50 book challenge 2012 ......... with the train journey to work will it be reached?????
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1StuartAston
Book 1
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Spoiler Alert - don't read if you have not read the last of the series yet.......Katniss survives the Quarter Quell. She is the Mockingjay.
This book follows her and the rebels as they try to take the districts and reach the Capital where President Snow awaits. Will she kill him? Will Peeta survive the torture he suffered at the Presidents hands? As the rebels move on the government get more desperate and more and more the survival of the countries future and Katniss herself is nothing more than one large Hunger Game. But not just for her this time she has her family and friends to consider and try and keep safe.
And is President Coin of the Rebellion someone who can really be trusted?
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Spoiler Alert - don't read if you have not read the last of the series yet.......Katniss survives the Quarter Quell. She is the Mockingjay.
This book follows her and the rebels as they try to take the districts and reach the Capital where President Snow awaits. Will she kill him? Will Peeta survive the torture he suffered at the Presidents hands? As the rebels move on the government get more desperate and more and more the survival of the countries future and Katniss herself is nothing more than one large Hunger Game. But not just for her this time she has her family and friends to consider and try and keep safe.
And is President Coin of the Rebellion someone who can really be trusted?
2StuartAston
Book 2
The Terrible Privacy of Maxwell Sim by Jonathan Coe
Maxwell Sim seems to be passing between a mid life crisis and full blown despression. After his divorce Maxwell Sim doesn't know what to do with his life....he tries to re-connect with his father in Australia and finds himself further apart. He tries to keep in contact with his ex-wfe via a single parent website where he takes a false identity. He tries to find love with a passer by in an airport and then gets offended when she tries to set him up, he thinks, with her mother.
Why does Maxwell feel unhappy? What can he do to get himself out of the duldrums he is in? A lone trip to sell toothbrushes in the outer reaches of Scotland. Of course the obvious solution - what could go wrong.......especially when he starts to fall for the voice of the sat-nav!!
A book following the life of someone losing the plot made an interesting read and a fun one if you can have a laugh at such a subject. But the ending...very wierd. Leaves you thinking "What the hell happened there....." as you close the book. Seems like the ideas ran dry and this was the best way to finsh the book from a bad lot.
The Terrible Privacy of Maxwell Sim by Jonathan Coe
Maxwell Sim seems to be passing between a mid life crisis and full blown despression. After his divorce Maxwell Sim doesn't know what to do with his life....he tries to re-connect with his father in Australia and finds himself further apart. He tries to keep in contact with his ex-wfe via a single parent website where he takes a false identity. He tries to find love with a passer by in an airport and then gets offended when she tries to set him up, he thinks, with her mother.
Why does Maxwell feel unhappy? What can he do to get himself out of the duldrums he is in? A lone trip to sell toothbrushes in the outer reaches of Scotland. Of course the obvious solution - what could go wrong.......especially when he starts to fall for the voice of the sat-nav!!
A book following the life of someone losing the plot made an interesting read and a fun one if you can have a laugh at such a subject. But the ending...very wierd. Leaves you thinking "What the hell happened there....." as you close the book. Seems like the ideas ran dry and this was the best way to finsh the book from a bad lot.
3StuartAston
Book 3
The Old Man and the Wasteland by Nick Cole
The book follows an old scavenger who decides to leave his community to try and prove he can still be useful in life. After Nuclear War in the US the world as people know it has ended and know one knows who survived. People love in communities and by scavenging.
As one of the scavengers our main character is seen as unlucky so he leaves to either prove that he can be still useful or die trying. He travels into the East of the land which everybody sees as being dangerous and finds a religous community who attacks him, a crazy man who tries to kill him and also a city where the supplies will help his community survive.
But can he get back to share it, can he get back to show them he is not tainted and what has the journey brought up in the way of memories from his past.
The Old Man and the Wasteland by Nick Cole
The book follows an old scavenger who decides to leave his community to try and prove he can still be useful in life. After Nuclear War in the US the world as people know it has ended and know one knows who survived. People love in communities and by scavenging.
As one of the scavengers our main character is seen as unlucky so he leaves to either prove that he can be still useful or die trying. He travels into the East of the land which everybody sees as being dangerous and finds a religous community who attacks him, a crazy man who tries to kill him and also a city where the supplies will help his community survive.
But can he get back to share it, can he get back to show them he is not tainted and what has the journey brought up in the way of memories from his past.
4StuartAston
Book 4
The Book of Human Skin by Michelle Lovric
The book follows Minguillo Fasan and his immediate family and staff as he tries to come to terms with his family not loving him. The fights he has to become instead respected as the future head of the family and how, by any means, he worked to take out anything and anyone who stood in his way.
After killing one sister to be the main child he then turns his attention to his younger sister Marcella. How can he stop her from encroaching on his territory and what happens when his father leaves on his long trips - is there a secret there which could stop the domination of his family and society which he so greatly seeks?
A good book to read you see how the world of Minguillo slowly cracks and disintegrates around him - while the rest of the world start to fight back. From the beginning the gruesomeness of the books he reads is a sub plot which you wonder how it is involved in the story. At the end it all comes together in a finale which is fitting for the storyline.
The Book of Human Skin by Michelle Lovric
The book follows Minguillo Fasan and his immediate family and staff as he tries to come to terms with his family not loving him. The fights he has to become instead respected as the future head of the family and how, by any means, he worked to take out anything and anyone who stood in his way.
After killing one sister to be the main child he then turns his attention to his younger sister Marcella. How can he stop her from encroaching on his territory and what happens when his father leaves on his long trips - is there a secret there which could stop the domination of his family and society which he so greatly seeks?
A good book to read you see how the world of Minguillo slowly cracks and disintegrates around him - while the rest of the world start to fight back. From the beginning the gruesomeness of the books he reads is a sub plot which you wonder how it is involved in the story. At the end it all comes together in a finale which is fitting for the storyline.
5StuartAston
Book 5
Regarding Ducks and Universes by Neve Maslakovic
How would you feel if you were the catalyst for the universe splitting?
Universe A and B were split by Professor Singh. One universe has the Golden Gate bridge still and books and cars while the other is the opposite. A more green affair which looks after what it has and makes the new products more efficient.
But when this happened it was put down to Professor Singh splitting the Universes in a laboratory but what is the split was due to someting more mundane? What if Felix Sayer as a small baby was integral to the whole process?
Both Felix A and B try to find out if that is the case. And if not can the universe be split further?
Definately not a mainstream book which I think will sell better in ebook form than in paper format in the shops. Worth reading as it is fun and enjoyable - but not a headline seller I'm afraid.
Regarding Ducks and Universes by Neve Maslakovic
How would you feel if you were the catalyst for the universe splitting?
Universe A and B were split by Professor Singh. One universe has the Golden Gate bridge still and books and cars while the other is the opposite. A more green affair which looks after what it has and makes the new products more efficient.
But when this happened it was put down to Professor Singh splitting the Universes in a laboratory but what is the split was due to someting more mundane? What if Felix Sayer as a small baby was integral to the whole process?
Both Felix A and B try to find out if that is the case. And if not can the universe be split further?
Definately not a mainstream book which I think will sell better in ebook form than in paper format in the shops. Worth reading as it is fun and enjoyable - but not a headline seller I'm afraid.
7StuartAston
Book 6
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
This book follows the fireman Guy Montag as he moves from being a book burning fireman to a thinker and a reader. It follows him as he discovers what he is being told is bad for him is in fact the future and will help him and his fellow man grow outside the confines laid down by their government.
Everyone follows the norm and anyone who deviates from this is hunted down and killed - no one breaking from the pack is treated kindly as Ray finds out when he is found with contraband - a book. Will he escape the clutches of the firemen and the live TV cameras as they track him down. And if he does survive what future does he have the country is at war will anyone survive.
