Delta Queen's 75 in 2011 - part 2

Continuing on from my first thread which can be found Here

My Counter:

2011 Book List

January

1. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson - 4 stars
2. The A.B.C. Murders by Agatha Christie - 4 stars
3. Forty Words For Sorrow by Giles Blunt - 4 stars
4. The Black Rood by Stephen Lawhead - 3 1/2 stars
5. A Walk In The Woods by Bill Bryson - 4 1/2 stars
6. The Lies of Locke LaMora by Scott Lynch - 5 stars
7. Rise To Victory by R. Cameron Cooke - 3 1/2 stars
8. Pretty Birds by Scott Simon - 5 stars
9. The Indian Agent by Dan O'Brien - 3 1/2 stars
10. All The Colors of Darkness by Peter Robinson - 3 stars
11. City of the Beasts by Isabel Allende - 4 stars
12. The Guards by Ken Bruen - 5 stars
13. Fresh From The Country by Miss Read - 4 stars
14. Cat And Mouse by James Patterson - 2 1/2 stars
15. Springtime In Burracombe by Lilian Harry - 4 stars

February

16. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins - 4 stars
17. Miss Pym Disposes by Josephine Tey - 4 stars
18. The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender - 2 stars
19. The Children's Blizzard by David Laskin - 4 stars
20. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield - 5 stars
21. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman - 5 stars
22. Appaloosa by Robert B. Parker - 4 stars
23. A Share In Death by Deborah Crombie - 3 1/2 stars
24. The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons - 4 1/2 stars
25. The Gift of Rain by Tan Twan Eng - 3 stars
26. The Outlander by Gil Adamson - 2 1/2 stars
27. The Maze Runner by James Dashner - 4 stars
28. Country of the Blind by Christopher Brookmyre - 4 1/2 stars
29. Assegai by Wilbur Smith - 3 stars

Found you again!

March

30. Elizabeth I by Margaret George - 4 stars
31. The Hotel On the Corner of Bitter And Sweet by Jamie Ford - 3 1/2 stars
32. I Shall Not Hate: A Gaza Doctor's Journey by Izzeldin Abuelaish - 4 stars
33. Beside A Burning Sea by John Shors - 5 stars
34. Ysabel by Guy Gavriel Kay - 3 1/2 stars
35. Shadow of the Lynx by Victoria Holt - 3 stars
36. Bad Bridesmaid by Siri Agrell - 3 stars
37. Death Minus Zero by John Baker - 4 stars
38. The Diary of Mattie Spenser by Sandra Dallas - 5 stars
39. A Story Like The Wind by Laurens van der Post - 3 stars
40. The Other Side of Paradise by Margaret Mayhew - 3 1/2 stars
41. The Sand Fish by Maha Gargash - 3 stars
42. Blacklands by Belinda Bauer - 5 stars
43. Sweet Danger by Margery Allingham - 3 1/2 stars

April

44. What To Do When Someone Dies by Nicci French - 3 1/2 stars
45. Dances With Wolves by Michael Blake - 5 stars
46. The Splendor of Silence by Indu Sundaresan - 3 stars
47. The Postmistress by Sarah Blake - 3 stars
48. The Case of the Gilded Fly by Edmund Crispin - 3 1/2 stars
49. Black Swan Green by David Mitchell - 4 stars
50. Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs - 3 1/2 stars
51. The Way of the Traitor by Laura Joh Rowland - 3 1/2 stars
52. The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer - 5 stars
53. Sarah by Orson Scott Card - 3 1/2 stars
54. The Enemy by Charlie Higson - 4 1/2 stars
55. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones - 4 stars
56. The Various Flavours of Coffee by Anthony Capella - 3 stars
57. Iron Lake by William Kent Krueger - 4 stars
58. Mudbound by Hillary Jordon - 5 stars
59. Driftnet by Lin Anderson - 3 stars
60. The White Rhino Hotel by Bartle Bull - 4 1/2 stars

It is not March yet! Do not rush things! :)

I know, but I am looking forward to March - planning on lots of mysteries!!

#6: I am planning on some mysteries too, but I still have a bunch of books to finish before February is done!

Wow. Judging by your progress you may double the challenge to 150 books and be able to meet it, too!

Just popping in so it shows up on my posts!Have a great day!

#7 - Stasia, don't worry I haven't put February to bed yet. Hope to get a few more read before the end of the month.

#8 - Derdahinteninderecke - welcome. Yes, I read about 140 books last year and will probably be doing around that number this year. Too much time on my hands I guess!

#9 - Susie, welcome and hope you have a great day as well.

27. The Maze Runner by James Dashner - 4 stars



A young boy suddenly wakes up, he believes he is in an elevator going down. He has no specific memories as to who he is or what is happening. Suddenly the elevator stops, the doors are pried open and he finds himself in the Glade with many other young boys. This is the opening of The Maze Runner by James Dashner, and it caught my attention right away. I had to keep reading.

A number of puzzles appear throughout the book, and only some are solved by the end, leading me to immediately turn on the Kindle and buy the next book. Frustrating for the reader, but an excellent marketing strategy. This is a YA book and it’s very appealing. The many characters are varied and interesting, and although we don’t find a lot out about them, I am sure more will be developed in future books. My personal favorite was Minho. A brave, silent, lets-get-the-job-done sort of boy.

Lots of adventure and action from trying to solve the maze that surrounds them, to fighting off the strange creatures that appear in the maze at night, to the various jealousies and arguments that young boys can get involved in. All the while creating a world for themselves while still trying to find a way out of this strange existence. Yes, there is a lot going on in this book and you can bet that I will be reading the next volume rather quickly.

>#27 The Maze Runner sounds really interesting! Thanks for the review. I will be adding that to my list. Although not having all the questions answered by the end of the movie might drive me crazy! Do you know for sure if there is sequels planned for the book?

Hi Jolerie, yes, the second book is called Scorch Trials and the third is called The Death Cure and is due out soon.
I am in the just about to download Scorch Trials to my Kindle!

Judy- We disagree on The Outlander. I really liked that book but we totally agree on The Maze Runner. I liked that one and also look forward to the follow-up. what's up next for you?

Hi Mark, right now I am reading Country of the Blind by Christopher Brookmyre. Have you read any of his? Funny, outrageous action-thrillers featuring investigative journalist Jack Parlabane. Set in Glasgow, Scotland, the back cover of the book calls it "Tartan Noir".

I've also started an early review book that I received, Elizabeth I by Margaret George. I have read other books by this author that I've really enjoyed so even though it's a chunkster I am looking forward to it.

I still haven't managed to get my hands on The Scorch Trials... grumblegrumble...

This instant gratification that I get from the Kindle is both wonderful and very dangerous! To be able to think about a book and then to actually have it seconds later is great - I'll just have to remember how good if feels when the Visa bill comes in!

28. Country of the Blind by Christopher Brookmyre - 4 1/2 stars



Journalist Jack Parlabane is back in this delicious book of political plots, conspiracy theories, and bizarre killings. Following up on the first book in the series, we find Jack almost married to Dr. Sarah Slaughter and contemplating taking a step away from his usual undercover, dangerous ways of getting his story.

Politics are a dirty business and none are dirtier than in Christopher Brookmyre’s Country of the Blind. It’s all about power, money and who has control. A important power broker, owner and publisher of many European newspapers , along with his wife and two body guards are found brutally murdered and four bumbling thieves are quickly arrested for the crime. But when witnesses or anyone taking a second look at the crime start dying in mysterious ways, Jack Parlabane can no longer sit on the sidelines.

Non-stop action, thrills and laughter are trademarks of this series. But it’s also refreshing to find a well crafted story with adult themes that are valid and eye opening. The fact that Brookmyre is able to express his own opinions as part of a thumping good read makes it all the more engaging. Brookmyre has his finger firmly on his reader’s pulse and delivers chills and thrills in a very stylish manner.

Judy- Good review! Yes, this looks like a series I can sink my teeth in. So I will put it on the WL. What is the 1st book called?

I've never read anything by Brookmyre maybe I'll have to find one!

If Brookmyre is a Canadian author, I am very doubtful that my library will have his books. Still sounds very good and I will check on line.

Christopher Brookmyre is a Scottish writer. This particular series follows Jack Parlabane, a journalist. The first book in the series is called Quite Ugly One Morning. He has at least one other series on the go and some stand alone books as well.

Judy- Thanks! I was able to download a couple audios from his "Angelique De Xavier" series. Plus Pandaemonium.

I hope you enjoy them Mark.

>17 DeltaQueen50:: "Instant gratification" is one of those temptations that keep me from owning an e-reader. I absolutely have to either get rid of some of my TBRs or just read the darn things. After all, I bought them for some 'instant gratification' somewhere back in my past life.

Great review! I have his A Tale Etched in Blood and Hard Black Pencil on the shelf. His titles are so intriguing.

Donna

I rec'd a Nook as a Christmas present. I like it, but haven't used it all that much because I feel as you do, ie, I must get books off the shelfs.

Judy, what a great review of Country of the Blind!

Thanks for the compliments. I find I really like writing reviews after I finish a book. I can look over my reading list from a year ago and remember every single book because I took the time to write my thoughts down. A few years ago I was looking over my reading list where I just rated books and there were some books I rated highly but had absolutely no memory of.

I too am trying to hold back on the Kindle until I can clear out my TBR shelves. New books are just so darn tempting!!

Found you again! :)

So far, I've resisted temptation to buy books for my e-reader, though I've downloaded a lot of free public domain stuff and checked out two e-books from the library.

#28 I completely agree about that Judy. There are books I really regret not having taken the time to write about for the same reason... my mind gets so crowded and some books, no matter how good, just leave me with vague impressions over time.

