Create a New Forum Admin Login Member Login Contribute to Voyager Search VoyForums Help Desk VoyForums Exchange VoyForums Directory/Categories VoyForums Homepage VoyForums News FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

[ Login ] [ Contact Forum Admin ] [ Main index ] [ Post a new message ] [ Search | Check update time | Archives: [1], 2, 3 ]

• Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand -- Syl, 13:03:43 09/19/03 Fri
  Here is the board's first review, submitted by Lady Jane. Thanks, Jane!!
  
  TITLE: Seabiscuit
  
  AUTHOR: Laura Hillenbrand
  
  Genre: Factual
  
  Anyone who loves falling so headlong into a book that they stay up until 2:38 am to finish it will lose themselves in Laura Hillenbrand's Seabiscuit. As a horse lover, I expected to enjoy this romp through the career of one of the greatest horses in history. However, this book not only made me fall in love with the "lazy," food-loving racehorse, it literally left me breathless with its descriptions of tight races, jockey injuries and the absolute courage and guts needed in the racing industry.
  
  Hillenbrand expertly weaves together the story of four central characters: Charles Howard, an automobile tycoon who bought the horse after a cheap claims race; Tom Smith, a trainer whose "nurturing" and understanding of horses declare him a "horse whisperer" of the racing world; Red Pollard, a jockey whose career began as a "bug boy" and continued through two near-fatal accidents; and, of course, Seabiscuit, this unbelievable horse whose heart and speed broke records everywhere.
  
  After introducing each one and exploring their colorful histories, the story begins to pick up speed when they converge into one of the most successful teams thoroughbred racing has ever seen.
  
  Once the book "breaks from the starting gate," the momentum picks up and rarely lets down. Although there are two "climaxes" (one in a match race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral and another in the Santa Anita Handicap), the book flows smoothly and maintains a pace that keeps the reader turning page after page. Hillenbrand follows Smith as he begins to "cure" Seabiscuit of bad habits and expertly, albeit rather eccentrically, leads him into top racing form. From the "little" colt's early wins in the West, to his travels to the East Coast and Mexico, the author vividly describes racetracks, jockey rooms, and matches so that the sounds and sights produce a movie for the reader's mind.
  The tension then begins to build around a match race of the top two horses, Seasbiscuit and War Admiral; at times, the reader is sure the match will never actually materialize, and when it finally does, the exquisite detail and depth with which the race is described seems to be the perfect ending to a perfect story.
  
  Hillenbrand doesn't end there, though. She expertly follows Seasbiscuit and Pollard into their retirements due to injuries, then slowly but steadily builds the suspense again as both plan "comebacks" onto the racing scene, despite everyone else's belief that neither is physically capable of such a feat. When both Pollard and Seabiscuit set foot onto the track for the final Santa Anita Handicap, the reader's heart has just about stopped beating.
  
  I read chapters through tears, gasped loudly enough to scare my husband in another room, and cheered loudly with fans of Seabiscuit...all within the final 100 pages. A work of non-fiction, Seabiscuit has all the drama, plot complexity and intrigue of a masterful novel. This is one book I will read many times just to capture the details I'm sure I missed as I tore along in my own race to "get to the finish line."
  
  BTW...the version I read, see below for citation, also included an extremely interesting interview with the author. In addition, I now can't wait to purchase the special edition hardcover version that includes over 125 photos. This book also had photos, but so many others were alluded to, that I want to see them all!
  
  Hillenbrand, Laura. Seabiscuit: An American Legend. New York: Ballantine Books, 2001.
  Respectfully (and rather tiredly) submitted by Lady Jane
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I am so excited about this board! (I'm not sure about the rules yet though--is it like Broch Talk where we only post replies? ) Anyway, thanks for the lovely review, Lady Jane! I have a question for you: this book has been on my TBR for an age, but I have to say that I hated the movie because it was just so cheesy! Is the book better? It usually is! I don't mind a sentimental or classical book, but not when the movie they make out of it is trite. (NT) -- Reid, 13:26:51 09/19/03 Fri
    • Reid, yeah, I post the review and you post in the replies any comments you want to make. You can say what you liked/disliked about the book if you've read it - that sort of thing. (NT) -- Syl, 17:31:55 09/19/03 Fri
    • Not sure if this is a spoiler, so moving it inside>>>> -- Judie for Lady Jane, 10:51:05 09/20/03 Sat
  • Oh, I've just started reading this book!!!! I downloaded it onto my handheld PC so I can read it anywhere, anytime, LOL. Will let you know what I think when I've finished. Thanks for the review. (NT) -- Keira, 15:40:18 09/19/03 Fri
  • Seabiscuit -- Ragdollsal, 18:41:49 09/19/03 Fri
    • Seabiscuit -- Kristen Manning, 04:35:04 12/23/04 Thu
  • Fantastic book and a fantastic review! -- BlckJnpr, 20:12:53 09/19/03 Fri
  • Possible spoiler - reposted.....>>> -- Judie for Lemora, 10:48:45 09/20/03 Sat
    • Judie...Guess I should have said the book had a happy ending for the HORSE! LOL I can't remember...did the book tell all that happened to Pollard, Howard, etc? (NT) -- Lady Jane (P.S...glad everyone enjoyed the review and the book!), 20:42:13 09/20/03 Sat
      • For the horse - ROFL - too funny. Haven't read the book or seen the movie - but one day. :D (NT) -- Judie, 21:09:26 09/21/03 Sun
      • urgent and to whom it may concern -- ahmed abacha, 03:56:10 08/19/04 Thu
  • Seabiscuit>>> -- Erica, 13:08:01 09/20/03 Sat
    • Erica...I LOVED Man O'War....and every other book by Walter Farley. I had devoured all the Black Stallion books by the time I was 14. Did you see "The Young Black Stallion" is coming to IMAX theaters at Christmas? It looks like it take place in the Middle East with a girl as the main character. 10 yr. old , horse-crazy niece and I already have a date. :) (NT) -- Lady Jane, 20:52:39 09/20/03 Sat
  • Just noticed Michelle Phipps in the 'In Memoriam' Board: Is she by chance descended from Gladys Phipps, Seabiscuit's owner who sold him to Charles Howard? Anyone know? (NT) -- Lemora, 22:58:01 09/20/03 Sat
    • Syl might know Lemora, she knew Michelle quite well I believe. Phipps is quite a common name though, so it would be hell of a coincidence if she was. (NT) -- Gwen, 02:05:24 09/21/03 Sun
      • I have no idea. Mike tells me the late Michele Phipps was adopted, and I think she originally came from Oklahoma, if that's a clue. Other than that, we don't know. (NT) -- Syl, 11:14:35 09/21/03 Sun
        • Michele was adopted in Fort Worth. -- Amanda, 14:09:01 02/01/06 Wed
  • I read a good review on this book in our newspaper, and as it is my turn to buy the books for our book club, this is on my list of must haves - apart from being a horse nut too!! I will let you know how it goes! (NT) -- AmandaW, 14:53:27 09/21/03 Sun
  • I just saw Phar Lap last night. There was another great horse. Was he racing at the same time as Seabiscuit? The movie also mentioned the stock market crash, but didn't say anything about Seabiscuit and I don't think the book mentioned Phar Lap. Just wondering. (NT) -- Erica, 11:47:47 09/22/03 Mon
    • Phar Lap raced just a few years before Seabiscuit. PL died in 1932, and Seabiscuit began racing circuit w/ Smith in '36. Hope that helps! :) (Funny...Phar Lap was also called "Horse of the Century"...and other very similar adjectives used to describe Seabiscuit.) (NT) -- Lady Jane, 22:23:47 09/22/03 Mon
      • phar lap -- John, 00:42:58 08/11/04 Wed
        • Phar lap -- John, 00:44:39 08/11/04 Wed
        • Phar lap -- John, 00:48:34 08/11/04 Wed
          • Phar Lap -- Kristen Manning, 04:37:57 12/23/04 Thu
        • how did phar lap die? -- jayde, 14:13:41 11/01/05 Tue
        • when and where did phar lap die -- steph, 01:31:03 11/14/05 Mon
      • How did Seabiscuit Die? -- Samantha Houston, 16:50:32 09/18/05 Sun
        • Question -- sarah, 00:45:59 05/27/06 Sat
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Secret History of the Pink Carnation -- Syl, 07:03:04 01/13/07 Sat
  This one was sent by Dawn C. Thanks, lass! Great!
  
  
  TITLE: The Secret History of the Pink Carnation.
  
  AUTHOR: Lauren Willig.
  
  GENRE: Historical Fiction.
  
  
  
  My friend gave me this book to read because she thought I would like it.
  However it took me a bit to get to it because we usually don't like the same
  type of books. But I really enjoyed this one. It's a great summer read. From
  the description it sounds like it takes place in our time but it’s actually a
  story in a story with most of the book taking place in the late 1700's. If
  you’re just looking for a bit of fun reading this one is great.
  
  Deciding that true romantic heroes are a thing of the past, Eloise is an
  intelligent American who leaves Harvard's Widener Library bound for England
  to finish her dissertation on the dashing pair of spies the Scarlet
  Pimpernel and the Purple Gentian. What she discovers is something the finest
  historians have missed: the secret history of the Pink Carnation - the most
  elusive spy of all time, who saved England itself from Napoleon's invasion.
  
  The Secret History of the Pink Carnation opens with the story of Elise Kelly
  settling in to read the secret history. But before Eloise can unmask the
  Pink Carnation, she uncovers a passionate romance that almost threw off the
  course of world events.
  
  Here is another description:
  
  While history has unmasked the Scarlet Pimpernel and the Purple Gentian,
  mystery still surrounds another lesser known hero, the Pink Carnation. In
  this refreshing historical romp strong on history with a healthy dollop of
  romance Eloise Kelly, 21st-century Ph.D. candidate, sets about to reveal the
  true identity of that romantic figure. Through dogged determination, Eloise
  gains access to a treasure trove of letters and diaries.
  
