DeltaQueen's Big Steal of 2015 - Part 3
This is a continuation of the topic DeltaQueen's Big Steal of 2015 - Part 2.
This topic was continued by DeltaQueen's Big Steal of 2015 - Part 4.
Talk2015 Category Challenge
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1DeltaQueen50
Welcome to my 2015 Category Challenge. So far 2015 is shaping up to be a very successful reading year for me and I am moving quite a few books off my shelves. Along with this challenge I am also participating the the American Author Challenge, the British Author Challenge, the Reading Through Time Challenges and the Take It Or Leave If Challenges. This causes a fair amount of scrambling at the start of every month as I try to fit all my books into my categories, but so far, with the help of my Overflow Category, I have been able to.
I am about to start a book that is set in the southern wine country of France and so I have chosen some pictures of that area to open my thread with.
I haven't forgotten that I am involved in some criminial activities this year, and I still have my little cat burglar along to assist me.
Please join us in our caper to complete the Big Steal of 2015!
I am about to start a book that is set in the southern wine country of France and so I have chosen some pictures of that area to open my thread with.
I haven't forgotten that I am involved in some criminial activities this year, and I still have my little cat burglar along to assist me.
Please join us in our caper to complete the Big Steal of 2015!
2DeltaQueen50
2015 Categories
A. Grade Five: Sandy (sjmccreary) took us back to school in 2013 and assigned her mystery reading to Grade Five. I will do the same for my police procedural/mystery reading.
B. Endless Rain - In 2012 Dave (Wolfy) based his Challenge on a tribute to the band X Japan, using their song Endless Rain as the category for series. I loved the idea of honouring a musical favorite and have stolen this title for my series reading in 2015.
C. Edgar Allan Poe’s Quill Pen - Based on the Sci-Fi program, Warehouse 13, Jean (Majkia) had some of the most interesting category names in 2013. I have lifted Edgar Allan Poe’s Quill Pen and picturing it being used by the likes of Agatha, Dorothy and Josephine. This category will be for my well-aged mysteries by the previously mentioned authors as well as ones like James Cain and Dashiell Hammett.
D. Is This A Kissing Book? - Stolen from Christina. She used this amusing title more than once before letting it go. Her loss is my gain. This will be the place for books that feature some sort of romance or love story.
E. Cat And Fiddle Arcade - In 2014 Zozette used Tasmanian place names as her theme. I am absconding with this one to use for any of my Cat reading that doesn’t easily fit into other categories.
F. Colts - Using sport team names for her 2013 Categories, Carrie (cbl-tn) used Colts to list her YA reads, I will do the same.
G. I Don’t Remember That From History Class! - Lori (Ikernaugh) used this category in 2011. I have made off with it to use for my historical reading in 2015, both HistoryCats and Reading Through Time Choices will be listed here.
H. Falling Off The Map: Kay (RidgewayGirl) used this category in 2011 for books set in an obscure location. I am going to steal the name and use it for books set in other worlds or the future. Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Speculative Fiction.
I. Around the World - Lori (thorton37814) placed her global reading here in 2012, I am borrowing Lori’s self-explanatory title and using it for the same purpose.
J. Pitcher’s Duel - Linda (LindaPanzo) loves baseball and used that game as her theme in 2013. I’m stealing her category called Pitcher’s Duel and using it, like Linda, for books with a War or Homefront theme.
K. Blindfold Book Selection to be known as Camille's Choices: Of course I am stealing this excellent idea from Anders (Gingerbread Man) but I am changing it up to let my granddaughter do the selections, keeping my promise to her after allowing her brother to pick all the books for a category in my 2014 Challenge.
L. Combined Miscellany - stolen from Andrea (andreablythe). This was the category that gave me the idea of stealing everyone’s creative category names. Starting with one book, my next read will have a connection in some way to this book, and so on until the category is filled. All books read will have some connection with the previous one (i.e.) - main characters or authors’ name is the same, the themes match, or even the covers or tags have something in common. It will be fun to see where my reading leads me.
M. Dust Collectors: In 2014, Paulina (Mathgirl 40) used this category as a way of moving some of those well-aged books from her shelves. I will use this category for the same lofty goal. Any book that has been on my shelves for more than a year will qualify.
N. Woven Ribbons - Betty’s (dudes22) had one of the most interesting and eagerly anticipated threads of 2014 as she named her categories after quilt block patterns. She also assembled each block and by year’s end will have a fully completed quilt. What a lovely keepsake. Not being that creative, I will simply use this colorful title to list my 2015 graphic novel reading.
O. Overflow: Eva’s 2014 Challenge was short, straight-forward, and simple. I am borrowing this category name and using it for my anything goes category. Books that don’t fit anywhere else will find a home here.
These fifteen categories will comprise my 2015 Challenge. I will consider each category complete after 9 books, but give myself license to keep going especially to fit all the CATs in. The exception to this amount will be in Woven Ribbons, I am going to try and read two or three Graphic Novels a month for this category.
A. Grade Five: Sandy (sjmccreary) took us back to school in 2013 and assigned her mystery reading to Grade Five. I will do the same for my police procedural/mystery reading.
B. Endless Rain - In 2012 Dave (Wolfy) based his Challenge on a tribute to the band X Japan, using their song Endless Rain as the category for series. I loved the idea of honouring a musical favorite and have stolen this title for my series reading in 2015.
C. Edgar Allan Poe’s Quill Pen - Based on the Sci-Fi program, Warehouse 13, Jean (Majkia) had some of the most interesting category names in 2013. I have lifted Edgar Allan Poe’s Quill Pen and picturing it being used by the likes of Agatha, Dorothy and Josephine. This category will be for my well-aged mysteries by the previously mentioned authors as well as ones like James Cain and Dashiell Hammett.
D. Is This A Kissing Book? - Stolen from Christina. She used this amusing title more than once before letting it go. Her loss is my gain. This will be the place for books that feature some sort of romance or love story.
E. Cat And Fiddle Arcade - In 2014 Zozette used Tasmanian place names as her theme. I am absconding with this one to use for any of my Cat reading that doesn’t easily fit into other categories.
F. Colts - Using sport team names for her 2013 Categories, Carrie (cbl-tn) used Colts to list her YA reads, I will do the same.
G. I Don’t Remember That From History Class! - Lori (Ikernaugh) used this category in 2011. I have made off with it to use for my historical reading in 2015, both HistoryCats and Reading Through Time Choices will be listed here.
H. Falling Off The Map: Kay (RidgewayGirl) used this category in 2011 for books set in an obscure location. I am going to steal the name and use it for books set in other worlds or the future. Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Speculative Fiction.
I. Around the World - Lori (thorton37814) placed her global reading here in 2012, I am borrowing Lori’s self-explanatory title and using it for the same purpose.
J. Pitcher’s Duel - Linda (LindaPanzo) loves baseball and used that game as her theme in 2013. I’m stealing her category called Pitcher’s Duel and using it, like Linda, for books with a War or Homefront theme.
K. Blindfold Book Selection to be known as Camille's Choices: Of course I am stealing this excellent idea from Anders (Gingerbread Man) but I am changing it up to let my granddaughter do the selections, keeping my promise to her after allowing her brother to pick all the books for a category in my 2014 Challenge.
L. Combined Miscellany - stolen from Andrea (andreablythe). This was the category that gave me the idea of stealing everyone’s creative category names. Starting with one book, my next read will have a connection in some way to this book, and so on until the category is filled. All books read will have some connection with the previous one (i.e.) - main characters or authors’ name is the same, the themes match, or even the covers or tags have something in common. It will be fun to see where my reading leads me.
M. Dust Collectors: In 2014, Paulina (Mathgirl 40) used this category as a way of moving some of those well-aged books from her shelves. I will use this category for the same lofty goal. Any book that has been on my shelves for more than a year will qualify.
N. Woven Ribbons - Betty’s (dudes22) had one of the most interesting and eagerly anticipated threads of 2014 as she named her categories after quilt block patterns. She also assembled each block and by year’s end will have a fully completed quilt. What a lovely keepsake. Not being that creative, I will simply use this colorful title to list my 2015 graphic novel reading.
O. Overflow: Eva’s 2014 Challenge was short, straight-forward, and simple. I am borrowing this category name and using it for my anything goes category. Books that don’t fit anywhere else will find a home here.
These fifteen categories will comprise my 2015 Challenge. I will consider each category complete after 9 books, but give myself license to keep going especially to fit all the CATs in. The exception to this amount will be in Woven Ribbons, I am going to try and read two or three Graphic Novels a month for this category.
3DeltaQueen50
Tickers:
YTD Number of Books Read:
YTD Number of Page Read
YTD Number of Books Read From My Shelves
YTD Number of Books Read:
YTD Number of Page Read
YTD Number of Books Read From My Shelves
4DeltaQueen50
When I rate books it is a gut reaction, I am not a critic, so the ratings on books that I have read are really just how I felt about the book.
The following is an example of how I rate books:
2.0 ★: I must have been dragged, kicking and screaming, to finish this one!
2.5 ★: Below Average but I finished the book for one reason or another.
3.0 ★: Average, a solid read that I finished but can't promise to remember
3.5 ★: Above Average, there's room for improvement but I liked this well enough to pick up another book by this author.
4.0 ★: A very good read and I enjoyed my time spent with this story
4.5 ★: An excellent read, a book I will remember and recommend
5.0 ★: Sheer perfection, the right book at the right time for me
The following is an example of how I rate books:
2.0 ★: I must have been dragged, kicking and screaming, to finish this one!
2.5 ★: Below Average but I finished the book for one reason or another.
3.0 ★: Average, a solid read that I finished but can't promise to remember
3.5 ★: Above Average, there's room for improvement but I liked this well enough to pick up another book by this author.
4.0 ★: A very good read and I enjoyed my time spent with this story
4.5 ★: An excellent read, a book I will remember and recommend
5.0 ★: Sheer perfection, the right book at the right time for me
5DeltaQueen50
2015 BINGO DOG
I am am enjoying participating in the 2015 Bingo Dog and hope to go for a complete black-out (25 books).
The following are possibilities that I am considering for the Bingo Dog.
2015 Bingo Squares
1. About language: Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn (Overflow) - Completed
2. Where an animal is of importance: The Bear by Claire Cameron (Combined Miscellany) - Completed
3. That's completely outside my comfort zone: The Trade by Thomas Kirkwood (Overflow)
4. Owned for more than a year: The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly (Camille's Choices) - Completed
5. With a mythical creature: Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer (Colts)
6. Genre bender: Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion (Falling Off the Map) - Completed
7. With a natural disaster: A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison (Around the World)
8. Chosen for you by someone else: The Lost Souls of Angelkov by Linda Holeman (Around the World)
9. With a protagonist of the opposite gender: Dark Horse by Craig Johnson (Endless Rain) - Completed
10. Published in 1915: Song of the Lark by Willa Cather (Overflow) - Completed
11. Subject of which you are unfamiliar:
12. Prophecy, signs or portents are part of the plot: Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop (Falling Off the Map)
13. Read A Cat: On The Beach by Nevil Shute (Cat & Fiddle Arcade) - Completed
14. Set in a country other than your own: Broken Harbour by Tana French (Grade Five) - Completed
15. By An Lt author: Dare Me by Megan Abbott (Grade Five)
16. Based on a fairy tale or myth: Tender Morsels by Margo Flanagan (Colts) - Completed
17. With correspondence & letters, epistolary: The Diary of a Provincial Lady by E.N. Delafield (Camille's Choice)
18. Authors' first name is the same as your Mother or Grandmother: The Five Red Herrings by Dorothy Sayers (Edgar Allan's Quill Pen) - Completed
19. Inspired by another piece of fiction: Longbourn by Jo Baker (I Don't Remember That From History Class) - Completed
20. Centered around a major historical event: Victors & Lords by V.A. Stuart (Pitcher's Duel) - Completed
21. Translated from a language I don't read or speak: He Who Fears the Wolf by Karin Fossum (Around the World) - Completed
22. With scientists: Invasive Species by Joseph Wallace (Falling Off the Map)
23. With a LGBTQ main character: Fun Home by Alison Bechdel (Woven Ribbons) - Completed
24. Reminds you of your childhood: Rainbow Valley by L.M. Montgomery (Dust Collectors)
25. About autism: Navigating Early by Clare Vanderpool (Colts)
I am am enjoying participating in the 2015 Bingo Dog and hope to go for a complete black-out (25 books).
The following are possibilities that I am considering for the Bingo Dog.
2015 Bingo Squares
1. About language: Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn (Overflow) - Completed
2. Where an animal is of importance: The Bear by Claire Cameron (Combined Miscellany) - Completed
3. That's completely outside my comfort zone: The Trade by Thomas Kirkwood (Overflow)
4. Owned for more than a year: The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly (Camille's Choices) - Completed
5. With a mythical creature: Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer (Colts)
6. Genre bender: Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion (Falling Off the Map) - Completed
7. With a natural disaster: A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison (Around the World)
8. Chosen for you by someone else: The Lost Souls of Angelkov by Linda Holeman (Around the World)
9. With a protagonist of the opposite gender: Dark Horse by Craig Johnson (Endless Rain) - Completed
10. Published in 1915: Song of the Lark by Willa Cather (Overflow) - Completed
11. Subject of which you are unfamiliar:
12. Prophecy, signs or portents are part of the plot: Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop (Falling Off the Map)
13. Read A Cat: On The Beach by Nevil Shute (Cat & Fiddle Arcade) - Completed
14. Set in a country other than your own: Broken Harbour by Tana French (Grade Five) - Completed
15. By An Lt author: Dare Me by Megan Abbott (Grade Five)
16. Based on a fairy tale or myth: Tender Morsels by Margo Flanagan (Colts) - Completed
17. With correspondence & letters, epistolary: The Diary of a Provincial Lady by E.N. Delafield (Camille's Choice)
18. Authors' first name is the same as your Mother or Grandmother: The Five Red Herrings by Dorothy Sayers (Edgar Allan's Quill Pen) - Completed
19. Inspired by another piece of fiction: Longbourn by Jo Baker (I Don't Remember That From History Class) - Completed
20. Centered around a major historical event: Victors & Lords by V.A. Stuart (Pitcher's Duel) - Completed
21. Translated from a language I don't read or speak: He Who Fears the Wolf by Karin Fossum (Around the World) - Completed
22. With scientists: Invasive Species by Joseph Wallace (Falling Off the Map)
23. With a LGBTQ main character: Fun Home by Alison Bechdel (Woven Ribbons) - Completed
24. Reminds you of your childhood: Rainbow Valley by L.M. Montgomery (Dust Collectors)
25. About autism: Navigating Early by Clare Vanderpool (Colts)
6DeltaQueen50
Grade Five - Police Procedurals/Mysteries
Books Read
1. Troubled Daughters, Twisted Wives by Sarah Weinman - 4.2 ★
2. Half Broken Things by Morag Joss - 4.2 ★
3. Into The Shadows by Shirley Wells - 3.5 ★
4. Broken Harbour by Tana French - 4.2 ★
Books Read
1. Troubled Daughters, Twisted Wives by Sarah Weinman - 4.2 ★
2. Half Broken Things by Morag Joss - 4.2 ★
3. Into The Shadows by Shirley Wells - 3.5 ★
4. Broken Harbour by Tana French - 4.2 ★
7DeltaQueen50
Endless Rain - Series
Books Read
1. Shatter the Bones by Stuart MacBride - 3.7 ★
2. The Dark Horse by Craig Johnson - 4.3 ★
3. Purgatory Ridge by William Kent Krueger - 4.1 ★
Books Read
1. Shatter the Bones by Stuart MacBride - 3.7 ★
2. The Dark Horse by Craig Johnson - 4.3 ★
3. Purgatory Ridge by William Kent Krueger - 4.1 ★
8DeltaQueen50
Edgar Allan Poe's Quill Pen - Well-Aged Crime
Books Read
1. Five Red Herrings by Dorothy Sayers - 4.0 ★
2. Double Indemnity by James M. Cain - 4.0 ★
3. The Getaway by Jim Thompson - 4.8 ★
Books Read
1. Five Red Herrings by Dorothy Sayers - 4.0 ★
2. Double Indemnity by James M. Cain - 4.0 ★
3. The Getaway by Jim Thompson - 4.8 ★
9DeltaQueen50
Is This A Kissing Book? - Romance
Books Read
1. Love In A Cold Climate by Nancy Mitford - 4.0 ★
2. Wedding Tiers by Trisha Ashley - 3.8 ★
Books Read
1. Love In A Cold Climate by Nancy Mitford - 4.0 ★
2. Wedding Tiers by Trisha Ashley - 3.8 ★
10DeltaQueen50
Cat & Fiddle Arcade - Cat Challenges
Books Read
1. The Swan Maiden by Jules Watson - 4.1 ★
2. Blameless by Gail Carriger - 3.8 ★
3. On The Beach by Nevil Shute - 4.2 ★
4. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn - 4.5 ★
5. The Prow Beast by Robert Low - 4.1 ★
Books Read
1. The Swan Maiden by Jules Watson - 4.1 ★
2. Blameless by Gail Carriger - 3.8 ★
3. On The Beach by Nevil Shute - 4.2 ★
4. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn - 4.5 ★
5. The Prow Beast by Robert Low - 4.1 ★
11DeltaQueen50
Colts - YA and Children's Literature
Books Read
1. A Stitch In Time by Penelope Lively - 4.0 ★
2. Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan - 3.2 ★
3. Sunrise by Mike Mullin - 4.0 ★
4. The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness - 4.0 ★
5. The Vanishing of Katharina Linden by Helen Grant - 3.5 ★
Books Read
1. A Stitch In Time by Penelope Lively - 4.0 ★
2. Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan - 3.2 ★
3. Sunrise by Mike Mullin - 4.0 ★
4. The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness - 4.0 ★
5. The Vanishing of Katharina Linden by Helen Grant - 3.5 ★
12DeltaQueen50
I Don't Remember That From History Class
Books Read
1. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant - 4.0 ★
2. Longbourn by Jo Baker - 5.0 ★
Books Read
1. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant - 4.0 ★
2. Longbourn by Jo Baker - 5.0 ★
13DeltaQueen50
Falling Off The Map - Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Books Read
1. Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion - 3.8 ★
2. The Midwich Cuckoos by John Wyndham - 2.8 ★
3. The Fallen by Charlie Higson - 4.1 ★
Books Read
1. Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion - 3.8 ★
2. The Midwich Cuckoos by John Wyndham - 2.8 ★
3. The Fallen by Charlie Higson - 4.1 ★
14DeltaQueen50
Around The World - Global Reading
Books Read
1. Moth Smoke by Mohsin Hamid (Pakistan) - 4.1 ★
2. He Who Fears The Wolf by Karin Fossum (Norway) - 4.1 ★
3. Fiji by Lance & James Morcan (Fiji) - 2.0 ★
4. Disco For The Departed by Colin Cotterill - 4.0 ★
