- Regency Fatigue? For fans of historical romance.... -- pamelalass, 12:26:41 05/09/13 Thu
There's been a very vigorous and fascinating discussion about the "death" of historical romance going on this week in several major online forums including All About Romance and Dear Author. I posted my own musings, along with links to the big discussion blogs, at Badass Romance: Historical Romance - Lament, or Let it Die?
(I hope the link works; fingers crossed!)
HollyC was kind enough to post a link to my blog here already, but I'm back to ask for input on a specific topic, and hope any historical romance readers may be interested to check out this new post.
I've always loved the book recommendations from this Board, and though I've been away a while, this is the place I first learned about the amazing Elizabeth Chadwick, and Paulina Simon, along with Karen Marie Moning, J.R. Ward and others. I would love to know what other Hosers who are historical romance fans think about the question of shrinking sales of historicals vs. other romance fiction, whether the genre needs to reinvent itself, etc. And thanks to HollyC and MacPudel for stopping by Badass Romance yesterday with wonderful insights!
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- 2 new books out today... "Dead Ever After" by Charlaine Harris and "Down London Road" by Samantha Young -- CarolSR, 06:26:06 05/07/13 Tue
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- Maya Banks - KGI series -- AmandaW, 23:01:18 05/04/13 Sat
If you are looking for some hot alpha military males then this series is for you. Centred around 6 brothers who have formed a private special ops company (Kelly Group International - KGI) the series follows the brothers & team mates as they find their women.
Lots of action, lots of lovin', great family dynamic and banter between the siblings. If you like the family dynamics and hotness of JR Ward and Lauren Dane, you'll love these.
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- A new romance blog -- HollyC, 05:33:43 04/15/13 Mon
Last weekend we had a fun Hoser get together, and of course the conversation turned to what had we read lately. Turns out Pamelalass has started to blog about and review good (and bad) romance novels. Some of her comments really made me laugh. I hope this will link to her blog BadassRomance if I've messed it up maybe she'll post a link here!
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- That was an interesting blog to read. Thanks. (NT) -- Valerie L., 07:57:28 04/16/13 Tue
- Hey Holly- I just came over here because I was thinking of you and Pamelass and all the Boston Hosers. And here was a post from you- amazing. Hoping you are all OK. And I'm so excited about Pamela's blog! Thanks for posting (NT) --
susiej, 12:08:26 04/16/13 Tue
- Thanks so much for posting this, HollyC! I am hoping Judy won't mind I've mentioned the Ladies of Lallybroch at least a couple of times already in the first few posts. There truly is no finer community of readers, and I would be thrilled and honored to have the benefit of feedback on the blog, from fellow hosers. I have been reading a lot of romance lately, but I'm planning for the blog to be about heroes (and heroines) from all kinds of books and stories. I find compellingly romantic and badass characters in all kinds of places! (NT) -- pamelalass, 19:49:35 04/16/13 Tue
- It's always a treat to read Pamelalass's writing and views on characters and books. I've really enjoyed reading it so far...just haven't had time to join in the conversations, but will. It's good to "see you" on this Board, Pamela! (NT) -- conmama, 05:32:48 04/17/13 Wed
- Pamela...question. When I sign in with my email, I received one saying that if I confirm I will receive any blog comment that someone makes? Is that true? Also, I'm confused where to make my comments on the blog page. (NT) -- conmama, 08:33:07 04/17/13 Wed
- Thanks so much, conmama! I think you may be entering your email at the bottom of a post, where there is an option to "Follow Comments"....? I am so not a pro with all this. But I just tried it myself again, and if you use the "Enter Your Email" field in the left menu column, it just says you'll get an email when there's a new post, and also tells you it's not active until you receive an email and click through to confirm. To Comment on a post, it's a little bit hidden (which I don't especially like about this template) but you have to click on the word "Comments" which appears in small blue font at the end of the post, after all the Tags, etc. Or you can click on the little "speech bubble" at the top of the post, which is blank if there are no comments, or shows the number of comments, if there are any. There! Have I just made it thoroughly more confusing..? (NT) -- pamelalass, 14:35:12 04/17/13 Wed
- To fans of JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood....she held a meet and greet in Ohio and announced that the next book will be called The King and that it will be focused on Wrath and Beth and their try for a baby. Book due Spring 2014. -- Carol SR, 08:06:46 03/31/13 Sun
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- Strong Female Leads -- Pinches, 12:05:39 03/29/13 Fri
I've loved all of DG's Outlander series (and waiting very impatiently for the next one), read the Millenium series by Stieg Larson and the Hunger Games series---loved them all. I'm almost finished with the Into The Wilderness series (I'm in the middle of Queen of Swords)and also the middle of Dreamfever (so only Shadowfever to go there).
I'm looking for my next series with a strong female lead character and could use recommendations.
Looking at past posts here, maybe MOST of the books have strong female leads but I want to be sure before I start one.
Claire set the bar pretty high, along with DG's incredible weaving of stories and details, so I'm so looking forward to my next adventure. Recommendations?
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- For something different, try the In Death series by J D Robb (aka Nora Roberts). Eve Dallas is as kick-a$$ as they come. I strongly recommend reading them in order. (NT) -- MiladyM, 16:13:48 03/29/13 Fri
- Anne Bishop's series - The Black Jewels Trilogy. I love this series as much as The Books and got the recommendation from here. If you are into paranormal, Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress series is really good too as well as Chloe Neill's Chicagoland Vampires series. (NT) -- AmandaW, 22:36:12 03/31/13 Sun
- These is my Words by Nancy E Turner. Amazingly strong lead and based on truth! (NT) -- Rhiann, 07:14:35 04/01/13 Mon
- If you like Karen Marie Moning you might try Kim Harrision, she has some great female leads in her Hollows series. In the same genre try Laurell K Hamilton, Anita Blake kicks some serious ass. I'll second the Black Jewels and In Death series both are great reads. (NT) -- Cherie, 07:30:54 04/01/13 Mon
- If you like dragons, try G. A. Aiken's Dragon Kin series. Very strong female(s). There are 6 in the series so far and the first one is 'Dragon Actually'. (NT) -- MonicaW, 17:38:46 04/28/13 Sun
- J R Ward's next Black Dagger Brotherhood book, Lover At Last, comes out next Tuesday, March 26th. Qhuinn and Blay. Pre-order now! I can't wait! -- CarolSR, 07:55:47 03/20/13 Wed
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- Me Before You by Jojo Moyes -- Lady Linda, 15:29:04 03/15/13 Fri
Ladies, this book is emotionally stunning. I re-read the ending five times to get my head wrapped around it. You will laugh and you will certainly cry. It is love story set against all odds. You will not be disappointed. I do not recommend books very often but do not want any of my Lally Pals to miss out on this one. Would love feedback from anyone who reads it. I check the Social Board every day so just give me a shout!
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- Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay -- Gina-C (Wow!), 18:09:40 03/12/13 Tue
Sarah's Key may have been recommended here before since it was written in 2008, but I just finished reading it. The characters are fiction, but the historical events are tragically true. It's the story of the roundup of Jewish families in Paris in 1942, leading up to their transport to Auschwitz. The story is from the point of view of a modern day journalist that becomes "obsessed" with the events in the life of a young Jewish girl (from 1942) whom she discovers while investigating a story. I found this book an enlightening and emotional read. The narrative flounders a bit toward the end, but that is mainly because of the intensity of the events leading up to the finale. This book has been made into a movie, starring Kristin Scott Thomas which I hope to watch soon.
