Morphy Joins the Fray - Part 3.1

Part 1
Part 2

As of August 21, 2011 - 198 books read.

Best books of 2011

Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart
The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip
Soulless by Gail Carriger
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca Wells
What I Eat by Peter Menzel and Faith D'Aluisio
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen

Awesome - Next semester of college starts tomorrow. I'm working on an Associates in Accounting. I do it all online and enjoy it very much. Plus I've been on the Dean's List twice!

MrMorphy has built a new walkway. It's purdy! The old one was crumbling apart and it made it difficult both for me to walk on and the Metro Mobility drivers to push my wheelchair over.

Awful - Intestinal pain for the last 24 hours. I am NOT comfortable. It's moving along, so it's not a blockage, but it's no fun.

193. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: August TIOLI #4 (of)

Summary: When teenaged Clary starts seeing things nobody else can, she realizes there is level of reality she didn't know existed

Opinion: I was afraid City of Bones would be another whiny-teenager YA fantasy, but escapes that label for the most part. The story is focused on just a few characters as only a few people can see magic and monsters. The characters are mostly likeable and the plot moved along with the right amount of pauses inbetween action scenes. I'm struggling a bit with this review because I don't have strong feelings either way about this book. It's good enough that I'll most likely continue on with the series but not so great that I'm jumping into it.

Rating: 7

194. Fat Girl by Judith Moore

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: August TIOLI #16 (syllables), SC 15.9 Pulling Weeds, 888 Challenge

Summary: A woman describes her dysfunctional and "fat" childhood

Opinion: I couldn't get past her body dysmorphism of calling 20 to 40 pounds overweight disgustingly fat. The way she described herself you would have thought she was 100 pounds or more overweight when this is not the case. I doubt she was ever obese. That plus, even though she warns you at the beginning, the utter bleakness of her story. There is no joy or inspiration here.

Rating: 5

195. An Offer from a Gentleman by Julia Quinn

Genre: Romance

Notes: August TIOLI #1 (witty), SC 10.5 What's Next?

Summary: The bastard daughter of a nobleman in a Cinderalla (sort of) story

Opinion: This is my first Quinn and I'll certainly try something else of hers. The characters are likeable and the plot was well-done though neither were new or intriguing. A bit of fluff for a Saturday afternoon read.

Rating: 7

196. Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Incidents of magic and people disappearing have Kate and Curren on the case

Opinion: Have I mentioned I REALLY love this series? Can I tell you that I am MAJORLY bummed that I have to wait who knows how long to read the next one? I'm already jonesing for it. I guess I'll have to try something else by this husband/wife team.

Rating: 8

197. Dragon's Blood by Jane Yolen

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: SC 30.7 Choose Your Own Adventure, 1001 Fantasy

Summary: Jakkin has to steal then train a dragon in order to fulfill his bond and become a free man

Opinion: Yolen gets high marks for writing style, I'll give you that. But there was little conflict in the book or anything for Jakkin to overcome with but the slightest bit of effort. Yolen might have done the "steal a dragon to become free theme" first, but I think Lackey did it better in Joust. I'll give the next in the series a shot, though.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
A Distant Mirror by Barbara Tuchman
Royal Assassin by Robin Hobb
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

On Deck:
Naked City by Ellen Datlow (ARC of urban fantasy short stories, weee!)
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood

Your list in the first message reminded me to check to see if my library has Garden Spells and it does, so it is now on hold for me!

#8 It's a lovely book. I still smile when I think of it. Hope you enjoy it!

Well, Bridge of Birds and The Forgotten Beasts of Eld both make my top books list as well, and Soulless is pretty high up there, so I suspect I will enjoy it. ;-)

Hi Morphy, just checking in to your new thread.

I'm trendously proud of you, Morphy. Your strength is admirable and I'm very impressed by your determination regarding your mobility. Before you make too much progress, however, I think we need to work on your sense of direction a little, make sure you don't move too fast without knowing where your going...I'm glad you finally found the right group! ;)

Hi, Morphy! Just stopping by to say hi and make sure your new thread is on my radar. Have a wonderful week!

>12 Ape: Ha ha ha. Bite me. :)

>11 DeltaQueen50:, 13 Welcome to my spanking new thread!

Awesome - Pool yesterday. It was my last appointment with my therapist for now. I get 12 appointments a year and so we got me set up to do it on my own for a few months then we'll meet again. She's an amazingly kind and inspiring woman. I'll miss working with her.

Awful - I'm a bit nervous about my Intermediate Accounting class. I have the feeling this is going to be a tough one. I'm glad I went from full to part time so I can really focus.

Morphy: Oh, yay for the pool therapy! Just adding my cheers and admiration and support. You Go Girl!! And good luck with the new semester! This is the first time in, well, ever, for me, that I'm not starting a new school year. Sigh.

Oh, and I realize now (after having posted a response on my own thread) that you're not currently reading The Dark Half. I'll be curious to see what you think when you get to it.

Good luck with the new semester! I'm still sort of in shock that the summer is almost done. I'm glad you've been getting your pool therapy too.

I just read City of Bones last week, and had pretty much the same reaction as you. I enjoyed it, but didn't feel a huge emotional connection to the characters, and rated it 3.5 stars. But I went ahead with the next one anyway, and I found that I just kept liking the series more and more (4 and then 4.5 stars for the sequels). I stayed up until 2:00 reading the third book, and couldn't even sleep in the next day because I was eager to keep reading. Hopefully you'll like them too when you get around to them.

Hi Morphy, I've been enjoying catching up on your thread and reading your reviews, so many great books here; I always come away with a long list to read.

Checking in Morphy!

I see you have A Thousand Splendid Suns on deck and will be interested to see what you think of it since I read it earlier this year and it was one of my few 5 star reads so far.

Found and starred your new thread! I didn't read much this past month but plan to dive back in with the September Series and Sequels... reacquaint myself with stuff after all the middle grade books I read this summer. I shall enjoy mining your thread for reads!

*waving* at Morphy. . .Good luck with the new accounting class!

I'm so far behind this week. I was concentrating on getting the big TIOLI every book ever read database finished for September's challenges. Everything else got put by the wayside including reading. I'm busy for the next couple of days with a few other projects then next week I'll be back on my regular reading schedule.

Projects:
Homework spreadsheet project
Artist Trading card swap mail out
Painting "mosquito houses" for a neighbor

Thanks for all your hard work on the TIOLI database!

Good luck with your upcoming projects, Morphy - and echoing what Zoe said about your work on the TIOLI database!

Sounds like you're very busy!

What is a mosquito house?

It's a mini-bird house. It's about an inch wide and two tall.

Cute!

Morphy,

Sorry I'm so late getting here. I love Julia Quinn's books and the Bridgerton series is so much fun watching all the siblings and their romances. I've yet to find a Quinn book I didn't like.

198. A Distant Mirror by Barbara Tuchman

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: LTMP, Ultimate Reading List

Summary: The Calamitous 14th Century

Opinion: Only by sheer stubbornness did I finish this book. Not because it was badly done, but rather because history, especially when it comes to battles and political machinations, bores me. I enjoyed it more when the focus was on the culture of the times - what people ate, wore, did. Six months and two library check outs later, I finally finished it. Whoo hoo!

Rating: 6

199. Changeling by Yasmine Galenore

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Were-tabby and her sisters are hired to discover who is killing the werepumas and why

Opinion: Fun enough romp. I like the characters, the plotting could be better.

