Whisper1(Linda) Thread #6

BOOK#58


Gilead by Marilynne Robinson

This is a uniquely special book. I'll write a review later. For now, I highly recommend this one!

Linda - just bought the same version of the book - with all the positive reviews I'm really looking forward to it. Congrats on your latest thread. x

Linda - Nice new thread! I have not read Gilead but have seen it make many of the top ten lists that have been posted lately. I eagerly await your review. Please give Lily my love.

I had this on my investigate t
list for a while. Maybe i should get to it.

See you Saturday!

I'm glad you liked Gilead, Linda. It was one of my favorites the year that I read it. Have you read Home?

I've had that book rec'd to me by many many people, so maybe I should bump it up my TBR list?

Thanks for the pictures, and I hope you had a lovely and restorative weekend!

Hi Linda, checking into your new thread and looking forward to your comments about Gilead, it's a book that seems very highly rated by those who have read it, and it's appearing on many of the "Best Of" lists that are cropping up.

Just checking in to see if you'd posted your review yet. Hope today is going well for you.

Hi Linda .. just checking in to your new thread!

Happy New Thread, Linda! Gilead is a wonderful, wonderful page-starter. On to Home - both of us!

Happy to see you highly recommend Gilead. I loved i when I read it last year. I have Home sitting on my TBR bookcase waiting for me....

Hi Linda. I've had Gilead in my to read pile for a while now - glad you enjoyed it so much.

dear Linda

Just a quick stop to say farewell, as I am leaving :-(
The other anti depressant I am on now, has a nasty side effect: again I can't read.
If you need me you can leave a message at my profile.

I'll try to come by now and then, but that will be hard when I can't read myself.
I am glad to have met you and all other wonderful readers here, but alas, goodbye.

love
Anita

Hi Linda! I'll also be waiting for your comments on Gilead

Thanks to all for visiting here. I'm swamped with fiscal year end close on all accounts in the department and am weary of telling everyone just how weary I am.

I haven't read as much as usual, but those I'm reading are good.

Here are some comments regarding Gilead by Marilynne Robinson

BOOK #58



I've struggled to capture my feelings/thoughts regarding this lovely book.

My first impressions were that the book was slow--too slow. Yet, it is the charm of the slowness that captured me and held me still. The meditative nature and lazy hum are analogous to the Rev. Ames who meticulously, softly meanders down memory lane.

Well deserving of the Pulitzer Prize award, I was smitten with the authors ability to write such lovely, lovely prose.

Gilead is narrated by Rev. John Ames whose life is coming to an end. As he ruminates, the reader travels with him on a journey of faith.

Somewhat self absorbed and a trite know it all in nature, still Rev. Ames has many redeeming qualities. He loves his much younger wife and their son. The images he captures are exquisitely, stunningly beautiful. Like light filtering through a gauzy bedroom curtain, the reader feels the need to stop for a few minutes and watch his life as the filters of dust settle on the wooden floors.

His is a journey of faith -- faith lost, faith found and then lost again. As his heart is failing him, he longs for a new body and a new purpose of fulfillment in life and in God.

I confess that in reading this book, the author taught me a few words I never knew:

susurrus -- soft or rustling sound
crepuscular -- pertaining to twilight

These two words succinctly describe the story. As the twilight of his life ended and the next phase occurs, Rev. Ames is transitioning softly -- as soft as autumn leaves as they flutter from the high branches to the low ground.

Highly recommended and destined to be one of my top ten favorites.

Excellent review...of a book that i've been hesitant to read. I loved Housekeeping....because it was about a young girl and her "weird" family. Gilead deals with more difficult issues, and I may be a bit of a coward...who knows?

;-}

BOOK#59


Words of Stone by Kevin Henkes

Ten year old shy, red-haired Blaze Werla is hurting. Losing his mother to cancer has a profound impact on him. Added to the trama is the fact that he was badly burned and scared from a freak carnival accident.

Each year he returns to the ferris wheel hoping he can have the courage to overcome his fears, and each year he fails.

He has a strong support base of a loving father and grandmother, but still his imaginary friends are the ones to whom he turns.

When Joselle Stark arrives in the neighborhood, his life is turned upside down and he struggles to share and develop a relationship with a real life friend.

Abandoned by her near do well mother and dumped at her grandmother's house, Joselle is not exactly the best choice for a trustful friend.

A liar, cheat and sneak by nature, Joselle's insecurities prompt her to harm anyone who tries to befriend her.

While the description I wrote seems simplistic, actually, this book covers many complex issues. It is an ALA Notable Children's Book, a Publishers Weekly Best Book, one of the American Booksellers Association "Pick of the Lists" and a Library of Congerss Children's Book of the Year.

Highly recommended.

Great review of Gilead! I loved it when I read it a couple of years ago. I've got Home in Mt. TBR but haven't managed to find time to read it. yet. I'm a little worried that I'll be disappointed with in comparison to Gilead.

Two very nice reviews, Linda. Sorry that you are so weary. You need time to recover from the stress and swampedness of things lately. Here's hoping that you get the luxury of time all to yourself with nothing to do but relax very soon. (((Linda)))

Great review of Gilead. I have it in a TBR pile at home! Soon! Soon! I must get to it soon!

susurrus -- soft or rustling sound
crepuscular -- pertaining to twilight

yeah... I learn words like this reading Richard's thread, then going to Dictionary.com :P
crepuscular... that one eludes me, always looks like I never saw it before. I like words
like susurrus, that sound like what they are. Like whisper :)

Do take care of you, Linda dear...

Hi Dear Kath

I'm excited. In an hour Will and I leave to meet Cheli and her husband Tim.

How I long to meet up with you. Perhaps this summer we can arrange this...I have lots of hugs for you!

