The Monkeewrench crew has been recruited to assist the FBI in a case that involves videos of murders that are being posted on the Web.
It's been 4 years since the last Monkeewrench appearance, and I'm delighted to see them back. I'm not so sure how this one would read to newcomers of the series, because there didn't seem to be a lot of background information on the crew. However, the crew did what the crew does best and that's use their computer skills to help solve crimes. The interaction of quips and playful teasing between Monkeewrench, the FBI agent John Smith and the local police detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth was a highlight. And, while the story line was interesting and kept me turning the pages, there was some wordiness and a scene or two that caused an eye-roll or a "yeah right" comment, but overall it was an enjoyable read. (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
It's been 4 years since the last Monkeewrench appearance, and I'm delighted to see them back. I'm not so sure how this one would read to newcomers of the series, because there didn't seem to be a lot of background information on the crew. However, the crew did what the crew does best and that's use their computer skills to help solve crimes. The interaction of quips and playful teasing between Monkeewrench, the FBI agent John Smith and the local police detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth was a highlight. And, while the story line was interesting and kept me turning the pages, there was some wordiness and a scene or two that caused an eye-roll or a "yeah right" comment, but overall it was an enjoyable read. (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Many paired teams join together to be on a scavenger hunt reality show that travels the world. A couple teams are the main focus - one being a mother/daughter team and another a husband/wife team.
Ohhhh, I love me some reality TV, but I think it stops there because in written form it fell short. I never connected with any of the characters nor their individual stories. It just didn't work for me.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Ohhhh, I love me some reality TV, but I think it stops there because in written form it fell short. I never connected with any of the characters nor their individual stories. It just didn't work for me.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Ronnie (Veronica) and her brother Jonah spend the summer in North Carolina with their father.
Sappy. Melodramatic. Sickly sweet. Overemotional. Schmaltzy. Mawkish. Ick!
If you like the above, you'll love this book! Despite myself, I did get teary-eyed more than once which provided evidence that my heart is not made of stone, but I really didn't care for the story.
Why do I let people (Sue!) talk me into reading stuff they like without considering my own likes/dislikes first? Apparently, I haven't learned that yet.
Oh, yes! I mustn't forget to add that I had blazing images of the commercial for the movie burned in my mind throughout the book. Let's just say - that didn't help.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Sappy. Melodramatic. Sickly sweet. Overemotional. Schmaltzy. Mawkish. Ick!
If you like the above, you'll love this book! Despite myself, I did get teary-eyed more than once which provided evidence that my heart is not made of stone, but I really didn't care for the story.
Why do I let people (Sue!) talk me into reading stuff they like without considering my own likes/dislikes first? Apparently, I haven't learned that yet.
Oh, yes! I mustn't forget to add that I had blazing images of the commercial for the movie burned in my mind throughout the book. Let's just say - that didn't help.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This book didn't go over so well for me. I was drawn to and loved the timeframe (directly following Lincoln's assassination), and I liked getting some insight into Barnum's museum, but as a whole, the story line was mundane. The characters were a little peculiar, as one would expect in the atmosphere of "freaks and oddities," but there was no depth to anybody. All-in-all, my experience at the museum was somewhat disappointing, but I must give it props for depicting the time period in an interesting way. I learned a few things, and I like that. (2.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
After a year away from practicing law, defense attorney Mickey Haller inherits the practice of a murdered colleague. The most crucial case involves a well-known Hollywood producer who is accused of murdering his wife and her lover. Mickey takes over and encounters Det. Harry Bosch (another series by Connelly) who is working on the case of the deceased colleague.
This second in the Haller series was just about as good as the first. I love Connelly's style of writing. He incorporates family and work into the story line making Haller out to be a genuine character - likable, despite his profession. This book didn't carry a lot of suspense, but the story line was strong and interesting. Even though, the majority of the story was based on the Hollywood producer's case, there were several other cases discussed as well. I thoroughly enjoyed all the courtroom drama.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This second in the Haller series was just about as good as the first. I love Connelly's style of writing. He incorporates family and work into the story line making Haller out to be a genuine character - likable, despite his profession. This book didn't carry a lot of suspense, but the story line was strong and interesting. Even though, the majority of the story was based on the Hollywood producer's case, there were several other cases discussed as well. I thoroughly enjoyed all the courtroom drama.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Alex McNight, a Detroit ex-cop, lives in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where he tries to keep a peaceful existence and low profile. His Native American buddy encourages him to fill in as a goalie on his hockey team with the reasoning that it would help keep him in shape and occupy some of his time. Before Alex knows it, a hockey opponent's girlfriend is asking for his assistance, and he feels bound to help.
