "Nightmare" 
Glee 5.11 "City of Angels" - It was time for nationals and I knew they were going to lose. I mean, their Glee club has nothing special. There's barely enough people, their choreography isn't all that great and the songs are eh compared to what others do. It sucks that this is the last nationals Glee will do because they're getting rid of the high school storyline for Season 6, but I just wish they upped their game. Added more people into the club, got better choreography, especially with the cheerleaders, and just did better remixes of songs.
Pretty Little Liars 4.23 "Unbridled" - The show is getting good and finally we are one episode away from the season finale when we find out a lot of secrets. I'm still set on Aria being in on everything but we shall see. 

(THURSDAY)
*Supernatural 1.15 "The Benders" | 1.16 "Shadow"
The Real World Ex-Plosion "Indecent Ex-Posure" - This show gives me life. I'm a reality tv show junkie and The Real World is the best thing that has ever happened to me. People be crazy, fights happened, people made out. It's just amazing shiz that I love to watch.
Here Comes Honey Boo Boo 3.13 "Halloween Too" - I love this show so freaking much! The fact that people write them off calling them sloppy and stupid is the dumbest thing I've heard. Especially when they support the Kardashians. This family shows real emotions and what a real family is supposed to be. Forget about the money, it's about love. Let loose and don't worry about what anyone says about you. At the end of the day you have to make yourself happy. And as always this show just delivers.

(FRIDAY)
*Supernatural 1.17 "Hell House" | 1.18 "Something Wicked This Way Comes" | 1.19 "Provenance" | 1.20 "Dead Man's Body" | 1.21 "Salvation" | 1.22 "Devil's Trap"

(SATURDAY
*Supernatural 2.01 "In My Time of Dying"

*I've been watching my marathon of Supernatural from the very beginning. I want to get caught up and so I can't exactly say much per episode since I'm watching them back to back. The first season (which I finished) certainly has a darker tone to it. Both in the image and the storytelling. Season 2 so far has lightened up and is showing more colors. I haven't watched much but next week you shall know more about my adventures.

What have you guys been watching? Let me know down in the comments below! 

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks


Tuesday, March 4, 2014

The Novel's Court (14) Pt. 2

Hey Chroniclers! Earlier today I handed you guys the first post of today. In case you have no idea what I'm talking about, two books came out today that really caught my attention and I decided to cover both of them instead of the usual one. In case you don't know The Novel's Court is a weekly meme hosted by me where I bring you a debut novel that is a stand-alone or the first of a series and put it through a trial-like process to deem whether it's Guilty of reading or Not Guilty. This is the second part so... Let us begin!


Death Sworn by Leah Cypess

Ileni is losing her magic. And that means she's losing everything: Her status as the renegade sorcerer's most powerful rising star. Her purpose in life. The boy she loves. Her home.

Exiled to teach sorcery to the assassins hidden deep within the mountains, she expects no one will ever hear from her again. The last two tutors died within weeks of each other. As Ileni unravels the mystery surrounding their deaths, she'll uncover secrets that have been kept for decades-and she'll find an unexpected ally and dangerous new love.

But even he may not be able to protect her. Not when she's willing to risk everything.

Time for Court!

The Story: Aside from the romance, this sounds like something I would enjoy reading. Once against magic is in it and I love magic. Reminds me of Cinda Williams Chima who has a blurb on the cover as well. 

The Cover: I'm in love with the cover! From that tower, to the mirror/window, to the font, to the colors, EVERYTHING! I hope they don't do cover changes and keep it the way it is because it's seriously amazing. 

The Verdict: Guilty! This is something I want to read and it is on my wishlist for me to buy and read. Hopefully I can get it soon and I will be checking out reviews to see what everyone else thinks.

What do you guys think? Leave your comments down below on whether you find the book Guilty or Not Guilty and we'll get discussing!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks


The Novel's Court (14) Pt. 1

Hey Chroniclers! It's Tuesday and we all know what that means! Books have been released into the world for us to read and it is our job to find the ones that will catch our attentions the most. The Novel's Court is a weekly meme hosted by me where I bring you a debut novel that is a stand-alone or the first of a series and put it through a trial-like process to deem whether it is Guilty of reading or Not Guilty. This week two books that really caught my attention have been released and I wanted to cover them both so there will be two separate posts. This is part one. Let us begin!