  Narrator Kate Reading slips seamlessly between the diction of present and past. Reading's accomplished voicing, particularly in the novel-within-a-novel, turns the
  streets of 1890s Paris rank with unimaginable muck, while Josephine's salons
  glitter with pomp. Reading handles secret assignations, gambling hells,
  gentlemen's clubs, passionate encounters, torture chambers, and slimy
  villains with her usual expertise, adding luster to author Lauren Willig's
  imaginative take on the Napoleonic Era.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • This sounds like a fun read, thanks for the recommendation. (NT) -- Margy, 10:59:58 01/13/07 Sat
  • This book is on my shelf. I picked it up at a book sale after someone posted about it on the RR board. Sounds great, thanks. (NT) -- FranS, 17:19:24 01/15/07 Mon
  • I've read this and really enjoyed it. I have also read the second in the series - Masque of the Black Tulip. They are a lot of fun, and as long as you approach them expecting that, a great read!!I am hoping my library will hurry up and get the third book in the series in!! (NT) -- Marg, 18:16:26 01/15/07 Mon
    • Yay!! The library has confirmed that they now have the third book in this series! Just have to go and pick it up. (NT) -- Marg, 23:03:07 01/23/07 Tue
  • I heard about this and didn't know if it was worth the time. Thanks for the review, I think I'll read it. (NT) -- becca beccabee, 05:00:15 01/17/07 Wed
  • I loved this book! I thought that it was a great easy read without being totally brainless. Very amusing, too. (NT) -- Reilly, 18:29:08 01/20/07 Sat
    • And yes, this one was great on CD...I could never figure out whether Kate Reading was American or British in real life, she switches back and forth with such perfect accent. (NT) -- Reilly, 18:30:24 01/20/07 Sat
  • I just recently finished this book based on recommendations from the boards, This was a fun book and now I see that it is a trilogy and I am off to locate the sequels. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 18:59:09 02/19/07 Mon
  • the carnation series -- Noelle, 16:04:38 01/19/08 Sat
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Memory Keeper's Daughter -- Syl, 16:20:17 06/02/07 Sat
  This one was sent in by Lady Belle. Thanks, lass! I've seen this book a lot lately in the shops. I need to buy it!
  
  
  
  
  
  TITLE: The Memory Keeper's Daughter
  
  AUTHOR: Kim Edwards
  
  GENRE: Fiction
  
  
  
  
  This novel was suggested to me by my friend who is a child psychologist. I picked it up at the bookstore and could not put it down until I finished it. It is a wonderfully written tale about family, parenthood, childhood and siblings. It also shows us what a lie can do to the lives of everyone around us.
  
  Dr. David Henry has many secrets. He hides behind his work as a doctor. He hides his background from his family. And most importantly, he hides the birth of his Down's Syndrome daughter from her twin brother and his wife. Each of these lies affects everyone around him.
  
  The nurse who helped deliver the twins, Caroline, takes the little girl away, supposedly to an institution. Instead, she raises Phoebe as her own and becomes her strongest advocate.
  
  The story begins on a snowy night in 1964 when the twins are born, and takes us on a journey of "parallel lives, familial secrets, and the redemptive power of love."
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I've seen some really good reviews of this book...and then some that weren;t so good! Guess i will just have to read it myself to decide what I think! (NT) -- Marg, 16:31:07 06/02/07 Sat
  • This sounds very interesting. I even looked it up at Amazon *G*. It's on my list! (NT) -- Judie, 21:10:42 06/07/07 Thu
  • I read this and liked it but I felt the ending was a bit rushed (actually the last third of the book) also there were some characters brought in that were a bit too convenient (used to tie things up) and not fleshed out enough for my liking. That being said I did recommend it to others on the RR board and to friends. It really made you think! (NT) -- AmyGirl, 08:13:45 06/13/07 Wed
  • Memory Keepers Daughter -- Kaye D., 21:48:48 06/30/07 Sat
  • I read this one and enjoyed it. Not the best writing but I found it very thought provoking. A great example of how one rushed and selfish decision can affect many other peolple for the rest of their lives. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 06:03:28 10/05/07 Fri
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Happenstance -- Syl, 16:26:20 08/04/07 Sat
  This one’s from Swarl. Never heard of it, but it sounds interesting.
  
  
  TITLE: Happenstance
  
  STARRING: Audrey Tatou
  
  
  
  
  
  I watch very few movies, but my DH found "Happenstance" at Netflix. I loved it.
  
  This is a gently humorous film about a day in a French woman's life in which, as predicted by the daily astrology chart, she finds her True Love after a series of misadventures.
  
  The film is peopled by quintessentially French characters whose lives unwittingly intertwine through 'happenstance': a stone thrown; a good deed done for no reason; the wearing of a yellow raincoat; a transported cockroach. Part of the fun is guessing and then being shown how the newest character to join the film fits into the plot.
  
  The cinematography is reminiscent of Jacques Tati, i.e. urban modernism as either humor or desolation or both. The casting is a delight and the main female has become a star in her own right, even though this entire movie is deliciously understated. Enjoy.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Swarl. is it in English, or subtitled? (NT) -- Margy, 12:55:31 08/07/07 Tue
    • Hi Margy, It is in French and subtitled. You miss some puns and some great French swears that are not translated literally, but other than that the English subtitles are pretty accurate. (NT) -- swarl, 12:52:12 08/08/07 Wed
      • Thanks Swarl. I'm not great at subtitle films (I know, narrow minded of me) I tend to either be looking too hard at the writing and miss the action, or vice versa. (NT) -- Margy, 14:20:10 08/08/07 Wed
  • Sounds interesting! I'll look for it at the video store. :D Thanks, swarl! (NT) -- Judie, 06:48:01 08/10/07 Fri
    • I love Audre Tatou (sp?).... Amelie is one of my favourite movies, I will have to look into this one! (NT) -- Oleander, 13:37:42 08/31/07 Fri
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Behind the Scenes at the Museum -- Syl, 16:19:07 07/21/07 Sat
  This was sent in by Em! Thanks, Em!
  
  
  
  
  TITLE: Behind the Scenes At the Museum.
  
  AUTHOR: Kate Atkinson
  
  GENRE: Fiction.
  
  
  
  Narrated by Ruby Lennox, this is a multi-layered account of her family’s history. She flits between tales of her great-grandmother, grandmother, aunties and uncles, siblings and parents with wonderful fluidity and humour.
  
  As a child who was constantly being told “don’t try to be clever, Ruby”, she manages to weave a beautiful tapestry of human life – her family’s struggles, stories, loves and tragedies. And for a story which encompasses as many deaths as this one, her narrative is remarkably witty and amusing.
  
  She mainly focuses on her sisters Patricia (dour and sensible) and Gillian (greedy and spiteful), and her parents George and Bunty, both of whom seem to struggle to love Ruby. As the youngest daughter, Ruby has some fascinating observations as a child watching life evolve around her.
  
  Kate Atkinson has produced an incisive and involving story which can make you laugh and cry in the space of one sentence. It is jam-packed full of rich, amazing images, beautiful prose and deadpan humour. It’s a perfect summer read.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I read this a few months ago - loved it. (NT) -- Traci_Mc, 13:50:02 07/23/07 Mon
  • Sounds good! Another one for the list. :D Thanks, EM! (NT) -- Judie, 18:25:01 07/29/07 Sun
  • This sounds like a keeper. I'll look for it. (NT) -- becca beccabee, 05:29:16 07/30/07 Mon
  • Ditto what Judie and 'becca said, I'll look out for it, sounds like a good one. (NT) -- Margy, 14:42:13 08/03/07 Fri
  
  

  ---

  
  
• the Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B -- Syl, 16:17:30 06/15/07 Fri
  A fascinating review sent in by Marg B. Thanks, Marg! Another great one!
  
  
  
  TITLE: The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B
  
  AUTHOR: Sandra Gulland
  
  GENRE: Historical Fiction
  
  
  
  
  On the odd occasion that I have read books that are in diary format, particularly historical fiction, they haven't necessarily worked for me, so if I had realised that this was the format of this book, I probably wouldn't have picked it up. This is, however, one of those books where the diary format really, really works.
  
  We meet the legendary Josephine Bonaparte when she is Rose, a young planter's daughter who lives in Martinique. She visits a fortune teller who tells her that she will be married unhappily, she will be a widow, and she will be a queen - all very unlikely given that she is uneducated, and from a poor family. Following tragedy within her family she is however betrothed to a man she has never met before and therefore has to make the trip to France - a country in uproar.
  
  She marries Alexandre, Vicomte de Beaurharnais, and eventually provides him with two children, but the marriage is an unhappy one, and he is unfaithful to her many times. Eventually they undertake a legal separation, but there are many custody issues, particularly around their son, Eugene.
  
  All of this takes place against a background of revolution, and eventually Josephine has to try and walk the fine line between being a revolutionary (necessary if one wants to keep one's head intact), but still being loyal and doing all she can to save her aristocratic friends.
  
  As Alexandre becomes more and more important in government, Rose finds herself under more and more scrutiny because she is still his wife, and when the tide turns against Alexandre they both find themselves in Carmes prison. Even during such a worrying time as that, Alexandre and Rose still find ways to torment each other, until finally Alexandre's name is on the list - which means that he is on his way to meet Madame Guillotine. Rose's name is also called, but she is deemed too sick to be killed, and luckily, through her influential friends, she is released, thus narrowly avoiding the same fate as her husband.
  
  Once out of prison, life in post revolutionary Paris begins, and Rose, now a widow, becomes the mistress of several men. Whilst never rich, she does have influence, and does seem to fraternise with many men who form part of the new government. It is through these men that she meets Napoleon. At first, she is unimpressed, but as he pursues her, she eventually begins to see some advantages to being linked with this man.
  
  This book is the first book in a trilogy, and focuses mainly on Rose's life prior to meeting Napoleon. He only appears in the last few chapters of the book, presumably as a kind of teaser for the next book in the series. And if that was the intention then it definitely works, because I have already requested the next book in the series.
  
  Gulland is very successful at giving some idea of what life must have been like for people in France during this turbulent time - never knowing whether or not your neighbour that you have known for years might be the one person who will turn you in for disloyalty, not knowing if each time you see your friends may be the last time you see them, struggling to provide food and education to your children.
  
