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Good Books to Read on a Rainy Day

September 13, 2019 by Meet Brenda 12 Comments

Now that September is here, it’s time to move away from summertime books and into fall and winter reads. In Texas, fall is full of rainy days, so I am always looking for good books to read on a rainy day. Here are some books I’ve read recently that are perfect books to read on a rainy day.

6 Great Books to Read on a Rainy Day

Deep North by Berry Kinster

I always love reading thrillers when it’s raining out. It makes me happy to be inside with my warm tea and a blanket rather than in the book, which is always full of drama and mystery. The author sent me a copy of Deep North personally (and signed it, which is pretty cool). I’m always hesitant to read self-published books, but I was pleasantly surprised by Deep North. The plot follows a typical thriller involving a murder, suspense, and action. Although there were a few typos in my copy, the story was solid and the perfect thing to read when you want something light (but still have some action going on) on a rainy day. The main character’s name is Brenda, too, which is unusual to see in a book.

All the Wrong Questions by Lemony Snicket

Fans of A Series of Unfortunate Events will love All the Wrong Questions based around the adventures of a young Lemony Snicket. I love the 1930s detective vibe of the story, and of course, all of the word definitions. I spend one whole weekend a few weeks ago tearing through the first three novels in the series. The slightly depressing mood of the books makes them ideal for rainy days.

Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash

The author of Witches Protection Program often sends me his new stuff after I reviewed the Battle for Darracia series. Usually, he sends along a promo item with the book, and in this case, it was a broomstick pen. I love the plot for the Witches Protection Program, although it is pretty silly. The combination of witchcraft, mystery, and crime make it the perfect thing to read on a rainy day!

Interview with the Vampire

Although Interview with the Vampire was written in the 1970s and 80s, I have never read through it until recently. This tale of a personalized vampire is the mother of most of the current vampire fiction, but the darker tone is more what I prefer in my vampire novels. If you haven’t read this classic vampire tale yet and you have even a passing interest in vampire fiction, then add it to your list! It’s the perfect thing to read on rainy fall days.

Harry Potter

You can’t ever really escape Harry Potter. According to JK Rowling, 2015 is the year that Harry’s eldest child attends Hogwarts for the first time (which means Harry was about 23 or 24 when he was born. I guess in the wizarding world you get busy early). Now would be the perfect time to read about Harry’s adventures again! I’m reading through the series this year with my 4th grader, and I am so excited to share the series with her. Of course, she will probably roll her eyes at my enthusiasm, but that is what kids are for, right?

Dirk Gently Books

These two Dirk Gently novels are about a “holistic” detective, who uses every available resource to solve crimes. He is psychic, but doesn’t believe in it, which makes for a hilarious combo. In both of the books, it is raining a good bit of the time, so they are the natural companion to rainy fall days.

What are your favorite books to read on a rainy day?

Lit Lovers Link Party

Now it is time for YOU! All posts linked up will be shared and pinned by me! Link your neglected book and quote posts for some extra juice! We’re here every Thursday.

Remember, you can link up as many book or quote-related posts as you want!

As always, I will feature my favorite link-up in next week’s Lit Lover’s edition. When you share your post with me, you agree to for me to use one image from your post in next week’s LL. I will also pin all link-ups to the new Lit Lover’s Pinterest board and send you weekly link-up reminders so you can keep joining in.

If you want to be added as a contributor to the Lit Lover’s group board, just send me an e-mail at Brenda at dailymayo.com with your Pinterest user name.

Follow the Lit Lovers Group Board on Pinterest!

This Weeks Lit Lover Features

Photo copyright: Elizabeth from Thoughts of an Evil Overlord

This week, Elizabeth is sharing her favorite snacks to eat while eating. I love reading and snacks, and she has some really fun ideas!

An InLinkz Link-up

More Fall Fun

The Best Books to Read in the Fall

September 9, 2019 by Meet Brenda 8 Comments

I’ve been really into fall this year, and I think it’s because temperatures still average about 90 degrees here every day. Being super into fall themes helps me feel like fall is actually here, even though it doesn’t feel like it where I am. Second, I walked into a mall last week (it was not even officially fall yet) and half of the stores were decorated for Christmas. There wasn’t even a Halloween decoration in sight. That is completely unacceptable to me. Fall deserves its time!

In honor of celebrating fall and rainy weather to the fullest, today, I thought I would share with you the books I believe are the best books to read in the fall. Let’s keep that fall spirit as alive as possible!