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- The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin -- Toddles, 16:12:07 03/08/13 Fri
If you like Downton Abbey this is the book for you. It is about an American Heiress going to England looking to marry into a title. It's a good read.
FYI-I am so ready for the next Outlander book!!!
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- 1000 White Women -- Annie Stewart, 06:02:37 03/02/13 Sat
Just finished reading 1000 White Women by Jim Fergus as I saw the recommendation here, oh maybe 3 dozen times! I liked it but did think some details were far fetched. I was just notified of another book by the same author, Jim Fergus.
Has anyone read this one?
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- New Books out today: "Beauty Awakened" Book #2 in the Angels of the Dark series by Gena Showalter. "Edge of Dawn" - a Midnight Breed Novel from Lara Adrian -- CarolSR, 16:44:30 02/26/13 Tue
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- Another book out this week, "Grounded," by R. K. Lilley. This is the 3rd book in her "Up in the Air" trilogy. James Cavendish and Bianca Karlsson...hot! -- CarolSR, 06:19:33 02/14/13 Thu
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- To fans of Fifty Shades & Bared to You, Maya Banks has a new book out this week entitled, "Rush." Young, controlling billionaire is obsessed with his best friend's younger sister. I'm almost half way through the story and enjoying it. Lots of sex..if that makes a difference to you. :) -- CarolSR, 07:06:16 02/12/13 Tue
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- Fans of FSOG & Bared to You series will love The Hunter series by J.D. Chase! -- LP, 12:46:24 01/21/13 Mon
Issy is a gorgeous interior designer in Manhattan, who preferred one night stands to relationships, but has finally decided to stay away from sex and focus on her career. Lucas is a hot millionaire, who is celibate, and works out at the gym to relieve his frustration, lol. The two meet and sparks fly.
I read both books in a day, but be warned, there is more to come. The third installment is due out any day now...
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- Kate Morton- The Secret Keepers -- BetsyG, 13:07:56 01/17/13 Thu
I love Kate Morton and really liked her latest offering. I totally did not see the twist/ending coming- she got me! And usually I figure it out- I thought she did a great job with character development and several secrets in the story! It is set in England and alternates between WWII and present day. There is family empathy as well as a love story and some intrigue.
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- english teaching -- geria (curious), 23:26:36 01/09/13 Wed
I am an English teacher at an indigenous language school (Te Reo Maori- New Zealand Maori) is our first language. I am looking for a book which will captivate my 16 year old readers- mostly young women. Please, I would be most grateful if everyone r anyone could tell me of their favourite books at this age. I need to teach an 'extended text' or novel. so far I have heard that survivial stories are well recieved. My students loved "Whale Rider" a mythical legendary tale from a local iwi (tribe).Any other ideas would be appreciated.Many thanks.
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- Blue Bells of Scotland -- Laura Vosika, 12:43:54 01/05/13 Sat
I think fans of the outlander series will like this trilogy by Laura Vosika. The first two books (Blue Bells of Scotland and The Minstrel Boy) have been published(in the UK Anyway). They are about an American trombone player who while visiting a castle in Scotland - accidently changes places with a 13th century highland warrior. It is an intriguing, well written tale with characters that you come to care about. I highly recommend it! Jean D
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- The Giver by Lois Lowry -- MaryJ, 10:38:32 12/30/12 Sun
I imagine this book has been listed here in the past, but it's worth a repeat. This is a fast read (only about 129 pages), but has so much thought-provoking meat - it really grabbed me!
It's about a utopian community where everyone is respected & leads very ordered lives, without knowledge of pain or fear. Each is assigned a job at age 12, and the main character, a boy named Jonas, gets an unusual and highly respected job assignment. He learns how the community works and at what cost...and the story moves on from there.
If you like writing style of The Hunger Games series or The Age of Miracles, I think you will like this book. My book club chose it for our January book, but I know the 8th graders read this for Literature class at our school.
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- In Flight & Mile High (Up in the Air series) by R.K. Lilley -- LP, 07:13:00 12/28/12 Fri
Add this series to the list of the HOT billionaire erotica novels that we are so fond of... FSOG, Bared to You, etc. James & Bianca's story is not to be missed!
Grounded, the third novel in the series, is due out in February!!!!
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- Molly Harper -- Reilly, 07:38:44 12/16/12 Sun
I recently discovered the author, Molly Harper, by reading her one and only non-paranormal book, "And One Last Thing...". The formula was pretty typically chic lit, but I found that Molly Harper has very witty and sarcastic sense of humor that really worked for me. I laughed out loud quite a few times. So, I decided to give one of her other books a try. I'm not really into reading paranormal fiction, though I like a good monster movie. And I am REALLY not into vampires, which most of her novels are about. So, I decided to give her Naked Werewolf series a try, because I AM really into werewolves. It's great! Werewolf chick lit done really well. I liked them so much that I humbled myself to try her vampire chick lit, and it is really funny, too. I'm only on the 1st book, but am enjoying it too.
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- I've Got Your Number: A Novel by Sophie Kinsella -- conmama, 06:48:45 12/05/12 Wed
This is one of those easy, fun, lighthearted reads. The protaganist reminds me a tad of Bridget Jones. I couldn't put the book down, and even laughed out loud at two parts. I usually only laugh inside! It really was fun and I'm going to find some more of hers to read between more serious novels. Most times I think these sort of novels are silly and a waste of time, but I didn't with this one. I could see something coming a mile away, but that didn't stop me from enjoying the book, has a couple of surprises, too.
I have a question? Why do so many people give so many 5 stars on ALL books in Amazon? I find that I go to the 4's and 3's to get more honest critiques anymore. Maybe they compare a particular novel to only that "type" of novel.
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- Slammed & Point of Retreat by Colleen Hoover -- LP, 14:02:21 11/26/12 Mon
A friend of mine recommended this series, because of our love of romance. I downloaded Slammed last night and was up until the wee hours reading, despite my having to work today *yawn*.
It's the story of young love. Layken and Will are destined to be together, but circumstances are keeping them apart. I won't go into details, because I don't wish to spoil it for you. The writing is wonderful and rumor has it a movie is in the works!
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- For lovers of The Original Sinners series by Tiffany Reisz -- astrokath, 22:31:40 11/24/12 Sat
Tiffany has a free short story called 'Midnight Mass' here: http://literatiliteraturelovers.com/author/literatiliteraturelovers/
And don't forget she has a lot of short stories at her website www.tiffanyreisz.com
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- Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers -- HollyC, 16:20:49 11/12/12 Mon
I've been in a reading slump lately, but this young adult historical/romance/touch of supernatural pulled me out of it. In 15th century Brittany, Ismae gets a chance to control her own destiny when she is trained in the assassin's arts in a convent of nuns who serve St. Mortain, aka the god of Death. Unwillingly sent on a mission to safeguard the young Duchess of Brittany, Ismae finds herself in a court full of political intrigue, posing as a mistress to an nobleman whose motives remain to be seen. Great writing and characters, good dialogue, more adult than YA in its themes,and even if the history part was a bit thin - it did have me online looking up more about the real Anne of Brittany once I finished. This book had echoes of other excellent YA's like Graceling, Crown Duel and Keturah & Lord Death, it was absorbing and different.
