S.E.C.R.E.T.: a novel by L. Marie Adeline
I don't generally review books that would be considered erotic this one I thoroughly enjoyed. In fact read it cover to cover in one sitting, then spent so much time talking about the book to others I completely forgot to actually write the review. The main character's journey of discovery makes for a wonderful read and you can't help but want to cheer for her. I for one will be looking forward to more from this author.
The Death Relic by Chris Kuzneski
For the first time Chris Kuzneski has left me disappointed. Most of the book, though certainly well written, felt like a prelude. At the moment I finally thought, "Yes! Now we are on track..." the book ended abruptly and with little grace. Overall this book left me wondering if it's merely a placeholder for whatever comes next.
That Girl Started Her Own Country by Holy Ghost Writer
I found this book utterly fascinating. So much so that I will be tracking down the rest of the series and reading them as well. Even the times I found myself stopping to google along the way didn't destry the flow of the book. This book will make you pause and ponder a lot...enjoy every moment!
The Last of the Bird People by John Hanson Mitchell
It took me a long time to wade through the very short book. The premise was interesting and I expected to be both fascinated and excited by it. Neither proved to be true. I struggled to care and understand the people being written about and found myself just wishing I could sit down with the author and ask questions rather than reading the book. Disappointing at best.
A Woman's Right to Rest by Denise George
It's taken me a while to actualy work my way through this book, I wanted to address it as a study not just something to read. So glad I did! I would highly recommend getting a copy and working through it, especially with some female friends, you won't regret making time for it. (Carrying this book into a pub in Ireland resulted in an absolutely hysterical debate with a group of men about how "dangerous" an idle woman could be. Six months later I am still laughing.)
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
It's easy to see why this book is so often listed as a "must read" and as time distances me from the actual reading of it I find myself more and more willing to consider going back and reading it again. The mere fact that I was so able to despise the characters rather than love them is a credit to the author. Had the been badly written I wouldn't have been interested in reading far enough to care about them one way or the other. While I'm not sure who I would recommend read this book, it certainly made for interesting discussion among our book group. I am sure one day in the not to distant future I will pull it back off the shelf and read it again.
The Courage of Strangers; Coming of age with the human rights movement. by Jeri Laber
It took me an entire day to read the first seventeen pages of this book, then barely 24 hours to read the remaining 375. Most of the events detailed in the book happened during my high school and college years and while I was aware of them I know now that I never truly grasped just how significant they were or how much was happening below the surface. The Courage of Strangers peels back the layers and shows just how much impact a single person's refusal to accept the inhumane treatment of others can make a difference. Seldom can I point to a book and say without hesitation that the mere reading of it fundamentally changed me. This one did, Jeri Laber's sharing of her journey through pivotal moments in world history is an amazing gift...one for which I am grateful.
Hidden Gem by India Lee
It feels inaccurate to say I enjoyed this book. It was engaging enough to keep me reading, yet I wanted to yell at all the adults in the book for being so utterly disconnected from the their children. Of course it IS a teenager as the focus of the story and told from her perspective so some of that is inherent. As much as I liked the character Gemma I would not suggest this book to parents of young girls I know. Fourteen year olds out at night clubs and planning weekends away for sex just strikes me as inappropriate.
The Mind Readers by Lori Brighton
This book was definitely interesting but I doubt that I would seek out the rest of the series. This book left me with the over all sense that I just read a very long forward to some other book. Disappointing
The Amulet: A Faedra Bennett Custodian Novel by Alison Pensy
There were parts of this books that were just a shade on the too graphic side for me, especially considering this is "young adult" fiction. So if you 11-14 year old picks it up you might want to give it a read yourself first. That's said it is a good read and while they won't be high on my list of must read books the rest of the series will be there.
Elemental: Soul Guardians Book 2 by Kim Richardson
It's been nearly two weeks since I finished this book and I am still both disgusted and giggling over the three foot tall French cockroach who serves as the elevator operator in Hell. Kim Richardson's imagination has created versions of Heaven and Hell that constantly make you shudder and laugh as well as leaving you will the constant creepy feeling that something so much bigger is happening than you can see. Fabulous! While this is technically "young adult" fiction I think readers of stages of adulthood will enjoy it.
Maid for Love: McCarthys of Gansett Island (Volume 1)… by Marie Force
This book was moments so laugh out loud funny that I actually dropped my nook several times. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a really fun romance to read. I will be keeping my eyes peeled for more by this author and definitely more from this series.
Echoes at Dawn (A KGI Novel) by Maya Banks
The fifth installment in Maya Banks' KGI series is another gripping read. Action, suspence, and a dash of romance mixed with well developed characters is a recipe for a sleepless night. My only complaint was there was no good stopping point so I just had to keep reading. Tired with gritty eyes the next day was 100% worth it though.
From Notting Hill with Love...Actually by Ali McNamara
While I may at some point revisit this book and attempt to finish it that is unlikely to happen any time soon. Over 100 pages in and I still have a bored sense of waiting for the story to begin. The premise sounded interesting but at least for this reader falls woefully short despite a few very funny scenes. (I did finally finish it...the ending was OK, not an author I would seek out again.)
I have a huge stack of reviews waiting to be written still so will be adding to this daily until I am caught up.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Friday, June 8, 2012
Oh the books...
With my still jobless state and the way the economy remains I have turned more and more to my local library for things to read. A few I have checked out and returned mostly electronically which I'm finding quite handy. However I've discovered that each day about an hour before the library opens the free book bins downstairs are filled. In the aftermath of the annual book sale then offerings have been great! Each day I've gone home with at least four more books to add to my shelves, often thigns I wouldn't have explored if I'd had to buy the books. Though I have been delighted to discover books I didnt own by authors I enjoy.
Deep Storm - Child Loads of suspence, non-stop action, lurking conspiracy, and just the right touch of creepy...Mr Child does not disappoint. Sat and read this one cover to cover completely forgetting to even stop for dinner. This one had me holding my breath and wondering just what I'd do if I were in the main character's shoes.
Will come back and post reviews as I can but here are the other books I read in the month of May.
Pillars of the Earth - Follet
Circle of Friends - Binchey
The Keep - Wilson
The Deep Zone - Tabor
The Serpant's Shadow - Riordan
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much - Bartlett
All For You - Kurland
The Secrets of the Immortal Nicolas Flamel Series - Scott
Make More, Worry Less - Moss
Eat to Live - Furhman
Between Sisters
The Search - Roberts
The New Girl
Doctor Right - Tronstad
So far in June:
Games of Thrones - Martin
Too Much Temptation - Foster
Too Hot to Handle - Kaye
Deep Storm - Child Loads of suspence, non-stop action, lurking conspiracy, and just the right touch of creepy...Mr Child does not disappoint. Sat and read this one cover to cover completely forgetting to even stop for dinner. This one had me holding my breath and wondering just what I'd do if I were in the main character's shoes.