  Through it all Rose manages to maintain her dignity, humour and grace. Overall, this was a very entertaining read, about a very interesting woman who lived in very turbulent times, and is still remembered today.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I just picked this up at a used book sale yesterday, sounds good! (NT) -- Lady Tait, 10:04:29 06/17/07 Sun
  • I read the whole trilogy and really enjoyed it. It inspired me to read more history. I sent the set to a friend who enjoyed it too! (NT) -- LaurenG, 13:39:16 06/17/07 Sun
  • Thanks, Marg. I am going to look for this one, especially since the other folks recommend it. You seem to have picked a really good one. (NT) -- becca beccabee, 06:05:42 06/21/07 Thu
  • I read these books, and learned a lot about not only Josephine, but the Napoleonic era in general. We were living in Brussels at the time, where just a few miles south is Waterloo - the site of his defeat by the British. (NT) -- jayne, 07:26:37 07/09/07 Mon
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Lords of the White Castle -- Syl, 16:51:14 02/09/07 Fri
  TITLE: Lords of the White Castle
  
  AUTHOR: Elizabeth Chadwick
  
  GENRE: Historical fiction
  
  
  
  Fifteen year old Fulke Fitzwarin is a squire at the court of the teenage Prince John – spoiled youngest legitimate son of King Henry ll and Eleanor of Aquitaine. John plays a game of chess with Fulke and loses, but accuses him of cheating. Following events lead to Prince John and Fulke becoming bitter enemies.
  
  To avoid further confrontation, Fulke leaves the royal court, and serves as squire to Lord Theobald Walter, Master at Arms to the court. They travel to Ireland, with Fulke hoping to keep out of John’s way.
  
  Through the years, though, John’s petty jealousies and temper result in further strife for Fulke and his family. Once they owned lands on the Welsh Border Marches – mainly Whittington Castle - and Fulke petitions the return of the lands to his family, only to have John vindictively deny him and give Whittington instead to Morys FitzRoger for the sum of fifty marks. As a result, Fulke turns outlaw.
  
  Fulke with his band of rebels, including his five brothers and his wife, raid lands, abbeys and castles up and down the country, becoming a thorn in Prince John’s side. Reading this reminded me so much of the story of Robin Hood – lots of similarities!
  
  This is a stand alone novel, but reading another of Ms. Chadwick’s novels – Shadows and Strongholds – provides background to Fulke’s parents and how they lost Whittington.
  
  This huge book has so much more in it I haven’t done it justice in this review. The story is set in the rich background of Medieval England, with its sometimes harsh life and archaic customs. The reader certainly learns a lot about the social history of the time!
  
  I was introduced to Elizabeth Chadwick by my sister, who also hosed me! The first book I read – The Love Knot – got me well and truly hooked and I have now read most of her books. NB – this Elizabeth Chadwick is NOT to be confused with an American romance author of the same name ( Bride Fire ) .
  
  Ms Chadwick researches thoroughly and gives a lot of her research information at the back of each book. Quite a few of her non-royal characters, like Fulke, actually existed, and it’s Ms. Chadwick’s narrative skill that transports the reader to the courts of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries.
  
  If you go to: www.elizabethchadwick.com you’ll find all the information on all her books, plus other stuff, like the re-enactment group she’s in, her MySpace site, etc, etc.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • My 4 favorite Authors of all time are Diana (of coarse) Juiliet Marillier, Sharon Penman and Elizabeth Chandwick. Their books are all keepers. (NT) -- Alissa, 03:09:37 02/10/07 Sat
  • I have only read one Elizabeth Chadwick, but I really enjoyed it! I have put all her others on the list, including this one, and hope to get to them soon! (NT) -- Marg, 04:43:37 02/10/07 Sat
  • She is one of my favorites too -- in the great tradition of Anya Seton. This one is a wonderful read, and I also recommend The Winter Mantle, The Falcons of Montabard, and Shadows and Strongholds. I did think she kind of missed a beat with The Marsh King's Daughter, but Chadwick definitely belongs on the bookshelf right next to Anya Seton and Sharon Kay Penman. (NT) -- pamelalass, 16:34:28 02/10/07 Sat
  • I read that. I liked it very much. Pamelalass I agree with you on the Marsh Kings Daughter, but I did enjoy reading the whole series. Has she come out with anything new? (NT) -- tanya_p, 18:33:36 02/10/07 Sat
    • Her latest book came out not too long ago called The Scarlet Lion. It follows on from The Greatest Knight, which is the one book by her that I have read and really enjoyed. (NT) -- Marg, 19:35:24 02/10/07 Sat
      • I enjoyed The Greatest Knight too -- good to hear that the sequel is out! (NT) -- pamelalass, 19:47:41 02/10/07 Sat
  • I LOVE Elizabeth Chadwick's work and 'Lords of the White Castle' is one of my favourites. It was one of those books I couldn't get out of my head for days after I finished it. I kept picking it up and rereading bits of it. It was a few days before I could start another book. I am at present reading 'The Wild Hunt'. I'd thoroughly recommend that as well, I'm really enjoying it and don't want it to end. (NT) -- Kirsten, 02:49:09 02/11/07 Sun
    • Hi Kirsten! Have you read The Running Vixen? I still haven't found that one, but I loved The Wild Hunt too! (NT) -- pamelalass, 07:30:55 02/11/07 Sun
      • Pamela! See my posts below. I didn't see this message until after I'd posted about 'The Running Vixen' further down the page. (NT) -- Kirsten, 09:57:06 02/11/07 Sun
  • Just how huge is it? (NT) -- becca beccabee, 04:36:18 02/11/07 Sun
    • Becca her books are not that big, its nothing I couldnt get through in a couple of days. (NT) -- tanya_p, 06:28:38 02/11/07 Sun
    • I have the small paperback copy of Lords of the White Castle and it is just short of 700 pages. (NT) -- Kirsten, 07:05:18 02/11/07 Sun
  • I clicked on the link provided above by Syl and I think 'The Running Vixen' is the only one I haven't got. I'm delighted to see it's a sequel to 'The Wild Hunt' which I still haven't finished but am enjoying immensely. The downside is that it's so expensive, being currently out of print - one of the copies on sale at Amazon is £77 !!!!! The cheapest is the paperback and they want £21 for that! (NT) -- Kirsten, 08:31:35 02/11/07 Sun
    • Me again, but I've just discovered another book I haven't got and that is 'The Leopard Unleashed' which follows on from 'The Running Vixen' - have I got a treat in store, I love her books. Unfortunately, it also is silly money. (NT) -- Kirsten, 08:36:30 02/11/07 Sun
      • Me too! These are the same two I've yet to read, and for the same reason -- impossible to find a copy of either at a regular price. And the library here doesn't have them. I try to think of it as something to look forward to, since it means I haven't run through all her books yet! (NT) -- pamelalass, 10:20:20 02/11/07 Sun
        • Pamela.....Have you read 'Shields of Pride'? (NT) -- Kirsten, 11:49:24 02/11/07 Sun
          • That one's hard to find too, but I did get it from the library. I think she has gotten better since the really early books. I've never run across another author whose early paperbacks are so in demand that the prices are so extraordinary -- you'd think someone would realize there's a strong market and re-issue them! (NT) -- pamelalass, 14:49:10 02/11/07 Sun
            • They are being reissued over here, with new and very tasteful covers - see the link to her website above. EC is also re-editing them and updating them in the light of new historical research etc. It amazes me as I have bought all my copies, with the exception of the last two, from a chain of discount bookshops called 'The Works'. I've never been able to get her books from WH Smiths or Waterstone's, our biggest bookshops. (NT) -- Kirsten, 14:55:40 02/11/07 Sun
              • I hope the US publisher will follow suit! Clearly there's a market here too. (NT) -- pamelalass, 16:54:34 02/11/07 Sun
    • I got The Wild Hunt for about $20 on Ebay, which was much cheaper than the prices on Amazon. You might want to keep an eye out there. One other thing, she has just done a rewrite on Daughters of the Grail and rereleased it. Anyone read that? This book was previously released under the title Children of Destiny as well as the title Daughters of the Grail. (NT) -- Marg, 13:25:15 02/11/07 Sun
      • Daughters of the Grail has just been released in paperback in the UK. Several of us in the UK have bought it as it is on sale in Tesco, our biggest supermarket for only £3.73 which is fantastic. It's my next book to read after I finish 'The Wild Hunt'. (NT) -- Kirsten, 13:41:13 02/11/07 Sun
        • I have read the original Daughters of the Grail, and I thought it was much weaker than her other books -- it was convoluted and fantastical and probably needed a good rewrite. Thanks for the reminder about Ebay, Marg! It's still amazing to pay so much for used trade paperbacks, isn't it? I wish the publisher would re-issue her earlier books too. (NT) -- pamelalass, 14:42:23 02/11/07 Sun
          • The copy I've got is the updated, reworked version. The other UK hosers who've read it, like it. I'll let you know what I think after I've read it. (NT) -- Kirsten, 15:00:45 02/11/07 Sun
            • please do let me know - I'm counting on it! (NT) -- pamelalass, 16:53:29 02/11/07 Sun
  • I've not read any of her work now, but with the comments here, and those flying around the UKHoser site, I do intend to start. Thanks for the review Syl. (NT) -- Margy, 06:44:16 02/15/07 Thu
  • I've just spent the entire weekend (and part of last week) reading some of Ms. Chadwick's books - Wild Hunt, Running Vixen, Conquest and currently Winter Mantle. Unfortunately, those are the only ones available in our library system and in the city, so I'm going to have to go looking online for the others if I want to read them - love the history; was a big fan of William the Conqueror way back when and devoured a number of books about his time, his life, his wife and story. Ms. Chadwick makes that time in history come alive (somewhat like HERself and her time)! (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 08:21:34 02/26/07 Mon
  • I just finished this book and it was very engaging. The characters were so wonderful and the story was exciting. I am looking forward to reading some of her other books. (NT) -- Lisa W, 22:26:16 06/15/07 Fri
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Gentlemen and Players -- Syl, 16:19:46 04/20/07 Fri
  Here's one that was sent in by Tooki. Thanks, Tooki!
  
  
  
  
  
  TITLE: Gentlemen and Players
  
  AUTHOR: Joanne Harris
  
  GENRE: Contemporary fiction, maybe suspense, almost a psychological thriller
  
  
  
  I will always pick up a book by this wonderful author (Chocolat, Five Quarters of the Orange, Coastliners, Holy Fools) and this one was no disappointment. Her characters are so brilliantly drawn and her stories so tightly and intricately plotted. DH read it first and at one point he said loudly “Oh my God!” and started flicking backwards though the pages. When I read it I saw why - what a twist! I am keen to read the book again in the light of what you come to know later.
  
