Books Etc Magazine September 2020

BooksEtc Issue 7 | September 2020

The

DNF PILE DNF DNF (Did (Did Not Not Finish), Finish), it's it's almost almost a a bookish bookish taboo. taboo.

Why Why are are we we so so afraid afraid to to DNF DNF books? books?

Magazine

James James Trevino Trevino

The The KING KING of of bookstagram bookstagram takes takes a a moment moment to to talk talk to to us us about about Books, Books, Passion Passion and and Burnout...

Burnout...

V

BookSloth GoodReads Epic Epic battle battle of of the the book book apps, apps, we we road road test test both both and and see see who who comes comes out out on on top. top.

Cover Cover image: image: James James @jamestrevino @jamestrevino

FROM THE EDITOR

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Hello!

Well, well, well!

What do we have here?

It looks like another full on BooksEtc issue!!!

This month has been another crazy one with Victoria (where I'm located) going back into stage three and stage four restrictions because of Covid-19. It's been a lot.

Editor - Jayse - @Itsmejayse Cover by James - @JamesTrevino Contributors Tamika - @Paperbackandflickchick Blue - @Bluesfairytales_ Ange - @Pnrbookloverreviews Casey - @Through.thepages Ellie - @Labsandliterature Guest Reviewers Jeann - @ HappyIndulgence Amie - @The_bookish_musician

I hope you are all doing what you can to look after yourselves, being kind to yourselves and each other.

In this issue we are joined by guest contributor Jeann from @happyindulgence as well as Amie from @the_bookish_musician - thank you SO much ladies! We've loved having you on board.

But, without further ado, go read the mag!!

Jayse x ANY FEEDBACK? BOOKSETCMAG@GMAIL.COM @BOOKSETC_MAG

WWW.ISSUU.COM/BOOKSETCMAGAZINE

Copyright Š 2020 Books Etc Magazine All rights reserved, material in Books Etc Magazine is protected under the Commonwealth Copyright Act 1968.

No material may be reproduced in part thereof or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders.

Copyright responsibility for supplied material rests with the provider.

The opinions expressed in Books Etc Magazine are those of individual contributors and not necessarily those of its editors and publishers. Every attempt is made for accuracy, however information and figures contained in this magazine have been provided to us by the advertisers and their sources. No warranty is given by Books Etc Magazine as to the accuracy of any figures or information contained in this magazine. Perspective purchasers are urged to rely on their own enquiries.

CONTENTS WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

ISSUE 7 | SEPTEMBER 2020

THE KING OF BOOKSTAGRAM, JAMES TREVINO James Trevino gives a look into his life and loves. We absolutely loved sitting down and getting into James' head.

Page 22 ➤

THE DNF PILE

INDIE AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

Which books have ended up on your DNF pile and why?

We asked the people of Bookstagram their opinions and boyyyyyyy, there were a few.

Haha!

We take a look into the world of The Crowning by indie author Nattie Kate Mason Page 20 ➤

Page 12 ➤

BOOKSLOTH V GOODREADS BookSloth is the new app on the block giving GoodReads a run for its money. Our contributor Casey gives it a test drive.

Page 14 ➤

BOOK BIZ SPOTLIGHT We take a moment with Mel from A Cosy Reader Designs to discover more about her bookish business.

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Page 15 ➤

Page 42 ➤

Get your entries in for this fabulous giveaway...

Have you noticed that a lot of Bookstagrammers say the same things? Here's some of the most funny phrases I've heard, and probably used myself...

"Just GoodReads it"

"Rainbo "Use my code w Shelve s!" to save at the "Do it for the gram!"

checkout"

"My SHELVES are a MESS! "It's so aesthetic"

t n a c I l, i a m k o o b e m o s d e v i e c e r e 'v "I g" n i h t y n a g n i r e d r o remember

Page 4 ➤

"I have no self control"

"Umm, it's on my TBR"

" o i b n "Crushed by my i k n neverending tbr" "Li

dles!!" n a c h s i k o o B "

"Just one more chapter"

"Can "Can you you send send me me your your book book in in exchange exchange for for a a GoodReads GoodReads review?" review?" *enters bookshop* "I'm Just browsing"

"This book is so hyped!"

