utbw42's 50 for 2015

January: 4 books
February: 3 books
March: 1 book
April: 2 books
May: 1 book
June: 0 books
July: 2 books
August: 1 book
September: 1 book
October: 1 book
November: 2 books
December: 2 books

2010 thread here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/98279
2011 thread here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/105884
2012 thread here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/129459
2013 thread here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/147022
2014 thread here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/163211

1. Deliverance Lost by Gav Thorpe (1-2-15) (469 pages)



This entry into the Horus Heresy series focuses on primarch Corax and the Raven Guard and how they barely escaped from the Isstvan massacre with less than 5% of their original numbers. I was grateful that the Heresy authors finally produced a novel that really focused on the core issues of Horus betraying the Emperor and how other primarchs (Corax in this case) reacted immediately after. Especially riveting is Corax's direct interaction with the Emperor himself, and how the Emperor plants the seeds of retribution into Corax's mind. What follows is Corax's attempt to acquire the gene-tech material the Emperor used himself to create the primarchs to rebuild the Raven Guard, and the traitorous Alpha Legion infiltrating the Raven Guard to destroy any attempts at rebuilding. This novel also offers hope to fans of the Emperor and his reign on Terra in describing how Corax/Raven Guard set themselves back on the path of revenge and retribution. One of the better Heresy novels since the original Heresy trilogy....

To date: 1 book, 469 pages.

2. Isle Of View by Piers Anthony (1-4-15) (344 pages)



With this book, Anthony continues to inject a more grown-up feel into the world of Xanth. The main premise is the kidnapping of the centaur Che by goblins and the efforts of his friends to find him and work out a deal for his release. Throughout this story, the characters also deal with critical relationships with each other, one in particular being a matter of life or death. The reader will also notice Anthony's continued foray into sexuality, human and fantasy creature alike. The writing contains less puns than previous Xanth novels, but he seems to broach the more mature subjects with an adolescent oft-pun style. I still think this is very clever writing.

To date: 2 books, 813 pages

Hi Andy, I have just set up my thread on the 50 book challenge, my link is below.

https://www.librarything.com/topic/186062

I see from looking at your counters that we are quite close in the books and pages totals.

3. Stone Of Tears by Terry Goodkind (1-16-15) (979 pages)



A clunker at 979 pages, but an outstanding novel in its own right. I was extremely impressed at how Goodkind further developed Richard and Kahlan. The two characters had to deal with their own feelings towards each other and with how their world treated them as well. Richard has to also deal with the "return" of Darken Rahl (his father) and the attempt to tear the veil of the underworld to basically allow the Keeper complete control of the world of the Creator. Kahlan sends Richard away under the control of the Sisters of the Light, and the majority of the novel is driven by Richard's growth into a powerful wizard who has to deal with the above mentioned events as well as trying to reunite with Kahlan to save her life. This book also sets up upcoming novels in this series as Richard will have to deal with and conquer forces who are aligned with the Sisters of the Dark and the underworld as well.

To date: 3 books, 1792 pages.

4. The Lincoln Myth by Steve Berry (1-27-15) (429 pages)



Steve Berry delves into the subject of secession and the current legality of it as Cotton Malone and other recurring supporting characters are forced to take on a madman and his plot to use the Mormon religion to bring about the state of Utah's breakaway from the United States. This novel was extremely thought provoking and very well planned and paced from the beginning. I would consider it among Berry's best of the Cotton Malone series. Josepe Salazar and Senator Rowan use documentation to prove that Abraham Lincoln had no right to oppose the southern states secession from the Union that led to the Civil War, and plan to use this knowledge to create a separate country out of Utah. Their hope is that other states in the Union will follow suit, thus adding to their territory and power. While reading this book, I actually wondered if any states today are considering this type of move, considering Berry mentions an "overbloated and ineffective Federal government" as being the motive in this case.

To date: 4 books, 2221 pages.

I've read five Cotton Malone so far but not that one. I must have a look in our local library if they have got a copy.

5. Trollslayer by William King (2-12-15) (253 pages)



I've been wanting to jump into the world of Warhammer after exploring the 40K world for a year and a half now. I heard from someone at the local bookstore that Gotrek & Felix was a good place to start in this Warhammer infancy world. I am glad that I did. The first novel in this genre consisted of several short stories somewhat linked together and followed the exploits of Felix Jaeger and Gotrek Gurnisson as they always seem to end up battling the evil forces of Chaos motivated by Gotrek's wish to die fighting a noble battle against said antagonists. Felix somewhat reluctantly follows Gotrek after a drunken oath to stay with him after Gotrek saves his life, and the author really portrays a genuine human character in Felix as he seems to overcome his fear to rise to the occasion time after time. Many adventures lie ahead as this is but the first of several G&F novels ahead for this reader in the future. I am also looking forward to expanding the Warhammer world after G&F someday.

