luvamystery65 75 books 2013: Roberta is loving the 75 group! part 2

Welcome to my second quarter thread!

Hello I am Roberta from right outside Houston TX (Missouri City, TX). Here is a sweet hello from our very own Texas Bluebonnets. I love a mystery but hanging around LT has really exposed me to other genres.

I COUNT MY BLESSINGS DAILY

Currently Reading



1Q84 very slow year long listen/read
My Life I am about three quarters of the way through
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court
The Caregivers Helpbook

Plans for the Quarter subject to change of course

The Garden of Evening Mists
Como agua para chocolate
A Path With Heart
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
A Game of You
The Honourable Schoolboy
The Coroner's Lunch
Cold Comfort Farm
The Enchanted April
In the Darkness: An Inspector Sejer Novel by Karin Fossum
Don't Look Back by Karin Fossum
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon
Death Without Company
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Lies, Knives and Girls in Red Dresses

Books I loved this year!

The Nao of Brown by Glyn Dillon
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Stiff by Mary Roach
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Reserved for gems I discover and may want to pursue later

The Wolves Chronicles by Joan Aiken from Crazymamie's thread
The Map of Time by Felix J. Palma from drneutron's thread
Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder from msf59's thread
Old Filth by Jane Gardam from susanj67's thread but I've seen it floating around the 75ers

Putting this link to Nebula and Andre Norton YA award nominees here http://www.librarything.com/topic/146480#3933989

Can't wait to see what you are going to put in the above spaces.

HI Roberta, I am curious as well what you are going to put in all the spaces :) Hooray, for your mom! Great that you can start weaning the steroids *smile*

Roberta, that's great news about your Mum! Happy New Thread!

John, Bianca and Susan thanks for stopping in while I was under construction. I'll head over to your threads soon.

Hi Roberta, love the picture of the Texas Bluebonnets, these look like what we call Lupins and i love Lupins. The English County Cricket Season starts next wednesday so i will start the tutorial this weekend. Love to you and your mum my dear.

Hi Roberta! Nice flowers to top off your new thread. Happy April!!

Happy new thread, Roberta! Stopping in to reserve my seat and also to wish you a weekend full of fabulous!

John you are too sweet!

Ellen happy April you traveling woman!

Mamie thank you my friend.

Hi, Roberta - thank you for the lovely April flowers. :)

Liz thank you for stopping by. I love the bluebonnets.

I am loving loved everything about this book.

ETA: the little change above ;)

The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Stephen Chbosky lays it all out there with The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Charlie's story is told over the course of a year through a series of letters written to an anonymous friend. Charlie is quiet but extremely observant. In his letters he talks about his best friend committing suicided, his anxiety about being a freshman in high school and his place in his family. We learn of Charlie's football hero brother and his sister who after being slapped by her boyfriend decides she loves him.

Charlie's English teacher Bill takes a particular interest in him. He gives Charlie extra books to read and report on. As the year progresses Charlie's writing skill improves from these assignments. His letters to his friend get more expressive. Bill encourages Charlie to stop being passive in his life and participate.

Charlie struggles with participating in life. He makes friends including step siblings Patrick and Sam but still he holds back. At the end of the book we find out why as Charlie comes to terms with some dark things in his life. Charlie learns to hold back is to be dishonest.

The book brings up suicide, abortion, abuse, drug use, depression, racism and sexuality. These are the subjects of life and it is refreshing to see them discussed so openly.

One of my favorite parts of the book is when Bill tells Charlie how gifted he really is. He tells him that he wanted him to know this in case no one had ever told him this before.

Love the thread topper, Roberta!

Lori thank you. Spring is in full swing when the bluebonnets arrive.

I saw something nasty in the woodshed

This is how parodies are done. I had been meaning to read Cold Comfort Farm for some time now. I finally got hold of a copy and I am not disappointed. Some of the comments are dated (politically incorrect) but all in all Stella Gibbons story still holds up well.

Flora Post finds herself an orphan at 19. Over educated and not wanting to work she writes all her distant relatives to drum up an invitation to stay. She can't stand relatives and she can't stand life outside of London, but she doesn't want to work and "tidying" up others seems like a project she can aspire to.

Flora receives one definite invitation from her cousin Judith Starkadder in Sussex. The Starkadders own a farm called Cold Comfort. Off Flora goes and the shenanigans begin. There are wild men working on the farm. There is a hired girl who gets pregnant every spring by oversexed youngest Starkadder son, Seth. Cousin Judith suffers from severe melancholy. Her husband cousin Amos is full of hell fire and brimstone preaching. Last but certainly not least is the grand matriarch of the family, Aunt Ada Doom who sits up in her room orchestrating the life at Cold Comfort with her "madness" as she saw something nasty in the woodshed more than seventy years ago.

Flora is a bit annoying but her mission is clear and the outcome is delightful. I laughed throughout the book and just had a nice time with it. This is a classic but it is not serious high brow literature. It is comedy, pure comedy.

'You have the most revolting Florence Nightingale complex', said Mrs. Smiling. I'm a nurse so this quote really made me laugh.

I added my review of The Perks of Being a Wallflower to post #16

Heya Roberta, what interesting reading plans for the next quarter :) and I see you are planning to read Laura Esquivel. So far, I have read two books by her and enjoyed both.

I hope you are going to enjoy The Night Circus and thanks for the link to Pushing Daisies - Well, I have to say Jim Dale has got the most amazing voice.

I wish you and your family a wonderful remaining weekend!

Thanks for the nice wishes Bianca!

I just received The Enchanted April from my ILL. I have it until the end of May so I will be able to finish enjoying Cold Comfort Farm. I loved the movie and the book is really delightful.

The Night Circus audio is in transit to my branch.

I will read The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Was this a common experience for us book-loving teenagers?

Ellen, I'm glad you will read Perks. I think most of us that were book loving teenagers would relate to Charlie. Also, anyone that felt left out or different in any way can easily relate to Charlie. I could have read this book in one sitting and almost did. It read very well. I think Joe and Bianca struggled with the epistolary format, but I am a fan of that style of writing. If it is done well it is like peeking over someone's shoulder. Chbosky did a great job.

I laughed and cried.

Adding The Perks of Being a Wallflower to my list, Roberta - what a lovely review! And that cover of Cold Comfort Farm just makes me grin!

Hi Roberta- Good review of Perks. I loved it as well. You'll have to see the film version, which was actually directed by the author. It's a decent adaptation but it doesn't capture the nuances like the book. Are you a fan of Tana French? I have been listening to Broken Harbor, her 4th book and it's been very good.

Mamie I'm glad you are added Wallflower to your list. I think you will really love it.

Mark I have the movie on my list. Redbox still has it around so I will try to catch it soon. I have not read anything by Tana French but Susan (susanj67) just read Faithful Place and it has me thinking about reading something by her. What would you start with?

No question: In the Woods. This is not a definitive series of books but they do all focus on different members of the Dublin Murder Squad. Faithful Place was very good too!

Yes, In the Woods, Roberta. I checked it out from the library to read and ended up loving it so much that I bought my own copy!

Mark and Mamie In the Woods it is! Thanks.

Very sad about bombings in Boston. Last night my Aunt Virgie and I were talking about going to Boston in September to see Thich Nhat Hanh speak and possibly participate in his peace walk. Now I really want to go to the peace walk more than ever.

I was very sad about the events in Boston as well. I saw it this morning in the news and was utterly shocked and shaken by it. I really hope you will be able to participate in the peace walk Roberta.

In the Woods has been on my wishlist for some time. So as always I am very curious about your thoughts. :)

Roberta, the Peace Walk sounds like the perfect way to counteract what was done in Boston.

Yes Katie and I wanted to do it before then but now even more. I know the energy Thay brings with him everywhere he goes is full of peace and love. Even if I don't make it I know it is a healing Boston will be grateful for.

This is one of the best books I've "read" all year. (I listened to the audiobook.) I really don't want to spoil it by giving away the story or trying to describe it in too much detail to you. It's the story of two competitors who compete and create more than they ever bargained for. More importantly, it is the story of those all around them who come to life more than they ever did before. It's the story of leaving behind more than what you put into the world.

The book weaves a truly magical tale. I did not want it to end. The book is written non linear, or out of order. The format worked quite well for this particular story. Time is a huge element in the story. It really almost becomes a character in itself.

If you love books about longings and dreams, then this book is for you. If you love books that are full of luscious vivid descriptions then this book is for you. If you love books about magic and the most wonderful magic of all, love, then this book is for you. Run out and get this book. I highly recommend the audio. What a fabulous job Jim Dale does.

Jim Dale and magic go together perfectly!

“The most difficult thing to read is time. Maybe because it changes so many things."

