Mamie's 2016 Madness (Page 10)

Continuing my list of favorite things...the music of Nickel Creek, NPR Music's Tiny Desk segments, sarcasm...
(if you click on the link above for NPR Music, you can hear Nickel Creek's performance there)

...

...

snail's pace
Books Completed in April:
44. Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
45. The Misty Harbor by Georges Simenon (4 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, crime fiction/police procedural - recommended by Charlotte
46. Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris (3.5 stars), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
47. Deadlocked by Charlaine Harris (4 stars), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
48. Dead Ever After by Charlaine Harris (4 stars), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
49. Dark Vineyard by Martin Walker (4 stars), 2015 acquired paperback, crime fiction/police procedural
50. The Portable Veblen (I have no idea), 2016 acquired ebook, um...weird fiction?
51. Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara (4 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, fantasy - series recommended by Roni
52. A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab (4 stars), 2016 acquired audiobook, fantasy
53. Black Diamond by Martin Walker (4 stars), 2015 acquired paperback, crime fiction/police procedural
54. Gorsky by Vesna Goldsworthyy (2.5 stars), 2016 acquired book, retelling of The Great Gatsby
55. Ballistics by Billy Collins (4 stars), library hardback, poetry
56. Shaman Pass by Stan Jones (4 stars), library hardback, crime fiction/police procedural

Reading Plans: None

I tend to make plans and then bail on them, so this year I am just going to take each month as it comes. I would like to participate here and there in some of the many challenges that are on offer, however, so IF I have a qualifying book on my shelf and IF I feel like it, I will. This month I have the following titles in my personal library or on loan that would work:


A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley - 2015 acquired paperback - recommended by the LT masses including Katie, Ellen and Mark - fits Mark's AAC for March


Ballistics by Billy Collins - I already have this from the library for Mark's AAC. I loved his Aimless Love, which I read last year.


Galore by Michael Crummey - picked this up in a Kindle deal for Ilana's CAC. Last year I read Sweetland by him, and it was so well done. Looking forward to reading more of him.


Rubbernecker by Belinda Bauer - picked this up in a Kindle deal and reading this for Autism Awareness month. The thread which Terri set up is here, if you are interested: April is Autism Awareness Month. I have read only Blacklands by Bauer previously, but it was very good and very creepy.

NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman - getting some good buzz here on LT; I know Terri, Joe and Charlotte thought it was well done. I think Ellen is currently reading it.

The Penguin History of the World: 6th Edition by J. M. Roberts - reading this throughout the year with Katie and Susan

A few of my favorite reads from 2015:

Books Completed in January:
1. A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway (3 stars), ROOT ebook
2. Saga: Volume 4 by Brian K. Vaughn, Fiona Staples (Illustrator) (4 stars), borrowed paperback, GN - fantasy
3. Mãn by Kim Thúy (5 stars), library paperback, literary fiction - read for the CAC
4. The Fade Out: Volume 1 by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips (4.25 stars), 2016 acquired paperback, graphic novel recommended by Joe - crime fiction/noir
5. Nimona by Noelle Stevenson (4 stars), library hardback, GN - fantasy, recommended by the LT masses, read this because Abby had it out from the library
6. The Long Way to A Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers (4 stars), 2016 acquired ebook - recommended by Heather
7. Ru by Kim Thúy (4 stars), library paperback - read foot the CAC
8. Lumberjanes by Noelle Stevenson (3 stars), library paperback, graphic novel recommended by Karen, read this because Abby had it out from the library
9. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy (4.5 stars), audiobook/trade paperback - Group Read - Doorstopper challenge
10. The Fade Out: Volume 2 by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips (4.25 stars), 2016 acquired paperback, GN - crime fiction/noir
11. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? Vol. 1 by Philip K. Dick, Tony Parker illustrator (5 stars), library hardback, GN - science fiction/dystopian
12. The Various Haunts of Men by Susan Hill (3.5 stars), ROOT ebook, mystery - police procedural - read for the BAC
13. Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant by Anne Tyler (4.25 stars), ROOT paperback, contemporary fiction - dysfunctional family - recommended by Katie - read for the AAC
14. White Sky, Black Ice by Stan Jones (4 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, mystery - police procedural

Books Completed in February:
15. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? Volume 2 by Philip K. Dick, Tony Parker illustrator (4.5 stars), 2016 acquired hardback, GN - sci fi/dystopian
16. The Return of the Native by Thomas Hardy, ROOT audiobook, narrated by Alan Rickman (5 stars) -audiobook recommended by Lucy - read for the BAC (early) and to honor Rickman's passing
17. A Good Scent From a Strange Mountain by Robert Olen Butler (4.25 stars), library paperback, short stories, Pulitzer Prize winner - recommended by Megan
18. The Frozen Thames by Helen Humphreys (4.25 stars), library hardback, connected vignettes, read for the CAC
19. Fifth Business by Robertson Davies (4 stars), library hardback, humor, read for the CAC
20. Written in Red by Anne Bishop (4.4 stars), ebook/audiobook, urban fantasy - recommended by Morphy, qualifies for Fantasy February!
21. Blacksad by Juan Díaz Canales, Juanjo Guarnido, (4 stars), library hardback, GN - noir, crime fiction - Mark told me about this one
22. City of Djinns by William Dalrymple (4 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, non-fiction - travel writing/a history of Delhi, read for the BAC - recommended by Susan
23. Snow Angels by Stuart O'Nan (4 stars) library hardback, contemporary fiction - relationship/divorce/coming of age
24. A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle (reread), audiobook, crime fiction - detective, read with Birdy
25. Winterdance by Gary Paulsen (4.5 stars), library hardback, non-fiction/memoir - Iditarod race, recommended by Ellen, Karen, and Mark
26. The Drowned Detective by Neil Jordan (4.2 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, mystery - saw this is Charlotte's Guardian reviews
27. King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild (5 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, non-fiction/history/the Congo/slavery - read for Suz's Non-Fiction Challenge

Books Completed in March:
28. Empire Falls by Richard Russo (4 stars), ROOT paperback/audiobook, Pulitzer Prize winner, read for Mark's AAC
29. Fade Out: Volume 3 by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips (4 stars), 2016 acquired paperback, GN - crime fiction/noir
30. Velvet: Volume 1 by Ed Brubaker (4.5 stars), 2016 acquired paperback, GN - crime fiction/espionage - recommended by Roberta
31. Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
32. Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
33. Crooked House by Agatha Christie (reread), ROOT paperback, mystery/crime fiction - read for Paul's BAC (yes, I know this was last month's author)
34. Club Dead by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
35. Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
36. Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
37. Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
38. Velvet: Volume 2 by Ed Brubaker (4.5 stars), 2016 acquired paperback, GN - crime fiction/espionage - recommended by Roberta
39. All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
40. From Dead to Worse by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
41. A Thousand Mornings by Mary Oliver (4 stars), library hardback, poetry - read for Mark's AAC
42. Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris (reread), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy
43. Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler (4 stars), ER paperback, retelling of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew

Although I am hoping to focus mainly on my own overcrowded shelves this year, I am not crazy enough to think that I could resist adding new books to my collection. I'll record those purchases here.

1. The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers, ebook - recommended by Heather COMPLETED
2. The Watchmaker of Filigree Street by Natasha Pulley ($.99 on Kindle) - blaming this on Roni, who pointed out the deal
3. The Fade Out: Volume 1 by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips, paperback - mentioned by Joe on the GN thread COMPLETED
4. The Fade Out: Volume 2 by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips, paperback - Mark said this one was as good as the first COMPLETED
5. Staked by Kevin Hearne - Iron Druid series, ebook
6. Fear Stalks the Village by Ethel Lina White - recommended by Heather ($1.29 on Kindle)
7. Some Must Watch: The Spiral Staircase by Ethel Lina White - Heather's thread($.99 on Kindle)
8. The Lady Vanishes by Ethel Lina White - Heather's thread ($1.99 on Kindle)
9. Put Out the Light by Ethel Lina White - Heather's Thread ($1.29 on Kindle)
10. Rubbernecker by Belinda Bauer ($2.99 on Kindle)
11. White Sky, Black Ice by Stan Jones ($1.99 on Kindle) COMPLETED
12. City of Djinns by William Dalrymple - recommended by Susan ($4.99 on Kindle) COMPLETED
13. You Have Killed Me by Jamie S. Rich - Mark's fault
14. Hit by Bryce Carlson - also Mark's fault
15. Velvet: Volume 1 by Ed Brubaker - recommended by Roberta COMPLETED
16. The Magician's Assistant by Ann Patchett ($1.99 on Kindle)
17. The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois ($.99 on Kindle/$.99 audio)
18. Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop - 2nd book in The Others series - ebook
19. King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild - purchased for the non-fiction/history challenge COMPLETED
20. Half-Resurrection Blues by Daniel José Older - Mark's fault
21. The Drowned Detective by Neil Jordan - Charlotte's Guardian reviews COMPLETED
22. A Darker Shade of Magic by Victoria Schwab COMPLETED
23. The Fade Out: Volume 3 by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips COMPLETED
24. Velvet: Volume 2 by Ed Brubaker - recommended by Roberta COMPLETED
25. The Misty Harbor by Georges Simenon - recommended by Charlotte COMPLETED
26. Gorsky by Vesna Goldsworthy -Charlotte again, and on my own thread!
27. The Trees by Ali Shaw - Guardian review on Charlotte's thread
28. The Portable Veblen by Elizabeth Mckenzie - Charlotte's thread? COMPLETED
29. The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster by Scott Wilbanks ($.99 on Kindle)
30. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman ($1.99 on Kindle)
31. Galore by Michael Crummey ($3.99 on Kindle)
32. An American Childhood by Annie Dillard ($1.99 on Kindle) - for the AAC
33. Pietr the Latvian by Georges Simenon ($2.99 on Kindle) - Charlotte's fault
34. The Carter of 'La Providence' by Georges Simenon - Charlotte again
35. The Late Monsieur Gallet by Georges Simenon - Yep. Charlotte
36. The Hanged Man of Saint-Pholien by Georges Simenon - Ahem. Charlotte
37. The Crowded Grave by Martin Walker - book #4 in Bruno, Chief of Police series
38. The Devil's Cave by Martin Walker - book #5
39. The Resistance Man by Martin Walker - book #6
40. Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara ($1.99 on Kindle) - series recommended by Roni COMPLETED
41. Cast in Courtlight by Michelle Sagara - book #2 - series recommended by Roni

Katie’s Dirty Dozen – KAK has earned her own category on my thread because she has the habit of recommending books that I cannot resist adding to my stacks. Books listed here could be for the WL or purchased, but I will designate if I purchased them. Because Katie is a rebel, there will of course NOT be twelve books in her dirty dozen.

1. Kamchatka by Marcelo Figueras
2. Destiny of the Republic by Candace Millard
3. The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez - seconded by Charlotte and Susan
4. In the Walled City by Stewart O'Nan
5. My Reading Life by Pat Conroy - she recommended the audio, and don't speed it up
6. Nobody's Fool by Richard Russo
7. Ruby by Cynthia Bond - seconded by Charlotte

Saving this space for LT recommendations that I want to keep track of.

