jmaloney17's Chunkster Challenge

Since I know that I will read 75 book in 2010 (Maybe?) ... In 2011, I am planning on reading a bunch of books with a lot of pages. There is no way I will read 75 books.

Chunksters I am thinking about reading ...

The Count of Monte Christo
Palliser Series by Anthony Trollope
War and Peace
The Brothers Karamazov
Anna Karenina
Les Miserables
The Woman in White

I am sure there are others that I cannot think of at the moment.

More info on the new year to come.

Welcome back! That's a lot of pages...

Ambitious plans!

WOW Jenn! What a list! Brava for even thinking of it. Especially War and Peace...I feel like Hitler every time I see that title, it's defeated me with its sheer scope every time I so much as feint in its direction.

Yes, they are all ones that I have thought about reading this year, but didn't because I really wanted to read 75 books. Now I think I am going to read them all in 2011. Ha Ha Ha!

Hey there, Cleopatra, glad you're still barging down Denial.

Plonks big shiny star on the thread.

I'll look forward to hearing what you have to say about your giant tomes: I'm hoping to read The Woman in White and The Brothers Karamazov next year, too. (Then again, I've been saying that for a couple of years already.)

Woman in White is on my list for 2011 too. I always enjoy Wilkie's books, but they're so dang huge it's a little off-putting. I've got a Chunkster category in my 11-11 Challenge, so I've got your thread starred for future ideas/rec'd/not rec'd books.

That TBR list gets you an immediate star!

My passion for chunkies is one of the reasons I sincerely doubt I will ever make it to 75.

Loved War and Peace when I read it, so I hope you do too, Jenn! I read Anna Karenina last year, so Brothers Karamazov is on deck for 2011.

Thank you for all the encouragement folks. I just discovered that there will be a movie of The Three Musketeers coming out in 2011. So that one will definately be on the list to read before that date. I am getting excited about my 2011 reading!

#11: I need to read The Three Musketeers as well! Maybe 2011 will be the year.

Hope it's a better one than the last Three Musketeers movie. That was a particular stinker, I thought.

I'm so glad you swung by my thread so I could find yours. It looks like we have some of the same planned reading, though I don't think I could even attempt Les Mis and War and Peace in the same decade, let alone year!

If enough people are interested, maybe we can do some group reads this year? I know it might help me through some of these chunksters.

Wowsers what a list! Good luck!

Good lord that's some list! I have the new Julie Rose translation of Les Mis on my shelves and I keep being tempted by it, but it's too big to read on the train and if I only read it in my (very short) evenings it would take me forever. Someday I'll read it.

The Woman in White is a great book. Enjoy that one!

Happy St. Stephen's Day! Or Boxing Day! Whichever you prefer, Jenn, may it be a happy, happy occasion.

Chunksters! I think I'll live vicariously through you this year. I'm very good at starting chunksters and abandoning them without reason partway through (even when I'm enjoying the book)... I think it's a numbers thing, though it shouldn't be. Anyway, I'll stick around here and see what happens. :)

Well, I finally finished my 75 books in 2010! This means I am free to read all the long books I want. Though my first one will be an ER book and is not particularly long. That is alright though. The second one will likely be the first book in Trollope's Palliser series. I look forward to sharing my thoughts on them in 2011.

Happy New Year everyone!

Dropping in to say hi and Happy New Year. I'm intending to make it through Les Miserables this year since I failed to last year. I've tended to sideline my chunksters lately as well.

Hello folks. I finished my first read of they year today. It definatly is not a "chunkster," but it still reads.

#1 Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris
I have been wanting to read this for ages, but I refuse to by romance/paranormal/cosy novels in hardback. I now have a Nook, so I borrowed it from another friend who has a Nook! Yeah! I will have to buy the next one and lend it to her.

At any rate, the book ... .
It is much in the same line that the last couple have been. Just tying up loose ends and strengthening relationships. I really hope her next Sookie book has some more impact. I am ready for something really good in this series.

Happy New Year.

Congratulations on getting the first read of the year out of the way, Jenn!

#21 - I refuse to buy these books in hardback as well. No way am I spending $20 for 200 pages of fluff! Still, they are good, fun fluff, and I hope Dead in the Family makes it to paperback soon!

Hi Jenn, just found your thread and I see you're planning to read chunkters this year. Me too. I have a challenge for that category on my 11 in 11 challenge and Woman in white is one of them. I've read a few others on your chunksters list and I'd say your in for a very good reading year.

Looks like I am starting my year out with historical and paranormal romances. I am on a jag.

#2 Everything Forbidden by Jess Michaels

Miranda has become the head of the family since her gambling father passed away. She is trying to keep the family solvent, but her mother continues to buy ball gowns, jewelry and rose bushes. Miranda has three younger sisters that need to "come out" on the social scene as well. In order to give her sisters everything they desire, she makes a deal with the neighboring Viscount.

This story was dirty. *giggle* It was fairly well written. The characters were a bit shallow, but the author made up for that with the "action." The book is good enough to make me want to read the next in the series. I am guessing the writing will get better. This seems like it was the author's first effort, and from reviews I have seen, people seem to like the series.

Next up is a paranormal romance called, Queen of Shadows. I am not sure what I think of it yet. Then I am definately reading some Trollope

I enjoy Trollope's books. I hope you do too, Jennifer!

#3 Queen of Shadows by Dianne Sylvan
Miranda is an empath, but doesn't know it. She has become extremely afraid, because she is feeling everyone's emotions and she does not know how to deal with it. The only relief she has is when she plays music. Otherwise she must drink herself into a stupor. One night on the way home from a gig, one of the two times she leaves her apartment every week, she is attacked by three men and raped. (FYI: The rape is not graphic, and she does kick their ass in the end.) She is "rescued" by vampire "Prime." And it goes from there.

This is the first of a new series and I think a new author. It is pretty good, but could use a bit of editing to tighten it up. I didn't think that I would read any more in the series until I got to the end. Now I have to read more. I am very intrigued.

#28: Now I have to read more. I am very intrigued.

That is why I hate reading the first book of a series when the rest of the series is not available yet. I do not have the patience!

This opinion, about the new Huck Finn edition, is right on.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/jan/05/censoring-mark-twain-n-wor...

Love this Mark Twain quote the author of the piece pointed out.
"The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter – it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning."

30: Great article and quote!