Will come back and post reviews as I can but here are the other books I read in the month of May.
Pillars of the Earth - Follet
Circle of Friends - Binchey
The Keep - Wilson
The Deep Zone - Tabor
The Serpant's Shadow - Riordan
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much - Bartlett
All For You - Kurland
The Secrets of the Immortal Nicolas Flamel Series - Scott
Make More, Worry Less - Moss
Eat to Live - Furhman
Between Sisters
The Search - Roberts
The New Girl
Doctor Right - Tronstad
So far in June:
Games of Thrones - Martin
Too Much Temptation - Foster
Too Hot to Handle - Kaye
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Early Review Book: The Deep Zone by James M. Tabor
This book pushed all my favorite adventure/suspence buttons, thank you Mr Tabor! The Deep Zone is an excellent read...just don't start it at bed time because you will not be putting it down until all 400 pages have been read. I hope some of these characters will be back in future books I want to share more adventures with them. I've got an early review copy...the rest of you have to wait until April 3rd to pick up a copy it's a read well worth new release hardcover cost.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
March Book Club selection:
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
My apologies to Mr Bradbury but I didn't like this book any more as an adult than I did when reading it in high school though I appreciate the artistry of the work. It is well written, inarguably gripping, has an undeniable point of view and certainly has kept the conversation on censorship going for more than 60 years. There are just two thoughts in this book, or rather between the covers as one is part of the Coda not the story itself. "It doesn't matter what you do...so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that's like you after you take your hands away." That is a lesson we should all take to heart during childhood and cling to throughout our lives. The other, "...do not insult me with your beheadings, finger-choppings or the lung-deflations you plan for my works. I need my head to shake or nod, my hand to wave or shape into a fist, my lungs to shout or whipser with. I will not go gently unto a shelf, degutted, to become a non-book." In much the way of the wanderers at the end of Fahrenheit 451 we are all our own book and must find the inner strength to never allow outside influences to edit our story in ways that leave us but empty covers on dusty forgotten shelves waiting to be burned.
My apologies to Mr Bradbury but I didn't like this book any more as an adult than I did when reading it in high school though I appreciate the artistry of the work. It is well written, inarguably gripping, has an undeniable point of view and certainly has kept the conversation on censorship going for more than 60 years. There are just two thoughts in this book, or rather between the covers as one is part of the Coda not the story itself. "It doesn't matter what you do...so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that's like you after you take your hands away." That is a lesson we should all take to heart during childhood and cling to throughout our lives. The other, "...do not insult me with your beheadings, finger-choppings or the lung-deflations you plan for my works. I need my head to shake or nod, my hand to wave or shape into a fist, my lungs to shout or whipser with. I will not go gently unto a shelf, degutted, to become a non-book." In much the way of the wanderers at the end of Fahrenheit 451 we are all our own book and must find the inner strength to never allow outside influences to edit our story in ways that leave us but empty covers on dusty forgotten shelves waiting to be burned.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Good grief!
Legon Awakening by Nicholas Taylor This book was lent to me by a friend and I have very mixed feelings about it. Had I been reading from a physical copy that I'd purchased I'd have been sending a very annoyed letter to the publisher right now. However I've no idea if all the grammer, punctuation, and spelling mistakes in the ebook version were also in the printed version. The strength of the characters and story telling are the only reasons I continued to read when the editing mistakes became a constant distraction. Somewhere at the publishing company this book fell through a really big crack. I won't be purchasing my own copy and I'd think twice before I attempt further books in this series.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
On the Non-Fiction Side
Lately I've been catching up on my non-fiction reading, tough to do when you are in a silly book mood!
Treasure Hunter by W.C. Jameson Since the long ago day my brother and I found thousands of dollars while playing in the creek I've been fascinated by treasure and those who hunt for it. W.C. Jameson's Treasure Hunter left me wanting...not to hunt treasure myself, or to rush through the book but rather to sit down with him over a beer and hear him tell the stories. While the book was enjoyable enough I strongly suspect that Mr. Jameson's true gift would be that of a verbal storyteller. This book will be an easy one to pick up now and again to read a single story. On a completely different note I struggled a lot with Mr Jameson's attitude that he was above the law and had the right to take whatever he wanted from where ever it happened to be. I would not put this book in a child's hands without a continual conversation about morals and ethics.
Aries by Joanna Martine Woolfolk Throughout my life I've gone back and forth about being Aries. Many of the characterists were a perfect match, others were so far off the mark I found it impossible to imagine them as part of the same person. Reading Ms. Woolfolk's book on Aries though allowed for new insight and understanding of myself and makes me very grateful to the adults in my life who shaped me in such a way that the worst of the Aries qualities while present are heard in my head only as whispers and rarely acted upon. Whatever your sign, whether you believe in horoscopes are not I'd recommend reading the one of this series for your own sign just to see what you might learn about yourself.
The Whole Foot Book by Brett Ryan Fink, M.D. and Mark Stuart Mizel, M.D. This book is already on its way to becoming a well thumbed reference book! The information is presented in ways that make it easy to understand with excellent illustrations. The personal stories of others who experienced similar problems and their solutions served both as inspiration (or warnings) and kept me reading. As I move into yet another season of marathon training I suspect I will be reaching for this book often.
Many thanks to the authors Brett Ryan Fink, M.D. and Mark Stuart Mizel, M.D.
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza I found this book utterly fascinating. So much so that I will be shopping for a physical copy of the book since I was given an electronic version to review. This is one I will be referring back to again and again. The look at quantum theory, modern neuroscience and how we can truly change our own minds was riveting. While that might sound like a tough read the author did an excellent job of keeping the topics accessible and easy to understand, readers should not be intimidated. Grab a copy and take a journey though your own brain and see what happens.
Treasure Hunter by W.C. Jameson Since the long ago day my brother and I found thousands of dollars while playing in the creek I've been fascinated by treasure and those who hunt for it. W.C. Jameson's Treasure Hunter left me wanting...not to hunt treasure myself, or to rush through the book but rather to sit down with him over a beer and hear him tell the stories. While the book was enjoyable enough I strongly suspect that Mr. Jameson's true gift would be that of a verbal storyteller. This book will be an easy one to pick up now and again to read a single story. On a completely different note I struggled a lot with Mr Jameson's attitude that he was above the law and had the right to take whatever he wanted from where ever it happened to be. I would not put this book in a child's hands without a continual conversation about morals and ethics.
