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Reading Recommendations

Feel free to either add books that you've enjoyed, or provide reviews for books already on the board. Each message represents a book and is in the format: TYPE (Historical, Time Travel etc.) - AUTHOR (last, first) - TITLE. Please maintain this format in the subject line and keep replies in the "subject" area if possible.

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Twilight -- FloraMac, 03:45:27 05/26/08 Mon
Had to say thanks for this recommendation!! I had heard of it on another list, but after reviews here, I picked it up at the lib. I must say that I *never* been into vampires--not even a teensy bit, even tho I've always liked the "bad boys". After I got into the story, I couldn't put it down! I fionished it at 4 am Sun. And I kept thinking about it all day--I think I like vampires now. :-) Or at least vampires named Edward.

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- I agree, vampires named Edward, mmmmmm. I just went to Borders and reserved my copy of "Breaking Dawn". (NT) -- LisaW, 09:24:11 05/26/08 Mon
- Sorry, but I just don't get this series! I really tried to like Edward and Bella, but couldn't. I seriously wish someone would explain to me what I'm missing because I seem to be the only person who didn't like this book. (NT) -- Gina-C, 09:54:04 05/26/08 Mon
  - Its not cup of tea either. Teenagers have a tendency to get on my nerves. *g* I like my vampires with a little more bite too! (NT) -- M&M (), 13:59:13 05/26/08 Mon
    - lol! I like teenagers. Sometimes I think I am still one myself. :-) remember, I was a vampire virgin and this is a nice tame intro. *Now* I can look for the vampires with bite...:-) (NT) -- FM, 06:00:09 05/27/08 Tue
  - I read Twilight and enjoyed it, but my Vampires have to have sex *G* (NT) -- Cherie, 12:21:52 05/27/08 Tue
- FloraMac!! This is the book that is getting my DD hooked on reading. Twice last week she's been up past bedtime reading. Now she's onto the next one New Moon, And I have to swear to take her to the midnight sale when the fourth one is published sometime in August. All I hear now is about Edward and how he drives a Volvo. She also watches all the Twilight movie stuff coming out in Dec, all the guys are hot, etc! I'm sooooo thrilled. (NT) -- JeanClaire*, 14:34:00 05/26/08 Mon
  - JC, that is SO awesome!! (omg--you'd think I *am* still a teenager the way I talk) I know you were a bit sad that she didn't seem to like reading so much... may this lead to bigger and better things! btw--how is school for B these days? We had a horrible patch with C (15) in April, but he seems to have caught up (at least that is what he is telling us...) *&^% teenagers! LOL!! I love them, but they are SO exasperating! (NT) -- FM, 06:03:41 05/27/08 Tue
- I enjoyed the series too, but remember, Denise, that these are tame vampires. I'm tempted to read other vampire stories too, but I need to find out which ones aren't too gory *g*. Sex I can handle, but blood and guts - no. (NT) -- LT (Denise), 14:48:25 05/26/08 Mon
  - For vampires with a bit more oomph, you might try the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, I have enjoyed them. (NT) -- Sheila, 16:16:03 05/26/08 Mon
    - I'd say Black Dagger Brotherhood has ALOT more ooomph!! *g* And I can't wait for the one thats due out any day now. (NT) -- HollyC, 14:50:38 05/27/08 Tue
  - How about Charlaine Harris' Dead series? The first one is Dead Until Dark. Or MaryJanice Davidson's Undead series. The first one is Undead and Unwed. Or Tanya Huff's Blood Series. First one is Blood Price. Or Jennifer Armintrout - The Turning. That's all I can think of off the top of my head. I also have several series in my TBR notebook that I haven't looked into yet!!!! Want any more??? (NT) -- TanyaB, 18:12:27 05/26/08 Mon
    - I take it you have a thing for vampires? *g* (NT) -- LT (Denise), 19:25:20 05/26/08 Mon
      - Who me?!? Just a little one! (NT) -- TanyaB, 08:15:50 05/27/08 Tue
        
        Have you read Laurell K Hamilton? Anne Rice, Kim Harrison, Keri Arthur, Kelley Armstong (NT) -- Cherie, 12:25:40 05/27/08 Tue
        
        All but Keri Arthur. She's on my list! I haven't read all the Rice books, maybe the first 6 or 7. That's actually where I started - about 20 years ago. (NT) -- TanyaB (), 17:51:48 05/27/08 Tue
        
        I think I made it to about the 6th Anne Rice book. LKH's new Anita book came out yesterday. I'm still 1 behind. I refuse to by full priced hard covers of her's any more. I wait till I see the paperback on sale. (NT) -- Cherie, 09:40:05 05/28/08 Wed
  - You also could try Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark Hunter series. (NT) -- Marg, 02:02:18 05/27/08 Tue
    - Thanks for the recs!!! I'll be checking them out... (NT) -- FM, 06:04:29 05/27/08 Tue
    - Ooo, forgot those. Yup, they are real good too! (NT) -- TanyaB, 09:15:40 05/27/08 Tue
- I'm just about done with Eclipse! It's very good, I was just getting to the climax last night when I finally had to get some sleep! (NT) -- AmyGirl, 07:22:23 05/27/08 Tue
- I held out for a long time on this one. It seems that I usually do on books labeled YA-since I'm definitely not one of them! The Y part anyway! But my library had them in downloadable audio format and I loved them. The narrator was fabulous as Bella and I found myself truly relating to the characters. I will be either purchasing the new book in audio format myself, or hanging out til the library download service gets it. It's billed as the last book in the series and I can't wait to see how it ends! (NT) -- Linda B, 09:48:30 05/27/08 Tue
"Tumbling Through Time" by Gwen Cready ATTN:TheresaSt! -- EllenG, 05:58:49 05/20/08 Tue
What a cute book-took me a little while to get into it but worth it! Thanks so much for sending it to me! And I didn't realize she is from Pittsburgh-just like me! Small world-thanks again!

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- If you want another book where the best of the action takes place in The Burgh, try Foul Matter by Martha Grimes. It's a hysterical departure from her usual murder mysteries, and definitely a crack-me-up book. (NT) -- Susannah, 04:58:46 05/21/08 Wed
- I'm glad you liked it Ellen...I had a hard time getting into it, but I did enjoy her style of writing... (NT) -- TheresaSt., 06:18:24 05/21/08 Wed
- Another really good new series set in Pittsburgh (hooray, I'm a 'burgher too), first book called "Lifelines," with more to come. Set in a fictional hospital that I have interpreted to be mostly Mercy Hospital in a broad sort of way. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 06:02:01 05/24/08 Sat
  - Another 'burgher! GO PENS!!! (NT) -- EllenG, 07:31:35 05/28/08 Wed
1st to Die - James Patterson -- Margy, 01:14:35 05/27/08 Tue
Thanks for this recommendation, just finished it this morning. It was a really good page turner, a quick read and perfect for a bank holiday weekend. I'm definitely going to get the rest of the series.

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- I just borrowed this from my mom. Will give it a go after I finish Eclipse. Sounds very good. (NT) -- AmyGirl, 07:46:39 05/27/08 Tue
- Oh I'm SO glad you enjoyed it!!! I'm even more glad that I decided to post about it... I love passing on enjoyable reads! (NT) -- Sorcha, 11:17:29 05/27/08 Tue
Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud -- ShannonS, 00:34:15 05/24/08 Sat
Has anyone read the Bartimaeus Trilogy? I love these books! Simon Jones does a wonderful job narrating the audiobooks.

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- I really like this trilogy - with so much fantasy out there they felt fresh and original, and Stroud took some gutsy risks with the way he wrapped it all up, imo. I always kind of picture a sarcastic/Robin Williams Aladdin type voice for the genie. (NT) -- HollyC, 06:27:57 05/24/08 Sat
- DS1 and I just saw these in the library yesterday. We both thought they looked good. Ya know, teen books have come a long way since I was a teen! (NT) -- TanyaB, 19:28:36 05/25/08 Sun
- HA! DS (15) just last night started this series AGAIN (probably his 5th-6th time). He's really enjoyed it. He tends to read things over and over ad nauseum... (NT) -- FloraMAc, 03:40:35 05/26/08 Mon
  - Mine doesn't have to, He remembers everything!!! I tell him that's because he's not lived long enough to start forgetting. We've both read the Eragon books, Harry Potter, Twilight, and there's something else. But he keeps asking 'Remember.......?" and then just rolls his eyes when I say, "Uh...no" (NT) -- TanyaB, 10:35:28 05/27/08 Tue
I am reading Beneath a Rising Moon by Keri Arthur and oh baby that woman does not disappoint. If you are familiar with her Riley Jenson series you'll know that they are pretty hot and heavy. This one is too. Anybody read it yet? So far I'm having fun reading it. -- LRLassie, 13:21:51 05/14/08 Wed
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- I've read Full Moon Rising, the 1st one and really enjoyed it. It's on my list to find the next few. (NT) -- Cherie, 08:11:23 05/16/08 Fri
  - This book is not from the Riley Jenson series. It is from her older stuff and only available on line as far as I can tell. I finished it last night and enjoyed it. The main character was not as good as Riley, she was quite innocent where Riley is totally not. I gave the Riley series to a friend that I lost touch with otherwise I'd offer those to you. Your Rachel Morgan books are in the mail, Cherie. (NT) -- LRLassie, 08:45:15 05/16/08 Fri
- I have just reserved one of these at the Library that I stumbled on by accident, glad to hear a rave about it, wonder how long it will take to come now? (NT) -- Sheila, 22:08:59 05/25/08 Sun
Who is Tim Dorsey? -- Ireneee, 13:04:01 05/23/08 Fri
Can anyone recommend any of Tim Dorsey's books. They looked interesting, but in reading the synopsis I wondered if they would be too "cartoonish" to get a good read out of.
They supposedly center around the state of Florida and a con man and other various and sundry characters? Anyone read them and are they any good before I make the plunge and buy one?

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- I haven't bought Tim Dorsey for the same reasons you state. I sate my Florida novel fetish with Carl Hiassen. Very very funny, very very sad, very very true to life. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 05:57:59 05/24/08 Sat
- I read th latest one about 6 weeks ago. To tell you the truth, I seem to remember enjoying it, but I can remember almost nothing about it!!! I'm pretty bad about retention since I read so much back to back, but there must not have been anything outstanding because I didn't bother to right his name down in my little notebook! (NT) -- TanyaB, 06:08:31 05/24/08 Sat
- Memory loss -- Ireneeee, 13:12:30 05/24/08 Sat
Summers At Castle Auburn by Sharon Shinn -- HollyC (), 05:22:55 05/19/08 Mon
I've seen this described as a fairy tale for grownups, and thats how it felt to me, right down to the ending that just makes you smile 'aaaahhh'! A touch of romance,a touch of fantasy in a medieval setting, but mostly a story of Corie growing from a girl to a determined woman. Corie is the illegitimate daughter of nobility, and although she enjoys her summers spent in luxury with her half-sister who is (unhappily) betrothed to the prince, she also makes good use of the rest of the year spent with her herb growing witch/wisewoman grandmother. This book is mild enough for teenagers, but the writing is just so good it certainly had me under its spell.