Have fun on your meetup with Cheli, Linda.

Linda, I'm so glad you loved Gilead. You had me worried at the beginning of your review. I was blown away by the quiet wisdom of Pastor Ames. I think you will like Home as well.

Have fun with Cheli. I hope you get a picture or two. I'm looking forward to the time when we meet. Are you still thinking about Joplin in November?

*waving* to Linda

I have got to move Gilead up on my list and read it soon - especially since I own Home now...

Words of Stone looks excellent as well.

Yes, Joplin in November and I'll be there!

I had a lovely, lovely time with Cheli. She is a wonderful, kind, delightful soul! The clock museum was fun!

http://www.nawcc.org/index.php/museumlibrary

The meet up was 1/2 way for each of us -- about two hours.

We had fun and our mates deserve lots of credit for joining us.

I took lots of photos and will post them tomorrow or Monday.

I wish I could find a way to manage a meet up.
It isn't in the picture right now... sometime, I hope!
I would love to meet you! You are a great traveler :)
I look forward to the photos :)

Kath..wonderful things are worth waiting for.

Much love!

Linda, I'm so glad you and Cheli had a good visit. I know she was really looking forward to it. I haven't heard from her yet, but she and Tim were stopping at my Mom's in Baltimore on the way home to take Mom out to dinner. I'm looking forward to the pictures.

Tina

I received a hug from Cheli sent from you...thanks! We had such a lovely time. What a delighful, marvelous and kind person your sister is! But, I'm not telling you anything you don't already know!

Awww, shucks...*** blushing***

So glad you enjoyed Gilead, Linda. I loved it.

And, oh, I've been to that clock museum! Glad you and Cheli had a good visit.

Pickchers? Pickchers? Where's the pickchers?

For those who want to see the National Clock and Watch Museum - here's pictures from there.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtDu3I_2toc

Linda has most of the other people pictures.

So glad you had a good time - how fun! Can't wait to see the pictures. Hope the rest of your weekend was relaxing.

And, here are some photos. Cheli is wonderful! We had a lovely, lovely time




Cheli and Tim

Wow, Will is talented with the camera to make me look that good or maybe it was your beauty rubbing off!
It was so much fun!

Linda (and Cheli) - lovely photos of your meet-up - great comments by Cheli #37 above!

Had a couple of meet-ups this year and whether it is because I'm basically a lucky guy both of the experiences were extremely positive and I met two lovely ladies (Caro and Megan) who were loads of fun and we were chatting like long lost relatives - our shared interests are only part of what brings us all so nicely together - this group allows us all to open up to each other to the extent that we probably know each other better than many of the people we have known in RL for a much longer time. Miss libraries dreadfully over here but I would probably miss the Union Grill more!

Linda, love the photos of your meet up. I am hoping one day that I can meet up with some of you too. I was so busy last week that I didn't get a chance to get on LT or even read barely. Hoping this week slows down some so I can catch up. :) Hope all is well with you :)

I love looking at those smiling faces. Paul said it so well about chatting like long lost relatives. I find it very easy to talk to book people and highly recommend getting together with fellow LTers to make an online friendship even richer. I'll see you in Joplin, my dear. ;-)

Nice photos, Linda! I'm glad that the three of you had a nice time together.

Oh, such lovely ladies you two are! Again jealous at the meet-up opportunity. One of these days I'm gonna meet some of you myself!

Y'all look like you were having such fun!

Great pictures!

great photos!

FYI - Will (Linda's husband was there too, just always behind the camera! What a sweetie!) There's a picture of him on my thread!
http://www.librarything.com/topic/135195#3446933

Great Shots!!!! You've inspired us all to think about possible meetups everyplace.

What lovely photos - thanks for sharing them! Sounds and looks like you had such a great time - Paul has such a great point about all of the things that we share here on LT making us closer to each other than a lot of the people that we know in real life. I feel so lucky to have found all of you! Linda, I hope you had a wonderful day. It's such a pleasure to see more of you on the threads lately.

It looks like such fun! Off to check Cheli's thread

Love the photos! It looks like you both were having such a wonderful time together.

Linda, you look so happy in spite of the pain that I wonder how you'd look if you felt 100%. Good for you and Cheli and Will and Tim - all people I see I'd love to meet!!!
Won't somebody please drive south on I-95 and meet up with me???
(I'm very glad that you loved Gilead too. When am I going to get to Home?)

*Whew* I was sooooooo far behind on your thread(s). I admit to some skimming to catch up. But it makes me very happy to see how much you enjoyed Gilead. I'm not surprised, though. I believe I read Home first, and fell in love with Robinson's style. So those of you who are wondering if Home will be a letdown or disappointment after reading Gilead---I don't think so. And really, they complement one another, so don't let too much time pass in between. Love seeing the meet-up pictures and everyone's great big smiles. (So now isn't it time for more puppy pictures?)

What a nice bunch of pictures - and what beautiful ladies you both are! Glad you had such a nice time. :)

Linda - here's wishing you a lovely weekend dear lady!

Good Morning Linda!! Just stopped by to say hello and wish you a peaceful and gentle weekend.

BOOK#60

grayson by Lynne Cox

Long on the to be read list, this was recommended by some in our 75 challenge group. When the author was 17 years old and preparing for long distance swim races, while swimming in the ocean in Seal Beach, California, she was followed by a baby gray whale.

The baby whale could not find his mother. Realizing it was up to her to rescue the whale, she swam many miles paving a safe route for the baby in the prayer and hope that his mother could be reunited.

This is lyrically written and a testimony to courage and the love of nature.

Recommended!

I write from the gulf sdie of of Florida where I am spending a week with my daughter, son in law, twin grandsons and lovely grand daughter.

