I’ve been blogging about books for four years now, and for three of those four years, I’ve participated in a variety of reading challenges. I’m not quite sure how it’s possible, but I’ve never done a post where I recap the challenges I chose to participate in and how I fared. Thanks to a nudge from Hannah of So Obsessed With, you’re getting a full recap of my reading challenges and book resolutions today. (If you’re interested in more posts about 2015, check out my end of year book survey and my obsessions post!)

In total, I participated in three reading challenges this year: the Flights of Fantasy Reading Challenge (which I co-hosted with Rachel of Hello Chelly), the Re-read Reading Challenge (hosted by Hannah of So Obsessed With and Kelly of Belle of the Literati) and the Dive into Diversity Reading Challenge (hosted by Magan & Estelle of Rather be Reading and Rebecca of Reading Wishes). To sum it up, I basically aced all three with flying colors!

Ever since I started blogging, I've found that I generally read more contemporary novels than fantasy. This is a far cry from the days when I read exclusively fantasy in high school and college. Thankfully, co-hosting this challenge with Rachel has made it easier for me to prioritize reading fantasy novels - no matter how long they may be! I went above and beyond meeting my personal goal, as you can see, and I certainly look forward to reading more fantasies in 2016. (Sign up for the 2016 Flights of Fantasy Reading Challenge!)

My top fantasy reads of 2015 are:

Son of the Shadows • Princess of Thorns • An Ember in the Ashes • Six of Crows • Queen of Shadows

I stopped rereading right around the time I started blogging, which is something I'm not necessarily proud of. I'm so glad Hannah & Kelly came up with this reading challenge, as I felt extra motivated to make the time to revisit some old favorites. You know what's even better? The realization that most of these novels really stand the test of time and still have a place on my favorites shelf. I definitely plan to reread more in 2016, especially for series that are coming to end! (Sign up for the 2016 Re-Read Challenge!) (Also, this was one of the reading resolutions I totally managed to keep.)

My top rereads for 2015 are:

Daughter of the Forest • Ransom • The Assassin's Blade • The Darkest Minds • Cress

I really enjoy reading a wide variety of novels, and not just in terms of age group or genre. No, I also love reading about all sorts of people, since there are so many different situations, lives, cultures, histories to read about and learn from. It was a wonderful experience to really read more diversely, and it's something I hope I'm always going to try to keep on doing in the years to come.

My top diverse reads for 2015 are:

Under a Painted Sky • Every Last Word • Under the Lights • The Summer of Chasing Mermaids • The Weight of Feathers

I'll go in depth about my review reads for this year when I'm reflecting on the Picky Pledge next year, but I'm actually quite pleased. Yes, I went way past the limit I was hoping to stick to! But this is a definitely decrease from how many I read the previous year (156, in case you wondered), so on that note, I'd say it's an improvement! I definitely plan to try to whittle away at the number for 2016.

My top review reads of 2015 are:

The Wrong Side of Right • Brown-Eyed Girl • Rules for Stealing Stars • Vengeance Road • Walk on Earth a Stranger 

I definitely wanted to read more adult novels, and I aced this goal (with the help of some romance binges). But seriously, it's always fun to switch up my YA reads with adult (or NA) (or MG), and I read some really excellent adult fiction this year. I definitely want to try and keep adult reads integrated into my TBR consistently. 

My favorite adult reads of 2015 are:

One Plus One • Girl Before a Mirror • Come Away with Me • Tatiana and Alexander • Dirty Talk

I'm only giving myself half a star when it comes to sticking to this resolution. I did read more than the numerical goal I set for myself, but of the ones I read, only two were new-to-me (as you'll see in a second). While I'm pleased I did spend some time reading classic literature, I think I can definitely do better in 2016. In particular, I would like to read new-to-me classics, and I actually own quite a few copies of classics that I plan on getting to next year.

My favorite classics of 2015 are:

The Blue Castle • Number the Stars

I read a respectable amount of my physical to be read pile, though I didn't quite manage to hit my numerical goal. Still, there's something to be said for finally picking up books I bought a while back and didn't get around to. It's definitely helped me feel empowered to read more of my own books versus review copies, and I want that habit to stick around in 2016. (Side note: I managed to whittle down my to-read pile to less than 100 books, so it's actually doable for me to try and read all of them within the next year. Let's hope I didn't just jinx myself by saying that.)

My favorite physical TBR reads were:

Happiness for Beginners • The Boleyn King • Their Fractured Light • Heart’s Blood • A Mad Wicked Folly

How did you fare on your 2015 reading challenges & resolutions?