1. The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers - recommended by Heather (saw this as I was catching up with her 2015 thread) COMPLETED 1/15/16
2. Slade House by David Mitchell - recommended by Lynda - I know that Mark and several others loved this one, too, but it was Lynda's succinct review that places it firmly on the WL
3. Chinese Takeout Cookbook by Diana Kuan - recommended by Lori (thornton37814) - saw it listed as her favorite cookbook read of 2015
4. Revenant by Mel Odom - recommended by Mark, who came to my thread to deliver the book bullet!
5. Winterdance by Gary Paulsen - recommended by Ellen and Karen COMPLETED
6. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts - Lucy mentioned that she loved this on her thread, and I looked it up because I was unfamiliar with it. Note to self: DO NOT look up books mentioned on Lucy's thread!
7. The Tsar of Love and Techno by Anthony Marra - saw Amy's review of this on her thread
8. I Am Spain by David Boyd - recommended by Charlotte
9. The Mirror in the Mist by Susan Hill - saw Lori's (lkernaugh) review of this on her thread
10. The Prestige by Christopher Priest - recommended by Mary (bell7)
11. The Electric Michelangelo by Sarah Hall - recommended by Charlotte - saw her review on her thread
12. The Fade Out by Ed Brubaker - Joe mentioned this one on the GN thread, and it sounds right up my alley COMPLETED 1/15/16
13. The Clockwork Scarab by Colleen Gleason - Faith reviewed the second book in this series on her thread
14. Names for the Sea by Sarah Moss - read Rhian's review on her thread
15. Amsterdam by Ian McEwan - again, Lynda got me with her succinct review on her thread - how DOES she do that?!
16. The Men Who Lost America by Andrew Jackson O"Shaughnessy - read the review on Reba's thread
17. Wartime: Stories From Ukraine by Tim Judah - read about this one on Charlotte's thread, part of her posted Guardian reviews. LOVE those!
18. The Man in the Picture by Susan Hill - recommended by Charlotte on her thread
19. King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild - Suz mentioned this one to Charlotte on the non-fiction challenge thread COMPLETED
20. Everything is Broken by Emma Larkin - recommended by Erik on my thread when we were discussing books on Burma
21. The Rebel of Rangoon by Delphine Schrank - Charlotte recommended this to me on my thread when we were discussing books on Burma
22. Unwind by Neal Shusterman - Mary (bell7) was talking about a follow-up collection of short stories to this series, and peaked my curiosity about the series itself
23. A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain by Robert Olen Butler - read Megan's review of this on her thread - I love interconnected short stories COMPLETED
24. Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson - I read Julia's excellent review on her thread
25. How It All Began by Penelope Lively - read Nancy's review on her thread
26. The Storyteller by Mario Vargas Llosa - read Lori's (lkernagh) review of it on her thread
27. TransAtlantic by Colum McCaan - Charlotte and Katie talked me into this! And Marianne approves.
28. Willoughbyland by Matthew Parker - read Carrie's review on her thread
29. The Quiet American by Graham Greene - read Bill's review on his thread
30. Coast to Coast by Jan Morris - read Paul's review on his thread

LT recommendations continued...

31. After Hannibal by Barry Unsworth - read Ursula's review on her thread
32. Fear Stalks the Village by Ethel Lina White - read Heather's review on her thread
33. The Wheel Spins by Ethel Lina White - also Heather's fault!
34. Young Stalin by Simon Sebag Montefiore - recommended by Megan (evilmoose)
35. Mademoiselle Chanel by Pierre Galante - read Judy's review on her thread
36. Romantic Outlaws by Charlotte Gordon - read Suz's review on her thread
37. Crow Lake by Mary Lawson - read Nancy's review on her thread
38. War of Two by John Sedgwick - recommended by Reba
39. The Old Ways by David Dalglish - recommended by Charlotte
40. The Nest by Kenneth Oppel - recommended by Anne
41. The Noise of Time by Julian barnes - was included in Charlotte's Guardian reviews, and then Suz reviewed it which is what sold me
42. Countdown by Deborah Wiles - Judy hit me with this 60s Trilogy with her review of Revolution
43. Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal - recommended by Marianne, interconnected short stories
44. The Library at Night by Alberta Manguel - recommended by Carrie
45. Fifteen Dogs by André Alexis - recommended by Rhian
46. Tokyo Decadence by Ryu Murakami - recommended by Joe
47. American Housewife by Helen Ellis - recommended by Joanne
48. Trespass by Rose Tremain - recommended by Nancy
49. The Book of Sands: A Novel of the Arab Uprising by Karim Alwari - recommended by Deborah
50. A Madness of Angels by Kate Griffin - recommended by Mary
51. The Girl With All the Gifts by M. R. Carey - because Mark said so!
52. That's Not English by Erin Moore - recommended by Susan
53. In the Country: Stories by Mia Alver - recommended by Mark
55. A Manual for Cleaning Women by Lucia Berlin - Mark again
56. The Wars of the Roses by Dan Jones - recommended by Suz
57. Saints and Boxers by Gene Luen Lang - recommended by Carrie (read them together)
58. The Good Wife by Stewart O'Nan - recommended by Jenn
59. Mothering Sunday by Graham Swift - recommended by Suz
60. When Books Went to War by Molly Guptill Manning - recommended by Amy

LT recommendations continued...

61. Exposure by Helen Dunmore - recommended by Charlotte
62. Reading Chekhov by Janet Malcolm - recommended by Charlotte
63. Ways to Disappear by Idra Novey - recommended by Beth
64. The Widow by Fiona Barton - recommended by Diane
65. Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo - recommended by Reba (over on Katie's thread)
66. Super Mutant by Jillian Tamaki - GN - Mark and Joe's fault!
66. The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets by Eva Rice - recommended by Charlotte
67. The Year of Living Danishly by Helen Russell - recommended by Susan
68. My Life on the Road by Gloria Steinem - recommended by Beth
69. The Shepherd's Life by James Rebanks - recommended by Rhian
70. Dodgers by Bill Beverly - recommended by Ellen and Mark
71. The Art Forger by B. A. Shapiro - recommended by Mark
72. Zero World by Jason M. Hough - recommended by Jim
73. Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie - recommended by Susan (and Carrie recommended it to her)

This should do it - next one's yours!

I just turned around a boom! a new thread for Mamie! Happy happy new thread, my dear!

And another new thread greeting from me too. Friday is a fine day to stay a new thread :-)

Happy new thread Mamie! Looks like you're just now beginning to move in. I can't wait to see how you decorate the place! ;-)

Wow! You ladies are fast this morning!!

>11 Carmenere: Lynda, you are first! Since you are once again in the midst of snow, your prize is this screened-in porch for the back of your house, where it is always Spring:



I hope you don't already have one. *blinks*

I've got vanilla scones, let's go eat on Lynda's new porch!

>12 charl08: Thank you, Charlotte! I meant to start a new thread yesterday, but it got away from me, but you are so right about Friday!

>13 cbl_tn: Thanks, Carrie! I was having trouble with the touchstones - they were going to all the wrong books. Weird. All finished now.

>14 Crazymamie: OMG! Bless you, Mamie!!! What a wonderful place to watch 1-6 inches of snow fall this evening! Yes, yes, bring the scones! You're all invited! I'll make coco and we'll roast marshmallows in my new fireplace!

And of course

Happy New Thread, Mamie!

>14 Crazymamie: "LIke"

I'm a Nickel Creek fan, too. Are you also an Allison Krauss fan? She's one of my faves.

Another question: did you read Red Rising? I've just started the third in the trilogy, Morning Star, and it's really good so far.

>16 Carmenere: Sounds delightful, Lynda! What a clever barrel!!

>17 jnwelch: Somehow, I knew you'd approve of that one, Joe! Hooray for Nickel Creek, and yes, I love Allison Krauss! Such a great voice!

I have not read Red Rising, but I do have it in the stacks - I remember Tina liking it. And maybe Roberta? Not sure about that last one.

Book #48: Dead Ever After by Charlaine Harris (4 stars), ROOT ebook, urban fantasy

Well, I did it. I completed the Sookie Stackhouse series. As I have mentioned before, I had read the first ten books multiple times, but I could just never make myself continue and finish up the series. I wasn't ready for Sookie's adventures to be over, I guess. This time I started the series once again from book one and what a wild ride it was all the way through to book 13. I must say that I think Harris did a wonderful job with the ending - there was no way she could make everyone happy because each of us was rooting for our own version of a happy ending. I was not disappointed, and I think she did a pretty good job of tying up all the loose ends. I read a brief note at the beginning of the book where she stated that, knowing she couldn't possibly make everyone happy, she had just decided to go with her original vision for Sookie. It works. And it didn't leave a bad taste in my mouth, as I feared it might.

My heartfelt thanks to those of you who have known the ending for a couple of years now and didn't spill the beans. Now Abby and I just need to finish up watching True Blood, and we'll see how that one ends - we are only on season five, so DON'T TELL ME!

Happy New Thread, Mamie, and Happy Weekend! Looking at that porch gets me into a relaxed Friday afternoon mood right away.
And those vanilla scones look sooo yummy! I think I never tried making US scones (only know them from Starbucks) because I always failed on the classic UK ones already. Guess it's because we don't have those self-raising flours here, so it's difficult to translate the recipes. My scones always were like heavy little stones.

Thank you, Nathalie! I like both baking and cooking, but I prefer cooking, so I hear you about the scones. Abby is a fabulous baker, so I usually leave it to her. This weekend we will be making an orange pound cake that is fabulous - so great with coffee.

I need to come find your thread, I have the feeling that I have lost you somehow.

Happy new thread, Mamie!

Ha! Love that, Katie!

Nice new thread! Nickel Creek's a fave of mine too.

Oh gosh, I'd nearly forgotten about Nickel Creek! Thanks for the reminder - I'm off to itunes...

>22 katiekrug: *snork!!*

Happy new thread, lady!

>24 drneutron: Thanks, Jim! Another Nickel Creek fan - hooray!

>25 scaifea: Hey, Amber! We love them - not a bad album in the bunch.

We can always count on Katie, can't we?!

Morning Mamie! Happy Friday! Happy New Thread! I also love Nickel Creek. I think they got back together recently and put out another CD, but I have not heard it.
Would love to see them live.

Morning, Mark! Thank you! Yep, they did - and it's good! I was so excited when that happened. If you follow that link to NPR Music under the topper photo, it will take you to them performing for NPR, and they played some of their new stuff. I love "Elephant in the Corn".

Happy new thread! I'll just help myself to a scone...

Happy new thread, Mamie. Loving' that new porch you conjured up!

>29 mstrust: Thank you, Jennifer! Let me just get you a beverage to go with that...

>30 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks, Reba! Oh, the porch - I would LOVE to have that one!

