Delta Queen's Reading - Part 3

First Thread

Second Thread

2011 READING 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

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

May

61. I Am Not A Serial Killer by Dan Wells - 3 1/2 stars
62. The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo - 4 1/2 stars
63. The Borgia Bride by Jeanne Kalogridis - 3 stars
64. Whose Body? by Dorothy L. Sayers - 31/2 stars
65. The Walking Dead Vol. 1 Days Gone By by Robert Kirkman - 3 1/2 stars
66. The Temptation of the Night Jasmine by Lauren Willig - 3 stars
67. When The Dead Cry Out by Hilary Bonner - 3 1/2 stars
68. Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt - 4 1/2 stars
69. The Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart - 4 stars
70. The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin - 3 1/2 stars
71. The Walking Dead Vol 2: Miles Behind Us by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars
72. The Walking Dead Vol 3: Safety Behind Bars by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars
73. Murder In Mayberry: Greed, Death and Mayhem in a Small Town by Mary Kinney Branson - 2 1/2 stars
74. Blind Eye by Stuart MacBride - 4 stars
75. Far Bright Star by Robert Olmstead - 4 stars
76. Blink by Andrea Badenoch - 4 stars
77. The Saffron Gate by Linda Holeman - 3 1/2 stars
78. The Walking Dead Vol. 4 The Heart's Desire by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars
79. The Walking Dead Vol 5 The Best Defense by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars
80. The Walking Dead Vol 6 This Sorrowful Life by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars

June

81. The Religious Body by Catherine Aird - 3 1/2 stars
82. 20 Years Later by E.J. Newman - 3 1/2 stars
83. Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster's Daughter by Shoko Tendo - 3 stars
84. A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by Betty Smith - 5 stars
85. Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl - 4 stars
86. The Conquest by Elizabeth Chadwick - 4 stars
87. Etta by Gerald Kolpan - 3 1/2 stars
88. Above Suspicion by Lynda La Plante - 4 stars
89. Tulip Fever by Deborah Moggach - 2 1/2 stars
90. Jeremy and Amy: The Extraordinary Story of One Man and his Orang-utan by Jeremy Keeling - 3 1/2 stars
91. Sweet Tooth Vol 1: Out of the Woods by Jeff Lemire - 4 stars
92. The Serialist by David Gordon - 4 1/2 stars
93. The Walking Dead Vol 7 The Calm Before by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars
94. The Walking Dead Vol 8 Made To Suffer by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars
95. Friday's Child by Georgette Heyer - 4 stars
96. Alphabet of Thorn by Patricia McKillip - 3 1/2 stars

I'm on a roll! Second time being first on a brand new thread.
Looking forward to seeing what you will be reading Judy. :)

It looks like you had a terrific April, now let's do the same for May! See you over on M & M!

Hi Judy! Looking at your reading list this year so far reminds me what a huge influence you are on my wishlist and tbr! Now if only I could hit you with more book bullets myself... ;-)

Hi, Judy! How in the heck did I manage to miss your second thread? I sure got a lot of catchin up to do!

#8 Ilana, check out the message I left you in the bottom of my last thread about The White Rhino Hotel when you get a minute.

#9 - Mary, don't feel bad abut missing my thread, it's hard to keep up with everybody here!

Off to go see your message. Now that I've unstarred that thread, it feels like going on a treasure hunt! :-)

eta: found it! Odds are, given the fact that I almost always find what I want when I set my heart on it, I'll probably have located a copy of The White Rhino Hotel within the year (if not within the month!) But if not, I'll keep your offer in mind. I really appreciate it!

Doing a quick tally, that's 11 5 star books read so far this year - a great statistic.

I am having a great reading year. But I am neither a writer nor a critic, so my ratings are very personal. I give stars according to how the book resounded to me. 5 stars to those books that really provided me with a great story and also had that something extra that reached out and touched me. One of the things I love about reading everyone's threads here is how different we sometimes react to the same books.

Found you and starred you again. 60 books! You are really cooking!

#13 I always say that my own rating system, as far as stars, is totally arbitrary. It's just how I feel at the time I rate the book. I give a lot in the 3-4 star range. Very few 5's. And I reserve the right to change my mind!

Gracious! I got behind on your thread and came back to a bunch of great reviews! Loved your Mudbound, Various Flavors of Coffee, Iron Lake, and The Invisible Bridge reviews! And the wishlist expands yet again!

61. I Am Not A Serial Killer by Dan Wells - 3 1/2 stars



John Wayne Cleaver at age 15 just knows he is destined to be a serial killer. He has a similar name to John Wayne Gacy, his father’s name is Sam, making him the Son-of-Sam, and his last name is a useful device for a serial killer to have. Actually John may be right, he has also been diagnosed as a psychopath, he loves setting fires and enjoys playing with the dead bodies that show up in the family mortuary. He sets a number of rules for himself and tries to live by them, to hopefully avoid killing anyone. I Am Not a Serial Killer reminded me a lot of Dexter, and immediately engaged me. I thought I was in for an excellent portrayal of the inner workings of a future serial killer.

Suddenly the book took a drastic turn and, not wanting to spoil anyone’s future read, let’s just say it jumped into an area I was totally not expecting. I think the author was trying to show how John had to learn to control his inner monster in order to pass through the world as a normal human, but I’m not sure if that was the way to do it as this new direction totally changed how one views the book.

This was an intense, dark and fascinating coming-of-age story that I wish the author had simply played straight. I don’t think his gimmick was needed to enhance the message of the book. Don’t get me wrong though it was still an exciting and readable book, just not the haunting, chilling story I was hoping for. This is the first in a trilogy, and I do intend to continue with these engaging books.

Hm. This one may not be for me, but I enjoyed your review! I just love it when I manage to dodge book bullets! :-)

62. The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo - 4 1/2 stars



I thoroughly enjoyed my reading of The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo. I immediately noticed that the translation by Don Bartlett was flawless. This is a multi-layered, complex yet utterly convincing mystery. The Redbreast is, I believe, the third in the series, but the first to be translated into English. I noticed a few references to previous cases, but nothing interfered with the flow of the story.

Harry Hole, through no fault of his own, has caused a international situation that his superiors decided is best handled by first promoting him and then sidelining him to a desk and paperwork. In the course of his daily grind he reads a report that resounds within him and sets him on a trail to track down a smuggled high-calibre rifle that is often used by assassins. Harry, in his dogged way, soon is stirring up people and events from both the past and the present. The investigation leads him to the dark days of World War II as he follows the twists and turns of a very disturbed mind.

Powerful and vivid, I was amazed at how quickly I flew through the pages of this book. This was my first experience with Harry Hole and I am already looking forward to my next meeting with him.

Looks like you are on a role with the whole May, Murder, and Mayhem (I'm not sure if that is exactly what they are calling it here on LT) Judy!

Hi Jolerie - Mysteries are certainly one of my favorites genres so Mark's Murder & Mayhem May is right up my alley. I am looking forward to clearing a number of mysteries off my shelves this month.

Hi Judy, that's an impressive list of books. Jo Nesbo is HOT on LT right now, especially on the Murder & Mayhem thread. I'll get to him eventually; I started the Fossum books and plan to continue with my original Norwegian choice.

I made the mistake of beginning a C.J. Samson book and now seem to be hooked on Tudor mysteries. And then there's P.D. James, who's not getting any younger, that I've neglected for several years. What's a reader to do???

Judy- Excellent review of Redbreast. I finished it today and completely agree with your assessment. Instead of writing a review, can I just point them in your direction?
Actually, I was planning on being very vague in my description and just gush over it!

Thanks Donna and Mark, it really is hard to write a review and not give too much away. Mark when it comes to Nesbo, I think gushing is all you need.

Found out from another LT member that The Redbreast, Nemesis and The Devil's Star form a mini-series in his series as Harry Hole hunts down a particular bad guy! Now I want to continue on even more!

Just checking in, Judy. Nice review of the Nesbo book. I thought I had The Redbreast in the BlackHole already, but I checked and do not. Now I do :)

Hope you enjoy it Stasia.

63. The Borgia Bride by Jeanne Kalogridis - 3 stars



I admit that I knew very little about the Borgia family before I started The Borgia Bride by Jeanne Kalogridis. I knew they were a powerful family in Renaissance Europe and were involved in many political intrigues and rumoured to be involved in the art of poison.

The Borgia Bride tells the story of Sancha of Aragon, a princess of Naples who is given in marriage to the youngest of the Borgia family, Jofre. He is a number of years younger than she, very weak-willed and timid. She is renown for her beauty and her strong will. They are summoned to Rome to be at the side of his father, Pope Alexander. Sancha immediately has to fight off the advances of Jofre’s father, but at the same time falls under the sway of his handsome older brother Cesare. She also manages to befriend her sister-in-law, Lucrezia, but eventually discovers the true nature of this notorious clan. Incest, murder and intrigue are daily indulgences, and she must learn both cunning and deceit to outmanoeuvre this strong, corrupt family..

I don’t know how correct her portrayal of this family is, but she does write the story within an accurate framework of time. Actual historic events are described and the author weaves her story through these events. Although I never felt emotionally connected to the characters, it was an interesting, titillating story of a sordid yet powerful family.

You book description totally intrigues me! I will be adding this one to my list. Thanks Judy! :)

>26 DeltaQueen50: I have The Borgia Bride on my TBR shelves. I may try to read it for my 11in11 historical fiction category. Good review, Judy.

I've always been somewhat fascinated with the Borgias as well as the Medicis. But I think I'll pass on this one, based on your review which I found very good by the way.

