- Earth's Children series - Jean M Auel -- Brenda W, 10:33:48 07/02/09 Thu
(1st book is 'Clan of the Cave Bear') I had this series in my 'To Be Read' list for a few years. I got the recommendation here at this board. I picked up the 1st and 4th books at a yard sale and they sat for about 2 years and I still had not read them. I really did not think I could get in to them. Then a friend worked on me for about a whole year, saying 'you HAVE to read these books'. I am SO GLAD I finally gave in and started reading them. I love this series. I am now in the middle of the last book. I have also finally hooked another friend on these books. She was like me, and was VERY RESISTANT on trying them. But she was the person who got me reading Outlander in the first place. So now she is like me and very glad that she finally gave in and gave it a try.
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- Bronze Horseman Fans: -- susiej, 07:50:47 07/01/09 Wed
I'm doing my first reread of the series and its so enlightening.
I still see Tatania as a twit, but I get it now as the preclude to the amazing person she'll become. A lot like the spoiled Scarlett carrying her entire family and all the Wilkes on her back as she begs, borrows, steals and plows, although of course Tania's more kindhearted.
And that hectic, sarcastic, half jealous goodbye with Pasha- heartbreak.
I'm also cringing as she "butters a piece of bread, eats half and throws the rest away" in her dreamy lovesick state. I just want to scream- Eat it, eat it while you can!
I still wish she would have just said, in the very beginning, "Dasha, Alexander didn't know you were my sister. He got on the bus and talked to me." Ofcourse, Dasha would have said- oh, he just felt sorry for you, but at least Tania could have pointed out to Dasha that her one and only feelings for him weren't reciprocated by Alexander. That part still feels so contrived to me. And I still really don't like Dasha.
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- Has anyone ever heard of this series? The Williamsburg Series (or the Women of Williamsburg) by Elswyth Thane. I love colonial/revolutionary war history and have never heard of these books. -- NancyH, 06:48:19 07/01/09 Wed
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- The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley -- Marg, 06:31:33 06/26/09 Fri
Sometimes you know as soon as you pick up a book that you are going to love it, and that is what happened with this book. I had't read anything by this author before, but now I am trying to track down some more of her books.
A novelist feels drawn toward Slains Castle in Scotland. She is writing a novel about one of the earlier Jacobite attempts (in 1708) to regain the throne for the Stewarts, but as she starts researching the novel she finds more than she bargained for as she begins to see the events through the eyes of her main character.
With parallel contemporary and historical threads and a really easy to read writing style, this is going to be one of my few 5/5 reads for this year.
It should be noted that this book is also being published under the title Sophia's Secret.
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- Has anyone read THE RUSSIAN CONCUBINE, by Kate Furnivall? I just bought it at the book store. It's actually got a nice quote on the cover by Diana. Right now I am working my way through the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, all loaded up into my Kindle, but I needed a good poolside read for a trip coming up in a few weekends. It has 4 stars on Amazon, but I wanted to know if anyone here has read it. -- Tess, 14:29:43 06/23/09 Tue
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- Anybody remember what this is? -- Susannah, 12:32:22 06/22/09 Mon
I think I got the original recommendation from this site, so I'm going to throw this out and see if I get a bite. It was a series of juvenile books, with two time-travelling kids in England. They accidentally travel back, and one of them comes forward again but the other one doesn't. There were two books so far, with the third one coming due, and the title involved the in-the-past man who befriends them. Any clues?
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- A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick -- AmyGirl, 18:17:22 06/20/09 Sat
This was a very very good page turner. This review is from Amazon>>>
When wealthy businessman Ralph Truitt stood on the icy railroad platform waiting for the late train to deposit his mail order wife-to-be before him, he was expecting a woman of plain appearance with a missionary history; someone who could presumably make his house into a home and who could withstand the pressures of living in a still untamed country. That was what his ad had asked for: a reliable wife. Ralph Truitt was in for a surprise.
When she disembarked the train, Catherine Land's beautiful face didn't match the picture she had sent Truitt and he told her flatly, " ' Maybe you thought I was a fool. You were wrong.' " But a howling storm stopped Ralph from interrogating her there and then. And as the horses drew Truitt's carriage toward his estate in blinding snow, fate stepped in and won this woman a renewed offer to become Mrs. Truitt -- which was what she wanted.
Well, more precisely, she wanted what she intended would follow shortly: widowhood and the inheritance of Truitt's amassed estate. She had brought what she needed to implement her deadly scheme. Possessed of a scandalous past she would keep secret at all costs, Catherine had so much experience with men she was confident she could murder and yet remain emotionally unencumbered.
Ralph was no saint himself, but he carried an ingrained self-flagellating and resigned spirit. "Some things you escape, he thought. Most things you don't, certainly not the cold. You don't escape the things, mostly bad, that just happen to you." Wounds of love and lust had scarred him terribly two decades ago. Now alone and, for all intents and purposes, heirless at fifty-four, Ralph felt despair. He knew it wasn't unique to himself. He knew "the winters were too long," causing insanity, suicide, starvation, axe murders, and mostly silent desperation and depression. "These things happened."
Author Robert Goolrick's recurring theme of the potentially devastating psychological effects of long, bleak winters underscores the macabre situation in Truitt's mansion during that 1907 Wisconsin winter: The swirling snows outside mimic the Mediciesque intrigue inside the elaborate house. The plot is complex and labyrinthine, but it won't do to give away too much. Suffice to say, insanity -- but also love -- blows through on all sides.
A Reliable Wife seethes with savage passions which the author pens with an operatic flair. The prose is sometimes alarming: "He wanted to slice her open and lie inside the warm blood of her body." However, Goolrick also excels in memorable passages of a recuperative nature -- as a beautiful garden scene poignantly illustrates. Goolrick's suspenseful, sustained dialectic between the primal "heart of darkness" and the humane and cultured heart of charity stokes the plot, keeping the reader glued.
Although this novel is a certified page-turner, it can feel chaotic and contradictory due to a narrative consisting often of characters' uncensored, roiling feelings and streams of consciousness. It is unsettling and "messy" to follow them restlessly shifting from one thought to a contradictory one, baldly laying bare their brutish instincts, then subsiding almost soothingly, like restive waves.
A RELIABLE WIFE is a novel of intensity and raw power. On its own rather masochistic terms, it also offers up love (and forgiveness) of the deepest kind. This novel will appeal widely, but likely most to those who crave a bold but somewhat perverse love story featuring very flawed characters. They, despite their cravenness, reach out to readers and demand notice and even grudging respect and affection. Goolrick's fictional version of 1900's rural Wisconsin folk isn't pretty, but, "Such things happened." See what you think of this tale.
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- Midnight Breed series by Lara Adrian -- LissC, 09:24:48 06/18/09 Thu
I just finished the latest book in this vampire romance series - my favorite paranormal romance vamp series is still the Black Dagger Brotherhood, but these are pretty good and worth a quick read. The vampire twist in these books is that they are an alien race, and have interbred with human female Breedmates over the generations, and the warriors fight Rogue Breed and their human Minions. Each book focuses on a different warrior.