Page 5 ➤

"oh, th a scent t stunninis g"

ON SALE 7/10/20

B y Ellie - @L ab s A nd L i t e r at ur e Robin Arianhod is a seventeen year flight mechanic fighting in the decade-long war between the Saskwyan’s and the Klonn’s.

Alongside her Captain, Wade, they take to the skies in gliders to defend their people. The skies are stalked by a ruthless Klonn pilot known only as the Coyote. Robin and Wade have an almost deadly run-in with the Coyote and when she manages to evade and bring her ship and Captain home, she is rewarded by becoming the first flight mechanic to ever be promoted to Captain.

It becomes Robin’s mission to destroy the Klonn but particularly the Coyote, who seems happy to toy with her each time she takes to the sky. When they finally meet face to face again the Coyote manages to shoot her down and takes Robin as his prisoner. But not all is as it seems and Robin will have to make some choices she never thought possible.

J.M. Frey has created a really intriguing world. It has a distinct science fiction vibe with a steampunk flair which was unique and exciting. It was interesting that there was little to no world building involved in this book and instead the reader is thrown straight into the action of Robin’s world. Characters use slang and mention places and historic moments and the reader is simply along for the ride learning on the fly. This Page 7 ➤

is a really fun way to introduce a new world and it really demonstrates how tenuous this world is. As the story progresses we learn more about the war, the surroundings, and the main character Robin.

Robin Arianhod is a truly wonderful character. She is strong both mentally and physically, and talented in her role as a flight mechanic, but also as a friend and a daughter. Frey has put a lot of work into Robin and her personality and motivations are well described.

The other characters, including the Coyote, lacked the detail and depth that Robin had but since this book is told from her point of view it wasn’t a huge problem. It did however make the enemies to lovers “romance” plot fall a bit flat for me but I hope there will be more in the second and final instalment of this series.

The Skylark’s Song is a quick, enjoyable read for lovers of steampunk, science fiction and fierce female characters.

Buddy Read

1st September CHECK OUT @ITSMEJAYSE ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION

ON SALE 7/10/20

B y Je ann - @hap p y i nd ulge nc e Described as Gossip Girl meets Crazy Rich Asians, I knew Anna K would be totally up my alley as an own voices book with a cast of Asian characters. Set in elite Manhattan, New York, Anna K follows the life of a bi-racial Korean-American teen whose wealthy parents have raised her with a perfect reputation. She’s the envy of all of Manhattan with her handsome, esteemed boyfriend, Alexander.

Every happy teenage girl is the same, while every unhappy teenage girl is miserable in her own special way. - Anna K

As we start delving into the grandiose, dramafilled world of Anna and her friends, the book introduces some darker themes as they deal with high fashion, partying, illicit drugs, alcohol social media and the pressures of being abuse and cheating. In fact, the whole plot is brought up by traditional Asian parents, which I based on cheating as Anna goes behind her found really relatable. boyfriend’s back to date Manhattan’s famed playboy – Alexi Vronsky. I actually really liked Anna K deals with the consequences of your Anna and Vronsky together – in their own, actions - that no matter what you do, you’ll messy way of loving each other. make mistakes – after all, you’re only human.

But life has a way of sorting itself out in the While I definitely didn’t support Anna’s actions, end. And that, I think, is the perfect takeaway it was interesting to hear discussions on slut for such a scandal filled story. shaming, consequences of female vs male sexuality, and how families individually deal Trigger warnings: with scandals. There’s also a healthy dose of suicide, drug use, animal abuse, eating feminism, disorders.

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The

DNF PILE

By Jayse - @itsmejayse So, hows that towering TBR pile going? What happens if you come across a book you had high hopes for but it turns out to be a stinker? Do you plow through it because you feel guilt if you put it down? GURRRRRL! I'm here to tell you, STOP IT! Don't waste your time on a book you aren't enjoying. My motto is, "No time for shitty books!"

We asked the people of Instagram about the books they'd DNF'ed. Let's see what they had to say and why?

Lord of the Rings Boring and far to much descriptive prose. I just found it tedious.

My Dark Vanessa IT was gross. It tried and failed to be lolita and I just hated everything.

Red Queen - No comment needed.

One of us is lying - I tried to like it, but I just COULDN'T!

The Host - I've tried to read this book over the past TEN years...But I just can't.

Deviate - I honestly think Eve is a twat now and Lemon got boring!

