Amazing! The Salt God's Daughter by Ilie Ruby will be a great read any time of the year, but especially in the summer. I knew going into this read that themes included relationships between mothers and daughters, which I usually enjoy. Who among us doesn't have a mother or daughter that they would like to understand better? The legend of the Silkies holds a personal attachment for me.
What is truly unique is how Ruby was able to take growing up, relationships, legends and feminist issues then produce such an entertaining and readable book. I can't wait to discuss this book with members of my book club tonight. We are a group who can and will get to the meat of the story, relate this book to others we have read, and bring personal feeling and experiences into the mix. Since we recently started giving our books a star rating I will wait to post until after we meet.
Is it me or have there been some great books out there to read this summer? More, unfortunately, than I will get through before school picks up next week and my reading slows down a bit. But really, do try to read The Salt God's Daughter as soon as you can. Ruby's debut book, The Language of Trees: A Novel, has great reviews and ratings. I can't believe I missed it, but it is in my Kindle today.
Star Rating: averaged 4.0
Friday, August 2, 2013
Sunday, July 21, 2013
The Red Planet by Willian John Locke
William The John Locke, an Englishman, was born in 1863 and died in 1930 but his work has had an American following for many years. The Cambridge educated Locke trained as a teacher but preferred writing. I first came across Locke when I read The Three Wise Men (reviewed here previously) and continue to enjoy his work. Although his style and subject matter may appear very "old school" they have entertained audiences in print and film for many years. Although not a mystery in the sense that we use that term today, The Red Planet is, in fact a mystery.
The Red Planet was the #3 book in the U.S. in 1917. The themes are typical of the times, war, bravery vs. cowardliness, responsibility, and respectability which are themes for every generation. I believe everyone deserves to treat themselves to a couple of older British works and the $0.00 price tag on Kindle makes it easy to explore something different and timeless this summer.
The Red Planet was the #3 book in the U.S. in 1917. The themes are typical of the times, war, bravery vs. cowardliness, responsibility, and respectability which are themes for every generation. I believe everyone deserves to treat themselves to a couple of older British works and the $0.00 price tag on Kindle makes it easy to explore something different and timeless this summer.
The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde
Everyone who knows me will tell you that I have no sense of humor--but I love satire. Many years ago I stumbled across Jasper Fforde by reading The Eyre Affair, the first volume in his Thursday Next series. I am proud to announce that his new young adult series appears to be equal in satire, writing, wit and engagement as that first Fforde book I read. The YA readers in your life will love the satire as well.
As an adult I found it entertaining and have pre-ordered volume 2 on my Kindle. The main thing that makes this YA literature is the central character, sixteen year old Jennifer Strange. Strange is a foundling who is conscripted to a local magic establishment with an absentee owner. However when many seers predict the death of the last dragon in the Kingdom twists and turns push Jennifer into the role of the last dragon slayer.
Fforde is funny in a satirical way and I think you or your teen with see many real-life situations and a few politicians in the pages of The Last Dragonslayer. Isn't that what satire is all about?
As an adult I found it entertaining and have pre-ordered volume 2 on my Kindle. The main thing that makes this YA literature is the central character, sixteen year old Jennifer Strange. Strange is a foundling who is conscripted to a local magic establishment with an absentee owner. However when many seers predict the death of the last dragon in the Kingdom twists and turns push Jennifer into the role of the last dragon slayer.
Fforde is funny in a satirical way and I think you or your teen with see many real-life situations and a few politicians in the pages of The Last Dragonslayer. Isn't that what satire is all about?
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Angelopolis: A Novel
I had already begun reading Angelopolis by Danielle Trussoni when I wrote about Angelology and already knew I was going to love it. It just kept getting better and better. I would really encourage readers to read these two books in order. There is so much background in the first book that you will want to remember for the second book.
The story of Evangeline continues with some very surprising twists in Angelopolis. The story line delves into Noah, his sons, the flood and the fact that he saved seeds as well as animals from extinction. A lot of the action moves into Russia, present and past. Faberge eggs, Rasputin, and tsars Nikolai and Alexandra from Russian history are all important parts of the story.
The mystery has deepened, rather than being solved, although we end this volume with a lot more information at our disposal. My engagement in the book has continued to grow. My burning question now is "When does book three come out?". Just as Dan Brown's books have gained a cult-like following I believe you will begin seeing Trussoni's books on reading lists everywhere.
The story of Evangeline continues with some very surprising twists in Angelopolis. The story line delves into Noah, his sons, the flood and the fact that he saved seeds as well as animals from extinction. A lot of the action moves into Russia, present and past. Faberge eggs, Rasputin, and tsars Nikolai and Alexandra from Russian history are all important parts of the story.
The mystery has deepened, rather than being solved, although we end this volume with a lot more information at our disposal. My engagement in the book has continued to grow. My burning question now is "When does book three come out?". Just as Dan Brown's books have gained a cult-like following I believe you will begin seeing Trussoni's books on reading lists everywhere.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Gone Girl: A Novel
Gone Girl: A Novel by Gillian Flynn was the pick for July's Book Club discussion last night. We always have a great discussion and a lot to say, the group is just great that way. Gone Girl was enjoyed by everyone and we each gave it between 4 and 5 stars. Rating a book was something new we did last night, thanks to Cat, and I hope we continue to do a rating.