Kiss of Midnight
Kiss of Crimson
Midnight Awakening
Midnight Rising
Veil of Midnight
Ashes of Midnight
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- All Quiet on the Western Front -- Dee, 20:03:42 06/17/09 Wed
My son has to read this for school so I picked it up first and was enthralled! I can see why it's a classic. If you're looking for a change of pace this is it!
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- People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks -- Merrymags, 09:58:39 06/17/09 Wed
Hello to all. I have begun to read Ms. Brooks' recent publication, The People of the Book, published in 2008. Back in August of '08, SueP posted a question about this book, asking if anyone had yet read it...
I have read Brooks books, March and A Year of Wonders and enjoyed both. Her writing is seductive; I begin to read a paragraph and find myself coming up for air two chapters later. In People, Brooks smartly weaves fact and fiction in the telling of the amazing Sarejevo Haggadah, one of the world's most valuable books, and of the dramatic efforts by a Muslim curator to save the book from destruction or theft by the Nazis. The story is interlaced with the account of the efforts made to save it during the 1992 Bosnian War.
I recommend this book not only for Brooks' masterful storytelling but for the opportunity to learn, fictionalized or not, of the dedication by individuals around the world who strive to hold sacred the history of any people regardless of religion, ethnicity, or race.
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- Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marilliet -- Denise S., 18:58:26 06/14/09 Sun
The first book in the Seven Waters Trilogy, or as I just found out Quad (a fourth book came out recently), follows Sorcha the only daughter of an Irish Lord and her six older brothers. It is a retelling of the fairytale The Six Swans, if you are familiar with that one. Steeped in Celtic mythology and a good dose of magic and romance (not the Harlequin kind) and you have an enchanting read. I really loved this book and have read the second and third book as well. I highly recommend it. Oh and thanks to whomever it was who recommended The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly. What a heart wrenching book. Read it in two days and didn't do much else.
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- Ooh, thanks, I didn't know another book had come out. (NT) -- Margy, 10:36:05 06/15/09 Mon
- I read the Trilogy a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. She also wrote another Trilogy called The Bridei Chronicles which I found just as captivating. It is similar with the magic and other worldly presence. (NT) --
LadyGrace, 11:24:25 06/15/09 Mon
- Jennifer Donnelly aslo has The Winter Rose which follows The Tea Rose, I enjoyed this one as much as the first. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 11:31:05 06/15/09 Mon
- I love all Juliet Marilliet books. My favorites were The Bridei Chronicles. I'm also reading The Tea Rose at the moment and am enjoying it. (NT) -- Alissa, 18:26:46 06/16/09 Tue
- Marillier has a really good young adult book called Wildwood Dancing - a bit inspired by the fairy tale about the 7 Dancing Princesses. I'll have to try her 'grown up' books too. (NT) -- HollyC, 05:32:44 06/17/09 Wed
- I didn't know she wrote another trilogy. I'll have to try the Bridei Chronicles as well as her young adult book. I can't wait to read The Winter Rose, by Jennifer Donelly. (NT) -- Denise S., 13:01:38 06/17/09 Wed
- Eleanor Roosevelt Vol.1, and 'The Defining Years' Vol. 2, by Blanche Wiesen Cook -- Lemora, 19:54:33 06/11/09 Thu
Has anyone else read these? I know, I'm almost the lone biography enthusiast around here, but I found this portrait of the early 20th century progressive women in Eleanor Roosevelt's circle fascinating. I especially loved reading about how she rebuilt her life in the 1920's, emerging from the shadows of her husband and formidable battle axe of a mother-in-law. (Anyone who enjoyed the TV movie about women's sufferage and the fight for the right to vote, with Hilary Swank playing Alice Paul and Angelica Huston playing Carrie Chapman Catt would love these books.) Normally, I find politics and politicians about as appetizing as arsenic, but I found this interweaving of ER's personal history with the New Deal era, and her part in it, fascinating. Note: BWC departs from the conventional wisdom about ER and FDR's marriage after she found Lucy Mercer's letters; and she explores the woman behind the image. (The older I get, the more I'm drawn to non-fiction, and less so to fiction. Does anyone else feel that way?) I'd like to know what others think about these books.
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- I do love biographies, but I hadn't seen these. Eleanor Roosevelt was an interest of mine in grade school, but of course those books don't tell you all that much! (NT) -- Susannah, 09:40:06 06/12/09 Fri
- I bought book #1 with great excitement and couldn't believe the ponderous boring presentation of the material. There are people who loved the book, but I shut it half way through and gave it away. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 04:30:29 06/19/09 Fri
- However, Lemora, you are right - I am drawn more and more to non-fiction. Latest on my list are the Hemings and the Vanderbilts. (NT) -- 'b, 04:35:35 06/19/09 Fri
- I loved Vol. 1. But, while I am fascinated by the whole New Deal era, I have to admit that descriptions of the various programs in vol. 2. feel like they were lifted in chunks from old brochures in some of BWC's writing. (If you found #1 hard rowing, you'd really be put off by #2.) These descriptions are interwoven with descriptions of the dramas and traumas of ER's inner circle, her marriage to FDR, his presidential challenges, political games, and the gathering clouds in Europe in the 1930's.>>>> -- Lemora-wants weekend at Campobello, 13:15:16 06/19/09 Fri
- What 'cha reading lately?? -- FloraMac, 04:46:04 06/11/09 Thu
after some recent dismal reads and then a few good ones (Moloka'i and The Historian) I picked up some brain candy romances at my Library Book sale. First I read The Very Virile Viking and laughed the whole way through-it was pretty absurd and not very well written. Then I picked 3 Karen Marie Moning Highlander books that looked brand new, and read 2 the past 2 nights and I am in the middle of 3 and realized that I've rad 2 of them before! LOL! I did like the one I hadn't read yet. One of my book clubs just planned out our reads for the next year!!! I've rad hte Red Tent and Moloka'i, but look forward to the others!
American Wife
City of Thieves
Mudbound
The Parents We Mean To Be
Don’t Lets Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood
Olive Kitterage
The Red Tent
Me and Emma
Moloka’i
Beneath a Marble Sky
Eden’s Outcasts: The Story of Louisa May Alcott and her Father
Wild Swans:Three Daughters of China
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- The End of Mr Y by Scarlett Thomas -- Beccy, 02:27:34 06/11/09 Thu
I have just finished reading this book that I found in the library and wondered if anyone else here has come across it. It is very hard to describe; maybe an adventure with a mix of philosophy, seediness and time travel included, very intelligent and thought provoking... I did say it was hard!
When Ariel uncovers a copy of The End of Mr Y in a second hand bookshop she can't believe her eyes. Its author, the eccentric Victorian scientist Thomas Lumas, is the subject of her PhD studies and she knows that copies of this book are exceedingly rare...and some say cursed!