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- Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier -- susiej, 06:43:47 11/07/12 Wed
I recommended this already about 3 years ago, but I just did a re-read and OMG, I fell in love all over again. This is one of my top 3 books of all time. If you love ancient Celtish history, druids, hot Celtic men- read this book. If you love fairy tales retellings read this book. Sorcha is hands down my all-time favorite heroine. There isn't a single thing I don't like about her. And as for the guy (whose name I won't say so I don't give anything away)- sigh. Big, big sigh. If you like Jamie Fraser at all- you'll love Sorcha's guy.
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- I'm going to get this one from the library. I keep hearing good things about it. (NT) -- Lemora, 07:37:55 11/10/12 Sat
- These have been on my library list since the last time they were reccommended on here. still have not gotten to them, but will one of these days - thanks for reminding me! (NT) -- MaryJ, 17:49:50 11/10/12 Sat
- Hi susiej! I have this book on my tbr list - probably from you mentioning it before - it sounds so good I don't know why I haven't gotten around to it yet. Too many books! (NT) -- HollyC, 06:10:08 11/12/12 Mon
- Okay - you sold me! Going to look for this one at the library. (NT) -- Gina-C, 19:47:45 11/25/12 Sun
- This is the first book in the Sevenwaters series by Juliet Marillier. I've read most of them but I think there are a couple new ones out. I have read many books by Juliet Marillier and thoroughly enjoyed them all. Highly reccommend anything by this author. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 11:04:35 12/18/12 Tue
- Based on your recommendation I am currently reading this book and am really enjoying it! (NT) -- CarolSR, 07:49:42 12/19/12 Wed
- I finished the first 3 books in this series and really enjoyed them...at points I couldn't put the books down. They were very different from the paranormal or highland warrior romances I like to read. Magic, druids, nature, finding true love...it's all in there. (NT) -- CarolSR, 16:49:39 01/05/13 Sat
- Paullina Simon fans...why can't the message boards be accessed at her website? -- conmama, 10:52:09 11/05/12 Mon
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- New book out today from Karen Marie Moning entitled "Iced." -- CarolSR, 06:25:17 10/30/12 Tue
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- That's Dani's story, isn't it? I was never that keen on her - felt her to be one of those non-sympathetic characters for the most part during the Fever series, but may have to read it just to get a JZB fix. (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 11:24:27 10/30/12 Tue
- It is Dani, and I think it's also a graphic novel, I saw an excerpt and I was less than impressed with the whole thing. But I'll probably read it because I loved the Fevers so much and since KMM is planning to write more about those characters and the 'post fae' world, Dani's POV might matter.. (NT) -- jayn, 18:04:54 10/30/12 Tue
- I was outraged to see that the price is over $18.00 for the Kindle version. This is MORE than the hard cover price! Outrageous. (NT) -- Barb J, 19:03:28 10/30/12 Tue
- I believe Ryodan plays a part in the story and I'd be interested to find out more about him. (NT) -- CarolSR (), 06:33:20 10/31/12 Wed
- Iced -- Brandy, 02:40:43 11/04/12 Sun
- Iced -- CarolSR, 06:44:39 11/06/12 Tue
- Fans of Susanna Kearsley and C.C. Humphreys! -- LT (Denise), 09:52:40 10/22/12 Mon
I saw both authors at the Surrey International Writer's Conference and there are new books out in the springtime. May 7 'The Firebird' is due out by Susanna, and it's a continuation (of sorts) of 'The Winter Sea' with Anna's story and April 16, Chris has 'Shakespeare Rebel' available for sale.
Susanna has written many enjoyable reads including 'Mariana', 'The Season of Storms', 'The Shadowy Horses', 'The Rose Garden' and 'The Winter Sea'. These books are all stand-alones and very comfortable reads.
Chris (C.C.), has written the Jack Absolute trilogy (18th century dashing soldier, lover), 'The French Executioner' and 'Blood Ties' set in the times of Henry VIII, 'Vlad - the Last Confession' about Vlad the Impaler (Dracula?) and most recently 'A Place Called Armageddon' about the fall of Constantinople.
I highly recommend both authors (for different reasons) and they're both lovely people.
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- The Original Sinners by Tiffany Reisz -- astrokath, 04:03:32 10/19/12 Fri
These books are erotica but not the HEA romance type. They are very well written, very edgy (the author says they are a 'mind f*ck') and not for the faint hearted or those with very strong religious beliefs.
But if you like erotic writing with a strong plot, great characterisation and BDSM, you will enjoy these.
The first is The Siren, the next The Angel and The Prince is due out in November. The entire series will be 8 books. The author has several freebie shorts on her website, but I think you should read The Siren first.
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- Thanks for the recommendation, astrokath! Am always on the lookout for more of this type, but more well written than most of the genre that I've read so far. (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 10:42:48 10/22/12 Mon
- Well, I needed something completely different to read, so I took your recommendation. I was not disappointed. This is not "what to read after Fifty Shades of Grey" but "what to read instead of Fifty Shades of Grey." Now, I know I have led a sheltered life, but, holy cow. I was alternately shocked, amused, saddened, confused, and intrigued. I've just started the second book, and, holy cow (*!*). (NT) -- MiladyM, 06:41:25 10/25/12 Thu
- Have downloaded them for my Nook this morning. (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 08:07:58 10/25/12 Thu
- Really liked the writing in the first book. Thanks for the recommendation Astrokath! (NT) -- MonicaW, 07:05:29 10/27/12 Sat
- The Mary Karr memoir trilogy: The Liar's Club, Cherry, and Lit. -- Florence, 15:15:43 10/17/12 Wed
With thanks to Lemora who recommended this in an earlier post.
I loved her story, and I am fascinated with her writing, her poetic style,her crazy life and ultimate redemption.
Raised in a cess-pool environment in an oil field town in Texas by alcoholic parents, she is able to recount it all with style and humor. Her mother, troubled and unbalanced as she was, was able to instill in her daughter a love of literature and art. Her father gave her love and the storytelling art. Armed with all her talent and ability she proceeded to destroy it all in a descent into alcoholism and near madness.
Despite all the agony she endured from her parents and from her own hand, her capacity for love was never diminished and was eventually her salvation.
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- The Jaina novels of Mazo De La Roche -- Lemora, 14:15:25 10/17/12 Wed
Is anyone familiar with these? They sound fascinating --country house life of an aristocratic family, but in a fictional setting; late nineteenth, early 20th century. A good friend has just discovered them and flipped for them. I'm going to order one from the library. I'm currently reading a biography of Daphne DuMaurier, and De La Roche's life has definite parallels to hers.