OK everyone, It is time to be jealous. I leave on Wed. to visit my sister in St. Martin. I am really looking forward to the sunshine. I have been coming to work angry or depressed everyday for the past few weeks. I am sick of winter already and we have not even had snow here. I need some sunshine.

The real reason I mention my trip is because I have something to tell you which I know you will find appalling.

My sister called me on Sunday and said, "Jennifer, do me a favor. Bring copies of the last Twilight book, the last Stieg Larson, and Jitterbug Perfume." I said, "OK. Are you having trouble getting English language books down there?" She said, "No, most people speak English, but there is only one bookstore on the island and it is a religious bookstore."

I could not believe my ears! No bookstore on the entire island!

So, I am taking about 15 books down to her, plus the ones she asked for. That way she can trade or give away the ones she does not want, and still have plenty to read.

It is a good thing I got a Nook for Christmas and summer clothes are small, because there is no way I could carry the books for her and the books I need when I travel.

32: Consider me jealous! But it sounds like it will be just the thing you need. Sisters and traveling are always good for the soul.

And wow! No book store? Even the small town I grew up in had a book store we could at least order books through. Poor, poor girl.

I have a Nook too. They are pretty handy for travel. Have a fun trip!

I am jealous to - about you going to St. Martin - but the no bookstore thing, I do not think I could deal with!

Have a great trip, Jennifer!

I have very fond memories of St. Martin from my sailing teen-age years. I hope you have a fantastic time. This is the best time of the year, weather-wise, to visit the Caribbean. Are you staying on the Dutch side or the French side?

mamzel: I think it is barely on the french side. We will be in Oyster Bay. My sister works at a beach bar there called The Dinghy Dock. I am really looking forward to the sunshine.

http://www.focusfeatures.com/video/jane_eyre_the_trailer

Link to the new Jane Eyre movie. I think it looks really good. I am definately excited.

Yeah, I'm excited too! They really captured the gothic-y feel of the setting.

I know, I can't wait either. Plus, it doesn't hurt that I love Michael Fassbender - hello, dolly!

Fassbender is pretty hot, to say the least.

So I leave tomorrow morning for St. Martin. I will probably not be back on LT until Tuesday. Hopefully the snow is stopping here in DC and I will have no problem getting out of town. I will have pics when I get back.

39/40: Had to google a picture of him. Mmmhmm.

41: Have a safe trip!

Have a wonderful trip, Jennifer! I am looking forward to the pictures.

I'm back!

I returned yesterday afternoon from St. Martin, and woke up this morning to ICE! I wanna go back to the island! I will have pictures up later this week. I will put the link up in this thread.

#4 Can You Forgive Her? by Anthony Trollope

This is the first book in the Palliser series. I really liked parts of this one, but there were other parts that really dragged. There were three main stories 1) Alice Vavosar, 2) Lady Glencora Palliser, and 3) Arabella Greenow. I liked Alice and Lady Glencora, but Arabella's storyline was a bit of a bore. It is over 800 pages in small type. I think that the books will get better as I go along. I hope they do at any rate. They are all very long books.

Welcome back - can't wait for the pictures!

Glad you are back, Jennifer! I hope you have thawed out by now.

#5 Soulless by Gail Carriger
#6 Changeless by Gail Carriger
The Parasol Protectorate Series

I thought I would put these two together to save some space. I picked them up for the Nook on a recommendation from someone.

Imagine ... Steampunk Victorian Paranormal Romance
Alexia is a Preternatural, or someone who nulls supernatural skills. She loves science, arguing, being practical and a certain werewolf.

The first book is the introduction of the characters (Alexis and her family, her friend Ivy, the werewolves-Lord Maccon and Prof. Lyall, the vampires-Lord Akeldama and his entourage and the Westminster Hive). She unwilling falls for Lord Maccon. They work together to solve a mystery. She is introduced to Queen Victoria and is offered a job working for her. etc. etc.

The second book is about a mysterious loss of supernatural powers. I thought I might stop reading the series after this one. I found them light and entertaining, but I thought I could live without immediately reading the next in the series. But, oh no, it ends on a cliff hanger! So on my way to work this morning when I finished the book, I had to buy the next one. Ergh!

I am about 50 pages into Blameless!

#48: I have only read the first book in that series. I am hoping to get to the others. . . some time. Glad to see you are enjoying them!

Photos from St. Martin are up.
http://maloneysphotos.shutterfly.com/

I did not take too many this time, but I think you will get the idea.

#7 Blameless by Gail Carriger

This book is right along the same lines as the other. Alexis has run off to Europe, and ends up in Italy with the crazy Templars. Vampires are trying to kill her. Everyone else is trying to save her, and she is pretty much saving herself. Pretty good, the next one comes out this summer.

#8 Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning
So I have given in to reading paranormal romances for a while. I just cannot get into anything else at the moment.

In this story, Mac finds that her sister has been murdered in Ireland, so she goes to Dublin to find the killer. She ends up discovering that she and her sister are nulls and that is why her sister is was killed. The "bad" Fae are starting to enter this world after years of being imprisoned by the "good" Fae and the bad guy wants to bring all the "bad" Fae over, thereby destroying the world or something like that.

It is a good intro to a series. I have started the next one. There are only five books in it, so I am glad there is an end in site.

52: I've never tried paranormal romance before. What exactly does it usually entail? What book would you recommend to try it out?

53: First they are romance novels, but there is usually some fighting, mystery etc. They will include vampires, werewolves, fae (fairies), demons, demon hunters, shapeshifters, among other supernatural beings. Some series have a lot of sex, some have very little or none. They often have some humor in them.

I have a few series that I really like.
1) The Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward Modern day vampires in the NE U.S. This is considered one of the best series out there.
2) Riley Jensen by Keri Arthur Modern day werewolves and others in Melbourne, Australia.
3) The Nightwalkers by Jacqueline Frank various different paranormals.
4) Lords of the Underworld by Gena Showalter Demons
5) Sookie Stackhouse by Charlaine Harris This is what HBO show True Blood is based on.

I think that is a good start. Honestly, I am not the biggest reader of paranormals out there. I read them but usually it is not my main interest. But I think they are great brain candy. I like to read about adventures. I like it when chick KA. I like to read about stubborn men.

There are a lot of stinkers out there and it took me a while to figure out what I like and don't like.