Happy New Thread, Mamie!

Thank you, Roni!

My latest win from the Early Reviewers batch arrived today, and this was the quote that appeared in the front of the book. A bit of serendipity? I mean, I adore wine and it IS poetry month...

Yes I did warble to Joe & Tina about Red Rising. Now Joe is ahead of me. I can't remember if it was Judy, Eva or Mamzel who got me with that one. It was someone in the Category Challenge group.

I am so happy you finished Sookie. I will PM you my thoughts so as not to spoiler it for anyone else.

>34 Crazymamie: I like that a lot.

I have this as a fridge magnet...

A couple of things to celebrate today - Mamie has a new thread and it's Friday! Hope you have a great weekend, Mamie.

Re >35 luvamystery65: I too have Red Rising in the stacks so I can't take the warbling credit for that series.

Happy New thread, Mamie! Do let me know what you think of the Portable Veblen. I am quite curious about it, and I hope to get to it.

It's Friday, Crazy has a new thread and I am drinking wine, right now, as I type!! Well, before and after I type. Life is good. : ) Happy weekend.

Happy new thread, Mamie.

Happy new thread, Mamie.

Morning Mamie! Happy Saturday! I hope the weekend treats you well.

Morning, Mamie! Happy Saturday!

Congrats on your shiny new thread, Mamie and happy weekend.

Yet another beautiful day here, and I am feeling mighty thankful. We are enjoying a fabulous Spring. It has been so great to have the windows open and to be spending so much time on the deck and the screened-in porch. My reading has gotten completely out of control - I just grab whatever I am in the mood for, so the current stack of ongoing books is HUGE. Bad Mamie!

Last night I started The Dark Vineyard - book two in the Bruno, Chief of Police series by Martin Walker. As I was expecting, it pulled me right in - what's not to love about wine and a mystery and good food all rolled into the French countryside?! I also started the ER book that I won last month, which showed up on my doorstep just yesterday - I Am No One by Patrick Flanery. The narrative feels a bit stilted, but I am hoping it will loosen up as it goes along. It's just starting to get interesting. The tension and pacing are reminding me of The Ghost by Robert Harris (made into the movie The Ghost Writer), which I loved, so we'll see.

>35 luvamystery65: Well, hooray for my memory, then, Roberta. It's still working!

I await your thoughts on Sookie!

>36 charl08: ME, too, Charlotte - Robert Louis Stevenson said it. And i LOVE your fridge magnet!!

>37 DeltaQueen50: I'm thrilled that you're here to celebrate those things with me, Judy! And I guess you have narrowed Roberta's mystery warbler down to two suspects.

>38 vancouverdeb: Thank you, Deborah! I will be sure to share my thoughts on The Portable Veblen when I finish it. SO far I think that Charlotte has had the best description - "oddly charming". It is also charmingly odd!

>39 Berly: You know I love me a Friday, Kim! And you are drinking wine while posting on my thread - a fitting tribute!! I am deeply honored! I concur - life is good. Hoping that your weekend is filled with fabulous!

>40 Familyhistorian: Thank you, Meg!

>41 DianaNL: Thanks, Diana!

>42 Carmenere: Oh, dear! I am guessing you received the expected snow. YIKES! *there, there. pat, pat.* If it's any consolation, your post made me laugh out loud.

>43 msf59: Morning, Mark! Thank you for those good wishes! Hoping that your weekend is filled with...beer!

>44 scaifea: Morning, Amber! Happy Saturday!

>45 Ameise1: Barbara, that is lovely! Tulips are my very favorite flower. And red is my very favorite color, so thanks for that.

:-) Glad I chose the right ones. I have tulips in the garden but also my weekly bunch in zhe house ate tulips.

Happy Weekend, Mamie!

>49 Ameise1: *grin*

>50 jnwelch: Thank you, Joe! Happy Weekend to you!

Happy new thread, Mamie! I hope you're having a great weekend.

Thanks for the mention of the Autism Awareness April thread!

I have the first Bruno, Chief of Police novel on my shelf -- I must get to it!

Morning, Mamie! Happy Sunday! I am listening to "A Dotted Line" by Nickel Creek and like you, I love Elephant in the Corn. They play so well together.

I am planning on a lazy day. Books and, later on some baseball viewing. Sounds perfect...

Happy Sunday Greetings, Mamie!

Happy new thread! Just getting back on LT after a brief hiatus. Glad to see Spring has found you. Now if you can send her a bit North for a visit!

SO, our Mercy is a very vocal cat - if she wants something, she will come to you and meow. Usually she needs food in her dish or she wants the blinds raised or the window opened. This morning, Craig was the first one up, and she started meowing like she was really telling him something important. He checks the usual things. She has water and food. The blinds are up, and her window of choice is open. What ever could be the matter? She kept meowing and running to the window. Finally she jumps up onto the window sill and gently lays her paw on the screen. "Oh, no, you cannot have the screen out," he starts to tell her, but then he looks closer and finally he gets it. The bird feeder is empty.

Happy Sunday to all of you! Saturday was lovely and indulgent for me - I read a bit, took a nap, read a bit more, had a glass of wine while watching the sun set, read some more...you get the picture. Oh, and I misspoke up there - I said that the wine quote was in the front of my latest ER book, but it is really in the front of Dark Vineyard by Martin Walker (the second in his Bruno, Chief of Police series). I had started both of them that day, so that is probably why I got them confused.

>52 tymfos: Thank you, Terri! SO far so great with the weekend. This morning it is cold..um...for Georgia. Just 51 out there currently. Feels good.

You are welcome - I am happy to mention the Autism Awareness April thread. Thanks for setting that up.

And YES - get to Bruno! Such a great sense of place, and I love the food and wine talk. On top of all that, you also get a decent mystery.

>53 msf59: Morning, Mark! Happy Sunday! I'm so happy you are listening to Nickel Creek!! I love the harmony they achieve with both their instruments and their voices - truly fabulous! So much talent there.

Your day does sound perfect. Mine will be very similar but without the baseball.

>54 Carmenere: Sunday greetings to you, my friend! Hoping that you have a lazy day planned, Lynda.

>55 michigantrumpet: Thank you, Marianne! Lovely to see you back on the threads! I'll see what I can do about getting Spring to stretch itself up North. This is the best one we've had since moving down here, so I have been soaking it up.

LOL Love Mercy's attentiveness to the bird feeder!!

She is just the funniest cat ever, Lynda!

*snork!* to the Mercy story! So, so funny!

Happy Sunday, friend!

And now she is just sitting there watching out the window, perfectly contented, Amber!

Happy Sunday to you!

>61 Crazymamie: What a cozy life she leads. Love it!

I know, right?!

>56 Crazymamie: That is a hilarious and adorable Mercy story!

Thanks, Ursula! She keeps us entertained on a daily basis.

What a wonderful story about your smart kitty!

Thanks, Janet. Glad you enjoyed it!

<46 "wine and a mystery and good food all rolled into the French countryside" -- OK, right onto the wish list that went!!!

<56 love, love, love that Mercy story!!

Way to go, Mercy! Happy Sunday, Mamie.

Sounds like all is well at the Pecan Paradisio. Hope you all are having another gorgeous day. I won't bother to grumble about what we've got here - we've run our errands and now we plan to stay in and read. Nothing to grumble about if we're doing that.

Smart cat! We have goldfinches visit today, so I am a happy bunny.

Really like your thread topper, and I love >46 Crazymamie:. That's so true.

Must say while I am away off the coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea you are still rockin' and rollin' along ever so nicely (this time with Nickleback).

Happy new thread my dear and I will be pleased when I am back home so I can catch up properly.

Happy Sunday, Mamie! That Mercy is one smart cat. I suppose that an empty bird feeder is the equivalent of an unplugged TV, or an uncharged Kindle.

Happy Sunday and kind of new thread, Mamie.

>68 RebaRelishesReading:, >69 RebaRelishesReading: Hooray, Reba! Bruno, Chief of Police is the first book in the series. I think you will love it. And so glad you liked the Mercy story.

>70 jnwelch: Yes! Go, Mercy!

Happy Sunday, Joe! It is gorgeous but a bit cooler here today - just 70 right now, and a slight breeze, so you need long sleeves to be comfortable outside today. No complaints from me. I read this morning and caught up on LT. This afternoon we played Settlers of Catan - Daniel won. Now I'll go back to reading. I know, it's a rough life! Hoping your afternoon was full of lazy.

>71 charl08: She is indeed one smart cat, Charlotte! Oh, goldfinches! So pretty!

>72 Thebookdiva: I knew you would like that topper, Abby! The boys have won the last few times at Settlers, so next time it's got to be one of us girls that wins.

>73 PaulCranswick: um...Nickel Creek, Paul, not Nickelback, although I do like them, too! And thank you for those good wishes. I am wishing you safe travels, my friend.

>74 cbl_tn: Happy Sunday, Carrie! So true about the bird feeder! Ha!

>75 BLBera: Thank you, Beth. Happy Sunday to you!

Mamie!

... Sorry, just had to say that. Have spent time getting caught up with most of your previous thread and now this one.

YOU HAVEN'T READ LONESOME DOVE?!? Apologizes for the caps (and bolding) but, Seriously?!? *laps into a momentary dumb struck silence*
You know it is like one of the greatest books written, right? Not nagging , just checking....

Wow, you have read (and enjoyed) Sweetland and have Galore waiting the wings ... *says the Canadian who still needs to get her arse in gear and read a Crummey novel*

As for the pecan tree lightning strike, my first instinct is to say "Good thing it was just the tree and somebody. Trees can be replaced."

... and I missed the shenanigans! RL is such a U know What sometimes. ;-)

Happy new thread!

>14 Crazymamie: - OMG! Love that indoor/outdoor look. *whimpers*

Wishing you a happy M----- Day, Mamie!

Morning, Mamie!!

Well, Mamie, it's THAT day. Do what you can...

Morning! Here's my 2 cents- you've really, really, really got to read Lonesome Dove! You will lose yourself in this story! It is soooo good!
Finally, listened to your Nickel Creek topper. Wow, what awesome harmonies. I'm now following them on Spotify.

I'm back to say that I haven't read Lonesome Dove either, Mamie. I'm not avoiding it, really - it just hasn't shown up on any of my lists yet. Ha!

"YOU HAVEN'T READ LONESOME DOVE?!?" "Seriously?!?"

^People get so dramatic around here, when it comes to books! You'll get to it, when you get to it, right, Mamie? If you don't mind me asking, when will that be again? Just sayin'...

Morning, Mamie! Happy Monday, my friend!

YOU HAVEN"T READ LONESOME DOVE? Seriously?!!

Me either, Mamie, until a year or so ago, but it really is great. It made our Great American Novel Top 5 over on my thread.

Morning! Happy Mumblemmph Day. I'm drinking coffee and pretending it's still the weekend. Hope it's a good one at the Pecan Paradisio.g

Happy real-pants day, Mamie! Hey, Katie could be onto something there...

Oof Monday.