My grandson is in a dance competition Monday. We have tickets to Universal Studios tomorrow (quite pricey) and a major storm is slated to hit the area.

As I write, looking out from the balcony of the condo, the waves are tumultuously crashing to shore.

While there might not be a lot of outside opportunity, it does provide time to spend with my family and to read. Next up,
An Elegy for Easterly, recommended back in 2010 by Darryl (Kidzdoc)



I'm on a serious quest to read books stored away throughout my house. For the last few months, I've purchased only a few books. However, some of the reason for this is because I haven't had time to visit book stores or hit the internet sites.

I am proud of myself though because I received a few notices about Bookcloseouts.com sales and I didn't buy anything.

Linda - Nice review of Grayson. Hope you have fun in Florida with your daughter's family - sounds like fun. They are probably so thrilled to have you!

Congratulations on avoiding the dreaded book buying. Here's to reading and finding treasures on your own shelves. Have a lovely time with your family in Florida, Linda.

That storm will be interesting to watch if it stays far enough away not to be a worry. Having lived near the Gulf in Louisiana for 3 years, I know there's a fine line between "interesting to watch" and "frightening to experience". Hope you don't have a bad one.

Hi to all

The storm winds are gusting at 39-40 mph. The palm branches are swaying. The waves are immensely high.

It is crossing over into a tad frightening to experience. Lynda, sorry that forgot you lived near the Gulf in Louisiana.

Debbie isn't looking too friendly, Linda, are y'all's exit routes planned?

What Richard said....a little worried here.

I'm sure you are fine.. but still looking forward to hearing from you today!

Tropical storms, tornadoes, probably power outages? Oh my!

Was it Sam Gamgee who said that the best stories are the ones that are the most uncomfortable to live through? Here's hoping, along with everyone else, that your vacation story isn't TOO interesting and that you're enjoying it anyway.

I'm glad you liked Grayson. I hadn't thought about it, but I guess it would be the ultimate beach read.

This is an incredible experience. I can only imagine what folks in NO felt during Katrina and this is no where near that powerful.

Still, it is scary. Road and bridges are closed. A tornado is on the way north of us. Many areas are without power. We do have power. Palm trees are down and somewhat buried in the sand. The waves are incredibly HIGH.

Last night, as I looked out the balcony window I actually saw fools with boogie boards riding the waves -- adults with children. Oh my! Aren't humans most interesting. The children looked like little dolphins bobbing along with the waves pounding sideways, carrying them violently to shore.

ugh...ugh..ugh.

The primary purpose of coming here was to support my twin grandson who is in a dance competition. I believe the area where it is slated to be held is the area where the tornado is predicted.

He is disappointed, but a trooper and understands.

Interestingly, I saw myself in my daughter last night. She was very anxious about the return trip from Universal to our hotel....She was protective of her children and family. It was good to arrive safely back at our condo and when we opened the door she was visably relieved.

Hope the storm passes quick and you and your family stay safe!!

The sun is out! The flooding is great. The wind hurts and stings as the sand smacks against legs.

We are well. The children are digging shells in the sand and sorting through some things them deal "jewels."

In the meantime, I finished book

BOOK#61


The book consists of a series of short stories regarding the repressive and economically destructive regime of Zimbabwa's leader Robert Mugabe.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/may/29/robert-mugabe-un-international-envoy...

Overall the stories were very well written, but very dark and depressing. I learned quite a lot about Zimbabwe and the spirit of the people.

Here is a quote from page 92 of the book:

"And then there are the Growth Pointers, as I call them, the people of Mupandawana whose lives prove my theory that life is one big jest at the expense of humanity."

Thanks to Darryl for recommending this one.

Here is his very insightful review written for Bellestrista

http://www.belletrista.com/2010/issue5/reviews_3.php

Glad to hear from you, and that you are all unscathed. Too bad about your grandson's dance competition---I suppose it will be rescheduled?

Stay safe Linda and keep us all updated.

Linda, so glad that you are staying safe and even reporting in! That last book sounds like one for my WL.

So glad to hear that you and yours are safe!

Wow. The pictures from Pass-a-Grille! Happy to know the Lindas are safe.

Ooohh, Linda, I lost you for a while. I'm so used to the thread continuation feature, I forget to star threads that aren't continued that way, that I reach via a regular link from the old thread. But I have you starred now.

I'm glad to hear that you are OK. Please stay safe.

I love the photos from the meet-up!

Hi Linda,
My tardiness is noted Im sure....sorry for losing you there for a bit. Shows that I am reactive instead of proactive as posting goes. I wait to see people come to the top of my list and then visit! But I sought you out finally....hello

Great meet up pics! Hoe fun match up people with words, I cant wait to meet more from the 75 group. They better come to NZ though as I wont be travelling too far anytime soon :) (come one come all)

Caught up for now anyway, and starred again. I hope you are well.

Linda, I am so glad you and your family weathered the storm well and no one was hurt. I hope you are enjoying your stay.. {{HUGS}}

Hi Linda - I lost you as well. That meetup with Cheli looked like lots of fun.

Are you home?

Hello Linda! I know it has been a while - I hope you are well! I added Grayson to my TBR list! It also sounds like a book my Dad might enjoy! Thanks for the recommendation!

Check-in *smooch*

Linda - Reading through your thread I think you have read two #58's - it looks to me like you have read 60 books and not 59?
Whatever the number I hope you are having a great weekend.

Checking in over here - hope all is well with you. Are you still in Florida?

Hopefully she is just too busy having a good time to check in?

Hi to all

Thanks for visiting! Even though I haven't had time to visit all your threads, still, you are ever so kind to stop by here.

I returned from Florida and while it was good to get away, before leaving, while there and now on my return, I am in a lot of pain. Tomorrow I'll have another injection in my neck and hopefully it will work magic.