Several of us are die-hard mystery fans so we were surprised than none of us figured out the ending ahead of time. That is a challenge that most books could not meet with our group. A lot of the discussion focused on what makes a person a killer and can they be a born killer?
The basic story line could come from the daily newspapers on many levels. Amy and Nick lose their jobs and move back to his hometown to care for ailing parents. When Amy turns up missing on their fifth anniversary Nick is, of course, a suspect. His in-laws fly in and are very supportive in the beginning, as is his sister. The police are fair but must but investigate Nick, who has a very vague alibi. The media rains down on Carthage, MO and will not relent.
The person who chose Gone Girl for our 2013 list described the book as "creepy" and last night we all agreed. What happens next would ruin the book for you, it will suffice to say I challenge you to figure it out before the end. This is a great summer read.
Gillian Flynn has written two other books, Sharp Objects: A Novel (2007) and Dark Places: A Novel (2010).
Several of us are die-hard mystery fans so we were surprised than none of us figured out the ending ahead of time. That is a challenge that most books could not meet with our group. A lot of the discussion focused on what makes a person a killer and can they be a born killer?
The basic story line could come from the daily newspapers on many levels. Amy and Nick lose their jobs and move back to his hometown to care for ailing parents. When Amy turns up missing on their fifth anniversary Nick is, of course, a suspect. His in-laws fly in and are very supportive in the beginning, as is his sister. The police are fair but must but investigate Nick, who has a very vague alibi. The media rains down on Carthage, MO and will not relent.
The person who chose Gone Girl for our 2013 list described the book as "creepy" and last night we all agreed. What happens next would ruin the book for you, it will suffice to say I challenge you to figure it out before the end. This is a great summer read.
Gillian Flynn has written two other books, Sharp Objects: A Novel (2007) and Dark Places: A Novel (2010).
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Angelogy: A Novel
Although Danielle Trussoni's name did not jump out and grab me the title of her book did. Angelogy: A Novel was downloaded onto my Kindle in moments. Angels have attracted me, fascinated me and entertained me for as long as I can remember.
To keep me reading and download the second book in the series required more and Trussoni did not let me down. The main character, Evangeline, is likeable and real. Her life growing up in a convent is a sharp contrast to the challenges she faces in adulthood. There are some positive reviews out there comparing Angelogy with Dan Brown's recent Inferno: A Novel. I understand the comparison. Trussoni draws from mythology and the Bible to develop her story. It is steeped in history at every level and the storyline is supported by action. The classic struggle between good and evil is present as well although we understand that good and evil have a great deal in common.
The second book in the series, Angelopolis: A Novel is out as well. Gratefully it was downloaded and I was reading within minutes of completing Angelogy. I needed more, I needed to keep turning those pages.
Recently I wrote that if you only read one book this summer you should read Inferno: A Novel. Let me correct that. You can't only read one book this summer. You must read both Inferno and Angelogy. I will leave the reading order up to you.
To keep me reading and download the second book in the series required more and Trussoni did not let me down. The main character, Evangeline, is likeable and real. Her life growing up in a convent is a sharp contrast to the challenges she faces in adulthood. There are some positive reviews out there comparing Angelogy with Dan Brown's recent Inferno: A Novel. I understand the comparison. Trussoni draws from mythology and the Bible to develop her story. It is steeped in history at every level and the storyline is supported by action. The classic struggle between good and evil is present as well although we understand that good and evil have a great deal in common.
The second book in the series, Angelopolis: A Novel is out as well. Gratefully it was downloaded and I was reading within minutes of completing Angelogy. I needed more, I needed to keep turning those pages.
Recently I wrote that if you only read one book this summer you should read Inferno: A Novel. Let me correct that. You can't only read one book this summer. You must read both Inferno and Angelogy. I will leave the reading order up to you.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
The Technologist
While I'm not sure how I stumbled upon Matthew Pearl it was a lucky day. After reading several books by Pearl I have never been disappointed. The Technologist is no exception.
Pearl has a knack for pulling together historic facts, a mystery and a unique story line that always engages and entertains. The Technologist is set in Boston shortly after the Civil War. On the most simple level it is about the founding of MIT, the first technology school in America and a bold experiment for the time.
The mystery involves science based attacks on the city that puts the city in a panic and the survival of the school, professors and students at risk. Many of the inventions border on the "steampunk" genre that I love but are actually founded on cutting edge technology of the era.
Key characters in the book were actually associated with MIT or are a melding of several actual people. They are brave, flawed and human. After reading The Dante Club several years ago I thought Pearl could never top that feat. I stand corrected, he just keeps putting out great reads. So, don't read The Dante Club or The Technologist by Matthew Pearl. Read them both! You will be a fan.
Pearl has a knack for pulling together historic facts, a mystery and a unique story line that always engages and entertains. The Technologist is set in Boston shortly after the Civil War. On the most simple level it is about the founding of MIT, the first technology school in America and a bold experiment for the time.