I love looking back at my reading and blogging life at the end of the year, and I find that the Annual End of Year Book Survey is also a fun way to do that! (Check out Jamie's post for details.) Anyway, as I did the previous year, I worked hard to make sure that I didn't repeat answers too many times. But, as they say, you love what you love, so there are some books that make multiple appearances on the survey this year. Check out this year's answers! (You can also visit my 2011 post, my 2012 post, my 2013 post, and my 2014 post, should you so desire.)

YA Contemporary: Every Last Word

YA Fantasy: Six of Crows

YA Historical: Walk on Earth a Stranger

YA Science Fiction: Winter

MG: Rules for Stealing Stars

Adult: Girl Before a Mirror

Reread: Anne's House of Dreams

Backlist Book: One Plus One

New Kid on the Block: The Wrong Side of Right

Series Binge: The Darkest Minds

Author I Love: Queen of Shadows

2. Book you were excited about & thought you were going to love more but didn't? 

The book that immediately comes to mind is The Wrath and the Dawn. It was definitely filled with vivid descriptions, and true potential as a book I'd fall in love with... but unfortunately, I didn't. My response was pretty lukewarm, and that saddened me since so many of my friends really loved it.

3. Most surprising (in a good way or a bad way) book you read?

I was pleasantly surprised by The Wrong Side of Right. It really drew me in, since Thorne has a similar storytelling style to Sarah Dessen and she wrote something that had a number of different aspects feeding into it. (You should read this book!) As for a book that surprised me in a bad way, I'd have to go with Thicker Than Water and The Devil You Know. Both are books written by authors I love, but both are also books that left me disappointed.

4. Book you "pushed" the most people to read (and they did)?

It's not so much a book per se, as it is authors. I specifically recommended Julie Garwood (The Secret + Ransom) and Lisa Kleypas (the Travis series, the Wallflowers series) to my friends, and so far, I've gotten rave reviews from the ones who have read it. (Hi Kelly! Hi Rachel!) I seriously recommend starting with these two authors if you're new to historical romance. They've got storytelling that's swoony and funny and enjoyable in the bag. (P.S. I also still recommended the Throne of Glass series and the Newsoul series!)

5. Best series you started in 2015? Best sequel of 2015? Best series ender of 2015?

I was really impressed with An Ember in the Ashes. It was brutal and brilliant, and I'm dying to find out what happens next for Elias and Laia since the stakes are higher than ever. As for sequel, I'm obviously going to go with Queen of Shadows, because it was bloody brilliant. The world got bigger, the stakes got higher, the squad goals got even cooler, and I just loved it from start to finish (even during the parts that hurt). And for series ender, Winter is the clear winner. I seriously don't know how Marissa Meyer managed to juggle multiple characters, ships, plot points, and humor in such an awesome way, but I love it.

6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2015?

I already previously shared fifteen authors who were new-to-me in 2015. But for this question, I wanted to specifically highlight Stacey Lee, author of Under a Painted Sky and the upcoming Outrun the Moon. Both books are brilliant! (I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of Outrun the Moon, and have already read it.) What I love most is that she writes historical YA fiction that features a Chinese main character. As a fellow Asian, and as a fan of historical fiction, I love getting to read more historical YA from the perspective of an Asian character!

7. Best book from a genre you don't typically read?

I don't read a lot of dystopian novels anymore (though there was certainly a time I did). But I binge read The Darkest Minds series this year, and man, it's one epic saga, friends. I loved it with all of my heart, even though it put my feelings through the wringer again and again and again. The world-building was pretty incredible, the themes were thoughtful and the characters were interesting and complex. I fell hard for these books, and would highly recommend them to all readers.

8. Most action-packed/thrilling book of the year?

I read quite a few books that were heavy on the action, but I honestly found it hard to put Six of Crows down once I'd started. The story is very twisty, as it reveals the lives and histories of the Crows, as well as showing off their skills in an incredible, impossible heist. It was so exciting to be unable to predict what would happen at any turn, whether or not they would succeed, and I just really think it was fun to be in the midst of all the action!

9. Book you read in 2015 that you are most likely to reread in 2016?

Among quite a few series I'll be trying to reread in preparation for the last books coming out, I'll definitely be rereading Queen of Shadows. I do want to refresh my memory when it comes to this series, just so it'll be even more emotional and fun to jump into the next one. And it wouldn't hurt to spend more time with these characters I love!

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2015?

I'm still so in love with how the covers for the Firebird trilogy are executed. I reread A Thousand Pieces of You, and read Ten Thousand Skies Above You this year, and both of these books have beautiful covers. The vibrant colors. The lovely depiction of these locales. The simplicity of the title font. I just love the entirety of the cover designs! (It's a wonder that I don't own either book yet.)

