Chèli's First Start for the New Year - 1st Qtr 2011

I'm starting a new life today, so it's perfect that it's time to start a new Challenge and a new thread.



2011 I'm continuing the following challenges:

US Presidents Challenge
European Challenge
50 States challenge
Reading through Time

and besides the 75 book Challenge I will also be participating in

11 in 11 Challenge - 132 books - 11 categories with 11 books plus 11 book bonus category
TIOLI challenges - each month a different set of challenges
BOYS Challenge - (Books Off Your Shelves) 50 books that I already own (either tree book or e-book)

I can't think of not being part of 75ers - between all the fun conversations, TIOLI, group reads, and I'm sure surprises to be found. I can barely wait for the New Year!

I'm so glad you're okay! Welcome back... and stay healthy. Have a great New Year.

You've been starred for 2011!

Thanks, Madeline. I'm still very sore and very drowsy, dropping off in the blink of an eye, and today I couldn't seem to concentrate on any book I tried, so I'm just trying to get 2011 set.

Hey, you're back! Hope you get back on your feet soon.

Welcome back, Cheli. Glad to see you're up to coming online.

Glad to see you back, Cheli! Kudos to you being back online so far.

Hospital beds are not that comfortable (and add to that the constant interruptions for blood pressure and temperature checks) and I am really glad to be home. I set myself in my recliner right next to my laptop so in between naps I've been on and off LT. Haven't tried the steps yet. But it's almost bedtime so pretty soon.

My basic plans for the next few days are doing my Christmas cards and reading a few books.

So glad all went well, Cheli, and glad to see you here again in 2011. (Like you'd be anywhere else, eh what?)

Glad you're doing okay Chèli.

LT is good medicine. We'll have you back to reading at warp speed by the week end! I'm glad you're back with us.

I'm glad you are home, Cheli. I like your plans for the next few days ... rest up.

I'm very glad you're home and doing OK. Take it easy, relax, and read and LT as you feel able!

Cheli, glad to hear that you're on the road to recovery. Looking forward to another great year here together!

In case you do not get back to my thread before year end, I issued you a 'free pass,' since you still have 5 more to go yet :)

Happy New Year Cheli.

Good to see you back with the 75 challenge group..right where you belong. I look forward to communicating in 2011. All good wishes for a healthy New Year.

Happy New Year, Cheli. Hope 2011 is a great reading year for you.

Happy New Year from me too.

Hope all is well with you, Cheli, and that you are having a good new year so far.

#1 The Secret History of the Pink Carnation

Author: Lauren Willig
Read: December 31 - January 5
Format: Audio - 12 CDs 14.5 hrs. equivalent 464 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: 19th century espionage, Purple Gentian - English Spy
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors
Genre: Mystery
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL, AUDIO
Stars: 3½

We've all heard of the Scarlet Pimpernel, and very much along the lines of the his adventures, we are treated to the story of the end of the career of the Purple Gentian (a friend of the Scarlet Pimpernel) and how he was unmasked and the circumstances which lead to the birth of the Pink Carnation in his stead.

The story is woven around the research of a Harvard Doctoral candidate (Eloise Kelly) searching for the identity of the Pink Carnation - an English spy during the Napoleonic era whose true identity has never been revealed. Having searched numerous archives in the British library and universities, Eloise makes a last ditch effort and contacts the family members of the Scarlet Pimpernel and the Purple Gentian asking if they have any information that could be helpful. The story that evolves is delightfully entertaining and mysterious.

This is the first in the series and I'm definitely looking forward to continuing this series - the characters were fun and amusing and the style was refreshing.

I, too, enjoy the Pink Carnation series. I've read the first four and hope to get at least the fifth read this year. They are a fun, light read.

#2 A Murderous Procession

Author: Ariana Franklin
Read: January 2 - January 6
Format: E- Book - equvalent of 510 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: Royal Marriage procession, travel Crusades era
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, RTT, BOYS
Category:
Genre: Something New - books that were acquired or released in the last 12 months
Stars: 4

The fourth installment of the Mistress of the Art of Death series sees Adeila under the orders of Henry II accompanying Princess Joanna to her wedding in Sicily. Unknown to her and her personal entourage, Adeila is being followed by Scarry - the partner of the evil character from the previous book. He has disguised himself as part of the Princess' entourage and no one suspects except Rowley and Ulf after trouble starts to plaque the procession.

The story is enthralling, keeping the reader's attention and at times, taking your breath away. I was a bit disappointed at the swiftness of the conclusion as if Ms. Franklin felt the story should end and just did it but I also wish there wasn't such a cliffhanger. I love the series and wish the books came faster, but I don't want the quality to fall.

#21: I have not read that one yet. I will have to get to it soon! Thanks for the reminder, Cheli.

OH! I didn't realize there was a 4th! That will be bumped to the top of the wish list. I love Adiela.

I still have to start this series, I had hoped to get started last year.

#3 Gingerbread Cookie Murder

Author: Joanne Fluke, Laura Levine, Leslie Meier
Read: January 7 - January 9
Format: Hardback 361 pages
Source: Librarything Early Reviewers Program
Setting: Various locales
Subject: murders during the holidays
Category: Going Steady - ongoing series
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI
Stars: 3

This book is the combination of 3 short stories starring familiar characters. Each has gingerbread men central to the tale. Joanne Fluke's story is about the murder of one of her neighbors, Laura Levine's account tells of her character visiting her parents in a Florida retirement community and coming across a murder, and Leslie Meier's narrative of a kidnapped child. The first two were amusing - the last a bit too dark for the group.

Cheli- I know you got this for ER, but you have bought it if not? Is the series still good enough to keep dragging? I found I was really getting a bit tired of these...they seemed to be more of the same, over and over.

Since it was not a full blown book for Hannah Swensen, the romance was hardly in the mix which was okay - leaving it out or barely mentioned didn't detract from the story. I had never read a Laura Levine book and I thought it was entertaining. There were some places where the elderly mother reminded me of you know who (except for loving the cat of course.) The Leslie Meier was disappointing because of the dark aspect.

Awwww. I was working on my work blog(!) and happened to see your blog, Cheli.

Congrats on the birth of Isabella. Sounds like Bella and her mom are both doing well.

Yes, doiong fine, still waiting for pictures!

