Lissa's Long Yarn

moving day

2012-01-17T17:07:00.001-07:00

Lissa's Long Yarn has moved. From now on, we will be at http://lissaslongyarn.com/.

unclean spirits

2012-01-09T21:47:00.002-07:00

Title: Unclean Spirits

Author: M.L.N. Hanover

Date Finished: January 9, 2012

Personal Book Count: 1 out of 50

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: urban fantasy

First Line: It was raining in Denver the night Eric Heller died.

Why did I pick this book?: It was a gift.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“Jayné Heller thinks of herself as a realist, until she discovers reality isn’t quite what she thought it was. When her uncle Eric is murdered, Jayné travels to Denver to settle his estate, only to learn that it’s all hers — and vaster than she ever imagined. And along with properties across the world and an inexhaustible fortune, Eric left her a legacy of a different kind: his unfinished business with a cabal of wizards known as the Invisible College.

Led by the ruthless Randolph Coin, the Invisible College harnesses demon spirits for their own ends of power and domination. Jayné finds it difficult to believe magic and demons can even exist, let alone be responsible for the death of her uncle. But Coin sees Eric’s heir as a threat to be eliminated by any means — magical or mundane — so Jayné had better start believing in something to save her own life.”

M.L.N. Hanover is an alias for Daniel Abraham. And I was surprised by that it was a guy, but I'm not sure why. This year (as many years) DH and I gave each other books for Christmas. They all looked good, and covered the wide gambit of my tastes. This one I was really unsure about though, but he was so excited about it, I agree to read it first. After all, not so long ago he picked me a book that got me out of a reading funk, so maybe he did know my tastes pretty well. So, I finished the pile of reviews I had to catch-up on from last year, and dove in. It was exciting. Then it was confusing. Then it was intriguing. Then it kept me from sleeping because I was a little scared. Then I couldn't sleep because I couldn't stop thinking about it. And I just plain just couldn't stop turning pages. Jaynes character is the underdog. And pretty much has the maturity and mentality of a college student. And she takes you from her old life to her new one in a believable manner. The money, and the responsibility. She starts to meet people from her uncle Eric's world. And they are all 'characters' to themselves. Aubrey, Ex, Jake and Midian, all bring something to the table she needs, both emotionally and fighting the Invisible College. There was one moment when I about threw the book across the room, with a scream to wake the dead in rage (and I probably would of if it wasn't 1 am, and I was up way to late reading. Again.). I felt tricked. But, the pull of the book at that point brought me back, and I found that it was justified and explained, even if I still didn't love it. With that said, I was 7 pages from being done when DH came home today. He was handed money and immediately sent out the door for the sequel, so I could start it right away. Will it hold up to the first? Time will tell, but right now, I am REALLY hoping so...

Is there a book that sent you immediately out for the next? What and why?

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

Books Read in 2011

2012-01-06T19:01:00.001-07:00

Click link to either read my review, or see where you can purchase a copy.

1. Christmas Cookie Murder- Leslie Meier
2. After Dark- Jayne Castle
3. The Trouble with Magic- Madelyn Alt
4. Deception Point- Dan Brown
5. Room- Emma Donoghue
6. Trouble Maker 2- Janet Evanovich

7. The Elegance of the Hedgehog- Muriel Barbery

8. Words- Ginny L. Yttrup

9. Timeline- Michael Crichton

10. Midnight in Death- J.D. Robb

11. The Surgeon- Tess Gerritsen

12. Call it Courage- Armstrong Sperry

13. Wicked Appetite-Janet Evanovich

14. Sizzle- Julie Garwood

15. Girl in the Mirror- Cecelia Ahearn

16. How I Stole Johnny Depp's Alien Girlfriend- Gary Ghislain

17. The Apprentice- Tess Gerritsen

18. Hex Hall- Rachel Hawkins

19. Note to Self-Samara O'Shea

20. The Summoning- Kelley Armstrong

21. Born To Rule- Kathryn Lasky

22. Enclave- Ann Aguirre

23. Smokin' Seventeen- Janet Evanovich

24. Heads You Lose- Lutz and Hayward

25. The Last Little Blue Envelope- Maureen Johnson

26. The Sinner- Tess Gerritsen

27. The Awakening- Kelley Armstrong

28. Sarah's Key- Tatiana DeRosnay

29. Lord of Scoundrels- Loretta Chase

30. Strawberry Shortcake Murder- Joanne Fluke

31. Demonglass- Rachel Hawkins

32. The Help- Kathryn Stockett

33. Where Rainbows End- Cecelia Ahern

34. The Reckoning- Kelley Armstrong

35. Fight Club- Chuck Palahniuk

36. A Charmed Death- Madelyn Alt

37. The Next Sure Thing- Richard Wasgamese

38. Hell Fire- Ann Aguirre

39. The Portrait- Charles Atkins

40. In a Flash- Eric Walters

41. Obedience- Will Lavender

42. The Ideal Man- Julie Garwood

43. Killer Insight- Victoria Laurie

44. Ender's Game- Orson Scott Card

45. The Giver- Lois Lowry

46. Dancing in the Moonlight- Raeanne Thayne

47. Honeymoon with Murder-Carolyn G. Hart

Honeymoon with Murder

2012-01-05T20:13:00.002-07:00

Title: Honeymoon with Murder

Author: Carolyn G. Hart

Date Finished: December 30, 2011

Personal Book Count: 47 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

First Line: Jesse Penrick didn't miss much on his solitary nocturnal rambles.

Why did I pick this book?: next in the series.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads-

“Mystery Bookstore owner Annie Laurance is well-acquainted with murder, but she never imagined one taking place on her honeymoon! A marvelous spoof of New Age mumbo jumbo by an author whose work has been compared to that of Agatha Christie.”

This one was great. I love all the references the author packs into each novel. It shows the author is a huge fan of a wide variety of mystery novels herself. I was a little put off when I realized that the wedding was going to take place in the book (as opposed to in between them), but the author pulled it off well. The wedding took place in the beginning of the book, and really didn't have anything to do with the mystery, but was nicely worked in. I can't imagine wanting to do anything less on my honeymoon, but with Annie, I can't imagine anything more appropriate. I love that Max always has Annie’s back, and pitches in to help in his own way. I like that Henny jumps in and takes over the investigation, without taking over the story, by doing her own thing, and popping up on occasion as different novel sleuths. This novel was one that was 'solvable', by following clues and paying attention. And you know I love that type of book. Annie does get away with a lot, by justifying it as solving a mystery. And she takes risks that I don't think anyone would really take, at least by themselves. (Why couldn’t she take her new cute hubby along with her?) But all in all a pleasurable read, and a good way to spend the Christmas holidays. :)

Dancing in the Moonlight

2012-01-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Dancing in the Moonlight

Author: Raeanne Thayne

Date Finished: December 27, 2011

Personal Book Count: 46 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: romance

Why did I pick this book?: was next in line on my kindle

Summary and Review: Two old neighbors in a ranch community grow up side by side. But bad blood between their family's as teens make them enemies. He goes off and becomes a doctor, and comes home to practice. She goes off and become a nurse, and then enlists in the army. When she loses part of her leg, she comes home to hide and recuperate. Of course their paths cross again, and romance ensues. It is about what I expected. I used to like reading these when I was younger, but after a while, they all become very the same. I love the push/pull and I love the expected happy ending. Enjoyed for what it is.

the giver

2012-01-01T12:18:00.001-07:00

Title: The Giver

Author: Lois Lowry

Date Finished: December 18, 2011

Personal Book Count: 45 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Middle Grade Fiction. Newbery Medal

Why did I pick this book?: recommended by a friend on line.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“"It was almost December, and Jonas was beginning to be frightened."

Thus opens this haunting novel in which a boy inhabits a seemingly ideal world: a world without conflict, poverty, unemployment, divorce, injustice, or inequality. It is a time in which family values are paramount, teenage rebellion is unheard of, and even good manners are a way of life.

December is the time of the annual Ceremony at which each twelve year old receives a life assignment determined by the Elders. Jonas watches his friend Fiona named Caretaker of the Old and his cheerful pal Asher labeled the Assistant Director of Recreation. But Jonas has been chosen for something special. When his selection leads him to an unnamed man -the man called only the Giver -he begins to sense the dark secrets that underlie the fragile perfection of his world.

Told with deceptive simplicity, this is the provocative story of a boy who experiences something incredible and undertakes something impossible. In the telling it questions every value we have taken for granted and reexamines our most deeply held beliefs.”

I was pleasantly surprised when I read this and Ender's Game back to back (see previous review). I have not read many of these types of book, and normally would not have read 2 so close together. But because I did, I noticed a lot of similarities. I mean, the obvious. It's dystopian. It's more or less timeless. They live in a so-called 'perfect' world, that are now being threatened, and they must protect them. The future in both hinges on a child. Both are trilogies. This book was a powerful one, even for an adult. I like the way the author allowed the reader to feel what Jonas is going through along with him. The reader got a taste of the isolation and loneliness along with him. I like the way that the author slowly opened his eyes, but he took action, as opposed to passively sitting by, as people had done for generations. It was interesting to me to see how every detail is so controlled in the society to be made 'the same'. The author put a lot of work into the details, and it's these little bits that make it interesting. It was much less dark then Ender's Game. I look forward to reading the sequel.

Ender's Game

2011-12-31T17:23:00.000-07:00

Title: Ender's Game

Author: Orson Scott Card

Date Finished: December 13, 2011

Personal Book Count: 44 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: science fiction. Nebula and Hugo Award Winner .

First Line: “I've watched through his eyes, I've listened through his ears, and I tell you he's the one. Or at least as close as we're going to get.”

Why did I pick this book?: my husband told me I had to read it.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“Andrew "Ender" Wiggin thinks he is playing computer simulated war games; he is, in fact, engaged in something far more desperate. The result of genetic experimentation, Ender may be the military genius Earth desperately needs in a war against an alien enemy seeking to destroy all human life. The only way to find out is to throw Ender into ever harsher training, to chip away and find the diamond inside, or destroy him utterly. Ender Wiggin is six years old when it begins. He will grow up fast.”

I found the ending lukewarm compared to the rest of the book, and it did nothing to make me less angry. I felt manipulated. But then, an old phrase came back to me 'hate the characters, not the book'. And I realized that if the book made me this angry, it meant I loved it, it was the actions of some I didn't like. The giant thing was just weird. I really am still not sure what to make of it. I was a little surprised to see that it had been written in 1985. I think the fantasy and technology is as solid now as it was 25 years ago. There was nothing in it to date it. I found the writing was simple (in a good way, not simplistic). It was descriptive, but not flowery. Not to be confused with the themes and concepts, which were not simple at all. I will say in the beginning I was very frustrated with the anonymous people talking, at the beginning of each chapter. The two voices seemed unnecessary. It made me emotional they were trying to constantly 'kick' Ender and bring him down. It felt very frustrating. My favorite part was probably the battleroom scenes, and I think the whole book was probably worth reading for those. I love it, and was a little sad when he had to move on. I don’t know if the ending is enough to make me read the sequel or not. It kind of feels like a cheap lead in to the next one, which would have to be completely different. With that said , it makes me feel really tired. As good as it was, it was a lot of work for me to understand the science and politics, and even picturing some of the battles in my head. I think I need a break, with something a bit lighter. I probably will do the sequel, but not for a while. Maybe DH and I will do it together :)

Killer Insight

2011-12-30T18:58:00.001-07:00

Title: Killer Insight

Author: Victoria Laurie

Date Finished: November 23, 2011

Personal Book Count: 43 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery/ paranormal

First Line: As I looked down the barrel of the .38 pointed at my chest, and into the familiar eyes of my killer, all I could think was, I'm a friggin'psychic, for Pete's sake!

Why did I pick this book?: next one in this series.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“When a childhood friend of Abby's from Denver, Colorado, finds herself short one bridesmaid, it doesn't take a professional psychic to see the opportunity for a much-needed getaway. But one bridesmaid after the next is mysteriously flying the coop, and Abby's intuition tells her their final destination isn't pretty. With the wedding party falling apart and her gift of sight never quite so foggy, Abby has to save the date-and herself from becoming the next taffeta-clad target.”

I love these books. I love the relationship, or lack there of in this case, between her and Dutch. I kind of like that this one branched out into a new setting, and allowed us to meet some new characters, while bringing a few old favorites along with her. It drives me nuts that when her 'radar' goes off, and she is busy, she ignores it. Hasn't she learned by now? Don't you think that after living with it all her life, she would know that maybe she should stop and listen. But then, it really wouldn't be as interesting a story, would it? I like that these are mysteries, and you have the ability to guess. (if you know me, you know that I HATE a mystery where who done it randomly pops in at the end, with no previous clues). This is a cozy, quick and easy read. Laurie has a great sense of humor, and I find these a fun way to spend the weekend. =D

The Ideal Man

2011-12-30T15:11:00.001-07:00

Title: The Ideal Man

Author: Julie Garwood

Date Finished: November 17, 2011

Personal Book Count: 42 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction/ romance/ suspense

First Line: The first time she slit a man's throat she felt sick to her stomach.

Why did I pick this book?: I really like Julie Garwood.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“Dr. Ellie Sullivan has just completed her residency at a large urban hospital. While jogging in a park nearby, she witnesses the shooting of an FBI agent in pursuit of wanted criminals, a couple identified as the Landrys. The only person to see the shooter's face, Ellie is suddenly at the center of a criminal investigation.

Agent Max Daniels takes over the Landry case. A no-nonsense lawman, he's definitely not the ideal man that Ellie has always imagined, yet she's attracted to him in a way she can't explain.”

Fun, light, fluffy. These are the words I think of when I think of Garwood. Also romance and suspense. As usual, she lived up to all my expectations. Strong female lead, in this case a doctor. Law enforcement male lead, usually FBI, or a cop. Always gorgeous, of course. He is put in charge of protecting her from something. The love follows. ok. Maybe it's a bit formulaic. But sometimes that is good. Comforting. This is very much a comfort read. It might not be great literature, but I can never wait for the next one to come out to melt into. This one didn't disappoint. Apropos of nothing, I love the cover image of this one.

obedience

2011-12-29T20:22:00.001-07:00

Title: Obedience

Author: Will Lavender

Date Finished: November 6, 2011

Personal Book Count: 41 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction/ suspense

First Line: The strange thing about Williams was that nobody had ever seen him.

Why did I pick this book?: it was recommended to me online at one point.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“When the students in Winchester University's Logic and Reasoning 204 arrive for their first day of class, they are greeted not with a syllabus or texts, but with a startling assignment from Professor Williams: find a hypothetical missing girl named Polly. If after being given a series of clues and details the class has not found her before the end of the term in six weeks, she will be murdered.

At first the students are as intrigued by the premise of their puzzle as they are wary of the strange and slightly creepy Professor Williams. But as the students delve deeper into the mystery, they begin to wonder: Is the Polly story simply a logic exercise, designed to teach them rational thinking skills, or could it be something more sinister and dangerous?

The mystery soon takes over the lives of three students as each finds disturbing connections between Polly and themselves. Characters that were supposedly fictitious begin to emerge in reality. Soon, the boundary between the classroom assignment and the real world becomes blurred—and the students wonder if it is their own lives they are being asked to save.”

