rosalita jumps a little higher in 2014: Verse 2

I’m Julia, back for my fourth year with the 75 Book Challenge. I have no idea what 2014 will hold, but for the first time I’m going to attempt a little *gulp* planning. When it comes to reading, I am a pantser not a plotter, so I am not at all sure I will be able to follow a plan when shiny new books start popping up at the library and in other people’s threads. You might want to grab a ringside seat for what’s almost certain to be a hot mess of a reading year. :-)

2014 Category Challenge:
To help me with my planning, I am also attempting for the first time this year a Category Challenge. That link will take you to my thread over in that group, but for the record here are my categories (based on the titles of Bruce Springsteen songs):
1. Brilliant Disguise — books by pseudonymous authors (read to date: 0)
2. Growin’ Up — young adult fiction (read to date: 0)
3. Be True — nonfiction (read to date: 0)
4. Book of Dreams — fantasy fiction (read to date: 0)
5. Highway Patrolman — police procedurals (read to date: 0)
6. Dead Man Walkin’ — books about the death penalty (read to date: 0)
7. It’s Hard To Be a Saint in the City — books set in New York City (read to date: 1)
8. Reason to Believe — books with a religious theme (read to date: 0)
9. Spirit in the Night — ghost stories (read to date: 0)
10. She’s the One — female authors new to me (read to date: 0)
11. A Good Man Is Hard to Find — male authors new to me (read to date: 1)
12. The Ghost of Tom Joad — books by John Steinbeck (read to date: 0)
13. Local Hero — authors with a connection to the Iowa Writers Workshop (read to date: 0)
14. Worlds Apart — books set outside the U.S. (read to date: 0)

Let’s see, what else?

My rating scale:
★★★★★ - completely enthralling. It enlightened or educated me in some way. I can definitely see myself reading it again. In short, a "keeper" worth buying.
★★★★½ - not quite perfect, but I will actively recommend this book to friends.
★★★★ - really great book with minor flaws, still highly recommended.
★★★½ - better than average but some flaws. Recommended.
★★★ - entertaining but probably forgettable, not worth re-reading. Recommended only for fans of the genre or author.
★★½ - readable but something about the story, characters or writing was not up to standards. Not recommended.
★★ - finished but did not like, and would not recommend.
★½ - some redeeming qualities made me finish it, but nothing to recommend.
★ - finished but disliked enough to actively attempt to dissuade others from reading.
½ - could not finish, possibly destroyed by fire (unless it's a library book)

Books Read ticker:

January
1. The Burglar on the Prowl, Lawrence Block. ★★★½
2. The Taking of Pelham One Two Three, John Godey. ★★★
3. A Tan and Sandy Silence, John D. MacDonald. ★★★½
4. A Week in Winter, Maeve Binchy. ★★★½
5. Cut To the Bone, Jefferson Bass. ★★★½
6. The Panther, Nelson DeMille. ★★★½
7. The Scarlet Ruse, John D. MacDonald. ★★★★
8. The Racketeer, John Grisham. ★★★
9. Christmas Mourning, Margaret Maron. ★★★★

4. A Week In Winter, Maeve Binchy.

Not the best I’ve ever read from Binchy, but still comforting and enjoyable. Binchy has a knack for examining a place or a time through the eyes of a variety of characters, which works much better than it sounds because (just as in life) although the characters are experiencing the same time each of them have a very different perspective. In my experience, Binchy’s earlier novels such as Circle of Friends, Firefly Summer, and The Copper Beech were stronger books overall, but this was a gentle and sweet story that evoked its West Ireland setting beautifully. It made me want to jump on a plane and go back there tomorrow.

Too soon for visitors?

5. Cut To the Bone, Jefferson Bass.

The latest novel featuring forensic anthropologist Bill Brockton (based on real-life Body Farm creator Bill Bass) travels back to 1992, when Brockton was just establishing the Body Farm on the campus of the University of Tennessee. He’s confronted with a series of murders evidently committed by someone who knows him and bears a grudge. Before it’s over, everything and everyone he holds dear is threatened. It was a good but not great entry in the series. Moving the action back in time allowed Bass to escape some of the plot corners he seemed to have written his characters into in the last book, The Inquisitor’s Key. It will be interesting to see if the next book continues in the past or moves back to the present.

Oh, good! I'm jumping in now, on the short thread. I haven't quite had the nerve to dare your long thread yet. ;-)

I'm happy to see you, Roni! Just skip the other thread; you won't be missing much. If you scroll fast and just stop at the pictures you'll be able to catch up on reviews and skip the chatter. Then come back here! :-)

Hi Julia! Congrats on jumping a little higher! But be careful on those landings. Let's enjoy this warm-up! I know I will.

Goodness me, that was quick!

{*jealous*}

Hi Julia, the Tournament of Books list (from last thread) is most interesting. I hope Life After Life gets the wildcard spot! Hill William is my vote for the prize, though.

Oooh, second thread!
And two books already here, plus the three equals five books already this year. Nice. I am nearly on par with you, but all my books so far have been novella size, or primarily pictures :)

*sniff* Roni gets a greeting, but I don't. That's okay. Really. *sob*

>12 Crazymamie: only cos its never too early for visitors!
I know as my dad visited me this morning at 6.30am.

Re Tournament of books from last thread....
My take on it is as follows.....

Read:
* The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton
Want to read:
* How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia by Mohsin Hamid
* The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
Wish I hadn't read: (joking)
* A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki

Mamie!! I was so busy copy-and-pasting my review that I didn't even notice you had snuck in there! Thank you SO much for being my first visitor in the new digs! Now I know I won't be lonely. :-)

Mark, the good weather stuff is on its way! And not a moment too soon, I say.

Liz, you should never be jealous of me. I will not be able to keep this frenetic pace once the new semester starts in a couple of weeks and I am no longer bored out of my skull at work all day. Besides, your thread vs. my thread is a textbook case of quality over quantity. :-)

Richard, I have "Life After Life" but have loaned it to a friend for now. I'm looking forward to getting it back. I'm not familiar with "Hill William", though; must investigate.

Megan, I have gotten stuck reading books that I had requested at the library last year before I started my Category Challenge, so the last two (and the next one) are all books that don't fit any of my categories. Rather frustrating, that!

And another virtual hug for {{Mamie}}, just 'cause she is awesome.

And now Megan's snuck back in there! The M's are keeping me busy today, LOL.

From the ToB list, I am especially interested in The Luminaries, as well as Life After Life After Life, The Son, The Goldfinch, and Eleanor and Park. I also want to read The Luminaries, The Good Lord Bird, and The People in the Trees. I am wavering on The Lowland because the reviews I've seen have been mixed. I like Lahiri's short fiction, so I may try it anyway. What did you think of it?

Well, that's our job, Julia. You've been assigned to the M's. Didn't you know?

I did not know that, Mamie! I think I'm in pretty good hands, then. :-)

Congratulations, Julia, on your second thread and five books under your belt already!

I was off to the library this morning and picked up a number of books that I have been planning to read this month, starting with One of Ours by Willa Cather for Mark's AAC. I've read the first chapter already and can tell that this is going to be another winner from this author.

Judy, I have yet to start "Death Comes For the Archbishop" because I had four library books come in all at once and I want to finish those before they have to go back. Everyone has been raving so much about it I am getting rather impatient to dig in.

Me, too - I want to dig into Death Comes for the Archbishop, but it is still in transit. Do you think that the library is toying with me?!

>3 rosalita:: I love Binchy for a good old comfort read. And congrats on the 2nd thread!

#20> OK, I have to confess: I asked them to delay delivering it to you so you wouldn't be able to finish it before I do. Can you ever forgive me?

#21> Amber, I've always found Binchy to be exactly that: a comfort read. Very soothing after reading about subway hijackings and murdered women and all manner of mayhem in my first reads of the year. :-)

#20 - Don't take it personally, Mamie, it never fails that the one book I really am anxious to receive is always the last one the library gets in.

EDA: Aha, it's all Julia's fault!!

Yes, I forgive you. And I am so impressed that you have that kind of power!!

Judy - I know, right? I have requested several books since requesting that one, and they have all come in already. Now watch, it will finally get here, and it will have something disgusting stuck between its pages or have some kind of strange smell.

Julia - Congratulations on the shiny new digs. Five books in the first week is also way to go.

Hey there Julia swinging by with a quick wave --

Denzel Washington always will get a thumbs up from me!

Johnny Cash interview, how cool is that? Love the Man in Black!

Judy and Mamie, what can I say? I must use this power only for good, never for evil ...

#25> Paul, thank you for gracing my thread with your transnational presence! Five books is pretty good but if you notice the ratings, none of them have been spectacular. The one I'm reading now is not likely to earn that designation, either, sadly.

#26> *waves back at Marianne* A fellow fan of Denzel and Johnny is always welcome in these parts.

Just peeking on the new thread (already!). January madness is going to die down soon, right?

Oh gosh, everyone here reads so fast! Definitely going to look into some of Maeve Binchy's work :)

#28> Micky, things will slow down dramatically for me around Jan. 21, when the new semester starts and my work day is no longer a yawning pit of boredom. Just hang in there with me for a couple more weeks! :-)

#29> Becca, I'm reading too much fluff right now. i'd rather be reading better books slower, but I have a weakness for putting series books and other stuff in my library hold list.

Oy, two threads already! Congrats!

You have a treat waiting for you when you do start Death Comes for the Archbishop. I hope you love it!

Anne, I think I will love it, if I can ever clear these other books out so I can start it. :-)

The Goldfinch (sitting next to me now) is a very good book indeed. This is spoken by someone who *detested* The Secret History lo those many years ago.