OOPS

54: Oh okay, have you read Linger or Shiver? They are the only paranormal romance I think I've tried, but they were kinda fun. I'm a big fan of brain candy, especially with a twist of fantasy and adventure. I've tried vampires and werewolves, but never demons, fairies, shape shifters, etc. 2011 feels like a good year for expanding my horizons. Thanks so much for your in depth recommendations!

54: Sorry to jump in here, but I'll second the rec for the Riley Jensen series by Keri Arthur. It was my first foray into paranormal romance, and I was HOOKED from the first book. I've got the last three of the series sitting on my shelf, just waiting for the perfect time to devour all of them. The only bad part is that once they're done I'll have to wait for the next one!

It seems like there are a lot of good PR series out there these days - enjoy your search into the genre!

I will also put in a plug for Christine Feehan's three series: The Dark Series, The Drake Sisters, and the Ghostwalkers.

57/58: Thanks! This thread has been perfect for finding out about the paranormal romance genre. I'll stop hijacking it now and go put Keri Arthur on the wishlist. :)

mihess: Make sure you get the Riley Jensen series and not Keri Arthur's other one. IMO the other one is a stinker.

#9 Bloodfever by Karen Marie Moning
Mac's story continues. She comes close to death. The sexual tension between her and Barron's escalates. She gets close to "The Book" again. And, she has a visit with her sister.

#10 Faefever by Karen Marie Moning
#11 Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning

I just want to give Mac a hug. The pain she is feeling is excrutiating. One more book to go.

I think I downloaded the first book in that series to my Nook. I will have to check. . .

A little late in finding your thread, but I too would like to read The Three Musketeers this year. You also said you wanted to read The Count of Monte Cristo and this is one of my all-time favorite books!! Good luck!!

Stasia: I saw the first book for free on the Borders website. Of course that was after I already bought it from B&N. Grrr ... .

Has anyone read Atlas of Remote Islands by Judith Schalansky? It looks interesting.

64: I hope to get to some classics soon since that is what I planned to do this year. I cannot get off the paranormal romances at the moment. I feel addicted!

66/67: I have never even heard of that book, but it looks interesting! I know what you mean about keeping up with the classics too. I started off all gun ho and then Harry Potter began taking up all my time...Better luck to both of us! :)

68 I saw that it was one of the top book on The Millions (http://www.themillions.com/2011/02/the-millions-top-ten-january-2011.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+themillionsblog%2Ffedw+%28The+Millions%290) this past month. It has gone on my "Books to Think About Reading Sometime" list.

And, by the way, Harry Potter IS a classic, so you are still on track!

#66: Never heard of it, but it does look good!

Hi There

I'm compiling a list of birthdays of our group members. If you haven't done so already, would you mind stopping by this thread and posting yours.

Thanks.

http://www.librarything.com/topic/105833

#12 Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning

The series surprizingly ended with a lot of depth. Usually in these series', the good guys win, the bad guys lose, end of story. There is little ambiguity. This series had a lot of shades of grey. I particularly appreciated that. Moning is a strong writer with a healthy imagination.

In the beginning, I did not like the repetitiveness of main story elements in each book, but Moning got away from that in her last two. At least the repetitiveness was less obvious. This is a really good series with good characters, good plot, and a great ending.

There are five books in this portion of the series. You can read these five and have a complete story. Moning is writing additional books set in the same Fever-world, but they will be a separate story. So, you can feel comfortable reading these five and not stressing out about when the next book is coming out! I read them back-to-back.

#13 Fantasy Lover by Sherrilyn Kenyon This is the first book in the Dark Hunter series.

So in general the book was hot. But ... the ending left me cold. The writing was pretty average, but the tension was excrutiatingly taut. The ending was just super cheesy.

Will I read the next book? Very likely. Many people rave about them, so I am guessing that Ms. Kenyon improves upon her writing in the parts between the sex scenes.

ETA: FYI: I thought for a couple of minutes, "Oh I can use this one for Fatasy February!" Then I thought again and decided that even though the word "fantasy" is in the title, I cannot in good conscience say that it is a fantasy novel.

#73: I read the first couple in that series and then gave it up. I just do not think it was for me. I hope you enjoy the series more than I did, Jennifer!

Does the Moning series have a lot of sex in it? I love the cover of the final book, someone did a great job on that one... I like paranormal romance, but I can't abide an excessive amount of sex that doesn't seem to serve any real purpose to the story. It seems to be part and parcel with a lot of paranormal romance these days, unfortunately.

75: In the Fever series, there is not much sex at all. Not even in each book. There is a lot of sexual tension in each book, and some "He is so hot" moments.

In her Highland Warrior series, there is more sex. But it is not very explicit either.

74: Stasia, I don't know if I will read more in that series or not. Maybe someday. The writing was just mediocre.

#14 Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning
#15 To Tame a Highland Warrior by Karen Marie Moning
#16 The Highlander's Touch by Karen Marie Moning

These are the first three books in Moning's Highland Warrior series. I liked the first one. I liked the second one more, and the third was just ok. There is more sex in these than the Fever series. They have to do with Scottish Lairds and time-travelling women. The second book differs in that no one time travels. These do relate to the Fever series a little bit. They include the fairies. The second book deals with Berserkers. I will continue to read them. I expect I will have finished them all by next Monday.

By the way!
I went to see Black Swan. I highly recommend it. It is one of the most suspenseful films I have seen in a long time. I think this weekend I will see The King's Speech. Other Oscar Best Film contenders that I have seen are True Grit and Inception. Black Swan is winning for me at the moment. I might get in The Social Network on DVD before the Oscar's.

79: I've wanted to see all the movies you mentioned, but haven't found the motivation. I've heard really good things about The King's Speech though. If I had to pick one, I'd go see that in theaters. Colin Firth!

Yes, Colin Firth is always a good pick for me. I meant to go see it when it first came out, but I didn't for some reason or another.

#77: I agree, which is one of the reasons I did not go any further in it.

I might actually be getting sick of paranormal romances. I think I will finish this series and move on. I found myself bored last night. Interesting.

#83: There are plenty of other genres out there for you to explore! I guess that is the good thing about books.

>76 jmaloney17:: Good to know, thank you! I might take a look for the first one at the library, in that case. :)

85: Glad you came back. I don't think you would have a problem with the Fever series. I am now almost finished with the 4th book in the Highlander series. There is more and more sex in each book, so you might want to stay away from those.

#17 Kiss of the Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
#18 The Dark Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
#19 The Immortal Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
#20 Spell of the Highlander by Karen Marie Moning

There are no more Moning books to read! Thank goodness.