29. Assegai by Wilbur Smith - 3 stars



I have been following the adventures of Wilbur Smith’s Courtenay family for a long, long time. I have lost track of the number of books he has written about the different branches of this family. In Assegai we are in the years leading up to World War I, following the adventures of Leon Courtenay. A army lieutenant in British East Africa, he is encouraged to appear to resign his commission in order to become a big game hunter and guide, when in fact his orders are to spy on his affluent German customers.

In the past, Wilbur Smith knew how to tell a story that flew off the page. With breakneck speed he could take you through one adventure after another. Whether it was hunting elephants, lions or tracking human prey he kept you glued to the pages. He does knows Africa and is able to transport his reader there to experience the sights, sounds and smells. Unfortunately I didn’t feel this particular book lived up to some of his past works.

Well still a very readable action-adventure story, some of it seems repetitive and towards the middle of the book, the pace slowed down and I felt we were shambling towards the end. Rather than recommend this particular book, I would advise you to investigate one of his earlier works.

I always see a lot of Wilbur Smith's books around in my bookstore, but have never actually picked up/read of his books before. How is he generally as an author? Overall usually good you would say?

Jolerie

I highly recommend The River God. I think this book is one of his best!

>#33 Thanks Linda for the recommendation! Onto my mountain it goes. Do you know if the book is part of a series or just a stand alone book? I am beginning to become very wary of books that are a part of a series because they just go on forever it seems. Hard pressed to find historical or fantasy novels that are just stand alone novels now.. :/

River God is the first book in a four book series, but you could certainly read just it and not carry on with the series.

Wilbur Smith is an amazing story teller. His books are usually fast reads simply because you can't put them down. If you were to read about the Courtenays, I would recommend his first about this family. When the Lion Feeds is excellent.

Thanks Judy and Linda! I will definitely browse his books next time I'm at the bookstore. It's so great to get recommendations about authors that I have been meaning to try so then I don't feel like I am just shooting in the dark. :)

30. Elizabeth I by Margaret George - 4 stars



It is a privilege to have received this book as part of the Early Reviewer Program here at Library Thing. Margaret George is a favorite author, her historical fiction books are truly memorable.

The author has chosen to frame her book around the last 25 years of this queen’s reign. Therefore Elizabeth I starts when the threat of the Spanish Armada was looming over England. We meet a mature Elizabeth, one who has been on the throne for many years. Although she is taking great pains to hide it, she is in her mid-fifties and feeling all of her years. From experiencing hot flashes to having to write herself notes so she won’t forget something, Elizabeth comes across as a very real person.

Along with Elizabeth, all the major characters of the age are here: Drake, Raleigh, Shakespeare etc. We are given insights into both the times and this remarkable woman who ruled over all. Margaret George shows Elizabeth as a shrewd, wise, courageous woman who was not above being be both petty and jealous at times. A woman married to her country, one who has no private life to speak of, but has power and the right to wield it.

Intersected throughout the book are chapters told in the words of Robert Dudley’s wife, and the mother of Essex. Lettice is another shrew, ambitious woman, who because of her marriage to Robert Dudley is not welcome at Elizabeth’s court. She gives us a picture of how hard it was to be a forward-thinking woman in those days, and how her aspirations came to be focused on her son. Through these women we are shown the rise, and then the spectacular fall of Lord Essex.

Elizabeth I is filled with period detail and well researched historic references, rich and colourful. I believe Margaret George has captured the essence of this woman of history. A massive book that was almost too heavy to hold, I nevertheless found Elizabeth I both enlightened and entertained me and I highly recommend this book.

Great review Judy! I really like Margaret George as well. I've read her Helen of Troy and Mary, Called Magdalene, both of which I liked. I still have a couple of her older books sitting on my shelves that I haven't read yet, but this will definitely be on my TBP (to be purchases) one day!

I just downloaded that Maze Runner I'm all over it!

>35 DeltaQueen50:: I must remember the name Wilbur Smith. His books sound like something my husband and I would both like. It is hard for me to find audio books for our road trips now that we're almost out of the Daniel Silva series. Wilbur Smith...Wilbur...Wilbur. (I think I can remember "Smith").
Thanks for the suggestion, Judy.

#38 - Jolerie - I think Margaret George is among the top 5 - 6 of historical fictions writers today. She writes a good story and her historical details can be trusted - she does her research.

#39 - Jessie - better be careful or you'll be like me and have to download The Scorch Trials right away! Of course I did that but I've got so many reading commitments for March I doubt if I will fit it in.

#35 - Donna - What a great idea. That's how I came to Wilbur Smith, from buying his books for my husband and then reading them myself. Another author that both men and women seem to like is Stephen Hunter. He also writes in serial format, his Bob Lee Swagger books at pretty good with Point of Impact being the first.

I've added River God to my WL and wouldn't you know it, my library has it. I'd love to look up Margaret George and my library has half a dozen of her books, all less recent titles. There's The autobiography of Henry VIII : with notes by his fool, Will Somers and Mary, Queen of Scotland and the Isles that intrigue me, among others. Thoughts?

I have read both the Margaret George books you mention Ilana and I would recommend them both - particularly if you have an interest in the Tudors, but even, if not, she's an excellent writer and her books hold my attention. My only problem with the last one was my hands got sore trying to hold such a thick book. If you are going to read this author be prepared for very thick books - she packs a lot of information into her stories!

When it comes to Wilbur Smith, I may be in the minority here, but I prefer his books about South Africa and Kenya rather than the Egyptian ones. I did read The River God and enjoyed it, but I didn't carry on with the series. Probably just a matter of personal taste, if you like the ancient Egyptians then River God would be a good choice. Wilbur Smith always packs a lot of action and adventure in his books - his Men are Men and his women are usually very sexy!

Yes I agree! I like her a lot in terms of historical fiction. She mixes enough content with "story" that you don't feel like you are reading a textbook but at the same time she doesn't go off the deep end with her creative license. :)

Judy I just saw on your profile that you are from Vancouver! *sigh* How I miss that city so much, especially all the good food yum! And the ocean! And how convenient the public transportation is and just about everything else... :(

#44 Jolerie, I had to run to your profile and check where you are from - Ha - another fellow Canadian, eh. Are you originally from the West Coast? I was born in Victoria, and that is where my heart still is, but my husband's business is here in Vancouver and now our girls have both married and settled here, so the Vancouver area is where we will probably stay.

31. The Hotel On the Corner of Bitter And Sweet by Jamie Ford - 3 1/2 stars



The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter And Sweet by Jamie Ford is the story of Henry Lee, jumping back and forth in time from 1942 when Henry is twelve to 1986 when Henry is a recent widower. The book explores his complex relationships with his parents in the past and his son in 1986. The book also deals with cultural identity and issues of racial discrimination.

Due to the ongoing war in 1942, Henry’s parents see that sending Henry to China to finish his education will be impossible. Therefore, they decide he needs an American education and arrange for him to attend a local public school as a “scholarship” student. This means that Henry must work at the school in order to be educated. He meets and works with another student, a Japanese girl called Keiko. Soon he and Keiko are seeing each other outside of school and Henry introduces her to his great love “jazz music”. Their friendship advances at an elevated rate mostly due to dealing with the discrimination they both face. All too soon the two young people are forced apart as Keiko and her family, along with all people of Japanese descent are removed to the internment camps.

In 1986, Henry is dealing with the recent death of his wife, Ethel. He realizes that he has made many of the same mistakes his own father did in his relationship with his son. He begins to understand that he must make the effort to open up and communicate, reveal some of his inner thoughts and feelings. When a cache of Japanese belongings are discovered in a old hotel, Henry is able to link both his past and present together.

There are some problems with this book, however. I found the depth of Henry and Keiko’s relationship hard to totally believe in. They knew each other such a short time before being separated, and, also I think they were too young, at twelve, to have such adult feelings. I know this has been mentioned before, but I too, found the computer references a little glaring. I don’t think home computers and the internet were readily available in 1986.

I found this a quick read, especially considering how much is packed into its pages, but ultimately this is a story of love and friendship that endures. A tad overly sentimental but a satisfying read. I had great sympathy for Keiko and her family, I grew up on the West Coast of Canada and knew of Japanese families that had been sent to the Canadian internment camps, losing both their homes and businesses. I think this book is a worthwhile read, a good jumping off spot to learn about a piece of our history that doesn’t necessarily reflect well upon us.

Yes Judy. I was born in Asia but immigrated to Vancouver when I was 2 and I grew up there. Never imagined that I would ever move from the city but I went to Calgary for school, met my husband, and that's how the story goes. :) Love raising a family in Calgary but there are definite perks about Vancouver that I miss! Plus the freezing weather we have been having the past while is not something I'm digging.

You know what I suddenly really missed? The central public library downtown! That place was so big! Definitely nothing like that were I am. :(

32. I Shall Not Hate: A Gaza Doctor's Journey by Izzeldin Abuelaish - 4 stars



What an eye-opener I Shall Not Hate by Izzeldin Abuelaish was. This is the first book I have read by a Palestinian, not to mention one who was born and lived all his life in Gaza. Born to poverty in the internment camps, yet managing to educate himself and train as a doctor, this man is quite a role model. His cries of Peace, Brotherhood and Non-retaliation appear to fall on mostly deaf ears but, perhaps someday major advances will be made in regards to the plight of the Palestinian people.

One of the things I most admire Dr. Abuelaish for is his stand on education for women. He feels this is one of the ways to bring the Palestine situation to a peaceful resolution. He is convinced that if women had some control we wouldn’t see as many advocates of war. He is putting his money where is mouth is as well by establishing an education fund in the name of his slain daughters and niece.

