You Say Goodbye, and I Say Hello

Posted by Jules in Just Sayin' with Jules | 4 comments

Goodbye 2011

Another year has almost passed us by, and my what a year it has been.

The MVF family has grown to include a host of talented new contributors with diverging opinions and fresh views on everything vampire, paranormal and more.

I could not be prouder to be associated with such a fabulous group of women who continually intrigue me with their musings.

In the world of books and film, there were certainly some landmarks.

The Harry Potter franchise realized its cinematic grand finale, and lovers of this wizarding world seemed satisfied with how it turned out. Satisfied may even be too light a term.

The Twilight franchise debuted the beginning of its end with the first installment of the two-part Breaking Dawn film. It seems to have captured the intrigue of even naysayers of the much-disputed last book, and Bill Condon received great praise upon its release.

Game of Thrones anyone? I’ll admit that I have not yet read the books, but after seeing the premier season of the television adaptation (which I devoured in one weekend on DVR), I’ve added it to my TBR list. If you have not seen this series, or read the books, I highly suggest it.

GoT was not the only game on the small screen. The Vampire Diaries and True Blood returned for their seasons three and four, respectively. While GoT stuck closely to what was written between the pages of its preceding literary counterpart, it is understood that the other two aforementioned series veer from theirs. Are you watching? What were your honest thoughts on the return of these series?

One of my most beloved book series, the Fever Series reached its maybe-conclusion with the release of Shadowfever in 2011. I never thought I would become so enamored with a series that at first I looked upon skeptically. Shadowfever did not disappoint, at least not me. My eyes were glued to page, my fingers were feverishly turning and my heart was jumping at every turn. If you haven’t read the Fever series, get to it!

The Black Dagger Brotherhood series continued on its warrior path with J.R. Ward’s release of the ninth book, Lover Unleashed. The book is centered not only around Payne, but her twin, the warrior Vishous. The book was emotionally charged and saw the introduction of a new element: The Bastards. An excellent read, though at the turn of the last page I was thirsty for more. I could have easily digested another two hundred pages of Manny and his bambina, Payne. How about you?

I have a number of series on my book shelf, waiting for perusal, but I’ve been reading some stand alone material as a palate refresher. Please share with all of us here at MVF the series you love most, especially those that saw updates and new installments in 2011!

Hello 2012

Are you ready? I sure am.

Let’s start where I ended with what’s to come in 2012.

In March, Lover Reborn hits the market – the tenth novel of the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series by J.R. Ward. This book is as anticipated as it is dreaded, from what I have gathered. The book will center around Tohrment, the brother who succumbed to tragic circumstance in the third novel of the series, Lover Awakened. It is assumed this book will be anchored with great emotion; J.R. Ward herself has drawn comparison to Lover Awakened and said that tissues will be mandatory.

Also in March? The arrival of the film adaptation of the first book in the Hunger Games trilogy. The trailer offers much promise and I for one hope for a smashing delivery. I cannot wait to see Woody Harrelson as Haymitch, and the costuming for Elizabeth Banks as Effie looks spot on.

Returning for its second season: Game of Thrones. Bring it baby. Though I will forever miss Jason Momoa’s Khal Drogo, I am confident the second season will shine as the first did, and suck me in like the sucker I am. Can’t. Wait.

Walking Dead. If zombies and post-apocalyptic scenarios interest you, check out this AMC show. In fact, catch up while you can, while Season 2 is on hiatus. I’m anxiously awaiting the return of this show.

Breaking Dawn, the final film for the Twilight franchise premiers in November. Twilight fans and lovers, are you ready for the ultimate end or sad to see it go?

This is just a tiny glimpse of what’s to come. I know there are other books, shows and movies that must be on your mind.

I invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on everything that’s transpired in 2011 and what you are awaiting in 2012.

Have a happy, safe and celebratory New Year’s Eve.

Cheers to a happy and wonderful 2012.

Signing off for another year, Just Sayin.