Hi Roberta, hope you are enjoying this, i have got it on the bedroom shelves ready to read. Let me know what you think of it. Hope you and your mum are well, sending hugs.

Oh, I LOVE that book!

Hi Roberta, I loved The Night Circus as well. Also, I am sure you will love In the Woods by Tana French. Best of it, it's her first book and her other ones are just as good, if not better!

So sorry to hear of the horrific explosion that occured in West, Texas. More sad news in an already bad week.

John, Mamie & Judy so far I am loving the audio of Night Circus. This story is so good! I hope it continues to stay that way.

Mamie- Joe did not like In the Woods but you, Mark, Judy and Susan seem to love her work so I will give the audio a go after Night Circus.

Judy-the explosion in West, TX is horrible. Tomorrow is the anniversary of the Waco Siege (Branch Davidians) and the Oklahoma City bombing. This just brings up horrible memories and makes me incredibly sad and ill. The Boston bombing was bad enough to wrap my mind around.

Roberta- I loved the Night Circus and I heard the audio was very good too. Enjoy!

I have The Night Circus on my TBR shelves, but it is certainly tempting to listen to it since I love Jim Dale so much. You MUST listen to Liesl & Po narrated by him, if you haven't already. Utter perfection!

Mark-I will thanks.

Katie- I did listen to him narrate Liesl & Po immediately after I read the book. I really need to buy the audio version. He does a fantastic job. Consider a read and listen to the Night Circus.

My latest Friends of the Library book acquisitions

Songbook by Nick Hornby
The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy
The Shipping News by Annie Prouix
Portrait in Sepia by Isabel Allende
Murder at the Library of Congress by Margaret Truman
The Robber Bride by Margaret Atwood
Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan
The Awakening by Kate Chopin
A New Earth by Ekhart Tolle
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett

There were other books I wanted but they didn't pass my smell test. If they are too old or musty then they trigger my allergies and asthma. A fifty cent book that triggers my asthma causing me to buy a fifty dollar inhaler is a no go for me. I know people at the library must think I'm crazy sniffing the books.

I also bought Southhampton Row by Anne Perry in audio cassettes. Fifty cents! Woo!

Nice haul!

Roberta- I had Liesl & Po saved on audio but I had to restore my iPod and lost it. I'll have to get it again. I did not realize Jim Dale narrated it.
Great book haul! That's impressive.

Mark-Definitly get the audio of Liesl & Po. Jim Dale does a wonderful job. Thanks about the book haul. I was quite excited to snag The Shipping News.

I know there are mixed opinions out there on the Shipping News but I was a big fan. I hope to get to Bel Canto later this year.

That's a great picture, Roberta! Are those books that have been donated that the library doesn't want? Because they look too pristine to be ex-library books (by UK standards, anyway!). I have The Forsyte Saga on my Kindle, and you've reminded me that I want to get to it some time soonish.

"To those who appreciate wisteria and sunshine.
Small mediaeval Italian castle on the shores of the Mediterranean
to be let furnished for the month of April.
Necessary servants remain. Z Box 1000. The Times"

The Enchanted April is exactly what the title describes. A month in Italy where the four main characters are "enchanted" during their stay at an old castle in San Salvatore. Each lady has her reasons for escaping London, although the horrid weather is the given excuse. Each wants to be alone with her thoughts, problems and loneliness. The stay in the Italian countryside gives them time to reflect on their problems away from their normal routines. Each eventually sees themselves as part of their own problems.

The novel wraps things up a bit neatly as most "romantic" type novels do, but I do like the bit at the end where both Mrs. Fisher and Mr. Melleresh Wilkins are horrified as Lotty calls Lady Caroline and Mr. Briggs, The Briggses Back to form so quickly and not even on British soil yet. What I found delightful was that Lotty didn't care what they thought. A trip to Italy might not be life changing for most, but it gave her a courage that was new for her.

Mark - You rarely steer me wrong my friend. I'll let you know when I get to Shipping News.

Susan - The library does donate a few books but they are usually not in this great a shape. The books are mainly donated by patrons and at least ninety percent are in deplorable, stinky, smelly shape. The Friends of the Library have their sale for three consecutive days once a quarter. I go early each day and pore through the donations. If they don't pass my smell test then I don't buy them. I donate most of the books back to the Friends for resale. I went this morning and bought more. I'll post my haul shortly.

The print on the Forsyte Saga is so small. I wish I had bought it on Kindle so I could enlarge the font. I am not ready for a magnifying glass, lit or otherwise. I will persevere!

I went back and browsed the latest drop offs to the book sale. I was able to acquire more books.

The Photograph by Penelope Lively
The Magician's Assistant by Ann Patchett
One Day by David Nicholls
High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
A Room With a View by E.M. Forster
Palace Walk by Naguib Mahfouz

Thoughts anyone?

Nice book hauls Roberta, i could do with going to your book sale. Try checking my thread out to see what i've been doing this morning,lol.

LOL John we were posting on each other's threads! :) Your bread looks delicious.

It is delicious my dear and i got the recipe from Please Sir! by Jack Sheffield. He recounted a tale of two old lads who served with the Leeds Pals in WW1 and they came into his school to teach the kids how to bake and the bread has treacle in it.

WOW! Nicely done, Roberta! What great hauls you got there! I am currently reading The Shipping News, and I am loving it. It's full of quirky characters. Hope you are having a great Saturday!

Mamie-I was so excited when I saw Shipping News because you had said you were enjoying it. Mark has given it an endorsement as well. It passed the smell test and best of all it was only fifty cents! Only free is better!

I've posted my review of Cold Comfort Farm in #19

I like your review, Roberta. I think I read Cold Comfort Farm years ago, but perhaps I should revisit it!

I am laughing about the smell test because I do that at the library every time before I check the books out! It always get some strange looks but I know they secretly admire my audacity - I am convinced that the rest of them are secret sniffers. Your review of Cold Comfort Farm has won me over - I have a soft spot for shenanigans and madness! Adding it to my list, so thanks for that!

Very nice book hauls, Roberta!

Thank you .

Mamie I think they are secret sniffers while we proudly sniff in full view.

Happy Earth Day



The photo is taken from my library's Facebook page. Here’s a great idea for recycling old envelopes to create custom corner bookmarks!

Thanks for the idea Fort Bend County Libraries!

Genius!

Hi Roberta. It's all Mamie's fault, I almost snorted my coffee all over the screen when I read her comment about secret sniffers! I am dropping into the library this afternoon and now I will be looking at everyone and wondering if they are "secret smiffers"! LOL

I love that envelope book mark idea, very clever.

Judy sniff one out in the open for us! LOL

Hey Roberta!! Great minds think alike!! I'm also listening to Jim Dale's narration of The Night Circus. It was amazing in print and Dale just adds so much life to the characters!

I can't wait to see your thoughts on The Magician's Assistant. I LOVED it!!

Tina-I don't want to get out of my car with The Night Circus and The Magician's Assistant sounds like it is going to be so good. I don't know when I get to it but I will let ya know. :)

Roberta, I'll post pictures of the 'Queen becomes King' day in my topic, so you can taste the festivities :)

Roberta such wonderful book hauls. Lol in regards to the book smelling - even so that I don't have Asthma I don't like musty books *shudder*

Wish you a great week

I posted my review of The Enchanted April in post #48

After two consecutive novels about British ladies it is time for some Scandi crime! I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the second in the series Don't Look Back

In the Darkness: An Inspector Sejer Novel is the first Fossum I have read. It certainly will not be the last. Several LT members have recommended her work. The story is really well written. You get a sense of Inspector Sejer and know that there will be more to come. He is relaxed and methodical. He takes in every detail and only weighs the importance after much thought. At one point in the story he scratches off someones name from the top of his list but writes it at the bottom. He will rule out nothing until he is absolutely sure.

The small glimpses into his family life are sweet (his grandson) and a little sad (his difficulty coping with the loss of his wife.) He has a soft spot and a real way with children.

The story itself surprised me. I haven't read any of her (Fossum) other work so I don't know if she is always really good with a turn of the plot. This story gets you started in one direction and turns you around a couple of times. Not hard shocking unbelievable turns. Instead it is peeling back another layer or looking at things from a new view. It changed the story completely but was still incredibly believable. I couldn't put the book down.

I can see why she is the "Norwegian Queen of Crime". If all of her books are like this, exciting without being completely brutal then I will be a true fan.

It was late at night. He searched for stars, but could see none, the sky was too light. At this time of year he often felt that they'd disappeared for good, that they'd left and gone to shine over another planet. The thought saddened him. Without the stars he didn't have the same feeling of security, it was as if the earth no longer had a roof over it. And the sky simply went on and on forever.