The Best Books to Read in the Fall

Harry Potter

It’s probably the back-to-school start and all the rain, but Harry Potter will forever mean fall to me. This year, I’m reading through Harry Potter with my kids, so I’m excited.

The Hunger Games

Something about adventures and revolution seems to go along in the fall. I’m not sure why The Hunger Games Trilogy reminds me of the fall, except perhaps because I first read it in the fall? At any rate, I love reading these books when it’s wet and cold outside.

The October Country

The October Country is a short story collection by Ray Bradbury, with one story in particular titled “The October Country.” There is a pretty obvious connection to fall in this story.

Redwall

Redwall is all about food, and if you have never read the books, they are worth it for the meal ideas alone. I always feel so hungry after reading Redwall. I love the food descriptions which sound like the perfect thing to serve on Thanksgiving.

A Series of Unfortunate Events

A Series of Unfortunate Events is slightly spooky, which makes it perfect for fall weather. I’m excited and a little nervous for the new reboot arriving on Netflix soon.

Howl’s Moving Castle

Stories of magic and adventure remind me of fall. I think if I had to guess which time spirits would walk the earth, I would definitely pick fall. I guess out ancestors felt that way too, which is why Halloween exists! Get it all in Howl’s Moving Castle.

Smoke and Mirrors

Smoke and Mirrors is a somewhat depressing short story collection by Neil Gaiman. When I read these stories, I feel like I am out in the mist somewhere with something spooky about to happen.

The Gemma Doyle Trilogy

The deep primal way that magic is addressed in this series of books makes The Gemma Doyle Trilogy one of my favorite YA magic series. Although it has creeped me out on several occasions, the writing captures the spirit of a cold, English fall.

The Lord of the Rings

What better way to celebrate fall weather than by curling up and reading epic adventures? After Harry Potter, I’ll probably have to tackle The Lord of the Rings series with my kids. It may be 10 years from now.

The Time Traveler’s Wife

Time travel is weird, and The Time Traveler’s Wife is weirder. It appeals to my geeky science side and my love of magic and slightly depressing literature at the same time. This book belongs on any fall reading list.

Tell me, what are your favorite books to re-read in the fall? Or do you prefer to read new books every year?

Lit Lovers Link Party

Now it is time for YOU! All posts linked up will be shared and pinned by me! Link your neglected book and quote posts for some extra juice! We’re here every Thursday.

Remember, you can link up as many book or quote-related posts as you want!

If you want to be added as a contributor to the Lit Lover’s group board, just send me an e-mail at Brenda at dailymayo.com with your Pinterest user name.

Follow the Lit Lovers Group Board on Pinterest!

This Weeks Lit Lover Features

Last week, I loved this post from Natalie about Shakespeare Saturday. I love the edition she has!

Share your book posts!

An InLinkz Link-up

10 of the Best Game of Thrones Quotes

January 28, 2019 by Meet Brenda 7 Comments

One of the drawbacks (if you can even call it that) of marriage is that I have yet to watch the Game of Thrones season premier for this season. Why? Because Josh has been working incredibly late every night this week.

This means, that I’ve had to tiptoe carefully around the Internet making sure I don’t run into any spoilers. I hate spoiling things for myself.

Even though I can’t watch the show yet, I still want to celebrate Game of Thrones season, since it’s my favorite TV show right now.

In honor of Game of Thrones season 5, here are some of the quotes that I think are the best Game of Thrones quotes from A Song of Ice and Fire. All quotes are taken from the books, rather than the show.

10 of the Best Game of Thrones Quotes

Original photo by Stewart Butterfield

“Never forget what you are, for surely the world will not. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness. Armour yourself in it, and it will never be used to hurt you.”
~Tyrion Lannister

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies, the man who never reads lives one.”
-Jojen

“When you play the game of thrones you either win or you die, there is no middle ground.”

-Cersai Lannister

“There are no true knights, no more than there are gods. If you can’t protect yourself, die and get out of the way of those who can. Sharp steel and strong arms rule this world, don’t ever believe any different.”

– Sandor Clegane

“Summer friends will melt away like summer snows, but winter friends are friends forever.”

-Mully

“Sleep is good and books are better.”

-Tyrion Lannister

“There is only one god and his name is Death. And there is only one thing we say to Death: “Not today.”

-Syrio Forel

“A coin is as dangerous as a sword in the wrong hands.”