Half Bad by Sally Green


In modern-day England, witches live alongside humans: White witches, who are good; Black witches, who are evil; and sixteen-year-old Nathan, who is both. Nathan's father is the world's most powerful and cruel Black witch, and his mother is dead. He is hunted from all sides. Trapped in a cage, beaten and handcuffed, Nathan must escape before his seventeenth birthday, at which point he will receive three gifts from his father and come into his own as a witch-or else he will die. But how can Nathan find his father when his every action is tracked, when there is no one safe to trust-not even family, not even the girl he loves?

Time for Court!

The Story: The synopsis makes it sound so freaking good. I love anything to do with magic and I hope this one doesn't disappoint with unnecessary romance or anything of that sort. If it focuses on Nathan finding his father and trying to survive then we might have a good book in our hands. I have high hopes.

The Cover: Now I know the cover looks a bit meh on here but I have seen what the actual book looks like and it is amazing. It's not all gray like the cover on here and just you have to see it in person. It's so good!

The Verdict: Guilty! I've added this book to my wishlist and will need to check out reviews to see about the romance part, if any, but I want this book. I hope the next books don't change covers or I will flip tables.

What do you guys think? Leave your comments down below on whether you find the book Guilty or Not Guilty and we'll get discussing!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks


Monday, March 3, 2014

To Be Read Pile (March 2014)

Hey Chroniclers! So off topic of this post but I still have some posts to put up that I should have put up in January but I don't know what's wrong with me. I just haven't done it for some reason. Laziness possibly. Anyway, it's the beginning of the month and I am here to present to thee... the To Be Read Pile of March 2014!

To Be Read Pile (March 2014)
I don't know if it went down or if it was leveled out. I really have no idea and can't tell anymore. What a fail this is on my part. Along with being a mess. What a mess I am. Just look at it.... what is going on?! I have no idea!!

To Be Read Pile (February 2014)
In the month of February I bought 2 books! Except one of them was a hardcover copy of a book I already read/owned so that went straight to the shelves. So basically 1 book was added to the pile! I was at 61 books and now I'm at 59! Finally! Back in the '50s and I hope I stay that way or go lower! I finished reading 3 books and am currently reading my 4th which explains why the pile didn't go lower than it should have.

My plan for this month is to just read books of series that I already read. Get those out of the way and onto the shelves. After that, I don't know but we shall see next month.

Do you have a picture of your TBR pile? Leave your link below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

To Be Read Pile (February 2014)

Hey Chroniclers! So this post is late but not as late as some other posts I need to put up. Don't judge me. But it's now February which means that it's time to put some pics up. I present to thee...the To Be Read Pile of February 2014!

To Be Read Pile (February 2014)
It's lowered! At least I think it has. I might just be trying to be hopeful but I feel like it has lowered just a bit. Especially that section in the middle. The books are somewhat even now.

To Be Read Pile (January 2014)
In the month of January I only bought 2 books! 2 books! Not bad at all! I was at 64 books but now I'm at 61. It seems like nothing but as long as I lower the pile down I'll be happy. I finished reading 5 books and am now on my 6th. (Of course I planned to post this earlier so the status is currently changed.)

My plan for this month is get one or two big books out of the way and then tackle the small books once again. But we'll see how that goes because you never know what can happen. Next month I'll be back and we shall see.

Do you have a picture of your TBR pile? Leave your link down below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Cover Reveal: Empire of Shadows by Miriam Forster

Hey guys, so I know I'm late with these cover reveals but I really wanted to talk about them because they are so cool. This one was revealed not long ago but only now have I gotten around to checking them out on my computer and not my phone. But I present thee the cover...


Empire of Shadows by Miriam Forster!

The novel is actually a companion novel to the first novel, City of a Thousand Dolls but focusing on this one, I FREAKING love the cover! This is one of my favorite covers I have ever seen and I need to own it in person. Just look at it! Look at the colors and the font and just it's so beautiful I want to cry. I really do.

I haven't read the first book yet but I'll need to get it soon so I can read this one right after. I just want to own it because look at it. It's amazing.

I need it.

What are your thoughts on the cover? Let me know down in the comments below and let's talk about how amazing it looks! I can't wait to see it in person.