This continues the Highlander series. I liked Kiss of the Highlander and The Dark Highlander particularly out of this group. They are about Drustan and Dageus MacKelter. I kind of wish I had read them before reading the Fever series now. The Immortal Highlander is about the fae Adam. And, Spell of the Highlander is Cian MacKelter's story.

Moning says at the end of Spell of the Highlander that she does intend to write more Highlander books. These four books kind of go together, since they are about the same group of people. It seperates them from the first three a bit.

#21 The New World by Patrick Ness

There does not seem to be a touchstone for this one. Maybe I will need to add it into the library.

This is a short story prequel to The Knife of Never Letting Go and the Chaos Walking series. I found a free eBook of it on Barnes & Noble, when I was buying the rest of the series.

It is about Viola's trip to The New World. I read it first, but I think people may get more out of it if they read after they know what is going on. I just started The Knife of Never Letting Go this morning, so I am not sure where Viola fits in yet.

Borders, sigh.

I knew they were going to close a bunch of stores, but I found out this morning that they not only are going to close my store, but all their stores in Washington, D.C. Guess I will be getting some good sales soon.

Oh, I never thought of the sales they'll be having... Sad for all the employees though and sorry to hear about your favorite store.

The Chaos Walking Trilogy
#22 The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness
#23 The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness
#24 Monsters of Men by Patrick Ness

This is a series worth reading. You may see a lot of comparisons to The Hunger Games trilogy. They do have a somewhat similar feel, but they are definately different stories. This is a story of differences and similarities. It is about the grey area. It is about inner strength, and about love and peace. Highly recommended.

Which of the Highlander books do you recommend as a background to the Fever series? I didn't really get into the first one, but I'd like the background to the druids.

Try Kiss of the Highlander and The Dark Highlander. They are about Drustan and Dageus MacKelter. Also, Cian MacKelter is in Spell of the Highlander.

They are all druids, and I think all three are in the Fever series.

#25 A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

So, everyone says this is a great book and it is. There is all kinds of unexpected twists. I started A Clash of Kings immediately after I finished this book last night. I have a feeling I am going to be extremely frustrated when I finish the fourth book. I am looking forward to the HBO show for certain.

#26 A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin

I finished this book a couple of days ago and am well ensconced in the the third in the series. I continue to like the series. I am not going to say much. If you read it, you already know how great it is; and if you have not read it, I don't want to spoil a single thing. Enjoy!

Heard so many good things about this series, but he really needs to finish the series before I venture out to start the books. I don't like to be left hanging in the middle of series, especially the really good ones. :)

I agree. I know that I am going to be so irritated when I run out of books to read. The fifth book is coming in July at least.

I keep hearing wonderful things about this series too. I already have it on my TBR list and based on the overwhelming number of good things I hear about it, it may need to leap to the top!

All:
you may or may not know that I work for Nuclear Energy Institute in Washington, DC. NEI is the policy organization for the U.S. nuclear energy industry. This past week we have been working around the clock to get truthful information about the accident in Japan to the public, media and officials. If you are interested, we are updating our website, www.nei.org, on a regular basis. You will find very reliable information there. If you are interested in radiation, visit www.radiationanswers.org. This website is run by the Health Physics Society and the Mayo Clinic. I hope this helps you understand what is going on out there. Since I am working at least 10 hours a day, I can't answer questions directly, but you can email media@nei.org.

#27 A Storm of Swords by George R. R. Martin

I finished a book!!! I have so much sympathy for Tyrion after this installment, and I kind of feel bad about it for some reason. I really wish something positive would happen for the good guys. I have started the 4th book. Hopefully, I will not be working as much, so I can get some reading done.

Congrats on finishing a book, Jennifer! Sounds like you have had your plate full recently!

#28 A Feast for Crows by George R. R. Martin

I finished a second book!
I am now up to date on the Martin books. I am ready to wait impatiently for A Dance of Dragons.

I have to say I was a bit less interested in this episode. Still good, but I missed some of my favorite characters.

Nope, not reading the Martin books until they are all written. I may be waiting quite a while!

A Feast for Crows has the disadvantage, from my point of view, of following the characters I don't find as interesting.

105: Agree!

#29 To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis

This book was funny. Do you remember what it is like when you have been up for 48 hours and you can barely function, putting one foot in front of the other and making coherent sentences is nearly impossible? That is how the main character is moving through life at the moment.

#30 All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque

When I closed the book on the final page, I turned to Andy and said, "Well, that was depressing." I was sure I was going to have nightmares.

This is a very well written and poignant story of World War I. I thought war was horrifying before I read the book. Now I believe it even more. Just give peace a chance!

This is Andy's favorite book. Since we have been together for seven years now, I figured it was time I read it. I make him read all kinds of things I like and rarely read things that he likes.

I recall that the Nazis burned that one for its depiction of war. It's hard to get the public ramped up for invasion if people are reading the kind of books that put you in the trenches. Brrr.

#108 - We're up to WWI in my World History class and one of the students has chosen to read this book for his project.

#31 Seduce Me in Dreams by Jacquelyn Frank

This is a new series for Frank. There is a lot of potential here. I am afraid she will not take the leap though. The world is very interesting. Frank is a paranormal romance writer, but this book could really be a sci-fi fantasy epic type series. I am sure that won't happen. But I really see so much in the series that could be expounded on, it is a shame. Right now, the book reads like a sketch. A good sketch, and I am sure that I will read the others in the series when they come out.

OOPS

Hi. delurking to say how interesting I find it that young people still find All Quiet on the Western Front so relevant and moving, and easy enough to read. My 16-year old daughter is reading it, and really enjoying it (if that's the right word) so far. I'm really glad, because I recommended it to her, and I always worry my suggestions will be too out of date. But this is one I think people could happily recommend to teenagers.

Not only do I think AQOTWF can easily be recommended to teenagers, I think it SHOULD be read by all teenagers. While I, all too well, recognise the dangers of making a book 'required reading' in that it immediately becomes a chore, and over-analysing books can reduce their impact, I think this book is incredibly important.

Not only because it is a book on the futility, the comradeship, the horrors and the human impact of war, but because it makes the reader empathise and sympathise with the losers of the war. All too often, propaganda that circulated during the years of the war, becomes embedded in a nation's subconscious. I know it has done over here, and that kind of racism is so dangerous. This book makes them real, and no different from the 'winners', if there can ever be a winner in a war.