I saw this had come out on ebook so loaded it up and was not disappointed. Apart from it was too short - the story could have gone longer without losing any of the force of the story. But short is sweet.
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
This book follows the fireman Guy Montag as he moves from being a book burning fireman to a thinker and a reader. It follows him as he discovers what he is being told is bad for him is in fact the future and will help him and his fellow man grow outside the confines laid down by their government.
Everyone follows the norm and anyone who deviates from this is hunted down and killed - no one breaking from the pack is treated kindly as Ray finds out when he is found with contraband - a book. Will he escape the clutches of the firemen and the live TV cameras as they track him down. And if he does survive what future does he have the country is at war will anyone survive.
I saw this had come out on ebook so loaded it up and was not disappointed. Apart from it was too short - the story could have gone longer without losing any of the force of the story. But short is sweet.
8StuartAston
Book 7
The Epoch Index by Christian Cantrell
What is the reason behing random people being murdered and then tatooed with a three digit number on them? Quinn Mitchell a Data Analyst from the CIA is given the task to find out. As she sits there waiting to be confronted with the Assasin she has chased around the world you see a world which is changing from having everything to running short and decaying.
And in the end Quinn is left with the dilema. As she is involved in the killings how can she stop them - and if she does is she doing more harm than good for the future of the planet??
A novella - damn. Way too short and leaves you thinking this could so easily have been made into a novel. Come on Christian a novel then the reader would not have been left wanting more!
The Epoch Index by Christian Cantrell
What is the reason behing random people being murdered and then tatooed with a three digit number on them? Quinn Mitchell a Data Analyst from the CIA is given the task to find out. As she sits there waiting to be confronted with the Assasin she has chased around the world you see a world which is changing from having everything to running short and decaying.
And in the end Quinn is left with the dilema. As she is involved in the killings how can she stop them - and if she does is she doing more harm than good for the future of the planet??
A novella - damn. Way too short and leaves you thinking this could so easily have been made into a novel. Come on Christian a novel then the reader would not have been left wanting more!
9StuartAston
Book 8
In The Kitchen by Monica Ali
This book follows the life of Gabriel Lightfoot a chef who is looking to the future. He is setting up his own restuarant, behind the back of his present employee has a girlfriend who he wants to marry, but never introduces to his family, and a group of people who he works with but who cannot be counted as friends.
After the death of one of the foreign workers he starts having dreams and tries to help Lena who has ties to the dead man. And from here his world starts to unravel......how can we stop his world as he knows it crashing around his ears? Does he even want to - and are his problems linked to issues his mother had years ago.
As he get closer to his father he finds out the truth and this helps him in the end reach a level he feels happy with in life.
Based around a hotel the book has a small but focused group of people to follow which holds your interest all the way through. It keeps you interested in the life of Gabriel from the beginning to the rockier end - and even throws a bit of illegal worker intrigue in as well for good measure.
A really enjoyable book!
In The Kitchen by Monica Ali
This book follows the life of Gabriel Lightfoot a chef who is looking to the future. He is setting up his own restuarant, behind the back of his present employee has a girlfriend who he wants to marry, but never introduces to his family, and a group of people who he works with but who cannot be counted as friends.
After the death of one of the foreign workers he starts having dreams and tries to help Lena who has ties to the dead man. And from here his world starts to unravel......how can we stop his world as he knows it crashing around his ears? Does he even want to - and are his problems linked to issues his mother had years ago.
As he get closer to his father he finds out the truth and this helps him in the end reach a level he feels happy with in life.
Based around a hotel the book has a small but focused group of people to follow which holds your interest all the way through. It keeps you interested in the life of Gabriel from the beginning to the rockier end - and even throws a bit of illegal worker intrigue in as well for good measure.
A really enjoyable book!
10StuartAston
Book 9
Broken by Karin Slaughter
Sara Linton has built up the courage to go back to Grant County for Thanks Giving....the first time after her husband was killed. All she wants to do is last the 4 days she is there and then leave.
However when one of the local kids asks for her from jail she is called in to talk to him. Did he kill one of the local students in a fit of rage or was he set up.....but when she turns up it is to find a dead body and the last person to speak to him being Lena Adams - the woman involved in her husbands death.
When she calls in the GBI to investigate is it due to revenge or because she believe injustice is rife in her howntown? Whatever the reason as the bodycount rises the decisions seems to be the correct one - but why are the local police not happy? Why is there chief determined not to help?
As always with Karin Slaughter you know what you are going to get when you pick up th book and read the back. With this visit to Grant County you are not disappointed either - especially with the twist in the tail at the end. :-)
Broken by Karin Slaughter
Sara Linton has built up the courage to go back to Grant County for Thanks Giving....the first time after her husband was killed. All she wants to do is last the 4 days she is there and then leave.
However when one of the local kids asks for her from jail she is called in to talk to him. Did he kill one of the local students in a fit of rage or was he set up.....but when she turns up it is to find a dead body and the last person to speak to him being Lena Adams - the woman involved in her husbands death.
When she calls in the GBI to investigate is it due to revenge or because she believe injustice is rife in her howntown? Whatever the reason as the bodycount rises the decisions seems to be the correct one - but why are the local police not happy? Why is there chief determined not to help?
As always with Karin Slaughter you know what you are going to get when you pick up th book and read the back. With this visit to Grant County you are not disappointed either - especially with the twist in the tail at the end. :-)
11StuartAston
Book 10
The Android's Dream by John Scalzi
What do you do when the only Alien race you talk to has its diplomat killed through farting. And the killer is someone from your own delegation???? Welll you help them find a missing sheep which will help crown their new leader that's what.
But what do you do if all of the sheep are getting killed off?????? Then you talk to a local pet store owner thats what but there is a catch. How do you tell her that she is a .........well you'll have to read the book to find out now won't you.
A great storyline with lots of laughs. Treat this book as it is a Sci-fi book with comedy in it and you will love every second of it. Want something more than find another book - this is sci-fi captain but not as we know it!
The Android's Dream by John Scalzi
What do you do when the only Alien race you talk to has its diplomat killed through farting. And the killer is someone from your own delegation???? Welll you help them find a missing sheep which will help crown their new leader that's what.
But what do you do if all of the sheep are getting killed off?????? Then you talk to a local pet store owner thats what but there is a catch. How do you tell her that she is a .........well you'll have to read the book to find out now won't you.
A great storyline with lots of laughs. Treat this book as it is a Sci-fi book with comedy in it and you will love every second of it. Want something more than find another book - this is sci-fi captain but not as we know it!
12StuartAston
Book 11
Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein
A human child born on Mars....is he Marsian or Human? How does a world deal with him and all the baggage that comes with such an arrival on Earth.
How the world dealt with Valentine Michael Smith varied. The gov't started with suspicion - legally he was due money and royalties that made him rich beyod his wildest dreams. The people who he came to know as friends treated him as a child who needed to learn eveything, language, culture, the people etc. and then put them into practice.
The world that depended they built him up to a god and when you are at the top there is only one place to go. A god or a Cult - someone to be scared of or someone to learn from. And even at the end is there more from Mike to come but in ways that now no-one can control.
A true Sci-fi book which after 40 years since it was published/written does not show its age - apart from in some of the language used. A bit long winded in places with the stuff about God and how the World is seen though - but definately worth the read as a Sci-Fi classic.
Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein
A human child born on Mars....is he Marsian or Human? How does a world deal with him and all the baggage that comes with such an arrival on Earth.
How the world dealt with Valentine Michael Smith varied. The gov't started with suspicion - legally he was due money and royalties that made him rich beyod his wildest dreams. The people who he came to know as friends treated him as a child who needed to learn eveything, language, culture, the people etc. and then put them into practice.