I like Alex, but less "f-bombs" would make for a better read. It is so not necessary! Aside from that, the plot was good, and I love reading about my home state of Michigan. There were a few very unrealistic events, but still a good read. I've got the next two ready on my iPod. They are perfect for road trips!
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I like Alex, but less "f-bombs" would make for a better read. It is so not necessary! Aside from that, the plot was good, and I love reading about my home state of Michigan. There were a few very unrealistic events, but still a good read. I've got the next two ready on my iPod. They are perfect for road trips!
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
A high school girl goes missing; the police and a reporter work the case to find the predator.
Oh dear, another read that just didn't hold my attention. And, that was a shocker because I really enjoy Coben's standalones. I must say that I did enjoy the prologue and looked forward to the story, but as it continued I never fully connected. When a few new characters (and there were many) were introduced, I disengaged some more. I did enjoy the ending, though. Ultimately, only truly liking the beginning and the ending does not make a great read. I'm glad to be moving on.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Oh dear, another read that just didn't hold my attention. And, that was a shocker because I really enjoy Coben's standalones. I must say that I did enjoy the prologue and looked forward to the story, but as it continued I never fully connected. When a few new characters (and there were many) were introduced, I disengaged some more. I did enjoy the ending, though. Ultimately, only truly liking the beginning and the ending does not make a great read. I'm glad to be moving on.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
David Loogan, who has a sketchy past, rents a house in Ann Arbor, MI (GO BLUE!). He acquires a job as an editor at a local publishing company. Loogan's boss requests that he assist him in a crime and Loogan agrees. Soon after, many murders take place and Loogan is a suspect, along with many others.
Anything that had to do with Ann Arbor was wonderful. I loved the descriptions, street names, etc. because I knew right where they were. That made for such a fun experience. However, the plot was another matter. I liked some of it, but the "if this was a story" parts were not necessary. Also, in general, there were just too many bodies and too many scenarios making the whole book seem implausible, so it didn't end on a very good note for me. (2.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Anything that had to do with Ann Arbor was wonderful. I loved the descriptions, street names, etc. because I knew right where they were. That made for such a fun experience. However, the plot was another matter. I liked some of it, but the "if this was a story" parts were not necessary. Also, in general, there were just too many bodies and too many scenarios making the whole book seem implausible, so it didn't end on a very good note for me. (2.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Lieutenant Lucas Davenport is after a serial killer who disfigures his victims' eyes.
Yay! Book #3 saved the series! I enjoyed #1, but #2 didn't appeal to me, leaving me to wonder if I was going to continue. Thankfully, this story line kept my attention and Lucas actually calmed down in his attitude and philandering ways. I might end up liking the guy after all. There was a lot of foul language, graphic scenes and drug abuse to muck through; however, I still found that the gathering of evidence to decipher who and why these people were being killed to be enough to keep me intrigued.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Yay! Book #3 saved the series! I enjoyed #1, but #2 didn't appeal to me, leaving me to wonder if I was going to continue. Thankfully, this story line kept my attention and Lucas actually calmed down in his attitude and philandering ways. I might end up liking the guy after all. There was a lot of foul language, graphic scenes and drug abuse to muck through; however, I still found that the gathering of evidence to decipher who and why these people were being killed to be enough to keep me intrigued.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This is a day to celebrate!!! Still Missing is the first book of the year 2010 that goes on my "Best Reads" list. What a fantastic book! HOORAY!
This is Chevy Stevens debut novel and what a doozy it is! The only reason it did not receive a 5/5 from me was due to one scene. The scene was an important one, and I thought it came just too easily. Other than that - it was authentic, compelling and visceral to only name a few adjectives.