5. The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara - 3.6 ★
Books Read
1. Moth Smoke by Mohsin Hamid (Pakistan) - 4.1 ★
2. He Who Fears The Wolf by Karin Fossum (Norway) - 4.1 ★
3. Fiji by Lance & James Morcan (Fiji) - 2.0 ★
4. Disco For The Departed by Colin Cotterill - 4.0 ★
5. The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara - 3.6 ★
15DeltaQueen50
Pitcher's Duel - War & the Homefront
Books Read
1. The Daughters of Mars by Thomas Keneally - 4.5 ★
2. The Night Watch by Sarah Waters - 4.2 ★
3. Victors & Lords by V.A. Stuart - 3.4 ★
Books Read
1. The Daughters of Mars by Thomas Keneally - 4.5 ★
2. The Night Watch by Sarah Waters - 4.2 ★
3. Victors & Lords by V.A. Stuart - 3.4 ★
16DeltaQueen50
Camille's Book Selection
Books Read
1. The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly - 3.8 ★
2. Dancing In the Dark by Maureen Lee - 3.0 ★
3. The Fairy Godmother by Mercedes Lackey - 3.8 ★
Books Read
1. The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly - 3.8 ★
2. Dancing In the Dark by Maureen Lee - 3.0 ★
3. The Fairy Godmother by Mercedes Lackey - 3.8 ★
17DeltaQueen50
Combined Miscellany - Random Connections
Books Read
1. The Bear by Claire Cameron - 3.6 ★ (Survival)
2. Into The Forest by Jean Hegland - 2.6 ★ (Survival, Forest in Title)
3. The Forest of Hands And Teeth by Carrie Ryan - 3.3 ★ (Forest in Title)
Books Read
1. The Bear by Claire Cameron - 3.6 ★ (Survival)
2. Into The Forest by Jean Hegland - 2.6 ★ (Survival, Forest in Title)
3. The Forest of Hands And Teeth by Carrie Ryan - 3.3 ★ (Forest in Title)
18DeltaQueen50
Dust Collectors - Books on my Shelf Longer than 1 Year
Read
1. The Great Karoo by Fred Stenson - 4.0 ★
2. To My Daughter In France by Barbara Keating - 4.2 ★
3. My Cousin Rachel by Daphne Du Maurier - 5.0 ★
Read
1. The Great Karoo by Fred Stenson - 4.0 ★
2. To My Daughter In France by Barbara Keating - 4.2 ★
3. My Cousin Rachel by Daphne Du Maurier - 5.0 ★
19DeltaQueen50
Woven Ribbons - Graphic Novels
Books Read
1. January I: Fables Vol. 2: Animal Farm by Bill Willingham - 4.0 ★, Fables Vol. 3: Storybook Love by Bill Willingham - 4.2 ★, Fables Vol 4.: March of the Wooden Soldiers by Bill Willingham - 4.2 ★
2. January II: Hark! a Vagrant by Kate Beaton - 4.0 ★, Hyperbole And A Half by Allie Brosh - 5.0 ★, Fun Home by Alison Bechdel - 2.8 ★
3. February I: Saga, Volume 1 by Brian K. Vaughan - 4.2 ★, Saga, Volume 2 by Brian K. Vaughan - 4.0 ★, Saga, Volume 3 by Brian K. Vaughan - 4.2 ★
4. February II Bride of the Water God, Vol. 1 by Mi-Kyung Yun - 3.3 ★, Bride of the Water God, Vol. 2 by Mi-Kyung Yun - 3.2 ★, Bride of the Water God, Vol. 3 by Mi-Kyung Yun - 3.0 ★
5. March: Sweet Tooth, Volume 4: Endangered Species by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★, Sweet Tooth, Volume 5: Unnatural Habitats by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★, Sweet Tooth, Volume 6: Wild Game by Jeff Lemire - 3.0 ★
Books Read
1. January I: Fables Vol. 2: Animal Farm by Bill Willingham - 4.0 ★, Fables Vol. 3: Storybook Love by Bill Willingham - 4.2 ★, Fables Vol 4.: March of the Wooden Soldiers by Bill Willingham - 4.2 ★
2. January II: Hark! a Vagrant by Kate Beaton - 4.0 ★, Hyperbole And A Half by Allie Brosh - 5.0 ★, Fun Home by Alison Bechdel - 2.8 ★
3. February I: Saga, Volume 1 by Brian K. Vaughan - 4.2 ★, Saga, Volume 2 by Brian K. Vaughan - 4.0 ★, Saga, Volume 3 by Brian K. Vaughan - 4.2 ★
4. February II Bride of the Water God, Vol. 1 by Mi-Kyung Yun - 3.3 ★, Bride of the Water God, Vol. 2 by Mi-Kyung Yun - 3.2 ★, Bride of the Water God, Vol. 3 by Mi-Kyung Yun - 3.0 ★
5. March: Sweet Tooth, Volume 4: Endangered Species by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★, Sweet Tooth, Volume 5: Unnatural Habitats by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★, Sweet Tooth, Volume 6: Wild Game by Jeff Lemire - 3.0 ★
20DeltaQueen50
Overflow
Books Read
1. The Ballad of the Sad Cafe by Carson McCullers - 3.8 ★
2. Descent by Tim Johnson - 3.7 ★
3. The Turn of the Screw by Henry James - 3.7 ★
4. Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn - 4.0 ★
5. The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather - 3.8 ★
Books Read
1. The Ballad of the Sad Cafe by Carson McCullers - 3.8 ★
2. Descent by Tim Johnson - 3.7 ★
3. The Turn of the Screw by Henry James - 3.7 ★
4. Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn - 4.0 ★
5. The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather - 3.8 ★
21DeltaQueen50
2015 Reading Plans
1. Jane Austen Group Reads
2. Agatha In August - Agatha Christie
3. Hemingway in the Autumn
4. British Author Challenge (75er Group)
January: A Stitch in Time by Penelope Lively
February: The Night Watch by Sarah Waters
March: My Cousin Rachel by Daphne DuMaurier
April: Lizzie Borden by Angela Carter
May:
June: The Bottle Factory Outing by Beryl Bainbridge
July:
August: The Stamboul Train by Graham Greene
September:
October: The Betrayal by Helen Dunmore
November: Brazzaville Beach by William Boyd
December: Something Fresh by P G Wodehouse
5. The American Author Challenge
January: Carson McCullers: The Ballad of the Sad Cafe
February: Henry James - The Turn of the Screw
March: Richard Ford
April: Louise Erdrich
May: Sinclair Lewis
June: Wallace Stegner - Crossing To Safety
July: Ursula Le Guin - The Tombs of Atuan
August: Larry McMurtry - Leaving Cheyenne
September: Flannery O’Connor
October: Ray Bradbury - Dandelion Wine
November: Barbara Kingsolver
December: E.L. Doctorow - The March
1. Jane Austen Group Reads
2. Agatha In August - Agatha Christie
3. Hemingway in the Autumn
4. British Author Challenge (75er Group)
January: A Stitch in Time by Penelope Lively
February: The Night Watch by Sarah Waters
March: My Cousin Rachel by Daphne DuMaurier
April: Lizzie Borden by Angela Carter
May:
June: The Bottle Factory Outing by Beryl Bainbridge
July:
August: The Stamboul Train by Graham Greene
September:
October: The Betrayal by Helen Dunmore
November: Brazzaville Beach by William Boyd
December: Something Fresh by P G Wodehouse
5. The American Author Challenge
January: Carson McCullers: The Ballad of the Sad Cafe
February: Henry James - The Turn of the Screw
March: Richard Ford
April: Louise Erdrich
May: Sinclair Lewis
June: Wallace Stegner - Crossing To Safety
July: Ursula Le Guin - The Tombs of Atuan
August: Larry McMurtry - Leaving Cheyenne
September: Flannery O’Connor
October: Ray Bradbury - Dandelion Wine
November: Barbara Kingsolver
December: E.L. Doctorow - The March
22DeltaQueen50
33. Into The Shadows by Shirley Wells - 3.5 ★
Category: Grade 5
TIOLI #12: A Three Word Title That Doesn't Start with 'The'
While Into the Shadows by Shirley Wells didn’t exactly leave me breathless, it was nevertheless a pretty good effort for a first in a series. This series features Jill Kennedy, a forensic psychologist who works with the police on profiling criminals. She works closely with DI Max Trentham,, with whom she has a history. In this first outing they are hunting for a serial killer called Valentine, but also get involved in the murder of a vicar’s wife in the small village that Jill has recently purchased a cottage in.
As the first book, the introduction of various characters took center stage with the hunt for the serial killer bringing the tension. While the murder of the vicar’s wife was pretty straightforward, it helped by describing the village and introducing many of it’s inhabitants.
Jill and Max are involved in a complicated dance around each other, and I can see this relationship will be developed over the course of future books. I thought the author did a better job of exposing the character of Max, while Jill still remains an enigma that needs both depth and definition. While this first book hasn’t sent me into a frenzy to read more of this series, I will continue on with at least the next two as I happen to have them already on my shelf.
Category: Grade 5
TIOLI #12: A Three Word Title That Doesn't Start with 'The'
While Into the Shadows by Shirley Wells didn’t exactly leave me breathless, it was nevertheless a pretty good effort for a first in a series. This series features Jill Kennedy, a forensic psychologist who works with the police on profiling criminals. She works closely with DI Max Trentham,, with whom she has a history. In this first outing they are hunting for a serial killer called Valentine, but also get involved in the murder of a vicar’s wife in the small village that Jill has recently purchased a cottage in.
As the first book, the introduction of various characters took center stage with the hunt for the serial killer bringing the tension. While the murder of the vicar’s wife was pretty straightforward, it helped by describing the village and introducing many of it’s inhabitants.
Jill and Max are involved in a complicated dance around each other, and I can see this relationship will be developed over the course of future books. I thought the author did a better job of exposing the character of Max, while Jill still remains an enigma that needs both depth and definition. While this first book hasn’t sent me into a frenzy to read more of this series, I will continue on with at least the next two as I happen to have them already on my shelf.
23RidgewayGirl
It's too bad that Into the Shadows wasn't great, because the cover makes it look right up my alley. Of course the cover is more "entire family slaughtered in a gruesome way" than "vicar's wife found dead."
25Storeetllr
Happy new thread, Judy! Pretty pictures of France's wine country up top!
26DeltaQueen50
>23 RidgewayGirl: Yeah, I'm sorry to say that the cover has absolutely nothing to do with the book. The main character does live in a cottage but it's in a small village and apparently has a lovely garden. I hate it when the cover and the contents of the book have nothing in common!
>24 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie.
>25 Storeetllr: Welcome, Mary. Yes, I am so ready for a nice trip through the French countryside, sipping wines and tasting cheese. Unfortunately, at this point, it's going to have to stay a dream.
>24 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie.
>25 Storeetllr: Welcome, Mary. Yes, I am so ready for a nice trip through the French countryside, sipping wines and tasting cheese. Unfortunately, at this point, it's going to have to stay a dream.
27lkernagh
Happy new thread, Judy! We have had such wonderful weather this weekend, I don't mind that the clouds are now starting to roll in. ;-)
28DeltaQueen50
>27 lkernagh: Hi Lori, it was so gorgeous yesterday, I went for a really long walk all around my neighbourhood. I don't think our nice weather is entirely gone yet though, I think the early part of the week is supposed to be nice too.
30luvamystery65
I would love to go to France Judy. Love the new thread. Here is to you reading some amazing books.
31BLBera
Happy new thread, Judy. Love the pics from France. You've done some good reading so far. I'm glad I finally found you.
32Crazymamie
Happy new thread, Judy! Love your thread toppers, and so glad to see the burglar cat back again - he always makes me smile!
33Dejah_Thoris
Nifty new thread, Judy! I hope you've had a fabulous weekend!
34rabbitprincess
Wow, third thread already! Nice! :D Also glad to hear that there is at least one part of the country not freezing to death. (However, today we did make it up to about minus 4, which meant a lighter coat than usual!)
36VivienneR
Happy new thread Judy. I'm so far behind with threads that I'm going to have to go back and finish part 2.
38DeltaQueen50
It must be Monday!!
39DeltaQueen50
I should be off doing other things but can't seem to gather the energy to do anything but sip my coffee and hang out here on LT!
>29 leslie.98: Hi Leslie, I must be ready for a holiday as those pictures of France made me want to jump on an airplane and go!
>30 luvamystery65: Now that would be a fun road trip, Ro. France! We'd have to bring some more wine lovers along - (thinking of Katie and Mamie) - just think of all that wine to be sampled!!
>31 BLBera: Hi Beth. I have been floundering a bit in my reading but right now I am reading two very non-literary books but both a page turners and I am loving them!
>32 Crazymamie: Yep, I definitely need by little cat burglar as a side-kick!
>33 Dejah_Thoris: Had a very quiet weekend, Dejah, but it was a good one. Today my grandson comes for dinner and we always look forward to that!
>34 rabbitprincess: We are definitely having some mild weather right now, RP. But I have a feeling that come May and/or June when everyone is getting nice early summer weather, we may be paying for our early spring. That seems to be the pattern over the last few years.
>35 Kassilem: Thanks, Melissa.
>36 VivienneR: My last couple of books haven't been exactly stellar, Vivienne, but February has been very productive reading-wide for me. For a sort month, I still managed to get a lot of books read.
>37 jolerie: Hi Valerie and welcome.
>29 leslie.98: Hi Leslie, I must be ready for a holiday as those pictures of France made me want to jump on an airplane and go!
>30 luvamystery65: Now that would be a fun road trip, Ro. France! We'd have to bring some more wine lovers along - (thinking of Katie and Mamie) - just think of all that wine to be sampled!!
>31 BLBera: Hi Beth. I have been floundering a bit in my reading but right now I am reading two very non-literary books but both a page turners and I am loving them!
>32 Crazymamie: Yep, I definitely need by little cat burglar as a side-kick!
>33 Dejah_Thoris: Had a very quiet weekend, Dejah, but it was a good one. Today my grandson comes for dinner and we always look forward to that!
>34 rabbitprincess: We are definitely having some mild weather right now, RP. But I have a feeling that come May and/or June when everyone is getting nice early summer weather, we may be paying for our early spring. That seems to be the pattern over the last few years.
>35 Kassilem: Thanks, Melissa.
>36 VivienneR: My last couple of books haven't been exactly stellar, Vivienne, but February has been very productive reading-wide for me. For a sort month, I still managed to get a lot of books read.
>37 jolerie: Hi Valerie and welcome.
40Storeetllr
>38 DeltaQueen50: Hahaha, good one! (Looks like I feel some days.)
41mamzel
Glad to see the cat burglar is back! And the beautiful French scenery! Wonderful new thread!
43rosalita
I saw just the top of your first post and was prepared to boycott your new thread until you brought the cat burglar back, but then I scrolled down and all is well again. Happy new thread, and I'm reserving judgment on the Shirley Wells series until you read a few more and can tell me if it develops into something worthwhile or not. So get reading, woman!
44Familyhistorian
I hope you are enjoying the sunshine. It was nice enough on Sunday that I was able to wash my car outside in the parking lot. Back to rain soon I hear but nice again this coming weekend - at least that is the forecast so far but that is always subject to change. I just hope that it continues on into spring without any relapses but you can't really trust March!
45DeltaQueen50
>40 Storeetllr: Mondays sure seem to have a way of creeping up on me. Even though I am retired, Mondays have a diffferent vibe to them. That and my having a bad hair day made me feel like I had a lot in common with that chicken!
>41 mamzel: When I post the cover of the book I am reading that is set in France, Mamzel, you will see why I chose that particular chateau. I think the cover was influenced by that chateau!
>42 mstrust: And Hi right back! :)
>43 rosalita: Yes Mam, I will try to read as fast as I can, mam! Oh, and the cat burglar is definitely here for the year.
>44 Familyhistorian: We are very lucky with our weather right now, aren't we. I went for another walk with my husband this afternoon in the sunshine. I know we will have to pay for all this nice weather, but I plan to enjoy it while it lasts.
>41 mamzel: When I post the cover of the book I am reading that is set in France, Mamzel, you will see why I chose that particular chateau. I think the cover was influenced by that chateau!
>42 mstrust: And Hi right back! :)
>43 rosalita: Yes Mam, I will try to read as fast as I can, mam! Oh, and the cat burglar is definitely here for the year.
>44 Familyhistorian: We are very lucky with our weather right now, aren't we. I went for another walk with my husband this afternoon in the sunshine. I know we will have to pay for all this nice weather, but I plan to enjoy it while it lasts.
46Roro8
Hi Judy, I'm glad to hear you have had nice weather. After a weekend of very heavy rain it is nice here now too.
47DeltaQueen50
34. To My Daughter In France by Barbara & Stephanie Keating - 4.2 ★
Category: Dust Collectors
TIOLI #4: A Connection to France
To My Daughter In France. With these words added to his will, Richard Kirwan revealed to his both his family in Ireland and to a young woman in France that there had been a huge secret in his life, one that he waited until his death to expose. I admit I didn’t have very high expectations for this book and perhaps that is why I did enjoy it so much. Crammed with characters who revolve around each other, jumping back and forth in time from the 1940’s to 1970, the reader is soon caught up in this tragic love story, with all it’s implications.
The parts of the book that depicted Paris during the German occupation and the resistance movement, made for some tense and exciting reading. When the book moved ahead to 1970, there were various settings from Dublin to Paris, as well as my favorite setting in the southern French wine country of Languedoc-Roussillon.
To My Daughter In France by Barbara and Stephanie Keating was a sprawling family epic full of secrets and sacrifice, there were parts that I admit were a little overdone, but for me, at this time, the book worked. This is the type of book that is often described as a ’beach read’, one that is big, full of passion and intrigue, has a gripping story and is overall a thumping good read.
Category: Dust Collectors
TIOLI #4: A Connection to France
To My Daughter In France. With these words added to his will, Richard Kirwan revealed to his both his family in Ireland and to a young woman in France that there had been a huge secret in his life, one that he waited until his death to expose. I admit I didn’t have very high expectations for this book and perhaps that is why I did enjoy it so much. Crammed with characters who revolve around each other, jumping back and forth in time from the 1940’s to 1970, the reader is soon caught up in this tragic love story, with all it’s implications.
The parts of the book that depicted Paris during the German occupation and the resistance movement, made for some tense and exciting reading. When the book moved ahead to 1970, there were various settings from Dublin to Paris, as well as my favorite setting in the southern French wine country of Languedoc-Roussillon.
To My Daughter In France by Barbara and Stephanie Keating was a sprawling family epic full of secrets and sacrifice, there were parts that I admit were a little overdone, but for me, at this time, the book worked. This is the type of book that is often described as a ’beach read’, one that is big, full of passion and intrigue, has a gripping story and is overall a thumping good read.
48andreablythe
You go through threads like you go through books. Rather quickly!
:)
:)
49VictoriaPL
Hi Judy,
I'm hit! To My Daughter in France sounds good!
I'm hit! To My Daughter in France sounds good!
50DeltaQueen50
>48 andreablythe: I obviously haven't got much to do in RL, always wrapped in a book or sitting at my compter!
>49 VictoriaPL: Hi Victoria, To My Daughter in France was certainly the right book at the right time for me, I absolutely gobbled it up! Hope you enjoy it every bit as much as I did.
>49 VictoriaPL: Hi Victoria, To My Daughter in France was certainly the right book at the right time for me, I absolutely gobbled it up! Hope you enjoy it every bit as much as I did.
52DeltaQueen50
>51 cbl_tn: Hi Carrie, yes, I am pretty sure I will be able to do a sweep at least once. If I finish, I may try again just to see how far I get.