Yes, this man has lost a lot. Three of his daughters and one niece were killed when a Israelis tank shot a missile into his home. Another daughter and niece were badly wounded. So many wrongs have been committed on both sides, yet, he still says that both sides should not dwell in the past. Moving on and laying the past to rest is the way to a sustainable future.

Perhaps a naïve and over-simplified view, but I found this to be a very readable book about an admirable man, his family, his countrymen and his hope to see Israel and Palestine find the road to peaceful coexistence.

jolerie/47: I took my daughter for a vacation in Vancouver several years ago. We stayed downtown and really looked forward to visiting that gorgeous downtown library; alas! it was closed the week we were there! We contented ourselves with visits to The Book Warehouse instead. (Along with other fun non-bookish pursuits.)

Judy
You are reading some amazing books! Thanks for the notation of When the Lion Feeds. I hadn't heard of this Wilbur Smith book and it is now on my tbr pile.

How luck that you snagged the Margaret George book. Both Margaret George and Alison Weir are excellent authors of Tudor history.

Gosh, I'm so glad you are a part of the 75 challenge group. Thanks for joining us! Happy First Year of this amazing group.

#47 Jolerie - we have relatives in Calgary. They say they wouldn't want to raise their family anywhere else. But for me the weather would be an issue. I don't think I cold face a lot of snow. We were lucky this year and only had 2 snow days.

#50 Linda, thanks for your kind words, I am so glad I joined the 75ers as well. It's quite a group!

33. Beside A Burning Sea by John Shors - 5 stars



If I were to describe the perfect story for me, Beside A Burning Sea by John Shors would be a very close fit. Set in 1942 the hospital ship Benevolence is torpedoed and nine survivors make their way to a deserted South Pacific island.

A story of survival and redemption. These people struggle against the elements, their fear of discovery by the Japanese and even against each other. Unbeknownst to them, one of them is a traitor, he betrayed their ship and now is about to reveal their location to the Japanese. More than this, he is a true psychopath eagerly anticipating the damage he will do, the terror he will inflict. The survivors are a mixed crowd, three nurses, the ship’s captain, two naval officers, an ship’s mechanic, a young stowaway and a Japanese prisoner of war. Many of these people have conflicts within themselves and how they bond together and help each other survive makes for a wonderful story.

Each chapter is the equivalent of a day and as we are drawn deeper into the story the suspense rises. I literally couldn’t put the book down, I had to know how it would end. Not a perfect book but I found myself willing to overlook some minor flaws and simply savour the story. This was so much more than a simple action story, the characters are well developed, the writing extremely lyrical and the story telling rich and varied. Like the haiku that start each chapter, this book is a small gem.

Another great book and review Judy! Thumbs from me. :)
Your thread is bad for my wallet...hehe

Yes, the weather in Calgary is the only negative thing really. I really miss the cherry blossoms in Vancouver as well. The majority of trees here are evergreen as you can imagine why. :)

#49 Hopefully you will get a chance to visit the library next time you are there. It is truly a wonder to see so many books in one building!

#49 - After all this talk about the Vancouver Library, I got curious and googled it. Guess what showed up on its homepage: Planning a wedding? Get married at the library! Our Library Square Conference Centre has more than 12,000 square feet of event space suitable for events of all sizes.. Now doesn't this sound great. Even if you don't like parties, there's alwys the library to retreat.

Judy- Thanks to you, I started my first Brookmyre, A Big Boy Did it and Ran Away. What a quick inventive mind he has and quite humorous too. Listening to it with a Scottish narrator is a hoot too!

Beside A Burning Sea sounds great! On the list it goes! Good job!

>52 DeltaQueen50: You're review has put this one on my list. Sounds like Lord of the Flies with adults. Thanks!

Great review of Beside a Burning Sea. I have this book, I'll hope to find it on one of my shelves.

Thumbs up from me.

Darn another great review of a John Shors book. I haven't had a chance to read the last one you recommended I better get to it!

34. Ysabel by Guy Gavriel Kay - 3 1/2 stars



Even though Ysabel by Guy Gavriel Kay will never be on my list of favorite books by him, it was still an interesting and engaging read. Those used to his usual epic story-telling will find this book quite different. I felt it was more of a YA read, set in our world with fantasy aspects, instead of his usual rich and deep historical fantasies set in worlds of his own creation.

An event which transcends time, and has been recreated through the last 2500 years is on the verge of being triggered when the story opens. A romantic triangle that is destined to be played out over and over again. Ned, a fifteen year old, has come to Provence with his world famous photographer father and a group of his assistants. With time on his hands, he explores the cathedral in Aix-en-Provence, meets a young exchange student, Kate, and they are swept up into a time spanning saga that eventually involves the whole group.

I found the addition of a couple of characters from the Finovar Tapestry provided an link to this authors other work, and eventually went a long way to explain some of the things that Ned was experiencing. It isn’t necessary to have read the Finovar Tapestry beforehand, but I think it would aid in the overall understanding of Ned’s abilities and his family connections.

Ysabel has such a different feeling to it from his other books, that I was glad this wasn’t my first Guy Gavriel Kay book. A fast read, a lighter read that I normally expect from this author, but still an above average fantasy with lots going on to hold the readers attention.

He really seems to be hit and miss with me. I either really like his books or feel really bleh about it. The description on the back of this book sounds so promising. I am disappointed to hear that it reads more like YA book since the best thing about Kay is how intricate and complex is world/character building is.
Have you read Tigana?

I finally got caught up again! It's amazing, sometimes I'm on here (LT) quite late and decide to come back later to read reviews and next thing I know, a few days go by and there's a flurry of posts to catch up with. That said, I always enjoy your reviews. I Shall Not Hate is already on my WL and at my library too. I added Beside A Burning Sea there before even finishing your write-up! :-) Not familiar with Guy Gavriel Kay and probably wouldn't start with this one based on what you and Valerie have to say about it...

Jolerie, yes I have read Tigana and that's the Guy Gavriel Kay that I love! His historical fantasties are breath taking. My favorite would probably be The Lions of Al-Rassan, but really, I have loved everything by him - Ysabel wasn't bad - it just wasn't as good as his usual.

Ilana, I encourage you to read Guy Gavriel Kay, but I definitely would start with something like Tigana, or The Lions of al-Rassan, he takes events from our history, twists them and re-writes them and places them in a different world, adds a touch of magic and manages to create books that are absolutely wonderful.

I've added both to my wishlist and see they're available at the library, so it's just a matter of time before I get to this new-to-me author. Many thanks Judy!

I LOVED Tigana as well! We had to read it for a fantasy literature course that I had to take during university and at first it was daunting to say the least. The teacher told us to give it at least 100 pages before we made any kind of judgement and he was right! It took that long for the story to be built and for all the characters to be fleshed out but after that, boy oh boy was that a good read! I don't think any of his other books have compared to that one for me.

Ilana, I hope you enjoy it just as much but a warning is needed because the book is a CHUNKSTER! But so worth the time investment. :)

>52 DeltaQueen50:: Beside A Burning Sea sounds like the perfect story for me as well. I'm putting a star by this title in the bursting Dream Book. When am I going to have time to read all these wonderful recs? ...strictly rhetorical question...and a common one here on LT...

I've worked out that it usually takes me at least a year from the time I add a recommendation to my wishlist to the time I get around to actually reading it. This year I have started to keep a note of who recommended the book so that if I love it, I can remember to thank the person who brought it to my attention.

35. The Shadow of the Lynx by Victoria Holt - 3 stars



There is a famous quote of Victoria Holt that goes, “Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s experience. In my opinion The Shadow of the Lynx falls somewhere in the middle of this quote. Not a wonderful read but certainly not a bad experience either. It’s been many, many years since I have read a Victoria Holt novel, and although this was a relaxing, fun read I have definitely moved on from this author.

The Shadow of the Lynx is a story of violent emotions, grudges, revenge and, of course, love. I was expecting a overly sweet romance story, but this book had a slight edge to it and enough suspense to make me want to finish it. Of course this author can write, most of us have read her under at least of one of her well known pen-names: Victoria Holt, Jean Plaidy and Philippa Carr.

Part of the book takes place in Australia and I did find that quite interesting but after the plot moved the major characters back to England I found the story dragged a little. I quite liked the main character of Nora, but couldn’t find many redeeming qualities in the male lead, Stirling.

Reading The Shadow of the Lynx was like taking a trip down memory lane. But now that I have been there I don’t think I will feel the need to visit again.

36. Bad Bridesmaid:Bachelorette Brawls and Taffeta Tantrums by Siri Agrell - 3 stars



I haven’t got too much to say about Bad Bridesmaid, it is a quick, easy romp through the world of elaborate weddings and overwrought brides. Funny in places but repetitious.

I do disagree with the authors declaration that most every bride turns into “Bridezilla” and becomes an absolute horror. I come from an era where weddings were not overly planned social occasions but I have gone through two daughters’ weddings in the last decade that were planned down to the last detail. I remember we never saw either of the girls without her “Wedding Planning Binder” the whole year before their weddings. But I also remember that these occasions went smoothly and were planned enough that we were all able to relax and just have fun.

This little book is chock full of horror stories of “brides gone wild’ and what the long suffering bridesmaids sometimes do to retaliate. Outrageous, funny and over-the-top but not entirely believable stories about hideous dresses, insulting weight demands, and appalling time requirements written in a sarcastic, slightly whiny tone. I enjoyed the first 50 pages but after that my eyes started to blur and the stories run together. Perhaps this would have been better if shortened and presented as a magazine article rather than a whole book.