Just boring and SLOW! Page 12 ➤

The

DNF PILE The Mortal Instruments Terrible writing, boring storyline, just no.

Illuminae - It was boring and didn't connect to the story.

The Dysasters #CRINGE!!!

Circe - I just couldn't get into it and I didn't really like the main character.

It was literally a disaster!

Page 13 ➤

Forged in fire and stars - It was a set up book and felt scattered.

You - The main character was SO hard to read. He was SO whiney!

The Wicked King Terrible plot that was confusing and somehow boring too?

(Editor's note - I loved it LOL)

The Night Circus - I got halfway through and there was still no main character or plot.

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes - The main character was just vile. No redeeming qualities.

Sorcery of Thorns The main character seemed high the whole time and Nathaniel was borrrring.

V

BookSloth Goodreads

By Casey - @through.thepages

Calling all book readers from beginners to experts, here is the showdown for you. As readers we all like to know what we have read, what we liked, and to discuss them with those who are like-minded. Many of us track these by using the app/program Goodreads, however a new app has hit the bookish scene – Booksloth. I had the chance to break them down in a head-to-head battle for book app superiority.

I have spent some time familiarising myself with both apps and have decided upon 3 categories with a winner in each category, plus a bonus round then an overall winner at the end. So here we go..

Round One – Book Selection Let’s start with the original Goodreads, whether I need to add a book to my currently reading list or want to read list I have found there to be no issue with book selection. I have found every one of them with ease, even the indie authors I have read.

With Booksloth, unfortunately I've had a lot of misses when trying to find the book I am looking for. I understand maybe not being able to find Call the Midwife, something that may be seen as obscure, but when I couldn’t find a super popular like Shatter Me I was a little disappointed. On the positive note, on Booksloth there is an option to suggest titles to add to the app which I appreciated. For this round the winner would have to be….

Winner – Goodreads.

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Round Two – Aesthetics To some this round may not seem that important - the way something looks could be considered simply a surface category.

However, if you are a bookstagrammer you may have thoughts on aesthetics, so I thought it was necessary to comment on.

Let’ s start with Booksloth this time and I have nothing but positive thoughts. The colours in this app are blues, teals, and purples - a rather calming collection of colours. I feel they give a bit of jazz to the app and lets be honest the icon is a sloth, SO CUTE! On to Goodreads I do feel the overall colour scheme and look to be on the simplistic side. Muted colours with a slight pop of green just isn’ t the most appealing.

So for this round the winner is….

Winner - Booksloth (editors note - this review was conducted prior to the recent GoodReads update)

Round Three – Functions Ok so this is likely the most important category for the showdown. What does the app actually offer? What functions are available? Both Goodreads and Booksloth allow you to log books you are reading, want to read, and have read all of, which are essential when using a book/reading tracking app. Both apps have the option to follow friends and for them to follow you.

One thing Booksloth has is the community where you can see other users and chat with them, like a forum you can read questions users have posed and then engage with them. Goodreads has a similar space however instead of questions to respond to you have the ability to see what you’re friends are reading/want to read as they input that data. Personally I like this function as I love seeing people I know reading good books especially those books that I have read. So for this round I think it will have to be….

Winner – Draw

Bonus Round – Extra Goodies I decided that this round was necessary as each app has a special something that is unique to them. Goodreads as we all know has the reading challenge each year. You set a goal of the amount of books you aim to read for the year and as you log each book the challenge tallies them for you until you reach the goal. It is so much fun!

Although Booksloth does not have these extra goodies, it does have an awesome discovery space that recommends books for the categories you can mark as your favourites when you created a profile. It shares books for different categories beyond those that were chosen when creating the profile that are relevant for today’s climate. BLM, LGBTQI and books by authors of colour. There is something in here for anyone who is looking to expand their knowledge and understanding about some of the big issues of the last few months. This was a tough round to declare a winner for but it is….

Winner – Goodreads

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The Final Result –

Goodreads!

Even though the winner is declared to be Goodreads I think that with a little more time (as it is still in its infancy) Booksloth could be an awesome alternative or companion to Goodreads in the near future.

Make sure to check them both out!

By Jayse - @itsmejayse We all know the story... vampire meets mortal girl, mortal girl falls helplessly in love with vampire, vampire resists urge to suck the lifeblood from her veins and falls in love right back. We thought that's all there was to know, but here comes Midnight Sun the Twilight saga told from Edward's point of view.

