The Final Quarterly Wrap-Up | my favourite book cover of 2022 let me down

Posted on by Sophie @ Me & Ink

🦇 October – December 🎄

HAPPY 2023! 🥳

I take a break from the “end-of-year” content to do the final quarterly wrap-up for 2022! All the books, TV and blog posts I enjoyed across the last three months. I did an October reading diary last year so the books mentioned in that post have a link to it and their review instead of me repeating myself.

image of pink text saying 'books' surrounded by red stars.

my favourites

LEGENDBORN BY TRACY DEONN // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

BLOODMARKED BY TRACY DEONN // Thankfully the sequel was just as good, mostly because of the character focus, continued expansion of the magic and other twists to push the story forward. I talked about it a lot more in my books of 2022 post, but this is fastly becoming my favourite YA fantasy series.

🍄 My Books of 2022 | new favourites, the biggest disappointments & DNFs

great reads

THE STAND-IN BY LILY CHU // Rom-com are quite a personal thing as everyone knows what is going to happen, so whether it is good for you depends on how enjoyable the journey is. This one was a delight for me. The main character was distinct and endearing, the plot always had something new pushing it and the romance was charming and sweet.

THE SCORPIO RACES BY MAGGIE STIEFVATER // As the cover suggests, we follow the events leading up to a special (yes I mean supernaturally gifted) horse race. I can see why it won prizes as following two characters with different abilities and reasons for the race created a dynamic set-up. Plus, I was so interested to see how it concluded and who won the race. I didn’t expect it to hook me as much as it did.

GREYWAREN BY MAGGIE STIEFVATER // In all honesty, this is a biased rating because I am in love with the characters and writing so much. The plot is far from faultless but this book became my favourite of the series. Hennessy and Declan’s arc were very satisfying to see. You can read more of my thoughts in my separate post.

🍄 the dreamer trilogy is not for all raven cycle fans | a piece written at 1am

DIAMOND & DAWN BY LYRA SELENE // I was undecided where to put this one at first, whether one tier lower but I stuck with this one. Whilst I think the main character appeared quite naive in this book and I was sometimes frustrated with her thoughts/decisions, I did think it was realistic to how her character type would have acted in these scenarios. Perhaps not the author’s intention, but it is what I got. I do think the position of a struggling new queen was handled quite freshly and I love that the characters aren’t always likeable. It gave this duology an edge which I think it should have leaned into more. Still, an entertaining read and underrated YA fantasy.

average

WHEN I WAS TEN BY FIONA CUMMINS // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

REPRIEVE BY JAMES HAN MATTSON // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

IF YOU COULD SEE THE SUN BY ANN LIANG // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

SO THIS IS EVER AFTER BY F. T. LUKENS // I adored this cover sooo much 😍 and the back was just as beautiful, but the actual book was kind of mediocre. Fun, but mediocre. It was painfully obvious the main relationship had mutual pining but the main character was convinced it was one-sided. So much so, it never felt like best friends to lovers, it just felt like two crushes dancing around each other. Therefore it missed the crucial part of friends to lovers. However, it was still sweet and as a gentle non-serious fantasy, it was fun!

PIRANESI BY SUSANNA CLARKE // This made it onto many people’s favourites list and I can almost see why. The writing and character voice were clever at revealing details about the plot and human condition. But it was too predictable and the ending was too easy for me.

NICK AND CHARLIE BY ALICE OSEMAN // I should not have read this! Enthusiastic fans would enjoy this I’m sure, but it felt like a rushed third-act break-up and just as pointless. If you wanted to explore moving away from each other it deserved a proper conversation with a focus on emotions. This was not it. It wasn’t bad by any means, just a bit boring to be honest. Also, the narrator for Charlie was awful; he sounded so bored. But it did teach me Aled was Welsh which feels like a very weird and wrong revelation.

not for me

THE OLD WOMAN WITH THE KNIFE BY GU BYEONG-MO // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

MY BEST FRIEND’S EXORCISM BY GRADY HENDRIX // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

HORRORSTOR BY GRADY HENDRIX // October Reading Diary | books, movies, music 🎃🍁

image of pink text saying 'tv' surrounded by red stars.

★★★★★

★★★★

★★★★★

★★★

RESERVATION DOGS S1 // I spoke about this show in my favourite TV series of 2022 post. Following four Native American teenagers who are trying to save up to leave their hometown. I would consider it a comedy-drama as the humour is often subtle with the focus on the show being about realism. Therefore, the characters immediately felt real and I have to watch everything they do now.

GREY’S ANATOMY S18 & S19 // Season 18 finally came onto Disney plus and whilst I would consider a few episodes duds, I think this season was the best of the modern ones. The plot made me feel on the edge of my seat and there were more stories about patients which I loved. The season finale was incredible and I would even say that episode felt like old greys. Then season 19 began to air and I do like the reenergizing of the interns. Will it be the same? No, but a good set-up for a certain character leaving.