Congratulations on your new granddaughter!

What Caty said! I want to see pictures too!

BTW - Did you see that Luxx started a 'future readers' thread? I do not know why grandchildren could not be listed there too!

Shelf Awareness had this little tidbit in the e-mail today.

SinC Survey: Clues to the Mystery/Crime Fiction Market
Bricks-and-mortar stores still lead the way in mystery/crime fiction sales, and women over 45 constitute the majority of buyers in the genre, according to a collaborative study, "The Mystery Book Consumer in the Digital Age," released this week by Sisters in Crime. The survey was designed to offer an overview of the mystery/crime fiction book-buying landscape, using research based on publishing industry data gathered and interpreted by Bowker's PubTrack division.

"The mystery reader survey was created initially to help SinC members make good business decisions when crafting their own business strategies," said author Cathy Pickens, the organization's president. The 47-page report is now available at www.sistersincrime.org.

The study found that the majority of mystery/crime fiction buyers are women (68%) (ME) over the age of 45 (66% )(ME). Buyers in the 18-to-44 demographic purchase 31% of the mysteries sold.

Some 48% live in the suburbs(ME), 27% in rural areas and 25% in urban areas. The South accounts for 35% of sales, followed by the West (26%), Midwest (20%) and Northeast (19%) (ME).

Bricks-and-mortar stores sell 39% of all mysteries, with library borrowing accounting for approximately 20% and online purchases 17%. (ALL ME)

The number one factor that determined how mystery readers became aware of books was found to be knowing/liking an author. The next four factors were: the book was part of a series; an in-store display/on shelf/spinning rack; a book-buying club such as the Book-of-the-Month Club or the Mystery Guild; and the recommendation of a friend or relative. (Again ALL ME)

Many buyers apparently still judge books by their covers, since 57% of respondents said the cover had "some influence" on their decision, while 18% said the cover had a "high influence." (You got it, ALL ME)

When I finished reading it, I wondered why are they writing about me?

#32 All me, too. I should go take a look at that.

HERE SHE IS! Meet Miss Isabella Noelle who arrved yesterday at 7:16AM weighing in at 6 lbs. 9 ozs.

Thanks for posting the picture, Cheli! She looks like a doll :)

#34 Oh, what an adorable little sweetheart! Congratulations and thanks for posting the picture!

#32 That survey sounds an awful lot like me, too, except for the suburbs part. (I'm rural.)

Oh, what a sweet little thing - congrats!!

She's a peanut, indeed! What fun you will have with her. Do you have a collection of books to share with her yet?

I'm starting her collection soon.

#4 Lumby on the Air

Author: Gail Fraser
Read: January 9 - January 16
Format: Paperback 430 pages
Source: FSB Associates for review
Setting: NW USA
Subject: small town, family reunions, teenage rebellion
Category: Something Borrowed/Something Blue - blue
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI
Stars: 4

This book, 5th in the series, is the latest tale of the charming quirky little town in the NW that has enchanted so many. The reader is invited into the family of Mark and Pam Walker as they host a family reunion which will culminate with their 25th anniversary and the renewal of their vows.

The reader meets both Mark's Family and siblings and Pam's mother and all the dysfunctional antics that go with them. At the same time, additional residents in Lumby are introduced while the characters that were in previous installments are still in the area. Lumby shows to its best advantage the quality of small town living even when big city visitors are in residence.

I can't wait for the next book to hit the shelves.

I'll borrow #40 when we get to HH Thank you.

What a great picture of your new granddaughter, Cheli.

I've got to get cracking on my Lumby books. So far I've only read the first one and I've the 2nd in my TBR Tower. I'd forgotten about it, so thanks for the nudge. I'll have to move it up a couple of steps.

I absolutely have to share this picture of Jackson meeting his baby sister. It is priceless!



Finally got a look at over a hundred pictures and picked my favorites.

Cheli

What a fantastic photo! I hope you are feeling well. Congratulations on another beautiful grandbaby.

Wow - what a handsome little guy Big Brother is! Great picture - thanks for sharing!

Now that is one proud big brother! I can see why this is a favorite picture, Cheli. I hope the love continues when she tries to take his toys from him!

Cheli

How are you feeling? Are you fully recovered from your surgery?

I love how he is pointing at his shirt to emphasize his place in the family! Mom looks fabulous in this pic, like she just came from a spa.

Those are the most precious pictures! But the nerve of Mommy to look so darn good! How did she manage that? I never looked like that after having my babies. Whew! She looks like an advertisement for childbirth

Thanks for sharing the picture, Cheli! What a great family picture.

I really enjoyed the Ariana Franklin books I have read thus far. I am glad to see she has more out now. I can't wait to get my hands on them. Hope your recovery is going well, and good luck on your challenges this year. I hope to do well on my BOYS challenge myself. I have begun a small business that I will be using the books I have read as gifts. In other words, I will be selling handmade bookmarks and/or bookplates and/or note paper but I will not charge for the book only the handmade items accompanying the book. The business is a sort of affordable, handmade gifts for those times when you realize you have forgotten to get a gift or that you just don't know what to get for that hard to buy for person. There's nothing that says it better than a handmade or personalized gift. I just finished making a batch of dog biscuits and putting them up in cute jars for new puppy people. If I can get some photos I'll put them on my site. Anyway, the point is I hope to be getting rid of my books in this fashion, so I guess you could say I will be re-purposing my books.

Wonderful photo! Priceless!

#5 1864 : Lincoln at the gates of history

Author: Charles B. Flood
Read: January 8 - January 20
Format: Audio - Overdrive 20 hrs. equivalent 521 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: Civil War, Lincoln Re-election
Category: The Engagement: this is getting serious
Genre: History
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL, AUDIO
Stars: 3

This book concentrated on the pivotal year of history of 1864 during the Lincoln Administration telling about the political problems that impacted the President while he was working toward re-election.
The political environment in 1864 was extremely complicated because of the splits in the parties - Conservative Republicans who supported Lincoln, Radical Republicans that questioned his handling of the South, Peace Democrats who advocated compromise, and War Democrats who wanted to fight and didn't care about the slaves.

The historical events of the year - battles including the Wilderness Campaign, Lincoln's handling of Military leadership problems, the death of Chief Justice Taney, and issues with his own wife clashed with his efforts toward re-election. Lincoln felt that there was a good chance that he would not be returning to the Presidency and seems to be surprised when it does happen.