I read AQoTWF for the first time 2 years ago and wondered what took me so long to get to that deserved classic.

ETA - #114: Love your comments in the second paragraph, Jenny, and agree wholeheartedly.

#32 Lover Unleashed by J.R. Ward

This book covers V and his sister Payne, Quinn and Blay, and a bunch of rogue vampires. The Lessers are "manning up" too.

This seems like a start to a new series with the same old awesome characters.

If you like the Brotherhood, you will like the book.

I am headed out to go on a much needed vacation. We are headed to Budapest, Vienna and Prague. I am really looking forward to it. I have no idea what we are going to do while we are there. I have not had time to research anything. At any rate, I will be back in a while. Cheers!

117: Sounds amazing, have a great trip!

Have a wonderful trip and safe travels, Jennifer!

Oh, I'm jealous - they're 3 of my favorite cities! Have a great time relaxing and exploring. Bon Voyage!

#33 A Murderous Procession by Ariana Franklin

I really like this series of books. I am very sad that the writer passed away and there will be no more.

#34 Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

Ms. Harris needs to pick it up! The story was fine, but the series is just not exciting anymore.

#35 The Devil in Disguise by Stefanie Sloane
This debut regency romance novel shows potential. The story is interesting but needs to be tightened up a lot and the characters need some more depth. And, the sex scenes are flat.

What is good about it? It is not too cheesy. The female lead is not simpering. There are spies and murder attempts, and horse races.

#36 The Sun Over Breda by Arturo Perez-Reverte
This is part of the Captain Alatriste series. This one is takes place during the war in Breda among other places. This is definately a war story, which makes it a little different than the other books in the series. Good, but not my favorite of the books so far.

#121: There is a possibility of a fifth book in the Ariana Franklin series. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

Oh Stasia, don't tease me. I would be so happy.

#37 The Cavalier of the Apocalypse by Susanne Alleyn

This is an exellent murder mystery series. Thank you Richard for the recommendation. This is a prequel to two other books that Alleyn wrote. I started with this one, since I think I read somewhere that she actually wrote this one first.

Aristide Ravel is a scribbler of pamphelets that often denounce the French monarchy pre-French Revolution. Ravel happens upon a murder and gets sucked (forced) in to the investigation. Turns out he has a knack for investigation.

I was really happy that I had no idea who the murderer was until Aristide told us at the end. I was thoroughly wrapped up in the story and the characters. I hope Ms. Alleyn has a chance to write some more of these.

#124: There is a rumor about that the family is going to publish a fifth book posthumously. If I hear anything concrete, I will let you know.

#38 The Magicians by Lev Grossman
It was ok. That is all I really have to say about it. I read somewhere on the book that it was a cross between Harry Potter and the Chronicles of Narnia. That is true, but it just is not as good as either of them. Instead of angsty teenagers, there are angtsy college students. They are depressed and refuse to take responsibility for themselves. I had no sympathy for the characters. Grossman could have chosen to be more detailed with the world building, but he didn't and the book suffered for it.

I went to see a couple of movies this weekend, X Men: First Class and Super 8. X Men I could give or take, but Super 8 was excellent. It is a heartfelt story about childhood friendships, father/son relationships, first loves, movie making, aliens and explosions!
If you can go and see it at the theatre. This movie deserves a huge screen, a great sound system, a $10 bag of popcorn and a sugary drink, and at least 50 people to share the experience with you.

Thanks for the movie recommendation. I've been on the fence as to whether I want to see Super 8. Then again for aliens and explosions, I may just wait until Cowboys vs. Aliens comes out. :D

#127: The Magicians did not do much for me either. I really wanted to like it, but just did not.

MickyFine: See Super 8 and Cowboys and Aliens! I can't wait until that movie comes out.

It should be some fantastic popcorn fare. :)

Photos from my trip to Budapest, Vienna and Prague are up on my photo site.
http://maloneysphotos.shutterfly.com/

They're beautiful photos!!!! I loved those cities when I was there eons ago - especially Prague. The Old Town Square with the market, and St. Nicholas Cathedral, the street vendors, and the bridge vendors, the crystal, cheap delicious beer, .... I want to go back! :) Looks like you guys had a great time.

Thanks Laura. We did have a great time. We did have a great time, and the street vendors were excellent. Nothing like a sausage or an apple strudel while you are on a marathon site seeing tour!

Absolutely! And hey, nerdy question for you: there's a picture that you took in Prague with the Charles Bridge from kind of a side view - where were you when you took that? It's my favorite pic of yours, and I couldn't figure out where you were when you snapped it.

If it was the ones at the beginning of the set we were at the Metronome. If it was at the end of the set it was on Kampa Island. If you tell what picture number it is I can tell you for certain.

#39 Little Bee by Chris Cleave

I actually finished this book on Friday, but forgot to post it.

Someone from work told me I had to read it and brought me a copy. I instantly decided I would not like it, because I am just that way.

So I did like the book, but I did not think it was a must read or anything. The blurbs in the book talk about it having a lot of unexpected twists. I did not really see that at all. I suppose I do not have much to say about it other than it was good. Maybe I would have had more to say, if I had written this right after I read it. It is a solid three stars.

#40 Hunt the Moon by Karen Chance
The latest installment in the Cassie Palmer series. This episode delves a little deeper into Mircea and Pritkin. I quite liked it and now I cannot wait until the next one. If you are a fan, you will not be disappointed.

I agree! It's a good one, and I can't wait for the set up to the next.

#41 Laird of the Mist by Paula Quinn
Just some fluff. Pretty good. It was free or super cheap on B&N for the Nook.

#42 Divergent by Veronica Roth
Excellent!
This is a great YA book. In the vein of Hunger Games. This world is set up in 5 "factions," each dedicated to a virtue (honesty, selflessness, bravery, peace and intelligence). At age 16, the children of the factions are given a test that helps them determine which faction they will most likely succeed. Beatrice is part of the faction that honors selflessness. She does not feel like she belongs. It is a lot of fun. It is not as overtly violent as Hunger Games. Though there is violence. It's a great book. Look it up and see if you would like it too. I look forward to another installment.

>142 jmaloney17: Already on the TBR list and I continue to hear nothing but positive things.

#43 Magyk by Angie Sage
So back in Dec. when I got my Nook, I found this as a free ebook. I must say I quite enjoyed it. I might actually read the next book. I would not say there are complex characters in this book or anything, but it was a nice quick read.