Last edited by author: Mon May 19, 2008 05:26:07 Edited 1 time.
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- My neice in England loved this book so much that she's read it at least 5 times since I sent it to her for Chistmas two years ago. She did some sort of thesis/term report on it too. She is 16 now. (NT) -- AmyGirl, 12:36:58 05/19/08 Mon
  - If you need to send her another gift see if she's read Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith. I have 'grownup' friends who like it, but I know it also has a cult/teen following. Its another medieval setting romance/fantasy with a great build up of attraction between the main character Meliara and the warrior/noble who is out to thwart her province's rebellion. (NT) -- HollyC, 12:16:27 05/21/08 Wed
    - I'll put it on my list for her birthday! Also I bought Summers at castle... for me, it is in my TBR pile, will have to pulll it out for this summer's reading! (NT) -- AG, 14:07:07 05/22/08 Thu
- I'd never heard of this one before, but it's going into my "to read" pile! (NT) -- Lynn H., 10:58:54 05/20/08 Tue
Attention, fans of Lauren Willig and her flowers! -- Susannah, 12:04:30 05/21/08 Wed
Book 5 has a name--The Temptation of the Night Jasmine. No publication information out yet though. And she's started Book 6, to take place in India. Whee!

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- Oh WEEEEE!!! YEY!!! Thanks for the update. More fun for us! (NT) -- Reilly, 20:29:28 05/21/08 Wed
- I like that name! I don't know why but it doesn't seem as though tthe 4th book has been published here. I think I am going to have to splurge and buy it from overseas as I really enjoy this series!` (NT) -- Marg, 04:02:55 05/22/08 Thu
"The Host" Stephenie Meyer -- EllenG, 06:05:30 05/20/08 Tue
With all the discussion of the Twilight Series by Meyer (of which I am a HUGE fan!), I just finished The Host by her-released earlier this month. It is great! "Sci-fi for people who don't read sci-fi" as described by the author. A BIG recommendation from me!!

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- I am so glad to hear that. I loved the Twilight books too and was wondering about The Host. Thanks for the review, now I'll have to go out and pick it up. (NT) -- LRLassie, 08:17:41 05/20/08 Tue
- I am next in the queue for this at the library and I am very impatient to get hold of it. All of the reviews I have seen of it are very positive. (NT) -- Marg, 13:33:03 05/20/08 Tue
- If anyone is wondering if this book is too adult for Meyer's zillions of teenage fans(its marketed as adult not YA), IMO it is fine for teens. In some ways it felt less passionate than Twilight to me. I was feeling kind of let down by Eclipse (to me, it just seemed like more needed to happen in the book), so I hesitated to pick up the advance copy I had of The Host. But I was hooked 2 chapters in and I was all teary by the end. (I'm not telling if they were happy or sad tears!) There were some minor criticisms I could make (like the male main character didn't come to life as strongly as Edward did), but heh, who am I to criticize such a fun storyteller as Meyer! *g* (NT) -- HollyC, 14:46:19 05/20/08 Tue
  - I didn't think it was really 'adult' at all. I felt that the Twilight series was more passionate also! Host had me the whole way to the end and also in tears! (NT) -- EllenG, 06:15:36 05/21/08 Wed
- I am so glad to hear about this book Ellen, I too really loved the "Twilight" series, so I was anxious to hear if anyone like this book. I will put it on my list. (NT) -- LisaW, 21:00:34 05/20/08 Tue
- I can't believe it - I just got a free copy of this book from a patient from work! Looking forward to reading it now! (NT) -- SueP, 02:01:49 05/22/08 Thu
Release day for one of our own! -- JulieO, 09:23:01 05/15/08 Thu
Just wanted to let you know that today is the release day for Death By Bikini by Linda Gerber. Linda has crafted an amazing YA thriller - the first in a trilogy that leaves you breathless!

Linda got her start in fiction with the writing exercises over at our very own Lit Forum, and this is her third book to be published! If you want more info on the book, or on Linda, please visit her website and her blog at www.lindagerber.com

Thanks, all!

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- Congrats Linda! Thanks for posting Julie. (NT) -- susiej, 10:55:27 05/15/08 Thu
- Congrulations Linda! (NT) -- Marg, 14:03:23 05/15/08 Thu
- Can this be ordered at Barnes? (NT) -- TheresaSt., 04:09:51 05/17/08 Sat
- I went to a local Barnes and Noble and purchased a copy last night, so I'm sure you can order it on B & N or Amazon. It's a terrific, fast-moving story! (NT) -- JulieO, 08:43:40 05/17/08 Sat
- Julie, Julie, can you email me - I lost your address - beccabeeatdejazzddotcom. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 04:26:49 05/18/08 Sun
- This is so so cool! I never heard that Linda had published before.......quite a few too! Congrats to you Linda that is just wonderful! -- M&M, 09:31:37 05/20/08 Tue
Women's Murder Club series by James Patterson -- Sorcha (), 08:11:13 05/12/08 Mon
I mentioned this series in a reply below and decided it needed it's own post. These books are GREAT! The first one is called 1st To Die then 2nd Chance, 3rd Degree, 4th of July, 5th Horseman. They're about a group of women in the crime solving profession... a homicide detective, a medical examiner, a crime reporter and a lawyer who are all friends. When a case stumps Det. Lindsay Boxer, she gets her girls together to brainstorm and they come up with some great insight that leads to breaks in the case. These books are written from Lindsay's point of view, but the author slips in tantalizing short chapters written in the killer's mind too. The books are fast paced, well written, edge of your seat, surprise ending stories, and if you're looking for great summer reading here you go. They're not just about the case, either. The women's personal lives are an integral part of the story as well. There is definitely some sex, but not the gratuitous kind. These women are written so well that I've begun to feel that I know them. I've stayed up WAY past my bedtime several nights since I started reading these! I've been reading James Patterson for years, and he never ceases to thrill me.

Last edited by author: Mon May 12, 2008 08:15:44 Edited 1 time.
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- ...and The 6th Target and 7th Heaven...I downloaded 1st to Die from my library and wasn't even done with it when I reserved the audio downloads for 2-7. Love the set up. Have them all except 2 and I don't want to listen to them out of order. Everything else Sorcha said. (NT) -- Joyce Mc, 12:33:03 05/12/08 Mon
- Isn't there a TV series based on these books? Stars Angie Harmon. (NT) -- Leigh, 21:40:38 05/13/08 Tue
  - There sure is... but I think that its been cancelled. I dont think it really sticks that closely to the plot of the books. There was also a Lifetime movie made several years ago based on the first book. I like this series; its a great light mystery series. They are perfect to take on a plane ride or to the beach. (NT) -- RisaB, 02:25:06 05/14/08 Wed
- Thanks for the recommendation. I used to read the Alex Cross books years ago, so I just asked for (and got) the 1st on of these for my birthday. (NT) -- Margy, 02:56:24 05/18/08 Sun
Finished The Mirror (see below) it was super fantastic! If anyone has read it, I posted a question down below in the Mirror original post. Would you take a minute to read it? Just a question about a particular point in the story on which I'm slightley confused. -- AmyGirl, 05:02:03 05/06/08 Tue
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- This sounded to intriguing that I have it being held for me at the library. Also, I finished reading Twilight that was recommended on the board. What a page-turner! I finished it in one weekend. I found the ending a little weak, but I think it's because this isn't the end of the story and she knew it. I'm one that dislikes vampire stories, they just don't hold a lot of interest for me, however I think I've changed my mind. I'm looking forward to reading the sequels AND the movies AND the sexy vampire books by JR Ward. (NT) -- Conmama, 10:17:35 05/08/08 Thu
  - HollyC, I read you comments about Edwards character below. I do think the actor looks similar to what I pictured in my mind, but not his hair. I thought his hair was longer. Now flowing, per se, but looser, i.e. Ambercrombie modelish. I don't like the *do* they've given him. (NT) -- Conmama, 10:20:22 05/08/08 Thu
    - I just started the third one and it is really good. I can't wait for #4 and she has a new one called The Host just out (I think -- or soon to be out) PS Conmama you'll really like The Mirror. Not Diana Gabaldon -- but I kept thinking of Claire and Bree. (NT) -- AmyGirl, 11:06:29 05/08/08 Thu
      - Conmama, after you finish The Mirror, would you come back and let me know what you think re: my question below. Don't look at it now as it is a spoiler (or maybe not as it sounds so confusing if you haven't just read the book *g*) but remember to check back later. Thanks, Amy. (NT) -- AG, 12:39:11 05/08/08 Thu
    - Hi Conmama, I've been on vacation and just saw your comment. Yes, I think I saw Edward as 'Abercrombie-ish' also! I got totally hooked on the JR Ward books from reading about them here. They might not be your kind of thing, but they are worth trying. (NT) -- HollyC, 20:00:27 05/13/08 Tue
  - Another series that is a lot of naughty super natural fun is the Riley Jenson series by Keri Arthur. Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld series is fun too. I am reading the third book in the Twilight saga and totally enjoying as well but I do like my Vamp's and Were's to be a little more, no a lot more sexually liberated. (NT) -- LRLassie, 13:18:04 05/08/08 Thu
    - Love Kelley Armstrong. I've read them all too. I think I'm going to have to break down and order the Kim Harrison books on line. Maybe I'll get the next few Keri Arthur one's too. (NT) -- Cherie, 15:12:20 05/08/08 Thu
      - Cherie- I'll call my sis during my lunch break and see if she still has the books, okay. If she does I'll just send them to you. I'll let you know sometime this afternoon. (NT) -- LRLassie, 08:37:13 05/09/08 Fri
        
        Cherie, I've got those books if your interested>>> -- LRLassie, 16:20:58 05/10/08 Sat
        
        your awesome!!! (NT) -- Cherie, 18:31:09 05/10/08 Sat
Free Book: "Tumbling Through Time" by Gwen Cready... -- TheresaSt., 14:49:16 04/29/08 Tue
I wrote a review about this book a little while ago. I first heard about the book while searching the web for DG. It turns out that Cready is a huge fan of DG and Evanovich...so, I thought I'd support her by trying out the book. The book does mention DG and the main male character has the last name Fraser. It also involves time travel (sorta). Anyway, I really had a hard time getting into it. It's kind of a light romance read. I typically like romance, but this just wan't for me. I sort of enjoyed her style of writing, just not the story itself. I'll more then gladly mail this out to someone for free if you'll email me your address. My email is jcstas AT ptd.net First response will get the book....

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- Already sent out.... (NT) -- TheresaSt., 20:07:35 05/03/08 Sat
- Got the book yesterday! Thanks! I am looking forward to it and will pass it onto my mom! (NT) -- EllenG, 10:51:32 05/09/08 Fri
  - Let me know what you think when you're finished... (NT) -- TheresaSt., 22:47:02 05/09/08 Fri
"Wagons to the past" by Jean Hackensmith and "Riley's Journey" by P. L. Parker -- Pat, 15:47:48 04/02/08 Wed
These two time travel books have been recommended to a friend. Has anyone read them? I'd love to find out more...

