2016 Love-a-Thon: Mix and Match

It's here, it's here, it's here! I'm always super pumped whenever this time of year rolls around, because it's when I can officially say this: The Love-a-Thon is here! In case you didn't already know, the Love-a-Thon is an annual February event that encourages the bookish online community to spread some positive vibes, strengthen friendships, form new relationships and have fun along the way. This year, I'm excited to be co-hosting with my friends Cee of The Novel Hermit, Hazel of Stay Bookish & Mel of The Daily Prophecy! We're really looking forward to sharing all of our hard work with you, and are so excited to see this event on all sorts of platforms - blogs, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube! (P.S. If you're only hearing about the event today, you're still welcome to sign up!)

One of the things I really love is the diversity in our community. While we all love books, we also love different kinds of books. And we also have other things we happen to be passionate about! For this first mini-challenge, all you've got to do is find a creative way to mash-up your book life with a non-bookish hobby, passion or talent. You can be as creative as you like, doing anything from a little collage to a video to art to something totally inspired.

P.S. Link up at Stay Bookish in order to be entered in the giveaway for this challenge! (If you're not awake yet, don't fret! The linky will stay open until the event officially ends on February 22, so add yours any time before then.)

I really strive to share my non-bookish interests via my blog features. I decided it would be fun to combine my features {Bookish} Style Files & {Bookish} Travel Buddies in today's mini-challenge. Basically, I'll be picking a character from one of my 2016 fantasy reads, dressing them up and deciding where I'd take them on vacation!

Trolley Tour Dress in Pine | "Northern lights" by Moyan Bren is licensed under C.C. BY 2.0

The Hero and the Crown is easily one of the strongest fantasy novels I've read this year. This is mostly because I absolutely loved main character Aerin, who bravely and tenaciously pursued her own destiny in a journey both difficult, sad and treacherous. Aerin's bright hair and her tendency to brace simple, breathable outfits were a big reason I chose this dress for her. Iceland, on the other hand, just seemed like it would be an adventurous spot for us to visit. I think Aerin would find the change in climate intriguing!

Princess of Posh Dress | "Cliffs of Moher" by IrishFireside is licensed under C.C. BY 2.0

I finally got around to reading Stolen Songbird this year, and I really enjoyed it! Main character Cécile is a girl who struggles to right old wrongs, stay one step ahead of those who would ruin her and who uses her brains as best she can. When she loves, it's loyal and deep. I feel like this pretty pink and white frock would suit her looks (which sound quite aristocratic) and it could potentially be a good dress for her to wear when she sings in public. I wanted to take her to Ireland, just because there's such rich history and cultural lore to explore. (And it feels magical!)

Outfit of the Sway Dress | "Pyramid of Menkaure" by Darren Krape is licensed under C.C. BY-NC 2.0

If you're looking for a tale that combines history and humor, then My Lady Jane is for you! Jane is my favorite character, because she's smart, reliable, and loves books. I think her kindness and compassion really stand out above everything! This pale pink dress would be suitable for her position of honor and any court appearances she may need to make. As for where we would go, I chose Egypt. I feel like Jane would find it interesting learning about the country's history, seeing such spectacular monuments and just experiencing a culture different from her own.

Fun One Like You Dress in Silver | "Japan" by Moyan Bren is licensed under C.C. BY 2.0

My favorite fantasy novel I've read so far this year is The Shadow Queen! Lorelai is someone who just felt extremely real. She is gifted with great magic, and she's picked up a few tricks when it comes to self-defense and evasion over the years. But she's also incredibly vulnerable, and constantly willing to learn and grow more. I just adored her! This dress just seemed like something fitting for her. (I also think Kol would like it!) I'd bring Lorelai to Japan. We'd immerse ourselves in the cultural experience - visiting landmarks, trying out customs, eating all the food.

Bash from the Past Dress | "Antarctica" by Andreas Kambanis is licensed under C.C. BY 2.0

I'm so happy I finally got around to reading Madly! Samantha is one of the most resourceful and clever gals I've ever read about. I admired her spunk and determination, and was constantly rooting for her to be able to achieve what she wanted. I love how deeply she cares for her family too. This dress just seems like a good mix of casual and dressy, and I think it'd suit Sam well if she did dress up. As for where we'd go, well, I would take her to Antartica. It's someplace very different from what she's used to, so that would be fun! Plus, maybe she could find special ingredients for potions there!

Hope you enjoyed this post! Have you read any of these novels? Which of these dresses is something you'd wear? And which place would you want to visit? Feel free to share your own version of my mash-up in the comments!

Again, don't forget to link up at Stay Bookish to enter the giveaway for this challenge!