I found the book hard to put down anyway.
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- Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns -- MelvaT, 08:38:07 06/07/09 Sun
The book was published in 1984. A brilliantly written portrait of small-town southern life and death. MS. Burns captures your imagination and heart both.
I have no clue how I missed this book! Absolutely fantastic. If you haven't read it either, I'm positive you can find CST in your library. If you have read the story speak up!;-)
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- This is on my students' summer reading list. It took me a while to get into it, but once I did, I enjoyed it. Great characters! (NT) -- Reid, 20:22:41 06/07/09 Sun
- There is a sequel too, can't think of the name of it now but same author obviously.... I read them many years ago and don't remember all the details but I think the first was my fave. (NT) -- MaryC in KY, 10:33:06 06/10/09 Wed
- I cannot praise "Cold Sassy Tree" too much! And to think that Commerce, Georgia is now stuck with such a DULL name, changed after they axed the last Sassafras tree so the road could be widened and paved! Oh, if people 100 years ago only knew what the automobile would do to humanity! I urge everyone to read this book --loved it, loved it, loved it! (NT) -- Lemora, 19:35:35 06/11/09 Thu
- I read this book many years ago. I was very good since I re-read it also. (NT) -- SuzyW, 11:17:10 06/25/09 Thu
- A friend gave me this book in the 1980s and I loved it. It was one of the sweetest stories I've ever read. (NT) -- JudyL, 12:17:59 06/30/09 Tue
- MUNTINY ON THE BOUNTY by John Boyne -- Lisa, 18:58:45 06/06/09 Sat
This is one of the THE best non-outlander books I have ever read! It was just released last year, and is a FANTASTIC book that tells the tale of Bligh and the Bounty from the point of view of his 14 year old assistant. The language the author uses is amazingly unique and so so fun to read. I laughed outloud many times at this 14 year old's take on the situation! I HIGHLY recommend this one while we are all waiting for THE book to come out in Sept.
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- Midnight Sun E-book by Stephenie Meyer -- SueP, 10:36:28 06/06/09 Sat
Has any one else read this E-book? It's "Twilight" written from Edwards P.O.V. It's fascinating reading - the constant struggle he has with who/what he is, his need for human blood, his love and blood lust for Bella.
This is the book that was leaked to the internet by one of the people Ms Meyers trusted with a partial draft copy. I hope she does end up finishing and publishing it.
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- I actually liked this much better than Twilight. I had a hard time struggling through Bella's constant complaining, self-pitying voice. Though there's still a lot of internal conflict in this- I just loved it and hope she finishes it! (NT) -- Elle S, 12:31:27 06/06/09 Sat
- My DS1 has forbidden me to read this book until SM offically states that she is not releasing in paper. He has taken the high moral ground and refuses to read the e-version. I'm kinda proud of him, b/c he's a huge Twilight fan, so I'll have to hold off till he says I can read it!!!!! (not trying to sound pompous, just supporting DS's stand) (NT) -- TanyaB, 13:35:09 06/07/09 Sun
- I find that written from his perpective, you can really tell that he is 100 years old. And that is something that wasn't obvious in the original. He is so protective of her, it's great. Yes, Bella annoyed me too, but she is only 17! And the very best line in this book is where we get the title from. Where Edward is watching her sleep. Made me melt! (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 16:41:06 06/14/09 Sun
- The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls -- ladyphantom, 10:26:32 05/31/09 Sun
The Glass Castle is a memoir that will pull at your heart strings, it will make you laugh out loud, and it will move you to tears.
For those of you who belong to a book club, this is a perfect choice.
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- This was last month's book club pick for us, and I think everyone enjoyed the book. We had a lot of participation in the discussion, too. (NT) -- JulieO, 09:17:13 06/02/09 Tue
- Okay, I am trying and trying to scroll past this post but I just can't. *g* I read this and probably would have really liked it if I hadn't read a very similar story right before called, "Don't Lets Go to the Dogs Tonight" by Alexandra Fuller. Same idea, true story as recollected by a daughter, but it's an English family who move all around Africa. I believe the author lives in Montana now. What I preferred about this book over "Glass Castle" was the author was just so much warmer and funnier about her crazy upbringing as opposed to what I perceived as Jeanette Walls' arm's length, "Here...read about my completely cuckoo family but didn't I turn out okay...I was never one of them". I don't mean to be unkind about such a traumatic upbringing but there was a certain truth lacking, I found, and I think it was just the author's voice speaking to me. (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 11:23:06 06/02/09 Tue
- comment on Glass Castles -- Fran in Wayne PA, 12:47:53 06/22/09 Mon
- Jaz Parks Series - Jennifer Rardin -- AmandaW, 21:15:39 05/26/09 Tue
Series girl here *g* (Sorry again SueP)
I am slowly working my way through the Paranormal section of my library and came across this series.
Jaz Parks is an assistant to the CIA's top assasin - who happens to be a Vampire named Vayl.
Jaz has a fair bit of baggage and is not too bad at killing the bad guys herself. Throw in a 1000 year old Seer, an ex college roomie techno wizard (with his own problems!) and various other characters she picks up along the way and you have an entertaining series.
A little bit "Plumesque" but not as "nutty" (for want of a better word) as Stephanie.
There are 5 in the series with #6 due out very soon. Rardin's website is good and has excerpts from the books - but watch for spoilers.
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- The Last Summer (of You & Me) by Ann Brashares -- Traci_Mc (), 19:32:47 05/26/09 Tue
This is a wonderful little book by the author of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. This is her first novel for adults.
It is the story of sisters Riley and Alice, and Paul, who spent their summers growing up together on Fire Island. Riley and Paul are best friends, and little sister Alice always tagged along. The girls are now in their early 20's, and Paul, who's been away for 3 years, has come back for the summer. But his return marks the beginning of a change in their relationship, caused by a simmering attraction, a serious illness, and a deep secret.
Its a wonderful story about love - both platonic and romantic; the strength and sting of friendship; the ache of loss; and the complications of family loyalty. A great summer read.
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- 1000 White Women. Authors last name is Fergus -- Conmama, 06:25:36 05/26/09 Tue
I finished reading this and loved it. If you like These is My Words, you'll love this, too. I'm not a fan of Wild West stories, but this is the setting. The protaganist is a feisty woman, and it's told in diary format. It was compelling and I couldn't put it down the further I got into it. It will stay with you for a few days.
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- "Wheel of Time" News -- Margy, 14:21:21 05/23/09 Sat
I am a huge fan of Robert Jordans' Wheel of Time series. Unfortunately, RJ died and did not complete the series. His wife and editor contracted Brandon Sanderson to complete the last book. This is not the news...