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- Nobody? I'll put a link to the first one and a description of the second one inside, they both sound really tempting to me>>> -- Pat, 07:11:47 04/05/08 Sat
- Hi Pat, I'm a fanatic of time travel books. I checked out these two on Amazon.com and the first one's never been voted on, the second getting 5 stars but only on 5 reviews. Historical fiction is my other "thing" so the Outlander series is perfect for me. I recently read Jude Deveraux's A Knight In Shining Armour (about time travel) and loved it! I was so enraptured by this book, I couldn't even read another one for awhile. I felt like I needed a mourning period to get over it. The quality wasn't quite that of DG's books but it really effected me somehow. I've included my email address. If you ever read these two books or hear of any others, please let me know. (NT) -- Lisa L., 07:20:51 04/11/08 Fri
- Riley's Journey -- Jared, 20:40:11 05/02/08 Fri
- Riley's Journey -- P. L. Parker, 17:51:58 05/09/08 Fri
Mystery recommendations? -- Liz, 18:24:15 04/17/08 Thu
I love historical fiction, some chick lit, current novels etc. But I don't know mysteries. Can anyone recommend a really good murder mystery to me?? Something preferably current? Thanks!

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- Boy, the problem Liz, is that so many of the murder mysteries are series and most have to be read from the start. There are two brand new series that I have found that you might like. The first has only one book, "Dead to Me," by Anton Strout. It is a murder story with some supernatural stuff going on, with New York City's "secret" Department of Extraordinary Affairs. Another new series, with just two books so far, is the Three Pines Series by Louise Penny. They are #1, "Still Life," and #2, "A Fatal Grace." The auther has the life in a small French/Canadian town nailed and the police superintendant who solves the crimes is a courtly gentleman who folds easily into the lives of the townspeople while not being of them. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 19:39:07 04/17/08 Thu
- I haven't read them yet, but have the first two in my TBR pile....the Diane Mott Davidson culinary mysteries are suppose to be very good. I'll let you know after I've read one. I don't usually do mysteries either, except for the Stephanie Plum series, so I'm looking forward to checking these out. (NT) -- Reilly, 05:34:50 04/18/08 Fri
- I really enjoyed a series by Linda Fairstein. The first one is Final Jeopardy. Then there's Sue Grafton's series, it's a little lighter. The first one is A is for Alibi. (NT) -- TanyaB (), 06:21:04 04/18/08 Fri
- Minette Walters writes a great mystery. It's something for me to say that, as I'm not a huge fan of the genre, but I've really enjoyed every book of her's that I've ever read. And to the best of my knowledge, they're all stand-alones, so you don't have to worry about reading them in order. Also, try Daphne du Maurier - "Rebecca", and other books that are classic mysteries! (NT) -- Maggie, 19:36:23 04/18/08 Fri
- I just finished The Tenderness Of Wolves by Stef Penney. First time author from Scotland. The book is set in 1867, Canada. A trapper is violently killed and a local woman's teenage son is suspected of the murder. He disappears and she goes off to find him with a tracker/guide, through the forest and tundra. Lots of characters, a little romance too and a really great mystery. The only problem I had with the book was that there are so many characters. I had to keep looking to the back cover to figure out who was who. Other than that...I loved this book. (NT) -- xina, 07:38:57 04/19/08 Sat
- IF you want an easy read I have enjoyed everything that I have read by Jeffrey Deaver, a bit gruesome at times but a good deal of twists. His plots are not too complicated but have enough characters and possibilities as to keep it interesting. (NT) -- LRLassie, 12:42:19 04/19/08 Sat
  - I read all of Deaver, but I collect the Lincoln Rhymes novels. Deaver is a wonderful writer. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 17:08:07 04/20/08 Sun
- I recently started James Patterson's Women's Murder Club books. They are AMAZING! I can't put them down, literally. I devoured 4th of July in the three days we were at the beach. The first one is 1st To Die and I cannot recommend them enough! They're written from the main character, homicide detective Lindsay Boxer's point of view, but the author gives us tantalizing glimpses into the mind of the killer as well. Well written, edge of your seat, surprise ending type books. I hope you give them a try! (NT) -- Sorcha, 22:27:22 04/20/08 Sun
- A good series from J A Konrath, featuring a Lieutenant Jaqueline 'Jack' Daniels. As funny as Evanovich, but the murder mystery bit is much better. (NT) -- astrokath, 04:42:13 04/21/08 Mon
- If you like thick books and a series, try Elizabeth George. But be careful, there's an order to her books. (NT) -- Pat, 13:36:53 04/21/08 Mon
- Thank you all so much. If you don't generally read mysteries (me) it is overwhelming to even know where to begin , what to start with. I didn't explain but I needed a nystery for a book exchange. I settled on one I had in my pile, called "Low Country Boil" by Carl Smith. It takes place on SC coast (I live in SC). I hate to give a book that I haven't read so I furiously stared reading it, and guess what! I liked it alot! Only I never finished it in time for the party,lol. I'm going to the library to get a copy to finish it. But thank you all. Sometimes I am almost jealous of mystery readers b/c they live in their own little genre world, lol, and know so much about the "latest". But to me there is *nothing* like historical fiction esp if there's romance thrown on which there usually is b/c that's what makes the world go round after all....:) (NT) -- Liz, 04:23:02 04/26/08 Sat
  - Coming late to the party, but hoping my comments help anyway. Margaret Maron's Deborah Knott books, starting with Bootlegger's Daughter, are great. You may also want to try some of the Robert Parker novels - Spenser (as in the old TV series), as well as two new protagonists - Sunny Randall and Jesse Stone, both of whom have their own books. -- Terri C, 19:21:33 05/07/08 Wed
The Kite Runner -- Pat, 11:13:42 04/02/08 Wed
Thank you to whoever suggested this book here. You made me want to buy it and I enjoyed it very much. His next one is already on my list.

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- That is a very memorable book, Pat. I'm cheap so I'm waiting for the paperback to read the next, I've heard it's as good or better! (NT) -- Brookita, 23:46:50 04/02/08 Wed
- Its such a wonderful book. I read it on the plane ride to Scotland the year I saw you . *g* Then I read it again on the way home. The second book he wrote is even better I thought. -- M&M, 10:39:51 04/03/08 Thu
  - I agree that the second book is even better! (NT) -- Marg, 14:23:18 04/03/08 Thu
    - Me, too!! (NT) -- Maggie, 14:47:52 04/03/08 Thu
      - Me Three! I devoured it in a couple of days! (NT) -- Sonnet, 16:50:51 04/03/08 Thu
  - dissenting (of course!) I liked KR better than Thousand Splendid Suns. Don't know if it was because of a man writing women--but somehow parts of it didn't "ring true" to me. I did *like* TSS, but I *loved* Kite Runner. (NT) -- FloraMac, 05:19:52 04/04/08 Fri
- I don't know what this book is about and I did not see the earlier recommendations, but since a lot of you seem to like it - who is the author ? (NT) -- Brenda W, 04:22:11 04/04/08 Fri
  - Khaled Hosseini (NT) -- Judie, 07:55:32 04/04/08 Fri
- The Kite Runner was one of those books . . . . that I don't often stumble upon. I think it was recommended here and I was lucky to get it from the library the first day they had it. I loved it! The problem was, I didn't know WHY I enjoyed it so much. Was it his writing style? The emotional parts of the story? Anyway, I kept finding myself re-reading the other authors opinions, reading the inside cover information, and then returning to my reading and still loving it. In case there is any doubt as to my opinion . . . I recommend it. Let us know what you think. (NT) -- CathyS, 07:13:54 04/04/08 Fri
- I just saw the movie and it was a true complement to the book. I had a hard time visualing the "running of the kites", so seeing the movie definitely helped. The two young boys who played Hassan and Amir were unbelievable. I highly recommend the movie. And for those who haven't read A Thousand Splendid Suns, it's a must-read (I actually liked it better than TKR). (NT) -- ladyphantom, 08:37:09 05/05/08 Mon
As usual I'm coming here to tell you about a book I haven't even finished yet. It is very very good so far. I know I'll love it! The Mirror by Marlys Millhiser -- AmyGirl, 07:09:12 04/23/08 Wed
These are reviews from Amazon just to give you an idea.

On the eve of her wedding, Shay looks into a very ugly mirror that is a family heirloom, and finds herself waking up on the floor of her room. But wait, it's her room but where is the carpet? She finds herself trapped in the body of her Grandmother, Brandy, on the eve of Brandy's wedding. To all else she is just crazy Brandy, and the differences between Shay and Brandy (like Shay loving milk where Brandy always hated it) go unnoticed or written off to Brandy's unstable character. Brandy/Shay is promptly wed and sent away from the only familiar place Shay knows, to a small cabin in a remote town. Here she starts her new life as Brandy, living with Thora K., one of the books most endearing characters.
Shay must adjust to a world almost 100 years in the past, and adjust to her life as Brandy, while still trying to coax the mirror into returning her back to her modern life and self. That the mirror is evil becomes apparent, but that doesn't stop Brandy from trying until she realizes finally that she belongs where she is.

The book has 3 basic parts: Shay living her life as Brandy, the life of Rachel her mother/daughter, and Brandy living her life as Shay.

I first read this book a long time ago, and I still have my original copy. I have re-read it many times, each time as enjoyable as the first. This is an excellent book, wonderfully written. It has a lot of humor in it which I found refreshing. I definately enjoyed the first part of the book, Shay as Brandy, better than the latter half which was Brandy as Shay. The characters in the latter part lost a lot of the luster and depth that her characters from the past had. Still, an excellent read. I recommend it.

This has to be one of the best books I've ever read, and I read incessantly! The characterization is excellent, as is the story line. I hated for the book to end. I'd enjoy hearing from other readers who loved this book. For those who felt as I did, you might also try Time And Again by Jack Finney.

This was the second time I read The Mirror by Marlys Millhiser. It is an excellent book although difficult to categorize. The plot begins when a young woman on the eve of her wedding looks into an old family mirror and is transported into the body of her grandmother. And if that isnt' enough, her grandmother also finds herself in her granddaughter's body.Part romance, part supernatural this is considered by many fans of time travel to be a classic. If you enjoyed Outlander by Diana Gabaldon, this book is for you. I loved this book whenI first read it in 1978 and 25 years hasn't changed my feelings.

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- I read this book when it first came out and I still love it. In fact, I can still think of it and spook myself. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 13:56:32 04/23/08 Wed
- Thanks AmyGirl, am off to see if my local library has it! (NT) -- SueP, 16:05:15 04/27/08 Sun
  - Amy - they only have Rampant Reaper - have you read this one? (NT) -- SueP, 16:12:26 04/27/08 Sun
    - No, I'm off to look it up om Amazon. SueP, if you want when I'm done I can pass it along to you. (NT) -- AG, 11:16:38 04/28/08 Mon
      - Thanks Amy, that's very generous of you. However, I am in Australia and I've done enough Ebaying to know that postage/shipping between here and there costs an arm and a leg! Nice thought though! (NT) -- SueP, 19:33:07 04/28/08 Mon
        
        I'll be sending a package to Kylie in July, let me know if you want me to include it and she can send it on. (NT) -- AG, 10:03:22 04/29/08 Tue
- Thanks for posting on this book. I read this book in the 70's also and have been trying to remember the name and the author. I enjoyed it and would like to read it again. I am going to see if I can find it anywhere. (NT) -- LadyLindaS, 19:45:05 04/29/08 Tue
  - I got mine at Amazon. They have them new and used but the used are around the same price when you factor shipping in. I have Amazon Prime so I don't pay shipping on regular Amazon orders. Sometimes the used books even with shipping (not covered under prime) come out to a lot less than new. I've had good luck w/ the used ones. If SueP doesn't want it, I could send it your way. (NT) -- AG, 05:52:56 04/30/08 Wed
    - Hi Amy - Thanks again for the offer, I am happy if you want to send it to LadyLinda! (NT) -- SueP, 13:45:48 05/01/08 Thu
- I finished. It was really, very, very good. I keep thinking bout it and going back to check on things. I am a bit confused on one thing for anyone who has read it...........>>>>> -- AG, 09:16:55 05/04/08 Sun
The Rachel Morgan Series by Kim Harrison -- LRLassie, 08:41:47 04/29/08 Tue
I am soooo excited the latest book in the Rachel Morgan series is out!!!! I walked into Barnes & Nobles last night to by the second book in the Twilight series for my daughter and myself and lo and behold there it was in all its glory staring at me as I walked through the door!!!! I must admit that I actually felt a little twinge of guilt when I removed DIA (which I'm rereading) from my purse and placed it in its spot on my bookshelf this morning so I could bring The Outlaw Demon Wails with me today. If you haven't read these books they are a lot of fun. Rachel a sarcastic red-headed witch who attracts trouble and is an independant runner (detective/bounty hunter), her vampire partner Ivy who has to control her impulse to drink Rachel and her other partner Jenks a hot tempered pixie. If you like those sorts of books give Kim Harrison a try. I recommend reading them in order for character and plot depth.