The Lowland didn't make it for me after the sample free read on Amazon felt...empty...to me.

Life After Life has grown in my estimation the farther I am from the reading experience. I am more interested in the character now than I was while I was reading it.

The Luminaries is, simply put, excellent. The writing, the pacing, the structure, the "in-joke"...all are, separately considered, excellent. Woven together they make a beautiful, dense, richly colored whole.

The Good Lord Bird sits here on the Kindle. So depressing.

Richard, thank you for those mini-reviews. And then there's your top pick, Hill William, which I should add to my list.

I already know you're doing that one, but let me tell you something: After reading Crapalachia, I will buy anything Scott McClanahan writes. It is not stylistically innovative or even modestly ambitious. It is so deeply felt and so honest in emotion that I don't care about its conventional nature. Read my review of Crapalachia...I'm way down on reviews.

Just popping in to say hi!

That's it. I promise.

Hi, my goodness, your threads are fast movers!

Hi J, another M here....
>15 rosalita: I haven't read The Lowland yet, but its on my library WL.

With the category challenge, you are being very good and reading last years queued books...I am finding myself rationalising purchases just because they 'fit' into one of my (broad) categories. hehe, my plan to fool myself into being allowed to buy more books has worked!

Happy New Thread, Julia, your thread moves fast!

#35> Richard, your review is beautiful. That one is definitely on the wishlist now!

#36> That BETTER be it, Roberta. I've got my eye on you ... no funny stuff!

#37> Not for long, Joanne! Soon the new semester will start and I'll be back to missing in action during the day. But until then, I'm going to squeeze in as much LT as I can!

#38> Hey there, M! I must say, one of the appeals of doing the Category Challenge was the subconscious (OK, mostly subconscious) idea that I would have 14 built-in excuses for buying more books. :-)

#39> Thank you for stopping in, Diana!

Stopping by to say Hello.. I am way behind.. Sigh.. Marking my spot before I get too far behind. :)

A new thread already! You're going fast this year!

Now, can someone please tell me what Death Comes for the Archbishop is all about, because I'm seeing that book pop up all over the place. Am I missing something here? Was it awarded some kind of prize, has it just been published, is it a group read somewhere? *blinks confused at sudden hype*

#41> Thanks for coming by, Monica. No pressure around here; just stop in when you have a moment. We'll be waiting. :-)

#42> Samantha, everyone is buzzing about Death Comes For the Archbishop because we are reading it as part of Mark (msf59)'s American Author Challenge to read a book by a different American author each month of the year. Willa Cather is the January author, so that's why we all seem to be suddenly reading the same old book. Here's a link to the main Challenge thread and the Cather challenge thread:

American Author Challenge
Willa Cather challenge thread

Ah, I did briefly gloss over the American Author Challenge, but there were too many authors in the list that I had no intention of reading (at least not on the short term), so I decided to skip it. Makes sense that many people would go for the same book - that would generate some discussion as well.

Hi Julia! I am finally caught up here *pantpantpant*.

Remember way back when - last year was it? - you weren't sure you'd set up a new thread because nobody was going to miss you or some such baloney? Ha! Look at you now, Ms. Popularity. Just don't forget us little people who have been with you the whole way *sniff sniff tear*

I just booked my hotel in Boulder. I'm not staying at the official hotel because all that Victorian fussiness would absolutely drive the hubs batty! But he has promised to be completely at my disposal for driving to and from from our hotel to the event locations, no matter the late or early hour, so we can still party :)

If I remember way back to December 2012 (!), I wasn't planning to set up a new thread because I was feeling too much pressure to review every book I read. But it's certainly true that another factor was the idea that I didn't get many visitors, because I didn't back then. This year's madness? Only temporary, I'm sure. And I will never forget that you have been with me from the beginning, Katie, even if you are far from "the little people". Ha!

Yippee for hotel reservations in Boulder! I am staying at the Boulderado because it looks cool and it's close and I don't have a chauffeur-on-demand, although doggone it I'd sure like to. :-D

I was just teasing you ;-) You're one of my favorite LT buddies.

I would have liked the Boulderado but I am trying to be sensitive to the hubs and what he likes, too, especially since I'll be abandoning him for a good chunk of the time!

Aw, shucks. I only hope the warm feelings persist after everyone meets me in May. :-)

Hell, *I* am already tired of you. Shoo! Shoo! Go away!

*smooch*

I don't blame you, Richard. Frankly, even *I* am tired of me.

*re-smooch*

Hi Julia! I bailed on your prior thread as a thread-management strategy and seem to have missed some Tournament? I'll have to go back and investigate....

I'm envious of those of you securing your reservations for Boulder. You are going to have *fun*.

Ellen, we were discussing the finalists in the annual Tournament of Books, which does a March Madness-type bracket with books every March. I haven't read any yet, but at least I own some of them which is more than I could have said last year. If you check it out, I'd love to read your reactions to the list.

I am so excited about the Boulder Booktopia, and just as excited to visit Boulder for the first time. But mostly I'm excited to finally meet some of my favorite LTers!

I'm excited about the Boulder Booktopia too Julia and I'm not even going. But all the people who are are so excited that it's infectious. I certainly wish I was going. Ahhh someday. I absolutely loved Death Comes for the Archbishop and found it to be very emotional, especially the last chapter. Almost a perfect book.

I'll have to check out Maeve Binchy, I need a good couple of romance stories for next month . . *waves*

#53> Bonnie, maybe next year we'll end up at the same Booktopia!

#54> I think you'd like Binchy, Tam. She has some really lovely sweet books.

Have a wonderful weekend, Julia!

Thanks, Diana! I hope you have the same.

Hi Julia, 2nd thread and 5 books already, wow.

I have a few crazy days at work / home and what do I find??? A new thread and 58 posts in?? Sheesh...woman, slow down! ;)

The library called. They have Hounded waiting for you. LOL

#58> John, I am off to a fast start for sure, but I know I won't be able to keep up this pace much longer. For now it's a lot of fun, though! I hope you have a lovely weekend.

#59> Tina, Tina, Tina. First you tell me I am posting too much, then you deliberately provoke me with that reference to "Hounded"? You are such a troublemaker! Next thing you'll have Roberta over here adding to the trouble. ;-) I hope you and Lisa have a great weekend!

Julia, I am trying to keep up with you. You are off to a flying start with TWO threads already and five books read. You haven't quit your job, have you?

I'm excited about Boulder, too. I haven't decided if I'll stay in a motel or be a day tripper with Joanne. I wish I could convince my DH to be my chauffeur but I think I'll be a party of one! May can't get here soon enough!

Stopping in to catch up over here and to wish for you a weekend full of fabulous! My copy of Death Comes for the Archbishop is still " in transit". The force is strong in you!

I promised to behave on this one thread of yours Julia. Now, hurry and come visit me on my thread.

#61> Donna, I haven't quit my job (how awesome would that be? And I even really like my job) but things are very slow in our office when the students are gone on winter break. In a couple of weeks the madness will begin all over again and I won't have nearly as much time to waste spend on LT. It would be great if you stayed in Boulder, but if you and Joanne could carpool every day that could be quite pleasant for you, too.

#62> Mamie, it isn't a weekend until I have your wish for fabulousness! And no worries, I will release your copy of "Archbishop" when it's time. LOL.

#63> Roberta, do you really promise to behave? I guess I can trust you ... although now I am very afraid of what I will find over on your thread. Here I go ...

Julia I have been very, very good here. You don't know how difficult that is.

Oh hi Julia! Two things: 1) Kevin Hearne called to ask if you'd read Hounded yet, and sounded seriously bummed when I had to say no; b) a package wingeth its way to you.

#65> Well, I hope you know I appreciate the effort, anyway!

#66> Argggh! There is nothing like the zeal of the converted, is there? My response to the first part of your message is unprintable, but my response to the second part is "Yippee!!!" Thanks so much!

Julia> You all aren't back in classes yet? Most of the schools back east began this week.

Lori, the semester here always starts the day after MLK Day, so we won't be back in session until the 21st. The fall semester ended on Dec. 20, so it's about a one-month break.

#66 -- Yippeeeee!! Is the package what I think it is????? ;)

I caught up on your first thread finally--glad to know the pipes are now intact and the furnace working. Did your carpet dry out properly?

We have two days of public holidays to look forward to next week Julia and I need it to catch up on some rest following a filled up weekend.

Hope yours is going wonderfully.

Oh, Booktopia!! I think I must have missed the boat on getting in, which is awful, considering I live about 35 minutes away from Boulder! I hope to see you, Julia and Katie, when you come!

I smell a meetup of epic proportions! *jealous* (as usual)
Ah well, I'll get my turn. There's a few years left in me yet to get around the world and meetup with everyone. (a tad ambition you are thinking to say 'everyone'....well, I like to aim high!)

>70 TinaV95: the package better be a book. The bibliophile's drug of choice....what could be better?

Hi Julia and happy new(ish thread). Lots of good reading going on over here!

#71> Thanks, Roni. The carpet is getting dry. Our high temperatures have been above freezing the past two days, which has helped, I think.

#72> Enjoy your time off next week, Paul! I am having a good weekend so far.

#73> Anne, you should get yourself on the Booktopia waiting list. Apparently there are often cancellations. Either way, we definitely want to meet you at some point during the weekend!

#74> Megan, I would love to come to New Zealand someday, and if I ever do a meetup is definitely in the cards!

#75> Thanks Lynda! My current book is slow going but finally starting to pick up a bit. And I am about to start listening to Master and Commander on audio. I haven't listened to an audiobook in quite a while; I hope I can find enough long stretches of time in the car/elsewhere to make it work. I can't seem to listen to audiobooks at home because I fall asleep. :-(

My dad loved the Patrick O'Brian series, Julia, and read each and every one. I liked a couple of them, including Master and Commander, but for some reason found myself more of a Horatio Hornblower guy. If you get hooked, you've got lots of good reading ahead.