According to BS's website, the final book is likely to be 3 books, the first is complete and will be published this year in November. Yay! He says the rest of the story will take around 600,000 words or more to tie up the loose ends, and is therefore likely to be 2 more books (length is dictated by the publishing house), and he's aiming to release them in consecutive Novembers. Double YAY! This is not a promise, but an intention :-( lets hope it turns out.
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- Green Darkness By Anya Seton -- Jessica M., 21:03:33 05/20/09 Wed
I read Katherine awhile ago, and while I found it interesting historically, the people just didn't grab me. I picked up Green Darkness because it was placed in the Sci-Fi section, and am loving it.
Set in both 1968 and 1552-1558 it has lots of elements that might be similar to DG, and familiar characters for those of have read Lymond, (though nowhere near as heavy reading.)
Comments and thoughts??
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- I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith -- susiej, 06:25:40 05/18/09 Mon
I picked this up at a book sale for a dollar. Its quirky funny. (Jane Austen meets Royal Tennebaums) Made me laugh out loud twice. I was stuffing the pillow in my mouth trying not to wake up DH. The best part was the laughs just snuck up on you.
Its also poignant and I wonder if anyone else whose read it felt the same way I did about the ending. I'll put my thought/question inside.
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- Has anyone read Coronach by Kimberly Jordan Reeman? -- Traci_Mc (), 17:10:02 05/13/09 Wed
I saw an ad for it in my Highlander magazine and thought it looked interesting. The tag line on the ad was "Culloden to the Clearances: Let the truth be told." Here is the description from Amazon:
Scotland, July 1746: an army of occupation ravages the Highlands, committing atrocities with consequences that will reverberate across generations. From this bloody cataclysm, the hardened professional soldier Mordaunt saves an infant who becomes his heiress and his obsession: on his shattered estate, a traumatised Franco-Scottish laird, Ewen Stirling, offers protection to a boy damaged by unspeakable horror. These lives, fatally bound, unfold against the turbulence of the eighteenth century, in a magnificent, uncompromising saga of love and the human cost of war.
It is available at Amazon and Barnes&Noble.com, but when I stopped at my local B&N store, they didn't have it. You have to order and pre-pay for it - it's basically printed on demand. Before I buy a book I'm not familiar with (especially one that costs $26 for paperback), I like to leaf through it, read a page here and there, but I can't with this one. So I thought I'd check here to see if anyone else has read it.
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- Black Dagger Brotherhood - J.R. Ward -- Pat, 15:26:01 05/12/09 Tue
Just wanted to thank whoever it was who mentioned this series. I've only read the first one so far, but it's exactly what I need right now and I've already ordered books 2 to 5.
I also read the first book in the Carpathian series by Christine Feehan, but that was the most boring and most ridiculous vampire romance I've ever read - and I'm not very picky! It went straight to the yard sale shelf...
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- I have this board to thank for my BDB addiction also! Plus someone here mentioned the Halfway to the Grave series by Jeaniene Frost, which weren't quite as good, but were still fun. And now a friend has loaned me the 'Sookie Stackhouse' books which True Blood is based on - so it looks like I'll never run out of vampires! The newest JR Ward book just came out, right? Has anyone read it? I know I'm going to end up buying it even though I'm annoyed its in hardcover. (NT) -- HollyC, 15:39:34 05/12/09 Tue
- Big JR fan here too. These are great books. I have to agree with you on the Carpathian books, I never got through #1 it failed the eyeball test (If I start rolling my eyes during the "sex" parts). You will be busy with the brothers for a while but Kim Harrison's Rachel Morgan series is really good. She's a witch but her room mate is a vampire (NT) -- Cherie, 07:26:19 05/13/09 Wed
- I am a new fan to the Brotherhood, but they are a lot of fun. Be sure to order number six too. I have read Lover Avenged and although I am irritated I had to buy it in hardback, it was worth it. Also, after you finish 6 if you get a chance to read the insider's guide, it is worth it too. Have a good time with the series, I know I am. (NT) -- Rebeccab, 08:27:53 05/13/09 Wed
- Hi Pat, I've read no's 1-6 in the last 4 weeks, and they are all out on loan to town friends who are devouring them just as quickly. I'm reading the guide now, I didn't think I wanted it - until I was half way through the series and decided I had to have it *g* I'll wait until the next one comes out in paperback though (NT) -- Margy, 14:15:27 05/13/09 Wed
- Elaine the Fair by Timothy Taylor -- Alissa, 20:06:43 05/11/09 Mon
I picked up this book for $1 at a libary sale. It's a BIG book at nearly 1000 pages and I'm not sure if it's worth starting. I have not been able to find out much about it or even any reviews. I have found out the Author is well known for his books about the game of Chess!! Anyone heard of or read this book?
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- The Host, by Stephanie Meyer -- Lady Stormwing, 19:38:48 05/08/09 Fri
My apologies if this has been reccomended before, but I just finished "The Host" for the second time and had to share it with all of you.
From Stephanie Meyer's website:
Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy. Humans become hosts for these invaders, their minds taken over while their bodies remain intact and continue their lives apparently unchanged. Most of humanity has succumbed.
When Melanie, one of the few remaining "wild" humans is captured, she is certain it is her end. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, was warned about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the glut of senses, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.
Wanderer probes Melanie's thoughts, hoping to discover the whereabouts of the remaining human resistance. Instead, Melanie fills Wanderer's mind with visions of the man Melanie loves—Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she has been tasked with exposing. When outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off on a dangerous and uncertain search for the man they both love.
Yes, it's by the same author of the "Twilight" series, and where I absolutely loved "Twilight", I thought "The Host" blew that series out of the water. Enjoy, ladies!
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- I totally agree that this is a better book than the Twilight series. This was one of my top reads of last year! (NT) -- Marg, 01:45:43 05/09/09 Sat
- Just want to give thumbs up to the unabridged audio read by Kate Reading. Terrific-I've listened to it twice and probably will again at some point. (NT) -- Linda B, 13:25:56 05/09/09 Sat
- Is it YA like Twilight? Are the characters adults? That's what has stopped me from picking this book up. I liked Twilight but I have enough teenage angst in my house without reading about it. (NT) -- Cherie, 06:58:14 05/11/09 Mon
- Funny. My daughter does not want to read "The Host" even tho it's on the HS summer reading list and doesn't know what else to pick. She seems to think she won't like it cuz she doesn't like scifi?? (NT) -- JeanClaire*, 07:14:06 05/15/09 Fri
- Sorry to be the voice of dissent, but while I was initially intrigued by the book, I'd give it a C- overall. It was overlong and the ending was just plain disappointing (IMHO - I had one of those "What!?!" reactions). Many of my friends felt the same, way, but all kept their opinions to themselves until after I'd finished the book. (NT) -- Terri C, 18:35:08 05/20/09 Wed
- I just finished reading this. While I found it hard to put down and a LOT better written than the Twilight series, I too felt it was overlong and the endning was 'meh'. The first half of the book was intriguing. Still worth it though. Finished in 3 days. (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 18:32:27 06/26/09 Fri
- Dragon Kin Series - GA Aiken -- AmandaW, 15:21:01 05/05/09 Tue
Sorry SueP - another series for you!