I had started this one on audio, but didn't have time to finish it. So I ordered it online. But the for whatever reason it sat on the shelf for a long while. I knew I was going to love it, as I had started it already, but I took a long time to get back to it. Well, it turned out to be one of those book that I am a little sad you could only read for the first time once. I wish I could say more about it, than it had me twisting and turning from beginning to the last chapter, but I don't want to ruin a minute for anyone. The characters weren't always likeable, but compelling through out. The setting was vibrant and easy to picture. The plot for a first novel was well thought through and the twists and turns made sense and always answered some questions with raising others. It was very hard to quit turning pages. And yet it was one you wish you could make last forever and savor it. It was one that stuck with me for a long time after, I couldn't stop thinking of it, and for a time, compared all others to it. If you like suspense, or a good mind-twist, run, don't walk and get your hands on a copy anyway you can. =D

in a flash

2011-12-29T14:56:00.001-07:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: In a Flash

Author: Eric Walters

Date Finished: October 31,2011

Personal Book Count: 40 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: young adult fiction

Why did I pick this book?: caught my eye at the library. By a publisher I like.

Summary and Review: taken from publisher's website-

“There was a playful combat everywhere. I didn't have time to look around, but there had to be close to a hundred people around me, yelling, laughing and swinging their pillows.

On the edges of the battle other people watched. There were grown-ups holding their kids by the hand or loaded down with shopping bags, looking stunned or amused or confused. Some laughed and pointed, and others hurried away like they were scared. There had to be almost as many people watching as there were participating.

One of the pillows burst, and a million white feathers shot into the air like a billowing cloud! The crowd—watching and fighting—erupted into gasps and screams and laughter.”

This was a fun quick little read. If you have followed my blog at all, you know that I am a fan of this publishing company. I liked this one. It was some kids who were doing flash mobs, and even organizing them for some fun. In the end, they were doing one for a purpose. It was an interesting combination of intelligent characters, and a fast paced story line. Totally made ME wanna try a flash mob. Not a lot to this one, but a fun read none the less.

portrait

2011-12-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Title: The Portrait

Author: Charles Atkins

Date Finished: October 27, 2011

Personal Book Count: 39 out of 75

Rating: 3 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

First Line: I took my pills, two of them.

Why did I pick this book?: I wanted something a little scary/edge of my seat for halloween.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

'Soho artist Chad Greene is having a bad week. Just home from the hospital his dog is shot, his loft is ransacked, and his psychiatrist is murdered. His manic depression is heating up--okay, maybe he shouldn't have stopped his lithium--and the boundaries between reality and psychosis have blurred. As for the police, they look at Chad, and they see a murderer.

On the plus side, his agent couldn't be happier. His paintings are selling better than Starbucks coffee, and the publicity that swirls around the young artist is propelling him to break-through heights.

But Chad is running out of time. Hunted by a killer who shares secrets from his past, pursued by the police and hounded by his own insanity, he struggles to make sense of the chaos that has overrun his life. He sees no way out, and to find the answers he must risk all and plunge into a world of total madness.'

I think 3 out of 5 may be high for this one. This was not the read I had hoped for. Some of the time it wasn't even interesting, let alone scary. I did keep reading, because I had it find out if he was crazy or not. There were many parts that were predictable, even if the ending was not one that you could have seen coming. Now the parts I liked. I did like seeing the world through the eyes of the character when he was on and off his meds. And the ending (climax to finish) was strong and interesting. I recently had a conversation with a writer friend, who looked at me and simply said “make it worse”. This is something Atkins did well I thought, in completely destroying the main character's life in the first few sections of the book. Will I read another by this author? Probably not. If you are at the library, and happen to see it, read the first few pages, and see if it grabs you, maybe it was just me. But I wouldn't go hunting for it.

hell fire

2011-12-12T20:03:00.001-07:00

Title: Hell Fire

Author: Ann Aguirre

Date Finished: October 23, 2011

Personal Book Count: 38 out of 75

Rating: 5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Urban Fantasy

First Line: I'm still a redhead.

Why did I pick this book?: Second in the series, and I completely enjoyed the first.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“As a handler, Corine Solomon can touch any object and know its history. It’s too bad she can’t seem to forget her own. With her ex-boyfriend Chance in tow—lending his particularly supernatural brand of luck—Corine journeys back home to Kilmer, Georgia, in order to discover the truth behind her mother’s death and the origins of her “gift.”

But while trying to uncover the secrets in her past, Corine and Chance find that something is rotten in the state of Georgia. Just a few miles away, no one seems to know Kilmer exists. And inside the town borders there are signs of a dark curse affecting the town and all its residents—and it can only be satisfied with death…”

This is the second in the series, and I loved it as much as the first. Corine is back with her cool power of touching things, and being able to see where it's been. And her ex-boyfriend is back, and with his power of being 'lucky', it makes for some interesting adventures. Also, there were some reappearances of some of the great characters in the first one, which I always love when authors put some continuity in their work. They are on the road again, and this time they are back in the town where she grew up. I needed a read for the readathon that would be light, and interesting enough to keep me going until I was done. This had the perfect balance of fantasy, mystery and an eclectic cast of characters, this fit the bill perfectly. A must read for fans of urban fantasy or mystery, but I would recommend reading Blue Diablo (the first in the series) first.

PS- I love reading suggestions guys. And I haven't read much in this genre. If you know of any that are like this, please feel free to recommend them. I would love to hear from you...

next sure thing

2011-12-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Title: The Next Sure Thing

Author: Richard Wagamese

Date Finished: October 10, 2011

Personal Book Count: 37 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

First Line: So I’m walking out of Shelly's Crab Shack around 2:00 AM with a handful of bills from my tip jar, and the moon is like a freaking eyeball staring right down at me.

Why did I pick this book?: I received this book as an ARC from Orca Book Publishers through librarything.com.

Summary and Review: taken from the back of the book-

“Cree Thunderboy has two things he does well: he plays a mean blues guitar, and he has a knack for picking winning horses at the track. Picking winners is just a means to an end; Cree's goal is to be the next great bluesman. When he meets Win Hardy, it looks like he might be able to parlay his special skill with the horses into a shot at the fame and fortune he seeks. So long as he can pick the next sure thing.”

First thing I want to say, is I am in love with these little orca books. This is the second of three that I have read, and have immensely enjoyed them all. They are quick, interesting, intelligent reads, and I would recommend them for reluctant readers of any age, or anyone who wants a fast, entertaining read.

The main character, Cree, was interesting, and smart, but it was his best friend Ashton who really had me hooked. He was the voice of reason, and was there with his friend, through it all, until the end. I think I would have split long before (but then, that is what makes it a good book, as opposed to real life. There is a tension from beginning to end, that kept me coming back throughout my day for 'just a few more pages'. It was something the author did really well. I heard recently that 'bad decisions make good stories', and to me, this felt like a great example of that. It felt like he was making a deal with the devil to me from the beginning, and it got worse as he went, and it made your heart ache for him. I thought the ending was great, and without spoiling anything for anybody, it made the whole book worth reading (I hate a weak ending in books, it feels like a let down after all that 'work'). Great payoff! This is a Canadian publisher, and a Canadian author, but I didn't feel like it had a Canadian feel. (in my opinion, so many Canadians try and write 'literature' and it comes off feeling a little forced, and I struggle with that.) instead, this one felt very natural. It wasn't trying to live up to a standard, or fit in to a box of what someone thought it should be. *please don't read this as I am anti-literature, because I am not, there is a lot of GREAT literature out there, I am just against 'forced literature'.*

This was a sweet story, that came across as smart and entertaining. The down side is at $10 it cost the same as a full length book for 130 pages. But if you have a reluctant reader in your life, it could be worth it. I will definitely search out more of these, but possibly at my library or second hand book store.

Charmed Death

2011-12-06T14:41:00.001-07:00

Title: A Charmed Death

Author: Madelyn Alt

Date Finished: October 9, 2011

Personal Book Count: 36 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery/paranormal

First Line: I had been thinking for sometime that things weren't quite right in my little Indiana town.

Why did I pick this book?: second in the series, enjoyed the first so I wanted to give another a try.

Summary and Review: taken from Berkley Prime Crime website-

“Maggie O'Neill was just your average small-town girl, stuck in a dead-end job until she started working at Enchantments, Stony Mill's finest antique shop with a unique mystical secret. Now Maggie is Indiana's newest witch. Learning to cope with her newfound powers is tough enough, but add to that keeping the stock at Enchantments organized, keeping the peace with her somewhat controlling mom, and remembering to tape reruns of her favorite show, Magnum, P.I., and Maggie's got a full plate.

But when a second questionable death occurs a scant two months into her store tenure, she can't turn her thoughts away from all the town gossip about the teenage princess and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the girl's charmed life and death. While the police get caught up in procedure and logic, Maggie uses every trick, charm, and intuition she can summon, with the assistance of her favorite witchy boss Felicity Dow, to get to the heart of this spellbinding murder.”

Ok, I enjoyed this one. Maybe not as much as the first, there were things that rankled me. But it is a cozy, entertaining read. As I was reading, it irritated me when suddenly we were at the doctor for our 'yearly exam'. (girls, you know what I mean?) Did we really need that in the middle of this kind of mystery? If she had to go to the doctors, couldn't it just be a cold or something? I like mysteries for escapism, not to remind me of what I should be doing... And it could be just me (and I know you need it to make the theme work), maybe it's the Christian upbringing I had, but the witch/magick parts tended to give me the heebee-geebees. Not enough to take away from the book, but enough that it would take me momentarily out of the story. It was nice to hear Maggie (the main character) say at one point “I don't know what I believe”. I think that was an appropriate response for book 2. Instead of, you are right, I am a complete convert, and now I know everything. (not mentioning any authors). I liked that it was the type of mystery that dropped clues, so it was possible for the reader to solve, if you were paying attention. As opposed to some (which I don't personally consider REAL mysteries) where the murderer seems to suddenly appear at the end. I like to play a game, where when I have a guess who-done-it, I write the page and date and who I think it is, down on a piece of paper. Then when I am done I see if I am right. This time I guessed on page 230, and I was right. With all that said, I hated the climax/ending. For me it was unrealistic and hard to swallow. But it was not enough to keep me from wanting to read the next one. =D

Have you read this? What were your thoughts on the ending? Do you try and guess the murderer as you read? Tell me, I would like to hear...

Missing...

2011-12-01T19:19:00.001-07:00

So, I bet you have been wondering, if you have even noticed, that I was a little, how should we say... inactive during November. Well, I actually do have a reason (excuse?). And I think it's a good one...

I am proud of myself, even if it was a busy, crazy, fulfilling, hair pulling, intense, sleep deprived, coffee filled journey. (see how good I am getting with stretching my words?)

But now that November is over I can go back to breathing, and get my head on straight for Christmas. And sleep. Catch up on much needed sleep.

But at the same token we can now return to your regularly scheduled programing.

Fight Club

2011-10-31T10:23:00.000-06:00

Title: Fight Club

Author: Chuck Palahniuk

Date Finished: September 29, 2011

Personal Book Count: 35 out of 75

Genre/ Subject: fiction

First Line: Tyler gets me a job as a waiter, after that Tyler’s pushing a gun in my mouth and saying, the first step to eternal life is you have to die.

Why did I pick this book?: it was recommended to me by someone a long time ago.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“Chuck Palahniuk's outrageous and startling debut novel that exploded American literature and spawned a movement. Every weekend, in the basements and parking lots of bars across the country, young men with white-collar jobs and failed lives take off their shoes and shirts and fight each other barehanded just as long as they have to. Then they go back to those jobs with blackened eyes and loosened teeth and the sense that they can handle anything. Fight club is the invention of Tyler Durden, projectionist, waiter, and dark, anarchic genius, and it's only the beginning of his plans for violent revenge on an empty consumer-culture world. ”

I shake my head to think that this book has become a phenomenon. But then, as crude and violent and not relatable as it was, there was something very appealing about it. I'm not sure what to think or whether it was a good book or not. But I'm still thinking about it. If nothing else it was a mindf**k. I think on an odd level, it's vaguely relatable. Can't we all relate to the straight laced side of the main character? (Did we ever find out his name?) And Marla and Tyler, in some ways, our friends we had or friends we wanted. Maybe they represent the wild or impossible. The plot at times was hard to grasp. Imagine something so big, it takes on a life of its own, and is unstoppable. As I read, the word 'cult' came frequently to mind, although I'm not sure if it was ever mentioned (it was almost a month ago I read it). Could it ever happen? Maybe. But I like to think the author was portraying the worst-case scenario. Am I glad I read it? I'm still undecided (it had some really gruesome, icky parts). But with that said, now I really want to see the movie to see how they compare. Because the commercials for the movie (that I remember) looked nothing like the book, or maybe they just showed the good parts...

Did you read the book? See the movie? What did YOU think?

The Reckoning

2011-10-24T18:55:00.001-06:00

Title: The Reckoning

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Date Finished: September 28, 2011

Personal Book Count: 34 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: young adult/ paranormal

First Line: After four nights on the run, I was finally safe, tucked into bed and enjoying the deep, dreamless sleep of the dead... until the dead decided they'd really rather have me awake.

Why did I pick this book?: third in the trilogy.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

*SPOILERS*

“My name is Chloe Saunders. I’m fifteen, and I would love to be normal.

But normal is one thing I’m not.

For one thing, I’m having these feelings for a certain antisocial werewolf and his sweet-tempered brother–who just happens to be a sorcerer–but, between you and me, I’m leaning toward the werewolf.

Not normal.

My friends and I are also on the run from an evil corporation that wants to get rid of us…permanently.

Definitely not normal.

And finally, I’m a genetically altered necromancer who can raise the dead, rotting corpses and all, without even trying.

As far away from normal as it gets.”

I don't think you can write a review like this, so far in the series, when so much has happened, when a book depends so heavily on the others. Hopefully if you haven't read the first two, you won't read any further. And if you do, it's at your own risk. :P What can I say about this that hasn't been said? I'm not the first to read these, and certainly not the last (I hope, I think they were great!). I still like the characters. I still like the story line. I like that Chloe finally resolved her 3 way love triangle. I like that getting adults involved didn't solve everything. In fact, it messed things up as much as anything. I like that we had closure on a lot of the story lines, if not all of them. (even if I was happy with the way they all resolved.) The adventure was great, and as realistic as it can be in this type of book. Setting was interesting, and always changing. For some reason I really liked it. It really worked in this book. I know this is a weak review, it is very vague, but it's hard to do without TOO many spoilers. I feel like I have talked about most of this for the first two books. My advice? If you have read the first two, don't miss this one. If you haven't, go start at the beginning. It was a great ride. =DA

*END SPOILERS*

4:15 AM

2011-10-23T04:13:00.002-06:00

#readathon

well, it's after 4AM and i think i have made it as far as i'm going to (and considering i just typed readathing, i think it's time). good night all, and good luck to those that are pressing on... it was another great one! =D

pet love

2011-10-23T00:20:00.002-06:00

#readathon

i have 2 dogs that have joined me for the readathon. i have a black pug named sadie, and a bischon shih tzu named cooper. they are both great cuddlers. cooper gets me out for walks to keep me awake, and sadie shows her 'support' by licking my hand that is holding my book reading.

(ok, here they are cuddling each other, but you get the picture)

Song Identity mini-challenge

2011-10-22T23:07:00.001-06:00

#readathon

I picked this one to represent me and my people, because, well, it is an uber-fun song, and well made video and have much family in Sask...

Rereading

2011-10-22T22:42:00.002-06:00

#readathon

I am not much of a re-reader, but the one book that comes to mind that i have re-read over the years, is little women. i love everything about it: the time period, the relationship of the sisters, the depth of story for each character, and the images it paints in my mind. yes, i would have to say it's my go to favorite. (now that i think about it, there IS still time to dig it out tonight.... =D)

10: 40 PM hour ???