Diana - I look forward to your photos of the abdication and coronation festivities!

Bianca-I hope your week is going well. I'll head over to your thread to see what you have been reading or listening to.

*waving* at Roberta

I love Fossum too! I read the 1st 3 and really liked them all. I forgot about this one. Did they re-release the 1st 2?

Stasia-Waving right back at you! How are you enjoying your freedom? LOL

Mark - This is the very first Inspector Sejer novel she wrote in 1995. They just translated it into English last year. Don't Look Back was released in English as the first novel but it is the second in the series. Have you read this one yet?

Yes, I started with Don't Look Back. I'll have to go back and read that one.

I haven't read "In the Darkness" yet either, looking forward to reading your thoughts on it, Roberta.

Judy - I haven't read any of her other Sejer books so this is my first impression.

Roberta,
Back up there on your purchases of April 19, I LOVED The Shipping News. Loved.

Ellen - I was so excited to get The Shipping News! It is creeping up the TBR pile for sure.

ETA: I can't spell! Aack!

Finally Finished!



End of April and I finally finished this March group read. As a nineteenth century satire it works brilliantly. In the twenty-first century it says a whole lot about America's opinion of itself as superior. Well that actually hasn't changed all that much. User susan67 reviewed American Notes by Dickens about his travel in America and a book by Anthony Trollope's mother, Frances Domestic Manners of the Americans. It is the flip side of this coin of what Mark Twain portrays in this book with the British authors thinking that nineteenth century Americans were uncouth and beneath them. Apparently lots of disgust about Americans spitting in public.

I did appreciate that Mark Twain used this story to talk about slavery and the impact it had on individuals and society. I liked that he also brought up class order and nobility versus the commoner. The part where Clarence was suggesting they exchange royalty with a royal cat lineage was hilarious. Tom the First, Tom the Second, Tom the Fourteenth had me laughing out loud.

I did enjoy the juxtaposition of nineteenth century inventions being used in the sixth century. This is not a book I would tell everyone they must read, but I think it would have been nice to meet Samuel Clemens and had some conversations with the man.

A Conneticut Yankee in the Court of King Arthur is one I've always meant to read, but not quite got around to.

Rhian - Keep Connecticut Yankee on the wish list but no need to rush. :)

I've posted my review of In the Darkness: An Inspector Sejer Novel in post #70.

I can't spell! Aack!

LOL!!!

Death Without Company is the second book in the Longmire series. I loved the first book, but I am only in like with the second book. The plot was a little much for me but I really enjoy the characters in this book. Walt has another experience from another dimension. This one was a little different than the first book with the dead woman coming to him in his dreams. I don't think I learned anything new about Walt in this one. Maybe the next. I will be reading the third.

Life without friends means death without company old Basque proverb

Roberta - Twain ought to have been America's first Nobel laureate IMO. Nothing wrong with spitting in the streets is there!

Paul - When you have a mouth full of tobacco there is! Apparently Mr. Dickens and Mrs. Trollpe were mortified by all the spitoons even in the US Senate. The Boy Scouts of America had a 1909 campaign against spitting in the streets due to the spreading of tuberculosis. So not just gross and bad manners but a danger to public health. :)

Hi Roberta!

Craig Johnson is a good choice for M&M May. I haven't read one of his in a while but I enjoyed the two or so that I've read.

Hi Roberta,
I know you're focusing on Mysteries this month, but I'm glad you found a challenge for Kavalier & Clay.

I've posted the THREAD for our Group Read of The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay.

Hi Roberta- I finished the 3rd Longmire book, Kindness Goes Unpunished. This series works very well on audio. George Guidall does a great job narrating them. Enjoy!

Ellen-I am quite excited to be a part of your group read of Kavalier & Clay. All roads led to the group read. The library had a copy just waiting for me. I have a slot in my 2013 challenge that I can drop it into and it qualifies for the May Mars, Myth and Make-Believe thread. I'll head over and star the thread.

Mark-I am listening to Death Without Company narrated by George Guidall. He is excellent. At first I didn't like his characterization of Vic because she is so tough but he makes her sound girly. Now I have decided she is so bratty sometimes that he really is doing her justice with that take on her. I do love Vic! She keeps Walter on his toes. The season premiere of Season 2 on A&E starts Monday, May 27th.

^ Excellent! I think most of us will get started next week or so.

HI Roberta, just flying by to wish you a great weekend with a lot of fantastic reading :)

Ellen - I can't wait.

Bianca - Hello Bianca. I'm glad you are feeling better. Thank you my dear. I plan on finishing my Longmire mystery and I'm wrapping up Night Circus. I don't want it to end.

My Kindle died last night. It is frozen. I did the reboot but it is not working. I will have to call the Amazon folks. Ugh. I am listening to Death Without Company. I've switched to my iPhone. Not fun but it will do.

Booh to frozen Kindles. Hope you'll have a wonderful weekend!

I just discovered that you have 2 threads, but here's the 'real' 75-one :)

Diana yes, I have two threads. I think I am more active on the 75 group members thread, but my 2013 Challenge thread is usually more active. I wanted to give up on that one because I am doing some double posting but there are some really amazing folks in the challenge group that don't participate in the 75 group. I don't want to miss out! :)

I may be able to reboot the Kindle. I am still working on it.

Enjoy the Giro d'Italia!

Roberta, I hope you're making progress with the Kindle and it can be rescued. Best wishes for the weekend anyway!

Now I know I was right to test the structural integrity of my building with all these books in lieu of a frozen kindle.

Hope it defrosts soon!

Reading Right Now



Group Read is here http://www.librarything.com/topic/153742

Roberta- I have never seen the Longmire TV show. Are you a fan? If so, does it follow the books or is it, it's own animal? I really enjoyed Kavalier & Clay and think it would make a perfect G.R.!

Susan - The Kindle is rescued! It turns out it was the charger which Mom had run over with her wheelchair. Crazy woman driver! My friend lent me her charger in the meantime and I will order a new one soon.

Paul - The Kindle has defrosted! So happy the structural integrity of the home is in order. I fear you may have to get a new abode soon with all the book buying you do. If they have an episode of Hoarders: The Book Version set in Malaysia I will be sure to tune in! LOL

Mark - I really enjoyed the Longmire show. I watched the first season last year before I read Cold Dish. It is kind of its own animal but they do follow a few things from the book. Walt seems a little younger on the show. Katie lives in Durant. Lou Diamond Phillips plays Henry. I picture Henry as a very tall large man in the first two books but I think LDP does him justice. The season is only 10 episodes. Record it and watch it later when you are in between shows. I think you would enjoy it.

Another Scandi crime novel for May: Murder & Mayhem 2013. You can find the thread here

***Spoilers***

I enjoyed Don't Look Back. It picks up exactly where the first in the Inspector Sejer series left off. A young girl is missing but she is found shortly thereafter. It is what she sees while she is out that is the real mystery of this tale. A dead teenager is found.

Inspector Sejer is meticulous without being fussy. He pours over every detail of the case. Even after his chief encourages him to place the blame on the girls boyfriend, he does not. The boy is found with incriminating evidence but Sejer is unconvinced.

The girl is from a small dead end subdivision. There are many people living in the neighborhood. Like most families, they all have secrets. Sejer encounters them all. Slowly he eliminates his suspects and gets to the real culprit.

What I like is that the crime is not given to you in extreme detail. It is the motive behind the crime that takes front and center in the story. It is the why, more than the where and how.

I liked this book. I will be reading more of this series.

He peered at the lock, a simple latch, then opened his wallet in search of a credit card. He was reluctant to use his bank card, but next to it was a library card with his name and number on it. On the back it said: "Books open all doors." He stuck the card into the crack, and the door slid open.

Wow, that's a great cover!

Jim - I love this book cover. Have you read any of this series?

My review for Death Without Company is Here

All caught up here, Roberta! I am also a fan of the Walt Longmire books - the third one is better than the second one, I think. I have only read one Karin Fossum - the same one you're reading now. You remind me that i need to get back to that series. I will be curious to go back and read the first one now that it's been translated. And so glad that you solved your Kindle woes! The Kindle needs to be working at all times!!

No, but they're on my list. I'm trying to finish the Erlandur series plus one or two more before jumping into a new one.

Jim - They are really good but they will wait until you are ready.

My review of The Night Circus is here

Listening Right Now



“’I don’t want my grandkids to grow up in a world run by a bunch of fascists or socialists or progressives or anarchists or communists or eugenicists or any sort of ists or ism. When I get those types, the men who just need to control everything to tell everybody else what to do, I stick it in and break it off. I’m fighting for freedom.’ Proudly, he gestured around the cave at his men. He loved them like a father. ‘We ride the air and plunder the seas. We’re the last free men and I’ll die a free man.’ ‘Amen’, Sullivan said.”