The world that depended they built him up to a god and when you are at the top there is only one place to go. A god or a Cult - someone to be scared of or someone to learn from. And even at the end is there more from Mike to come but in ways that now no-one can control.
A true Sci-fi book which after 40 years since it was published/written does not show its age - apart from in some of the language used. A bit long winded in places with the stuff about God and how the World is seen though - but definately worth the read as a Sci-Fi classic.
13StuartAston
Book 12
Snuff by Terry Pratchett
Commander Sam Vines on holiday....leaving Ankh-Morpork.........what is the Discworld coming to!
Though he does take his police badge with him and as every good policeman knows your jurisdiction goes with you when there is a crime. So when he arrives at the family mansion he smells trouble and knows this is not going to be a restful holiday...at least in the eyes of his wife.
Where are all the Goblins going? Why are the Police not in charge and why does the Police Station smell of pig? Trying to stop the Goblins being taken leads to him finding out that the Lords of the Manor are thinking themselves above the law....and of course no one is above the law!
As always Terry Pratchetts book are worth reading for the fun and enjoyment. So don't even think about it twice if you want to buy it buy it....if you have it and want to read it what are you you waiting for!
Snuff by Terry Pratchett
Commander Sam Vines on holiday....leaving Ankh-Morpork.........what is the Discworld coming to!
Though he does take his police badge with him and as every good policeman knows your jurisdiction goes with you when there is a crime. So when he arrives at the family mansion he smells trouble and knows this is not going to be a restful holiday...at least in the eyes of his wife.
Where are all the Goblins going? Why are the Police not in charge and why does the Police Station smell of pig? Trying to stop the Goblins being taken leads to him finding out that the Lords of the Manor are thinking themselves above the law....and of course no one is above the law!
As always Terry Pratchetts book are worth reading for the fun and enjoyment. So don't even think about it twice if you want to buy it buy it....if you have it and want to read it what are you you waiting for!
14StuartAston
Book 13
Between the Assasinations by Aravinf Adiga
Based in the Indian City of Kittur you follow the lives of people in the village and how they cope with the day to day problems.
Religion, class and status are the main areas that come up in each of the lives followed. From following the local baggage handler at the train station who rose up from the local coffee shop through to the local delivery boy who goes round on his pedal bike delivering furniture. Each person has dreams, each persons dreams are shattered and knocked to the dusty ground. But each time they stand back up, dust themselves down and start again.
They know in the back of their minds the truth that this is there life....but dreaming is the only thing that can make the truth bearable.
A well written book which just flows as you go through it. Each person seems real to you and not just a character on the pages. One definately to add to your collections!
Between the Assasinations by Aravinf Adiga
Based in the Indian City of Kittur you follow the lives of people in the village and how they cope with the day to day problems.
Religion, class and status are the main areas that come up in each of the lives followed. From following the local baggage handler at the train station who rose up from the local coffee shop through to the local delivery boy who goes round on his pedal bike delivering furniture. Each person has dreams, each persons dreams are shattered and knocked to the dusty ground. But each time they stand back up, dust themselves down and start again.
They know in the back of their minds the truth that this is there life....but dreaming is the only thing that can make the truth bearable.
A well written book which just flows as you go through it. Each person seems real to you and not just a character on the pages. One definately to add to your collections!
15StuartAston
Book 14
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux
The story is based around the Paris Opera House and Christine Daae who is at times a normal singer and then others the best in the world. How can she be so good at times and not others - who is The Voice that gives her lessons.
Christine thinks it is The Angel of Music who her father told her about on his deathbed while the Opera staff talk of the Opera Ghost. However as time goes on the Viscount of Chagny comes to different conclusions. Thanks to the Persian he finds out who the Phantom is and how he is ruling over the Opera with fear. A fear which leads to the managers following a rule book given to them by the Ghost through to people being found dead amongst the old sets.
But has he found out the answers too late. Can he save Christine who through her last performance disappears from the stage with no help apart from the Persian?
An old classic but definately one thats hold your attention all the way through!
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux
The story is based around the Paris Opera House and Christine Daae who is at times a normal singer and then others the best in the world. How can she be so good at times and not others - who is The Voice that gives her lessons.
Christine thinks it is The Angel of Music who her father told her about on his deathbed while the Opera staff talk of the Opera Ghost. However as time goes on the Viscount of Chagny comes to different conclusions. Thanks to the Persian he finds out who the Phantom is and how he is ruling over the Opera with fear. A fear which leads to the managers following a rule book given to them by the Ghost through to people being found dead amongst the old sets.
But has he found out the answers too late. Can he save Christine who through her last performance disappears from the stage with no help apart from the Persian?
An old classic but definately one thats hold your attention all the way through!
16StuartAston
Book 15
1Q84: Volume 1 and 2 by Haruki Murakami
After finishing this book I was wondering how to describe it....there is the boy seeks girl storyline between Tengo and Aomame. There is the cult aspect which is raised by the book which Tengo is talked into converting into a bestseller and the girl who turns up to the safe house where Aomame is involved with. There is the mystical aspect from the little people and the Air Chrysalis' which they create.....and of course there are the two moons which appear when you are in the alternative Tokyo of 1984.
Makes you want to read the second book. Will Tengo and Aomame meet. WIll her deal with the Leader save him even if it means that she does not. On how do the Little People tie into the cult - I guess I need to read the next book :-)
1Q84: Volume 1 and 2 by Haruki Murakami
After finishing this book I was wondering how to describe it....there is the boy seeks girl storyline between Tengo and Aomame. There is the cult aspect which is raised by the book which Tengo is talked into converting into a bestseller and the girl who turns up to the safe house where Aomame is involved with. There is the mystical aspect from the little people and the Air Chrysalis' which they create.....and of course there are the two moons which appear when you are in the alternative Tokyo of 1984.
Makes you want to read the second book. Will Tengo and Aomame meet. WIll her deal with the Leader save him even if it means that she does not. On how do the Little People tie into the cult - I guess I need to read the next book :-)
17StuartAston
Book 16
Homer and Langley by E.L. Doctrow
This story follows the brothers Collyer after the death of their parents in 1918. Homer is blind and relies on his brother Langley who, after returning from the war, becomes more and more eccentric. This eccentricity expands to include Homer as the house and their name moves from being respected to being a joke within the neighbourhood.
From being used as a dance room during the war through to housing an injured gangster and then being a place for hippies to sleep you see the brothers become more introspective and believe the world is against them. They start trying to break from society by getting an old car into the house to try and run for electricity but ultimately society and the norm drag them back into its grip. And, ultimately, have a hand in the end of their days.
A good book to read it is a journal of the life of two brothers who's problems becom reality to them in the end.
Homer and Langley by E.L. Doctrow
This story follows the brothers Collyer after the death of their parents in 1918. Homer is blind and relies on his brother Langley who, after returning from the war, becomes more and more eccentric. This eccentricity expands to include Homer as the house and their name moves from being respected to being a joke within the neighbourhood.
From being used as a dance room during the war through to housing an injured gangster and then being a place for hippies to sleep you see the brothers become more introspective and believe the world is against them. They start trying to break from society by getting an old car into the house to try and run for electricity but ultimately society and the norm drag them back into its grip. And, ultimately, have a hand in the end of their days.
A good book to read it is a journal of the life of two brothers who's problems becom reality to them in the end.
18StuartAston
Book 17
Gone by Mo Hayder
Why are children being abducted by someone in a Santa Mask? What is the connection between them - different race, age economic background.......it means that Jack Caffrey cannot find an angle to catch the abducter. And with two girls out there missing he needs to before it is too late.