The mystery involves science based attacks on the city that puts the city in a panic and the survival of the school, professors and students at risk. Many of the inventions border on the "steampunk" genre that I love but are actually founded on cutting edge technology of the era.
Key characters in the book were actually associated with MIT or are a melding of several actual people. They are brave, flawed and human. After reading The Dante Club several years ago I thought Pearl could never top that feat. I stand corrected, he just keeps putting out great reads. So, don't read The Dante Club or The Technologist by Matthew Pearl. Read them both! You will be a fan.
Monday, June 17, 2013
Inferno: A Novel by Dan Brown
At long last, another Dan Brown book! I just can't get enough of Brown's intense and thrilling storytelling. I'm not alone, a friend was on vacation in Hawaii and we shared many texts before we had both completed the book.
Another plus for me is that the main historic character in this book is Dante Alighieri, as you have probably guessed from the title. The writings of Dante, places where he lived and was buried, and places linked to him all feature in this amazing mystery. Throw in travel in Europe, people who are not what them seem, a powerful private company, and the World Health Organization and the mystery becomes even more difficult to solve.
Although I have read all his work Inferno is easily my favorite Dan Brown yet. My friend, Cat, and I discussed adding Inferno to our Book Club list as there is so much to discuss. Those of you in discussion groups have probably had experiences where you loved a book but the discussion was rather flat. This won't happen if you read Inferno with a group. At the end a very interesting question is posed, one that is open ended and offers several reasonable answers.
If I was ask to choose one book that I have read in 2013 for everyone I know to read it would be Inferno. That is saying a lot because I've read some really great books this year, often feeling I didn't have enough reading hours in my days even though I listen to books while I drive.
Another plus for me is that the main historic character in this book is Dante Alighieri, as you have probably guessed from the title. The writings of Dante, places where he lived and was buried, and places linked to him all feature in this amazing mystery. Throw in travel in Europe, people who are not what them seem, a powerful private company, and the World Health Organization and the mystery becomes even more difficult to solve.
Although I have read all his work Inferno is easily my favorite Dan Brown yet. My friend, Cat, and I discussed adding Inferno to our Book Club list as there is so much to discuss. Those of you in discussion groups have probably had experiences where you loved a book but the discussion was rather flat. This won't happen if you read Inferno with a group. At the end a very interesting question is posed, one that is open ended and offers several reasonable answers.
If I was ask to choose one book that I have read in 2013 for everyone I know to read it would be Inferno. That is saying a lot because I've read some really great books this year, often feeling I didn't have enough reading hours in my days even though I listen to books while I drive.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Three Great Books by Oliver Potzsch
In April I devoured three great books by Oliver Potzsch, a German author. The series and first volume were entitled The Hangman's Daughter. The Dark Monk was the second followed by The Beggar King. The fourth book, due out in the U.S. July 16, 2013, is The Poisoned Pilgrim.
The setting is primarily in Schongau, Germany beginning in 1659. The main characters are Jakob Kuisl and his daughter Magdalena. Jakob is a hangman, an "untouchable" second class citizen with a rigorous and important job. I enjoyed learning about the day to day life of the time as well as the use of medicinal herbs common among hangmen and midwives. These books are, in fact, very intriguing mysteries. Since herbal and homemade cure or preventatives appeal to me I found myself highlighting a lot of passages in my Kindle.
This book series appealed to me on another level as well. Actual people are the key figures in the books as Oliver Potzsch is a descendant of Jakob Kuisl. Potzsch used family and public records to help flavor his books and develop his characters. I've researched a lot of family history but have not found characters as captivating as the Kusil family.
A third dimension to the books is a travelogue of sorts in the back of the books which describes the areas you can visit to day and some of the historic building that still stand from the 1600's.
All of these great attributes could not hold my attention if it were not for Potzsch's remarkable storytelling and mystery development. Grab one of these books (I would suggest The Hangman's Daughter), and maybe a nice herbal tea, then enjoy a great story. You do have time to read all three before book four is available to U.S. audiences.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Room by Emma Donoghue, June Book Club Pick
My book group read Room by Emma Donoghue for our June pick.
Although everyone agreed that this wasn't a "feel good" book it was a story that created a lot of discussion. The story is told by a five year old boy, Jack. His whole world is a small room that he shares with his mother. There are occasional visits to "Ma" by "old Nick" while Jack sleeps in the wardrobe. Jack's mother was abducted at nineteen. She has endured abuse, a stillbirth and the birth of Jack. When it is finally time to leave captivity it is Jack that must be brave and go out into a world that he thought was only a pretend world on TV.
About the time many of us began to read Room the headlines were full of the escape of a young woman and her daughter born was she was captive. Those headlines were fuel for discussion as well, many times in a position of compare and contrast.
If you are looking for a relaxing summer read with little to think or worry about Room is not your choice. I would recommend it for not only the story value but also the discussion value to any serious reader. It is fairly short and an easy read.
Although everyone agreed that this wasn't a "feel good" book it was a story that created a lot of discussion. The story is told by a five year old boy, Jack. His whole world is a small room that he shares with his mother. There are occasional visits to "Ma" by "old Nick" while Jack sleeps in the wardrobe. Jack's mother was abducted at nineteen. She has endured abuse, a stillbirth and the birth of Jack. When it is finally time to leave captivity it is Jack that must be brave and go out into a world that he thought was only a pretend world on TV.
