Note that the overdue books are NOT the something I never do. :D
So, the something I NEVER do is take time out from something I'm reading to read something else. Seriously, never.
But, here's where the overdue books come in-- I had TWO books due yesterday that I totally could not renew! Now- as my husband had already left for work and I really did want to read them, I didn't have him take them back. AND the roads out there are SCARY! AND I have a snot encrusted, coughing child (oh the joys of motherhood). So really, it was worth the 30 cents to stay home all day and read them.
The first was--
Chalice by Robin McKinley
4.5 stars
R-1 maybe
I love Robin McKinley. Her books are excellent and this was no exception. My only problem with it was that it was one of those books where you are thrown into the culture/land/whatever of the story with no background, so you have to figure out as things develop (that really looks like it's spelled wrong.... weird) who people are and why they're there. I still don't know what some of the characters titles meant, but oh well. It doesn't actually interfere with the story, it's just me being CDO (that's obsessive/compulsive disorder, but alphabetically as it should be).
Chalice is, of course, extremely well written with fabulous character development. The passage of time is a little jerky, but it works for the story.
Really an excellent read.
The other book was--
Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon and Dean Hale
5 stars
graphic novel- totally fine for kids
Now, when I say totally fine for kids, I don't necessarily mean my own. My older one's friend LOVED it, but I can't see mine sitting through the whole thing. You never know, though. I'll have to check it out again to try it.
I LOVE the storyline. Oh my word, it was funny! Rapunzel kicks butt, which is way more my kind of fairy tale. I am not that fond of damsels in distress. (Not to be confused with Damsel In This Dress which I am totally a fan of-- http://damseldress.com/.)
Anyhow-- awesome tale! And since it's a graphic novel it's a quick read. Also, it's illustrated by Nathan Hale (no relation to the other Hales) who has a great blog-- http://spacestationnathan.blogspot.com/ and there's a link there for Rapunzel paper dolls! (Thanks to my friends at http://bookscoops.wordpress.com/ for posting the link!)
Okay, so now those two overdue books are back at the library where they belong....
And I'll go back to reading Magic Lost, Trouble Found.....
:D:D
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
*GASP*
Lisa Shearin left a comment on my blog!! WOWSERS!
AND the first chapters of her next book are up on her site!! WOOHOO! Now it just needs to come out so I can read the whole thing. (After I finish rereading the others of course.)
So, you can check it all out here: http://www.lisashearin.com/ though I should warn you, chapter 3 ends in a terrible place. I mean really. "We need to talk" is a terrible place to end. Grrr.
On a side note- I looked up Ghostwalk to remind myself what it was, since I can't remember reading it. Yeah, I still really don't. I guess that means I have to read it again. Weird that I don't remember at all. Usually I at least remember that I read something. Reading the summary and part of the first chapter excerpt-- I remember looking at it, but not reading the whole thing. Really weird.
The Sisters Grimm, Fairy Tale Detectives by Michael Buckley
5 Stars
JF
The first in a great kids series, Fairy Tale Detectives tells the story of sisters who find that after months and months of foster care, their grandmother has been found and they are going to live with her. Which lands them in a crazy town settled forever ago by "everafters"-- fairy tale characters. Because the stories of the brothers Grimm (the girls' ancestors) were really history and the Grimm family has been keeping the characters in line for centuries.
I love these books! Such a fun series. There are.... at least 6 books out. Looks like no 7 yet. I could stalk the site (http://www.sistersgrimm.com/) but it doesn't actually have book 6 on there yet. Which I've read, so I know it exists. Anyway, you can find out all about 1-5 on the site, and 6 is called Tales from the Hood. Really fun, quick reads all.
AND the first chapters of her next book are up on her site!! WOOHOO! Now it just needs to come out so I can read the whole thing. (After I finish rereading the others of course.)
So, you can check it all out here: http://www.lisashearin.com/ though I should warn you, chapter 3 ends in a terrible place. I mean really. "We need to talk" is a terrible place to end. Grrr.
On a side note- I looked up Ghostwalk to remind myself what it was, since I can't remember reading it. Yeah, I still really don't. I guess that means I have to read it again. Weird that I don't remember at all. Usually I at least remember that I read something. Reading the summary and part of the first chapter excerpt-- I remember looking at it, but not reading the whole thing. Really weird.
The Sisters Grimm, Fairy Tale Detectives by Michael Buckley
5 Stars
JF
The first in a great kids series, Fairy Tale Detectives tells the story of sisters who find that after months and months of foster care, their grandmother has been found and they are going to live with her. Which lands them in a crazy town settled forever ago by "everafters"-- fairy tale characters. Because the stories of the brothers Grimm (the girls' ancestors) were really history and the Grimm family has been keeping the characters in line for centuries.
I love these books! Such a fun series. There are.... at least 6 books out. Looks like no 7 yet. I could stalk the site (http://www.sistersgrimm.com/) but it doesn't actually have book 6 on there yet. Which I've read, so I know it exists. Anyway, you can find out all about 1-5 on the site, and 6 is called Tales from the Hood. Really fun, quick reads all.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Confession
So I have a confession to make. Not only am I reading Magic Lost, Trouble Found AGAIN-- it's almost the only thing I've read this month.