11. Most memorable character of 2015?

Male: Kaz Brekker (Six of Crows) - It's impossible not to love such an impossible character, or at least it is for me! He's ruthless, he's smart, he's determined, and he refuses to show any vulnerability whatsoever. I find that Kaz has such a fascinating persona, and I'm just dying to learn even more about what made him who he is now. And to see what he does when it comes to certain, ahem, members of his team.

Female: Lysandra (Queen of Shadows) - When I first met Lysandra, I didn't like her. But upon learning the truth of who she is as a human being, I realized that she's one of my favorite complex characters to date. Plus, she's got one heck of an ability, a ton of spunk and a lively humor that is the perfect foil for Aelin. (Also, I like saying I'm the Lysandra in my life, while Kelly is the Aelin. Because, you know, it's true.)

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2015?

There's just something about The Weight of Feathers that really worked for me. It wasn't just the story, or just the characters. It was the lovely, thoughtful way that McLemore chose to tell her tale, the way her words just ran right through me as I read her novel, the way I had to reread passages as I read it because I was impressed by the word choices she made. It might not necessarily work for everyone, but it was right up my alley.

13. Most thought-provoking/life-changing book of 2015?

I did read a ton of books that made me think this year, but Girl Before a Mirror is a favorite. I really felt a lot while I was reading this story, so much so that my emotional responses were really intense. It really spoke to me on a strong level, encouraging me to be confident about who I am, what I like and what I want. 

14. Book you can't believe you waited until 2015 to finally read?

I'm going to go with Princess of Thorns for this question, mostly because it was one of the most fun, most clever fantasy novels I read all year! I should have just listened when all my friends were raving about it, but the hype made me nervous and I totally put it off. Thankfully, I have finally read it and joined the adoring crowd of fans this book has accumulated!

15. Favorite passage/quote from a book you read in 2015?

I love coming across a quote in a book that describes an experience, an emotion, a belief that I hold dear, and I've been fortunate to encounter quite a few this year. I shared some of my favorites during the 2015 Book Blogger Love-a-Thon, but of them all, this is the one I love best:

“You know, you spend your whole life feeling like you don’t quite fit in anywhere. And then you walk into a room one day, whether it’s at university or an office or some kind of club, and you just go, ‘Ah. There they are.’ And suddenly you feel at home.” - One Plus One

16. Shortest & longest book you read in 2015?

Shortest: Playing for Her Heart (128 pages)

Longest: Winter (824 pages)

17. Book that shocked you the most?

Let's just say that there were quite a few things that happened in Queen of Shadows that left me gobsmacked. I was emotionally wrecked by that novel, and I can't say I regret it because it just means that this book is all sorts of amazing.

18. OTP of the year (You will go down with this ship!)?

I had a few contenders for this question, but really, there's just one ship that stood out to me - Cress + Thorne. You guys, I loved how their relationship was portrayed in Winter! It's 100% perfect for their characters, and 100% awesome for me because I swooned every time something happened between them. Seriously, I love them so.

19. Favorite non-romantic relationship of the year?

I really love Aelin and Lysandra's friendship in Queen of Shadows! It's kind of cool to see how their history shaped their initial interactions, but how their present-day experiences causes their relationship to shift. It's complicated, but in just the right way, and I really liked seeing that type of thing portrayed in a fantasy novel. Plus, these two are badass gals who have each other's backs now. What's not to love?

20. Favorite book you read in 2015 from an author you read previously?

I've said this to many different people, but Six of Crows is my all-time favorite Leigh Bardugo novel. It's fast-paced and clever, filled with characters who I found curiously complex and fascinating. I honestly just didn't stop reading once I'd started (except when life obligations got in the way), and it was worth every single minute I spent glued to the pages. So. Phenomenal.

21. Best book you read in 2015 that you read based solely on a recommendation from someone else?

Kelly is the one who encouraged me to read the Boleyn Trilogy, and she was spot on in her recommendation! I binged all three novels over the course of a weekend, and it was 100% worth it. I love the alternate history Andersen concocted. I loved the characters she wrote, and the complexity of their relationships. I kept swooning and screaming and freaking out while I read; an intense emotional response is usually an indicator of a good read.

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2015?

Liam certainly is a darlin'. I remember liking him a lot when I first read The Darkest Minds, but now having read the entire series, I know without a doubt he's a new addition to my list of book boyfriends. He's a sweetheart, fighting for the right thing, loyal to his friends and willing to show courage in spite of adversity. 