I keep thinking, why do we need to have this story? Why is Meyer still trying to leach the life out of this franchise?

Meyer also went on in the interview to state that writing from Edward's point of view was truly difficult. "His anxiety combined with I personally would LOVE mine was potent. He to get an origin story starts off fairly from one of the other confident, but boy does members of the family, he get broken down by or even better, a the end. Bella really member of the Volturi - I breaks him into pieces," literally just want Jane's she said. origin story, ok? Haha.

So, why did Meyer give us this story, what was her intent behind sharing Edwards POV? Meyer claimed recently in New York Times that she released the book now, because she'd finally finished it.

Meyer was planning to release Midnight Sun way back when, but a version of the story was leaked in 2008 which left the author "shook," but she still felt like Edward had a lot to share. Especially during those periods where Bella was not around.

So, have you read the latest instalment yet?

Our contributor Casey has read the book and you can find her review on the next page.

Meyer has said that this will be the very last book in the series. Saying there will not be a New Moon, Eclipse or Breaking Dawn in Edward's perspective, the author stated that she felt like she had given readers enough of a taste of Edward's point of view that they would be able to imagine the rest of the series through his eyes.

Do you think that Meyer is milking the franchise?

Or is Midnight Sun something you're looking forward to?

rkl a p *s

e*

rkl a p *s

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By Casey - @through.thepages Alright twihards both young and old (as some of us have added a few years since these books were released lol) rejoice for Midnight Sun is finally here.

The long awaited instalment of the Twilight saga has been gifted to us in the year that should just pack up and leave already. This gift was bestowed upon us and I know I am so grateful for it.

As a staunch Team Edward member, having a book that is told from Edward’s perspective had me jumping for joy. The size of the book was a complete surprise when I finally got my hands on a copy – 756 pages in my version that’ s the same size as The Order of the Phoenix, it’ s a big one.

To be completely honest- and it pains me to say it - I do not think that many pages were necessary. A book that is double the size of the original was not needed. At a few points I found myself rolling my eyes and saying out loud "Ok Edward, move on now I get it," haha.

Though in saying that, overall I found I really enjoyed it. Having the thoughts of Edward, which were pretty full on at times, was a great insight into his life and the vampire world. Because not only did we get all of Edward’s thoughts but so much more of the Cullen clan as a whole. The tension and aggression (*cough* Rosalie *cough*) that they felt and were very vocal about was really interesting to see. This instalment gave the story of Twilight a feeling of completion, it made it feel whole having both sides to understand and enjoy.

If you are a fan of this series and more importantly of our delightfully sparkly one, Edward this will be a warm nostalgic hug from one of your first book boyfriends so enjoy my fellow twihards, enjoy.

Indie

AUTHOR

By Ellie - @labsandliterature

Welcome to the magical Kingdom of Alearia.

A new heir must be chosen and so begins a contest between the magically gifted royal children of the current ruler, Queen Amealiana. Prince Alexander is poised to take the title, however, his sisters Princesses Anastasia, Alecia, and Agnes have other ideas. Queen Amealiana is also hiding a secret that will change the course of this competition and life as the royal family know it. The Crowning is filled with magic, suspense and betrayal and is a wonderful introduction to a new young adult high fantasy series.

A Queen’s Fate is the heartstopping second instalment of The Crowning series. It is dark and twisted and follows the Alearian heirs as they are thrust into their new roles within the Kingdom and the self-discovery that ensues. There is a traitor on the loose and the people of Alearia have fallen into civil unrest and it is up to the future ruler to unite their broken Kingdom before all is lost.

Heart of a Crown is the exciting conclusion of The Crowning series. There is war on the horizon and the Alearian royals need all the allies they can get to save their Kingdom and their lives. There are extremely difficult choices to be made and one of our beloved royals must risk her soul to save the Kingdom.

Page 20 ➤

The Crowning series is a fast-paced and action-packed series.

Nattie Kate Mason has created an interesting world full of life and colour. The magic system is unique and well thought out. I adored how the books focused on important parts of today's society while being set in an fantastical world. These include: mental health, equality and family dynamics.