As for Redbreast, of course I couldn't help seeing how popular it is over on the M&M thread and looked it up at the library... but guess what? only carry books 4-6 in the series, and NO Redbreast! How retarded is that? But truth be told, I have no reason to be so annoyed because there's no way I could have fit it in this month. I'll just go ahead and add it to the WL and hope to get to it eventually!

That drives me crazy at the library - when you go looking for a series and they carry only the later ones - then you have to try and hunt down the early ones on your own!

The only reasons I can see for that happening is that either the first book(s) got lost or damaged, or the later books were donations, because I come across that surprisingly often.

64. Whose Body? by Dorothy L. Sayers - 3 1/2 stars



I was looking forward to my first sampling of Dorothy L. Sayers. Whose Body?, the first book in her Lord Peter Wimsey series was published in 1923 and this series went on to establish her as on of the greatest mystery writers of her time. The book started off well with the discovery of a unknown naked man in a bathtub, at the same time a well known financier went suddenly missing, could these two cases be connected?

I had a little trouble warming to Lord Peter Wimsey, at first I found him to be very brittle and supercilious. Then at the end of Chapter 8 an event happens which explained a lot about the inner workings of this man. However, I totally fell in love with his admirable valet/sidekick Bunter. How I would love to have such a competent, caring man overseeing every detail of my life! The other character introduced in this book that is worth her weight in gold is Wimsey’s mother, the Dowager Duchess.

I found this book an enjoyable read, the mystery was good, although I did figure it out quickly. I enjoyed the setting of 1920’s London and the glimpses of fashion, food and pastimes. The characters are interesting and I am looking forward to seeing what they get up to in future books.

Congratulations on reading 64 books thus far! I'm particularly interested in The Borjia Bride. Though your review shows mixed recommendation, I'm intrigued enough to learn more abouth these characters.

#32: I enjoyed my recent re-read of that one. I am hoping that I can get back to the series some time soon.

I've heard so much about Jo Nesbo's books on the Murder and Mayhem thread that I'v added Redbreast to my wishlist although I don't think I will get to it this month.

And glad you enjoyed the Dorothy Sayers!

I have the Borgia Bride on my wishlist too it sounds intriguing.

I felt the same way about Whose Body? and was told that the books in this series get better it wasn't as good as I expected it to be.

65. The Walking Dead Vol 1 by Robert Kirkman - 3 1/2 stars



Firstly I do have a thing for Zombie books - I love them! Secondly, I watched and loved the TV series that were based on these graphic novels. As for the actual graphic novel, I enjoyed the reading, I was glad to see a few differences from the TV show. Mostly this graphic novel just made me long for season two of the TV series. I do intend to order the next few books from the library and continue with the series.

The best thing this reading has done is that it has intrigued me toward trying other graphic novels. I have compiled a list and plan on giving a few a try over the next while. It's always great to introduce yourself to a new genre!

66. The Temptation of the Night Jasmine by Lauren Willig - 3 stars



In this, the fifth entry to the Pink Carnation series, Lauren Willig continues to deliver a light, engaging story that advances the modern day romance of Eloise and Colin while also delving into the historical romance of Charlotte Lansdowne and William, Duke of Dovedale. This time Willig only tosses in a teaspoon of espionage with a kidnapping plot involving King George III. Some familiar characters from both the past and the present are included and help to move the stories along.

While I enjoyed The Temptation of the Night Jasmine, I would say it is probably the weakest link in this series. What I mostly found lacking was conflict. The danger never seemed all that dangerous and I never felt any party was in peril. I did however really like the main characters and was glad to see them off to their well deserved happy ending.

So slightly dull, and perhaps a little on the frothy side (unicorn hunting??) but I will still follow this series along as I relish the romance and enjoy the historical twists.

I'm going to have to try The Walking Dead when I get back into graphic novels, which I only recently tried and got hooked on to the extent that's almost all I read for nearly a month. May I ask what is on your list?

P.S. About Wimsey, I confess to having been in love with him by the time I finished the series back when I was in my twenties. When I retire and have scads of extra time on my hands, that series is one I plan to reread.

Judy- I hope this is just the beginning of a long affair with graphics. There are so many incredible books in this format. If you need recs....?

I enjoyed my foray into graphic novels also, and intend to finish the series that I began, and also try some of the others that have been recommended.

Sadly I have the first Pink Carnation book around here somewhere, half finished. I need to find it and finish it.

There has been quite a discussion about graphic novels over on the TIOLI thread and I have been taking notes. so far my list includes: Maus and Maus II, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, The Arrival, Stitches, Blankets, Fun Home, Rapunzel's Revenge, Emma, Vol 1 and The Brides Story by Kaoru Mori, and Asterios Polp.

Mark, and anybody else, please, I am always open to recommendations.

edit: to try and fix touchstones - sometimes they work and sometimes grrr...

Judy- That's a heck of a list, to start with. Many of my favorites. Try some of those first and then I'll shoot you a few more, plus continue to follow my thread, for other ideas.

Thanks Mark - I am sure I will get lots of great ideas from your thread - I always do!

67. When The Dead Call Out by Hilary Bonner - 3 1/2 stars



The disappearance of Clara Marshall and her two young daughters in the 1970’s has haunted the police for decades. DS Karen Meadows was thirteen at the time of the crime but feels a personal connection due to having lived next door to the Marshalls at the time. Through it all, the husband, Richard Marshall has declared his innocence. First swearing that Clara took the girls and left him, and later just by just keeping his silence and knowing that without a body there was little the police could do. Twenty-seven years later, human remains are found, it seems as if Richard Marshall will finally be brought to justice. But things don’t always work out as they are supposed to.

The story was straight forward enough, but the author chose to deepen our connection by showing how a crime of this nature can impact a community. We see how these disappearances affected people both close to the victims, like Clara’s father, as well as the casually connected like the girl’s school teacher. Even Karen herself has memories of this time that she has chosen not to reveal.

When The Dead Cry Out literally was one of those book that I couldn’t put down as I wanted to see what was going to happen next. Although there was little action involved, the author tells her story with incredible pacing, delving into the psychological motivations of all involved. I thought this was a well told story about the resurfacing of a horrendous crime and the repercussions that it brought with it.

#42, I've only read the Hugo Cabret book from the list mentioned but I would also add Persepolis, Deogratias, Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere, The Watchmen, and I'm currently enjoying the Hatter M series. The graphic novel genre can be a bit hit and miss but when you get a good one, they're really good.

Thanks for the recommendations Leonie, I have added all of them to my graphic novel list.

#18 Hi, Judy! I'm taking your word that Redbreast is going to be good. I'm only a little ways into it and it isn't grabbing me yet. :)

#31 either the first book(s) got lost or damaged, or the later books were donations

That's probably the two most common reasons for it only having the later books in a series. Other reasons:

1. The library didn't start getting the books until the author or series became "hot" in the US. (Sometimes it takes a few books before a series catches on with readers.)

2. People stopped checking the early books out, and they were weeded to make room for more current material. (Sad but true fact of life with limited shelf space.) Books in the most popular series never seem to quite go dormant, however, and generally stay on the shelf till they're damaged/worn out/lost.

#44 When the Dead Cry Out sounds good!

Hi Terri - There are a lot of plotlines and jumping back and forth in time in the first third or so of The Redbreast but bear with it and eventually it all comes together, I found the whole thing fascinating but the action definitely picks up later into the book.

Re: The Library - Before I stopped to think about space requirements etc. I was so disappointed when I would think of an old favorite, go to the library and find it was no longer on the shelf! I guess I thought if a book was once there it should always be there. I've learned that shelf space, popularity and amount of useage play a big part in whether a book is at the library or not.

>42 DeltaQueen50: Have you started The Sandman series yet? When you do, don't stop with just the first one (Preludes and Nocturnes, because it gets hugely better as it goes along. I can also vouch enthusiastically for Maus I and II and Persepolis.

>44 DeltaQueen50: Enjoyed your review of When the Dead Cry Out. Another bullet that hit the mark. It's going on my TBR list.

I love the Walking Dead series. The tv show is fantastic too but the plot lines do vary between the two.
You may also want to try Tangles. It's a stand alone graphic novel about a woman who's mother is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimers. Great book. I cried at the end.

#49 - Mary, I love Neil Gaiman so I will gladly add The Sandman series to my wishlist. I think he is an amazing author.

#50 - Thanks Deedledee. I am getting quite the list of graphic novels - now I just need the time to fit them in! :)

#42: Do not forget Britten and Brulightly!

#44: Adding that one to the BlackHole. Thanks for the review, Judy!

Thanks Stasia, another one for my massive wishlist. Glad I could reciprocate with one for you as well. :)

I would like to thank Linda (Whisper) for pointing me in the direction of my next book, Across Five Aprils. I really loved this book! It's classed as a YA, but I have noticed in reading a few reviews, that a lot of younger readers are bored by it, whereas the adults seemed love this beautifully written, thoughtfully told coming-of-age story.

68. Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt - 4 1/2 stars



A perfect little gem of a book, Across Five Aprils captures the spirit of a close-knit family through the years of the American Civil War. This farming family located in southern Illinois dreads the news that war has broken out. With four boys eligible to fight they know this war is going to have a strong effect upon them. Immediately two of the boys, fired up by thoughts of adventure leave and join. The two older brothers decide to stay home long enough to get that year’s crop in. One brother then leaves for the northern army while the other, after wrestling with his conscience, leaves for the south.

As told though the eyes of the youngest boy, Jethro, the only remaining son left at home, we follow this family through the terrible ups and downs of this war. Looked upon with suspicion by many in the community for having a son who joined the Confederates, they endure insults and learn to live with fear. Only nine at the start of the book, Jethro learns to take on the tasks of a man, while still retaining much of the innocence and wonder of a child.