Still Missing included many characters that had their specific roles, and I loved (or hated) every one of them. One of my favorite aspects of the book was the way in which Annie talked to her "Doc" during her sessions. This was the method in which we hear about Annie's year of captivity. She completely captivated me - I felt it all. And, I loved it all!
I'm delighted to have discovered that Chevy Stevens has a new book coming out in July, 2011 titled Never Knowing. Can. Not. Wait. (4.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This is Chevy Stevens debut novel and what a doozy it is! The only reason it did not receive a 5/5 from me was due to one scene. The scene was an important one, and I thought it came just too easily. Other than that - it was authentic, compelling and visceral to only name a few adjectives.
Still Missing included many characters that had their specific roles, and I loved (or hated) every one of them. One of my favorite aspects of the book was the way in which Annie talked to her "Doc" during her sessions. This was the method in which we hear about Annie's year of captivity. She completely captivated me - I felt it all. And, I loved it all!
I'm delighted to have discovered that Chevy Stevens has a new book coming out in July, 2011 titled Never Knowing. Can. Not. Wait. (4.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
In The Company Of Cheerful Ladies - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 6 by Alexander McCall Smith
Mma Ramotswe discovers an intruder in her home, Mma Makutsi is in search of a husband, and an apprentice of Speedy Motors makes an interesting choice. There are a few other characters that appear while life meanders along in Botswana.
I have found most of this series to be very bland, but still like to listen to one on occasion. They make good break-books. Unfortunately, this one was a bit slower and a tad bit more boring in comparison to the rest. I did enjoy a few scenes and am still glad I heard it, but it was nothing special. I'll still continue with the audiobooks when my listening ear needs some calm. However, I hope there is a little more depth in the next one. (2.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I have found most of this series to be very bland, but still like to listen to one on occasion. They make good break-books. Unfortunately, this one was a bit slower and a tad bit more boring in comparison to the rest. I did enjoy a few scenes and am still glad I heard it, but it was nothing special. I'll still continue with the audiobooks when my listening ear needs some calm. However, I hope there is a little more depth in the next one. (2.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Bobby Dodge, a Massachusetts police sniper, is called to a domestic hostage scene and fulfills his duty. The outcome launches an on-slot of questions and concerns relating to Bobby's involvement and who was truly at fault. The family involved have differing views of the event, and Bobby makes every attempt to sort it and himself out.
I enjoyed sifting through the pieces of the puzzle and finding the small clues to put together in order to answer the questions. There were some good scenes, and I liked Bobby. I'll definitely be moving on to #2 in the series. (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I enjoyed sifting through the pieces of the puzzle and finding the small clues to put together in order to answer the questions. There were some good scenes, and I liked Bobby. I'll definitely be moving on to #2 in the series. (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Alan Christoffersen is a happily married, successful entrepreneur, until one day . . . it all falls apart. Unsure of what life is to bring, Alan gathers his camping gear and heads out the door for a walk.
I glanced at this book during lunch, that turned into reading a few pages, and that lead to not wanting to put it down - now that's a sign of a good book. So, in other words, it grabbed me from the start. There is a bit of schmaltz and a smidgeon of unbelievability, but overall I really enjoyed this fast read.
The best part? I really, really liked Alan. And, I love how Richard Paul Evans told the story. This is the first of five in the series. I'll definitely be watching for the second.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I glanced at this book during lunch, that turned into reading a few pages, and that lead to not wanting to put it down - now that's a sign of a good book. So, in other words, it grabbed me from the start. There is a bit of schmaltz and a smidgeon of unbelievability, but overall I really enjoyed this fast read.
The best part? I really, really liked Alan. And, I love how Richard Paul Evans told the story. This is the first of five in the series. I'll definitely be watching for the second.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Ellie - the mother, Bits - the daughter and Ash - the son narrate their lives chapter by chapter for the duration of almost a year and a half. Could their lives be reflecting the anguish and blame they feel about the kidnapping of their daughter/younger sister thirteen years ago?