Mason’s evocative writing style immediately draws the reader into the world of Alearia and her descriptive language is effortless. These books are action-packed and throughout this series Mason’s writing has developed and grown with each book. The Crowning series is a wonderful read for lovers of the young adult genre, fantasy and adventure and character driven stories.

“Magic is the happiness that we create when we give ourselves permission to follow our dreams.”

Page 21 ➤

James James Trevino Trevino Page 22 ➤

We are SUPER excited to have had the chance to sit down with the King of Bookstagram, James Trevino! If you don’t know who James is, ohhhh my goodness, where have you been? Haha!

James! Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to chat with us. Let’s get right into it…

Jayse – When did you start your bookstagram? What prompted you to do so?

James – I started my bookstagram about 4 years ago. It wasn’ t a bookstagram account, it was a personal one that in time turned into what you see today. And I guess social pressure haha?

Jayse – What is your favourite type of picture to create?

James – I don’ t think I have one. I like photography as an art, whether we talk natural photography or heavily edited fantasy scenarios.

Jayse – You create some AMAZING images, what has been the most difficult picture to set up?

Page 23 ➤

James – Basically anything that involved a fixed shape made of books. I think my Hogwarts Express photo took quite a while. It’ s quite hard sometimes to reimagine something using books.

Jayse – Where do you get your ideas from?

You seem to have an endless well of creativity.

James – Cartoons. No joke. I still watch cartoons almost on a daily basis. I like to think it keeps my heart young.

Jayse – Have you experienced ‘Bookstagram Burnout?’ How do you overcome this?

James – I did and I just took a small break. And you have to, otherwise you’ ll come to hate it.

Jayse – You obviously love reading, what are you reading lately?

James – I am currently reading IN THE DARK by Nick Setchfield and it is so good. Kinda like James Bond meets Supernatural.

Jayse – What advice would you give to someone starting their own Bookstagram?

James – Just create your own style. I think that is what helped me grow.

And don’ t try to please anyone. Life is hard enough without that haha.

Jayse – What has been your favourite achievement on Bookstagram so far?

James – I think the first two books of The Stormlight Archive

by Brandon Sanderson.

James – There are many beautiful moments. I think talking to some great authors and seeing people read the books I recommend are the peak moments.

Jayse – Who are some Bookstagrammers we need to be following?

Jayse – What do you enjoy outside of bookstagram?

James – Reading, of course, watching TV series and movies and working out. Some of the things that make me feel good in my own body and mind.

Jayse– Favourite book of 2020 so far?

"There are many beautiful moments."

- James Trevino, on his Bookstagram journey.

Page 24 ➤

James – I might be biased because she is my best friend, but @elizabeth_sagan.

And @thomreads. He gives the best advice on studying and following your goals.

Thanks so much for chatting with us James, we truly, truly appreciate it đ&#x;˜Š Be sure to head over to James's instagram page and check out his feed @JamesTrevino.

ON SALE NOW

i l i L

n o s n i k Wil

By Jayse - @itsmejayse

Lili Wilkinson is an amazingly diverse author based in Melbourne. Her published works span across the genres and include a non-fiction about Joan of Arc, several thrilling YA novels and even two children’s picture books.

Her latest release, The Erasure Initiative, sees her return with another thrilling YA in which a self-driving bus dishes out moral...

Jayse - Hi Lili!! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us…

Lili – Always a pleasure!

Jayse – Congrats on the new book! I can’t wait to Page 26 ➤

read it. What can you tell us about The Erasure Initiative (TEI)?

do to help spread the word?

Lili – It’s very weird. I have Lili – It’s a YA thriller about a three books out this year – girl who wakes up on a self- two How To Make A Pet driving bus with no memory Monster books and TEI. It of who she is or how she got can be pretty dispiriting there. The bus is circling a – no school visits, no deserted tropical island. festivals, no bookshop There are seven passengers. signing events. Everyone is Nobody remembers under increased financial anything. stress so people are buying less books. It can be Jayse – You seem to have a disheartening. But logging knack for writing thrilling on to my Zoom launch the novels, I loved your other night was amazing – previous novel After the to see so many beloved lights go out (ATLGO), faces, especially ones who where does your don’t usually get to attend inspiration for these come my launches because they’re from? interstate or overseas. And the #LoveOzYA community Lili – With ATLGO, it was an is just so wonderful. I feel so article about Doomsday supported by my publishing Preppers. With Erasure friends, my writer friends, Initiative, it was two images: my reader friends. And the first of a girl in a selfespecially the bloggers and driving vehicle (I think bookstagrammers and initially it was a car, and in a booktubers who do such an city), with no memory of amazing job of getting the who she was or how she got word out and celebrating there. The second thing I our books. It makes me can’t reveal as it’s a massive teary just thinking about it. I spoiler, but for those who feel so lucky to be a part of have read the book, it’s the this community. closing image.