A classic coming-of-age story set during the Civil War, this is a beautifully written, heart-warming story. Although classed as a YA, I think this book would appeal to anyone with an interest in history, as the author has obviously done a huge amount of research on the Civil War. Based on her own family records, she captures the essence of family life in the 1860’s wonderfully.

I'm very excited about this weekend. My younger daughter and I are heading over to Vancouver Island. My Mother is having a birthday and it's a big one, she's turning 90! We are also going to take the opportunity to pamper ourselves. We are booked into a nice hotel, and plan on treating ourselves to a fancy dinner and some shopping. I am certain a few bookstores will be on our agenda as well. Sunday will be all about my Mom and we will be gathering at my sisters to celebrate her big event.

See you all next week!

I actually really liked Across Five Aprils when I read it in middle school. I recently picked up a copy to add to my library of childhood favorites...

Your weekend plans sound wonderful. Enjoy!

Judy- Have a great weekend!

Sounds like you have a wonderful weekend planned. :) Hope you have a great time with your family on Vancouver Island!

So behind... so behind (pant pant)! But happy birthday mom! I just made friends with a 93 year-old lady artist in my watercolours class recently and have an open invitation to have tea at her place soon. Can't wait! Hope you have a lovely weekend.

Oh, and I saw one of the Pink Carnation books at BookCloseouts (can't remember which now). I hadn't heard about it before and besides, it wasn't the first in the series, so I passed on it but I'll keep an eye out from now on.

Also, wouldn't have pegged you for a zombie lover, but I love that about LT—can't peg people by their reading tastes!

#54: I cannot remember what age I was when I first read Across Five Aprils, but it has been at least 30 years. I really must give it a re-read!

Have a great weekend, your plans sound fantastic. And happy birthday mum!

Adding Across Five Aprils to my Ever-Expanding List. It's one that our local library has!

Judy, I hope you had a lovely weekend. I'm sure your mother loved spending time with her girls.

I'm adding Across Five Aprils to my Civil War list. I guess I missed this one in my youth. Oh well, I'm still young at heart!

I had a lovely weekend in Victoria. My Mom was surprised and flattered when I told her how many people sent along their best wishes to her on her 90th. She really is amazing - still running her own home, goes for a half mile walk most every day, is a passionate gardener - the rest of us have trouble keeping up with her.

I did go a little crazy in the book stores and came home with nine new/or used books to add to my shelves. I picked up the following:

Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear
The Franchise Affair by Josephine Tey
This Body of Death by Elizabeth George
The Brightest Star In The Sky by Marian Keyes
Almost the Truth by Margaret Yorke
Busman's Honeymoon by Dorothy Sayers
Day by Day Armageddon by J.L. Bourne (gotta have my zombie fix)
Nemesis by Jo Nesbo
The Red Dahlia by Lynda La Plante

Obviously I am still thinking of Murder and Mayhem as most of these are mysteries!

69. Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart - 4 stars



An unusual Asian adventure fantasy that was both light hearted and riveting. Bridge of Birds is a book that I am sure I will find as hard to forget as it is to slot into a particular genre. Mixing Chinese history with fairy-tales, it’s myths and legends are delivered in beautifully written prose with spell bounding descriptions.

The book details the adventures of simple villager Number Ten Ox and his scholarly master, Li Kao as they embark on a quest to find the cure for the children of the village who were accidentally poisoned. Along the way they meet with many strange and varied characters, Find themselves in many difficult situations and ultimately rescue a goddess from her earthly imprisonment. Told with tongue-in-cheek slyness and imparting both wisdom and morality lessons that are slightly askew, I found myself giggling often. The characters in this book are original and engaging. Li Kao is a delight, even with his oft claimed “slight flaw” in his character.

For such a short book, there is a lot packed into its pages and I found it a very satisfying read. If you are looking for something a little different in the line of fantasy, this could be the book for you.

Sounds like you had such a great time with the family and coming home with a bag of books is a wonderful souvenir to take away from the trip. :)
Bridge of Birds sounds like really interesting read so I will be adding that to my list!

So glad you enjoyed one of my favorite books! Unfortunately, neither of the sequels quite live up to this one, and Hughart then moved to writing for films. The sequels are not bad, just not as delightful as Bridge of Birds.

I think I will probably not read the sequels to The Bridge of Birds. It was such a different and unique read, I think I would rather let it stand alone.

>64 DeltaQueen50: I am in the murder and mayhem (with an occasional memoir and classic) mood too for the past couple of years. :) I have read Maisie Dobbs recently, and The Body of Death as well. And Busman's Honeymoon is on my kindle. I'm sure you'll beat me to it!

Glad you had a great weekend and that your mom was pleased with the LT well-wishers.

Bridge of Birds is already on my WL, but had it not been, your review would have done it for me. :-)

Glad you too enjoyed Bridge of Birds but sorry to hear that the sequels don't measure up. Oh, well, a good book is a wonderful thing, whether or not it has any sequels or stands completely alone.

I also loved Bridge of Birds and it's one of my top books this year.

Judy- Glad your weekend went well and you brought home books! Yah! And a Jo Nesbo. Double Yah!

>66 jolerie:: I agree with Valerie. Books make the best souvenirs!

I've got Maisie Dobbs up next on my ipod!We'll have to compare notes!

Bridge of Birds has just been ordered at the library, you have really got to stop reading so many good books, I can't keep up! ;)

I'm glad you had a good weekend. Happy Birthday to your mom!

Your comments prompt me to read Across Five Aprils. I own this one and hope to get to it soon.

#72 - Morphidae, I am pretty sure it was your love of The Bridge of Birds that prompted me to read this book now.

#77 - Linda, I thought it was your review that got me to read Across Five Aprils! Somewhere here on LT I read a review that made me search this book out.

I certainly agree that books are the best souvenirs. I was just sorry that I left the second hand bookstores until last, I saw a practically brand new Nemesis but I had already paid for a "New" one.

Great haul, Judy! Congrats! And you are right about your mother - I know I could not keep up with her :)

I loved Bridge of Birds, one of my LT discoveries back in 2008, the first year of the 75ers.

Some of my fondest vacation memories are those where I bought armloads of books and then had to figure out how to get them home in an already bulging suitcase. Good times!

70. The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin - 3 1/2 stars



I found The American Heiress to be a fascinating read about the very rich and titled at the turn of the century. The main character, Cora is the daughter of an American multi-millionaire, the cream of American society where roots weren’t as important as the cash you were able to acquire.. Cora has a very ambitious mother, and, as was often the custom, the one thing she wanted for both herself and her daughter was an English title.

Cora and her mother go to England to find that title. Cora meets and is immediately attracted to the Duke of Wareham. The Duke is a bit of a dark horse, he was born the second son but due to his older brothers death his life changed and the title became his. This was a position he never wanted to fill. Now he needed to marry for money, to find someone to restore the crumbling family seat, to shore up his properties and set the dynasty back on its feet.

The book is well researched and is filled with tidbits about the very rich and titled and how they lived, dressed and ate. Cora’s black maid is also a fairly main character so the book has a slight feel of Upstairs/Downstairs as well. The story moves slowly as secrets are revealed and Cora, who married as much to escape her mother as for love, learns she must move carefully in this intricate society that is all to willing to allow this American to make a misstep. And when she does misstep, she learns her Duke is more concerned with the appearance of things rather than concern for her.

I enjoyed this book, an escape into the past and into a culture that had very attractive packaging but could hide a very dark and steamy side. The American Heiress is well written, filled with descriptions of the fashions of the day, great houses, and the lifestyle of the upper class. I appreciate that the author took us beyond “happily ever after“ and showed that the story was just beginning with the marriage. A great book to curl up with and lose yourself in for a few hours.

This is the second review I've seen of this book, American Heiress. I'm all about historical fiction so I think its going on the wishlist.

Well American Heiress is going on my wishlist! You had me at Upstairs/Downstairs I also just finished one that had shades of that and Downton Abbey if you haven't read The House at Riverton I highly recommend it!

The American Heiress is on my list for the library.

Judy, that sounds like an reeeeallly interesting read! (Dangerious! I am always saying that on your thread..yikes!). Onto my groaning list it goes. :)

#83 - Susie, I have had The House at Riverton on my wishlist forever! When I got the Kindle one of the first books I got was The Forgotten Garden but I haven't even gotten around to reading that yet. I will get to Kate Morton one of these days ...

71. The Walking Dead Vol 2: Miles Behind Us by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars



72. The Walking Dead Vol 3: Safety Behind Bars by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars



I'm not going to write a review on these books. Most people either like these graphic novels or don't. If they do, they know what they are about. If they don't they aren't really interested. Suffice to say I am loving this series and I have already ordered the next two from the library.

Adding The American Heiress to the BlackHole. Nice review, Judy!

The Walking Dead series looks interesting...I'll add them to the ever growing list. Thanks!

>86 DeltaQueen50:- Judy you won't be disappointed in either book I love Kate Morton's writing!

73. Murder in Mayberry: Greed, Death and Mayhem in a Small Town by Mary Kinney Branson - 2 1/2 stars



I found Murder In Mayberry to be a slow read and rather a slog to get through. When reading about a fictional murder the author is free to introduce suspense, mystery and even humor to the story, but in real life you find pathos, plodding, and family prejudices. This is the story of the brutal murder of an 85 year old woman and a true family tragedy, but due to the quality of the writing, I found myself just turning the pages in order to get to the end and see the murderer brought to justice and the family get the closure they deserved.