Interesting information with a detailed look for a specific year in the timeframe of the war.

#53 Sounds like a good one.

I have got to get cracking on that long Millard Fillmore bio so I can do Pierce and Buchanan and finally get started on Lincoln.

Have to take a day of rest. Been pushing myself to hard. So since I'm not lugging firewood into the house for a fre, I'll to snuggle down with a blanket in front of this one to read.

Bedevilled Eggs

Author: Laura Childs
Read: January 17 - January 22
Format: Paperback 320 pages including recipes
Source: Author for review
Setting: Fictional town of Kindred
Subject: small town, Halloween,murder mystery
Category: Something New - books acquired or released in the last 12 months
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: 3½

This third installment of the Cackleberry Club series is full of fun and laughter while weaving an entertaining mystery along the way. Suzanne Dietz and her partners at the Cackleberry Club set out to help a friend and get involved in more than they bargained for. When a mayoral candidate is murdered at Suzanne's side directly after attending a CackleBerry Club read-dating event where he was involved in an altercation (with their friend Jane), Suzanne, Toni, and Petra set out to clear their friend who is instantly the #1 suspect. The escapades that ensue are enjoyably diverting while driving the mystery investigation and the character development.

This book had a bit of humor, romance, mystery and a touch of social conscience. I'm liking this series more with each book.

Oh, it's lovely and warm here, just a hint of woodsmoke in the air. Nice ... are you serving warm beverages as well? :)

Hot Chocolate and chocolate chip scones... are you coming?

Mmmm .. chocolate chip scones - I'm there.

Just let me know when you're coming...want to make sure everything is warm and toasty!

Cheli - What adorable grandkids you have! Jackson is going to be a great big brother! One of my favorite pictures of my two boys is the one of Ben (then 3 years old) holding Matt in the hospital after he was born. Of course, we also have a picture from a couple of weeks later with Ben holding Matt by his neck.

What a cozy thread you have going here! I LOVE that gif of the fireplace--I felt warmer just looking at it (and it's in the single digits F. here in Minnesota).

Just stopping by to say, "Hi!"

Karen O.

#7 The Mournful Teddy

Author: John J. Lamb
Read: January 22 - January 25
Format: Paperback 289 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Rural Virginia
Subject: teddy bear collecting, law enforcement corruption
Category: Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - leftover
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: 4 ★★★★

Brad Lyons had been a Homicide Inspector for the city of San Francisco before he was shot and permanently disabled and forced to retire. With his wife Ashleigh they move back to her hometown and started an artisan business of creating teddy bears.

The morning of the Great Teddy Bear Extravaganza, the body of a man washed up on their land and County Sheriff, without even examining the body, determined that it was an accidental drowning. Brad tried to explain to the Sheriff all the signs that pointed to a murder by strangulation, but he was told emphatically that t was a drowning and to keep his nose out of it if he knew what was good for him. As Brad and Ashleigh headed to the Extravaganza they were stopped by the sheriff's deputy (his son) and given several tickets as a warning of what trouble they could get into if they didn't comply with the Sheriff's request.

The story is cleverly woven so that the clues emerge to the characters and the readers at the same time and the characterizations as they develop are entertaining and delightful. I have the next in the series and look forward to it immensely. (I would even if I wasn't an arctophile.)

#63 Glad you liked it, Cheli. I'm always embarassed to recommend books and find that the person I suggested it to hates it.

I note that I read that first one back in 2008 and haven't picked up the second one. I need to do that. Even though I'm not an arctophile.

The Clockwork Teddy is on my schedule for next month.

#8 Bridge to Terabitia

Author: Katherine Paterson
Read: January 21 - January 25
Format: Audio - 4 CDs equivalent 128 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: Childhood, bullies, friendship
Category: The Kids have it!
Genre: Fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL, AUDIO
Stars: 3

I don't exactly what to say about this book. There are nearly 200 reviews already on LibraryThing so I will forgo the story review and just go with my impressions.

The two main characters in this book are a 5th grade boy and girl who are thrown together because of the area they live in, their ability to run fast and their isolation. Jesse, the young boy, is alone on the family farm with 4 sisters and mother while his father works out of town. Leslie, the young girl, has moved to the rural area with her parents (both writers) who are trying to get back to basics (they don't even have a TV). Because of their mutual isolation from children of their age (Jesse because of working the farm) and Leslie (because she's the new kid on the block) they bond and together they create the imaginary world of Terabithia where they are the King and Queen.

The relationship that develops between of them is that of young love and when the tragedy hits, the reactions and how it is handled are touching. A lovely little book.

I was really planning on spending the day today reading but plans didn't work out that way. Yesterday we got hit in the DC area with sleet and rain and snow and ice. My husband can normally make it home from work in 45 minutes. Last night he left at 4:30PM and finally made it home by 11:30PM - 7 hours! My SIL left at the same time from her office and she finally made it to her house at midnight only to find that she couldn't get in because she had forgotten her key and the power was out and she couldn't get in the garage. So he grabbed her dog and came to our house around 1AM ahnd checked in for the night.

Our little hotel now has another visitor, one of our friends has no power and he has to sleep with a CPAP machine for Sleep Apnea, so tonight I've dug out my recipe for Shrimp Scampi so that I can feed all my guest. Tim drove his sister to the nearest Walmart so that she could get some dog food and clean clothes.

Cheli....do you have a frequent flyer program?

My 30 minute commute turned into an hour yesterday, but I was just going from Columbia to western Howard County. We got about 8 inches here and holed up at home today. Unfortunately, I got to sit in on about three hours worth of telephone meetings, so it was a workday after all!

#67 How generous of you to open your home on short notice. I can't believe the commute times you described! I thought it was bad enough last winter when a 30 minute drive took me 4 hours during a winter storm that hit just before rush hour. I hope everyone there is warm and safe tonight. They certainly sound well-fed (shrimp scampi - yum!)

What Sandy said!

Cheli, glad everyone is safe!

I've added The Mournful Teddy to my tbr pile for 2011.

Glad everyone got somewhere safely. Those are pretty impressive commute times!! I think my longest ever snowstorm commute was 4 hours, though I stopped for dinner along the way to let traffic thin out and let the plows do their thing.