Thanks for the sympathy re the late shortlist announcement. I guess this way the anticipation builds?!

Morning, Y'all! I'm up! I'm up! Looks like on more day of gorgeous before the rains set in. I need to go to the market, stop by the library and drop Daniel his lunch at work. I also need to wash the bedding, which I usually do on pre-Tuesday. It's The Big Clean day here at the Pecan Paradisio, so we should be spic and span by this afternoon.

I am sensing a movement to get me to read Lonesome Dove. I do have it in the stacks, and I plan on reading it this year - hopefully this summer. Hopefully poolside. *whispers* I am not a huge fan of westerns. *nervous grin* I have seen I think probably all of the famous westerns that were movies because my Dad was a HUGE fan of them, and I am a HUGE fan of my Dad. That being said, I have really loved some - True Grit (I love the book more than the movie because Kim Darby ruins it for me, although the remake was lovely), The Searchers (again the book is WAY better than the movie), The Sisters Brothers...So, anyway...I WILL read it. Soonish. Probably.

>78 lkernagh: Hey, Lori! Um...I actually did not know that Lonesome Dove was one of the greatest books ever written. On account of I haven't read it yet. I am gonna go out on a limb here and guess that you are a big fan. Ha! I am planning on reading it this summer. I want to read it sitting by the pool, so I am thinking July or maybe August.

I do hope you read Crummey - I loved Sweetland! It made my top eight from last year. Just so well done. The writing is beautiful and full of quirky humor, and it really captures a sense of place.

Agree about the pecan tree, but it still makes me sad. Craig is sad because it also got the ginormous tv that hangs in our living room. Apparently everything we own was surge protested EXCEPT for the giant tv. SO we are going to have to replace that baby.

Sorry that you missed the shenanigans - don't worry, there will be others!

I thank you for those good wishes and for taking the time to catch up with me! I would dearly love to have that screened-in room, too!! We have a screened-in porch, but it is much smaller and not nearly as decadent. If I had that one, I might never leave it.

>79 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

>80 katiekrug: Haha! So true! I do love when I can stay in my jammies! I thank you for thinking of me - so much better to muddle through with understanding company.

>81 Carmenere: Too funny! Please see my earlier post, Lynda - I WILL read Lonesome Dove this year. And I better lose myself in the story or you will be hearing from me!

SO happy that you followed the link in the topper - aren't they fabulous?! I must check out Spotify sometime soon - I remember Julia mentioning it last year, but I never checked it out.

>82 scaifea: Oh, good! I have company!! Thanks for coming back to let me know, Amber! I was beginning to think that I was the last one.

>83 msf59: So true, Mark! Your post made me laugh out loud. I will get to it this summer. You may quote me!

>84 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! I am feeling the pressure! Ha! I did know that it got a lot of votes for Great American Novel over at the cafe.

Happy Mumblemmph Day, Joe! Your plan sounds like a good one! It has my approval!

>85 susanj67: You cracked me up, Susan! Real-pants day, indeed! That about sums it up, doesn't it?! Katie is usually onto something...just saying.

>86 charl08: Yep. Oof. You are welcome, Charlotte! I am not good with waiting, either. Let's not build the suspense, let's just have it already!!!

Just went to Audible to see about getting Bruno: Chief of Police and found they're having a 50% off sale so I bought the first three. Won't get to them until this summer but I'm building a nice cache for summer walks at Chautauqua.

WahHOO for you, Reba! I have the first three, and I just purchased the next three this weekend from Amazon in print - I love the covers. I do really think you will love them.

I have finished up my chores, so now I can sit back and read. Well, and get the rest of my steps. Hoping to finish up The Dark Vineyard today and make some progress in a few others I have going. I meant to comment before that in Audible's two for one sale, I picked up A Darker Shade of Magic, which I had already started in print. I am liking the narrator - Steven Crossley. SO now I can listen to this while I walk! It's just starting to pick up, so I am excited to see where it leads. Good so far.

>90 Crazymamie: You can also count me as a nonreader of Lonesome Dove. Happy day before Tuesday - sounds like it is already getting better with all the chores done and all.

I am making myself a women's prize consolation cake, as they didn't pick some of my favourites. (It is possible if they had, that the same cake would be renamed!)

I haven't read Lonesome Dove either!

Haven't read Lonesome Dove or Terms of Endearment but I've enjoyed some of his non-fiction like Books: A Memoir and Walter Benjamin at the Dairy Queen.

Happy Very Nearly Tuesday!

Trying to brighten your Monday with new jewelry designs, Mamie. Feedback desired, please. All wirework is work in transition, in response to feedback, infinitely malleable.


ETA pendant on left is 1.5 inches across, 2.5 inches tall including bail.

I haven't read Lonesome Dove either.

Hi Crazy! Happy no-longer-Monday!! Sounds like you had a wonderful spring weekend, and your cat really does crack me up. ; )

Yahoo! So happy to read you'll be reading Lonesome Dove soon!!! Hope I hear from you even if you do lose yourself in it. If I don't I'll just have to resort to my trusty lasso. Morning!!

I am snorting my coffee - just noticed your note not to look up books mentioned on my thread in your opening comments! Never caught that before.

Birdfeeder is Mercy's TV?

(I haven't read Lonesome Dove either.)

Did I say I haven't read Lonesome Dove...?

Bird table here is very full today if Mercy fancies an exchange programme.

>56 Crazymamie: Lovely Mercy story, Mamie and that does remind me of our kitty :-) They can be very vocal and expressive for such a small animal!

I'm another who *whispers* hasn't read Lonesome Dove....

To all of you who haven't read Lonesome Done -- I don't like westerns. I didn't think I would like Lonesome Dove, but I read it because it won a Pulitzer Prize. It's long, so I kept putting it off even after I bought it but finally one day got started...should say got hooked...and I never wanted it to end. One of my favorite books ever.

I read Lonesome Dove last year for the AAC. I don't really like westerns all that much, with the exception of True Grit (the book, not the film), but Lonesome Dove was very good. Very good.

But a lot of people have already said that...

I am totally stuck near the beginning of the little history of the world book. I got bogged down in his ridiculous musings about the evolution of male and female and haven't picked it back up again... maybe later this month.

Oof! Missed the threads yesterday entirely as the day just got away from me. Poor Birdy had to go back (again!) to the dentist - that pesky tooth just reuses to be happy. They made adjustments, and now we wait two days, and if it hasn't calmed down, they will remove the filling and put in a silver one. I am not sure about this - I am not big on silver fillings. I had a mouthful of them because that is what they used when I was younger, but they all had to be replaced because eventually they leak. And they were so sensitive to hot and cold! Now our dentist is saying that the silver fillings are less sensitive? I think not. Thoughts, anyone?

>108 Crazymamie: I'm with you on the silver fillings. I don't see how switching out a filling would solve a problem, either. You don't suppose the tooth is abcessed, do you? Surely they would have checked that.

Ow! Poor lass. Hope it gets better without more rooting around.

Well, dang-it, I say, to Birdy's tooth problems! I hope she doesn't have to go back again. I've a fair share of silver filling, but I've not had problems with them. I wonder if each person has different, um, tooth tolerances for the different fillings? I clearly don't know about what I'm talking...

Morning, Mamie! Happy Wednesday! Sorry, to hear about the dental woes. Hope this is Birdy's final trip, for awhile anyway.

It is warming up here...finally. About 60 day, better tomorrow. Smiles...

Yikes! Sorry about Birdy's tooth issues. It does seem unusual that in this age when people are removing their silver for composite fillings that your dentist would suggest it. He must have a very good reason. I still have a mouth full of silver except for the one just crowned but I know a few people that have had the silver replaced. My former dentist never even suggested it to me.Best of luck!!

Morning, Everyone! I was doing the no sleeping thing again early this morning, so I was up from 1:30 am until 4:30 am. This happens all the time, so no worries, but anyway, then I went back to bed again and have just now gotten up. I SO appreciate every dental comment that was left here this morning - thank you! I think part of the problem with my understanding about the fillings is that I have been told for years that the composite fillings are better than the silver fillings - all of my silver fillings eventually leaked, which is why they were replaced. I mean, I AM 48 and a lot of those fillings I had placed as a child, so they were old. I do know that each type of filling has its pro and cons for how long it lasts, how sensitive the tooth may be after it is placed (to hot and cold), and how long it takes to place it (the silver is faster then the composite), not to mention pricing. When we lived in Indiana, we were always told that the composite fillings were better than the silver fillings because they were less sensitive and because they lasted longer with less leakage. Now we are being told the exact opposite by this Georgia dentist. And I am wondering, is this just a difference of opinion, is it a North/South thing (because the North and the South do have very different philosophies on certain things), or just this dentist? For some strange reason, a dentist tends to be like a hair stylist, and we tend to stick with the same one even if we aren't completely satisfied with the service - know what I mean? So now I will research composite fillings vs silver ones, but I was wondering what your dentist advises because that would give me a broader picture.

>109 cbl_tn: It just made no sense to me, Carrie. I do not think she has an abscess because I don't think the dentist would miss that. YIKES! I do think some teeth are just more sensitive than others, and I am hoping that she doesn't need a root canal. I guess I will gather what information I can while we wait the two days. Hopefully, the tooth will calm down and be fine without any further treatment.

>110 charl08: Thank you, Charlotte. Me, too!

>111 scaifea: Yes, dang-it, Amber! That's exactly it! I am also hoping that she doesn't have to go back. With the silver fillings it probably depends on where they are placed and how big they are - I had big silver ones in my molars that all got replaced eventually, but I had had them for a long time. And I think there is a lot to be said for each person being different with different tolerances - some people have better teeth than others. Like I have really crappy enamel and my teeth are very sensitive to cold, which is why I rarely eat frozen stuff. The weird thing is that I had always been told that the silver fillings were MORE sensitive to hot and cold than the composite, which makes since to me since they contain metal. Now I am being told the exact opposite, which is perplexing. Really, I just want to do the right thing for Birdy and to resolve the issue, which is why I'm asking the question to see what dentists across the country/globe recommend.

>112 msf59: Morning, Mark! Happy Wednesday! I am also hoping that this is Birdy's final trip until she needs to go back to get her teeth cleaned again.

Sounds like your weather is on the mend - it's 77 here, which is supposed to be the high for today. Showers expected later.

>113 Carmenere: YIKES indeed, Lynda! The dentist is a woman, and I, too, am baffled. When we moved down here and went for our first dental visit, we were surprised by some of the differences between this dental group and the dentist that we had been going to for years. This dentist places silver fillings unless you ask for the composite. Also, when you get your teeth cleaned, they only apply fluoride to the under 18 crowd, so not adults unless you ask for it. Insurance down here doesn't pay for fluoride for adults! In Indiana it did, and in Indiana you got it whether insurance paid for it or not - it was part of the cleaning routine. So, I had to request that we all get fluoride, which I pay for out of pocket, at all of our cleanings. I just figured that different parts of the country do things differently because this dentist office is very up to date. Now I am wondering if it is just this particular office or a Southern thing. I need to investigate, I guess.