The case itself seemed fairly straight forward, the police had a very good idea who was responsible early on but the wheels of justice turn slowly and the suspect had time to get out of the country which then involved the long process of getting him back to stand trial. As this book was written by a family member I thought the writing was poor and padded out to stretch the story to book size which resulted in long boring parts.

Not a book I would recommend unless the reader has a personal interest in this case.

Sorry you didn't enjoy that one. Not for me either. Had to skip over your review of The American Heiress for now, since I also got it through ER and will be reading it in June. Don't want to be influenced but I'll be very curious to read you review once I'm done with it!

As for Zombie books well... I'm flexible, but they don't do much for me. Though I did love that British movie... what was it again? (looking through my iTunes movie collection)... oh yes, Shaun of the Dead (huh, didn't realize it was based on a book!) very funny and great actors. I really like Hot Fuzz too. ;-)

I too loved the Shaun of the Dead movie. I am a big fan of Simon Pegg! I have to admit, even in the most serious of zombie books, I find a certain level of humor. I just find Zombies funny.

Judy- I just started a graphic called "Awakenings", (I can't find the right touchstone) by Tapalansky Eckman. It's a new zombie series, but told in a hard-boiled, noir style. Someone mentioned this on the graphic thread. I let you know more, as I get deeper into it.

Skipping Murder in Mayberry. I hope your next read is a better one, Judy!

#94 - Mark, "Awakenings" sounds like something I will really like. Looking forward to reading your thoughts on it.

74. Blind Eye by Stuart MacBride - 4 stars



One of my favorite series is Stuart MacBride’s police procedural set in Aberdeen, Scotland and this, the fifth entry into the series continues the high level of entertainment that I’ve come to expect. These gritty, dark stories filled with the blackest of humor show us a slice of life in and about the business of policing a society that doesn’t seem to appreciate the effort. Filled with unforgettable characters, and dialogue that practically jumps off the page, these books are a real treat.

Blind Eye has the Granite City on edge as someone is targeting polish immigrants in a bizarre fashion. Gouging out their eyes and leaving them to be found in abandoned buildings. With the victims too scared to talk, the police are at their wits end. At the same time trouble is brewing amongst the gangs of the city with newcomers looking to take over, and DS Logan McRae is angling for a promotion and looking for ways to get results. The rumours of police corruption isn’t helping matters at all.

Fast paced and attention grabbing, Blind Eye was an exciting and fun read. There is a high level of gore and violence, but actually, I think he toned this down a bit from his last book. I try to space these books out and reward myself with them every now and again. I would recommend reading this series from the beginning in order not to miss the excellent character development in these riveting books.

#97: I am glad to see your 'next' read was a good one since the previous book was such a dud.

I am not sure I have ever heard of the Stuart MacBride series, so I will have to check into the books. Thanks for the recommendation, Judy!

75. Far Bright Star by Robert Olmstead - 4 stars



Although not a book about the American west per say, Far Bright Star by Robert Olmstead has captured the feeling of the west. Set in the hot, dry, desolate deserts and canyons of Northern Mexico, an American Calvary patrol is caught up in the 9 month pursuit that General Pershing led after Villa’s raid on Columbus, New Mexico in 1916.

Written in stark yet lyrical prose this is an intense and gripping story of a small patrol ambushed, hunted and trapped with no help in sight. There is a plethora of gun fighting, violence, and torture, but more importantly this book examines the human character when placed in extreme conditions. The aging leader of the patrol, Napoleon Childs ponders the meaning of life and death, and this, combined with the portrait of the stark yet breathtaking landscape, and the author’s poetic writing raises this story far above the usual western.

This is also a story of transition. These men are some of the last of the true horse riding soldiers, machines and new mechanical devices will soon be replacing them. This is also an American army about to enter the massive slaughter that was World War I.

Not a long book, the author manages to convey his tale in a little over 200 pages. While not a book for the faint-of-heart, this tightly woven tale of men caught up in a blood bath of revenge was a very powerful read.

Now that one really does appeal despite the revenge angle. I just love books set in real historical events and you got me when you described it as 'stark yet lyrical prose'.

Nice review, Judy. I already have that one in the BlackHole. Oh and BTW

Thanks Stasia. I found this a difficult book to review. It's short (slightly over 200 pages) but there's a lot going on both story-wise and cerebrally (is that a word?).

Leonie, I would actually compare Robert Olmstead to Cormac McCarthy in their ability to say so much in very few words.

Congrats!

Wow congrats on 75 already!

Way to go Judy!! :)

I forgot to add...GO CANUCKS GO!! Stanley Cup here we come!

Thanks for the congratulations. I'd say I have had a banner year in reading so far, only a couple of books were below par for me, hopefully this will continue for the rest of the year.

And, Valerie is right: GO CANUCKS GO!!

Ah, can't believe I missed the 75! Congratulations and yeah ok, Go Canucks go!! Now, who are they again?

>99 DeltaQueen50:: That looks like an interesting historical read for your 75th book, Judy. Congratulations! Btw, Pershing School is around the corner from me. My kids all went to 7th and 8th grades there and were called the Pershing Generals. I wonder if he was from Missouri? I'll have to check that out.

Later... John Pershing was born in Laclede, Missouri and taught black children before entering West Point and embarking on his military career. Cool, I learned something today!

Judy- Good review of Far Bright Star. You earned a thumb. Fortunately, I have this one in the stacks. I really enjoyed Coal Black Horse.

#107 - Coming from New Zealand you can be forgiven for not knowing about the Canadian game of hockey! The Vancouver team made it into the Stanley Cup finals in double overtime last night.

#108 - Donna, I think I am going to be on a hunt for a book about General Pershing's life. He certainly lived through some interesting times. I did read that he suffered terribly over the death of his wife and children in a fire in San Francisco while he was away at an army post.

#109 - Mark, the main characters in Far Bright Star are the sons of the main character of Coal Black Horse.

Congrats on reaching 75!

I hate to be the voice of disagreement here, but if the Bruins win on Friday it's, um, "Go Bruins Go!" from me... :)

I can't believe you are already at 75! wow.

#110 - Ohh, is that ice hockey? In that case I will learn soon as I have tickets to the USA vs Canada match here in Auckland next month and am really looking forward to it although I have no idea which team to cheer for...

Congrats Judy!

>113 KiwiNyx: I say Canada of course! But I am pretty much as biased as biased can be. :)

Congratulations on meeting the 75 challenge goal!

#111 - Mary, I am hoping for a Vancouver/Boston matchup. Long, long ago, before the leagues expanded, Boston was my team!

#113 - Leonie, I hope you enjoy the hockey game. With those two teams it should be a great one.

Now I've got 75 under my belt, I am hoping to make 150 by year's end.

Here's hoping you make 150!

76. Blink by Andrea Badenoch - 4 stars



Blink by Andrea Badenoch was an intense, dark mystery set in a depressed coal mining village near Newcastle on Tyne. The time is the very early 1960’s and the story unfolds through the main character, Kathleen, a twelve year old girl. Kathleen is on her way to visit her friend when she stumbles upon the body of her own young aunt, floating in a sludgy pond. Kathleen comes from a strange family, her aunt Gloria was the village hairdresser and had a reputation for being flashy and too fast. While the rest of the village wants to dismiss this as a suicide, Kathleen, and eventually the police, are sure this is murder.

This book was however, so much more than just a mystery story. The author excelled at creating atmosphere and giving us vivid descriptions of the social, political and sexual mores of the day. In a book filled with mostly unlikeable characters, Kathleen’s youth, hopes, and dreams make her a true heroine to root for. A clever girl, she eventually unmasks the murderer and reveals long held secrets.

Sadly this book was written as the author was at the beginning of her losing battle with breast cancer, and perhaps that explains why this book is so dark. Although the book dragged a bit in the middle, over all I enjoyed this story very much. I found it to be beautifully written and with enough twists and turns to keep me interested in the final outcome. Andrea Badenoch produced one more book after Blink before she passed away in 2004, a loss of a fine writer just reaching her stride.

Great review Judy. Thumbs up from me! I will have to look for this book as well. It totally goes well with the weather we have been having lately...rain rain and more rain. :)

Our weather has been up and down - mostly down. But I can't complain, after a rather cloudy morning, we have blue skies and sunshine right now. Of course, that means I don't have an excuse for not going out to the garden - it badly needs some attention.

Blink sounds good, and it would work for the July's time period in the Reading Through Time challenge. Unfortunately my local public library doesn't have that one.

I read about Andrea Badenoch somewhere online and then had to really hunt to find her books. I finally was able to order some second hand, but I guess she never made it into the mainstream, I know my library doesn't have any of her books either.

I will have to see if my local library has Blink. Thanks for the recommendation, Judy.

77. The Saffron Gate by Linda Holeman - 3 1/2 stars



I always look forward to a Linda Holeman book as I know she will take me away from everyday life to an exotic setting in a far away land. In The Saffron Gate I was carried away to Morocco in the 1930’s. This author is very good at placing the reader in the story, I experienced the sights and sounds of the crowded souks, and tasted the strange flavours of kefta and mint tea. Rich and varied descriptions of clothing, furnishings and dwellings painted a strong picture.

The story revolves around Sidonie, an American woman who comes to Morocco in search of her lover who, although she is positive wanted to marry her, disappeared shortly after she announced she was pregnant. She followed him to the city of Marrakesh and while unravelling the mystery of his disappearance she comes fully under the spell of this country and it’s people. In particular, one man, a Turag, who aids her in her search and helps her adjust to this foreign world. Sidonie had led a very sheltered life in America, an only child, she suffered an attack of polio which left her slightly lame and self-conscious of her disability.