A tried and tested story of abduction and the the police try to solve this to get the girls back in time. This is part of the series of books with the characters of Caffrey and Marley in - but it stands by itself as a story so it does not matter if this is the first one you read (any references made to earlier books you wets your appetite to buy them as well!). But as the books comes to the conclusion there are a few good twists......it is not the girls he is after but...nah can't say it would spoil it. Also the prime suspect is not the prime suspect because......nope you know the routine you need to read it to find out. But you won't be disappointed :-)
Gone by Mo Hayder
Why are children being abducted by someone in a Santa Mask? What is the connection between them - different race, age economic background.......it means that Jack Caffrey cannot find an angle to catch the abducter. And with two girls out there missing he needs to before it is too late.
A tried and tested story of abduction and the the police try to solve this to get the girls back in time. This is part of the series of books with the characters of Caffrey and Marley in - but it stands by itself as a story so it does not matter if this is the first one you read (any references made to earlier books you wets your appetite to buy them as well!). But as the books comes to the conclusion there are a few good twists......it is not the girls he is after but...nah can't say it would spoil it. Also the prime suspect is not the prime suspect because......nope you know the routine you need to read it to find out. But you won't be disappointed :-)
19StuartAston
Book 18
An Election by John Scalzi
Way way way to short........I wanted more.
How can a human candidate for the council election beat the local candidates when humans are the minority group in the area. Well it can only happen by luck all of which happens in this 24 pager. One candidate eats the local pets the other candidate is only there because her sister is and the others.....ah you have to read it. For a quick hour (and this is pushing it) fun read this is the book.
It could have been made into something so much longer and I would hope that maybe oh maybe if it is not already written it would be a great book to see how the winning candidates first term in office went. But who was the winning candidate? You need to read it to find out :-)
An Election by John Scalzi
Way way way to short........I wanted more.
How can a human candidate for the council election beat the local candidates when humans are the minority group in the area. Well it can only happen by luck all of which happens in this 24 pager. One candidate eats the local pets the other candidate is only there because her sister is and the others.....ah you have to read it. For a quick hour (and this is pushing it) fun read this is the book.
It could have been made into something so much longer and I would hope that maybe oh maybe if it is not already written it would be a great book to see how the winning candidates first term in office went. But who was the winning candidate? You need to read it to find out :-)
20StuartAston
Book 19
1Q84: Book 3 by Haruki Murakami
The third book picks up where Book 2 leaves off. Aomame and Tengo still have not found each other but the net around them is closing in. Aomame is sure she is pregnant but how it happened is something that, even though she has ideas, is still not fully known to her.
However Ushikawa's investigation is starting to close around them....he has made the connection between Tengo and Aomame but he still waits to see whether his hunting will lead to him delivering her to Sagikake. At the moment though only he knows what he is doing.....will this secrecy be his downfall?
The NHK collector knocks on the doors, the little people are tracking down The Leaders killer, and the two moons in the sky are the only thing in this world to show it is different. But will the heroes of this story find their way back to their own world or at least a world which is safe?
Book 3 is as good as the other two and with the normal style of Murakami has a little kick in the tail. One just enough to make you wonder :-)
1Q84: Book 3 by Haruki Murakami
The third book picks up where Book 2 leaves off. Aomame and Tengo still have not found each other but the net around them is closing in. Aomame is sure she is pregnant but how it happened is something that, even though she has ideas, is still not fully known to her.
However Ushikawa's investigation is starting to close around them....he has made the connection between Tengo and Aomame but he still waits to see whether his hunting will lead to him delivering her to Sagikake. At the moment though only he knows what he is doing.....will this secrecy be his downfall?
The NHK collector knocks on the doors, the little people are tracking down The Leaders killer, and the two moons in the sky are the only thing in this world to show it is different. But will the heroes of this story find their way back to their own world or at least a world which is safe?
Book 3 is as good as the other two and with the normal style of Murakami has a little kick in the tail. One just enough to make you wonder :-)
21StuartAston
Book 20
The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo
The third book in the series sees Harry Hole trying to find his way as an Inspector in POT after a shooting while looking after the President of the US.
While his new boss wants him hidden in a side office he gets involved in trying to find why a powerful gun has been sold in Norway and also who to. The only link is the Neo Nazi released after his case collapsed. Who was he the middle man for on the sale.....and who is the mysterious The Prince?
While the murders escalate the story of the group of comrades in World War II comes to light. But is the mysterious Daniel the killer? And who will be the final target be to bring the killings to an end?
The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo
The third book in the series sees Harry Hole trying to find his way as an Inspector in POT after a shooting while looking after the President of the US.
While his new boss wants him hidden in a side office he gets involved in trying to find why a powerful gun has been sold in Norway and also who to. The only link is the Neo Nazi released after his case collapsed. Who was he the middle man for on the sale.....and who is the mysterious The Prince?
While the murders escalate the story of the group of comrades in World War II comes to light. But is the mysterious Daniel the killer? And who will be the final target be to bring the killings to an end?
22StuartAston
Book 21 - Early Bird Review
The Donors by Jeffrey Wilson
What happens to those that rob, beat up and generally are bad people?
In this hospital they are taken away to another world to be a donor. But not in the sense of what you believe.
If you are visited by The Lizard Men be careful as you have been bad...very bad. And they will make you pay. Bit by bit.........as they make you wish you had not done anything wrong in the first place.
But as there power grows so does their wish to get more donors. Who can stop them? Who is the innocent who believes enough to stop them and save everyone?
The Lizard Men need one last donor but the fight is one to stop them. But who will succeed in this good old fashioned good v evil finale!
Okay you have to suspend belief but that is half the fun when reading books isn't it. Once that is done then the rest is plain sailing...characters are believable the storyline is not overstretched.....and the end is a......now for that you will need to read the book now won't you! :-)
The Donors by Jeffrey Wilson
What happens to those that rob, beat up and generally are bad people?
In this hospital they are taken away to another world to be a donor. But not in the sense of what you believe.
If you are visited by The Lizard Men be careful as you have been bad...very bad. And they will make you pay. Bit by bit.........as they make you wish you had not done anything wrong in the first place.
But as there power grows so does their wish to get more donors. Who can stop them? Who is the innocent who believes enough to stop them and save everyone?
The Lizard Men need one last donor but the fight is one to stop them. But who will succeed in this good old fashioned good v evil finale!
Okay you have to suspend belief but that is half the fun when reading books isn't it. Once that is done then the rest is plain sailing...characters are believable the storyline is not overstretched.....and the end is a......now for that you will need to read the book now won't you! :-)
23StuartAston
Book 22
Necronomicon by H.P. Lovecraft
This books brings together the short stories of H. P. Lovecraft under one cover and at 800+ pages it is heavy going in more than one way.
It is a mixture of stories which sometimes show their age. Some are just not scarey (but would have been in their day), some are just confusing to read but some also make you look over your shoulder when you read them late on an evening.
I can never change books mid flow (even short stories) but I would say maybe break this up about half way with something else. Towards the end the stories, in places, started to show similarities so it is good to step back and read part 2 nice and fresh!
Necronomicon by H.P. Lovecraft
This books brings together the short stories of H. P. Lovecraft under one cover and at 800+ pages it is heavy going in more than one way.
It is a mixture of stories which sometimes show their age. Some are just not scarey (but would have been in their day), some are just confusing to read but some also make you look over your shoulder when you read them late on an evening.
I can never change books mid flow (even short stories) but I would say maybe break this up about half way with something else. Towards the end the stories, in places, started to show similarities so it is good to step back and read part 2 nice and fresh!
24StuartAston
Book 23
The Void by Brett J. Talley
As space travel grows and the distances expand so humans find that the only way to get to the end of the universe is to sleep through the journey. But with the sleep come the dreams and they are not nice dreams.......