So far there are two - Dragon Actually and About a Dragon, with the third - What a Dragon Should Know - due out in September.
They are basically HEA, but very, very funny. LOL funny. They are well written, but an easy read. Set in a fictional world where dragons can take human form. The dragon family involved have several siblings from Fearghus the Destroyer, Briec the Mighty, Gwenvael the Handsome, Eibrean the Blue and two sisters, Morfyd and Keita. All are powerful in their own right and they argue and fight like all siblings do. Their parents are just as crazy as they are.
Anyone else come across these?
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- I haven't heard of them, but they sound like fun (NT) -- Margy, 00:04:33 05/06/09 Wed
- They sound like someting I would like, but my library doesn't have them. Maybe I'll put in a request. (NT) -- TanyaB, 06:43:52 05/06/09 Wed
- What's HEA? (NT) -- Susannah, 07:33:56 05/06/09 Wed
- Oh, and they are NOT PG13 either *g* Hot and heavy takes on new meaning with dragons!! Oh, and there are excerpts (not of the sexy bits) on her webpage gaaiken.com. (NT) -- AmandaW, 13:58:45 05/06/09 Wed
- I don't recall having heard of these before! Thanks for mentioning them. (NT) -- Marg, 03:30:08 05/07/09 Thu
- Argh!! Thank you Amanda!!!! (NT) -- SueP, 13:00:17 05/07/09 Thu
- Girls from Ames by jeffrey Zaslow -- Dale, 15:22:00 04/30/09 Thu
I finished this book on Tuesday night and loved it. It's about a group of 11 friends from Ames, Iowa who have been friends since grade school. It's a true life chronicle of their friendship, the deaths and life struggles they faced and how they've always been there together.I laughed and in parts I just had to sit and cry. I don't usually like non-fiction but this was a beautiful read.
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- A House of Women by H E Bates - a novel -- Margy, 13:20:09 04/23/09 Thu
This is an unusual choice for me, I generally read fantasy series these days, but I really felt the need for a change of pace and got this out of the library last week.
H E Bates is a terrific writer who lived from 1905 to 1974, and was a prolific author of novels and poetry. I have read all Pop Larkin novels which begin with 'The Darling Buds of May', which are comic and were made into a great tv series starring David Jason and Catherine Zeta Jones and Pam Ferris. I also read 'Fair stood the wind for France' many years ago, but don't remember much about that one.
This book was written in 1936, but set earlier, starting in 1905, and follows 30 years in the life of Rosie Perkins, the hardworking but lively barmaid at The Angel, when she makes the dramatic decision to marry Tom Jeffries a local farmer, and swaps a life of toil at the bar for an equally hard life on a farm. It's a life which is in turns hum-drum and dramatic.
I really enjoyed the change of pace and the story. Anyone else read this or any of his other books?
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- Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society -- Reilly, 08:25:14 04/19/09 Sun
It has been a month or two since I have read this book and I am still thinking about it and wishing I could find another book I liked so much to read next. I think it is now in my Top 5 favorites category. I listened to it on audio CD and it had 5 narrators, which was perfect because the book is a collection of letters between all of the members of a literary society on the small island of Guernsey after WW II and a journalist/author in London. The narrators were all great and really captured the strong character personalities involved.
This book is enchanting. A sheer delight to listen to/read. I laughed so much and cried a little, and went for long drives just so I could keep listening to it. I highly recommend it.
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- The Book Thief -- FloraMac, 06:02:03 04/16/09 Thu
I've read nothing but RAVE reviews for this book, so I'm almost afraid to say that I just thought "why the hype?". I think the way it was written may have gotten in the way of my getting deeper meaning from it. I've read how this book "changed my life" and I just don't get it. I did think it was a good book, just not earth shattering. We will be discussing it at my next book club, so hopefully I will be able to "see" it better. If you've read and LOVED it--can you tell me why?
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- I wish I could help you FloraMac - but I'm with you on this! Its one of the few books I just didn't even bother to finish. I've heard alot of teens rave about it, and I appreciate that the narrative voice the author uses makes such an impact on readers,but other similar books worked so much better for me (The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, or The Devil's Arithmetic by Jane Yolen). (NT) -- HollyC, 15:39:57 04/16/09 Thu
- I didn't get it either FloraMac - I thought I was the only one too! (NT) -- SueP, 16:45:00 04/16/09 Thu
- I loved it - best book of last year for me, hands down. Why did I rate it? I liked the fact that it humanised people from the other side of the war, that it showed ordinary people just trying to cope with extraordinary times, not necessarily buying in to the political reasons behind it all. I liked how the story was broken into sections based on each book event, and the quirky way it told the story in short sections. I liked Death as a narrator, and really enjoyed the humour. I know not all books are for all people, there've been several books recommended on here that just didn't do it for me, so I don't worry about it any more if I don't like something someone else has loved. (NT) -- Margy, 02:58:35 04/17/09 Fri
- I really enjoyed this when I read it as well, mainly for the fact that it focussed on the normal German people who were caught up in the war in the same way that the innocent civilians were in other countries, without devaluing the suffering that was inflicted against the Jews and other minorities. I too enjoyed Death's humour, and thought that as a narrator his was a fascinating perspective. (NT) -- Marg, 06:42:21 04/17/09 Fri
- I really enjoyed this book. As others have said, the lives of ordinary people, plus the narration by Death, teamed with a good story. The author, Markus Zuzak, has another very good book called The Messenger although it may prove a bit too Australian for some. (NT) -- astrokath, 07:30:22 04/18/09 Sat
- I tried listening to it on CD (how sad is it that that is about the only way I read books these days) but it didn't grab me so I gave it up. Not sure I'll return to it. I feel like you and I have similar book tastes, FM, so maybe I won't bother. (NT) -- Reilly, 08:32:02 04/19/09 Sun
- I read it and enjoyed the concept, but it was one of those books that made me think "I wish I had written this . . . I think I could've done it better." (NT) -- Reid, 19:35:53 04/22/09 Wed
- Fforde, Jasper. The Eyre Affair (Thursday Next series) -- Beccy, 00:07:49 04/16/09 Thu
I'm not sure how to describe these books- fantasy, clever and literary, very funny and silly- hey, there is even time travel! The heroine is a special ops police officer, a literary detective, in a weirld parallel universe. She hs to solve a crime where the villain kidnaps Jane Eyre from out of the book and holds her to ransom, for what will the book be like without the main character?.... I think you will either love or hate these books but I am hooked!