  The main narrator has come as a staff member to an English Public School (this of course is what everywhere else calls a private school) to bring the school to its knees in an act of vengeance for a grim childhood incident.
  
  The story of the carefully plotted revenge runs alongside the gradually unfolding historical story. In addition, there is a second narrator who is an old master at the school on the verge of retirement who was witness to the culmination of the historical story.
  
  Joanne Harris’ books are so well written, so evocative of people and places and feelings, and this I think is her best yet. Rather hard to put down though, be prepared to burn the midnight oil as they say!
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Sounds really good Tooki, I might have to pick it up for a holiday read next month. (NT) -- Margy, 15:09:27 04/21/07 Sat
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Amazing Grace -- Syl, 16:22:14 04/06/07 Fri
  Here’s a very topical one sent in by Susannah. Thought it would be a good tie-in with the recent film release. Thanks, Susannah!
  
  
  
  
  
  TITLE: Amazing Grace
  
  AUTHOR: Eric Metaxas
  
  GENRE: Biography
  
  
  It's rare that I meet up with a biography so compelling and entertaining that I don't want to put it down. This account of the life of William Wilberforce is that book. Many are now familiar with Wilberforce and his story from the movie of the same name. The movie can't possibly be as good!
  
  William Wilberforce was the man who rightfully gets the lion's share of the credit for the abolition of slavery in England in the early 1800s. It was a long fight, lasting until three days before his death.
  
  But the really interesting thing about the book is the descriptions of the state of religion and morality in 18th century England, and of course the fascinating personality of Wilberforce himself. He was only five foot three, but a giant of a humanitarian.
  
  Metaxas deftly skewers the prevailing attitudes of England in the Georgian period, and his witty prose kept me reading late, but there is a depth of seriousness and scholarship here that also won my respect. And it had the unexpected result of making me view the 21st century world with a little more clarity also.
  
  Even if you're not normally a non-fiction reader, I recommend this one. But bring a couple of hankies for the ending--you'll need them.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I really enjoyed the movie, so I've been looking at this one. I'm glad to hear it's good. Another one to add to the list... (NT) -- Lynn H., 19:11:17 04/07/07 Sat
  • Thanks, Susannah - it sounds great. I enjoy biographies so this will be one for the list. :D (NT) -- Judie, 09:25:32 04/08/07 Sun
  • Thanks for this review, I have been considering the movie, now I want to read the book. (NT) -- Margy, 12:17:16 04/12/07 Thu
  
  

  ---

  
  
• A Good Dog -- Syl, 16:22:38 03/09/07 Fri
  This one was sent in by Madelyn. You did good, lassie, thanks!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  TITLE: A Good Dog
  
  AUTHOR: Jon Katz
  
  GENRE: Pet biography
  
  
  Having read some of Jon Katz’s recountings of his adventures at Bedlam Farm on Slate.com, I couldn’t wait to get it and read it. It wasn’t in my hand twenty-four hours, and I had read it cover to cover.
  
  A Good Dog is an extraordinary love story of a man and his lifetime dog. Some of us are dog lovers, I was told once, and some of us are dog people. There’s a difference. Jon Katz is a dog person. He “gets” dogs. He is willing to go as far as he must to make sure his dogs know they are loved and wanted and cared for and that they are happy. When they aren’t, he wants to know why.
  
  His love for Orson goes far beyond what most people feel for their pets. The lengths he was willing to go to are far beyond what most people would do to make their dog happy, too.
  
  A Good Dog includes some of the other characters of Bedlam Farm as well. I had previously read stories of Rose, the donkeys, Mother the cat and Winston the Rooster. But this book is about Orson, and he is the main focus.
  
  A Good Dog is a true story, and therefore, not my usual reading fare. I tend to shy away from non-fiction. It is usually, in my opinion, dry and stating facts that I already know, like reading a textbook. I read for entertainment. This book managed to entertain me and make me think all at once.
  
  I would recommend this book to anyone who loves dogs. In the end, Jon has to make some hard decisions regarding Orson, some that won’t be popular, by any means. But he makes those decisions based on information and his own morals, and they are decisions he has to live with.
  
  Having an Orson in my life, I don’t envy when I’ll have to make these decisions, but maybe what I learned in this book will help me accept the decisions a little easier.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Oooh, the face on the cover is killing me. What a lovely dog. Thanks for the review, I'll have to look for the book. My DH will read it and then tell me if it is O.K. or if I am too tenderhearted for it. (NT) -- becca beccabee, 18:23:31 03/10/07 Sat
  • Sounds like a nice story. My sister's dog is about 13 now and I think he's on his last legs .... I don't know what she's going to do without him. He's like another kid for her, now that her sons are grown up. Thanks, Madelyn! (NT) -- Judie, 00:16:18 03/11/07 Sun
  • "You did good lassie" very cute Syl! Thanks for the review Madelyn, I'm going to look this one out for a read. (NT) -- Margy, 13:56:56 03/24/07 Sat
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Dark Birthright -- Syl, 16:23:12 02/23/07 Fri
  This was sent in by Beccabee. Thanks, Becca!
  I know the banners are constantly at the top of the boards, advertising this book, but it would be nice to get opinions here from those who have already read it and maybe draw a few new readers in. I haven’t got the book yet, but I’m planning to! - Syl
  
  
  TITLE: Dark Birthright
  
  AUTHOR: Jeanne Treat
  
  ILLUSTRATOR: Jane Star Weil
  
  GENRE: Historical Fiction
  
  
  Dark Birthright is, in its essence, a story about families.
  
  The family of protagonists, the Hays - Alex, Jessie, Maggie, Ian and Dughall, is a loving family, simple, devout, devoted to service. The family of antagonists, the Earl of Huntly and his son Gilbert Gordon, is not so simple. Powerful, landed, ruthless, they still exhibit very human frailties and invite compassion rather than total disdain.
  
  The characters that orbit these two families and shape their lives and futures are well drawn and likeable, even lovable. The “main man”, the Duke - the Lord James Drake, trying to retrieve family from the vicious suffering caused by the Earl, is a crusty, principled & likeable old man. Orbiting characters such as the lovely and goodhearted Keira, the pagan priestess, Kate, the rotten, sensual mistress, Fang, the disgusting torture master, and Jamieson and Murdock, the charismatic, likeable “deputies” of the Drake and Gordon families are clearly painted and easy to understand.
  
  The author has the gift of providing differing voices for her characters. The Hays, uncomplicated folks, speak in uncomplicated voices. The nobility, while perhaps not properly noble, reflect their upbringing, education and world view in their own more complex voices. With each character, simple or not, the heart of all matters and focus of thought and action always comes back to family.
  
  Of further note, the illustrations in this book are exquisite. Kudos to Jane Star for excellent evocative work.
  
  Dark Birthright is easy to recommend to the lovers of historical fiction with a moral focus.
  --
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I was supposed to get this at some point, but it hasn't arrived yet. Must chase it up! (NT) -- Marg, 17:00:27 02/23/07 Fri
  • I received this email from Jeanne last night>>>>>>> -- becca beccabee, 04:25:29 02/24/07 Sat
  • Thanks for the review, I also haven't read it yet but I plan to. What wonderful news that e-mail held for Jeanne, that's so cool! (NT) -- Margy, 11:12:53 02/24/07 Sat
  • I read this book as well and enjoyed it tremendously. Jeanne made the story so vivid, I really wanted to do something nasty to the Earl and his son! Thanks Becca, great review. (NT) -- Ruthgold18, 08:16:29 02/26/07 Mon
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Five People You Meet in Heaven -- Syl, 16:08:11 08/06/06 Sun
  
  This one was sent in by Margy. Thanks, Margy!!
  
  
  
  TITLE: The Five People You Meet in Heaven
  
  AUTHOR: Mitch Albom
  
  GENRE: Fiction
  
  
  
  Despite the title, this is not a religious book. This is a great book though - a life affirming book, and a great story.
  
  This is the story of Eddie. On his 83rd birthday, Eddie dies at Ruby Pier, a fun fair where he has worked and lived his entire life.
  
  Eddie’s death is not the end of the book, but the beginning, and so he begins to meet 5 people in Heaven. These 5 people have been hugely influential in his life, although some of them are complete strangers to him. Through them we follow the story of Eddie’s life, his childhood, his marriage, his war years, his loneliness and happiness, and his after-life.
  
  Eddie dies when a ride fails, and he acts to save the life of a little girl who is in the path of a falling fair ground cart. He wakes up in the afterlife, and finds that Heaven is not what he expected at all, not some lush Garden of Eden, but a place where he meets with those people who have shaped his life.
  
  This is a quick read novel, but one that will stay with you long after you finish it.
  