Rarely am I in pain that renders me unfunctional, but this time I'm near there.

While I hate to face it, I do believe another neck fusion surgery is necessary.

Kath, I'm sure you can relate to the fact that while you love your daughter and family, still, there are times when you just want to bury your head in the sand to stop the gusts of pain they can throw at you.

NO more long-term family vacations!

Oh crap, Linda, I am so so so sorry. That rots on ice.

*smooch* for pain relief

BOOK#62


In The Bleak Midwinter by Julia Spencer Fleming

A stranger to mystery books, I'm now hooked on this series -- truly that is how good it is!

This is the first book in the series of six. It contains intrigue, twists and turns of who done it puzzles, romance, and a plot that kept me reading the book in a few sittings.

Episcopalian priest/minister Clare Fergusson is new to the Adirondack location. When, on a freezing cold evening, she discovers a new born baby on the doorstep of her church, her life and that will soon dramatically change.

Followed on the heels of an abandoned baby is the discovery of the body of the mother of the baby.

When she assists Chief of Police Russ van Alstyne to uncover the murderer, together they find that small town life does not equate to peaceful harmony.

My only quarrel with the book is that the author developed a strong female character in Clare Fergusson and then betrayed the writing style by having her act like a very impulsive woman who rushed into situations without thinking of consequences.

Highly recommended.

Good to see you back.

I am so, so sorry to hear about your pain. Sending you cyber hugs and offering a listening ear whenever you need it.

Fleming's mystery series sounds very interesting. What a delight to have several well-written mystery series from which to choose!

hi, Linda.

This is one of the series this year that I promised myself I would get current on by the end of the year. I've got 2 left!

Sorry to hear that the trip was aggravating in a physical as well as emotional way.
I'm headed back to the doctor too. :-(

Sorry to hear about your neck problems - I do hope the injection helps.

Oh my friend, I am so sorry... I hope that the treatment helps..
and yeah.. I love my children beyond measure. But 4-5 days max ...MAX if I go there..
It's ( to me ) more doable if they are here.. but again.. moderation.

hugs

And I am so glad to see that you liked that mystery. I have it on my shelf. I am a reformed
mystery-not-reader myownself. There are many advantages. :)

Sorry about the pain, dear lady. I've said it elsewhere, but I really wish people could get what they deserve in life...and you surely don't deserve this. I am glad that you've found solace in the Clare Fergusson/Russ van Alstyne adventures. I have loved that series, and am getting a bit antsy for the newest installment, which is probably at least a year away.

Hi Linda

Here is a link I found regarding rthe next installment.

http://juliaspencerfleming.ning.com/notes/index/show?noteKey=When_Will_the_Next_...

I remember seeing that note, Linda. Her track record with projected publication dates is not too good---I think the last one was pushed ahead at least twice, and there was almost three years between the last two titles. So if the next one comes out early in 2013, we'll be way ahead of that schedule. I'm not holding my breath yet.

Sorry to see you are in such pain! Hopefully tomorrow you feel better!

Hope the injection brings you relief dear lady. One advantage of a normal sized trunk and relatively short legs is that I have never suffered any complaints with my back but SWMBO complains about here continually.

Linda, so sorry to hear that you are in pain. And also sorry that family hurt you as well. I think the no more long-term family vacations is a good idea. It's wise to address not setting yourself up for being hurt. Family is just so complicated, aren't they?

Nice review of the Spencer Fleming book - I have that in my TBR, and I see from your review that I need to bump it up closer to the top.

Glad you are home safe and sound. Sending good thoughts your way that the injection does the trick and eliminates the pain.

Linda, I'm really sorry that you're in so much pain. I hope the injection brings much help!

Linda, so sorry to hear that your pain is escalating, hope the injection helps to settle it.

Adding my sympathies about your pain and hopes for relief coming your way soon.

Its one of my frustrations about the medical field. So much progress in so many directions; the tiny, minute internal problems they can sometimes solve, and then, sometimes not. So much still unknown, and some fields not getting as much research attention as others. I hope they can solve your particular underlying issue, Linda. One day I hope to read here that you are now pain-free.

Linda, I hope your neck pain lessens soon. Thinking of you and wishing you well. Glad you weathered the storm well while in FL. {Hugs}

#84 Linda, so sorry to hear about your continuing neck pain. I hope the injection helps.

The injection today was incredibly painful. With the exception of a few messages, I've been in bed all day. Lots and lots of pain.

The pain management doctor said that it might be time to look at another fusion surgery. It will no doubt cause compression in the disks below, but I have to weigh this with the fact that I'm getting worse.

Not the news I wanted to hear, but the news I did expect. The good news is that I am very fortunate to have a great team of doctors who work with me. My neurologist is incredible! The pain management doc and his staff and wonderful. The surgeon who did the previous fusion is a kind, sensitive man who is not knife happy and only does surgery when there is no other option, my family doctor is a gem. I realize that this is a unique thing, ie to have such great resources who communicate not only with me, but with each other. I am blessed.

Thanks to all for listening to my tale of woe.

What a wonderful, tremendous supportive group this is. Prior to finding LT and miraculously, randomly choosing the 75 challenge group in 2008, I was very skeptical of social networks. I feared there were a lot of weird people out there.

This group proved to me that it is indeed a healthy, loving great network. I've noted over the years in our group that we are very inclusive, very kind and welcoming to new members. And, there does seem to be a very healthy mechanism of weeding out (flagging) those that are not particularly nice.

Does my perception make sense?

Much Love To All

I really do hope to be more active in checking your threads.

Sure wish I had a working one of these...

O, dang! Not what I wanted to read when I came in here (about your pain, not the lovely bit about us all being nice and not weird. That part was good.). Sending all kinds of pain-cutting vibes your way, friend.