To date: 5 books, 2474 pages.

Hi Andy, I see that we are level on overall books read but I am 55,000 pages in front but you have been doing some big reading so far this year. Hope you are having a good weekend my friend.

6. Standup Guy by Stuart Woods (2-16-15) (371 pages)



As with most recent Stone Barrington novels, this one reads like your basic, average way over the top soap opera. I still enjoy reading these books because they are easy to read and provide basic escapism from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Stone helps an ex-con get away with several millions dollars and ends up getting questioned by several parties including the Secret Service as to the whereabouts of both. Along the way a thug also interested in the money kidnaps Stone's latest tryst and demands large amounts of money for her return. I will keep reading these books because I just want to see where Woods takes Stone's character in the future, but the events that occur in these novels can occur on a Hollywood back studio lot, if you get my meaning. I've said it before and I will say it again: Stone Barrington novels make for great beach and beer books, and that's not so bad, is it?

To date: 6 books, 2845 pages.

7. Carnal Curiosity by Stuart Woods (2-19-15) (376 pages)



My review of the last Barrington novel pretty much stands for this one as well. Stone meets up with a hot female insurance agent (how original) to settle his claim of stolen money and ends up handing her the keys to the kingdom. The problem is she turns out to be a con-artist along with her thug husband. Barrington has to employ the use of his friend Dino and the NYPD to bring down the continuing thefts that occur because of these criminals. Along the way, he also meets a hot political campaign organizer (sigh) for his friend Kate Lee, who is now running for president. What a world he lives in....

To date: 7 books, 3221 pages.

8. Allegiance by Timothy Zahn (3-23-15) (400 pages)



My first Star Wars read in about 5 years, I am really glad I picked up Zahn to continue this journey. To me, Zahn is the master of the post-classic trilogy canon novel. His grasp of the SW universe and the way he really charges up the characters makes, to me, for the more enjoyable SW novels. This one takes place between Episodes IV and V, and makes the interaction between a lot of the classic characters very intriguing and enjoyable. A clever plot twist allows for Imperial stormtroopers to actually find themselves sympathizing with the Rebels in their quest to find star systems to join their attempts to fight the Empire. One of the more interesting post classic trilogy characters, Mara Jade, is introduced in this novel as far as the timeline is concerned, and she more than holds her own in a friendly showdown with Vader. Zahn should be required to write at least one of these a year.

To date: 8 books, 3621 pages.

Hi Andy, just stopping by to send Easter wishes my friend.

9. Question Quest by Piers Anthony (4-13-15) (338 pages)



Basically to me a review of the world of Xanth through the eyes of Magician Humphrey, although very cleverly done. I felt as if I was briefly touching on each book I had read in the Xanth series to this point. Anthony manages to basically bring all of the quests that require an Answer, and thus a year of service, through the perspective of Humphrey. Lacuna, one of the Castle Zombie twins, figures prominently in the end as she rescues Humphrey from Hell (literally) and learns his history as well.

To date: 9 books, 3959 pages.

10. Heroes Of The Space Marines edited by Christian Dunn, Nick Kyme, and Lindsey Priestly (4-16-15) (285 pages)



Outstanding collection of short stories by various Black Library authors on the grim stories of the Space Marines. And They Shall Know No Fear...is the standout in this collection. Recommended for any WH40K fan.....

To date: 10 books, 4244 pages.

11. The Color Of Her Panties by Piers Anthony (5-23-15) (342 pages)



Definitely the most interesting title of a book I have ever read, if not the weirdest, this one is overloaded with puns by Anthony and combines two separate plot lines that all tie in together at the end. Mela Merwoman is looking for a husband, while Gwenny Goblin is on a quest to become the goblin kiing of her kingdom. The book is really not as perverted as the title suggests, but it appears Anthony is no longer shy about revealing his true reasons for penning this series.

To date: 11 books, 4586 pages.