Seriously.
I've only read 4 other books this month and THREE of those were cotton-candy mysteries. Total Fluff.
So.... what does one review when one hasn't read anything new? A list, of course!
Here's my 2008 Year in Review:
January- 7 books, including one called Ghostwalk that I completely do not remember. Weird.
February- 2 books. Hey, it's a short month. About Alice by Calvin Trillin and Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples. Both quite good, as I recall. Though I think Haveli was kind of sad.
March- 2 books. In my defense, one was A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, which took my forever. (Like the 2nd half of Feb. and the first half of March.)
April- 11 books. Including The Camel Bookmobile which I wanted to love, but really didn't, as well as my introduction to Tasha Alexander.
May- 17 books. Including Magic Study and Fire Study (I read Poison Study in April). I love those books.
June- 8 books. And one was Tarzan. That was kind of a trippy read.
July- 3 books. I moved in July. You try to read in the middle of a move.
August- 3 books. See July.
September- 8 books. That's when I read Persuasion and You Can Never Find A Rickshaw When It Monsoons.
October- 23 books. I read most of the Reader's Choice books in October. Mostly because the voting ends Oct. 31st.
November- 14 books. Not bad given that it's the start of the holiday madness.
Interesting to look back over the year. (Okay, interesting to me. It may not, in fact, be interesting to anyone else.)
I'll read more soon, I promise. I only got two books for Christmas, though. And I've already read one of them. It's all good, though. It was a great day.
Merry Christmas!!!
Seriously.
I've only read 4 other books this month and THREE of those were cotton-candy mysteries. Total Fluff.
So.... what does one review when one hasn't read anything new? A list, of course!
Here's my 2008 Year in Review:
January- 7 books, including one called Ghostwalk that I completely do not remember. Weird.
February- 2 books. Hey, it's a short month. About Alice by Calvin Trillin and Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples. Both quite good, as I recall. Though I think Haveli was kind of sad.
March- 2 books. In my defense, one was A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, which took my forever. (Like the 2nd half of Feb. and the first half of March.)
April- 11 books. Including The Camel Bookmobile which I wanted to love, but really didn't, as well as my introduction to Tasha Alexander.
May- 17 books. Including Magic Study and Fire Study (I read Poison Study in April). I love those books.
June- 8 books. And one was Tarzan. That was kind of a trippy read.
July- 3 books. I moved in July. You try to read in the middle of a move.
August- 3 books. See July.
September- 8 books. That's when I read Persuasion and You Can Never Find A Rickshaw When It Monsoons.
October- 23 books. I read most of the Reader's Choice books in October. Mostly because the voting ends Oct. 31st.
November- 14 books. Not bad given that it's the start of the holiday madness.
Interesting to look back over the year. (Okay, interesting to me. It may not, in fact, be interesting to anyone else.)
I'll read more soon, I promise. I only got two books for Christmas, though. And I've already read one of them. It's all good, though. It was a great day.
Merry Christmas!!!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
In Search of Dante
and finding him in all the wrong places!
The Dante Club by Matthew Pearl
5 stars
R-1 or 2
somewhat graphic in places
It's 1865 and a murderer is loose in Boston.... and he's copying scenes from Dante's Inferno! Poets of the day try frantically to figure out what the madman will do next-- led by Longfellow, who's also trying desperately to finish his translation on time.
Fantastic read! Keeps you guessing and fascinated.
So now I really need to reread Dante. And I'm really intrigued-- I didn't know Longfellow did a translation (the first in America, met with much criticism) and I'd love to find it.
Disclaimer-- I read this like 2 months ago, so I could totally be lying about it being Longfellow and I'm feeling too lazy to go check. Let me look it up online-- Okay, I'm not losing my mind. It is Longfellow.
Learn more at http://www.matthewpearl.com/
The Dante Club by Matthew Pearl
5 stars
R-1 or 2
somewhat graphic in places
It's 1865 and a murderer is loose in Boston.... and he's copying scenes from Dante's Inferno! Poets of the day try frantically to figure out what the madman will do next-- led by Longfellow, who's also trying desperately to finish his translation on time.
Fantastic read! Keeps you guessing and fascinated.
So now I really need to reread Dante. And I'm really intrigued-- I didn't know Longfellow did a translation (the first in America, met with much criticism) and I'd love to find it.
Disclaimer-- I read this like 2 months ago, so I could totally be lying about it being Longfellow and I'm feeling too lazy to go check. Let me look it up online-- Okay, I'm not losing my mind. It is Longfellow.
Learn more at http://www.matthewpearl.com/
Monday, December 22, 2008
WW2
I don't think I've posted this yet.... If I have, please forgive the lapse of memory!
The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman
5 stars
Nonfiction
This was a great book! All about the zookeeper in Warsaw during the war and how he and his family hid people and worked in the resistance. I highly recommend it!!
ETA- Wow, shortest review ever. This book really was fascinating. I promise.