-Tyron Lannister

“Fear cuts deeper than swords.”

-Syrio Forel

“Words are like arrows, once loosened you cannot call them back.”

– Doran Martell

What is your favorite Game of Thrones (or Song of Ice and Fire) quote?

Lit Lover’s Link Up

And now it is time for YOU! All posts linked up will be shared and pinned by me! Link your neglected book and quote posts for some extra juice!

Remember, you can link up as many book or quote-related posts as you want!

As always, I will feature my favorite link-up in next week’s Lit Lover’s edition. When you share your post with me, you agree to for me to use one image from your post in next week’s LL.. I will also pin all link-ups to the new Lit Lover’s Pinterest board and send you weekly link-up reminders so you can keep joining in.

If you want to be added as a contributor to the Lit Lover’s group board, just send me an e-mail at brenda at dailymayo.com with your Pinterest user name.

Follow Brenda D Priddy’s board Lit Lover’s Group Board on Pinterest.

This Week’s Lit Lover Features

Last week, I loved this post shared by Chapter Break written by author Jan Domagala on his five best tips for writers. Go check it out if you are curious about getting into the world of fiction writing! I also really enjoyed this post from Trish on books for tidbit lovers!

Link-up Rules

1. Links must be book or quote-related (reviews, quotes, book lists, author interviews, memes, whatever!).

2. Link to your blog-specific URL, not your home page.

3. Visit the features and some of the other posts and have some fun!

4. Use the hashtag #litlovers when sharing this link-up!

An InLinkz Link-up

Can’t Get Enough Game of Thrones?

21 Quotes About Winter that Will Warm Your Heart

January 14, 2019 by Meet Brenda 6 Comments

I know, technically, it isn’t winter quite yet, but to me, any day after Thanksgiving is winter. This is why today, I am featuring winter-themed quotes! These qyotes about winter will help those who live in freezing, snowy areas feel better about the mess and will help those who live in warm areas like I do (it’s supposed to get into the 80s this week- blech) feel like it is actually cold outside!

Here are the upcoming post topics if you want to join in with your own quote posts!

11- Christmas songs
18- Christmas-themed stories
25- Taking a break for Christmas

21 Quotes About Winter that Will Warm Your Heart

In the bleak midwinter Frosty wind made moan, Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone; Snow had fallen, snow on snow, Snow on snow, In the bleak midwinter, Long ago.
–Christina Rossetti

“Thank goodness for the first snow, it was a reminder–no matter how old you became and how much you’d seen, things could still be new if you were willing to believe they still mattered.”
― Candace Bushnell

“Winter invites white; white invites silence; silence invites peace. You see, there is so much peace in walking on the snow!”
― Mehmet Murat ildan

When you live in Texas, every single time you see snow it’s magical.
–Pamela Ribon

O Winter! ruler of the inverted year, . . . I crown thee king of intimate delights, Fireside enjoyments, home-born happiness, And all the comforts that the lowly roof Of undisturb’d Retirement, and the hours Of long uninterrupted evening, know.
–William Cowper

He who marvels at the beauty of the world in summer will find equal cause for wonder and admiration in winter…. In winter the stars seem to have rekindled their fires, the moon achieves a fuller triumph, and the heavens wear a look of a more exalted simplicity.
–John Burroughs

In seed-time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
–William Blake

We feel cold, but we don’t mind it, because we will not come to harm. And if we wrapped up against the cold, we wouldn’t feel other things, like the bright tingle of the stars, or the music of the Aurora, or best of all the silky feeling of moonlight on our skin. It’s worth being cold for that.
–Philip Pullman

Brew me a cup for a winter’s night.
For the wind howls loud, and the furies fight;
Spice it with love and stir it with care,
And I’ll toast your bright eyes, my sweetheart fair.
–Minna Thomas Antrim

Welcome, winter. Your late dawns and chilled breath make me lazy, but I love you nonetheless.
–Terri Guillemets

“Winter is coming.”
― George R.R. Martin

“Every Autumn now my thoughts return to snow. Snow is something I identify myself with. Like my father, I am a snow person.”
― Charlie English

“Snow was falling,
so much like stars
filling the dark trees
that one could easily imagine
its reason for being was nothing more
than prettiness.”
― Mary Oliver

“Frost grows on the window glass, forming whorl patterns of lovely translucent geometry. Breathe on the glass, and you give frost more ammunition. Now it can build castles and cities and whole ice continents with your breath’s vapor. In a few blinks you can almost see the winter fairies moving in. But first, you hear the crackle of their wings.”
― Vera Nazarian

“Because the birdsong might be pretty,
But it’s not for you they sing,
And if you think my winter is too cold,
You don’t deserve my spring.”
― Erin Hanson

“Snow harder! Snow more!
Snow blizzards galore!
I can’t get enough
Of the fluffy white stuff!
Snow! Snow! Snow!