About the time many of us began to read Room the headlines were full of the escape of a young woman and her daughter born was she was captive. Those headlines were fuel for discussion as well, many times in a position of compare and contrast.
If you are looking for a relaxing summer read with little to think or worry about Room is not your choice. I would recommend it for not only the story value but also the discussion value to any serious reader. It is fairly short and an easy read.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Angora Alibi: A Seaside Knitters Mystery
I have read many of the Seaside Knitters Mysteries and always enjoy them. Angora Alibi by Sally Goldenbaum is no exception. This is Goldenbaum's seventh Seaside Knitters Mystery.
I enjoy the characters who almost seem like friends. They live near the shore but also have lives that are busy with meetings, family and friends. Sometimes they have problems that must be thought out and solved. As a knitter I understand how the act of knitting can bind us together and allow us to settle and focus. The main characters Izzy, her Aunt Nell and Uncle Ben and friends Cas and Birdie are all giving, caring people who make any community thrive. Luckily I have never had to use knitting and my special group of friends to help me solve a murder.
Izzy and Sam were married in an earlier book, The Wedding Shawl, and are now expecting a baby. Amid the joy and the visits to the local doctor Izzy meets a kind but misguided young man who is related to the assistant at the clinic. When he is found dead Izzy and her friends know they must restore peace to their town before the baby arrives.
This series is progressive as the characters change and grow throughout the series but you can certainly read them out of order. I can be obsessive about things like that--but YOU can! What better to read than a nice mystery set along the sea this summer?
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Just Like Us: the True Story of Four Mexican Girls Coming of Age in America by Helen Thorpe
Just Like Us: the True Story of Four Mexican Girls Coming of Age in America by Helen Thorpe was my Book Club's May selection.
This book was an especially good choice for our group as we live in an area with a high Latino population that is struggling with how to handle immigration issues. Additionally, Thorpe is a "local" author in the sense that she now lives in Colorado. Her husband is Govener Hickenlooper, although at the time this book was written he was the Mayor of Denver and a successful businessman.
This non-fiction work shadows four girls attending the same Denver area high school from the night of their Sr. Prom through the changes that follow their graduation. All the girl's families came here from Mexico illegally. Two girls have documents and two don't although they have all grown up here and want to stay.
Sometimes you forget that this is non-fiction. For instance when a policeman is killed by an illegal immigrant who works at a resturaunt owned by Hickenlooper.
This book has many themes, growing up, identity, poverty, immigration laws, and how relationships change as we leave school for a larger, more complex world. It is an ideal candidate for a book club discussion and could be used very effectively in a high school classroom.
As a side note, I attended a talk given by Thorpe a couple of years ago. It was the most diverse audience I have ever been in for a book talk. Ages ranged from young teens to elderly. The majority of attendees were female but many men were in the audience as well. The ethnic background seemed to be almost equally split between Latino and non-Latino.
Although many of us consider summer a time for easy "beach reads" I know you will be glad you read Just Like Us this summer.
This book was an especially good choice for our group as we live in an area with a high Latino population that is struggling with how to handle immigration issues. Additionally, Thorpe is a "local" author in the sense that she now lives in Colorado. Her husband is Govener Hickenlooper, although at the time this book was written he was the Mayor of Denver and a successful businessman.
This non-fiction work shadows four girls attending the same Denver area high school from the night of their Sr. Prom through the changes that follow their graduation. All the girl's families came here from Mexico illegally. Two girls have documents and two don't although they have all grown up here and want to stay.
Sometimes you forget that this is non-fiction. For instance when a policeman is killed by an illegal immigrant who works at a resturaunt owned by Hickenlooper.
This book has many themes, growing up, identity, poverty, immigration laws, and how relationships change as we leave school for a larger, more complex world. It is an ideal candidate for a book club discussion and could be used very effectively in a high school classroom.
As a side note, I attended a talk given by Thorpe a couple of years ago. It was the most diverse audience I have ever been in for a book talk. Ages ranged from young teens to elderly. The majority of attendees were female but many men were in the audience as well. The ethnic background seemed to be almost equally split between Latino and non-Latino.
Although many of us consider summer a time for easy "beach reads" I know you will be glad you read Just Like Us this summer.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Sweet Tea Revenge
Sweet Tea Revenge by Laura Childs just came out in early March. Of course I had pre-ordered it to my Kindle since I read everything in that series; this is number fourteen.
For those of you who are new to the Tea Shop mysteries a little background information will be helpful. They are all set in Charleston, South Carolina. The main character, Theodosia, has given up a stressful professional career to open a tea shop in the historic district of Charleston. Two trusted friend/employees help her to run the shop. Haley is a young woman with an amazing talent in the kitchen with many special and unique offerings. Her soups, scones, sandwiches and candies are a mainstay of the shop as are Theodosia's gift baskets, teacup wreaths and tea beauty products. Drayton, slightly older and "fatherly" is one part master tea blender, one part tea pot and tea cup collector, and one part greeter/educator for the shop's many programs and special guests.