So nice of you to take care of family and friends like that.

I'd like to think that if I needed help someone would be there for me, I guess, it's like the golden rule, Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

When I think of all my friends that helped me out after my surgery, how could I turn my back others?

#9 Acqua Alta

Author: Donna Leon
Read: January 25 - January 28
Format: 374 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: Chinese Archeology, Mafia infiltration, Gay bashing
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, SYLL
Category: Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Stars: ****

The 5th installment of Donna Leon's Commissario Brunetti series returns characters from the first book of the series to the beautiful Venetian setting and then makes it turn ugly with a vicious beating and death threats.

Guido Brunetti realizes that a friend, Brett Lynch, an archeologist that specializes in Chinese ceramics, has return when he is presented with a report about the vicious assault by men, putting her in the hospital. He gathers information about the beating which was a warning for her to avoid a meeting with the Museum director in Venice, Semenzato. When he is found dead in his office, Brunetti, starts to piece together an intricately woven conspiracy surrounding theft and substitution of rare art objects.
Guido's determination to protect his friend and to identify the perpetrators, is documented with the backdrop of the rain season which brings the "high water" (acqua alta) through which Brunetti was wade to find all the clues that finally lead him to the answers he seeks.

If only the real world mysteries could be solved in the same manner by policemen like Commissario Guido Brunetti who often disregards the method of gaining information so that justice can be achieved. I am really looking forward to the next installment.

#65 Cheli, you might want to doublecheck which book is the second one in the teddy bear mystery series. LT says it's The False Hearted Teddy. Fantastic Fiction says it's The Crafty Teddy. However, the author's website says it's The False-Hearted Teddy.

Amazon had FHT coming out in June of '07 and TCT out later that year.

None of my touchstones is working.

I will definitely check it out. I have them all so no problem. Thanks for the heads up!

JANUARY RECAP
Well, January was just a lazy month trying to recuperate from surgery and get ready for my new granddaughter! I was going to spend a lot of time just reading but then snowy weather dielivered me a few house guests so my reading was stalled! - several romances, a history, some great fiction, even so I'm off to a good start for 2011!

The best of the month was - A Murderous Procession but Acqua Alta was a very close second.
The worst of the month - 1864: Lincoln at the gates of history - not really bad

I read the following books:
The Secret History of the Pink Carnation
Gingerbread Cookie Murder
1864: Lincoln at the Gates of History
Lumby on the Air
A Murderous Procession
Bedeviled Eggs
Acqua Alta
The Mournful Teddy
Bridge to Terabithia

I hope to keep up in February but travel plans are currently in progress so time for reading may be curtailed. I will be reading some of the following books:
Crown of Destiny
The Masque of the Black Tulip
Heat Wave
Bleak House
The Long Quiche Goodbye
Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war
Stand-in Groom
The White Queen
Scones and Bones
The Altar of Bones
The Amber Room
The False-Hearted Teddy
The Magician's Book: A Skeptic's Adventures in Narnia

#10 Crown of Destiny

Author: Bertrice Small
Read: January 28 - February 2
Format: Paperback 376 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: World of Hetar, Twilight Lord
Category: Going Steady - continuing series, favorite authors
Genre: Fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★½

This is the final book in the World of Hetar series which details the life of Lara, a Fairie woman, who has for over a century attempted to protect Hetar and Terah from the darkness and evil of the Twilight Lord. In this final installment, Lara comes to realize that the Light cannot always be victorious over the Dark and that sometimes, to withdraw for another day's battle is wise.

As a fairie, Lara doesn't appear to age to mortals which is very disturbing for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They cannot remember the battles that she has fought or adventures that she has had. They see only someone who is young and vital but none of the magic which sustains it. When the Twilight Lord Kolgrim (Lara's son by Kol) finds that his destiny is written to marry an Hetarian virgin who will increase his magical powers and allow him to take over the Hetar and Terah worlds, Lara tries to prevent the marriage and when unsuccessful, tries to foil the magical transfer.

As always the vibrant story is entertaining and erotic (to an extent) showing the reader the rich details of the authors imagination while bringing to life a magical world.

Those who have never met Lara and the World of Hetar in the previous books, will feel a bit lost and need to go back to read the previous volumes so that the references will all make sense. Definitely one that needs to be read after the others.

The Series is a keeper.

#11 The False-Hearted Teddy

Author: John J. Lamb
Read: February 3 - February 5
Format: Paperback 262 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Baltimore
Subject: teddy bear collecting, copyrights
Category: Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - leftover
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★★

This is the second book in the Bear Collector's series. Bradley Lyons, retired SF Homicide detective, and his wife Ashleigh, are teddy bear artisans who drive to Baltimore to attend a teddy bear show. While there they are involved in the untimely death of one of their competitors. Even though Brad is warned by the Fame-hungry BPD detective, he is forced to start his own investigation to protect himself and Ash from being arrested for murder.

The story moves along speedily and the regular characters are very endearing. The story specific characters do have a tendency to be a bit 2-dimensional, but over all a really enjoyable read.

I need to start this one soon.

#79/80: Well, rats. It does not look like my local library has books in either series.

Stasia, I think I've long since given away my copy of the first book in paperback but would be happy to send you books 2 and 3 in pb after I read them.

I'm hoping to read book 2 soon, maybe this week. I don't want to expose Lindle-Kindle to sub-zero temps if I can help it.

#83: Thanks for the offer, Linda, but I will pass. If you give me books 2 and 3 I will feel compelled to find a copy of book 1 and I cannot buy it right now! This book-buying ban is going to be the death of me, I swear.

#84 Okay, let me know if you change your mind, Stasia. I'll rummage around and see whether I've got #1 around here anywhere. I think I gave it to my aunt, who usually returns things, but am not sure if she ever returned this one.

Nine new books have entered my home so far this year, though seven were thanks to Christmas gift cards and two, so far, are from Santa Thing.

#85: I appreciate it!

#12 Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war

Author: Thomas B Allen
Read: February 6 - February 7
Format: Hardback 139 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: inventions, warfare improvements(?)
Category: The Engagement: this is getting serious
Genre: History
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL
Stars: ★★★½

I've read several, okay lots , of books related to the American Civil War, but until I read this book, I never really thought about how history was very much changed by how the war was fought, not just the reasons for which it was fought. This book illustrated how warfare was definitively changed by the inventions of the day.