53PaulCranswick
So this is where you are hiding, dear Guru. xx
Missing you so I thought a visit long overdue.
Missing you so I thought a visit long overdue.
54thornton37814
>47 DeltaQueen50: That one sounds interesting.
55DeltaQueen50
>53 PaulCranswick: Thanks for tracking me down, Paul. Yes, this was my original home and when I decided to give up one of my threads this year, I just knew I couldn't give up this one!
>54 thornton37814: I wasn't expecting it to be such a good read, Lori, but I totally got swept up in it. I'm excited because I also have a trilogy set in Africa by the same authors.
>54 thornton37814: I wasn't expecting it to be such a good read, Lori, but I totally got swept up in it. I'm excited because I also have a trilogy set in Africa by the same authors.
56Dejah_Thoris
>47 DeltaQueen50: I've been wondering about To My Daughter in France and your review makes me think it would be great when I'm in the right mood. Thanks!
57DeltaQueen50
>56 Dejah_Thoris: Dejah, I would definitely say you need to be in the mood for a family saga/romance that you want to lose yourself in. :)
58DeltaQueen50
35. The Fallen by Charlie Higson - 4.1 ★
Category: Falling Off the Map
TIOLI #20: A Book of the Horror Genre
The Fallen by Charlie Higson is the fifth book in his Enemy series, and I freely admit I am addicted to these YA books. Set in a not-to-distant future, a sickness has struck everyone over the age of 14. The ones that don’t die are left with ravaged bodies and twisted minds. They now roam the streets hungry for the flesh of other living creatures, in particular healthy children.
The author has introduced his readers to various groups of survivors, and the books skip around among these groups. He also changes the timing of his books, some happen a few months after the first book, while others are only seconds ahead. This is a series where you can never be sure whether any character is going to live, the author pulls no punches and no one is ever safe. The one constant through the books has been the setting of London. In this particular book, we follow a group of children who are living in the British Museum of Natural History. As characters get killed off, new ones are introduced and in this book, a group of very strange children with special skills come into the story and I suspect they are going to figure prominently in future books.
The action is fast and furious, the books are full of gore and violence. I think of these books as candy for the brain, and I devour them. Although The Fallen was exceedingly brutal at times it was also clever, fast-paced and made for compulsive reading.
Category: Falling Off the Map
TIOLI #20: A Book of the Horror Genre
The Fallen by Charlie Higson is the fifth book in his Enemy series, and I freely admit I am addicted to these YA books. Set in a not-to-distant future, a sickness has struck everyone over the age of 14. The ones that don’t die are left with ravaged bodies and twisted minds. They now roam the streets hungry for the flesh of other living creatures, in particular healthy children.
The author has introduced his readers to various groups of survivors, and the books skip around among these groups. He also changes the timing of his books, some happen a few months after the first book, while others are only seconds ahead. This is a series where you can never be sure whether any character is going to live, the author pulls no punches and no one is ever safe. The one constant through the books has been the setting of London. In this particular book, we follow a group of children who are living in the British Museum of Natural History. As characters get killed off, new ones are introduced and in this book, a group of very strange children with special skills come into the story and I suspect they are going to figure prominently in future books.
The action is fast and furious, the books are full of gore and violence. I think of these books as candy for the brain, and I devour them. Although The Fallen was exceedingly brutal at times it was also clever, fast-paced and made for compulsive reading.
59katiekrug
Judy, thanks to your review, I've put the first book in that series on my library WL. Because I need another series...
61DeltaQueen50
>59 katiekrug: There's always room for a little brain candy, Katie! ;)
>60 jolerie: Perhaps it's because I actually could outrun a zombie, Valerie, all the other monsters are probably in better shape than me!
>60 jolerie: Perhaps it's because I actually could outrun a zombie, Valerie, all the other monsters are probably in better shape than me!
62Chrischi_HH
>47 DeltaQueen50: Thanks for your review, this goes directly on my BB list.
63andreablythe
Sounds like a fun series. I'll have to put it on my list to check out. Definitely makes it interesting that only the young are the survivors.
64VivienneR
I have a couple of books by Charlie Higson in a different series (Young James Bond?). Sounds like Higson is an entertaining writer.
65DeltaQueen50
>62 Chrischi_HH: I hope you enjoy this series!
>63 andreablythe: It is a fun series, Andrea, great for when you just want to relax and kick back with a good scary book. Although it's not for everyone as the violence level is pretty high.
>64 VivienneR: I think he is entertaining, Vivienne. I have also seen him on a few English panel shows and he is quick witted and able to hold his own against the likes of Rob Brydon and David Mitchell.
>63 andreablythe: It is a fun series, Andrea, great for when you just want to relax and kick back with a good scary book. Although it's not for everyone as the violence level is pretty high.
>64 VivienneR: I think he is entertaining, Vivienne. I have also seen him on a few English panel shows and he is quick witted and able to hold his own against the likes of Rob Brydon and David Mitchell.
66-Eva-
Happy new thread! You do go through threads fast - and hand out BBs like a maniac. Always fun to be along for the ride, of course.
67DeltaQueen50
>66 -Eva-: You'll appreciate my next review, Eva. I am definitely not handing out BB's for this one!
69DeltaQueen50
36. Fiji by Lance & James Morcan - 2.0 ★
Category: Around the World
Commonwealth Challenge: Fiji (Suspended Member)
TIOLI #5: A Number Can Be Found in the First Sentence
Fiji is written by the father son combination, Lance and James Morcan. This is an adventure story that includes a father and daughter missionary team and a young American trader. A mediocre read at best, just about every cliché you can imagine was included in the story. Although the father tries his hardest to keep his daughter away from the trader, they somehow manage to fall in love. Having only spoken about three words to each other, she has nevertheless changed the young man into a sincere, caring person, even his bigotry has dropped away. When the young woman is kidnapped by a group of natives called the Outcasts, it is up to the trader to track them down and rescue her. Of course his efforts are impaired by a beautiful but wicked slave girl who wants the trader for herself.
Much eye rolling and snickering accompanied my reading of this book, and when, about to be attacked, the young man yells out the very modern phrase of Holy Sh-t, I just about threw the book across the room. (It was saved by the fact that it was my Kindle.) This was almost so bad that it was good. I kept thinking what a great 1940 Maria Montez /Jon Hall movie this would have made.
The authors crammed in everything possible from human sacrifice to cannibalism. Fiji, the book, was filled with one dimensional characters and over-the-top writing which did nothing to help the hackneyed plot. One thing this book did teach me, however, is to stop and think about it, before filling my Kindle with these unknown 99 cent deals.
Category: Around the World
Commonwealth Challenge: Fiji (Suspended Member)
TIOLI #5: A Number Can Be Found in the First Sentence
Fiji is written by the father son combination, Lance and James Morcan. This is an adventure story that includes a father and daughter missionary team and a young American trader. A mediocre read at best, just about every cliché you can imagine was included in the story. Although the father tries his hardest to keep his daughter away from the trader, they somehow manage to fall in love. Having only spoken about three words to each other, she has nevertheless changed the young man into a sincere, caring person, even his bigotry has dropped away. When the young woman is kidnapped by a group of natives called the Outcasts, it is up to the trader to track them down and rescue her. Of course his efforts are impaired by a beautiful but wicked slave girl who wants the trader for herself.
Much eye rolling and snickering accompanied my reading of this book, and when, about to be attacked, the young man yells out the very modern phrase of Holy Sh-t, I just about threw the book across the room. (It was saved by the fact that it was my Kindle.) This was almost so bad that it was good. I kept thinking what a great 1940 Maria Montez /Jon Hall movie this would have made.
The authors crammed in everything possible from human sacrifice to cannibalism. Fiji, the book, was filled with one dimensional characters and over-the-top writing which did nothing to help the hackneyed plot. One thing this book did teach me, however, is to stop and think about it, before filling my Kindle with these unknown 99 cent deals.
70RidgewayGirl
That review reminded me that Fiji was suspended from the Commonwealth. I already knew that cheap, self-published novels are not often surprisingly good. At least I've never encountered one.
71Carmenere
Well, Lake Erie wine country (the only wine country I've seen) does not look anything like France, that's for certain. I'll just imagine myself at the chateau sipping a chardonnay beside a trickling fountain...oh cheese must be involved too.
You're really zipping along, my friend, keep it up!
You're really zipping along, my friend, keep it up!
72mstrust
>69 DeltaQueen50: Ha, sometimes reviews for bad books are pretty great! Sorry the book was lousy!
73DeltaQueen50
>70 RidgewayGirl: I think I have run across a self-published novel before and unfortunately I probably will again as I still have a few of those unknown books that were offered as daily deals on my Kindle. I have lerned my lesson and now I don't go for the daily deal unless I already have the book on my wishlist.
>71 Carmenere: Lynda, I've toured the California wine country and our local wine growning spot, the Okanagan Valley and both are fantastic but I expect there is a little something extra in the knowledge that you are in France that would make a trip there beyond fantstic!
>72 mstrust: It feels good to let out all that pent up book frustration. I have decided to kick off March with a book that I am pretty sure I will love, and have picked up Gone Girl.
>71 Carmenere: Lynda, I've toured the California wine country and our local wine growning spot, the Okanagan Valley and both are fantastic but I expect there is a little something extra in the knowledge that you are in France that would make a trip there beyond fantstic!
>72 mstrust: It feels good to let out all that pent up book frustration. I have decided to kick off March with a book that I am pretty sure I will love, and have picked up Gone Girl.
74Storeetllr
You know, Judy, your review of Fiji almost makes me want to read it to experience the sheer awfulness of it. LOL
I always check out the Daily Deals, then, if something sounds good, look for it at the library. Only very occasionally do I buy one, and that's only if, like you said, it's already on my radar and I've read some of the author's other work.
I always check out the Daily Deals, then, if something sounds good, look for it at the library. Only very occasionally do I buy one, and that's only if, like you said, it's already on my radar and I've read some of the author's other work.
75DeltaQueen50
Hi Mary, hope you are having a good weekend. I think we all have to learn that Daily Deal lesson. At first it's just so exciting to see books offered at such a reduced price, but as usual, buyer beware!
76Roro8
I always check out the daily deal too. If it happens to be something that is on my Wishlist I buy it, if not then I don't. Needless to say, I don't buy one very often.
77ronincats
However, both The Martian and One Damned Thing After Another were originally self-published, so the occasional jewel does rise to the top.
78pamelad
Tempted by quite a few of the books on your lists, but have limited myself for now to The Daughters of Mars. Now it needs a category!
79Storeetllr
>77 ronincats: That is so true, Roni!
80DeltaQueen50
I can't believe it is March already! Here on the west coast of Canada spring has arrived and we are enjoying the mild weather alsong with the flowering trees and bulbs. Hopefully this month will herald the arrival of spring to the rest of the continent.
February was a good month for me both in RL and in my reading life. My husband has recovered from his surgery and is back at work. I have been keeping up with my walking both on the treadmill and now outside as well. Although February was a short month, I read a lot of books, some were excellent, some were not - but the books are coming down off the shelves at a good pace, although I am filling them up again.
I have really enjoyed getting back to some graphic novels and this month I am going to pick up a series that I started a couple of years ago, Sweet Tooth by Jeff LeMire. I currently have Vols. 4, 5, and 6 home from the library. Bookwise, I have a wide variety of books planned for March. I am reading Gone Girl right now for the March RandomCat and also Ella Minnow Pea which will help fill up my Bingo card. I have books planned for all the Cats, and I am especially looking forward to the SFFFCat whose theme is Distopian & Apocalyptic.
>76 Roro8: I am getting better and passing on the deals, but I admit I do check them pretty much every day!
>77 ronincats: Good point, Roni! I have a book called Wool on my shelves which was also originally a self-published book that garnered a lot of attention. I guess sometimes it pays off to take a chance.
>78 pamelad: Hi Pam, Daughters of Mars was a 5 star read for me so I am glad you are going to give it place somewhere. Fitting in extra books can be tricky at times, I try to always have one category for books that I can't fit anywhere else.
81thornton37814
Happy March to you! I hope that spring does arrive too, although they are currently predicting more snow Wednesday night into Thursday. Since the ground will be warm from the first part of the week, we hope it won't accumulate.
82DeltaQueen50
Gosh Lori, your area is really getting hit hard this year. I sure hope this is winter's last blast and than the snow doesn't accumulate!
85rosalita
On the subject of the worthiness of those self-published "deals", it's true that there have been several self-published books that turned out be favorites of mine. For example, the two that Roni mentioned in >77 ronincats: — The Martian and Just One Damned Thing After Another. But I've decided I'm perfectly OK with letting someone else discover them and bring them to my attention. It saves me from slogging through the huge number of awful ones.
86Familyhistorian
Glad to hear that things are going well for you and your hubby, Judy. Isn't it amazing how much better things go with the warmth of spring.
87andreablythe
>69 DeltaQueen50:
Oh my goodness! "So bad it's good" can be fun sometimes, but this one sounds like i could easily pass it by.
>77 ronincats:
I'm always wary of self-published books, but as you've noted there are some that turn out to be fantastic. Another one I've heard of is Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, which is supposed to be also great.
Oh my goodness! "So bad it's good" can be fun sometimes, but this one sounds like i could easily pass it by.
>77 ronincats:
I'm always wary of self-published books, but as you've noted there are some that turn out to be fantastic. Another one I've heard of is Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, which is supposed to be also great.
88DeltaQueen50
>83 lkernagh: Thanks Lori, the same to you. :)
>84 -Eva-: He has rebounded from his surgery really well, started back to work last week on half days and this week will go back to full time. All this time off has made him happier about retirement and I think he is actually going to make a plan to retire in September and stick with it.
>85 rosalita: I feel the same, Julia. I currently have over 1,000 books to read on my shelves so I am not in any hurry to get a book that I know nothing about.
>86 Familyhistorian: You can say that again, Meg. It is another beautiful day here with blue sky and sunshine. It's a little cool, but really it's perfect light jacket weather.
>84 -Eva-: He has rebounded from his surgery really well, started back to work last week on half days and this week will go back to full time. All this time off has made him happier about retirement and I think he is actually going to make a plan to retire in September and stick with it.
>85 rosalita: I feel the same, Julia. I currently have over 1,000 books to read on my shelves so I am not in any hurry to get a book that I know nothing about.
>86 Familyhistorian: You can say that again, Meg. It is another beautiful day here with blue sky and sunshine. It's a little cool, but really it's perfect light jacket weather.
89DeltaQueen50
>87 andreablythe: Andrea, I think those "so bad it's good books" are best left alone and I certainly would recommend leaving Fiji alone! I guess there are always exceptions and there have been a few self-published books that are worth searching out.
90andreablythe
>89 DeltaQueen50:
I tend to let the cream rise to the top, so to speak, and end up discovering the good ones through reviews of friends and such, rather than trying to dig through and discover them myself.
I tend to let the cream rise to the top, so to speak, and end up discovering the good ones through reviews of friends and such, rather than trying to dig through and discover them myself.
91DeltaQueen50
>90 andreablythe: I am very much the same, very rarely am I first one to read a new book, most of my books are from recommendations and then they tend to sit on my shelves for some time before I get around to them.
92thornton37814
Judy, Thanks for the recipe over on my thread! (I'm not sure if I'm posting it to the right group or not, but at least it is to the right person!)
93VivienneR
>88 DeltaQueen50: So glad your husband has recovered well - and even a possible benefit from the experience. Well done!
>89 DeltaQueen50: The best self-published book I've read in recent times was The Best Laid Plans by Terry Fallis. He was turned down by so many publishers that he decided to self-publish and won the Leacock award for humour. I thought it was a bit longer than necessary but enjoyed it. Good to get a laugh from Canadian politics.
>89 DeltaQueen50: The best self-published book I've read in recent times was The Best Laid Plans by Terry Fallis. He was turned down by so many publishers that he decided to self-publish and won the Leacock award for humour. I thought it was a bit longer than necessary but enjoyed it. Good to get a laugh from Canadian politics.
94jolerie
Glad to hear the hubby is recovering well, Judy. Way to go with the keeping active. I'm still cheering you on from my stationary bike. I haven't had a chance to get on the treadmill for awhile since my family keeps getting blasted by one darn cold after another!
95DeltaQueen50
>92 thornton37814: You are welcome, Lori. And yes, this is the right thread since this is my only thread this year. I hope you enjoy the Butterfly Cakes.
>93 VivienneR: Thanks, Vivienne. You are so right, rather difficult to find anything very funny in our politics these days.
>93 VivienneR: Thanks, Vivienne. You are so right, rather difficult to find anything very funny in our politics these days.
96DeltaQueen50
37. Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn - 4.0 ★
Category: Overflow
BingoDog: About Language
TIOLI #5: A Book About Change
Told in epistolary form, Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn is, on the surface, an engaging fable about a small island country and what happens when they are banned from using the letters of the alphabet, one letter at a time. In truth this is a clever political satire. Not only does this book explore how important words and letters are to culture, history and education, this is also a look at the harm that blindly following a totalitarian government can do in terms of mass hysteria, intolerance and personal freedom.
The author keeps his tale fairly simple and rather gentle, but he also manages to poke fun at most of today’s rigid institutions like religion and politics, hinting at the abyss that could await us all if we let control fall into the hands of a few fanatics. As the letters are taken away from the islanders, their creative use of new words and phrases are inventive, skilful and gives the story it’s heart.
Ella Minnow Pea is a quick and enjoyable read by an author who obviously loves the English language and has a great imagination. Although I never once found this story very believable, it was a remarkable read.
Category: Overflow
BingoDog: About Language
TIOLI #5: A Book About Change
Told in epistolary form, Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn is, on the surface, an engaging fable about a small island country and what happens when they are banned from using the letters of the alphabet, one letter at a time. In truth this is a clever political satire. Not only does this book explore how important words and letters are to culture, history and education, this is also a look at the harm that blindly following a totalitarian government can do in terms of mass hysteria, intolerance and personal freedom.
The author keeps his tale fairly simple and rather gentle, but he also manages to poke fun at most of today’s rigid institutions like religion and politics, hinting at the abyss that could await us all if we let control fall into the hands of a few fanatics. As the letters are taken away from the islanders, their creative use of new words and phrases are inventive, skilful and gives the story it’s heart.
Ella Minnow Pea is a quick and enjoyable read by an author who obviously loves the English language and has a great imagination. Although I never once found this story very believable, it was a remarkable read.
97Storeetllr
I've been meaning to read Ella Minnow Pea! Thanks for putting it back on my radar, Judy!
98andreablythe
Wow, first time I've heard of Ella Minnow Pea. Sounds fantastic.
99cbl_tn
>96 DeltaQueen50: I read that one quite a few years ago now and loved the creativity.
100Dejah_Thoris
>96 DeltaQueen50: I think I'll have to try Ella Minnow Pea - it sounds like fun!
101DeltaQueen50
>97 Storeetllr: You are welcome, Mary. I've had it on my shelf for some time, thankfully there is a square on the bingo card to read a book about language which encouraged me to finally get to it.
>98 andreablythe: It's actually a "charming" book that isn't overly sweet, Andrea. Also it's barely 200 pages long so it's a good one to squeeze in between longer reads.
>99 cbl_tn: I was very impressed by the author's imagination and creativity. I can't imagine having to write without the use of the key letters that were lost quite early in the book.