They stay with you and haunt you when you awake. They make you crazy and the ultimate way to end the dreams is to take your own life. But there is no alternative to the sleep...or is there?
As the crew of the Chronos leave on their maiden mission they do not know that they will come across a ship that is being searched for by the government. Does this ship hold the future of space travel? Or is it the gateway of the dreams people suffer. As every crew member live through their nightmares though it is known that not both ships can survive.........
It is a horror story set in space - it may sound an odd mix but one that works very well. I have only just finished reading H.P. Lovecraft and reading the blurb on this book he was mentioned multiple times. And as you read the book you can see where the Talley has used those ideas of Lovecraft and moved them onto a new level. A great book and one that had me turning the electronic pages right to the end!
The Void by Brett J. Talley
As space travel grows and the distances expand so humans find that the only way to get to the end of the universe is to sleep through the journey. But with the sleep come the dreams and they are not nice dreams.......
They stay with you and haunt you when you awake. They make you crazy and the ultimate way to end the dreams is to take your own life. But there is no alternative to the sleep...or is there?
As the crew of the Chronos leave on their maiden mission they do not know that they will come across a ship that is being searched for by the government. Does this ship hold the future of space travel? Or is it the gateway of the dreams people suffer. As every crew member live through their nightmares though it is known that not both ships can survive.........
It is a horror story set in space - it may sound an odd mix but one that works very well. I have only just finished reading H.P. Lovecraft and reading the blurb on this book he was mentioned multiple times. And as you read the book you can see where the Talley has used those ideas of Lovecraft and moved them onto a new level. A great book and one that had me turning the electronic pages right to the end!
25StuartAston
Book 24
Alone in Berlin by Hans Fallada
How do you deal with the death of your son in Nazi Germany? You are subject to the Fuhrers rules and if you break them the future is bleak and short. But as the Quangels find out when their son is killed at the front their last vestige of belief in Hitler and his cause die as well.
They set about trying to share their new belief with the rest of Berlin by leaving messages on Postcards around Berlin. They don't know if they succeed and they don't know if they will survive but if only one card gets read and past on then the resistance will grow. However their cards end up with the Gestapo and their chase for the "Hobgoblin" begins. Who will succeed in this war between the Quangels and the Nazi structure in this struggle - and how many victims will fall in between to stop these postcards, just one a week, being left.
A powerful book about the awakening of the people of Germany against the machine of the Nazi's. Also the power that the structure held over everyones thoughts and deeds. The whole land worked for the greater good - even if this greater good would destroy at their whim.
A book which once you start you will not want to put down. But one you should read.
Alone in Berlin by Hans Fallada
How do you deal with the death of your son in Nazi Germany? You are subject to the Fuhrers rules and if you break them the future is bleak and short. But as the Quangels find out when their son is killed at the front their last vestige of belief in Hitler and his cause die as well.
They set about trying to share their new belief with the rest of Berlin by leaving messages on Postcards around Berlin. They don't know if they succeed and they don't know if they will survive but if only one card gets read and past on then the resistance will grow. However their cards end up with the Gestapo and their chase for the "Hobgoblin" begins. Who will succeed in this war between the Quangels and the Nazi structure in this struggle - and how many victims will fall in between to stop these postcards, just one a week, being left.
A powerful book about the awakening of the people of Germany against the machine of the Nazi's. Also the power that the structure held over everyones thoughts and deeds. The whole land worked for the greater good - even if this greater good would destroy at their whim.
A book which once you start you will not want to put down. But one you should read.
26StuartAston
Book 25
Priestess of the Eggstone by Jaleta Clegg
This story follows Dace in her wish to escape her previous dealings with the Patrol by owning her own ship and having her own life. This starts by captaining the ship Twinkle for the courier company Beliff who turn out to be running illegal items through space and her new co-pilot is running from a species of aliens from who he stole their Eggstone. And until this is returned they will kill anything or anyone in their way.....life does not seem to be going in the right direction now does it.
This is the second book in the series which you pick up on as references are made to her previous run ins with the Patrol and the fact that Tayvis is following her to bring her back for one last mission. However this does not fully impact on the story in this book. The story revolves around getting the stone back to the Sessimoniss which does come at a cost to Dace as she has to share the life of the stone and also her past with it to help everyone escape.
A bit obvious in places (i.e. the jealousy between Jerimon and Tayvis) and the fact that the story was leading to a third book from about the last third did not really spoil the read for me. But to be honest it was not the sort of book that will make me chase down the first story and the third one. Sorry Jaleta it was just not really not my cup of tea I'm afraid. :-(
Priestess of the Eggstone by Jaleta Clegg
This story follows Dace in her wish to escape her previous dealings with the Patrol by owning her own ship and having her own life. This starts by captaining the ship Twinkle for the courier company Beliff who turn out to be running illegal items through space and her new co-pilot is running from a species of aliens from who he stole their Eggstone. And until this is returned they will kill anything or anyone in their way.....life does not seem to be going in the right direction now does it.
This is the second book in the series which you pick up on as references are made to her previous run ins with the Patrol and the fact that Tayvis is following her to bring her back for one last mission. However this does not fully impact on the story in this book. The story revolves around getting the stone back to the Sessimoniss which does come at a cost to Dace as she has to share the life of the stone and also her past with it to help everyone escape.
A bit obvious in places (i.e. the jealousy between Jerimon and Tayvis) and the fact that the story was leading to a third book from about the last third did not really spoil the read for me. But to be honest it was not the sort of book that will make me chase down the first story and the third one. Sorry Jaleta it was just not really not my cup of tea I'm afraid. :-(
27StuartAston
Book 26
Redaction by Linda Andrews
As the flu pandemic in the US starts to clear people try to get back to a normal life. But how can the food supplies be restored, electricity kept flowing and the structure of a normal human life be started again when the strong begin to take over the weak and rob them for what they need to survive. Also when a new strain hits the US redaction teams are sent out again to collect the bodies - but what is starting it this time? It is again the flu or is there more to it....and where is the link to the fires in China. Are they burning their dead or is it more sinister.
As the world starts to crack and collapse around them a group of survivors get together and find out the new version of the pandemic is even a bigger killer than before. But people are surviving and, even if they don't know why, while there there is this hope there is a future. But as the US President falls prey to the illness even this hope feels a long way away.
A powerful book with the fight for survival taking the forefront. The subplots as well in this book keep the interest going when it moves away from the main characters. Plots which are left open for the obligitary second book - but to be honest there needs to be one. I can't wait to see if, or how, they survive and if the human lobos' in this new world fall foul to the majority of the survivors.
Redaction by Linda Andrews
As the flu pandemic in the US starts to clear people try to get back to a normal life. But how can the food supplies be restored, electricity kept flowing and the structure of a normal human life be started again when the strong begin to take over the weak and rob them for what they need to survive. Also when a new strain hits the US redaction teams are sent out again to collect the bodies - but what is starting it this time? It is again the flu or is there more to it....and where is the link to the fires in China. Are they burning their dead or is it more sinister.
As the world starts to crack and collapse around them a group of survivors get together and find out the new version of the pandemic is even a bigger killer than before. But people are surviving and, even if they don't know why, while there there is this hope there is a future. But as the US President falls prey to the illness even this hope feels a long way away.
A powerful book with the fight for survival taking the forefront. The subplots as well in this book keep the interest going when it moves away from the main characters. Plots which are left open for the obligitary second book - but to be honest there needs to be one. I can't wait to see if, or how, they survive and if the human lobos' in this new world fall foul to the majority of the survivors.