Naval operations were altered by the elimination of sails being replaced by total steam-powered vessels. Ironclading was added for defense along with revolving gun turrets and the first submarines were utilized. Blockade runners had telescoping funnels to reduce their profiles when trying to slide into harbors unnoticed. There were even the beginnings of "aircraft carriers" with rafts that were used to launch hot air balloons used for air reconnaissance.

The last Calvary battles were fought because of the improvement of the accuracy of the newest repeating rifles. Troops were moved via the railroad saving time and the telegraph was used to send commands directly to the field Operations.

Amazing that all these changes took place during the Civil War and really seem to go unnoticed.

#87: Nice review, Cheli. I will look for the book. Thanks!

After reading that book about Arlington National Cemetery, I was amazed at how the impact of treating casualties caused so much change in our military.

This one sounds quite interesting. I'm adding it to the two dozen I've already listed for my Civil War category.

What surprised me the most was that Lincoln was very much instrumental in many of these changes being made during the war.

The Long Quiche Goodbye

Author: Avery Aames
Read: February 6 - February 10
Format: Paperback 336 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Providence, OH
Subject: cheese, murder, infidelity
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★

This is the first book in the Cheese Shop series introducing Charlotte and her family. They are celebrating the grand re-opening of the family cheese shop when there is murder committed right outside the front door and Grandmère is the prime suspect being found over the body and covered in blood.

Charlotte decides that since Chief Urso doesn’t seem to be anxious to find the real murderer (she knows that her grandmother couldn't have killed anyone) that she will have to solve the murder herself. After numerous stops and starts and erroneous accusations, Charlotte manages to identify the real murderer and free her Grandmother.

I really like this book mainly because of the family interaction as well as the humorous oafish sleuthing with which the story progresses.

I think I read the Aames book last summer. It rings a bell. I think I'm planning to continue with it, though I don't know whether there's been a second one yet.

Yes, the second one is Lost and Fondue.

I think I commented on a thread on a different group, but I have that first cheese shop mystery in my TBR pile. I know I won't get to it this month, but I do hope I make it to it soon.

#14 The Masque of the Black Tulip

Author: Lauren Willig
Read: January 31 - February 7
Format: Audiobook 12 CDs equivalent 416 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: espionage, Napoleonic Wars
Category: The good old days - Histories
Genre: History fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL
Stars: ★★★½

This is the second installment of the Pink Carnation series and entertainingly reports more of Eloise's efforts to work on her dissertation as well as the data that she is gathering on espionage during the Napoleonic wars.

Eloise is not only spending time with Colin (searching through the archives at the ancestral home of the Selwicks) and possibly starting a relationship, but discovers interesting aspects with her research identifying the most notorious French spy, the Black Tulip. Miles Dorrington, best friend of Richard Selwick- the Purple Gentian, and Richard's sister - Lady Henrietta Selwick and are involved in the investigation and their adventures carry the Pink Carnation further along. Good second book

I'm having fun surfing around on your thread looking at the covers and descriptions of the books you read.

Hello to you. I hope you are feeling well.

I'm in Hilton Head, SC spending a week with my sister, Tutu, MY MOM, and my hubbie (he spends as much time on the golf course as possible). Tina and I have been talking books and having a great time together.

Safe travels, Cheli!

Hope you and Tina have lots of fun! I wish I could have stayed in the cabin in the mountains a little longer. I just stayed for the weekend -- and I got a little reading done, but not enough.

Happy Valentine's Day! Have a wonderful and restful time there!

#15 Heat Wave

Author: Richard Castle
Read: February 14 - February 17
Format: 224 pages
Source: Nook Library
Subject: police procedural, reporter ride-along
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Stars: ***

This book makes a fictional character from the television series CASTLE into a real author includng the bio info and friends to thank. The book and TV series are so much related it's hard to separate. The main characters Nikki Heat, mirrored in the series by the character Kate Beckett, and Jameson Rook shown in the character of Richard Castle the "author", differ from their "real life" counterparts in various ways and yet the disquises are insufficient to keep them incognito. (Rook and Castle are even the same name for a chess piece.)

The mystery in the book could very well become an episode of the series with the twists and turns and red herrings thrown at the reader but it holds your interest and keeps you coming back for more. Several of the aspects of the book would be great in the TV series and vice versa. All in all, an interesting concept and fun book.

#101: I think I will give that one a pass. I have not watched the TV show other than the first episode, so it is not really my cuppa.

#16 StandIn Groom

Author: Kaye Dacus
Read: February 17 - February 20
Format: Paperback 299 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Bonneterre, LA
Subject: celebrity, marriage, trust, faith
Category: Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★★

Anne Hawthorne is an event planner who has been hired to handle an engagement party and wedding and in walks the bride and groom and immediately Anne is hit with a strong attraction to the groom. Fighting the appeal that she feels for her client, she works diligently to fulfill the couple's wishes but finds it harder and harder to fight the magnetism that she feels. Finally, because of George's opposition to lying to Anne, he informs her that he s not the 'groom' but just his stand-in. The detailed story of their romance is heart-warming as well as uplifting and truly an enjoyable experience.

This is the first book in the Brides of Bonneterre series. I won the second book in the series through the ER program and enjoyed it so much that I had to have the other two books as well. I am really looking forward to #3 later this year.

I hope you and Tina have a wonderful time together. I don't see my sisters often and thus I think it is very special that you can spend time with your sister.

#17 The White Queen

Author: Philippa Gregory
Read: February 15 - February 20
Format: Audiobook 13 CDs and paperback 660 pages
Source: Piblic Library and Owned
Subject: War of the Roses, Tudor rebellion, murdered princes, Elizabeth Woodville
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS, SYLL
Category: Something Borrowed - from the library/sad
Genre: Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★★½

British history is filled with figures that have been taken by writers and had their "story" re-written adding romance, passion, intrigue - all speculation - but turning them into great stories. The White Queen takes the life of Elizabeth Woodville, a Lancastrian widow, who married Edward, a Yorkist king, and presents her life from her point of view. Elizabeth was the mother of the Princes in the Tower and the grandmother of Henry VIII. Yet the story told in this book show her not just as a queen but basically as a wife, mother, sister, daughter who only got involved in the political arena to protect her children.