2011-10-22T22:39:00.002-06:00

#readathon

ok, i am feed, refreshed, and definitely have a second wind. i have 125 pages to go and i will have finished at least one book. (i tend to 'book hop'). think i can do it?

mid-event survey

2011-10-22T18:21:00.002-06:00

#readathon

Mid-Event Survey:
1. What are you reading right now? i just started killer insight by victoria laurie
2. How many books have you read so far? i have read pieces of 4 different books :P
3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon? what ever keeps my interest.
4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? nope, dh is spoiling me :)
5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those? nah, just had to go for dinner and coffee to keep going, but i took my book and read.
6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? how tired i am
7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? it would be great if ALL the challeges were open internationally, and not just the USA
8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? nothing! well, maybe a little earlier to bed the night before ;)
9. Are you getting tired yet? oh yeah
10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? nah, it is always great, this year it seems to be working like a well oiled machine...

5:20 PM

2011-10-22T17:21:00.002-06:00

#readathon. just over 11 hours. time for coffee in dinner, so we are going to pick up starbucks (extra, extra, extra large please) and pizza. am bribing DH into driving, so i can read. the joy that is aguirre continues. =D

Book Sentence Challenge

2011-10-22T15:34:00.002-06:00

#readathon

Ok, here is mine, i hope it's not too silly (or too late). working with what i had , this is what i came up with...

The Girls Shiver Evermore...

This was a fun one. thx midnight book girl. =D

1:10 PM

2011-10-22T13:07:00.002-06:00

well, i took a little break and read some nora roberts (northern lights) as a palate cleanser. now i am back to my aguirre. DH is starting to make some grumbles about wanting lunch, but as we have been snacking this monring, do know if that will actually happen in the next hour....

11:50 AM

2011-10-22T11:48:00.002-06:00

#readathon. hours 6 is coming to a close. it's almost noon here. i have read 100 pages of hell fire by ann aguire. (this is my second in this series by her, LOVE IT!). i am on cup of coffee #2. i have had a pacage of fruit snacks, and am now munching on a bowl of crunchy, cheesy bread sticks, and a couple pieces of beef jerky. YUM! (do you think i hit all the food groups?) ;) i am loving my process. i am debating taking a break and reading something differnt for a while, and come back to this one, or to keep trucking... maybe i should let the dogs decide ;)

Character Photo Mini Challenge #readathon

2011-10-22T07:55:00.003-06:00

I am starting the readathon off with Hell Fire by Anne Aguire. The main character is Corine Solomon. She carries a dog around in her purse (ok, it's a chiwawa, not a bisch-tschit, but we use what we have). She has an ability to read object histories by touching them. this is the photo i took...

(even HE thinks it too early to be up, doing this crazy reading thing...) ;)

RAT- hour 1 meme

2011-10-22T06:50:00.002-06:00

1)Where are you reading from today?-my home in calgary, alberta, cananda
2)Three random facts about me…

i own a bookstore. both my hubby and i were born and raised here (very rare here). i have started making soap.
3)How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours? 12 (not that i am expecting to finish them, i just wanted a variety to choose from)
4)Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)? read as many books for as many hours as i can.
5)If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, any advice for people doing this for the first time? don't forget to move and snacks are never a bad thing. also, can help to have a partner to read with.

counting down...

2011-10-20T14:27:00.002-06:00

2 more sleeps! so excited about the read-a-thon. picked up snacks yesterday (so hard not to 'sample'). and this is the pile of books i will be reading from (unless something else moves me on saturday...

P.S. is it saturday yet???

Where Rainbows End

2011-10-19T14:02:00.001-06:00

Title: Where Rainbows End

Author: Cecelia Ahern

Date Finished: September 20, 2011

Personal Book Count: 33 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

First Line: To Alex You are invited to my 7^th birthday party on Tuesday the 8^th of April in my house.

Why did I pick this book?: I like Ahern's writing. They tend to be light, fun, quick reads.

Summary and Review: summary taken from goodreads.com-

“From naughty children to rebellious teenagers, Rosie and Alex have stuck by each other through thick and thin. But just as as they're discovering the joys of teenage nights on the town and dating disasters, they're separated. Alex's family move from Dublin to America - and Alex goes with them. For good.

Rosie's lost without him. But on the eve of her departure to join Alex in Boston, Rosie gets news that will change her life forever - and keep her at home in Ireland.”

I think I have said quite a bit about this book on here already. I will start off by saying, the more I read from Ahern, the more I enjoy. I like the type of humor she infuses her books with (maybe it's because she is Irish?). They are light, easy to read, and move quickly. There was no exception with this book. The whole thing is written with different types of correspondence. Yes, this has been done before, but this felt different as it amalgamated letters, emails, postcards, instant messages, and even birthday cards. Yet the story still felt rich and full. I loved both Rosie and Alex. Sometimes wanted to give them a head-smack because of their choices, but that was only because I knew more then either of them did. From their point of view, it was the right choice, so I never felt frustrated. I felt like I even got to know their families. It kind of amazes me how much I DID get to know about their lives from only reading their correspondence. Looking back though, I realize that I don't know much about the setting (either Boston or Dublin). Was it the authors choice to be vague, or was it just not the best way to convey this? Or maybe it is not strong in my memory. (It was almost a month ago I read this). Maybe those details have just faded. The theme of unrequited love is not a new one, but I like the twist she put on this, being a long distance love, and being unrequited by different main characters at different times. The book takes place over a large chunk of their lifetimes. It doesn't start at the beginning (I believe they are 7) and neither die, but I believe they are in their 50's. I wonder if ones perception of this book would be different if you read it as a 10 year old, 30 year old, 50 year old. Last but not least, I enjoyed the 'echo' feeling of this book. Many thing that happen once, are echoed further along in the book. It gives a nice continuity, and a new perspective. Some with the same results, some with a 'path not taken' feel. As I said earlier, I really like this author, and will definitely be reading more of her works. In fact, writing this review makes me want to go track one down now. =D

It's Coming!

2011-10-17T21:48:00.000-06:00

5 more sleeps until Dewey's 24 hour read-a-thon. Have YOU signed up yet? (and if no, why the heck not?)

The Help

2011-10-11T14:18:00.001-06:00

Title: The Help

Author: Kathryn Stockett

Date Finished: September 6, 2011

Personal Book Count: 32 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

Why did I pick this book?: after all the buzz surrounding it, I tried to read this book. I couldn't get into it. So when I heard about the audio version, I wanted to take another shot at it.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“Three ordinary women are about to take one extraordinary step.

Twenty-two-year-old Skeeter has just returned home after graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree, but it is 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy till Skeeter has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone.

Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.

Minny, Aibileen's best friend, is short, fat, and perhaps the sassiest woman in Mississippi. She can cook like nobody's business, but she can't mind her tongue, so she's lost yet another job. Minny finally finds a position working for someone too new to town to know her reputation. But her new boss has secrets of her own.

Seemingly as different from one another as can be, these women will nonetheless come together for a clandestine project that will put them all at risk. And why? Because they are suffocating within the lines that define their town and their times. And sometimes lines are made to be crossed.”

Wow! As I said up above, I really didn't like the book, but the audio? It really brought it to life! This wasn't the type of audio where you sit and listen to someone read from the book. This one had three different voices (actresses?) to represent each of the characters. And not only did they read, it felt like they were acting it out. For me it really made the story interesting. The plot, once the story got going, was great. I could really get into it and feel for the characters. It more than tugged on my heartstrings. I fell in love with the setting. The incredible writing really makes me want to take a trip to the south (if not that time in the south). Interesting to me, that the story even caught DH's attention one night. He sat with me for quite a while listening, and then for days after, I had to keep giving him updates. When this one was over, I wanted more! I used to listen to audio books all the time when I worked at my desk. Then I took a year off work, and in that time, I forgot how much I enjoyed them. This has reminded me, and taken me on a hunt for more. So even if you have read this book, or had trouble getting into it like me, the audio version is definitely worth a listen.

What is a great book you have listened to lately?

Demonglass

2011-10-07T13:19:00.002-06:00

Title: Demonglass

Author: Rachel Hawkins

Date Finished: August 28, 2011

Personal Book Count: 31 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: young adult- paranormal

First Line: At a normal high school, having class outside on a gorgeous May day is usually pretty awesome.

Why did I pick this book?: it's the second in the series, and the first ended so well, that I couldn't NOT read this, and see how the story continued.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?”

Oh, where do I start with this one? It's one of those books that is so good, it's difficult to review. And that pairs with it's the second in the series, I don't want to spoil anything, I want everyone to have the pleasure of reading it themselves. When I finished the first book in this series I was pleased that Demonglass had already been released, and was looking forward to picking it up. There was something very comforting knowing that it was there waiting for me when I was ready. But life got in the way (as usual) and it was a while before I could get to it. But when I did it was just as good (better?) than the first. I spent way too many nights staying up way too late reading, and it consumed my thoughts for many of my waking hours. Many of my favorite characters were back (I won't spoil it by telling you which, but if you have read the first, I’m sure you can guess) with some new, very interesting additions. I liked the final setting, as it's been expanded out to the world, and we are not longer confined to the island the school is on.

I will say I had a serious gag moment when the author tried to combine Romeo and Juliet and a love triangle (take from that what you will). Really Ms. Hawkins? I love the story, by that made me want to smack myself. For my taste, the ending was a bit abrupt and open ended. It makes me crave the sequel NOW, and irritates at the same time. In fact, I will go so far as to say that it physically hurt when I finished, knowing I was going to have to wait for the next one. (if you are interested, amazon.ca has the release date for the next one as March 13 2012). I guess I will have to try and find some great reads to distract myself in the meantime.

Suggestions?

Strawberry Shortcake Murder

2011-10-04T12:24:00.000-06:00

Title: Strawberry Shortcake Murder

Author: Joanne Fluke

Date Finished: August 27, 2011

Personal Book Count: 30 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery (cozy)

First Line: The sound of a crash startled Hannah Swensen awake.

Why did I pick this book?: it is the second in the series. I loved the first, so wanted to try the second.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“When the president of Hartland Flour chooses cozy Lake Eden, Minnesota, as the spot for their first annual Dessert Bake-Off, Hannah is thrilled to serve as the head judge. But when a fellow judge, Coach Boyd Watson, is found stone-cold dead, facedown in Hannah's celebrated strawberry shortcake, Lake Eden's sweet ride to fame turns very sour indeed.

Between perfecting her Cheddar Cheese Apple Pie and Chocolate Crunches, Hannah's snooping into the coach's private life and not coming up short on suspects. And could Watson's harsh criticism during the judging have given one of the contestants a license to kill? The stakes are rising faster than dough, and Hannah will have to be very careful, because somebody is cooking up a recipe for murder...with Hannah landing on the "necessary ingredients" list.“

Well, I didn't love this one as much as the first, but it was still an enjoyable read. I like that Hannah has her sister Andrea with her this time. It is a pet peeve of mine when the main character in a second novel seems to either have learned nothing from their experience in the first, or it makes them a seasoned expert. This wasn't the case with Hannah. I like that she was jumpy, and appropriately scared in the beginning when she heard a crash, and thought there was someone in her apartment. With, that said, I’m not sure how believable her motivations were, jumping right back into a murder investigation, despite everyone telling her to stay out of it. The more I read, the girls started to come across as false. They felt gooey and dippy and overly sweet. It felt a little contrived and started to irritate me. No, I didn't enjoy this one as much as I hoped, but there was still a fun, light, easy to read feel, and enough twist, turns and characters to keep me reading (and finish). Well worth the time or a rainy afternoon, or a sick day.

It's Monday! What are you Reading? (oct. 3)

2011-10-03T14:26:00.001-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

I think my reading is picking up again. It feels great. I realized I need to read more, or I feel a real void. I missed that feeling of having a great book on the go, and being obsessed with it until that last page (and even for a while afterward).

Since I posted I have finished Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk, Where Rainbows End by Cecelia Ahern, and The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong. They were all good in their own ways (but very different). Fight club is still sitting with me. Not sure what to think, but it was a ride to take. It was interesting going in, knowing nothing about it.

Right now I am reading A Charmed Death by Madelyn Alt. It is a cozy mystery, with the twist being that the main character is a witch, who is just learning about her powers. This is the second in the series. I am also slowly working on The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. I don’t think I am far enough into it to comment, but I will say that so far, it's not quite what I thought it would be. (but that isn't taking away from my enjoyment.)

I receive an ARC in the mail today, so I am hoping to start on the one this afternoon. It looks like a great read. And next on my bed stand (I hope I will have time to get to it this week) is Case Histories by Kate Atkinson. This looks like an interesting read. I can't wait to get to it.

What can't you wait to read this week, or looks so good, you are trying to rush to get to it?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

Lord of Scoundrels

2011-09-30T14:50:00.001-06:00

Title: Lord of Scoundrels

Author: Loretta Chase

Date Finished: August 15, 2011.

Personal Book Count: 29 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Historical Romance (European)

First Line: In the spring of 1792, Dominick Edward Guy de Ath Ballister, third Marquess of Dain, Earl of Blackmoor, Viscount Launcells, Baron Ballister and Launcells, lost his wife and four children to typhus.

Why did I pick this book?: I picked this book because I never allow myself time to read romance although I really enjoy it. This past spring I came across a list of 100 top romance novels of all time and figured it was a good place to start. This was number one.

Summary and Review: taken from the author's website-

“They call him many names but Angelic isn’t one of them...
Sebastian Ballister, the notorious Marquess of Dain, is big, bad, and dangerous to know. No respectable woman would have anything to do with the “Bane and Blight of the Ballisters”--and he wants nothing to do with respectable women. He’s determined to continue doing what he does best--sin and sin again--and all that’s going swimmingly, thank you...until the day a shop door opens and she walks in.

She’s too intelligent to fall for the worst man in the world...
Jessica Trent is a determined young woman, and she’s going to drag her imbecile brother off the road to ruin, no matter what it takes. If saving him--and with him, her family and future--means taking on the devil himself, she won’t back down. The trouble is, the devil in question is so shockingly irresistible, and the person who needs the most saving is--herself!”

I am usually not a big lover of historical books at all. I find it especially in the romance genre they can cross the line into incredibly sweet and cheesy. I also find myself getting frustrated with an abundance of description of the surroundings and the clothing and the food etc. and if they slip into a dialect that I have to stop and interpret and as often as not put it down and walk away. Reading romances should be light and fluffy and fun not work. So although I pick this one up with a lot of preconceived notions, I wanted to give it a try as it had made number one on the list. I have to say this book immediately broke through all of them. I like seeing inside the point of view of both main characters. They both have great senses of humor, and I like seeing the manipulation in the game of oneupmanship they were constantly trying to play on one another. I never found myself overwhelmed with description or dialect. The storyline what the push/pull that I think we expect from romances. I like that this one was from two perspectives, and they were both taking part in the push pull dance. The setting I think could have been almost anywhere at anytime. With the exception of when they were at the manor, and he was the lord. Other than references to their dress, or possibly some of the company kept, or where they hung out, I could easily forget that it was historical. The language wasn’t trying to be to fancy or old-fashioned. For me that is a major turn off. The ending was satisfying, in that everyone got what I think they deserved. I would read other books by this author if the opportunity presented itself. So, am I a convert? Will I read other books that are historical fiction, especially in the romance genre? Probably not. Although this book dispelled many preconceived notions, I am still leery. Am I missing out on many great books? Probably, but unless one of them jumps up and bites me as this one did, it probably isn't going to happen. I will stick to my contemporary romances for now.