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- Lemora, these are books I read when I was a teenager - they seem to have been available in Canada more frequently than I've seen them here in the States. I remember reading all of them (well, that's my recollection) and thoroughly enjoying them. I just recently bought one in a library sale, and am looking for more in the series, but have had no luck. I think you'll enjoy them - they were well written (for the times). (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 08:26:38 10/18/12 Thu
- I loved the Whiteoaks of Jalna. The CBC (I think) did a mini series which I watched faithfully before I read the books. To be honest I was too young to appreciate either the tv show or the books the first go-around, but I re-read them later and loved them as much. And since there are a lot of books (14 or 15) it's a series you won't finish for a while. (NT) -- jayn, 18:07:33 10/30/12 Tue
- I've read "Jalna" and am on "The Whiteoaks Of Jalna." I've also got "Finch's Fortune" and "Master Of Jalna" from the library. They were in the vault, except for one was actually on the shelf! My library has had them since 1948-1961. I'm so glad they've not yet suffered a storage problem, with regard to older printed books! The typeface reminds me of my vintage Nancy Drews! And they feature a tall, red-headed hero who loves horses! (NT) -- Lemora, 19:31:10 12/01/12 Sat
- Gone Girl -- conmama, 09:08:06 10/17/12 Wed
What a page turner! I have to say I wish it had ended differently (no spoilers). I really enjoyed this author's writing and will check out her other books. Sorry..can't remember her name.
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- Thoughts on The Mitford books by Jan Karon? Just started listening to book one on my iPod while I walk. I'm liking the slow paced easy country homey feel! -- AmyGirl, 06:26:20 10/14/12 Sun
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- "The Financial Lives Of The Poets" by Jess Walter -- Lemora, 20:42:26 10/10/12 Wed
Thank you Reilly, for recommending this one! I enjoyed it very much. This novel follows several sleepless days and nights in the life of Matt Prior. He's been laid off from his newspaper reporting job; he's about to lose his house, which is worth less than he paid for it; he suspects his beloved wife is having an affair with her old boyfriend. In short, he's about to lose his mind, along with everything else he cares about. Then.... he discovers a solution that, to his sleep-deprived mind, might be the answer to his problems. Or Not! This book is for anyone whose life has been turned upside down since the 2008 meltdown. It's wickedly funny and sad by turns. The description of how the idiot running the newspaper systematically mis-managed it into the ground alone is worth reading. I lived through some of this, as have other Lallyfolk. If you ever tried in vain to find a working telephone number at the company that bought the company that bought the company that holds your mortgage; if you ever had said company lose your documents six times, this book is for you! Jess Walter skewers and slow roasts them all! I highly recommend it --the book, not the experience. Very cathartic.
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- How do you all buy your audio books? Through audible.coms monthly membership ? Another way? And do you download them to your phone computer iPod etc etc? Just curious! -- AmyGirl, 04:47:14 10/06/12 Sat
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- Out this week also, "Wicked Whispers", another book in Nina Bangs' Castle of Dark Dreams series. -- CarolSR, 06:32:22 10/03/12 Wed
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- The sequel to "Bared to You" by Sylvia Day came out this week, entitled, "Reflected in You." The story of Gideon and Eva continues... -- CarolSR, 06:30:17 10/03/12 Wed
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- God Save the Queen by Katie Locke -- Fiona, 06:34:04 09/29/12 Sat
Hi All I picked up a fun book from my library. It's set in an alternate reality where Queen Victoria is a vampire and still reigning. It's steampunky with vamps and weres. Some romance though nothing explicit. Might even be considered YA. It's the first book in the Immortal Empire trilogy and had a great story and was a fun read. Check it out. :)
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- Rapture, by J. R. Ward - #4 in the Fallen Angels series comes out Tuesday, September 25th. -- CarolSR, 13:26:43 09/24/12 Mon
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- "Beautiful Ruins" by Jess Walter -- Lemora, 14:07:05 09/20/12 Thu
This book is my idea of escapism. The out-sized appetites of actor Richard Burton, on the film set of "Cleopatra" in Rome, 1961, set the story in motion. Starlet Dee Moray shows up in the tiny hamlet of Porto Vergogna, Italy, awaiting a mysterious visitor, at the Hotel Adequate View. (Porto Vergogna, the "Port Of Shame," was founded in the 1600's as a village of prostitutes that serviced sailors for nearly 300 years. Before WWII, Carlo Tursi established a small pensione, and his seemingly hapless son, Pasquale, is trying to keep it going.) Dee is dying..... or is she? Inn keeper Pasquale Tursi gradually becomes swept up in the lives and intrigue of Richard, Dee, and the other main characters, including Machiavellian publicist Michael Deane, whose only goal is to bring "Cleopatra" to a successful finish line. The story jumps back and forth in time and continents from 1961 to 2010, and points in-between. It also mercilessly skewers Hollywood and those who work there. Jess Walter is a wonderful writer, the scale is epic, and this is a true page turner.
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- "The Wolf And The Dove" by Kathleen Woodiwiss -- Lemora, 13:44:36 09/20/12 Thu
I've heard that K. Woodiwiss jump-started the modern, sexually explicit Romance novel trend with this and her first book. (I love the older ones, like "Rebecca," and personally never felt that the genre was in need of pepping up.) I read "Wolf" frankly because I was curious. I'm still curious that anyone could love this book! Okay, for the uninitiated, we have the main romantic triangle of Aislinn, Ragnar, and Wulfgar. Aislinn thinks she was raped by, and lost her virginity to, Ragnar. She wasn't and didn't. Ragnar also thinks he raped Aislinn and took her virginity. He didn't do either one. But wait: Wulfgar actually does quasi-but-not-really-rape Aislinn --she digs him-- and actually DOES take her virginity, but HE DOESN'T REALIZE IT!! And neither does she, because she thought Ragnar already had raped/de-virginized her. And on top of this Wulfgar's bitchy sister Gwyneth is stealing and wearing poor Aislinn's clothes! Will the indignities never cease!? And besides needing to sort all this out and gain clarity, there's the issue of Wulfgar refusing to marry the disgraced Aislinn until her pregnancy --which she doesn't realize Wulfie alone is responsible for-- is almost showing. Over four hundred pages are devoted to all this. Oh yeah, the Norman Invasion just happened and everybody lives in cool castles, and there's lots of knights in armor and long dresses and swords and stuff. I can think of much better ways to distract myself from domestic duties and life's drugery than this. And how do all these people find out who actually shagged and impregnated the fair Aislinn for real? You'll just have to read it for yourself. To each her own.
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- LOL, Lemora! I actually did enjoy that book when I first read it - mainly because it WAS a romance, albeit a bit twisted, and historical - which was what really hooked me. That was so many years ago, I hate to say, but it was good at the time. Reading now, after having read so many others written more recently, I must admit that it's a bit longwinded and convoluted, but to me it was still a fun read. But I do love your description of it! (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 16:29:39 09/22/12 Sat
- I read this about 25 years ago. I can't remember much about it and I never kept it for re-reads so I doubt I liked it very much. I do remember being annoyed with the author and thinking 'do some research'. I can't remember specific examples of her lack of research,but if she put 'cool castles' in the story that would have certainly annoyed me as there were no 'cool castles' in Britain in the 1060s. There were only temporary wooden motte and bailey castles. They were little more than a man made muddy hill with a wooden tower and fence. No wonder I didn't keep the book. I was taught about post conquest castle when I was 8 years old. It's basic British history, not some obscure fact. (NT) -- albion, 02:30:01 09/23/12 Sun
- The Memory Thief -- Dee, 17:08:46 09/17/12 Mon
A really good story about a doomed mountain climber trying to keep a promise to his wife. Worth checking out. I really enjoyed it!