Having read other books about the last Plantagenets, the War of the Roses (white rose Yorkist, red rose Lancaster) and the start of the Tudor dynasty, I found this author's hypothesis extremely fascinating because they were so completely different from other fictional accounts that I had read.

Just stopping in to say Hi, Cheli! :)

I read Heat Wave in January and enjoyed the utter cheesiness of it simply due to the relation to the TV show. I thought the producers did a great job of creating this real-life book that very accurately reflected the TV character and what he would write like... so much fun!

*waving*

#18 The Red Queen

Author: Philippa Gregory
Read: February 21 - February 24
Format: Audiobook 11 CDs and paperback 382 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: War of the Roses, Tudor rebellion, murdered princes, Margaret Beaufort
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL
Category: Something Borrowed - from the library/sad
Genre: Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★★

The War of the Roses depicted the Yorkist viewpoint in the White Queen and in this book, the second installment of the trilogy, we see the Lancaster side of the events that led to the end of the cousin's war and founding of the Tudor dynasty. Margaret Beaufort, the Lancastrian heiress was married at the age of 13 to Edmund Tudor, a Welsh prince, and her son, Henry, was born shortly after her husband's death. Henry was raised by his uncle, Jasper, while Margaret remarried twice.

Margaret Beaufort believed that her destiny was to be the mother of the King of England and she worked tirelessly throughout her life to achieve that goal.

Reading the books back-to-back showed the reader how the same events can be interpreted differently and also how lives are interwoven in different ways.

Cheli: Just trotting by for a quick "hello" - you've certainly been reading some interested stuff lately!

Cheli

I swore off reading books by Philippa Gregory because I was frustrated with the historical liberties she took. Yet, your two recent reads tempt me to take a fresh look at her writing.

I gave up on P Gregory awhile ago - but I won the White Queen - I always loved that era right before the Tudors so I decided I'd breakdown and read them. I wouldn't say that the historical facts are all perfect but since each of these books was written in the first person it gave the reader a different perspective of the historical events.

#20 The Deception of the Emerald Ring

Author: Lauren Willig
Read: February 26 - February 28
Format: Audiobook 11 CDs equivalent 400 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: espionage, Napoleonic Wars
Category: The good old days - Histories
Genre: History fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, SYLL
Stars: ★★★½

In this third installment of the Pink Carnation series, Eloise comes across some undiscovered references for the work of the Pink Carnation while at the same time she is expanding her social life.

Noticing a discrepancy in some records at the library, Eloise digs deeper and finds details of the Pink Carnation's effort to foil the Black Tulip (French operative) and stop the Irish Rebellion of 1803. The background story is extremely entertaining and the characters, both new and old, especially the tale of Eloise's blind date is terribly amusing. The love story and introduction of more members of the Pink Carnation band expand the readers desire to join up and defeat the French.

I started this series earlier this year and have been moving steadily along but I admit, this is my favorite so far. Definitely a series keeper.

FEBRUARY RECAP
I really got on a roll this month! Even though there were fewer days this month, I got more books read than in January. 20 hours in a car for a trip to and from Hilton Head gave me plenty of time to read and read I did!

The best of the month was - StandIn Groom
The worst of the month - Bleak House not really bad just waaaay toooo longggg!

I. Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs 3/11
Heat Wave
The Long Quiche Goodbye

II. Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors 2/11
Crown of Destiny

III. The Engagement: this is getting serious - topics I'm seriously interested in 2/11
Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war

IV. Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance 1/11
Stand-in Groom

V. Something Borrowed/Something Blue - from the library, friends/sad or blue 3/11
The White Queen
The Red Queen

VI. Something Old - read those TBRs 0/11

VII. Something New - books that were acquired in 2011 2/11

VIII. Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers 1/11

IX. Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home 2/11
The False-Hearted Teddy

X. The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books 1/11

XI. The good old days - Histories 3/11
Bleak House
The Masque of the Black Tulip
The Deception of the Emerald Ring

XII. Anniversaries and remembrances - Let the tears flow - Overflows 0/11

Travel plans are currently in progress for early in the month so I should have time to read while I sit in the airport. I want to finish the catch up for the January shortfall this month so I will be reading some of the following books:

Outlander
The Crafty Teddy
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough
Naked Heat Group Read March
The Border Vixen
The True Darcy Spirit
Talk of the Ton
Scones & Bones
The Amber Room
French Pressed
Murder is binding
Get Real and Stop Dieting!
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society

Great progress, Cheli!

Is the Outlander that you're reading the one by Diana Gabaldon? I read it a couple of months ago and really enjoyed it, need to get on to the next one. My daughter is loving the series and passing them on to me as she finishes, but with 2 little girls, she doesn't have a whole lot of reading time at the the moment -- I think she just finished #3, but hasn't given it to me yet.

Yes, Ivy it is the one by Diana Gabaldon. I started it this afternoon and so far, I am enjoying it. I figure since it is so long that it would be a good one to take with me on my weekend jaunt to Florida since I have it on my Nook.

#21 Get Real and Stop Dieting!

Author: Brett Blumental
Read: March 3
Format: 140 pages
Source: Amazon publicist for review
Subject: nutrition, weight loss, fitness
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★½

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am weight challenged (is that the politically correct wording for overweight?) and so if I can find a book that will at least help me to eat healthier, even if I can't lose weight, I'm going to take a look. I wish I'd looked sooner.

This is a quick easy book filled with all different kinds of information including charts of examples of soluble fiber vs. insoluble fiber, cooking and baking substitutions, recipes with nutritional information, and details of what that nutritional label means to you, just to name some.

The advice for changing your eating habits seems just common sense when the explanation is read and understanding the differences in ingredients could knock you for a loop.

This is a book that I am planning on keeping readily accessible in my kitchen. Maybe I won't lose weight because of it, but I definitely hope to be eating healthier.

I'm off to Florida for the weekend so if you think I'm MIA, you're right, I am!

Have fun!!

#22 The Crafty Teddy

Author: John J. Lamb
Read: March 3 - March 6
Format: 288 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: Teddy Bear collectors, counterfeit collectibles
Category: Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, & hobbies at home
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★★

Brad needs some time away from the ladies of the Teddy Bear Guild so he sets off to spend the morning with Sergei. While there, two Japanese mobsters (Brad recognizes the markings) come in searching for the local Historical Museum. Curious after their departure, Brad goes to the museum where he finds the museum director dead.