Jayse – In promoting TEI on Jayse – With the your Instagram page you challenges posed by covid- have been posing some 19, how does the launch very interesting questions for TEI compare to your on your story. Let us ask other novels? Is there you one of them… ’You are anything we readers can on a bus. Ahead, there is Page 27 ➤

your childhood bully. On the side road is your racist uncle. You can press a button and the bus will turn off onto the side road. The bus will not stop. Do you press the button?

Lili – This is a really hard one, and I need some more information. Is my childhood bully still a child? Because then I choose to kill the racist uncle. If the childhood bully is an adult – is he still a bully? Or has he reformed his ways? HOW DO I CHOOSE? Jayse – What does a writing day look like for you, has it changed since you became a parent?

Lili – Lol, yes. My kid started school this year, and I had a glorious couple of months where I’d walk him to school, then come back and have the whole day to write. It was perfect. Then COVID happened and now my work day is squashed between 6am-10am. Then I do remote learning with Banjo until 3. We are incredibly supported by Banjo’s school and his wonderful teachers, but prep learning is unavoidably hands-on, so it’s not like I can just give him a task

to do and leave him to it. My partner has a 9-5 job that’s he’s doing from home – he takes the early morning shift and the afternoon shift, but has to be online in the middle of the day, so I squeeze my work into the corners. I’ve never been so busy!

Jayse – Your mother is an author also, I assume there were always books in your life. Do you remember the first book you loved as a child?

Lili – The first book I read to myself was Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, which I adored. I especially loved the sequel where they went underwater. I haven’t pulled them out to read to Banjo, though. Not sure how I’m going to address some of the racism in those books…

Page 28 ➤

Lili – It took me a while to get into Discovery, but once I did I really liked it. And I was soooo excited for Picard but ended up noping out after three episodes.

However it did reignite my Lili – Yes! So there’ll be a second Pet Monster book in love of Star Trek The Next December, and then a third Generation, and during sometime next year. I’m also lockdown we’ve been watching one episode a still working on the same week online with friends, fantasy novel I’ve been and texting back and forth working on for the last five our thoughts, plus hilarious years. It’s very close, now! gifs.

Jayse – Lets divert Jayse – Thanks SO much quickly… I read somewhere that you were Lili!!! a huuuuuuge nerd in Lili – Thank YOU! high school and loooove

Star Trek, surprise, me too! Have you been able to The Erasure Initiative is in stores now and available watch the new Star Trek Discovery or Picard series? online.

Thoughts?

Jayse – Are there any more books in Lili Wilkinson’s future? Can you tell us about any upcoming projects?

Acts of Kindness You may have seen #RAOK floating around Instagram lately. The act of randomly selecting someone from a RAOK thread and sending them an item from their wish-list is SO fulfilling.

I've sent out three packages to members of the Bookstagram community and the feeling it brings is PURE JOY! I can't wait to send more. I received two surprise packages back and I cried both times LOL, I don't know why, I just love gifts and gifting.

So, how does it work? Well, you can use the hashtag raok and start your own thread or look for someone like myself who has posted a random act of kindness post. Then - you can select someone who has commented on the thread to send them a random gift. Most of them will have an Amazon or Book Depository 'wish list' which you can select and item off to send to them.

This is a great way to spread some happy during this confusing and often confronting time - positivity can be great medicine and I'm all about that.

If you wanna get in on this, there is a RAOK post on my instagram feed @itsmejayse - take care of yourselves xx Page 30 ➤

ON SALE NOW

By Amie - @thebookishmusician White Horses is such a powerful story. Written by Rachel Treasure, it is an Aussie rural romance novel, or as I like to call it chook lit! The story focuses on the main character Drift and her journey of overcoming loss and trauma to find the courage to live life on her terms.