I've always wondered if "bridezillas" truly exist? You see TV shows as well about these ladies who go bonkers during the whole wedding planning but then a part of me wonders if getting paid kinda nudges you in the direction of making "good" TV. All the friends that I know, myself included, never really made a big deal about the whole process. I know for myself, I looked forward and was more excited about the marriage and not so much the wedding. At the end of the day, you are spending a lot of money just to feed and entertain friends and family. :)

Congratulations on reading 36 books thus far! Amazing!

Thanks Linda, I will probably be slacking off in the reading department for the next couple of weeks as I am going to my Mom's for a visit. I always pack a huge amount of books, but we have lots to keep us busy, so don't know how much reading time I am going to get. My brother has finally got himself a computer and has installed a router so I am taking the laptop with me this time - but again, who knows if I will have time to stay up to date on LT. It's nice knowing it'll be here when I get back.

Edited to add: I just peeked at your thred and see you have posted 39 books this year so far - so congratulations yourself!

> #36 I read that one last year and got a laugh. But being a make-up artist for over 20 years, I dealt with all kinds of brides- the sweet ones and the ones who made me want to tell the grooms to run for their lives.

#72 - Jennifer - I think I got the idea of Bad Bridesmaid from your 1010 Challenge last year. Wow, a make-up artist - what a great job - you must have plenty of stories about your customers and their demands! I often wonder if someone becomes a "Brideszilla" because they are actually feeling doubt about the whole marriage thing.

I often wonder if someone becomes a "Brideszilla" because they are actually feeling doubt about the whole marriage thing.

Whether they have doubts consciously or not, I think you're on to something Judy. I wasn't a makeup artist, but I did work with many; as an art director I got to hire and work with teams for many photo shoots and discovered for myself that usually, people who are accomplished and comfortable with their choices were easy to work with, and those who were insecure for whatever reason were... quite a bit more difficult. Many of them hid their insecurity behind haughtiness and what have you, but you usually found out about those 'divas' and their dysfunctions through the makeup artists and stylists who were up close and personal with them.

Hope your visit goes well.

37. Death Minus Zero by John Baker - 4 stars



Death Minus Zero by John Baker is the second book in a series featuring Sam Turner, a PI set in York. I read the first book last year and was totally captivated. This book draws you in with its interesting setting and quirky characters.

In this outing we find Sam and his crew actually starting to believe that they can make a go of this PI business as they settle into their new offices and start to build a client base. Meanwhile in another part of England a group of terrorists break one of their own out of prison. Not part of this group, another prisoner takes advantage of the situation and makes good his escape. Norman Bunce, a true psychopath has unfinished business to attend to and it’s leading him to York. He decides the best way to track down an old girlfriend that he is planning revenge on is to hire a PI.

I have been drawn into this series and certainly plan on following it. John Baker manages to give a fresh spin on the genre and I enjoy his fast paced, well written stories. Sam Turner is a hero you can root for as he has his dark side and is always battling his alcoholism. He surrounds himself with a group of diverse and engaging people who give him their support and love. From the motherly Celia to young Geordie, along with the addition of some new characters, Sam is provided with a family. As we are about to find out, a family that Sam will protect and care for no matter the cost.

That last one sounds like one I might like.

I hope you have a good visit with your Mom!

#32 I shall not hate sounds like a very moving book - I'll look out for that one.

>#48- Judy have you read Mornings in Jenin by, Susan Abulhawa its a very powerful story about the Palestinian/Israeli Conflict it spans from 1941-2002 it is a powerful book that I highly recommend.

Put I Shall Not Hate on my wishlist.

Hi, Judy!


glitter-graphics.com

Thanks Terri and happy St Patricks Day to everybody!

I am probably going to get myself in trouble today, as I am hitting the second hand bookstore with my sister and brother.

#78 Susie - I do have Mornings in Jenin on my wish list - have seen lots of people praise this book!

38. The Diary of Mattie Spenser by Sandra Dallas - 5 stars



I totally enjoyed my trip back to 1866 and learning about the life of the pioneer woman that I met through The Diary of Mattie Spenser by Sandra Dallas. This book was like reading a series of letters from a close friend. Through her personal journal I learned about travelling across the prairies in a covered wagon, homesteading in a bleak and barren land, living in a sod house and the trials of being cut off from family and friends.

The people who ventured away from their secure lives and tackled this adventure were truly a breed apart. From hostile Indians, severe weather conditions, back breaking labour, and assorted dangers they forged a new life and prepared a land for future generations.

Written in a straightforward, sincere manner, we are taken into the inner life of this woman and faced with her all the heartbreak she had to endure from learning she had always been second choice in her husband’s heart, to losing her babies, and growing old before her time. Yet even with all this she was able to shine through and forge a good life for herself and her family. I highly recommend The Diary of Mattie Spenser to anyone who has an interest in the westward expansion of America.

Hi Judy! Hope you had/having a great time with the family!

As for going to the used-book store, all I can say is good luck! :) The only way I would walk out of a book store empty handed is if the person before had bought every single book in that place and there wasn't a book left on the shelf. Looking forward to see what/if you buy anything.

Now I must move Mattie Spencer up on my TBR Pile!Great Review Thanks!

Hope you like Mornings in Jenin when you get to it.

Well, hello there again, Judith.

You are killing this challenge! Thanks for sharing; I'm going to move a few of yours, up on that K2 reading pile of mine, eg, Major Pettigrew's Last Stand, The Graveyard Book, I Shall Not Hate and especially, Pretty Birds.

I was pretty good at the second hand book store yesterday, only picked up two. Of course I will be coming home with a bag of books which I picked up from assorted family members.

#84 - Sandydog - wow, you've listed some of my favorite books of this year! That sounds like quite a mountain to have to climb. Hope you enjoy them when you get to them.

39. A Story Like The Wind by Laurens van der Post - 3 stars



A Story Like the Wind by Laurens van der Post is a coming of age tale about a young boy, Francois, raised on a remote farm in South Africa. This story is centered around the death of his father and his coming to terms with his loss and having to mature rather quickly.

While his mother and father leave to consult doctors, Francois and his faithful companion, his dog Hin, spent their days together. We learn of his life and experience some of his adventures. From rescuing a bushman from a lion trap to consulting a witch doctor about his father, we are given insight into how this boy thinks and feels.

Set in the late 1930’s and based on his recollections, the author is able to paint a vivid picture about growing up in Africa. Francois’ relations with the native people on the farm allow us to witness the rich oral traditions of these people. I did, however, find some of the descriptions were long winded and could become rather mind numbing, and at times, I felt the author wandered from his plot. Overall, I enjoyed this book, beautifully written but patience is definitely required.

40. The Other Side of Paradise by Margaret Mayhew - 3 1/2 stars



This is a story of a young, rich, rather spoiled young woman as she grows up during the Japanese invasion of Malaysia. In 1940 her life is one round of tennis matches, swimming parties and dances in the beautiful city of Singapore. Her father owns a large rubber company and money is no object in her rounds of shopping and leisurely lunches. She meets a young Australian doctor who challenges her to grow up and become a responsible adult. He encourages her to become an ambulance driver.

With World War II raging, and the threat of the Japanese looming, she chooses, along with most of the British in Singapore, to ignore the warning signs and believe in the invincibility of Fortress Singapore. Of course, as we all know, Singapore and all of Malaysia did fall. Having left her escape too late, she becomes a prisoner of war and endures three and a half years in the prison camps. Here she proves to be a woman of great inner strength and courage.

The Other Side of Paradise although interesting and well written, brings nothing new to the plate in regards to the fall of Singapore and the harsh conditions the British faced but this is ultimately a love story and as such I enjoyed it very much.

>40 Donna828: I feel like this book must have been made into a movie or something, because I've heard this tale before. Hmmm.

#88 - Jessie - if you find out that it is a movie, please let me know. I would love to see this story on film.

41. The Sand Fish by Maha Gargash - 3 stars



The Sand Fish by Maha Gargash was an eagerly anticipated read as I was excited to be reading a book about the United Arab Emirates written by an Emirati. This story is set in the 1950’s, before the discovery of oil and the massive development that followed, and tells the story of Noora, a poor mountain raised girl who is basically sold into marriage to a rich, older man as his third wife. Her main purpose to this man is to bear a child, preferably male.

I was interested in the day to day life details and the interaction between the sister-wives. The power rested firmly in the hands of the first wife and she was also eager for a baby to be delivered to the family. The baby competition was between the second and third wives, as whomever managed to deliver would have an easier life overall. How this situation was resolved was the main focus of the story.

What I really liked about this book is that Noora is true to her culture. She wears the burka proudly and accepts her fate, although not happily, but with the acceptance born of generations of bowing to men’s authority. She does not question being the third wife, or even the possession of a slave.

I found The Sand Fish to be an engaging read but overall felt it lacked depth. I was left feeling slightly unsatisfied as I would have like the story to have continued on as it ended rather abruptly. I am curious as to how Nooras’ life would have evolved.

Such interesting reads Judy! I will have to add your last 2 reads to my list.

Got home earlier today from my Mom's. Was able to take full advantage of the two hour ferry ride and was able to finish off another book.

42. Blacklands by Belinda Bauer - 5 stars



Blacklands by Susan Bauer is to put it simply a bloody good read. Extremely atmospheric, this original twist on a serial killer story was simple, straight forward and compelling. Part mystery, part coming-of-age story, part psychological drama, I found this book very addictive.

The story centers around Steven Lamb, an eleven year old boy, who lives with his grandmother, mother and younger brother in the village of Shipcott on the edge of Exmoor. Nineteen years ago, his Uncle Billy was taken and murdered by serial killer, pedophile Arnold Avery. Avery buried his victims on Exmoor and a few of the bodies were never recovered. Billy’s was one. Steven’s family life is bleak and he becomes fixated on the idea that if he could recover Billy’s body, his dysfunctional family would come together and be healed. After digging countless holes, he realizes the only way to get the information he needs is to write to the source. This in turn awakens a power and need in the serial killer.