Sheriff Tina (a member of the Guild) reports to the scene with Ashleigh (Brad's wife) and together they notice the fake antique teddy Bears on display. Using this point as a start, Brad and Ash along with Tina delve deeper into the Japanese visitors along with the people who were vital to the victim.

The third installment of the Teddy Collectors Series is more fun than the previous books because the reader is blessed with further development of the central characters while they join together to solve the murder of the local Museum director. Brad and Ashleigh are fully involved in the investigation and their relationship as well as their teddies continued to evolve. It was sensational to see the Boyds Bear locale described so perfectly. Can't wait for the next story!

Right now I'm reading Murder is Binding. The concept of the background for this series absolutely delights me. It is a small town revitalizing its Main Street shopping district by inviting booksellers of all types to open independent stores, so that there is a bookstore for Cookbooks, one for Mysteries, one for Romances, etc. and each theme has something different besides books - Cookbook store had cooking demos and equipment, romances had frilly items etc.

So it got me thinking out the books that I was reading by genre. I read a lot of mysteries in a series and when I thought about it, I realized that there were some unique aspects to my serial reading. First, there were several series that were location central - what I mean by that is when I hear the location the books just pop in my head - i.e. Three Pines, Venice, Charleston. But then I realized that they were also character central as well with Inspector Gamache, Inspector Brunetti, Theodosia.

Are there any books that you read that when you here a name or hear a location they automatically pop into your head or am I just strange that way?

#121 I love that Lorna Barrett series, Cheli.

I'm heading to Charleston in a couple of months where I'll be speaking at a conference. I'll have to admit that I'm a bit bummed that I can't visit Theodosia, Drayton, and Haley at their charming tea shop! I'm sad that I won't encounter Theodosia walking Earl Gray in the old part of the city at 10 p.m. at night. I won't even be able to buy clothes from Delaine at the Cotton Duck! Since I'm reading the one that just came out, I can also say that I won't be able to see Blackbeard's skull cap since it was just stolen from the exhibit at the Heritage Society (unless Theodosia and Inspector Tidwell get busy and find it)!

Have fun in Charleston!

#23 Murder is Binding

Author: Lorna Barrett
Read: March 6 - March 9
Format: paperback 288 pages inclding recipes
Source: Barnes & Noble 2009
Subject: independent booksellers, twins, fraud, murder
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Category: Something Old - read those TBRs
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Stars: ★★★★

In the first BookTown mystery, the reader is introduced to Stoneham, New Hampshire, a small town which has revitalized its Main Street by inviting booksellers of all genres to open bookstores. Tricia Miles opened Haven't Got a Clue, a store for mystery lovers. Right next store is the Cookery, a cookbook store owned and operated by Doris Gleason, probably the least favorite person in town, so it's not surprising when she is found, by Tricia, murdered in her shop and a valuable old cookbook missing.

Little does Tricia know that she's in for a boat load of trouble because the Sheriff (Wendy Adams) thinks Tricia is after her boyfriend and so sets out to blame Tricia for the murder.

Just as all these problems happen, Angelica Prescott, Tricia's not so loving sister, descends on Stoneham because of her impending divorce, seeking family to sustain her. Even though they are not the closest siblings, Tricia and Angelica set out to clear up the murder since Sheriff Wendy sees no reason to investigate further.

The whole idea of BookTown has the reader wishing that it really existed and that they could hop on a bus and arrive in this quaint little town and buy books. I know that I'd be on the bus in a heartbeat. The characters in this book are fun, dysfunctional, and in some ways unique to the Cozy genre and in others welcomed friends. Can't wait to visit the other bookstores!

I read that one maybe 2 1/2 years ago. As I recall, I liked the concept of the book but it was lacking a bit in execution. I believe that I thought that the pool of suspects was too small, and that the plot was too predictable. I wanted to give the second in the series a try because I thought it had potential, but I don't think I ever did. Maybe I need to go back and try to track that one down at some point.

I've read all of them (the newest one is due out soon). I loved the concept but thought the first one was the weakest, though I still really enjoyed it. I think it's getting better as it goes on.

Good to know that you thought the first was the weakest.

Cheli, sorry I missed you earlier with my greeting!


glitter-graphics.com

I adore it, thanks Terri!

Faith and begora - may the saints watch over you!

Hi Cheli! First time visiting your thread. I hope you like the Outlander series as much as I did. They are long, but well worth the time investment. If only the author would finish up the series as it's been over 10 years since I read the first book! :)

I'm just now reading the first book and normally I don't care much for Time travelling, but this one I am really enjoying. I didn't realize that it was a series when I started so I'll have to decide at the end whether to continue on or not. We shall see.....

Yeah I would say the time-travelling part of it not so big. It just sets up the stage for the story. I would say it's more of a love story (but oh so much mor as well) than anything. There are now 7 books in total and each are over 600 pages each....so it is not for the faint-hearted.

#24 Scones and Bones

Author: Laura Childs
Read: March 12 - March 17
Format: paperback 288 pages including recipes
Source: Author for review
Subject: pirates, folklore, tea, recipes
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Category: Something New - books that were acquired in 2010 & 2011
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Stars: ★★★½

Drayton Conneley, master tea blender for the Indigo Tea Shop, escorts its owner, Theodosia Browning, to the Heritage Society's Pirates and Plunder Party and in doing so, exposes Theo to the exploits of a murderer searching for Blackbeard's buried treasure. When murder threatens her friends, Theodosia and Drayton learn the mysteries of Blackbeard's Skull Cup following the clues and legends of old, while at the same time preparing for the Food & Wine Festival activities in Charleston. We've all heard Wine & Cheese, well, the Indigo Tea Shop is serving Tea & Cheese pairing different teas with exotic cheeses. But that's not all that brews up before the end of the book. A fun read bringing old friends (this is the 12th installment of the Tea Shop Mysteries) back to us with new and interesting revelations.

Looking forward to the teashop mystery. I'll probably get to it later this month. As you know, this is one of my favorite series.

Always makes me want to run out to our local teashop (InfiniTea).