This book came along at a point in my life where I was able to fully appreciate every aspect of it.

There was a lot of meaning that I drew from Treasure’s words about growing up and becoming a woman and realising just how powerful I can be.

This book is certainly not for everyone, but the story was something that I fell in love with.

and more has occurred to me over the past year). As women we have the power and the ability to survive through anything at all. This book showed me how important it is to have support systems in place and how other strong powerful women can help change and improve this world.

We follow Drift and watch her overcome her mother’s disappearance, her father’s alcoholism, an assault, her father’s hospitalisation after a tragic accident and the death of one of her woman role models. Phew that's a lot of things to overcome in just one book.

Watching Drift overcome these challenges was awe inspiring for me. I realised that no matter what happens in life whether that be drought, financial burden, injury, cancer or even a house being destroyed in a freak storm (yes all of this

I found that Treasure has a way of describing rural Australia in a way that is extremely vivid and realistic. The characters are Aussie battlers who have to overcome so much in life to become better people, not only to themselves but to each other.

Page 32 ➤

The regenerative agriculture representation in this book was something that I found really interesting. While I know a little about it, Treasure’s books and her personal experiences become more and more in depth.

I’ll sum this up with White Horses is full of true Aussie heart and soul, warmth and generosity all set under in our great big Australian backyard.

By Jayse - @itsmejayse This book y'all! Okay, okay, if you've followed me on social media for a while, you'll know that I have frequently shared my opinion on author Holly Black. I was basing that opinion on one book I attempted to read when I was younger.

Now, gurrrrrrrrl, I'mma need to make a retraction. This booooook grabbed me, drew me in and threw me through a few loops and had me wanting more.

Yes there are some very toxic characters in this series, but, this is how the Fae in this series are portrayed: they're vile, they hate humans, I think their actions make them even more outlandish and adds something to the story.

If you enjoy a story with magic, action, betrayal, family and thrills this is the book for you. This book is followed by The Wicked King and The Queen of Nothing which I am just about to finish now. I will report back with a series review next month.

"You've only seen the least of what I can do" - The Cruel Prince Page 33 ➤

From Goodreads: Jude was seven when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.

To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences.

As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.

IRON & INK DESI GNS

WWW.IRONANDINKDESIGNS.COM

A Cosy Reader Designs We took time out with Mel from 'A Cosy Reader Designs' and discovered all about her shop, her new range and more. She's such a delight, you should totally check her little biz out.

Jayse - Heya Mel! Thanks so much for taking time out with us!!

Mel - Hey Jayse! Thanks so much for having me - this is exciting!!

Jayse – So, A Cosy Reader Designs, where did this come from and what is it all about?

Mel - I like to think I always had a little creative streak in me, but more likely it was born from idle hands in self-isolation! I love seeing bright colourful illustrations on my instagram feed, and I love sharing snippets of positivity in my stories on my bookstagram account - so this felt like an extension of those images I was sharing.

A Cosy Reader Designs is my small space of the world to play in, be creative, spread some joy, and of course still get bookish.

Jayse – I’ve seen some of your designs, they’re so simple, but totally gorgeous!

What do you use to create your masterpieces?

Page 35 28 ➤

BIZ SPOTLIGHT

Mel - I use an iPad Pro & Apple Pencil.

Both lockdown purchases! I am also lucky to have a lot of creatives in my life, so most drawings get looked over by someone first. I also love getting input from my bookish buddies through story polls (I did this for my ‘Bookworm essentials’ pic!)

Jayse – I love that you recreate book covers in your own style – do you have plans to do any more of these?

Mel - Ah it’s so fun! I have some bookmarks in the pipeline which will use this idea a little bit. I loved that people used my Australian Reads bookmark to get book recommendations so I will be taking my book cover recreations in that direction and see where it goes.

Jayse – You created the cover reveal image for BooksEtc this month, was this an easy image to create?

Mel – I loved recreating this one especially with James’s gorgeous bookshelves! The challenge for the portraits I do is always finding what to keep in the image to make it recognisable and keep someone’s personality, while also staying in the nice simple-looking Page 36 ➤

style I enjoy creating.

Jayse – What future images do you want to create?

Mel - How long do you have? I really enjoy doing the crowd-sourced ‘list’ style images - they let me doodle a bunch of different things in the one image and they seem to bring smiles. I usually just draw whatever is wandering around in my brain at the time otherwise!I have also been working hard to expand the range of products in my shop and I’m proud to have just recently (end of August!)