From Theodosia's arrival in Charleston she becomes embroiled in murders. Much to the dismay of gruff Detective Tidwell she snoops around and asks questions, usually at her own risk. However Tidwell is known to drop in for meals or tea time and listens to Theodosia's ideas while warning her to stay out of his investigations.
In Sweet Tea Revenge Delanie Dish, a local merchant and friend of Theo's is getting married to a wealthy local who owns, among other things, a Cigar Store. When the groom fails to appear at the wedding Theo checks his room and finds him dead. As bridesmaid she realizes it is her job to inform the bride and keep the guests milling about downstairs so the Tidwell can interview them upon his arrival. Drayton and Haley continue to service their delightful teas and food then go on to help, reluctantly, to solve the murder.
From Theodosia's sleuthing to Drayton's tea and teapot selections to Haley's inspired food (recipes in the back) there is much to like about this series. While I like to read books in order each of these books is stand-alone and a wonderful treat with a cup of tea! Try any of them, but be sure to read Sweet Tea Revenge.
NEXT POST: Just Like Us by Helen Thorpe
For those of you who are new to the Tea Shop mysteries a little background information will be helpful. They are all set in Charleston, South Carolina. The main character, Theodosia, has given up a stressful professional career to open a tea shop in the historic district of Charleston. Two trusted friend/employees help her to run the shop. Haley is a young woman with an amazing talent in the kitchen with many special and unique offerings. Her soups, scones, sandwiches and candies are a mainstay of the shop as are Theodosia's gift baskets, teacup wreaths and tea beauty products. Drayton, slightly older and "fatherly" is one part master tea blender, one part tea pot and tea cup collector, and one part greeter/educator for the shop's many programs and special guests.
From Theodosia's arrival in Charleston she becomes embroiled in murders. Much to the dismay of gruff Detective Tidwell she snoops around and asks questions, usually at her own risk. However Tidwell is known to drop in for meals or tea time and listens to Theodosia's ideas while warning her to stay out of his investigations.
In Sweet Tea Revenge Delanie Dish, a local merchant and friend of Theo's is getting married to a wealthy local who owns, among other things, a Cigar Store. When the groom fails to appear at the wedding Theo checks his room and finds him dead. As bridesmaid she realizes it is her job to inform the bride and keep the guests milling about downstairs so the Tidwell can interview them upon his arrival. Drayton and Haley continue to service their delightful teas and food then go on to help, reluctantly, to solve the murder.
From Theodosia's sleuthing to Drayton's tea and teapot selections to Haley's inspired food (recipes in the back) there is much to like about this series. While I like to read books in order each of these books is stand-alone and a wonderful treat with a cup of tea! Try any of them, but be sure to read Sweet Tea Revenge.
NEXT POST: Just Like Us by Helen Thorpe
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Lindsay Buroker Marathon
On a snow day from school I indulged in a marathon read to catch up (and re-read) some books by one of my favorite authors, Lindsay Buroker. She is decidedly my favorite fantasy/sci-fi/steampunk author and a new book was due to come out soon. What more incentive did I need?
Lindsay has two series The Emperor's Edge and Flash Gold. Both are highly readable very entertaining and available on my Kindle.
The Emperor's Edge saga is my favorite of the two for several reasons. I really like the characters and find all their adventures engaging. The setting also appeals to me, a world like ours in many ways although very different in others. The inclusion of magic practiced by people from some of the countries and denied and/or feared by others draws me into the story.
The final installment of this series was due in late spring so I felt it was my snowy day calling to be prepared. I read Beneath the Surface, Decrypted, Enigma, and Shadows Over Innocence all of which are quick reads, and prepared myself for reading the final volume as close to non-stop as possible. When Forged in Blood I arrived on my Kindle imagine my relief that at least one more Emperor's Edge book was yet to come. I am just not ready to end my relationship with these characters.
My one suggestion would be to not jump right in with Forged in Blood I. Take your time to read them in order and savor every moment. Although there are several titles in the series some are short stories or novellas and two of the books relate to The Emperor's Edge books and help to provide a background but and not specifically part of the series.
You might want to schedule a marathon of your own over a long weekend or a couple of short ones. The characters, amazing machines, magic and adventure will leave you wanting more. Sicarius and Amaranthe are characters I could really feel like I know as people.
Lindsay's books are available in digital formats from a variety of sources including Amazon, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and Barnes & Noble. Currently the first book, The Emperor's Edge and Shadows Over Innoccence are free downloads through a Kindle or Kindle App. One more reason to give Lindsay's books a try.
Books:
1) The Emperor's Edge
2) Dark Current
3) Deadly Games
4) Conspiracy
Enigma
Decrypted
Novellas & Shorts:
Shadows Over Innocence
Beneath the Surface
The Assassins Curse
The Ice Cracker II and Other Stories (three stories)
NEXT POST: Sweet Tea Revenge by Laura Childs
Lindsay has two series The Emperor's Edge and Flash Gold. Both are highly readable very entertaining and available on my Kindle.
The Emperor's Edge saga is my favorite of the two for several reasons. I really like the characters and find all their adventures engaging. The setting also appeals to me, a world like ours in many ways although very different in others. The inclusion of magic practiced by people from some of the countries and denied and/or feared by others draws me into the story.