Aries by Joanna Martine Woolfolk Throughout my life I've gone back and forth about being Aries. Many of the characterists were a perfect match, others were so far off the mark I found it impossible to imagine them as part of the same person. Reading Ms. Woolfolk's book on Aries though allowed for new insight and understanding of myself and makes me very grateful to the adults in my life who shaped me in such a way that the worst of the Aries qualities while present are heard in my head only as whispers and rarely acted upon. Whatever your sign, whether you believe in horoscopes are not I'd recommend reading the one of this series for your own sign just to see what you might learn about yourself.
The Whole Foot Book by Brett Ryan Fink, M.D. and Mark Stuart Mizel, M.D. This book is already on its way to becoming a well thumbed reference book! The information is presented in ways that make it easy to understand with excellent illustrations. The personal stories of others who experienced similar problems and their solutions served both as inspiration (or warnings) and kept me reading. As I move into yet another season of marathon training I suspect I will be reaching for this book often.
Many thanks to the authors Brett Ryan Fink, M.D. and Mark Stuart Mizel, M.D.
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza I found this book utterly fascinating. So much so that I will be shopping for a physical copy of the book since I was given an electronic version to review. This is one I will be referring back to again and again. The look at quantum theory, modern neuroscience and how we can truly change our own minds was riveting. While that might sound like a tough read the author did an excellent job of keeping the topics accessible and easy to understand, readers should not be intimidated. Grab a copy and take a journey though your own brain and see what happens.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Catching Up!
Nine feet of snow so far this winter has meant lots of great reasons to curl up with a book and read. I've been having so much fun I haven't stopped to review so today is cath up time.
The Seduction of Sebastian St. James by Rachel Van Dyken This book made me really appreciate what a different world I live in compared to my counterparts during the Victorian era. I don't usually expect a romance novel to having me sitting back and contemplating my own life, this one did. Can you ask more of a book than to be both thought provoking and entertaining? I can actually see this book as a fun discussion book for a book group.
Unearthly by Cynthia Hand This book is considered young adult fiction but I'd have no hesitation recommending it to adults as well. It's well written and interesting. Plus remember those awkward teenage moments just can't help but bring on cringing smiles. Fascinating subject matter. Good enough to have me downloading book two at 3AM rather than going to sleep.
Hallowed by Cynthia Hand Very thought provoking book focused on the ways our choices impact not only ourselves but all those around us. Awesome for a discussion starter with your teens. The characters in this trilogy grip you quickly and tend to stay on your mind long after you close the book. I can't wait for book three!
Noble Intentions/Noble Destiny/The Trouble with Harry by Katie MacAlister I discovered these books while searching the names of some of my favorite authors to see if they had new books out. What a delight to discover a series done before I had discovered this author. All three of the books were laugh out loud funny! Thank you Katie MacAlister for more books for my "go-to" shelf when I need to brighten my day.
Heart of a Knight by Barbara Samuel The title of this book doesn't even begin to cover the full range of the story. It's rare that a book really transports me, this one did. Page by page I fell deeper in love with the characters and their joys and triumphs brought tears to my eyes. An excellent read.
Invisible Assassin (The Queen's Blade #3) by TC Southwell Was every bit as good as book one. So much of the material covered, the choices faced by the characters was heart breaking. Where do you find yourself, build a future for yourself when duty and the fate of thousands rests on your shoulders? Will be interesting to see what comes next.
The Seduction of Sebastian St. James by Rachel Van Dyken This book made me really appreciate what a different world I live in compared to my counterparts during the Victorian era. I don't usually expect a romance novel to having me sitting back and contemplating my own life, this one did. Can you ask more of a book than to be both thought provoking and entertaining? I can actually see this book as a fun discussion book for a book group.
Unearthly by Cynthia Hand This book is considered young adult fiction but I'd have no hesitation recommending it to adults as well. It's well written and interesting. Plus remember those awkward teenage moments just can't help but bring on cringing smiles. Fascinating subject matter. Good enough to have me downloading book two at 3AM rather than going to sleep.
Hallowed by Cynthia Hand Very thought provoking book focused on the ways our choices impact not only ourselves but all those around us. Awesome for a discussion starter with your teens. The characters in this trilogy grip you quickly and tend to stay on your mind long after you close the book. I can't wait for book three!
Noble Intentions/Noble Destiny/The Trouble with Harry by Katie MacAlister I discovered these books while searching the names of some of my favorite authors to see if they had new books out. What a delight to discover a series done before I had discovered this author. All three of the books were laugh out loud funny! Thank you Katie MacAlister for more books for my "go-to" shelf when I need to brighten my day.
Heart of a Knight by Barbara Samuel The title of this book doesn't even begin to cover the full range of the story. It's rare that a book really transports me, this one did. Page by page I fell deeper in love with the characters and their joys and triumphs brought tears to my eyes. An excellent read.
Invisible Assassin (The Queen's Blade #3) by TC Southwell Was every bit as good as book one. So much of the material covered, the choices faced by the characters was heart breaking. Where do you find yourself, build a future for yourself when duty and the fate of thousands rests on your shoulders? Will be interesting to see what comes next.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Perfect Reading Weather
What do you do when it's -12? Read of course! The more books the merrier, Mother Nature has been providing the perfect excuse to huddle on my couch with a warm blanket, dark chocolate cocoa, and a big stack of books. Ahhhh winter.
Ghost Memoir by Lady Nairna was a great little book. My thanks to Rich Fahle for asking if I'd be interested in reviewing it. Ghosts and Scotland, how could you go wrong? Of course I'll read it. A memoir, yes, you hear Lady Nairna's story as well as several of her friends but it's also the tale of simply trying to get a book written. I'm still prone to giggling snorts over the ghost hunting! The ending left me...melancholy...in a good way. Here is the review I posted:
From the moment I first read a description of this little book I had a case of the giggles. Much of the book kept me in that same state. You can't help getting a case of wistful "what if?" syndrome while reading. What if I met Lady Nairna? What if ghosts decided I was worth talking to? Turning the final page I was sad, satisfied, hopeful,and broken hearted.
I hope Lady Nairna finds ways to share more of herself and her friends.