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

 

The Novel's Court (13)

Hey Chroniclers! It's Tuesday and you know what that means? MORE SNOW IN NEW JERSEY! No I'm kidding, that's only Wednesday/Thursday and then Sunday. All jokes aside, books have been released out to the world and it's our job to find the ones we want to read and the ones we want to pass. The Novel Court is a weekly meme hosted by me where I bring you a debut novel that is a stand-alone or the start of a series and put it through a trial-like process to deem whether it is Guilty of reading or Not Guilty. Let us begin!


The Glass Casket by McCormick Templeman

Death hasn't visited Rowan Rose since it took her mother when Rowan was only a little girl. But that changes one bleak morning, when five horses and their riders thunder into her village and through the forest, disappearing into the hills. Days later, the riders' bodies are found, and though no one can say for certain what happened in their final hours, their remains prove that whatever it was must have been brutal.
Rowan's village was once a tranquil place, but now things have changed. Something has followed the path those riders made and has come down from the hills, through the forest, and into the village. Beast or man, it has brought death to Rowan's door once again.
Only this time, its appetite is insatiable.

Time for Court!

The Story: The synopsis makes it sound a bit interesting but it's not something that really holds my attention. I think I'd like to see a little more into it before I make any judgement though. It sounds a bit vague even though it is a synopsis.

The Cover: Where do I start? While I like the concept, it seems a bit off. If I'm not mistaken those are fingers going into the girls mouth? That just seems a bit odd and weird. But it looks like they are someone else's fingers going into her mouth. I'm not exactly sure how I feel. I mean I don't have a problem with fingers in mouths on covers at all, it just seems oddly looking in this cover. 

The Verdict: Not Guilty! I think I'll have to pass. Nothing of this book is exactly calling to me but that doesn't mean it won't be good. I just would rather see what other people thing before buying it.

What do you guys think? Leave your comments down below on whether you think it's Guilty or Not Guilty and we'll get to discussing!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
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Monday, February 10, 2014

Monday's Novel Talk (79)

Hey Chroniclers! I'm back with another short post. Things are blah lately but whatever. I haven't been in the mood for anything but I'm trying to change that. By changing that I need to force myself to do things so that I get back into routine. So let's begin with this super short post.

I finished reading The Iron Legends by Julie Kagawa. It was an alright book and just something about the series doesn't really call out to me. I don't know if it's the ideas or the writing or the characters but it's alright really.

I started reading Reached by Ally Condie the final book in the Matched Trilogy and so far I'm liking it more than the other two. We get three different point of views which gives me different voices to read from and I think that's why I'm liking it more. Plus, things are finally happening and I can't wait to see it get down. I'm currently on page 80 out of 512.

That's all I've been reading really. Haven't had much of a chance to read, especially not this weekend since I wasn't home at all. Hopefully this week I can finish a bit more.

What are you guys reading? Let me know down in the comments below and we can discuss!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
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Monday, February 3, 2014

Monday's Novel Talk (78)

Hey Chroniclers! I'm here with a short post. Things got crazy over this weekend and I'm back to being sick but worse than I usually am. I've been in bed all morning without being able to get up but I figured I'd have to at least make a post. It's also snowing here in Jersey and we got the first of three major snow falls of the week.

Aside from that I haven't exactly been reading much. I'm still reading The Iron Legends by Julie Kagawa and am on page 142 of 287. Almost done but I could have finished earlier. I do plan on finishing it this week but we shall see how that goes.

Aside from reading I do have a couple of posts I need to put up for sure. Two of them should have been up in January! My Top 10 Books of 2013 and the list of books I read in 2013 along with some information. Another is my February TBR Pile. I'll put them up once I feel better and can sit for a longer period without feeling sick.

I do hope you guys are enjoying your day and aren't sick like I am. And if you're being affected by the snow as well, hopefully that'll give you plenty of time to catch up with some reading. I'll see you all later and hopefully by tomorrow I'll be a lot better!

What are you guys reading? Leave your comments down below and we can discuss!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Monday, January 27, 2014

Monday's Novel Talk (77)

Hey Chroniclers! It's kind of late but things are just blah here. Everyone is getting sick, which sucks, and not much reading has been taking place lately. I mean since the beginning of the year I have read a bunch of books.

The first book I read and finished was The Shadowhunter's Codex by Cassandra Clare & Joshua Lewis. It was pretty cool getting some behind the scenes and extra information. I'd say if you're a fan of Shadowhunter's, you should definitely read it.