23. Best 2015 debut you read?

Under a Painted Sky is one of the most unique novels I've ever read, a YA Western with an Asian main character. It was brilliantly written, with descriptions that took me back in time into that particular era, a plot that kept me turning the pages and characters (and relationships) so incredibly intricately woven together.

24. Best world-building in a book you read this year?

While the foundations of the world in Six of Crows were set up in the Grisha trilogy, there's still something fresh and complex about the world depicted in this novel. I love the raw reality, the messiness and the bleak and dark tone. I really am impressed by how Bardugo has added another dimension to her already existing fantasy world!

25. Book that put a smile on your face/was the most fun to read?

I really adored reading Audrey, Wait! The humor in that novel is so undeniable, and I found myself giggling at Audrey's commentary more often than not. Humor is hard to integrate well and smoothly into any story, but Benway definitely succeeded here.

26. Book that made you cry or nearly cry in 2015?

I'm not ashamed to admit that I sobbed while I read One Plus One. The courage, the tenacity, the hope and the kindness - the way that Moyes integrated these things into the tale was enough to send me into a deep emotional spiral of heartbreak and hope.

27. Hidden gem of the year?

I love Corey Ann Haydu, and her middle grade debut Rules for Stealing Stars is a must read! I really like how she combined whimsy with reality. The situation depicted in this story is a hard one, but it's something that is true for certain individuals, and I like that she wasn't afraid to show the bad and the good in her tale.

28. Book that Crushed Your Soul?

In the Afterlight made me an emotional wreck. I was so stressed out with anger, fear and uncertainty, and I just kept hoping that all of my darlings would make it out of their situation alive. Way to go, Alex Bracken, for making my heart seize up and my breathing pause multiple times in a row!

29. Most unique book you read in 2015?

The format is what makes Everything, Everything such a unique read! Aside from the story, there are illustrations and chats and emails integrated into the book. It made the entire story even more charming than it already was, and I thoroughly enjoyed the mix of formats.

30. Book that made you the most mad?

This one was almost too easy for me to pick an answer for - Ash & Bramble. While I didn't necessarily dislike this story, I didn't love it either. I had a lot of discussions with various individuals about the plot and the characters and the pacing, and it was definitely a book that left me feeling quite irritated and not in a good way.

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2015?

I'm really obsessed with Bookmark Lit! First of all, her site is 100% adorable, and I really love her design aesthetic. It's definitely just my sort of thing. I also have really enjoyed reading her discussions, visiting her Top Ten Tuesdays and seeing her features! She's also one of the nicest people ever, ever, ever.

2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2015?

Do I really need to pick just one? I loved my post about The Darkest Minds series, especially because it really conveyed how impressed I was with the nuances. I also like how I described Queen of Shadows, since it really was epic and it certainly moved the story forward. And then there's Girl Before a Mirror, a book that simply changed my life. Writing the Lynburn Legacy series review was a whole lot of fun, since I got creative with the format!

3. Best discussion/non-review post you had on your blog?

I really enjoyed writing about rearranging my reads, and I definitely think I'll be writing about my bookshelf/TBR arrangement again next year! I also really enjoyed doing the Voices in Fantasy event, where some great authors talked about fantasy and gave some recommendations.

4. Best event that you participated in?

BEA 2015 was really fun, and ApollyCon was certainly a hoot too! On the blog, I've enjoyed hosting the Love-a-Thon (which will be back and better than ever in 2016!), and doing things with Rachel for Books in Real Life.

5. Best moment of bookish/blogging life in 2015?

I loved getting the opportunity to moderate Sarah's Barnes & Noble event for A Court of Thorns and Roses in New York! It was really cool to get to hang out with one of my favorite authors and chat with her onstage. I also really loved getting to see almost every single one of my bookish BFFs this year (Hannah being the only exception, boo!).

6. Most popular post this year on your blog?

If we're talking views, the top three posts are the 2015 Book Blogger Love-a-Thon, {Bookish} Style Files: The Lunar Chronicles Edition & Macky's review of Prince of the Damned. If we're talking comments, that would be the first two posts I mentioned!

7. Post you wish got a little more love?

There are a few reviews that I wish had gotten more attention - my Travis series review, my Hathaways series review and my Boleyn Trilogy series review. Seriously, all three are such excellent series and deserve your attention!

8. Best bookish discovery?

Hannah introduced me to Folio Society, and I've become obsessed with collection their special editions of some of my favorite novels ever since! I also really love Happy Hello Art for feeding my magnetic bookmark addiction.

9. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals you had set for yourself this year?

Goodreads Reading Challenge: 200 books - COMPLETED

Flights of Fantasy Reading Challenge: 30 books - COMPLETED

Reread Reading Challenge: 15 books - COMPLETED

Dive Into Diversity Reading Challenge: 12 books - COMPLETED

Adult Fiction: 12 books - COMPLETED

Classics: 6 books - COMPLETED

Physical TBR: 50 books - INCOMPLETE

1. One book you didn't get to in 2015, but will be your number one priority in 2016?

Rachel gifted Let the Sky Fall to me a while ago now, but I still haven't read it! I must fix that, particularly since the last book in the series is coming out next year.

2. Book you are most anticipating for 2016 that's not a debut?

I'm really excited about My Lady Jane, a collaboration between Jodi Meadows, Cynthia Hand and Brodi Ashton. It's another alternate history book, one that also happens to be a comedy and I really think I'm going to enjoy it!

3. 2016 debut you are most anticipating?

Ivory and Bone is a novel I'm very excited about. I think it's going to be interesting to read, considering the setting and the set-up for the plot as gleaned from the synopsis. I'm also excited for The Girl from Everywhere and The Love That Split the World.

4. Series books you are most anticipating in 2016?

Sequels: Throne of Glass #5, because I need to know what happens to my squad. A Court of Mist and Fury, because I want to know what threat Feyre and Tamlin have to face now and I need more Lucien. Crooked Kingdom, because I want to see my Crows pull off the impossible feat. The Song Rising, because I need to know what Paige's next move is going to be. A Torch Against the Night, because Elias and Laia still have a ways to go before their story reaches its ends.

Finales: The Beauty of Darkness, because I want to know what Lia is going to do after the events of The Heart of Betrayal. The Winner's Kiss, because I need to know what happens to Kestrel and Arin, and I need that kiss mentioned in the title.

5. Things you hope to accomplish or do in your reading and blogging life in 2016?

6. A 2016 release you've already read and recommend to everyone?

YOUR TURN - Have you filled out your End of Year Survey yet? (Feel free to link me in your comment so I can go and check it out!) Which of the books on my survey have you read? Which blogs do you enjoy visiting the most? Tell me what you think!

As the end of the year draws ever closer (three more days, including this one!), I like making time to look at the months that have already come and gone. I change, and I grow, and I learn every single year. I also fall in love with all sorts of things as the year passes, whether it's experiences or tangible items I can acquire. I thought it'd be fun to share twelve of this year's obsessions, in no particular order, with all of you today!

fandom merchandise | I realized that I was sorely lacking in merchandise for all of my fandoms, and I set about remedying that this year. I've amassed quite a sizable collection of shirts, candles, jewelry, prints, bookmarks and pins that represent all of my different fandom loves - and I still don't think it's nearly enough. I'm most obsessed with collecting shirts (and I have one for nearly every single fandom I'm a part of), and jewelry comes a close second (because I bought a ton of it this year). / recommendations: Novelly Yours • Evie SEO • The Art of Young Adult • The Melting Library • Cris Unplugged • ThinkGeek • Hot Topic • Trilogie 

Folio Society editions | I really love how beautiful Folio Society editions are in person. Hannah describes The Folio Society wonderfully (with photos!), so you can look to that for more details. Once I found out about them, I was in love! As of the moment, I have the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale collection, the Perrault fairytale collection, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien (a gift from Hannah!), and the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I'm still on the hunt for a copy of Grimm's Fairytales and The Little Princess.

FoxyDori | This is another wonderful thing that Hannah introduced into my life, and it's been a life-changer. I didn't know about the existence of traveler's notebooks prior to Hannah telling me about them. They've upped my organization game, allowing me to keep multiple notebooks, crafty things (like post-its and washi tape and pens), and bookmarks all tucked away into one package in my bag. And I love that you can modify them to personally suit whatever your needs may be. I'm so obsessed that I actually have two of them at the moment - a blue one with a pink strap, and a brown one with a mint-colored strap (which I use everyday). / recommendations: FoxyDori

washi tape | I'm Alexa, and I'm obsessed with washi tape. No, really, I am. I love all the cute designs that you can find, whether it's prints or patterns or a spectrum of colors. In order to attempt to curb the obsession a bit, I decided that my BFF Danica (you may know her as the girl who did the lettering for all my new blog graphics) and I should collaborate to create a collection. It's been growing steadily, and I love that our different aesthetics combine to create a lovely mix of tapes to choose from. / recommendations: Michaels / The Washi Shop

magnetic bookmarks | I recently re-organized and snapped a photo of all of the magnetic bookmarks I own, and have come to the conclusion that I am obsessed. I collect the fandom ones, mostly, whether it's TV/film/book fandoms. But I love them. I try to alternate using them to justify purchasing them all, and I try to make sure to take very good care of them so that they last for a good long time. There are some very talented designers out there, and I'm eager to get my hands on more next year! / recommendations: Happy Hello Art • Magic Bookmarks