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS S4 // Again I have already talked about this one. One of my favourite shows EVER and season 4 was a great addition. I have never been disappointed by this quirky sitcom. The Night Market was one of the best episodes of the entire show. Bring on season 5!

🍄 Top 5 TV Shows of 2022 (and top 5 continuations)

SHRILL S3 // The final season of Shrill. I felt like Annie was more unlikeable but I enjoyed how it made the story break the common mould of “rom-coms” to explore more unconventionally plots. The ending was very satisfying, whilst open, it felt like a true acknowledgement of a problem, a sweet friendship moment and being open to possibility. Even though it was a shame it got cancelled, the ending was great!

★★★★

★★★★

★★★★

★★★

FRESH OFF THE BOAT // This has been my little sitcom boost when necessary. I can just put an episode on and it is charming and sweet. I love Louis and Jessica; one of the best sitcom couples. I think I recently started season 4 and there are only six seasons so not too much left.

THE BASTARD SON & THE DEVIL HIMSELF // It is such a shame Netflix cancelled this show because it had a lot of potential. Nathan, the main character, had such a good personality. He made me laugh in unexpected places a lot. The plot and relationships were really good as well. I think people would have loved it if it was promoted better.

GHOSTS US S1 // I really enjoyed the UK series so I was sceptical but curious about the US one. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised. It had the typical US changes; the characters are more likeable and presentable. It had more sitcom humour than wordy humour. But because it is a wacky, family-friendly show these changes worked really well. Plus, there were some different histories to explore.

OUTLANDER S6 // I’m not the biggest fan of Outlander all the time. I tend to watch it because someone else wants to and I found this season weaker than the others. It didn’t have too many locations and focused on little things. It was still classic Outlander, I just believe there have been stronger plots. The finale was solid though and I think next season will be a good one.

★★★

★★★★

W.I.L.L.O.W // This show is still airing at the minute. In fact, I think I have last weeks to watch, but I wanted to talk about it now. I never watched the original movie so bear that in mind, but I enjoy this show for what it is. It is a classic fantasy plot which provides nothing new, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It is sometimes funny, occasionally dramatic with rock music and good characters. It is an enjoyable time.

MOTHERLAND S1-3 // I only just finished this and I miss it. Following parents as they try to keep their lives in order. I love all the different personalities and how they rub along with each other. I found it very entertaining but it looks so stressful to have kids.

image of pink text saying 'blog' surrounded by red stars.

favourite posts I’ve posted

from the blogosphere:

I haven’t been the most active this past quarter, but in the last week or so, I have been enjoying the end-of-year content which will probably be reflected in this section!

General posts:

End-of-Year posts:

Anticipated Books:

How was your December? Do you enjoy the end-of-year content? Are you a Grey’s Anatomy fan? Have you watched all the seasons?

30 thoughts on “The Final Quarterly Wrap-Up | my favourite book cover of 2022 let me down”

  2. SOPHIE I LOVE THIS SO MUCH??

    look the fact that the legendborn books are at the very top of your list is obviously enough conviction for me to read them already, SO I SHALL. also I’m in love with how there’s TWO Maggie stiefvater favorites on here?? Once upon a time a year or maybe two ago I borrowed the Scorpio races from the library AND WAS HOOKED RIGHT FROM THE PROLOGUE but then got sucked up into the blackhole that is schoolwork AND NOW CANT FIND THE BOOK IN THE LIBRARY AGAIN. so. but I love that you loved it!!!!!!

    I’ve heard SO much amazingness about the stand in recently AND SHALL CHECK IT OUT JUST BECAUSE OF THAT 😩 rom coms that are unique even in the slightest ways ARE POSSIBLY ONE OF THE BEST EVER CREATIONS??

    Living up to my reputation, I obviously haven’t yet watched any of the shows you mentioned BUT THEY ALL SOUND VERY NICE SO EXCUSE ME WHILE I ADD THEM ALL TO THE WATCHLIST THANK YOU.

    Your October reading diary is possibly my most favorite post of yours I LOVE THE FORMAT AND THE IDEAS AND THE PLAYLIST AND JUST. EVERYTHING ABOUT IT.

    also omg I am HONOURED that you shared my post THANK YOU SO MUCH I SHALL SOB

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank youuuu ❤️❤️

      Legendborn was such a blast! A classic plot but well done– these books would have been my ride or die when I was teen!! So please read them and tell me all your thoughts!!
      Aw.. Schoolwork has to ruin all good things! Maybe one day The Scorpio Races will find you again and you can have your conclusion!! Thank youuu!