Hi Julia!

Look at you and thread two with 77 messages! Eek!

I love Kate Atkinson, but just haven't been in the mood to read Life After Life lately. Sigh.

I'm glad things have warmed up a bit over there, and I hope you're having a lovely Sunday!

Drive-by wave and hellllloooooo!

#77> Thanks for the recommendation from your dad, Joe. I got to listen to about 40 minutes of the first part on my to and from a wrestling meet, and so far it's pretty interesting. I think we had a Hornblower book around the house when I was a kid, but I don't think I ever read it.

#78> Happy Sunday, Kerri! I haven't gotten "Life After Life" back from my friend Janis yet, so I am safe from having to decide if I want to read it. It feels like it's going to be one of those books that you need to be in the mood for, though. I've learned not to fight those feelings, but just go with it.

And hello to you, Katie, as you whoosh on by!

Hi Julia,
I'm a bit envious that you have one more week of your winter break. But we do get the three-day MLK weekend so that is a good thing to look forward to.

I'm trying desperately to get caught up around here.

Life After Life was one of my favorite reads in 2013. I'm not sure what kind of mood one needs to be in (although I completely understand just not being sure one is in the mood for any given read at any given time!) but I do recommend it when you get it back from your friend. I was pleasantly surprised as my expectations were actually lowered by all the hype.

Enjoy your last week of quiet!

Julia- I read the first 4 Master and Commander books and I loved them. I have not tried the audio. I do have several saved on audio, so maybe I'll try to get back to it in that format.
As long as it's not this month, I'll be ready for the Rosie Project.

#81> Thanks for the info about "Life After Life", Ellen! I definitely want to read it. I am actually taking two and a half days off this week (Tues pm for my 6-year oncology checkup, then vacation days on Wed-Thu), as it's my last chance while the office is quiet to be gone without feeling guilty. Then the madness begins all over again!

#82> Mark, so far I'm liking it. The narrator is Simon Vance, whom I've heard praised quite a bit by LTers and he seems to be doing a pretty good job. I was thinking more like March or later for "Rosie", so it sounds like we are in sync. Hope you have a great week!

6. The Panther, Nelson DeMille.

Another in the series about John Corey, former NYPD detective, current member of the federal Anti-Terrorism Task Force, and all-around smart ass. This time around, Corey and his FBI agent wife Kate are in Yemen, part of a mission to track down The Panther, an American citizen who became radicalized and returned to his parents' birthplace, Yemen, and joined Al Qaeda. The Panther is believed to be responsible for numerous terrorist attacks, including the bombing of the USS Cole, which killed 17 American sailors.

Along the way, the Coreys have to cope with the possibility that the CIA spook who is leading their covert operation may also be planning to kill them for something Kate did in a previous book. The plot of this one seemed tighter and more plausible than some of the earlier books, and should have earned it 4 stars. In the end, I downgraded the book for its incessant anti-PC attitudes and generally pedestrian writing. If only DeMille could write as well as he can plot...

I just realized I had forgotten to check the Amazon Daily Deal earlier today because I've been out and about all day. I really shouldn't have remembered, because now I've added another book to the pile: Citizen Soldiers by Stephen Ambrose.

*waves*

I didn't realize it was Simon Vance. Very cool.

Citizen Soldiers is a great book. It was highly recommended to me by my great uncle, a WWII vet who was at the Battle of the Bulge. So you shouldn't feel guilty about adding it to your TBRs. It was a necessary purchase.

#86> *waves madly back at Roberta*

#88> Oh, that's good to hear, Carrie! I feel much better about buying it now; your uncle sounds like he would certainly be a good judge for this one. There seem to have been some really great nonfiction deals this month, which I love. Now to find a time to actually read them ...

I'm too far behind to catch up and like you too much to let go.......so, Hello Julia! I hope that a return to work energizes you, and I do look forward to what you report on next!

>84 rosalita:: Too bad about the ho-hum writing, but glad it didn't ruin the book for you.

Julia, my uncle never talks about his wartime experiences. The little he's said made me realize he's probably been living with PTSD ever since the war. I broke down several times when I read the book as I realized what he had been through.

Waving hello - starred your thread. You're off to a good start!

Amazon daily deal.....sounds enticing. I would def check out a Book Depo daily deal. I watched them like a hawk when they did their 25 hour sale-a-thon thingy. And got 2 bargains I was very pleased with at the time- never mind one of them turned out to be a $13 dud....The Great Degeneration. Ah well, can't win'em all!

Eta: touchstone getting all persnickerty but I showed it a thing or two

#90> Just jump in at the bottom, Peggy — no catching up needed around here!

#91> This is the sixth book in the series, Steve, so I guess I've resigned myself to the less-than-stellar writing or I wouldn't have continued with it this far. And if he hasn't figured it out by now, he probably never will (and likely doesn't even think it's a problem).

#92> Carrie, that seems to be true of so many WWII vets. Even though it's often considered "the good war" it certainly had a profound effect on a great many soldiers' mental health. What a powerful experience for you to be able to get a glimpse at what he experienced through the book.

#93> Thanks for stopping by, Jenn! I'm glad you've landed safely in NZ, and look forward to reading all about your adventures there, both inside and outside of books.

#94> Megan, sometimes I wish the Daily Deal didn't exist, because I am a sucker for it. And good for you, putting that touchstone in its place!

I listened to that Binchy last winter - what I often picture, when I am drying my hair - is the 'activity' they come up for one of their theme weekends of the husbands learning to 'do' their spouse's hair!!! And that it was a huge hit! I cannot get that image out of my head.

" If only DeMille could write as well as he can plot..."

Exactly - maybe that's why I've fallen behind in the John Corey series . . . .

"Happy" Monday, Julia. Isn't it amazing how much of a difference it makes not to be so cold your bones freeze?

#96> Lucy, that one made my jaw drop as well. All I could think was, "Irish men must be very different from the American men I know!"

#97> I am like a dog with a bone when it comes to series, Suzi. Unless they become just flat-out unreadable I feel this weird compulsion to keep reading them. At the same time I castigate myself for "wasting" time with so-so books when there are so many great books out there waiting to be read.

#98> Good morning, Richard! (Is it still morning? Yes, for just a little while longer. Whew.) I just checked the current temp — 39F — which is about 50 degrees higher than it was at this same time last Monday! Also, no burst water pipes or soaked carpets and walls, so overall not bad for a Monday. Hope you and Stella have a good one, too.

The John Corey books are hit and miss for me, too. The first one I read was The Lion's Game, which was just perfect entertainment. I also liked Night Fall, thought Wild Fire was ridiculous, and The Lion decent but not as good as TLG. I still haven't read the first Corey, Plum Island. All of which is to say I will probably read The Panther but not expect much from it...

Katie, that's a good assessment of the series. "The Lion's Game" has been by far the best, although "Night Fall" had such a great premise I was disappointed that the ending fizzled. "Plum Island" isn't as bad as some of the others. And since you thought "Wild Fire" was ridiculous (and I agree), you might be interested to know that it's the events at the end of that book that are the supposed catalyst for what happens at the end of "The Panther".

Julia the threads are still like wildfire and I am struggling to keep up. I finished Still LIfe by Louise Penny. I ordered the second from the library because the LT book pushers and recommenders say it is very, very good. We shall see. ;-)

Julia -- Just swinging by to say -- Springsteen's High Hopes -- out tomorrow!

Have you been following the coverage in Rolling Stone Magazine?

O wow, you've already read 6 books this year! I'm impressed! Your books look very interesting, like I could read them myself. I'm looking for more book reviews!

Yes - I'm the same way with series - it takes a lot to get me to stop reading once I've started. I'm a little worried now because I'm pretty sure Wildfire is the next one up for me.

#102> I have so far successfully avoided that series, Roberta, so please keep your conclusions about the second book to yourself. :-D

#103> Marianne, I pre-ordered "High Hopes" from Amazon, and got a text this morning saying it was on its way. I've read the RS coverage, and also listened to an hour-long interview with Bruce on Sirius XM's E Street Radio channel. So far, I like what I've heard! How about you?

#104> Thank you, Marjolein! It's been a fast start this year, which surprises me a little. I'm going to go find your thread right now, so if you end up reading any of those I'll be able to read what you think of them.

#105> If you can choke down the exceedingly ridiculous premise, Suzi, you'll be fine. I finally decided I just had to go with it and suspend disbelief, and once I did that it was OK. Let me know what you think when you read it, though.

Now wait just a minute, Julia! You haven't read the Three Pines books?! But they are truly delicious and delightful! Louise Penny's characters will vacuum-seal themselves onto your soul and become your book-besties! Now you just hop on the Three Pines Express and get Still Life read and out of the way. Chop chop!

Listen to Richard, Julia. His words are wise. Louise Penny cured me of my mystery aversion.

I agree. I used not to like mysteries either but I loved the Three Pines books - I've just read the latest one

LOL - maybe I'll take Wild Fire on vacation. I can believe pretty much anything while drinking beer on a beach in Mexico.

#107> & #108> & #109> It is amusing that Richard has no problem calling other people Satanic Book Warblers, and yet he is the biggest chirper of them all! Since I have never had any sort of aversion to mysteries, I don't need to be cured. Do you hear that, Richard?!

#110> Good idea, Suzi! Drinking lots of Mexican beer will definitely help you swallow the plotline. :-)

I am like a dog with a bone when it comes to series...I feel this weird compulsion to keep reading them.