The final installment of this series was due in late spring so I felt it was my snowy day calling to be prepared. I read Beneath the Surface, Decrypted, Enigma, and Shadows Over Innocence all of which are quick reads, and prepared myself for reading the final volume as close to non-stop as possible. When Forged in Blood I arrived on my Kindle imagine my relief that at least one more Emperor's Edge book was yet to come. I am just not ready to end my relationship with these characters.
My one suggestion would be to not jump right in with Forged in Blood I. Take your time to read them in order and savor every moment. Although there are several titles in the series some are short stories or novellas and two of the books relate to The Emperor's Edge books and help to provide a background but and not specifically part of the series.
You might want to schedule a marathon of your own over a long weekend or a couple of short ones. The characters, amazing machines, magic and adventure will leave you wanting more. Sicarius and Amaranthe are characters I could really feel like I know as people.
Lindsay's books are available in digital formats from a variety of sources including Amazon, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and Barnes & Noble. Currently the first book, The Emperor's Edge and Shadows Over Innoccence are free downloads through a Kindle or Kindle App. One more reason to give Lindsay's books a try.
Books:
1) The Emperor's Edge
2) Dark Current
3) Deadly Games
4) Conspiracy
Enigma
Decrypted
Novellas & Shorts:
Shadows Over Innocence
Beneath the Surface
The Assassins Curse
The Ice Cracker II and Other Stories (three stories)
NEXT POST: Sweet Tea Revenge by Laura Childs
Catching Up...
This spring has been hectic in many areas which involves a lot of driving from my rural home. The good thing is that I have had a lot of reading time thanks to my Kindle's reading mode. I like that I can listen while driving then read to myself while my husband watches TV.
In the next few days there will be many posts--I have set them on a schedule, one a day, so that you won't have such a long list that you miss some of the great books I have been enjoying.
NEXT POST: Several books by Lindsay Buroker.
In the next few days there will be many posts--I have set them on a schedule, one a day, so that you won't have such a long list that you miss some of the great books I have been enjoying.
NEXT POST: Several books by Lindsay Buroker.
Friday, March 8, 2013
The Name of the Rose, Book Club's March Pick
The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco was my pick for our March discussion. I knew ahead of time that I would like/love this book as I have read some of Eco's work before. When I chose this title as one of my two picks for the year I knew that some people would not agree with my choice. That is how book clubs work, at least ours does. We tend to have a lot of differences in reading but always approach the book with an open mind.
This lengthy book is basically a murder mystery. The depth and drama goes beyond a simple mystery because it is set in the13th century within the Catholic Church. Eco's attention to detail is remarkable, making it seem as if we know these people, places, events, church liturgy, and even the creation and illustration of books during that time.
William of Baskerville, the main character, reminded us of Sherlock Holmes. He uses observation and logic to solve the mystery. William's companion reminded us of Dr. Watson as well.
The villain in this story is a monk, but rather than being a bad person he is a man committed to truth. It proves to be his downfall. This led us to explore truth and occasions when we do the right thing for the wrong reasons, or the wrong thing for the right reasons.
Several of our members said that while they did not love the book they were glad to have read it. The large number of characters, minute historic detail and use of Latin made this book a heavy read for us all.
Since we act as facilitator for the books we choose each year I did some research as prep for this role after finishing the book. When it was published in 1980 having The Name of the Rose on your coffee table was the sign of an intellectual. I was very put-off to think that the 80's were still so shallow, and so glad to be part of a group that doesn't worry about who reads what. We just read.
The Name of the Rose is not for casual reading. But it would be ideal for a long winter week-end or a quiet get-away book. You will be glad you read it, even if you don't end up loving it. Eco's Prague Cemetery is still on my list but I will wait for a suitable time in the near future to begin.
This lengthy book is basically a murder mystery. The depth and drama goes beyond a simple mystery because it is set in the13th century within the Catholic Church. Eco's attention to detail is remarkable, making it seem as if we know these people, places, events, church liturgy, and even the creation and illustration of books during that time.
William of Baskerville, the main character, reminded us of Sherlock Holmes. He uses observation and logic to solve the mystery. William's companion reminded us of Dr. Watson as well.
The villain in this story is a monk, but rather than being a bad person he is a man committed to truth. It proves to be his downfall. This led us to explore truth and occasions when we do the right thing for the wrong reasons, or the wrong thing for the right reasons.
Several of our members said that while they did not love the book they were glad to have read it. The large number of characters, minute historic detail and use of Latin made this book a heavy read for us all.
Since we act as facilitator for the books we choose each year I did some research as prep for this role after finishing the book. When it was published in 1980 having The Name of the Rose on your coffee table was the sign of an intellectual. I was very put-off to think that the 80's were still so shallow, and so glad to be part of a group that doesn't worry about who reads what. We just read.
The Name of the Rose is not for casual reading. But it would be ideal for a long winter week-end or a quiet get-away book. You will be glad you read it, even if you don't end up loving it. Eco's Prague Cemetery is still on my list but I will wait for a suitable time in the near future to begin.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin
I finished The Aviator's Wife last week and am just getting around to blogging about it. This isn't due to a lack of things to say, or because I am not excited to share this book with my readers. No, it was due to the lack of time to do this book justice.