I just don't get it. This book is rated a 5/5 with 40 reviews on Amazon. There are only 4 that rated it something other than a 5. Well . . . I'm standing with the lonely 4. I actually struggled reading approximately 75% of the book! It seemed like everything that happened was to the extreme, and I didn't like any of the characters. Then when I thought something good happened - I was way off base. ??? Grrr - another book bites the dust.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I just don't get it. This book is rated a 5/5 with 40 reviews on Amazon. There are only 4 that rated it something other than a 5. Well . . . I'm standing with the lonely 4. I actually struggled reading approximately 75% of the book! It seemed like everything that happened was to the extreme, and I didn't like any of the characters. Then when I thought something good happened - I was way off base. ??? Grrr - another book bites the dust.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Jean Kwok states on her website, "Although Girl in Translation is a work of fiction and not a memoir, the world in which it takes place is real." Despite those words, the book reads like a memoir - it truly does. Kimberly's coming-of-age story mainly focuses between the ages of 12 and 18, and Kwok's writing style transported me into Kimberly's world with ease. It was very engaging. I would have never have guessed that it was a debut novel.
I saw glimmers of Betty Smith's, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and Lisa See's books - both authors' work in which I have enjoyed. I'm definitely adding Jean Kwok to my "Waiting for More" list of authors.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I saw glimmers of Betty Smith's, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and Lisa See's books - both authors' work in which I have enjoyed. I'm definitely adding Jean Kwok to my "Waiting for More" list of authors.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
The Florida Governor, Harry Swyteck, does not grant his son's (Jack Swyteck, attorney) request for a stay of execution for his client. That response begins an avalanche of psychopathic reactions from someone who knew the client.
This is the first in the Jack Swyteck series, and I liked it. I wasn't necessarily taken with the plot or Jack - himself, but I liked the solid writing. This book was Grippando's debut, and then he spent 8 years writing standalones before writing the second in this series (Beyond Suspicion). I'm hoping that all of that practice assisted in fine-tuning the errors of far-fetched and contrived events. I'm very curious to find out.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This is the first in the Jack Swyteck series, and I liked it. I wasn't necessarily taken with the plot or Jack - himself, but I liked the solid writing. This book was Grippando's debut, and then he spent 8 years writing standalones before writing the second in this series (Beyond Suspicion). I'm hoping that all of that practice assisted in fine-tuning the errors of far-fetched and contrived events. I'm very curious to find out.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Kate Cypher, a 41-year-old, returns home to take care of business regarding her mother's care. There is a murder upon her arrival, and it brings up questions regarding an unsolved murder that took place when Kate lived there as a child.
There was very little I liked about this book. Although, I did enjoy all the parts regarding the commune in which Kate lived as a child - that saved the book for me. All the rest - just didn't hit me the right way. After looking forward to reading this since it came out, I was quite disappointed.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
There was very little I liked about this book. Although, I did enjoy all the parts regarding the commune in which Kate lived as a child - that saved the book for me. All the rest - just didn't hit me the right way. After looking forward to reading this since it came out, I was quite disappointed.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
A man and his family are executed in their home. The man is from Joe Pike's military days, so he's determined to get to the facts of the murders.
Well, unfortunately, I did not care for Robert Crais (author) reading this audiobook. It may be interesting to hear how the author intends for his book to be received, but for me - nope, didn't work. I did not like the inflections in his voice and the way he portrayed Pike. Now, the mystery and intrigue of Pike have been diminished even more. I think, in general, I would prefer Pike to remain Elvis's sidekick in the Elvis Cole series only.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Well, unfortunately, I did not care for Robert Crais (author) reading this audiobook. It may be interesting to hear how the author intends for his book to be received, but for me - nope, didn't work. I did not like the inflections in his voice and the way he portrayed Pike. Now, the mystery and intrigue of Pike have been diminished even more. I think, in general, I would prefer Pike to remain Elvis's sidekick in the Elvis Cole series only.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Book 1 of the Millennium Trilogy (Vintage Crime/Black Lizard) by Stieg Larsson
After having his career take a dive, a once-respected journalist is hired to write the biography of a wealthy man. However, the assignment behind the assignment is to solve the mystery of his niece who has been missing (presumed dead) for decades.