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- Love them! The Nursery Crimes books are good, too, though I like Thursday Next better... (NT) -- FloraMac, 05:55:55 04/16/09 Thu
- Oh I really enjoyed these books. I have just read the last one "First Amongst Sequels" which was okay. Have to admit, I should have gone back and reread the previous Thursday book to get my bearings. Love the Nursery Crimes series too. (NT) -- AmandaW, 14:39:23 04/16/09 Thu
- Interesting! Sounds a bit like the premise of the YA series Inkheart- people coming out of the books and such. (NT) -- susiej, 16:04:59 04/16/09 Thu
- Another big fan here! I am so looking forward to whatever Fforde comes up with next. I agree First Among Sequels wasn't the best, but there were still plenty of laugh moments! (NT) -- Marg, 06:39:23 04/17/09 Fri
- Oh, they are all wonderful! So droll and delightful. I definitely prefer the Thursday next books. I have to have a dodo! (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 16:48:21 04/17/09 Fri
- Mercy Thompson Series - Patricia Briggs -- AmandaW, 17:15:44 04/15/09 Wed
Have just finished the first 3 Mercy Thompson books. Mercy is a VW mechanic and a walker - she can voluntarily shift into a coyote. As far as she knows she is the only one of her kind left. She grew up with werewolves and the local pack Alpha lives right next door. One of her favourite pasttimes is seeing how far she can push the buttons of Adam.
Humans are aware of the Fae, they were outed about 20 years ago, however are still unaware of werewolves and vamps. Through circumstance, Mercy gets pulled into a kidnap and rescue (book 1 - Moon Called), a demon riding vampire (book 2 - Blood Bound) and a fae serial killer (Iron Kissed). She goes from leading a fairly normal life, to having it totally disrupted by those around her.
More plot driven than character driven, but by the end of the third one, Iron Crossed, I was wanting more. On the wait list at the library for the 4th which has only recently been released.
Briggs has another series out that is a spin off from this series called Alpha and Omega. I have read the novella that introduces the two main characters and just waiting on the library hold list now.
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- The Shack -- Reid, 23:10:31 04/12/09 Sun
Has anyone read this? I've heard a lot of buzz about it but nothing specific. Some other teachers I work with are forming a book club and it's our first selection. I'm working my way through a re-read of Mists of Avalon at the moment, but I'm really eager to get to our book club book. Also, any good suggestions for a group of women, one guy, ranging in ages from early 20's to late 60's who all teach in a Catholic school?
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- I have also heard lots of talk about this book and it is on my TBR list. If I ever get to it, I'll let you know. As for recs, I've plugged it before- 3 Cups of Tea is a wonderful book and reads like a novel though its not. And the Giver is a fantastic book- alot to discuss even thought its technically a "kids" book. Its very well written. And then there's Life of Pi though that's a wierd, weird book and parts of it are just gross to read. (NT) -- susiej, 07:16:06 04/13/09 Mon
- Me too. I have it on hold (waiting my turn) at the library. (NT) -- AmyGirl, 12:00:36 04/13/09 Mon
- from a book sellers point of view (haven't read it yet) I can tell you that it has gotten rave reviews. People come back and buy a second copy for a gift bevause they don't want to give theirs up. co-worker read it and she loved it. (NT) -- Dale, 14:26:43 04/13/09 Mon
- I have read it-for our book club and the opinion ran the gamit from loving it to hating it! It is a thought provoking book that is well worth reading, but you have to come to it with an open mind. (NT) -- LalaB, 17:05:43 04/13/09 Mon
- I finished reading it over springbreak and really liked it. I found it an intriguing, thought-provoking and even comforting. I really liked the twist on the trilogy. It's a book that makes you think, and it's entertaining at the same time. Great choice for a book club (NT) -- Conmama, 10:39:07 04/15/09 Wed
- Cqn someone tell me the author please? (NT) -- SueP, 01:03:19 04/16/09 Thu
- I am still reading it... almost finished, though. It is powerful and several times, had me in tears (enough so, that I had to put the book down for a day or two). As someone else mentioned, you do have to keep an open mind. It is like nothing I have ever read before. (NT) -- ladyphantom, 08:51:31 04/20/09 Mon
- Kushiel's Legacy Series by Jacqueline Carey -- RowanHastings, 00:31:58 04/10/09 Fri
This series is broken into 3 trilogies from the POV of the main character of the novels. The time line is based around the end of the Roman Empire but Carey has created a whole world fron her own imagination. Very well written with great depth, there is romance, adventure, war and loss. I am currently on the 5th book in the series, Kushiel's Justice and enjoying the story and writing style immensely.
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- Just finished reading 'Three cups of tea' and had to tell someone. Wow! I was fascinated by the entire story. It's refreshing to know there are still people like that in the world. I can't believe the sacrifices he, his family and friends made to help him accomplish his mission. Thanks so much to those who recommended this book. I recommend it as well. -- CathyS, 13:28:43 04/09/09 Thu
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- It is good isn't it? I've never heard of anyone who began to read it and said, "Nah, I don't like this." And as for the man himself, what a world it would be if more of us were that humble, so opposite of self centered. (NT) -- susiej, 15:28:49 04/09/09 Thu
- Lol, Cathy, my post about this book is about half way down the page. It's an incredible story, isn't it? Makes you really wonder where the world would be if politicians took the time to get educated about some of the issues. And, yes, Greg is amazing-wish there were more people like him in the world. (NT) -- Keira, 07:37:24 04/10/09 Fri
- Dewey - The Small-Town Library Cat WhoTouched the World by Vicki Myron -- SueP, 06:43:35 04/06/09 Mon
I just read and loved this beautiful book, based on the true story of Dewey Readmore Books,a library cat in Spencer, Iowa. Found as a tiny kitten in the library book return drop box on the coldest night of the year, little Dewey is adopted by the town librarian Vicky and the library staff. He was a real people cat and took his library work of greeting people at the day very seriously. He also had uncanny knack of knowing who was feeling down and needed some extra TLC.
He lived for 19 years, and brought so much love and joy to a small town community. He was also famous all around the world after being written about in articles, and filmed by film crews at work.
A lovely heart warming story for cat loverS!
And check out this website for videos of Dewey - www.deweyreadmorebooks.com
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- Cindy Brandners 3rd book -- Rachel, 00:20:14 04/05/09 Sun
Does anyone know when Cindy Brandners (Exit Unicorns, Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears) 3rd book comes out?
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- I just read The Giver. Yowza! -- susiej, 15:23:00 04/03/09 Fri
What a thought provoking, beautifully written book. Its a Newberry Award Winner (best in children's literature). I'm on a really big YA kick these days and this is a great one.
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- Dorothy Dunnett's series The House of Niccolo (and Lymond Chronicles) -- Tess, 13:07:45 04/03/09 Fri
I am working my way through the 8 book series by Dorothy Dunnett abot Nicholas Van der Poele/de Fleury. I think I have seen past messages here about her other series The Lymond Chronicles, of which I have only read one. I want to finish Nicholas' story before moving on to Lymond. Very detailed historical fiction, in-depth plot and characters. I've basically given up my evening & weekend chores until I finish this series (I just started book 7). Then I suppose I have to make it through the other 5 books about Lymond. I have to say after just reading the 1st Lymond book that I am looking forward to jumping into his story next!