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- Midwife of the Blue Ridge by Christine Bevins -- Annie Stewart, 18:43:07 09/07/12 Fri
Has anyone read this? It was published in 2008 and takes place in 18th century Scotland/Viginia so I'm assuming someone here has read it!
I always come here first for my next read so sometimes I'm leery of picking something up that hasn't been recommended here (come on, admit it - you do it too!)
Let me know if it's worth the read! Thanks!
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- "Lit" by Mary Karr -- Lemora, 18:10:52 09/04/12 Tue
O love this book. It's Volume 3 of poet Mary Karr's memoirs. Her first two, "The Liar's Club," and "Cherry" dealt with her childhood and teenage years, a Hell-raising youth. Both her parents were alcoholics, and her mother was emotionally unstable and a danger to herself and others. "Lit" deals with Karr's adult struggles with her own out-of-control drinking; coming to terms with same and getting sober; and her spiritual awakening. In brilliant, moving prose, with vivid imagery, Mary Karr recounts harrowing events without a smidgen of self-pity, or blaming others. I had several aunts, an uncle, a grandmother, and cousins who I visited in Beaumont, Texas, next door to the town of Groves where she grew up, in the same era, but my family group was blessedly free of addictions and was loving. Except for her father, Mary Karr's wasn't. This is one of the most powerful books I've ever read.
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- Gabriel's Inferno by Sylvain Reynard -- LP, 11:28:52 08/31/12 Fri
I just started this book this morning, and I can't put it down!
Description from Amazon:
An intriguing and sinful exploration of seduction, forbidden love and redemption, "Gabriel's Inferno" is a captivating and wildly passionate tale of one man's escape from his own personal hell as he tries to earn the impossible...forgiveness and love.
I know what I'll be doing this weekend!!!!!
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- On the Island -- Dee, 17:24:10 08/25/12 Sat
GREAT quick read about a young woman and teenage boy who are marooned together on an island. The story moves fast and the characters are very real.I really enjoyed the story of their struggle to survive and their relationship. I highly recommend this book!
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- If you like Romance novels, you might give Leah Matheny a try. "My Captor, My Love" and "The Perfect Man." Don't let the corny titles scare you, the plot lines, settings and characters were really interesting. -- CarolSR, 06:26:49 08/21/12 Tue
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- If you liked Fifty Shades of Grey might I recommend Bared to You by Sylvia Day. Along the same lines young handsome billionaire with "issues" falls for a young independent woman with her own "issues." the book is very erotic at points and much better written than 50 Shades. -- CarolSR, 17:07:30 08/14/12 Tue
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- The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker -- MaryJ, 13:06:26 08/14/12 Tue
This book was so intriguing - I couldn't put it down.
The story of a young girl, living a normal life in California when all of a sudden the number of minutes of sunlight increases. Days become steadily longer (and thus, so do nights). The story of how life would go on when our foundation - Earth's 24 hour days - is suddenly changed.
The plot reminded me of something Ray Bradbury would write. It also reminded me of The Hunger Games series - not so much in plot, but in the clear descriptions, shorter (almost young adult) scenes... I actually could picture what would it be like in real life if this happened - really sucked me in!
A short book (only about 225 pages), but really different than anything I've read in a long time.
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- A Rip In The Veil by Anna Belfrage -- Jeanette H (FAB ROMANTIC HISTORIC NOVEL!), 13:40:09 08/13/12 Mon
I have found something that will make all Gabaldon lovers so happy (at least until the next book comes out): A Rip In The Veil by Anna Belfrage!
It has all ingredients for a good read - time travel, romance, historic background, Scotland, love and those beautiful moments of intimacy between man and woman. I couldn't put the book down, just had to follow Alex (Alexandra) and Matthew until the end of the book, and please, may there be more to come!! You will love The Graham Saga! Can be found on amazon.com and amazon.co.uk.
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- Redshirts, by John Scalzi -- Susannah, 15:49:01 08/10/12 Fri
I don't generally read Science Fiction, but I was intrigued by the book's premise so I borrowed it from the library. Now I have to buy a copy. If you've ever seen Star Trek, this will tickle your funny bone.
In fact, it starts out reading like a Star Trek episode, but within a couple of chapters it gets more interesting, and much more complicated. On ST, if you saw an actor you'd never seen before wearing a red Security shirt going down planet-side, you knew he was in trouble. His days, if not his minutes, were numbered.
What would happen if the guys in the red shirts figured this out, and decided that it was time to do something about it? Naturally, time travel is involved!
I laughed a lot, and twice even got choked up--it's that good. Now that I've finished it, I can honestly say it's brilliant. All those plot twists? I never saw them coming.
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- Books about Arthur and Guinivere? -- Dee, 10:03:13 08/10/12 Fri
Help! I just finished Persia Woolley's series and am now on a Round Table kick. Can anyone recommend some titles? Here are some I've already read:
Mists of Avalon
Bernard Cornwall series
Jack Whyte series - Favorite!
Stephen Lawhead series
Rosalind Miles
Any other suggestions!
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- The Once and Future King--a classic, and the best of all. (NT) -- Susannah, 15:40:26 08/10/12 Fri
- There is a trilogy by Gillian Bradshaw that I read & liked a long time ago. My favorite was In Winter's Shadow, the one about Gwynhwyfar (as she's called in these books). Another title was Hawk Of May, can't remember the third. (NT) -- HollyC, 04:03:00 08/11/12 Sat
- I read the Mary Stewart series a long time ago but they were great. (The Crystal cave, The Hollow Hills etc). Actually about Merlin but, of course, Arthur features. (NT) -- Rhiann, 17:58:24 08/11/12 Sat
- Helen Hollick's trilogy on Arthur is the best ever in my opinion. I absolutely LOVED it. (NT) -- Kirsten, 02:42:55 08/17/12 Fri
- I loved the book "The Pendragon" by Catherine Christian. It's been out since the 80s, so you might have to search your local library to find it. (NT) -- MaryC in KY, 05:41:26 08/31/12 Fri
- What are your favorite audio books? -- Reilly, 17:54:43 08/06/12 Mon
I don't have much time or brain power, these days, for reading books with my eyeballs, unfortunately. But thank God I can make good use of my time suckage (traffic in DC) to listen to some great audio books.
There are lots of great handheld books out there, but are many less great audio books. A bad narrator can really ruin a good book. So, we've talked about it before, but what are your favorite audio books? Here are a few of mine....
"A Prayer for Owen Meanie" by John Irving - my most recent read and I can't move on to my next audio books, because I'm still thinking about how great that book and the narration was. One of my top favorite books, now.
"The Help" by Kathryn Stockett - we've all read it, but have you listened to it? I have....5 times!
"Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand - if you haven't read this amazing true story, you should. Or listen to it.
"11-22-63" by Stephen King - a wonderfully-spun time travel tale.
"Pillars of the Earth" and "World Without End" by Ken Follet - two epic novels with narration you can listen to for hours and hours and hours and hours and hours. ; )
"The Kitchen House" by Kathleen Grissom - a truly dismal story, but enchanting writing, or maybe the narrator is the enchanting one with her Irish lilt. I've listened to this one 3 times now.