I'm sure I don't need to tell you where *I* stand on this issue. :)

Liz, you won't be surprised when I tell you that you were the first person I thought of when I wrote that. "Will people think this is weird? Oh well, Liz will understand." And so you do! :-D

Julia - Your thread is entitled "Julia jumps a little higher in 2014".

One heck of an understatement so far I would say both in reading and posting. xx

*waves*

Hi Julia- Your threads are really hopping. Are you trying to catch up with Paul? Now, all you have to do is buy 25 books this week and you will be set. Hope your Monday went well.

#114> Paul, I fear I am raising great expectations that I am doomed to disappoint beginning next week when my work days are once again consumed with, you know, work. Certainly I have no illusions that I will continue at this pace for the entire year. Still, I'll enjoy the company and conversation for as long as I can.

#115> *waving and blowing kisses to Tam as she swings through*

#116> Catch up with Paul? My dear boy, I cannot even keep up with you! I am merely plugging along, using LT to keep me from being so bored at work I am tempted to chew off my own arm. It's LT as therapy, don't you know, and it all ends at 8:00 a.m. sharp next Tuesday. :-)

Please do not chew off your arm. What ends next Tuesday? If I should know, I am sorry. I have my slow moments.

You are not slow, Mark! I didn't explain that the new semester at the university where I work begins next Tuesday. Once that happens, my work days will again be filled with work and not LT. A sad day, indeed!

" My dear boy, I cannot even keep up with you!" See, you are calling me slow! Shuffles away...

If I can't keep up with you it's because you are going too fast, silly! I am the one who's slow. :-)

You skipped me in #70 *sniff, sniff*

Am I on the bad list for being a book pusher? ;)

{{{{Tina}}}}

I did not mean to skip you, just my lousy attention span I guess. The package is a book, indeed, but not the one you and Roberta are so diligently pushing. :-) I'll report more when it arrives.

Can you ever forgive me for skipping you?

Yowzaa! your thread moves quickly, Julia! These days, I can't seem to keep up with anybody!
Enjoy the remainder of your vacation!

#124> Thanks, Lynda!

What do you mean that you can't keep up this pace? But Julia, we NEED you! We DEPEND on you!

Hi Julia, I'm woefully behind. I find that I need to be in the right mood for Nelson DeMille. I loved plum Island and most of the John Corey books that I've read we're pretty entertaining but I have to forgive a lot. Did I see up thread that you haven't read any Three Pines books? Don't be put off by the first couple, they improve dramatically. The audios are wonderful.

>107 richardderus: ...Penny's characters will vacuum-seal themselves onto your soul and become your book-besties!
Oh maaaan. I don't need a series right now, but now I am going to have to keep an eye out.
Even my Blue-Blockers couldn't have saved me from that rec.

So you are back at work soon huh? :(
But you'll still visit sometimes won't you? Now that my lovely other is back at work, I have more time to thread as we aren't out as much doing stuff with the kiddos. Plus, I don't like his eyes on my back when I am talking to my LT friends, it is disrupting ;)

I am not a Satanic Book Warbler because I am an August Senior Statesman of the Biblioholic Nation. I merely point out the flaws in the characters of others for their own good, that they may aspire to my augustitude.

Or whatever.

#126> I'll still be around, Mamie, but no one needs me to be posting 84 times a day, believe me!

#127> Joanne, I think we are in agreement about the Corey series. A lot of belief needs to be suspended to read them! I have not read any Three Pines books, despite the fact that I can't swing a dead cat in this group without hitting a thread where someone is raving about it. So far, I am holding strong. :-)

#128> Megan, why don't you start the Three Pines series and take the heat off me? Thanks in advance. :-) I will still be around, just not posting as much during the (alleged) work day. But since you are all the way over there on the other side of the world, our posting schedules may end up being at the same time!

#129> Oh, I beg your pardon, Mr. Derus. I must have been thinking of someone else. Carry on. ;-)

Well, I do.

I just got home from a full day of lab tests and doctor's appointments. It was 6 years ago last week, on Jan. 9, 2008, that I was admitted to the hospital with some severe breathing problems and eventually diagnosed with Stage III Hodgkin's lymphoma. After open-chest surgery, six months of chemotherapy and repeated hospitalizations with complications, I was pronounced cancer-free in August 2008. Now I've gotten the all-clear for another year, barring some residual lung scarring and a bum hip.

I can't say it's been a never-ending bucket of giggles all of these last six years, but I'm probably closer to being happy and content with life today than at any time since I got sick. And you all are a big part of that. Thank you to each and every one of you who welcomed me to the 75-Book Challenge, who come to visit my thread, and who tolerate my silly nonsense on your own threads. I love you all so much more than I can ever say.

You are a warrior woman and my hero! I can't imagine what you went through but you are full of joy and sassy too. Lucky us to have you around.

You made me cry. I am so happy that you have gotten the all-clear for another year. Julia, we are so very thankful for your presence here. We are so very thankful for your presence.

I just cannot imagine this place without you - co-conspirator of shenanigans, sharer of laughs, maker of mischief. You never fail to make me laugh or to lift me up. And you introduced me to Archie Goodwin! What on earth would I do without you? Julia!! We love you back. And we NEED you!

Here's to your good health!

Great news, and a cause for celebration!

*smooch* for my dear and gloriously silly survivor friend

^You are a perfect LT pal!

#132 Julia,
Such great news! Congratulations!!

Julia - So glad that you shared your good news with us! Here's to many more happy, healthy years ahead!!!

What great, good news Julia. I'm sending prayers of joy your way!!!

Cheers to another All-Clear!!!

That's wonderful Julia. I'm so happy for you!

Yay for Julia!!

So glad to hear it was good news for you! :D

Great news, Julia! I will buy you a drink to celebrate properly in Boulder :-)

Great news about the all clear health wise, Julia!

Julia, that's really great news! xx

Julia - Loads of wonderful graphics and gifs and a particularly moving post from Mamie is probably more than enough to make it clear how important you are to the group without me piping in. I am not of course going to let the opportunity slip by without making known my own appreciation of a true fighter and one who fights with a smile somewhere close to the surface. Warmth and positivity can win through cause you keep doing so. xx

That's good news, Julia, and long may it continue.

WOOHOO! That's *amazing* news! YAY!!

Also, in much less exciting news (but I'm still pretty excited) - I'm back in for the meet-up on Monday! Yay!

>129 richardderus: Richard: For some reason - who knows why - your post made me think of this...

Alright Julia! Applause, applause, applause on your test results and cheers to happiness and contentment!

Did you catch Bruce and Jimmy Fallon last night? In case you fell asleep early or reading a good book, here's the link http://www.mediaite.com/tv/jimmy-fallon-and-bruce-springsteen-take-on-christies-...

Hooray for the good news Julia!! Marvelous news well worth celebrating!

And, do (yes, really DO) watch the link with Bruce and Jimmy Fallon if you didn't catch it live. I adore Jimmy's Bruce imitation, and to see the two of them side-by-side just crcks me up. A satire from the Jersey boy only makes it that much better.

I join the toasting and cheering, Julia! How harrowing back in 2008, and how wonderful to have another all-clear!

Chiming in with my own best wishes, Julia!

Oh, that's wonderful Julia!! I was unaware of the past medical issues. Yay!!

132: Here's to continued good health in 2014 and beyond! Thank you for sharing the good news with us, Julia. I'm convinced much of my joy in life is centered around this group. It's good to know people who "get me" and my need for books in my life.

What a great video!

Jimmy Fallon rules. Can't wait for him to replace the incredibly unfunny Jay Leno. And Bruce is a good sport - I like famous people who don't take themselves too seriously.

Oh my gosh! Thank you so much to all of you — Roberta, Mamie, Carrie, Richard, Mark, Stephanie, Amy, Linda, Suzi, Bonnie, Joanne, Micky, Katie, Rhian, Diana, Paul, Kerry, Amber, Lynda, Marianne, Joe, Becky, Kerri and Donna — for your well wishes. It’s funny; I woke up this morning having second thoughts about having shared something so personal and wondering what made me think anyone would care about such a thing. And then I come here and see all of your lovely messages and, well, it got a little dusty in here. :-)

And thank you, Lynda, for the Bruce link on Jimmy Fallon. I don’t have a television, so I was going to try to find it online somewhere. I thought it was absolutely hilarious, from the costumes to the lyrics. I loved it!

Congratulations on the good news, Julia! Hoping for many more years of the same!

Thanks, Steve!

Great news, Julia!

It is indeed, Lori!

Hi Julia, great news about your health check and many more to come my dear.

Wonderful news, Julia! I bet it hasn't been a bucketful of giggles, as you put it, but so glad you got through it and may you remain healthy and happy for many years to come! Thank you so much for sharing.

I haven't read any Three Pines mysteries either, mostly because I tried three times to get into the first one but just couldn't. I'm told I can skip the first two, after which the series apparently improves dramatically, but I don't know. Skipping the first couple of books in a series makes me nervous!

Julia, your news is very special and I thank you for sharing it with us. You give me hope that my sister will soon be finished with her battle and be declared "cancer-free'. Such a hard battle to fight but kudos to you for your victory.

I also thank you for all the book bullets that I have taken from you, along with also introducing me to Archie Goodwin. Here's to many more years of shared reading!

Thank you, John!

Mary, I would feel weird skipping the first two books in a series. It would nag at me, I think, and I would have to go back and read them eventually.

Thank you, Judy! I have high hopes for your sister as well. There have been so many positive developments in treatment that I hope she is one who will benefit from them.

Okay, I have to disagree with skipping the first two books in the Three Pines series. There is a back story that runs through the books, and they build on one another. The first one is the only real loser - just read it quickly and move on.

>167 Crazymamie: What she said.