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- Historical - Voyageurs by Margaret |Elphinstone -- Beccy, 01:48:19 04/01/09 Wed
I recenty read this book and thought I would reccommend it here. It takes the form of the memoirs of a Quaker farmer from the Lake District in England, early in the 1800's, who travels to Canada to find his missing sister. He travels with his missing sister's husband (a MacKenzie!) and a French/Indian man around Lake Michigan, where they meet up with local Indians and get stuck in the winter ice. I won't give too much away, but it is very gripping and also interesting, with its insights into the way of life of the fur traders, Scottish clearances, Quakers, and the hardships of life in what was largely unsettled country.
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- Nora Roberts writing as J.D.Robb - " In Death" series -- SueP, 14:40:34 03/31/09 Tue
I know I'm late to this party, but have just discovered J.D Robbs "In Death" series!
It's set slightly in the future in the 2050's. the world is more technical, other planets have been colonised, but basic humanity and human needs are still the same.
There are 28 books to date so far, following NYPD Lieutenant Eve Dallas and her gorgeous, sexy, slightly on the wrong side of the law Irish husband Roarke. (Woohoo - I have a new literary character to lust after!)
I've read the first 12 books in 12 weeks, and am looking forward to the rest!
(Having found Cross Stitch waaayyy back in 1982 and having had to wait for every DG book since then, I am so excited to find a series of books I read, in order, without waiting for them to be written!.)
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- Surrender ~ by Pamela Clare -- Gina-C, 16:14:05 03/29/09 Sun
I am so excited about the new book I just finished. It is a verra sizzlin' romance set in the colony of New York, just before the Battle of Ticonderoga. It features, Iain MacKinnon, a swoon-worthy Highlander who was basically raised by an Indian tribe after his family relocated to the new world (after Culloden). He rescues Annie Campbell who is from a family of loyalists. Some of you may not like the heavy romance aspect of the book, but I thought it was wonderful. The historical part of the book is good too. I did a Wikipedia search and much of the background information about the battle is completely accurate. Iain reminds me a little of our Jamie. There are a lot of Gaelic phrases in the book (many of which you will recognize). The secondary characters are also fairly well written.
I know my brief summary probably doesn't do this book justice, but I highly recommend it. It is the first of a trilogy. The next book in the series is about Iain's brother and its called Untamed. Let me know if any of you have read it.
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- Black Dagger Brotherhood - JR Ward -- AmandaW, 15:55:39 02/23/09 Mon
My latest addiction! I know it was someone here that mentioned they had just started them and I thought I would try them - and I am hooked.
The books are paranormal erotic romance - Large hunky vampires and their stories of how they fall in love and get their mate. However, they aren't all Mills and Boon gushy, they are very well written with well developed characters and you get to know each character before, during and after their story.
I have read the first 4 and the race is now on to see which arrives first, my library request or the order I have placed on our local bookstore. I have ordered all 6 + the compendium...like I said, my latest addiction! *g*
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- Among JR Ward fans her books are known as crack, and there is a good reason for that! They are totally addictive! (NT) -- Marg, 01:55:08 02/24/09 Tue
- I'm on 5 and don't know what I'll do with my life when I finish 6. These are the best "romance" I've read in a really long time. I read them at the gym and have no issues with 1 hour of cardio. I am totally obsessed and I want a Brother, NOW!!! (NT) -- Cherie, 09:07:23 02/24/09 Tue
- I feel you (*g*) I love the brothers, although I had a difficult time through most of the first book with all the rap/hip hop references. That is not my scene. It wasn't until the second book that I realized, as I was sobbing, trying to read through my tears, that I was much more involved in these characters than I thought. Truth. When does the next one come out? (NT) -- MiladyM, 05:15:22 02/25/09 Wed
- I loved the first 4 or so, but my interest has waned. Didn't care too much for Vishous' story, and really disliked Lover Enshrined (Phury's story). I'll probably get around to borrowing Lover Avenged from the library, but I'm not a huge Rehv fan, so I don't feel a sense of urgency. I do love John Matthew, though. LOVE the idea of him and Xhex together. I have to say that I wouldn't call these "erotic." For me, the sensuality level is, at most, Hot, but really a half-step down from that. (NT) -- Nifty, 11:50:10 02/28/09 Sat
- I love, love, love all the Brothers! I will definitely buy Rehv's book, even though it's hardcover, because I just really enjoy these books. I read them over & over again. (NT) -- clarebe, 17:19:43 02/28/09 Sat
- The first one just arrived in my mailbox from paperbackswap! Can't wait to start reading. (NT) -- JeanClaire*, 04:36:32 03/04/09 Wed
- Okay, you got me, I'm nearly through the first and will be ordering more... (NT) -- Margy, 10:16:18 03/04/09 Wed
- I like when folks talking about a story sounds like they are speaking another language! I may have to put my life on hold for another year so I can read yet another series. ;0) (NT) -- Phel, 13:17:30 03/05/09 Thu
- The BDB -- RowanHastings, 01:36:23 04/09/09 Thu
- Kathy Reichs--Temperance Brennan -- Wee Welsh Lass, 19:06:03 02/22/09 Sun
Has anyone else gotten into these books? I just started watching the TV series and then found out about the books, and started with the first one and just finished "Break No Bones" (book 9?) this afternoon. I think they are really good! I think, I am just going to read this one chapter, then I'll do something (like grade papers, laundry, etc) and I get sucked into another and another chapter! And although Andrew Ryan is certainly no Jamie, I wouldn't kick him out of my bed for eating crackers! Especially in one of the books (the one about the motorcycle gangs) where he references Sonnet 66... I just wish Tempe would forget about Pete and focus on Ryan. And a few "outlandish" sex scenes wouldn't hurt either, Dr. Reichs, if you're reading this...
Anyone else read this series?