Funny, I liked the 2nd Longmire over the 3rd. I think the reason is, that I missed the Wyoming setting in Kindness. I think we agree that the Cold Dish is an amazing debut!
What is "Hard Magic"?

Mark -It is noir with supernaturals! Some people have abilities is what I can gather. That is the best I can describe it right now. It takes place in the 40s.

It sounded wacky so I snagged it. I'll keep you posted.

Loved your review of TNC. Gave it a well deserved thumbs up!!

Great review of The Night Circus, Roberta, one of my favorites reads from last year and a hard one to describe to other people without giving too much away.

Like Mamie,I preferred the third Walt Longmire over the the second, although I do love the Wyoming setting. Nbr. 2 just seemed a little too far out there for me. I am looking forward to Nbr. 4 to see what's up next for Walt and company.

Tina - Thank you! I think it is my first thumb. LOL

Judy - Thank you. I really felt like I shouldn't try to describe the book as much as how it made me feel. It is one of those books that you can ruin by giving away too much.

I put The Cold Dish on hold at the local library. I have not read any of Craig Johnson's books, so I hope I like it!

Stasia - It took me a about a third of the book to "warm" up to it. I think because I had seen the television show and the differences through me off. Once I got settled in, I really enjoyed the book and the characters are well written. The characters pulled me through the second book. The plot was not as believable to me. I look forward to the third book. I heard it was good. Let me know what you think after you read it.

Year long group read is here

I finished A Game of You this morning before I left for work. I enjoyed it. My favorite is still Season of Mists but I saw a lot of Doll's House in this volume. The only downside is that I wanted some characters explored more.

#118: Well, I never knew there was a television show about the books, so that is one obstacle I do not have to overcome!

Roberta, you have quite a number of books going right now!

I'll hop over to our Kavalier and Clay thread to see what's happening.

Stasia - I think you will enjoy The Cold Dish. I will await your verdict.

Ellen - I am practically dizzy!

Happy 10th birthday to my Bruce!



“Dogs are our link to paradise. They don't know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring--it was peace.”
― Milan Kundera

Or in the words of Kelly Clarkson "my life would suck without you"

Happy birthday, Bruce! You're gorgeous!

Happy Birthday Bruce, what a gorgeous fellow you are.

Handsome boy!

He's so cute! Happy birthday.

Happy Birthday, Bruce!! SO cute - and both quotes do him justice! Our three oldest dogs all turned ten this year, so Bruce is in excellent company!!

Happy Birthday Bruce, very handsome boy!

Heya, are you already on Volume 5 with Sandman? I just started Volume 2.
Finally managed to read Stiff which was quite interesting and partially very good fun!

Hope you are having a great weekend and good luck in teaching your mom to become a better wheelchair driver *grin*

So Bruce has got to be one of the cutest (I mean most handsome!!) dogs I have seen in quite some time!! And I love, love, love the quotes you chose!!

So, what's up with your mom? I saw you said on Mark's thread she was sick. Sending love and prayers!

Susan, John, Katie, Rhian and Mamie my handsome Bruce says thank you very much. He is such a joy. Of my three dogs, he has the easiest going personality. Don't get me wrong, he is definitely a terrier, it is just that he is so kind and incredibly social.

I love those quotes! I had to throw the Kelly Clarkson one in because I got Bruce during a rough time in my life. Through the good and bad he has been an amazing canine member of my family. He has been very accepting of my other two rescues. What can I say. I heart him.

Bianca - My mom has actually become an excellent wheelchair driver. If only I could keep her feeling better. Volume 2 of Sandman is so good Bianca! My favorite so far has been Volume 4 but we shall see as I read them. I have to get them through ILL because my library does not carry them. Bruce says thank you.

Tina my Bruce says thanks to you too. I have just not been able to keep Mom infection free. Now she has VRE in her urine and while it is sensitive to macrobid, the infectious disease doc is not happy with her progress. She is still symptomatic. Her other choices are Zyvox which is brutal and penicillin which she is allergic to. I fear the hospital is around the corner and that is never good. Keep us in your prayers please.

Aw Roberta, I am so sorry to hear that your mom has got VRE in her urine. I do hope that she will respond to macrobid and that you will be able to avoid the hospital. That must all be so frustrating for your family and especially your mom. I can imagine that she must be so fed up with all the hospital stays.
Glad to hear that she has become an excellent wheelchair driver.
I will keep you in my thoughts!

Happy Birthday, adorable BRUCE!!!

Sorry about your mum. :-(

#131 he is definitely a terrier - Oh I like terriers - probably because the first dog I can remember was a terrier. We have a Staffordshire Bull Terrier now, and her best friend is a West Highland White terrier as they both seem to enjoy the same sort of boisterous play that some other dogs find a bit much.

Roberta, sorry to hear about your mum. I hope you can keep her out of the hospital.

Hi Roberta, Happy Birthday to your adorable Bruce! My imaginary next dog is a Westie! We are at maximum pet capacity at the moment.
And Happy Mother's Day to you and your mom. I hope she responds to treatment. My mom is also allergic to penicillin (and cortisone, and ... ). It makes it so hard to find a medication that will work for her when she needs it.

Roberta, I'm sorry to hear that about your Mum. I hope she can avoid hospital if possible.

I finished A Game of You. I put down some very brief thoughts here

Lies, Knives and Girls in Red Dresses was good but I was a bit underwhelmed. Some of the pieces really stood out. I particularly enjoyed Rapunzel: A Story in Five Parts, Bearskin and Memoirs of the Beast.

If you love fairy tales then this book is for you. It is a short read.

The cut paper illustrations are exceptional and alone worth a peek at the book.

Do you want to sleep? Find another storyteller. Do you
want to think about the world in a new way?

Come closer. Closer, please.
I want to whisper in your ear.

Hi Roberta and Happy Mother's Day. So sorry to hear your Mom is having a setback, please let her know that she is being sent healing thoughts.

Happy Mother's Day, Roberta! Lies, Knives sounds like a lot of fun. I'll have to see if my library has it.

Bianca - Thank you for your kind thoughts.

Ellen - Bruce is adorable, thank you.

Rhian - I have two terriers and a chiuahua mix. There is something extra special about terriers. You have lots of wonderful pics of your dog in your gallery. What is his/her name? I am still chuckling over your son in the crate.

Diana - Thank you. I am hoping I can keep Mom home and on the way to health.

Natalie - Thank you for Bruce's B-day wishes. He thinks an imaginary Westie is wonderful, especially if it looks like him. LOL! How many is maximum pet capacity? What kind of pets do you have? How awful for your mom. It is so difficult when you are allergic to medication that can really help a lot of conditions.

Susan - Thank you. It has been a very horrid year for my mom.

Judy - Thank you. We believe in the power of healing thoughts in this home. It means a great deal that so many wonderful people are thinking kind, healing thoughts so that mom will get better.

Mark - Lies, Knives is really small and will make a nice in betweener.

#142 Roberta, our dog is called Daisy. She's just over a year old but still considers herself very much a puppy. I'm still quite surprised to find myself a dog owner after twenty five years of persuading my husband it would be a good idea. Whether J would still fit in the crate is doubtful: he's grown at least four and a half inches in the last year

My review of Don't Look Back by Karin Fossum is here

My review of Lies, Knives, and Girls in Red Dresses is here

After I was first separated from my first husband, I took my two young daughters out to buy a couch and came home with a little Westie, Misha. He was so much better than a couch (and my first husband) and kept us happy for a long time! Happy Birthday to your Bruce!

I found your thread and note that we share similar reading habits. I'll be sure to check back more often.

Hi Roberta, I'm glad Bruce approves! My Westie is almost as Cute as he is!

We have one 15 year old dog and three cats. Chance, really my brother's dog, is becoming quite deaf and somewhat blind. Also he is a large breed (I say collie/shepherd, but my brother insists on Belgian Malinois) so has joint and hip arthritis. He is just not in any shape to adjust to a new dog or contend with a energetic puppy. And he is a good boy and we love him, so hope his last years can be happy.

The three cats include a pair of rescue siblings, one a black/brown/white marble tabby called Jasper and the other lilac point/calico mix called Feather, and black stray we took in because he kept getting beat up by other neighborhood cats. We call him Jimmy Thumbs because he has extra digits that resemble thumbs, and he quite a little gangster.

I hope your mom is doing well and had a nice Mothers' Day.

Diane - Thank you for sharing that with me. Misha is great name for a Westie. The power of Westies! When Bruce was 3 months old I realized he was the only one happy when I got home. I took my clothes, my car and Bruce and left my husband. That sweet dog really got me through it. Looks like you have a maltese, schnauzer and a poodle mix (?) now.