How about you? Do you have strong preferences either way between historical and contemporary? Why?

Sarah's Key

2011-09-26T15:24:00.002-06:00

Title: Sarah's Key

Author: Tatiana DeRosnay

Date Finished: August 3, 2011

Personal Book Count: 28 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

First Line: The girl was the first to hear the loud pounding on the door.

Why did I pick this book?: There was a lot of buzz about the book when it came out, so when I came across a copy at a local second hand store, I snapped it up.

Summary and Review: taken from google books-

“Paris, July 1942: Sarah, a ten year-old girl, is brutally arrested with her family by the French police in the Vel' d'Hiv' roundup, but not before she locks her younger brother in a cupboard in the family's apartment, thinking that she will be back within a few hours. Paris, May 2002: On Vel' d'Hiv's 60th anniversary, journalist Julia Jarmond is asked to write an article about this black day in France's past. Through her contemporary investigation, she stumbles onto a trail of long-hidden family secrets that connect her to Sarah. Julia finds herself compelled to retrace the girl's ordeal, from that terrible term in the Vel d'Hiv', to the camps, and beyond. As she probes into Sarah's past, she begins to question her own place in France, and to reevaluate her marriage and her life. Tatiana de Rosnay offers us a brilliantly subtle, compelling portrait of France under occupation and reveals the taboos and silence that surround this painful episode.”

I was talking about this book with a friend. She said it was the most depressing book ever. I was thinking about this. Yes, it is sad. More than once I had to put it down and walk away, just to catch my breath. I needed a second book to turn to, because at times I needed a break, as it was so sad. But depressing? Not, I don't think so. The time was depressing, and the circumstances, but what made it not depressing was hope. It didn't matter which time-frame we were in, or what was happening, the author had a way of lacing hope through the story. Not only did it make for an interesting story, it kept me reading. I NEEDED to know what happened. I like that the chapters alternate between 1942 and 2002. I like that each story line has a girl about the same age. The short chapters really kept the pace going for me. As I said, this book was very emotional, and full of twists and turns. But this also made it feel like it took a long time to read. With that said, I loved every page, and was very satisfied with the ending. I have since heard that this has been made into a movie. Somehow, I don't think it could compare. I guess we will see.

Has anyone seen the movie? Read the book? What did you think?

the awakening

2011-09-19T16:07:00.002-06:00

Title: The Awakening

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Date Finished: July 28, 2011

Personal Book Count: 27 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Young Adult/ Supernatural

First Line: When the door to my cell clicked open, the first thought that flitted through my doped-up brain was that Liz had changed her mind and come back.

Why did I pick this book?: It is the second one in the series. The first had such an intriguing ending, I had to keep going.

Summary and Review:

*POSSIBLE SPOILERS, PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK*

from the author's website-

“If you had met me a few weeks ago, you probably would have described me as an average teenage girl—someone normal. Now my life has changed forever and I’m as far away from normal as it gets. I’m a living science experiment—not only can I see ghosts, but I can raise the dead without even trying. Trust me, that is not a power you want to have. Ever. I’m running for my life with three of my supernatural friends and we have to find someone who can help us gain our freedom back before the Edison Group finds us first. Or die trying.”

In my opinion, this book is way better than the first. That could be cause there is more story than back story, or I am just more into it. This one (the second book in the series) takes place in “the world” with the teens on their own. I think it is in this one I can really see the teens starting to bond as a team. They are starting to build individual relationships between different members of the team, and through this, learning to trust each other. um. Did anyone else noticed they are obsessed with energy bars? I know it's not like they have time to stop to eat, or can't afford a real restaurant, but really? I stopped counting how many times the author brought them up. It became distracting. I was wondering why they couldn't find a granola bar or fruit snack or something. The love triangle vibe I am starting to feel? Not cool. Triangles are bad enough, but between 'brothers'? I guess it's an ongoing thing she can drag out, to keep the readers guessing, but for me it works the opposite. I find myself wanting to stop reading. (but I am assuming it's an age thing). Most of the book was spent looking for trustworthy adults. It made me wonder. If you find adults you think you can trust, do things really get better? And the bat scene? It was really creepy (not sure if that is in a good way or a bad way yet). I had to stop reading and walk away for a bit. It STILL makes me itch to think about. And one more thing? Enough with the (un)dead animals. The whole attitude of 'Let's go out to the forest and find dead things, so we can practice raising them, and pushing them back'. I kind of get, but twisted and disturbing. But with all that said, pretty good series, that I will continue with, for at least one more book.

*END SPOILERS*

wordless wednesday (sept.14)

2011-09-14T14:44:00.002-06:00

OMG, there are 2! (yeah, i know it's blurry, this is the best i could do, she never stops moving... lol)

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

The Sinner

2011-09-13T14:52:00.001-06:00

Title: The Sinner

Author: Tess Gerritsen

Date Finished: July 22, 2011

Personal Book Count: 26 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

First Line: The driver refused to take him any farther.

Why did I pick this book?: This book is part of the Rizzoli and Isles series.

Summary and Review: from the author's website-

“Within the walls of a cloistered convent, a scene of unspeakable carnage is discovered. On the snow lie two nuns, one dead, one critically injured – victims of a seemingly motiveless, brutally savage attack.

Medical examiner Maura Isles’ autopsy of the murder victim yields a shocking surprise, but the case takes a disturbing twist. The body of another woman has been found. And someone has gone to a lot trouble to remove her face, hands and feet.

As long buried secrets are revealed, so Dr Isles and homicide detective Jane Rizzoli find themselves part of an investigation that leads to an awful, dawning realisation of the killer’s identity…”

OK, this is only my third, but probably my favorite Gerritsen book so far. This one is refreshing. The first two were very similar, and although they were good, it started to feel like it went on for too long. The Sinner is very layered, and a lot of interesting things are going on at once. In this book we get to know Maura Isles better. Much of the story is told from her point of view. I like the way we saw her personality, and her past. I also like that the author isn't trying to introduce a whole bunch of new characters to us in the first book of a series, and trying to jam in a whole bunch of back story. She is taking her time and spreading them out. Or maybe she didn't know where it was going when she started. Either way, it makes it a very comfortable pace for the reader. My pet peeve in this one was that at points it seems like Isles fancies herself the cop. She goes off half cocked, following leads or hunches. It not only irritated me, but was distracting at times. In a cozy mystery, I would believe that. For an intelligent, educated woman, it seemed a little hard to swallow. I thought the ending of this one was great. There is wrap-up of both the personal and mystery story lines. And you know I like a neat, all ends tied, ending.

After reading this one, I have trouble choosing who I like more, Rizzoli or Isles.

If you have read any Gerritsen, who is your favorite character, and why?

It's Monday! What are you Reading? (sept. 12)

2011-09-12T15:25:00.002-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

I am a little embarrassed to say that I haven’t been doing as much reading lately as I could (or want or should). But I have finished a couple of books lately. I am now done The Help by Kathryn Stockett on audio. It was a very satisfying 'read'. At the same time, I was very sad when it ended. It was nice to remember how much I like audio books (when I make time). I may have to start making a point to listen to audio books.

I gave up on Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin. I was looking forward to an intelligent chick-lit read. And it may have been, but I could not make it passed page 50. I found that I didn't like either character enough to continue. I really like both actresses, so I am hoping the movie is better.

Right now I don’t have an active kindle read, but I have downloaded a couple.

As for my paper book (or books this week) I am reading Fight Club, by Chuck Palahniuk. It is very.... twisted. Not sure what I think about it yet. It is an interesting ride though. I am also working on Where Rainbows End by Cecelia Ahern. It's a nice light break in between, or an easy read for when I am tired. It is all done in email, letters, postcard and IM's, so it's a quick read.

What are you reading now that the pace is changing again with fall coming?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

wordless wednesday (sept. 7)

2011-09-07T20:08:00.001-06:00

as requested (cat)....

Wordless Wednesday

The Last Little Blue Envelope

2011-09-01T18:29:00.001-06:00

Title: The Last Little Blue Envelope

Author: Maureen Johnson

Date Finished: July 15, 2011.

Personal Book Count: 25 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Young Adult fiction

First Line: It was that time of day again.

Why did I pick this book?: it is the sequel to 13 Little Blue Envelopes

Summary and Review: taken from harper teen website-

“Ginny Blackstone thought that the biggest adventure of her life was behind her. She spent last summer traveling around Europe, following the tasks her aunt Peg laid out in a series of letters before she died. When someone stole Ginny's backpack—and the last little blue envelope inside—she resigned herself to never knowing how it was supposed to end.

Months later, a mysterious boy contacts Ginny from London, saying he's found her bag. Finally, Ginny can finish what she started. But instead of ending her journey, the last letter starts a new adventure—one filled with old friends, new loves, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Ginny finds she must hold on to her wits . . . and her heart. This time, there are no instructions.”

Over all, I enjoyed this book. It was a great wrap up for the previous book. With that said, there were parts that bugged me. Ginny is a teenage girl, about to graduate from high school. Don't you think she would know better than to let strange men blackmail her into going to other countries with them, and not tell anyone? The other thing about her, were there were parts in this book I found her to be... selfish. But that could be the teenager thing. Also, it didn't take long for Keith’s bullying to start wear thin for me. I found myself really liking Ellis (Keith's girlfriend) fairly quickly, whether I wanted to or not. As for the story? I love “the hill”. If you read it, you know what I mean. If you didn't, you NEED to go get this book and read it, so you do know what I mean. As I read this book, I found myself wanting to be eccentric, like Ginny's dead aunt. But not excessively so, like the aunt, but I would want to be just enough so that I amused myself and others. But I think to pull that off you would need to be either very rich or very broke. I found the ending vague, with loose ends. Does this leave it open to a sequel? I thought this was supposed to be the sequel? As much as I liked this book, it did take me 2 stints from the library to read it. But that could be a comment on me, the book, or just the time of year. Over all, it was very different from the first, but still a fun read.

wordless wednesday (aug 31)

2011-08-31T16:49:00.001-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

it's monday! what are you reading? (aug. 29)

2011-08-29T16:40:00.002-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

This was a good productive weekend for reading. I finished 2 books, Strawberry Shortcake Murder by Joanne Fluke and Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins. They were very different (from each other), but both very good.

I am still working on The Help on audio by Kathryn Stockett. I think I just passed the Chapter 21 mark. I am going to guess I am about ¾ of the way through. It is still so good. DH even listened to a couple of chapters with me last night, and he said he enjoyed what he heard.

My next paper read I am starting today is Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin. This is one of my book-to-movie books for the summer. I haven’t picked a new read for my kindle yet. Any suggestions?

That is about all for me, how was your reading weekend?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

Wordless Wednesday (Aug 17)

2011-08-17T18:45:00.002-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

Top 100 SF/F Reads. How many have you read?

2011-08-16T13:43:00.000-06:00

A list of 100 top SF/Fantasy books is has come out and somebody turned it into a meme. I don’t consider myself a sf/f reader, but a couple titles caught my eye, so I was interested to see how many I actually had read.

***

Bold the ones you've read, strike the ones (books or series) you abandoned. If it's a series and you've read one or more, but not all of the books, underline it.

1. The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy, by J.R.R. Tolkien
2. The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy, by Douglas Adams
3. Ender's Game, by Orson Scott Card
4. The Dune Chronicles, by Frank Herbert
5. A Song Of Ice And Fire Series, by George R. R. Martin
6. 1984, by George Orwell
7. Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury
8. The Foundation Trilogy, by Isaac Asimov
9. Brave New World, by Aldous Huxley
10. American Gods, by Neil Gaiman
11. The Princess Bride, by William Goldman
12. The Wheel Of Time Series, by Robert Jordan
13. Animal Farm, by George Orwell
14. Neuromancer, by William Gibson
15. Watchmen, by Alan Moore
16. I, Robot, by Isaac Asimov
17. Stranger In A Strange Land, by Robert Heinlein
18. The Kingkiller Chronicles, by Patrick Rothfuss
19. Slaughterhouse-Five, by Kurt Vonnegut
20. Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley
22. Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep?, by Philip K. Dick
23. The Handmaid's Tale, by Margaret Atwood
24. ~~The Dark Tower Series, by Stephen King~~
25. 2001: A Space Odyssey, by Arthur C. Clarke
26. The Stand, by Stephen King
27. Snow Crash, by Neal Stephenson
28. The Martian Chronicles, by Ray Bradbury
29. Cat's Cradle, by Kurt Vonnegut
30. The Sandman Series, by Neil Gaiman
31. A Clockwork Orange, by Anthony Burgess
32~~. Watership Down, by Richard Adams~~
32. Starship Troopers, by Robert Heinlein
33. Dragonflight, by Anne McCaffrey
34. The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress, by Robert Heinlein
35. A Canticle For Leibowitz, by Walter M. Miller
36. The Time Machine, by H.G. Wells
37. 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, by Jules Verne
38. Flowers For Algernon, by Daniel Keys
39. The War Of The Worlds, by H.G. Wells
40. The Chronicles Of Amber, by Roger Zelazny
41. The Belgariad, by David Eddings
42. The Mists Of Avalon, by Marion Zimmer Bradley
43. The Mistborn Series, by Brandon Sanderson
44. Ringworld, by Larry Niven
45. The Left Hand Of Darkness, by Ursula K. LeGuin
46. The Silmarillion, by J.R.R. Tolkien
47. The Once And Future King, by T.H. White
48. Neverwhere, by Neil Gaiman
49. Childhood's End, by Arthur C. Clarke
50. Contact, by Carl Sagan
51. The Hyperion Cantos, by Dan Simmons
52. Stardust, by Neil Gaiman
53. Cryptonomicon, by Neal Stephenson
54. World War Z, by Max Brooks
55. The Last Unicorn, by Peter S. Beagle
56. The Forever War, by Joe Haldeman
57. Small Gods, by Terry Pratchett
58. The Chronicles Of Thomas Covenant, The Unbeliever, by Stephen R. Donaldson
59. The Vorkosigan Saga, by Lois McMaster Bujold
60. Going Postal, by Terry Pratchett
61. The Mote In God's Eye, by Larry Niven & Jerry Pournelle
62. The Sword Of Truth, by Terry Goodkind
63. The Road, by Cormac McCarthy
64. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, by Susanna Clarke
65. I Am Legend, by Richard Matheson
66. The Riftwar Saga, by Raymond E. Feist
67. The Shannara Trilogy, by Terry Brooks
68. The Conan The Barbarian Series, by R.E. Howard
69. The Farseer Trilogy, by Robin Hobb
70. The Time Traveler's Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger
71. The Way Of Kings, by Brandon Sanderson
72. A Journey To The Center Of The Earth, by Jules Verne
73. The Legend Of Drizzt Series, by R.A. Salvatore
74. Old Man's War, by John Scalzi
75. The Diamond Age, by Neil Stephenson
76. Rendezvous With Rama, by Arthur C. Clarke
77. The Kushiel's Legacy Series, by Jacqueline Carey
78. The Dispossessed, by Ursula K. LeGuin
79. Something Wicked This Way Comes, by Ray Bradbury
80. ~~Wicked, by Gregory Maguire~~
81. The Malazan Book Of The Fallen Series, by Steven Erikson
82. The Eyre Affair, by Jasper Fforde
83. The Culture Series, by Iain M. Banks
84. The Crystal Cave, by Mary Stewart
85. Anathem, by Neal Stephenson
86. The Codex Alera Series, by Jim Butcher
87. The Book Of The New Sun, by Gene Wolfe
88. The Thrawn Trilogy, by Timothy Zahn
89. ~~The Outlander Series, by Diana Gabaldon~~
90. The Elric Saga, by Michael Moorcock
91. The Illustrated Man, by Ray Bradbury
92. Sunshine, by Robin McKinley
93. A Fire Upon The Deep, by Vernor Vinge
94. The Caves Of Steel, by Isaac Asimov
95. The Mars Trilogy, by Kim Stanley Robinson
96. Lucifer's Hammer, by Larry Niven & Jerry Pournelle
97. Doomsday Book, by Connie Willis
98. Perdido Street Station, by China Mieville
99. The Xanth Series, by Piers Anthony
100. The Space Trilogy, by C.S. Lewis

I got 9 out of 100. Almost 10%. Not bad for books that are not my typical read. How about you?

it's monday! what are you reading? (aug. 15)

2011-08-15T19:01:00.002-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

Well, I wish I had more exciting stuff to report, but I kinda lost this weekend. Saturday was spent organizing for this weekend’s garage sale, and celebrating my mum’s birthday. Sunday was sent sick in bed (sleeping, wish I was reading). But, I did manage to finish on Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase (for my kindle read).