The silver fillings don't need to be replaced unless they are leaking, so yours are probably fine. If the filling is leaking, you can get damage to the tooth under the filling, which is a mess. I have had four root canals, so I am very familiar with this particular phenomena.

Okay, I need a second cup of coffee, and then I'll be back to catch up with the rest of the thread.

>114 Crazymamie: Ha! I can see why Darth's puzzled.

Sorry you had that no-sleeping period. That can be very annoying. I find that happens a lot less now that I've diminished some of my workload. Sounds like you've had a lot going on.

Our dentist doesn't use silver; he uses something the color of the teeth, but I'm not sure what it is. (I'm one of those lottery winners with no cavities). Composite fillings may be it. We think he's a good one.

>117 jnwelch: I do that no sleeping thing all the time, Joe - I used to work the night shift for many years, and it messed up my sleep cycle. I usually just read. But yes, life has been busy lately.

Yep - that's composite, and I thought that it was what most dentists recommended these days. No cavities is truly amazing! Craig has really good teeth, too - he has only had a very few fillings, which is good because he is a complete nut at the dentist.

Okay, here we go, catching up with the thread:

>95 Familyhistorian: Ha! The day before Tuesday actually turned out better than Tuesday. That might be a first, Meg! And I am happy to find that I am not the only nonreader of Lonesome Dove - takes the pressure off.

>96 charl08: I like your attitude, Charlotte! What kind of cake did you make?

>97 The_Hibernator: Well okay then, Rachel. This club is bigger than I thought. Do you have plans to read it at some point?

>98 dragonaria: And Kimberly, too! I have not read anything by him. And thanks for those good wishes!

>99 ronincats: Look how colorful, Roni! I really love the red bits, but I fear I am the wrong person to ask about jewelry - I always go for the really simple stuff. I do like the freeform style, though.

>100 BLBera: Well, I guess there are a whole bunch of us, Beth! Who knew?!

>101 Berly: Hey, Kim! It really was a delightful weekend, and I am so happy that the cat entertains more than just me. She is a funny soul!

>102 Carmenere: Oh, dear! I might get lost in it? I hope you guys will come looking if I don't report back. I mean all kinds of things can happen in a Western, and I am just a city girl.

>103 sibylline: Hooray, Lucy! I made you snort your coffee - that made me smile! Yep - the birdfeeder is Mercy's tv! She is completely addicted.

And another who has not yet read Lonesome Dove! I am feeling better about it.

>104 charl08: No, you didn't, Charlotte! Look what great company I am in!! Now if any of you want to read it with me this summer...

I bet Mercy would love a change of pace with your bird table! And I could come with her - is there any of that cake left?

>105 souloftherose: Glad you loved the Mercy story, Heather! Please give Erica our love.

And you, too! With the no Lonesome Dove! Shocking!

>106 RebaRelishesReading: That is quite an endorsement, Reba! I am actually really looking forward to it since so many of you have loved it.

>107 nittnut: And another endorsement - good to know, Jenn! It surprises me that so many who don't really care for westerns love the book so much - a very good sign.

The Penguin History gets better as it goes on, trust me. The beginning is a bit staggering in its slogging, but it picks up. I am also behind, so I need to get moving and catch up this month.

Okay, I think I am all caught up. You know the drill - if I missed you, holler!

Hmm, I don't think my dentist gives me fluoride during a cleaning. I seem to remember it as a child - I had to bite down on a weird foam-y thing with a disgusting tasting gel on it? Is that fluoride? I definitely don't get that now...

Yep, that's fluoride. I always hated that foamy thing - really disgusting. But down here they use a brush on fluoride, which is wonderful. No funky taste and no gross foam insert. They just paint it onto your teeth, and you are good to go. You can't drink hot beverages or brush your teeth for the rest of the day, but that's it. So much nicer.

Huh. I may have to ask about that at my next visit (which reminds me, I need to reschedule it, as it turns out I'll be in New York!)...

New York!! Most exciting!

>123 katiekrug:, >124 Crazymamie: Oh GODDDDDD, that disgusting foam thing full of revolting fluoride. Ugh, that whole thing just made me want to throw up when I was a kid. I'm pretty sure I never lasted more than a few seconds with that gross thing in my mouth.

Ahem.

Sorry, that just brings back very vivid memories!

>127 ursula: - I totally understand! I think it was the start of my very sensitive gag reflex. I never was able to keep it in the prescribed amount of time (5 minutes?)...

>127 ursula: That is exactly how I felt about it, too, Ursula! And then you can't swallow, so it starts dripping. So not good. *shivers* I was incredibly excited to find that they don't use it at our current dentist.

>128 katiekrug: It felt like 30 minutes. Seriously. Never. Again.

Good luck at the dentist. : (

It was yesterday, Kim. SO far so good with the tooth today - it's not bothering her. SO hooray for that!!

Sorry, I meant that I hope the two days works and she is good to go. Glad today is off to a good start!

Thanks for that, Kim! Crossing my fingers that we are done dealing with it. I grow weary of the dental drama. Ha!

Sorry to hear about the teeth woes for Birdy. I have no advice about silver vs composite or fluoride cleanings as I have no idea which I've had done. Hope the tooth settles down for Birdy.

Thank you, Heather. I wish I had no idea, but I feel like I have spent about a third of my life at the dentist. LOL!

Hi, Mamie! Could I borrow that bullhorn. I have some serious warbling to do about Evicted. This should be required reading. Can't recommend it, high enough.

Like you need a bullhorn, Mark! You always come through loud and clear - it's a natural talent, I'm convinced!

Aw shucks, Mamie...toes the carpet.

Hey, are you reading an Atwood?

You da man, Mark! Nope, not reading an Atwood, although I do love her stuff. I am reading a Crummey for the CAC - Galore. Not far enough into it to tell if I like it or not, but I like the writing, and I LOVED Sweetland.

Galore is a fine choice! I liked that one a lot! Enjoy!

Oh! Mark approved! Almost guaranteed to be a winner now.

Oh gosh, I'd forgotten all about that awful fluoride insert business! How wonderful that they've changed to the brush-on stuff, no? I'm with Katie - I have a terribly sensitive gag-reflex. Gah.

Anyways...Morning, Mamie!!

Morning, Amber! Yep, that insert thing was just yuck.

Happy Thursday greetings, Mamie. Fluoride! We've lived in the semi-rural untreated well water region for almost 20 years and I had never received a fluoride treatment till last month on the hubsters recommendation. All I did was take a cup of liquid and swish it around for 5 minutes and coughed up $47. I don't think I'll be doing that again. I'll let Bill and Will have their fun.

Happy Thursday, Lynda! Um...$47 for fluoride?! Wow! The fluoride that our dentist paints onto our teeth costs $25.

>145 Crazymamie: Hmmm, interesting indeed!

My dental hygenist wants to give me a fluoride treatment every time, I think we are at the swishing in the mouth stage. Lately I have refused the treatment as gag reflex kicks in whatever the treatment though painting sounds better than the other methods. That hasn't reached here yet.

Hey, Meg! I really am a fan of the painted on fluoride - so fast and no yucky taste. The worse thing about it is that you can't drink any hot beverages for the rest of the day.

Happy Thursday, Mamie!

Thank you, Katie! Happy Thursday to you!

Sweet Thursday, Mamie!

Did I hear Mark mention Evicted? Even without a bullhorn, he comes through loud and clear. I join in his Huzzas! for it. Great book - important and amazing. I'm hoping it's a game-changer.

Fluoride - I grew up with it in our tap water, and it does seem to have had good effect on teeth. The extra leg growing out of my back isn't so great, but I've found use for it.

Sweet Thursday to you, Joe!

Right. I remember your great review of Evicted - I'll add it to the list, but I am not going to get to it any time soon because I have overbooked myself. Ha!

Yep. I think fluoride is important, which is why I am willing to pay out of pocket for it. Are you saying that it gave you an extra leg up? I crack myself up! I'm here all day, folks!

>152 Crazymamie: Ha! As my wife would say, "I'm here all week, folks! Try the meatloaf!"

LOL!

Book #50: The Portable Veblen by Elizabeth McKenzie (I have no idea how to rate it), 2016 acquired ebook, um...weird fiction?

Well, I finished The Portable Veblen, and I don't even know where to begin. Seriously. Charlotte said, "Oddly charming," and I agree with that. It felt kind of like reading a book that had been written by a Bill Murray character, if you know what I mean. It had moments of cohesion, where I felt like it was coming together and just might be an excellent quirky read. But then, just as the pacing let you get into a kind of rhythm, it would veer off course and go in a disconcertingly different direction. Like reading with speed bumps. And it was about 100 pages too long, IMO. I liked Veblen; I did. And I loved the squirrel. And all of the other characters that put the fun in dysfunctional were maddening but lovable. It just didn't quite work for me. Still, moments of brilliance here, so it wasn't a total loss.

>155 Crazymamie: "moments of brilliance" is a very good indication that her next book will hit the nail on the head. A name to watch. I like the squirrel too. Good review

Morning, Mamie!

"like reading a book that had been written by a Bill Murray character"

Yes!! Brilliantly put. And I agree with >156 Carmenere: too!

>155 Crazymamie: I considered reading it because of the cute cover, but can't help it - it doesn't call me. :(

Re. teeth: I never heard of silver fillings. We used to have amalgam in the 70s and 80s, then came that composite stuff for women (I believe men can still get amalgam if they want to), and for the bigger and expensive inlayed fillings it's ceramic or gold. Got two gold inlays and several in ceramic, and can't see where gold is better. It's just uglier.
My back teeth that used to be good all my life, suddenly turned bad when I got private health insurance in Germany that covered all treatments. I suspect my ex dentist to have put inlays where they weren't needed and now of course the problems are growing - and in Italy state insurance, good as it is in other respects, pays nothing, not even the standard fillings. And buying private insurance that covers teeth costs a fortune, so many Italians book organized "dentist bus trips" to East European countries.

Happy Friday and Happy Weekend, Mamie! :)

Morning! Maybe coffee beside the pool?

>156 Carmenere: That's such a good point, Lynda. She uses language in a unique way, and she captures dysfunction with such humor. I would definitely read whatever she writes next.

>157 scaifea: Morning, Amber! Happy Friday!

>158 charl08: Right. The cover is cute, but it is not 400 pages worth of cute, Nathalie.

I am thinking that amalgam and what we are calling silver are the same thing - it's a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, copper and some other stuff, but it is silver in color. I currently have tons of porcelain in my mouth because I have a lot of crowns. That is a sad and scary story about your molars - YIKES! We have dental insurance, but it is not very good - we still pay A LOT out of pocket. And dental bus trips - wow!

>159 Deern: You're on, Lynda, but we better take some towels because it is very WET out there. It rained all day yesterday, which made for a perfect stay in my jammies and read day. Which is exactly what I did. It's overcast and on the cool side right now, but not raining at the moment, so we could snag coffee poolside. And YES!! WahHOO for Friday - LOVE that graphic!