Rating: 7

200. Dangerous Games by Keri Arthur

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Riley fighting a dark god and angsting about her vampire lover

Opinion: I'm getting tired of the love-angst in mysteries, paranormal or otherwise. Will she or won't she and with who? But the plot was interesting and I like Riley's interactions with non-lovers. I zipped through this in a couple hours and it kept me absorbed. Not too shabby.

Rating: 7

201. The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

Genre: Classics

Notes: August TIOLI #8 (with friend)

Summary: A bunch of folk hang around, get drunk, fish and watch the bull fights

Opinion: Read the summary. Doesn't sound very interesting, does it? It's not. I made it through because Hemingway is an easy read. None of the characters were likable for various reasons. A disappointment after The Old Man and the Sea.

Rating: 5

202. Royal Assassin by Robin Hobb

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Fitz loses everything and succeeds at nothing.

Opinion: Just kill me now. Why do I torture myself like Hobb tortures her characters? Is it because I'm a masochist or because Hobb is an excellent writer? Absorbing, compelling, but depressing as all hell. If it weren't for how depressed I am after reading one of her books, I'd give it an 8.

Rating: 6

203. The House at Riverton by Kate Morton

Genre: Fiction

Notes: For WCC book club

Summary: An old woman reflects on her life in service in 1920s England

Opinion: I kept waiting for something to happen. And waited. And waited. This could have been a good short story for all the action in it. Yet, I liked the main character (when she wasn't being Too Stupid To Live*) and enjoyed the stories around current time more than when she was speaking of her history. The end was especially touching.

* I figured out who her father was in a few pages and when she did figure it out… she did absolutely nothing - which was ridiculous.

Rating: 6

204. Belladonna by Anne Bishop

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: Sept TIOLI #5 (never author), Next in series

Summary: The survival of Ephemera depends on Belladonna - will she, her family and friends be able to defeat the Eater of the World?

Opinion: I want to like this series more than I do but it doesn't have the charm, humor or intensity of the Black Jewel series. It tries real hard though.

Rating: 7

205. The Stainless Steel Rat by Harry Harrison

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: Sept #5 (never author), 111 SciFi

Summary: A crime caper dressed up in science fiction clothing

Opinion: An amusing enough story but the veneer of science fiction was very thin. All the trappings could have been taken away and it wouldn't have made any difference. That being said, it was fun. I can't believe how old this was though. I remember reading it in the 80s and thought it was a current book, but no, it was written twenty years earlier!

Rating: 7

206. Just a Geek by Wil Wheaton

Genre: Memoir

Notes: Sept TIOLI #1 (5 words, Who is Wil Wheaton?)

Summary: Wheaton blogs about his life before, during and after Trek

Opinion: While I enjoyed the stories - he seems like a personable, funny guy - the complaining about not being able to find work after he left Next Gen got old. I'll try something else of his before deciding if it was just this book or if it's a soap box he won't get off of.

Rating: 6

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
The Dark Half by Stephen King

On Deck:
Page after Page by Heather Sellers
Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson
Naked City by Ellen Datlow (ARC of urban fantasy short stories, weee!)

That's a nice chunk of books you added there! I'll be sure to skip the Hemingway book, sounds rather boring.

Hope you enjoy A Discovery of Witches and The Dark Half! I've read both and enjoyed them very much

Re: message 33. Oh, dear. I stopped in the middle of Assassin's Quest for that very reason, but have kept the trilogy, thinking I would try again at some point and that surely Hobb would end the series on somewhat of an up note. If book 3 elicited that reaction from you, I think I may as well trade the trilogy away! The sad thing is that I loved her books as Megan Lindholm, but haven't been able to read her books as Robin Hobb. Her Ki and Vandien quartet are some of my favorite books.

Congrats Morphy I think you are the first to 200 this year that I've noticed

>39 ronincats: ronincats, Royal Assassin is book 2, but I'm pretty sure 3 doesn't get much better. I could be wrong though.

>40 PaulCranswick: Paul, thanks!

Here's the link:

http://images.paraorkut.com/img/wallpapers/1900x1200/a/autumn_-58.jpg

>41 Morphidae: You are right. I didn't pull my books out to look at the order. Then Royal Assassin is the one I bogged down in due to bleak desperation.

I'm glad to know what a mosquito house is! And I'm also glad to know it's okay to skip The Sun Also Rises, although I did like your succinct comments on it. There's a lot of "getting drunk" in Hemingway's books - and I don't care to read about bull fights. I recently reread The Old Man and the Sea and agree with you that it would be hard to top this one. I just read today that it was the last book Hemingway published before his untimely death.

Found your thread! Starred :)

#33 I both loved and hated Hobb's Farseer trilogy for the same reasons you mentioned. She is a fantastic writer but the amount of grief, agony and torture she puts her characters through was just too much for me. I managed to finish the Farseer trilogy but I had to give up at book 2 (The Golden Fool) of her Tawny Man trilogy - I found the Tawny Man trilogy even more tragic than the Farseer trilogy.

Looking forward to your thoughts on A Discovery of Witches and congratulations on reading 206 books this year!

207. Paradise Wild by Johanna Lindsey

Genre: Romance

Notes: Sept TIOLI #19 (similar tag), to complete bibliography

Summary: He wants revenge for something her father did, she wants revenge for what he did to her, he wants rev… er, nevermind.

Opinion: He's a cad, she's a complainer. He hits her, she blows it off. She hides a pregnancy, his ex-mistress still lives in the house they share. She lies, he rapes. Ew, ew, and triple ew. I rated it as "high" as I did because I was able to complete it.

Rating: 3

207. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: Sept TIOLI #6 (prime colors), LT Recommended

Summary: A witch is forced to learn about her long repressed powers after discovered a spellbound book while doing research

Opinion: This is one of the few books in recent months that I slowed down near the end because I didn't want to finish it. I didn't want it to be over. And now I have to wait until at least next summer before the second book in the trilogy comes out and I'm bummed. The characters are richly woven and the story, while fantastic, is homey and basic. It's a story about people. Yes, they are witches and vampires and daemons, oh my. But they are just people in many ways and I really liked that. They are cranky and have doubts and waffle and love and protect each other even when angry or when someone screws up.

Rating: 8

Thanks for your review of A Discovery of Witches. That is one book that has been on my radar for quite some time due to the mixed reviews.

It's a thick book and got a little slow at times and sometimes I wanted to smack the heroine upside the head and say, "Get over it already!" but when I was done with the book I had a smile on my face and was eager to read the next book and that means a lot to me.

Glad you enjoyed Discovery of Witches. I am also looking forward to #2 next year!

Like Valerie, I've heard mixed reviews of A Discovery of Witches but it's been hanging out on the TBR list for a while and I'm interested to see what my own opinions will be. Glad you enjoyed it, Morphy!

I've also been seeing A Discovery of Witches everywhere and trying to decide whether I want to read it. I think your review has basically pushed me over the top; I'll add it to the wishlist, which means that I may actually read it in a year or two.

Sounds like a good one, Morphy. When I first read the title, I thought it was a description of a collection of witches, as in 'a murder of crows', as if a group of witches is called a 'discovery'. Ha! Too early, I suppose, for the heavy thinking on my part...

A Discovery of Witches sounds intriguing. Have you seen the discussions of Garden Spells around LT? I read that one as a result and enjoyed it.

From Heather's reaction to the Farseer trilogy, I think I'll just put that trio of books on PaperBackSwap and not try to reread the first half of it and finish it. Life is too short. I'll still try the first of the Liveship books, though.

I read Garden Spells earlier and adored it.

I'm hooked on Sarah Allen Addison.

208. Page after Page by Heather Sellers

Genre: Writing

Notes: TIOLI #19 (tag)

Summary: Discover the confidence and passion you need to start writing and keep writing (no matter what!)