The images of Exmoor that the author gives us in this book absolutely resounded in me. Never having been there, I went to Google Earth and placed myself in the area and “drove” all around. A beautiful yet isolated place that I could see a serial killer desecrating all too easily. I should mention that although this is a book about a child killer, the details given are not graphic, nonetheless still manage to chill you to the bone.

I highly recommend Blacklands. The action is gradual and builds slowly, you can see where the story is taking you, but the ride is truly arresting, and as the dread rises along with your pulse, you can buckle yourself in for a exciting climax.

That little book-car on the top of this thread is really speeding, Judy. I love your book-choices.

Added Blacklands to my wishlist great review!

Do you ever read an uninteresting book, Judy? I have quite a few titles in my dream book with your name by them. I like the variety of books that you read and the fact that most of them are new to me. Keep up the good reading!

You certainly have lots of interesting reads Judy. Thought I'd de-lurk just to say hi and tell you that. :-)

Added to my list of wishes. Thanks!

Thanks for all your great comments. I've just spent the whole day running around my house making matches between my TBR's and the TIOLI Challenges. I've signed up for 8 so far, and that, along with the books I want to read for the 11 in 11 Challenge means I am going to have a very busy reading month in April!

Great review Judy! Thumbs from me and onto my wishlist it goes. :)

43. Sweet Danger by Margery Allingham - 3 1/2 stars



The author of Sweet Danger and many other mysteries, Margery Allingham was first published in the late 1920’s and, of course, has been compared to Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers and Josephine Tey. I can definitely see why these comparisons were made, but after just one of her books I can also see a large difference as well. Sweet Danger was a delightfully strange story featuring Albert Campion and a group of his cronies. These young men appear to be of the upper class, none appear to have jobs that demand their appearance or attention so are free to follow Campion on his cases. Campion in turn, appears to be working this case for a unnamed government department.

In this particular one we are treated to many varied and assorted characters, from an innkeeper who doesn’t want any guests, a medical doctor who practices demonology and witchcraft, to a family of assorted eccentrics that both charm and intrigue. The plot is hung around a tiny kingdom in the Balkans that suddenly develops in importance as an earthquake changes it from a landlocked kingdom to a seaport. Albert Campion is intent on establishing the rightful heirs to this tiny country and is thwarted by a syndicate controlled by a rich and ruthless man.

Allingham manages to carry this far-fetched plot off with both humor and satirical observations. Her story moves quickly and builds to a rather satisfying conclusion. I was charmed by this book and look forward to reading more of Albert Campion’s adventures.

88: When I was reading your review of The Other Side of Paradise, a few books/videos popped into my head.

A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute is the story of a woman who is incarcerated by the Japanese in Malaya; it is also a love story, and the movie (mini-series?) starred Helen Morse and Bryan Brown.

Paradise Road was a 1997 movie about women prisoners of war on Sumatra, who use music as a relief to their misery. Glenn Close, Frances McDormand, and Jennifer Ehle were some of the standouts, but the cast was overall terrific!

I love the miniseries of A Town Like Alice! I see how that review would remind you of it, definitely.

>98 DeltaQueen50:: A busy reading month is a good month! I did the TIOLI cha cha, too. Judy, I couldn't help but notice on your lovely book cover posted for Madeline's challenge that you mentioned you used a pink bookmark to match the book. I have a plethora of bookmarks and I try to do that, too! I'm glad I'm not the only one that goes to those lengths. ;-)

#101 - Karen & Bluesalamanders - it's funny that you should mention A Town Called Alice and the mini-series "Paradise Road" - over on the 11 in 11 Challenge, I recommended A Town Called Alice as an wonderful read about WW II in Malaysia. I read it last year and it was definitely one of my favorite reads of the year. "Paradise Road" was also mentioned as an excellent mini-series about women in the Japanese prisioner of war camps. I haven't seen the whole thing, just an episode or two, but remember it being very well done.

#103 Donna. good to hear I am not the only one who matches their bookmark to the cover of the book. I probably put too much importance on the cover art, but have to admit a striking cover will often lure me to the book. I have scads of bookmarks, a lot of them from my grandchildren, so I try to rotate them and use them all. The kids really notice if I use the one they gave me. One of my favorites right now they gave me at Xmas - it says "So many books, so little time" - sums up my reading life!

Top First Quarter Reads:

1. The Lies of Locke Lamorra by Scott Lynch
2. Blacklands by Belinda Bauer
3. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
4. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
5. The Diary of Mattie Spenser by Sandra Dallas
6. Pretty Birds by Scott Simon
7. The Guards by Ken Bruen

With your review in mind, I just checked out and downloaded the audio book of Blacklands from the library site.

I will have to give The Lies of Locke Lamora another go. I read the first sixty pages and then put it down. Every time I would start to get into the story the time frame would shift.

#107 Tanglewood - I think my opinion of books can vary according to my mood at the time of reading, or what's going on in my life at the time etc. I do remember that I was totally absorbed by The Lies of Locke Lamorra right away, it carried me away to another time and place, and i enjoyed the trip. I think it would be worth you giving it a second try, but you never know, it may just not be the book for you.

Waving as I check back in, Judy!

Stasia!! Great to have you back - looking forward to checking out your thread on Sunday morning.

I'm so glad you enjoyed Sweet Danger. Allingham is one of my favourites. One thing I enjoy is the flavour of the passing decades you get if you read through the whole series - her last ones were published in the 1960s so from the madcap '20s adventures to more start wartime and post-war adventures you see certain aspects of English society developing as Campion also grows older. And I love the character of Amanda!

#111 - Genny - Amanda was certainly my favorite character in Sweet Danger. I loved how the book ended, with the implication that he was going to wait for her to grow up. It was a very satisfying read and I am definitely going to be following up on this series.

I have long been a fan of Agatha Christie but over the last couple of years I have come to read and fall in love with Josephine Tey and now Margery Allingham. This month I am going to tackle Edmund Crispin and next month hope to get to Dorothy Sayers. I am having a good time discovering all these authors from days of yore!

I've only read one Crispin so far, and didn't enjoy it as much as the others, but Dorothy Sayers is another great one - even better than Allingham I think, not quite so mad-cap in the plot lines although the upper-class leisured sleuth idea is similar. And I've now read a couple of Josephine Tey and really want to read more of hers too. Even if no new books were being published from now onwards, I'd have enough to keep me going for the rest of my life with what's already out there including these older ones!

44. What To Do When Someone Dies by Nicci French - 3 1/2 stars



What to do indeed. At home making dinner, Ellie is unprepared for the police at the door, or the news that her husband has died in a car accident. She is even more unprepared to learn that he wasn’t alone, there was a woman, also dead, with him in the car.

Everyone assumes he had been having an affair. Everyone but Ellie that is. She sets out to find the truth, going to extraordinary lengths. Her intensity causes her friends to doubt her sanity and eventually the police label her as suspect number one in this bizarre case.

The husband and wife team of Nicci French are known for their edge-of-the-seat thrillers and have long been favourites of mine. While What To Do When Someone Dies may not be their best book, I was still glued to the pages, wanting to know what was going to happen next. Grief is a powerful emotion, and I was at times feeling deep sympathy for Ellie while at others quite creeped out by her strange actions.

I had a slight difficulty with the believability of this book. There were a couple of small plot holes that ate away at me and, at times the story drifted into the implausible. But overall What To Do When Someone Dies is a well written, taunt, easy to read thriller with some emotional moments that I enjoyed.

Just added What to Do When Someone Dies to my TBRSRTL (To Be Read Sooner Rather Than Later) list--it looks enjoyable! Thanks for the recommendation.

Karen O.

#114: Nice review, Judy! I have read a couple of French's books, but not that one.

45. Dances With Wolves by Michael Blake - 5 stars



Dances With Wolves is a sweeping epic about one man’s journey, both external and internal, to find the place where he belongs. Set in the mid-1860’s the story of Lt. John Dunbar finding his path through Civil War battles, military postings and finally to the natural wonder of both the American prairies and the Comanche Indians is a wonderful read.

I won’t go into plot details here as so many have seen the movie which follows the book closely. The author, Michael Blake studied Indian history for years before writing this book so his knowledge on their day to day life is extensive. Blake paints a vivid picture of the Comanche and certainly captured how the Indians lived in rhythm with nature.

The arrival of the white people on the American prairies was a tragedy for the Indians. As the buffalo were slaughtered in their thousands, the mainstay of their life was stripped away. A way of life they had been following for thousands of years wiped out in less than 50. Their nomadic lifestyle was put to an end by farms and fences. This story foreshadows the sorrowful outcome of these events.

I found this to be a powerful, stirring story, one that I would consider a classic of it’s genre. The movie based on this book with it’s stunning visuals is also a Classic Western, one not to be missed. I definitely recommend Dances With Wolves to anyone with an interest in the American West.

5 Stars! That sounds like a wonderful read. I will have to had this to my list and it's a bonus since I haven't watched the movie either. Thanks Judy! Hope you are having a wonderful weekend. :)

Hi Jolerie - I say read the book and watch the movie - both are wonderful! Hope you are having a good weekend as well.

46. The Splendor of Silence by Indu Sundaresan - 3 stars



Having read this author before and loving her books, I was really looking forward to The Splendor of Silence by Indu Sundaresan. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as pleased with this book as I had hoped. There’s a lot going on, it’s partly a historical history, partly a love story, an partly a mystery. And I think that is the reason I was left slightly unsatisfied, simply too much going on and a feeling that some of the story was slipping through the cracks.