12. Chasm City by Alastair Reynolds (7-7-15) (694 pages)



Tanner Mirabel, who I would deem an assassin by trade, is after the man who killed his boss. As he zooms in on his target, events begin to unfold which include memories induced by a virus which cause him to doubt his mission, as well as his own existence. Plunging into the storyline, one is reminded of events of Blade Runner, as well as the weirdness of a Gilliam's Brazil. The story raps up nicely, but not before the reader is taken on a journey where he/she wonders why they read the novel, or where the hell it's going to end up. I am honored to have finished this book, but I have to admit that I was taken on a journey of wonder, self-doubt, and satisfaction at the end. Perhaps I have experienced the genius of Alastair Reynolds without being fully aware of it. I would advise future readers to keep a WIDE open mind when tackling this adventure.

To date: 12 books, 5280 pages.

13. Code Of Conduct by Brad Thor (7-19-15) (360 pages)



Fast-paced with another scary plot which follows up well on the heels of Act Of War, Thor manages to deliver another enjoyable read. Thor has evolved into an author who clearly knows the heartbeat of the U.S. and current events it faces with respect to world wide politics. When I read a Brad Thor book, especially this one, I can actually see events which are presented in a fictional universe unfold in reality today. Reading this and other books he has penned leave me with a sense of satisfaction and joy at having read the book, but with an eerie sense of trepidation at what both Scot Harvath's world and the real world face in the near future. Can't wait to see what Thor comes up with next.

To date: 13 books, 5640 pages.

14. The Third Target by Joel C. Rosenberg (8-3-15) (433 pages)



This book, like so many Rosenberg writes, could literally read off of today's headlines, at least on non mainstream media outlets. Rosenberg brings to life real characters placed in the theater of the current threat of ISIS, and creates a novel that is nail-biting and a real page turner, for me at least. The way this novel fits in with current world events and U.S. interactions with the world by our current "administration" is extremely well thought out and written. The protagonist, a third generation reporter with a high-profile media outlet, is allowed inside contact with the most dangerous people on the planet, and in the process learns things that will threaten Israel, Jordan, and our current administration all trying to help things with a massive peace treaty event. As expected, things go south quickly, with the reporter fighting for his life, his friends life, his country's reputation, and the current president's life as well. This is a must read for people who really want to know the truth concerning current events and the U.S./World as it truly is today. Highly recommended....

To date: 14 books, 6073 pages.

15. Crimes Against Liberty by David Limbaugh (9-12-15) (392 pages)



A thorough, well-researched, and compelling book outlining who America elected in 2008 and 2012 and how he has literally shredded the Constitution and changed the culture and attitudes of America, perhaps forever. The fact that I read this book tells you which side of the fence I am on concerning American history and values, but this book just opened my eyes even further and fills me with trepidation for the country my kids will inherit in the next several decades. There is no opinionated rhetoric in this book...it is all based in FACT, something many in this country and Washington seem to want to ignore. I know many of those same people will never change their minds, and I am not going to try, but what matters here is the enlightenment I experienced reading this book and the feeling I now have for this country: "God help us."

To date: 15 books, 6465 pages.

Hi Andy, thanks for stopping by my thread. We are both well albeit Karen had a knee op a couple of weeks ago and is slowly on the mend. We are busy at the moment as my daughter gets married in thirty-three days time, last week I took Karen and Amy to pick her wedding dress up after last minute alterations were done, the following day I took Karen over to Amy's so that they and Danni, the chief bridesmaid could have a make-up trial and then yesterday Amy had a hair trial. On Tuesday we go to the hotel where the ceremony and reception and night do are being held to pass over the table plan and tie up other details and I make the final payment. I just need to write my speech down now as Karen is pressing me to do it, I have everything in my head put I need to write it down. I hope everything is ok with you and yours, it looks like you have been busy with other things as I have this year and so our reading seems to have slowed down. Hope you have a good week dear friend.

16. Havana Storm by Clive Cussler/Dirk Cussler (10-19-15) (452 pages)



One of the better paced Cussler father/son duo Pitt novels, this book still features the same playbook, in my humble opinion, of father providing the story and/or guidance and son penning the majority if not all of the novel. The dialogue remains very straightforward and simple, if not dull, as the previous 5 Cussler/Cussler Pitt books, but I enjoyed the plot of this novel more than most of the previous 5. Sidenote: Cussler in his heyday wrote 100 times better plots and dialogue than these father/son efforts. Dirk Pitt and his twin children find themselves in the middle of a plot by Cuban nationals to mine the seafloor for minerals/elements that will provide materials necessary for nuclear weapons. The actions of this mining are releasing large amounts of mercury into American waters. Also, the kids are off searching for an ancient Aztec treasure that (of course) ultimately ties in to the problems they face in Cuban waters. I see an improvement in Dirk Cussler's writing efforts with this one, but he still has a long way to go to match what Clive cranked out when he was in his prime. I could recommend this one as a beach book with a favorite beverage as a companion.