I heard about this book thanks to Amazon. You know--"if you liked ______ you may like_____." I have learned to trust what Amazon knows about my reading habits and don't feel the least bit worried about that. If the worst thing anyone ever knows about me is what I read I'm happy about that. The Aviator's Wife was reccomended because I had recently downloaded and read our February book club selection The Paris Wife. Amazon's intuitive software recognized the connection.
The Aviator's Wife is about Anne Morrow Lindberg, the wife in the shadows just as Hadley Hemingway lived in the shadows of her famous husband. There are also many other comparisons. Anne lived a life guided by her husband, his interests and his image. In the pages I read how wonderful and how horrible life with a famous, egotistical man can be.
Anne Morrow first met Lindberg when he appeared on the big screen as the hero of our country with his plane The Spirit of St. Louis. Not long afterward she met him in person at the home of her parents in Mexico where her father was a U.S. Ambassador.
I first met Anne Morrow Lindberg years ago when I read her book Hour of Gold, Hour of Lead the story of their life together and the tragic kidnapping of their firstborn, Charles Lindberg Jr. While the story of the "Lindberg Baby kidnapping" was part of my childhood the details were either never shared or long forgotten.
This historically based novel by Melanie Benjamin offered a new view of this once famous family. Love and commitment are not always enough. Ego and loneliness both damage a relationship. Trust is difficult to repair. Political alliances can harm reputation and image.
Please read The Aviator's Wife. The Lindbergs already seem to be fading into distant history for our generation so we may not have the images and biases our parents carried of this celebrity couple. Visit their lives from a perspective so very different from the sense of "celebrity" we carry now. You will be treated to a wonderful story with all the trials, tears, mistakes and blemishes of a real life.
I heard about this book thanks to Amazon. You know--"if you liked ______ you may like_____." I have learned to trust what Amazon knows about my reading habits and don't feel the least bit worried about that. If the worst thing anyone ever knows about me is what I read I'm happy about that. The Aviator's Wife was reccomended because I had recently downloaded and read our February book club selection The Paris Wife. Amazon's intuitive software recognized the connection.
The Aviator's Wife is about Anne Morrow Lindberg, the wife in the shadows just as Hadley Hemingway lived in the shadows of her famous husband. There are also many other comparisons. Anne lived a life guided by her husband, his interests and his image. In the pages I read how wonderful and how horrible life with a famous, egotistical man can be.
Anne Morrow first met Lindberg when he appeared on the big screen as the hero of our country with his plane The Spirit of St. Louis. Not long afterward she met him in person at the home of her parents in Mexico where her father was a U.S. Ambassador.
I first met Anne Morrow Lindberg years ago when I read her book Hour of Gold, Hour of Lead the story of their life together and the tragic kidnapping of their firstborn, Charles Lindberg Jr. While the story of the "Lindberg Baby kidnapping" was part of my childhood the details were either never shared or long forgotten.
This historically based novel by Melanie Benjamin offered a new view of this once famous family. Love and commitment are not always enough. Ego and loneliness both damage a relationship. Trust is difficult to repair. Political alliances can harm reputation and image.
Please read The Aviator's Wife. The Lindbergs already seem to be fading into distant history for our generation so we may not have the images and biases our parents carried of this celebrity couple. Visit their lives from a perspective so very different from the sense of "celebrity" we carry now. You will be treated to a wonderful story with all the trials, tears, mistakes and blemishes of a real life.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
The Paris Wife, February's Book Club Pick
The discussion was lively and diverse when we met Friday to discuss Paula McLain's book The Paris Wife. Everyone in attendance had great things about the book. McLain covered all the bases, it appears, in discovering and depicting this portion of Ernest Hemingway's life. They are all there, his friends, acquaintances, and his first wife Hadley Richardson. The people who loved him, the people who trusted him, the people who used him and the people he used all make their appearances. The list reads like a guide to literature: Ezra Pound, Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, Alice B. Toklas, Sherwood Anderson and many more.
As a young teenager the people included in this book were more real to me than the students who passed me in the hallways at school. They returned as I read, each as amazing and flawed as I had remembered them.
While this is a novel it is a wonderful way to discover the feel and lifeblood of Jazz Age Paris. Literature was growing,developing and re-inventing leaving a lasting stamp on what we believe and read today.
If you love Hemingway--read this book. If you know very little about the man Hemingway--read this book. If you ever wondered what the art and literary explosion in Paris during this time was really like--read this book. The popularity of The Paris Wife by Paula McLain is not a fluke. You might as well save yourself a trip to the library or book store and get a copy of Hemingway's A Movable Feast while you are at it. You'll want to read that as well!
As a young teenager the people included in this book were more real to me than the students who passed me in the hallways at school. They returned as I read, each as amazing and flawed as I had remembered them.
While this is a novel it is a wonderful way to discover the feel and lifeblood of Jazz Age Paris. Literature was growing,developing and re-inventing leaving a lasting stamp on what we believe and read today.