Opinion: Had some good bits (Butt in Chair) but overall was too poetic and frou-frou for me.

Rating: 6

209. Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #7 (9 letter), 111 SF, LTMP

Summary: A pizza guy/hacker comes across a conspiracy to infect the world and Metaworld (think a virtual life game like Sims) with Snow Crash, a virus that can cross the boundaries between the cyber and real world.

Opinion: Stephenson isn't a clear or concise writer and I found myself confused or bored at times. Interesting concept but he took certain ideas when creating the future society, such as corporate nations , and went too far. I have a pretty strong ability to suspend my disbelief but was unable to do so for this book. It was too absurd and it kept knocking me out of the story. I think if he had been a clearer writer and backed off on some of his concepts this could have been an excellent book. Lastly, this book shows its age - some of it is dated.

Rating: 6

210. Blood Work by Kim Harrison

Genre: Graphic Novel

Notes: TIOLI #7 (9 letter)

Summary: Describes the beginning of the relationship between Ivy and Rachel

Opinion: Ivy's point of view doesn't work for this as she comes across as not a very likeable person. I wanted to smack her at times. Harrison does well in novel form, but not in graphic novel storylines. There was no depth to the story. I also didn't care for the illustrator's style. I don't think he draws good characters.

Rating: 6

211. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: 75 Book Great Pumpkin Halloween Read, Ultimate Reading list, LTMP, 50 state

Summary: A meandering story about a murder in Savannah, Georgia

Opinion: I was halfway through the book before the murder was even mentioned but I didn't care. I enjoyed reading about all the colorful characters in the southern city. In fact, I thought the first half was more fun than the second when the wrangling over four (!) different trials felt never-ending. "Ah, jeez. Not again," came to mind.

Rating: 7

212. Dates from Hell by Kim Harrison, et al.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Notes: To complete bibliography

Summary: Four short paranormal romance stories

Opinion: Meh. I don't think I've ever given a high score to a short story collection, especially not in the paranormal romance genre. The only short stories I recall really enjoying were by Robert Heinlein or Spider Robinson. Otherwise, they mostly leave me cold. Dates from Hell felt the lack of depth and character building that turns me off most short stories more than most. Stick to novels, gals.

Rating: 5

213. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #6 (primary), LT Recommended

Summary: An elderly English gentlemen meets and courts a Pakistani shop keeper much to the chagrin of the rest of the village

Opinion: It was too close to being a "literary" novel for me - miserable events happening to miserable people. There was character growth and a happy ending though, so that saved it. I seriously considered quitting halfway through but I'm glad I finished it as the second half was better than the first.

Rating: 6

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
The Dark Half by Stephen King
Wayfinder by C. E. Murphy
Naked City by Ellen Datlow

On Deck:
Silent Joe by T. Jefferson Parker
Heart's Blood by Jane Yolen
Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi

Good reviews, you made me curious with Snow Crash as I read that about 15 years ago and remember being very taken with it.. I wonder if I would have a different opinion of it today, I can barely remember the story so it might be due for a reread.

214. Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #9 (LT work ends in 9 - 71279), LTMP

Summary: A prequel to Peter Pan

Opinion: What a delightful story. Where did Peter Pan come from? How did Captain Hook lose his hand? Where is Neverland? Why can Peter Pan fly? Who are the Lost Boys? Why does Peter Pan never grow older? I loved the illustrations that went along with the story. Aimed at children, but enjoyable for adults. Unlike other recent children's books, while there is a lot of action, it is not constant and unending. There are moments of rest and reflection before events get hairy again. It is scary and bloody at times, but not overly so. I wasn't terribly thrilled with reading this book when I first picked it up, but several chapters in, I was hooked.

Rating: 8

215. The Crimson Petal and the White by Michel Faber

Genre: Historical Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #8 (prostitution), Ultimate Reading list, LTMP

Summary: A prostitute attempts to improve her life by becoming a rich man's mistress

Opinion: I'm conflicted about this book. On one hand, I found the style distracting at first when the narrator "spoke" to me, the language was overly coarse at times (and I'm no prude), and many things were left hanging in the end. On the other, I found the description of the time period and culture fascinating, the characters were well-fleshed out, and the plot was interesting. I listened to it on audio and the reader was good. Guardedly recommended.

Rating: 7

216. The Dark Half by Stephen King

Genre: Horror

Notes: TIOLI #15 (author born Sept), to complete bibliography

Summary: The people around a writer are sadistically slaughtered and he knows why

Opinion: Other than the sheriff, I didn't like the characters. The concept was uninteresting and, frankly, had my eyes rolling at times. I can only suspend my disbelief so far. Give me SOMETHING to hang it on! Only finished it as I'm reading all King's bibliography. Not recommended.

Rating: 5

217. Heart's Blood by Jane Yolen

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: To continue series

Summary: Young dragon trainer attempts to aid his friend escape from the rebels

Opinion: Yolen is a smooth writer but her plots need work. They are too basic, even for a children's book. The main character did a lot of floundering and got nothing accomplished. Events happened to him rather than him initiating anything. I'll hope for the best and finish the trilogy.

Rating: 6

218. The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: 1001 Fantasy, LTMP

Summary: The original pig-boy story

Opinion: This is not a series for me. I found the characters annoying and the constant activity tiring. Also, every problem was easily solved using the "it just so happened" plot device.

Rating: 5

I've added Peter to my wishlist. **sigh**

I'm intrigued by Peter and the Starcatchers as I've always been very fond of Peter Pan. I'm curious as to how many similarities exist between it and Barrie's own Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens.

Hi, Morphy! I love your reviews and really appreciate your vetting the books so I can skip the ones you rate low. Having said that, Peter sounds really good! Also marked A Discovery of Witches for the wishlist.

Glad you are enjoying them! I think you'll like both Peter and Discovery.

I have Peter here in my book pile--glad to hear what I have to look forward to.

Yolen's first book of the Pit Dragon trilogy is her best, IMHO. I don't think you will find the 3rd book saves it.

On the other hand, while The Book of Three is a children's book and only a children's book, this is a series that grows and matures along with the character and just gets better.

Morphy, I agree with Roni - the Prydain books get better as you go along, so maybe think about not giving up on them quite yet...

Okay, I'll give the next one a chance. Not soon though. Have so much else to read!

Sing it, sister. :)

I agree about the Prydain books. If you remember that the series is for children, it's quite enjoyable to grow along with the characters. :)

I'm so happy with your Peter and the Starcatchers review as we have that book and I've often wondered about it.

I was looking at Peter and the Starcatchers in the bookstore just the other day. Your review makes me wish I had gotten it. Oh well - there's always next time!

I am snagged by Peter and the Starcatchers! What an awesome premise for a book. :)

Thanks again for your wonderfully concise and to the point reviews.

219. A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #10 (BookBrowse), TBR from 2007 (!)

Summary: Two women brought together by war in Afghanistan

Opinion: The writing and characters were fabulous. The story was far too unpleasant for me to enjoy. If you can get past the brutality, you might like it more than I.

Rating: 6

220. Wayfinder by C. E. Murphy

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: ER, TIOLI #4 (not simplest), next in series

Summary: A truthseeker has to discover the past of the Barrow-lands in order to save its future

Opinion: In a lot of children's stories, I find an annoying plot device I call "it just so happens." Right when a person or item or locale is needed, it shows up - just in the nick of time. With this story, its evil brother occurs far too often. Right when things start to go right for the heroes, something awful happens. Again and again and again. Also, I felt at times that the author wasn't playing tricks just on the characters, but me. Lastly, the plotting felt disjointed and episodic. The story was mostly saved by Murphy's usual smooth writing and interesting, approachable characters.