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- I'm currently reading Every Which Way But Dead, I think it's book #3, but I'm trying not to cause I haven't read the 1st 2 yet. I thought I'd picked up #1 but it's not. It's good, I like it, I know I should stop. I did try to find 1 & 2 at the book store but they didn't have them. I'll try again this week (NT) -- Cherie, 10:00:32 04/29/08 Tue
  - I gave all of my Rachel books to my sister in law or I would send them to you. I'm not sure if she still has them but I'll find out and send them to you if you can't find them soon.It really is more enjoyable to read this series in order, not that they can't be enjoyed as stand alones but I enjoy watching the characters grow and understanding the references she makes to past storylines and events. (NT) -- LRLassie, 13:23:06 04/29/08 Tue
- I love this series -no big suprise! - I didn't realize there was another one. Off to the library's web site! (NT) -- TanyaB, 10:15:20 04/29/08 Tue
- I have to give the opposite opinion. I read the first one and while it was OK, I just didn't find it good enough to want to pick up the next. (NT) -- Sorcha, 13:45:54 04/29/08 Tue
  - The first one is definately not the best. The character's evolve as well as the plots in the next books. In the rest of the series Kim Harrison's writing evolves along with her characters and plots. If you find yourself with nothing else to read, go back and give her another try, hopefully you'll be surprised, otherwise I'll be eating my words, lol. (NT) -- LRLassie, 15:53:46 04/29/08 Tue
    - Well that's good to hear... I thought that there was a lot of potential there, so maybe I will go ahead and try the next in the series. (NT) -- Sorcha, 15:57:08 05/03/08 Sat
Twilight Saga -- Shaylee, 15:35:14 04/23/08 Wed
Has anyone read the Twilight saga? I finsihed them in a bout a month. The are marketed to teens, but I found that I enjoyed them. I have gotten into a plot and characters like this since first reading Outlander. Now don't get me wrong, Edward is no Jamie, but it was a great read. They are making a movie and it comes out Dec 12 08. Don't let the fact that it has vampires turn you off. It is a really good story.

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- I really enjoyed this series, particularly the first two! definitely worth reading. (NT) -- Marg, 03:52:03 04/24/08 Thu
- There's a whole thread about Twilight on the Polls and Survey board. Scroll down almost a page. (NT) -- TanyaB, 05:50:42 04/24/08 Thu
- They're filming all around the town here - in Portland and out in the 'burbs. I think they were in St. Helens a few days ago. It's getting loads of press here and in the national news. I haven't read it yet, but I think I may try it out. (NT) -- JulieO, 08:38:18 04/24/08 Thu
- I really enjoyed Twilight. I haven't read the rest of the. I like my vampires to have sex so the YA books are out *G*. These books have been discussed (and the new one will be) on Shamrocks & Stones too (NT) -- Cherie, 12:24:46 04/24/08 Thu
  - I kept waiting for it to get to the 'good' part!!! Then I'd remember , I wouldn't be letting DS1 read them if they had 'good 'parts! (NT) -- TanyaB, 07:20:20 04/25/08 Fri
    - Hahaha. Well if your looking for some good Vampire sex, I just read a book by Keri Arthur called Full Moon Rising. And there are 2 more already out. The main female character is part vampire part werewolf. It was a really good read, I'll be looking for the next 2 (NT) -- Cherie, 09:30:42 04/25/08 Fri
      - Wow, she's written a lot of stuff that look right up my alley! I love it when I find a new author!!! BTW, my library has 5 of them on the shelves already. (NT) -- TanyaB (), 15:44:15 04/25/08 Fri
      - I love the Riley Jensen series. My sister in law has a book from one of her other series that she's going togive me. She said it's good. I think the new Riley novel is due out this summer, no? (NT) -- LRLassie, 15:46:16 04/29/08 Tue
- http://www.thetwilightsaga.com/blog/cullen-cast-announcement - can't do links but check out this website. The movie is due for release 12.12.08 (NT) -- SueP, 16:10:28 04/27/08 Sun
  - There was a link on Meyer's website to an MTV thing showing some of the filming. I thought they really got the right look for Bella, Carlisle, Rosalie, really all the Cullens except Edward. I know his hair and pale skin are big deals, but he had too much mousse for me! A cute actor, just let his hair loosen up :) ! (NT) -- HollyC, 04:53:41 04/28/08 Mon
    - Isn't the actor playing Edward the same actor that played Cedric Diggory in the Harry Potter movies? Well who ever he is he's a cutie pie, is he over 18? I'm allowed to ogle if their over 18, right? lol (NT) -- LRLassie, 16:37:48 04/29/08 Tue
      - Yep, that's Cedrick! I thought he was cute in HP too. (NT) -- MaryJ, 20:04:32 04/29/08 Tue
Fatal Treasure by Jedwin Smith -- JenK, 10:56:45 04/22/08 Tue
My Dad (who bought me THE books) has given me another wonderful read. This one is a non-fiction book about the Atocha, a Spanish treasure galleon that sunk off the coast of Florida during a hurricane in 1622. While it is about the actual treasure ship it focuses on the story as told by the family who found it... the Fisher family. It tells the story of "greed and death, emeralds and godl, and the obsessive search for the legendary ghost galleon Atocha."

I can't tell you enough good things about this book. I usually can't read non-fiction books but this one is amazingly told by Jedwin Smith, a journalist for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. G

ive it a try and let me know what you think. My Dad bought my ex-stepmom a necklace years ago that is a replica of the coins that were on that ship and was made with silver melted down from the treasure. My ex-stepmom gave me the necklace when she and my Dad divorced. Pretty cool to see where it came from.

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- Sounds like you've got a great dad! (NT) -- susiej, 19:14:46 04/22/08 Tue
  - I do... he bought me the first 3 DG books for my birthday years ago and he always finds the neatest little books. (NT) -- JenK, 06:18:45 04/23/08 Wed
- This is a good one Jennie. I think that the secret to it is that it reads like a good novel rather than a dry history. I got all wrapped up in it. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 13:58:37 04/23/08 Wed
  - that is it exactly becca! I'm really loving this book! (NT) -- JenK, 07:02:14 04/24/08 Thu
- This book sounds really good! Will have to look for it. Thanks alot! (NT) -- Liz, 04:25:09 04/26/08 Sat
Gwyn Cready? Is anyone familiar with this author? I came across her site and the book "Tumbling through Time" -she also had this to say about DG when describing her favorite books: -- TheresaSt., 02:09:56 04/08/08 Tue
-- Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. This is the one, the book that made me want to become a writer. I have never enjoyed a guilty pleasure more. My friend Leslie Reed sent it to me as a Christmas gift in 1996. I nearly died from embarrassment when I discovered it was a romance (I'd never read one before.) But it didn't take me more than 20 pages to get over that worry. When Claire Beauchamp, who has been torn from her husband in 1945 and transported back in time to 1743 against her will, first begins to fall in love with the Scottish warrior Jamie Fraser, I thought to myself, my God, Gabaldon's done it! She's written the ideal women's fantasy. Claire is going to bop back and forth in time between two wonderful men, and neither man will ever know about the other! I was wrong, of course, but I tucked that thought away...

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- Just thinking that any write that loves DG so much can't be sooo bad -lol. I'll probably try to pick up her book some time this week. Has anyone read it? (NT) -- TheresaSt., 02:11:04 04/08/08 Tue
- Her website is fun! Just requested from the library-we'll see! (NT) -- EllenG, 06:40:11 04/15/08 Tue
  - Ellen, just picked it up from Barnes...I'm having a hard time getting into it. I'll let you know when I'm finished. It's a paperback, so I'll gladly mail it to you after if you'd like... (NT) -- TheresaSt., 04:25:06 04/17/08 Thu
    - Please let me know-it is already out at the library I am on the waiting list. (NT) -- EllenG, 08:44:15 04/17/08 Thu
      - Ellen, if you wait about a week -I should have it finished by then. If you want to email me your address, I'll mail it out when I'm done. I'm still having a hard time getting into it though. I'll let you know. Email "jcstas AT ptd.net" (NT) -- TheresaSt., 11:59:17 04/18/08 Fri
- Just finished it... Well, I liked the way she write..not necessarily the story itself. She does mention Gabaldon and Evanovivh (which I got a kick out of). One of the main characters also has the last name of "Fraser" (coincidence, I think not) Anyway, if you or anyone else would like this -I'll mail it out for free -just let me know (NT) -- TheresaSt., 10:34:54 04/20/08 Sun
Night by Elie Wiesel -- ladyphantom, 09:39:53 04/18/08 Fri
My DS (8th grade) has to read it for English class. He will be starting it this weekend, so I brought it to work yesterday and got about 1/3 through it. It's an extremely difficult read (I am very sensitive to violence), but I will finish it, so that I can discuss it with my DS.

For Elie Wiesel to be able to write of such a horrific time in his life is a testament to the man he is... no surprise that he won the Nobel Peace Prize.

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- I remember reading that in HS. It is one of those books that has stayed with me ever since. Such a tragedy but written so eloquently. It is not an easy read but I am greatful that he shared his story. (NT) -- LRLassie, 12:38:04 04/19/08 Sat
I have been reading (and re reading much to the regrets of my poor family) all of the books for a number of years. I have also been listening to and re listening to the books on CD. I have a medical problem that requires me to take daily treatments and I find that listening to Davina Porter reading is a comfort and a distraction. All of that being said, I just found Davina Porter reading The Mists of Avalon by Marian Zimmer Bradley. All four books of "Mists" in four parts. About 43 discs...about the length of one of the Outlander books. Of course, it's not herself, but I do love listening to Davina Porter read!!! I haven't read this book since graduate school in the early '80s, but boy is it ever different when you listen!!!! -- Froggielady Lori, 19:08:10 04/16/08 Wed
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- I'm just now listening to Outlander on CD. I love it!! I've never done full re-reads, just little snippets here and there but listening to it is magical. It's almost like a different book, it's alive. I can "feel" and "smell" and experience it all. I don't think I fully appreciated the wonderful derscriptive, beauty of DG's writing until now. (NT) -- AmyGirl, 17:56:09 04/17/08 Thu
I'm in withdrawal - any suggetions for quirky and humorous books? -- Gina-C, 08:40:36 03/16/08 Sun
I just finished Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich and I'd like to find another author that writes similar light and funny books. I alternated JE's numbers books (or audio books) with more serious novels so that I wasn't stuck on one genre. I love driving down the highway and just cracking up with laughter when listening to Stephanie's newest misadventure. Does anyone have a suggestions for similar type books?