Snow a ton! Snow a heap!
Snow ten feet deep!
I wouldn’t cry
If it snowed til July.
Snow! Snow! Snow!”
― Paul F. Kortepeter

“Winter is the time for stories, staying fast by the glow of fire. And outside, in the darkness, the stars are brighter than you can possibly imagine.”
― Isabel Greenberg

“A snowball in the face is surely the perfect beginning to a lasting friendship.”
― Markus Zusak

“In the winter she curls up around a good book and dreams away the cold.”
― Ben Aaronovitch

“I love snow for the same reason I love Christmas: It brings people together while time stands still. Cozy couples lazily meandered the streets and children trudged sleds and chased snowballs. No one seemed to be in a rush to experience anything other than the glory of the day, with each other, whenever and however it happened.”
― Rachel Cohn

“Snow falling soundlessly in the middle of the night will always fill my heart with sweet clarity.”
― Novala Takemoto

Quote Me Thursday Social Boost Link Up

The goal of the Quote Me Thursday link-up is to feature YOU! All posts linked up will be shared and pinned by me! Link your neglected book and quote posts for some extra juice!

Remember, you can link up as many book or quote-related posts as you want!

As always, I will feature my favorite link-up in next week’s edition. When you share your post with me, you agree to for me to use one image from your post in next week’s QMT and have your post shared by awesome bloggers. I will also pin all link-ups to the new Quote Me Thursday Pinterest board.

This Week’s Post Features

This week, two great posts caught my eye. Since 2014 is almost over, bloggers across the Internet are sharing their favorite books from 2014. I like this list from Heather at Based on a True Story. And you can’t go wrong with the discussion posts from Chapter Break! Last week they were discussing grammar- one of my favorite topics!

Will you be next week’s feature?

Link-up Rules

1. Links must be book or quote-related (reviews, quotes, book lists, author interviews, whatever!).

2. Link to your blog-specific URL, not your home page.

3. Visit some of the other posts and have some fun!

4. Use the hashtag #quotemethursday when sharing this link-up!

What are your favorite quotes about winter?

Winter-Themed Books to Read When It’s Cold Outside

January 9, 2019 by Meet Brenda 7 Comments

Seasonal books are always available, but I don’t find myself caring too much about setting unless it is cold outside. Then, I want to read winter-themed books all about ice and snow.

It may be because Texas winters are so mild, but books about winter are always something I like to read after the holiday season. They are also perfect to read over winter vacation.

If you also like to read winter-themed books when it’s cold out, check out this list. You’ll find everything from children’s literature to winter-themed horror.

<<Find more book lists here!>>

Scroll to the bottom of the post to add your bookish links to the Lit Lovers link up!

Winter-Themed Books to Read When It’s Cold Outside

This collection of winter-themed books feature an amazing assortment of literature that goes beyond just a few flakes of snow. In many of these winter books, winter is essential to the plot and entire feel of the story.

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is one of my favorite winter-themed books. I love this story. I first read this story when I was about 10 years old, and I’ve read it many times sense. It the perfect blend of magic and possibility and I enjoy revisiting this story most winters.

The Golden Compass

I read The Golden Compass as an adult, so it didn’t feel quite as magical to me as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, but it still captures the feeling of cruel winter and epic adventures. I prefer reading sweeping, epic adventures when I read winter-themed books, which makes this a perfect fit.

If I Stay

If I Stay is quite sad. It is essential a melancholy teen romance novel. Although I didn’t really like the movie (somehow movies highlight depression without redeeming joy), I really loved the book. The writing perfectly captures the feeling of winter and I love the color contrasts in the descriptions.

Trapped

I haven’t read Trapped, but it looks like the perfect wintertime read. What happens when teens are snowed in at a school for an extended period? How would they survive? I like winter survivalist stories, so I’m adding this book to my list.

Let It Snow

If you are a fan of John Green’s books, then you will definitely want to read Let It Snow. This book is a collection of three winter-themed YA romances from popular YA authors including John Green.