Linda - We do share some reading habits. I need to head over to your thread. Glad you stopped by. I peeked at your gallery. You have a beautiful family and of course Lily is a doll.

Natalie - I have placed you under the category of AMAZING. How wonderful that you took in your brother's dog and three cats! Fifteen years is a long time for a large breed dog. It is good you are considering his welfare in not exposing him to a puppy at his age. (Did I mention you are amazing.) My cousin Shelley rescued a cat with extra digits. She was very pregnant and they kept the kitten with extra digits. How funny that he is a little gangster.

Mom has still not recovered from her infection. We are waiting for the final results of her latest culture. On top of all that, she fell this morning, but she is okay. I took her in to the doctor just to make sure. She sure gave me a fright.

Oh, no! Sooo not amazing! My brother and I share a house, along with our mother. We own and operate a small business together, so it all works out. But not amazing at all!

Natalie- So you share a house with your brother & mom plus run a business together. Wow! That is not amazing at all, it is doubly amazing! My cousin moved in with me to get on his feet but has stayed since I took in my mom. He has been a huge help. We were raised community style. You don't see that very much anymore.

We have three rescues: Fiona, the Havenese; Amelia, mini schnauzer and Jeffrey, the Bichon! The girls are from puppy mills and Jeffrey was given up because he was too much trouble. We've never had a dog that was this good! So glad your Bruce got you to a better place!

Perusing at Present

Diane - I love that you have three rescues. Don't they make your life so much better. One person's definition of trouble is someone else's heaven.

swooping through on my broom, trailing hugs and smooches

Look who flew in!

Richard - Thanks for dropping in sweets!

I brought elevenses to Mamie's thread, so here's some more:

Okay I am drowning in books! What else is new? I don't expect any sympathy around here. LOL!

I am currently half way through Hard Magic by Larry Correia. I own this one via audible so I will stop for a bit. It is really, really good so far. Aaack! I don't want to stop but I am literally at part two. It's a good place to stop. :(

The library sent me My Life by Bill Clinton. I have been listening to this one since February so I don't have any regrets to put this one on hold, but I would like to finish it. I'm getting closer to the end. Don't get me wrong, the book is good, it is just very long and there is some awesome fiction that tempts me daily.

The library also sent me or has waiting for me
The Toughest Indian in the World by Sherman Alexie
The Godwulf Manuscript by Robert B. Parker
In the Woods by Tana French

I'm also still reading Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon for the group read.

My priorities are the Kavalier & Clay, the Spenser book, Godwulf Manuscript and In the Woods. The others can be renewed.

It's the 17th of May. I better get cracking on these books.

Ah, Roberta, I know that feeling! I have six reserves lurking and two books at home. You will love the Tana French, I'm sure!

I'm so sorry to hear about the VRE... I'll definitely be praying for you & mom.

You've got some pretty amazing reading going on! Anxious to hear your thoughts on the Alexie. I really enjoyed the one I listened to recently so I'll be adding this one to the WL if you enjoy it.

Hugs to you, Roberta!

My Current Madness

Susan - If it weren't for you and Mamie I would think this madness only applies to me. LOL! I will let you know how I like the French book. You, Mark and Mamie have really built up this series.

Tina - The latest culture is negative! Fingers crossed because these infections are really hard to get rid of. Which book of Alexie did you just listen to?

Richard - Smooches! Thank you for my elevenses.

Hi Darling.

John - Hello my dear. I'm keeping your FIL in my prayers.

I loved this book. It is a really great hardboiled novel set in the 70s! I'm sure it was treat back in the day when it came out but it was doubly so to me today. It brought back some great memories of another era.

I love Spenser with an S, S-P-E-N-S-E-R. He's a tough guy with a soft spot for the innocent and no patience for the arrogant. He's got all the right credentials for a hardboiled PI, ex military, ex cop, ex boxer. He knows his streets and has a wisecrack for every situation. He knows his way around the kitchen and has a way with the ladies. Well most of them anyways.

I can't wait to read more of this series.

The office of the university president looked like the front parlor of a successful Victorian whorehouse. Oh Robert B. Parker, you had me at Hello!

Roberta - Belated though it is, I wish to give my greetings and admiration of Bruce. Fine little West Highland White if I may so. I haven't read anything by Parker but hardboiled is better in fiction than eggs!

Paul - My Bruce says thank you. He is a mighty fine Westie. You haven't read any Parker? What are you waiting for?

Thanks Roberta my dear, Karen and Amy went to see him tonight and he looked a lot better than yesterday, your kind thought are most welcome.

Katie- You are juggling some interesting and promising books. I love Clinton but I have heard this is a LONG & windy affair. Hope you love the French and curious to see your thoughts on the Alexie.

Mark - It's Roberta and you must be speeding through threads before you head off to deliver the mail. :)

Yes the Clinton is very good, but it is a history of the times along with his autobiography. Good thing Michael Beck is an excellent narrator. Sometimes I forget it is not Clinton talking.

So far I am early in the French book but I am enjoying it. The narrator is excellent

Hi Roberta, glad to hear you have good news about your mom.

I'm not familiar with the Parker books. Are they the source for the "Spenser" TV series from the eighties?

I hope you like In the Woods. French is a wonderful writer. I'm hooked on her books.

Natalie- It's up and down with my mom's health so we cherish the good days.

Yes, the Parker books inspired the series "Spenser for Hire". The first was a quick read. I enjoyed it. It took me back.

Roberta, I've got The Godwulf Manuscript up on Amazon, where there is a used copy for £2.80, delivered. I'm very close to clicking the button. Then I will blame you :-) Forty books in the series! Quite an undertaking.

Susan - Mamie & were joking about a 5 year plan. If we read one a month. LOL! Did you check Overdrive?

Yes, I did look but alas - a couple of the later ones, but not the early ones. There is one hard copy listed in the library catalogue but I wonder whether it really exists. Several records looked hopeful but turned out to have zero copies. I wonder why they're in the catalogue, in that case!!

Susan - I hate when that happens! That has happened to me several times in the past year with my local library. I have been doing ILL a lot more. Plus, I joined some of the neighboring county libraries so I can have access to their Overdrive selections. I was able to get the first Spenser book that way. I am in the queue for the second one.

The Amazon price is not bad. Have you tried Book Mooch? I haven't but I always look at Paperback Swap when I can't find something I'm looking for. I got several of the early Dalziel and Pascoe books that way. My library started with book #11 in the series on that one.

The Amazon price is the cheapest it can be, as delivery from third party sellers is a minimum of £2.80 and then the book is, say, 1p on top of that, so £2.81 in total. This one is £2.80 with FREE super-saver delivery (crafty) but is fulfilled by Amazon so I think it must be somewhere in the UK as they offer next-day delivery for people who aren't cheapskates. Our ILLs are £5 so that's enough to put me off anything that isn't already available!

Susan - the Amazon deal sounds really good. I hope you get it. It would be fun to have you on the Spenser bandwagon.

So far my ILLs have been free! I was shocked because I thought I would have to pay postage, but since there are so many different library systems in the metro Houston area they must be delivered via van I think.

Sorry about the Katie mix-up! LOL. I try hard to get names right but every so often...

Mark - It happens to all of us. Considering you are in the bronze medal position of the group, I am impressed you are usually right.

And really, Katie isn't such a bad thing to be called, is it? ;-)

You are trying to confuse me now, aren't you?

Katie- Exactly!

Mark - What I meant is that you are numero tres of posting in the 75 group. I don't know how you keep up and keep things straight.

Roberta, I think we can all relate to the feeling of drowning in books! I will get back to Kavalier and Clay and complete it this month!

I also still have the graphic memoir I promised to send to you. I think I got a meeting cancellation today so I can hopefully walk up to the post office and get that in the mail to you. I keep my promises, just not always as quickly as I'd like.

Happy Wednesday to you!

Ro-- I listened to The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian. The author performed it & I loved it!

Are you saying your Clinton autobio is not read by Bill??? The abridged version I listened to several years ago was Clinton reading. I think. Now I'm not so sure. Hmmmmm... I'll have to check my shelves!

LOL. No, I knew that, I was goofing on the fact that Katie jumped in there.

BTW- I picked up Lies, Knives, and Girls in Red Dresses from the library. It looks like a quick read, so I should be able to bookhorn it in soon.

Ellen - I completely understand how RL gets in the way. Thank you again for your generosity.

Tina- Clinton reads the prologue and epilogue of the unabridged version and he reads the entire abridged version. He has vocal cord problems so I don't think they can handle 42 discs!