I got to about the third downloaded section on audio version of The Help by Kathryn Stockett. So good! I love the 3 different voices I have heard so far. Has anyone listened to both this one and The Secret Life of Bees? Is the one voice (Skeeter, I think) the same one as was the one who read Bees? And I am about ¼ of the way through Strawberry Shortcake Murder by Joanne Fluke. I am really enjoying it. I forgot how much I like Hannah Swensen.

Hoping to finish that one this week and am downloading Demonglass tonight for my next kindle read.

How is your summer reading going? Are you finding you have more or less time to read this summer?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

How do you approach a new series?

2011-08-12T11:40:00.000-06:00

How do you read a series? This is an age old argument between DH and I. He will find a new author he likes, and read the series, from beginning to end, and maybe even explore other works by the author when he is done. I find any series, or even stand alone works by the same author, get repetitive. I like to read the entire series (from the beginning) , but I need to break them up with a couple of books in between. I find it spreads them out, makes them last longer, and I get more enjoyment out of it. So, I guess I am performing a survey of sorts. How do you read a series, and why do you do it that way?

heads you lose

2011-08-11T12:48:00.002-06:00

Title: Heads You Lose

Author: Lisa Lutz and David Hayward

Date Finished: July 7, 2011

Personal Book Count: 24 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery/humor

First Line: Paul flipped the coin and Lacey called tails.

Why did I pick this book?: I had seen it in the library a couple of times. The description made me laugh, I loved the premise.

Summary and Review: taken from the books website-

“Meet Paul and Lacey Hansen: orphaned, pot-growing, twentysomething siblings eking out a living in rural Northern California. When a headless corpse appears on their property, they can’t exactly dial 911, so they move the body and wait for the police to find it. Instead, the corpse reappears, a few days riper ... and an amateur sleuth is born. Make that two.

But that’s only half of the story. When collaborators Lutz and Hayward—former romantic partners—start to disagree about how the story should unfold, the body count rises, victims and suspects alike develop surprising characteristics (meet Brandy Chester, the stripper with the Mensa IQ), and sibling rivalry reaches homicidal intensity. Will the authors solve the mystery without killing each other first?”

This book was fun. I don’t know what I enjoyed more, the twisting story (some on purpose, some sabotage) or the bickering in between each chapter (and sometimes in footnotes at the bottom) by the authors. These were fun, believable characters (if sometimes 2 dimensional) that everyone has meet at least one example of in their life. I have lived in a small town, and couldn’t help but picture it as I read this story. As outlandish as some of the things that happened in the book were, there were many I could see happening. I really liked both Lacey and Paul, I never really found myself taking sides. I found myself wanting to support them and strangle each of them in equal measure. Like many mystery main characters, they both did some stupid things. If you are an author this book is worth the read for the twists and turn the authors throw each other, and how they try and out write each other. A great summer read. =D

Wordless Wednesday (Aug 10)

2011-08-10T14:02:00.001-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/2011/08/09/august-10/

Teaser Tuesdays (Aug. 9)

2011-08-09T18:24:00.003-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

· Grab your current read

· Open to a random page

· Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

· BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

· Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teasers:

‘Is not a book of more value than metal?” asked Cumscrad. “It is the fruit of a person’s brain and contains knowledge and ideas; it has power greater than gold because knowledge and ideas can change people.”

The Chalice of Blood by Peter Tremayne, Page 264

Ok, so this one is not so much of a teaser, but just a quote I really liked…

If you do play, go to MizB’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

it's monday! what are you reading? (aug. 8)

2011-08-08T17:54:00.003-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

I didn’t manage a whole lot of reading this weekend (DH sucked me into video game world…) but I did manage to finish Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De Rosnay. A friend said it was the most depressing book ever. I don’t think I agree. While it’s sad, it is beautifully written, and there is always an underlying hope, and I think that is what kept me turning pages.

The audio version of The Help by Kathryn Stockett came in to the library. I am only on about chapter 2, but already I am enjoying it way more than I did the book. Now to carve more time out of my day to listen… I am also still working on Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase for my kindle read, and am finding myself quite surprised at how much I am enjoying it. I think I have said I am generally not a fan of historical books, but I am not feeling overwhelmed by it in this. I am really enjoying the humor and the witty banter and the humorous situation the 2 main characters keep finding them selves in. I can see why it made the Top 100 Romance List (although I’m not sure I would have put it at the top ).

Unfortunately this week, I didn’t quite make it to Strawberry Shortcake Murder by Joanne Fluke, so it is still next up on deck for my paper book. Now, to just figure out how to juggle all 3 formats. =D

How do you make time in your day to listen to audio books?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

Smokin' Seventeen

2011-08-05T14:23:00.002-06:00

Title: Smokin’ Seventeen

Author: Janet Evanovich

Date Finished: June 24, 2011.

Personal Book Count: 23 out of 75

Rating: 5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

First Line: My grandma Mazur called me early this morning.

Why did I pick this book?: it’s the 17th in the series, and I have read and loved all the others.

Summary and Review: from the author’s website-

“Dead bodies are showing up in shallow graves on the empty construction lot of Vincent Plum Bail Bonds. No one is sure who the killer is, or why the victims have been offed, but what is clear is that Stephanie's name is on the killer's list.

Short on time to find evidence proving the killer's identity, things get even more complicated for Stephanie when family and friends decide it's time for her to decide between long-time off-again-on-again boyfriend, Trenton cop, Joe Morelli, and the bad boy in her life, security expert, Ranger. Stephanie's mom is encouraging Stephanie to dump them both, and choose a former high school football star who has just returned to town. Stephanie's sidekick, Lula, is encouraging Stephanie to have a red-hot boudoir "bake-off". And Grandma Bella, Morelli's old world grandmother, is encouraging Stephanie to move to a new state when she puts "the eye" on Stephanie.

With a cold-blooded killer after her, a handful of hot men and a capture list that includes a dancing bear and a senior citizen vampire, Stephanie's life looks like it's about to go up in smoke.”

I think this book continues the series nicely. In fact, it might take it back closer to its roots, where you have to figure out the bad guy, as opposed to knowing who it is, and having to catch him. This book contains the same humor and the same page turning excitement. Without wanting to spoil anything, I will say there is more Ranger in this one. I’m not sure how I feel about that. I have noticed that lately Evanovich alternates who the guy is in her stories. One makes an appearance, and may call a couple times, but conveniently goes out of town for most of the novel. This book was back to the basics and had both Ranger and Morelli. I have to confess that I saw the end coming, despite the twist. But it was more of a process of elimination, then any phenomenal investigation skills. I will say, these cliffhanger endings she throws in every once in a while, drive me nuts. I don’t know how much more I can say about this one, that I haven’t said about the last 16 books. My love for them is still there, and as strong as ever. It is worth your time for a light, fluffy summer read. =D

guest blog- the ghost king

2011-08-04T16:47:00.005-06:00

After just a little poking, I convinced Blair to come back and do another guest review for me. Secretly, I think he was excited to be asked. After a little bit of discussion, he chose one of his favorite authors. He are his thoughts:

It is guest blog time again. Today I'll be reviewing The Ghost King by R.A. Salvatore.

First line: "The dragon issued a low growl and flexed his claws in close, curling himself into a defensive crouch.

Summary: Taken from author's website - "When the Spellplague ravages Faerûn, Drizzt and his companions are caught in the chaos. Seeking out the help of the priest Cadderly–the hero of the recently reissued series The Cleric Quintet–Drizzt finds himself facing his most powerful and elusive foe, the twisted Crenshinibon, the demonic crystal shard he believed had been destroyed years ago."

Review: What to say. I have been a Drizzt fan for a while now and devour each new book when it comes out. This one was different, I guess I should have expected that from a book that's the final book in a trilogy called Transitions. I still wasn't entirely convinced when I read the author's note and was told he had to go to a 'dark' place to write this novel. I continued on, oblivious to just how deeply this book would affect me.

As I read it seemed all my favourite characters were going to play a part in this. Drizzt and his companions Bruenor, Regis, and Cattie Brie were present. Also Cadderly, Danica, Ivan, and Pickel (a personal favourite and mood lightener) were there, along with Jarlaxle and Athrogate. Add to this mix Danica and Cadderly's almost grown children as well as the return of past villains and there is a lot of characters to juggle. Salvatore does a great job of this and with only a few exceptions, each is given their due.

Turning the pages, the ominous tone became stronger and I began to accept that not all of my friends were going to make it past the last page. Yet, I couldn't put it down. When the undead dragon Hephaestus stomped on poor Ivan my heart nearly stopped. I felt he couldn't go out like that. Even expecting more tragedy (well the reality is Ivan wasn't lost at that point of the story) I couldn't prepare myself for what was coming. This book was so well written, probably the best of the Drizzt books in my opinion, that I can forgive Salvatore for what happens. The endings for the characters that don't make it are appropriate and give you that bitter sweet feeling of closure. I'm not afraid to say I did have tears in my eyes by the end and I can't think of another book that actually did that to me. If you've read any of the rest of Drizzt or are a fantasy lover I'd highly recommend this, though if you haven't read any other Drizzt you may need to start a little sooner to be invested in these characters.

Let me know what you think. If you read this tell me your opinion. If you have another suggestion let me know. Until the next time it's time for guest blog, see you around.

guest blog- the ghost king

2011-08-04T16:47:00.002-06:00

It is guest blog time again. Today I'll be reviewing The Ghost King by R.A. Salvatore.

First line: "The dragon issued a low growl and flexed his claws in close, curling himself into a defensive crouch.

Let me know what you think. If you read this tell me your opinion. If you have another suggestion let me know. Until the next time it's time for guest blog, see you around.

Wordless Wednesday (Aug 3)

2011-08-03T13:58:00.002-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

Teaser Tuesdays (Aug. 2)

2011-08-02T18:44:00.002-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

· Grab your current read

· Open to a random page

· Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

· BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

· Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teasers:

Thenceforth, he decided, he must take his motto from Horace: “Make money, money by fair means if you can, if not, by any means money.”

Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase- page 13.

If you do play, go to MizB’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

it's monday! what are you reading? (aug. 1)

2011-08-01T18:45:00.001-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

Just a quick one cause it’s a long weekend. I love long weekends! But, I hate having less time to read. So busy!

But with that said, I did finish The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong. I have to say, the ending to this one was much more satisfying than the end to the first. And yet I am no less excited to read the third.

I am still working on Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De Rosnay. I am loving every page of it and can’t wait to see what happens next. But. As I think I said last week, I can only bear to read it a couple sections at a time. The second half is easier. I wouldn’t say the focus has changed, but there is more to focus on. (Curious enough to check it out yet? Heh)

So this week I am hoping to finish that one up. I have also downloaded Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase for my kindle read. I thought a romance would counterbalance the sadness nicely. And so far it’s a historical romance that isn’t overwhelming so. Think I’m going to enjoy that one too.

I am hoping to start something completely different, and maybe a little fluffy, when I am done with these. I am thinking Strawberry Shortcake Murder by Joanne Fluke. I read the first in the series a while back (this is the second), and enjoyed it. So, I thought this might be a good time to give the second one a go.

What are you finding yourself reading this summer? Serious ‘thinking’ reads, or light ‘fluffy’ reads?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

Enclave

2011-07-29T13:29:00.001-06:00

Title: Enclave

Author: Ann Aguirre

Date Finished: June 3, 2011

Personal Book Count: 22 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Young Adult Dystopian Fiction

First Line: I was born during the second holocaust.

Why did I pick this book?: was recommended to me by a sale girl at my local bookstore, when I purchase another book by Aguire.

Summary and Review: taken from anneaguirre.com-

“In Deuce’s world, people earn the right to a name only if they survive their first fifteen years. By that point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups–Breeders, Builders, or Hunters, identifiable by the number of scars they bear on their arms. Deuce has wanted to be a Huntress for as long as she can remember.

As a Huntress, her purpose is clear—to brave the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading ferocious monsters known as Freaks. She’s worked toward this goal her whole life, and nothing’s going to stop her, not even a beautiful, brooding Hunter named Fade. When the mysterious boy becomes her partner, Deuce’s troubles are just beginning.”

*SQUEE* I just went online to look up a summary, and I notice there is a sequel coming! Ehm. Sorry. Sometimes the excitement overwhelms.

So, I think by this point you can tell, I loved this book. Deuce was my favorite. A tough girl, but has the tendency to speak or act before she thinks. I think this made her relatable. Sometimes as teens, I think we all did this. Fade, I liked, but I’m not sure where to slot him. More of a big brother, or love interest? Or both? I like Tegan, but so far, she is just kind of a tag-along. I have high hopes of her blooming in the next book though. Striker… I’m not sure what to say. So far, not a fan, but maybe he will grow on me. At first it stressed me out when the setting changed. I didn’t like it much, although I understood why. But the longer they were ‘out’ the more I liked it. It will be interesting to see where they go in the next one.

I am a girl who was born without a sense of smell. So I found it particularly interesting when it was mentioned that their sense of smell had become dominant. Someone like me would never survive this book. I loved the ending. But. I felt like there were a lot of loose ends left. More like the book just stopped, rather than ended. By now, I think we all know why *grin*, but at the time it really bugged. Right at the back of the book, after the ending, Aguirre writes a couple pages on the research she did, and how she came to believe that this scenario was possible. I loved this bit! I thought it was brilliant, and love the author sharing her thought process, and ultimately her creativity. It was fascinating to me to see where all this came from. I wish more authors would do this. Now, how many minutes till the next one comes out? ;)

Revolutionary Road Haiku

2011-07-28T20:12:00.002-06:00

Family has big dreams

of moving to France to live

but, no happily ever after.

Based on Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates

Wordless Wednesday (July 27)

2011-07-27T15:11:00.003-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

long weekend plans...

Top Ten Books That Tackle Tough Issues

2011-07-26T15:40:00.003-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and The Bookish please go visit them over there to take part with us! =D

Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson – anorexia
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee- racism
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides- transgender
Still Alice by Lisa Genova- Alzheimer's
My Sister’s Keeper by Jody Picoult - right to own body
any Torey Hayden book- special needs kids
Room by Emma Donahue – timely (Jaycee Dugard)
Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards – rights of special needs kids (sorry, i know i read this one, but i can't find the review, i will keep hunting)
Go Ask Alice by Anonymous- Drugs (ditto)
13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher- teen suicide

I had trouble picking only ten! But, as I have only read about half of these, I could have gotten theme and issues mixed up in some. (Or am I being too picky?) Also, I am fascinated to see what others picked, because what I call a tough issue, others may not. Nonetheless, this was a fun list. Thx. =D

Are there any books I missed that you would add to the list?

it's monday! what are you reading? (july 25)

2011-07-25T16:16:00.002-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

This was a good reading weekend. It was pretty quiet here for the first time it weeks. So, our time was spent playing video games, reading, writing,(isn’t it great to be an adult? ;) ) and doing things around the house (cleaning, shopping, ect.). I finished The Sinner by Tess Gerritsen. Fabulous read! So far it’s my favorite book of hers.