I enjoyed this book although it took me awhile to warm up to Sidonie. I understood her innocence was due to her sheltered upbringing but I found her to be less observant that I would have expected a painter to be. She was a little too trusting, taking things at face value even though again and again she found out she was being lied to. As the story progressed however, she was developing into an interesting and independent young women with a core of inner strength.

The Saffron Gate is a story of love, loss and redemption set in an amazing location that while I found a little far-fetched, was an overall satisfying historical romance.

>117 DeltaQueen50: Looks like you got your wish! My family watched Game 7 last night, and my brothers especially were pumped on adrenaline at the end. What an exciting game!

#125: Nice review, Judy. I will see if my local library has that one.

#126 - Yes! I am looking forward to an exciting final series.

78. The Walking Dead Vol. 4 The Heart's Desire by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars



79. The Walking Dead Vol. 5 The Best Defense by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars



80. The Walking Dead Vol. 6 This Sorrowful Life by Robert Kirkman - 4 stars



I am still hooked on this series. Vol 5 and 6 really upped the violence factor which was a little off-putting but thankfully the drawings are in black and white, I don't think I could stand it in color. Every book ends in a cliffhanger which makes me want to continue on and find out what's going to happen. Karen (klobrien2) said it best when she said these books are like potato chips, you just can't stop!

Hi, Delta Queen!

I'm glad you're enjoying the Walking Dead Series--I know I am! I'm a little sad to think I have just two more to read. Maybe that's not the end--maybe there's more!

And I am so glad that we were able to generate some TIOLI points between us!

Karen O.

Hi, Judy! Congratulations on sailing past the 75 book landmark! (Looks like you're on track to read another 75!)

Hi Judy, trying to catch up with everyone after taking just a couple of days off... I've got my work cut out for me... we sure are a chatty bunch! :-)

Belatedly adding my congrats to your milestone - and added Far Bright Star to the wishlist - you had me at "just over 200 pages..."

I've spent the last day and half running around the house, gathering my books to read for June. With the TIOLI Challenges and my 11 in 11 Category Challenge, I have a lot of books to get through in June. That actually makes me feel very happy!

Another thing that made me happy today was my grandson. He came to visit and immediately wanted to tell me all about the book he is currently reading. It's great to see him starting to take a real interest in reading.

Kudos to your grandson! I am glad to see another reading-lover.

I still need to get all my TIOLI books gathered up for June. I have not checked out all the challenges yet though.

>134 DeltaQueen50:: Judy, I have a big stack of books set out for June thanks to TIOLI. I'm going to have to whittle them down a bit. I don't do book pressure well.

I enjoy hearing about my granddaughters' reading. I was a bit concerned about the first-grader at the beginning of the school year because 'reading was so haaaard' for her. Now that she's figured it out (and is reading above her grade level) she and I are much happier. My grandkids call me their "reading Grandma" as opposed to the "golfing Grandma." ;-)

Ohhhh -- much better to be the Reading Grandma!

I have a granddaughter in Grade One too, and she seems to soak up the reading lessons. Of course she has wanted to read for years, mostly so she could read her video games!

>138 DeltaQueen50: whatever it takes to get them to read! Years ago my little 5 year old brother was telling the teacher about Babylonians and Aztecs because he had picked them up playing the game Civilization from his older siblings! His teachers were so (falsely!) impressed... but hey, whatever works.

81. The Religious Body by Catherine Aird - 3 1/2 stars



Catherine Aird wrote her mystery series featuring Inspector Sloan in the 1960’s. The Religious Body is the first one in the series and the plot revolves around the discovery of a murdered nun in a convent. The book brought to mind Ruth Rendells‘ Inspector Wexford series with a dash of Agatha Christie thrown in. Inspector Sloan works out of the largest Market Town in the fictional county of Calleshire and his investigations cover all the surrounding countryside. Lots of possibilities for future books.

I enjoyed the plot and setting of The Religious Body, the convent made for some interesting and informative reading. I like Inspector Sloan and other assorted characters that were introduced, in particular his difficult to please supervisor. While not a “nail-biter”, the story moved along at a smart pace and kept me guessing. With a number of suspects, and some very good reasons why this nun met her untimely ending, the final outcome was a great twist.

I will definitely be reading more of this author as I found her light touch and witty writing quite delightful.

Thanks for the visit to my thread! You know, one of the reasons I read The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane is because " USA Today" compares The Physick Book of Deliverance to the The Thirteenth Tale which was one of my favourite reads of? 2010 - or whenever it came out. Well - in no way does The Physick Book of Deliverance compare to The Thirteenth Tale. I can't wait until Diane Setterfield comes out with another book!

#140: I am not sure that I have read any of Aird's books. I will have to give them a try some time though.

#141 - Deb, oh dear, I am feeling less and less inclined to read The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane. I read The Thirteenth Tale earlier this year and loved it, definitely one of my favorites of this year.

#140 - Stasia, do give Aird's books a try, this one was great light mystery that still kept the brain involved in the process!

82. 20 Years Later by E.J. Newman - 31/2 stars



Twenty Years after the earth’s population was practically wiped out, a group of teens in a desolated London, meet each other, find they are connected in strange ways and face many difficult and life changing events. Twenty Years Later by E.J. Newman is a gripping and exciting story that I simply tore through.

Newman sets her story in a London that is littered with crumbling buildings, old bones and pieces of a dead society. The survivors have banded into gangs and fight for their territory and survival. In the midst of this we find Miri, a healer, who along with her son, Zane, tend a garden and live quietly. The are left on their own as they benefit all with their healing.

This book was very good and I enjoyed it, but I did come across a number of things that really grated on me. The “event” that wiped out millions was never really explained although there clearly are survivors that are still around and you would think they would talk about this. Also the author treats modern day technology as a long ago forgotten thing. I am sure that even 20 years later, the survivors still remember TV, electricity, and telephones and would speak of these things. I felt more like the “event” had happened a couple of hundred years ago.

Without giving any spoilers, there were some plot holes that jumped out at me as well. That being said, overall I really enjoyed the read. I liked the characters and look forward to having more of this story revealed in future books. Yes, this is the first in a planned trilogy, so everything was not tied up neatly at the end, but she also didn’t leave us dangling too far out there. I believe this is the author’s first book and I think it’s a great first effort and can’t wait to see where she goes next.

This book was an ER copy and I was very impressed with the publishers, Dystopia Press. I was advised by Private Message that my copy was on it's way. A hand-written letter accompanied the book as well. Very classy.

Nice review of 20 Years Later -- you got a thumbs up from me.

I adored The Thirteenth Tale and thought The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane was okay. Its weakness is that it is obviously the author's first novel. The plot needed tightening up and there were several times I wanted to smack the contemporary heroine upside the head for being too stupid to live. Good concept and nice story though.

The Catherine Aird book sounds good I see my library has Henrietta Who? which is the second book in the series I wonder if I would be lost if I started with that one?

Good review of the ER book. I want to wishlist it but given it's part of a planned trilogy, I'll wait a bit longer to read it as I know I'd be impatient to get answers to some of those questions.

I have read Aird before! I just remembered :) I will have to re-visit her.

I really want to read 20 Years Later. It looks like one I would enjoy.

20 Years Later is on my WL already and your review definitely affirms my choice. But like Leonie, I think I will wait till all the books are out and that way I'm giving all the books on my TBR mountain a fair chance at getting read. :)

#147 - Hi Susie, I've been told over on the 11 in 11 Challenge that Catherine Aird's books don't have to be read in any particular order, which makes it much easier for me as I don't have the second but do have the third and fourth.

I think waiting for the trilogy to be completedis a good idea. I nearly went crazy waiting for The Hunger Games to be completed! So many books, in particular the YA's I've been reading, are trilogies or series these days! Although to be fair, this author (Newman) completed the main storyline of this book, and then closed with a teaser of things to come.

Thanks Judy thats good to know I'll have to check out Henrietta Who

Hi, Judy! Another couple of good reviews resulting in two more for the TBR list. Only thing I want to know is how I missed reading any Aird before this? She was writing back around the time I first discovered (and began devouring) English mysteries: Holmes, Allingham, Christie, Rendell, Crispin, Marsh, Tey, etc. Very odd.

#153 - Hi, Mary. I'm the same, I missed Catherine Aird way back when as well. Knowing how addicted I was to Agatha Christie, I probably just didn't look very far beyond her!

83. Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster's Daughter by Shoko Tendo - 3 stars



Shoko Tendo grew up as the daughter of a Yakuza boss in 1980’s Japan. Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster’s Daughter is her story of those years. While not a particularly well written book, I did admire her brutal honesty and the fact that she doesn’t make any excuses for herself, she simply tells us of her life.

Unfortunately this is not a book that supplied much detail about the Yakuza. Her father managed to run himself into tremendous debt and had to get out from the protection of the mob while she was still quite young. Her memories of her early age are of being bullied and called names due to her father’s connections, her father’s violent rages, and his time spent in prison while her mother had to run the businesses and his gang.

Shoko’s story is mostly about her own downward spiral, starting with running with a wild crowd at the ago of twelve, getting into sniffing paint thinner, advancing into speed. Rebelling against her parents, she instead fell into one abusive and controlling relationship after another.. She finally found personal empowerment by having herself vividly tattooed (that's her back pictured on the cover) and changing her lifestyle.

I found the closing chapter of the book rather strange. It appears to be a rambling declaration asking for her parents forgiveness. I think she was actually accepting her past and forgiving herself. Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster’s Daughter is certainly far from the best book I have read this year, but I think it will be one that I remember.