The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman
5 stars
Nonfiction
This was a great book! All about the zookeeper in Warsaw during the war and how he and his family hid people and worked in the resistance. I highly recommend it!!
ETA- Wow, shortest review ever. This book really was fascinating. I promise.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
To Off-set that really depressing post.....
We need more Lisa Shearin.
(I promise to find a new obsession eventually.... Maybe I'll start quoting Numb3rs.)
"We need to talk
"Innocent enough words coming from most people, but rarely a good thing from a chief watcher. Too much talking right now on my part, especially honest talking, and I'd end up in the city jail."
That just makes me giggle.
(I promise to find a new obsession eventually.... Maybe I'll start quoting Numb3rs.)
"We need to talk
"Innocent enough words coming from most people, but rarely a good thing from a chief watcher. Too much talking right now on my part, especially honest talking, and I'd end up in the city jail."
That just makes me giggle.
The 1950s
So, in The War Against Miss Winter, we visited the 40s.... now let's visit the 50s...
Whistling in the Dark by Lesley Kagen
3.5 Stars
R- 3
*Story involves a search for a child predator
The tone and voice of this are delightful. Lesley Kagen captures the voice of a 50s child beautifully. (Okay, I know, the 50s were before my time, but still.)
However, parts of this book are a little disturbing. In the reader's discussion stuff at the book, she talks about how she wrote the book after talking to others who had grown up in the 50s (as she did) and hearing repeatedly things along the lines of "well, my uncle would..." or "my brother would..." I'll spare you the details, but seriously, how high a percentage of children in the 50s were molested?
Anyway, it's good, but consider yourself warned. As a parent, it's crazy to think that things were like that way back when while at the same time lamenting how much things have changed since we were kids. And I was a kid a fair bit later than the 50s.
Whistling in the Dark by Lesley Kagen
3.5 Stars
R- 3
*Story involves a search for a child predator
The tone and voice of this are delightful. Lesley Kagen captures the voice of a 50s child beautifully. (Okay, I know, the 50s were before my time, but still.)
However, parts of this book are a little disturbing. In the reader's discussion stuff at the book, she talks about how she wrote the book after talking to others who had grown up in the 50s (as she did) and hearing repeatedly things along the lines of "well, my uncle would..." or "my brother would..." I'll spare you the details, but seriously, how high a percentage of children in the 50s were molested?
Anyway, it's good, but consider yourself warned. As a parent, it's crazy to think that things were like that way back when while at the same time lamenting how much things have changed since we were kids. And I was a kid a fair bit later than the 50s.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Fun with Animals
Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison
5 Stars
R- 2
I loved this book. Peter Allison is a safari guide with great stories to tell! Read about how he gets chased by lions, drowns a Land Rover, and discusses the dangers of donkeys in this awesome memoir. (Apparently donkeys are a leading cause of death in some parts of Africa. I'm so not kidding.)
Also, read about what happens when guests fulfill their cultural stereotypes. (I'm not telling you the story about the Japanese guy-- you'll have to read the book!)
5 Stars
R- 2
I loved this book. Peter Allison is a safari guide with great stories to tell! Read about how he gets chased by lions, drowns a Land Rover, and discusses the dangers of donkeys in this awesome memoir. (Apparently donkeys are a leading cause of death in some parts of Africa. I'm so not kidding.)
Also, read about what happens when guests fulfill their cultural stereotypes. (I'm not telling you the story about the Japanese guy-- you'll have to read the book!)
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Another Cheesy Mystery Series
And I mean that literally.
Dying for Chocolate by Diane Mott Davidson
4 stars
R- 2 probably
This was fun. Just another fluffy mystery series. Actually this is book number 2. I have not read number 1, but I will be rectifying that shortly. The first is called Catering to Nobody.
The main character, as you may have guessed, is a caterer. And a single mom. And an abuse survivor with a psycho ex. And unfortunately, her name is Goldy Bear. I kid you not.
In Dying for Chocolate, Goldy must deal with the death of a close friend, suspicious circumstances, a sort-of romance (or two), living with a munitions researcher, a hostile teenager, her son's magic tricks, and the day to day angst of catering for people who used to be your "pals".
Good fun is had by all ;)
Dying for Chocolate by Diane Mott Davidson
4 stars
R- 2 probably
This was fun. Just another fluffy mystery series. Actually this is book number 2. I have not read number 1, but I will be rectifying that shortly. The first is called Catering to Nobody.
The main character, as you may have guessed, is a caterer. And a single mom. And an abuse survivor with a psycho ex. And unfortunately, her name is Goldy Bear. I kid you not.
In Dying for Chocolate, Goldy must deal with the death of a close friend, suspicious circumstances, a sort-of romance (or two), living with a munitions researcher, a hostile teenager, her son's magic tricks, and the day to day angst of catering for people who used to be your "pals".
Good fun is had by all ;)
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The 1940s
More Reader's Choice
The War Against Miss Winter by Kathryn Haines
3.5 Stars
R- 2?
This book was interesting. The voice and the 40s PI style was well-done, but I just wasn't feeling it. Probably more because I wasn't in the mood than because it wasn't a great book. It certainly keeps you guessing. The end result is not what I was expecting.