Rating: 6

221. Undead and Undermined by MaryJanice Davidson

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #12 (title monster), next in series

Summary: Continuing story of Betsy, vampire queen

Opinion: Next verse, same as the first. My chuckles kept this from a lower rating. This is cotton candy reading - something to zip through in an hour or two to catch up with the characters then on to something with more substance, plot, character development. (Which most near any other book will have!)

Rating: 6

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi
Emma by Jane Austen
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

On Deck:
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
Inside of a Dog by Alexandra Horowitz
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

Stopping by to say hi! I'm not sure what to do about your Scandi Crime dilemma! I think I preferred Faceless Killers by Henning Mankell to Jar City by Arnadular Indriason . However, my favourite Scandi author is now Karin Fossum. Like you, I have to start a series from the start or I don't fell right. Best wishes in your decision!

I see that you have Cutting for Stone on deck. That has to be one of my favourite books. Unusual, but well worth the read!

Well, which one of Fossum's might I start with?

I'm putting together a 2012 reading plan for fantasy based on the 1001 Fantasy Books You Must Read Before You Are Turned into a Newt list created by the Green Dragoneers. I'd like to do a monthly group read. The books for "nomination" are at the link below. Anyone is welcome!

http://www.librarything.com/topic/124802

222. Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #16 (book club), LTMP, Ultimate Reading List

Summary: A professor of English literature brings together women in Tehran to read forbidden novels

Opinion: When discussing the Iranian culture and history or stories of her female students I was interested; however, when she went into English lit critique, I skimmed a lot out of boredom. I found the information about women's attitudes about wearing the veil and the modern clothes many wore under it fascinating.

Rating: 7

223. In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #19 (previous TIOLI), LTMP, Ultimate Reading List, 50 State

Summary: The first true crime novel about the murders of a family in 1950s Kansas

Opinion: I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked this book. I was expecting it to be more flowery but Capote is a very smooth and easy writer to read. It's clear he was a journalist as while he was descriptive, he didn't get all poetic. A straightforward, solid read.

Rating: 7

224. Inside of a Dog by Alexandra Horowitz

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #9 (first/last vowel)

Summary: Current scientific information on what a dog experiences

Opinion: For a scientist, she writes flowery, which I found a distraction. Perhaps the book needed to be padded a bit? Lots of good information about dogs some of which I oohed and aahed over. "Hey, honey? Did you know that…" I wanted more about my own dog though. There was just one chapter at the end that gave ideas about how to interact with her.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Emma by Jane Austen
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese

On Deck:
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown
Silent Joe by T. Jefferson Parker
The Key to Midnight by Dean Koontz

MY THIRD 75!



225. Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #2 (characteristic)

Summary: The twins of a Indian Catholic nun and an English doctor grow up as orphans in Ethiopia.

Opinion: There was great storytelling, relatable characters and an intriguing setting. It's not for the squeamish as several medical procedures are described in detail. While awful things happen, in general, it is a hopeful book. Recommended.

Rating: 8

226. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

Genre: Self-help

Notes: TIOLI #15 (alliterative author)

Summary: Let Go of Who You Think You Are Supposed To Be and Embrace Who You Are

Opinion: Simple book on how compassion, courage and connection can improve your life. I prefer books like this that give straightforward self-help steps without all the frou-frou.

Rating: 7

227. The Key to Midnight by Dean Koontz

Genre: Fiction (Thriller)

Notes: TIOLI #18 (150 convos or less), to complete bibliography

Summary: A man unexpectedly discovers a senator's missing daughter in Japan twelve years after his firm was hired to find her and now she has no memory of who she was

Opinion: Brain candy. Simplistic plot but likeable characters. Not Koontz's best work but a quick afternoon read.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Emma by Jane Austen

On Deck:
Silent Joe by T. Jefferson Parker
A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
A Light in the Window by Jan Karon

Congrats on 75x3! Wow! Glad it was a good one.

You know, Morphy, that I go looking for anything to which you have given a rating of 8 or 9. like immediately. Thanks for 4 new books for the infinite TBR list!

I'm really happy with some books I've read lately. I was getting bummed with all the meh and average books I was reading. Things definitely looked up the later part of this year!

Congrats on 75 x 3! What an accomplishment! I read The Gifts of Imperfection not long ago and liked it too. I think that Brene Brown is working on a parenting book now.

Just stopping by to see how you're doing - hope all is well with you and Mr. Morph!

That is a tremendous accomplishment, Morphy, congrats!

That's about a book a day right?!

Closer to .75 books a day. :D

That's really impressive. I'm such a slow reader. Even if I read for four hours straight I would still only get about a 100 pages read! That is a fantasic number to have read in one year, and the best thing is that you seem to have a really eclectic taste and read books of every genre!

(Cover image from my local library - LT didn't have the right one)

228. Ellis Island by Kate Kerrigan

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #15 (alliterative author)

Summary: Girl goes to NYC to make money to send back to her injured husband in Ireland

Opinion: I needed to read this for my book club and I wasn't looking forward to an immigrant story. However, the good writing, gentle yet flawed characters, and new-to-me settings kept my interest.

Rating: 7

229. Silent Joe by T. Jefferson Parker

Genre: Mystery

Notes: TIOLI #5 (spooky), Edgar

Summary: Adopted son of murdered political appointee finds out his father isn't who he thought

Opinion: The best part of this book was Joe. Sympathetic, flawed, human. My heart went out to him. I wish I could read more about him but this is a stand alone. The mystery was a tad confusing but with enough peeks at the back (I know!), I was able to figure it out.

Rating: 8

230. A Light in the Window by Jan Karon

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #4 (non-simplest)

Summary: The continuing stories of Father Tim in the southern town of Mitford

Opinion: The episodic nature of these books reduce my enjoyment but the lovable characters and gentle yet real stories keep bringing me back.

Rating: 7

231. Smilla's Sense of Snow by Peter Hoeg

Genre: Mystery

Notes: Around the World in 80 Sleuths, LTMP

Summary: A neighbor's boy jumps off a roof and Smilla wants to know why

Opinion: I had a hard time relating to Smilla - she's quite a cold fish - and the story creeped along yet I enjoyed reading about the culture of Greenlanders and Danes. It was very atmospheric.

Rating: 7

232. Darkling by Yasmine Galenorn

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #4 (non-simplest)

Summary: Third fae sister leads the fight against her vampire sire

Opinion: Fluff. The series improves as it goes along. There was too much extraneous sex in the first one. Now there is more story and I'm starting to care about the three sisters.

Rating: 7

233. Retribution by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Notes: TIOLI #18 (150 convos or less)

Summary: Paranormal romance with a twist on Cherokee mythology

Opinion: Typical Kenyon romance - bad ass male and mislead female meet, fight each other, fall in love, fight the bad guy, Artemis releases him, the end. These are like potato chips, you can't read just one.

Rating: 7

234. Emma by Jane Austen

Genre: Classics

Notes: TIOLI #1 (English Class)

Summary: Um. People talk a lot and visit each other and get a happily ever after. The End.

Opinion: Oh dear lord. I originally tried to listen to this in audio and only got 1/3 of the way through. I was able to finish this only because I kept it down to 2 - 3 chapters a day. Do these people have nothing better to do than argue about the length of a hallway? Really? I didn't like any of the characters. I found them all annoying, some more than others. The only part I enjoyed was the look at the culture of the times which was assisted by the SqueakyChu tutored read.