Mamie and Richard, thank you for your insight. I'm sure Mary and anyone else who plans to read the Three Pines series will appreciate it. ;-)

Julia- READ A Monster Calls. Please!! Now, I will have to haunt your thread, until you do so. ( I copied this from Joe's thread. LOL.)

I have been tired of Springsteen for quite a few years now, but I heard his re-recording of The Ghost of Tom Joad, off his new album and it was a jam!

I loved his Peter Seeger album but most of the stuff he has released in the past 2 decades has been pretty blah, IMHO.

Ah Mark -- we have such "High Hopes" for the new album! ;-)

Ok. Now I'm misty eyed. I had no idea of your past medical struggles, but do you know how much more that makes me LOVE you????

I've always thought you were silly and wonderful and amazing and funny and supportive and encouraging and SO MUCH MORE, but now knowing all that you have been through??? Your incredibly positive attitude just flabbergasts me! Thank you for sharing that with us!!

I am SOOO happy to hear of your GREAT and incredible cancer free news for another year! You are such an important part of my LT experience! I love you, Julia!!

#170> I'm sure I will read "A Monster Calls" sometime this year, Mark. Sorry you don't like the recent Springsteen. "Wrecking Ball", the album that came out a couple of years ago, is right up there with "Born to Run" and "Darkness on the Edge of Town" as far as I'm concerned. Fantastic stuff.

#171> I haven't had a chance to really listen to the whole album yet, Marianne, but so far I'm liking what I hear!

#172> Aww, Tina! I love you, too. Thanks for hanging around.

FABULOUS NEWS!!! The best start to a new year that I can think of.

Just out of curiosity, why all the resistance to Three Pines? I won't judge, promise. ;)

Jenn, I am resisting the siren song of Three Pines because the last thing I need is another series to read.

That's the official reason, anyway. The real reason is ... well, can you keep a secret?I just like teasing Roberta by pretending to resist her recommendations.

Shhh, don't tell. :-)

Julia the threads are still like wildfire and I am struggling to keep up. I finished Still LIfe by Louise Penny. I ordered the second from the library because the LT book pushers and recommenders say it is very, very good. We shall see. ;-)

I didn't specifically recommend Three Pines. I said others were pushing it on me and they (Richard & Mamie to name two on your thread) are the ones posting about it. I said I would behave on this ONE thread and I will. When you have a new thread I will be pushing a different series my dear Julia!

Julia, I agree, sharing something so personal is vulnerable. Personally, my experience is this is a wonderful group of caring individuals. Very skeptical of online social media, LT and the 75 challenge group changed my mind!

Congratulations again! I hope you do something to celebrate...books? books? and more books?

And, speaking of books, I also highly recommend A Monster Calls.

Happy Day to you!

You are a woman of your word, Roberta!

And between you, Richard, and Mamie I need never wonder what to read next ever again!

#177> Linda, I can't imagine sharing something like that anywhere but here. I didn't even post it on my Facebook page. But there's something about the wonderful folks in this group that makes it a "safe space" for sharing.

Ah, another vote for A Monster Calls — excellent! I will definitely have to try to get to it soon.

We're here for you, Julia!

#180> And I love you for it! *big smooch*

Just catching up here and delighted to find your good medical news!! Keep it up!!

"Ah, another vote for A Monster Calls — excellent! I will definitely have to try to get to it soon." Sighs with deep contentment.

If you buy Still Life, I will give you A Fatal Grace before you get to readin'. That way you won't have to wait or wonder. Deal?

And Still Life is just $2.99 on Kindle...

Still Life is a library request IMHO but that is a good Kindle price.

ETA: Clarifying that ^ is not trying to get you to start this series! I have my own battles. Thank you very much.

Oh, the pressure! Will she buckle...

Yep, I agree that it is a library request - I was just helping her out with Richard's offer. Funny, I purchased Still Life, but borrowed A Fatal Grace from the library. Wish I had done it the other way around.

Dear Julia, HOORAY!!!! I can't imagine better or more inspiring news than a clean bill of health for a year after what has to have been a devastating battle. Thank you for telling us - and CONGRATULATIONS!!!

#182> Thank you, Reba!

#183> You make me laugh, Book Whisperer.

#184> Richard, that's a tempting offer. And ...

#185> Mamie, you and RD make a great tag team!

#186> I was thinking library myself, Roberta. Although $2.99 IS a good price ... And yes, you do have your own battles, which you are carefully not talking about in THIS thread, I know. :-)

#187> Stop it!

#188> Interesting perspective, Mamie!

#189> Peggy!!! A post that isn't trying to get me to read a particular book! Thank you so much for stopping by, and for your very kind words. :-)

You've read The Panther and plan to read The Leopard this year as well? Any other big cats on your agenda this year? :)

Also, that's terrific news about your health. I can only imagine how good each subsequent clear report feels.

Ursula, I did read The Tiger's Wife last year. Oh, and I read The Lion and The Lion's Game last year, too. I hadn't even picked up on the big-cat theme until you mentioned it. Now I'm going to go looking for more. :-)

>132 rosalita: Well, that'll teach me to leave your thread alone for too long. I missed the celebratory post- wow, I had no idea you had been through so much!
Congratulations, Julia, on being labelled "well". A label we all forget about til it is taken away.

>170 msf59:/177 I am with Mark and Linda on this one. A Monster Calls is nice to look at, nice to hold, lovely to read and it stays with you, for (near) ever.

Trying to find where you discussed reading The Leopard by Giuseppe Di Lampedusa....my friend told me it is highly recommended by her husband (this was as part of a discussion about how much I love John Steinbeck), and that I should read it. I was very surprised when I actually found it at a junky used book store for $1, and that it was so old and anonymous looking.

Thank you, Megan, for your kind thoughts. You are so right about not appreciating our good health until we don't have it anymore. I hope never to make that mistake again, assuming I ever am entirely well again.

I have listed The Leopard over in my Category Challenge thread as one of my probable reads for my "Worlds Apart" category. I remember watching the movie version in an Italian class at university and liking it, but I don't remember enough of the plot to interfere with reading the book. That's interesting that it was recommended to you in the context of liking Steinbeck. Perhaps we could do a mini-group read later this year if you're interested.

7. The Scarlet Ruse, John D. MacDonald.

The 14th outing in the Travis McGee series nearly turns out to be the last, as oversized beach bum McGee runs into an adversary who tests his physical, mental, and emotional fortitude. Along the way, McGee finds himself in an uneasy alliance with a stamp dealer and a self-proclaimed "big girl", Mary Alice McDermit, who is apparently a solid six feet of muscle and breasts.

MacDonald puts his own unusual spin on the classic "locked room" mystery, as McGee is called on to perform one of his more unlikely salvage jobs: Figure out who switched an album filled with a cool $400,000 worth of stamps with one filled with similar-looking schlock, all while being locked in a safe deposit box.

All the usual supporting characters are here, including the ursine economist Meyer Meyer, and McGee's familiar watercraft, The Busted Flush houseboat and The Muñequita runabout. All of them — yes, even the boats — end up in mortal danger amidst the mangroves of No Name Island, where McGee must figure out how to lay a trap within a trap to catch his prey without being caught himself.

"...who is apparently a solid six feet of muscle and breasts..."

Okay. How are we supposed to resist this? I have not read any Travis McGee. This is a series? Of course, this is a series. What am I thinking? It's a series, right?

Yup, it's a series. This is the 14th book of about 20 or so, I think. If you start now, you can probably finish it by 2020. The good news is MacDonald is dead, so there won't be any new entries.

:-)

Have some more encouragement to read Still Life. I've loved the whole series, and I don't really like mysteries but I loved, and cared about, the people and the setting.

I'll add you to the list of recommenders, Kerry. :-)

No pressure from me on the Three Pines series, Julia. I am up to the sixth, I think, and they do get better, but they won't change your life or anything. Blasphemy, I know!!

I second Megan's recommendation of The Leopard. I read it in college and loved it. I've been thinking of re-reading it...

Oh dear, Katie, the Three Pines crowd may be showing up in Dallas with torches and pitchforks if you keep up that kind of talk!

I'm glad to hear your recommendation for The Leopard. I'll let you know when I'm getting close to starting it, and if you're up for a re-read I'd be glad to have you along for the ride.

Hurrah for the all clear for another year, Julia!

Thanks, Roni!

Hi Julia!
I have got to return to my re-read of the Travis McGee series. I think next up for me is A Deadly Shade of Gold.

Oh, I loved the Leopard too.

And congratulations on the all clear.

You're right, Three Pines won't change your life they're just really pleasant, entertaining reads.

#204> Ellen, I've been lucky that the library has had all the McGee books newly available as e-books so I've been able to move right through the series over the past or so. A Deadly Shade of Gold was an unusual one in the series, being set mostly in Mexico and not McGee's usual haunts on the waterways in and around Florida.

#205> Lucy, thanks for chiming in on The Leopard. I'm very encouraged by all these positive comments!

#206> Reba, I'll put you in the "Julia should read them" category, then. :-) I'm heading off to your thread now hoping to see good news about your husband.

I know that I have a copy of The Leopard. Where is it??? Why didn't I catalogue it????
I have loved Travis McGee in my time. Yes I have.

Another Leopard fan accounted for, Peggy! So glad to hear you have affection for Mr. McGee. He's a good 'un.

SO HAPPY to hear the good news, Julia! What a wonderful way to start the new year!!

20 or so?! But good news that the author is dead - that totally cracked me up!

Wishing you a weekend full of fabulous, Julia! DO you get a three-day one?