>100 Dejah_Thoris: It is both a quick and fun read, Dejah.
>98 andreablythe: It's actually a "charming" book that isn't overly sweet, Andrea. Also it's barely 200 pages long so it's a good one to squeeze in between longer reads.
>99 cbl_tn: I was very impressed by the author's imagination and creativity. I can't imagine having to write without the use of the key letters that were lost quite early in the book.
>100 Dejah_Thoris: It is both a quick and fun read, Dejah.
102DeltaQueen50
38. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn - 4.5 ★
Category: Cat & Fiddle Arcade
March RandomCat: All The Cool Kids Are Doing It
TIOLI #13: Cover Designer Is Acknowledged
I think I am one of the last people to read Gone Girl but even though I had a fairly accurate idea of what I was going to be reading this book still managed to wow me. This does appear to be a very divisive book with many people really disliking it while others love it. I come down firmly on the love side. I found this book to be a fun roller coaster ride of deceit, infidelity, suspicion and murder.
The story of two rather unlikeable people starts out with the reader having full sympathy for one of the characters but slowly as things are revealed, the perspective changes. Then the second half of the book opens with confessions that knock the reader sideways and reveal psychological flaws that show a depth of darkness that one doesn’t find very often portrayed so cleverly.
This is my first book by author Gillian Flynn but she is definitely an author whose books I want to explore. Gone Girl, with it’s surprising twists and turns kept me glued to its’ pages and it’s been quite some time since I stayed up all night just to finish a book. I applaud the author for how she ended the story, I expected something quite different, but when I think about it, leaving this toxic combination to continue to simmer gives the book a provoking and terrifying conclusion.
Category: Cat & Fiddle Arcade
March RandomCat: All The Cool Kids Are Doing It
TIOLI #13: Cover Designer Is Acknowledged
I think I am one of the last people to read Gone Girl but even though I had a fairly accurate idea of what I was going to be reading this book still managed to wow me. This does appear to be a very divisive book with many people really disliking it while others love it. I come down firmly on the love side. I found this book to be a fun roller coaster ride of deceit, infidelity, suspicion and murder.
The story of two rather unlikeable people starts out with the reader having full sympathy for one of the characters but slowly as things are revealed, the perspective changes. Then the second half of the book opens with confessions that knock the reader sideways and reveal psychological flaws that show a depth of darkness that one doesn’t find very often portrayed so cleverly.
This is my first book by author Gillian Flynn but she is definitely an author whose books I want to explore. Gone Girl, with it’s surprising twists and turns kept me glued to its’ pages and it’s been quite some time since I stayed up all night just to finish a book. I applaud the author for how she ended the story, I expected something quite different, but when I think about it, leaving this toxic combination to continue to simmer gives the book a provoking and terrifying conclusion.
103jolerie
Are you planning on watching the movie Judy?
Your review pretty much sums up how I felt about the book as well. Definitely 2 camps of readers for this book. I was one who enjoyed the ride, beginning to end.
Your review pretty much sums up how I felt about the book as well. Definitely 2 camps of readers for this book. I was one who enjoyed the ride, beginning to end.
104susiesharp
>102 DeltaQueen50:-I loved the whiplash Gone Girl caused me! Now you need to give The Girl on the Train a try!
105Storeetllr
Hmm, I started to listen to Gone Girl on audio and hated the reader, but I didn't get very far. Perhaps I'll have to try again, this time with a print version.
106DeltaQueen50
>103 jolerie: I would love to now see the film, Valerie. Although I am not really a fan of his, I found it quite easy to picture Ben Afleck in the role of Nick. Sometimes it's difficult to get involved in a book where the main characters are so immoral and downright vile, but I was in right from the start with this one.
>104 susiesharp: I have The Girl on the Train on my wishlist, Susie, but who knows when I will get to it - probably long after everyone else!
>105 Storeetllr: I would definitely give the print version a try, Mary, but it does appear to be a book that people either love or hate.
>104 susiesharp: I have The Girl on the Train on my wishlist, Susie, but who knows when I will get to it - probably long after everyone else!
>105 Storeetllr: I would definitely give the print version a try, Mary, but it does appear to be a book that people either love or hate.
107rosalita
So glad to see the love for Gone Girl. It seems like I've been reading a lot of backlash reviews panning it, which is totally fine if people really didn't like it but it does start to make me wonder if I read the same book they did!
110Helenliz
I couldn't decide what to make of it, neither loving not hating it. I found the characters unlikeable, but found myself unable to put it down before I got to the end. I thought Nick more real, Amy felt like too much of a extreme character. I ended up thinking they deserved each other.
111dudes22
I'm with Helenliz. I thought the characters were totally unlikeable - all of them. But that's probably part of what gave the book it's oomph!
112DeltaQueen50
>107 rosalita: Hi Julia, Gone Girl certainly seems like one of those books that people end up feeling strongly about - one way or another.
>108 mamzel: Yes, I think Gillian Flynn was in control and manipulating her audience through the whole book, but in my case, I just settled in and went for the ride, but I can certainly understand that this isn't a book for everyone.
>109 Kassilem: I hope you enjoy it when you do get it, Melissa.
>110 Helenliz: You are the first person that I've heard from that doesn't have strong feelings one way or another about the book. I do agree with you about Nick and Amy. He seemed more real to me. To me the biggest flaw in the book was Amy's believability and how perfect her plan fell into place.
>110 Helenliz: The unlikeability of the main characters didn't really bother me. My biggest concern at the end of the book was that these two were going to be responsible for the raising of an innocent child!!!
>108 mamzel: Yes, I think Gillian Flynn was in control and manipulating her audience through the whole book, but in my case, I just settled in and went for the ride, but I can certainly understand that this isn't a book for everyone.
>109 Kassilem: I hope you enjoy it when you do get it, Melissa.
>110 Helenliz: You are the first person that I've heard from that doesn't have strong feelings one way or another about the book. I do agree with you about Nick and Amy. He seemed more real to me. To me the biggest flaw in the book was
>110 Helenliz: The unlikeability of the main characters didn't really bother me. My biggest concern at the end of the book was
113DeltaQueen50
39. Sweet Tooth, Volume 4: Endangered Species by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★
Sweet Tooth, Volume 5: Unnatural Habitats by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★
Sweet Tooth, Volume 6: Wild Game by Jeff Lemire - 3.0 ★
Category: Woven Ribbons
As these graphics novels are an on-going story, I will just write the one review. First off since I started this series over two years ago, I greatly appreciated that each volume opened with a prologue that recapped the story. I was able to jump into the storyline and reconnect with the characters easily.
Jeff Lemire both writes and illustrates these books and he has his own unique style of drawing which he uses it to great advantage in this series. The setting is of a world where many have and still are dying from a sickness. Children born since the sickness started are a strange hybrid mix of human and animals and appear to be immune to the illness. The main character in the story, Gus, a hybrid of a human and a deer, has been found to be the first of the hybrids born and so he and a small group are trying to discover more about his roots. They are being tracked by a brutal man and his militia who hate the hybrids and long to wipe them from the face of the earth.
Volumes 4 and 5 deal with Gus and the small group of people and hybrids that are trying to get to Alaska, where Gus is originally from. They feel that if they go back to where it started, they may learn how to cure the sickness. Overseeing the group and acting as the leader is Jeppard, a man with a history and a deep longing to protect these hybrid children. Volume 6 wraps the story up and to me it felt very much like the author had almost written himself into a corner and then had to quickly find a way to resolve all the storylines. The author did manage to close the series out on a somewhat positive note, but I felt it was both too quick and little to contrived. For a series that started out with such promise, I felt the flat ending did not do it justice.
Sweet Tooth, Volume 5: Unnatural Habitats by Jeff Lemire - 4.0 ★
Sweet Tooth, Volume 6: Wild Game by Jeff Lemire - 3.0 ★
Category: Woven Ribbons
As these graphics novels are an on-going story, I will just write the one review. First off since I started this series over two years ago, I greatly appreciated that each volume opened with a prologue that recapped the story. I was able to jump into the storyline and reconnect with the characters easily.
Jeff Lemire both writes and illustrates these books and he has his own unique style of drawing which he uses it to great advantage in this series. The setting is of a world where many have and still are dying from a sickness. Children born since the sickness started are a strange hybrid mix of human and animals and appear to be immune to the illness. The main character in the story, Gus, a hybrid of a human and a deer, has been found to be the first of the hybrids born and so he and a small group are trying to discover more about his roots. They are being tracked by a brutal man and his militia who hate the hybrids and long to wipe them from the face of the earth.
Volumes 4 and 5 deal with Gus and the small group of people and hybrids that are trying to get to Alaska, where Gus is originally from. They feel that if they go back to where it started, they may learn how to cure the sickness. Overseeing the group and acting as the leader is Jeppard, a man with a history and a deep longing to protect these hybrid children. Volume 6 wraps the story up and to me it felt very much like the author had almost written himself into a corner and then had to quickly find a way to resolve all the storylines. The author did manage to close the series out on a somewhat positive note, but I felt it was both too quick and little to contrived. For a series that started out with such promise, I felt the flat ending did not do it justice.
114Roro8
I loved Gone Girl too. At first I was a bit miffed about the ending, but the more I thought about it, the more appropriate it seemed.
115AHS-Wolfy
>113 DeltaQueen50: Shame about the last volume but it still sounds like one I want to get to in the future.
116DeltaQueen50
>114 Roro8: Exactly the way I felt as well, Ro!
>115 AHS-Wolfy: It felt like the author had planned for a 10 volume series and then suddenly had to wrap it up in the 6th volume. However, I do think it is well worth your time.
>115 AHS-Wolfy: It felt like the author had planned for a 10 volume series and then suddenly had to wrap it up in the 6th volume. However, I do think it is well worth your time.
117BLBera
Hi Judy - What a lot of good reading. I think I would love Ella Minnow Pea. I think I have it on my Nook. I haven't read Gone Girl yet. Usually I'm not a thriller reader, so I've been on the fence... I've heard a lot of good things about it.
Too bad the graphic novels didn't end well.
Too bad the graphic novels didn't end well.
118mathgirl40
I'm happy to hear that February was a good month for both you and your husband!
I haven't gotten around to reading Gone Girl either, though I feel I really must do that soon, given all the great reviews I've seen.
Despite the weak final book, Lemire's series does sound worthwhile. I liked his Essex County trilogy but haven't read any of his other works yet.
I haven't gotten around to reading Gone Girl either, though I feel I really must do that soon, given all the great reviews I've seen.
Despite the weak final book, Lemire's series does sound worthwhile. I liked his Essex County trilogy but haven't read any of his other works yet.
119LittleTaiko
Man, it really doesn't take much to get behind on your thread! Quick skim through and I see you've read two books I really enjoyed - Ella Minnow Pea and Gone Girl. Happy to see your positive reviews!
120susanj67
Judy, I loved Ella Minnow Pea too. I believe I read about it somewhere on LT :-) It's great to see that your husband is over the surgery - what a relief it must be for you too.
121LauraBrook
>96 DeltaQueen50: That one's been on my shelves since it was first published. *gulp* Permaybehaps it's time that I pulled it off of the shelf and actually read it?!?
Hope you're having a nice start to the weekend!
Hope you're having a nice start to the weekend!
122DeltaQueen50
Happy Saturday everyone! I can't believe that tonight we turn the clocks forward! It seems way too early for daylight savings. We have no plans at all for the weekend so I suspect I will get plenty of reading in.
>117 BLBera: Hi Beth. Ella Minnow Pea is a fun, short read and I think you would enjoy it. It would be the perfect book to squeeze in between a couple of larger volumes.
>118 mathgirl40: I think Gone Girl is definitely in your wheelhouse, Paulina and I'll look forward to reading your thoughts on it.
My very first graphic novel was The Complete Essex County by Jeff Lemire and I was totally hooked. I have also heard that his Underwater Welder is very good and that is one that I hope to find at the library.
>119 LittleTaiko: Falling behind seems to be the norm around here!
>120 susanj67: Hi Susan, it is wonderful to have my hubby up and moving around. He feels a lot better as well which is a relief. After as many reading years as I have under my belt, it's such a surprise to find a book that is as original and clever as Ella Minnow Pea is. :)
>121 LauraBrook: Hi Laura, Ella Minnow Pea is well worth a read. It's also quite short which means it's easy to squeeze in - just saying!
>117 BLBera: Hi Beth. Ella Minnow Pea is a fun, short read and I think you would enjoy it. It would be the perfect book to squeeze in between a couple of larger volumes.
>118 mathgirl40: I think Gone Girl is definitely in your wheelhouse, Paulina and I'll look forward to reading your thoughts on it.
My very first graphic novel was The Complete Essex County by Jeff Lemire and I was totally hooked. I have also heard that his Underwater Welder is very good and that is one that I hope to find at the library.
>119 LittleTaiko: Falling behind seems to be the norm around here!
>120 susanj67: Hi Susan, it is wonderful to have my hubby up and moving around. He feels a lot better as well which is a relief. After as many reading years as I have under my belt, it's such a surprise to find a book that is as original and clever as Ella Minnow Pea is. :)
>121 LauraBrook: Hi Laura, Ella Minnow Pea is well worth a read. It's also quite short which means it's easy to squeeze in - just saying!
123DeltaQueen50
40. Sunrise by Mike Mullin - 4.0 ★
Category: Colts
March SFFFCat: It's The End of the World!
TIOLI #3: Read the Third Book in a Series or Trilogy
Sunrise by Mike Mullin is the third volume in the Ashfall Trilogy. The volcanoes that lie dormant under Yellowstone Park erupted in the first book and changed America forever. The next two books were about how people dealt with the crisis and tried to build new lives for themselves. The setting of Sunrise is Illinois and it is now two years after the event, it is still permanent winter and the sky is still grey with ash. The main characters Alex and Darla have established a colony that they have built around generators that are run by wind power. They are building greenhouses and planting crops for food, gathering any survivors and animals that they find and trying to build a democratic society. Unfortunately they also have to deal with violent people who want what they have and with marauding cannibals.
I have enjoyed this YA series that started literally with a bang. This last book finds the main characters reaching a higher level of maturity and a lot of the book deals with survivor techniques and the building of machinery to help improve their lifestyle. All the familiar characters are back and it is a crap shoot as to who survives as this is a violent dangerous world and there is plenty of action which keeps things moving along at a rapid pace.
The book ended on a hopeful note, and after following these characters for three books, there was enough closure to satisfy, but the author definitely left an opening if it is decided to continue on with these books. I enjoyed the Ashfall Trilogy, and Sunrise was a worthy conclusion, but if the series is continued I would certainly be happy to pick up the next book.
Category: Colts
March SFFFCat: It's The End of the World!
TIOLI #3: Read the Third Book in a Series or Trilogy
Sunrise by Mike Mullin is the third volume in the Ashfall Trilogy. The volcanoes that lie dormant under Yellowstone Park erupted in the first book and changed America forever. The next two books were about how people dealt with the crisis and tried to build new lives for themselves. The setting of Sunrise is Illinois and it is now two years after the event, it is still permanent winter and the sky is still grey with ash. The main characters Alex and Darla have established a colony that they have built around generators that are run by wind power. They are building greenhouses and planting crops for food, gathering any survivors and animals that they find and trying to build a democratic society. Unfortunately they also have to deal with violent people who want what they have and with marauding cannibals.
I have enjoyed this YA series that started literally with a bang. This last book finds the main characters reaching a higher level of maturity and a lot of the book deals with survivor techniques and the building of machinery to help improve their lifestyle. All the familiar characters are back and it is a crap shoot as to who survives as this is a violent dangerous world and there is plenty of action which keeps things moving along at a rapid pace.
The book ended on a hopeful note, and after following these characters for three books, there was enough closure to satisfy, but the author definitely left an opening if it is decided to continue on with these books. I enjoyed the Ashfall Trilogy, and Sunrise was a worthy conclusion, but if the series is continued I would certainly be happy to pick up the next book.
124lkernagh
Great reading Judy and I love your review of Ella Minnow Pea. Like you, I have a hard time with the idea that we "Spring Forward" tomorrow. I am of the camp that wishes we would just do away with daylight savings time.... it is becoming more of a hassle each year and if it wasn't for the newspapers reminding me, I would probably fumble through a week confused as to why I never seem to be on time....except for the fact that technology auto corrects all of my clocks except for the one on the kitchen stove. ;-)
Happy weekend, Judy.
Happy weekend, Judy.
125Crazymamie
Morning, Judy! Happy SUnday!
126rosalita
>123 DeltaQueen50: Lovely review, Judy. I had lost track of that series and didn't realize the third book had been released. I liked the first two well enough to want to finish it off and your review makes me hopeful that it will be well worth my while. Off to the library's website to see if they have it.
Enjoy your Sunday!
Enjoy your Sunday!
127andreablythe
The Ashfall Trilogy sounds very cool. I like seeing how people are able to come together after such disasters.
128jnwelch
>123 DeltaQueen50: That does sound like an interesting trilogy, Judy. Sure is a realistically possible premise, as Yellowstone is a supervolcano (volcanic caldera), right?
129susiesharp
Right after Sunrise was published Mike Mullin had said he wouldn't revisit the world of Ashfall but he he may be relaxing that stance as he now says there "may be" another book!
130DeltaQueen50
Is it Monday already? Where did the weekend go? I should never have said that I was going to get a lot reading done as that was exactly what didn't happen. Instead we worked outside getting the garden ship-shape and also did some spring cleaning. Today I went to the dentist and did some shopping, so now I have an hour or two before my grandson arrives for dinner.
>124 lkernagh: Hi Lori. I am still topsy-turvy over the time change and probably will be for a few more days. I am not a big fan of the time changes but I do love those long summer evenings.
>125 Crazymamie: Waves at Mamie!
>126 rosalita: I loved the first book, and was less taken with the second book of the Ashfall trilogy, Julia. This third, I liked better than the second, and I found it interesting reding about how they set up the greenhouses etc.
>127 andreablythe: There were a few flaws in this trilogy that drove me crazy, such as encounters with cannibals barely two weeks into the disaster. I guess some people just can't wait to chaw down on their neighbours! It is a YA so not as deep or as detailed as I would want, but they are quick reads with plenty of action and likeable main characters.
>128 jnwelch: Yes, that's what originally drew me to this story, Joe. I have visited Yellowstone a few times over the years, and I could certainly imagine what a disaster it would be if there was an eruption. I remember when Mount St. Helen's erupted and even here hundreds of miles north we had ash fall.
>129 susiesharp: Hi Susie, and a big thank you as you are the one who originally reviewed the first book, Ashfall and got me hooked on this trilogy. I wouldn't mind reading more about Alex and Darla, I love survival stories and would be interested in how the conditions change as time passes.
>124 lkernagh: Hi Lori. I am still topsy-turvy over the time change and probably will be for a few more days. I am not a big fan of the time changes but I do love those long summer evenings.
>125 Crazymamie: Waves at Mamie!
>126 rosalita: I loved the first book, and was less taken with the second book of the Ashfall trilogy, Julia. This third, I liked better than the second, and I found it interesting reding about how they set up the greenhouses etc.