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- I like to listen to Laurell K Hamilton when I run & work out. When things start to get "hot" I sprint *G* I just finished The Book Thief, really enjoyed it. I listened to all of the George RR Martin Song of Ice & Fire books. They were great!! I like to "re-read" books on audio that I haven't read in a long time. I just started the Clan of the Cavebear books, I haven't read those in 15 or more years. I love my audio books I have about a 15-20 min walk to and from my office each day so I get to listen to books (NT) -- Cherie (), 21:05:17 08/06/12 Mon
- Anything Jim Dale has narrated: the Harry Potter series, Around the World in 80 Days, the Peter and the Star Catchers Series. I also enjoy the gentleman who read Hornet's Nest and a few other Ken Follett books. It took me a bit to get to used to, but I really enjoy the one who read the Wicked series as well. We loved the Redwall series when DS was growing up - Brian Jaques read the storyline, but the animals were a full cast. FANTASTIC! The only ones I really didn't like were the Ramona and Wrinkle in Time authors. They read the books themselves, and both had lisps of a sort. Drove me nuts. (NT) -- Lady_Jane, 21:56:45 08/06/12 Mon
- Any of the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency books, as Lady Jane mentions, it really helps with the African names of people and places. I just finished a Lee Child book and at first thought I wouldn't like the narrator (Dick Hill) but his voice grew on me. DS and I are finishing up another book by Markus Zusak (not The Book Thief, called I am the Messenger) and the narrator is Aussie as is the main character and it really livens up the story! (NT) -- MaryC in KY, 08:24:29 08/07/12 Tue
- I try and listen to 'classics' that I haven't got around to reading. I usually listen while driving the car. Recently I've listened to North and South and in the past Rebecca. For something light I've listened to a few Monica McInerney books which often have Irish as well as Australian characters so the accents are great listening! (NT) -- Rhiann, 22:02:39 08/08/12 Wed
- Couldn't agree with you more, Reilly, about a reader making or breaking a book. Besides DG's books, the series that I enjoy listening to are Lauren Willig's Pink Carnation series, read by Kate Reading, and Lois McMaster Bujold's Miles Vorkosigan series, read by Grover Gardner. (NT) -- LadyJay, 09:31:45 08/09/12 Thu
- Two of my favorites are Le Mariage and Le Divorce by Diane Johnson. She also has a third one, L'Affaire (which I haven't listened to yet. Both are light, funny, and so kept me interested & paying attention. I listened on CD's from the library, but wonder if audible would have them?? They're really good! (NT) -- MaryJ, 18:52:48 08/09/12 Thu
- Two fabulous books -- Lady_Jane, 16:47:39 08/06/12 Mon
Since summer is my only "free" reading time, I devour as much as I can in 10 weeks. Two stood out this summer.
Call Me Tuesday by Leigh Byrne. This is based on a true story, and I've "met" the author on another set of boards. It's a heart-wrenching story of a girl who is abused by her mother, while her father and brothers stand by and watch. Her courage and perseverance are inspirational.
The Winemaker by Noah Gordon (Spanish version La Bodega). Evidently, Mr. Gordon has been around forever, but I just discovered him this year. This book takes place pre-Franco in Spain, and follows the son of a family who owns a vineyard. It reminded me of A Walk in the Clouds, only it was so much better! It is a gorgeously told story.
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- Wool by Hugh Howey -- Bandruidh, 14:58:02 08/06/12 Mon
This is a short story that my cousin mentioned to me. It's only 65 pages long and is available on Kindle for 99 cents. I couldn't put it down and finished it in one sitting. Well written and left me wanting more. And guess what - there is more. I also purchased books 1-5 in the Wool Omnibus Edition which can be purchased separately as well. It's worth every cent, believe me.
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- Catalyst (The Ozymandias Saga) by CA Jarrett-My sister!!! -- LynnC, 09:53:01 08/06/12 Mon
This is my sister's book! It's available on Amazon-free for Prime members for a bit. You can get either the kindle version or the print! I've read it! You need to read it, you'll be glad you did.
The modern world changed forever the day the veil between the natural and the supernatural was ripped open. Humanity learned to cope with the influx of the weird and paranormal the only way they knew how; by setting up a governmental department!
Meet Sasha Worthington, an agent for BANI, the Bureau of Anormal Normalization and Integration. Sasha's specialization is bringing young vampires into society and assisting them with living alongside humanity. The day she is requested by an 800 year old vampire is the day everything changes. For everyone.
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- Fault in our Stars by John Green -- Annie Stewart, 10:23:35 07/19/12 Thu
This is teen fiction (which I've been reading every now and then because of Hunger Games and Divergent) and I heard this was good so I picked it up at the library.
I started reading it at 9pm before bed and ended up staying up until 2pm to finish it!
It is about teens with cancer but it's not a cheesy after school special in the least. I cried about 4 different times while reading it! I'm a mom so the scenes with her mom/dad made me choke up when teens might just roll their eyes.
Worth a read!
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- I read it just as fast, laughed through the first half and cried through the last. I think it should be required reading in high school. (NT) -- HeatherLeigh, 08:12:38 07/20/12 Fri
- Downloaded it my Kindle last night and am about 20% through already. It's good, but making me very sad reading it. It has 5 stars on Amazon with hundreds of readers, so that's why I decided to go ahead an purchase instead of being 135 on the waiting list at the library. What I'm enjoying is that it's in my hometown, with my alma mater as the high school and the mall I go to. References to parks, etc. that I know well. That's kind of fun. (NT) -- conmama, 05:28:02 07/25/12 Wed
- I just finished this book and should hate your guts for recommending it but I can't. Even though it was the cause of the ugliest book inspired crying spell this side of Claire leaving Jamie in DIA, I am in love with this book. It is so funny and touching and heart-breaking, it can't describe how much it touched me. (NT) -- RisaB, 06:50:39 07/29/12 Sun
- Time and Again by Jack Finney -- Lady Linda, 12:20:04 07/17/12 Tue
One of the original time travel novels written in 1970. While an oldie, it is certainly a goodie! Stephen King gives credit to Jack Finney in King's 11/22/63.
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- Wesley the Owl, by Stacey O Brien -- susiej, 13:25:55 07/16/12 Mon
I don't read much non-fiction but this is the best book i've read in years!! Everything in it is interesting- the quirky Caltech community, the LA riots, animal rights movement,the logger/spotted owl controversy, the rise of the computer industry, the influence of the music industry in Ca. And that's just the background for an unforgettable, fascinating, poignant and hilarious 19 year account of a CalTech biologist and the baby barn owl she raised for 19 years. There's a little bit of ick factor in the beginning but nothing readers of DG can't handle.
If you love animals, read this book.
If you are a Harry Potter fan, read this book.
If you care about the environment, read this book.
If you love inspirational stories of people who beat amazing odds, read this book and be ready to bawl.
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- Fifty Shades of Twilight?? -- Barb J, 06:22:06 07/16/12 Mon
My daughter floored me when she said she saw (or perhaps read) an interview with the author of Fifty Shades who said that she loved the Twilight series so much, she wrote her own version, sans vampires.