Try it-- and then let me know what you think!
The War Against Miss Winter by Kathryn Haines
3.5 Stars
R- 2?
This book was interesting. The voice and the 40s PI style was well-done, but I just wasn't feeling it. Probably more because I wasn't in the mood than because it wasn't a great book. It certainly keeps you guessing. The end result is not what I was expecting.
Try it-- and then let me know what you think!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Not A Book
GASP! I'm reviewing something other than a book on my book blog!?!?!? Shame on me.
Oh well.
Numb3rs
CBS
I totally love this show. And I've been seriously binging on it! In the past few days I've watched like 17 episodes or something.... and I've got 2 more discs sitting here, just waiting for the kids to go to bed.
I hate math. I mean really really hate math. And yet I love this. I'm kind of a sucker for crime dramas, and this one is fun. Granted sometimes I think the math is rather far-fetched. I mean, come on, there's just no way you can quanitfy some things. But still. While watching, you just don't care. Well, I don't anyway.
But do you know what really makes this show work? Family. I mean it. The main characters are brothers and the family dynamic of the 2 of them plus their dad is just awesome! They're funny, they're there for each other, their lovable. If you haven't watched it, try an episode or 2. It's one Friday nights at 9, I think (mountain time zone) on CBS.
Oh well.
Numb3rs
CBS
I totally love this show. And I've been seriously binging on it! In the past few days I've watched like 17 episodes or something.... and I've got 2 more discs sitting here, just waiting for the kids to go to bed.
I hate math. I mean really really hate math. And yet I love this. I'm kind of a sucker for crime dramas, and this one is fun. Granted sometimes I think the math is rather far-fetched. I mean, come on, there's just no way you can quanitfy some things. But still. While watching, you just don't care. Well, I don't anyway.
But do you know what really makes this show work? Family. I mean it. The main characters are brothers and the family dynamic of the 2 of them plus their dad is just awesome! They're funny, they're there for each other, their lovable. If you haven't watched it, try an episode or 2. It's one Friday nights at 9, I think (mountain time zone) on CBS.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Mo Willems
This guy's great. He could be my daughter's favorite author. Not that she'd admit to it.... I'm not sure she's figured out what an author is.
My favorite? The Pigeon Wants a Puppy. This picture book cracks me up. I strongly suggest you go get it from the library.
Other awesome Pigeon books-- Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus; Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late; The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog.... I'm sure there's another one, but I can't think of it.
Read them with your kids.... read them even if you don't have kids (if you feel silly checking them out from the library, you can always claim they're to read to nieces or nephews or neighbors or something.)
He also has a fun book for adults-- You Can Never Find a Rickshaw When It Monsoons
It's all about his year wandering around the world after college (I think it was college). He drew a cartoon every day. Some are funny, some poignant, some I just didn't get. But hey, it was fun.
My favorite? The Pigeon Wants a Puppy. This picture book cracks me up. I strongly suggest you go get it from the library.
Other awesome Pigeon books-- Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus; Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late; The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog.... I'm sure there's another one, but I can't think of it.
Read them with your kids.... read them even if you don't have kids (if you feel silly checking them out from the library, you can always claim they're to read to nieces or nephews or neighbors or something.)
He also has a fun book for adults-- You Can Never Find a Rickshaw When It Monsoons
It's all about his year wandering around the world after college (I think it was college). He drew a cartoon every day. Some are funny, some poignant, some I just didn't get. But hey, it was fun.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
I suppose I really should finish Reader's Choice...
before the next list comes out! So here are a few:
North River by Pete Hamill
I didn't read this one, but it doesn't look bad. Takes place during the Depression. Here's the blurb from the Reader's Choice pamphlet-- "Dr. James Delaney, a doctor to the poor in his tenement neighborhood in New York City during the Dpression, finds his life changed forever when his daughter, Grace, leaves her two-year-old son in his foyer. A quiet romance with the boy's nanny, mob threats, an FBI investigation, the pall of the Depression, and strong well-developed characters all add depth and breadth to this poignant story."
Odd Mom Out by Jane Porter
4 stars
R- 3 (Though one scene almost warrants a 4)
What's a girl who's dying to be popular to do when her mom insists on wearing camo pants and combat boots? Or is she really dying to be popular? Under duress from her daughter, Marta tries her hand at the PTA... with.... interesting results.
This was a really fun read. Not the kind of thing I usually pick up, but I liked it.
On Kingdom Mountain by Howard Mosher
I didn't read this one either, but it looks fun. All about a wild mountain town in Vermont and a fortune hunter looking for lost Civil War gold. I think I'll have to grab it next time I'm at the library.... It's been in the "for sale" stuff (a lot of Reader's Choice books usually are, because they have sooooo many copies!) and they've been 10 for $1 lately!
Sarah's Key- as I posted the other day, this looks fabulous. I just haven't gotten ahold of it yet.
Under Enemy Colors by S. Thomas Russell
"Mutiny, war, treachery and honor are all in the mix on this British Man O'War."
I'm not sure if I'll read this one or not....