Child of the Mist by Kathleen Morgan This book was an interesting experience for me. Generally I find myself disappointed with "Christian" fiction. This author did a wonderful job of pulling me in and via her characters posing great questions about how to best follow the Lord in circumstances that mean doing so could cost your life. Or worse that of another. Read it cover to cover without a break and will definitely be seeking out other books in the series.
The Girl that Love Forgot by Jennie Lucas I don't often dip back into the short Harlequin romance books any more but this one caught my eye and I couldn't resist. There were moments when stereotypes annoyed me but overall the story of Annabelle and Stefano made for a wonderful read. If you are in the mood for a little brain candy this one is a bit like taffy with nuts in it...you're going to have to work at it but the calories are worth it. Will be interesting to see what else comes from this author.
The Ugly Duckling Debutante by Rachel Van Dyken No matter what your thoughts of romance novels, especially historical ones (I usually avoid them like the plague.)you should take the time to read this one. Rachel Van Dyken's characters are all fabulously flawed and struggling to grow. The interplay between them is well written and immediately pulls the reader in. Watching them grow over the course of the book was delightful.
Wedding Survivor by Julia London This is one of those books you almost hate to admit you read...much less that you liked it. Every bit of it was bury your face in your hands, laugh until you snort funny. I read it twice in a row and have no doubt that the next time I'm in dire need of a laugh I will be opening it again. From the book club meetings without books to the $20K wedding gown stuck in a tree the story doesn't disappoint. "Survivor" is exactly right for this wedding.
Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder As always Maria V. Snyder's latest does not disappoint. I found the main character's constant struggle to not use the gifts she was born with thought provoking and the politics well written. One character was truly offensive to me and I found myself mentally yelling at the author for including him...I'm sure you'll be able to guess who he is as you read... Overall I loved the book and cant wait to see where the story goes next.
Now it's back to more serious reading Joe Dispenza's "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" is a fascinating look at quantum physics, modern neuroscience, and self improvement. I'm loving it so far. Will have a review for you next week, stay tuned.
Ghost Memoir by Lady Nairna was a great little book. My thanks to Rich Fahle for asking if I'd be interested in reviewing it. Ghosts and Scotland, how could you go wrong? Of course I'll read it. A memoir, yes, you hear Lady Nairna's story as well as several of her friends but it's also the tale of simply trying to get a book written. I'm still prone to giggling snorts over the ghost hunting! The ending left me...melancholy...in a good way. Here is the review I posted:
From the moment I first read a description of this little book I had a case of the giggles. Much of the book kept me in that same state. You can't help getting a case of wistful "what if?" syndrome while reading. What if I met Lady Nairna? What if ghosts decided I was worth talking to? Turning the final page I was sad, satisfied, hopeful,and broken hearted.
I hope Lady Nairna finds ways to share more of herself and her friends.
Child of the Mist by Kathleen Morgan This book was an interesting experience for me. Generally I find myself disappointed with "Christian" fiction. This author did a wonderful job of pulling me in and via her characters posing great questions about how to best follow the Lord in circumstances that mean doing so could cost your life. Or worse that of another. Read it cover to cover without a break and will definitely be seeking out other books in the series.
The Girl that Love Forgot by Jennie Lucas I don't often dip back into the short Harlequin romance books any more but this one caught my eye and I couldn't resist. There were moments when stereotypes annoyed me but overall the story of Annabelle and Stefano made for a wonderful read. If you are in the mood for a little brain candy this one is a bit like taffy with nuts in it...you're going to have to work at it but the calories are worth it. Will be interesting to see what else comes from this author.
The Ugly Duckling Debutante by Rachel Van Dyken No matter what your thoughts of romance novels, especially historical ones (I usually avoid them like the plague.)you should take the time to read this one. Rachel Van Dyken's characters are all fabulously flawed and struggling to grow. The interplay between them is well written and immediately pulls the reader in. Watching them grow over the course of the book was delightful.
Wedding Survivor by Julia London This is one of those books you almost hate to admit you read...much less that you liked it. Every bit of it was bury your face in your hands, laugh until you snort funny. I read it twice in a row and have no doubt that the next time I'm in dire need of a laugh I will be opening it again. From the book club meetings without books to the $20K wedding gown stuck in a tree the story doesn't disappoint. "Survivor" is exactly right for this wedding.
Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder As always Maria V. Snyder's latest does not disappoint. I found the main character's constant struggle to not use the gifts she was born with thought provoking and the politics well written. One character was truly offensive to me and I found myself mentally yelling at the author for including him...I'm sure you'll be able to guess who he is as you read... Overall I loved the book and cant wait to see where the story goes next.
Now it's back to more serious reading Joe Dispenza's "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" is a fascinating look at quantum physics, modern neuroscience, and self improvement. I'm loving it so far. Will have a review for you next week, stay tuned.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
A mixed bag
The Son of Neptune is the first Riordan book I struggled to read. Were I not already a big fan this book probably would have landed on the shelf without ever having been finished. That said, KEEP READING the last quarter of the book finds the author hitting his usual stride and the story coming to life. Made it well worth slogging through. Brace yourself though...this is not a stand alone book. You need to have read the Percy Jackson books as well as Book 1 of this series to make sense of the story...and it doesn't end it just pauses mid scene to await the next book. My biggest pet peeve. I understand from a marketing perspective why this happens as it pretty much guarantees you sales on the next book but it's so very annoying. In my opinion every book in a series should stad completely on its own whether or not I've ever read the others in the series or by the same author. Not making them tht way always makes me feel a bit like I've been cheated.
As an Alaskan though I had to grit my teeth and roll my eyes at the inaccurate descriptions of the scenes set here in Alaska. Though I still have the giggles about blue giants playing with moose as if they were toys. That would explain a lot. Over all I'm glad I read it and look forward to the next book if only so I know what happened at the end of THIS book.
Whispers in the Dark Maya Banks latest addition to the KGI series is every bit as exciting as the previous three books. Whispers in the Dark found me frequently holding my breath and reading as fast as I could, I absolutely loved it. Waiting for book five will be a painful exercise in anticipation. I have fallen in love with the whole Kelly family and just thoroughly enjoy the depth Ms Banks gives to every character. Thank you for another great read!
The Secret of Quantum Living I adored Mr Kinslow's easy conversational style of writing. Through most of the book I felt as if I were sitting with a friend over coffee rather than sitting on my couch reading. With simple language and exercises he made what could have been an intimidating topic interesting and approachable. This book has given me a very different perspective on myself and the world in which I live.
Looking forward to reading more from Mr Kinslow.