BIZ SPOTLIGHT

released enamel pins, scrunchies, headbands, and more bookmark designs! It’s really exciting to have this outlet for my arts-and-crafty heart, and I can’t wait to see how it develops.

Jayse – Where can we go to purchase your creations?

Mel - My Etsy store is where to go for bookmarks, enamel pins, custom portraits, scrunchies and more - acosyreaderdesigns.etsy.com. Otherwise, I pop a lot of the designs from my instagram account (@acosyreader & @acosyreaderdesigns) up on RedBubble - acosyreader.redbubble.com - so you can get them printed on totes, shirts, coasters, mugs, and way way more! If you ever see something on my Instagram you’d like on a product - hit up my DM’s and we can make it happen.

Page 37 ➤

By Jayse - @itsmejayse Title: Dead to Me (Netflix) Director: Catherine Hardwicke, Chris Weitz, David Slade & Bill Condon Genre: Thriller/Romcom Run time: 30mins approx Where to watch: Netflix Synopsis: Jen's husband recently died in a hit-and-run, and the sardonic widow is determined to solve the crime. Optimistic free spirit Judy has recently suffered a tragic loss of her own. The ladies meet at a support group and, despite their polaropposite personalities, become unlikely friends. As the women bond over bottles of wine and a shared affinity for "The Facts of Life," Judy tries to shield Jen from a shocking secret that could destroy her life as she knows it. The dark comedy -- which explores the weirdly funny sides of grief, loss and forgiveness -- features a cast that includes TV veterans Christina Applegate and Ed Asner.

Page 38 ➤

Review: I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this series. From the absolute snark and sass that is Christina Applegate to the overly optimistic Linda Cardellini this tv show has it all and is TOTALLY binge worthy.

If you're into a dark comedy with action and mystery blended in check this would be the series for you.

Jen's husband is killed in a hit-and-run accident. When she attends a grief group she meets Judy. Their friendship in the beginning seems forced and it comes across as if Jen doesn't really want the friendship to continue.

As the friendship develops, so does the storyline and the secrets between each gets darker...ooooooh gurl, you need to watch this - then we can gush over it together hehe.

REP SEARCHES If you are a part of the bookstagram community, you would have seen bookish businesses hosting Rep Searches. So, what are they? What do they do and if you were to enter one, what tips could increase your chances? Lets look a little deeper...

Rep searches are a way businesses can involve people to help spread awareness of the products they produce. Reps will be required to take photos of the products to put on their feed. This increases their exposure and reach.

But, SO many people enter them, I don't have a chance!! BUT YOU DO! There are things you can do to make sure you are in with a good chance of being selected.

Interaction is key, interact with your followers, join photo challenges, post regularly, follow and interact with the business you'd like to rep for and remember, its not about FREE stuff, being a rep equals WORK. Make sure you're prepared to put in the work to be a great rep.

Page 40 ➤

BLUE'S

RANT Blue is recharging her RANT batteries this month, but will be back with an insanely epic rant next month.

Connect with Blue

Instagram @bluefairytales_ Blog www.bluefairytales.com.au Page 41 ➤

To celebrate the release of Kingdom of Sea and Stone by Mara Rutherford and The Glass Queen by Gena Showalter we teamed up with Harlequin to bring you this giveaway.

1x Crown of Coral and Pearl OR 1x The Evil Queen Head over to our Instagram page @BooksEtc_Mag for more details and to enter.

NEXT MONTH WE'VE GOTTA DO THIS AGAIN NEXT MONTH? SHITE...

ISSUE 8 | OCTOBER 2020

HALLOWEEN BABEH!!

A special edition issue filled with the spookiest, scariest and kookiest books, movies and more as well as a special mystery Bookstagrammer on the cover.

INDIE AUTHOR We catch up with Aussie Indy author Nattie Kate Mason and discuss all things 'The Crowning,' and what's coming next for this amazing author.

BLUE'S

RANT You best believe our girl Blue has another epic rant for us.

BOOKSTA TIPS We take a look at insta story templates.

What to use, whats out there and what's FREE!!!

Cover Cover image: image: James James @JamesTrevino @JamesTrevino