I was disappointed when the end quickly arrived, but realized that I had a very good time throughout the reading process. I didn't consider this one a page-turner in the same sense as a thriller (even though some consider this a thriller), but I became completely immersed whenever I had some reading time. The writing, in and of itself, had such a flow, and the many components of the storyline merged together seamlessly. It wasn't without its flaws, though. I didn't necessarily care for some of the moral issues (or lack thereof), but they didn't bother me immensely; however, that being said - I didn't have any connections with the characters either. BUT, apparently for me, a very good story, in conjunction with very good writing skills equals a worthy read even without the connections.
I will definitely go see the movie of #1; I have #2 on my TBR Shelf and #3 is on its way. Lots to look forward to! (4.25/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I was disappointed when the end quickly arrived, but realized that I had a very good time throughout the reading process. I didn't consider this one a page-turner in the same sense as a thriller (even though some consider this a thriller), but I became completely immersed whenever I had some reading time. The writing, in and of itself, had such a flow, and the many components of the storyline merged together seamlessly. It wasn't without its flaws, though. I didn't necessarily care for some of the moral issues (or lack thereof), but they didn't bother me immensely; however, that being said - I didn't have any connections with the characters either. BUT, apparently for me, a very good story, in conjunction with very good writing skills equals a worthy read even without the connections.
I will definitely go see the movie of #1; I have #2 on my TBR Shelf and #3 is on its way. Lots to look forward to! (4.25/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Historic Savannah, Georgia is the setting of this travelogue/murder mystery/gossipy book. It is tailored around the beauty of the city and its unique individuals - including a wealthy middle-aged man who murders his part-time, 21-year-old companion.
I wasn't ever bored with this story, but I wasn't enthralled with it either. It was definitely a character-driven book, but it encompassed the intrigue and ominous aura that a murder brings. The community does have its share of unusual people and their passion for keeping their city "as is" was prevalent.
I've had the opportunity to visit Savannah several times, but just haven't taken the step to make it happen. This book has revitalized the desire to visit, so the next time the opportunity arises - I'm there! :) (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I wasn't ever bored with this story, but I wasn't enthralled with it either. It was definitely a character-driven book, but it encompassed the intrigue and ominous aura that a murder brings. The community does have its share of unusual people and their passion for keeping their city "as is" was prevalent.
I've had the opportunity to visit Savannah several times, but just haven't taken the step to make it happen. This book has revitalized the desire to visit, so the next time the opportunity arises - I'm there! :) (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Hollis Woods is a notorious runaway - a runaway from foster homes. She is 12-years-old and has not been able to find a home that fits her needs. She tells her story in the present and through the description of pictures of the summer past.
Hollis was a great character. I found her to be a loving, little girl. Even though this was a fast YA read, it had depth and suspense. Wanting to know what really happened during that particular summer was the driving force for me to read this in virtually one sitting. A delightful book - one for tweens and adults alike.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Hollis was a great character. I found her to be a loving, little girl. Even though this was a fast YA read, it had depth and suspense. Wanting to know what really happened during that particular summer was the driving force for me to read this in virtually one sitting. A delightful book - one for tweens and adults alike.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Clareece Precious Jones narrates her life of abuse and redemption.
Oh my. This was an extremely difficult book to read. The raw language, brutality and just plain ugliness is very heart-wrenching. I was in the position of knitted brows and open mouth throughout most of the book due to its shock value. It was very difficult to grasp the cruelty. What I liked was that I really wanted to know what was going to happen to Precious, so I kept turning those pages. However, I'm not so sure I want to see the movie anymore - too much hardship and very disturbing. I don't think I'm interested in watching what I read.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Oh my. This was an extremely difficult book to read. The raw language, brutality and just plain ugliness is very heart-wrenching. I was in the position of knitted brows and open mouth throughout most of the book due to its shock value. It was very difficult to grasp the cruelty. What I liked was that I really wanted to know what was going to happen to Precious, so I kept turning those pages. However, I'm not so sure I want to see the movie anymore - too much hardship and very disturbing. I don't think I'm interested in watching what I read.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This dually narrated story is based on the lives of two females, one being a 16-year-old and another being a married woman with a 4-year-old son who believes he's Batman. These two women have nothing in common until one day they meet on a beach. Their lives are forever intertwined.