#142: I really wish my local library would get that one! I already have it in the BlackHole and like Micky, have heard nothing but positive things about the book.

#44 A Dance With Dragons by George R. R. Martin
I promise not to say much of anything. This one dragged a bit for me, but the ending really threw a punch. I am ready for the next one please.

#45 Heartless by Gail Carriger
As expected, this was light, fun read. It starts off with some zombie porcupines and goes from there. Looking forward to the next installment.

#147: Zombie porcupines?! I cannot wait to read that one!

>147 jmaloney17: I really enjoyed Heartless as well. The next book doesn't come out until March which seems like a long time, until I look at the immense TBR list and all of the books languishing there.

#46 The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman

I had been wanting to read this book for quite a while. I finally got around to it. This group of stories centers around an international newspaper in Rome. The main stories come from the point of view of people who currently work at the newspaper. The stories sometimes deal with their lives outside of the paper. Between these stories are short snippets on the history of the newspaper and those that owned it.

I really am not really a short story lover, so a book of essentially short stories based around one thing was a good way for me to branch out.

I learned a lot about working at a newspaper. I am curious about that since I work in media relations, but have not been a reporter (well, at least not since high school.)

I liked this book, but I did not absolutely love it like I thought I would. I do recommend it though.

I am glad you liked The Imperfectionists more than you thought you would, Jennifer.

I've just pulled Imperfectionists out of my New Book Drawer and placed it on my main shelves - was thinking about reading it soon (well, sooner than later) and suddenly here's your review! Not being a short story gal myself, I figured this would be a good way to get myself started too. Glad you liked it.

#47 The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
Fun story about a mad man trying to control the world, and the kids that are trying to save it. Smile. I will read the rest cause I have them.

#153: I am up to book 3 in the series. No idea if there is going to be a book 4 or not.

The 30 Harshest Author-on-Author Insults In History

http://flavorwire.com/188138/the-30-harshest-author-on-author-insults-in-history

Quite amusing.

#48 Burn the Night by Jocelynn Drake
The final installment of the Dark Days series. Everything was tied up in the end. I could not believe that would happen with all that was going on in the story. It ended up leaving some of the characters a bit shallow, but it worked well enough.

#155: Thanks for posting that link!

#49 The Borgia Betrayal by Sara Poole

This was a Early Reader book, but I believe it is out in stores.
This is number two in a series about the poisoner to Borgia, the pope during the time of the Spanish Inquisition.
I gave the first book in the series four stars. This one was not quite as good as the first but good just the same. It moves a little more slowly. Francesca is still after Morozzi, the evil priest that killed her father and currently has Borgia in his sights. Morozzi is trying to kill Borgia, so they can get a new pope that will expell all the Jews from Christendom. Lots of stuff going on here. I like this series. I am interested in the Inquisition and that time period, so that helps. But I really think this is a solidly written series.
Looking forward to the next.

#158: It is unfortunate that my local library does not have any of Poole's books. Maybe someday.

#50 The Black Moth by Georgette Heyer
This was Heyer's first novel. Evidently it started out as a story she told her brother while he was sick. Her father suggested she write it down and sell it. She did.

This a first book, but it is good. Heyer has not quite fully developed her characters and wit in this one. There is a bunch of sword fighting though!

FYI: BN has all of Heyer's books for the Nook priced at $1.99. I bought 21 of them last night in a crazed fit of "Buy Now" Button Finger Fever!

160: Thanks for letting us know about BN's deal! I've wanted to get more into Heyer's books and I believe The Black Moth is the only one to have fallen into public domain.

I've got 6 Heyer's sitting on the shelf, and I've never read her. I know that I'd really like her if only I'd make myself pick one up. So, I'll list the ones I own here and let you guys decide which I should read:

April Lady
The Nonesuch
The Foundling
Death in the Stocks
No Wind of Blame
Venetia

I'll take any of them and plop it in my hand ASAP!

I have not read any of those Laura. I now have The Nonesuch, The Foundling and Venetia though. I will take a look at the descriptions and see if I can make an educated guess.

Laura: I think Venetia might be the one to start with. I would go with one of the romances at any rate.

#160: I bought 21 of them last night in a crazed fit of "Buy Now" Button Finger Fever!

LOL!

#51 Black Sheep by Georgette Heyer
I read another one.
Not among my top Heyer reads but it was still worth reading. I particularly liked Abby, and the minor character Oliver. This one is set in Bath. I have been to Bath, and even recognized some of the street names. Particularly, Laura Place where I took a photo of my friend Laura standing in front of the street sign that said, "Laura Place." One of my favorite things about Heyer's novels is that she used real places and people from the time to accent the story, which allows the reader to become even more deeply involved.

Off to the next Heyer.

It is cool that you have actually been to Bath and recognized some of the places!

If I ever visit Bath, I'd probably tour every location mentioned in Persuasion. In fact, I'm sure I've read there's a Jane Austen tour in Bath. I'd be all over that. ;) So jealous you've actually been there. Oh, and I'm glad you enjoyed your latest read. I keep meaning to get around to reading Heyer...

#52 These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer
So this one is fine. It mostly takes place in Paris. I don't really have much to say about it. Off to the next one. One good thing about Heyer ... there are plenty to choose from.

#53 Sylvester, or the Wicked Uncle by Georgette Heyer
Now this was a Heyer that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was fun and lively. I liked the main characters. The heroine said everything she thought, and ended up in a lot of unenviable but funny predicaments. Just plain fun.

#54 Arabella by Georgette Heyer
Another very pleasant Heyer novel. Arabella is very sweet. I liked her brothers and sisters and her love interest was dashing and intelligent. I do like a happy ending.

So I am supposed to go to the Outer Banks on Saturday. I am pretty sure that I won't be going on Sat. Hopefully we can get over there on Sunday. Everyone keep your fingers crossed. I desparately want to go to the beach!

#172: Fingers crossed, Jennifer!

I quite like These Old Shades; Devil's Cub, the sequel, is also much beloved.

#55 Bath Tangle by Georgette Heyer
Another goodie.

#56 Charity Girl by Georgette Heyer
Can't remember what I read, but I know it was by Heyer. Will fill this in later.

I remembered! It was a pretty good one.

#57 Sabriel by Garth Nix

I liked Sabriel, but I wanted a little more. I will definately read the other two in the trilogy.

#177: I still need to finish up that trilogy!