28StuartAston
Book 27
The Devil of Echo Lake by Douglas Wynne
Did Billy Moon sell his soul to the Devil? Was his career based on being linked to Satan?
As he left a gig depressed and ready to end it all he is picked up by Trevor Rail a promotor who believes he can make him a star. He has hits and goes on World Tours but always wonders how did it all happen? What about the people who were left behind by him and the friends he lost in the house fire that occured?
As his career starts to go downhill his record company link him with Trevor again to make a hit album. And the idea of him being the Devil raises to the fore - but how can he be sure? They are based in the Echo Lake recording studio surrounded with history of witches and ghosts which do no help Billys paranoid behaviour. But as Jake (the studio engineer) tries to keep an eye on Billy his promotor seems intent on selling this album as the making of the legend of Billy Moon and this can only happen if something tragic happens.
As the story goes on the truth about the devil comes out while Billy's paranoia takes hold in such a way that he learns the truth of the promotor, makes the record he has always wanted and finds peace for himself and for Jake.
An interesting book if held the attention throughout and had a darkside which, at times, did make you hair on the back of your arms stand on end.
The Devil of Echo Lake by Douglas Wynne
Did Billy Moon sell his soul to the Devil? Was his career based on being linked to Satan?
As he left a gig depressed and ready to end it all he is picked up by Trevor Rail a promotor who believes he can make him a star. He has hits and goes on World Tours but always wonders how did it all happen? What about the people who were left behind by him and the friends he lost in the house fire that occured?
As his career starts to go downhill his record company link him with Trevor again to make a hit album. And the idea of him being the Devil raises to the fore - but how can he be sure? They are based in the Echo Lake recording studio surrounded with history of witches and ghosts which do no help Billys paranoid behaviour. But as Jake (the studio engineer) tries to keep an eye on Billy his promotor seems intent on selling this album as the making of the legend of Billy Moon and this can only happen if something tragic happens.
As the story goes on the truth about the devil comes out while Billy's paranoia takes hold in such a way that he learns the truth of the promotor, makes the record he has always wanted and finds peace for himself and for Jake.
An interesting book if held the attention throughout and had a darkside which, at times, did make you hair on the back of your arms stand on end.
29StuartAston
Catch up list from holiday time......
Book 28 The Song of the Quarkbeast by Jasper Fforde.
2nd book of the trilogy sees Kazam in a magical fight to keep magic free and out of the hands of the King. A definate fun read and well worth the 4.5 score. You can't go wrong with these books :-)
Book 29 How I proposed to my wife: An Alien Sex Story by John Scalzi
Funny, space based story about a magazine article about dating aliens...and how the wrong move lead to the saving of an alien nation and a marriage proposal. Short story which is a shame as I love reading his books and wish on all of these shorter ones they could be longer. A good half hour giggle and then it is read!
Book 30 Nemesis by Jo Nesbo
Part of the Harry Hole series sees him chasing the killer of an old lover who he was with only hours earlier. And someone knows this and is trying to get him to solve the murder or get implicated himself. Every book I read of this series says he is the next Stieg Larsson - this is a different sort of book. A good old fashioned crime series - it stands by itself and he is his own man not the new anyone.
Book 31 Criminal by Karin Slaughter
Murdered students and prostitutes are linked back to crimes in Atlanta 40 years earlier and which bring up the past of Special Agent Will Trent. But will he survive mentally while being able to help find the missing girl. A good book - bit annoying with the flipping back between present day and the 1970's
Book 28 The Song of the Quarkbeast by Jasper Fforde.
2nd book of the trilogy sees Kazam in a magical fight to keep magic free and out of the hands of the King. A definate fun read and well worth the 4.5 score. You can't go wrong with these books :-)
Book 29 How I proposed to my wife: An Alien Sex Story by John Scalzi
Funny, space based story about a magazine article about dating aliens...and how the wrong move lead to the saving of an alien nation and a marriage proposal. Short story which is a shame as I love reading his books and wish on all of these shorter ones they could be longer. A good half hour giggle and then it is read!
Book 30 Nemesis by Jo Nesbo
Part of the Harry Hole series sees him chasing the killer of an old lover who he was with only hours earlier. And someone knows this and is trying to get him to solve the murder or get implicated himself. Every book I read of this series says he is the next Stieg Larsson - this is a different sort of book. A good old fashioned crime series - it stands by itself and he is his own man not the new anyone.
Book 31 Criminal by Karin Slaughter
Murdered students and prostitutes are linked back to crimes in Atlanta 40 years earlier and which bring up the past of Special Agent Will Trent. But will he survive mentally while being able to help find the missing girl. A good book - bit annoying with the flipping back between present day and the 1970's
30StuartAston
Book 32 The Devil's Star by Jo Nesbo
The 5th book in the Harry Hole series sees Harry reaching breaking point. Alcohol has taken control and his life is crumbling. He knows who murdered his colleague but no one will believe him....his relationship with Rakel is suffering.....and his work well he is working notice after the latest drunken binge.
His last case was supposed to be just a missing person but it becomes a hunt for a serial murder. As the clues start to pile up against the jewel smuggler Sven Sivertsen so the police close in on him. Harry starts to think that maybe this is too perfect though and what is perfect is not always right but how to inform his colleagues of this? Tom Waaler seems hell bent on taking Sivertsen down but why? In the end extreme measures are needed to solve the murder of both the missing woman and his colleague. But will this lead to the end of Harry or the Prince.........
Best one I have read so far keeps you turning the pages right to the end as you don't know what will happen in the build up to the finale. Is it all the ramblings or a drunken detective or does he get his justice.
You need to read it to find out :-)
The 5th book in the Harry Hole series sees Harry reaching breaking point. Alcohol has taken control and his life is crumbling. He knows who murdered his colleague but no one will believe him....his relationship with Rakel is suffering.....and his work well he is working notice after the latest drunken binge.
His last case was supposed to be just a missing person but it becomes a hunt for a serial murder. As the clues start to pile up against the jewel smuggler Sven Sivertsen so the police close in on him. Harry starts to think that maybe this is too perfect though and what is perfect is not always right but how to inform his colleagues of this? Tom Waaler seems hell bent on taking Sivertsen down but why? In the end extreme measures are needed to solve the murder of both the missing woman and his colleague. But will this lead to the end of Harry or the Prince.........
Best one I have read so far keeps you turning the pages right to the end as you don't know what will happen in the build up to the finale. Is it all the ramblings or a drunken detective or does he get his justice.
You need to read it to find out :-)
31StuartAston
Book 32
The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
I don't normally read non-fiction and this has been sitting on my book shelf for a while now but, once I started, I couldn't put it down.
The book covers the South American economies of the 70's, Thatchers UK in the 80's, the Asian financial crisis of 1997 throug to the occupation of Iraq. It covers how the CIA tested out ideas of shock therapy on people to re-build them and how this was used on economies in need of support or in some cases of regime change (though the latter was aways in the eyes of America).
The idea was to bring great "improvements" there had to be a major event that caused so much shock to allow governments to be able to do whatever they wanted (i.e. 9/11). The books shows cases such as this and even though the poorest suffered and the large companies gained this never stopped the IMF putting this forward each time as the solution to get money.
While reading this book the Euro crisis rumbles on....Greece is protesting about cuts and the IMF loan money but want a more open society where privatisation occurs. And as you read the book you can link each happening in Greece to what you are reading. Scarey but you see how the wheels of the world are working. Definately worth the read.
The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
I don't normally read non-fiction and this has been sitting on my book shelf for a while now but, once I started, I couldn't put it down.
The book covers the South American economies of the 70's, Thatchers UK in the 80's, the Asian financial crisis of 1997 throug to the occupation of Iraq. It covers how the CIA tested out ideas of shock therapy on people to re-build them and how this was used on economies in need of support or in some cases of regime change (though the latter was aways in the eyes of America).