Happy Saturday, Mamie! Yes, it's a longish series but you've got the rest of your life to read them, so don't fret. :-)

I do get a three-day weekend, and to make it even better I am going to my very first LT Meetup on Monday! Steve (swynn) is passing through Iowa City, and Amber (scaifea) and Amy (porch_reader) will be there, too! I guess technically Amy and I have "met up" before since we live in the same small town, but that doesn't really count if you just run into people when you're out and about, right?

It's snowing today, boo! But it's supposed to hit 40F tomorrow, so go figure. I'm just hoping I can hold out until spring ...

Oh, how fun! And right - just running into someone does not count as a meet-up. There should be food or at least coffee and talk of books and sharing of laughter...

I have to go and read me
Some Travis McGee
Tall tales of murder and oversized breasts
Sounds mysteriously close to being the best.

I heard mention of a tag team
A real mean machine
Comprised of Mamie and RD
Working in near-perfect harmony.

I came to this thread
Minutes prior to my bed
And now reaching the end
Must wish a joyous weekend.

#210> Tam, I missed you with my last post! Thank you for your kind thoughts and the cute kitty pals. So sweet!

#213> I hope we have all of those things on Monday, Mamie. You know, there's still time for you to get here if you start now ... :-)

#214> Oh my gosh, my very own Cranswick original! Wonderfully clever as always, and to be treasured always by me. Thank you, dear friend.

No probs Julia. What are a few clumsy couplets amongst friends. xx

>210 leperdbunny:: They're so fluffy I'm gonna die!!

>212 rosalita:: I'm so excited!!!

Me, too! I'm glad all the snow should be well over by then so the roads should be clear for you and Steve.

Just because an author dies does not mean their series stops. Look at Spenser and now even the Millennium Trilogy will not be left a trilogy any longer.

Wait. What? What about more in the Millennium Trilogy?!

Stieg Larsson had originally planned more than three books. When he died, his partner is not legally entitled to the rights because they were not married. His father and brother (?) chose an author to continue the series.

From Wikipedia

Larsson wrote about three-quarters of a fourth novel before his sudden death in November 2004. His partner, Eva Gabrielsson, is in possession of the notebook computer with the manuscript, but does not own the rights to Larsson's work. In an attempt to protect Gabrielsson from the people he was investigating in real life (Swedish Neo-Nazis and racists), Larsson never married. He wrote a will but it was not witnessed, making it invalid according to Swedish law. Thus, it is his family who have succession. Outlines or manuscripts for one or two more books may exist.

In December 2013, the Swedish publishing company Norstedts announced that the fourth Millennium book would be written by David Lagercrantz, a Swedish author known as Zlatan Ibrahimović's biographer, to be published in August 2015. Larsson's partner Eva Gabrielsson has voiced criticism against this project, which will not use the unpublished material which is still in her possession. The English language translation will be published by Quercus Publishing.

#220> That's true, Roberta, but I think if there was going to be a continuation of the McGee series it would have happened by now. The last one was published in 1985. I have never had much luck with continuations, and generally I just won't read them. So for me, at least, the series is finished. Done. Kaput. Finito.

Oh, I knew the first part about his originally planning more books in the series and about his partner having possession of the manuscript and this being contested by his family. I did not know the second part. I don't know if I could read the new books knowing that he would not have wanted them to come about this way. In fact, I'm sure I couldn't. I feel terrible for his partner.

Another day, another thread starred.
Hello Rosalita. I skimmed through your thread and found the very good news about your health! I'm so happy for you.

I agree with Mamie. The least the family could do is agree to share. His father and brother should be ashamed. (My opinion is based only on what is public knowledge.)

Hi, Julia! The meet-up sounds like great fun! Here's hoping the weather cooperates!

>197 rosalita: Yup, it's a series. This is the 14th book of about 20 or so
*flees terrified from room*
I am not a series reader generally, as can't deal with the commitment. So, it may be obvious that this series, I probably wont start ;)

>222 luvamystery65: I feel for Larsen's widow. Here I am sure the possessions would pass to a common-law/de facto partner, who, if they have been together for more than 2 years have similar rights as a husband/wife would.

eta: I'd love to read The Leopard alongside you, and can warn you now that I am likely to pick it up one day on a whim, and give you all of about 2 hours notice. If you don't mind that.....:)
If we can coordinate, then let's do it!

#225> Thanks for your kind thoughts, Connie. It's great to have you come by.

#226> Mary, the weather looks pretty promising after today, so I have my fingers crossed that the meet-up will go off without a hitch.

#227> That sounds good, Megan. If it works out that we can read it together, that would be great, but no worries if it doesn't happen.

#224, 226 & 227 I don't plan on reading the continuing series myself. It's bad enough they are doing it without him but they are not even going to use his outline or notes. I actually like where they ended. I'm not sure I would have even wanted him to continue. The book ended with a triumph and their lives were not neatly tied up in a bow. Sometimes its better to leave things where they are.

I have not read the Stieg Larsson books mostly because I saw the Swedish version movies and had heard that the books were more graphic than the movies. There were so many unsettling things that I'm not sure I want to read them. However, that being said, I can get past unsettling things if they contribute to the story and it's not a continuous unsettling festival.

For anyone who has read the books, do you recommend them? Or am I better off just having seen the movies?

#230 Stephanie if you can stomach the Swedish movies then you can probably read the books. The first book is a bit of slog as he explains Sweden to you in the beginning. Then there is Lisbeth's interactions with her sadistic guardian. You can skim over that since you've seen the movies. The books have a lot to say about how society treats women and you get a whole lot more depth to the characters. The first book is titled Men who hate women in Swedish. They are not easy reads but have a lot of value and truth. They tell about how people are mistreated and power is abused. I would give it a try if you can borrow from the library or a friend.

ETA: fixed some rambling

#231 luvamystery65
Thank you for your explanation. I think I may try them at a later date then.

I read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo . I have no idea why I finished it because I hated almost every minute of it and, when I finished, I vowed I would never see any of the films nor read any of the other books. Unsettling doesn't even get close and not for any reason I could see.

Julia/Stephanie - I actually didn't dislike The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo but I do think that there is better Scandi out there. Mankell and Adler-Olsen in particular are far superior in my humble opinion.

I disliked the damned series. And Jussi Adler-Olsen is very talented as a plotter as well as a writer, which puts him two up on those terrible books.

Not that I have an opinion, mind!

#235 Richard you just made my day with your praise of Jussi Adler-Olsen!

222> which will not use the unpublished material which is still in her possession. Ah. So it will be like the H. Beam Piper Fuzzy books - except everyone _knows_ there's one by Larssen in waiting.

The publishers decided they wanted to continue the Fuzzy series (Piper had written two). They picked William Tuning to write the next one - which was a fun-ish book, but not at _all_ Piper's story. Little Fuzzy and Fuzzy Sapiens are basically legal dramas; Tuning's Fuzzy Bones is an adventure novel that sets up a continuing villain. And Ardath Mayhar was chosen to write one from the Fuzzies' point of view, but what she wrote integrated with Tuning's story.

Then Piper's third book, Fuzzies and Other People, showed up - it had been rumored for ages, but no one actually had a manuscript. They found it, and published it - it takes the story in directions that completely contradict Tuning's (and Mayhar's) stories, so those are kind of orphaned.

Apparently there are two more sequels? I never heard of them...I guess I'll have to hunt them down and see if Wolfgang Diehr can write a Piper story (bet he can't). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Fuzzy

Scalzi also wrote a very different story based on the events of Little Fuzzy. He also took it in a totally different direction - an ecological thriller rather than a legal drama. I enjoyed the story, but I prefer Little Fuzzy.

Anyway. My point is - especially with a known Larssen manuscript in existence, I'd really hate to be the author who's trying to continue this series. I haven't read it, and won't, though my parents loved it. But those that loved the original three are likely to dislike the continuation, unless he just writes more of the same - which is not a good way to continue a series, each book needs some spark of its own or it's just hack writing for the cash.

(Hmmm! Following links for the newest Fuzzy books exposes a whole bunch of other Piper followup books - I read and disliked Great King's War so am not interested in the rest of those, but there's two more Space Vikings and a continuation of Time Crime and and...)

Hmm.... I have generally stayed away from continuations of series by a different author. It just seems weird. But, since there is a known manuscript in existence, it would be cool if *that* could be shared somehow with his fans.

*wave*
Not a fan of the Dragon Tattoo books either. Much preferring other Scandi authors myself.

Happy 3 day weekend! We have one too. Apparently it's Wellington Anniversary day. So we have a day off, but also will not be able to do any house hunting... Sixes. :)

Hi Julia, I loved all three books of The Millenium Trilogy but would not read another book finished by a different author especially under the conditions that this series is being continued. A pure money grab on the part of Stieg Larsson's father and brother, who I understand he was estranged from. That said I must get started on the Jussi Adler-Olsen books, the first of which I have on my iPad.

The Penny series is my favorite but I don't read many series so take it for what it's worth. I do wait anxiously every August for the newest one to be released.

Big fan of the Stieg Larsson tomes, but almost certainly wouldn't read a book #4 written on anything but the original material he left behind at his death.

I used this example of why, whatever age you are, you need to have a valid will!!!! Otherwise, regardless of what your assumptions are, and your wishes, the only certainty is that they'll be ignored. I gather that had Larsson and his partner married, they would have had to publicly disclose their address, thus opening the door to all the nutcases. I can understand that, but I confess I struggle to understand why in light of all this, they didn't get everything sorted out differently. The poor woman. She managed to hold on to their jointly owned apartment, but only after a battle with his family, who seem to have been treating him as a bit of an annuity.

And fabulous news about the medical "all clear". May it go on ad infinitum.

I've been enjoying all the discussion about the Millennium Trilogy, although I have not and don't plan to read the series. It seems we are all in agreement that series continuations by other authors are seldom successful.