TV shows | I've told people this before, but I was never much of a TV gal. I generally prefer binge watching shows when the season is completed, which is why I'm often on Netflix or Amazon Prime. While this is still generally the case, I've been watching way more TV than I expected. It really helps that there are so many appealing shows that are on the air now, from superhero sagas to fantasy-inspired tales. While I don't foresee myself developing a full roster of shows to watch weekly, I'm kind of pleased to embrace entertainment wholeheartedly in this new medium. / recommendations for currently airing shows: Doctor Who • Supergirl • Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (I've only linked to trailers for the first seasons of each show!) / recommendations for finished TV show: Avatar: The Last Airbender


movies | It's been a great year for films, y'all. I've really enjoyed getting the chance to watch more movies, whether at home or in theaters. I've seen a pretty decent amount of movies (more than in the last three years, for sure), and there were so many for me to choose from! I'm definitely biased towards loving animated films, but I also love that I didn't limit myself to watching films in my usual genres and watched all sorts of things this year. (If you want to know what I've seen, definitely check out Screens & Scenes). / recommendations: Inside Out • Wreck-It Ralph • Star Wars, Episode VII: The Force Awakens



music | According to Spotify, I've listened to 23,000 minutes of music, which is roughly 382 hours. (I'm pretty sure I've listened to more than this, since I also use Apple Music!) That being said, I've had some clear favorites when it comes to musical artists and albums this year! As always, I'm most drawn to pop music, though I'm also into alternative and a little bit of country. (If you want to see more of my favorite albums, definitely check out Tunes & Tales!) / recommendations for artists: James Bay • Ed Sheeran • Taylor Swift • Jana Kramer • Ariana Grande • Adele • Gabrielle Aplin • Selena Gomez  • Pentatonix • Michelle Branch (These links will take you to YouTube videos with my favorite tracks from these artists!)

I'm not all that surprised that I decided to go back and watch so many old favorites, as it's pretty much in proportion to how much rereading old book favorites has become second nature. I had a couple of days off in September, which was a lovely excuse to binge some of my favorite movie series with my best friend Danica. And on Halloween, I had an impromptu movie day with my friends! And then there was all the TV series binging I did... All in all, I've consumed a healthy amount of media over the past three months, and you're about to encounter a really, really, really long post. (P.S. - Screens and Scenes is getting a makeover in terms of content & presentation come January, so watch out for that! I'm really looking forward to tweaking this and making it even better.)

MOVIES

Star Wars, Episode IV: A New Hope (trailer) | I've watched this one twice already this year, and will probably watch it one more time in December before the new Star Wars flick is out in theaters. I definitely think it's a classic science fiction film, with excellent characters and an interesting story. It's also a really great introduction to this world, the characters and the overall plot arc of the early Star Wars trilogy.

Star Wars, Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (trailer)  | As the second film in the original trilogy, it is no surprise that things get very intense. There's a lot of battle and strategy, new revelations, and also, the same signature charm and humor that's laced through the first film. I love how the story really progresses here!

Star Wars, Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (trailer) | I just love that there is so much action, and so much heart in this series ender! Because viewers will, by now, have grown to love the characters, so finding out how it all goes down for them is what makes up this film's biggest draw. And it concludes so well, you guys. I love it. I really do. (And I can't wait to see how the story continues in the upcoming film!)

The Fellowship of the Ring (trailer) | Of all the Lord of the Rings films, this is the one I happened to remember best (even though the novel is my least favorite, at least, based on the first and only time I read it). I was pretty confident about all the details I remembered, so it was really fun to just relive the beginning of Frodo's adventure. The film really gets readers well-acquainted with the world, the lore, the characters, and I love that!

The Two Towers (trailer) | As I said about the second Star Wars film above, this one is where things get very intense. The battles and the strategy, the allies and the enemies, the twists - there is a lot that goes down in this film! I didn't remember it all that well, if I'm being honest, so it felt like I was watching it for the first time. I love the amount of attention to detail, and I can honestly say this is the film where I really fell for the characters.