I am still working on The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong (as my kindle book). I am about half way done, and LOVING it. It is VERY hard to put down. Except for the bat chapter. I had to go read something else for a while. It gave me the heebee geebees. If you have read this, you know what I am talking about. If you haven’t, I won’t spoil it for you.

My new paper book is Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De Rosnay. I am hooked! Once again, a great read, I am asking myself, why it took so long to pick up? It flips between two perspectives, by the chapter. One is a ten year old girl in Paris in 1942. When her family gets rounded up to be sent to a Nazi concentration camp, she locks her brother in a closet to hide him, assuming she will be able to come back for him soon (she doesn’t know where they are going). The other is a journalist and a mom (in 2002) who lives in Paris (and I’m not sure, but I suspect she is moving into the apartment of the previous little girl). She has been assigned an article where she has been asked to research that day in 1942. As much as I want to sit down and devour this one, I have had to put it down and walk away at times, as I have felt so overwhelmed by sadness. It is so well written, at such a great pace, one can’t help but be intrigued from page one.

So, it looks like today I have a mystery, a young adult, and one I would classify as ‘literature’. What is your preferred read, to while away the hot summer?

If you want to play too, go to Sheila’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

Drive thru Bookstore?

2011-07-22T13:56:00.001-06:00

What if we could have bookstores that have drive thrus, just as we do fast food? That is a question DH and I have repeatedly visited over the years. We have owned an online bookstore for over 5 years now. We have talked occasionally through the years of taking the plunge and opening a brick and mortar store. Then we had our local McDonalds close, and sit empty for a long time. We talked, jokingly, about using that space for our bookstore. Then one day we talked about keeping the drive thru window. Just imagine it…

College student? Call ahead with you reading list for the semester, we could pack it up and have it ready to go for you. Special book you can’t find? We could track it down and call you when it’s in for you, and you could drive through and pick it up. Specific read you want? Call to see if it’s in, we could hold it for you, you could swing by and get it on the way home from work. Busy mom, with a van full of kids? Hit the drive thru. Think of all the options!

Would you use a drive thru bookstore? What would you use it for?

born to rule

2011-07-21T14:16:00.001-06:00

Title: Born to Rule

Author: Kathryn Lasky

Date Finished: May 23, 2011

Personal Book Count: 21 out of 100

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: middle grade fiction

First Line: It was Gilly, the lady’s maid, who saw them first.

Why did I pick this book?: saw an ebook copy on my library’s web site. Was attracted to the idea of a princess camp.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“Camp Princess is just like any other summer camp. Okay, so it's not exactly summer, since the magical kingdom of Palacyndra has seasons that change at the drop of a tiara. And it's not exactly camp, since the princesses stay in fully furnished turrets, complete with chambermaids. But it is a chance to get away from home and enjoy activities such as arts and crafts (with diamonds, of course) and moat swimming (bathing tiara required!). It's a place where Princess Alicia makes real friends, Princesses Kristen and Gunder-snap. And for Alicia, Camp Princess becomes much more. A place of mystery. Her turret seems to be haunted, and the golden bird that she captured for the songbird contest refuses to sing a note! It's all utterly frustrating until one shadowy night, when Alicia feels a ghostly presence in her room and begins to discover a destiny far more exciting than anything she could have imagined.”

This was an easy read, and an amusing way to pass a bit of time. This story had lots of little storylines running through it, as well as the main one. I am attracted to the idea of ‘camp’, and all the little details the author chose to add. Nothing rankles me more than a story with a theme, but then it has no details to support it. Like it could be set anywhere, anytime. I think it is the thought that an author puts in that makes all the difference. I like that the princess’s sleep in turrets, take classes in everything from swimming to make-up to embroidery. They hunt and train songbirds. Their camp ‘councilors’ are other princesses, duchesses and other nobility. They interact with ghosts and witches. Even the camp is located in a magical place, where seasons can last hours or days. It is obvious the author took lots of time and care crafting this story. Even the diversity of the princess’s and the clique feel was an interesting touch, and added some realism. After all, isn’t that what everyone wants, is to be accepted? I would recommend this book to middle grade girls, especially those who like fantasy.

Wordless Wednesday (July 20)

2011-07-20T13:01:00.002-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

Teaser Tuesdays (July 19)

2011-07-19T15:22:00.001-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

· Grab your current read

· Open to a random page

· Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

· BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

· Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teasers:

‘Well, there’s our creature.’ said Rizzoli, and she shook her head. ‘Jesus. I’m glad I never took a shot at it. I’d hate to think…’

Maura stared at the footprint and shuddered. It was a child’s.

The Sinner by Tess Gerritsen- page 108

If you do play, go to MizB’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

it's monday! what are you reading? (july 18)

2011-07-18T15:51:00.002-06:00

It’s Monday, what are you reading? is hosted by Sheila over at Book Journey.

Oops! I skipped a week. Well, what can I say, other than life happens? My birthday was the 10^th, and I was still hiding from the world on the Monday ;) Does anyone else do that? But, it was ok reading time. I did finish Heads You Lose by Lisa Lutz as well as The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen (reviews to come). In the end I cancelled Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins from the library. For my birthday I received a Kindle for my DH (if a little late), so I decided that was one I would buy. My goal now is to have one paper book going for in bed, and one ebook going for out of the house or maybe during the day. We will see how that works. The only down side is that kindle is not currently compatible with my library, but DH says there is an upgrade coming soon to fix that, so we will see.

This week I have 2 on the go. On the new kindle, I have started The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong. This is the second in her YA series. It’s a little typical for YA these days, as it’s a group of kids with special powers, living together, working together for a common goal against a ‘bad guy’. The twist to this series is it isn’t witches, or vampires, or super hero powers. This one is different, in that it’s a necromancer as the main character. My hubby and I were discussing this over the weekend. It isn’t the evil type that you typically think of, where they raise army’s of skeletons for destruction. This is more hey, I’m gonna call dead peoples spirits for a chat. Hopefully this one will keep me as on the edge of my seat as the last one.

My paper book is The Sinner by Tess Gerritsen (the third in the series). Gerritsen is my newest favoritest author. (But this too can change as often as the weather). This one has way more Maura Isles, and much is from her point of view. It is a nice opportunity to get to know her. Also, I have noticed Rizzoli and Isles aren’t glued at the hip, like so many mysteries with two ‘detectives’. This one is about 2 nuns that were attacked, in their ‘sealed’ Abby, in the middle of a snowstorm. Many of our favorite characters are back, but it is from a fresh point of view, as the narrators aren’t necessarily the same as the previous two.

So, do you have an ereader? How do you use it in conjunction with paper books? Or do you use only the reader?

Stampede Related Reads?

2011-07-08T17:23:00.001-06:00

Today was the official kick off to the Calgary Stampede 2011. It is a combination of chuck wagon races, rodeo, shows (complete with fireworks), and a fair with all the rides and games and foods you would expect. And this morning was the parade to kick it off, where half the city takes the morning off. It’s a big deal. Maybe more so this year, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were in it. Calgary is a city of just over a million people, and they were predicting 400,000 at the parade this morning. The Stampede is a tradition from way before I was born, but as I have lived here for all my 36 years, I always remember it. I remember having ice cream with g-ma on kid’s day, going with my friends as a teen, and even gambling in the adjoining casino on my 21^st birthday. (That is the upside/downside is my birthday is always in the middle of the stampede (depending if you are a glass half empty or half full person)).

So because this is a book blog, I started thinking, what would be a couple good stampede tie-ins? It could be a western, a romance with cowboys, a story that takes place at a local fair, something to do with parades, this year maybe even something to do with royalty. So, my question, what are your suggestions for stampede related reads?

The Summoning

2011-07-07T13:40:00.003-06:00

Title: The Summoning

Author: Kelly Armstrong

Date Finished: May 17, 2011

Personal Book Count: 20 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Young Adult- Paranormal

First Line: Mommy forgot to warn the new babysitter about the basement.

Why did I pick this book?: I had read her series about the female hit woman, and had heard good things about these.

Summary and Review: taken from the author’s website-

“Chloe Saunders sees dead people. Yes, like in the films. The problem is, in real life saying you see ghosts gets you a one-way ticket to the psych ward. And at 15, all Chloe wants to do is fit in at school and maybe get a boy to notice her. But when a particularly violent ghost haunts her, she gets noticed for all the wrong reasons. Her seemingly crazed behaviour earns her a trip to Lyle House, a centre for disturbed teens.

At first Chloe is determined to keep her head down. But then her room mate disappears after confessing she has a poltergeist, and some of the other patients also seem to be manifesting paranormal behaviour. Could that be a coincidence? Or is Lyle House not quite what it seems…? Chloe realizes that if she doesn’t uncover the truth, she could be destined for a lifetime in a psychiatric hospital. Or could her fate be even worse…? Can she trust her fellow students, and does she dare reveal her dark secret?”

Honestly, this book took me 3 tries to read. The first time I picked it up at the library. I wasn’t into it at the time, but knew it was something I would like to read. So, I went out and bought a copy. The next time I tried to read it was during the last Dewey's-24-hour-read-a-thon. But honestly, it reminded me too much of a novel a friend of mine was working on, and I found I just couldn’t read it. Once I cleared a few other books off my list, I was determined. So I sat down, and made myself read further then I had ever read before. And you know what? It grabbed me. To the point, where it was hard to put down. All I wanted to do was read. It had me on a rollercoaster ride until the last page. Loved the characters, some more then others, but even the ones I didn’t love, were great, believable, characters that contributed conflict to the story. Oh, the teen drama! Lol. I will complain a bit about the setting. Let’s see, we will put a bunch of teenagers with similar powers in the same place. Um, Harry Potter? Hex Hall? It felt a little done. With that said, it was well done, with a twist being in a group home, rather than a school. I think if you were a fan of either of these, this might be up your alley, and definitely worth picking up. I will say, I am NOT a fan of loose ends, and cliff hangers, and this one left me wondering and thinking (good for the author, bad for me). But maybe it gives me reason to hope for it (or at least bookstore gift certificates?) for my birthday. =D

Wordless Wednesda (July 6)

2011-07-06T16:32:00.001-06:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/newhome/

Teaser Tuesday (July 5)

2011-07-05T16:52:00.001-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

· Grab your current read

· Open to a random page

· Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

· BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

· Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teasers:

Paul then pulled out the Purple People Eater, got massively stoned, and watched four episode in a row of Flowers of Evil, in which a borderline-sociopath horticulturist critiques the works of amateur suburban gardeners. The following morning, Lacey tossed the PPE in the neighbor’s trash and drove to work.

Heads You Lose but Lisa Lutz, page 130

If you do play, go to MizB’s page and leave your link there, but also please let me know so I can come visit. Thx =D

it's monday! what are you reading?

2011-07-04T19:50:00.003-06:00

This week has been really slow reading wise for me. I have been working on Heads You Lose by Lisa Lutz which I got from the library. The problem is at this time of year there never seems to be anytime in the day for reading. And at night when I crawl in bed and get ready to read, which is my routine, I have 2 dogs that decide they need to cuddle. I find it really hot, and hard to get comfortable and concentrate (anyone else?). So I try and wait for later and cooler, and stay up and do other things (lately it’s computer games so I don’t disturb anyone). Then I fall asleep when I go to bed. And then the cycle repeats.

But I have been enjoying the adventure that is Heads You Lose. It is a light, fluffy, fun book, and I have even read some of the funnier parts out to DH. It is about a brother and sister that live together (and work together growing pot), and the aftermath when a headless body shows up on their property. It is written by Lutz and her ex-boyfriend, and contains notes of bickering between the chapters (they alternate who writes them, her odd, him even). It is all good fun, and they work together (and sometimes against each other) building character stories, leaving clues, and general writing styles, commenting on each others prose.

This coming week I am expecting The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson and hopefully Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins. Hope to finish at least one of these. My goal for this summer is to read 10 book-to-movies and see the film. Hoping to start one off my list too. Ambitious? Maybe.

So what do you do to stay cool and read during the summer months?

Note to Self

2011-07-03T21:30:00.002-06:00

Title: Note to Self- On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits

Author: Samara O’Shea

Date Finished: May 13, 2011

Personal Book Count: 19 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Non-fiction: Journaling

First Line: “I swear to God, this is different.”

Why did I pick this book?: I was browsing the writing section of my library. My eye wondered over, and the bright color and title caught me.

Summary and Review: taken from amazon.com-

“Keeping a journal is easy. Keeping a life-altering, soul-enlightening journal, however, is not. At its best, journaling can be among the most transformative of experiences, but you can only get there by learning how to express yourself fully and openly. Enter Samara O'Shea.

O'Shea charmed readers with her elegant and witty For the Love of Letters. Now, in Note to Self, she's back to guide us through the fun, effective, and revelatory process of journaling. Along the way, selections from O'Shea's own journals demonstrate what a journal should be: a tool to access inner strengths, uncover unknown passions, face uncertain realities, and get to the center of self. To help create an effective journal, O'Shea provides multiple suggestions and exercises, including:

Write in a stream of consciousness: Forget everything you ever learned about writing and just write. Let it all out: the good, bad, mad, angry, boring, and ugly.

Ask yourself questions: What do I want to change about myself? What would I never change about myself?

Copy quotes: Other people's words can help you figure out where you are in life, or where you'd like to be.

It takes time: Don't lose faith if you don't immediately feel better after writing in your journal. Think of each entry as part of a collection that will eventually reveal its meaning to you.

O'Shea's own journal entries reveal alternately moving, edgy, and hilarious stories from throughout her life, as she hits the party scene in New York, poses naked as an aspiring model, stands by as her boyfriend discovers an infidelity by (you guessed it) reading her journal, and more. There are also fascinating journal entries of notorious diarists, such as John Wilkes Booth, Anaïs Nin, and Sylvia Plath.”

I have seen many reviews on this book floating around out there. Some of them are great, and some less so. But for me, this book was one that falls in the “LOVE” category. I love the voice the author uses, and how she peppers everything with blog entries, both of her own and others. She adds lots of anecdotes, both the good and the bad. She made some points which made me think, not just about journaling but about things in general. I like books that make me think, and more than that, decide WHAT I think. When I came upon this book, I couldn’t decide if I wanted to write or journal. Or what I wanted to write. Reading this gave me inspiration for both, and lots of fodder for my imagination. It also broadened my perspective on journaling. I always thought of it as more of a “Dear Diary, I had the worst day with my boyfriend…” book. And she does talk about reflecting, and recording your day, but also talks about adding song lyrics, quotes, poems, pictures, ect. And who knows? I have been wanting to start a ‘family life story’ for years. I could include some interesting details in it if I do this. I got so into the process, for a while, journaling really became my priority over writing (and sometimes reading). You know when you find a non-fiction book that is so good you can’t decide if you want to go do what it’s talking about, or stay and read more about it? This is exactly what this was like. I discovered a nice cheap hobby, if you like to write (and I do =D), and very portable, with only needing a notebook and a pen. And I didn’t even go out and buy a journal (who knew how long this would last?). I used a note book I had on hand. I was surprised how quickly it started to fill up, as I carried it with me, and used it, all the time. (In fact, I am referring to the notes I made for this review out of it, heh). I am a bit of a blogger (only 4 at current count) and I was a little afraid how the journal and blogs would work together. I am finding they coexist quite nicely together, and one doesn’t have to replace the other. There are very few books I re-read (I don’t see the point when there are SO MANY new books out there to read all the time), but this is one I can see myself re-reading. When I decided this was the case, and it was time to return it to the library, I tracked down a new copy on the internet (the only place I could find it) and bought it. Now, to get my hands on her book about letter writing…

So what is your favorite book on journaling, or journal (ex. Diary of Anne Frank)?