  Now I need to go and get Mitch Albom’s other novel, Tuesdays with Morrie. That also looks fascinating.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I really enjoyed this book. I read it thinking I knew what would happen, but I was surprised and touched. It's a quick read, and quite inspirational. There is purpose in life, even if you can't see it or understand it. Now, my DH read "Tuesdays" and told me I wouldn't like it-- too sad, he said. So Syl, if you do read it, please report back here! (NT) -- JulieQ, 22:09:45 08/06/06 Sun
  • Loved it!! The TV movie wasn't bad either ;0) (NT) -- Shari, 08:59:07 08/08/06 Tue
    • I didn't know there'd been a movie, I'm sure it didn't make it to the UK. (NT) -- Margy, 12:15:34 08/08/06 Tue
      • Jack Lemmon starred as Maurie and it might have been a tele movie. It was very good! (NT) -- Lolkate, 17:30:32 09/23/06 Sat
  • Mitch Albom is one of the reasons my family has always subscribed to The Detroit Free Press. He's a fabulous writer whether he's talking baseball, football and hockey; politics or the even deeper topics he touches on in his books and sometimes in his newspaper columns. I loved Tuesdays With Morrie but I have to admit I haven't gotten to this one yet. One of these days... I hear he has a new novel coming out later this year. Starbucks(!) is going to help promote it. (NT) -- Lynn H., 20:31:21 08/08/06 Tue
  • Thanks for the great review, Margie. Tuesdays with Morrie is excellent, you'll like it. (NT) -- beccabee, 11:18:13 08/13/06 Sun
  • Excellent book Margy!! I loved it and like Julie said it was very inspirational. Just the littlest things we do has a ripple effect on others, truly amazing. It really made me more conscious of the things I do and say. (NT) -- Noelle, 12:29:04 08/13/06 Sun
  • I can remember Tuesdays with Morrie making a big impact here. Never got to read it then but might do a double now. Thanks Margy. (NT) -- Sheila, 03:18:08 08/14/06 Mon
  • Thanks, Margy - I'm moving this up on my TBR pile. I read Tuesdays when it first came out and it was wonderful. It's one of those books people should read every 5 - 10 years as they age - what a beautiful example of aging with grace and a gift of thought-provoking behavioral gems. It made me want to grow old like Morrie, not like the crotchety old pain that PMS gives me glimpses of *G*. This second book must be great as well! (NT) -- MaryJ, 14:34:23 08/15/06 Tue
  • Thank you for this review! I had resisted this book because I thought it was going to be like something written by John Grey, the Mars/Venus dimwit. Now, I think I'd really like to read it. Thanks! (NT) -- Lemora, 22:56:25 08/17/06 Thu
  • The Author has a new book coming out soon, and it sounds like it is going to be another inspirational read. (NT) -- Marg B, 16:54:27 08/20/06 Sun
  • Just finished it yesterday...a very good read...makes you really think about your purpose in life but not in a super heavy way...very sweet. (NT) -- poppet, 09:23:57 09/08/06 Fri
  • Did anyone wonder who their 5 people would be? Or for which people you'd be one of their 5? (NT) -- AngieC, 08:32:29 09/14/06 Thu
  • I've not read the book Tuesdays with Murray, but I was just telling my dad about this film yesterday - it's got Jack Lemmon in it - whom I adore. Its a fab story. (NT) -- Clara F, 06:05:37 01/15/07 Mon
  • I have this in my TBR pile! (NT) -- Leigh, 22:03:19 01/28/07 Sun
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Anybody Out There? -- Syl, 16:21:12 11/24/06 Fri
  This was sent in by Sheila,in OZ. Thanks, Sheila!
  
  
  
  TITLE : Anyone out there
  AUTHOR : Marian Keyes
  GENRE : Chick Lit (sort of)
  
  
  I had never read a book by this author and I saw a lady at the swimming pool with it and I asked her what is was like, and she said strange. That comment came back to me afterwards as probably very accurate.
  
  We start off with Anna, who obviously usually resides in New York, but at the present she is at home with mum and dad, recuperating from some sort of accident. She is desperately missing her husband but he seems to have disappeared.
  
  The plot of the book hooks you in quickly as you want to know what has happened and what is going on. Anna’s story is the part of the book which called to me the most. Her bewilderment and devastation brought me to tears a couple of times in the book and there are not many books that do that to me. I can easily imagine anybody in her position doing and feeling as she does, and that to me is what made it enjoyable, it was ‘relatable’.
  
  The other main story line is a typically chick lit story involving her sister and a wacky involvement in a private investigation into a criminal element in their part of the world.
  
  To me it seems Keyes has written two books and melded them together in bits, though to be fair perhaps some readers will need the quirky relief offered by the sister’s story line. I could almost have done without the other plot line, it struck me as too silly, but I confess to feeling that way about a lot of the Chick Lit genre.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I am just about to read this! I have read the other books about the other Walsh sisters before getting to this one. I wonder if that will help with the enjoyment of it! (NT) -- Marg B, 17:38:12 11/25/06 Sat
  • Your first paragraph was fabulous, Honey! If I see this one I will probably pick it up. (NT) -- becca beccabee, 20:11:06 11/25/06 Sat
  • I haven't read any of her books, I admit I've been a bit put off of 'chick lit' though in reality I only ever read one book that'd fall into that category, and it was a fun light read. Thanks for the review. (NT) -- Margy, 15:53:14 12/15/06 Fri
  • I've read a couple of Keyes books and I've enjoyed them. I think with her books, she writes about the same family - just changes from sister to sister. At least that's what I've been lead to believe from having read two or three of her books so far. (NT) -- Leigh, 22:02:02 01/28/07 Sun
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Dark Mirror -- Syl, 16:25:41 03/03/06 Fri
  Here’s an interesting one sent in by Linda B. Thanks, Linda!
  
  
  
  TITLE: The Dark Mirror, Book I of the Bridei Chronicles
  
  
  TITLE: The Dark Mirror
  
  AUTHOR: Juliet Marillier
  
  GENRE: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
  
  
  The Dark Mirror is a beautifully written first book in a new fantasy trilogy by Australian author Juliet Marillier. Based on a real historical figure in the Pictish King list, Bridei (ruled 554-584), The Dark Mirror tells the story of Bridei, the son of a foreign king and royal daughter of the Pictish kingdom of Fortriu (present day Scotland). Bridei has been fostered from the age of 4 by the powerful Druid, Broichan, and educated to present himself as candidate for the kingship upon the death of the present king.
  
  While proving to be an apt pupil and devoted to his studies, Bridei is not told of the plans for his future, and is a very lonely child in Broichan's household. At about the age of 6 he wakes on a cold Midwinter's Eve and discovers a baby girl in a basket at the door of the keep and everything changes for Bridei. The child is clearly one of the Fair Folk, and against the wishes of both Broichan and the rest of the household, Bridei insists that she is a gift from the moon goddess, sent to him as his responsibility.
  
  As the children grow up together they develop a deep and lasting bond and Broichan becomes more and more convinced that Tuala, as the girl is named, will be an impediment to Bridei's future. He refuses to consider the possibility than Tuala is necessary for Bridei's success and the plan to save Fortriu, a kingdom beset by incursions both by the Gaels and the spread of the Christian faith. Bridei and Tuala must pass many tests and obstacles placed in their paths both by Broichan and the Fair Folk.
  
  Little is known about the Pictish people, but Juliet Marillier has built an entirely believable world based on the culture. Bridea, Tuala and all the characters are well drawn and three dimensional.
  
  While The Dark Mirror does not pack quite the emotional "punch" that Marillier's Sevenwaters Trilogy did-at least not for me-I am looking forward eagerly to the second book, The Blade of Fortriu. Not only do I want to know more about Bridei and Tuala, I'm intrigued by several characters that promise to reappear in the future. Most highly recommended!
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Hmmm, sounds quite good. I may check this one out soon. Thanks for the review, Linda! (NT) -- Bandruidh, 19:03:24 03/04/06 Sat
  • I read this book quite recently and loved it. I have read all of her book's and again love them all. I cant wait to hear more about Bridei and Tuala. When is the next book due out? (NT) -- Alissa, 23:56:58 03/04/06 Sat
  • Thanks for the in-depth great review! (NT) -- beccabee, 15:48:03 03/05/06 Sun
  • Wow, this sounds great. Thanks for the heads up, I've nver read any of her writing yet. (NT) -- Margy, 14:55:40 03/06/06 Mon
  • I loved the Sevenwaters Trilogy, so I'll definitly read this one too, thanks. (NT) -- FranS, 21:17:12 03/06/06 Mon
  • I love this book! Almost as much as the Sevenwaters trilogy actually. I can't put my finger on what it is, but there's just something special about it! The Blade of Fortriu is out already in Australia, soon in the UK and in Autumn for the US, according to Juliet Marilliers website :o) (NT) -- Deb H, 13:21:06 03/08/06 Wed
    • Really out in OZ. Grrrr be back soon*G*. (NT) -- Alissa, 18:57:16 03/08/06 Wed
    • Just ordered Blade of Fortriu from amazon.uk! Couldn't wait for out to come out in the US after reading excerpt on Juliet Marillier's website. Thanks for feedback on review! (NT) -- Linda B, 12:37:37 03/16/06 Thu
  • Thanks for the review, I'd never heard of this author or the books, So I ordered the sevenwaters triology and The Dark Mirror. I'm really enjoying the Daughterof the Forest . Thanks, I needed a good book to read. For the past 10 years(since I've been hosed) I very seldom fond a book I really can get into. This is one ,Yea! (NT) -- Lori P., 09:36:58 03/11/06 Sat
  • I read the Seven Waters Trilogy last year and really enjoyed it. I will put this one on my TBR list. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 07:36:02 01/10/07 Wed
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Red Tent -- Syl, 16:22:22 02/17/06 Fri
  Here’s one sent in by Marg B. Thanks, lass! This sounds like a fascinating book and I know for a fact it is the inspiration for a quilt for the future by a certain hoser!
  
  
  TITLE: The Red Tent
  
  AUTHOR: Anita Diamont
  
  GENRE: Historical Fiction
  
  
  
  Normally when I think of historical fiction as a genre, for me it is generally going to be about royalty of the years after about 1000AD and usually British, but not exclusively. However, I recently read The Red Tent by Anita Diamant, set in ancient times in Mesopotamia, Canaan and Egypt, and am really glad that I expanded my range of times to accommodate this book.
  
  The Red Tent is the story of Jacob's daughter Dinah. She is mentioned in Genesis in the Bible and in Chapter 34 we are told the story of what happened to her. What Anita Diamant has done is filled in the outlines as provided in the Old Testament, telling stories of what it was like growing up as the only daughter of Jacob (who came to be regarded as one of the major characters of the Old Testament – no less than the father of Israel), of her life with her mothers, what it was like to practice as a midwife in those times.
  
  Jacob had four wives, two of whom were named as sisters in the Old Testament, and the other two being their servants. Diamant names them all as having the same father, but only two of them (the beautiful Rachel and her older sister Leah) were acknowledged by him. What this means for the Dinah we come to know is that all four women are both her mothers and her aunts.
  
  During Dinah’s childhood we come to know the four women, each of whom have different skills and hold different places in Jacob’s heart. We hear the stories of the Red Tent, where the women withdraw each month at the new moon for rest and fellowship, we hear the stories of the births of children, and of some deaths in childbirth of both mother and children. Most of all we are treated to what it may have been like to live in fellowship as a woman with other women in Old Testament times.
  