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- I haven't read any of the Diane Mott Davidson books, but I know they have been recommended before. Apparently they are quite funny, they are mysteries, and they are about cooking. :D (NT) -- Judie, 09:14:33 03/16/08 Sun
- I highly recommend Jennifer Crusie for light and funny. (NT) -- JulieO, 10:55:33 03/16/08 Sun
  - I second that! Bet Me and Strange Bedpersons are two of the funniest books I've ever read. She's great! (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 11:58:35 03/16/08 Sun
  - Another vote for Jennifer Crusie. She makes me laugh:) (NT) -- Brookita, 22:37:28 03/16/08 Sun
  - I'll third that! Welcome to Temptation is also great! (NT) -- Terri C, 11:15:08 03/17/08 Mon
- There is a very fun trio of books by Michael Kilian called the Jazz Age series. Light and fun and not too long. They are The Weeping Woman, (2001), The Uninvited Countess, (2002) and A Sinful Safari, (2003). They are about a suave art dealer who actually makes his living solving mysteries for the elite and rich of the era. -- 'becca beccabee (), 11:00:06 03/16/08 Sun
- Nelson DeMille- John Corey -- Dee, 13:14:05 03/16/08 Sun
- Jasper Fforde (NT) -- Maggie, 19:47:07 03/16/08 Sun
  - Oh, yes yes yes! (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 04:06:51 03/17/08 Mon
  - I'm thirding Jasper Fforde!!! (NT) -- FM, 11:57:33 03/18/08 Tue
- Jennifer Crusie (NT) -- TanyaB, 20:21:50 03/16/08 Sun
- Thanks ladies. I'll check some of these out. (NT) -- Gina-C, 04:22:53 03/17/08 Mon
- Lauren Willig! (NT) -- Susannah, 07:51:39 03/18/08 Tue
- Have you ever read any of Christopher Moore? That's quirky for you. A guy friend gave Its A Dirty Job to me to read and I liked it- sure explained a lot about him. (NT) -- susiej, 13:18:48 03/20/08 Thu
- I quite like Rachel Gibson, See Jane Score had me laughing out loud, & that is something for me! (NT) -- Sheila, 18:46:02 03/23/08 Sun
- Anne George wrote The Southern Sisters mystery series. The first one is "Murder on a Girls' Night Out" - hilarious!! (NT) -- Lady Cate, 04:55:56 04/17/08 Thu
Wizard's First Rule by Terry Goodkind. Fantasy -- Gillian, 02:14:18 04/15/08 Tue
Reading the Outlander books led me into reading fantasy fiction - I suppose it opened my mind more to all the possibilites of an author's imagination.
I became completely hooked by Wizard's First Rule, by Terry Goodkind, the first of a series of 10 books in the Sword of Truth series.
I fell in love with the hero, Richard, who shares many characteristics with Jamie Fraser, in that he's tall, handsome, kind, humourous and is a fierce and determined warrior when necessary. Underpinning the whole series is the romance with Kahlan - it adds embroidery to the plots but never takes precedence.
For me the series is too long and some of the later books falter a bit, but the first three are spellbinding! Highly recommended. Maybe you've never tried fantasy fiction but if you enjoyed Harry Potter then you're already halfway to loving these books!

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- New Scotty was just telling me this weekend about how much he liked these books. I think I tried them once years ago, but I'm gonna give them another go. (NT) -- TanyaB, 05:45:15 04/15/08 Tue
- Thanks Gillian! I'm a big fan of fantasy but hadn't heard of these. And i"m the same way- even with short series, I tend to like the first books best. (NT) -- susiej, 06:25:17 04/16/08 Wed
I've been listening to some of the classics on DVD while driving lately. What are some of you favorites of Classic Fiction. I've done Great Expectations, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Rebecca, Jamaica Inn, and A Christmas Carol. I'm looking for my next "listen", any suggestions? -- AmtGirl, 11:02:25 03/26/08 Wed
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- oops can't spell my own name (NT) -- me, 11:03:52 03/26/08 Wed
- Have you read the Anne of Green Gables series? They are some of my favorite books, they follow Anne from childhood all the way up to marriage and children. I first read them as a teen and still love them. (NT) -- RisaB, 07:00:53 03/27/08 Thu
  - No I haven't RisaB, but I'll look into it at my library for sure. Thank You! (NT) -- AG, 08:44:47 03/27/08 Thu
- I love Willa Cather's O Pioneers and My Antonia- very beautiful poignant books. Emma is suppose to be Jane's masterpiece- though I think i liked Pride and Prejudice better. Sense and Sensibility is good so is Persuasion. And if you like the likes of Dickens and Austen, you might try some Trollope. I think his first name is Anthony. And his best known work is The Barchester Chronicles? I read it so long ago, I'm not sure I got the name right. (NT) -- susiej, 09:48:39 03/27/08 Thu
  - You did. Trolloppe (spelling?) is a hoot. If you want to read a slightly more modern author who writes like he does, try Angela Thirkle. (NT) -- Susannah, 05:30:25 03/28/08 Fri
    - thanks- I'll look into that! (NT) -- susiej, 10:35:17 03/28/08 Fri
- Kidnapped. (NT) -- Cherie, 17:30:08 03/27/08 Thu
- I've just listened to an old BBC radio dramatisation of David Copperfield----fantastic (NT) -- Trixiara, 18:05:42 03/27/08 Thu
- A Tale of Two Cities, and Les Miserables. (NT) -- MiladyM (), 04:44:48 03/28/08 Fri
- I second the Tale of Two Cities idea - it's a fantastic story. And how about Wuthering Heights, Emma, and Persuasion? (NT) -- Em, 05:18:52 03/29/08 Sat
- I've just bought some Elizabeth Gaskell. I've never read any of her work before but I loved Cranford when it was on BBC a couple of months ago. (NT) -- Kirsten, 07:06:00 03/29/08 Sat
- The Count of Monte Cristo. Awesome book, intrigue, revenge, betrayal, love, heartbreak. I can go on and on. I loved it so much I named my son after the main character. Wonderful read, IMHO. (NT) -- LRLassie, 09:38:54 04/02/08 Wed
  - Did you name him Edmond or Dantes? (I'm very curious, sorry, please don't feel you have to answer)... I'm also a huge Dumas fan, especially Monte Christo and 3 Musketeers, but also all the rest, and can only recommend any of his work. His son's novel "The lady of the Camellias" is the first book that had me sobbing an entire night while reading it. (Oh, and my DD's middle name is Scarlett, yes, because of GWTW). *g* (NT) -- Pat, 10:26:37 04/02/08 Wed
    - Dumas was my first foray into more adult books- I remember The Musketeers, Camille and also Queen Margot making a big impression on my 12 year old mind. I think one of the things I loved about the last Bronze Horseman books was the flashback of Tatania's pre adolescence and her constantly rereading Queen Margot. (NT) -- susiej, 08:21:26 04/03/08 Thu
    - His name is Dantes. I get alot of funny looks for that one but hey I figure if you've read the book you'll get it right away and if you haven't you should, lol. I haven't read the Three Musketeers but I think you just suggested my next read, once I'm done with all of Diana's books. (NT) -- LRLassie, 08:24:36 04/03/08 Thu
      - THree Musketeers is a fantastic adventure novel which I've reread countless times - go for it! And after your review, I really must read the Count of Monte Cristo as well! (NT) -- Em, 08:54:41 04/04/08 Fri
- Thanks everyone and sorry for my typos. I should really start proof-reading!!! (NT) -- AmyGirl, 16:24:12 04/14/08 Mon
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant -- Gina-C, 18:31:03 04/10/08 Thu
The 10th anniversary edition of this novel has been published, so this has probably been discussed here before (bear with me, because I just finished it!) I listened to the audio version. This is fiction, but has a similar impact and rhythm as a good bible story.

I enjoyed this fascinating fictional tale of the life of Dinah, daughter of Jacob and sister to Joseph from the Bible's book of Genesis. It is told in the first person, through the eyes of Dinah and follows her life from early childhood and through the joys and sorrows of her life. The red tent is a place where women go during their monthly cycle, when they are ill, or to give birth. This is not a quick paced, action packed novel. There is a lot of discussion of family relationships, the challenges of a nomadic life, the various gods and goddesses worshiped in that ancient time, and ultimately the endurance of love. It tells of Dinah's gentle strength to meet the hardships of life and is a very feminine centered story. The author does not sugarcoat the harshness or the twists and turns that life can take. I can understand why this novel is controversial. It doesn't give an accurate portrayal of the intent of the bible story, but I liked the pace of the novel and the glimpse into a woman's role in the society of that time. I also have a whole new respect for midwives. Although I was moved by this story (very emotional ending), I do not rank it among the "best of the best" because there was a little too much paganism for my taste. Other than that, the author provides a compelling narrative of possible life in ancient biblical times. I recommend it for something a little different to read.

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- I bought it when it first came out, loved it, lent it to DD and have never seen it since. Your post makes me want to buy a replacement. I've just checked Amazon UK and you can get it for only 99p, if any others are interested. (NT) -- Kirsten, 02:54:19 04/11/08 Fri
  - If only I'd known! I just gave my copy to the charity shop as I knew I would never re-read it. Can't say that I ever really got into it, sorry! (NT) -- Em, 12:11:29 04/11/08 Fri
- I read this several years ago and I too really enjoyed it. Thought it was a little weird that it made Joseph out to be gay, didn't really ever see the point of that or any hint from the Bible other than that he didn't take Pontifer's wife up on her offer. I always thought that was showing his honor, not his disinterest. I liked how she portrayed death too, in the end. (NT) -- susiej, 08:02:29 04/11/08 Fri
Which of these books do you think a 14 year old boy would find more interesting? -- Conmama, 11:14:54 04/07/08 Mon
Summer reading, you know! He has to read The Secret Life of Bees, but has a choice of:

The Catcher in the Rye
Life of Pi
A Raisin in the Sun
Fahrenheit 451
Shoeless Joe
Nigh
Crystal Cave
Ethan Frome

My son doesn't like to read for pleasure, so can't help with the "what does he like to read" questions.