To date: 16 books, 6917 pages.

17. The Wright Brothers by David McCullough (11-23-15) (267 pages)



I would say this is the most inspiring story about determination and overcoming odds with respect to discovering modern engineering and physics that are there for the taking that I have ever read. McCullough does an absolutely masterful job of revealing these two gentlemen from Dayton, Ohio who began to realize a desire to create not only a vehicle that could defy gravity and fly in an endless ocean of air, but could be controlled by someone in the vehicle itself. Orville and Wilbur Wright, who displayed not only an unmatched work ethic, but a sheer brilliance for looking at a problem that faced them and "working the problem" in engineering speak to overcome what many at the time said could simply not be overcome: controlling an airborne vehicle. The descriptions of their manufacture of the vehicle and actually getting it all the way to Kitty Hawk, NC for testing are quite simply literary gold. I have found myself staring at the photograph taken by a good friend of the Wrights, John T. Daniels, of the ACTUAL MOMENT of when man took off (Orville) and controlled the vehicle for the first time for literally hours on end. The fame and fortune that followed, I contend, could only have been handled as gracefully by the Wright Brothers as any others, taking their invention to Europe and demonstrating time and time again that this was a creation that mankind could benefit from for literally the foreseeable future. I cannot overstate how important this book is to prospective aerospace students, or the results they seek in their studies in the future. If the Wright brothers had been alive today, I have no doubt they would have been working on a way for man to literally "sail the stars". Godspeed, Orville and Wilbur...you paved the way for my father to become the outstanding pilot he is today. I thoroughly enjoyed this book in your and his honor.

To date: 17 books, 7184 pages.

18. Plunder And Deceit by Mark R. Levin (11-29-15) (194 pages)



Scathing and direct, this book makes a strong and factual case for how this generation's Washington and their uncontrolled spending are putting the next 2 or 3 generations in this nation at great financial peril. Not for the weak hearted, Levin almost pleads to current Americans to read, understand, and follow this book to change the way we are literally spending ourselves to death. The most disturbing aspect of this book is the case he makes for how this country will be spending more on social programs ALONE than the GDP of America within 20 years. Think Black Friday hysteria is bad? Wait until food, shelter, and clothing are in short supply someday unless deemed worthy by the almighty Federals. This one really makes you think.

To date: 18 books, 7378 pages.

19. A More Perfect Union by Ben Carson, M.D./Candy Carson (12-14-15) (225 pages)



Everyone in this country should read this book. Concise, informative, no-nonsense, and inspiring are just a few of the words that come to mind after reading this wonderful book. Carson and his wife break down the Constitution into each part and clearly describe what each means, what the founders motivations were when they constructed this, and how we should be following these ideas to get this country back to what it once was. Carson doesn't call people names, criticize policies, or convey a sense of hopelessness while presenting all this information, and after reading this, one can actually see hope on the horizon if the right person, or people, are back in Washington with the intent to do the right thing. Reading this book can provide a person with an emotional boost in trying times, another reason why I think all Americans should be picking this one up and digesting the pages. I truly believe this man would make an outstanding president.

To date: 19 books, 7603 pages.

Hi Andy, sending Christmas greetings to you my friend, hope you have a good day tomorrow.

20. Skavenslayer by William King (12-24-15) (260 pages)



Straightforward and in-your-face Warhammer fantasy action dominates this tale as Gotrek and Felix find themselves down on their luck as sewer guards and uncover a plot by the rat like skaven to take over the city of Nuln, a major hub in the Empire. Battle after battle ensues as the dwarf Gotrek continues his search for a glorious death and Felix is the somewhat reluctant follower who fights alongside him continuing his life debt of standing beside the dwarf. This volume is powered by a well-defined antagonist, the leader of the "rat-men", and the continuing conflict between the characters of good and evil for control of the city. This book has also given me ideas to investigate in the world of Warhammer for future reading (separate from Warhammer 40K).

To date: 20 books, 7863 pages.

See you in 2016....:-)