Starting in the 1960’s a young woman, grieving over the death of her father, Sam, receives a trunk from India and learns about her unknown mother from the unidentified letters enclosed within. We are then drawn back to 1942 and the events surrounding her parents who meet and fall in love over the course of four days in the small principality of Rudrakot, in the northwest of India. If the focus had remained on these two people, I think the story would have benefited but other minor characters were also given detailed storylines.

This story touches on many events that were happening at that time, from the world war, to India stirring with a desire to throw off the British yoke for independence. A fascinating time and place, I wanted to be swept away with an touching storyline about this rapidly changing society but instead I felt the narrative was broken into too many pieces and it lost much of it’s appeal. Still I would definitely try another of her books as I love her exotic settings and her insights into the mysterious country of India.

You are reading such wonderfully unique books!

Thanks Linda. I'm getting a lot of variety as I am participating in the 11 in 11 Challenge, reading 11 books from 11 different genres or themes.

5 stars for Dances with Wolves sounds like an absolute must. Thanks.

I haven't read any books by Indu Sundaresan. Are there any in particular that you recommend?

>46 DeltaQueen50:: I guess it's true that you can't judge a book by its cover. This book cover is still in my Top 3 for 'Striking Cover Art' on the TIOLI challenge! I'm thinking of posting my cover of The Gendarme as a similar cover (and because the book doesn't fit another challenge!)

Dances with Wolves sounds like a wonderful western. I loved the movie; didn't realize there was a book. I still need to read Lonesome Dove, another classic western.

#124 - Tanglewood - I would recommend The Twentieth Wife and it's sequel, The Feast of Roses by Indu Sundaresan. They are set in the early 1600's and deal with the Mughal Empire. The story of an woman who becomes the twentieth wife of the King. She is the love of his life and is given extraordinary power for a woman. Her stepson married her younger sister and built the Taj Mahal. I loved these books, particularly the first one, The Twentieth Wife.

#125 Donna - Dances With Wolves is a great read, and Lonesome Dove is in a class of it's own, one of my top read of all time.

Thanks, the Twentieth Wife sounds excellent.

47. The Postmistress by Sarah Blake - 3 stars



The Postmistress by Sarah Blake is set in 1941 in the year leading up to the Americans entering World War II. In the small town of Franklin, Massachusetts people are anticipating the future in different ways. Some believe America will never enter the war and others are counting the time until it does. This story deals with three women and how they eventually come together to face the future. For some reason I never really took to this book even though the writing is beautifully done and each character has their own distinct voice. Probably my biggest problem was not connecting with any of the characters.

We do jump back and forth between many characters which left me feeling a bit disjointed. I was also disappointed that with all the storylines there was to follow, not one character got a happy ending. I thought the first half of the book was much better than the second, and the last 30 pages were a real chore to get through. With such rich storylines to follow, from the lonely doctors wife to the female reporter travelling the trains in Europe interviewing refugees I expected an emotional payoff at the end, instead this book closed with barely a whimper.

That's a pity about The Postmistress, I have heard of it and thought it sounded interesting but I might leave it now. Good review, thanks.

I had The Postmistress on my wishlist, and then passed it up when I saw a perfectly good copy of it at the used books store, and your review doesn't make me regret that decision. I get very confused when there are too many characters and I agree that there should be some kind of payoff.

I know Dances with Wolves is in the BlackHole already. I will have to bump it up.

I am sorry that you did not enjoy The Postmistress more. I loved that one.

48. The Case of the Gilded Fly by Edmund Crispin - 3 1/2 stars



At first I didn’t think I was going to enjoy The Case of the Gilded Fly, I thought Edmund Crispin’s writing style was condescending and entirely too judgemental but, eventually I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt and consider it as literate satire. I also found his amateur detective, Gervase Fen to be a rather annoying and pompous man, but, he also grew upon me until by the end of the book I was quite fond of the fellow. An eccentric professor of English literature who must be on the move at all times, he is witty, brilliant and rude.

As Professor Fen and his wife are entertaining in their rooms at the college one evening, a gunshot rings out. An unpopular and scheming actress is lying dead in the rooms below. At first appearing like suicide, it quickly becomes apparent this was a murder. The case seems unsolvable to the police, but Gervase Fen proclaims to know who the murderer is but doesn’t wish to announce the name until he can tie all the pieces together.

Reminiscent of an Agatha Christie novel, the main characters are introduced at the start of the book with their motivations and desires laid out. It should have been easy for me to put the pieces together and solve this puzzler, but I got so involved in the story that the ending was a surprise to me.

An interesting book and one that I had to struggle with a bit, there were a lot of literary references that went completely above my head, but once I decided to relax into the read I found I enjoyed this book and I would definitely consider reading another of this author’s books.

>132 DeltaQueen50: - I'm going to have to put this on the TBR list. Despite warnings I'm intrigued.

I have only read one of Crispin's books thus far and keep meaning to get to more of his books. One of these days. . .

Just stopping by to say hello!

I've had that one on my to-be-found list for a while so I'm glad you liked it. Good review!

I ditto what jesieb30 said, I'm intrigued and will put it on my list as well. Good review.

So sorry to hear you didn't like The Postmistress. It was one of those books that I put off buying for the longest time and then I finally purchased it awhile back. I will have to see if I like it or not, if I ever get to it...... :)

I love coming to my thread and finding I have had visitors! Welcome all.

# 133, 134 #136 & 137: Jessie, Stasia, Jennifer and Leonie - If you are fans of vintage mysteries like Agatha Christie, Joesphine Tey etc. I think you would enjoy Edmund Crispins' style as well. His detective Gervase Fen is quite the character - one of those you love to hate types!

#135: Terri, glad you dropped by. I'm sending you warm weather wishes as I see on your thread your winter is still hanging on.

#138: Jolerie - don't let me put you off The Postmistress. Lots of people, including Stasia loved it.

49. Black Swan Green by David Mitchell - 4 stars



Looking at life through the eyes of a thirteen year old boy, Black Swan Green tells the story of a year in the life of Jason Taylor who lives in a small village in Worcestershire during the early 1980’s. Thirteen is a difficult year for most young people and Jason is no exception. His main activities are ‘trying to fit in” and hiding his stammer by planning his sentences in advance.

Each chapter of this book tells us a separate story in the life of Jason. From his first cigarette to his first kiss, his adolescent pain at seeing his parents marriage crumble over the course of the year, his interest in the Falklands War, to dealing with bullying. It’s a very realistic look at being thirteen.

The authors’ deft handling of the story elevated this book far above a simple coming of age story. Each chapter has a flavor of its own which gives the reader much to relish. His characters are well drawn, complete people and he avoids getting overly sentimental. For me, Black Swan Green captures the highs and lows of that time in life just before you understand what it’s all about. I found it absorbing and charming.

#140: I have not read that one yet although I have heard many good things about the book. Thanks for the reminder that I still need to get to it, Judy!

I have a quote on my profile from that book but I knew nothing about the book itself! Nice to hear it's a good one. I'll put it on my TBR Someday list.

I'm back for another visit and find some more great books. Black Swan Green is already on the TBR list. I own a copy of The Postmistress and I'm adding The Case of the Guilded Fly

Happy Saturday to you!

Looks like I will have to pull Black Swan Green off my shelves. Been sitting there far too long.

I had to go and think where I'd heard that author's name before, Cloud Atlas - of course. A great review and another one to add to the bulging list.

50. Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs - 3 1/2 stars



While Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl was an interesting and education read, I found myself cringing many times over the treatment these people endured. I found myself having to put the book down after each chapter and then practically having to force myself to pick it up again. What this one woman went through to attain freedom for herself and her children is a testament to her spirit and endurance.

I have heard that this book is not the actual life of one person, but rather a collection of stories put together and released as an abolitionist document. I say either way these atrocities did occur and it’s important to bring these slave stories to light.

While the book at times is over-written in the language of the day, it still manages to convey the corruption and dehumanization of slavery. Putting this book into our hands makes it impossible to turn away from the history of persecution and ill-treatment that slavery brought to so many. So, not a book to enjoy, but certainly a book to educate and inform.

I'd like to thank Stasia for bringing this book to my attention earlier this year.

I'm don't think I'm ready for Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl right now but on the other hand, I've added Black Swan Green to my wishlist. Great review! I would definitely thumb it if it was on the main page (hint hint!)

#146: I am glad to see that you appreciated (enjoyed is definitely not the correct word here) the Jacobs book, Judy.

51. The Way of the Traitor by Laura Joh Rowland - 3 1/2 stars



The Way of the Traitor is the third book in Laura Joh Rowland’s historical mystery series set in feudal Japan. We follow the adventures of Sano Ichiro, recently appointed Most Honorable Investigator of Events, Situations and People by the Shogun. The Shogun’s jealous favorite arranges to have Sano assigned to an inspection tour of Nagasaki which will remove Sano from the capital for up to a year.

Arriving in Nagasaki and finding it a hotbed of political treachery, Sano becomes involved in the murder investigation of a Dutch trade captain whose mutilated body has washed ashore. Not knowing who to trust, Sano falls victim to a plot that sees him accused of treason. Only the solving of the crime will prove his innocence.

As with all her books, a well researched historical mystery that holds the interest and gives us a colourful and detailed look at Japan in the 1690’s. I would recommend that a reader start with the first book in this series, Shinju, as there is a definite timeline to these mysteries.

52. The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer - 5 stars



All too rarely a book comes along that carries you off on a journey of the senses. The Invisible Bridge was such a book for me. A breath-taking, romantic love story combined with a spell bounding historical epic, this book has cost me a few tears along with a few late nights recently.