Rating: 5

235. Ghost Story by Jim Butcher

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #12 (monster)

Summary: Harry is in new and difficult circumstances yet still needs to figure out how to help his friends fight the bad guy

Opinion: This is definitely a transitional novel. There is little forward movement in plot though I think Harry as a character grows quite a bit. His friends were little more than scenery. You couldn't even call them secondary characters. That being said, Butcher is an excellent writer and I sucked the book down.

Rating: 7

236. Collegium: Changes by Mercedes Lackey

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #18 (150 convos or less)

Summary: Continuing story of Mags, Bear and Lena at the Collegium

Opinion: Not Lackey's best nor her worst. From other reviews, I was expected something much worse. It gave me an enjoyable enough afternoon. Most everything was resolved but not as thoroughly as I would have liked at the end of a trilogy. Obviously we will be seeing more of this trio. Mags' accent was annoying and hard to understand at times.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Kitty's Greatest Hits by Carrie Vaughn

On Deck:
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
Four Past Midnight by Stephen King
Prospero in Hell by L. Jagi Lamplighter

Hi Morphidae - I really like the sound of Ellis Island. Must check it out.

Oh, hey, I'm reading Four Past Midnight right now! I'll be curious to see what you thing of it.

I'm waiting for the library to get Collegium: Changes. It seems to be a familiar story, but it's good to know it's readable.

Hi Morphy
You have some good books on the go! Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet sounds interesting, and Stephen King is usually good for a fun afternoon

I haven't heard of some of the others *scurries off to google them

>115 ChelleBearss: Yeah, she's going over familiar ground here. But it was definitely readable.

>116 Morphidae: I'm about 1/2 way done with Hotel and I'll probably give it a 7. Interesting but not fantastic.

^110 I can't even imagine what this one is going to be like, but I'm with you on Butcher being able to pull it off if anyone can.

Wow, so many books to catch up on! I've probably said this before but your reviews are so concise and perfect for someone to just look and decide if it's for them or not. :)

I had someone once call them "pithy." Heh.

237. Kitty's Greatest Hits by Carrie Vaughn

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #11 (first/last same letters)

Summary: Short stories about Kitty, the werewolf dj, her friends and associates

Opinion: It was readable. I doubt my lack of enjoyment had anything to do with Vaughn, just that short stories are not my favorite genre. Just when I'm getting into the characters or story - it's over!

Rating: 6

238. Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #9 (Oct TIOLI rec)(vancouverdeb), LT Recommended

Summary: Forty years after the Japanese are interned, their belongings are found in the basement of an old hotel

Opinion: I liked the characters yet the plot seemed to lack weight. Areas I would have liked to read more in depth about were dipped into then gone and the conflicts seemed too easily surpassed. Otherwise, an enjoyable and quick read. I'd try something else by this author.

Rating: 7

239. Bringing Down the House by Ben Mezrich

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #1 (page 50 animal, cat), Ultimate Reading List, US50

Summary: MIT students win big at Vegas using card counting and various other tricks

Opinion: I would have rated this an eight for sheer enjoyment if I hadn't found out that large portions were fiction rather than nonfiction. I raced this through book nearly out of breath at times with excitement. If you are looking for a fast, exciting read, try this out. Just don't expect it to be factual.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Four Past Midnight by Stephen King
Calling on Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

On Deck:
Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Prospero in Hell by L. Jagi Lamplighter
Prospero Regained by L. Jagi Lamplighter

Bookmarking this thread :D

240. Calling on Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #16 (titled chapters)

Summary: Continued tale of the Enchanted Forest

Opinion: Chapter titles: In Which the Plot Thickens, In Which the Plot Positively Curdles, In Which They Make an Unexpected Detour, Which is Exceedingly Muddy

Don't those sound fun? This is a very enjoyable series with a sense of humor and likable characters though the plots are a little simple. I don't care. I grin through the entire book. Sheer fun.

Rating: 8

241. Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #1 (page 50 animal - hen), 111 Science Fiction

Summary: The Galactic Empire is coming to an end - what will be done to prevent millinia of chaos?

Opinion: I read these decades ago and forgot how good this series is. I had though it would be dense, but no. While definitely old-school, I zipped through these tales. I have the next one on order from the library and can't wait to get it.

Rating: 8

242. Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt

Genre: Memoir

Notes: TIOLI #13 (Next in series), Ultimate Reading List

Summary: Poor family moves from the US back to Limerick, Ireland and desperately tries to survive

Opinion: Bleak, unrelentingly bleak. While a good story-teller and there is humor in the rare spot, I didn't look forward to listening to the next CD and could only do so when I wasn't already depressed. Thankfully the book ended on a high note.

Rating: 6

243. Four Past Midnight by Stephen King

Genre: Horror

Notes: TIOLI #4 (author profession)

Summary: Four novellas from the King of Horror

Opinion: They were all solid reads but The Langoliers was my favorite followed by The Library Policeman. It seems I prefer the stories where King involves a group of people rather than focusing on one or two.

Rating: 7

244. Prospero in Hell by L. Jagi Lamplighter

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #4 (author profession)

Summary: Second book in the trilogy about Miranda and her family's search for Prospero

Opinion: Solid middle book. There was growth and plot development and I like Lamplighter's style of writing. Lots of interesting characters.

Rating: 7

245. Prospero Regained by L. Jagi Lamplighter

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #16 (titled chapters)

Summary: Third book in the trilogy about Miranda and her family's search for Prospero

Opinion: This would have gotten a much higher rating (8) if I hadn't gotten unpleasantly slammed at the end of the book with a Conservative Christian soapbox. If you can get past that, a very enjoyable read.

Rating: 6

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Kon-Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl
The Redemption of Althalus by David and Leigh Eddings

On Deck:
Knight of a Trillion Stars by Dara Joy
Imagine by Jill Barnett
Fall from Pride by Karen Harper

>127 Morphidae: It seems I prefer the stories where King involves a group of people rather than focusing on one or two.

Me too. It's when he's at his best, I think.

Found you again... after a long blank time :) I've marked some books down to read after looking through. Happy reading!

Just did some massive catch-up (story of my life....). I agree with jolerie that your reviews are perfect, exactly what I want to know with no time wasted. I'll have to look for Peter and the Starcatchers, and you've pretty much convinced me that I should read Cutting for Stone as well.

I'm glad people enjoy my little reviews. I sometimes struggle writing even that much. My goal is a minimum of 25 words.

I think shorter reviews are better. I'm more likely to read them ;-)

Me, too. If a review is pages long, I just scroll on by!

246. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #1 (pg 50 animal - ass), LT Recommended, Hennepin County Library

Summary: A billionaire 80s trivia buff leaves behind an Easter egg that will allow the finder to inherit all his wealth and many in this dystopian world are searching for it

Opinion: If you aren't child of the 80s or an 80s trivia geek, you'll lose out on all the fun and humor. I giggled and grinned and gasped throughout. Highly recommended.

Rating: 9

247. The Redemption of Althalus by David and Leigh Eddings

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #1 (pg 50 animal - hen embedded), 1001 Fantasy

Summary: A thief tries to steal a book at the House at the End of the World and ends up drafted to save the world

Opinion: The Eddings should have stopped writing after Polgara the Sorceress. They didn't write anything decent after that, including this doorstop. The banter I loved in the Belgariad/Mallorean and Elenium/Tamuli is just annoying when you don't care about the characters and it mostly consists of pet names like pet or Daddy.