I have conflicting strong feelings about that series (so brilliant! so unsatisfying!) so I'm always interested to hear what others think about it.

Cynara: I agree with you. I really liked the story, but I wanted more out of it.

#58 Lord of the Vampires by Gena Showalter
This was ok. Vampire prince has his memory erased. Princess of another kingdom purchases as a slave and tortures and rapes him (this is off screen). A woman from Earth crosses over into this world and saves the prince. Things go from there.

Back from vacation at Deep Creek Lake in Maryland. We were supposed to go on our annual trip to the Outer Banks in N.C., but Irene came along and ate up the road so we could not go. I did not take a single picture, but I did read Charity Girl, Sabriel and Lord of the Vampires. I enjoyed sitting by the lake. We went to a local state park and hiked to a little waterfall. We went in. The waterfall was so cold that it took my breath away. It was invigorating though.

Back to work tomorrow. Boo!

Sounds like you had a nice little break, despite not being able to head out to the Outer Banks like you had planned. And jumping in a waterfall sounds exhilarating! Good luck at work today, sorry about that. :)

Thanks Laura. Work was terrible yesterday, but I am on a better path today.

#59 Seduce Me In Flames by Jacquelyn Frank

I really like Frank's books. This is the second in her Three World's series. In this one, we discover that Ender is a big ball of fire! I kept expecting him to say "Flame on!" in the style of The Fantastic Four. But Frank refrained. It was fun. I am looking forward to her next, Seduce Me In Shadows.

#60 Envy by J.R. Ward
This is the third book in the Fallen Angels series. Not the best Ward book ever, but good enough for hard core fans of Ward.

#61 Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue by Stephanie Laurens
This is a Cynster novel. This is not her best. The characters were particularly shallow. And the story was ridiculously drawn out. It was like three stories in one. At any rate, it is a Cynster novel, so those who read them will want to read it regardless. It is also a start of a mini story line with Heather and her sisters being targetted by a kidnapper.

Hello :)
I just read your thread and wanted to comment about the paranomal series that you read. I love the JR Ward books! Thanks for the suggestions in #54, I'm going to pick up the first in the Riley Series next.

I've heard only good things about the JR Ward series, so I'l be adding that to my heap.

And, I'll second the rec for the Riley Jensen series by Keri Arthur. I'm in the middle of the seventh book now, and they're great reads.

Gogs: I hope you like them. I really do enjoy them. Arthur has a book coming out at the end of the month but it is not a Riley Jensen book. It is the second book in the Dark Angels series.

Correction and addition: Darkness Unbound is the new book. It expands on the Riley Jensen series, but has a new heroine. It is the first in the series. It comes out in the U.S. on Sept. 27.

Oh, crap. Another series that I have to follow. Thanks for the info - I think . ;)

#62 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
This was a very good book.
It starts out magical and subtle. The tension slowly increases as the circus' world is developed and stretched and entwined. And it concludes with a satisfying ending.
This is an adult book about illusionists, trees, a challenge and a circus. Read it!

# 63 The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt
This one is on the Booker short list. This was another good read. This is a western about two brothers, Charlie and Eli Sisters, who are mercenaries for hire. It covers a period of several weeks while they are on a job for "The Commodore." There is senseless violence and animal abuse, so avoid the book if you cannot tolerate this. But it is very good, and thoughtful.

Your last couple books read have been good choices! Both are on my wish lish!

#64 Tides of War by Stella Tillyard

This is a LibraryThing ER book. It is due out in stores this November.

Looking at the other titles that Tillyard has written, I discovered that she is an historian to some extent. This piqued my interest when I began to read the novel about Britain and the Peninsular War. It was very good in the sense of detail and accuracy. The story was pretty interesting as well. The problem I found was that there were so many stories going on that the characters were not particularly interesting. There are at least seven story lines that I can think of off the top of my head. Though I liked the book ok, I think there was a trifle too much going on.

#65 The Last Werewolf by Glen Duncan

So this was a pretty good book. It started off slow for me and then progressed nicely after awhile. It is about the last werewolf on earth, his trials and tribulations, how he dealt with his lifestyle, and how he survives. It is very blunt. Sex isn't particularly romantic. Death is graphic. A lot of folks really like this book. I thought it was ok, but nothing particularly special in the end. I likely will read more if this continues as a series or if Duncan were to write something else in a similar vein.

#66 The Broken Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin

This is the second book in the Inheritance Trilogy. It was just as enjoyable as the first. This is a great fantasy series. I encourage others to read it. I think you may want to read them back to back. Though the book stands alone, some of the gods cross over and I had a difficult time remembering what was their importance.

#67 In Bed With a Highlander by Maya Banks

This is the first in a new trilogy by Maya Banks. It was pretty good, pretty much what you expect out of a highlander romance novel. I will probably read the others in the series. I am interested in what happens to the other two brothers. One complaint. The picture on the cover looks absolutely nothing like the characters in the book. The only thing that says highlander in the pic is the plaid.

Oh romance novel covers. I think sometimes all publishers require is a cover that indicates romance novel and any other resemblance to the actual content is coincidental. Not always true, of course, but true more often than any reader would actually prefer.

#68 The Passage by Justin Cronin

I finally finished this book, and it was well worth it. I was not sure that I would like it, because it seemed like it would be too militaristic for me. Once I became involved with the characters I was not as concerned about all that. The writing was excellent, and I really wanted these people to succeed. Great book. I am looking forward to the next.

I never do this, but I have a good long quote from the book. It is early on, and I just loved it.

"But from this day forward, the old way of doing things was over. The war--the real war, the one that had been going on for a thousand years and would go on for a thousand more--the war between Us and Them, between the Haves and the Have-Nots, between my gods and your gods, whoever you are--would be fought by men like Richards: men with faces you didn't notice and couldn't remember, dressed as busboys or cab drivers or mailmen, with silencers tucked up their sleeves. It would be fought by young mothers pushing ten pounds of C-4 in baby strollers and schoolgirls boarding subways with vials of sarin hidden in their Hello Kitty backpacks. It would be fought out of the beds of pickup trucks and blandly anonymous hotel rooms near airports and mountain caves near nothing at all; it would be waged on train platforms and cruise ships, in malls and movie theaters and mosques, in country and in city, in darkness and by day. It would be fought in the name of Allah or Kurdish nationalism or Jews for Jesus or the New York Yankees--the subjects hadn't changed, they never would, all coming down, after you'd boiled away the bullshit, to somebody's quarterly earnings report and who got to sit where--but now the war was everywhere, metastasizing like a million maniac cells run amok across the planet, and everyone was in it."