>127 andreablythe: There were a few flaws in this trilogy that drove me crazy, such as encounters with cannibals barely two weeks into the disaster. I guess some people just can't wait to chaw down on their neighbours! It is a YA so not as deep or as detailed as I would want, but they are quick reads with plenty of action and likeable main characters.
>128 jnwelch: Yes, that's what originally drew me to this story, Joe. I have visited Yellowstone a few times over the years, and I could certainly imagine what a disaster it would be if there was an eruption. I remember when Mount St. Helen's erupted and even here hundreds of miles north we had ash fall.
>129 susiesharp: Hi Susie, and a big thank you as you are the one who originally reviewed the first book, Ashfall and got me hooked on this trilogy. I wouldn't mind reading more about Alex and Darla, I love survival stories and would be interested in how the conditions change as time passes.
131Storeetllr
I have put a hold on Ashfall at my library, Judy. Sounds like a timely story, in that I've recently read that there have been predictions of a major quake at Yellowstone. I might not have paid quite as much attention to them had I still lived in Southern California, but I'm a day's drive south now so I'm definitely paying attention!
132DeltaQueen50
>131 Storeetllr: I hope you enjoy Ashfall, Mary. I have become a lot more aware of how nature can reach out and destroy lives so easily. What with earthquakes, volcanoes, flooding and severe weather conditions, you realize just how precarious life can be!
133DeltaQueen50
41. Purgatory Ridge by William Kent Krueger - 4.1 ★
Category: Endless Rain
TIOI #3: Read the Third Book in a Series
The third in his Cork O’Connor series, Purgatory Ridge by William Kent Krueger continues the excellence of this series. His setting of Northern Minnesota is a major draw to this well written series. The author obviously has a familiarity and a love for this area and he is able to draw the reader in as he paints the scene.
In Purgatory Ridge, Cork and his lawyer wife, Jo are still slowly working their way back to each other. Both are involved in a logging dispute and it soon becomes clear that Cork longs to be sheriff once again. The opportunity to run for that office soon presents itself, and Cork is pondering his future. Meanwhile there is a plot developing that will involve Cork’s family when a kidnapping plan goes awry. Resentments, revenge, and obsession are bubbling away as Cork battles to save his family.
Purgatory Ridge is a well written suspenseful mystery. The author, a former logger himself, describes the conflicts between the logging company, the local economy, the environmentalists and the native culture intelligently. The main mystery plot with it’s high suspense and twists made for a terrific read.
Category: Endless Rain
TIOI #3: Read the Third Book in a Series
The third in his Cork O’Connor series, Purgatory Ridge by William Kent Krueger continues the excellence of this series. His setting of Northern Minnesota is a major draw to this well written series. The author obviously has a familiarity and a love for this area and he is able to draw the reader in as he paints the scene.
In Purgatory Ridge, Cork and his lawyer wife, Jo are still slowly working their way back to each other. Both are involved in a logging dispute and it soon becomes clear that Cork longs to be sheriff once again. The opportunity to run for that office soon presents itself, and Cork is pondering his future. Meanwhile there is a plot developing that will involve Cork’s family when a kidnapping plan goes awry. Resentments, revenge, and obsession are bubbling away as Cork battles to save his family.
Purgatory Ridge is a well written suspenseful mystery. The author, a former logger himself, describes the conflicts between the logging company, the local economy, the environmentalists and the native culture intelligently. The main mystery plot with it’s high suspense and twists made for a terrific read.
134Storeetllr
>132 DeltaQueen50: So true, Judy. Reminds me of a conversation my 11-year old daughter and I had in 1994, after the big Northridge earthquake in Southern California. She had been staying at a friend's house in Van Nuys, and I was at home in Santa Clarita. The freeway connecting the two cities, which were separated by a mountain range, was destroyed, and the mountain roads were closed to traffic due to slide danger. I couldn't even get through to her on the phone for hours, and was just getting my boots on, intending to walk over the mountains, if I had to, to be sure she was all right. Fortunately, her dad who also lived in Van Nuys was able to get through to both her and me and was able to reassure me she was okay, though a wicker shelf unit had fallen across the bed she and her little girlfriend had been sleeping in, and the floor was covered with rubble so they were stuck in the room for awhile until the girl's dad could shove the door open enough to get them out.
Anyway, a week later, when she was finally able to get home, we talked about it. She'd been pretty traumatized, and she said she wanted to move away from California. I asked her where she wanted to go ~ the northeast where there were blizzards and freezing wind chill in the winters or the southeast where there were hurricanes and flooding or the midwest where there were tornadoes or the southwest where there were droughts. She thought about it awhile and decided she might as well stay where we were. We practiced what to do next time an earthquake hit (there were aftershocks for weeks): get under a table and scream at the earthquake to "STOP! STOP STOP STOP!!!" It helped, but eventually when she grew up she moved across the country ~ to NYC. I don't know how much the trauma of that earthquake contributed to her decision (and how much was a desire to get as far away from me as possible). :-D
Anyway, a week later, when she was finally able to get home, we talked about it. She'd been pretty traumatized, and she said she wanted to move away from California. I asked her where she wanted to go ~ the northeast where there were blizzards and freezing wind chill in the winters or the southeast where there were hurricanes and flooding or the midwest where there were tornadoes or the southwest where there were droughts. She thought about it awhile and decided she might as well stay where we were. We practiced what to do next time an earthquake hit (there were aftershocks for weeks): get under a table and scream at the earthquake to "STOP! STOP STOP STOP!!!" It helped, but eventually when she grew up she moved across the country ~ to NYC. I don't know how much the trauma of that earthquake contributed to her decision (and how much was a desire to get as far away from me as possible). :-D
135LisaMorr
Lots of good reviews here - I just read Gone Girl myself and I agree with your review. I did like it even though I didn't like any of the characters really. I also found myself re-reading the last chapter and thinking, wow...
And I'm adding Ella Minnow Pea and The Enemy series to the list!
And I'm adding Ella Minnow Pea and The Enemy series to the list!
136DeltaQueen50
>134 Storeetllr: I firmly believe that there are difficulties no matter where one choses to live but I also think that everyone has their own individual concerns. I live in an earthquake zone and have been very lucky that we haven't had a really big one. I would be more nervous living in an area that was prone to getting tornadoes. I suspect your daughter having had such a scare feels that earthquakes are to be avoided!
>135 LisaMorr: Hi Lisa, if the story is good then I don't mind disliking the main characters and that was the case in Gone Girl. Hope you like Ella Minnow Pea and the Enemy series.
>135 LisaMorr: Hi Lisa, if the story is good then I don't mind disliking the main characters and that was the case in Gone Girl. Hope you like Ella Minnow Pea and the Enemy series.
137thornton37814
>133 DeltaQueen50: I have read one book in that series and really enjoyed it. I just haven't made it to another one yet although I keep intending to do so.
138Chrischi_HH
The Ashfall trilogy is a BB for me, sounds great!
I have never really thought about it, but it seems I should be happy to live where I live. There are no bigger dangers in northern Germany, just storms (but no real tornados or hurricanes) and the occasional floodings. Which is bad enough for those people living close to the coast or in the lower parts of the land, but most of the times there is no or only little serious harm done. This might change when sea levels rise, then our part of the country would drown completely...
This is what Christmas looked liked last year, heavy rain and strong winds prevented the water from flowing on into the North Sea. Normally this is a tiny "river" surrounded by green grass. It was the highest water level ever measured in my parents' village, only few centimeters below the crest of the dyke:
So I agree with >136 DeltaQueen50:, there is at list some risk everywhere.
I have never really thought about it, but it seems I should be happy to live where I live. There are no bigger dangers in northern Germany, just storms (but no real tornados or hurricanes) and the occasional floodings. Which is bad enough for those people living close to the coast or in the lower parts of the land, but most of the times there is no or only little serious harm done. This might change when sea levels rise, then our part of the country would drown completely...
This is what Christmas looked liked last year, heavy rain and strong winds prevented the water from flowing on into the North Sea. Normally this is a tiny "river" surrounded by green grass. It was the highest water level ever measured in my parents' village, only few centimeters below the crest of the dyke:
So I agree with >136 DeltaQueen50:, there is at list some risk everywhere.
139andreablythe
>138 Chrischi_HH:
It still looks pretty, even with all the sandbags.
It still looks pretty, even with all the sandbags.
140DeltaQueen50
>137 thornton37814: So far, it's an excellent series, Lori. His descriptions of Northern Minnesota are worth the read even without the mysteries!
>138 Chrischi_HH: I agree with Andrea, that looks like a very pretty area. Your Christmas looks a lot like here in the Pacific Northwest - mild and wet!
>139 andreablythe: Waves to Andrea!
>138 Chrischi_HH: I agree with Andrea, that looks like a very pretty area. Your Christmas looks a lot like here in the Pacific Northwest - mild and wet!
>139 andreablythe: Waves to Andrea!
141DeltaQueen50
42. The Prow Beast by Robert Low - 4.1 ★
Category: The Cat & Fiddle Arcade
March HistoryCat: 500 - 1000 Exploration & Conquest
March Reading Through Time
TIOLI #11: Something You Should Beware of Is In the Title
Originally intended to be a trilogy, The Oathsworn has evolved into a series with The Prow Beast as the fourth entry. The author, Robert Low does extensive research for his writing and in this book he includes a few known-to-be real people to enhance the story. The Oathsworn are a loose band of warriors, Vikings who have banded together to take the whale road to riches and adventures.
The Prow Beast opens with Orm Bearslayer and his men being put on the defensive by an old enemy. To himself, Orm knows that this is well deserved revenge for the terrible acts he and his men did, but he also soon realizes that there is political motive here as well. King Erik of Sweden has entrusted him with his pregnant Queen Sigrith, and it appears some of the attackers are more interested in killing her and her unborn baby than in taking their revenge. During the course of the assault, Orm’s foster son, Koll, is captured and taken. As he is the son of a very important Jarl, Orm and the Oathsworn are soon back on their ship and following the kidnapper’s trail down the Oder River. This takes them into unknown lands, people by Wends, Pols, and Vis, who have one thing in common, as much as they dislike one another, they all view the Northmen as their enemies.
This author is a wonderful storyteller, and The Prow Beast is an action packed, gripping story that is rich in detail, decidedly violent and altogether a great reading adventure.
Category: The Cat & Fiddle Arcade
March HistoryCat: 500 - 1000 Exploration & Conquest
March Reading Through Time
TIOLI #11: Something You Should Beware of Is In the Title
Originally intended to be a trilogy, The Oathsworn has evolved into a series with The Prow Beast as the fourth entry. The author, Robert Low does extensive research for his writing and in this book he includes a few known-to-be real people to enhance the story. The Oathsworn are a loose band of warriors, Vikings who have banded together to take the whale road to riches and adventures.
The Prow Beast opens with Orm Bearslayer and his men being put on the defensive by an old enemy. To himself, Orm knows that this is well deserved revenge for the terrible acts he and his men did, but he also soon realizes that there is political motive here as well. King Erik of Sweden has entrusted him with his pregnant Queen Sigrith, and it appears some of the attackers are more interested in killing her and her unborn baby than in taking their revenge. During the course of the assault, Orm’s foster son, Koll, is captured and taken. As he is the son of a very important Jarl, Orm and the Oathsworn are soon back on their ship and following the kidnapper’s trail down the Oder River. This takes them into unknown lands, people by Wends, Pols, and Vis, who have one thing in common, as much as they dislike one another, they all view the Northmen as their enemies.
This author is a wonderful storyteller, and The Prow Beast is an action packed, gripping story that is rich in detail, decidedly violent and altogether a great reading adventure.
143DeltaQueen50
>142 Kassilem: Me, too! :)
144DeltaQueen50
43. The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan - 3.3 ★
Category: Combined Miscellany
March SFFFCat: It's The End of the World!
TIOLI #10: Author's Last Name Could Also be a First Name
Combined Miscellany - Using the word forest as the common denominator, this month I chose The Forest of Hands and Teeth for this category based on last month's title of Into The Forest.
I love dystopian stories and when these stories have the added bonus of zombie-like creatures, I am all in. So I was fully prepared to love The Forest of Hands of Teeth by Carrie Ryan. I did enjoy the story, but unfortunately there were a few things that held me back from total love. I found the characters were a little off. Mary came across a little too desperate and obsessive. Also she was a little too much in her head when she needed to be more about the action. The two brothers, Travis and Harry, were so much alike that I could hardly tell them apart which made it difficult to understand why Mary loved one but not the other. Jed, supposedly Mary’s loving brother, treated her very harshly in the beginning, yet expected Mary to understand and fully back him when he held something back from the group . Probably Cass, Mary’s supposedly best friend, came off as the most understandable as she had a reason for her coldness toward Mary.
There were a few plot-points in the story that made me pause and scratch my head and at times I felt the story was a little disjointed. But this YA story definitely held my attention and kept me engrossed and the pages turning. So the question is, am I going to continue on with this trilogy? The answer is simple, you bet I am, after all it’s a dystopian with zombies!
Category: Combined Miscellany
March SFFFCat: It's The End of the World!
TIOLI #10: Author's Last Name Could Also be a First Name
Combined Miscellany - Using the word forest as the common denominator, this month I chose The Forest of Hands and Teeth for this category based on last month's title of Into The Forest.
I love dystopian stories and when these stories have the added bonus of zombie-like creatures, I am all in. So I was fully prepared to love The Forest of Hands of Teeth by Carrie Ryan. I did enjoy the story, but unfortunately there were a few things that held me back from total love. I found the characters were a little off. Mary came across a little too desperate and obsessive. Also she was a little too much in her head when she needed to be more about the action. The two brothers, Travis and Harry, were so much alike that I could hardly tell them apart which made it difficult to understand why Mary loved one but not the other. Jed, supposedly Mary’s loving brother, treated her very harshly in the beginning, yet expected Mary to understand and fully back him when he held something back from the group . Probably Cass, Mary’s supposedly best friend, came off as the most understandable as she had a reason for her coldness toward Mary.
There were a few plot-points in the story that made me pause and scratch my head and at times I felt the story was a little disjointed. But this YA story definitely held my attention and kept me engrossed and the pages turning. So the question is, am I going to continue on with this trilogy? The answer is simple, you bet I am, after all it’s a dystopian with zombies!
145susiesharp
You liked it better than I did. I gave it barely 2 stars and never read any of the other books in the series.
146jolerie
Thanks for the reminder that I need to get to the Ashfall series. Do you know if the series is now done or is there books in the works?
147Kassilem
>144 DeltaQueen50: Darn. That one's on my list. Maybe I'll just push it back a little. :)
148DeltaQueen50
>145 susiesharp: I have heard that this series gets better as it advances, Susie, but if I find this is another book with a main character that I simply want to smack, well, it may just become an abandoned book.
>146 jolerie: All I know for sure, Valerie, is that it was originally planned to be a trilogy, but in today's market, if a book trilogy is successful, it often becomes a series. Although I just checked out the author's website and I see it's still being called a trilogy, but there is another book, Darla's Story, numbered .05. This would be one of the main character's backstory.
>144 DeltaQueen50: Melissa, yeah, I wouldn't rush to get this one read!
>146 jolerie: All I know for sure, Valerie, is that it was originally planned to be a trilogy, but in today's market, if a book trilogy is successful, it often becomes a series. Although I just checked out the author's website and I see it's still being called a trilogy, but there is another book, Darla's Story, numbered .05. This would be one of the main character's backstory.
>144 DeltaQueen50: Melissa, yeah, I wouldn't rush to get this one read!
149DeltaQueen50
The more I think about it, the more I am inclined to change my rating of The Forest of Hands and Teeth, it probably only deserves 3.2 or 3.3 stars. Yep, I am going to change it.
150LisaMorr
The Prow Beast sounds good - had you read the trilogy previously?
151DeltaQueen50
>150 LisaMorr: I have read all the Oathsworn books and I recommend reading them in order as they following the life of one man, Orm the Bearslayer. The first is The Whale Road.
152DeltaQueen50
44. My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier - 5.0 ★
Category: Dust Collectors
March British Author Challenge
TIOLI #6: The Author's Last Name Has More Syllables Than His Fist Name
I should start off by saying that I have loved every Daphne du Maurier book that I have read, and even though it has been years since I‘ve read one of hers, My Cousin Rachel was no exception. Once again du Maurier exceeded my expectations and delivered an atmospheric, spellbinding story that kept me on the edge of my seat with anxiety over the “Did she or didn’t she” question that saturated every page.
Set in 19th century Cornwall and Florence, Italy, this psychological suspense story builds slowly as we read about the main character, Philip Ashley and his obsession with his uncles’ widow, Rachel as to whether she had a hand in his uncles’ death. Before meeting her he is highly suspicious but after she has come to his estate in Cornwall, her beauty, gentle manners and humor sway him in another direction entirely.
Of course, Philip is an unreliable narrator as he only believes what he wants to and adjusts his viewpoint according to his mood. His angst along with his puppy-dog devotion and his juvenile way of looking at things made it difficult to see the real Rachel. Was she the gentle Madonna or the evil fortune hunter or does the truth stretch to encompass both these views?
An expert at manipulating her readers, Daphne Du Maurier draws us along, setting the mood to match the well described weather and changing our viewpoint accordingly. This constant feeling of unease had me looking at Philip and his immaturity at one moment and in the next peering with distrust at Rachel. As Philip was drawn to the woman, Rachel, like a moth to a flame so to was I drawn into this story. And as to the final outcome, well suffice to say Daphne Du Maurier was a great storyteller and certainly knew how to portray the dark side of human nature. A rich subtle read that I highly recommend.
Category: Dust Collectors
March British Author Challenge
TIOLI #6: The Author's Last Name Has More Syllables Than His Fist Name
I should start off by saying that I have loved every Daphne du Maurier book that I have read, and even though it has been years since I‘ve read one of hers, My Cousin Rachel was no exception. Once again du Maurier exceeded my expectations and delivered an atmospheric, spellbinding story that kept me on the edge of my seat with anxiety over the “Did she or didn’t she” question that saturated every page.
Set in 19th century Cornwall and Florence, Italy, this psychological suspense story builds slowly as we read about the main character, Philip Ashley and his obsession with his uncles’ widow, Rachel as to whether she had a hand in his uncles’ death. Before meeting her he is highly suspicious but after she has come to his estate in Cornwall, her beauty, gentle manners and humor sway him in another direction entirely.
Of course, Philip is an unreliable narrator as he only believes what he wants to and adjusts his viewpoint according to his mood. His angst along with his puppy-dog devotion and his juvenile way of looking at things made it difficult to see the real Rachel. Was she the gentle Madonna or the evil fortune hunter or does the truth stretch to encompass both these views?
An expert at manipulating her readers, Daphne Du Maurier draws us along, setting the mood to match the well described weather and changing our viewpoint accordingly. This constant feeling of unease had me looking at Philip and his immaturity at one moment and in the next peering with distrust at Rachel. As Philip was drawn to the woman, Rachel, like a moth to a flame so to was I drawn into this story. And as to the final outcome, well suffice to say Daphne Du Maurier was a great storyteller and certainly knew how to portray the dark side of human nature. A rich subtle read that I highly recommend.
153mstrust
Thanks for that great review; My Cousin Rachel has been sitting on my shelf for years. You're making me put it back on my TBR pile.
154rabbitprincess
Yay! I'll have to add My Cousin Rachel to the TBR list as well.