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- I don't know all of them, but LIfe of Pi was pretty far out for 14. All the social commentary related by the relationship of zoo animals and Pi's religious experimentation in the first half- for 14? Wow. And then the last half- all I can say is yuck- that could turn someone off reading. I loved the first half though. And my nephew did have to read for school at about that age. He also isn't a big reader. My sister actually recommended it to me. As for Catcher in the Rye- its so....again, a guy I dated was really into that book-in college! (NT) -- susiej, 12:27:53 04/07/08 Mon
- He might like Fahrenheit 451- Ray Bradbury is an interesting author. Ethan Fromme is likable, if not a bit depressing. Written in very sparse detail about a man who grows a crush on his wife's cousin - but an accident makes them all live forever after with sad life. I liked it - not sure about a 14 yo boy though- he might like it 'cause it's short! I WISH my kids had summer reading!!!! (NT) -- MaryJ, 12:58:02 04/07/08 Mon
- Catcher in the Rye might be the easiest, writing style wise, but I think it may be getting a little dated...If he likes fantasy I'd go with Crystal Cave, but if he doesn't forget it...if Nigh is Night then he might be drawn to it just because its short (but its the Holocaust, so obviously its serious)...Fahrenheit 451 might be a compromise choice - I see boys go for that one at work as the lesser of evils *g*. Those look like lots of the usual summer rdng suspects in my area (MA), and I really can't figure out why Secret Life of Bees is required in schools near me too. It seems like such a 'female' book, IMO it should be with the optional choices. (NT) -- HollyC, 13:07:32 04/07/08 Mon
- Well I haven't a clue about 14 year old boys and what they like to read, but I can't resist chiming in about Ethan Frome. I loved that book so much -- I think I read it in high school too. Did anyone see the film version? -- I think it was actually Liam Neeson, if I'm not mistaken. It was gorgeous. (NT) -- pamelalass, 16:52:33 04/07/08 Mon
- Shoeless Joe is the book the movie Field of Dreams is based off of, so, if he likes that movie and/or baseball at all, it might interest him. (I can't say I've ever read it, but I love the movie. And, according to the commentary on the DVD, the writer/director and cast of the movie all loved the book.) (NT) -- Lynn H., 18:06:24 04/07/08 Mon
- is Crystal Cave the Mary Stewart Merlin book?? That is very good if he likes fantasy. but it depends on what he likes? Sports? then Shoeless Joe, Sci-fi--Farenheit 451. I found Ethan Frome beyond depressing. Didn't like Life Of Pi, and can remember nmuch about Catcher in the Rye....I wish our kids had Secret Life of Bees--they had to read A Lesson Before Dying last year, probably something equally depressing this year. (NT) -- FloraMac, 18:33:45 04/07/08 Mon
- Fahrenheit 451! It has the virtue of being short, plus it's full of chase scenes and other goodies like that, but very much a futuristic sci-fi story. A good "guy" book. (NT) -- Susannah, 04:48:06 04/08/08 Tue
- Thanks everyone, your responses did help A LOT! (NT) -- conmama, 06:53:03 04/08/08 Tue
- My vote would be for Shoeless Joe. A book about a real person and if your son loves sports and Baseball this would be a good one. (NT) -- SheltieLass, 09:15:20 04/08/08 Tue
- I remember reading A Raisin in the Sun as a freshman in high school. It's a play, so it might be more fun for him to read and it's a great commentary regarding economic and racial issues, which kids his age are starting to witness, if he hasn't already. It's also not very long and like I said might be more fun because he can play the characters out loud or in his mind as he reads. (NT) -- LRLassie, 11:27:15 04/08/08 Tue
- My 13 year old son just finished a huge 'Life of Pi' project in his eighth grade English class. It also happens to be one of his favorite books ever. I can't stand 'Catcher' and I liked 'Crystal Cave'. Evan also loves the Rick Riordan series ('Lightning Thief' is the first one, I think) but they may be too young for your son. I tell you, I'm going to have to write a book series for 12-14 year old boys just to give him something to read! (NT) -- JulieO, 15:15:48 04/10/08 Thu
Has anyone been watching the series, John Adams, on Sunday nights on TMN (movie channels). I assume these are the same as the HBO movies which I think you would see in the States ?? It is very interesting. -- Brenda W, 09:14:07 04/01/08 Tue
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- I don't subscribe to HBO - but every once in a while they show something that makes me wish I did. This miniseries is one of those. Oh well, I guess I'll have to wait for the DVD. (NT) -- Lynn H., 10:45:23 04/01/08 Tue
- We've got HBO and I've either DVR'd them or they are available in our 'On Demand'. We only watched the first two so far but DH really liked them. The acting is great and I think they cast the roles very well. I hope the rest are as good. (NT) -- CathyS, 15:10:38 04/01/08 Tue
- Haven't watched the series (DVR-ed it, though), but did read the David McCollough book on which it is based and recommend it highly. I'm not big on non-fiction, but this biography was SO engaging. And, I'm ashamed to admit that I had NO idea the role Johgn Adams played in the fight for American independence until reading it. Plus, his devotion to Abigail was just so touching...I cried when she died; that's how well-written the book is. (NT) -- Terri C, 18:25:37 04/09/08 Wed
SPOILER ALERT!!! IF YOU HAVEN'T READ ALL THE LYMOND CHRONICLES, DON'T READ MY POST BELOW- I SCREWED UP ON THE INSIDE!!!!!!!! -- susiej, 09:52:49 04/06/08 Sun
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- so sorry everyone- I had surgery this week, am on pain killers and in bed with my husband's labtop so I'm not signed in and can't edit!!! Warning- Don't try to post when on narcotics!!!! (NT) -- susie, 09:55:43 04/06/08 Sun
  - Hope you feel better soon, those crazy narcotics to it to everyone. (NT) -- LisaW, 16:52:14 04/06/08 Sun
- Hey susie, many of have done the same thing without the excuse of painkillers, so no worries! May your recovery be speedy! (NT) -- Maggie, 11:28:31 04/06/08 Sun
- Do not drive, operate heavy machinery or post to Lallybroch while taking this medication! *g* Hey, Susiej I hope you are feeling better soon! Your Lymond post is very intriguing - maybe I'll have to try one after I work my way through all the other great suggestions I've rcvd here. Take care of yourself! Rent that movie Troy with Eric Bana - that should take your mind off things! (NT) -- HollyC, 06:03:04 04/07/08 Mon
  - thanks guys- another thing you probably shouldnt do is read powerful books- Man, the dreams are wierd!!!! (NT) -- susiej, 07:30:54 04/07/08 Mon
    - LOL - narcotic dreams! You brought back an old memory, Susiej. The one and only time I took a narcotic was years ago, when I had a terrible flu. I was coughing so hard I couldn't sleep at night, and OTC medication wasn't even touching it. I went to the doc, got some Robitussin with codeine, and had the most fantastic dreams. They were like James Bond films, very fast-paced, stylized, lots of intrigue, and I was in them. Not as a Bond girl, either. Oh no, I was 007! Despite these surreal dreams, I finally started getting the sleep I needed to heal, and recovered shortly. (NT) -- Maggie, 09:37:14 04/09/08 Wed
Help, I have about 50 pages left to go on Checkmate, and I'm bursting like Mrs. Bug. Holy Shite>>>> -- susiej, 09:44:47 04/06/08 Sun
Am I the only one who is wondering why poor Lymond and Phillipa have to suffer so much to protect Sybilla? Its not like she's done anything to help them. What a freak, playing on Lymond's raw emotions when he thought Richard was dead!!! I know Sybilla said she has no regrets but she could have a little compassion for how her own actions affected her poor children. I mean despite what a slimeball Leonard Baily was, Sybilla is pretty durn lucky no one else ever knew. What would Richard think? Ofcourse, he goes on, as usual, thinking the worst of lymond who is doing all he can to protet him from finding out about his mother. What I wonder is why the heck did she marry GAvin? HIs dad was free. And why didn't he ever marry Beatris? What kind of guy was he to deserve such love from Sybilla, a guy who sires two children off some women in France then off his son's wife and I guess would have kept on going if he hadn't died? Everyone says Gavin was a lout but maybe the poor man had reason- his wife off limits to him but pregnant every three years by his dad.

And now, that scene where she makes Lymond wake up- again, I'm thinking this is the real Sybilla and we now know why Lymond is as messed up as he is and why he was so suspectible to Margaret Lennox. Have any of you noted how most of his lovers are all older, powerful women-Lennox, Oonagh,Guzel, the french court prostitute, and the Marechele. He is seeking his mother's love. We know he didn't have his so called dad's (and I can't say I blame GAvin too much for that)Couldn't Sybilla have clued him in a wee bit on why he was hated so much by Gavin- as in, its my fault not yours, darling boy.

And one more thing- that scene with the scented drugged candles which evoked Oonagh when Lymond was trying to die-it has to be the roots of DG's scene in the abbey!! When Claire evokes both Randalls, Frank and Jack, so Jamie can conquer them. It always struck me that Jamie says Mother when he feels Claire's bare breast- now that makes me think of Lymond and Sybilla in this scene. In some ways Claire takes the place of mother-all family- for Jamie.

Well as I said, I've got 50 more pages, Sybilla better hurry up and make amends soon.

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- You've probably finished the book by now, but if you have further questions post them on Lymond's chess board at S&S. I can't remember all the specifics, but it works out in the end *g*. (NT) -- LT (Denise), 11:36:45 04/07/08 Mon
Sense and Sensibility, anyone? -- Lynn H., 09:58:48 04/02/08 Wed
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- Did anyone catch part one of the new version on Masterpiece this week? I wasn't expecting to like it, having heard about the scandalous "seduction" scene at the beginning. But I find I'm liking it a lot, so far. Better than any of the other "new" Austen movies they've been showing this winter. I'm not sure that it's replaced my affection for the Emma Thompson version just yet, but it's good. (NT) -- Lynn H., 10:01:04 04/02/08 Wed
- Is this the BBC version that was aired here in the UK over Christmas? If so, I loved it. Haven't seen the Emma Thompson film so I had nothing to base it on, but I loved the characters, and the humour! (NT) -- Em, 08:52:23 04/03/08 Thu
  - I believe so. They've been showing all the new BBC Austen movies (and the 1995 Pride & Prejudice and 1996 version of Emma here in the States on PBS the last few months. It definately has a different feel than Emma Thompson's, but I'm liking it, so far. The conclusion airs Sunday. (NT) -- Lynn H., 15:48:43 04/05/08 Sat
- I thought the Masterpiece version of S&S was very good, but I'm not sure it's better than the movie version whose screenplay was written by Emma Thompson (she won an Oscar for it). (NT) -- LT (Denise), 11:43:41 04/03/08 Thu
- I loved it. As much as I love Emma Thompson, I think that this version was superior. This one felt so much truer to the original novel to me, and also conveyed more real emotion. The actress who played Marianne was especially brilliant. I think one of the problems with Emma's S&S is that you recognize every one of the actors in it, and so they could not fully become their characters, at least to me. The fresh faces were wonderful. However, this Willoughby is nowhere near as handsome as Greg Wise :-) (NT) -- LalaB, 20:51:35 04/06/08 Sun
Changing Habits by Debbie Macomber. Has anyone read this ? A friend who has read both the Outlander series and the Bronze Horseman series (on my recommendations) is highly recommending this one. I have no idea what it is about. -- Brenda W, 09:03:08 04/01/08 Tue
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- macomber -- heather, 10:59:00 04/04/08 Fri
Well, I'm late to the party, aren't I? :D -- Judie (), 20:38:26 03/13/08 Thu
.
.
This is regarding the posts about Cindy's (aka Celtgirl) books.

I just found an e-mail that was sent to me yesterday to alert me - unfortunately, I don't always check my Yahoo mail these days because - I'm old, and I forget. :D

Anyway, we've been down this road before. I won't get into the pros and cons, and the so-called "freedom of speech" issue.

On the one hand, I know everyone doesn't love every book they read. If Cindy didn't have a clue who we were and people were bashing her books, I'm sure she wouldn't even care. It comes with the territory. I realize some people would not have a clue that Cindy is part of Lallybroch and hangs out and posts here so they might think they can just vent here. Fair enough.