Okay, only 4 left and I've read them all! Stay tuned....
North River by Pete Hamill
I didn't read this one, but it doesn't look bad. Takes place during the Depression. Here's the blurb from the Reader's Choice pamphlet-- "Dr. James Delaney, a doctor to the poor in his tenement neighborhood in New York City during the Dpression, finds his life changed forever when his daughter, Grace, leaves her two-year-old son in his foyer. A quiet romance with the boy's nanny, mob threats, an FBI investigation, the pall of the Depression, and strong well-developed characters all add depth and breadth to this poignant story."
Odd Mom Out by Jane Porter
4 stars
R- 3 (Though one scene almost warrants a 4)
What's a girl who's dying to be popular to do when her mom insists on wearing camo pants and combat boots? Or is she really dying to be popular? Under duress from her daughter, Marta tries her hand at the PTA... with.... interesting results.
This was a really fun read. Not the kind of thing I usually pick up, but I liked it.
On Kingdom Mountain by Howard Mosher
I didn't read this one either, but it looks fun. All about a wild mountain town in Vermont and a fortune hunter looking for lost Civil War gold. I think I'll have to grab it next time I'm at the library.... It's been in the "for sale" stuff (a lot of Reader's Choice books usually are, because they have sooooo many copies!) and they've been 10 for $1 lately!
Sarah's Key- as I posted the other day, this looks fabulous. I just haven't gotten ahold of it yet.
Under Enemy Colors by S. Thomas Russell
"Mutiny, war, treachery and honor are all in the mix on this British Man O'War."
I'm not sure if I'll read this one or not....
Okay, only 4 left and I've read them all! Stay tuned....
Friday, December 12, 2008
A Riveting Read
Against Medical Advice by James Patterson and Hal Friedman
5 Stars
R-0
Wow. I mean, really. Wow. Cory Friedman's life is out of control-- very out of control. Since he was nearly 5. You see, Cory has Tourrettes.... and OCD... and Anxiety.
This is Cory's story, told from his perspective. And it's a true story. When doctor after doctor and medicine after medicine can't help him, Cory's family decide for a more drastic, unconventional option.
I seriously read this in an afternoon. I put it down only when I absolutely had to. Cory's story is fascinating, and, as a mother, heartwrenching. But Cory's triumph is truly inspiring.
5 Stars
R-0
Wow. I mean, really. Wow. Cory Friedman's life is out of control-- very out of control. Since he was nearly 5. You see, Cory has Tourrettes.... and OCD... and Anxiety.
This is Cory's story, told from his perspective. And it's a true story. When doctor after doctor and medicine after medicine can't help him, Cory's family decide for a more drastic, unconventional option.
I seriously read this in an afternoon. I put it down only when I absolutely had to. Cory's story is fascinating, and, as a mother, heartwrenching. But Cory's triumph is truly inspiring.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
How well adjusted would you be....
if you woke up one morning (age 14 or so) and your family was gone. Just gone.
No Time For Goodbye by Linwood Barclay
4 Stars
R- 2 ish.... maybe 2.5
L
That's what happened to Cynthia Bigge. Now, 25 years later, she may finally learn the truth....
I enjoyed this quite a bit. A lot of it is from the perspective of Cynthia's husband... who you've got to figure is in kind of an awkward position. It happened long before he even knew her, but it affects everything. Interesting read. Lots of language, though. I mean, like Crichton level language, which is saying something.
:D
No Time For Goodbye by Linwood Barclay
4 Stars
R- 2 ish.... maybe 2.5
L
That's what happened to Cynthia Bigge. Now, 25 years later, she may finally learn the truth....
I enjoyed this quite a bit. A lot of it is from the perspective of Cynthia's husband... who you've got to figure is in kind of an awkward position. It happened long before he even knew her, but it affects everything. Interesting read. Lots of language, though. I mean, like Crichton level language, which is saying something.
:D
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
The Geologist Who Saved the World
Over and over and over again! ;)
The Phillip Mercer Books by Jack DuBrul
4.5 Stars (as a whole)
R- 2.5-3.75 (depends on the book. The first is actually the worst, I think.)
I like these. Think Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan books, Clive Cussler's Dirk Pitt books (I haven't actually read any of his, but I did see Sahara. ;) DuBrul writes with Cussler a lot, though, so I figure it's probably a fair comparison.) only Mercer is a hotshot geologist. Which for some reason sounds a whole lot funnier (which I insist is a word) than hotshot CIA Analyst or hotshot ex-Navy Seal. You can read them in any order, really, but reading them in order will of course make slightly more sense. The first is Vulcan's Forge, then Charon's Landing, Medusa Stone, Pandora's Curse, River of Ruin, Deep Fire Rising, Havoc. If nothing else, read Deep Fire Rising before Havoc. I read Havoc first and it would have made more sense if I'd read Deep Fire first. The library should really stop picking books so late in a series for Reader's Choice. But whatever.
The Phillip Mercer Books by Jack DuBrul
4.5 Stars (as a whole)
R- 2.5-3.75 (depends on the book. The first is actually the worst, I think.)