Stone Mattress

Only the story called Alphinland is winter-themed in Stone Mattress, but Margaret Atwood is such an excellent writer you can’t go wrong reading the other stories alongside the book about winter.

The Woman in White

I’m not sure how much of this story is a winter-themed book, but it has everything I like to read during the winter. The Woman in White is a classic Victorian Gothic story, and one I’ll be adding to my list of books to read in the winter.

A Song of Ice and Fire

All of the books in A Song of Ice and Fire have some winter, but from what I remember, A Feast for Crows has the most winter-themed content. Everything about the night’s watch, the white walkers (or Others, as they are usually called in the books), and the Wall make perfect shivery winter reading. It also adds in just a bit of horror, which is ideal for winter-themed books.

Labyrinths

Labyrinths is a creepy book filed with short stories that will chill the spine. Fans of classic psychological horror should enjoy this book.

Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow

With a name like Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow, you know this book is all about winter. This winter-themed fantasy is slightly influenced by the Beauty and the Beast, and will transport you to a magical land of adventure and fur-lined boots.

Winter’s Tale

I have yet to read Winter’s Tale, but the premise has made me add this to my TBR pile pronto. Aside from the strange-sounding love affair between an old man and a girl (hopefully they mean she is a young woman), it sounds like an enchanting story that will haunt you long after you read it.

The Dark is Rising

The The Dark Is Rising series is based around ancient Celtic and Nordic folklore and reads like a semi-modern retelling of the King Arthur story. If you love diving into stories about ancient religions and secret doorways between worlds that tingle the spine, you won’t want to miss this series. The first book is set mainly in the winter. And if you’ve seen the movie, don’t let that stop you from reading the book.

The Shining

I actually didn’t know that The Shining was a book set in winter, but since it is, I’m adding it to my list of winter-themed books. I haven’t read much horror in my life, but I think I’m ready to dive into some- at least stories that are psychological in nature. I don’t care as much for hack and slash stories.

What winter-themed books are your favorite?

Lit Lovers Link Party

Now it is time for YOU! All posts linked up will be shared and pinned by me! Link your neglected book and quote posts for some extra juice! We’re here every Thursday.

Remember, you can link up as many book or quote-related posts as you want!

Please note: Lit Lovers will be taking a brief break for Christmas but will return January 6th! Mark your calendars and be ready to share your best book posts.

If you want to be added as a contributor to the Lit Lover’s group board, just send me an e-mail at Brenda at dailymayo.com with your Pinterest user name.

Follow the Lit Lovers Group Board on Pinterest!

This Weeks Lit Lover Features

Last week, The ladies from Chapter Break shared their picks for thriller/suspense books. And Heather from Running with Spears shared a fun review of a book I’ve been meaning to read for a while- A Snicker of Magic!

Thanks for sharing your bookish posts with me! I love reading your content each week.

It’s Link Party Time!

An InLinkz Link-up

6 Great Books to Read on a Rainy Day

Deep North by Berry Kinster

All the Wrong Questions by Lemony Snicket

Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash

Interview with the Vampire

Harry Potter

Dirk Gently Books

Lit Lovers Link Party

This Weeks Lit Lover Features

More Fall Fun

The Best Books to Read in the Fall

Harry Potter

The Hunger Games

The October Country

Redwall

A Series of Unfortunate Events

Howl’s Moving Castle

Smoke and Mirrors

The Gemma Doyle Trilogy

The Lord of the Rings

The Time Traveler’s Wife

Lit Lovers Link Party

This Weeks Lit Lover Features

Share your book posts!

10 of the Best Game of Thrones Quotes

Lit Lover’s Link Up

This Week’s Lit Lover Features

Link-up Rules

Can’t Get Enough Game of Thrones?

21 Quotes About Winter that Will Warm Your Heart

Quote Me Thursday Social Boost Link Up

This Week’s Post Features

Will you be next week’s feature?

Link-up Rules

Winter-Themed Books to Read When It’s Cold Outside

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

The Golden Compass

If I Stay

Trapped

Let It Snow

Stone Mattress

The Woman in White

A Song of Ice and Fire

Labyrinths

Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow

Winter’s Tale

The Dark is Rising

The Shining

Lit Lovers Link Party

This Weeks Lit Lover Features

It’s Link Party Time!

More Books to read in Cold Weather