Now my "currently reading" list contains just two books. Maria V Synder's "Touch of Power" which if off to a very good start and "Ghost Memoir" by Lady Nairna whose description alone had me laughing. Today it is cold and snowy...a perfect day for books.
As an Alaskan though I had to grit my teeth and roll my eyes at the inaccurate descriptions of the scenes set here in Alaska. Though I still have the giggles about blue giants playing with moose as if they were toys. That would explain a lot. Over all I'm glad I read it and look forward to the next book if only so I know what happened at the end of THIS book.
Whispers in the Dark Maya Banks latest addition to the KGI series is every bit as exciting as the previous three books. Whispers in the Dark found me frequently holding my breath and reading as fast as I could, I absolutely loved it. Waiting for book five will be a painful exercise in anticipation. I have fallen in love with the whole Kelly family and just thoroughly enjoy the depth Ms Banks gives to every character. Thank you for another great read!
The Secret of Quantum Living I adored Mr Kinslow's easy conversational style of writing. Through most of the book I felt as if I were sitting with a friend over coffee rather than sitting on my couch reading. With simple language and exercises he made what could have been an intimidating topic interesting and approachable. This book has given me a very different perspective on myself and the world in which I live.
Looking forward to reading more from Mr Kinslow.
Now my "currently reading" list contains just two books. Maria V Synder's "Touch of Power" which if off to a very good start and "Ghost Memoir" by Lady Nairna whose description alone had me laughing. Today it is cold and snowy...a perfect day for books.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Touched
The past two weeks have been filled with books that have touched me and changed pieces of my heart.
Spirit Bound by Christine Feehan had some interesting ideas to contemplate and I found myself enthralled by the idea of custom kaleidoscopes. I loved the contrast in the characters, one who hid their talents, one who lived and breathed theirs, that was a fascinating dichotomy. Overall though this book was a disappointment with the feel of a placeholder in the series. I am hoping the next book in the series will find Ms Feehan on top of her game again.
Night Road by Kristin Hannah was won by our book group and had us pushing back our normal schedule in order to read this one for January's discussion. The author's portrayal of the grieving process in so many different ways via her characters was simply perfection. I found myself crying frequently and touching the pages as if to somehow ease their grief. Stellar read and I can't wait to discuss it with my reading group.
A Simple Act of Gratitude by John Kralik There are only a few books I can point to and say without hesitation that simply reading it changed who I am forever. This one did. As I look back on a year of grieving the loss of my husband I see so many missed opportunities for me to be grateful...that has already begun to change and there will be many thank you notes flowing to those who've walked this journey with me in the months to come. This is a definite MUST READ book.
Spirit Bound by Christine Feehan had some interesting ideas to contemplate and I found myself enthralled by the idea of custom kaleidoscopes. I loved the contrast in the characters, one who hid their talents, one who lived and breathed theirs, that was a fascinating dichotomy. Overall though this book was a disappointment with the feel of a placeholder in the series. I am hoping the next book in the series will find Ms Feehan on top of her game again.
Night Road by Kristin Hannah was won by our book group and had us pushing back our normal schedule in order to read this one for January's discussion. The author's portrayal of the grieving process in so many different ways via her characters was simply perfection. I found myself crying frequently and touching the pages as if to somehow ease their grief. Stellar read and I can't wait to discuss it with my reading group.
A Simple Act of Gratitude by John Kralik There are only a few books I can point to and say without hesitation that simply reading it changed who I am forever. This one did. As I look back on a year of grieving the loss of my husband I see so many missed opportunities for me to be grateful...that has already begun to change and there will be many thank you notes flowing to those who've walked this journey with me in the months to come. This is a definite MUST READ book.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
TC Southwell
I'd never head of this author before my friend Deb insisted on loaning me the book. I swear despite being several states away I could see her bouncing around the computer when she asked "Have you read it yet?" I opened the book expecting to read a few pages or a chapter as a break from The Secret of Quantum Living and then to go right back to it. Some break! Found myself quickly engrossed in the characters and action of the book. Forty-eight hours later I reached the last page and am dismayed that I made my friend swear not to loan me the next book until after I finish my current "To Read" pile and get the reviews written.
My thanks to TC Southwell, I am about to plunge in with extra gusto just so I can get back to Blade and see what happens in the next book!
My thanks to TC Southwell, I am about to plunge in with extra gusto just so I can get back to Blade and see what happens in the next book!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Distracted
The past few days I've not been disciplined about my reading. After having loaned out my nook back in October so that a friend could read "Touch Me There!" by Yvonne Fulbright (I'm still astounded by how much I learned from this book myself.) it finally came back home. Found myself electronically thumbing through some of my favorite reads and enjoying favorite passages from books like Elizabeth Lowell's "To the Ends of the Earth." Add that to the usual holiday time crunch and the result is not much forward progress in any of the books I'm currently reading. I still have a big Christmas sewing project to finish but hope to get in at least an hour of reading before I head off to see Miss MeMe's Christmas Gospel Show.
On another note, was torture to sit wrapping gifts in Barnes and Noble yesterday positioned directly across from the nook displays. I want them all! (Thanks Renee for telling me about all the special promotions...) I even contemplated ways to snatch the t-shirt one staffer was wearing which read "I'm nook smart" on the front. It was entirely too cute. Then I thought, "That would sure put me on Santa's naughty list!" so I resisted.
Definitely squeezing in my annual holiday reads this week:
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr Suess
The Littlest Angel by Charles Tazewell
Miracle on 34th Street by Valentine Davies (Yes, there is an actual book!)
Wishing everyone a peaceful week and books for Christmas.
On another note, was torture to sit wrapping gifts in Barnes and Noble yesterday positioned directly across from the nook displays. I want them all! (Thanks Renee for telling me about all the special promotions...) I even contemplated ways to snatch the t-shirt one staffer was wearing which read "I'm nook smart" on the front. It was entirely too cute. Then I thought, "That would sure put me on Santa's naughty list!" so I resisted.
Definitely squeezing in my annual holiday reads this week:
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr Suess
The Littlest Angel by Charles Tazewell
Miracle on 34th Street by Valentine Davies (Yes, there is an actual book!)
Wishing everyone a peaceful week and books for Christmas.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
The Secret of Quantum Living by Frank J Kinslow
Generally I avoid talking about books I'm reading until I finish them because so often how I feel about them changes as I read. I can't do that with this book so I'm going to put my thoughts here and update as I go. Who knows how I'll feel at the end but I'm losing track of the book when the desire to discuss what I'm reading gets the best of me. Instead of reading I find myself imaging sitting with Mr Kinslow over coffee, or curled up on my couch with Vladimir going over the passages in the book.