10 books to movies I want to read this summer

2011-07-01T19:42:00.002-06:00

So, I have been looking over my bookshelves and thinking about what I have got, and what I want to read this summer. I am noticing a trend. Books I got because I wanted to read them before the movie came out, and books that I own, that I wanted to read, but for whatever reason, never got around to. Now they are being made into a movie, and I want to read them before I see the movie (some are out, some are long out, and some are in the works.) I think we all know how the to-be-read pile can stack up and get away from us. So, I found a list of 10. Now I did find more, but some were TV series, mini series, or just didn’t fit for some reason (note to self- maybe a good post for next week), I went with the 10 best. In no particular order… (Ok, a lie, turns out, it’s in alphabetical order…)

10 Books to movies I want to read this summer

The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum- older, but I hear a good one.
The Dragon Tattoo series by Stieg Larsson- I saw the other day another version of this is coming out? And I have yet to see one in any language, and have only read the first.
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert- um, Julia Roberts… ‘nuff said…
Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk- ok, I think this one I let myself get talked into, but now I kind of want to challenge myself and push through.
I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore (side note: seriously? This is a pseudonym for 2 authors, one of which is the guy who wrote A Million Little Pieces? Weird) – a lot of hype for both the movie and the book. Some good, some bad for each. Now I want to read and see both, and decide for myself if I agree with ‘people’.
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan – Y.A?!? Greek gods!?! Bring it on!
Like Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen- was actually a gift from my M.I.L. a couple years ago. And despite RP, the movie looks wonderful.
My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult- always wanted to try Picoult. Someone told me this was the one to start with.
Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin- ok. I confess. I love chick-lit. Yet despite being a Kate Hudson fan, not excited about the movie. Books should be great though. (I hope)
The Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich- ok. I have read most of these. These would be re-reads, so maybe they don’t completely fit, but I have been looking forward to the movie since I heard someone bought the rights YEARS ago. So you will forgive me slipping this one in. SO EXCITED.

Will I get through all of these? Probably not. But it nice to have goals and something to aim for. Some of these have been on my shelf for a LONG time. These are the ones that I own. What do you think? Did I miss any? Are there any movies coming out, or that have come out, that I MUST read the book first? What would you add if you were making this list for yourself?

(See? A book related post that is not a review! Aren’t you proud of me? =D)

Refreshing

2011-06-30T22:11:00.000-06:00

So, I have been reflecting on my blog lately. I think it’s stagnant. I am assuming it’s boring for you, as it boring for me. And that is bad. So what do I do about it? I think it’s time for a refreshing. So slowly, over the next little while, things here, they will be a changin’. Hopefully, this will breathe new life in to this blog for all of us. And honestly, bring some enthusiasm back. I want to add some features, as well as expand a bit. Talk about not only reviews, but other book related subjects.

I hope you will be patient and bear with me through this process.

So, my first step is to make and Elevator Pitch. I am hoping that if I post it here, it will remind me, and I can refer back and it will give me focus. I have done a long and a short version.

Short- Helping people find interesting reads through reviews.

Long- I love reading and blogging different types of books. I hope to help heavy readers and non-readers alike find something new, or at least of interest. The goal of my blog is to share what I’m reading, share different forms of book related things that grab my attention, connect with others who love reading, and record what I have learned through this journey. I want this to be an interactive forum. And meeting new people, and finding new things to discuss, consider and read is always a good thing. =D

So, what are a couple of your favorite features for blogs (either book or other)? What are a couple that bug you?

Hex Hall

2011-06-13T13:43:00.001-06:00

Title: Hex Hall

Author: Rachel Hawkins

Date Finished: May 10, 2011

Personal Book Count: 18 out of 75

Rating: 5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: Young Adult Fantasy

First Line: Felicia Miller was crying in the bathroom. Again.

Why did I pick this book?: I kept reading lots of buzz on the internet.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.

By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.

As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.”

I found it interesting. The combination of witches, werewolves and fairies really pulled me in to the story. Rarely have I found a series this not-put-down-able, and it was all I could think about while I wasn't reading. This was the first in a long time. The last series I was drawn to like this was the Twilight series (I never got into Harry Potter). This one may be better. I really like the main character Sophie. I found her realistic and relatable. The story was great, with so many different things going on at one time. Many were resolved. Some weren't. And I have my predictions as to where the next book will take us, but in the interest of preventing spoilers, I'm going to keep them to myself. As happens for me with these books, I find that a big part of my reading amusement comes from the details. For example, a pot that pours the drinker’s favorite drink, or room that reflects your emotions really flares my admiration for the author and the imagination she put in. All in all, a great way to spend the weekend, I can't wait to get my hands on the next one. J

The Apprentice

2011-05-30T18:15:00.002-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: The Apprentice

Author: Tess Gerritsen

Date Finished: May 7, 2011

Personal Book Count: 17 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

First Line: Today I watched a man die.

Why did I pick this book?: I loved The Surgeon and couldn’t wait to pick this one up.

Summary and Review: taken form the author's website-

“It’s a boiling summer in Boston. Adding to the city’s woes is a series of shocking crimes that end in abduction and death.

The pattern suggests one man: serial killer Warren Hoyt, recently thrown behind bars. Police can only assume an acolyte is at large, a maniac basing his attacks on the twisted medical techniques of the madman he so admires.

At least that’s what detective Jane Rizzoli thinks. Forced again to confront the killer who scarred her – literally and figuratively – she is determined to finally end Hoyt’s awful influence. Rizzoli isn’t counting on becoming a target herself.

Yet once Hoyt is suddenly free, he joins his mysterious blood brother in a vicious vendetta….”

The second book in the Rizzoli and Isles series started out as a lukewarm experience for me. It felt like more of the same as the first to me. That made it feel like a really long mystery, where you found out the bad guy half way through. Kinda anti-climatic. But I liked the characters. I will say, I love that all the characters were back. Some I loved, some not so much. I did like Dean to come in and replace Thomas. I hope we see more of him, (and I will be reading more of the series to find out). And I am happy we finally got to meet Isles. The ending was great, and it took the whole book (couple books) to a whole new level. It put the two books in a whole new light, and made it worth the read. Gerritsen may turn out to be one of my favorite authors yet.

how i stole johnny depp's alien girlfriend

2011-05-17T13:16:00.001-06:00

Title: How I Stole Johnny Depp’s Alien Girlfriend

Author: Gary Ghislain

Date Finished: April 30, 2011

Personal Book Count: 16 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Why did I pick this book?: received as an ARC from librarything.com

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“David Gershwin's summer is about to take a turn for the weird. When his dad's new patient Zelda tells him she’s from outer space and on a quest to take Johnny Depp back to her planet, he knows he should run away screaming. But with one look from her mean, green eyes, David's hooked, and soon he's leaping across rooftops, running from police, and stealing cars just to stay by her side. He might not be a typical hero, but David's going to get the girl even if it takes him to the ends of the earth—or beyond.”

This book was one of those books, that when you put down at the end, you think, that was a fun ride. When it started out as a story about a French boy who has a crush on a girl that is crazy (she thinks she is an alien), it really didn’t grab me. But. It was an interesting plot. Was she, or wasn’t she crazy? And the clues that lead you back and forth on the journey, until a decision is made, are believable. The setting was in different parts of France. It was interesting to hear the author throw in the details of location, but honestly, I felt this could have taken place anywhere. David was an average guy. Which probably made him the least interesting, but we needed him to be the sanity in the middle of all the chaos. Because I think I feel he also went through the most growth. I think the girl Zelda, was a bit one dimensional, but amusing, none the less, with her wacky rituals like singing to her bellybutton and walking around in bizarre outfits. Malou (David’s sister) was a nice addition to the book, and served almost as the middle guy, between the other two, but also manipulating circumstances to her favor. The ending was quite exciting, and I found that it gave payoff to the rest of the story. But. The wrap-up, was a little lukewarm to me and vague. I don’t think it was logical, for all the characters. With that said, I look forward to reading more by this author.

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

girl in the mirror

2011-05-10T21:42:00.002-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Girl in the Mirror

Author: Cecelia Ahearn

Date Finished: April 24, 2011

Personal Book Count: 15 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

Why did I pick this book?: I have like the couple of Ahearn books I have read, and so it peaked my interest when I saw this one on the new and notable shelf at my local library.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

‘Girl in the Mirror

Lila knows how lucky she is to have found the man of her dreams. But when a secret from her family's past comes to light on her wedding day, her destiny changes in the most unexpected of ways…

The Memory Maker

They say you never forget your first love. But what happens when those cherished memories start to fade? Some people would do anything to hold on to the past and, for one heartbroken man, that means finding a way to relive those precious moments…’

The first story in this book was haunting. It still sticks with me now, and I find myself constantly still thinking about it. Lila is a young woman we follow, and in part her relationship with her grandmother. A terrible family secret comes to light on the day of her wedding (but it could have easily been any other day). It was creepy, but the wrap up was great and unexpected. Interesting resolution. One of the best short stories I have read in a long time.

I have to say, I may have enjoyed the second one more if I read it first. Compared to the first, I had a lukewarm reaction to it. It is about a man who invents a machine the public queues for months to get to use. They call it the memory maker, but he hates that name. He hires a wonderful woman to assist him, as his ‘business’ has gotten out of hand. But really it is all about his struggle with life. And this one did very little to surprise me. I guess my expectations were high after the first one, and I wanted more.

All in all, and enjoyable read, and I am never disappointed by Ahearn.

sizzle

2011-05-07T18:32:00.001-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Sizzle

Author: Julie Garwood

Date Finished: April 23, 2011

Personal Book Count: 14 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

Why did I pick this book?: I love this series by Garwood, and was pleased to find another one at the library.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“Lyra Prescott, a Los Angeles film student, is closing in on graduation and facing important decisions about her future. She's already been offered a job at her hometown TV station, an opportunity that could ultimately launch her dream career as a film editor. But heading back home would also mean dealing with her overprotective brothers, social-climbing mother, and eccentric grandmother. Unsure of her future, Lyra dives into work on her final school assignment: a documentary transformed by a twist of fate into a real-life horror film.

After she unwittingly captures a shocking crime on camera, a rash of mysterious, treacherous incidents convince Lyra that she's trapped in a sinister scenario headed for a violent ending. Running scared, she turns to her best friend, Sidney Buchanan, whose connections bring dauntless and devilishly handsome FBI agent Sam Kincaid into Lyra's life. As the noose of deadly intrigue tightens and the feelings between them deepen, Lyra and Sam must place their faith in each other's hands - and stand together against the malevolent forces about to break loose.”

I really like this series of books by Julie Garwood. I will say she has started to stretch the concept a little though. The series used to about the brothers in a large family as the main characters love interests. Then she added the sisters. This one the female main character was the roommate of one of the sisters, and the male main character had saved one of the brother’s life. Still, the writing is enjoyable and easy to read, it has the suspense element which I enjoy, and the plots are always different and interesting. And I have to confess, I did develop a mini-crush on the man in this one. I wonder where she will take this series next, it’s hard to imagine where it can go, and at the same time, I hope she never stops writing these.

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

wicked appetite

2011-05-03T15:43:00.001-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Wicked Appetite

Author: Janet Evanovich

Date Finished: April 17, 2011

Personal Book Count: 13 out of 75

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

Why did I pick this book?: I picked this book because I have read all of the Stephanie Plum books. We have met the main character Diesel in a couple of those. I was excited to see where Evanovich would take it with Diesel as the main character.

Summary and Review: taken from the author’s website-

‘Seven Stones of Power. No one knows when they were created or by whom, each said to represent one of the Seven Deadly Sins.

For centuries, treasure hunters have been eager to possess the stones, undeterred by their corrupting nature. The list is long -- Genghis Khan, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, to name a few. Now the Stones have found their way to Salem, Massachusetts, and so has Gerwulf Grimoire, adding himself to this rogues' gallery of power seekers. He's an uncommonly dangerous man, with a hunger for the forbidden, and a set of abilities that are way beyond ordinary. Abilities that he feels entitle him to possess anything he might desire.

That would include Elizabeth Tucker, the woman he needs to find the Stones. She's freshly transplanted from New York City to Boston's North Shore. With a new job as pastry chef at Dazzle's bakery and an old house inherited from her Aunt Ophelia, her life is pretty much on track …until it's suddenly derailed by a guy named Diesel, a rude monkey, and a ninja cat.

Lizzy can handle the monkey and the cat. She's not sure about Diesel. He's offering up his own set of unusual talents, promising to protect her from Grimoire. The kind of protection that Lizzy suspects might involve guarding her body day and night.

The Seven Deadly Sins are pride, greed, lust, envy wrath, sloth and gluttony. That pretty much covers everything that is wicked. Diesel thinks it also pretty much covers everything that's fun. And Lizzy thinks Diesel and the Seven Deadly Sins cover everything her mother warned her about.’

Well, I don’t think I really went into this one knowing what it was going to be about. I read Diesel, but what I heard was Stephanie Plum and Diesel. That left me a bit disappointed when I started. I wasn’t sure if I was actually going to like it. But, as it had the same humor as Stephanie Plum, and I do enjoy Diesel as a character, I pushed on. So glad I did. It was a ride of ups and down, typical Evanovich humor, a light easy read, and lots of face palm moments. And this one was back to being a mystery, as in, we didn’t know who done it, until the main characters did. Lizzy’s character reminded me a lot of Stephanie, as in she was the amateur bumbling her way through. It gets a little dippy with the occult stuff sometimes. But it was a fun second story line. And she pulls it off in a way that I would expect from Evanovich. The ending was awesome. It sets up the series nicely and I can’t wait for the next book. Will it become a contender in my eyes with the Plum series? Only time will tell…

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

call it courage

2011-04-28T13:30:00.002-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Call it Courage

Author: Armstrong Sperry

Date Finished: April 10, 2011

Personal Book Count: 12 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction/ Newbery winner

Why did I pick this book?: it is my goal to one day have read all the Newbery winners

Summary and Review: A young boy is terrified of the sea after an incident that happened when he was a child. He knows he will never have any standing in the tribe if he doesn’t face his fear, and so sails off to do so.

I enjoyed this one. I always think it is hard to pull off a story where there is only one character, but Sperry does this very well. There is lots of outer (as well as inner) conflict to keep the story going. There was a consistent ‘what happens next?’ feel to it that kept it going. As a younger person I would have wondered if he was going to make it, and that would have kept me reading on. As an adult, you know how it has to end, so you lose a bit of that element. Oddly, I kept trying to relate it to Steinbeck’s The Pearl in my mind. All in all, a quick enjoyable read. But one I am glad I read as an adult, not sure if I would have understood the ‘layers’ when I was younger.

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

surgeon

2011-04-25T14:24:00.002-06:00

Title: The Surgeon

Author: Tess Gerritsen

Date Finished: April 09, 2011

Personal Book Count: 11 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

First Line: Today they will find her body.