The Return of the King (trailer) | The conclusion to the Lord of the Rings trilogy is perfection. I thought that when I read the novel, and I thought that after seeing the film. It just really wraps up everyone's stories in the best way! I felt so tense throughout most of it, since the stakes are so high and there is so much carnage and risk and sacrifice. But it just swells into the most epic climax and conclusion, and I honestly love it.

The Swan Princess (trailer) | While I will always and forever harbor affection for this film, I'm not blind to its inconsistencies, lack of build-up and entirely too convenient characters or plot points. There's still something charming and magical about this tale though, and I always respond to that. (Plus, watching the film was excellent #NaNoWriMo research!) 

Show 'Em What You're Made Of (trailer) | I got my genuine love of the Backstreet Boys from my parents, who were constantly playing their CDs in the car when I was a child. I really do love their songs (and will always queue them up during a karaoke session), and I definitely consider myself a fan. But after watching this documentary, I just love them more than ever. Such a great look into their lives, as individuals and as a group!

Jessabelle (trailer) | I'm surprised to admit that I did enjoy this! Even though it has many typical horror film tropes laced into it (the camera angles, certain scenes, eerie noises), it was still pretty cool to try and unravel just what was happening in this film. It's certainly not the best I've seen, but it is quite clever.

The Gift (trailer) | I'm not much for psychological thrillers, and since that's what this film is, it just wasn't my cup of tea. It was very creepy. It was very odd. It made my nerves tingle with apprehension. It was a good film, all things said and done, but definitely not something I would have chosen to watch on my own.

Rumor Has It (trailer) | Oh, this movie. It was cute, and Jennifer Aniston was gorgeous in it. But it isn't one of those romance/comedy films that really hit the mark for me! I was amused by it, but for the most part I was frustrated by what was going on.

Listen To Your Heart (trailer) | The first time I watched this movie, I cried. This, the second time I've seen it, I still cried. It's a pretty decent indie film about a guy who wants to be a musician, and a deaf girl that he falls in love with. While I can't speak to the accuracy of the portrayal of someone deaf, I can tell you that the story is charming, and the overall message is pretty great.


Love Actually (trailer) | Whenever I need to watch something that's guaranteed to make me feel good, I turn to this film. While I don't necessarily love all the stories, there is just enough charm and humor to make up for it. It's one of the better ensemble films out there, and I highly recommend watching it, particularly during the holiday season.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 (trailer) | This film marks the end of an era, in a way. I really was impressed with the storytelling in the novels, and the translation into film has been pretty darn great from start to finish. While this is probably my least favorite film of the movie franchise, I still loved it deeply for all it represented: the complexity of human nature, the fine line of morality, the variety of relationships, the character growth. (Also, Jennifer Lawrence was stunning as Katniss, and Josh Hutcherson was wonderful as Peeta.)

Mad Max: Fury Road (trailer) | I don't know what I was expecting when I settled down to watch this, but I walked away feeling unsettled. I don't think the visual style of this film was for me, personally, but I did like the story. The simplicity of the goal, the interesting + strong female characters, the portrayal of the setting - it was all quite engaging for me, as I do like stories. It might not necessarily be up everyone's alley, but it worked out okay for me.


Thumbelina (trailer) | I'll always have a soft spot for this film, just because it was one of those magical movies from my childhood. But I've got to say that I'm totally not impressed with it as an adult, particularly because the insta-love is terrible and the slightly racist undertones are a bit disturbing. It's one of those cases where I probably should have just clung to the memory. (On the other hand, at least now I'm inspired to rewrite the story into something that's more sensible.)

After Earth (trailer) | I honestly think that this film is a lot better than I expected it to be. It's not an action piece. It's a character piece, and seeing as how I really love connecting to characters, I'm not surprised I wound up at least liking this one. While it's not a perfect film by any means, it's definitely an interesting one in terms of character growth and introspection.

Star Wars, Episode VII: The Force Awakens (trailer) | I really, really enjoyed the latest installment in the Star Wars series! There's just something about the way this film breathes fresh air into this world with a story that has a similar feel but entirely brand new characters to fall in love with. I definitely think it's a solid addition to what is already an epic saga, and I certainly look forward to spending more time with Rey, Finn and the Resistance. (P.S. The flight scenes were fantastic! The score was brilliant! And all the nods to the old films? Perfection.)

TV SHOWS

Doctor Who (S3) (promo) | I really, really enjoyed this season! It's a change from the first two, since we have a new companion along for adventures with the Doctor, Miss Martha Jones. They go on some pretty fun trips, but also find themselves in some pretty serious situations. Martha is certainly different from Rose; she's smart and strong and a total survivor, and I loved watching her transformation from the beginning of the season till the end. The last two episodes of this season nearly did me in with feels, but it was so, so worth it.