The greatest strength in this book was its ability to keep me turning the pages. I love when a book does that. Cleave did a great job in revealing the plot with interesting characters. However, there were several pieces to the book that I didn't feel fit the situation, and I didn't find a major distinction in the narrators. On a couple of occasions, I had to remind myself or figure out who was speaking. You would think the age difference alone would place a large enough gap in the language. Regardless, it was a compelling read and one that I'm glad I finally got to.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
The greatest strength in this book was its ability to keep me turning the pages. I love when a book does that. Cleave did a great job in revealing the plot with interesting characters. However, there were several pieces to the book that I didn't feel fit the situation, and I didn't find a major distinction in the narrators. On a couple of occasions, I had to remind myself or figure out who was speaking. You would think the age difference alone would place a large enough gap in the language. Regardless, it was a compelling read and one that I'm glad I finally got to.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Two U. S. Marshals are summoned to investigate a woman's escape from the criminally insane facility on Shutter Island just off the Massachusetts's coast. During their investigation they discover more than they anticipated.
This book was going along fine, actual very well, until the ending was in sight. At that time, it became muddled and made me flip-flop my thoughts too often. In general, I thought the plot, characters and setting were all intriguing, and I really did enjoy it, but the book ended with unfinished business - not a favorable way to go out for this reader. The bit of humor that was sprinkled between the marshals was always appreciated.
This was my first introduction to Lehane, and it has spurred some curiosity in me regarding his other work.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
This book was going along fine, actual very well, until the ending was in sight. At that time, it became muddled and made me flip-flop my thoughts too often. In general, I thought the plot, characters and setting were all intriguing, and I really did enjoy it, but the book ended with unfinished business - not a favorable way to go out for this reader. The bit of humor that was sprinkled between the marshals was always appreciated.
This was my first introduction to Lehane, and it has spurred some curiosity in me regarding his other work.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Twelve-year-old Todd Hewitt lives on a planet where there are no women and all thoughts (called Noise) can be heard by all men and animals. Todd runs across a hole in the Noise and begins his discovery of chaos.
Ugh. I can't believe I finished this book. I didn't finish because I wanted to know what was going to happen, but because I realized I was quickly well over 100 pages (YA fast read) and decided I wanted to count the book. Yep - that's the real reason. Unfortunately, I should have followed my instincts when I read the very first sentence. Oi ya yoi ya yoi.
The only good thing about the book was that it had a sense of adventure. That's it. That's why it got a 1.5 instead of a 1. The entire book was filled with violence and swearing and negativity. I will not be reading any further in the series. It is simply: Not. For. Me.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Ugh. I can't believe I finished this book. I didn't finish because I wanted to know what was going to happen, but because I realized I was quickly well over 100 pages (YA fast read) and decided I wanted to count the book. Yep - that's the real reason. Unfortunately, I should have followed my instincts when I read the very first sentence. Oi ya yoi ya yoi.
The only good thing about the book was that it had a sense of adventure. That's it. That's why it got a 1.5 instead of a 1. The entire book was filled with violence and swearing and negativity. I will not be reading any further in the series. It is simply: Not. For. Me.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Secrets of Eden is about domestic violence. The story is told through the eyes of the neighborhood preacher, an author who wrote a book about angels, the state attorney and the 15-year-old daughter who is a witness to some of the abuse.
My main reason for reading this was because it was written by Chris Bohjalian, and I have a lot of respect for him. I find him to be a man of integrity. Also, I find that his writing has unique characteristics, and I enjoy it.
Secrets of Eden maintained the Bohjalian feel, so I wasn't disappointed in that respect. I was, however, not jumping for joy for this story as it was being revealed. I did like the variety of narrators, but I didn't care for the author's book. Nothing against the topic of angels, but it just didn't appeal to me. I felt it placed a hokey aspect to the novel. Other than that, it was very good. I did solve the puzzle towards the end, but it was fun to find out if I was correct.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
My main reason for reading this was because it was written by Chris Bohjalian, and I have a lot of respect for him. I find him to be a man of integrity. Also, I find that his writing has unique characteristics, and I enjoy it.