Rating: 5

248. Jar City by Arnaldur Indridason

Genre: Mystery

Notes: TIOLI #10 (not lingua franca - Icelandic), Around the World in 80 Sleuths

Summary: The investigation of a Icelandic murder leads to digging 40 years into the past

Opinion: Interesting enough, I suppose. A little straightforward and dreary for my tastes. I liked the genetic twist in the story. The main character was a little hard to sympathize with.

Rating: 6

249. Talking to Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #16 (titled chapters), next in series

Summary: On the day Darkstar's mother melted a wizard, she hands him a magical sword and kicks him out. She tells him not to come back until he can tell her why.

Opinion: Enjoyable, but not as charming as the first three books. Supposedly this was written first, then edited later to make the details fit with the others. It has a slapdash feel to it because of it, I think. I'm going to read more Wrede though as I've liked just about everything I've read by her.

Rating: 7

250. Fall from Pride by Karen Harper

Genre: Mystery

Notes: TIOLI #4 (author profession), WCC Book Club

Summary: Mystery about barns being burned that had an Amish woman's quilt design paintings on them

Opinion: I liked the setting and characters though think the romantic plot got wrapped up a little too easily. More of a mystery thriller than a romance or character study of how the Amish and "Englishers" get along.

Rating: 7

251. Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #1 (animal page 50 - eel)

Summary: Mac's sister is killed in Ireland and she sets out to find out why. She discovers she has strange powers and that the world is even weirder than she thought.

Opinion: I almost didn’t finish this book. Mac is a whiner and Barrens is a total jerk off - neither has redeeming qualities. About halfway through the book, the plot got interesting enough to pull me in and the main characters got less annoying. I'll try the second one at some point, hesitantly.

Rating: 6

252. Imagine by Jill Barnett

Genre: Romance

Notes: TIOLI #1 (animal page 50 - hen, cock, hind, gar), Ultimate Reading List, to complete bibliography

Summary: A crook and a lawyer get marooned with three orphaned kids

Opinion: It's sad when the most interesting character is a secondary one - and he's a genie. I couldn't see how either of the "romantic" pair could like each other, must less love. He's a jerk, she's useless. He's a chauvanist, she's a prig. I had no emotional reaction other than annoyance throughout the book.

Rating: 4

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Naked City by Ellen Datlow
Kon-Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl
Damsel Under Stress by Shanna Swendson

On Deck:
Knight of a Trillion Stars by Dara Joy
Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan

Sorry that you seem to have had a string of no-so-great reads. I hope the next few are much better for you!

I'm doing good as I'm still in the glow of Ready Player One which was totally awesome. It was close to a ten for me.

I've definitely got that one on my wishlist after all the good reviews!

I went and did it. I wasn't going to. But I was getting twitchy. I hadn't worked on a list in SO LONG!

Morphy's 12 in 12:
http://www.librarything.com/topic/127722

I'm definitely planning to read Ready Player One because it's so highly rated everywhere, but now I'm a bit worried that I won't appreciate it. I was born in 1985, so I don't know how much I remember of the 80s....

Also, yay for lists!

It's a really fun story. I think knowing the 80s stuff just gives it an extra sparkle. "OMG! I remember that!"

Thanks, that's reassuring :)

Now I just need to find time to read it....

Wow, your 12 in 12 categories look awesome!

Thanks, Doc N!

*drools*
Lists, oh glorious lists!!

Hi Morphy! I have Ready Player One on the wishlist for next year!

>154 scaifea: I know! I get twitchy if I go too long without making a list.

>155 ChelleBearss: I think you'll really enjoy it!

I loved Ready Player One too! What a fun read!

And I'm so impressed by your 12-12-12 planning. Great categories!

I'm glad you liked Ready Player One so much. Everyone should read it! I think it's going to be my favorite book of the year. The audio version was amazing!!

Did I hear they are making it into a movie?

253. The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: LTMP, 2009 TBR

Summary: About the Oxford Dictionary and the friendship of Murray, editor, and Minor, a major contributor and asylum inmate

Opinion: Fascinating look at how the Oxford Dictionary got started. I was wondering how they kept track of everything before computers. Also, you felt for Minor even though he was in an asylum for murdering someone. Read by the author who did a good job.

Rating: 7

254. Damsel Under Stress by Shanna Swendson

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Continuation of the Enchanted, Inc. series, chick lit + urban fantasy

Opinion: Fun brain fluff. Will continue with the next and last book in the series. I wish it were more popular so Swendson could finish it off. Ah well. SPOILER: Only disappointment in this book is she leaves easily. I would have thought there would be more emotion about it.

Rating: 7

255. Kon-Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: Ultimate Reading List, Outside Magazine Well-Read Explorer

Summary: About the 1947 expedition on a balsa raft between Peru and Polynesia

Opinion: Dated yet fun adventure tale. I don't think it would be as easy nowadays to pull this off. Writing was a little simplistic and boring at times.

Rating: 6

256. Naked City by Ellen Datlow (editor)

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #6 (same title), Early Reviewer

Summary: Urban fantasy short stories

Opinion: This collection of short stories in my favorite genre have proven that the short story form is simply not for me. I obviously need an emotional connection to a character to enjoy a story. By the time I'm just starting to get a connection, the story is over. Otherwise, I need the story to be clever in some way. Most of the "clever" stories in this collection left me scratching my head. I enjoyed Curses by Butcher and Fairy Gifts by Briggs. They both tell a good tale. I wanted to love Priced to Sell by Novik but only liked it because it was confusing. Guns for the Dead left me wanting more. And Go Like This was pointless and, therefore, annoying. The last three stories - The Skinny Girl, The Colliers' Venus and King Pole, Gallows Pole, Bottle Tree - were too odd for my tastes.

Rating: 6

257. Beauty and the Werewolf by Mercedes Lackey

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #15 (5 or less reviews), Next in series

Summary: Little Red Riding Hood meets the Beauty and the Beast

Opinion: Tries real hard but doesn't make the grade. I think this series is played out. The villain was obvious from the first few pages and the protagonists were being Too Stupid To Live about it. I liked the spirit servants and that the heroine on the cover was just pretty, not gorgeous.

Rating: 6

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell

On Deck:
Knight of a Trillion Stars by Dara Joy
Carousel of Hearts by Mary Jo Putney
Ring of Fear by Anne McCaffrey

Appreciate the reviews, I've been intrigued to look at that Mercedes Lackey series but perhaps not that volume. Glad to see you enjoyed The Professor and The Madman, I also thought it was very well written.

#159 No way! I am already dying for Hunger Games! This is too good to be true!

I *loved* The Professor and the Madman when I read it several years back. It prompted me to read more of Winchester's work, and I've yet to be disappointed in him.

Yeah. I'm thinking of checking out something else of Winchesters. Anything specific you might recommend?

Krakatoa was pretty excellent...

Agreed.

Nice to see the good review of The Professor and the Madman. That book, and Atlantic by him are on my TBR pile. Unfortunately they didn't have Krakatoa on my last trip to England, so that one is still on the wishlist.

Okay, I'll add Krakatoa.

Here's the post for the monthly fantasy read I'm setting up in Green Dragon. The first book is The Lies of Locke Lamora.

http://www.librarything.com/topic/128183

258. Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #4 (oldest TBR), TBR 2007, LTMP

Summary: Six nested stories that cover from 1800s South Seas to the far future

Opinion: I give it a 7 for the writing. Mitchell can be a little challenging. However, he gets another point for the sheer cleverness of the novel. I love how the stories interweave and how each is a different genre - a journal at sea, letters from a young composer in 1930s Europe, a thriller, a comedy, science fiction, dystopia.