Morning Mamie! Happy Friday! It is supposed to hit 72 today. Yeah, baby!

The "the oddball charm" of The Portable Veblen has sparked some interest in Marky-Mark...

>160 Carmenere: Exactly!!

>162 msf59: Afternoon, Mark! 72!! Wow - it's only 60 here today. Overcast and chilly. Raining off and on. I love it!

I say give it a go if you are at all interested - I read it on Kindle, or I'd send it to you.

>163 Berly: Hey there, Kim!

Hi Mamie!

Silver fillings here - many of them over 50 years old.

Never had a fluoride treatment - it's in the tap water.

And can't believe so many LTrs have not read Lonesome Dove - which in my opinion is not really a Western. It takes place in the West, but it is so much more than that.

Hi Mamie! Happy Friday evening! It's my favorite night of the week.

Just popping by to say hello, then running. I have multiple crowns as well and I don't want to talk about teeth or dentists. Bad juju.

>165 Fourpawz2: Hi Charlotte! Well, hooray for silver fillings that lasted! And fluoride in the tap water!

And another fan of Lonesome Dove - I'm gonna feel mighty bad if I don't like it none. See how I used my old western speak there? Seriously, I am very much looking forward to finally getting to it.

>166 cbl_tn: Hi Carrie! We had a great Friday evening- we picked up burgers from a great place and brought them home to enjoy. I got to read and everyone else watched tv. Low key and relaxing. Hoping yours was, too.

>167 nittnut: Hey, Jenn! Bad juju, huh? Oh, dear!

I recently had a filling, a silver one. My dentist says that's what he has. I think the new ones are better?

Have a great weekend. I hope the tooth is fixed. I'm with Jenn - I have a mouth full of crowns - it's probably worth more than my car!

From everything I have read, Beth, the new ones are better. The silver fillings are cheaper and are faster to put in. I think a lot of insurances will only pay the equivalent of the silver filling price. From my own personal experience, the silver fillings are much more temperature sensitive, causing really hot and cold things to be an issue.

Wishing you a great weekend as well! Birdy has had no further problems with the tooth, so I am thinking (and hoping) that's the end of it. Me, too with the crowns!

It's been a long time since I had any fillings, but I recall my dentist giving me a choice. He recommended the silver for the back teeth where it wouldn't show, and the more expensive filling for the front teeth because it wouldn't be as noticeable. Same thing with the crowns. I have metal ones in the back and porcelain ones in the front of my mouth.

Morning, Carrie! That makes sense. My back teeth are all crowns, but they are porcelain. I remember having a silver crown as a child, but I have never been offered one as an adult.

Happy Saturday, Mamie! I've done all my steps. Yay me!

Happy Saturday, Mamie! How's Birdy doing with that tooth?

>173 susanj67: Happy Saturday, Susan! Hooray for you for the stepping!! I have...um...318. SO far.

>174 Carmenere: Morning, Lynda! Happy Saturday! Birdy's tooth has been great - no more troubles.

Morning, Mamie! Happy Saturday! It is gorgeous out here at the moment. Blue skies and sunshine.

Hope you get plenty of book time in today.

Hey Mamie - sunshine here! I finally read Ruby after all Katie's urging, and it was just as good as she said! (Of course). Maybe one for the dirty dozen?

>176 msf59: Morning, Mark! Happy Saturday! It's full of beauty here, too. First sun we've seen in a few days, kind of peeking out now and then. Lovely breeze, cool temps. Can't complain.

Planning on plenty of book time today, so I appreciate those wishes, my friend!

>177 charl08: Hey Charlotte! And sun for you, too! I remember Katie loving that one - I hesitate only because of the abuse. How descriptive is it? I don't do well with child abuse - I can't leave it behind when I close the book.

Crazy--Good morning! Hitting the 80s here today. Going to watch my son's state cup soccer tournament later this afternoon, where I also hope to get some walking in while they warm up. Spending the morning trying to catch up on LT threads and reviews. Glad the teeth at the Pecan Paradisio are behaving. : )

>180 Crazymamie: Hey there, Kim! Sounds like a fun day - soccer is so fun to watch. And yes - the teeth are behaving! I have no doubts that I owe it all to LT and the positive vibes and good wishes sent out way. This place ROCKS!

Happy Sunday, Mamie.

Thank you, Barbara! Happy Sunday to you!

Morning, Mamie! Happy Sunday! We have another beautiful day here. I NEED to catch up on some outdoor chores, but I will definitely be cracking the shorts out. NEED to get some sun on these pale legs.

Of course, I plan on getting some reading in too. On the patio, perhaps?

>183 msf59: Morning, Mark! Happy Sunday! It's beautiful here, too, so we can share that! Craig is outside working right now - that man LOVES to be outside. He says it's relaxing even though he is always working. My idea of relaxing is sitting on the deck with a good book and a beverage. And YES, you need some sun on those legs so the glare doesn't cause traffic accidents, my friend. LOVE reading outside - hope you can work some of that in.

No, we can not have any traffic accidents! Grins...I probably will hold off, wearing shorts to work, for another couple of weeks. Just to make sure...

Good thinking! You are such a thoughtful guy!

Lol re the shorts conversation.

Way back above you asked about Ruby and the level of focus on child abuse in the book. Sorry for not replying straight away - I've been thinking about it - but maybe Katie can weigh in too as I'm aware it must have a different impact on different readers. For me it didn't feel graphic, although it was clear from early on in the book that this was a community that lived with violence, from lynching to spousal abuse. Within that context, the abuse against little girls was mostly suggested rather than demonstrated (in terms of the adult implications of that) for the most part of the book. In addition the abuse when described is told from a child's perspective so in a kind of glancing, overwhelmed way. There is also running alongside the story elements of magical realism - which at least for me meant that the abuse and the consequences were only part of the narrative. .The comparisons with Beloved worked for me. Hope this helps a bit?

Hmmm.. I wonder if Lonesome Dove would work on audio? Has anyone listened to it?

Sorry about dental woes!

>187 charl08: Charlotte, thanks so much for that! Yes, it helps a lot!

>188 sibylline: I wondered about that, too, Lucy. Let's see if anyone responds. And thank you - the dental woes seem to be over for the moment. Thank goodness.

>188 sibylline: >189 Crazymamie: LOL I read Lonesome Dove so loooong ago if you wanted audio you'd have to have someone read it to you. Ha! If it's available, I'd bet it would be great.

PS Happy Sunday, Mamie!

Wow, after catching up on your thread, Mamie, I gave up and have wishlisted Lonesome Dove. I haven't read it, either because I'm not a real fan of westerns but, now I know better!

Happy Sunday, Mamie! Lots of sun here today. Adrian and I enjoyed a long walk this afternoon.

Hi Mamie! Just getting caught up here. Hope you're having a good weekend. Ours is the famous Snowmageddon of 2016. Love the story of Mercy and the bird feeder:) I took a photo of our bird feeders this morning:


Yup. Lots of shoveling today.

And please forgive me, but YOU HAVEN'T READ LONESOME DOVE????? Even I have read it (I am often last) and it is one of the best books ever, ever.

>187 charl08: - Charlotte nailed it.

ETA: The book broke my heart but in the best way possible (if that makes sense) - it wasn't gratuitous or playing for shock value. It's just honest and forthright and pulls no punches.

Morning, Mamie!

Haven't read Lonesome Dove either, but this thread gives me the idea I missed out on sth? :) I'd never have suspected a western behind this title btw..
Happy Monday and Happy Week, Mamie!

Morning, Everyone! We had a weekend full of fabulous here at the Pecan Paradisio. Beautiful weather and Craig was off, so he got to spend a lot of time in the yard (which makes him happy), and I got to spend a lot of time on the screened-in porch and the deck watching Craig putter and reading my books. We had a slow indulgent day on Saturday and then on Sunday Craig, Daniel, and Birdy went to see Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon", which is located in Providence Canyon State Park, less than two hours drive from us. Abby, Rae and I elected not to go hiking, but I did get a lot of stepping in on my own, which was wonderful. I ended up with 94,913 steps this past week, which equates to 38.51 miles, so I was thrilled!



I also finished up two books - Cast in Shadow in print and A Darker Shade of Magic on audio. I will write up reviews on both of those shortly. I also started the third book in Martin Walker's Bruno, Chief of Police series - Black Diamond, so good that I am already almost finished with it. I have been pretty much ignoring my list of reads that fit April's challenges and going with what fits my mood. I'm still hoping to get to several of the challenge reads before the month is finished. We'll see, I guess. Not worried about it either way as I know that books are patient, and they will wait for me to be ready for them.

In book purchases, I have acquired the next three books in the Bruno, Chief of Police series in trade paperbacks and the next book in the Chronicles of Elantra series in digital format - Cast in Courtlight.

Wow, Mamie, that's some stepping'! You're always #1 out of my 15 Fitbit friends, but that's a lot even for you. Congratulations!

>190 Carmenere: Haha, Lynda! I checked out what Audible has, and the narration is done by Lee Horsley, which I think would be a great fit for it. Unfortunately, the audio has a very tinny quality to it, so I will pass on the audio and just read the print. Too bad because I love to listen to audio poolside.

Sunday was great, thank you. Hope yours was, too.

>191 Dianekeenoy: Ha! Good thinking, Diane! Just give in to the LT pull right away. I plan on reading it this summer, if you want to join me - I'm thinking July or August.

>192 cbl_tn: Thanks, Carrie - hope your Sunday was happy! I also got a long walk in, so hooray for the mileage!

>193 AMQS: Oh, dear! Just WOW to all that snow, Anne! Those bird feeders!! Yikes. It's going to be 81 here today, so I shall think warm thoughts for you. SO glad you enjoyed the Mercy story.

Please don't worry - I plan on reading Lonesome Dove this summer. So just try to relax. Everything will be okay.

>194 katiekrug: I have added Ruby to your Dirty Dozen, Katie and given Charlotte credit for seconding your recommendation. Both of your comments here helped, so thanks for that.

>195 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

>196 Deern: You can join me this summer if you want to, Nathalie. I would love to have company. The book was made into a mini-series, which I have seen part of which is why I classified it as a Western. Um...set in the West, lots of horses and cowboy hats...



Happy Pre-Tuesday to you! Hoping that your week is full of fabulous!

>198 RebaRelishesReading: Hey, Reba! I was a nut this week with the stepping - I need to get myself going again, as I have fallen into bad habits, so this is a very good thing for me. Thank you for the congrats! Poor Craig went to the Little Grand Canyon and did all that hiking, but he had forgotten his Fitbit at home. The poor, poor dear!

Hiya, Mamie!

Oh, I love that "Happy Pre-Tuesday". Seems like a much better day already.

You guys have me wondering about that Michelle Sagara series. I'm looking forward to your reaction to Cast in Shadow.

38 miles!!! Holy moly! And how was Pennsylvania when you got there? I was proud of my 23,000 steps...