  Eventually, as Dinah grows she begins to follow one of her aunts and begins to train as a midwife. This brings her to the city of Shechem where Dinah’s life changes completely. In the Bible, once we hear of the events as they occurred at Shechem we hear no more of her, and here Diamant takes Dinah on a journey that leads Dinah to eventually live in Egypt.
  
  The story as written by Diamant is touching, and surprising, and gives plenty of thought provoking suggestions of how life may have lived in ancient times. The use of the household gods throughout the story surprised me a lot, but I can see how Diamant builds on what we have been told in the Bible and taken her story to this point from those references. I was so interested in this story I did find myself referring back to the Old Testament to try and work out which parts of the story were directly from there, and which parts were enhancements.
  
  I loved this book and would rate it as 5 out of 5. I was sorry when it ended, but I am sure there will come a time in the not too distant future where I will find myself revisiting the life and times of the only daughter of Jacob.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • This is one of my favorite books. I read it at just the right time in my life. It led me exactly to what you mentioned...reading more about Jacob and life in OT times. When you do research it more you will see that goddess worship was part and parcel of life then. Judaism is basically an earth-based religion. Very fascinating stuff. The Red Tent itself is very similar to the Moon Lodge of the Native Americans. Diamant creates wonderfully drawn characters who reach your heart. An important read! (NT) -- WhiteFox, 18:11:30 02/17/06 Fri
  • This book was great. I listened to it on CD and it was so beautifully narrated that it was like poetry. I found it so moving and couldn't wait to get into my car to hear more. Although it is a bit contraversial in Christian and probably Jewish circles because of the license taken by the author to mess with a biblical story. I just saw it as a fictional work based on real life, which it is, and thought it was beautiful. (NT) -- Reilly, 20:11:20 02/17/06 Fri
    • I also listened to it and thought the narrator was amazing. I think she really added something to the experience (NT) -- Marg B, 02:48:06 02/18/06 Sat
  • Great review, Marg. I read this book last summer in preparation for my course this term (Women in Holy Writ) and enjoyed it. Then I downloaded it to my pocket pc and listened to it over the past month. I love the narrator, she really adds to the story-it was a brilliant way of 'reading' the story again. I found it easier to concentrate on the questions I had to answer while listening to it. I am now doing my creative project around the story-I'm making a wall-hanging (quilted) depicting Dinah and other women in the red tent. Not sure why there was a controversy-it is a novel-not something the author said was true. I also have to thank the Hoser who sent me the book-thanks. Hosers are the best. (NT) -- Keira, 06:24:59 02/18/06 Sat
    • Bit of a coincidence Keira this being on here! Must be meant to be! (NT) -- Lolkate, 07:04:50 02/18/06 Sat
  • Love, love, love this book!!! (NT) -- LadyPeggyB, 15:16:12 02/19/06 Sun
  • I must echo the others - I love this book. It ranks up there in the top three or four ever for me. Anyone want to guess number 1? *g* (NT) -- AngieC, 17:48:24 02/28/06 Tue
    • Ummmm.....gi' us a clue! (NT) -- Marg B, 01:56:07 03/01/06 Wed
      • Well, let's see, there's this large, handsome Scot and a strong woman who just happens to time travel... *VBG* (NT) -- AngieC, 10:06:05 03/01/06 Wed
        • Hey, I am listening to a book just like that at the moment! (NT) -- Marg B, 04:15:21 03/02/06 Thu
  • Fantastic book! (NT) -- LCCorporatepoet, 14:34:55 04/10/06 Mon
  • I loved this book, however, I do agree with Reilly's comment above regarding it's being a bit controversial. Being raised in a very Christian home and with all the Bible studies and Sunday School attendance, I was quite familiar with the Bible's version. It was facinating to see how the author put twists and turns to it. Found myself saying, "Well, that could have happened...." I recommend this book to all women especially those with daughters.I read it enjoyed it and lightning did not strike me down. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 07:34:22 01/10/07 Wed
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Highest Tide -- Syl, 16:07:19 11/10/06 Fri
  This was sent in by Peggy B. Thanks for another good one, Peggy!
  
  
  
  
  TITLE: The Highest Tide
  
  AUTHOR: Jim Lynch
  
  GENRE: Popular Fiction
  
  
  This debut novel by Journalist Jim Lynch has received high acclaim far and wide -see the web site at The Highest Tide The setting and plotline made this a must read for me this summer.
  
  The protagonist, Miles O’Malley, is a 13 year-old boy living in a small community on south Puget Sound (Washington State, USA). Miles is an avid fan of Rachel Carson, author of Silent Spring and other works, and a skilled young naturalist in his own right.
  
  Miles spends much of his free time exploring the tidal flats of Skookumchuk Bay, collecting clams and other marine life to sell to restaurants and aquaria. On one such foraging expedition, Miles finds a giant squid–unheard of in the relatively shallow waters of Puget Sound. The squid is only the beginning of Miles’ surprising finds that summer.
  
  We get to know Miles through his relationships with the people in his life; his best friend, elderly Florence Dalessandro, his hormone-driven buddy Kenny Phelps, neighbor Judge Stegner and his daughter Angie. And, of course, his parents.
  
  The Highest Tide has been described as a "coming-of-age" story. And that, perhaps, is the best description. I found the story and characters interesting. As a biologist, I appreciated much of the plotline. I did, however, have trouble trying to figure out who Lynch’s audience is for this book. I found the adolescent conversations between Miles and Phelps somewhat annoying, yet the contrast between the two 13 year-olds was useful in establishing Miles’ uniqueness and endearing him to the reader.
  
  I am interested in reading the reaction of others to this book.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Peggy! I missed this one while I was away. I can see how it interested you, sort of your field, eh?! What a great review. Thanks! (NT) -- becca beccabee, 20:13:03 11/25/06 Sat
  • Upon your recommendation, I read this book recently. I loved all the information on marine life, tide pool creatures and exotic saltwater fish. Beyond piquing my scientific interest though, the story was poignant and often funny. This young boy has a very good sense of humour! I thoroughly enjoyed the read! (NT) -- Lady Tait, 10:41:54 01/01/07 Mon
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Kushiel's Scion -- Syl, 16:35:41 12/15/06 Fri
  TITLE: Kushiel’s Scion
  
  AUTHOR: Jacqueline Carey
  
  GENRE: Epic Fantasy (according to Amazon)
  
  
  
  This book starts a new trilogy in the "Kushiel" series. The first three books (Kushiel’s Dart, Kushiel’s Chosen, and Kushiel’s Avatar) comprise the Kushiel’s Legacy trilogy.
  
  The next three books (Kushiel’s Scion, Kushiel’s Justice, and ????) comprise a second separate, but connected, trilogy. Kushiel’s Scion could be read on its own, however, I feel the reader is best served by reading the books in order to fully understand how the characters and plots develop. The books proceed in chronological order.
  
  Imriel no Montreve de la Courcel was bred by traitors, reared in sanctuary, kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery, rescued and redeemed by Phaedre no Delaunay de Montreve and her consort Joscelin Verruil. Imriel is a Prince of the Blood, third in line to the throne of Terre d’Ange. Imriel is 14 years old.
  
  Kushiel’s Scion is the story of Imriel’s coming of age.
  
  Imriel struggles to find his place in his home country. The shadow of his parents’ treachery haunts him, as does his early history, and his dark heritage from the Shahrizai–the Scions of Kushiel.
  
  Imriel hates much of what he is. As the age of majority approaches, Imriel must confront his demons and learn his place in d’Angeline Society. He makes friends, discovers enemies, and seeks healing in many forms.
  
  The d’Angeline Queen has a plan for Imriel’s future, wedding her husband’s niece, heiress to the throne of Alba, securing the bonds between the two countries for generations to come. Not ready to accept this arrangement, Imriel leaves Terre d’Ange on a journey of self-discovery, traveling to Tiberium to attend University and reunite with his best friend, Eamonn, Prince of the Dalriada. In Tiberium, Imriel, posing as an impoverished scholar, studies natural philosophy, but also learns intrigue, covertcy, and warfare. All while being mindful of two tenets: "All Knowledge is Worth Having" and Elua’s Precept "Love as Thou Wilt."
  
  I found I could not put this book down, and did not want it to end. The next book in the series, "Kushiel’s Justice," is due to be released in 2007.
  ________________________________________
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • This sounds just as good as the others to me. Do we see much of Phaedre and Jocelin? The first trilogy was one of those rare finds where I found myself submerged in the story instead of outside reading. I cannot wait for this one, I am first on my library reservations. (NT) -- Sheila, 01:32:03 12/16/06 Sat
    • We see a fair amount of them in the beginning as Carey weans the reader over to Imriel's story ( which is haunted by the deeds of Phaedre, Jocelin, and all the rest). Once the story is turned fully over to Imriel, I promise you won't mind! Enjoy!! (NT) -- LadyPeggyB, 19:52:54 12/16/06 Sat
  • Sounds like an entire world to absorb. I might try the first if I can find it inexpensively. Not usually my type of book, but so many people have talked it up I might sample. Thanks Peggy! (NT) -- becca beccabee, 21:39:02 12/16/06 Sat
  • I'll have to read the first one, I know Peggy, you've been talking about the first series for a long time. I'll check to see if my library has it. Thanks for the review, lass. (NT) -- Noelle, 12:11:04 12/17/06 Sun
  • Sounds good, I think I will put the 1st three on my Xmas wish list, I've heard a lot of talk around here about how good they are. (NT) -- Margy, 09:55:56 12/18/06 Mon
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Alienist -- Syl, 16:21:51 10/27/06 Fri
  This one was sent in by Lady DuBois. Thanks, lass, looks very interesting!
  
  
  TITLE: The Alienist
  
  AUTHOR: Caleb Carr
  
  GENRE: Historical Fiction
  
  
  Loved this book, I read it some time ago but I'm planning a re-read.
  
  This is a wonderful thriller complete with twists and turns that will keep the reader on the edge of his/her seat or bed, which ever the case may be.
  
  Imagine it is the year 1896, the description "Serial Killer" has not yet been explored. This world of harrowing and as yet unknown behavior is being defined. We move through the streets and ghettos of NYC to follow a killer.
  