#155: I think I will give that one a pass. Thanks for the review, Judy.

I think I'll pass on that one too, though I must say I'm impressed with all that ink (i.e. the tattoos).

I am looking forward to my little break that we are taking. Leaving today and heading south across the border. We are spending a couple of nights on Whitby Island which is a wonderful place for a getaway. A quiet, rural island with quaint villages and beautiful beaches to walk on. It has a number of mussel farms and I am looking forward to a feast of mussels. Coming home we will stop in Arlington to visit with husband's brother and sister-in-law, spend a couple of hours shopping in Bellingham and back home on Wednesday. Taking my kindle and hope to get in lots of quality reading time.

Have a Great time!

#158 Oh, that sounds lovely, Judy. Enjoy!

>158 DeltaQueen50:: Enjoy your trip "south of the border," Judy. At first I thought 'Mexico' until I remembered that you live in Canada. It gave me a smile to think of the U.S. in such a manner. The Kindle (and your husband) sound like the perfect companions for this trip to a quiet island. Have a relaxing mini vacation. They're the best!

Hope you have a lovely vacation Judy and some lovely weather to go with it.

Hi Judy
I hope your vacation is special. It sounds lovely!

Have a great trip Judy! Sounds like you will have a wonderful time!

Have a great trip Judy! Will look forward to more good reviews when you come back.

Hope you are having a great time!

Had a great couple of days, the weather mostly cooperated and I got my gourmet meal of mussels! Poked around some antique and gift shops and walked on the beach. Got some reading time in as well.

84. A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by



This book is, I believe, an American Classic. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is the quintessential coming-of-age story for young girls. Francie Nolan’s difficult childhood growing up in the early 1900’s in the slums of Brooklyn resonates with pride, resourcefulness, and heart. We are given an in-depth look at a small slice of American life in the early part of the twentieth century.

Francie’s life is difficult, the less favoured child of a remote mother, having a drunken, musical father who is many things but never a wage-earner, she is growing up as a tenement child, dirty, hungry and ragged. She wins our hearts with her determination to flourish and grow. As the tree outside her window manages to survive in difficult conditions so does Francie overcome her poverty and neglect. How can you not fall in love with this little girl, who vows to herself to read a book a day.

Although Francie is the main character, we are rewarded with many other well developed, real people. From her loveable, loose, people-smart Aunt Sissy to her complex, hard-working strong mother, each character has their own identity and fills the pages of the book with their stories.

Written in a straight forward, deceptively simple manner, the author gives so much heart and soul to Francie that the reader can’t help but be carried away by her story. The book is filled with many beautiful, thoughtful moments where Francie’s feelings and reflections on her life are expressed vividly. A Tree Grows In Brooklyn is a book for generations to enjoy, both hopeful and uplifting, a rich and rewarding read.

# Yakuza Moon sounds interesting...I went to school in Japan for a year and one of my classmates was the daughter of a very big Japanese yakuza - the Yamaguchi Gumi was his gang. Went to her house once - a HUGE compound. Very interesting!

168 - Oh, how neat to have experienced such a different culture. I envy you. Yakuza Moon would probably bring back some memories for you, although she grew up too fast and was basically on the streets from about age 13.

85. Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl - 4 stars



I put away my decorator bookmark for my reading of Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichi. Instead I used blank recipe cards to mark my way through this delightful memoir of the author’s time as the food critic for the New York Times. Not only does this woman have a marvellous sense of taste, she can write. Her descriptions of some of her lavish meals had my mouth watering. Her ability to separate and identify the subtle flavors of each dish was amazing.

She was the New York Times food critic during the early nineties, and she made a conscious choice to widen the horizons of food culture to include ethnic restaurants. She also didn’t hesitate to poke a pin into the hot air of many of the so-called top restaurants of the day, calling them out for their snobbish manners and for resting on their past reputations.

One of the most important parts of being a restaurant critic is the art of being anonymous. The designing and creating of her many disguises was both fascinating and humorous. For each new disguise, she created a personality and back story, to the delight of her family and dining companions.

I highly recommend Garlic and Sapphires for any “foodie“, or anyone who is in the market for a light read about an interesting subject. Oh by the way, the blank recipe cards didn’t stay that way. The author sprinkled some marvellous recipes throughout the pages of the book and I acquired quite a collection!

Okay, okay, okay. I've ordered Garlic and Sapphires from the library.

I have also ordered Garlic and Sapphires. I really enjoyed your review, and it sounds like a nonfiction book that I would like.

Judy- Great review of A Tree Grows In Brooklyn! I have a copy on the shelves and hope to get to it, one of these days. It sounds wonderful.

Nice reviews of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and Garlic and Sapphires!

In looking to see whether I'd already wishlisted A Tree Grows, I (re)discovered that I have a copy in my TBR pile. I must get to it soon.

Looks like our last reads were quite similar. :)

Glad to hear you had such a great vacation time!

Adding Garlic and Sapphires to my wish list.

I read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn a couple of summers ago and loved it. It's one I'm sure I'll re-read at some point, or maybe listen to an audio version.

I bought A Tree Grows in Brooklyn last year at the library sale but I have not yet read it. I need to get to it soon!

I am glad to see that you enjoyed Garlic and Sapphires. It was one of my favorite reads a couple of years back.

Garlic and Sapphires - ON THE LIST!

I always have trouble stewing rhubarb - adding either too much water and having runny rhubarb or not enough and scorching the bottom. Yesterday I tried the recipe from Garlic and Sapphires for Roasted Rhubarb. It turned out perfectly, just the right consistency. I was so thrilled I made some biscuits and whipped some cream and we had rhubarb shortcake for dessert. Delicious!

#180 - oh I adore rhubarb! and I agree about the roasting thing - yum! Plus the shortcake and rhubarb sounds mouthwatering.

I'm going to pick some rhubarb this weekend so I can get it frozen because on the 3rd of July we have a rhubarb fest at our museum in town its so great to try all the fun stuff people come up with! May have to get that book if it has rhubarb recipes!

>167 DeltaQueen50:

Somehow I missed A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (touchstone problem) while I was growing up -- maybe it's time to try it. Thanks for the great review.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn was my parting gift from my Mother when I left home after school to move to NYC. I loved it at 21 and I'm sure I'd love it all over again should I read it now.

What a great review of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I confess that I've never read the book. I must do so soon

Jessie, what a wonderfully thoughtfull gift your Mother gave you. I think this is a book that would grace any bookshelf!

#183 & 184 - I hope you get to A Tree Grows In Brooklyn soon, it's a wonderful read.

86. The Conquest by Elizabeth Chadwick - 4 stars



Elizabeth Chadwick is an author that I know I can rely upon to deliver a well researched historical novel that tells a great story as well. I was not disappointed with The Conquest. Starting in the year of 1066, we follow the lives of a Saxon mother and eventually her half-Norman daughter.

Saxon Ailith suffers the loss of husband, child and brothers yet she recklessly falls in love with a Norman invader. She gives birth to his daughter, Julitta, and lives with him on his estate in England, gifted to him by William. This relationship eventually comes to an end not in a small part due to the fact that her Norman lover has a wife and daughter in France. The second half of the book tells the story of Ailith’s daughter who had a troubled life of her own.

The author draws you in with her exciting story, makes you care about her main characters and still manages to impart accurate historical information including depicting the fashion, food and etiquettes of the day. I love the fact that I can simply sit back and enjoy a great story, knowing Elizabeth Chapman has taken care of the details.

#187: I was hoping my local library would have that one, but unfortunately not.

The Conquest sounds like a great novel and I am not one to pass on an great historical fiction so onto my list it goes. :) Thanks again Judy for the great review.

Here's to the Canucks winning the Cup in game 6!!

Those Canucks have me worried - a lot! I guess we have to hope that the goalie, Luongo holds it together. I would like to see a little less of the rough and dirty stuff as well. All of those guys must be covered in cuts, scrapes and bruises to say the least!

I couldn't watch after 10 minutes into the first period......

I've never heard of Elizabeth Chadwick. Thanks for introducting me to a new author. The Conquest is now on the tbr pile.
Your review is great!

#191 Jolerie: Yikes! I had a feeling something like that might happen. Now it all comes down to one final game - it's going to be a real nail-biter!

#192: Hi Linda, I hope you enjoy The Conquest.

87. Etta by Gerald Kolpan - 3 1/2 stars



I have long been fascinated by the American West, how it was discovered and settled, and the legends and stories of the people behind it’s history. The Wild Bunch, led by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid , were some of it’s last outlaws. The beautiful and mysterious Etta Place, Sundance’s companion has certainly developed into a legend herself. Etta by Gerald Kolpan takes the few facts known about this woman and gives us an entertaining story of what “might have been” weaving famous people and actual events throughout.

This turn-of-the-century story shows us both the last days of the wild west and the booming growth of the eastern States. It was a time of great change in America with new people, new inventions, and new political ideas pouring in. Gerald Kolpan envisions Etta as a daughter of a prominent Philadelphia family. Her mother id dead and her father has become an alcoholic and a gambler. He takes his life leaving his daughter to face the mess of debts he has left behind. The worst of these debts was owed to “The Black Hand” a criminal mob who intend to collect. With help from the family lawyer, she gets a new identity and is hired on to be a Harvey Girl in the new railway restaurants that were springing up along the western rails. She eventually comes into contact with Harry “Sundance Kid” Longbaugh and they fall in love.