I like these. Think Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan books, Clive Cussler's Dirk Pitt books (I haven't actually read any of his, but I did see Sahara. ;) DuBrul writes with Cussler a lot, though, so I figure it's probably a fair comparison.) only Mercer is a hotshot geologist. Which for some reason sounds a whole lot funnier (which I insist is a word) than hotshot CIA Analyst or hotshot ex-Navy Seal. You can read them in any order, really, but reading them in order will of course make slightly more sense. The first is Vulcan's Forge, then Charon's Landing, Medusa Stone, Pandora's Curse, River of Ruin, Deep Fire Rising, Havoc. If nothing else, read Deep Fire Rising before Havoc. I read Havoc first and it would have made more sense if I'd read Deep Fire first. The library should really stop picking books so late in a series for Reader's Choice. But whatever.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Reader's Choice Winners!
The winners have finally been posted!!
1st Place-- Garden Spells
2nd Place-- Life on the Refrigerator Door
3rd Place-- Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay, which I haven't read but looks REALLY good! (But sadly, I am out of hold spots.... drat.)
So.... based on what I read..... here's my winners:
1st Place-- Magic Lost, Trouble Found (you're shocked, I know)
2nd Place-- Garden Spells
3rd Place-- I'm honestly not sure what I would pick for third.... Interred with their Bones probably... or The Zoo Keepers Wife.... or Whatever You Do, Don't Run.... or Life on the Refrigerator Door....
How's that for indecisiveness?
In just a few more weeks it starts all over again!! The next Reader's Choice runs January to April!!
1st Place-- Garden Spells
2nd Place-- Life on the Refrigerator Door
3rd Place-- Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay, which I haven't read but looks REALLY good! (But sadly, I am out of hold spots.... drat.)
So.... based on what I read..... here's my winners:
1st Place-- Magic Lost, Trouble Found (you're shocked, I know)
2nd Place-- Garden Spells
3rd Place-- I'm honestly not sure what I would pick for third.... Interred with their Bones probably... or The Zoo Keepers Wife.... or Whatever You Do, Don't Run.... or Life on the Refrigerator Door....
How's that for indecisiveness?
In just a few more weeks it starts all over again!! The next Reader's Choice runs January to April!!
Monday, December 8, 2008
Hmmmm...
So, my weekend ended up being kinda psycho. What's new.
The next two Reader's Choice books are Missing Witness by Gordon Campbell, which sounds really good, but I've not read yet. I think I'll go put it on hold...
and The Next Thing on my List by Jill Smolinski, which doesn't sound bad.
Since I haven't read those.....
Persuasion by Jane Austen
5 stars
R- 1? I mean, come on
It's Jane Austen, do I really need to say more? I love Jane Austen. I enjoyed this one, though you kind of want the girl to say something already for crying out loud. I mean really. Silent suffering only gets you so far. Especially if no one notices.
Her family definitely rivals the Bennets.... and that's not a flattering comparison. But, it's Austen, so life is good.... eventually.
:D:D
The next two Reader's Choice books are Missing Witness by Gordon Campbell, which sounds really good, but I've not read yet. I think I'll go put it on hold...
and The Next Thing on my List by Jill Smolinski, which doesn't sound bad.
Since I haven't read those.....
Persuasion by Jane Austen
5 stars
R- 1? I mean, come on
It's Jane Austen, do I really need to say more? I love Jane Austen. I enjoyed this one, though you kind of want the girl to say something already for crying out loud. I mean really. Silent suffering only gets you so far. Especially if no one notices.
Her family definitely rivals the Bennets.... and that's not a flattering comparison. But, it's Austen, so life is good.... eventually.
:D:D
Friday, December 5, 2008
I Really Want to Post more Lisa Shearin...
but I won't.
Though, maybe I should, because the next 2 books up on the reader's choice list were just kind of blah.
The Maidenstone Lighthouse by Sally Smith O'Rourke
2 stars
R- 3ish
Yawn. This book has a serious identity crisis. It's labelled a "romantic thriller" but the thriller part doesn't come in until the end. And the romance part is all tangled up in the overly benign ghost story part. Like I said, identity crisis. It was okay, I didn't hate it. If you're into that kind of thing, pick it up. It does take place in Rhode Island, if that's a draw for you. But yeah, overall, yawn.
The Mark by Jason Pinter
I haven't read this one, but it looks interesting. Maybe I'll put it on hold once I have hold spots again.
Mermaids in the Basement by Michael West
2.5 stars
R- 3ish
Um... this book was just kind of odd. Eccentric family, mother's secrets, estranged father... That about covers it. It wasn't bad, but it really wasn't memorable. In fact, I can't think of anything else to say about it.
Wow, what a dull post... So here's just a tiny bit more Lisa Shearin :D
My name is Raine Benares. Until last week I was a seeker—a finder of things lost and people missing. Now I'm psychic roommates with the Saghred, an ancient stone with cataclysmic powers. Just me, the stone, and all the souls it's ingested over the centuries. Crowded doesn't even begin to describe it...
Though, maybe I should, because the next 2 books up on the reader's choice list were just kind of blah.