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- I've heard this mentioned before and I never connected Twilight to Fifty Shades as I was reading it. (NT) -- CarolSR, 09:44:38 07/16/12 Mon
- I read something to that effect, also. Perhaps she meant it just inspired her. Christian and Edward both overly protective. (NT) -- conmama, 11:17:50 07/16/12 Mon
- Yes, Fifty started out as Twilight fan fiction. (NT) -- Cherie, 12:24:44 07/16/12 Mon
- Christian and Edward both have "bronze" hair. Once I knew that piece of info, every little Twilight tribute caught my eye..... (NT) -- ScarlettO, 14:23:45 07/16/12 Mon
- Other similarities - Bella & Ana both clutzes, parents seperated, both can't understand why E / C want them. C/E similiarites - adopted, younger sister he dotes on while claiming she's a pain, overprotective, money no object.........the list goes on. (NT) -- AmandaW, 00:55:16 07/17/12 Tue
- I read the entire Twilight series and never would have noticed the similarities if I hadn't known it was fan-fiction. In fact, I hesitated to read 50 shades because I knew it was fan fiction. I think the similarities were pretty subtle and enjoyed the love story in 50 shades Much more than the Twilight love story. I thought the writing quality were more similar than any other aspect of the two stories. I thought both writing styles/qualities were pretty much equally juvenile. (NT) -- CathyS, 13:07:15 07/17/12 Tue
- I also hesitated to read it because I knew it was fan fiction however the similarities weren't obvious (although Ana bites her lip like Kirsten Stewart, not Bella Swan!) (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 10:18:26 07/19/12 Thu
- The Bronze Horseman by Paulina Simons -- Janet H., 16:53:45 07/14/12 Sat
Loved it!!! Although Tatiana drove me crazy sometimes. Love Alexander. He's pretty darn close to Jamie as to being one of my favorite male characters. I'm on to Tatiana and Alexander the next book.
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- Shadow of Night -- Keira, 19:07:13 07/10/12 Tue
I am sure those who loved Discovery of Witches know this and have been eagerly awaiting this release.......
Shadow of Night was released in Canada and the US today and is available at bookstores everywhere. It's also available at www.audible.com with Jennifer Ikeda narrating again. I'm only on chapter 3 but am hooked yet again!!!
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- I'm reading The Game of Thrones...rather I feel like I'm slogging thru it. I'm on the 2nd book, 65% thru and no resolutions to much of anything from the 1st book. I'm finding that it really is grating on my nerves and if left hanging with no answers after the 2nd book, I'm giving up. For those of you who have read it...does he just drag us thru the 2nd book to just buy the 3rd? I heard the HBO series is great, better than the books and have it on hold. -- conmama, 08:33:33 07/09/12 Mon
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- I personally LOVED all of the books and never had to drag through any of them. Season 1 was great, and very close to the books, Season 2, not so much. I still really enjoyed it but found it did stray more from the books. I do get that it would be very hard to put so much detail in the tv series that is in the books. I have all of them on audio now and have been listening to them over and over. (NT) -- Cherie, 09:37:30 07/09/12 Mon
- I have really enjoyed them all too. I'm on #4 now (A Feast for Crows) which I've heard mixed reviews about, but I like it so far. I thought book 3 had some big shockers in it. Things do move along, but they are long, I agree. I would encourage you to keep going. The TV series follows pretty closely, but I was able to understand it better than DH because I'd read several books & he was reading the first one as we watched the DVDs. Waiting eagerly for Season 2 to come to Netflix. (NT) -- MaryJ, 17:34:32 07/09/12 Mon
- I'm not the norm..... I couldn't get into the books ( I tried 3 or 4 times) or the mini-series. Once one character was gone the series was pretty much over for me, I didn't care much for the other. (NT) -- M&M, 06:09:59 07/10/12 Tue
- I've read the whole series, but to tell you the truth everytime I got emotionally involved with a character...they were killed. I found it frustrating. (NT) -- CarolSR, 07:14:01 07/10/12 Tue
- Game of Thrones -- The foreign woman, 14:16:58 07/11/12 Wed
- I just finished the 5th book. It just goes on with more killing and misery and nothing resolved yet. More characters introduced as well. Some parts keep my interest while others drag on and on. I will probably read the others as they come out but this is not one of my favorite series. (NT) -- BH, 19:04:16 07/14/12 Sat
- I finally gave up after the 4th book. It left me soooo frustrated. 1000 pages and no mention of Brom at all. I still think about the Starck kids and wish I knew how their story ended but couldn't put up with any more of the hard core violence, gore and skank- so much of it seemed completely gratuitous. And yes, I got really tired of caring about someone only to have them die horribly. (NT) -- susiej, 13:02:13 07/16/12 Mon
- The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley...what we all love, romance with a Scot...sigh -- LynnylouL, 09:21:21 07/08/12 Sun
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- Thank you to whomever recommended My Name is Mary Sutter. I finished it one day. It was great and I think most of you here will enjoy it too. Author is Robin Oliveira -- Annie Stewart, 16:41:43 07/04/12 Wed
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- Any Gena Showalter fans out there? Her latest book, Wicked Nights is out this week. This is the first book in her Angels of the Dark series. -- CarolSR, 08:06:24 06/29/12 Fri
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- Overseas by Beatriz Williams -- DonnaF, 11:57:34 06/22/12 Fri
Lovely book! He meets her for the first time during the first World War; she meets him for the first time in 2007. Time travel! Romance!
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- Janet Evanovich's newest. -- jayn, 08:21:25 06/21/12 Thu
You probably know that Diesel, from a couple of the Stephanie Plums, has his own series with repeat word 'Wicked' in the titles. The first one was called Wicked Appetite, about a year old (I think), the second one is Wicked Business and is just out. Fun, fluffy beach read for those who liked the Stephanie Plum style, with just enough magic to be silly without being heavy.
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- Wolf Hall -- Dee, 19:45:59 06/12/12 Tue
Just starting my summer reads and quickly finished, Wolf Hall by Hilary Montel? All about Thomas Cranmore and his rise to power during Henry VIIIs reign. Loved the writing and the entire book. Highly recommend it if you like historical fiction. First in a trilogy with Bring Up the Bones being the second book. Can't wait to start it tomorrow.