Jenn, it's fun that you are now learning all about new holidays in your new home, although it's a shame that it means a further delay in your house-hunting.

I am progressing slowly with Death Comes For the Archbishop — now up to Book Six. I am very much enjoying it but am finding it difficult to concentrate lately for no apparent reason. I hope to finish it in the next few days.

Meanwhile, I'm continuing with the audiobook of Master and Commander, up to Part 5 (out of 12). I nearly despaired in the early chapters at all of the naval mumbo-jumbo and descriptions of sails and such but I'm hopeful there will be some actual plot happening soon. In fact, the ship just got into a little skirmish with Algerian pirates which was rather lively.

And on the ebook front, which I read because I don't want to take the borrowed paperback out and about, I just finished a Grisham book, The Racketeer. A weird one, for sure; I'll have a mini-review up shortly.

Other than that, enjoyed a pair of University of Iowa college basketball victories today. The men's team beat Minnesota at home, and the women's team won at Ohio State for the first time in more than 11 years. As the alumni association keeps saying, "It's a great day to be a Hawkeye."

And a meetup tomorrow! I hope all of you are having a wonderful weekend your own selves.

Hi Julia- Mark says you wont be doing the Tinker Creek GR? Was I to hurried in getting that moving? Sorry- I do anticipate taking the week or more to read it, if that helps?

Here is the link to the GR page in case you are still keen. Come and join the fun! An anyone else too, of course, is welcome.

Megan, I'm in the midst of some other reading commitments right now, and I doubt I'll be able to get to Tinker Creek as I believe it's one of those books that rewards slow, thoughtful reading. But I'll pop in to the GR thread and see how you all are getting on, anyway!

8. The Racketeer, John Grisham.

Another quickie ebook, and an odd one at that. I've read a number of Grisham books and normally find them quite enjoyable, barring the fact that I think he has real trouble writing satisfying endings. This one is not different in that aspect, as the book just sort of petered out at the end. Where it was different was that the main character, Malcolm Bannister, while nominally a lawyer like most if not all of Grisham's other protagonists, does not practice law. In fact, he's serving a 10-year federal prison sentence for racketeering, although he claims to be innocent. When a federal judge is murdered, he uses what he knows about the identity of the killer to win his release and entry into the Federal Witness Protection Program. But we soon see that Mal has a longer end-game in mind, one that will not only help get revenge on a government he thinks set him up but will also net him a golden parachute for his life on the outside. The plot was reasonably clever (if outlandishly improbable) but the character development left something to be desired. For a book that is narrated in the first person, I felt a real distance from Malcolm, who seldom expressed much in the way of emotion. The supporting characters were even more reminiscent of cardboard cutouts. I was glad to finish it, but not necessarily glad I read it.

Hi Julia, you really did rocket through 14 Travis McGee books pretty quickly didn't you? I got bogged down after #6 so I have a lot of catching up to do! My library has them available as ebooks, too, and I'm kind of afraid I'll look for them some day and they'll be gone and I'll be very sorry.

Have a great time at your meet up. I don't think I know Steve but be sure to say "hi" to Amber and Amy for me!! Oh, and take pictures, please!!

Joanne, once I started reading the McGee books I couldn't stop! The e-vailability makes it so darn easy. I put the next one on my holds list as soon as I finish one, and in a few weeks there it is! And it's all thanks to you, for reviewing the first one and reminding me that I had never read the whole series. Thanks for that!

I'm very excited and a little nervous about the meetup. OK, a lot nervous. It's like the night before the first day at a new school — what if they don't like me? What if no one wants to sit next to me? What if they think I'm weird? I really need to get out of the house more.

Relax. Breathe in. Breathe out. Repeat as needed.

They will LOVE you, Julia. They will all want to sit next to you. They already know that you are weird (in that delightful and sweet way that people often refer to as charming).

What Mamie said! Heck I want to meet you Julia even if you roll your eyes at me. ;-)

>247 rosalita: OH. MY. GOD. - YOU ARE JUST LIKE ME!!!

So trust me when I say, it'll be OK. More than OK, it'll be great!! :)

Thank you, Mamie! You have such a lovely calming presence. They don't have to LOVE me, they just have to NOT DISLIKE me. That's not too much to ask, is it?

Roberta, I only roll my eyes when you are on your Iron Druid soapbox. If we ever meet in person, I promise my eyes will remain firmly fixed in the forward position. ;-)

You too, Joanne?! But you are lovely and friendly and wonderful — what on earth would you have to be nervous about?

Julia I love when you roll your eyes at me right in front of my face and not behind my back. That means you really like me even when I mention *That Which I Promised Not To Mention On This Thread*

Have a GREAT time!!! I can't wait to meet you one day and I know they will all love you!!! Have FUN and enjoy yourself!!

Tell them all we said hello!! LOTS of pictures, please!

Roberta, what will you do if when I finally read Hounded? We won't have anything to talk about!

Thank you, Tina!

Relax and have fun! And DON'T FORGET THE PICTURES!!

So, the vibe I'm getting is that people want to see pictures of the meetup? Do I have that right? :-D

I CALL DIBBS ON SITTING NEXT TO JULIA!!

Also, as an Ohio State alum, if I cared anything at all about sports, today might be weird, but happily I really couldn't possibly care less about them. Ha!

ETA: Oh, pictures. So I should, you know, comb my hair maybe? (I don't get out much, either.)

Julia how can you say that! We still have Spenser. Then we can talk about The Boss. There is always more series but mum is the word right now. How about we talk the 80s! I don't think I knew you last year when I posted this over on my thread but I loved the 80s http://www.librarything.com/topic/146759#3975769

Morning Julia- "what if they don't like me?" No worries, my friend. They will love you. Hugging and bonding will happen immediately. Would you consider coming to Chicago, in April, for my Meet-up?

Morning, Julia! I can't wait to hear all about the meet-up. Trust me, they will love you. How could they not? (don't answer that, it is there for emphasis on how it would be impossible NOT to love you)

Hi Julia! I saw the first two movies (the originals) of the Stieg Larsson trilogy, but never read the books. I thought the continuation of Asimov's Foundation novels quite dreadful, and they were written by authors I normally like, especially Ben Bova, and Gregory Benford.

I also have the Master and Commander audiobook waiting in the wings. I have the version read by Patrick Tull, because that is the one Suzanne recommended.

I felt just the same as you when I went to my first meetup last year, but Joanne, Anne and Donna made me feel so welcome, I can't wait until the next one in March! LTers are the best people!

Thank goodness for Amy, who has posted a picture already! It's so much fun to put faces to names. Looks like you all had a good time. Glad you got the nerves out before May ;-)

Duplicate post - sorry!

I'm so glad that I got a chance to meet you today, Julia - I had a wonderful time!!

Thank you Mark, Mary, and Mamie (the M's have it!) for your nerve-dampening encouragement. If I say you were right, are you going to "I told you so" all over my thread? Well, go ahead!

Roberta, you are right! We have many many things to talk about once I've buckled under taken your book suggestions. What a relief.

Katie, both Amy and Amber are much quicker than I am with the pics, but I've got 'em now. For example:



As you can see, I caught Amber in mid-conversation which was down to my poor sense of timing. But Steve and Amy are in focus, at least!

And then there's this:



My book haul from Prairie Lights. I wanted to include the tote bag for atmosphere but you can't really see the titles. So ...



Some of you might recognize the fellow on top:
Talk About a Dream: The Essential Interviews of Bruce Springsteen
Best American Mystery Stories 2012 — off the bargain table!
Best American Short Stories 2012 — off the bargain table!
Not pictured, because they had to order it for me:
The Sonnets, the Pelican Shakespeare Series edition

It was so great to meet everyone! The weather was fine, the book shopping was divine, and the Indian buffet at Masala was sublime.

Good pics, Julia!! Thamks for organizing such a fun meet-up!!!

Mmmmm, Indian......

Nice book haul!

It was too much fun, Amy! I'm not used to so much excitement in my days off. :-)

Yah, the Meet-up was a success! I never doubted it for a second. You love your Bruce, don't you?

The meetup was wonderful! Now I want to have another one. Like, tomorrow.

I do love my Bruce. At least, I wish he was my Bruce. Thank heavens all the other Springsteen-iana they had on the shelves was stuff I'd already read.

What did you think of DA? Thumbs down for me, which is no big surprise.

The whole Bates-Anna storyline needs to be taken out behind the barn and shot dead. I was very suspicious of Mary's admirer and glad it turned out the way it did. I fear Edith is cruising for another big fall. Also, What year is it supposed to be in DA-land, do you know? I keep thinking that what's-his-name is going to Germany and about to get caught behind Nazi lines.

Now I need to get off LT and watch the first "Sherlock" episode!

Isn't it around 1920 or so?

Oh a meet-up! Envy envy.....

As someone who was asked to (try to) finish an unfinished trilogy, I read about the Larsson mess with sadness..... I, happily, have had access to three and a bit chapters from book 3 and lots of notes, and have worked in the author's studio some of the time and it has made all the difference!!!! (I am not quite finished - literally slaving over the last chapter and then a rewrite and then off to the agent..... what a process!!!) The books are post-apoc. stuff - Hiero's Journey was the first one. At times it feels like a crazy thing to be doing, at other times it feels like the best apprenticeship ever, and at other times ..... well, lots of nail-biting goes on - I know that Book 3 will not please everyone, but I feel I have to also write what I want to write...... I at least did know the author quite well, so I have his actual voice in my head, often!

Ironically, the author, Sterling Lanier was buddies with MacDonald who also lived in Sarasota Florida, in fact you could say they were cronies . Isn't that an odd coincidence?