      I hadn’t actually heard about The Stand In too much before, but it deserves the hype~~ it is comforting and sweet! Such a good rom com, and you are right ones which have small difference can have big impacts!!

      Haha some might argue I watch too many TV shows, after all it could be reading time instead 🤣🤣 but I hope you love any you watch… In perhaps the next ten years 😂

      Aw.. 🥺 So glad you enjoyed the October reading diary. Honestly I would love to do one every month, but I like to pre-make my content and wraps up don’t work with me on that one 😂 I will try to sneak a few in on the odd occassion though! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR KINDS WORDS. Don’t mind me wiping my eyes here 😭❤️

      Of course, I loved your post as always 🥰🥰

      Like

      Reply

    1. Haha Greys is a long series now, I can’t believe it! I think I started when I was 8 and my mum said it wasn’t suitable for kids, but over 10 years later here we are 😂 it is a very addictive show if you every start, but I get intimidating series length. I think about the walking dead but never actually start it 😅
      Of course 🥰 I loved reading it! I agree, I love this time of year for blog content, like I genuinely look forward to it!!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  7. I’m really excited to read the Legendborn series this year and finally start watching Reservation Dogs as part of my plan to consume more content by indigenous creators. I’m glad you loved both of them so much, that makes me look forward to starting them even more.
    Also, thank you so much for including my post!! 💛

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I really hope you enjoy both of those ❤️ Legendborn is classic YA in many aspects but it was very entertaining and well thought out.
      Reservation Dogs is one of my new favourite shows, it has an indie style and great characters! I love it a lot. Fab soundtrack as well.
      I look forward to hearing your thoughts on these!
      Of course 🥰

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  9. AHHH SOPHIE I LOVE THIS! Legendborn seriously looks so good, this is once again my reminder to complete reading it ahhh!! Also I ADORED fresh off the boat as well, it’s so much fun! I’ve also grown a bit too attached to the characters haha
    Thank you so much for the mention, it means so much!! ❤ love this! ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. THANK YOU SUHANI!! 🤗🥰 I have been mentioning Legendborn a lot lately but it was a really good time for me! Weirdly comforting considering it involved a lot of hard times! YES, finish reading it 😂!!
      Fresh Off the Boat was literally a delight. I love the characters– Jessica and Louis make me want to belive in soulmates!
      Of course 💗💗 your blog deserves all the love!

      Like

      Reply

  10. I LOVE GHOSTS (i’ve only seen the US one but I’ve heard others prefer the UK one more? 😅), the humor is what makes the show such a treat & I’m always looking forward to each episode. Thank you so much for sharing my posts Sophie, oddly enough it feels like cozy books are big on other platforms but I thought it’d be fun to bring them to the blogosphere. Thank you for the super kind words on my posts, you are the BEST!! 🥰

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Ghosts is so fun! I feel like as the UK one is the original, if people saw it first, they will prefer it. I probably do prefer the UK as it has a distinct charm, but I was pleasantly surprised by the US one! It is so cosy!!
      Of course, I loved your posts ❤️ I haven’t seen cosy books talked about on blogs as much either, so it was a great idea to make a space for them. I can’t wait to do your tag!!
      You’re welcome, thank you for the posts 🥰💗

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  11. As I’m sure I said on your other post mentioning it I can’t wait to finally read Legendborn!! Definitely one I’ll have to try and get to soon. I want to read the books you’ve listed as great too at some point although up first for Maggie Stiefvater is definitely Raven Boys for me…how I still haven’t read that I truly do not know.

    Omg I’m so sorry to see that you found If You Could See The Sun average, I know how excited you were for that one I haven’t read Piransei so can’t comment on it in particular but I do agree that I hate easy endings in general. It’s devastating for things to build then almost falter out.

    I’m sorry to see that Grady Hendrix’s books weren’t for you. Although kind of relieved it wasn’t the Southern Book Club that you’d read…I still really want to read that one 😅

    Oh wow I haven’t seen any of the shows that you’ve mentioned again 🙈😬 although my sister did mention to me that she thought I’d like The Bastard Son & The Devil himself. And, even though i don’t have a clue what the shows about, the fact that What We Do In The Shadows has an episode called The Night Marker majorly intrigues me. As for Greys Anatomy considering it’s popularity and length I seriously do not know how I’ve never seen a single episode 🤔

    I’ll try to read some more of your posts soon. Considering the length of the comments I tend to leave I’m trying to do it in stages so I don’t bombard you 😅 and I’ll save this again to check out some of your suggestions in the future too.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on all these books. I am optimistic about Legendborn for you, The Raven Boys is… I don’t know how to prepare you for that one. It is a bit weird 😂😂