The idea was to bring great "improvements" there had to be a major event that caused so much shock to allow governments to be able to do whatever they wanted (i.e. 9/11). The books shows cases such as this and even though the poorest suffered and the large companies gained this never stopped the IMF putting this forward each time as the solution to get money.
While reading this book the Euro crisis rumbles on....Greece is protesting about cuts and the IMF loan money but want a more open society where privatisation occurs. And as you read the book you can link each happening in Greece to what you are reading. Scarey but you see how the wheels of the world are working. Definately worth the read.
32StuartAston
Book 33
Craving by Kristina Meister
After the death by suicide of her sister Lilleth Pierce arrives to get answers. However from the start she gets more questions and confusion thrown at her than she knows how to deal with.
How can she have met the the detective assigned to her sisters death and arrive there just as the body comes in. How can she seem to know everything that is going to happen before it occurs and who is the stranger at her sister funeral?
As the truth unfolds she gets deeper and deeper into the murky past of the local nightclub a front for rituals of blood letting and the search for eternal life. But how does this link to the gentler side of side of the religion she is becoming to believe in and be a major part of?
An interesting book and a proper good v evil storyline which gives enough twists in the plot to cover over the fact that, every now and again, philisophy and questions are repeated a bit too often.
The ending with them leaving on a road trip is a bit too American for me though but does open the way for future stories. An idea which I think would work for a while as there is enough life in this group and idea to bring a few more books to life!
Craving by Kristina Meister
After the death by suicide of her sister Lilleth Pierce arrives to get answers. However from the start she gets more questions and confusion thrown at her than she knows how to deal with.
How can she have met the the detective assigned to her sisters death and arrive there just as the body comes in. How can she seem to know everything that is going to happen before it occurs and who is the stranger at her sister funeral?
As the truth unfolds she gets deeper and deeper into the murky past of the local nightclub a front for rituals of blood letting and the search for eternal life. But how does this link to the gentler side of side of the religion she is becoming to believe in and be a major part of?
An interesting book and a proper good v evil storyline which gives enough twists in the plot to cover over the fact that, every now and again, philisophy and questions are repeated a bit too often.
The ending with them leaving on a road trip is a bit too American for me though but does open the way for future stories. An idea which I think would work for a while as there is enough life in this group and idea to bring a few more books to life!
33StuartAston
Book 34
The Calligrapher's Secret by Rafik Schami
This book follows the lives of Hamdi Farsi a master of calligraphy, his wife Noura and the Christian pauper Salman. In Damascus any move to try and bring Arabic to a modern level is frowned upon and so when Farsi tries to do this attempts are made to stop him. To find out what he is doing though the pauper Salman is found a job in his shop. Neither know what is happening, Salman thinks he is being helped by a kindly bar owner while Farsi sees a boy trying to better himself.
But as time goes on and the plans laid by Farsi are stopped then the truth starts to dawn....someone is feeding people his secrets and plans.
While this happens a love grows between Salman and Noura which they have to keep hidden. A love between a Muslim and a Christian in Damascus is something that cannot be known. In the end they leave but the blame comes onto a local businessman who is known to have many lovers. A blame which drives Farsi over the edge....but will he survive to modernise his language. Will the lovers be able to escape safely and why are the Pure Ones so against the changes in the language.
This book just flows from beginning to end. It is an easy read as from the start the characters are beleivable and detailed. At a certain point you begin to wonder how they are all tied together though but the secret is revealed soon after....it is like the author knows wheni it should happen. And that point rotates around the dog.
If you start this book you won't want to stop and when you get towards the end you'll try to slow down to make it last longer.
The Calligrapher's Secret by Rafik Schami
This book follows the lives of Hamdi Farsi a master of calligraphy, his wife Noura and the Christian pauper Salman. In Damascus any move to try and bring Arabic to a modern level is frowned upon and so when Farsi tries to do this attempts are made to stop him. To find out what he is doing though the pauper Salman is found a job in his shop. Neither know what is happening, Salman thinks he is being helped by a kindly bar owner while Farsi sees a boy trying to better himself.
But as time goes on and the plans laid by Farsi are stopped then the truth starts to dawn....someone is feeding people his secrets and plans.
While this happens a love grows between Salman and Noura which they have to keep hidden. A love between a Muslim and a Christian in Damascus is something that cannot be known. In the end they leave but the blame comes onto a local businessman who is known to have many lovers. A blame which drives Farsi over the edge....but will he survive to modernise his language. Will the lovers be able to escape safely and why are the Pure Ones so against the changes in the language.
This book just flows from beginning to end. It is an easy read as from the start the characters are beleivable and detailed. At a certain point you begin to wonder how they are all tied together though but the secret is revealed soon after....it is like the author knows wheni it should happen. And that point rotates around the dog.
If you start this book you won't want to stop and when you get towards the end you'll try to slow down to make it last longer.
34StuartAston
Book 35
A Slow Cold Death by Susy Cage
Lori Barrow the Wunderkind of STI is going home. She has got tenure at the unversity she thinks of as home so what can go wrong?
She arrives to a dying department which is in need of help. But everyone that tries to change it finds themselves dead or, in the case of her new colleague, injured badly. But still the people who have brought her in want her to change the course of the department - win the largest grant that the department has gone for and change the future. And also rub the noses of the LEPERS in it at the same time!
As the deadline for the proposal looms the killer tries once again to stop them. Her notes are stolen, the delivery van is blown up and she is arrested and jailed overnight. But who is behind this....Kusno her boss? Tripp the manager of the LEPERs? or vna Gunberen her old mentor?
A good book which is easy to read and has a good flowing storyline. The background history on some of the characters was a bit light but this does not take away from the enjoyment. And who wins......well you'll just have to read the book now won't you!
A Slow Cold Death by Susy Cage
Lori Barrow the Wunderkind of STI is going home. She has got tenure at the unversity she thinks of as home so what can go wrong?
She arrives to a dying department which is in need of help. But everyone that tries to change it finds themselves dead or, in the case of her new colleague, injured badly. But still the people who have brought her in want her to change the course of the department - win the largest grant that the department has gone for and change the future. And also rub the noses of the LEPERS in it at the same time!
As the deadline for the proposal looms the killer tries once again to stop them. Her notes are stolen, the delivery van is blown up and she is arrested and jailed overnight. But who is behind this....Kusno her boss? Tripp the manager of the LEPERs? or vna Gunberen her old mentor?
A good book which is easy to read and has a good flowing storyline. The background history on some of the characters was a bit light but this does not take away from the enjoyment. And who wins......well you'll just have to read the book now won't you!
35StuartAston
Book 36
Way to Go by Alan Spence
If ever you want to read about death in a different way then read this book. It follows Neil McGraw as he takes over the funeral home after the death of his father. While deciding whether he wants to carry on with the family business he helps bury a local who wanted to be buried by his father. From there he sees that he can be a confort to people and as time moves on rather than just be there to help with death but help celebrate the life that those people have led.
From designing coffins in the shape of animals for kids to a burial at sea from a plane he makes the last wishes of the departed a reality. And in the meantime becomes a local celebrity which gains him offers to buy him out from the national pile them high and get them buried competition.
In the end the time comes to think about his own passing and how it should be.
This is a book that while sad will bring a smile to your face at the same time. It is well worth the read if for nothing else that it brings the idea of celebrating life to the fore.
Way to Go by Alan Spence
If ever you want to read about death in a different way then read this book. It follows Neil McGraw as he takes over the funeral home after the death of his father. While deciding whether he wants to carry on with the family business he helps bury a local who wanted to be buried by his father. From there he sees that he can be a confort to people and as time moves on rather than just be there to help with death but help celebrate the life that those people have led.