156lkernagh
>152 DeltaQueen50: - Oooohhhhh.... 5 stars! I have avoided Du Maurier since reading her acclaimed Rebecca - I found that one to be very dated - but My Cousin Rachel sounds perfect. I have no time to read it for the BAC but I will definitely keep it in mind for a future read!
157DeltaQueen50
>153 mstrust: My Cousin Rachel has been sitting on my TBR pile for a number of years as well and it was the British Author Challenge that put it onto the 'read now' pile. I discovered Daphne Du Maurier when I was in my teens and gobbled up Rebecca, Jamacia Inn and Frenchman's Creek in quick order. This is the first book of hers that I have read in years, but luckily I have a couple more on the shelf and I did go today and order yet another one. :)
>154 rabbitprincess: Rebecca will always remain my favorite book of hers, but My Cousin Rachel is well worth the read.
>155 LisaMorr: Enjoy the Oathsworn series, Lisa. And, the Daphne Du Maurier as well!
>156 lkernagh: Lori, it's been quite a long time since I read Rebecca so I can't say if My Cousin Rachel would come off as dated, but it is meant to be historical fiction, published in 1951 but set in the 1800's. It is however, a very slow, simmering story, not a lot of action, the reader gets more caught up in the atomosphere and personalities.
>154 rabbitprincess: Rebecca will always remain my favorite book of hers, but My Cousin Rachel is well worth the read.
>155 LisaMorr: Enjoy the Oathsworn series, Lisa. And, the Daphne Du Maurier as well!
>156 lkernagh: Lori, it's been quite a long time since I read Rebecca so I can't say if My Cousin Rachel would come off as dated, but it is meant to be historical fiction, published in 1951 but set in the 1800's. It is however, a very slow, simmering story, not a lot of action, the reader gets more caught up in the atomosphere and personalities.
158cbl_tn
I have a few more unread du Mauriers in my TBR stash, but not My Cousin Rachel. I've loved everything of hers that I've read so far. I'll have to make sure I get that one, too.
160leslie.98
Nice review of My Cousin Rachel! I think I like it even more than the more famous Rebecca and agree with the 5★ rating :-) The only other du Maurier I have read -- The House on the Strand -- was different though also good.
I am pondering reading The Parasites - have you read that one?
I am pondering reading The Parasites - have you read that one?
161DeltaQueen50
>158 cbl_tn: I don't know why I haven't read any Daphne Du Maurier in years, I guess new authors come along and sometimes you forget about old favorites. My Cousin Rachel will be well worth looking for, Carrie.
>159 jolerie: What is your first one going to be, Valerie?
>160 leslie.98: I always say that Rebecca is one of my top all time reads, but I haven't read it since I was sixteen and I am afraid to re-visit it in case the magic isn't there for me anymore. I was a little nervous about My Cousin Rachel but it was wonderful. I have also read The House on the Strand and remember liking it as well. I haven't read The Parasites yet. Currently I have Hungry Hill and The King's General on my shelves to read and today I ordered Mary Anne.
>159 jolerie: What is your first one going to be, Valerie?
>160 leslie.98: I always say that Rebecca is one of my top all time reads, but I haven't read it since I was sixteen and I am afraid to re-visit it in case the magic isn't there for me anymore. I was a little nervous about My Cousin Rachel but it was wonderful. I have also read The House on the Strand and remember liking it as well. I haven't read The Parasites yet. Currently I have Hungry Hill and The King's General on my shelves to read and today I ordered Mary Anne.
162luvamystery65
>110 Helenliz: I felt exactly the same way you did!
Now you know 2 people Judy. ;-) ETA: It seems there are 3 of us! >111 dudes22:
Still scrolling through your thread Judy.
I've posted the April RandomCAT. I hope you join in. https://www.librarything.com/topic/188967
Now you know 2 people Judy. ;-) ETA: It seems there are 3 of us! >111 dudes22:
Still scrolling through your thread Judy.
I've posted the April RandomCAT. I hope you join in. https://www.librarything.com/topic/188967
163DeltaQueen50
>163 DeltaQueen50: Excellent, Ro. I am on my way over to the RandomCat thread.
164Chrischi_HH
Daphne du Maurier is a familiar name, but I haven't read of the books yet. My Cousin Rachel goes on my list now!
165BLBera
Hi Judy - Krueger does do a good job with his setting, doesn't he? I love his books for that. I read du Maurier in my teens but haven't visited her since. It sounds like she has aged well. I'll have to look up one of her books.
166rosalita
That du Maurier sounds good! I read The Birds this month and liked it, but I think she was better at longform fiction than short stories. Some of them barely seemed to get started and then they were over. I'll look for My Cousin Rachel when I'm out and about.
167jolerie
Judy, my plan is to read Rebecca and it seems to get rave reviews so I'm expected to enjoy it!
168susiesharp
My Cousin Rachel is my second favorite after Rebecca my third favorite is Jamaica Inn
169thornton37814
>152 DeltaQueen50: I may wish I'd picked that one for the re-read, but I picked Jamaica Inn instead.
170DeltaQueen50
>164 Chrischi_HH: I hope you like your first Daphne Du Maurier and if you do, she has written some other really good books like Rebecca, Jamaica Inn and Frenchman's Creek.
>165 BLBera: Beth, I think Krueger with his Boundary Waters series and Craig Johnson with his Longmire series are writing two of the best crime series set in America right now.
Since all my previous reading of her was back in my teens, I was a little nervous about how I would find the Du Maurier book, but happily I still love her work.
>166 rosalita: I've never read The Birds, Julia, but I do remember the film quite vividly. I forgot she wrote the original story behind that movie.
>167 jolerie: Valerie, I don't think you could have chosen better. Rebecca is considered her masterpiece.
>168 susiesharp: That exactly the order I would put them in as well, Susie. :)
>169 thornton37814: Lori, Jamaica Inn is one of her best. I remember it being quite dark and atmospheric with a great story. I was surprised when I learned that there is a real Jamaica Inn on Bodmin Moor.
Imagine being able to go and spend a night or two there!
>165 BLBera: Beth, I think Krueger with his Boundary Waters series and Craig Johnson with his Longmire series are writing two of the best crime series set in America right now.
Since all my previous reading of her was back in my teens, I was a little nervous about how I would find the Du Maurier book, but happily I still love her work.
>166 rosalita: I've never read The Birds, Julia, but I do remember the film quite vividly. I forgot she wrote the original story behind that movie.
>167 jolerie: Valerie, I don't think you could have chosen better. Rebecca is considered her masterpiece.
>168 susiesharp: That exactly the order I would put them in as well, Susie. :)
>169 thornton37814: Lori, Jamaica Inn is one of her best. I remember it being quite dark and atmospheric with a great story. I was surprised when I learned that there is a real Jamaica Inn on Bodmin Moor.
Imagine being able to go and spend a night or two there!
171DeltaQueen50
45. Wedding Tiers by Trisha Ashley - 3.8 ★
Category: Is This A Kissing Book?
TIOLI #10: Author's Last Name Could Be A First Name
Wedding Tiers by Trisha Ashley is pure chick-lit. A delightful, clever, breezy story of a woman’s slightly bumpy ride to her happy ending. Set in the tiny village of Neatslake, Lancashire, Josie Gray lives an idyllic, back to nature life with her childhood sweetheart until it all goes wrong and she finds herself facing life alone. Luckily her best friend comes up with an idea to set up a wedding business with Josie as the perfect person to bake the wedding cakes and help with the planning. Being busy is a great way to cope with the loneliness, but although surrounded by wedding romance, Josie finds herself becoming more and more of a cynic. It appears it is up to photographer Noah to lure Josie into giving romance another try.
What made this book so enjoyable is that the romance was mostly on the back burner, growing slowly, but not dominating the story. The setting of the quaint English village and it’s quirky inhabitants made for a lot of humor and added to the feel good atmosphere. At times I found Josie a little too much of a floor mat and wanted her to grow a backbone, but overall this was a well done “kissing book”.
The story flowed effortlessly and the romance, recipes and humor kept it light and entertaining. Wedding Tiers was a relaxing read that make a great escape from everyday life.
Category: Is This A Kissing Book?
TIOLI #10: Author's Last Name Could Be A First Name
Wedding Tiers by Trisha Ashley is pure chick-lit. A delightful, clever, breezy story of a woman’s slightly bumpy ride to her happy ending. Set in the tiny village of Neatslake, Lancashire, Josie Gray lives an idyllic, back to nature life with her childhood sweetheart until it all goes wrong and she finds herself facing life alone. Luckily her best friend comes up with an idea to set up a wedding business with Josie as the perfect person to bake the wedding cakes and help with the planning. Being busy is a great way to cope with the loneliness, but although surrounded by wedding romance, Josie finds herself becoming more and more of a cynic. It appears it is up to photographer Noah to lure Josie into giving romance another try.
What made this book so enjoyable is that the romance was mostly on the back burner, growing slowly, but not dominating the story. The setting of the quaint English village and it’s quirky inhabitants made for a lot of humor and added to the feel good atmosphere. At times I found Josie a little too much of a floor mat and wanted her to grow a backbone, but overall this was a well done “kissing book”.
The story flowed effortlessly and the romance, recipes and humor kept it light and entertaining. Wedding Tiers was a relaxing read that make a great escape from everyday life.
172Storeetllr
I love visiting places that are the settings for novels I love! When I lived in L.A., right across the way from Angels Flight, it tickled me whenever I rode it to or from work that I riding in the same conveyance which was the setting for the Bosch novel of the same name. And last summer, when I visited the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, I couldn't help look around for the ghosts that inhabited it in The Shining.
173lkernagh
>170 DeltaQueen50: - We are currently watching the 2014 BBC miniseries Jamaica Inn starring Jessica Brown Findlay (Downtown Abbey's Lady Sybil) and I was wondering if they shot the movie at the real Jamaica Inn. They didn't. They did shoot part of the miniseries on Bodmin Moor but the "Inn" was in Penistone, South Yorkshire. Great miniseries so far and very atmospheric! Makes me wish I had the time to read Jamaica Inn for the BAC. ;-)
174jnwelch
>173 lkernagh: Ah, I didn't know there was a recent BBC series of Jamaica Inn. Hmm, that's tempting. It's a good yarn.
175DeltaQueen50
>172 Storeetllr: I am the same Mary, it seems to make the book more real if you are able to visit places that are described in the book.
>173 lkernagh: Oh, I didn't know about that mini-series or I would have been watching it as well. Jamaica Inn is a wonderful story and since I read it when I was a teen, I think I may have to schedule a re-read for one of these days.
>174 jnwelch: I think that's a mini-series that would be well worth tracking down, Joe.
>173 lkernagh: Oh, I didn't know about that mini-series or I would have been watching it as well. Jamaica Inn is a wonderful story and since I read it when I was a teen, I think I may have to schedule a re-read for one of these days.
>174 jnwelch: I think that's a mini-series that would be well worth tracking down, Joe.
176lkernagh
>174 jnwelch: & >175 DeltaQueen50: - It is a newish DVD release. We are watching it through Acorn TV but I have noticed that my local library has the DVD of the mini-series on order and it will probably show up in Netflix at some point.
177DeltaQueen50
>176 lkernagh: Thanks Lori, I will keep my eye out for it.
178DeltaQueen50
46. Victors And Lords by V.A. Stuart - 3.4 ★
Category: Pitcher's Duel
BingoDog: Centered Around a Major Historical Event
TIOLI #10: Author's Last Name Could Also Be A First Name
Victors And Lords by V.A. Stuart is a historical romance that stresses the military history over that of the romance. Taking place during the Crimean War and including the disastrous Charge of the Light Brigade, the main characters are caught up in this poorly run campaign from which so many died needlessly. From this book I have gathered that much of the blame for this tragedy can be placed on the shoulders of the military leaders who appeared to be a group of posturing, ill-prepared and jealous old men. This event was one of the main reasons why the British military system was soon to be changed and the policy of allowing the rich to simply buy their commission was discontinued.
The romance between Captain Alexander Sheridan and Emmy O’Shaughnessy was definitely a secondary story which was actually a good thing as it was a little too simple and far too sweet. What was interesting was learning about the women who followed the troops to the battlefield. Conditions were terrible and cholera brought about almost as many deaths as the actual combat. Florence Nightingale and her nurses arrived right about the time of the Charge of the Light Brigade but most doctors would not allow the nurses onto the wards. Even wives had to have the doctor’s permission in order to go onto the wards to nurse their wounded husbands.
This is the first book in a series which follows the military career of Alex Sheridan, I probably wouldn’t go out of my way to continue on with these books but I happen to have a couple more on my shelves so will be giving them another try at some point.
Category: Pitcher's Duel
BingoDog: Centered Around a Major Historical Event
TIOLI #10: Author's Last Name Could Also Be A First Name
Victors And Lords by V.A. Stuart is a historical romance that stresses the military history over that of the romance. Taking place during the Crimean War and including the disastrous Charge of the Light Brigade, the main characters are caught up in this poorly run campaign from which so many died needlessly. From this book I have gathered that much of the blame for this tragedy can be placed on the shoulders of the military leaders who appeared to be a group of posturing, ill-prepared and jealous old men. This event was one of the main reasons why the British military system was soon to be changed and the policy of allowing the rich to simply buy their commission was discontinued.
The romance between Captain Alexander Sheridan and Emmy O’Shaughnessy was definitely a secondary story which was actually a good thing as it was a little too simple and far too sweet. What was interesting was learning about the women who followed the troops to the battlefield. Conditions were terrible and cholera brought about almost as many deaths as the actual combat. Florence Nightingale and her nurses arrived right about the time of the Charge of the Light Brigade but most doctors would not allow the nurses onto the wards. Even wives had to have the doctor’s permission in order to go onto the wards to nurse their wounded husbands.
This is the first book in a series which follows the military career of Alex Sheridan, I probably wouldn’t go out of my way to continue on with these books but I happen to have a couple more on my shelves so will be giving them another try at some point.
179Familyhistorian
>175 DeltaQueen50: I saw the advertising for Jamaica Inn on Acorn TV and was thinking that I would give it a go when I find some time between doing homework and catching up on threads. The du Maurier reads look good, Judy. Maybe I can fit in one of her books as well.
180VivienneR
Excellent review of My Cousin Rachel. I've just placed a hold on it at the library. I'll also add Jamaica Inn to the wishlist.
181msf59
Happy Saturday, Judy! See? Somehow your thread did not get starred. What?? You are starred now, my friend. I hope all is well and happy reading.
182cbl_tn
There's a new BBC adaptation of Jamaica Inn? I should have read that one this month instead of The Scapegoat! I'll have to make sure I read the book before I watch the adaptation.
183DeltaQueen50
I've been getting ready to pack up and go visit my Mom in Victoria and I hope to get away next Wednesday and stay over until after Easter. Hubby is staying home so I am trying to make sure he has everything he needs while I am gone. Another job that is taking up my spare time is making an updated wishlist for all my series so if we hit the second hand bookstores while I am in Victoria, I will know which book in my many series to look for. Sounds simple, but it's actually taking me quite a bit of time to assemble.
No major plans for the weekend, we will probably go out for brunch on Sunday, but other than that will be sticking close to home.
>179 Familyhistorian: Hi Meg, Du Maurier is one of my favorite authors and I am glad that I still have a few of hers on my shelves that I haven't read yet. Acorn TV? is this a specialty channel or is it something separate like Netflicks?
>180 VivienneR: I hope you love My Cousin Rachel as much as I did, Vivienne.
>181 msf59: Welcome, Mark. I am glad that you tracked me down. B.A.G. for sure! My last couple of books have been so-so, but I just finished a Colin Cotterill mystery that I loved and I am working on a couple of others that I am really enjoying so, yes, I am very happy.
>182 cbl_tn: I find it very hard to keep track of TV these days, Carrie, with all the various channels and Netflicks etc. Even the various tv guides aren't much help cause there are just so many darn channels! My best source for TV viewing is actually word-of-mouth here on LT!
No major plans for the weekend, we will probably go out for brunch on Sunday, but other than that will be sticking close to home.
>179 Familyhistorian: Hi Meg, Du Maurier is one of my favorite authors and I am glad that I still have a few of hers on my shelves that I haven't read yet. Acorn TV? is this a specialty channel or is it something separate like Netflicks?
>180 VivienneR: I hope you love My Cousin Rachel as much as I did, Vivienne.
>181 msf59: Welcome, Mark. I am glad that you tracked me down. B.A.G. for sure! My last couple of books have been so-so, but I just finished a Colin Cotterill mystery that I loved and I am working on a couple of others that I am really enjoying so, yes, I am very happy.
>182 cbl_tn: I find it very hard to keep track of TV these days, Carrie, with all the various channels and Netflicks etc. Even the various tv guides aren't much help cause there are just so many darn channels! My best source for TV viewing is actually word-of-mouth here on LT!
184DeltaQueen50
47. Disco For The Departed by Colin Cotterill - 4.0 ★
Category: Around the World - Laos
TIOLI #3: Read the Third Book of a Series
Reading one of Colin Cotterill’s Dr Siri books is like visiting an old friend. I was smiling when I opened Disco For The Departed and I was smiling as I finished it. Dr. Siri Paiboun, his nurse assistant Dtui and morgue attendant Geung are excellent characters and really bring these stories to life.
In Disco For The Departed, Dr. Siri and Dtui are sent to Northern Laos to examine a body that was found encased in cement. This body launches them into an investigation that deals with witch doctors and undying love. Meanwhile Geung is having his own adventure as Judge Haeng, Siri’s figurehead of a boss, uses their absence to make his move toward getting rid of Geung. Geung’s being a mongoloid is the reason for the Judge’s animosity, he feels it belittles the newly established Communist regime to have a mongoloid in a government position.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and loved my time spent in the company of this national coroner and part-time psychic. Changes appear to be on the horizon so I am looking forward to the next book to see if and when they come about.
Category: Around the World - Laos
TIOLI #3: Read the Third Book of a Series
Reading one of Colin Cotterill’s Dr Siri books is like visiting an old friend. I was smiling when I opened Disco For The Departed and I was smiling as I finished it. Dr. Siri Paiboun, his nurse assistant Dtui and morgue attendant Geung are excellent characters and really bring these stories to life.
In Disco For The Departed, Dr. Siri and Dtui are sent to Northern Laos to examine a body that was found encased in cement. This body launches them into an investigation that deals with witch doctors and undying love. Meanwhile Geung is having his own adventure as Judge Haeng, Siri’s figurehead of a boss, uses their absence to make his move toward getting rid of Geung. Geung’s being a mongoloid is the reason for the Judge’s animosity, he feels it belittles the newly established Communist regime to have a mongoloid in a government position.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and loved my time spent in the company of this national coroner and part-time psychic. Changes appear to be on the horizon so I am looking forward to the next book to see if and when they come about.
185dudes22
I really enjoy this series too. I've been looking for book 4 at the used book store and library sales, but so far no luck. I wanted to read it while we were away this winter, but not available on ebook from the library. Maybe later this year I'll borrow it from the library..
186LisaMorr
I added Disco for the Departed to the list and saw that I had Thirty-three Teeth on my list as well, as a recommendation from someone else - so that nudges up this series for sure.