Doctor Who (S4) (promo) | As Macky would say, this is the season that features my Doctor Who "brOTP" - the Doctor and Donna. Their season was a hoot, mostly because Donna is frank and funny and can dish out commentary like no one's business. I loved coming along for their adventures, enjoying how Donna constantly challenged the Doctor, and fought to do what she believed was right. It's a really great season from start to finish!

Doctor Who (S5) (promo) | It might be because I'm binge watching these earlier seasons, but I can really sense the difference in tone and style with this latest season of Doctor Who that I've finished. There's a different sort of polish laid on Matt Smith's debut season as the Doctor, a change that I'm honestly not opposed to. And Matt Smith's Doctor is still the Doctor we love, but with a slightly more self-contained personality! His adventures with Amy Pond are nothing short of fantastical (and terrifying at turns), and I really like the season's overall arc as well.

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (S1-S3) (promo / promo / promo) | There is honestly nothing I can say that I don't love about this show! The characters are brilliant, especially the main team, because their complexity is so well done, because we learn about their strengths and their flaws. Their relationships with one another are equally interesting, and I love the moments when they get explored or developed. The story is really fun, with all the alien/inhuman encounters and the unexpected twists. I never know what's in store when I'm watching an episode, and I think that's a big part of its appeal! (P.S. The mid-season finale though - I don't even know what to say.)

Supergirl (S1) (promo) | This show is 100% my sort of show! We've got an adorable, awkward girl who yearns to be a real hero and help other people. We've got fun, if slightly stereotypical, secondary characters, who add charm and humor and intensity. And man, I love Melissa Benoist's wardrobe in this show! I honestly just love it for how fun and light it is, and I hope it manages to keep that charm as it continues to air.

Flesh and Bone (S1) (promo) | There are three words that come to mind when it comes to this show: disturbing, creepy and compelling. This show is not for the faint of heart, since it tackles things like prostitution, sex (and rape), and incest without holding back. Claire (the lead character, and I have to say that the actress who plays her does it brilliantly) has a life that's intense, emotional, raw and crazy. Even though you'll feel uncomfortable, even though you occasionally want to scream in frustration or fear or anger, I found a morbid fascination to staying tuned and seeing what happened next. Plus, there are some really amazing dance scenes sprinkled throughout the narrative!

Jessica Jones (S1) (promo) | This is yet another show that leans towards the darker side of the spectrum. It focuses on Jessica Jones, a badass gal with super strength who happens to be dealing with PTSD after psychological and physical abuse. She's definitely the anti-hero, but finds herself taking on the role of hero anyway as she fights to end her abuser's reign of terror. It's shocking and violent, creepy and utterly disturbing, raw and emotional - and I lapped up every second of it. Krysten Ritter is an excellent choice for Ms. Jones, as she fills the role with the vibrancy and vulnerability it requires; David Tennant smashes it out of the park as Kilgrave, a charming man with the ability to control other people's thoughts and actions. I really think this is one of the best shows in the MCU.

Once Upon a Time (S5) (promo) | I will always have a soft spot for this show, just because I think it's interesting to see how the fairy tale characters and plots will be integrated into it. The first part of this season integrated Camelot and the lore behind the Dark One, both of which I thought was really interesting. And it was fun to see Emma as a Dark One! Even though it fell into a predictable plot (again) by the mid-season finale, I'm still going to wind up watching it because... well, because I'm a sucker.

BROADWAY, BALLET + LIVE SHOWS

Jason Robert Brown @ Subculture (2 shows) | If you ever get the chance to see Jason Robert Brown perform, you should definitely take it. He's a brilliant songwriter, and an excellent composer, and to witness the magic happening onstage is a true pleasure. I really loved the intimacy of the venue, the surprise guests and just the way that the night was casual and fun.

The Book of Mormon (promo) | I'm not quite sure what to say about this show! It was funny and irreverent, as promised, and I did enjoy it, particularly in the second act when things picked up a little bit. But I don't think it's necessarily a show that everyone is going to love, particularly because of the topic and how it's approached! While it was definitely worth seeing for the price I paid, I doubt I could easily recommend this to most people.

The Nutcracker (promo) | It was wonderful to go and see a ballet that holds so much nostalgia for me. The first act was dazzling and quick, and I particularly loved seeing the snowflakes dance at the very end of it. But the second act was my favorite! I loved the festivity, the variety of dances and just the way that listening to the music brought back some beautiful memories for me. It's definitely a Christmas tradition I want to share with my own children one day!