Here we go:
First I have to say I requested a review copy of this book simply because the word quantum in the title caught my eye. Quantum theory is ...well beautiful...and yes, I do know that I'm a nerd. The theory touches me deeply enough that the first charm on my charm bracelet was a tiny silver disk engraved with a Q to remind of it at all times. The first chapter of The Secret of Quantum living has a quote by Edwin Louis Cole, "Expectancy is the atmosphere for miracles." That alone is great food for thought. If we lived in a state of expectancy, open always to the enormous realm of possibilities in life wouldn't we see ourselves surrounded by miracles?
Throughout Bill's cancer journey people asked how I could be so strong, calm, loyal, etc. I found the question puzzling each time, I certainly had my meltdown moments. Then I came across a passage in this book that really gave me perspective on both the question and my ability to cope in a long term crisis situation."Peace doesn't push out fear and suffering; it just won't allow them to exist in that nurturing atmosphere." Read that again...it doesn't push it out...it just doesn't allow it to exist. That has to be one of the most meaningful sentences I've ever read. I'd like to stand up at church and preach about that!
15.Dec.11 - The line sticking with me this morning is "It is only the thought that we are not whole that makes us feel that we are not." How many things in life trigger the thought that we are not whole? Countless! Single people often feel they must be married to be whole. Childless people think wholeness comes with children. The list could go on and on. Why is it such a struggle to simply see ourselves as the miracles that we are and accept that anything more is a bonus rather than a necessity?
2. Jan. 12 - The more I read this book the more I am coming to understand myself...to see what other people have so often commented on about me. It's simply fascinating.
Here we go:
First I have to say I requested a review copy of this book simply because the word quantum in the title caught my eye. Quantum theory is ...well beautiful...and yes, I do know that I'm a nerd. The theory touches me deeply enough that the first charm on my charm bracelet was a tiny silver disk engraved with a Q to remind of it at all times. The first chapter of The Secret of Quantum living has a quote by Edwin Louis Cole, "Expectancy is the atmosphere for miracles." That alone is great food for thought. If we lived in a state of expectancy, open always to the enormous realm of possibilities in life wouldn't we see ourselves surrounded by miracles?
Throughout Bill's cancer journey people asked how I could be so strong, calm, loyal, etc. I found the question puzzling each time, I certainly had my meltdown moments. Then I came across a passage in this book that really gave me perspective on both the question and my ability to cope in a long term crisis situation."Peace doesn't push out fear and suffering; it just won't allow them to exist in that nurturing atmosphere." Read that again...it doesn't push it out...it just doesn't allow it to exist. That has to be one of the most meaningful sentences I've ever read. I'd like to stand up at church and preach about that!
15.Dec.11 - The line sticking with me this morning is "It is only the thought that we are not whole that makes us feel that we are not." How many things in life trigger the thought that we are not whole? Countless! Single people often feel they must be married to be whole. Childless people think wholeness comes with children. The list could go on and on. Why is it such a struggle to simply see ourselves as the miracles that we are and accept that anything more is a bonus rather than a necessity?
2. Jan. 12 - The more I read this book the more I am coming to understand myself...to see what other people have so often commented on about me. It's simply fascinating.
The Return
It's been so long since I'd posted here that I'd actually forgotten I even had this blog. My last entry here was in September of 2009. That month saw the advent of sheer medical chaos as my husband Bill entered the last months of his life. He was in the hospital in September, October, November, December, February, then a final time in May. During those months my reading habits shifted to primarily short, light, funny reads and I am deeply grateful to authors like Cindy Miles, Allie MacKay, and Katie MacAllister (to name just a few) who through their books held my hand in many a dark hospital room and reminded me daily that life continues. In the months following Bill's death I didn't read at all, though I often found myself sitting and holding books numbly and wondering what I was doing.
These days I'm back to reading all kinds of things. My current reads are: Susan Cain's "Quiet:The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking", Frank Kinslow's "The Secret of Quantum Living", Sir Walter Scott's "Ivanhoe" (book club read), and David Tripp's "Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands." Now I'm off to do a little reading so I'll have something to write about!
Almost forgot...
The challenge that originally inspired this blog deserve a status update. Here is what I planned to read during 2010.
2010 10/10 Challenge
* Book not yet owned
1) Series/ favorite authors (reread many!)
2) Travel Essays
Round Ireland With A Fridge (Read it, loved it, loaned it...and it hasn't come home!)
My Mercedes is Not for Sale (Have started and stopped twice, but WILL finish it.)
A Year in the World: Journeys of a Passionate Traveler
A Walk in the Woods (Laughed til I cried...loaned it to a friend who laughed so hard had the whole gym staring. Do not read while on the treadmill!)
* The Great Railway Bazaar – Paul Theroux
What Am I Doing Here? – Chatwin
Tales of a Female Nomad: Living At Large in The World - Gelman
An Unexpected Light: Travels in Afghanistan – Elliot
Falling Off the Map: Some Lonely Places of the World - Iyer (Much of this book made me sad.)
3) Classics (previously unread)
Remembrance of Things Past
The Canterbury Tales (original language)
Giovanni’s Room
The Decameron
The Tenant of Windfell Hall – A. Bronte
4) Poets (previously unread)
Charles Kingsley
Rainer Maria Rilke
* Coney Island of the Mind – Ferlinghetti
20 Love Poems & a Song of Despair – Neruda (These were a nice surprise.)
* Complete Poems 1927-1979 – Bishop
If Not, Winter: Fragments - Sappho (I adored the bits and pieces and crave more.)
* The Dream Songs – Berryman
* Love is a Dog from Hell – Bukowski
* Collected Poems of Langston Hughes
* Maya Angelou: Poems
5) History
The Histories - Herodotus
Almost History: Close Calls, Plan B’s, and Twists of Fate in Americas History
The Gifts of the Jews
Great Feuds in History Ten Struggles that Shaped the World
Every Man a Speculator: A History of Wall Street in American Life
A Crack in Edge of the World: America & the Great California Quake of 1906
The Scientists: A History of Science Told Through the Lives of its Greatest Inventors
Salt: A World history
Voyage of the Damned
Revolutionary Characters: What Made the Founders Different
6) Book Club Books (Drawing a blank on what they were...I'll get back to you.)