Katie - It seems I confused myself, but it is always nice to be mistaken for you. ;)

Mark - LOL I am easily confused! BTW I decided instead of Book Bully I will call you The Recommender. Sounds like a super hero doesn't it? Well, I guess you are.

I hope you like Lies, Knives more than I did. It is actually pretty good, but I expected more.

RL has been busy, Mom fell last week but she is ok. I will do my best to get In the Darkness: An Inspector Sejer Novel to you soon. It's the UK version so there is some Britishisms in it. Not a lot though.

LOL - love your quote from Godwulf - and do swing by bookmooch! We need more moochers!

Katie - The Godwulf quote is the first line in the book! I will check bookmooch out soon.

All caught up- nothing to add but wow- you read a lot of books at once :) (its a feat!)

Shoggoth's Old Peculiar is a free short story from Neil Gaiman on Audible. You don't need an account in order to get it.

Here is the link: http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B00CPQP02K

More PSA: All 10 episodes of the 1st season of Longmire look to be available on Hulu (free version) this weekend. Season 2 starts on A&E Monday. Last year they showed the first 4 episodes the day after they aired. Then they switched to 8 days after they aired format and the episodes were available for a limited time.

Megan - I have monkey brain. LOL!

Reading Update

I put poor Bill Clinton back on hold. I'm listening to Hard Magic and In the Woods so I don't have time to devote to Bill's audio. I'll pick it up again.

I also, put The Toughest Indian in the World aside as well. I got about half way through it and felt a little bit lost. I feel I need to go back and read Alexie's earlier short stories first.

Still reading Kavalier & Clay. I also picked up the book copy of In the Woods.

My RL has been draining lately. My Mom is just slowly deteriorating. She is requiring more physical assistance and she needs someone around to remind her and check up on her. One of my nieces has been able to help me while I look for a full time caregiver. Also, my aunt is coming from San Antonio to help me out for a week and a half. This will be wonderful.

Roberta- Thanks for mentioning the free Gaiman short story. I intended to but forgot. I snagged one called Cold Colors, which is an audio. I think he also released a e-story too. Is Old Peculiar an additional one?
On a website I pay for, I managed to snag the 1st 7 episodes of Longmire. I already had the 1st 3. I hope I can do a marathon.

Hi Roberta, I'm sorry to hear about your mom. It must be very hard, but I admire how well you seem to handle it and how devoted you are to ensuring she has the best care.

Roberta, sorry to hear about your mom. I'm glad your aunt will be able to help you. x

Sorry to hear the news about your mum Roberta. I'm glad to hear your niece and aunt have been able to help you out.

Roberta- I am very sorry to hear about your Mother. My heart goes out to you. Gentle hugs!

Roberta, I'm sorry to hear about your mother too, and I hope you can find someone full time to help her.

I thought of you yesterday when I was watching a TV programme about the banking crisis, and a politician said that he wanted to see "more people in orange jumpsuits" (which prisoners don't wear here in the UK). I was just waiting for him to add "breaking rocks in the hot sun" to prove that he was a Chet and Bernie fan, but sadly he didn't :-)

Hi Roberta, sorry to hear the latest about your mom, Karen and i send you lots of hugs and kisses my dear.

Roberta, I thought you might enjoy this article from the BBC website about why so many people are moving to Texas.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22649624

Roberta, I'm so sorry your mom's health is getting worse. Glad you have family who can give you some help and relief. It's so exhausting both physically and emotionally when someone you love is so unwell. Don't forget to take care of yourself!

Re Clinton: 42 discs?? Seriously??? I cannot imagine!

I'm stopping as soon as I post this to say a little prayer for you & your mom. Is that ok with you I hope? I don't wish to offend but it makes me feel like I've done something to help. I'm glad you're getting some help. Is there anything I can do?

Katie, Diana, Heather, Mark, Susan, John & Natalie Thank you for your kind thoughts and words. It is has been a very difficult road with Mom but I wouldn't change it. I interviewed a young lady this past week and am hopeful. I will check out her references on Monday and then have her meet Mom.

I'm also looking into respite care so I can take some time for myself and I do need to do some remodeling in the house.

We see the orthopedic surgeon on Monday. Mom has had a cement spacer for a knee since last August. I hope we can get this knee put in soon.

Tina - You may always pray for us! We are not offended and take prayers from all corners. Mom has had all denominations of Christians praying for her. Some of my Muslim and Hindu friends are also offering up prayers. My pulmonologist (he's mom's too) is Jain and long ago he taught me that the power of healing starts in the mind. The energy from all positive thoughts and prayers really does make a huge difference. Thank you for our kindness. It means so much to me.

Adding my thoughts and prayers to everyone else's concerning your Mom. My heart goes out to you - what a wonderful gift you have given her with your love and patience and caring.

Ooo, a spacer in her knee! Having that fixed alone will make her feel better, although she must not be very mobile. If she were, she wouldn't have been willing to wait that long. Hope your young lady turns out to be a godsend! I'll keep you and your Mom in my thoughts too.

Happy Birthday to my Freddy! It's 12 years for you today. You have been a part of my family for 10 of those years. You are my favorite ragamuffin. From you I have learned that with love, kindness and patience all beings have a chance to make this a better world. Our little corner of it benefits from you.

“Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in.” Mark Twain

Mamie - Thank you as always, for your kind words and thoughts.

Katie - Mom has been so sick this past year and we almost lost her in December. It has been a long slow recovery with a lot of infections. The spacer has been a nightmare. Thank you for your thoughts. It means a lot.

:( Lets hope for more recovery!

& Freddy is so cute! Happy birthday.

Happy Birthday to Freddy!

And I love that Mark Twain quote :)

It was difficult to get a copy of this book, but it was so well worth it! I felt like I was there with Helene, Frank and company. Twenty years of correspondence went by so quickly.

I loved how formal the correspondence started and then it moved on to a more conversational style and then to a true exchange between friends. What a small world it is to reach across an ocean and make each other happy with thoughtful gifts and exchanges. It is so easy to do now in the age of internet but Helene did it the old fashioned way. I would love to know what became of Cecily Farr and Megan Wells. I'm also curious about Sheila and Mary and what became of their lives in the last forty or so years.

This book was a delight. I would recommend it to anyone.

you leave me sitting here writing long margin notes in library books that don't belong to me, some day they'll find out i did it and take my library card away. This horrified me!

i go through life watching the english language being raped before me face. like miniver cheevy, i was born too late. and like miniver cheevy i cough and call it fate and go on drinking. hh Miss Helene Hanff would have fit in perfectly with modern day texters! LOL

Katie and Katie (from Texas) Freddy thanks you both very kindly for his birthday wishes.

I wanted to LOVE this book and I almost do. It really took me in with little promises and whispers. I loved that part of it. I kept turning the page for a payoff that didn't quite happen. It think the part that disappointed me most is not that the old mystery was never solved but that the new one was a bit of a let down.

I didn't know who the murderer was but I could see the "villain" a mile away. I liked the way that turned out. I can imagine there might be trouble from that front in the future. I would look forward to that book.

As for the narrator, he really wanted to be the hero but he was much too afraid. He solved the actual murder but he royally screwed up everything else. I loved Cassie and I can't wait to read her story.

Tana French writes really well. I could picture myself in Knocknaree, at Cassie's and in the squad room. I especially loved her descriptions of the woods. It came to life for me. I think this book is going to reveal itself a little more to me later. I'll update if it does.

“Now it seems obvious, of course, that even a strong person has weak spots and that I had hit Cassie's full force, with all the precision of a jeweler fragmenting a stone along a flaw. She must have thought, sometimes, of her namesake, the votary branded with her god's most inventive and sadistic curse: to tell the truth, and never to be believed.”

#209 Happy birthday Freddy! He looks adorable :-)

#213 I love 84 Charing Cross Road :-)

Hi Roberta,
I'm sorry things are so tough with your mom these days. It's a difficult part of the journey..... Keep taking care of you, too.

And a belated happy birthday to Freddy who is adorable and looks like a delightful reading buddy.

I will be seeking a copy of 84, Charing Cross Road based on your review. I also almost-loved In the Woods and I am now almost-loving The Likeness which I have been listening to on audio since last September (clearly not my best medium for consuming books).

Hang in there.

Happy Birthday, Freddie!

And prayers for your mom and you.

I did love In the Woods, although my immediate thoughts upon finishing were much like yours. Her writing is so very evocative. I loved the reading experience, but was a little put off by the ending.

As I reflected on the story, it really seemed to resonate with me. I think French is more interested in the continuing impact her story has on its characters and the reader than in neatly resolving the crimes. (I am the first to object when the resolution of a book is just too tidy and convenient, contrived.) I've come to love her rather messy endings - so like real life!