The Maidenstone Lighthouse by Sally Smith O'Rourke
2 stars
R- 3ish
Yawn. This book has a serious identity crisis. It's labelled a "romantic thriller" but the thriller part doesn't come in until the end. And the romance part is all tangled up in the overly benign ghost story part. Like I said, identity crisis. It was okay, I didn't hate it. If you're into that kind of thing, pick it up. It does take place in Rhode Island, if that's a draw for you. But yeah, overall, yawn.
The Mark by Jason Pinter
I haven't read this one, but it looks interesting. Maybe I'll put it on hold once I have hold spots again.
Mermaids in the Basement by Michael West
2.5 stars
R- 3ish
Um... this book was just kind of odd. Eccentric family, mother's secrets, estranged father... That about covers it. It wasn't bad, but it really wasn't memorable. In fact, I can't think of anything else to say about it.
Wow, what a dull post... So here's just a tiny bit more Lisa Shearin :D
My name is Raine Benares. Until last week I was a seeker—a finder of things lost and people missing. Now I'm psychic roommates with the Saghred, an ancient stone with cataclysmic powers. Just me, the stone, and all the souls it's ingested over the centuries. Crowded doesn't even begin to describe it...
Thursday, December 4, 2008
More Lisa Shearin
Because really, it's what I feel like doing.
So, Armed and Magical, which I would rate about the same as the first one.
Here's an exerpt (which I for some reason cannot decide how to spell) from Chapter 2:
I knew I wasn't being arrested—at least I didn't think I was. It's just that certain members of my family have had extensive experience with what being arrested looked and felt like. What had just happened to me met both criteria. You know what they say, if it looks like an arrest and feels like an arrest, chances are it is an arrest.
And later in that chapter....
"So you're the one who's giving me ulcers," he said.
"It's the least I can do since I've driven you to drink."
Valerian snorted, a sort of laugh. "This job did that years ago. Or at least it gave me a good excuse. After this morning, you probably want to join me."
Here's another one, from later in the book: (this one I'm doing from memory, so it may not be word for word)
"... hand in vice is simple assault, dagger in ribs is attempted murder. My family did teach me the difference."
"Do you want to press charges?"
Me, press charges? That would be a first for a Benares.
Okay, I'll stop. But, really, I could go on and on and on. Magic Lost, Trouble Found is on hold for me at the library! I know what I'm reading this weekend....
:D
So, Armed and Magical, which I would rate about the same as the first one.
Here's an exerpt (which I for some reason cannot decide how to spell) from Chapter 2:
I knew I wasn't being arrested—at least I didn't think I was. It's just that certain members of my family have had extensive experience with what being arrested looked and felt like. What had just happened to me met both criteria. You know what they say, if it looks like an arrest and feels like an arrest, chances are it is an arrest.
And later in that chapter....
"So you're the one who's giving me ulcers," he said.
"It's the least I can do since I've driven you to drink."
Valerian snorted, a sort of laugh. "This job did that years ago. Or at least it gave me a good excuse. After this morning, you probably want to join me."
Here's another one, from later in the book: (this one I'm doing from memory, so it may not be word for word)
"... hand in vice is simple assault, dagger in ribs is attempted murder. My family did teach me the difference."
"Do you want to press charges?"
Me, press charges? That would be a first for a Benares.
Okay, I'll stop. But, really, I could go on and on and on. Magic Lost, Trouble Found is on hold for me at the library! I know what I'm reading this weekend....
:D
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
MY FAVORITE!!
Ah, it has been a loooooooong day!
I promised my favorite reader's choice book today, right? Right. So here it is--
Magic Lost, Trouble Found by Lisa Shearin
5 stars!!!
R- 3
Oh how I loved this book! There's a sequel too-- Armed and Magical. (Which, I confess, I read twice in one weekend!) The style is just hysterical. LOVE the first person voice. Here's a sample--
"You stood me up."
I yelped. I recognized the voice, which was the only reason my throwing knife remained in my hand, instead of being lodged in the voice's owner.
I blew out my breath. "Don't do that!" I sheathed my knife, though I was still tempted to use it, though more from acute embarrassment than anything else.
Phaelan chuckled and stepped out of the shadows hiding the alley entrance from the street. My cousin looked like the rest of my family—dark hair, dark eyes, dark good looks, equally dark disposition. Next to them, I stood out like a flaming match at night with my long red gold hair, grey eyes, and pale skin. The hair and skin tone were from my mother. I assumed my eyes were from my father. Neither parent was around for me to ask.
Phaelan was the main reason having the name Benares was an asset in the seeking business. When looking for pilfered goods, it helped to be related to experts—professional pilferers all.
You could say our family was well known in the import and export business. The goods my cousin's side of the family imported never saw the light of day in a harbormaster's ledger, and the exports consisted of vast profits sent to secret family accounts in various banks in numerous kingdoms. Phaelan's natural talent was in acquisitions. Many times he neglected to get permission from the owners whose goods he intended to acquire; or when he did ask, his request often came from the business end of a cannon.