7) Random Books from my Unread Shelf
Beasts of No Nation
8) Authors from other countries
The Song of the World
Kaddish for a Child Not Born
The Space Between Us
9) Christian/Religion
Pilgrim’s Progress
Where God Was Born: A Journey By Land to the Roots of Religion
When God Was a Woman
Eternity in Their Hearts
Toward Old Testament Ethics
10) Children/Young Adult
13 Little Blue Envelopes – M. Johnson (Absolutely loved this book!)
All in all not a great job with the challenge though despite everything I ready roughly 100 books during 2010. I can live with that. I've done much better this year though many of my reads have been return visits to much loved books as I sought the comfort of familiar words.
These days I'm back to reading all kinds of things. My current reads are: Susan Cain's "Quiet:The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking", Frank Kinslow's "The Secret of Quantum Living", Sir Walter Scott's "Ivanhoe" (book club read), and David Tripp's "Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands." Now I'm off to do a little reading so I'll have something to write about!
Almost forgot...
The challenge that originally inspired this blog deserve a status update. Here is what I planned to read during 2010.
2010 10/10 Challenge
* Book not yet owned
1) Series/ favorite authors (reread many!)
2) Travel Essays
Round Ireland With A Fridge (Read it, loved it, loaned it...and it hasn't come home!)
My Mercedes is Not for Sale (Have started and stopped twice, but WILL finish it.)
A Year in the World: Journeys of a Passionate Traveler
A Walk in the Woods (Laughed til I cried...loaned it to a friend who laughed so hard had the whole gym staring. Do not read while on the treadmill!)
* The Great Railway Bazaar – Paul Theroux
What Am I Doing Here? – Chatwin
Tales of a Female Nomad: Living At Large in The World - Gelman
An Unexpected Light: Travels in Afghanistan – Elliot
Falling Off the Map: Some Lonely Places of the World - Iyer (Much of this book made me sad.)
3) Classics (previously unread)
Remembrance of Things Past
The Canterbury Tales (original language)
Giovanni’s Room
The Decameron
The Tenant of Windfell Hall – A. Bronte
4) Poets (previously unread)
Charles Kingsley
Rainer Maria Rilke
* Coney Island of the Mind – Ferlinghetti
20 Love Poems & a Song of Despair – Neruda (These were a nice surprise.)
* Complete Poems 1927-1979 – Bishop
If Not, Winter: Fragments - Sappho (I adored the bits and pieces and crave more.)
* The Dream Songs – Berryman
* Love is a Dog from Hell – Bukowski
* Collected Poems of Langston Hughes
* Maya Angelou: Poems
5) History
The Histories - Herodotus
Almost History: Close Calls, Plan B’s, and Twists of Fate in Americas History
The Gifts of the Jews
Great Feuds in History Ten Struggles that Shaped the World
Every Man a Speculator: A History of Wall Street in American Life
A Crack in Edge of the World: America & the Great California Quake of 1906
The Scientists: A History of Science Told Through the Lives of its Greatest Inventors
Salt: A World history
Voyage of the Damned
Revolutionary Characters: What Made the Founders Different
6) Book Club Books (Drawing a blank on what they were...I'll get back to you.)
7) Random Books from my Unread Shelf
Beasts of No Nation
8) Authors from other countries
The Song of the World
Kaddish for a Child Not Born
The Space Between Us
9) Christian/Religion
Pilgrim’s Progress
Where God Was Born: A Journey By Land to the Roots of Religion
When God Was a Woman
Eternity in Their Hearts
Toward Old Testament Ethics
10) Children/Young Adult
13 Little Blue Envelopes – M. Johnson (Absolutely loved this book!)
All in all not a great job with the challenge though despite everything I ready roughly 100 books during 2010. I can live with that. I've done much better this year though many of my reads have been return visits to much loved books as I sought the comfort of familiar words.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The World of Harry Potter
Like a great many people I mourned the ending of he HarryPotter series. Hogwarts had begun to feel like a second home and while undeniably a muggle I dreamed of walking those halls and living within JK Rowling's imaginary world forever. Thankfully while most of us just slid the books into our bookcases G. Norman Lippert sat down at his computer and began to wrestle with all the questions that spun in his head. The result is two incredible books "fan fiction" which follow James Potter, Harry's oldest son as the primary character.
The first of these is James Potter & The Hall of Elder's Crossing which addresses the question of how you find your own path with a famous parent and presents a wonderful new adventure within the walls of Hogwarts. The second book I downloaded and read this weekend, James Potter and the Curse of the Gatekeeper. The first book is a delightful easy read. The second digs in deeper on every level moving from something I'd have considered a worthy children's book to a richly varied and very adult book. It brought me to tears, made me laugh, had me on the edge of my seat, and left me with a head full of questions that have me yearning for more.
The third of these books is already in the works and I can hardly wait to read it. In the meantime though I took a little side journey with Mr Lippert to delve deeper into one of the characters, Petra Morganstern. His novella The Girl on the Dock follows this character through some life changing choices dring the summer after graduation. It too left me wanting more.
Great reads all!
The first of these is James Potter & The Hall of Elder's Crossing which addresses the question of how you find your own path with a famous parent and presents a wonderful new adventure within the walls of Hogwarts. The second book I downloaded and read this weekend, James Potter and the Curse of the Gatekeeper. The first book is a delightful easy read. The second digs in deeper on every level moving from something I'd have considered a worthy children's book to a richly varied and very adult book. It brought me to tears, made me laugh, had me on the edge of my seat, and left me with a head full of questions that have me yearning for more.
The third of these books is already in the works and I can hardly wait to read it. In the meantime though I took a little side journey with Mr Lippert to delve deeper into one of the characters, Petra Morganstern. His novella The Girl on the Dock follows this character through some life changing choices dring the summer after graduation. It too left me wanting more.
Great reads all!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
What a ride!
As much as I was dreading the series being over I'm so glad I went ahead and read the book.
Here is the review I posted on Librarything.com:
The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Book 5)… by Rick Riordan
WOW!! I was going to delay reading this book as I was sad to see the series end. Then yesterday was such a deary day I decided to read it anyway. This one outshines all the previous stories. I laughed, I held my breath, near the end I sobbed, finally I just gave a satisfied sigh. Perfect.
All I can say is "More please Mr Riordan!"
Today I found out I was selected as an "Early Reader" for the book "Day of the Assassins" by Johnny O'Brien. You can check it out at www.dayoftheassassins.com I'm really looking forward to the book arriving!
Today I'm taking a break and reading a little Harlequin Romance novel "Bound by the Marcolini Diamonds" by Melanie Milbourne. Looks like it will be a good read...I'll let you know.