Telling the story of Klara and Andras, set in Paris and Budapest during the late 1930’s and into the war years, the author weaves her tale through the political events that were taking place in Europe over these years. A young Hungarian student comes to Paris to study architecture. He meets and falls in love with the mysterious Claire (Klara). As Europe erupts around them their lives are threaded with disaster, despair and hope.

But this book is so much more than a war-torn romantic story. We follow many characters, see the struggle that families went through to survive these turbulent times. We also see that the Natzi policy toward the Jews was not a new thing, the Jews had been persecuted and discriminated against for centuries, and their being treated like lesser citizens was something they had come accustomed to. The Natzis took the treatment of Jews a step further, but many Europeans stood by in complacent silence.

Like painting a picture, the author’s beautiful writing and descriptive passages give depth and emotion to this story of love, courage, honor, and most importantly survival. Her ability to place you into this past time and make you feel such strong emotions is a testament to her talent. I highly recommend this book.

What a great review of The Invisible Bridge. I checked this out of the library but had to get it back because I ran out of time.

I hope to read it soon.

>150 DeltaQueen50:- What a great review Judy you won me over I'm going to have to find this book! and what a gorgeous cover!

Hi Judy- Wow, you are reading some terrific titles! I can't wait to read Black Swan Green. After falling in love with Cloud Atlas, I'll be reading everything by this guy. I'm hosting a Group Read of Thousand Autumns in June, if you are interested.
I also have The Invisible Bridge waiting patiently on a shelf. After that glowing review, I need to get to it soon.

>150 DeltaQueen50:: Judy, reading your excellent review of The Invisible Bridge brought back the feelings I had while reading it. This is one of my favorites for the year. I was disappointed that it didn't make the Orange Prize shortlist.

I am curious now to continue reading the books on the Orange Prize Long List, especially the ones that made the short list - they must be fantastic to have beaten out The Invisible Bridge!

#153 - Mark - Black Swan Green was another amazing read, and I am interested in the Group Read in June. I am, however, a little leary of reading another of David Mitchell's as my expectations will be so high!

Wow. That was quite a review.

53. Sarah by Orson Scott Card - 3 1/2 stars



Sarah by Orson Scott Card breathes life into the bible story of Sarah and the profit, Abraham. Sarai, the daughter of an exiled king of Ur, is ten years old when she first meets Abram. She has been promised to the Goddess Asherah but Abram tells her that he will return in ten years to make her his wife. This comes to pass and Sarai becomes a devoted wife always working beside her husband. Unfortunately, their union is not blessed with children, and as the years pass, Sarai becomes more and more convinced that Abram must become a father.

The author takes the basic facts of this story and gives it substance, character and soul. As God speaks to Abram and eventually to Sarai they become his devoted servants and follow his wishes. They change their names to Abraham and Sarah. Sarah convinces her handmaiden Hagar to lie with Abraham and conceive a son. This son is called Ishmael and they believe he will be the only child Abraham will have. But God once again speaks to Abraham and tells him he will have a child with Sarah, this child will be called Isaac and he will become the father of a strong nation. Each man in Abraham’s tribe undergoes a ceremony that marks this covenant, and the tradition of cutting away the foreskin was to be continued throughout the generations.

Given the restrictions of having the story already laid out in the bible, I think the author did a good job of fleshing Sarah into a real women, with real emotions, drive and energy. His interpretation of Sarah and Abraham makes an interesting read into a time period we know very little about. I found Sarah to be an engaging and well-researched story.

I have got to get my hands on The Invisible Bridge!

54. The Enemy by Charlie Higson - 4 1/2 stars



I feel rather guilty that I liked The Enemy so much. It’s an in your face, dark, violent thriller about children surviving and fighting with zombies that I found extremely gross yet very satisfying. With it’s fast pace, alternative viewpoints and awesome London setting this was a true page-turner. It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that actually scared me, this book reminded me of watching horror movies with a pillow held closely to cover my face at the scary parts.

There was a epidemic that infected only adults, most died, but the ones who didn’t became flesh craving zombies. Children learned quickly to band together in order to fight for their survival. In this, the first book of the series, we follow the adventures of a group of children that have been living in a fortified grocery store. They are slowly losing members of their gang and realize they need to move on somewhere safer. During a zombie attack, they save a boy who tells them about a place of safety and they decide to risk the trip across London to get to this haven.

I realized early in the book to beware of getting too attached to any of the characters, they are indiscriminately killed off, which for me, added to the thrill. Never knowing who was going to survive hyped the book up another notch. A warning however, this book does have vivid and very brutal violence, lots of blood, guts and gore, which, if you are reading a zombie book is probably what you expect. I found The Enemy extremely addictive and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

Judy- Good review of The Enemy. I gave you a thumb! This one looks like it could be a lot of fun. I'll have to check it out.

The Enemy sounds amazing, I'm just not sure I'm ready for a book to scare me like that though.

Sounds good to me- on the list! Thanks!

Back up to message #157 -- another great review!

Your comments reminded me of one of my favorite Carot paintings in the NY Metropolitan Art Museum called Hagar in the Wilderness:



Thanks for your review Judy!

Mark, Leonie and Jenn: The Enemy was a fun read and I hope if you guys do read it, you enjoy it as much as I did. I don't know what it is about zombie books - maybe the thought that even clumsy ol' me could outrun them but I am a sucker for them.

Linda, thanks for the beautiful picture. I love the way the light is depicted. That incident is covered in the book. When Hagar and her son are escorted out of the camp, they run away fearing they might be killed by the escort. Abraham does not try to rescue them from the desert because God has assured him that they will be safe and his son, Ishmael will go on to become the founder of more than one nation.

The Enemy sounds like one I would I like. I love it when authors aren't afraid of killing off their characters.

55. Howl's Moving Castle by Dianna Wynne Jones - 4 stars



I was thoroughly engaged by Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones which was a very readable fairytale fantasy. The setting was delightfully confusing for both the reader and the characters, and the plot was far from traditional. A lot of humor and wit went into the development of the characters which were interesting, and the main character, Sophie is a gem.

The story of Sophie the eldest sister of three, starts off as the girls are each set up in trades. Sophie stays in the family hat making business, while her younger sisters are sent away. One is sent to a bake shop and the other is apprenticed to learn magic. Of course these two sisters decide to switch places, and Sophie runs afoul of the witch of the wasteland and gets turned into a old woman. Sophie leaves home, takes shelter at Howl’s castle and becomes his cleaning woman. The castle is a confusing place as it is in about four different places at the same time. Depending on how a door is opened, it can be in a seaport or in the capital city, in one place it constantly moves about, while the final place appears to be modern day Wales. Sophie must resolve her own fate by solving a series of mysteries, from freeing the household fire demon, to rescuing a Prince and the King’s Magician, ensuring the happiness of her sisters, defeating the witch of the wasteland, and dealing with the difficult, irritating yet endearing wizard Howl.

This is a story that would delight both the young and the young-at-heart. Howl’s Moving Castle is a simple, warm-hearted tale with lots of magic and fun. My first time reading Diana Wynn Jones, who unfortunately passed away this year, but it certainly won’t be my last time.

>55 msf59:- I've been meaning to read that one will have to bump it up the pile!Great review!

#55 Sounds like quite a fascinating read! Though I'm not sure, given your description, that I'd agree it's a "simple" tale! lol

I was very tempted to read a book by Diana Wynne Jones this month when the TIOLI challenge came up, but being overbooked already, I'll just have to wait a bit for the pleasure of discovering her for myself at another time.

Hey Judy! Just popping in to say HI! Just browsing through your last couple of reads and I must say one thing I love about your thread is that you get a bit of everything. From Zombies to fantasy....you cover it all. :)

I also liked Howl's Moving Castle. I thought it was so creative!

I understand that Howl's Moving Castle is part of a series, I will have to look into that as I'd love to continue on with the adventures of Sophie and Howl.

I read Howl's Moving Castle years and years ago, but I really don't remember much. After reaquainting myself with Diana Wynne Jones with Enchanted Glass, I think I'll add this one to my reread list.

I love Howls Moving Castle, the imagination is wild in it. I highly recommend the movie version of this which is a firm favourite in our house, rewatched probably every 2nd month, and produced by the incredible japanese group Studio Ghibli.

I'm thinking that the next time I babysit the grandchildren we could watch the movie together. I think they would both enjoy it.

Glad you enjoyed Howl's Moving Castle :-)

And great review of The Invisible Bridge. I'm on the reserve list at the library but they only have two copies so it could be a while...

I love the movie Howl's Moving Castle yet I really didn't like the book.

56. The Various Flavours of Coffee by Anthony Capella - 3 stars



Attracted by both an interesting title and a beautiful cover, I had high expectations for The Various Flavours of Coffee by Anthony Capella as I had so enjoyed The Wedding Officer previously. Unfortunately I was in for a letdown. At slightly over 700 pages, this was a big mess of a story that dealt with love, sex, coffee, slavery, Africa, the suffragette movement, business and ultimately loss. The main character, who at the beginning of the book warns you that you won’t like him, starts off as a dilettante fop who would rather spend his time in a whorehouse than learning to be a responsible grown up. By the end of the book he has come full circle, but by that time I hardly cared.

Don’t get me wrong, there were parts of this book that were very readable and interesting. It just went off on too many tangents and he seemed to write himself into a corner more than once. He used sex and earthy descriptions to advance the story, which after a couple of times got rather silly and boring. If he had perhaps narrowed his focus to one or two of the above mentioned subjects he may have produced a more cohesive story.