187ronincats
Your review of the Dr. Siri book reminds me that I need to see about getting the next one from my library. I've been reading 2 a year and usually Mystery March is the occasion for one of them, but I've seen nothing about that thread this year. I'm ready for the 8th one, now, with two more to go after that.
188rabbitprincess
Have a great trip to visit your mom, and give Russell Books my best! ;)
189-Eva-
Have a great trip home! I've booked the trip to see my mum for May and it feels so far away.
190Familyhistorian
Hi Judy, Acorn TV is TV you watch on your computer. I have subscribed for 2 or 3 years because it carries my favourite British TV shows. Right now it is featuring Jamaica Inn but it has many, many other TV shows like Poirot, Midsummer Murders, Time Team, The Scarlet Pimpernel etc,etc.
191lkernagh
Acorn TV also has the Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries (Kerry Greenwood"s Phryne Fisher). Doc Martin, Foyles War, etc. Just wanted to mention shows I love that Meg didn't mention in her post above. ;-) It was through Acorn TV that we watched Anzac Girls, a great WWI war series. We have our TV linked to our computer so we can watch Acorn TV shows on our big screen.
192DeltaQueen50
>185 dudes22: Betty, I think I have had to get all my Colin Cotterill books as new ones, they either get gobbled up very quickly at the second hand stores or people are hanging onto their copies. Luckily I have the next one, Anarchy And Old Dogs on my shelf.
>186 LisaMorr: Lisa, this is an excellent series. Lots of humor, lots of information about Laos in the 1970's, and just enough mystery to keep your attention. Some people are a little wary of the supernatural aspect, but I find it adds to the story.
>187 ronincats: Whoops! I think I was the one who usually set up the March Mystery thread, Roni, and since I am mostly spending my time here these days, I didn't remember to do it this year. I will make a note to remember to set up a Series and Sequels thread in September.
>188 rabbitprincess: Thanks, RP! And yes, a visit to Russell's is more than likely. :)
>189 -Eva-: It must be difficult, Eva, living so far away from your Mum. I just have a 2 hour ferry ride and even then it seems I don't get over there as much as I would like! Personally I am finding the year is flying by. It's already more than halfway through March so hopefully May will arrive sooner than you think.
>190 Familyhistorian: >191 lkernagh: Ladies, I just checked out Acorn TV and I am excited and trying to restrain myself until I get back from my trip! I will then sign up for my free month!
>186 LisaMorr: Lisa, this is an excellent series. Lots of humor, lots of information about Laos in the 1970's, and just enough mystery to keep your attention. Some people are a little wary of the supernatural aspect, but I find it adds to the story.
>187 ronincats: Whoops! I think I was the one who usually set up the March Mystery thread, Roni, and since I am mostly spending my time here these days, I didn't remember to do it this year. I will make a note to remember to set up a Series and Sequels thread in September.
>188 rabbitprincess: Thanks, RP! And yes, a visit to Russell's is more than likely. :)
>189 -Eva-: It must be difficult, Eva, living so far away from your Mum. I just have a 2 hour ferry ride and even then it seems I don't get over there as much as I would like! Personally I am finding the year is flying by. It's already more than halfway through March so hopefully May will arrive sooner than you think.
>190 Familyhistorian: >191 lkernagh: Ladies, I just checked out Acorn TV and I am excited and trying to restrain myself until I get back from my trip! I will then sign up for my free month!
193DeltaQueen50
48. The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara - 3.6 ★
Category: Around the World - Sierra Leone
TIOLI #8: A Book About War - Post WW II
The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara is a memoir based on her experiences in the civil war that raged through Sierra Leone from 1991 to 2002. Mariatu and her family lived a life of relative peace and happiness in a small rural village. They knew of the rebels but thought they would be safe if they ran and hid in the forest if they came. Unfortunately, twelve year old Mariatu and three of her cousins were captured, tortured and mutilated.
Mariatu was able to stumble away and through her own will and the help of kindly strangers she was taken to the capital, Freetown and received medical assistance. Eventually most of her family was reunited and placed in a refugee camp. Food and medicine was so scarce that the camp children had to take to the streets to beg for additional funds. The way out for these children was to be matched with a sponsor who would send funds or bring them out of Sierra Leone.
The Bite of the Mango relates Mariatu’s story of survival in a simple, straight forward style that asks for no pity but gives the reader a glimpse of the emotional strength of this young girl as well as her courage and resilience. This is a heart-rendering story but as it is aimed at a YA audience I felt it left me feeling like I needed a little more depth and information.
Category: Around the World - Sierra Leone
TIOLI #8: A Book About War - Post WW II
The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara is a memoir based on her experiences in the civil war that raged through Sierra Leone from 1991 to 2002. Mariatu and her family lived a life of relative peace and happiness in a small rural village. They knew of the rebels but thought they would be safe if they ran and hid in the forest if they came. Unfortunately, twelve year old Mariatu and three of her cousins were captured, tortured and mutilated.
Mariatu was able to stumble away and through her own will and the help of kindly strangers she was taken to the capital, Freetown and received medical assistance. Eventually most of her family was reunited and placed in a refugee camp. Food and medicine was so scarce that the camp children had to take to the streets to beg for additional funds. The way out for these children was to be matched with a sponsor who would send funds or bring them out of Sierra Leone.
The Bite of the Mango relates Mariatu’s story of survival in a simple, straight forward style that asks for no pity but gives the reader a glimpse of the emotional strength of this young girl as well as her courage and resilience. This is a heart-rendering story but as it is aimed at a YA audience I felt it left me feeling like I needed a little more depth and information.
195andreablythe
>184 DeltaQueen50:
It's cool to see mystery novels set in different countries and cultures. Not something I would be likely to pick up, but I like to see the diversity.
It's cool to see mystery novels set in different countries and cultures. Not something I would be likely to pick up, but I like to see the diversity.
196jolerie
I'm refusing to get sucked into another long series when I'm in the middle of so many already!
I hope your visit with your mom is good times, Judy!
ETA: I finished Rebecca. I liked, but didn't love it. My quibble is with the main character...
I hope your visit with your mom is good times, Judy!
ETA: I finished Rebecca. I liked, but didn't love it. My quibble is with the main character...
197DeltaQueen50
>194 msf59: Hi Mark. Ah yes, Dr. Siri is probably another one I have you to thank for!
>184 DeltaQueen50: I love this series that is set in Laos during the 1970's, Andrea. It is a little light in the mystery but I have fallen in love with the characters and the humor. These are books I pick up when I need something good, quick and light.
>196 jolerie: I know the feeling, Valerie, but these are definitely worth making a note of for when you are in need of a new series.
I read Rebecca when I was in my teens and the main characters immaturity and innocence didn't jump out at me like I think it would now. Of course this is exactly what drew Max to her in the first place, such a contrast to his first wife.
>184 DeltaQueen50: I love this series that is set in Laos during the 1970's, Andrea. It is a little light in the mystery but I have fallen in love with the characters and the humor. These are books I pick up when I need something good, quick and light.
>196 jolerie: I know the feeling, Valerie, but these are definitely worth making a note of for when you are in need of a new series.
I read Rebecca when I was in my teens and the main characters immaturity and innocence didn't jump out at me like I think it would now. Of course this is exactly what drew Max to her in the first place, such a contrast to his first wife.
198DeltaQueen50
I always place Rebecca in my top 5 All-time Reads, but I wonder if my top 5 would change if I re-read them all today. I recently re-read To Kill A Mockingbird and it was still a 5 star read, but whether it would still be in my all-time top 5, well, I'm not so sure of that. I think how a book affects you often depends on your age and your lifestyle and perhaps the actual year it was at the time of the reading.
My Top 5 All-time Reads are:
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
My Top 5 All-time Reads are:
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
199Storeetllr
Love the Dr. Siri love!
As I mentioned on Val's thread, I was sure I'd read Rebecca in the past few years but could not find a reference to it on my threads going back to 2011, so I must have been making it up. Now I need to get hold of the book and see if I did, in fact, read it and just forgot to mention it (unlikely) or if I was only dreaming...of going back to Manderley? :)
As I mentioned on Val's thread, I was sure I'd read Rebecca in the past few years but could not find a reference to it on my threads going back to 2011, so I must have been making it up. Now I need to get hold of the book and see if I did, in fact, read it and just forgot to mention it (unlikely) or if I was only dreaming...of going back to Manderley? :)
200DeltaQueen50
>199 Storeetllr: Hi Mary, it sounds as if you have read Rebecca at some point or at least seen the film. Hope you figure it out!
201lsh63
Hi Judy: Hope you have a good visit with your mom!
I liked your all time top 5 reads, I would always say Lonesome Dove and Grapes of Wrath. I plan to do a reread of both To Kill A Mockingbird and Gone With The Wind this year. I want to read TKAM before I read the sequel in July.
I liked your all time top 5 reads, I would always say Lonesome Dove and Grapes of Wrath. I plan to do a reread of both To Kill A Mockingbird and Gone With The Wind this year. I want to read TKAM before I read the sequel in July.
202jolerie
I'll get a chance to read Lonesome Dove later this year. I haven't read Grapes of Wrath or Gone With The Wnd yet, but they are on the shelf.
She is totally different from the first wife. I'd be curious to hear the story from the wife's perspective. I think Rebecca's Tale was authorized by the du Maurier estate as a companion book would be an interesting read at some point I think!
She is totally different from the first wife. I'd be curious to hear the story from the wife's perspective. I think Rebecca's Tale was authorized by the du Maurier estate as a companion book would be an interesting read at some point I think!
203EBT1002
I FOUND you!! I was looking all over and finally I checked your profile and, of course, there was the link to your thread. Whew.
I think I would be hard-pressed to do a top-five all time reads. I'm too wishy washy, I think. To Kill a Mockingbird has long been in my mind as my one all-time favorite read but we'll see how it lands on me when I do a reread this summer. And you know that I gave Rebecca five stars but it would be hard to put it in my top five list. I'm trying to think of reads that really stuck with me, that I remembered long after finishing reading them. I'm such a "let art flow over you" sort of reader that this is sometimes not a good measure. Still, it's fun to think about!
I think I would be hard-pressed to do a top-five all time reads. I'm too wishy washy, I think. To Kill a Mockingbird has long been in my mind as my one all-time favorite read but we'll see how it lands on me when I do a reread this summer. And you know that I gave Rebecca five stars but it would be hard to put it in my top five list. I'm trying to think of reads that really stuck with me, that I remembered long after finishing reading them. I'm such a "let art flow over you" sort of reader that this is sometimes not a good measure. Still, it's fun to think about!
204Storeetllr
Like you, Judy, my list of top favorite books keeps changing from year to year. I think I'm going to put together two separate favorite lists: one for books that gave me the most pleasure when I read them and continues to give me pleasure just thinking about them and one for books that I either do reread or want to reread because they were that good. Some of the titles might be on both lists, but not necessarily.
Oh, Val, I think you will love Lonesome Dove!
Oh, Val, I think you will love Lonesome Dove!
205VivienneR
Looks like I will never get caught up on threads this year!
>184 DeltaQueen50: Thanks Judy, you reminded me that have a couple of Cotterill's books on the shelf and must get to them soon.
>190 Familyhistorian:, >191 lkernagh: Acorn TV - the lineup looks great. Now if only I could get CFL games on my computer I'd cut the cable.
>183 DeltaQueen50: Have a wonderful stay in Victoria with your Mom.
>184 DeltaQueen50: Thanks Judy, you reminded me that have a couple of Cotterill's books on the shelf and must get to them soon.
>190 Familyhistorian:, >191 lkernagh: Acorn TV - the lineup looks great. Now if only I could get CFL games on my computer I'd cut the cable.
>183 DeltaQueen50: Have a wonderful stay in Victoria with your Mom.
206DeltaQueen50
I am spending a lot of time today getting ready to leave tomorrow. After a last load of laundry I will finish my packing. I did take some time this morning to finish my current read and also sorted though what books to take. This was not easy as although I know which books I need to complete in March, I was also trying to plan ahead for April.
>201 lsh63: Thanks, Lisa, I am looking forward to my visit as I haven't been over since Christmas. I'm a little leery about the sequel to TKAM, so I will wait and see how people here at LT find it.
>202 jolerie: Valerie with GWTW, Lonesome Dove and Grapes of Wrath on your shelves, you are in for some great reading!
>203 EBT1002: Hi Ellen and thanks for tracking me down. :) I think I was at my most impressionable stage when I was younger so most of the books on my All-Time Favorite List were read when I was in my teens or early 20's. There have been books that have moved me recently (A Constellation of Vital Phenomena comes to mind) but they don't seem to linger in the mind the same way those earlier ones did. Honestly, picking just five out of a life-time of reading is just about impossible!
>204 Storeetllr: Hi Mary, I am a little nervous of re-reading old favorites as it is difficult for a book to hit you in the same way emotionally twice. We are very lucky that there are so many good books out there with new ones constantly arriving!
>205 VivienneR: I don't think there is such a thing a being totally caught up, Vivienne. I think you will enjoy the Cotterill books when you get to them. Acorn TV does look good doesn't it, but there is always something on regular TV that seems to hook me as well.
>201 lsh63: Thanks, Lisa, I am looking forward to my visit as I haven't been over since Christmas. I'm a little leery about the sequel to TKAM, so I will wait and see how people here at LT find it.
>202 jolerie: Valerie with GWTW, Lonesome Dove and Grapes of Wrath on your shelves, you are in for some great reading!
>203 EBT1002: Hi Ellen and thanks for tracking me down. :) I think I was at my most impressionable stage when I was younger so most of the books on my All-Time Favorite List were read when I was in my teens or early 20's. There have been books that have moved me recently (A Constellation of Vital Phenomena comes to mind) but they don't seem to linger in the mind the same way those earlier ones did. Honestly, picking just five out of a life-time of reading is just about impossible!
>204 Storeetllr: Hi Mary, I am a little nervous of re-reading old favorites as it is difficult for a book to hit you in the same way emotionally twice. We are very lucky that there are so many good books out there with new ones constantly arriving!
>205 VivienneR: I don't think there is such a thing a being totally caught up, Vivienne. I think you will enjoy the Cotterill books when you get to them. Acorn TV does look good doesn't it, but there is always something on regular TV that seems to hook me as well.
207RidgewayGirl
Have a good trip, Judy. Deciding which books to pack is both the best and most fraught part of getting ready for me.
208DeltaQueen50
>207 RidgewayGirl: Thanks, Kay, I love any excuse to go pawing through my books!
209DeltaQueen50
49. The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness - 4.0 ★
Category: Colts
March SFFFCat: It's The End of the World!
TIOLI #12: Title Has 8 or More Syllables
The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness is one of the most surprising books I have read this year. I was expecting an average dystopian book but this one was different, and different in ways that I have decided not to go into as I don’t want to spoil it for future readers. I totally fell into this story and was absorbed and fascinated by the world this author so painstaking created.
I first met Patrick Ness through his deeply touching story, A Monster Calls, so I already knew what a skilled writer he is. At first I was a little put off by the style he chose to write this story in, but I realized quickly that this helps the reader to fit into Todd’s world and the conditions one finds there. Some of the characters are a little over-done but of course, I did totally lose my heart to the dim-witted but wonderful Manchee. A small note of warning however, there is a fair amount of violence and cruelty portrayed and I would suggest this book is aimed at the older end of the YA spectrum.
Without going into a lot of plot details, The Knife of Never Letting Go is a great adventure story that is presented in an inventive and original writing style. But, and this is a big but, the reader is left totally hanging at the end of the book. I need to immediately get my hands on book number two in order to find out how this story ends. I absolutely enjoyed the book as I was reading it, but feel cheated by it’s total lack of closure. I think the author could have resolved some of the immediate issues in this volume and would still have had plenty of material for the next book.
Category: Colts
March SFFFCat: It's The End of the World!
TIOLI #12: Title Has 8 or More Syllables
The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness is one of the most surprising books I have read this year. I was expecting an average dystopian book but this one was different, and different in ways that I have decided not to go into as I don’t want to spoil it for future readers. I totally fell into this story and was absorbed and fascinated by the world this author so painstaking created.
I first met Patrick Ness through his deeply touching story, A Monster Calls, so I already knew what a skilled writer he is. At first I was a little put off by the style he chose to write this story in, but I realized quickly that this helps the reader to fit into Todd’s world and the conditions one finds there. Some of the characters are a little over-done but of course, I did totally lose my heart to the dim-witted but wonderful Manchee. A small note of warning however, there is a fair amount of violence and cruelty portrayed and I would suggest this book is aimed at the older end of the YA spectrum.
Without going into a lot of plot details, The Knife of Never Letting Go is a great adventure story that is presented in an inventive and original writing style. But, and this is a big but, the reader is left totally hanging at the end of the book. I need to immediately get my hands on book number two in order to find out how this story ends. I absolutely enjoyed the book as I was reading it, but feel cheated by it’s total lack of closure. I think the author could have resolved some of the immediate issues in this volume and would still have had plenty of material for the next book.
210AHS-Wolfy
>209 DeltaQueen50: I have had the trilogy sat on my tbr shelves for a while. Maybe it's time I should dig into it. Though it's a shame when an author leaves too much hanging for the next book to pick back up. Not something I have to worry about in this case though as I do have all 3 books.
211msf59
Your "Top 5 All-time Reads", sure put a smile on my mug. The Grapes of Wrath and Lonesome Dove are 1 & 2 on my list. No wonder, we get along so well, Judy.
I am also glad you enjoyed The Knife of Never Letting Go. It is a very good trilogy. I hope you snag a few readers with that solid review. Thumb!
I am also glad you enjoyed The Knife of Never Letting Go. It is a very good trilogy. I hope you snag a few readers with that solid review. Thumb!
212EBT1002
>206 DeltaQueen50: OH! A Constellation of Vital Phenomena just might make it into my theoretical list of all-time top five reads. I loved it.
213andreablythe
>209 DeltaQueen50:
I just finished reading The Knife of Never Letting Go last night and it was fantastic, but I felt exactly the same way about that ending. It would have been nice to have been aware of future danger, but still have a sense of the hope the book focused on quite a bit.
I just finished reading The Knife of Never Letting Go last night and it was fantastic, but I felt exactly the same way about that ending. It would have been nice to have been aware of future danger, but still have a sense of the hope the book focused on quite a bit.
214katiekrug
>212 EBT1002: - It would definitely be on my list!
215whitewavedarling
I'll be really curious to hear what you think of the sequel to The Knife of Never Letting Go--on one hand, I want to pick it up right away after reading your review, but on the other hand, I know I'd feel the same way about the ending!
216jolerie
The Chaos Walking trilogy has been on my to read list FOREVER. I really should bump it up!
217Matke
I couldn't possibly narrow favorite lifetime reads to five, Judy! That being said, I believe that Lonesome Dove would make any list of favorites for me. I've read it more than once and have some sections nearly committed to memory.
Hope your weekend is a good one.
Hope your weekend is a good one.
218mathgirl40
I enjoyed seeing your list of top-5 books. I'd have trouble making my own list, for the same reason you mention. I wonder if books that had affected me greatly in my younger days would have the same impact now. Gone with the Wind is one that I'd read several times in my teens and early 20's. I loved the movie too and recently rewatched it with my daughter ... and I enjoyed it as much as I did in my teens.
219BLBera
Hi Judy - Well, my work day is over. My next little while will be devoted to figuring out my top 5...