I really enjoyed this imaginative story and the author’s use of letters, diaries and newspaper articles woven together gave me a real sense of time and place. My only drawback, and it is a big one, was that the characters felt a little one dimensional and flat. So kudos to the author for a great story, and giving me lots of information about the time period, but unfortunately Etta never became a book that involved me deeply or one that will linger in my memory.

#191 & 193 - I can't wait for Game 7. What a series! I've been pulling for Vancouver because I have a long-standing policy of rooting against any team from Boston (being from New York myself)!

Katie - I know where you are coming from, my brother has a long standing dislike of the Canucks (when they were formed, he couldn't get regular televised Montreal games anymore out here in the west), and of course, being a Montreal fan he has a natural built in hatred of Boston. He doesn't know who to root for! I'm not a die-hard fan, but there are lots of those around Vancouver - you would think the world was going to end if they don't bring home the cup! I just want it to be over at this point cause it's cutting into my reading time!

Judy- Good review of Etta! I also love reading about the Old West. McMurtry is one of my favorite authors and Lonesome Dove is one of my all-time favorite books. I plan on starting Doc, toward the end of the month. I also have another new one called The sisters Brothers, which sounds very promising.

Hi, DeltaQueen!

I wanted to let you know that I finished The Walking Dead series today! And it looks like there will be a Volume 14 (the good, old "To Be Continued" at the end of Volume 13 makes me say that).

Karen O.

Really liked your review of Etta and it is on the list. I've not really read anything set in the wild west so it will be a bit of a new genre for me.

>194 DeltaQueen50:

Wow -- now I'm torn about trying Etta. I don't read that much about the American West, but I've long been fascinated by the Harvey Girls. Given the identity of her love interest, the romantic part of the story can't end well....

Wow, I managed to fall really far behind on your thread, but I'm all caught up now!

Great reviews! A Tree Grows In Brooklyn really appeals to me, and I just thumbed your review of it and was about to add it to my wishlist and then saw that I'd already added it recently, having apparently come across is somewhere else than LT. I keep track of that as always take note of who recommends what in my tags, but still have to come up with a system to make note of other sources. In any case, just looked it up at the library and found that they had an audiobook version, so have reserved it just now.

eta: glad you had a lovely little trip and got you mussel craving properly taken care of! I love them too.

Nice review of Etta, Judy!

88. Above Suspicion by Lynda La Plante - 4 stars



Just what I need, I thought to myself, another first in a series, after all I am only following at least 40 series already. But once picked up and started, I couldn’t have stopped if I tried. Above Suspicion by Lynda La Plante is a great police procedural that pulled me in right from the start.

As with all series no matter their subject, it is the characters that make you want to continue on. In Above Suspicion, the main character Anna Travis has certainly encouraged me to read more. Newly promoted to the Murder Squad, we learn methods and procedures along with Anna. We see the other members of the Squad through her eyes, and what she sees makes me want to continue with these people. From her hard driven, work obsessed, attractive boss and his rock-steady second, to a slightly jealous co-worker who thinks he sees Anna getting ahead of him, they immediately engaged me. Being inside Anna’s head enabled the reader to see how she processed information and came to certain decisions, this inside look also made Anna an appealing heroine.

Although the plot of the book was a familiar one, it was a well written page turner that kept me engaged through to the end. The author is probably better known for her writing of the Prime Suspect series, but this series shows lots of promise and I am glad that I have the second book waiting on my shelves.

#203 - Ooh, I have this one checked out from the library, Judy. Glad you liked it!

Above Suspicion sounds so darn intriguing that even though I'm trying not to add a lot of books to the tbr pile, I've now added this one. Thanks for your review!

I'm crossing all my fingers and all my toes tonight Judy! :)

Etta sounds intriguing - I'm wondering if you can recommend any other titles in that era/genre?

Boo Hoo - my hockey team went down in flames. Congratulations to the Boston Bruins.

#208 I just saw that Judy. I'm not much of a sports fan, but I offer you my condolences.

#307 Prue: I have been racking my brains for books of that era/genre but I haven't come up with very many. I read an excellent book last year called These Is My Words by Nancy Turner which is loosely based on her grandmother's experiences. It is the first of a trilogy that covers from the 1880's into the early 1900's, dealing with homesteading in Arizona.

Also in my post 99 above I reviewed Far Bright Star which is a western tale about the army hunting down Pancho Villa, set in the early 1900's, before WW I.

If reading about the American West is appealing then I would suggest Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. If turn-of-the-century is what you are looking for there is Ragtime by E.L. Doctorow, set in New York (if I remember correctly). Also The Devil in White City by Erik Larson has gotten many rave reviews, I have it on my shelves, haven't gotten to it yet.

Anyone else have any ideas?

Edited to add: The Harvey Girls: Women Who Opened the West by Lesley Poling-Kempes. Again I haven't read this one, but I am adding it to my wishlist.

#203: Too bad my local library does not have that one. Nice review, Judy!

Not a big hockey fan but thought of you when I heard your Canucks didn't win!

Hi Judy - Passing through and stopping to join you in sobbing over the results of last night's game.

I like that list you came up with for Prue. Not adding a thing but you did remind me I wanted to read Lonesome Dove this summer. June has been a busy month. I'm hoping things slow down in July and August so I can get to some of my bigger books that I've been putting off.

For those readers who have not read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn -- you are in for a treat! This is one of my favorite feel-good books.

Sorry your team lost, Judy. Maybe you need one of those "feel-good" books about now!

oooh, I've got A Tree Grows in Brooklyn on my library's waitlist. Pretty sure I read this maybe twice before, but can only remember loving it. I find that my similar rereads have all turned out to be great. I was pleased to see a waiting list for such an old book. People around here seem to be reading a lot! --Jenny

Commiserations on the hockey team but thank you for those extra wild west titles, some more good books to watch out for. It's amazing there are not more books about women in the west given how hard they worked through that era. You shouldn't have to have a history shooting people to get a book written about you.. actually, I just found the title Women in Pants which also looks really good.

>210 DeltaQueen50:

I think The Harvey Girls: The Women Who Opened the West is a book I read a while back (at least ten years). I as recall, it was pretty good. It may be time for me to reread it. There aren't a lot of choices of reading material on this topic....

I did find a bio on Fred Harvey, founder of the railroad restaurants called Appetite for America. It might make an interesting related read.

Thanks everyone for the sympathy about the Canucks. Oh well, there's always next year. I was appalled at the violence that broke out on the streets of Vancouver after the game. It's such a shame that a few drunken louts spoil it for everyone.

#213 - Hi Lori, it's good to see you over here at the 75 Challenge!

#214 - Donna, I have a Georgette Heyer lined up to read shortly, she's always a feel-good read for me.

#215 - Hi Jenny, welcome to my thread. I think it a great idea to give A Tree Grows In Brooklyn a re-read.

#216 - Leonie, you're right Women In Pants looks good, I am definitely adding that one to my wishlist.

#217 - Dejah, I think a read of Appetite for America is my future. He was mentioned in Etta but didn't really come off so good - it would be interesting to find out what he was really like.

89. Tulip Fever by Deborah Moggach - 2 1/2 stars



A classic case of not being what I expected, Tulip Fever by Deborah Moggach in turns both intrigued and irritated me. I thought I was going to be reading a straight forward historical fiction story set in Amsterdam during the mid-1600’s. Instead I found myself reading a slightly melodramatic love story. But then the story took a twist and I was reading about some of the great Dutch masters of the day, then another turn and I was enveloped in a complicated plan to dupe an elderly husband. The story unfolded through the viewpoint of several characters and, in the end, I couldn’t put it down until I knew what was finally going to happen.

Unfortunately I couldn’t sympathize with any of the characters and I found their behavior totally unbelievable. The writing was in turns overly dramatic or abrasive and rushed. This is not a book to savour or linger over, I just wanted to get it finished and see who was still standing at the end. One bonus to the book was the inclusion of copies of paintings by some of the Dutch Masters, but that hardly made up for the depressing story that I struggled through.

Considering this was a book about passion, illicit love and the frenzy that surrounded the tulip market, I was left feeling rather flat. Obviously not a book for me.

#219: I already had that one on the 'do not read' shelf of the BlackHole - I just checked to be sure.

I hope your next read is a better one for you, Judy!

Hey Judy - and everyone else - thanks so much for all the suggestions...I've added a couple more to my wishlist. Very kind of all of you to make some suggestions!

>219 DeltaQueen50:

Have you tried Tulipomania by Mike Dash? It's been a number of years since I read it, but I recall it being a very engaging account of the rise of the tulip and the economic insanity that ensued (nonfiction).

I'd considered reading Tulip Fever because of the tulip connection, so thanks for saving me from it!

Judy - I just read in your note that you haven't read Devil in the White City... I'm voting you to move that one up in the count. It is one of my top 10 favorite books of all time and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Jessie, I know I should read Devil in the White City soon - I have heard only great comments about it, and when my brother passed me the book about a year ago, he urged me to read it right away! Guilt! Guilt!
I hope to fit it in sometime this year ...

90. Jeremy & Amy: The Extraordinary Story of One Man and his Orang-utan by Jeremy Keeling - 3 1/2 stars



I love reading books about people who are passionate about something and find a way to build their life around this love. Be it acting or rodeo riding, doing what you love seems to create an extra zest for life that makes for enjoyable reading. In this case, Jeremy Keeling loves animals, in particular apes, and he has built his life around these creatures.

His rather traumatic childhood involved very odd, uncaring parents but he was brought up surrounded by animals in their family run zoo. Although he tried other jobs, he always came back to zoo-keeping and eventually landed a job as the keeper of the private menagerie of a music producer. It was here that Amy the Orang-utan was born. Rejected by her mother, Keeling hand raised her and together they formed an unbreakable bond. Rather than the loveable monkey you might expect, Amy actually proved rather difficult and solitary, although she definitely bonded with Jeremy.