  This book is filled with grizzly midnight autopsies, hideous murders and the race to solve them. As you read it will give you a glimpse of the mental pathology of a Serial Killer. And for those of us who like a little romance with our thrillers, it has that too. I guarantee that you'll love this book.
  
  NOTE: Before the 20th century, those suffering from mental illness were thought of as "aliented" from both society and their own true selves. Those who studied these mental pathologies were known as "alienists"
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I always wondered about this book, Debbie. I think I will look for it now as it seems like a winner. Thanks! (NT) -- beccabee, 05:01:01 10/29/06 Sun
    • I liked this one, but have put it in my "pass along" pile. Not a keeper, but I will pass it on without any compunction as it was interesting and well written. (NT) -- becca beccabee, 20:15:15 11/25/06 Sat
  • Read this one awhile ago, and it's sequel. Not easy reading, but well done. (NT) -- Brookita, 18:07:31 11/26/06 Sun
  
  

  ---

  
  
• The Historian -- Syl, 15:54:36 09/08/06 Fri
  Here's another one sent in by Jayne. Thanks, lass! And it's good to be back!!
  
  
  TITLE: The Historian
  
  AUTHOR: Elizabeth Kostova
  
  GENRE: Fiction
  
  
  
  
  I loved this! It's about the search for the real Dracula by a young woman, and the story begins to interweave her story with that of her parents, and much of the book is their story.
  
  Dracula is presented in his historical reality as Vlad the Impaler, and the book is full of Eastern European culture and history. Very interesting details are presented as the search gains speed and intensity.
  
  Great book, and lots of good history and detail of the Carpathians, Romania, and Vlad the Impaler. Plus a love story thown in!
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I bought this book the first day I saw it in th eshops last year.....haven't got to it yet! I will one day! (NT) -- Marg B, 03:58:33 09/09/06 Sat
  • I really loved this book-read it last summer and it's in my TBR pile to re read. Her descriptions of places and people are just breath-taking and memorable. It's deliciously creepy, especially Vlad himself, but not a gore-fest. A super read, all around. (NT) -- Linda B, 14:05:35 09/09/06 Sat
  • This one is on my TBR list. I've heard reports of many people who loved it and others who just couldn't slog all the way through it - but I have nothing but good to say about the author. My writing group invited her to speak at one of our meetings, and although she said she had to decline because of her busy schedule, she took the time to send us a very pleasant handwritten note. I thought that was a nice gesture and something we really weren't expecting from someone with a book that big. (In more ways than one!) (NT) -- Lynn H., 19:50:11 09/10/06 Sun
  • I have read several magazine reviews on this one, some good and some so-so, but it was on our local area's best seller list for a long time. It does sound interesting. (NT) -- beccabee, 16:27:51 09/11/06 Mon
  • I thought the premise of this one was interesting, but I found the ending unsatisfying. (NT) -- Caitlin, 16:56:53 09/11/06 Mon
  • I'm impressed to see that someone actually managed to finish this book. I've tried 3 different times to read it. It is the kind of book that I normally love. But for some reason it just does not hold my interest. Good review, I'll keep it around and try again sometime. (NT) -- Cherie, 12:19:41 09/12/06 Tue
  • I was one of those people who had to slog through it, but I did get to the end. I found some of the passages to be overly long and wordy, so I skimmed a lot. I liked the idea of it, and am glad that I know the ending, but I don't think I'll reread it. (NT) -- AngieC, 08:31:45 09/14/06 Thu
  • I'm half way through this right now, and really enjoying it. It is a builder, a bit of a slow beginning for me, but suddenly (as I said) I'm half way through. Thanks for the rec. (NT) -- Margy, 09:11:17 09/24/06 Sun
  • My future DIL and I did a swop. She now has Outlander and I have this one. I tried reading it but found it awfully slow at the start. It has now been put on the TBR pile for when more time is available. (NT) -- LindaE, 13:55:06 11/12/06 Sun
  
  

  ---

  
  
• A Short History of Tractors in Ukranian -- Syl, 16:22:33 09/22/06 Fri
  This one was sent in by Trixiara. Looks like it’s a fun read!
  
  
  
  TITLE: A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian
  
  AUTHOR: Marina Lewycka
  
  GENRE: Fiction
  
  
  An easy read, but thought provoking book, with some laugh out loud scenes........
  
  For years, Nadezhda and Vera, two Ukrainian sisters raised in England by their refugee parents, have had as little as possible to do with each other, and they have their reasons. But now they find they'd better learn how to get along, because since their mother's death their ageing father has been sliding into his second childhood, and an alarming new woman has just entered his life.
  
  Valentina, a bosomy young synthetic blonde from Ukraine, seems to think their father is much richer than he is, and she is keen that he leave this world with as little money to his name as possible. If Nadazhda and Vera don't stop her, no one will.
  
  But separating their addled and annoyingly lecherous dad from his new love will prove to be no easy feat: Valentina is a ruthless pro, and the two sisters swiftly realize that they are mere amateurs when it comes to ruthlessness.
  
  As Hurricane Valentina turns the family house upside down, old secrets come falling out, including the most deeply buried one of them all, from the War, the one that explains much about why Nadazhda and Vera are so different.
  
  In the meantime, oblivious to it all, their father carries on with the great work of his dotage, a grand history of the tractor. *VBG*
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • What an odd book. It certainly sounds like fun. What or who turned you on to it? (NT) -- beccabee, 11:06:14 09/24/06 Sun
  • I read this last year and really enjoyed it, though a few details seemed a bt too much, not really believable. I've had a lot of experience with "refugees" and opportunists from East European countries, and for the most part, the book is quite accurate and it's a true-to-life-story. Enjoy! (NT) -- LizzieM., 13:39:41 09/24/06 Sun
  • It was reviewed on Woman's Hr on the radio and they enthused, and i wasn't disappointed. (NT) -- Trixiara, 22:02:48 09/24/06 Sun
  • I tried to read this last year, my DH really enjoyed it, but I couldn't get into it at all. (NT) -- Margy, 06:37:24 09/26/06 Tue
  • I borrowed this on cd from the Library. I thought it was OK but I wouldnt buy the book. (NT) -- LindaE, 13:52:06 11/12/06 Sun
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Sword and Blossom -- Syl, 16:23:58 10/13/06 Fri
  Here's one kindly sent in by Linda H. Thanks, lass!
  
  
  
  TITLE: Sword and Blossom: A British Officer's Enduring Love for a
  Japanese Woman
  
  AUTHORS: Peter Pagnamenta and Momoko Williams
  
  GENRE: Non-fiction
  
  
  A hundred years ago, as Japan was entering into the Russo-Japanese
  War, it was also forming an alliance with another island kingdom -
  Great Britain. Captain Arthur Hart-Synnot was one of several British
  Army officers sent to Tokyo to learn Japanese and the customs of his
  country's new allies. What was supposed to be a short-term
  assignment quickly turned into more when he met Masa Suzuki, a young
  woman working at the Tokyo officers' club. Unfortunately for the
  lovers, the treaty between their two countries did not last as long
  as their love for each other. The tragedy of two world wars hits
  close to home for both of them.
  
  The authors of this book pieced together the details of Arthur and
  Masa's relationship from the recollections of their daughter-in-law
  and quotes from some 800 letters Arthur sent Masa during the nearly
  40 years he knew her. (Her own letters unfortunately went missing
  some time during World War II, so our only hint of her voice in this
  book is when Arthur responds to something she's written in one of his
  letters.)
  
  After reading this book, I think somebody needs to write a novel or
  do a movie about this couple. There's certainly plenty of material
  for a good tearjerker here and I would love to see Masa fully fleshed
  out in a way non-fiction writers couldn't do without her missing
  letters.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I think you are right - this would sound good in novel form. For me, I don't enjoy books culled from letters, especially if the letters are quoted extensively, but the premise is intriguing. Thanks for the review! (NT) -- beccabee, 16:13:37 10/16/06 Mon
  • Thanks Linda, though it sounds way too sad for me. (NT) -- Margy, 13:19:17 10/17/06 Tue
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Oona: Living in the Shadows -- Syl, 16:20:05 07/21/06 Fri
  This looks like a good one, sent in by Beccabee. Thanks, lass! I don't often read biographies, but this looks interesting.
  
  
  TITLE: Oona: Living in the Shadows
  
  AUTHOR: Jane Scovell
  
  GENRE: Biography of Oona O’Neill Chaplin
  
  
  Evoking the moods of the mid-19th to the late 20th centuries,
  Oona traces this enigmatic woman’s lineage and offers reasons for
  the way she chose to live her life. With distinguished ancestors on both
  sides, Oona inherited the great good looks and intellect of the best of
  them while avoiding the alcoholism and drug addiction that plagued her
  parents & grandparents.
  
  Before her marriage Oona was most notably known as the daughter of
  Eugene O’Neill, the gaunt, moody, gifted playwright. Seeing little of
  her father after her sixth year, when Eugene left her mother for another
  woman, as a young girl she was totally reviled and rejected by him when
  she became a celebrity of the Paris Hilton ilk - famous for being
  famous. Her father never, ever spoke to her again after one last cruel
  letter written during this time, which was found in her effects when she
  died. At odds with her father's opinion, Oona was well-known as an
  intelligent, principled & loving girl.
  
  Looking for someone in whom she could invest herself, dating many once
  and future famous men during her days doing the town of L.A. with her
  best friends Carol Marcus & Gloria Vanderbilt, Oona came under the eye
  of Charlie Chaplin. He moved quickly to woo and win this beautiful young
  girl.
  
  And there the mystery begins. This eighteen year old Oona married the
  fifty-eight year old Charlie and began a marriage that lasted over
  thirty years and begat eight children. All those who knew the Chaplins
  swore of their devoted love and Oona’s total devotion to Charlie & his
  comfort and happiness. Their children talk of it too and how their
  parents’ tiny universe of two made its impact on their lives. Friends
  and relatives talk of her essential light, her goodness and her kindness.
  
  Oona married Charlie in spite of his long known irresistible pull to
  girls of illegal age and the scandals of his previous marriages and
  frequent affairs. She stayed with him through blacklisting and his
  self-imposed exile from the United States, the abandonment of the hubbub
  of excitement in the movie capitol to the sedate boredom of a villa in
  Switzerland. As a relatively young woman in her forties and early
  fifties she nursed Charlie in a difficult and painful old age and
  withdrawal from the world, while in despair she slowly fell into the
  alcohol addiction that had spelled so much misery in her family over the
  years.
  