I second and third book I finished was Prodigy and Champion by Marie Lu. I actually got to finish the trilogy and it was pretty good. The action was intense and got my heart racing and the ending of Champion made me sad yet happy at the same time.

The fourth book I finished was Allegiant by Veronica Roth, the final book in the Divergent Trilogy. It took me a while to read, and I don't want to get into it much because I'll be making a post on it this Thursday. A spoilerful and spoiler-free post.

I finished reading The Boy on the Porch by Sharon Creech and it was seriously such an aww book and made me love it so much. The ending was the most, just, I loved it. It made my heart melt.

Right now, I'm currently reading The Iron Legends by Julie Kagawa. I'm on page 36 out of 287 and it's going a bit slow right now. Hopefully I'll be able to finish it sometime this week so that I can get another book done. But, we shall see.

But what are you guys reading? Leave your comments down below and let's get talking!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Friday, January 24, 2014

This or That (8)

Hey Chroniclers! It's been weeks since I've last posted on this site and it's been months since I last posted this particular feature which is one of my creations. But, since it's Friday and I'm trying to get back into posting regularly because, well, I should and need to, I decided to start with today. Now for those of you who don't know, This or That is a weekly feature hosted by yours truly where I pit covers of the same book against each other. They both have the same story, but the image that sells is completely different.Your job, as Chroniclers, is to vote for your favorite at the end to see which one is the fan favorite.

This week I decided to do one that didn't have that much of a cover change, but they decided to make it different bother the hell out of fans who hate cover changes in the middle of a series.

Click to see bigger!
Legend by Marie Lu!

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Rupublic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secret.

Now here's the thing. I don't mind seeing the first one. I actually owned that copy and liked it for being simple although looking at it now reminds me of a photoshop a college student had to do. But then I discovered that the second cover had also been released on Hardcover and I had to have it! The texture and feeling of the actual book is amazing and it's better to look at than the first. The winner for me has got to be the new cover but people may like the old! Who knows? 

So that's where you come in! Out of these two which do you prefer? Vote for your favorite one down below and let's see who the winner is!




Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks



Monday, January 6, 2014

To Be Read Pile (January 2014)

Happy New Year everyone! I know I'm a bit late but I got sick and haven't gotten out of bed at all. Great way to start the new year, I know. But with the new year comes new opportunities and challenges along with a new month. So, of course, I present to thee... the To Be Read Pile of January 2014!

To Be Read Pile (January 2014)
I won't be showing you last months photo because it's a new year and we're starting fresh. There is a lot of books on here and I found myself going back to previous months through the years and seeing the progress. So many books!

In total there are 64 books in the pile! I do have a plan on what I want to read in the first few months of the new year. I want to get some smaller books out of the way along with books that have been in the pile the longest. I especially want to get some of the bigger books out of the way because they'll help bring down the pile. We shall see how it all goes when I come back next month with the new photo!

This year I'm doing 50 books for my challenge. Hopefully I go further like 2012 but we shall see.

Do you have a picture of your TBR pile though? Leave it down below!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks

Stacking The Shelves (20: Christmas Edition)

Hey guys! It's been a while since I did one of these but I figured I'd do one now because Christmas came and went and I got a LOT of books. To start off, Stacking The Shelves is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga from Tynga's Reviews where we show you guys the books we got. Now to showoff but to help you guys find some books. I'll be doing it a bit different than usual. I always put a picture of the books but there's so many this time I'll also put up the spines.


All of these books were bought using gift cards I received for Christmas. There's actually one book missing but at the time, I didn't realize it was still only available for pre-order and will come out July. But hey, Christmas in July. Some of these books I already owned but got different copies.

Shatter Me I owned the hardcover but because of the cover change I decided to get the paperback so that they match.
Numbers & Cinder I owned paperbacks and needed the Hardcovers.
The Forsaken, Scarlet & The Lost Code I owned ARCs of and had to get actual copies. Everything else I got to read.


I'm super excited to read the books that are new to me. Some of them I've wanted for years and I finally have them! Check them out later when the TBR Pile post comes out.

And that's how good my Christmas was! Let me know down in the comments below how good your Christmas was and we can discuss!

Don't forget to check out my other places on the web of inter...
Facebook: The Subtle Chronicler
Twitter: @SubtleChronicle
Goodreads: Michael Araujo
Instagram: AntonioMeks
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