While I am delighted that you have a great team, I would be even more delighted to hear that they had succeeded in significantly reducing your pain level, my dear. I hope that when the pain of the injection subsides, your residual pain is much less.

I feared there were a lot of weird people out there. That's true ... but us LT'ers are a loveable type of weird ;)

Dear LInda, I truly hope the morning brings you some relief. Hugs to you.

BOOK#63

Bring Up The Bodies by Hilary Mantel

Just when I thought that the topic of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII was truly exhausted, through many here in our challenge group, I heard about Mantel's latest.

Since college days I've been fascinated with Anne Boleyn. She is one of my favorite historical characters and over many years I've enjoy reading about her personality and downfall through various different perspectives. Some books are scholarly written and heavily researched -- E.W. Ives for example. Others written in a historical fiction slant without embellishment and with some fiction but basically adherence to historical "fact", those in my opinion are written by Alison Weir and Carolly Erickson. And, then there is Phillipa Gregory who plays very fast and very inaccurately with this subject.

It is a joy to read a book by an author who confesses the book is in the category of historical fiction, yet rarely have I found a book re. Anne Boleyn that weaves so much fact into an obviously well-researched story, while page after page holding the reader captive.

Following on the heels of her bestselling and Man Booker Prize winning Wolf Hall, Mantel once again chronicles history through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell, schooled by treacherous, cast- aside Cardinal Woolsey, he then became Henry's trusted and ruthless Chief Minister serving him well from 1532-1540.

We learn of Anne's downfall through Cromwell's perspective. The cast of slimy characters show the underbelly of human nature. If you want to learn about court/political intrigue, then this is the book for you!

If you want to learn about self aggrandizing plots that swirl wherein no one is spared from sudden downfall, this is the book for you.

If, at times you believe your family is dysfunctional, read this book to realize you are not alone.

In many books I've read, while Ann is portrayed as a shrew, yet also one to be pitied. In Bring Up The Bodies Ann's soul is laid bare. She is a conniving, cunning, intelligent and phony. She is a hypocrite who, while well versed in how to use people, is very naive in thinking she can stab and not be stabbed (hung) right back by those she so willingly threw to the lions of the court while gleefully watching their bodies hang from the Tower of London.

As Cromwell plots and schemes Anne's downfall, knowing the tempestuous fickle, sociopathic nature of his boss, the snakes of the court bite and twine their way in ever constricting circles.

This is the court of lies and deceit. This is the court of back stabbing snakes who smile in front of relatives, friends and foes while striking at the heel as soon the person is out of sight.

These are the group wherein no one is spared from poisonous, violent attacks, either by sly smiles and pretend alliances or from sudden ambush.

As the Boleyn faction wanes and the Seymour faction rises, just as when Henry tossed aside Kathryn of Aragon, Cromwell is placed in the role of once again cleaning up Henry's mess while trying to save his own neck.

Mantel's writing style can be confusing. Those well versed in Tudor history will like this book. Those who haven't read a lot of Tudor history may be confused by her at-times difficult to follow switching from characters without transitional explanations.

Initially I found the book difficult to read, but as I continued was enthralled by her ability to capture an image. Her turn of a phrase is marvelous.

My favorite quote of the book occurs on page 239 wherein Edward, brother of Henry VIII's new love Jane, meets with Cromwell to broker a deal for power in the placement of his sister on the throne.

Fearing Henry's two-faced nature and also reprisal from the Boleyn's he notes to Cromwell, "The Boleyns if they go down will take us with them. I have heard of serpents that, though they are dying, exude poison through their skins."

And, in reading this book, while the setting is 1535-36, human nature is the same then as now.

Those who smile while holding hands, will gladly inject venom before the unsuspecting victim realizes the deceit. Those who, through insecurity, jealously, immaturity, prior territorial claim or down right psychopathic motives, will indeed spew venom long after a battle that never should have been fought scorches the earth and leaves the attacked worn and scarred.

Highly recommended and destined to be one of my top ten favorites of 2012.

Hi Linda- Happy 4th of July! I know I've been tardy over here but I hope all is well in your world. Love the photos with Cheli. These LT Meet-ups have been incredible lately.
I NEED to get to Wolf Hall! It's on the summer agenda.

I am so very sorry to hear that you're up for another surgery.

Another wonderful review, of course, and one for my reading list.

I hope your wonderful review means you are feeling a bit better. Hopefully you'll feel better each day as the injection takes effect. Better today than yesterday, better tomorrow than today--at least that's my sincere hope!

I am just finishing Wolf Hall. I'm not a fan of Tudor history, but I've really enjoyed the book. Love her writing! But all the burnings, beheadings and eviserations -- oh my!

You've probably heard the curse "May you live in interesting times." A pivotal point in history--even in US history considering England and English law as an ancestor. But I woudn't have wanted to be there!

glitter-graphics.com

Linda - Stopping in to wish you a happy 4th of July and what do I find but a wonderful review. I am reading that book right now and agree that it is so well done and so riveting. I hope you posted that review because I want to give it a thumb.

Sorry to hear that you will be needing another surgery. I hope that your injection is taking effect and that you are finally receiving some much needed relief from your pain. Please take care of yourself, my friend.

Oh Linda.. I am so sorry to hear about your ongoing pain. I don't know how you keep
on keeping on. ISn't there some other way? Is surgery the only option? Are there any trials out there for different approaches? I hate to see you go through the surgery ...

Oh Linda.. :(

Feel better

xo

Great review! Thumb for you

I just started Bring up the Bodies today and it's going to be a tough one to finish as it is due back to the library in three days! I may be paying some late fees on this one as I can't renew it since there are holds :(

Linda, so sorry to hear that your injection was so painful. I'm glad you have such a good team of doctors, I hope they can do something to help your situation.