Rating: 8

259. Carousel of Hearts by Mary Jo Putney

Genre: Romance

Notes: TIOLI #15 (Summary: Four Regency characters can't decide who they are in love with and who they are going to marry

Opinion: I understand what Putney was trying to do, but it was done poorly. I didn't care about the characters or who ended up with who. About the only thing going for it was that the friendship between the women was touching.

Rating: 5

260. Knight of a Trillion Stars by Dara Joy

Genre: Romance

Notes: TIOLI #5 (Christmas - stars), Ultimate Reading List

Summary: Futuristic romance about a modern woman who meets a man from other dimension - in her living room

Opinion: Ish ish ish. Plot was simple where it wasn't stupid. World building was poor. Alpha male hero was totally domineering and heroine, if you could call her that, was an utter doormat and Too Stupid to Live. Neither had any appeal.

Rating: 3

261. Wolf at the Door by MaryJanice Davidson

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Notes: TIOLI #6 (same title)

Summary: Continuing humorous story of werewolves and vampires

Opinion: Amusing brain candy. The big bad werewolf is… an accountant. Recommended for those that have read Davidson's Betsy the Vampire Queen and Wyndham werewolves books. Otherwise, skip it.

Rating: 7

262. Perfume by Patrick Suskind

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #6 (same title), Ultimate Reading List, 1001 Fantasy, LTMP

Summary: A perfume genius murders virgin in search of the "perfect" scent in 18th century France

Opinion: It is hard for me to rate a book highly when all the characters in the tale are "bad," but this came close. The story, the look into the manufacture of perfume in the 1700s, and the glimpse into the mind of a monster was fascinating. The unpleasant feeling in my gut when I finished the book brought it down a notch. A dark, twisted and horrific tale.

Rating: 7

263. Ring of Fear by Anne McCaffrey

Genre: Romance

Notes: TIOLI #3 (McCaffrey), to complete bibliography

Summary: A light romantic suspense with a "horsey" setting

Opinion: First novella from Three Gothic Novels

Meh. A quick, light read. I enjoyed the parts about the horse showing circuit. But, once again, the hero was overbearing. He wasn't a jerk, but I would have shown him the door. The heroine was likable but easily manipulated. And dear lord, after she does something that puts herself in danger, he spanks her and her response is, "You love me! You really love me!" I didn't mark it down as much as it deserved for that as I took into consideration when it was written and that, in general, the heroine was pretty plucky.

Rating: 6

264. The Borrowers by Mary Norton

Genre: Children's

Notes:

Summary: Tiny people who live under the floor in an old country house borrow from the human "beans" above with mixed results

Opinion: If I had read this as a child, I would have rated it higher, I'm sure. A fun and rather dark little story without being too basic.

Rating: 7

The Borrowers! I loved them when I was little!

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Fire by Kristin Cashore

On Deck:
The Mark of Merlin by Anne McCaffrey
Hershey by Michael D'Antonio
Colman by Monica Furlong

I have fond childhood memories of The Borrowers too. Also The Littles, for that matter.

Add me to the list of people with fond childhood memories of The Borrowers.

I've heard there are TWO new Borrowers movies coming out soon. Now I'll have to figure out where I read that . . .

ETA:
1) An animated movie called The Secret World of Arrietty from a Japanese studio featuring the voices of Amy Poehler, Will Arnett, Saoirse Ronan, Bridgit Mendler, and Carol Burnett

2) BBC made-for-tv movie starring Stephen Fry, Christopher Eccleston, Sharon Horgan, Aisling Loftus, Victoria Wood, Robert Sheehan, Francis Chouler, and Shaun Dooley

The BBC one will be on TV (at least in Europe) this Christmas. :D

I almost bought Perfume twice in the last few months but resisted each time, I'm starting to think I maybe should have gone through with the purchase.

I wouldn't buy it. Can you borrow it?

Yep, it sounds like a good library book for next year.

265. Fire by Kristin Cashore

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #6 (same title), to complete bibliography

Summary: Fire is able to read and control minds and the king asks for her help against the country's enemies

Opinion: I enjoyed reading about Fire's inner struggle with how and when to use her powers and the various relationships she had with others, especially new ones. In the end though, I think she wasn't a strong person and fell apart. She's not heroic but rather someone just trying to do her best with a power that most people fear.

Rating: 7

266. The Mark of Merlin
267. The Kilternan Legacy by Anne McCaffrey

Genre: Romance

Notes: TIOLI #3 (McCaffrey), to complete bibliography

Summary: 266. Historical Gothic romance about a young college woman whose military father is murdered
267. A Gothic romance about a divorcée and her twin children inheriting property in Ireland

Opinion: 266. Second novella from Three Gothic Novels

I had to keep reminding myself that this was written in the 70s. The men are too chauvinistic and the women are too submissive - even the one that is a college student who lived on her own. The men figured everything out while the heroine cooked them meals and darned their socks. Blech.

267. Third novella from Three Gothic Novels

This one was slightly better with interesting secondary characters. But again, the heroine was a wimp. This time it was her 14 year old children who took over. It seems the only reason the dead aunt was "modern" is because she hated men. I did like reading about inheritance laws and the bickering between relatives.

Rating: 4 & 5

268. Colman by Monica Furlong

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: To complete bibliography

Summary: Juniper's sorcerous Aunt Meroot has killed her father, the king, and taken her brother captive

Opinion: This book was published posthumously and it needed more work. The plot is uneven and there are trailing ends left all over the place. I liked the world building and the characters for the most part. Colman's character growth felt shoved in, "Let's give him a conflict, oops, now what? Okay, he gets over it."

Rating: 6

269. Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #20 (time - year)

Summary: Set in the same world as Onyx and Crake. Two woman with a shared history in an eco-friendly religious group survive in a post-plague world.

Opinion: Fascinating dystopian and post-apocalyptic story. The characterizations were wonderful. However, there were too many instances of "it just so happens" when it came to characters meeting up after the "flood." And the plot was plodding at times.

And I had a major beef with the audio version. There were songs by the eco-group, the Gardeners, that were backed by ELECTRONIC instruments. This is a group that shunned technology. They would not have access to electric guitars and synthesizers. Sheeh.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Daily Book of Art by Colin Gilbert (Bathroom read)
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Hershey by Michael D'Antonio
Raven Black by Ann Cleeves

On Deck:
Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh
Hogfather by Terry Pratchett
Shadow Puppets by Orson Scott Card

Wow! Looks like you may have read 300 books by the time the year ends! And reviewed them every one. Color me impressed!

I felt much the same as you about Perfume, and agree it's a good one to borrow from the library.

Funny how many of those old romances from the 70s (some of which I loved back then) are so very dated today. I've never read the ones you reviewed, but others I did read were much the same.

Got Nalini Singh on my wishlist after having read and enjoyed a short story by her awhile back. I look forward to your review of Angels' Blood.

Happy holidays!

I don't see myself reading two books a day until the end of the year but I suppose anything is possible!

>197 Morphidae: - You'll just have to go to the library and get some picture books to supplement the others so you will reach the mark!

Morphy! *Hugs* Sorry I've been behind for so long, but I'm here now and I must say I'm ridiculously impressed by the number of books you've read. Congrats! :)

Good to see you around, Ape!

I'm going to be a grinch and ask that any holiday greetings posted to this thread not include graphics. Thanks!

"You're a mean one, Morphidae..."

;)

ETA: Happy happy Christmas to you and Mr. Morphy!!

I don't blame you, Morphy, you have, like, a MILLION book covers on this thread. Have I mentioned recently how ridiculously impressed I am by the number of books you've read? ;) Have a Merry Christmas! :)

Merry Christmas Morphy!