  A fascinating, sometimes grim look at the life of a woman who chose to
  totally immerse herself in the life of her man. I was captivated by it
  from beginning to end.
  
  'becca (beccabee)
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • This looks excellent, 'becca, I've always been fascinated by Charlie Chaplin since seeing the movie with Robert Downey Jr. I'm definitely going to pick this up. Thanks!! (NT) -- Noelle, 02:30:23 07/23/06 Sun
  • Thanks, Beccabee, for this review and your email to me. I think there's a book out there detailing the gleesome threesome's many-decades-long friendship (Gloria, Oona, and Carol). Oona O'Neill Chaplin has long fascinated me (Geraldine Chaplin is one of my very favorite actresses) and I'll be looking for this one. Her ending as an alcoholic is truly tragic, considering who she was before. (By the way, have you read Gloria Vanderbilt's memoir about many of her love affairs, "It Seemed Important at the Time"? Gotta love that title! She also has another one about her son's suicide.) (NT) -- Lemora, 23:46:44 07/23/06 Sun
    • The books you mentioned are on my "mental list." I think it is funny that Anderson Cooper is constantly embarrassed by his elderly mother's memoirs of her lovers. What a hoot! (NT) -- beccabee, 21:50:25 07/26/06 Wed
  • Well done, 'bec! (NT) -- FranS, 19:25:52 07/26/06 Wed
  • Great looking review and book 'becca, and one I would definitly read. ALSO thanks for my book mark which arrived when I was off line and on holiday. Happy Summer to you my dear friend. (NT) -- Margy, 14:00:45 08/04/06 Fri
  
  

  ---

  
  
• Memoirs of a Geisha -- Syl, 16:31:15 02/03/06 Fri
  This was sent in by Serena a while ago. I thought I’d put it up on the board now, as it seems topical, what with the film just out. Brilliant job, Serena! Thanks!
  
  
  
  TITLE: Memoirs of a Geisha
  
  AUTHOR: Arthur Golden
  
  GENRE: Fiction
  
  
  I will admit to being a pop culture junkie. The reason I picked this book up is because I simply love the cinematography that has been presented in recent years by such films as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Hero, and House of Flying Daggers. I saw a sneak peek of cuts from the upcoming movie Memoirs of a Geisha, and it seems to be filmed much as Hero was...great expressive use of color to tell a story. Couple that with a childhood of oriental interests in martial arts & all things Japanese, and I had a dual interest. So, I thought I’d better get my hands on the book, so I have the actual text in mind when I see the movie.
  
  I was pleased by my reading experience. I will not, however say that the book is as good as I hoped it would be.
  
  The text deals with the life of a young girl from a fishing village in Japan, named Chiyo, and her transformation as a peasant into a celebrated geisha called Sayuri of Gion in Kyoto. It also covers her maturation from a child, into a young woman during the pre and post WWII years, and her trials in the form of a vengeful geisha named Hatsumomo.
  
  The best aspect of this book is its description of the life of a geisha. You can feel the weight of the kimono and obi as Chiyo/Sayuri puts them on and learns to walk all over again under the immense weight of yards of gorgeous silk. You get to a point where you dread, and yet can't help but anticipate her first trip to the hairdressers for the "split peach" for the first time. As Chiyo becomes Sayuri, and puts on the traditional white face makeup for the first time, you thrill with the transformation that has been so long in coming for her. As an American, I was even mildly repulsed, but totally fascinated by the whole idea of the selling of her mizuage (virginity) to the highest bidder.
  
  I was also fascinated by the naivety of the main characters. I understand that "back then" things weren't so frank as they are about life in general and sex in particular, as they are today. You would think, from a western perspective that people who make thier livings in this manner would be more forthright about the issue. It isn't so. If anything, this book gives you the idea that geisha were, if possible, more naive than most, because it isn't about sex at all really. They aren't prostitutes, they are (as the book will tell you) considered artisans. Their main art being one of dance, and entertaining high-powered men with the use of "drinking games" and entertaining conversation, and other means of keeping a party going. Sex was (implied by the book) to be more for a geisha's danna, or patron, or "sugar daddy." Even Sayuri's mentor, Mameha, gives such a childish explanation of sex that you begin to wonder if these women ever see themselves as anything more than playthings of men.
  
  This naivety carries throughout the main character's life, as she moves about in a world that she has no education to understand, in her highly stylized and sheltered role as geisha. Her first realization comes when she lets go of the dream that she will escape this life that she was sold into and return to her home in the little fishing village she grew up in. Followed later by another realization that she is only geisha, when she is in Kyoto, or living as geisha. Otherwise, she would be no more than a regular peasant. No better than anyone else. Followed by a return to her life as geisha, when she realizes that to get what she wants, she has to take some control of her life instead of letting those around her plan everything for her. This tends to leave our protagonist very shallow throughout the book, and at times, less than sympathetic. You do care what happens to her, but at times mostly because you want to hear more about the ways of geisha than any real thought to her problems.
  
  This causes the last problem I had with the book. As someone on Amazon said...her greatest love (the one that is supposed to drive her throughout her young adulthood) is nothing more than a symbol really. He is her ultimate goal, yet you never get to know him other than through Sayuri's eyes, which puts him on a pedestal as something to eventually be attained, not really as a human she can actually love.
  
  So, a compelling read, though not one of the best books I've ever read. I liked the historical aspect of the story, and I liked Sayuri/Chiyo and her tale as well as the other characters. I hated Hatsumomo, as I was meant to, and I thrilled when she was finally booted into the night after many years of torture inflicted upon Sayuri, and others. A bit shallow on the impetous of the story in general, but entertaining as a whole. Pick it up, but don't expect to be greatly moved.
  
  Oh and one last thing. DO NOT pick it up looking for great sex, or other lascivious pursuits. They do not exist in this book.
  
  Then again, I also think Scarlett O'Hara is a shallow nitwit, so WTFDIK??? ;-)
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I was tremendously moved by the story. After living in Japan I have a much better understanding of the culture and especially the customs, interactions and expectations (geisha or otherwise) between men and women. Once I understood all of that, I read the book again and had many 'a-ha' moments and was also able to leave my western pov on the bedside table. I understood all of the characters and enjoyed their stories. (NT) -- Tracyg, 16:48:09 02/03/06 Fri
  • What a lovely review you have done, really in depth. I could tell you were moved by the story. I read the book a few years ago as a former boss "gave" it to me to see if I would like it and I knew I had to read it. I thought it slurped big time. Was one of the most depressing books I have ever read, in fact it is on my list of all time horrible reads. Although I must admit that the writing was excellent. (NT) -- beccabee, 17:26:53 02/03/06 Fri
  • This was one of the most beautifully-written books I have ever had the pleasure of reading. It immersed me in a completely different culture and way of thinking. As you pointed out, there's a lot that's messed up in this world of geisha - and Sayuri's fairy tale ending feels exactly like a fairy tale - but that didn't stop me from enjoying this book. I read it first five years ago and just re-read it a couple of weeks ago to see if it held up to my memory. It's not "Outlander," but it still has a place on my keeper shelf. (NT) -- Lynn H., 10:56:42 02/04/06 Sat
  • I also had difficulty understanding why she was so in love with the Chairman. They had so few interactions together. I think you're right, he became a symbol. Then, that ending! Totally lost me. A much better book was Gail Tsukiyama's "Women of the Silk". It takes place in China, not Japan, but still opens up the mysteries of the Orient to the reader, and the characters are far more realistic. That said, I am planning to see the Geisha movie. (NT) -- JulieQ, 20:50:22 02/05/06 Sun
    • When rewatching Disney's Cinderella after it came out on DVD recently, I had the same thought. "She doesn't even know him!" But that didn't stop me from enjoying the movie as a whole. I guess I don't mind if things in a story are realistic, as long as they are still enjoyable. (NT) -- Lynn H., 10:21:53 02/06/06 Mon
  • Memoirs of a Geisha -- Lady Terry, 13:56:40 07/22/06 Sat
  
  

  ---

  
  
• A Rose for the Crown -- Syl, 16:13:04 07/08/06 Sat
  This was sent in by Jayne. Short and sweet, but looks good! Thanks, Jayne!
  
  
  TITLE: A Rose for the Crown
  
  AUTHOR: Anne Easter Smith
  
  GENRE: Historical fiction
  
  
  Here’s a novel about the mistress of Richard III. I'm an Anglophile, so this appeals to me. Good story; not a great book, but a good read.
  
  Richard III is almost universally understood in light of Shakespeare's play of the same name, and the book makes a strong case for a very different take on his motivations and temperament. One thing he is always associated with is the disappearance from the Tower of his brother Edward's (Edward IV) two young sons. To this day no one knows what became of these young men, sadly believed to be murdered.
  
  This is but one of the historical events touched on in the book. There's a great deal about the War of the Roses, if that interests you.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I read this a couple of weeks ago, and really, really liked it. IIt is a pro Richard story for sure. There is enough day to day living information to satisfy the history fiends, and a good enough storyline to keep others interested as well. (NT) -- Marg B, 00:10:02 07/09/06 Sun
  • I saw this in the bookstore and thought it looked interesting. Have you read "The Sunne in Splendor" too? How does this one compare? (NT) -- Lynn H., 19:49:31 07/10/06 Mon
    • It's more focussed on an individual character as opposed to Penman who gives you background, more politics and those kinds of things. (NT) -- Marg, 02:59:06 07/11/06 Tue
  • Richard III is a fascinating character. Shakespeare took great liberties with the truth and we have been basing our opinion of Richard on fiction for hundreds of years. For another fabulous novel along the same lines, read Josephine Tey's classic Daughter of Time. Thank you for the review. I will consider A Rose for the Crown (NT) -- beccabee, 19:13:36 07/13/06 Thu
    • I am about to read Daughter of Time. I am looking forward to it. (NT) -- Marg B, 01:00:28 07/14/06 Fri
  • Thanks for this Jayne, I really enjoyed SKP's Sunne in Splendour and woud like to read more on Richard III. (NT) -- Margy, 15:23:03 07/19/06 Wed
  
  

  ---