Thrilled to see you enjoyed Bring up the Bodies so much. I think it's definitely one of my top books of 2012 too.

Sweetness, I was thumb #6 on that marvelous review of Bring Up the Bodies, which I will finally get around to as I am about to join Anne and Henry in the Great Beyond on current trends. At least I'll have something to talk about when I meet them.

*smooch* for my fellow sufferer!

First, my friend, know that I am thinking of you and hoping that the injections will take some effect and diminish your pain for the time it takes to make a decision about what is needed in the future. We both understand one step forward, two steps back, but eventually, (with your wonderful team - which includes Will, I'm sure) you will be walking down the road to recovery.

Second, I read Wolf Hall last month and because of Mantel's "unique" style, I had resolved that I wasn't going to bother with the rest of the trilogy - but now I'm thinking after your magnificent review that maybe I should try Bring up the Bodies. Something to think about.

Rest, have a good sleep (even if you need to take drugs to do it), then watch a funny movie. Laughter is a good medicine too.

>103 Whisper1: I agree with your thoughts on this group, Linda. A great bunch for sure.
Adding my good wishes for some pain relief, and how great that you have a good team of medical professionals looking out for you. One thing, as you say, to be thankful for.

Glad you loved Bring up the Bodies!

Linda, I'm sorry to hear about your continued troubles with your cervical spine. I hope that you are able to get some relief soon.

I finished Bring Up the Bodies, and I loved it as well, though slightly less so than Wolf Hall. I gave it 4-1/2 stars, but a more accurate rating would be 4.7-4.8 stars.

I knew nothing about Tudor England and had little interest in the topic when I first read Wolf Hall. I struggled with it the first time around, but I ignored the Pearl Rule, gave it a second try when I had time to focus on it, and absolutely loved it. Mantel is a fantastic chronicler of historical fiction, and she is definitely among my top five living writers, probably second behind Mario Vargas Llosa.

Wonderful review of Bring Up the Bodies, Linda. I thoroughly enjoyed the book as well.

So sorry to hear about your continuing pain and the possibility of another surgery. Do you think almost blowing out to sea in a hurricane was too much for you? I'm trying to inject (ouch, bad pun) a little humor into an unfunny situation. {{gentle hugs}}

Stopping by with a hug dear lady and a Happy 4th of July wish for you and yours.

Linda, sorry to hear you're still in agony. Please please take care of yourself and read as many wonderful books as possible to help you feel a wee bit better. (((HUGS)))

Linda - I'm adding my good wishes to all of the others. I wish I could make your pain disappear. I'm glad you've found some good books to provide some distraction. Please keep us posted on how you are doing.

A HUGE virtual hug (real one might hurt) and tons of wishes that you get all better very soon. I cannot begin to feel what you must be going through.

I'm glad you loved Bring Up the Bodies, Linda. I did too, and you remind me that I owe the Early Reviewers a review of it. It's going to be hard to follow yours, though!

Just stopping by with a virtual hug and wishes that you'll feel better soon.

Found you Linda! Sorry to hear that your pain is still a source of discomfort for you. Sending you lots of *gentle* hugs and hope you feel better soon!

I just wanted to stop by to say hello, and that i am sending hugs and positive energy for you..
This has been such a nightmare for you :(

After being away from a computer for days, I was saddened to read about your painful injection and bad news from your pain management team. I am still so hoping they are able to discover the best thing for you. But when you go on to make note of the 75ers healthy, loving great network and I find that post followed by (why even try to count 'em) SO many commiserating posts, I thought, gee, if that could be bottled, there would be your healing potion!

Relief from the heat wouldn't come amiss, would it?

I think that's on its way to you. We're brewing a thunderstorm now, winds picking up from dead calm and coming from the north...it's only 100mi to you! I'll stand outside and flap my arms towards PA.

I'm so sorry to hear of your continuing pain, Linda. When will you have to decide on the fusion? I'm with Linda in #104 - I wish I had a wishing wand to wave over you and relieve you of the pain too.

How's Lily? I miss her photos. ;-)

Just catching up with you...the good and the bad...and sending virtual hugs! :)

Came over to check on Lily - and I find you are in a bad way :{
Oh, dear Linda, I'm so sorry to hear about all your pain.
Very soft ankle hug {L} It didn't hurt I hope???

rest. rest. rest.

Just stopping by to say hello and offer best wishes, Linda.

Thinking about you, Linda. Wishing good things for you. Take care.

I am overwhelmed by the support. Thank you doesn't suffice. As readers who love words we are aware that there are instances when words cannot express emotion.

I'm better today (one week after the injection). It has been a tough year for many of us and the support and outreach we show to each other in this group is marvelous!

Appointment early this morning with the pain management team went well. Basically, the injection caused all muscles in my neck to spasm. I had a reaction to the steroid that I never had before -- vomiting, fever, flushed face, mood swings, spasms and rapid heart rate.

Today is better! Today is good! The sun is indeed shining. The humidity is gone and it is a lovely day.

THANKS TO ALL!

Yay for better health and a lovely day. Enjoy it Linda! :)

BOOK#64


A Fountain Filled With Blood by Julia Spencer-Fleming

This is the second installment in the series. While I liked the book, it did not grab me as much as In The Bleak Midwinter.

I will continue with the series in the hope that the formula will work and the author won't overdo the characters and plot.

Rev. Clare Ferguson and Police Chief Russ Van Alstyne continue to work as a team in solving local crime

Small town life in Millers Kill, New York continues to be crime ridden. When local gay men are harmed, Rev. Ferguson's church and the local community confront their prejudice and ignorance.

Making statements regarding the need for tolerance, the author blends the story well without over dramatizing.