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- I read the first two and really liked them. Then I got bogged down in something else and didn't get back to them. They are still on my list but by this time, I'd have to start over. (NT) -- TanyaB, 09:04:15 02/23/09 Mon
- I have all of these and have been a fan for years. I try and watch the TV version, however, it clashes with Greys at the moment, so I have to do the channel surf in the ads! (NT) -- AmandaW, 15:50:20 02/23/09 Mon
- Love them! I have been reading them for years! I love Bones too. Got to get yourself a DVR so you can watch and record! I Love Grey's too (NT) -- Melody :), 18:30:21 03/02/09 Mon
- I too, starting reading the books after watching the tv show. One of the things I like about them is that they are a quick read and I don't have to read them in order to know what's going on. One thing that bugs me though, what was wrong with the name Andrew Ryan that they changed it to Seely Booth for tv? (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 19:35:02 03/06/09 Fri
- It is so sad but I have had the first few books in this series sitting in my TBR pile for a few months and I still haven't gotten around to reading them!! Such is the life of the university student! They might have to be promoted to the top of my pile!! (NT) -- RowanHastings, 10:04:14 04/11/09 Sat
- Devil's Brood by Sharon Kay Penman -- Mari L., 13:04:38 02/12/09 Thu
This is the third book in a trilogy dealing with King Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine and their family. The first two books were When Christ and His Saints Slept and Time and Chance. Devil's Brood deals with the end of their marriage and the rebellion of the three sons and Eleanor. To quote from the jacket cover: "This is a story of betrayal, as Henry's three eldest sons and his wife enter into a rebellion against him, aligning themselves with his bitterest enemy, King Louis of France. But it is also the story of a great king whose brilliance forged an empire yet whose personal blind spots led him into the most serious mistakes of his life". I heartily recommend this book. It is beautifully written and had me in tears in places, even tho' I was familiar with the history and knew what was going to happen. I absolutely love SKP's books. She is one of the best authors of historical novels around, in my estimation. I was so happy to hear that she is now working on a book about Richard I. She has had some serious health problems, so I hope she can keep on with her work. She is so gifted.
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- I haven't read this one yet, didn't realise it had been published already, but I've read and re-read the others, including some of the mystery books which are a lighter read. I was priviledged enough to spend a day in London with her a few years back, along with Gwen, albion, SueF (who doesn't post these days) and Andrea- Germany as well as Val L. It was a special day. (NT) -- Margy, 14:06:28 02/12/09 Thu
- I enjoyed this one too. I found WCAHSS a bit slow, but loved Time & Chance, and this one. SKP is a wonderful author and I love all her historical books (not very keen on the mysteries, though). (NT) -- astrokath (astrokath), 17:58:10 02/12/09 Thu
- This will go on the top of my list. Time & Chance is one of my faves. Cried my eyes out *G* SKP is a wonderful author. (NT) -- Cherie, 10:20:17 02/13/09 Fri
- I am reading this atm and have had to go back and re read the others to refresh my memory. All of SKP books are so well written and researched it is like stepping threough the stones and being there. I got lucky with it tho.. my local book shop (an indipendant) got it in an advance order and it is only just starting to appear on the shelves of other shops in Australia. (NT) -- Keitaya, 06:24:30 03/22/09 Sun
- Sharon Kay Penman -- Susan (MacTavish ever the optimist), 02:47:31 03/27/09 Fri
- The Bronze Horseman -- Erin Rickert, 11:55:28 01/26/09 Mon
Dear Ladies of Lallybroch, I want to apologize for not taking your suggestion to read this book 2 years ago when I first saw it posted. I had my books I want to read list with me at a used book store and found "The Bronze Horseman" and "Tatiana and Alexander" so I picked them up and they have been sitting in my to be read pile for over 6 months. I feel I have become set in my ways reading a majority of only historical fiction books looking for that same "Outlander" excitement and feeling. But my grandfather was in WWII and I have always had a bit of an interest in it...(you know how it is... sometimes you seem drawn to certain time periods more than others) So thinking of my Grandfather I thought I would take "The Bronze Horseman" out and start reading it. First few chapters I was really upset with Tatiana (come on silly girl.... get the food....) But then I couldn't put it down... I thought about Tatiana and Alexander while I was at work and I think we ate pizza three nights in a row because I couldn't stop. At 3 am I am going crossed eyed having to turn to the next page........ So thank you all for this break from those fluffy books we find ourselves picking up on a whim..... I have not felt this way about a book since "Outlander"..... It was so nice to have passion again about the characters... So in the future I will take all of your reading suggestions seriously.....And if there is anyone out there who has not read this book. Don't be silly like me and wait so long......
Any other suggestions about books you can't live without please let me know......... I tried "Here be Dragons" and I just couldn't get into it....
Thanks again....Erin.......
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- I waited a while to read both Outlander and The Bronze Horseman and was kicking myself. Don't forget to look for The Summer Garden, (there are cheap copies available from Bookcloseouts.com if you are in the US). In terms of other recommendations I would suggest The Tea Rose and then The Winter Rose by Jennifer Donnelly. (NT) -- Marg, 12:40:52 01/26/09 Mon
- The Time Travelors Wife is a must read, even if you think you might not like it, you gotta give it a go (NT) -- Dee, 15:17:46 01/26/09 Mon
- I read the Bronze Horseman series about a year ago when it was bitterly cold at home. I huddled under a blanket with a cup of tea and felt really bad that I had a refrigerator full of food. Every morsel in my mouth was noticed for a while, like I didn't deserve it while others suffered. Interesting when one gets so involved in a book, huh? (NT) -- LT (Denise), 16:31:06 01/26/09 Mon
- BH -- Erin, 10:19:07 01/30/09 Fri
- Glad you read it Erin. Paullina really draws you into that novel. It's been a couple years since I read it ~ about time for a reread. (NT) -- Gina-C, 18:06:34 01/26/09 Mon
- I always have to give a shout out for Anya Seton's Katherine. Gorgeous love story based on a real historical couple. (NT) -- Lynn H., 19:34:14 01/26/09 Mon
- I would like to suggest a wonderful series of books by the English author, Cynthia Harrod-Eagles. Her series, The Morland Dynasty, starts with Eleanor in 1434 and will run through the end of 1939. There are 31 books and I have found this one of the most enjoyable reading pleasures ever. Eagle's research is impeccable and she brings her characters to life so you can easily visualize their everyday life, their homes, etc. I urge anyone who has not read this series to do so. (NT) -- SheltieLass, 07:39:47 01/27/09 Tue
- I am rereading the series... I love it! It's second only to Outlander. I heard a rumor that Paullina is writing the screenplay for a movie. I would hope it would be an "epic", similar to Dr. Zhiavago. There have been discussions on Paullina's website regarding casting suggestions. Henry Cavill would make a verra good Alexander, but Tatiana... harder to cast. (NT) -- ladyphantom, 06:49:04 01/29/09 Thu
- I just finished 'The Bronze Horseman' tonight (sob, sob). Thanks ever so much for the recommendation. I think I cried as much as I did at the end of 'Dragonfly in Amber'. I look forward to the next 2 books with great anticipation. (NT) -- Janelle N, 04:39:00 02/03/09 Tue
- I really tried to like the Bronze Horseman and couldn't get into it. Not sure why, because I am a big fan of Russian Lit, although it has been many years since I read much of it. I will have to give it another go one of these days. (NT) -- LalaB, 11:50:09 02/09/09 Mon
- This is a fantastic series. Be sure to read all three books. It is one of my all time favorite series. (NT) -- JanR, 09:51:38 03/12/09 Thu
- Update - read 'Tatiana and Alexander' and just finished 'The Summer Garden' on the weekend - Loved them both. Thanks again for the book recommendations :) (NT) -- Janelle N, 18:05:25 03/15/09 Sun