Good review! I also loved this book and can't wait until the second comes out!

Great review, and another reminder that I need to read this book already! I've owned it since it first came out, and have been meaning to read it ever since. I was going to read it this October, but somehow the month slipped away from me. I'll try giving it one more bump-up!

#69 The Kingdom of Gods by N.K. Jemison
This is the 3rd and last in this series. I loved it as much as the first two. This one is about the godling Sieh, the trickster. This takes place 100s of years after the second book. I don't want to say anything about it. Don't want to give anything away. If you are interested, read them. You won't be disappointed.

#70 Adam: the Nightwalkers by Jacquelyn Frank
This is a poor showing from Frank. Things come together towards the end, but this really looks like something she threw together because her fans wanted her to write the story. It was frustrating. We deserved a better story.

#71 Darkness Unbound by Keri Arthur

This a new series, Dark Angels, set in the Riley Jensen world. I actually read Darkness Rising first, because I was not paying attension. This is the first book. The main character is Risa Jones, the daughter of Riley's friend. Risa was a little girl in the Jensen series.

Risa is half werewolf and half Aedh. The keys to the gates of Hell are missing and Risa is the only one with the ability to find them. The contingent that controls Risa, controls the keys. Risa will not hear of it. She is in charge of her own life.

I quite enjoyed the book. I really like the majority of Arthur's work.

#72 Darkness Rising by Keri Arthur

This is the second book in the Dark Angels series. I liked this one a bit more than the first. Looking forward to the next in the series.

#73 The Darkest Surrender by Gena Showalter

This is the latest installment in Showalter's Lords of the Underworld series. This is the story of Strider (who houses the demon Defeat) and Kaia, one of the harpies. It is a pretty good one. It follows the series well. It also adds some information on Paris' story, and starts up some new information on Kane and William. Paris' book must be coming soon. Or maybe Showalter is saving that one for last, and is just torturing us with all the tidbits in each book!

Oh good, I was hoping I'd find another Keri Arthur series reviewed by someone I trust! I've only got 2 books left in Riley Jensen and would be sad to not read anything else by Ms. Arthur. Thanks much, they're on my TBR in 2012 list!

The new series is very similar to the Jensen series. The ones by Arthur that I do not like is the Myth & Magic series. I did not like the main character, and I thought the abilities were lame. But you should defiantely like Dark Angels. First two books are out, but I am not certain when the next is to be delivered.

This is the coolest thing I have seen in a long time. All book lovers and artists must admire.

http://community.thisiscentralstation.com/_Mysterious-paper-sculptures/blog/4991...

very cool!

#74 Inheritance by Christopher Paolini
The last in the Inheritance Cycle. Eragon and the Varden finally face Galbatorix. Pretty good. Not the best fantasy series ever. But an interesting world. Paolini says that he plans to write other stories in this world, but not necessarily about Eragon.

Thanks for the NF suggestions that you left on Mark's thread! I'll have to check them out in the new year

Glad I went with my gut and bought a Nook instead of a Kindle. Amazon now is on my list of evil corporations. I will not buy from it again. I do not care how if they are considerably cheaper or not.

They are giving customers up to a $5 discount to go in a store scan a bar code using its new app, and then purchase the item from Amazon.
http://allthingsd.com/20111206/amazon-will-pay-shoppers-5-to-walk-out-of-stores-...

This is a way for Amazon to price compare with physical stores. When my dad owned a store, he used to kick out the people that were coming in from 7-11, Dirt Cheap Cigarettes and Beer (local STL chain), and the other local convenience stores to check out the competitions prices. The only reason to do this is to put competitors out of business. A company like Amazon can afford to take a loss for a couple of months and offer lower prices than competitors. A small business cannot do that.

214: Yay, I concur - go Nook!

I'm cold!

Just been going over my highest rated books of the year. I have two books that were rated 5.0, and a half dozen at 4.5. I currently am reading The Count of Monte Cristo. I am pretty sure it will be added to this list as well. We'll see.

The Count of Monte Cristo is one of my favorite books of all-time! Glad to hear you're enjoying !

It is hard to understand how a person could not like it. It is very exciting.

I am making some baked pasta with zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, tomatoes, onion, hot italian sausage, mozzarella, ricotta, yummy, yummy ....

Andy is making the garlic bread.

I have not really eaten anything today, so I am super hungry. It smells garlicky and basilly in here! Drool, Drool ... .

Only 10 or 15 minutes left.

Jennifer - good job ruining my diet -the baked pasta sounds delicious. Victor Hugo, Honore de Balzac, Alexandre Dumas, Emile Zola or Gustave Flaubert as the leading French writer of the 19th c? I would go:

1 Zola
2 Balzac
3 Dumas
4 Hugo
5 Flaubert

Sorry about that Paul. It was delish though. There are plenty of leftovers!

I don't really read French authors often. And of the five you listed I do not think I have read anything by any of them other than Dumas. I have read a lot of plays by the French, but not much else. I read The Red and the Black by Stendhal, and I did not like it at all.

I will have to remedy this situation. I guess I have a good start with the Count.

mistletoe smooches!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Thanks for all the Christmas wishes. Hope you all have a wonderful New Year!

I actually finished a chunkster for my 75th book!

#75 The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

Whatan enjoyable book. There is plenty of duplicity, ruined lives and lessons learned. I happy man is thrown in jail to die because of jealousy, ambition and fear. The man then escapes and aquires a fortune, then revenges himself. All manner of things happen. Quite satisfying. Recommended.

Jennifer congrats on reaching 75! What a lovely truncated review, which perfectly encapsulates Dumas classic, to do it with. Happy new year!

Congratulations, and just in the nick of time! The Count is one of those books that I keep meaning to get to - perhaps in 2012?

Happy New Year!

Thank you Paul and Laura.

WOW! What an ending to a challenging year! And of all the chunksters to end on, you couldn't have had a better one. Good work!

Have you made your 2012 thread yet?

Congrats! And a Happy New Years!

Congrats!

Congrats! I'm so glad you enjoyed The Count of Monte Cristo, it is one of my all-time favs!

Happy New Year!

2012 thread!

http://www.librarything.com/topic/129677#3127756

Happy New Year everyone!

Ah the Count really is a fantastic book for 75. Felicitations on reaching the magic number! :D