But - this is Lallybroch, and Cindy - along with Jeanne Treat - DOES hang out here. I just don't want to hear anything negative about my pals. Aside from that, Cindy is a Lallybroch advertiser, as is Jeanne, and they support LOL. At the VERY LEAST, I owe it to them to have a safe space for them at a place they advertise their books. I refuse to have them bashed here, just like I wouldn't let anyone bash Colly's soaps, Angel's candles, Becca's jewelry, Judy's tours, Braithwaite's etches etc. All opinions about any of these are SUBJECTIVE. It's nothing OBJECTIVE, like 1 + 1 = 3, and I can say "You're wrong!"

I hate to make big statements, but I'm going to. Anyone who doesn't like it, well, I guess you are out of luck.

Any future negative reviews about Cindy's books or Jeanne's books will be deleted without comment. Anyone who makes a fuss about it and starts World War III over it here on the board will be dealt with. Call it censorship, whatever. There are a bazillion OTHER places to diss books, and a bazillion OTHER books out there to diss - go for it. I won't have my friends dissed in my own house. I don't want to hear negativity about Diana and I don't want to hear it about Cindy and Jeanne. End of story.

Not to mention I did a search on the poster who started the thread and replied later on, and so far I have not found one other post from that IP address on the social board, the kirk, the books board, so ... it makes me wonder what the point of it all was.

Thanks, gang.

Judie

Last edited by author: Thu March 13, 2008 20:45:23 Edited 1 time.
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- Thanks for sticking up for our friends (NT) -- Cherie, 21:57:32 03/13/08 Thu
  - You go girl! I agree. (NT) -- mary beth, 02:55:42 03/14/08 Fri
- Thank you, Judie. (NT) -- 'becca beccabee, 05:37:46 03/14/08 Fri
- Amen, I find it very sad when friends cant support friends! -- M&M, 07:17:58 03/14/08 Fri
- Thanks, Judie! The family feel is one of the reasons I hang out here- you've made a warm and wonderful place for us. And thanks for the info- I couldn't rememer ever seeing that poster and wondered where she came from. Its like what happened to Jane and it feels sort of creepy but is also a reminder of the fact that this is the big wide web and lurkers are out there with their own agendas- yikes! (NT) -- susiej, 07:29:06 03/14/08 Fri
- Thank you for your vigilance in keeping this place s friendly place to visit, and respectful of others. (NT) -- LT (Denise), 09:54:51 03/14/08 Fri
- You are the boss and I have no trouble playing by your rules. (NT) -- TanyaB, 11:26:31 03/14/08 Fri
- Thank you, Judie!! (NT) -- Noelle, 12:05:26 03/14/08 Fri
- Thanks Judie for keeping this place a safe and friendly home to come to. (NT) -- LisaW, 12:30:57 03/14/08 Fri
- Giddy Up, Udie! (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 13:16:28 03/14/08 Fri
- We thank you for your message and YOUR decisions to keep Ladies of Lallybroch the respectful place it is! good on ya Judie! (NT) -- BetsyG, 13:42:41 03/14/08 Fri
- Judie, even though I haven't got a clue what you are alluding to in your post, I think it is absolutely fantastic that you stick up for all Lallybrochers! That is just one of the many reasons why I love this place so much! (NT) -- Kim L, 16:52:25 03/14/08 Fri
- I absolutely agree Judie! Thank you for all your hard work making this place what it is and keeping it so. It is amazing how much damage one nasty negative person can do to spoil the feel of the boards for everyone who comes here. These boards are what I do for fun. I love what you do to try to keep this place peaceful and positive. There is enough negativity in real life that we HAVE to deal with at work, out in the "real" world, and sometimes even with our friends, kids, husbands, and extended families. Thanks again and again! (NT) -- Jane, 06:39:09 03/15/08 Sat
- Thanks Judie :-) I love your 'big statements' and can't imagine how anyone could find them unfair. You make me smile *g* I think this is why 'your home' is so successful, you take care of your own and try to keep the negativity at bay. It's appreciated greatly!! (NT) -- Marilyn, 08:03:31 03/15/08 Sat
- Bless you Judie for protecting us from unkind and venomous posts some would like to inflict upon us. You keep this a happy place for us to come home to! (NT) -- Florence, 10:46:15 03/15/08 Sat
- Good Grief - get a grip - all i did was post my opinion, not start WWIII - Sorry I ruffled so many feathers... (NT) -- Sara G., 11:05:59 03/15/08 Sat
  - It wasn't your opinion that we objected to, but the tone of voice! Your comment started off as an opinion, but then became plainly mean spirited which is not acceptable around here! (NT) -- LT (Denise), 12:02:10 03/15/08 Sat
  - Sara - I have explained myself up above. I was not implying you in particular were starting WWIII. It was figurative. If you can't understand and accept what I have said then you don't get it, sorry. (NT) -- Judie, 12:13:01 03/15/08 Sat
- BTW Judie I do want to let you know that I have posted off & on here & a few of the other boards since 2001 so don't know why you couldn't find my IP address... (NT) -- Sara G., 12:09:21 03/15/08 Sat
  - Sara - the IPs are only searchable as far back as the archives go. (NT) -- Judie, 12:11:22 03/15/08 Sat
- Judie, thanks for watching out for our friend's backs. I love the positive tone of LOL which is why many of us come here. (NT) -- Rebeccab, 06:18:19 03/16/08 Sun
- I missed this entire thread but wanted to jump in with a funny ancedote. Years ago I posted a note in a group about not enjoying one of an author's book in her series. I didn't say anything too mean, just that I didn't like the ending!! My post got some verrrrry bad reactions from other members. Do you know how this one ended? The author herself wrote a long note defending herself and posted it for all to see. Oops! I had no idea she was watching! That author: Sara Donati. (Sorry Sara, I do love your books, especially Queen of Swords!) (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 22:45:23 04/03/08 Thu
The Pact by Jodi Picoult -- Alissa, 00:22:38 02/28/08 Thu
I just finished reading this book last night and I loved it. Major page turner. I have always enjoyed JP's books but this one stands out for me. Maybe it was the love the main characters had for each other. Has anyone else read this book? What did you all think?

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- This was my first Jodi Picoult book. I didn't love it. I'm not a big fan of hers, though I enjoyed her Amish book - was it called 'The Plain Truth'? She has a style that doesn't jibe with me personally, though I know many people love her stuff. I have to give her a huge amount of credit for being able to take real events and create a work of fiction around them. Takes some skill and research, and she excels in those. (NT) -- JulieO, 07:39:45 02/28/08 Thu
- i" a new fan of JPs - live the Tenth Circle and Vanished but hated My Sisters Keeper! Will have a look out for this one! (NT) -- SueP, 13:12:35 02/28/08 Thu
  - It's funny Sue, my friends all rave about 'My Sister's Keeper'. That's why I tried her stuff to begin with. My guess is that she crafts her books about fairly controversial subjects, and some of them may touch a specific nerve in a reader. Maybe I need to try another title. (NT) -- JulieO, 14:01:11 02/28/08 Thu
  - I loved My sisters keeper. It was very interesting I thought. And the ending was an OMG moment. (NT) -- Alissa, 21:36:58 02/28/08 Thu
- Yes, I read the Pact... good book, but terribly depressing. I also read My Sisters Keeper, which I loved. I have Nineteen Minutes, but haven't had a chance to read it. (NT) -- ladyphantom, 14:05:35 02/28/08 Thu
- I've read many of JP's and she's a favorite author of mine. That said--I've had The Pact on my shelf for years and haven't been able to bring myself to read it because of the subject. I've read almost all of her others and Tenth Circle was probably my least favorite. Mercy was interesting for a fan of DGs... (NT) -- FloraMac, 14:41:06 02/28/08 Thu
  - Isn't that true about Mercy? There were so many parallels to our Books. I enjoyed Mercy all the way through. I love JP's writing, but she has a tendency to break my heart. I still mull over the ending to My Sister's Keeper from time to time. She definitely doesn't take any easy way out of the controversies in her books. (NT) -- Brookita, 00:12:52 03/01/08 Sat
    - OMG, the ending was a real shocker. I cried my eyes out. I remember reading Jodi's comments at the end... her son was so angry at her, he went right upstairs to his room and wouldn't come down. LOL (NT) -- ladyphantom, 21:08:00 03/01/08 Sat
      - Yes, Ladyphantom, it took me quite awhile to reconcile myself to that. (NT) -- Brookita, 00:29:50 03/02/08 Sun
    - yes, and it's not just the contoversial subjects, it's her flawed characters. They are so human. Not perfect and not monsters, just people who make decisions good and bad and the fall out of the consequences. Her more recent books have fallen into a bit of a plot trap for me--same basic plot, different problems and characters. To me, her older stuff was more interetingly crafted. (NT) -- FloraMac, 04:09:13 03/02/08 Sun
      - Interesting observation, FloraMac, I haven't real the more recent ones, life has been so difficult I've pretty much opted for happy-ever-after stuff. (NT) -- Brookita, 22:58:39 03/03/08 Mon
- I loved My Sister's Keeper. It's my fave by her. Plain Truth was my first and I loved it. Try Keeping Faith. Skip Tenth Circle, go straight to Nineteen Minutes. (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 22:21:10 04/03/08 Thu
Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn -- Marg, 15:58:08 03/09/08 Sun
I just finished reading this book, and thought it was excellent. It is a Victorian mystery featuring a young widow. It is actually her husband's death that she is investigator, with the help of the mysterious Nicholas Brisbane.

The book was a lot of fun, a bit dark in some ways, but still excellent. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, which is out now.

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- I just finished reading this one too. I liked it, but got frustrated at a point when it seemed to go nowhere, then got excited again when it picked up near the end. Didn't see THAT ending coming! (NT) -- Annie Stewart, 22:17:53 04/03/08 Thu
OK, since no one has posted for a while, and I know from the Lallybroch Wallpaper Wars that there are some serious Brenden Fraser fans here, I thought I'd plug Inkheart by Cordelia Funke which was made into a movie and coming out this summer staring him. Yes, they are "children's books" but they are much more adult than her other books (Thief Lord and Dragon Rider). Inkheart is set in modern day Italy and has only one child character (a twelve year old). And the second book is mainly about the adult's in her life and there is definite sexual chemistry between them. And it is dedicated to Brenden Fraser! ! This is a book for book lovers- its all about the way a good book effects are lives and imagination and brings up issues such as how much is the author responsible for the character and how much is it the reader and is it possible to be too into books and ignore real life. Crazy idea, huh? -- susiej, 11:44:06 03/25/08 Tue
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- sorry- i tried to edit this- that's suppose to be "our lives". (NT) -- susiej, 11:48:03 03/25/08 Tue
- I loved Inkheart! (and Brendan Fraser, as far as that goes...) The end made me cry because it was so perfect. I don't know how they'd convey that on screen--and the truth is they probably won't if they think there's any hope of filming the sequel. (NT) -- Susannah, 11:49:14 03/26/08 Wed
- I finished Inkheart last week, and I was a little disappointed. I had heard so much about it, all my German friends raved about Cornelia Funke, so I guess my expectations were too high... (NT) -- Pat, 11:00:50 04/02/08 Wed
Eat, Pray, Love --- Elizabeth Gilbert -- Maggie, 10:47:05 03/18/08 Tue
Hi everyone,

I know this book has been discussed here before, but not in quite some time, so I hope it's ok that I post about it again. Just a warning - THERE MAY BE SPOILERS IN THIS POST!