Tea & Cheese - made me search for gourmet cheese shop!

I became interested in pirates a couple of years ago so this story really was interesting to me. While I don't necessarily think it was the best in the series, I really enjoyed it. POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT: I'm really curious what's going to happen on the boyfriend front with Theodosia. I can't say that I really like any of the ones she has had lately. Maybe she should just let Theodosia stay single and unattached!

So many good books! I read Outlander late last year, really liked it, and have been meaning to get to the next one ever since. I think the size of these books makes it more difficult to just pick them up. And after reading the first 2 Laura Childs Teashop mysteries, I haven't gotten back to them, either, though I definitely want to. And now, it looks like I should add Lorna Barrett to my list, too!

I have about 250 pages left of Outlander -reading on my Nook and listening on CD when my hands are occupied - so I was checking at the library website for the next in the series and almost choked! Does this girl know how to right a short story, like maybe 300 pages? I'm really enjoying the book but 'm not sure I'm up to another tome. We'll see.

#25 Outlander

Author: Diana Gabaldon
Read: March 1 - March 21
Format: Audio 28 discs - 32 hrs equivalent and Nook book 784 pages
Source: audio via library and Nook from B&N
Subject: time travel, torture, Scottish ancestry
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, Endless Europe, BOYS, AUDIO, SYLL, TIOLI
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★★★

Clare Randall is on vacation with her husband Frank who is researching his ancestors in Scotland. While there magically Clare is transported back in time and her adventure begins. She is accepted as a healer and to protect her from investigation of her political leanings, is "forced" into a marriage with a Scottish Laird. The story evolves including the love developed between the two main characters.

I truly enjoyed the story and was surprised that the length didn't bother me because of the quality of the writing and character development. I usually don't go in for time travel and such but this was so cleverly woven into the tale that I didn't mind it at all. I was very much surprised when I realized that the story continues in another book. I'm not sure that I am ready for another chunkster immediately, but will definitely follow-up on this tale.

>140 cyderry: Glad that you enjoyed Outlander. I did too. I may get to the next one in the next month or so. My daughter is on #4 and says they continue to be really good, but with a little girl, a new baby and a part-time job, she doesn't have much time to read right now.

#26 Naked Heat

Author: Richard Castle
Read: March 21 - March
Format: Hardback 288 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: gossip columns,
Category: Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★½

For those readers that follow the TV program CASTLE, reading the books that are "written" by its character Richard Castle are entertaining throughout. This second book written by Castle definitely utilizes the characters from the original but also blend in a bit of Beckett and Castle too. The reader is gratified by the emotional relationship development which viewers can only see and desire.

Nikki and Rook come back together at the crime scene - Cassidy Towne, gossip columnist has been murdered and throughout their investigation not only are they both endangered physically but their emotions are at risk.

This book was completely fun and entertaining. Certainly hope that there will be another!

#27 The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Author: Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Read: March 20 - March 26
Format: Audio 7 discs - 32 hrs equivalent and Paperback 327 pages
Source: audio via library and owned from B&N
Subject: german occupation of Guernsey
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, BOYS, AUDIO, SYLL
Category: Something Old - Read those TBRs
Genre: Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★½

There are many reviews out there for this book so I will just comment on my impressions. First I was disappointed because I had heard so much about this book and then when I finally read it, it didn't live up to my expectations. The characters were very flat caricatures IMO, and the situations seemed a bit contrived. It never really grabbed my attention thoroughly and didn't hold my interest as I went along.

#28 Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough

Author: Ruth Pennebaker
Read: March 13 - March 30
Format: ARC Paperback 304 pages
Source: publisher for review
Subject: divorce, dysfunctional family, depression
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, BOYS
Category: Something New - books that were acquired in 2011
Genre: Fiction
Stars: ★★½

Angry divorcée, teenager with self-esteem issues, depressed grandmother with emotional problems - put them together in the same house and the story should be full of strange ways of coping with each other and their individual lives. Caroline, a 15 year-old, checks every morning to see if her breasts have grown and worries about never losing her virginity. Her mother, Joanie, is trying to recover from her husband walking out on her and compelling her to enter the workforce when she hasn't held a regular job since college. Finally, you have Ivy, the grandmother, who takes up shoplifting to lift her spirits.

Take this combination and add a runaway father with a pregnant girlfriend who thinks that Caroline should be her new best friend and you should have an entertaining book. Unfortunately, it falls a bit short of expectations.

MARCH RECAP
I got into a reading funk and only got 8 books read. That said, I'm really going to get my act in gear if I'm going to complete the 11 in 11 challenge by year end. Therefore, I'm making a move to get more of my audio books finished in April. My other projects can be worked on while I listen, so hopefully, this will move me forward.

The best of the month was - Murder is Binding
The worst of the month - Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough ARC that needs work

I read the following books this month:
Outlander
Get Real and Stop Dieting!
Naked Heat
Murder is binding
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society
Scones and Bones
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough
The Crafty Teddy

Books for next month:

The Amber Room currently listening
The Altar of Bones
The Seduction of the Crimson Rose - audio
Murder on Gramercy Park
Paris Vendetta - audio
The Clockwork Teddy
At Home in Mitford - audio
Buffalo West Wing
The Thirteenth Tale - audio
Quietly in their Sleep
Year of Wonder - audio
The Untamed Bride

Quarterly total
Books Read Owned 19 (Pages: 7,511)
Books Read Borrowed 9 (Pages: 3,133 )
Audio Books heard 8 ( 126¼ hours)

Total Completed
19 books and 9 audio books - 10,644 pages
25 fiction; 3 nonfiction

Genre Summary

Nonfiction:
2 books History
1 book Health

Fiction:
Novels: 5
Youth/Children: 1
Mystery: 15
Historical Fiction: 3
Classic: 1

January: 5 pre-owned : 4 borrowed : 0 ARC - 9 books.
Best of the Month: A Murderous Procession
February: 3 pre-owned: 5 borrowed: 3 new: 1 ARC - 12 books.
Best of the Month: StandIn Groom
March: 4 pre-owned: 0 borrowed: 1 new: 3 ARC - 8 books.
Best of the Month: Murder is Binding

Favorite of the Quarter: A Murderous Procession

Time to move on. Here is the link to my 2nd quarter thread.