Blended with the murder and attacks, developers hope to change the landscape and economy of the community by building a large spa. Potential impact on the environment is yet another issue when toxins are discovered.

Enjoy your beautiful day, Linda! We have a lovely day here, too. So glad to be rid of that excessive heat and humidity!

ETA we cross posted. Good review!

>140 Whisper1: Thumbs-upped that thoughtful review, and high-fived the screen that you're in less pain!

You have a wonderful attitude! Glad the sun is shining and you are happy today
Wishing you a pain free day!

Hi Linda, just getting caught up here. I wonder if anyone who reads it could possibly not love Bring Up the Bodies? It just nudged out Wolf Hall by a nose for me but they're both so very good.

I'm glad to see you're feeling a little better and I hope you continue to improve. And I have only the last Julia Spencer-Fleming to read and then I'll be waiting for her next one in 2013. I love the series.

I am glad to see that you are continuing that series.. I think I have three of them.. two hard copies and one in digital One day.

SO glad to hear that today is better, (((Linda))))

Yaay! I'm glad today's a better day for you, Linda. I hope they note never to give you that injection again!

I haven't read anything by Julia Spencer-Fleming, but I have heard good things about The Bleak Midwinter so I might give it a try.

So very thrilled to hear that you are having a good day today. That reaction to the injection sounds scary - glad that is over and you are okay. Loved your review of the Spencer-Fleming book - I really need to get to those. I have the first three from when they were on sale a ebooks last year. Please take care and don't over do.

Gentle hugs for you. (((Linda)))

Hi Linda just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking about you and sending wishes for good health and freedom from pain.

Yeah! someone special is finally feeling a bit better and feeling better will always make your spirit rise! Glad you are improving, be patient and relax!

So glad that yesterday was a better day. Wishing you little pain and much rest today! :)

Gosh, that *was* a bad reaction to the medicine! Sorry to hear that you had to go through that, but, of course, very glad to hear that you're starting to feel better. Hoping the upward trend continues...

Just checking in.. hope things are going well and that you have a soft and pleasant day :)

Hi, Linda! Love the photos, and I'm glad to see your endorsement of Bring Up the Bodies. I liked Wolf Hall well enough, but have been on the fence about continuing.

*smooch*

Richard, did I hurt your feelings?
I never smooches anymore. :-((

We had a lovely family celebration for Will's Uncle Bill who turned 90 years old. What a wonderful man!

Uncle Bill's service was held at the "Primitive" Methodist Church in Tamaqua, PA.
The word "Primitive" and church elicit thoughts of hell fire and damnation. However, it really was a pretty church.

BOOK#65

Next To Love by Ellen Feldman

A publication reviewing summer editions to read noted this book as "impossible to put down." I have to rightfully accuse the reviewer of false advertising.

While I initially enjoyed the story of three women whose lives were dramatically impacted by WWII, mid way through the book seemed to spin into la la land and, what was a dramatic tale became trite and over done.

The author was inspired by the real life story of young men in Bedford, Virginia, a small town of 3,000, who lost nineteen men in the first minutes of the D-Day invasion.

Using this as a springboard could have equated into a powerful book. In Next to Love, two husbands never returned; one came home physically and emotionally wounded. Analogous to those who became disenfranchised with America's patriotic hype of the glory of WWII, I soon grew to grow weary of the story line of this book.

Urgh! No fun at all.

Glad you made it out before the Primitives worked their Methodism on you.

Hi Richard

I seem to remember you have a doctor appointment tomorrow. Am I right? If so, I'll think of you.

*Wink* at Linda - your pics are lovely and looking at your husbands uncle he looks a very fit and young 90 *grin*.

I also hope that you are feeling better soon. I can sympathize with spinal pain. Due to a congenital spinal illness, I suffer since childhood from chronic pain. Which indeed can be at times a pain in the a***. But as you said earlier there are still and always the good sunny days :)

Linda - What lovely pictures! Uncle Bill does not look like he is 90 - how does he do that? Sorry the book was a bust. Here's hoping that your next one is better and that you are having a good, pain-free day today. Take care.

Stopping in to wave hi!
Hope you are feeling a bit better!

*smooch* Tomorrow is indeed a doctor day. I appreciate being thought about!

Thanks for posting such a lovely pic Linda! Thinking of you and hoping you are feeling better and better each day. :)

>158 Whisper1: wow, that woman's neck is really long. I just had to comment, as it seems the covers defining feature :)
Hi and hope you're well (as you can be) and that the sun is shining on you today.

Catching up a bit.. and wishing you well...

Dear Linda, do well tomorrow. I'm thankful that you have such a good team advising you. We love you!!!

*smooch*

Hoping that everything is going well for you. Lovely pictures on your thread.

Wishing you pain free days.

Thinking of you, sweetest.

Linda....stopping by to say "Wow....what a great picture of you, and hubby and Uncle" and even more important to say how much I'm praying and hoping that the doctor visit went well, and that your pain is waning....

Hey! How are you ? Hoping you are feeling a bit better and enjoying your weekend..

Delurking with a big Howdy from Missouri! I enjoy the pictures that you post here. How's Lily doing these days? Hopefully she is settling down a bit. Puppies are wonderful...but so exhausting.

Just checking in over here. Hope all is well and that you are feeling wonderful.

Hugs from over here for you Linda - hope all is well and you are having a great weekend.

Checking in and hoping you are having a restful Sunday, Linda!

Dropping in to say hi. Hope your weekend wasn't too hectic.

Dear Linda--Just checking in to see how you are doing. I'm so sorry about the pain you are suffering. I hope you had a good time celebrating with your uncle-in-law, and that you soon have relief from the pain.

Dropping in to say Hello and hope you are doing well. I am praying for your pain to at the very least lessen for you. Keeping you in my thoughts. Sending Love your way. Hugs..