I'm quite a ways into it (just starting India, for those who've read it), and enjoying it - for the most part. A previous poster mentioned the author's unfortunate use of metaphors, which made me laugh out loud because that was exactly my thought! I'm having difficulty with what I often feel is self-absorbed yuppie with a mighty sense of entitlement going through a rough patch, and just wallowing and whining all the way. We all need to whine and wallow sometimes, but come on... I have a hard time with anyone who gets to spend four months in Rome, doing little other than EATING, and whinging about how awful her life is. Then I tell myself to be nice, I've never suffered from depression, and I should be more sympathetic... And she does usually get over herself. I appreciate her quest for God, or higher power, or what have you, and find it intriguing. And I do give her kudos for being brave enough to put this all in writing for all to see. I'm not that brave. At times she's hilarious, as when she translates the old man's rantings at the soccer game! I laughed soooo hard!

As I said, I'm mostly enjoying this one. I'd love to hear comments from others here on this board who've read it.

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- I just finished this book a couple of weeks ago and completely agree with you. I googled the book on Amazon.com and found out she already received upfront royalties before she wrote the book. That's right. I was wondering how she could remember every little bitty detail of her experience and do everything she did so fully. Well....she was getting paid to do it and FULLY experience it. I guess I look at the book with a cynical eye now. I did enjoy her writing style, though. (NT) -- Conmama, 11:26:43 03/18/08 Tue
- Oh yeah...the old man's rantings. I also laughed out loud, that was HILARIOUS and gave it to my DH to read just that part. (NT) -- Conmama, 11:27:32 03/18/08 Tue
- I think I may have been the one who wrote about the metaphors--if not, I was thinking the same thing.! What our book club found interesting is that she is the author of Coyote Ugly. Never read the book, but saw snippets of the movie. EW. I actually liked her time in India the best--it seemed like she was the most "real" at that point... (NT) -- FloraMac, 11:56:58 03/18/08 Tue
  - Oh, yes, FloraMac, I believe you were the one to mention her use - or poor use - of metaphors in that previous discussion. I often agree with you on books, and your opinion carries weight with me on books I've yet to read. LOVE this board! (NT) -- Maggie, 22:00:17 03/19/08 Wed
- I sometimes feel like the only one in the world who didn't love this book. I honestly did enjoy it, but felt the author was a little whiney and self centered. This in itself would not cause me to dislike either her or the book. I think people should live as they choose and do what makes them happy. What I had a problem with was how she didn't seem to "get it" that she was hurting people along the way. More inside if you care.... -- Jane, 06:45:35 03/20/08 Thu
  - I mentioned this book at one of our book club meetings and one of the ladies nixed that idea pretty quickly. She couldn't even finish the book. Reviews from my friends have been up and down. (NT) -- ladyphantom, 09:25:16 03/24/08 Mon
- I did not care for this book at all for all the reasons mentioned above. It's hard to relate to an author who seems so selfish and clueless. However, I have read some of her short stories that were quite good. When she is writing about other people, she seems more attractive. (NT) -- Mari L., 14:48:11 03/24/08 Mon
- I was curious about how many copies of this book we'd sold at the bookstore where I work, so I checked this past weekend: 1600 copies so far. They just fly out the door. (NT) -- Nifty, 08:40:55 04/01/08 Tue
Lymond Chronicles (I'm trying to make it through!) -- krismayne, 20:00:14 03/25/08 Tue
Ok, someone please tell me these books are worth it! I bought the first two and the companion book. I am half way through the first (The Game of Kings). I really want to fall in love with Lymond, but it's just so difficult to understand what the heck is going on! Once I pick up the book and start reading I do enjoy(though I am confused)but I find I go days without picking it up. I consider myself intelligent, etc., I have no problem with the foreign language use, but I'm waiting impatiently for something to kick in and some sense to be made. I guess this is a history lesson too.:)

Anyway just wanted to see what others have to say since I've read that some equate Lymond with Jamie Fraser (hero-wise).

Oh I also picked up at the library The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly and the sequel, they look very promising though very long! (I need to read Lymond!!!!)I wish I could speed read.

Sorry to go on and on. I will carry through with Lymond, but just wanted some feedback and a push!

Thanks everyone!

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- I was like you throughout the whole book. Even now I have finished it I'm still confused! I don't think I will go on with the next book. (NT) -- Alissa, 02:56:23 03/26/08 Wed
- I read the first one a couple of months ago. I did get a crush on Lymond, but knew that I would have more if I had understood what he was saying. Really, I only understood about 50% of what was going on. The only parts that interested me were the ones that Lymond was in and with that, I still only understood 50% of what was being said. I found myself, at the end, quite angry with the author. What's the point of writing a book that is such a chore for many, many readers to get thru? Since I am a bit enarmored with Lymond, I was going to read the 2nd one. However, I just don't think I can bring myself to sludge thru it with a big question mark over my head every page. I really really really wanted to *get it*, because so many here love it. So, you are not alone. However, saying that I would love to read that *one scene* I've heard spoken about in one of the books. (NT) -- Conmama, 05:08:11 03/26/08 Wed
- Oh, krismayne, you are talking about my love here! I admit I was sort of shocked at some of his bad behaviour but I knew celtgirl liked this guy and I valued her opinion enough to stick with it- and i also liked the story. Now, I am hopelessly, forever in love. I am on the fifth book. My heart is actually bleeding right now from what I read last nigh. He is meant to be confusing but there is reason for it- as you can see, most of the characters don't get him. I don't want to give anything away becasue I loved being tricked but I will say- Watch the women in this book- Sybilla, Christian and Kate- they are such great characters. Kate and Gideon even have a conversation about Lymonds "annoying" way of speaking. And some scenes, i just put in the back of my mind and said- it will be revealed later. I guess because I do so many rereads and read so much historical fiction, I like being a litte off guard- not knowing what will happen and Dunnet is the master of that even with the history. (NT) -- susiej, 08:11:21 03/26/08 Wed
- I read the whole series a few years ago, and I agree it is difficult, especially the first book. After that the writing is a bit easier and you also know Dunnett's rhythm. I can't say I fell in love with him right away either, it was much later in the book that I found my heart breaking for him. I've just finished reading The Game of Kings a second time and it makes so much more sense now that I know where the story is going, and that Lymond is a confusing guy and often comes off as a bit of a b*astard, but that is his means to an end. The Tea Rose and sequel are an interesting and much easier read if you need to lighten up, but pursue Lymond if you can. Further books will reward your efforts. (NT) -- LT (Denise), 09:49:04 03/26/08 Wed
- I found Game of Kings to be a slog, but worth it in the end. I think. I just finished Queen's Play and it was much easier to read and mostly follow what is going on, though there is much intrigue. I will be taking a break before I read the next one. (NT) -- FloraMac, 15:27:19 03/26/08 Wed
  - I will eventually get through all the books and I'm sure it's worth it. I'm very intrigued with Lymond. Thanks again for the feedback everyone! (NT) -- krismayne, 17:12:29 03/26/08 Wed
- I think these books are an aquired taste, sorta like beer, not everyone gets it *g* This is the first time I'm speaking up about Lymond, because honestly, I didn't get him at first either. I read GOK a couple years ago during the discussion at S&S and if the ladies hadn't been discussing it, I'm not sure I would've finished. I picked up QP shortly thereafter and stopped 1/2 through. It's now a year later and I'm almost done with the 3rd book. I'm loving it. I mentioned 'timing' here before, that was important for me. All that said, I still get confused. I still have WTF just happened moments, it is not an easy read, but I've found if I just let it go, keep reading and not try to analyze everything that's happening, the clarification eventually comes. If not, it helps to go ask my silly questions on the Lymond board at S&S ;-) Imho, these are books that you get a 'gist' of the story on the first read, and if you can enjoy that, rereads are gonna give you so much more. (NT) -- Marilyn, 07:46:53 03/27/08 Thu
  - It's not even the plot that I'm confused about. I don't know what the heck they are even saying much of the time, let alone what's going on. Perhaps I'll try QP while GOK is still fairly fresh. I really do like Lymond. (NT) -- Conmama, 09:29:58 03/27/08 Thu
    - LOL, yea those are my WTF moments - what the heck was just said??? *g* (NT) -- Marilyn, 10:40:19 03/27/08 Thu
      - I'm re-reading Queen's Play now before we start the Disorderly Knights discussion on S&S and it's certainly better than reading it the first time, but WTF moments are still common *g*. I don't think I realized everything I was missing the first time around. I'm picking up more nuances and clues of events to come, but still, I'm missing plenty. It's a work in progress, I think, as far as my understanding but it's still a fantastic read! (NT) -- LT (Denise), 20:17:01 03/29/08 Sat
UK Hoser Gathering Inverness at Halloween Just a reminder to all that the UK hosers meet annually in October, this year we are meeting at Halloween, last weekend of October, in Inverness. If anyone (and you don't have to live in the UK!) would like to join us, feel free to e-mail me and I'll pass your address on to Sue who is this years organiser. -- Margy, 08:36:16 03/27/08 Thu
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Anyone catch Emma last weekend on PBS? Although it's not as good an adaptation as P & P, it's still very good. Kate Beckinsale is believably snobby as Emma, and I really like the actor who plays Frank Churchill. -- LalaB, 18:04:43 03/25/08 Tue
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- I think that version is probably the most faithful to the book. All of the actors really suited their parts - and you're right, the guy who plays Frank Churchill really could knock the socks off Ewan McGregor, who plays Churchill in the Gwyneth Paltrow version. But for all that, I find myself really loving the Paltrow version because Jeremy Northam is just so darn adorable as Mr. Knightley. The guy in the Kate Beckinsale is probably closer to the character from the book - but I don't care! lol. (NT) -- Lynn H., 10:34:34 03/26/08 Wed
  - I have only seen the Gweneth Paltrow version once, a while back. I don't remember being all that impressed by it, although I agree that the Mr. Knightly in the Beckinsale version is not crush material...unlike Colin Firth's Mr. Darcy. Like you say, more faithful to the book, where Mr. Knightly is only a romantic figure for the very last part of the book, and is much older than Emma. (NT) -- LalaB, 20:20:14 03/26/08 Wed
Katherine You Tube -- M&M, 13:04:34 03/17/08 Mon
Im in the process of making a Katherine You Tube, and got character suggestions from a Katherine Yahoo Group I am on, if you would like to vote ...... feel free :-)

http://www.ivmoores.com/katherine/you_tuber_for_katherine.htm

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- M&M, what is a Katherine You Tube? (NT) -- Kim L, 04:48:28 03/18/08 Tue
  - Oh I make these little you tube thingie for casting suggestions on books......link inside>>>>>>>>> -- M&M, 19:27:29 03/18/08 Tue
    - I picked up the most wonderful copy of Katherine at the UBS today. It's trade size with a lovely picture on the cover. It also has a forward by Philippa Gergory. (NT) -- Cherie, 21:28:04 03/22/08 Sat
      - I have one of those, its very pretty. :-) -- M&M, 10:22:32 03/24/08 Mon

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