      It was a shame about If You Could See The Sun, it wasn’t what I imagined it was going to be. Less magic and secrets, and more cute romance I guess. If I knew this going in, I think I would have enjoyed it more because the writing actually had a great style!
      Piranesi did end too easily, I swear the main end incident only lasted one page 😅

      It was another shame about Grady Hendrix, but he is still super popular so I hope he works for you. Especially the Book Club, I do love the title for that one 😂

      Haha I watch too many shows 😂😂 I could see you liking The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself, I really liked the plot and the characters. It deserved better from Netflix.
      What We Do in the Shadows is a lot of fun. It is a bit silly but in a different way to Bridgerton, so I hope it works for you. The Night Market was very chaotic, but amazing!
      Greys is a lot of episodes but those first 10 seasons are so addictive and good. It is worth a shot, but you will become obsessed 😂

      Aw.. No pressure, the length of some of my posts are quite a lot 😅 but thank you sooo much for all your kind works and support ❤️❤️

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. I’ll definitely let you know what I think of them. Really?? I saw the first line shared once & it really intrigued me. I so don’t know how it’s still unread by me 🙈

        Aww that’s a shame. I can get why that would throw you though, especially if you were super hyped for the vibes you originally imagined.
        Omg I hate when that happens. Rushed resolutions stress me out so much.

        Thank you. Its the vampire elements that draws me in…naturally 🙈🙈

        Or I don’t watch enough?? I’m very good at putting off starting them for some reason 🤔 aww well I’m glad you liked it. Just a shame there won’t be more.
        Oh now I’m worried…idk why I’m so picky about comedy. The ones I enjoy I could watch endlessly though.
        That’s what worries me with shows, I can’t stop watching them once I’m hooked 😅 have you ever seen House? I thought about it but could never find it from the beginning.

        Aww they’re wonderful though ❤️❤️ and I love reading them.

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply

        1. Yay!! The first line to the raven boys is great, but it is a weird series (in a good way for me). You will know what I mean when you’ve read it– the books has its own very special logic! 😂
          Yeah, it definitely threw me off! But still, I’m glad checked it out so I know!

          haha well, you and vampires are clearly a perfect match!

          aw… well shows are always there when you want them at least. Some TV shows feel like a committed and if you get addicted, there goes your productivity 😂
          Comedy is personal. You will know by one episode if it is for you or not. It is quite distinct.
          I have seen House, but only odd episodes, not like episode to episode. It is a shame you couldn’t find it though. I liked the main character, very grumpy and sarcastic. He was funny, the plot was very similar in each episode, but definitely entertaining. But, I probably didn’t get any of the overarcing plots the way I watched it.

          Thank you soooo much!! ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ It means a lot!

          Liked by 1 person

          Reply

          1. Hmm I really hope I get along with it OK then. It’s super popular so I’m optimistic though. 🤞 I’ll let you know how i find them then 😅

            I hope so at least. I still have one of my most anticipated ones from the other year to read.

            Unless they get taken off Netflix 😪 exactly as soon as you’re hooked its all too easy to put off everything else.
            That’s true, they generally don’t take much to figure out. Sometimes even a trailer is enough to tell.
            I think that sort of character would appeal to me 🤞 I’ll have to watch out and see if it appears on anything in the future. I’ve seen several shows the same way as you 😅 usually the ones I put on for something to do but have never really committed to.

            ❤️❤️❤️

            Liked by 1 person

            Reply

            1. I hope so too! I look forward to your thoughts 🥰

              Me too!! 😅

              Oh no, I hate it when a show is removed. You need a good amount of warning if they are going to do that!!
              Yeah good point, the trailer would be enough I think!
              Yeah, it reminds me slightly of Doc Martin but more drama and intensity as it is set at a big hospital.
              Haha it easily happens 😂

              Liked by 1 person

              Reply

              1. Thank you.

                Yes so true. Especially for the longer shows as lots of people could be only part way through.
                Ooh I love Doc Martin although I don’t think I’ve seen all of the earlier seasons.

                Liked by 1 person

                Reply

  12. I really need to read Bloodmarked!! Though I might have to reread Legendborn at some point 🤔 I also need to watch What We Do in the Shadows, as it always looks like so much fun 🥰 Thank you so much for sharing my post! 💖

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I can’t wait for you to read Bloodmarked, it was so good! 😍 I don’t blame you for wanting to re-read Legendborn either! Where is the time!?!
      I hope you enjoy What We Do In The Shadows, one of my all-time faves!
      Of course, I loved your post 💗💗

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  13. Pingback: What I’ve been up to in January ❄️ New Year & Thesis Stress – The Bookcheshire Cat

Leave a Reply

Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in:

Gravatar
WordPress.com Logo

You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Twitter picture

You are commenting using your Twitter account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Facebook photo

You are commenting using your Facebook account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Cancel

Connecting to %s