Here is the review I posted on Librarything.com:
The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Book 5)… by Rick Riordan
WOW!! I was going to delay reading this book as I was sad to see the series end. Then yesterday was such a deary day I decided to read it anyway. This one outshines all the previous stories. I laughed, I held my breath, near the end I sobbed, finally I just gave a satisfied sigh. Perfect.
All I can say is "More please Mr Riordan!"
Today I found out I was selected as an "Early Reader" for the book "Day of the Assassins" by Johnny O'Brien. You can check it out at www.dayoftheassassins.com I'm really looking forward to the book arriving!
Today I'm taking a break and reading a little Harlequin Romance novel "Bound by the Marcolini Diamonds" by Melanie Milbourne. Looks like it will be a good read...I'll let you know.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Ahhh ...
the smell of new books. Picked up books 4 & 5 of Percy Jackson & the Olympians. As well as Maria Snyder's "Sea Glass." Consumed book 4 yesterday and loved every moment of it. I will be sad to see the series end ... which is why the final book is just sitting here staring at me instead of being read. I'm not ready.
Instead I will pick up "Breath" by Tim Winton. It's our book club book for this month and so far I've read very little. Just a day at work and a drug trip so far, yee-haw, really makes me want to dig in and read the rest. I certainly hope there is more to the story. Otherwise I'm going to be very glad its a short book.
Today is a perfect reading day. Nothing to do, overcast and a bit dreary, on the cool side. So first I will journey to Australia with Mr Winton and then who knows where I will go, NYC, Germany, some mysterious otherworld. Wherever I end up I'll be snuggled up with my favorite blanket enjoying the trip.
Instead I will pick up "Breath" by Tim Winton. It's our book club book for this month and so far I've read very little. Just a day at work and a drug trip so far, yee-haw, really makes me want to dig in and read the rest. I certainly hope there is more to the story. Otherwise I'm going to be very glad its a short book.
Today is a perfect reading day. Nothing to do, overcast and a bit dreary, on the cool side. So first I will journey to Australia with Mr Winton and then who knows where I will go, NYC, Germany, some mysterious otherworld. Wherever I end up I'll be snuggled up with my favorite blanket enjoying the trip.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Oh dear...
you know you're doomed when the books start talking to you. My review of "Ratio" is posted on librarything.com ... I absolutely loved it. As is my review of "Laced with Magic" which I did not. It stayed confusing to the end and I was constantly having to back track to sort out WHO was doing the speaking. Ugh! And the ending? What is that about?? The town is just gone? Is that the end of the series or just the beginning of the next battle? How is a girl supposed to sleep with all these questions in her head?
Then I received a shipment of books I'd ordered from betterworldbooks.com that were meant to be part of my 2010 reading challenge. Well "13 little Blue Envelopes" just started whispering about how good a read it would be. I tried to ignore it, tried to read something else, then I caved and read it cover to cover yesterday. My review for that one is posted as well.
Now I'm twiddling my thumbs and bloging as I wait for my husband to awaken for our weekly trip to Barnes & Noble. What treasures are waiting for me tonight? What book will whisper from the shelves,"Come, adventure with me..."? What cover will catch my eye and lure me in?
I love book stores!
Then I received a shipment of books I'd ordered from betterworldbooks.com that were meant to be part of my 2010 reading challenge. Well "13 little Blue Envelopes" just started whispering about how good a read it would be. I tried to ignore it, tried to read something else, then I caved and read it cover to cover yesterday. My review for that one is posted as well.
Now I'm twiddling my thumbs and bloging as I wait for my husband to awaken for our weekly trip to Barnes & Noble. What treasures are waiting for me tonight? What book will whisper from the shelves,"Come, adventure with me..."? What cover will catch my eye and lure me in?
I love book stores!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
We interupt this program ...
because I was tapped in the "Review That Book!" thread on LibraryThing. So I've relegated "Laced With Magic" to bedtime reading and plowed into "Ratio: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking" Seventy pages in and I am already beginning to view my kitchen and cooking in a whole different light. I can't wait to start putting some of the information in the book to use!
I've never considered myself a cook, just someone capable of following a recipe. Maybe tweaking the spices here and there but nothing more. Now I feel confident that I could set my imagination free and not create a tidal wave of inedible disaster. I want to shout from the mountain tops "GO BUY THIS BOOK!!!"
More later!
I've never considered myself a cook, just someone capable of following a recipe. Maybe tweaking the spices here and there but nothing more. Now I feel confident that I could set my imagination free and not create a tidal wave of inedible disaster. I want to shout from the mountain tops "GO BUY THIS BOOK!!!"
More later!
Slow down ... pay attention ...
How many times did we hear those words as kids? More than I even care to think about to be honest. Last night I was reminded just how important it is to do those things, especially when you are reading. Went off to bed, "Laced With Magic" tucked under my arm, ready for a fun read. What I got was very confused and frustrated ...
Until five chapters later when I realised that in zooming by ignoring chapters titles I was missing a vital clue. OK Mom...YOU WERE RIGHT! So I backtracked and saw that what had been a psychotic story making no sense at all actually did. If you paid enough attention to notice that each chapter has a different character's name and what follows is the story told as their first person narrative. WHEW! The rest of the book should be easy.
First up for today is a chapter or two more from "Beowolf on the Beach" which I am loving. It is a laugh out loud funny book that actually has me excited to read, or reread books I've always dreaded. (Who knows ... maybe I will one day love those books so much I'll become a book snob. HA! Not likely!) Then I swear I am going to spend some time cleaning my office. Unless, of course, curling up on the couch with a book gets too tempting. I've just six more days of fun reading before I have to pick up the next book club read, Breath by Winton, and get it read.
Chores vs. Books
...sigh...
Life is so full of hard choices.
Until five chapters later when I realised that in zooming by ignoring chapters titles I was missing a vital clue. OK Mom...YOU WERE RIGHT! So I backtracked and saw that what had been a psychotic story making no sense at all actually did. If you paid enough attention to notice that each chapter has a different character's name and what follows is the story told as their first person narrative. WHEW! The rest of the book should be easy.
First up for today is a chapter or two more from "Beowolf on the Beach" which I am loving. It is a laugh out loud funny book that actually has me excited to read, or reread books I've always dreaded. (Who knows ... maybe I will one day love those books so much I'll become a book snob. HA! Not likely!) Then I swear I am going to spend some time cleaning my office. Unless, of course, curling up on the couch with a book gets too tempting. I've just six more days of fun reading before I have to pick up the next book club read, Breath by Winton, and get it read.
Chores vs. Books
...sigh...
Life is so full of hard choices.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)