If you love Hemingway--read this book. If you know very little about the man Hemingway--read this book. If you ever wondered what the art and literary explosion in Paris during this time was really like--read this book. The popularity of The Paris Wife by Paula McLain is not a fluke. You might as well save yourself a trip to the library or book store and get a copy of Hemingway's A Movable Feast while you are at it. You'll want to read that as well!
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Fire Watch by Connie Willis
Fire Watch is a collection of twelve short stories by Connie Willis a well known science fiction author from my home state, Colorado. She has won six Nebul awards--more than any other science fiction writer. If you enjoyed her novels Blackout or All Clear you will enjoy the title story Fire Watch which is in the same setting, but Willis has a varied offering in this collection.
The stories cover a large scope of subject matter. They range from Daisy, in the Sun a story about the sun going super nova to A Letter from the Clearys about a family's life in the aftermath of a nuclear war. My favorites were Samaritan and Blued Moon. Samaritan brings up the question of whether animals have souls in a unique and thought provoking way. Blued Moon takes place in Wyoming at a site where a company is sending waste into outer space and the unique consequences that result.
Many are moving and some are a little creepy but they all kept me reading. Most of them are not for someone who worries about what will happen in the future because the stories in this collection are not all "happily ever after" tales.
Sometimes a short story fits into my schedule more seamlessly than a longer book. It is easy to pick up, read a quick story and then put it down again. A short story also seems to required less energy and commitment from the reader, although at least one of the these stories seemed quite intense to me.
I always encourage people to read something by Connie Willis. Her storytelling skills are top notch and her imagination runs everywhere!
The stories cover a large scope of subject matter. They range from Daisy, in the Sun a story about the sun going super nova to A Letter from the Clearys about a family's life in the aftermath of a nuclear war. My favorites were Samaritan and Blued Moon. Samaritan brings up the question of whether animals have souls in a unique and thought provoking way. Blued Moon takes place in Wyoming at a site where a company is sending waste into outer space and the unique consequences that result.
Many are moving and some are a little creepy but they all kept me reading. Most of them are not for someone who worries about what will happen in the future because the stories in this collection are not all "happily ever after" tales.
Sometimes a short story fits into my schedule more seamlessly than a longer book. It is easy to pick up, read a quick story and then put it down again. A short story also seems to required less energy and commitment from the reader, although at least one of the these stories seemed quite intense to me.
I always encourage people to read something by Connie Willis. Her storytelling skills are top notch and her imagination runs everywhere!
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Mrs. Dalloway, January Book Club
Let me start by saying everyone should read something by Virginia Woolf at least once in their lifetime. I think this holds true for man authors such as Shakespeare, Hemingway, Joyce, and Rand. You don't need to fall in love with the book or the author but you just may.
While I did not love Mrs. Dalloway, or the author Virginia Woolf I am extremely glad I read the book. The style, stream of consciousness, was at first a chore to read but gradually I got into it. The story takes place on one day of the life of Mrs. Dalloway and includes some peripheral characters that touch her life very remotely. As someone who loves the extremely large epics this book forced me to change my focus.
This book was the pick for our early January discussion at book club. Since it was for our group I was committed to reading the whole book. Since my book club met on January 4th I began reading after Christmas and read in several large chunks. For me that may have helped to hold everything together.
One thing I have learned belonging to a book club is that the book you love is not always the book that generates the best discussion. Some books lend themselves to a lively and diverse discussion while some do not. Mrs. Dalloway is an excellent discussion book.
Have you read a Woolf book? If not, I do highly recommend Mrs. Dalloway. You many not fall in love with the book or the author but you will be glad that you read it. If possible share this book with someone else, you will have a lot to discuss.
While I did not love Mrs. Dalloway, or the author Virginia Woolf I am extremely glad I read the book. The style, stream of consciousness, was at first a chore to read but gradually I got into it. The story takes place on one day of the life of Mrs. Dalloway and includes some peripheral characters that touch her life very remotely. As someone who loves the extremely large epics this book forced me to change my focus.
This book was the pick for our early January discussion at book club. Since it was for our group I was committed to reading the whole book. Since my book club met on January 4th I began reading after Christmas and read in several large chunks. For me that may have helped to hold everything together.
One thing I have learned belonging to a book club is that the book you love is not always the book that generates the best discussion. Some books lend themselves to a lively and diverse discussion while some do not. Mrs. Dalloway is an excellent discussion book.
Have you read a Woolf book? If not, I do highly recommend Mrs. Dalloway. You many not fall in love with the book or the author but you will be glad that you read it. If possible share this book with someone else, you will have a lot to discuss.
Welcome Back!
I feel like this message is for me, but I intend it for you as well. It seems like summer arrived, we tackled a huge landscaping project and suffered through the heat then suddenly school began. I just fell off the bandwagon and I apologize. It was heart warming to come back and discover that you've been here all along, checking in from time to time. Thank-you.
My resolutions for 2013 including blogging every book I read this year. Although I won't complain about books I don't like I will at least least acknowledge that they were read.
So, lets skip the lame excuses and go right to the books!
My resolutions for 2013 including blogging every book I read this year. Although I won't complain about books I don't like I will at least least acknowledge that they were read.
So, lets skip the lame excuses and go right to the books!
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