The Likeness is Cassie's story. I hope you'll give it a chance. It may be my favorite of her works and I do love them all!

#40


This book is one fast, fun and hard ride! At first I wasn’t sure what to make of it. It is alternate history, diesel punk, magic, zombies and my absolute favorite part it has that hardboiled/noir style to it. Did I mention funny? If you hear tales of a crazy lady driving around the suburbs of Houston in a blue Highlander laughing and talking to herself, well that would be me!

I don’t want to tell you too much about the story because I really don’t like creating that bias. It takes place between the two World Wars. This is mainly the story of Jake Sullivan and Faye Vierra, two actives (people with magical abilities) who find themselves thrust into a secret society aimed at helping their kind. For their own reasons each is motivated to act and not only help their kind but save the world.

I really didn’t know what to expect when I started this book. It covers so many genres that it could have been a disaster. For me, it really works. I listened to the audio and I have to say the narrator, Bronson Pinchot was spot on. Who knew? His characterizations really sold the story to me. I can’t wait to start book two

“’I don’t want my grandkids to grow up in a world run by a bunch of fascists or socialists or progressives or anarchists or communists or eugenicists or any sort of ists or ism. When I get those types, the men who just need to control everything to tell everybody else what to do, I stick it in and break it off. I’m fighting for freedom.’ Proudly, he gestured around the cave at his men. He loved them like a father. ‘We ride the air and plunder the seas. We’re the last free men and I’ll die a free man.’ ‘Amen’, Sullivan said.”

#41


This story was absolutely gorgeous. What a wonderful retelling of Achilles' legend. Thank you Madeline Miller for taking your time, ten years, to write this beautiful love story.

My heart was in it from the beginning. I young prince, Patroclus, is unloved and unappreciated by his father. Exiled from his home he is fostered in Phthia. In Phthia he is a loner, misunderstood until an unlikely friendship forms with the Prince of Phthia, Achilles. Achilles is a the son of a goddess. He is destined for glory. The King of Phthia, Peleus does not understand when his son Achilles chooses Patroclus as his companion.

The story really never explains the reason why Achilles is drawn to Patroclus, only that it is so. Patroclus like everyone else worships Achilles but also truly loves him. Perhaps this is why Achilles loves Patroclus as well.

We see the destiny of Achilles unfold in the story. His attempt to put off the prophecy concerning his death. The slow realization that he cannot put off his fate but instead savor every moment with his companion while winning a name for himself. We see his first taste of glory that battle gives him. Slowly, we see him become blinded by his pride. Patroclus calls him on his hubris but Achilles is too far gone to see the damage he will inflict on his comrades, Patroclus and on himself.

Patroclus takes up the armor of Achilles in order to help bring his honor back and stop the slaughter of the Greeks by the Trojans. The cost is his life. Achilles says for ten years "What has Hector done to me?" Finally, the death of Patroclus by the hands of Hector causes Achilles to set the prophecy in motion. Patroclus had not planned to live long once Achilles was gone. Now that Patroclus, "the best of the Myrmidons", has preceded him in death, Achilles welcomes the fulfillment of the prophecy. In the end, the two find peace together.

This book is really beautiful. It broke my heart and made weep tears. What a lovely retelling of the story of a proud Prince. Through the eyes of Patroclus I liked Achilles. I worried for him as he was caught up in his own ego. I wanted to reassure Patroclus that he was worthy. In the end all knew he was worthy.

“I will never leave him. It will be this, always, for as long as he will let me.
If I had had words to speak such a thing, I would have. But there were none that seemed big enough for it, to hold that swelling truth.
As if he had heard me, he reached for my hand. I did not need to look; his fingers were etched into my memory, slender and petal-veined, strong and quick and never wrong.
“Patroclus,” he said. He was always better with words than I.”

Heather - good to see you here!

Ellen - Thank you for the encouragement. I didn't realize The Likeness was "the audio book that is taking forever" LOL! I hope you find a copy of 84, Charring Cross Road. It is delightful.

Natalie - I really did like In the Woods I just wanted to smack that Rob! Tana French does know how to tell a tale. I will read Cassie's story soon.

#42


While the mystery is not my everything, Spenser has turned out to be. He is such a smart a**! I find myself giggling constantly. I absolutely love the "Spenserisms" and have taken to copying and saving them. They may not make sense to anyone else, but they make me fall out of my chair laughing. If that is the most a book can give you well I say it is a lot.

I loved the introduction of Susan. She has Spenser's number down. I'll be reading this series regularly. I am enjoying the flashbacks to another era and these make perfect in betweener books.

"I was up to the Boston Athenaeum browsing through the collected works of Faith Baldwin," I said.

Hi Roberta, just passing my dear, hugs to you.

Listening Right Now

#43



I finished Fables & Reflections this morning. I agree with others that the artwork was much improved on this one. I enjoyed the tale of Orpheus. Ramadan was the best chapter, story and artwork were very good.

213. Loved your review of 84, Charing Cross Road. Helene's comments about books and people were my favourite bits in the books. The way she was absolutely furious because a books wasn't what she'd imagined (like the poorly translated Bible). And I agree about her and Twitter - wish we could've got to see that!

Roberta- It's funny how many different opinions there are on In the Woods. You don't see that, very often around here. It grabbed me from beginning to end and speaking of grabbing, that's what Miller did with The Song of Achilles. Only a few pages in but WOW!

Hi Roberta! Thanks for dropping by my thread. I keep promising myself I'll get around to decorating. And commenting on my reads. I admit to being a terrible procrastinator - after all, I could be reading!

And Yeah, Mark! More fans for In the Woods!

Interesting review for In the Woods. I haven't read it yet. I don't know if I'd be upset by the unsolved mystery or not? It's kind of like an unmet reader expectation.

& I was just looking at a "gender-flip" thing on gender-bias in covers/marketing. Tana French's book looks like one of the "male" ones, and so does "Song for Achilles." Correia's look gender neutral with both stylized female and men, and a vignette shot like the "female" covers had. Parker's almost does. Gaiman's looks definitely male. So I'm thinking the gender flip thing wasn't quite fair. ??? Kind of fun looking at all your covers.

Knock, knock...is Roberta home? Well, the door is open and the light is on, so I am coming in. I am well into the Absent One. I LOVE this book and I LOVE this series. It has quickly climbed to one of my top series reads. His sense of humor is priceless and I am chuckling constantly. Assad and Rose are absolute hoots!

Hi Roberta, I am in the process of catching up after being away for a week. I hope things are going well with you and that your Mom is showing some improvement.

I am another huge fan of the Tana French series, although for me, The Likeness was my least favorite.

Must get to Tana French soon!!

Oh, and I LOVEDDDDDD Song of Achilles too. Just stunningly gorgeous story-telling, right???

Love and hugs to Freddy --- happy late birthday, handsome!! :)

How are you and mom? **Prayers for y'all** (((Roberta)))

Time for a little catch up folks!

Paws - I think Helene would have had quite the Twitter following. Imagine her on LT! I hope you are enjoying your summer.

Mark - I know you love SOA

Natalie - I know how busy real life can be. I was on LT for three years before I visited threads and then almost another year before I started a thread. I will point no fingers at procrastination. Take care. :)

Katie - I learn something new from you all the time. I will have to look at the gender flip covers. Some of the other covers for SOA had the breast plate on them. I'm sure it may have been meant for manliness and war, but it looked a little romance to me. It doesn't matter. I try not to judge the books by the covers. If I did I would never have read any Jussi Adler-Olsen. He does not like his U.S. covers and titles. LOL!

Mark - I am thrilled my fellow card caring member of the Department Q series fan club! I was still at work when you came by knocking. I love Carl, Assad and Rose! Rose is the perfect addition to the team. He said we will get her back story in a book. I love it! Also, the nail gun murders will continue be a back story for some time. I love a mystery in a mystery!

Judy - Glad you are back! I really liked Cassie so I am worried about The Likeness. I want to like it! I really, really do! (Said in her Sally Field award accepting voice.) Ha! I'll give it a try later in the year.

Tina - Another SOA fan! Thank you dearest for your continued prayers. I'll PM you our update with Mom so you can continue to pray for us. Say hello to my fellow nurse Lisa. What type of nursing does she practice?

You know a lot of people list The Likeness as their favorite of the series so I think you will love it!

Roberta, I ended up liking The Likeness a good deal, even though it was an audiobook. And I haven't read a Spencer in years. I don't even know where I left off in the series but I was a fan. Fun, entertaining reading. Have you read any of the old Ed McBain 87th Precinct series?