Wishing you all the very best Morphi!

Merry Christmas, Morph!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

270. Raven Black by Ann Cleeves

Genre: Mystery

Notes: Around the World in 80 Sleuths

Summary: A Shetland Islands local mentally challenged man is accused of murdering a teen girl

Opinion: It felt a little slow and plodding; however, it was interesting enough that I'll try the next book in the series. The murderer's motive didn't work for me either. There didn't seem to be enough emotion involved.

Rating: 6

271. Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #8 (Nativity)

Summary: A vampire hunter is hired by a dangerous archangel to hunt down a killer

Opinion: Oh, how fun. I think I have a new series to dive into. It has the dark intensity of a Hamilton without all the angst. The only thing that bothered me is that the romantic male lead feels more abusive than alpha. We'll see how it goes from here.

Rating: 7

272. Hogfather by Terry Pratchett

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #11 (holiday not Santa), BBC2

Summary: Someone has done something horrid to Santa… er, Hogfather… and Death takes over

Opinion: This is my fourth or fifth Discworld and I have decided that I simply don't get Pratchett's humor. I didn't find anything remotely funny in this book - mostly just stupid and inane.

Rating: 4

273. Shadow Puppets by Orson Scott Card

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #1 (alpha step), Next in series

Summary: Continuation of the story of the people Ender left behind - Bean, Petra and his brother, Peter.

Opinion: Someone said this was a science fiction political thriller and that seems pretty accurate. The Battle School children need to outwit a psychopath out to rule the world. Card does better with characterization than plot.

Rating: 7

274. Saints Astray by Jacqueline Carey

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #15 (5 or less reviews -1), To complete bibliography

Summary: Loup and Pilar become bodyguards to a famous musical group after escaping Outpost 12

Opinion: While I very much enjoyed this book - it was a fun girrrrrl power romp - it lacks any sense of danger. Any time there was a problem, it got easily solved. Other than that small quibble, I recommend this book for Carey lovers.

Rating: 8

275. The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #2 (gods), next in series

Summary: Peter Jackson, demi-god and teen, has to go on another quest and save the gods (again)

Opinion: I'm glad my nephew told me to continue after I was disappointed in the third book. I've now ordered the fourth and fifth book from the library because I have GOT to know what happens. I get sucked into the world. The non-stop action brings it down a notch because it tires me out!

Rating: 7

276. Hershey by Michael D'Antonio

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #15 (5 or less reviews - 2), 50 State Challenge

Summary: Biography of the founder of the chocolate company, Milton S. Hershey

Opinion: While the story was interesting, I found I really didn't like the man all that much. He was rather cold and narrow-minded. I preferred it when the story stuck to the history of the chocolate company and the town, Hershey, PA, rather than the personality of the man.

Rating: 7

277. Don't Hex with Texas by Shanna Swendson

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Katie goes home to Texas but magical troubles follow her.

Opinion: I'm disappointed that the series ended here due to publisher disinterest. I've always enjoyed this light-hearted, chick-lit urban fantasy stories.

Rating: 7

278. Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #8 (Nativity), Next in series

Summary: Elena adjusts to her new life as an angel and another villain is confronted

Opinion: I'm loving the stories of this bad-ass heroine and her dangerous archangel mate. I like Raphael more in this book. He's adjusting to not always getting his way and becoming a bit more "human."

Rating: 8

279. A Diversity of Dragons by Anne McCaffrey

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #3 (McCaffrey), to complete bibliography

Summary: Stories, both historical and current, of dragons

Opinion: Comes across as a dry lecture on dragons - something you'd hear in a college course. The stories are either mythical or pages pulled out verbatim from modern fantasy books. The only thing that saved this from being pure dreck was the gorgeous illustrations.

Rating: 4

280. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

Genre: Children's

Notes: TIOLI #20 (time), Caldecott

Summary: A little boy goes out in the snow

Opinion: I read this quickly in a Barnes & Noble while my husband was browsing another area. Colorful and cute. The rhythm was nice and there was a sense of humor here and there.

Rating: 6

281. Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #6 (same title), to complete bibliography

Summary: Opal, a magical glass worker, struggles with being a "one-trick" wonder until she gains a new dangerous power

Opinion: While I enjoy the world-building and writing, the plot left a bit to be desired in that it was a lot of "ride here, solve a problem, ride there, solve a problem." Also, the characters weren't the easiest to relate to or like. Opal was sort of whiny.

Rating: 7

282. The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: Next in series

Summary: After the fall of the Lord Ruler, Vin and Elend need to protect their city against numerous enemies

Opinion: Intense political maneuverings and a little bit dense writing made it a slower read than normal for me but overall I liked it. The only part I didn't like was the angsty romance and how weak Elend was for the most part. Hopefully he will have grown up in the third book.

Rating: 7

283. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

Genre: Children's

Notes: TIOLI #1 (stepped initials), 1001 Fantasy

Summary: A giant peach, some big bugs and a little boy go on an adventure

Opinion: I really enjoyed the movie and reading the book was fun since I could see where the scenes and even some of the songs came from. The book was darker than the movie but I liked the cloud men, which I don't remember appearing in the movie.

Rating: 7

284. The Guardian by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Notes: TIOLI #15 (5 or less reviews), next in series

Summary: Demigod is trapped in a demon-hell and is saved by a dream-hunter

Opinion: Yet another guy is tortured for 4500 years and is saved by Powers of the Magical HooHa.

Come on, really? Someone who has never known love or tenderness and has been tortured and raped for millennium becomes a doting, kind and loving husband and father because he had really good sex with a nice female?

Be that as it may, I enjoy Kenyon's writing and scarf these books down like potato chips. I laugh. I cry. What can I say?

Rating: 6

285. The Sword by Jean Johnson

Genre: Fantasy Romance

Notes: TIOLI #6 (same title)

Summary: A woman gets pulled from our world into a world of magic - to an island with eight (!) exiled brothers

Opinion: No literary redeeming value whatsoever but oh, so fun. Good sense of humor and a good story. Likable yet flawed characters. Romance was a little too easy, but that's okay. It was still fun.

Rating: 7

286. 2nd Chance by James Patterson

Genre: Mystery

Notes: Next in series

Summary: Four women friends put their heads together to solve a serial murder crime spree

Opinion: Fast paced and exciting though it lacked a little meat. Overall was enjoyable enough that I'll try the next in the Women's Murder Club series.

Rating: 6

287. Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary

Genre: Children's

Notes: LTMP

Summary: Ramona starts kindergarten

Opinion: I was surprised to enjoy this as much as I did. Normally I don't like reading about bratty kids, but Ramona's thought process was intriguing enough that being a "pest" was understandable.

Rating: 7

288. The Daily Book of Art by

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: Bathroom read

Summary: Articles on art and artistic concepts in a daily format

Opinion: Language too high brow. I was looking more for Art for Dummies and instead I got more of a college level art appreciation class. Each article about an artist should have an example of their work accompanying it. And you can't explain an art concept with more art concept definitions if you haven't already explained those as well. Paper was really nice though - smooth and heavy. I'm going more low-brow this year with Uncle John's Bathroom reader. Ha!

Rating: 5

Whew - I was a little behind! Sorry about that.

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (2010 SantaThing)
Good News Bible by various (for literary/cultural reasons rather than religious)
Cruising Altitude by Heather Poole (bathroom read)

On Deck:
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls

Nice batch!

Wow! Great reviews and Happy New Year!

A link to a new thread? perhaps? New year, and all that?

When I create it.

ah, so... patience is required.

And here is the 2012 thread:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/130083