From designing coffins in the shape of animals for kids to a burial at sea from a plane he makes the last wishes of the departed a reality. And in the meantime becomes a local celebrity which gains him offers to buy him out from the national pile them high and get them buried competition.
In the end the time comes to think about his own passing and how it should be.
This is a book that while sad will bring a smile to your face at the same time. It is well worth the read if for nothing else that it brings the idea of celebrating life to the fore.
36StuartAston
Book 37
Reamde by Neal Stephenson
How to describe this book? Covers a lot of places in 1042 pages which does not make it easy to give a brief overview over.
Okay....the owner of a computer game company, who earnt his money by drug running, is only holiday with family. His nieces boyfriend while there meets up with a shasy character for who he sells credit card details to....which is to be used to fund the Russian Mafia.
This goes wrong as the CD with the details on has the Reamde virus which locks the information and will only be released once a fee is paid via the Computer games the nieces uncle owns. This leads to the Russians and the niece and the boyfriend going to China to find those running this scam.
This search leads them to being involved in terrorists based out of the same building....which in turn leads to a MI6 operation being ruined. Which in turn leads to a final gun battle in the US where it is basically winner takes all. And the prize being that you live!
Did I cover everything.....no chance. Did I give away a lot of the storyline...nope just the basics (yep there is even more involved).
Cracking book and well worth the shoulder ache treking it to work in my bag every day :-)
Reamde by Neal Stephenson
How to describe this book? Covers a lot of places in 1042 pages which does not make it easy to give a brief overview over.
Okay....the owner of a computer game company, who earnt his money by drug running, is only holiday with family. His nieces boyfriend while there meets up with a shasy character for who he sells credit card details to....which is to be used to fund the Russian Mafia.
This goes wrong as the CD with the details on has the Reamde virus which locks the information and will only be released once a fee is paid via the Computer games the nieces uncle owns. This leads to the Russians and the niece and the boyfriend going to China to find those running this scam.
This search leads them to being involved in terrorists based out of the same building....which in turn leads to a MI6 operation being ruined. Which in turn leads to a final gun battle in the US where it is basically winner takes all. And the prize being that you live!
Did I cover everything.....no chance. Did I give away a lot of the storyline...nope just the basics (yep there is even more involved).
Cracking book and well worth the shoulder ache treking it to work in my bag every day :-)
37StuartAston
Book 38
The Lightbringers by H.C.H. Ritz
This book reminded me of George Orwells 1984
Set in 2074 New America now runs on postive thinking. Wall Screens share Happy News and people are told to ask for help if there are any thoughts which do not meet the new states Happy Criteria. President Martha led until the 2nd President Martha came to power. And if anyone cannot cope they are sent away never to be seen again except a postcard to colleagues and family saying that they have left for a stay in California.
Underground though are the Zenizens. Those who rob, steal, fight and drink. Do everything that the New American government frown upon. They are policed by the DAA a group which does not exist and are run by Zenizens as the idea you need to be a thief to catch a thief runs rife through this groups leadership.
And then their are The Lightbringers. A group of, what the New America government would call Terrorists, people who see that both groups are right....to a point. You need to be able to use both sides to see the full person and are trying to show this point of view to New America bit by bit.
A powerstruggle grows throughout the book as people begin to understand more of the feelings which are hidden from them by government and learn to deal with them. The Lightbringers learn to deal with the fact the decisions at times though wrong lead to the greater good, the zenizens learn of forgiveness and try to come to terms with it. While the government learn that secrets are not always best.
The Lightbringers by H.C.H. Ritz
This book reminded me of George Orwells 1984
Set in 2074 New America now runs on postive thinking. Wall Screens share Happy News and people are told to ask for help if there are any thoughts which do not meet the new states Happy Criteria. President Martha led until the 2nd President Martha came to power. And if anyone cannot cope they are sent away never to be seen again except a postcard to colleagues and family saying that they have left for a stay in California.
Underground though are the Zenizens. Those who rob, steal, fight and drink. Do everything that the New American government frown upon. They are policed by the DAA a group which does not exist and are run by Zenizens as the idea you need to be a thief to catch a thief runs rife through this groups leadership.
And then their are The Lightbringers. A group of, what the New America government would call Terrorists, people who see that both groups are right....to a point. You need to be able to use both sides to see the full person and are trying to show this point of view to New America bit by bit.
A powerstruggle grows throughout the book as people begin to understand more of the feelings which are hidden from them by government and learn to deal with them. The Lightbringers learn to deal with the fact the decisions at times though wrong lead to the greater good, the zenizens learn of forgiveness and try to come to terms with it. While the government learn that secrets are not always best.
38StuartAston
Book 39
Reggiecide by Chris Dolley
To save Queen and Empire for the re-awakened corpse of Guy Fawkes is the aim of Reginald Worcester.
That is alongside Reeves (his steampowered butler) and Emeliene (his fiance) as even after a few Cocktails Reginald is not the sharpest knife in the box (whatever he thinks to the contrary) and so needs all the help he can get.
But is Guy Fawkes the only Regicide brought back to life and by who and for what dastardly reason? Read on to find out it will be worth it I promise!
Reggiecide by Chris Dolley
To save Queen and Empire for the re-awakened corpse of Guy Fawkes is the aim of Reginald Worcester.
That is alongside Reeves (his steampowered butler) and Emeliene (his fiance) as even after a few Cocktails Reginald is not the sharpest knife in the box (whatever he thinks to the contrary) and so needs all the help he can get.
But is Guy Fawkes the only Regicide brought back to life and by who and for what dastardly reason? Read on to find out it will be worth it I promise!
39StuartAston
Book 40
The Ambassador's Mission by Trudi Canavan
20 years later and Sonea is still being watched. Even as a black magician she is not trusted as she came from the lowies and not the rich upper class of the city. Cery is also older and is now wondering who the Thief Murderer is especially as he seems to be the next target when they attack his home.
As they track through the city to find the murderer they come across Rogue Magicians and Roet sellers which lead to the capture of a strong magician but not the murderer they are in league with. However there are links between the magician and the new thief on the block.....and how does the supposedly trustworthy Black Magician who watches over Sonea become involved in this?
Meanwhile Lorkin, Soneas son, leaves to be an Ambassadors assistant. In itself a quiet task until he goes to the land where his mother and father are seen as killers. How will he keep from being killed in this land - and will he be able to survive being with the Traitors and sell them the idea to trust him and the Guild.
The first of three books this new trilogy carries on from the Black Magicians Trilogy. You don't need to have read this first as, so far, not many big references are made to it (though this may change later) but it does jhelp. And you will enjoy them as well :-)
The Ambassador's Mission by Trudi Canavan
20 years later and Sonea is still being watched. Even as a black magician she is not trusted as she came from the lowies and not the rich upper class of the city. Cery is also older and is now wondering who the Thief Murderer is especially as he seems to be the next target when they attack his home.
As they track through the city to find the murderer they come across Rogue Magicians and Roet sellers which lead to the capture of a strong magician but not the murderer they are in league with. However there are links between the magician and the new thief on the block.....and how does the supposedly trustworthy Black Magician who watches over Sonea become involved in this?
Meanwhile Lorkin, Soneas son, leaves to be an Ambassadors assistant. In itself a quiet task until he goes to the land where his mother and father are seen as killers. How will he keep from being killed in this land - and will he be able to survive being with the Traitors and sell them the idea to trust him and the Guild.
The first of three books this new trilogy carries on from the Black Magicians Trilogy. You don't need to have read this first as, so far, not many big references are made to it (though this may change later) but it does jhelp. And you will enjoy them as well :-)