What this author did produce is a rather readable, well researched historical soap opera that was a little too full of drama and florid language to be taken seriously. Too bad, as I think this could have been an extraordinary story.

Sorry to hear this wasn't a good read Judy, but you are right, the cover picture is definitely captivating. I probably would have picked this one up at the bookstore just based on the cover art.

Sorry you didn't enjoy that one Judy, though I have to agree it's a gorgeous cover!

Hope everyone has a great Easter weekend!

I lost you and there's way too much going on here for me to catch up. I'm happy to see another Brookmyer fan though!
Happy Easter!

Just stopping by. Thank you for your review of Dances with Wolves; I had no idea that the movie was based on a book. It went straight to my TBR list!

Thanks for dropping by LizzieD and weejane.

I hope you love Dances With Wolves as much as I did!

57. Iron Lake by William Kent Krueger - 4 stars



I was totally drawn into Iron Lake, the first in a mystery series set in northern Minnesota. A back country police procedural whose main character, Cork O’Conner is the former sheriff of Aurora, Minnesota. With both his job and his marriage on the rocks, Cork is barely getting by. He is considering ending the one good thing in his life, his relationship with local waitress Molly, as he believes his children need him to put the pieces of his marriage together again.

Called upon by a worried mother whose son did not come home from his paper route, Cork is slowly drawn into a murder investigation that eventually involves many townspeople and the nearby Ojibwa Indian Reservation. A complex tale of murder and corruption that gives us lots of twists and turns along the way.

I believe this author must have a deep love for the northern Minnesota woods and lakes. Iron Lake is set in the week prior to Christmas and the descriptions of frozen lake, deep snow and silent woods are all breathtaking. The author keeps his story current and real as he touches on the gambling resorts that many reservations are using to advance their lifestyle. The statement he makes that the gambling casinos are the new buffalo for the Indians paints a clear picture.

A good small town America mystery series, in a unique and beautiful setting, a hero that I can care about and root for, I am hooked and will be on the look out for the next book soon.

Judy- Good review of Iron Lake. I wish I could squeeze this one in for M & M. Hope you are having a nice weekend.

>184 DeltaQueen50: Iron Lake sounds really good. I am going to have to look this series up.

I'm guessing I'll be seeing you around May M&M?

Hope you had a Happy Easter!

Wow, I spent part of yesterday and most of today cooking Easter Dinner for my immediate family of eight. I had a Maple-Mustard Glazed Ham, Mashed Potatoes with cheese, bacon bits and chives, Asparagus with lemon butter, Tomatoes Au Gratin, Corn and Carrots. I made two desserts, the kids had homemade brownies with ice cream and chocolate sauce and the adults had a lemon cream cake. I thought I made enough for hubby and I to have at least a couple of days worth of left-overs, but no .. they devoured everything, I guess that means my cooking has been complimented!

Sounds like a wonderful feast, no wonder there were no leftovers!

That sounds good! Glad you had a fun holiday!

58. Mudbound by Hillary Jordon - 5 stars



I can’t say enough about this spellbinding, intense book. Mudbound examines the lives of both a white farm family and a black share cropper family in the years right after World War II. Both families welcome home a soldier returning from Europe.

Sharing such a common history and bond, these two men gravitate towards each other much to the dismay of both families. Friendships such as these were a secret, fearful thing in the days of Jim Crow. The war had taken these men, broadened their horizons and now had placed them back in a world of dark suspicions, hatred and discrimination.

This is the first novel for Hillary Jordan, and it truly is incredible. Powerful, simplistic writing, characters that are fully developed and real, and a story that will haunt me for a long, long time. The story unfolds as seen through the eyes of different characters, each viewpoint is so evolved and complete that the reader has no difficulty in identifying the storyteller at any given moment. Like an engine coming down the track, we can see where we are coming from and where we are going in this potent story of racism and its’ effects. Mudbound by Hillary Jordan is another wonderful book that came to my attention here at LT and I am gladly passing on the recommendation.

>191 DeltaQueen50: Nice review, Judy. I picked up a copy of Mudbound at a Borders that was closing - hadn't heard of it before, but it looked very good. I'll bump it up a few notches on the TBR pile.

Judy.

I love your review of Mudbound. It is a book I liked very much.

We seem to have similiar tastes in our reading.

>188 DeltaQueen50:: Um ummmm...that Easter dinner sounds yummy and remarkably like the feast my daughter prepared, except we had birthday cake for my 7-yr-old granddaughter's birthday. We've had a wild week end here in KC; I'm taking a well-deserved quiet day today (two of the kids are in school) so I'll be well-rested for tomorrow's LT meet-up.

I loved Mudbound when I read it a few years ago. I marvel at how an author can make history come alive through a fictional story. I guess I didn't realize this was her first book. I hope she has some more wonders in store for us.

Mudbound sounds like one I'll have to find!Geat review!

Judy- Loved your review of Mudbound. I've had this one in the stacks forever. Time to move it up!

I just wanted to pop over I tell you how much I enjoyed The Twentieth Wife. Thanks for recommending it, and I can't wait to read the sequel!

We must have just missed each other - I was just over at your thread!

Mudbound sounds interesting. I've put it on my watchlist over on my public library account.

Your Easter feast sounds fabulous. There's nothing quite like sharing a special meal with loved ones.

I liked Howl's Moving Caste well enough, but I liked Castle in the Air better! I have House of Many Ways waiting in my book stacks somewhere around here... what an imaginative, gifted woman Wynne Jones was. :)

#193 - Linda, I think we do have similar interests - I can tell by how many books you have added to my wishlist!

#194 - Donna, I, too, am hoping for more from Hillary Jordan.

Katie, Susie, Mark and Ilana, Mudbound is a great read and I think you will all appreciate it when you get to it. It's well worth a little push up the TBR!

197 - Michelle, I am glad you enjoyed The Twentieth Wife, I left you a message on you 11 in 11 Challenge thread.

#200 - Faith, I will definitely be following up on Diana Wynne Jones books. imaginative and gifted are apt descriptions.

I am watching the hockey game with one eye open and one eye closed. I don't think my heart can take it anymore, especially since it looks like it's going to go into OT.

It was quite a game alright. I don't think I can stand this kind of excitement for the whole playoff season!

Iron Lake sounds good. Another series for me to try!

Mudbound sounds great, too.

Wonderful reviews!

59. Driftnet by Lin Anderson - 3 stars



Driftnet by Lin Anderson is a good solid start to a mystery series featuring forensic scientist Dr. Rhona Macleod. Dr. Macleod assists the Glasgow police and this latest call out involves her in a murder case along with a hunt for a pedophile ring. Everyone notes that this latest victim looks a lot like her, and she, having given up a male baby seventeen years ago, fears the worst.

It took me awhile to warm up to the main character, Rhona, but as the book slowly revealed more of her personality and background, I grew more attached to her. I was however, very intrigued by some of the other supporting characters, and I hope to see them in future books.

Although I found the book to be slightly disjoined and a bit bumpy in places, it was overall a very readable story with an exciting, though at times rather grim plot. I am looking forward to reading more of this promising series and seeing how it develops.

60. The White Rhino Hotel by Bartle Bull - 4 1/2 stars



For sheer adventure it would be hard to top The White Rhino Hotel by Bartle Bull. The story carries you away to Africa in the years just after World War I, and, from elephant hunts to deadly soldier ant marches, it keeps the excitement level high. What is truly remarkable about this book is that not only can the author deliver an amazing story, he writes that story in a astoundingly descriptive manner. To that is added a wonderful assortment of varied and interesting characters. With this mixture, he has created a dense, rich book that made for a very satisfying read.

With an incredible amount of passion, the story unfolds around Anton Rider, a young Englishman, who comes to Africa to find his fortune. What he does find is lots of romance, greed and adventure. Other characters which flesh out this story include a cunning dwarf, a disillusioned English aristocrat and his bitter wife, a young Welsh woman and her badly wounded soldier husband, a Portuguese villain and his exotic sister, along with many other entertaining characters. This is a colourful, old-fashioned story that will have you rooting for the good guys and booing the bad.

I thoroughly enjoyed this great read and look forward to escaping again into Bartle Bull’s Africa with the remaining two books in the trilogy.

Since I have read 60 books so far this year, I have adjusted my goal from 75 to 150 books for the year. I managed around 160 books last year, so this total should be easily attained.

Congrats on your 60 books Judy. I reached 75 this week, but seeing as that is more than I've ever read in a year already, I'm wary of adjusting my own goal and discouraging myself, though of course would love it if I could cover twice as many books!

As for The White Rhino Hotel, great review! I'm really keen on this book, which I heard about over on Mark's thread this week too. As luck would have it though, it's not available at any of our libraries here in Montreal, and it's not available online either (not new, in any case). I checked out the audio version on Audible, but the narrator seems incredibly boring. Sigh. Of course, now that it's proving hard to get, I want that book more than any other! lol

Congrats on 60 already Judy! 150 is an impressive number! I don't know if I would ever be able to hit that kind of number in my life. Looking forward to retirement so I can at least try... :)

Congratulations on reading 60 books thus far!

I enjoyed your review of The White Rhino Hotel. This book is on the tbr pile...

Great reviews and congrats on the 60 books, an amazing year so far.

Judy- Excellent review of White Rhino. I'm so glad this book has made a comeback over here, it deserved it. I need to get to the 2nd one soon.

#208 Ilana, I'd offer to send you my copy of the book, but for now it's gone to my husband and he's a very slow reader, after him, it's promised to my brother. If you don't find a copy, let me know, and I could send you this one evenutally as long as it holds up as it was a shabby second hand book when I got it. It may be a year before I could get it to you but if you still want it - just let me know.

New Month, so time for a fresh new thread.

Please join me HERE