For sure: To Kill a Mockingbird. I had reread it almost every year, but it's been a while. Maybe this summer. Tracks, which I've read about 20 times and still love each time I read it. Jane Eyre, a childhood sentimental favorite. The other two I'll have to think about.
For sure: To Kill a Mockingbird. I had reread it almost every year, but it's been a while. Maybe this summer. Tracks, which I've read about 20 times and still love each time I read it. Jane Eyre, a childhood sentimental favorite. The other two I'll have to think about.
220Chrischi_HH
>219 BLBera: There might be a group read for To Kill a Mockingbird in June. Check the Group read discussion thread (here) if you're interested.
I do have some favourites, but it's hard to put them in a top 5 list. My all-time favourite is a children's book, though: The Night of Wishes by Michael Ende. I've read it so many times and am still loving it.
I do have some favourites, but it's hard to put them in a top 5 list. My all-time favourite is a children's book, though: The Night of Wishes by Michael Ende. I've read it so many times and am still loving it.
221DeltaQueen50
Sorry I have been AWOL for a bit. I am visiting my Mother's and have no computer access. Have dropped by my brother's in order to check in here. I will be away for another week and get home just after Easter. I will do my best to catch up when I get home. Thanks to everyone for keeping my thread warm and I will get to individual answers when I am home.
We have done one trip to a second hand store already and I have picked up 10 or so books, off my head I can't remember all the titles but I did get a copy of All the Light We Cannot See in excellent condition for $4.50. We are planning another book hunting expedition for this week.
We have done one trip to a second hand store already and I have picked up 10 or so books, off my head I can't remember all the titles but I did get a copy of All the Light We Cannot See in excellent condition for $4.50. We are planning another book hunting expedition for this week.
222Familyhistorian
Sounds like you have book loving relatives on the Island. I hope you are enjoying your visit.
225msf59
I hope you are having a great time with your Mom, Judy. Congrats on snagging a copy of All the Light. Terrific book. Hugs!
226mysterymax
Good grief, girl. I have one month where all the LT I can get to is listing the books I read and I sit down this morning to "catch up" on threads - and you have 250+ that I hadn't read! Have a good visit with your Mom!
227DeltaQueen50
Again many thanks for keeping my thread warm while I am absent. I am having a good time but I am noticing many little things that are showing me that my Mom is slowing down. I don't want to sound maudlin as she is amazing, being 94 and still keeping a house and garden going, it's just that I can't help but notice that her energy levels aren't what they used to be and her memory is slipping somewhat. That said, she hustled me off to the bank and the grocery store this morning and is now putting on her garden clothes to go and spend some time outside.
I will catch up with everyone when I get home next week, I am reading a fair amount and have a few reviews to catch up on. I am starting the month of April off with a classic crime story, The Getaway by Jim Thompson, which is one I have been looking forward to.
I will catch up with everyone when I get home next week, I am reading a fair amount and have a few reviews to catch up on. I am starting the month of April off with a classic crime story, The Getaway by Jim Thompson, which is one I have been looking forward to.
228DeltaQueen50
50. Broken Harbour by Tana French - 4.2 ★
Category: Grade 5
BingoDog: Takes Place in a Country Other Than My Own
March RandomCat: The Cool Kids Are Doing It
TIOLI #16: Book Has At Least One Irish Character
Broken Harbour by Tana French was another excellent addition to her Dublin Murder Squad series. This is an author who consistently produces intelligent, complex, interesting crime stories that keep the reader on tenderhooks throughout the entire book.
Entirely capturing the dynamics of a family on the brink of disaster, throwing in the creepiness of a stalker, and adding a heart rendering and totally chilling murder, this was not a story for the faint of heart. I felt a definite sadness and despair as I read about the dreams that fell apart and the lives that were spinning out of control. Her pacing, plotting and writing are all designed to give the reader the best mystery experience with many twists and turns along the way.
Broken Harbour is the fourth book in this series that just keeps on getting better. This particular book is a layered, atmospheric narrative that shows how quickly lives can fall apart when trouble comes calling.
Category: Grade 5
BingoDog: Takes Place in a Country Other Than My Own
March RandomCat: The Cool Kids Are Doing It
TIOLI #16: Book Has At Least One Irish Character
Broken Harbour by Tana French was another excellent addition to her Dublin Murder Squad series. This is an author who consistently produces intelligent, complex, interesting crime stories that keep the reader on tenderhooks throughout the entire book.
Entirely capturing the dynamics of a family on the brink of disaster, throwing in the creepiness of a stalker, and adding a heart rendering and totally chilling murder, this was not a story for the faint of heart. I felt a definite sadness and despair as I read about the dreams that fell apart and the lives that were spinning out of control. Her pacing, plotting and writing are all designed to give the reader the best mystery experience with many twists and turns along the way.
Broken Harbour is the fourth book in this series that just keeps on getting better. This particular book is a layered, atmospheric narrative that shows how quickly lives can fall apart when trouble comes calling.
229Storeetllr
Wow! At 94, your mom is 30 years my elder with twice (maybe three times) more energy than I can muster on even my best days! I'm very impressed (and not a little envious). :)
Glad you're having a good time. Nice review of French's latest. I may have to start her series. (Sorry to sound so down about it, but I'm about booked out, if such a thing is possible. At least today. No doubt tomorrow will be another story.) (Haha, get it? Another story? Another book? *snerk*)
Glad you're having a good time. Nice review of French's latest. I may have to start her series. (Sorry to sound so down about it, but I'm about booked out, if such a thing is possible. At least today. No doubt tomorrow will be another story.) (Haha, get it? Another story? Another book? *snerk*)
230dudes22
>228 DeltaQueen50: - "...interesting crime stories that keep the reader on tenderhooks..."
I couldn't agree more. I'm in the middle of the second one The Likeness and find it socreepy intense that I decided to put it aside and read a few others before I finish it.
I couldn't agree more. I'm in the middle of the second one The Likeness and find it so
231-Eva-
>227 DeltaQueen50:
Sounds like your mama is in great form - anyone still running their house and garden at 94 deserves all the accolades in the world!
Sounds like your mama is in great form - anyone still running their house and garden at 94 deserves all the accolades in the world!
232leslie.98
>227 DeltaQueen50: What >231 -Eva-: said!! My parents are in their 80s and neither of them would think about taking care of a garden. Of course, they didn't think about it when they were in their 40s either, lol!
233jolerie
Wow that is impressive at 90, Judy! My FIL who is in his mid 80s impresses me every day with how spry he is. He really shouldn't be behind the wheel of a vehicle anymore, but that is another story..ha!
I have yet to read a French book, but when I do, I'll start at the beginning.
I have yet to read a French book, but when I do, I'll start at the beginning.
234DeltaQueen50
I am quickly dropping by today to update my reviews. We went on a book hunting expedition yesterday and I picked up some more books. Hmmm, I came over her with three big bags of books and I will be going home with two, so I guess that's progress! We went to The Haunted Bookshop yesterday which is my favorite place to scour for classic mysteries. I picked up a handful of Agatha Christies and the one Drorothy Sayers' that I have been searching for.
Today my only goal is to go out and find some nice flowers for my Mom. We are having a quiet weekend but on Easter Monday the whole family descends on us for dinner. One of my nephews has it arranged so he and his fiancée will be getting three Easter dinners over the weekend! I will most likely be heading home on Wednesday and I am looking forward to getting back to my routine and, mostly, my bed!
Today my only goal is to go out and find some nice flowers for my Mom. We are having a quiet weekend but on Easter Monday the whole family descends on us for dinner. One of my nephews has it arranged so he and his fiancée will be getting three Easter dinners over the weekend! I will most likely be heading home on Wednesday and I am looking forward to getting back to my routine and, mostly, my bed!
235andreablythe
From three to two bags of books is progress indeed!
Happy Easter Weekend and I hope you have a great family dinner. :)
Happy Easter Weekend and I hope you have a great family dinner. :)
236DeltaQueen50
51. The Vanishing of Katharina Linden by Helen Grant - 3.5 ★
Category: Colts
TIOLI #1: The First Three Letters of Your Hometown Appear in the Title
The Vanishing of Katharina Linden by Helen Grant is an apparent YA mystery story about young girls disappearing from a seemingly idyllic German village. In fact, I found this book actually was telling quite a different story. Although the main characters, 10 year old Pia and her friend, Stefan decide to investigate these disappearances, they are really more of a backdrop. These two children are rather isolated as both have become outcasts from their friends and only have each other as company. The book is also interwoven with fairy stories that enhance the villages’ past and soften the actual horror of the disappearances.
I loved the writing style of this book, although there really was no mystery as to who was responsible for the disappearances. Narrating the story as an adult, Pia was a reliable narrator and I thought the children’s thoughts and actions were fairly realistic. This isn’t a clever mystery with twists to surprise the reader, really it is a story about 10 year old Pia and her difficult year as her parents’ marriage is in trouble, she is shunned by her friends and there is the fear of these disappearances constantly hovering in the background.
Although I picked up The Vanishing of Katharina Linden thinking I was going to be reading a mystery, this book was a very good read that drew me into the life of a small German village and its residents. I would certainly pick up another book by this author.
Category: Colts
TIOLI #1: The First Three Letters of Your Hometown Appear in the Title
The Vanishing of Katharina Linden by Helen Grant is an apparent YA mystery story about young girls disappearing from a seemingly idyllic German village. In fact, I found this book actually was telling quite a different story. Although the main characters, 10 year old Pia and her friend, Stefan decide to investigate these disappearances, they are really more of a backdrop. These two children are rather isolated as both have become outcasts from their friends and only have each other as company. The book is also interwoven with fairy stories that enhance the villages’ past and soften the actual horror of the disappearances.
I loved the writing style of this book, although there really was no mystery as to who was responsible for the disappearances. Narrating the story as an adult, Pia was a reliable narrator and I thought the children’s thoughts and actions were fairly realistic. This isn’t a clever mystery with twists to surprise the reader, really it is a story about 10 year old Pia and her difficult year as her parents’ marriage is in trouble, she is shunned by her friends and there is the fear of these disappearances constantly hovering in the background.
Although I picked up The Vanishing of Katharina Linden thinking I was going to be reading a mystery, this book was a very good read that drew me into the life of a small German village and its residents. I would certainly pick up another book by this author.
237thornton37814
>170 DeltaQueen50: If the innkeeper is a Joss, I think I'd run for my life before staying there.
238Storeetllr
Happy Easter, Judy!
240DeltaQueen50
Happy Easter, everyone!
241DeltaQueen50
52. The Getaway by Jim Thompson - 3.8 ★
Category: Edgar Allan's Quill Pen
April TIOLI #2: The Book Cover, Author's Name or Title of Book Has a Connection to the Color Green
The Getaway by Jim Thompson is the story of a bank robbery and its’ aftermath and, as written by Jim Thompson, this is an intense twist filled story full of double crosses, violent encounters and harrowing incidents. The main characters are Doc McCoy and his wife, Carol, a pair of murderous psychopaths that actually appear to really care about each other at the beginning of the book. As the story develops and this pair desperately tries to escape to Mexico, the reader begins to see the cracks forming in their relationship.
Although I never fully bought into this story and really would have preferred to see these two get caught, it was interesting to read about the slow breakdown of their marriage. Of course these two could never just decide to call it quits, it was very obvious that only one would ever walk away from this alliance.
This was my first book by Jim Thompson and although I liked his story presentation and style, The Getaway won’t be remembered as one of my favorites. I am however looking forward to reading more of this author, especially his classic, The Killer Inside Me.
Category: Edgar Allan's Quill Pen
April TIOLI #2: The Book Cover, Author's Name or Title of Book Has a Connection to the Color Green
The Getaway by Jim Thompson is the story of a bank robbery and its’ aftermath and, as written by Jim Thompson, this is an intense twist filled story full of double crosses, violent encounters and harrowing incidents. The main characters are Doc McCoy and his wife, Carol, a pair of murderous psychopaths that actually appear to really care about each other at the beginning of the book. As the story develops and this pair desperately tries to escape to Mexico, the reader begins to see the cracks forming in their relationship.
Although I never fully bought into this story and really would have preferred to see these two get caught, it was interesting to read about the slow breakdown of their marriage. Of course these two could never just decide to call it quits, it was very obvious that only one would ever walk away from this alliance.
This was my first book by Jim Thompson and although I liked his story presentation and style, The Getaway won’t be remembered as one of my favorites. I am however looking forward to reading more of this author, especially his classic, The Killer Inside Me.
242mstrust
Happy Easter!
***Spoilers*** Sorry that one didn't go the way you wanted- they did deserve to be caught as all of them were horrible. I thought it was interesting to see Carol's change from shy librarian to becoming worse than Doc. The ending was something so unexpected and twisted.
I hope you like The Killer Inside Me. Talk about twisted.
***Spoilers*** Sorry that one didn't go the way you wanted- they did deserve to be caught as all of them were horrible. I thought it was interesting to see Carol's change from shy librarian to becoming worse than Doc. The ending was something so unexpected and twisted.
I hope you like The Killer Inside Me. Talk about twisted.
243AHS-Wolfy
>241 DeltaQueen50: I wasn't grabbed when I read my first (and only so far) Jim Thompson book. I'm still open to trying another as I know how well regarded he is but doubt it will be this one.
244msf59
Hope you had a nice Easter, with your Mom, Judy. I like Jim Thompson but I have not read him in many years.
246DeltaQueen50
Since the younger generation had a few other Easter Dinners to fit in, we had our dinner last night. My Mom cooked a wonderful ham dinner for 10. I helped but she was definitely "in charge". It was great to see some of my relatives that I often don't get a chance to see. I am staying one more night to help with the leftovers and plan to return home tomorrow. I am looking forward to getting back home and I know my hubby is missing me.
247Crazymamie
Sounds like an excellent visit, Judy! Wishing you safe travels home.
248DeltaQueen50
53. The Fairy Godmother by Mercedes Lackey - 3.8 ★
Category: Camille's Choices
April SFFFCat: Fairy Tales & Myths
April TIOLI #13: A Cover That I Love
Fairy stories seem predestined to have happy endings but what if the timing was off? What if Cinderella was ready for the ball before the prince was grown up. This is the story that Mercedes Lackey presents in The Fairy Godmother. Our potential Cinderella is Elena, who has been mistreated and bullied by her evil stepmother and two stepsisters and is due to be given her chance at a happy ending but, unfortunately the prince is only eleven years old. The fairy godmother resolves the problem was offering Elena the chance of training to be a fairy godmother herself, and Elena jumps at the offer.
One of the first things we learn is that the fate of the people who inhabit these Five Hundred Kingdoms are steered through life by “Tradition”. Fates are pre-ordained and it is the job of the fairy godmother to help people to reach their appointed destinations. Of course, the work isn't all easy going, fate can be a fickle companion and people sometimes fight their destiny. Elena herself wonders if her choice means that true love will not find her, but she need not worry as all too soon Alexander arrives on the scene.
The Fairy Godmother was a light and fun story that takes the traditional Cinderella tale and twists it into something equally as magical. The author’s light touch and humor makes this story seem fresh and new. This is the first book in her series about the Five Hundred Kingdoms and I will certainly be exploring more of these entertaining stories.
Category: Camille's Choices
April SFFFCat: Fairy Tales & Myths
April TIOLI #13: A Cover That I Love
Fairy stories seem predestined to have happy endings but what if the timing was off? What if Cinderella was ready for the ball before the prince was grown up. This is the story that Mercedes Lackey presents in The Fairy Godmother. Our potential Cinderella is Elena, who has been mistreated and bullied by her evil stepmother and two stepsisters and is due to be given her chance at a happy ending but, unfortunately the prince is only eleven years old. The fairy godmother resolves the problem was offering Elena the chance of training to be a fairy godmother herself, and Elena jumps at the offer.
One of the first things we learn is that the fate of the people who inhabit these Five Hundred Kingdoms are steered through life by “Tradition”. Fates are pre-ordained and it is the job of the fairy godmother to help people to reach their appointed destinations. Of course, the work isn't all easy going, fate can be a fickle companion and people sometimes fight their destiny. Elena herself wonders if her choice means that true love will not find her, but she need not worry as all too soon Alexander arrives on the scene.
The Fairy Godmother was a light and fun story that takes the traditional Cinderella tale and twists it into something equally as magical. The author’s light touch and humor makes this story seem fresh and new. This is the first book in her series about the Five Hundred Kingdoms and I will certainly be exploring more of these entertaining stories.
249EBT1002
As Mark would say, I NEED to get back to Tana French! My next one is Faithful Place which I might have to get from the library.
250DeltaQueen50
I am finally home and trying to unpack, do some laundry and cook dinner all at the same time. I am out of practice so my dinner is going to be a little late coming out of the oven this evening.
I have a couple more reviews to catch up and will try to get them posted this evening and then I will start making my rounds to the various threads and catching up with everyone.
I have a couple more reviews to catch up and will try to get them posted this evening and then I will start making my rounds to the various threads and catching up with everyone.
251DeltaQueen50
54. The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather - 3.8 ★
Category: Overflow
BingoDog: A Book Published in 1915
TIOLI #7: A Book Published in 1915
Song of the Lark by Willa Cather was an interesting read that had a autobiographical feel to it as the subject matter was about a young girl developing into an artist, in this case a singer, and is set against the backdrop of the American West. I couldn’t help but wonder if the author implanted some of her own traits and feelings into Thea who grew up knowing herself to be different from the rest of her family and the people of the small Western town of Moonstone, Colorado.
Willa Cather writes with great authority and this story details Theas’ determination and strong work ethic as she strives to reach her goals. Originally training to be a piano teacher, when her instructor hears her voice she is told that her voice is worth all that she can put into it. Throughout the course of the book, Thea learns to put her art first, and although there are setbacks, she eventually finds that her singing is what she gets the most pleasure from.
What made this book come alive for me were the various characters that Thea met along the way, and the author’s descriptive writing that makes the American West come alive on the pages. This was a book that didn’t entirely sweep me away, but was still a very good read. I did appreciate how the book came full circle with Thea, her friends and even with its’ ending back in Moonstone, Colorado.
Category: Overflow
BingoDog: A Book Published in 1915
TIOLI #7: A Book Published in 1915
Song of the Lark by Willa Cather was an interesting read that had a autobiographical feel to it as the subject matter was about a young girl developing into an artist, in this case a singer, and is set against the backdrop of the American West. I couldn’t help but wonder if the author implanted some of her own traits and feelings into Thea who grew up knowing herself to be different from the rest of her family and the people of the small Western town of Moonstone, Colorado.
Willa Cather writes with great authority and this story details Theas’ determination and strong work ethic as she strives to reach her goals. Originally training to be a piano teacher, when her instructor hears her voice she is told that her voice is worth all that she can put into it. Throughout the course of the book, Thea learns to put her art first, and although there are setbacks, she eventually finds that her singing is what she gets the most pleasure from.
What made this book come alive for me were the various characters that Thea met along the way, and the author’s descriptive writing that makes the American West come alive on the pages. This was a book that didn’t entirely sweep me away, but was still a very good read. I did appreciate how the book came full circle with Thea, her friends and even with its’ ending back in Moonstone, Colorado.
This topic was continued by DeltaQueen's Big Steal of 2015 - Part 4.