Secrets of Eden maintained the Bohjalian feel, so I wasn't disappointed in that respect. I was, however, not jumping for joy for this story as it was being revealed. I did like the variety of narrators, but I didn't care for the author's book. Nothing against the topic of angels, but it just didn't appeal to me. I felt it placed a hokey aspect to the novel. Other than that, it was very good. I did solve the puzzle towards the end, but it was fun to find out if I was correct.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I found that some of this novel was extremely interesting - observing what goes through someone's mind when they have a mental disorder for one and the subway traveling as another. Even though the majority of the book was based on what I found to be interesting, I still didn't come away with a very enjoyable experience. Maybe too much of a mixed-up mind was too much for me or the fact that I simply didn't connect with any of the characters. Wray's writing kept me immersed in Lowboy's world, but sad to say, I didn't even develop any sympathetic feelings towards him, nothing worth counting anyway.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Grisham's first collection of 7 short stories was a success. They all had well-developed characters and plots, leaving me with a few scenes that I won't soon forget. I have always enjoyed Grisham novels, so this collection didn't surprise me. Now - I'm just hoping for more.
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
It took 19 minutes for Peter Houghton to kill 10 people, as well as, physically and mentally hurt a whole community. Nineteen Minutes is filled with emotions that range from love to hatred and empathy to disbelief. They are all explored from the beginning to the end in this true-to-life story.
There was a lot that I liked about this book and not much that I didn't, but I just can't bring myself to say it was "very good." Like the other two Picoult novels I have read (The Pact and My Sister's Keeper - BB: Before Blog), she writes a believable, flowing story; however, there were some incidences that I thought were stretching it a bit - nothing outrageous, but enough to catch my attention. What I liked most was the many different angles and topics that were covered. It wasn't a simple book by any means, and I think the issues were handled with respect.
I liked what Jodi Picoult says about being an author in an Amazon video, ". . . if you're really lucky, then you get to maybe open some narrow minds a little bit." I think her books succeed. (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
There was a lot that I liked about this book and not much that I didn't, but I just can't bring myself to say it was "very good." Like the other two Picoult novels I have read (The Pact and My Sister's Keeper - BB: Before Blog), she writes a believable, flowing story; however, there were some incidences that I thought were stretching it a bit - nothing outrageous, but enough to catch my attention. What I liked most was the many different angles and topics that were covered. It wasn't a simple book by any means, and I think the issues were handled with respect.
I liked what Jodi Picoult says about being an author in an Amazon video, ". . . if you're really lucky, then you get to maybe open some narrow minds a little bit." I think her books succeed. (3.75/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
The Bricklayer, Steve Vail, is a fired FBI agent whose services are requested to help find a missing agent.
I really enjoyed this thriller! Vail is a fabulous, intriguing character. The workings of his mind and the timing of his wit were both compelling factors for me, and that doesn't even include the actual plot! The intelligent plot contained non-stop action and wasn't extremely off the reality chart, which is a very good thing for me. But, best of all, I was engaged from the beginning and didn't want to disengage. It's always a delight to be so engrossed in a book that you don't want to put it down. And, for those that wonder, yes - there is a strong female role as well.
What a terrific debut by Boyd! I hope to see more of him - hopefully showcasing Steve Vail. (4.25/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy
I really enjoyed this thriller! Vail is a fabulous, intriguing character. The workings of his mind and the timing of his wit were both compelling factors for me, and that doesn't even include the actual plot! The intelligent plot contained non-stop action and wasn't extremely off the reality chart, which is a very good thing for me. But, best of all, I was engaged from the beginning and didn't want to disengage. It's always a delight to be so engrossed in a book that you don't want to put it down. And, for those that wonder, yes - there is a strong female role as well.
What a terrific debut by Boyd! I hope to see more of him - hopefully showcasing Steve Vail. (4.25/5)
Originally posted on: Thoughts of Joy