Jeremy and his friend, Jim Cronin, are the brains behind Monkey World, a sanctuary that was set up in 1987 and this book details the ups and downs of creating a place where apes can be safe, and humans can get a chance to interact with these animals.

This is a man who had dedicated his life to the rescue and well-being of these creatures and there is much to be admired. I did however feel sorry for his girlfriends/wives and children as they always appeared to come a distant second to the animals. An interesting yet light read that I enjoyed.

Ugh, too bad about Tulip Fever, but thanks for saving the rest of us from it.

Tulipomania on the other hands sounds quite interesting, thanks for the suggestion.

eta: your latest book on the other hand sounds interesting Judy. I was taking my time posting my message and hadn't seen you review yet.

Well, rats. My local library does not have Jeremy and Amy yet. Thanks for the review and recommendation though, Judy.

91. Sweet Tooth Vol 1: Out of the Deep Woods by Jeff Lemire - 4 stars



This graphic novel is another first in a series. A sympathic main character who bounces from one danger to the next, a rather familiar plot, but one that I want to see develop. Good pacing and lots of action, a good start to the series.

Judy- Glad you liked Sweet Tooth. Were you reminded of The Walking Dead series? I just picked up Volume 2. Looking forward to diving in.

Yes, Mark, it did remind me ofThe Walking Dead both the drawings and the storyline. My library doesn't have Vol 2 yet - I hope they are planning on getting it!

Now that one looks very interesting, thanks for the heads up as I'd never heard of this book.

Judy, they didn't have Sweet Tooth at the library when Mark reviewed it recently, but your own review reminded me to check again and lo... there it was! Of course, it's reserved now. :-)

Glad you found it Ilana, I am in the same boat with Vol 2, I am pretty sure they are going to get it, just don't know when! In the mean time, I will probably continue on with The Walking Dead and give Jeff Lemire's Essex County series a try.

Sweet Tooth looks promising. I'll have to see if they have it my local library.

92. The Serialist by David Gordon - 4 1/2 stars



I found The Serialist to be an amazing book. My problem is how to make it sound as amazing here as it was to read. Written by David Gordon this first book covers so much material that it is hard to slot into any one genre. It is a thriller, a mystery, a pop culture homage to books and writers. Irreverent, different, humorous and addictive, I would be laughing out loud one minute then, turning the page and shuddering with horror and revulsion the next.

The plot revolves around Harry Bloch a writer that has almost given up trying to produce anything even resembling the Great American Novel. Instead he is a master of turning out pulp fiction: vampire stories, detective stories, light pornography, and sci-fi series, all produced under different pseudonyms. He accepts a contract to ghost-write a convicted serial killer’s memoirs, but soon bodies begin turning up, all killed in the serial killer’s style.

Other than a slight lagging in the middle of the book, this was a fast paced, excellently presented story that grabbed me from the first sentence and kept me glued to it’s pages until the end. The author actually uses clichés to his advantage, poking fun at writing and writing styles, all the while advancing his plot. A fun read and a great introduction to an author that I will always have room on my shelves for. I can’t wait to see what he produces next.

Another book I totally thank the TIOLI Challenges for, I read The Serialist for the "Father's Name Challenge", as my father's name is part of the author's name. This book was on my library wishlist, but who knows when I would have gotten to it.

The Serialist sounds interesting, Judy. I had not heard of it before.

Judy- Good review of The Serialist. I'll have to add it to over-burdened WL. Hope you can find Essex County. It is so amazing. I picked up another Lemire from the library today, called The Nobody. Looks good.

I am surprised that I haven't heard much about The Serialist either. I found out about it by looking at the list of Edgar Award Nominees for this year. The Serialist didn't win, now I am on the lookout for the winner, The Lock Artist by Steve Hamilton. I know this author from his well done Alex McKnight series.

Congratulations on reading 92 books thus far!

#235 - Great review - so good that I am off to the WL right now!

93 & 94. The Walking Dead Vol 7 The Calm Before and The Walking Dead Vol 8 Made to Suffer by Robert Kirkman - both 4 stars





Still loving this series.

Hi, Judy, I've been enjoying the book reviews and added several to my WL.

You are doing great with 94 books already!

Hi Judy! Just checking in to let you know that I've been following along in your readings. Almost at 100 already. That is very impressive! :)

You managed to make The Serialist plenty appealing Judy, no problem! In fact, thumbs up for that. And onto the WL that one goes too. You're responsible for quite a few additions on that ever-expanding list you know... I keep track, so I'll let you know what the total damage you've done is by year's end. ;-)

Thanks for the moral support this evening. Was much appreciated. I posted a little update just now. Hope your hubby is all fine.

95. Friday's Child by Georgette Heyer - 4 stars



Marry in haste, repent in leisure is an old proverb that could well have been in Georgette Heyer’s mind as she thought up the plot to Friday’s Child. An angry rejected suitor swears to marry the first woman he sets his eyes upon, but perhaps fate has stepped in and given him his perfect match, if only he could see it. Young poor-relation Hero, accepts his proposal as she has always had a crush on Lord Anthony and sees this as a perfect way to avoid being shipped off as a governess. Although her family comes to see the benefits of this alliance, and their friends rally around, Lord Anthony’s mother does not seem in any hurry to come around and, in fact, seems to be enjoying slandering her new daughter-in-law to all who will listen.

Hero, having been raised simply in the country does not know all the fine details of manoeuvring through polite society. With no one to guide her, she makes plenty of missteps along the way. Lord Anthony, instead of helping her, often either laughs at her follies or scolds her. Eventually she makes a mistake that he can’t excuse and she decides the best solution is to run away.

How these two young people overcome all obstacles, including their own rather silly and at times, selfish natures made for a very clever and intriguing story. These two had a lot of growing up to do, as they both tend to be impulsive and between them possess only about half a brain. They are however charming and very likeable and you can’t help but root for them.

As always with Georgette Heyer, her eye to detail is spot on whether she is describing the fashionable clothes, furnishings or food of the day. I truly think her best work is in the dialogue, she uses the popular phrasing from that time and some very clever and amusing tidbits are sprinkled throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed this light comedy of errors.

What!!! No mention of Gil, Ferdy, and George? This trio is probably the very best of the secondary characters in all of Heyer's romances! Careful, or that Greek thing will sneak up behind you for ignoring them. ;-)

#246 - Roni, you are so right about those three characters - I was thinking that my review was getting a little long winded, but I should have mentioned them. My favorite parts of the books were definitely when those three were around. I found myself going back and re-reading their conversations alot!

Hi, Judy ~ I really do need to read more Heyer. I keep meaning to but somehow always manage to get distracted by shiny new novels that just jump into my hands off bookshelves. Hmm, I've got Grand Sophy on my Kindle. Maybe after I finish my current addiction, er, I mean Pendergast novel, I'll read the Heyer.

#248 - Mary - I love the Pendergast novels too, so I can well understand the addiction!

96. Alphabet of Thorn by Patricia McKillip - 3 1/2 stars



A story of magic and poetry, Alphabet of Thorn by Patricia McKillip is a lyrical fairy-tale like story about the Kingdom of Raine. The story focus is on Nepenthe, a beautiful foundling who was taken in and raised in the library deep in the city that is built on and in the cliffs overlooking the sea. Now a trained translator she spends her time in the library surrounded by books. A magical book is discovered and passed on to the library for translation. Nepenthe comes into possession of the book and it’s language of thorns takes hold of her to the point of obsession. The story now branches out into not only Nepenthe’s story, but the story of the King and magician that is told in this alphabet of thorns. Eventually these two stories entwine and unveils who Nepenthe really is.

I totally admired the writing but never felt fully engaged by this story. I felt the characters were a little one-dimensional and the dreamlike atmosphere, although beautiful, held me at a distance. The book started slowly but the last two chapters seemed to push the reader to the climax. With a plot involving books and libraries, I felt I should have loved this book, instead I have come away just feeling a gentle like.

I am very fond of many of the works of Patricia McKillip, but Alphabet of Thorns is not one of my favorites either. Also, I am a confirmed Heyer fan, and while I am sure that I read Friday's Child in my younger years during a Heyer phase, I don't remember anything about it. I'll have to see if it is available for the Nook.

Great reviews Judy! I am ashamed to say that I've never read anything by Heyer, but hopefully that is something I change real soon. Patricia McKillip's name sounds so familiar so I looked her up on LT and realized that I've read The Book of Atrix Wolfe some time ago. If I remember correctly, I think I had the same reaction as you regarding Alphabet of Thorns, feeling like I really should have liked it more than I did.

Judy - The Serialist is already in the TBR morass but the review has moved it to the top of the pile. It sounds great.

I had to stop in the middle of Dance of Death when the story got too intense for me (!) to continue. So I started Grand Sophy and am just loving it! When I'm finished, I'm sure I'll be good to get back to Pendergast, but for now Heyer's genteel world of Regency England is the perfect antidote to all that tension.

DeltaQueen!

Sorry for exclaiming, but my husband just saw that there is a volume 14 of The Walking Dead now--I think the publication date was 6/21, so it's brand-new.

Karen O.

I know! MikeBriggs posted about it over at the Graphic Novel thread - and it is exciting news. I was a little shocked and upset by the ending of the last one (Vol 8) but still can't wait until I get my hands on the next one.

Time for a new thread.

Please join me HERE

I read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn in high school and it was a tremendous inspiration to me at the time. I'll have to re-read it one of these days. By the way, congratulations on 75! :)