#274> So it's only been 2 years since the end of the War? It feels like it should be longer than that, but maybe not. Ah! I just did a Google and Season 4 apparently started in February of 1922. So earlier than I thought. Perhaps I'm wrong, then. I hope so.

#275> Lucy, you certainly have a unique perspective among us on series continuations. I'm sure it is enormously helpful to you to have known the original author so well. I've not heard of that series, but if he was friends with John D. MacDonald then I should check it out. That is a weird coincidence that we've come full circle from talking about MacDonald and a possible continuation of the Travis McGee series!

Thanks for the pic! It looks like you had a great time!

As much as I still love DA, Bates and Anna are getting old....

Julia, I am glad you had fun and clearly your pre-meetup jitters (which are completely understandable from my perspective!) turned out to be just that. I figure where two or more book lovers gather, there may not be magic but there will at least be common ground. And sometimes there is magic.

Re: DA, it's early 1920s. I think we had gotten to 1920 at the end of last season and Mary's little boy doesn't appear to have had his first birthday yet. And I agree that the Anna/Bates storyline needs to be taken out back and put out of our misery. I adore Anna but this "star-crossed" lovers thing has gone on long enough.

I do think the Germany thing is interesting. Clearly his going there is a big deal but I guess that is because England just beat Germany in "the Big War" (they not knowing that another was coming before too long). I realize I don't know enough of history to have a good sense of how things were in that country at this point in time.

Julia I'm glad your meet up was successful. Love the books and the bag!

Lucy your situation seems very different from the Larsson one. How scary and exciting to continue a series on to it's intended conclusion.

Fans are territorial about fiction. Even Charlaine Harris who wrote all 10 of the Sookie books got a lot of flak from her fans for not concluding the series the way some of them wanted. Helen Fielding also comes to mind with the Bridget Jones series. You can't please everyone.

Joanne, I had a great time indeed! Three nicer people you couldn't hope to meet. Well, unless you are going to be at Boulder Booktopia — woo-hoo! Sounds like we are in sync on DA as with so many things.

Ellen, it's apparently 1922 in the DA-verse, as I learned from the Google machine, six months after Matthew's death. I love Mrs. Hughes fiercely; she's probably my favorite character right now.

Roberta, thank you for your encouragement! I agree about fans and their sense of ownership over a series. It must be both a wonderful and a scary thing for authors to inspire such fierce loyalty.

Julia, while I was away from the computer you went and had a meet-up! How lovely, I bet you had a blast. I certainly understand about being nervous going into the meeting, I would be too.

I love meet-ups! Great photos. And must say, having met Joanne more than once, one would never know she was suffering from nerves. :) LTers are lovely people.

Yowzer - almost at the end of a 2nd thread already?! Waving hello, Julia :-) Will try and read through your threads in a bit...

And having read/skimmed:

#132 "Now I've gotten the all-clear for another year" Such good news - very happy for you and very happy on my own behalf too :-)

#247 "I'm very excited and a little nervous about the meetup. OK, a lot nervous. It's like the night before the first day at a new school — what if they don't like me? What if no one wants to sit next to me? What if they think I'm weird? I really need to get out of the house more."

That describes exactly how I've felt before pretty much all the LT meetups I've done! I think I felt slightly less nervous before the most recent one I did... I'm glad to hear yours went well in the end :-)

Hey Julia, I love meet-up pics! Glad you all had a nice day and you even walked away with your beloved!

Agreed! The Bates/Anna storyline is ridiculous! That said, Anna did make a good point to Mrs. Hughes by assuming he'd kill the culprit and die for it. To tell the truth, so what if he does. Bates' dewey eyes and smiling smirk irritate me. Still hoping for a Branson/Mary hookup.
Thanks for letting me know about the pbs playback.

#281> Judy, the meetup was lovely indeed.

#282> Jenn, I can't wait to meet Joanne in May at Booktopia!

#284> Thanks for stopping by, Heather, when you are still trying to settle in back home. It sounds like nerves are a pretty common event for LTers, but it all went great.

#285> Lynda, sounds like we are on the same page with Downton Abbey. I thought it would have been more realistic if Anna had been less afraid Bates would kill the culprit and more afraid that he would blame her. I know they are trying hard to make Bates seem like a stone-cold thug, but I just can't take it seriously.

Got a phone call at 6:30 this morning saying that our van pool to work is not running today because the roads are icy. I am catching a ride with a co-worker who was already planning to drive, but she has to leave at 2:30 so I'm not exactly sure how I'll get home. I so wish I could just stay home, but it's the first day of the semester and I really need to be there.

Winter, I hate you! Go away, please.

Winter, I hate you! Go away, please.

Hahaha; that would be nice I suppose, although conversely I wouldn't mind being the beneficiary of a little cooler air in these parts.

Your meet-up sounds delightful! And photos, but where are you, dear friend? I bet Amber or Amy has you featured on a thread, so I'll check. I love the tote bag and you made a nice haul there.

Hoping that work is kind to you and someone offers you a ride home.

#288> Paul, I would be happy to send you some snow and ice. Just PM me your address. :-)

#289> Mamie, I don't see any need to make pictures of me easier to find, so you're on your own there. :-D

LOL! I never like photos of myownself, either.

But you are lovely, Mamie! That should make a difference (but I know it usually doesn't. We are such fierce self-critics).

~~~~~~~~

Another day, another Kindle Daily Deal to succumb to. Today Amazon has four of George Orwell's lesser-known works on sale and I picked up Homage to Catalonia and The Road to Wigan Pier for $1.99 each. My self-proclaimed immunity to ebook sales was just a temporary condition, apparently.

Looks like a nice meet-up. Thanks for the photos.

A good time was had by all, Reba. I hope it will be your turn to be part of an Iowa City meetup this summer!

Oh, thank you for that. I have tracked down your photo on not one but two threads, and I am back to report that you look like a maker of mischief. I can see it in your eyes, so of course we will be fast friends forever.

Great pics of the meetup, Julia.

I'm with you on Mrs Hughes .. she's my favorite character on DA. It will be interesting to see where they take the Edith story. Much as I like this series, I can't help but think the writing isn't as snappy as it was in the first 3 seasons.

Thanks Julia - you never know. Right now it looks like I'll be driving to Chautauqua about the 2nd week of June. I don't know what route I'll take yet though. We'll be driving back west about Labor Day but we'll be in a bit of a hurry going that direction. Anyway, I'll keep you posted and perhaps something can work out this time.

#295> A maker of mischief? Me? I have to plead guilty to that one, especially if I have an accomplice. I'm going to go ahead and pencil you in for that. :-)

#296> I particularly noticed in the last episode that the Dowager Countess has been rather de-fanged. She used to be so marvelously mean with her witty remarks, and now she's just witty. Seeing her buddy up with Matthew's mom, it was hard to remember how totally at odds they were at the beginning. Of course you want to see characters change and grow, but I'm not sure hers has been quite believable to me.

#297> Well, we'll hope for the best, anyway, Reba. I know it will be tricky to make the timing work out on a cross-country trek like that.

The Hiero adventures are set 5000 years in the future - they have TRULY nothing in common really with Travis McGee!!!

Oh wow! Now I'm trying to picture McGee in the year 7014 ... I'm giving myself a headache!

Lanier's widow told me that they liked each other so much because they were both terrible know-it-alls! So there was a lot of jolly one-upping, or attempts anyway. Both very very smart fellows indeed.

New thread required before you get yourself too busy soon and more meet-up photos!

#302> Lucy, those would have been interesting conversations to eavesdrop on, I bet.

#302> I must finish a book so I can start with a review. Perhaps tonight?

Great pics, Julia! Glad you guys had fun.

We had a lot of fun, Tam!

Morning, Julia!

So, did you finish that book? *smooch*

Good morning, Mamie! It is snowing again here. I just thought you'd like to know. :-)

Richard, *smooches* right back at ya. I haven't finished a dang thing lately. I am bound and determined to finish Death Comes tonight (she said hopefully). I need to so I can put up a new thread!

I hope you can...I loved that book so much that I hope you will, too.

Snowing again?! Wow!

And I am loving Death Comes - what beautiful pictures she paints with her words.

I'm loving that Mamie called you a Maker of Mischief just by looking at your picture!! Teeheehee!! :)

That makes me smile! So, I think I'll start calling you MoM --- cuz you know she's right!! LoLoLoL!!!!

Told you so (that they would all love you!!) -- you need to post pictures of you here too, not just let Amy post them! :P

#309> Richard, I am really loving it so far but it's not a book I can just speed through. I keep slowing down to savor the writing and descriptions of the New Mexico landscape. It really makes me want to go out there to see it for myself!

#310> It's so great, Mamie, isn't it?

#311> I like that nickname, Tina. I have been known to instigate some mischief on occasion, I must confess. I bet the three of us could do some damage if we were ever in the same room together! (Gee, I would LOVE to post a pic of myself but I didn't take any. Isn't that a darned shame (not)?)

Julia, I saw the pics on the Iowa City Meet-up Thread. Everyone looks happy! Even Steve after running his marathon! I usually have a little anxiety before I meet with strangers for the first time. I don't consider you, Katie, or Janet a stranger, however, so no nervousness about Boulder in May. Joanne and I have met so many times now that we're old friends.

Glad to see you got a book about your favorite performer. I have a bone to pick with him as he stole my thread title for his new album! You're welcome, Bruce.

Great pictures of the meetup on all the threads involved!

#313> Donna, I'm sure he's been lurking on LibraryThing and saw your thread! May can't get here soon enough.

#314> Thanks, Roni! We had a lot of fun, except now I seem to have a case of PLTMW — Post LT Meetup Withdrawal. :-)

Please join me over on my new thread, where you'll find a shiny book review waiting for you!