Judy - Of course I'll post my thoughts on The Likeness. ;)

Ellen - I haven't read the 87th Precinct series. I'll have to put it on my wish list. I'm still working my way through the Dalziel and Pascoe series by Reginald Hill. That series goes way, way back as well. My intention is to start the Martin Beck series later in the year and finish it next year. It is only 10 books so I'll put the 87th Precinct on my radar after that.

I really do love police procedurals the most of all the mystery genres. The ones that go way back are so enlightening as to how they solved crimes without all the technology and profiling that we take for granted.

The Spenser books are my new guilty pleasure!

Roberta, I fell in love with the 87th Precinct series back in the 1970s. I strongly recommend trying to read them in order. Steve Carella, Meyer Meyer, and crew are wonderful characters.

eta: I just put Cop Hater on hold at the library. It's the first in the series and I'd like to revisit.

#44



Okay so I finished this book last night. It felt a little rushed and crowded with everyone who ever hated Sookie that isn't dead making an appearance and everyone who ever loved Sookie that isn't dead made an appearance too.

Sookie ended up with her true love after all. I am very satisfied with that. Goodbye Sookie. Be happy.

I'm Sookie Stackhouse. I belong here.

Roberta - Not for the first time I find myself in agreement with Ellen. The 87th Precinct is a good series and it is much better read in order. The difficulty comes in tracking down those pesky middle books and that is why I am stuck in my reading of that particular series!

Ha, perhaps Ellen can come to the rescue. What middle book in the 87th Precinct series might you be wishing for next, Paul?

Hi Roberta!

Ellen - Hello my insomniac friend!

Bad news is my Mom is back in the hospital with sepsis pneumonia. She ended up back in ICU.

Good news is we caught it really early and got her to the ER in time and treatment was started immediately. She is now on the regular medical floor and she is doing much better. I hope to have her home by Monday.

I don't know category: Two of three doctors want to do her redo knee early next week while she is here. Yikes! She really needs that knee but she is recovering from pneumonia and sepsis!!! Did I say Yikes!?

Sorry to hear about your Mom, Roberta. Sending thoughts and prayers your way.

Hi Roberta, sorry to hear about your mum but glad you caught things early and I hope you have her home on Monday darling. Give our love to your mum and as always we send you our love.

Sorry to hear about your Mom, Roberta, but it was good that it was caught early and treatment was immediate. Have a good weekend, and let your Mom know that your friends here on LT are thinking about her!

Oh rats. I do hope your mom comes through okay, that it was caught early enough to make it a smooth and quick recovery.
Take good care of you, too, Roberta.

Mamie, John Judy and Ellen, thank you for the well wishes concerning mom. We are not doing surgery tomorrow and we will see how she does the next couple of days.

#45



I don't read a lot of historical fiction anymore. The Stockholm Octavo was brilliant! I haven't read too much about this time period in regards to Sweden. Most of the books I've read about this time period are about the French Revolution. It was interesting and I would like to go back and read more about this era in Sweden's history.

I loved the pace of the story. The inclusion of a little bit of magic brought about by a card player with the gift of Sight. The laying of the cards and all the connections made the story exciting. Another fascinating subject to explore.

All the details about the folding fans and their use as weapons was fun. Men don't mess with a scorned woman!

This was an excellent debut novel.

I had The Stockholm Octavo from the library a few months ago and had to return it before reading it. I believe I will put it on hold again.....

Roberta, sorry to hear about your mom's condition.

The Stockholm Octavo is in my mountain TBR, I'm looking forward to it.

Oh, poor Mom! I can't imagine them wanting to do surgery when she's already so sick! I'm glad they changed their minds on that. I'll be keeping you both in my prayers!

Sad to see the end of Sookie; your description was right on!!

Lisa used to be an ER nurse manager, but when she moved to Atlanta she got a regular floor nursing supervisor position. I'll tell her you say hello.

Please keep us posted on your mom. (((Hugs)))

Hi Roberta- Waiting for an update on your Mom. I hope everything is going well. Fingers crossed.

Roberta? Are you there, love?

Missing you on the threads. Hope all is well.

Hope all is well, Roberta, with you and your Mom. x

What can I say but that this was an incredibly beautiful but difficult book for me to read. I started it as I knew my mother was headed to the hospital but she wasn't quite there yet. I stopped reading it when she was admitted to the hospital. I finished it last night. My mom came home today. We will be back at the hospital. This I know. My mom doesn't have a terminal disease but she has chronic illness and it has taken a toll.

The monster served a purpose for Conner. This book served a purpose for me. READ it! Whenever you are ready. Read it.

"Stories are wild creatures," the monster said. "When you let them loose, who knows what havoc they might wreak"?

"Many things that are true feel like a cheat. Kingdoms get the princes they deserve, farmers' daughters die for no reason, and sometimes witches merit saving. Quite often, actually. You'd be surprised."

"You do not write your life with words," the monster said. "You write it with actions. What you think is not important. It is only important what you do".

This is my life right now, caring for my mother. I don't regret one single minute of it. Sometimes I hate it, but I love her and I will keep on. Reading has been my salvation. You my like minded friends have been a huge blessing!

Ellen- I found The Stockholm Octavo very entertaining.

Diana - I'm glad it is on your TBR pile. Thank you for your kindness. Mom is home today! Knee surgery on Monday. Holding thumbs and crossing fingers.

Tina - Mom is home. She ended up with c. diff! Yuck! She is doing well. Knee surgery on Monday. She hasn't had a knee for 10 months so we are ready now.

Mark - Update above and I loved A Monster Calls. It was hard to read but just what I needed. Great recommendation my friend.

Richard - I sent you a message but I'm still sending extra xoxo for you and Stella. :)

Mamie - We are still laughing in spite of everything so that should tell you what tough cookies we are in this house! Our motto is "kicking ass and eating chocolate"! Let the world take note.

Diana - You are so sweet to drop on in and check up on us. We have our ups and downs. I think you are all too aware of what that entails. Thank you. You are in my thoughts and I send you positive ones always.

Very profound Roberta were the quotes from A Monster Calls and quite apt under a number of circumstances.

You also have whetted the appetite nicely for The Stockholm Octavo which I plan to read shortly.

Have a lovely weekend.

Roberta, I hope everything goes OK with your mother's knee surgery tomorrow. 10 months with no knee! That must have been so difficult. My Dad has had three knee replacements (not that he has four legs or anything - one was done twice) and they sound painful, but it will be so good for your mum to be mobile again.

Stopping by to see how things are with you and your Mom. Sending good health vibes for a successful knee surgery and good recovery for your Mom and wishes for stress free moments for you during this time.

I loved your thoughts on A Monster calls. Very touching. Believe it or not, that was the only book I purchased today. I am now a proud owner of a gorgeous new hardback, for 10 bucks.
My wife started a library copy but now she can finish it.

Hi Roberta, your words concerning A Monster Calls are really touching. And they tell how stories really do interconnect with "real" life and help us with our troubles.
Am thinking all my best thoughts for you and your mom.

Hi Roberta, just passing by and send all our love to you and your mum.

#47


I enjoyed Volume 7 of the Sandman Chronicles. The art work is getting better but the flow of the story was really strong in this volume. You can see change is coming whether Morpheus is ready for it or not.

Paul, Susan, Lori, Mark, Natalie and John, thank you for checking up on me. If I haven't stopped by your thread I will soon.

Mom recovered from her aspiration pneumonia. We have been postponing her knee surgery so we finally were able to get that knee put in on Monday. She went 10 months with a cement spacer. It has been very, very difficult on her. She is so amazing and is trying to get through the roughest patch right now. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers and we appreciate it.

I'm still reading and listening to books so I'll post my thoughts as soon as I'm able. :)

#48


This was another fine ride in the Grimnoir universe! All the favorites are back, Jake, Faye and the rest of the bunch. The Grimnoir are being framed for all sorts of horrible crimes. Someone wants all the actives rounded up, tagged and controlled. Sound familiar? Too many times in the real world for sure.

This story has it's own adventure but also serves to push the plot forward for the final installment with an epic battle with an enemy that threatens the Earth. I loved how we see a little more of Jake Sullivan's character in this story. In the first book you get a glimpse that he is lot smarter than those with his ability usually are, but in this book you really see the depth of his intelligence. Faye learns something huge about herself. HUGE! Our little girl is growing up.

I can't say how much fun this series is. If you want a fast paced fun and exciting story then this is for you. I am listening to the book and the narrator is honestly spot on with all the characters. 5 stars for his narration.

"Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war," Dan Garret said as he looked over Sullivan's final battle plan. The grease penciled map that covered one wall of the farm house living room was far more detailed today. "I read Shakespeare in prison," Sullivan muttered. "Why don't you pick somebody that writes happy endings."

I've started my new thread. Come on over!