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- JR Ward released the cover art for the next BDB book yesterday...and it is smokin. :) The story of Qhuinn and Blay entitled "Lover At Last." -- CarolSR, 07:01:31 06/08/12 Fri
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- "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green. One of the best books I've ever read. I laughed, I cried, it touched my heart. <3 -- LindaT (), 16:22:33 06/07/12 Thu
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- For fans, the new Anita Blake, 'Kiss The Dead' is out today. I have only read a small excerpt but it seems to be getting back to the feel of being mostly about vampires. -- jayn (), 09:22:55 06/05/12 Tue
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- I was disappointed at the previous but one Anita release - and looking forward to reading this one. Thanks for posting, jayn. (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 09:53:05 06/05/12 Tue
- I gave up on these books around book 10 or 12 because it actually became way too much about sex, but it's been several years and I may need to revisit them. (NT) -- Sorcha, 22:03:11 06/11/12 Mon
- I picked up this one in DC last week - and although I haven't gotten too many pages into it yet, so far so good. No sex yet, Sorcha, so yes, maybe time to rejoin the Anita fan club, at least temporarily - LOL (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 08:42:38 06/12/12 Tue
- Just finished Kiss at lunch. I must say that it did get back to what I originally liked about the series - mostly to do with vampires, no Ted or Otto, and it stayed in St. Louis. I enjoyed it. (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 12:29:45 06/19/12 Tue
- "The Bolter" by Frances Osborne (Great Granddaughter Of The Bolter) -- Lemora, 19:33:26 06/03/12 Sun
This is a biography of Lady Idina Sackville, cousin to Vita Sackville-West. "Bolters" were aristocratic Englishwomen of the 1920's --think Lady Mary Crawley if she'd married Sir Richard Carlisle-- who "bolted:" Got infamously divorced, leaving husbands and often children to go off with a lover and/or start new lives. Divorce, and the accompanying social fall from Grace, did not hold the terror it had held prior to WWI. Lady Idina, however, set the template for wild behavior: Widow of Lord Erroll (whose murder was never officially solved), she was the most notorious member of the Happy Valley set in Kenya --drugs; group sex; wife swapping, etc. In her fifties, she took lovers away from rivals less than half her age. Nancy Mitford based the mother of Fanny Logan, narrator of "Love In A Cold Climate" --called "The Bolter"-- on Idina Sackville. She wasn't beautiful and her figure wasn't particularly good, but apparently she had SA oozing out of her pores. I haven't read this, but it's on my Downton Abbey Methadone List.
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- I just finished "1000 White Women"... -- LadyStormwing, 14:23:20 06/02/12 Sat
and loved it! Thank you to the people here who reccommended it! I had a hard time putting it down and really only did so for work and sleep. If anyone has any similar reccomendations, I'd love them. (There had to be a reason I lived the Little House books) Right now I'm reading "Battle Hymnn of the Tiger Mother" and I must say it's interesting.
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- "The Life Of Vita Sackville-West" By Victoria Glendinning -- Lemora, 22:49:57 05/22/12 Tue
For Downton Abbey Obsessives, this is a great book. Vita Sackville-West (1892-1962) is mainly known today for her gardens at Sissinghurst, her books about same, and for being the subject of "Portrait Of A Marriage" by her son, Nigel Nicolson. (He found her unpublished, intimate writings in a locked Gladstone bag in a tower at Sissinghurst and published them about 25 years ago.) She is also known as one of the legendary seductresses of the 20th century. Her affairs were scandalous, torrid, all-consuming, with messy break-ups. She also, through all this, had a loving marriage to Harold Nicolson. (He had plenty of affairs of his own.) The other writing she is best known for is her epic poem, "The Land," about farming in Kent, England, when the ancient ways were still pre-mechanized, as they had been for centuries. She uses now-archaic terms to describe this way of life, recording it as it began to vanish in the 1920's. Daughter of an Earl, her great regret was that the English system of primogeniture prevented her from inheriting Knole, the family estate, and one of the great houses of England. Vita spent her (only) childhood playing with priceless relics in the attics of Knole and living in rooms where Cromwell and his soldiers stayed in the mid-1600's; the oldest parts of the house date from the 1400's. Writers Pope, Spencer, and Dryden came to tea; and at least three English kings occupied a special suite as guests. Glendinning does not judge Vita's behavior (often appalling, with regard to her lovers) but once you read about her parents' histories and tormented marriage, you can better understand the way she was. (Vita's mother's life story is the subject of a biography. I'm reading it next.) Her life story is fascinating. Had she been more of a risk-taker, and less dependent on her formidable mother's largesse and approval, she would have preferred to be a travel writer, disguised as a man so as to travel to dangerous and remote places in the world in greater safety. Keenly aware that her family did not want an eccentric daughter, Vita married, as was expected of her, and produced heirs. But, she and Harold were soul-mates, and probably could not have found better mates than each other. I highly recommend this book.
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- Overseas, by Beatriz Williams -- Susannah, 07:55:54 05/22/12 Tue
You'll all love this, ladies; it's another TIME TRAVEL book, and a very good one. The action skips back and forth between 1916 (when Kate knows Julian but Julian does not know Kate) to 2008 (when Julian knows Kate, but Kate does not know Julian!). They are connected by a poem, "Overseas".
I have to say that for the first 145 pages I didn't feel like I knew what was really going on, and then after I did understand where it was going I was filled with a sense of impending doom for many more pages. It's a wild ride, but worth it.
Is there a happy ending? Wait and see...
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- And this one sounds good too. Thanks. (NT) -- Rhiann, 07:06:15 05/23/12 Wed
- Just downloaded it from Audible.com Looking forward to enjoying it. (NT) -- Keira, 17:36:31 05/26/12 Sat
- Heard lots of good things about this one. I am picking it up from the library over the weekend (NT) -- Marg, 19:19:09 05/31/12 Thu
- Almost finished!! Have enjoyed it immensely. (NT) -- Keira, 15:58:41 06/01/12 Fri
- Finished it and loved it. (NT) -- Keira, 13:06:38 06/03/12 Sun
- I'm #5 on the library list, after reading your post. Can't wait to get it! (NT) -- conmama, 07:35:19 06/05/12 Tue
- I read this just after finishing Fifty Shades and couldn't help noticing the similarities between the two male main characters in both books (both filthy stinking rich, sexy, bachelors) To me this book was more fluffy than I wanted it to be but I was a quick read on vacation. (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 18:48:13 09/07/12 Fri
- 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak -- Darren Groth, 20:40:50 04/16/12 Mon
Wonderful and tremendously successful book by a fellow Aussie (who happens to have the same literary agent as me...Still hoping some of that success is contagious :)
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- My Name is Mary Sutter by Oliveria -- RisaB, 07:27:15 04/13/12 Fri
This book is probably one of the best books other than a DG book I have ever read. There are sentences and paragraphs that the author has written that will take your breath away with their beauty/sadness. I can't recommend it highly enough. The one bad thing I can say is that it is the author's first work. I wanted to read more from her! The main character is a young midwife in Albany, New York at the beginning on the Civil War. Mary Sutter could be Claire's long lost cousin- wild curly hair, a wide streak of independence, and a desire to become a doctor that she will not let anyone stop her from accomplishing.
Here is a summary from Amazon: "The Civil War offers a 20-year-old midwife who dreams of becoming a doctor the medical experience she craves, plus hard work and heartbreak, in this rich debut that takes readers from a small upstate New York doctor's office to a Union hospital overflowing with the wounded and dying. Though she's too young for the nursing corps, Mary Sutter goes to Washington, anyway, and, after a chance meeting with a presidential secretary, is led to the Union Hotel Hospital, where she assists chief surgeon William Stipp and becomes so integral to Stipp's work she ignores her mother's pleas to return home to deliver her sister's baby. From a variety of perspectives—Mary, Stipp, their families, and social, political, and military leaders—the novel offers readers a picture of a time of medical hardship, crisis, and opportunity. Oliveira depicts the amputation of a leg, the delivery of a baby, and soldierly life; these are among the fine details that set this novel above the gauzier variety of Civil War fiction. The focus on often horrific medicine and the women who practiced it against all odds makes for compelling reading."
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