Why did I pick this book?: it was on my reading pile for a while. I wanted to read it since I heard they made it into a TV show in the states with Angie Harmon. Luckily, it was this month’s book club pick.

Summary and Review: taken from the author’s website-

“He slips into their homes at night and walks silently into bedrooms where women lie sleeping, unaware of the horrors they soon will endure. The precision of the killer’s methods suggests he is a deranged man of medicine, propelling the Boston newspapers and the frightened public to name him “The Surgeon.”

The cops’ only clue rests with another surgeon, the victim of a nearly identical crime. Two years ago, Dr. Catherine Cordell fought back and killed her attacker before he could complete his assault. Now she hides her fears of intimacy behind a cool and elegant exterior and well-earned reputation as a top trauma surgeon.”

*POSSIBLE SPOILERS FOR MY BOOK CLUB* (everyone else is OK) -if you are in my book club, beware, you may not want to read any further…*

LOVED this. In fact, I am kind of cursing myself for it having taken so long to start this series. I became aware of it a long time ago, but I like to start series at the beginning, and for some reason, I dragged my feet at locating this one, and then again in to start reading in. In fact, it was my book club that finally motivated me.

It did think the descriptive violence was a little over the top. Is it necessary? Maybe. Does it add anything? Maybe. But I have put down books and walked away for less. Why was this one different? I guess I like the characters enough, and was hooked on the plot by that point. Also, I have to admit, waiting so long, I think I would have been crushed if it was disappointing. Less so then if I had just picked it up on a spur of the moment.

Also, I was a little confused. There was a rhyme repeated. “Where we go depends on what we know, and what we know depends on where we go.” And yet I didn’t think it had much weight in the story. Why keep coming back to it, and then not tie it in to anything?

But, to me it made a great deal of difference that Gerritsen had been a doctor. In my eyes it made the story stronger and more believable. It will be interesting to see if she can carry this forward, throughout the series with the same consistency.

There was an odd sex scene in there. To me, it felt a bit forced for the two characters. It was like someone said, “Oh, there needs to be a sex scene. We will slot it in here, and put it between these two characters.” Or maybe it felt out of place in a mystery. Either way, I found the whole thing a bit… odd.

It was a little odd to me this was the first book in the Rizzoli and Isles series. Rizzoli wasn’t even a main character, and Isles was never mentioned. But, it leaves the author room to grow, and it will be interesting to see how she develops the series and moves forward.

If you asked me right now today, I will say yes, not only will I be reading the next book, but I will also be reading this rest of the series. =D

midnight in death

2011-04-07T11:25:00.001-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Midnight in Death

Author: J.D. Robb

Date Finished: March 3, 2011

Personal Book Count: 10 out of 75 (think I need to step it up if I’m gonna make it)

Rating: 3 our of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery

Why did I pick this book?: was looking for a mystery to read, and found this slim volume slid in with the hardcovers.

Summary and Review: An old arrest of Lt. Eve Dallas escapes from prison, and continues his crime spree, with his aim to capture, and punish Eve.

I found this book to be funny, but not as good as the full length novels. Many of my favorite characters were back (Peabody, Roarke, Mira, Feeney) but not so many that I was overwhelmed for such a short work. My big complaint would be that this one was not a mystery, as we knew who the bad guy was, it was just a matter of catching him. Still, a fun and enjoyable read.

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

timeline

2011-04-04T18:24:00.001-06:00

Title: Timeline

Author: Michael Crichton

Date Finished: March 29, 2011

Personal Book Count: 9 out of 75

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: suspense fiction

First Line: He should never have taken that shortcut.

Why did I pick this book?: was our bookclub pick for this month.

Summary and Review: taken from website-

“In an Arizona desert a man wanders in a daze, speaking words that make no sense. Within twenty-four hours he is dead, his body swiftly cremated by his only known associates. Halfway around the world archaeologists make a shocking discovery at a medieval site.

Suddenly they are swept off to the headquarters of a secretive multinational corporation that has developed an astounding technology. Now this group is about to get a chance not to study the past but to enter it. And with history opened to the present, the dead awakened to the living, these men and women will soon find themselves fighting for their very survival-six hundred years ago. . .”

OK, after my book club meeting, I am kind of questioning the mark I gave this book. Maybe I didn’t really like it that much. I was being generous. I hated the characters. They were two dimensional, and for university educated grad students, they made some of the stupidest decisions ever. Not 10 minutes after being told to say together, no matter what, they all walk off in different directions. To the author’s credit, most of the characters did redeem themselves by the end. With that said, I felt it was a well paced novel that kept moving, and you always wanted to turn the page to see what would happen next, even if it was something that had me rolling my eyes. The science was over explained, and at times frustratingly flawed. I was surprised, I did like the stuff that took place in the past. Normally I am a purely contemporary girl, but I found the details fascinating, and the action fast enough, that I actually enjoyed the ride. And I found the ending satisfying, and it made it worth my time to have read it. But I have to say, unless this author comes up as another bookclub pick, I will not be reading any more.

words

2011-03-22T19:04:00.001-06:00

Title: Words

Author: Ginny L. Yttrup

Date Finished: March 13, 2011

Personal Book Count: 8 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: christian fiction

First Line: I collect words.

Why did I pick this book?: I received this book as a review copy from librarything.com.

Summary and Review: “ I collect words. I keep them in a box in my mind. Whenever I wanted, I’d open the box and pick up the papers, reading and feeling the words all at once. Then I could hide the box. But the words are safer in my mind. There, he can’t take them.”

Ten-year old Kaylee Wren doesn’t speak. Not since her drug-addled mother walked away, leaving her in a remote cabin nestled in the towering redwoods-in the care of a man who is as dangerous as he is evil. With silence her only refuge, Kaylee collects words she might never speak from the only memento her mother left behind: a dictionary.

Sierra Dawn is thirty-four, an artist, and alone. She has allowed the shame of her past to silence her present hopes and chooses to bury her pain by trying to control her circumstances. But on the twelfth anniversary of her daughter’s death, Sierra’s control begins to crumble as the God of her childhood woos her back to Himself.

Brought together by Divine design, Kaylee and Sierra will discover together the healing mercy of the Word—Jesus Christ.”

I loved this book. The characters, the setting. And the author speaks in a language that makes you feel like you are there. Sierra is so kind and becomes so open, and Kaylee although she has been through so much at such a young age, is so strong, and the type of girl you want to hang out with. Despite not speaking, she really draws the reader, and everyone around her in. Also, I wish I could SEE Sierra's art. Pete is a giant teddy bear you just want to cuddle up with, and have him take care of you. It is set on the coast, so there is a lot of oceans, mountains and everything in between. And the author paints it with such vivid colors that I would like to go visit one day.

Now I have thrown many a book across the room, when I found they came on too heavy too fast with Jesus. I felt was it forced on me. If you are a Christian, you don't need that, and if you aren't, it's just going to turn you off. This book did NOT do that, and it made it a pleasure to read, as it just built up slowly throughout. There was a little bit of a heavy moral at the end, but it came on slowly, and you could see it coming. Over all, I liked this book, and was sorry to see it end. Will definitely read more by this author in the future. =D

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

the elegance of the hedgehog

2011-03-14T12:39:00.001-06:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: The Elegance of the Hedgehog

Author: Muriel Barbery

Date Finished: March 2, 2011

Personal Book Count: 7 out of 75

Rating: 3 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction/literature

First Line: “Marx has completely changed the way I view the world,” declared the Pallieres boy this morning, although ordinarily he says nary a word to me.

Why did I pick this book?: it was picked as my bookclub read this month.

Review: I am still not sure how I feel about this book. As much as I enjoyed it, I have a love/hate relationship with it. Depending on the time of day, and which part of it I’m thinking about. I guess that means it is sticking with me, so that is a good thing. It is a very philosophical book, and some of the parts I felt were put in there so the author could get all her philosophical views in. in fact, I hated the first half. Because it was heavy philosophy, and little on story. It wasn't until the character Ozu showed up, that I found some story, and started to enjoy myself. By the time the end came around, I was ready for a big pay off. I felt I had invested so much of myself. And I didn't get the pay off. Or at least I didn't get the payoff I was hoping for. And the ending? Abrupt and unfinished. But I did like that language, and I did like the characters, and we did end up having some interesting discussions about it, so there were some wins. But, I don't think I will be reading any more by this author.

trouble maker 2

2011-03-03T16:40:00.001-07:00

MINI REVIEW

Title: Trouble Maker 2

Author: Janet Evanovich and Alex Evanovich

Art By: Joelle Jones

Date Finished: February 23, 2011

Personal Book Count: 6 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: graphic novel

Why did I pick this book?: it is the second half of the mystery, so I had to finish. Also, love NASCAR and Evanovich, so...

Review: I am not sure what I can say that is new. Because this is the second half, and I already reviewed the first half. I did like the way it wrapped up. It was a cute story. I will say I prefer the Barnaby novels to these. But it was a fun experiment, and a nice change.

room

2011-02-25T14:33:00.001-07:00

Title: Room

Author: Emma Donoghue

Date Finished: February 2, 2011

Personal Book Count: 5 out of 75

Rating: 4 out o 5

Genre/ Subject: fiction

First Line: Today I'm five.

Why did I pick this book?: I selected this book because it was long listed for the manner book price in 2010. I had seen it on the shelf many times in my local bookstore, and had read several positive reviews online.

Summary and Review: taken from the back of the book-

“To five-year-old-Jack, Room is the world....
It's where he was born, it's where he and Ma eat and sleep and play and learn. There are endless wonders that let loose Jack's imagination-the snake under Bed that he constructs out of eggshells, the imaginary world projected through the TV, the coziness of Wardrobe beneath Ma's clothes, where she tucks him in safely at night, in case Old Nick comes.
Room is home to Jack, but to Ma, it's the prison where she's been held since she was nineteen-for seven long years. Through her fierce love for her son, she has created a life for him in that eleven-by-eleven-foot space. But Jack's curiosity is building alongside Ma’s desperation—and she knows that Room cannot contain either indefinitely....
Told in the inventive, funny, and poignant voice of Jack, Room is a celebration of resilience-and a powerful story of a mother and son whose love lets them survive the impossible.”

I'm not sure what I can say about this book that hasn't already been said. It is such an amazing work that had me hooked from the first through to the last word. Emma Donoghue writes the entire book from the point of view of a five-year-old named Jack. I find it amazing the way she captures his voice and nailed it so completely and perfectly. I wish more authors had a grasp of voice and could continue it through an entire novel but Donoghue does. The journey you are taken on is rewarding at times, and very difficult to read and at other times. Overall I found this a very satisfying read. It is emotional all the way through. Sometimes you cheer, sometimes it’s crying. We see the world through the eyes of a child perhaps more innocent than most. I found myself adopting "Jack-isms" and using them in my daily language. The way he talks becomes very infectious. I love the way she wrapped it up on a very positive note, and I hope one day that we may see a sequel, as I am sure there is much more to tell of Jack’s story.

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D

deception point

2011-02-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

Title: Deception Point

Author: Dan Brown

Date Finished: January 27, 2011

Personal Book Count: 4 out of 75

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: suspense

First Line: Death, in this forsaken place, could come in countless forms.

Why did I pick this book?: I picked this book because some friends and I are starting a book club, and it was recommended as a first good selection.

Summary and Review: taken from back of the book-

“When a NASA satellite discovers an astonishingly rare object buried deep in the Arctic ice, the floundering space agency proclaims a much-needed victory -- a victory with profound implications for NASA policy and the impending presidential election. To verify the authenticity of the find, the White House calls upon the skills of intelligence analyst Rachel Sexton. Accompanied by a team of experts, including the charismatic scholar Michael Tolland, Rachel travels to the Arctic and uncovers the unthinkable: evidence of scientific trickery -- a bold deception that threatens to plunge the world into controversy. But before she can warn the president, Rachel and Michael are ambushed by a team of assassins. Fleeing for their lives across a desolate and lethal landscape, their only hope for survival is to discover who is behind this masterful plot. The truth, they will learn, is the most shocking deception of all.”

I read The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons when they first came out and became popular. It had been so long since I had read anything by Dan Brown, I had forgotten how much I really enjoyed his writing. As I was reading this, it struck me on a few occasions how Brown's characters tend to be a little on the perfect side. Also, sometimes in his writing things happen a little bit too conveniently. For example, he will write himself into a major earth shattering experience, that you feel there is no way out of, and then something magically happens at the 11th hour. I fell in love with the character of Corky. He is just awkward enough, and has the right amount of sarcastic attitude to make him lovable. Brown really uses humor well to dispel the tension throughout the book. I love the short chapters throughout the book, and the quick switch between many characters, it makes for a fast read with lots of suspense- it was definitely a can't-put-down book for me. Maybe it's because I have read a few other Brown's novels in the past, but I found this one a little bit predictable. For example, I didn't have any trouble picking out the bad guy despite a few red herrings. I will have to say that I found it a little bit funny that the geologist that died in the prologue was in fact a CANADIAN geologist. I'm also very intrigued by the technology used in this book. It says in the beginning that much of it does exists, and it really added great detail to the story. Things like ice bullets and miniature flying robots that recharge themselves, are details that stuck with me and gave me a lot to think about. I can't wait to read another one of Dan Brown's books and definitely won't be so long before my next one. Next time I just hope to read one not set in such a cold setting, when it is already so cold and snowy here. :-)

the trouble with magic

2011-01-14T15:22:00.001-07:00

AMAASS LINK

MINI REVIEW

Title: The Trouble with Magic

Author: Madelyn Alt

Date Finished: January 13, 2011

Personal Book Count: 3 out of 75 (4%)

Rating: 4 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: mystery (with a touch of paranormal)

First Line: I don’t know what it was that made me abandon my usual path to work on that particular October Tuesday.

Why did I pick this book?: I always wanted to try Alt, and then my Santa from Library thing picked this one for me =D

Summary and Review: taken from the back cover-

“Bringing a little culture to Stony Mill, Indiana, Enchantments is one of the area's finest antique shops. But shop clerk Maggie O'Neill and her employer Felicity Dow do more than conjure up curios for the locals--they each possess a talent for spellbinding sleuthing.

Bored with her office job (and subsequently fired for excessive tardiness), Maggie jumps at the opportunity to work at Enchantments. She was a little weirded out when Felicity described herself as a witch, but if her boss wants to play with broomsticks and cauldrons, where's the harm? However, Maggie's first day on the job may turn out to be her last when police question Felicity in the murder of her estranged sister.

With everyone in town proclaiming Felicity's guilt faster than the Salem Witch Trials, Maggie finds herself wondering if she'll also be tied to the stake. And lately, she's been receiving messages on a spiritual frequency guiding her to prove Felicity's innocence--and to embrace her own "charmed" life . . .”

I love a good cozy mystery, and I have been reading a lot lately. This one is the first in the series. This one is a real mystery, as in there is a list of suspects, and a bunch of clues dropped, and you can read and try and solve it. I dislike those where the bad guy comes out of left field at the end. I got really tired really quickly of hearing about ‘Hoosiers’. For a while it felt like once a page. It was like, I get it, let’s move on… I was under the impression that this book had a witch type plot. And really, although there was some, I felt it was more strongly centered around ghosts and haunting the witch. But maybe that is because I don’t know enough about it? Maybe they are closer then I am aware. I did guess the end of this one, but I have a pretty good history of being able to do that. (maybe cause I read so many?) My Santa had great taste as this WAS a gift, but not on my list. I had it on my personal list, but not on the site. I am so happy she picked this one as I REALLY enjoyed it. I will be searching more out… =D