Hi Linda! Just popping in to say hello and I hope you are well! :)

Starting to be concerned... hope all is well and that you are just busy and happy..

Hi to all. I'm having a tough week..lots of pain...and drat, I took vacation time to do things around the house. Oh, I'm so tired of the pain and of posting about it.

I finally gave in and called the surgeon who performed that last neck fusion two years ago.

And, now, moving along to the positive. I read two very good books

BOOK #66

Aleutian Sparrow by Karen Hesse

The setting is 1942 and the Aleutian Islands are torn apart by war. Invaded by Japan and then the United States, the Aleutian culture, like their land, is scattered and decimated.

Told from the perspective of Vera, this is an excellent chronicle of the destruction and senselessness of war.

BOOK#67


The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb by Melanie Benjamin

Review to follow. I loved this book!

Hi Linda, I also thought Aleutian Sparrow was excellent. I'm really sorry to hear that you are continuing to suffer from pain issues.

Oh damn, I am so sorry to hear the pain is bad still. The surgeon call, well, I suppose it's inevitable, but I wish it could be otherwise.

I was afraid of that when we didn't see you...
So sorry Linda..

hugs

Nice reads though!

Aww sorry to hear that you are in such pain! Hope you find some relief soon!

Oh Linda, I am so sorry to hear that you are in so much pain. Even sorrier that you will have to undergo another surgery. My thoughts are with you - take care of yourself, and thanks for checking in and letting us know.

*Gentle hugs* for you my friend. Pain, pain go away, and just don't come back. Period.

BOOK#68

Breaking Stalin's Nose by Eugene Yelchin

Wonderful...wonderful...!
Review to follow later

Yeah... what Valerie said... period.

#191: I put that one on hold at the local library. I hope I enjoy it as much as you did!

Linda, just to say I hope the pain gets better soon.

Dear Linda, I'm an echo. I do hope you can feel all the support and love that comes your way, and I am praying right now that this surgery will be miraculously and wildly successful in getting rid of the chronic pain. Love you!

Oh linda my dear, I'm de=lurking to say that I've uncrossed my fingers and toes only long enough to light every candle, say every prayer for both you and Cheli that you can find some relief from this awful pain. I am in awe that you are still able to project such goodness and cheer to the rest of us. Take care and take hope.

#191: Oh, I'm glad you got to red that -- it was my favorite of this year's Newbery crop!

Linda, I'm very sorry that the pain is worse. Hugs!

Thanks to all for your support. Mainly I feel sad that I'm not able to spend time on the threads or do other things that I so much enjoy.

But, as I posted in a message to Cheli this morning. Life is good. Here is part of what I said:

We had rain last night...refreshing rain. The grass is wet and Lilly walked gingerly on the blades this morning. She is a dainty little prissy thing at times and then again there are times when she rushes into life full swing (kind of like me)...

Yesterday it was hot again and when I took her outside I lightly sprayed her with the hose. As the rainbow beams sparkled in the air she jumped high to catch the water, spun around and gently barked her approval.

Amid the pain I am enjoying this dog tremendously. She is quite a hit in the neighborhood and all children and some adults make a big fuss over her.

-----------------------------------

I've always found solace in my pets. Animals bring a special joy to our souls.

Lilly sounds adorable! Sophie doesn't like to walk in wet grass. When I take her out after it has rained, she looks at the wet grass, then looks reproachfully at me, as if to say, "It's wet. I don't like it. Can't you fix this?"

Linda, glad that you finally got some refreshing rain. Lilly sounds like she is so much fun to be with - and she's sooo cute! I'm so happy that she is providing a bright spot for you - unconditional love is just so comforting and miraculous, isn't it?! Sorry that you are still in so much pain. Very gentle hugs to you.

Linda, so sorry to hear that you continue to be in so much pain. I'm glad you have Lily and hope that the surgeons may be able to reduce the pain if they can't make it disappear entirely.

Linda, I'm so sorry that you continue to be in pain. Your description of Lily is enjoying the spray of water is just beautiful and brings me right into that moment. The kind of solace I find too when things are difficult. Amazing how much more enjoyable simple pleasures are in those times, isn't it? Almost, ALMOST gives some sense to all that agony, but of course, never quite really.

I've added Aleutian Sparrow to the wishlist. It sounds wonderful, and they have it at the library too.

Be well my dear. xx

I join everyone in hoping you get some relief from that pain, Linda. It just makes everyday life so much harder, I know. I'm glad Lilly is an affectionate help.

Linda, I'll add my two pennorth as well. I remember distinctly your pain in February at the passing of Simon and it is wonderful that the pup is able to help you through pain both of the physical and emotional kind so tremendously.
I will also add Aleutian Sparrow to the hitlist as well as Breaking Stalin's Nose and The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb as your enthusiasm in infectious if, as yet, unexplained!

Morning Linda- Since you are such a big YA fan, have you heard of Why We Broke Up or Daniel Handler? I just downloaded the audio and it sounds good. I also have the Giver, I want to give a try. Have a good pain-free Sunday.

Hi Mark. I've heard of this book and placed it on the tbr pile. With your recommendation, I hope to read it soon. The Giver is a wonderful book!

Paul Thanks for stopping by. Thanks for remembering my pain re. losing Simon. No one person or dog can be replaced, but Lilly helps me remember the joy of Simon and the love I still feel for him.
Thanks for trusting my recommendations and adding my recent three reads to your list.

JoeThanks for stopping by and for your kind comments!

Ilana I remember you had a family reunion. How did that go?

Hi HeatherAlways good to see you hear. Thanks for your outreach!

Mamie I'm fortunate to live in a time when there is help to check the pain. I am fortunate.

Hi There foggidawn Happy Monday to you!