Yeah, I know, it's a long excerpt, but it's fun, no? I'm going to let the books speak for themselves!! You can learn more at http://www.lisashearin.com/index.cfm
The third one comes out in April or so!!
Anybody else read this? Leave me a note!
I promised my favorite reader's choice book today, right? Right. So here it is--
Magic Lost, Trouble Found by Lisa Shearin
5 stars!!!
R- 3
Oh how I loved this book! There's a sequel too-- Armed and Magical. (Which, I confess, I read twice in one weekend!) The style is just hysterical. LOVE the first person voice. Here's a sample--
"You stood me up."
I yelped. I recognized the voice, which was the only reason my throwing knife remained in my hand, instead of being lodged in the voice's owner.
I blew out my breath. "Don't do that!" I sheathed my knife, though I was still tempted to use it, though more from acute embarrassment than anything else.
Phaelan chuckled and stepped out of the shadows hiding the alley entrance from the street. My cousin looked like the rest of my family—dark hair, dark eyes, dark good looks, equally dark disposition. Next to them, I stood out like a flaming match at night with my long red gold hair, grey eyes, and pale skin. The hair and skin tone were from my mother. I assumed my eyes were from my father. Neither parent was around for me to ask.
Phaelan was the main reason having the name Benares was an asset in the seeking business. When looking for pilfered goods, it helped to be related to experts—professional pilferers all.
You could say our family was well known in the import and export business. The goods my cousin's side of the family imported never saw the light of day in a harbormaster's ledger, and the exports consisted of vast profits sent to secret family accounts in various banks in numerous kingdoms. Phaelan's natural talent was in acquisitions. Many times he neglected to get permission from the owners whose goods he intended to acquire; or when he did ask, his request often came from the business end of a cannon.
Yeah, I know, it's a long excerpt, but it's fun, no? I'm going to let the books speak for themselves!! You can learn more at http://www.lisashearin.com/index.cfm
The third one comes out in April or so!!
Anybody else read this? Leave me a note!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The title that makes no sense
Really I mean this book, not this blog post. Honest.
The Lumiere Affair- A Novel of Cannes by Sara Voorhees
3.5 stars
R- 3? I don't remember
Natalie Conway, film critic, is off to Cannes for the film festival. Which she has always managed to avoid in the past. Because she was born in France, but to return she must confront what really happened all those years ago when her mother mysteriously died. Not a bad book, though the title doesn't make a ton of sense. Yes, she's at Cannes, but the book doesn't have much to do with Cannes, she just happens to be there. Finding out what really happened when she was a child is a crazy journey of ups and downs... With bad guys who might not be bad after all and good guys who might be bad... And all of her childhood beliefs may be turned upside down.
Stay tuned-- coming tomorrow, my FAVORITE Reader's Choice book!!
The Lumiere Affair- A Novel of Cannes by Sara Voorhees
3.5 stars
R- 3? I don't remember
Natalie Conway, film critic, is off to Cannes for the film festival. Which she has always managed to avoid in the past. Because she was born in France, but to return she must confront what really happened all those years ago when her mother mysteriously died. Not a bad book, though the title doesn't make a ton of sense. Yes, she's at Cannes, but the book doesn't have much to do with Cannes, she just happens to be there. Finding out what really happened when she was a child is a crazy journey of ups and downs... With bad guys who might not be bad after all and good guys who might be bad... And all of her childhood beliefs may be turned upside down.
Stay tuned-- coming tomorrow, my FAVORITE Reader's Choice book!!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Two Books I've Not Read
An odd thing to review, right? Yeah, I know. But I've got to get back to the Reader's Choice books.
Lone Creek by Neil McMahon
"While working construction on the Pettyjohn Fanch in Montana, Hugh Davoren finds two dead horses. He also finds out that everyone has secrets."
I may or may not read this one. Haven't decided yet. If you've read it, leave me a comment and tell me what you thought!
Lottery by Patricia Wood
"Perry L. Crandall may have an IQ of just 76, but he is a genius in other ways. Winning 12 million in the Washington State Lottery has changed his life, and it's not all for the good. His money-mad family is trying to pry it away from him, but he uses the folk wisdom his late Gran taught him to handle his new wealth and life in surprising ways."
I was thinking this one sounded kinda fun. Not the sort of thing I would normally pick up, but worth a try, right? Haven't gotten to in yet, but that's life.
:D:D
Lone Creek by Neil McMahon
"While working construction on the Pettyjohn Fanch in Montana, Hugh Davoren finds two dead horses. He also finds out that everyone has secrets."
I may or may not read this one. Haven't decided yet. If you've read it, leave me a comment and tell me what you thought!
Lottery by Patricia Wood
"Perry L. Crandall may have an IQ of just 76, but he is a genius in other ways. Winning 12 million in the Washington State Lottery has changed his life, and it's not all for the good. His money-mad family is trying to pry it away from him, but he uses the folk wisdom his late Gran taught him to handle his new wealth and life in surprising ways."
I was thinking this one sounded kinda fun. Not the sort of thing I would normally pick up, but worth a try, right? Haven't gotten to in yet, but that's life.
:D:D
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)