ETA: Oh, I see that was for the *week*, and not just the weekend. That puts a totally different light on it, obviously...*shakes Fitbit to see if it will count faster*

>201 jnwelch: Hey, Joe! I know, right?! Totally mental, but it works for me, too! I am hoping to have those reviews posted today, so if you check back, it should be here.

>202 susanj67: Haha!! I love your enthusiastic response, Susan! Thanks so much for that! And 23,000 is nothing to sneeze at, especially since you work full time and I do not. And that is just your weekend total - let's see, I got 27,197 steps for the weekend.

Missed Morning Mamie, but I will offer the greeting anyway!

Another gorgeous day here in the Midwest. Things drop back to normal tomorrow, but no complaints about that.

Glad you had a fine weekend.

Morning, Mark! Does time really matter?! It's gorgeous here, too - sunny and going to 81 today. The pecan trees are awash with their greenery, looking os cheerful in their summer finery.

Hey Mamie
The mini grand canyon looks good. And that stepping - impressive stuff. The beans are waving back (or at least, that's the illusion when I wiggle their pots...).

Walking your way to wellness - way to go, Mamie. xx

>206 charl08: I didn't go to the mini grand canyon because I am not an outdoorsy type of girl, but Birdy said it was beautiful. But, even though I wimped out on the hiking, I did get my steps in, so I thank you.

*waves back at the beans and Charlotte*

>207 PaulCranswick: I am trying, dear Paul. Thank you for the encouragement, my friend. xx

>199 Crazymamie: Count me in, I'm game!

>197 Crazymamie: That is a very colourful photo of the Little Grand Canyon. Yay for getting all those steps in, Mamie. Sunday was a good day for me stepwise as well as I took part in Vancouver's Sun Run - a 10k route that you can run or walk. The weather was prime - sunny and warm.

>188 sibylline:, >189 Crazymamie: Yes, Lonesome Dove is wonderful on audio. I read it first as a print book and then reread it as an audiobook. Loved it both times. As Anne says, it is one of the best books EVER so however you manage it, do read it!

Crazy--WoW! I love the mini Grand Canyon. The contrasting red and white is beautiful!! Way to go on the fitbit and getting back into it. I made my 10,000 today. : )

>197 Crazymamie: Ooh that is so pretty! Just another place to add to my bucket list. :) Nice step count for the week!

I've been low on steps since I sprained my ankle, and then my Fitbit started peeling and bubbling, which was weird. The good news is that if this happens to you, they will send you a new one. Keep your receipt. :) But I've got my new Fitbit and I'm getting back into the swing of things. Walking dogs at the shelter today sure helped. :)

Morning, Mamie!

Howdy, Mamie! Sad face for tinny audio quality but take heart you can fly from here to there and not see much scenery or you can step it and see the beauty of being on the ground. A longer trip but so awesome. Ya get my drift.
Mini Grand Canyon! Just wow! thought it was the big one until I read your post.
Have a happy day :0)

Morning, Mamie!

"The pecan trees are awash with their greenery, looking so cheerful in their summer finery." Sounds perfectly idyllic!

Morning, Mamie! I am off today. Yah! I may be tied up a bit this morning but the afternoon is reserved for the books!

>197 Crazymamie: awesome reviews, I'm adding both of those to my reading list.

>217 msf59: It really does sound idyllic, I agree.

I'm reading Mary Karr driving through Iowa on her way to college. I've always wanted to be able to read in the car!

Happy Tuesday

Morning, Y'all! Another gorgeous day here - I'm beginning to feel a bit bad about hogging them all, but then I think about Georgia summers, and I think that I had better soak it up before it gets hotter than Hades. Which should be any moment now.

I finished up another book yesterday - Black Diamond, the third book in Martin Walker's Bruno, Chief of Police series. The mystery part got a bit bogged sown at the end, but it didn't even matter because the setting and the characters make up for it. This series is so much fun. So now I am three reviews behind, since I never made it back here yesterday. Today. For sure. I think.

>209 Dianekeenoy: Most excellent! Let me know if you prefer July or August. Either one works for me.

>210 Familyhistorian: I just snagged that one off the web, Meg, but Birdy took loads of photos, so I will try to post a couple of those later today. And hooray for the stepping!!

>211 Storeetllr: I figured it would be with a decent narrator, Mary, but the Audible version is horrible quality-wise. The acoustics are bad - kind of echoey (that's probably not a word).

>212 Berly: Thank you, Kim! And way to go, yourself!! I'm sending you a PM.

>213 nittnut: Birdy said it is gorgeous, Jenn. Daniel has been a few times, but I have not been yet. And thank you!

My Fitbit has started doing that same thing, but it is WAY older than nine months, and I have no idea where the receipt might be. Good to know that they replaced it, though - I love good customer service! Sending you healing vibes for that ankle - such a bummer! Oh! Walking dogs at the shelter - how great!

>214 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

>215 Carmenere: Howdy, Lynda! That's a lovely and very true thought! I guess the mini Grand Canyon is pretty awesome, so I will have to check it out myself at some point. They all loved it.

>216 katiekrug: Morning, Katie! I LOVE that - SO true!! And exactly how I feel.

>217 msf59: Morning, Mark! You are quoting me!!! I am thrilled! it really is picture perfect here right now. Abby took some photos, but we have lost the cord to connect her camera ti the computer. Soon as we find it, I will post some photos.

Hooray for a day off! Hoping that it is full of fabulous!

>218 Thebookdiva: Ha! I didn't review them yet, Abby, but I will. We have been talking about them together, so I know you are aware of my thoughts. And I appreciate that vote of confidence. I think you would like both of them.

>219 charl08: It is! Truly. I love reading in the car - I think I could read sitting backwards in the back of a school bus - no motion sickness for me, but Birdy and Dan both have issues with it.

Happy Tuesday, dear Charlotte!

Morning, Mamie!

Hope you have a good one today in the idyllic Pecan Paridisio.

Morning, Joe! Thank you for those good wishes! Hoping that you also have a day full of goodness!

Only three reviews behind?! I am currently 4 reviews behind. I don't think I've been caught up at any point this month. I ned to catch up before I forget what I've read, which is the main reason I write those reviews in the first place!

Happy Tuesday!

Me, too, Carrie - I like having the record of my thoughts just for myownself. If I let myself get too far behind, then it seems daunting and I am likely to just skip it. LOL!

Happy Tuesday!!

Happy Tuesday, Mamie. Monday is gone.

Book #51: Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara (4 stars), 2016 acquired ebook, fantasy - series recommended by Roni

Here's the blurb from Amazon:

"Seven years ago Kaylin fled the crime-riddled streets of Nightshade, knowing that something was after her. Children were being murdered — and all had the same odd markings that mysteriously appeared on her own skin.…

Since then, she's learned to read, she's learned to fight and she's become one of the vaunted Hawks who patrol and police the City of Elantra. Alongside the winged Aerians and the immortal Barrani, she's made a place for herself, far from the mean streets of her birth.

But children are once again dying, and a dark and familiar pattern is emerging. Kaylin is ordered back into Nightshade with a partner she knows she can't trust, a Dragon lord for a companion and a device to contain her powers — powers that no other human has. Her task is simple — find the killer, stop the murders…and survive the attentions of those who claim to be her allies!

Roni has been reading this series back to back and claimed they were like potato chips, which got my attention. Since this was available on Kindle for just $1.99, I decided to give it a try - Roni was right! I read this in just two days and did not want to put it down. The world building is interesting, and I loved all the different species/races that this book featured. The characters and the story pull you in immediately. Where it could use some help it editing - some of the dialogue gets confusing when there are more than two characters speaking. I found myself having to read back through the scene to figure it out. Also, we learn things at Kaylin's pace, meaning a slow reveal, this mostly works but left me in the dark in a few spots. This stuff might get explained in later books, so we'll see. Anyway, it's fun - really fun, and the pacing is great. The main character could use a bit more savvy, so I am hoping she smartens up as we go along or at least stops to think things through a bit more before diving in. Only time will tell.

>227 Ameise1: Happy Tuesday, Barbara! I am never sad to say farewell to Monday.

>230 PaulCranswick: Just dropped by to tell you this is the 3000th post on your threads this year. First to go past that marker in 2016. Way to go Mamie!

Book #52: A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab (4 stars), 2016 acquired audiobook, fantasy

Okay. SO I have to admit that I bought this book because I fell in love with the beautiful cover. Yes. I am that shallow. *tries to look ashamed* I love how the book is divided into sections, each with it's own chapters. The actual book is a very beautiful thing. I started reading it in print form, but then saw that it was one of the books included in Audible's sale where members can get two books for one credit. So, I snagged the audio, which was narrated by Steven Crossley - I thought he did a very good job with it, and I fell in love with his Lila. So snarky and no nonsense.

The blurb from Amazon:

"Kell is one of the last Travelers-magicians with a rare, coveted ability to travel between parallel universes, connected by one magical city.

There's Grey London, dirty and boring, without any magic, and with one mad king-George III. Red London, where life and magic are revered-and where Kell was raised alongside Rhys Maresh, the rougish heir to a flourishing empire. White London-a place where people fight to control magic, and the magic fights back, draining the city to its very bones. And once upon a time, there was Black London. But no one speaks of that now.

Officially, Kell is the Red Traveler, ambassador of the Maresh empire, carrying the monthly correspondences between the royals of each London. Unofficially, Kell is a smuggler, servicing people willing to pay for even the smallest glimpses of a world they'll never see. It's a defiant hobby with dangerous consequences, which Kell is now seeing firsthand.

Fleeing into Grey London, Kell runs into Delilah Bard, a cut-purse with lofty aspirations. She first robs him, then saves him from a deadly enemy, and finally forces Kell to spirit her to another world for a proper adventure.

Now perilous magic is afoot, and treachery lurks at every turn. To save all of the worlds, they'll first need to stay alive."

Now, Heather read this one not too long ago and felt that it fell flat, and if I had just read the print version, I think I might agree with her. I feel that the audio elevated it. The premise is just so fabulous, but it doesn't quite live up to its promise. I wanted to read the next one just to see where it goes from here because I was curious, BUT for some strange reason they decided to go with different narrators for the next book. WHAT?! And the new narrators do not have a British accent - I listened to the sample, and it was so disappointing. SO probably not. Bummer.

>230 PaulCranswick: Thank you, Paul! I'd like to thank the academy...

Book #53: Black Diamond by Martin Walker (4 stars), 2015 acquired paperback, crime fiction/police procedural

I LOVE this series!! This was book three, and it was just as fun as books one and two. Set in France, these mysteries combine village life in the French countryside, including the markets, the food and wine and rugby with murder. Just my cup of tea glass of merlot. And I have fallen slightly in love with Bruno, the chief of police. Please don't mention this to Archie Goodwin. If you love a well written mystery that pulls you into the story and makes you wish you were there, what are you waiting for? Just so highly recommended.

>222 Crazymamie: Oh gosh. Seriously, I should not get on the computer first thing when I wake up. My brain doesn't know what it's doing.

>221 Crazymamie: How about July? Will be having my brother and father up for a visit in August and can give it to my dad to read. Can't wait!

>234 Thebookdiva: I know, right?!

>235 Dianekeenoy: July it is!

>236 Crazymamie: All set, just ordered my copy from Ebay!

Excellent!!

You are in for a treat with Lonesome Dove.

Hi Mamie!!!!!!

>228 Crazymamie: Glad you enjoyed Cast in Shadow. Yeah, but Kaylin is awfully young still. And it leaves plenty of room for growth. I'm still enjoying them at #6 and still have plenty to go.

And the Schwab is coming up next!

Poor Craig -- long hike and no Fitbit :( I've been in the car much to much this week for many steps although I did do about 12,000 in San Francisco on Saturday. Just wait until I get to Chautauqua in June though!!

You're going to love Lonesome Dove.

Be careful, you're going to run out of Bruno books soon if you keeping reading so fast! And what's not to like about Bruno? I'm a little in love, too...

Crazy--Over 3,000 posts! Whew! Better you than me -- I wouldn't be able to keep up with my own thread! LOL. And I am sure you feel better now than you have gotten few reviews out of the way. : ) I might add that sometimes potato chips are just what I'm looking for. And I am glad you found a partner for Lonesome Dove--see?! Now you are not alone!! Tee hee. And happy Hump Day.

Morning, Mamie! Happy 3000th! Ha!

Happy Wednesday salutations, Mamie! (I try to mix it up a bit) Ya know, Pennsylvania also has their own mini grand canyon. We've talked about checking it out but never made it over there. I can't say that I'm all that enthused about it.

Morning, Mamie!

At $1.99, I can sure afford to give Michelle Sagara a go at some point. Thanks for the review.

>239 EBT1002: SO I have been told, Ellen. Ha! I am looking forward to it - of course, now I will feel terrible if I don't love it. *blinks*

>240 ronincats: That is such a good point, Roni. I had not been remembering that she is only twenty. I figured the rest were pretty good, since you have been going through them so fast. So fun when you get on a reading spree like that!

I will be SO interested on your thoughts on the Schwab.

>241 RebaRelishesReading: I know, Reba. I was very tragic - he did all that climbing and hiking, and didn't even get credit for it. He was really wondering how many stairs it would have recorded since it was a lot of up and down. And 12,000 is AWESOME! You go, girl!!

>242 Copperskye: I had better, huh, Joanne?! LOL!

I know about the Bruno books, but I just cannot stop. It's exactly what I am in the mood for right now.

>233 Crazymamie: Nice review. I was am just considering my next read and I was looking for something on the lighter side of crime. It looks that this is also good at incorporating the local culture. Thanks for your thoughts.

>243 Berly: Sometimes I don't do a very good job at keeping up with my thread, either, Kim. Luckily everyone here is patient and understands that sometimes life gets in the way of posting. The NERVE! And yes, I feel much better now that I am caught up on reviews, but I do have an ER book that I really need to finish...

Yep. The potato chips thing totally sucked me in - I love me some salty snacks!

We are never alone for very long in the wonderful world of LT, are we? Kind of cool, really.

Happy Hump Day, my friend!

>244 scaifea: Morning, Amber! And thank you. LOL!

>245 Carmenere: You are very good at mixing it up, Lynda! Happy Wednesday! Now you have me wondering just how many mini Grand Canyons are out there. SO many wannabes! Ha! Hiking is not my first love, I will say that. I am a more "I'll keep the home fires burning (while aI read and drink wine) type".

>246 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! The pricing makes it a no brainer, huh?! Give it a whirl - it's fun and fast paced.

>248 brodiew2: Hello, Brodie! Welcome to my thread! And thank you. I really love the Bruno books, so I am hoping they are a fit for you.

Morning, Mamie! You are now on my auto-correct. LOL. I type Ma...and like magic, you appear. Awww...

Hope the day is going well, my friend.

Morning, Mark! I am so deeply honored to be on your autocorrect. *blushes*

So far, so good with the day. I am on the deck, mostly reading, but also squeezing in some LT.

Sigh.

I know, right?! WHY can't they also be healthy?!!

It's a very valid question.

> 253 Rationalize Kettle Chips.

>255 EBT1002: Truth.

>256 brodiew2: Ha!

Over 3000 posts - you go girl! >247 Crazymamie: LOL to the steps that didn't count, I have to make sure that I won't be doing any walking before I can take off my Fitbit to even charge it!

HiDeHo, Mamie! Healthy potato chips are Poo! Give me greasy fingers anytime.
The Martin Walker series sounds too tantalizing to miss. I'll wishlist and hope I can find them at book sales.

Good morning, Mamie!

I liked the first Bruno mystery, and liked it, but haven't read more. Good to see your positive reaction.

>258 Familyhistorian: Thank you, Meg! Me, too with the charging! I usually wait until I am ready for bed. LOL!

>259 Carmenere: Hey there, Lynda! No - I don't want to make the potato chips healthy, I want the greasy original version to magically be healthy. LOL! No healthy chips for me - what would be the point?!

The Martin Walker series is a feast for the reader - food, wine, the French countryside and a mystery. What's not to fall in love with?

>260 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! Well, if it's not calling to you...I think the follow-up books are even better that the first one.

Morning Mamie! Sweet Thursday, my friend.

Howdy howdy Mamie. I almost typed out KAK. This should tell you how my month is going. Thankfully I am more good than bad now. ;-)

I hope you have a lovely weekend.

>228 Crazymamie: You and Roni are really tempting me with Michelle Sagara series but I am trying to resist because I do not need to start an 11 book series - even if they are like potato chips....

>231 Crazymamie: I'm glad the audio of A Darker Shade of Magic really worked for you. But a different narrator for the next book does not make sense to me.

Happy Friday!

Morning, Mamie!

Hey Mamie - we all made it to Friday then? Hurrah.

Morning, All! Finally Friday. Getting my hair trimmed this morning, but other than that no worries today. I have no idea what's for dinner, and to be perfectly honest, I am not caring much at the moment. So probably take-out. Ha!

I finished Gorsky yesterday, and I have been letting it marinate. It's a retelling of The Great Gatsby, but it is set in modern day England. It was a fail for me, and I'll address why when I write my review, which I am hoping to do later today. I started Rubbernecker last night, and I don't know if it's going to work for me because I am finding that the character with Asperger"s Syndrome is not a realistic portrayal for me. I'll hang in there for a bit more and then decide.

>268 Crazymamie: - I have Gorsky out from the library, but I'm thinking maybe it should just go back, since neither you nor Charlotte thought much of it...

>262 msf59: Morning Mark! I am a day late but not a dollar short. *blinks* Happy Friday!

>263 luvamystery65: Well, howdy, Miss Roberta! How ARE you?! I hope you are finally feeling better. And you can confuse me with Katie anytime - that's a lovely compliment!! You have always been more good than bad, but how are you feeling? LOL!

I thank you for those weekend wishes - hoping that yours is full of fabulous! You are about due for fabulous, right?!

>264 EBT1002: Perfect, Ellen!! LOVE that!

>265 souloftherose: I totally understand, Heather - just maybe keep them in mind for when you need a quick escape that guarantees fun at a fast pace.

The different narrator is such a bummer. I'm thinking that I will give the sequel a pass unless someone else reads it and tells me it is great.

>266 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

>267 charl08: Hello, Charlotte! Yes, hooray for us all arriving at Friday safely!! I love Fridays!

>269 katiekrug: I would give it a pass if I were you, Katie, unless you are just really curious about it. I gave it 2.5 stars.

Happy Friday, Mamie! Take out for dinner sounds perfect!

Happy Friday, Lynda! I think so, too, with the no fuss dinner!

Happy Friday, Mamie!

I hadn't thought about Patrick not being realistic in Rubbernecker. Hmmm. I'm not sure how to think about that with such an unusual character.

Happy Friday, Joe! I just think that it is not an accurate portrayal of Aspergers, and that bothers me. If it weren't such a personal subject, I could just let it go and read on, but it is bothering me. I'll give it a few more chapters and then decide.

>275 Crazymamie: Sounds good. I'll look forward to your thoughts.

I have Rubbernecker waiting for me at the library. You've got me curious. I kind of look forward to reading it with a hint of skepticism since I can be a pushover for books about which there has been much warbling.

Happy Weekend, Mamie!

>275 Crazymamie: - I have a friend with Asperger's and the character in Rubbernecker didn't seem to line up with my friend, but I basically put it down to different manifestations and the breadth (length?) of the spectrum. But I can see how it being much closer to you would have a different effect. Life's too short - if it's not working, just ditch it. Pick up one of those sure-fire winners from the Dirty Dozen :)

Morning, Mamie! Happy Friday! It is only 45, at the moment and breezy. Really??

So, I'm back from my hair appointment and looking much tidier. Since the salon is in the same row of shops as my favorite coffee place, I also treated myself to a large soy latte with an extra shot of espresso. YUM!

I called the vet to get an appointment for Mercy, thinking that they would schedule it for next week - she is due for vaccines, but last time she had an allergic reaction to the rabies shot, so I need to talk to the vet about what she can be vaccinated for and what our options are. But also, Mercy has something growing on the back of her head which has me worried - it feels and looks kind of scabby, but it is getting bigger, so it needs to get looked at. Please cross your fingers for us and keep us in your thoughts as I am SO nervous about it. They are going to see her today at 3pm, so in just a few hours.

>276 jnwelch: I'll be sure to report back, Joe.

>277 EBT1002: I like Bauer's writing, Ellen - it's a mental hangup on my part, I am thinking. I really loved Blacklands. I would be curious to hear your thoughts on it if you read it.

Happy Weekend to you, dear!

>278 katiekrug: There are definitely different manifestations and differing ends of the spectrum, but a few things are standing out for me, Katie, and after I have read more and determined if I will finish the book or not, I will share my thoughts. And good thinking to ditch it if it doesn't feel right and pick up one of the Dirty Dozen!!! If I ditch, I will do just that!

>279 msf59: Afternoon, Mark! Happy Friday! It raining and 72 here, but the humidity is picking up, so kind of yuck right now. Not horrible but not great, either.

>280 Thebookdiva: I really LOVE that, Abby!! SO cheerful!

Hey Mamie, glad it was not just me unmoved by Gorsky. I seem to remember I was underwhelmed by Rubbernecker. The Curious Incident... is I think a hard act to follow.

I hope the vet visit goes well. Poor little Mercy.

And I picked up Rubbernecker from the library while I was out visiting our vet, getting special wet food for Princess Abby. I hope to start it next week.

>283 charl08: Nope, it wasn't just you, Charlotte. I was really disappointed with Gorsky. I have not had time to read any more in Rubbernecker, but if it doesn't grab me in a good way in a few more chapters, I will set it aside. I have not read The Curious Incident - need to put that one on the list.

>284 EBT1002: Thank you, Ellen. Poor Mercy was so excellent at the vet's office. They had to take the head off the scab and clean it out - they are thinking that it is an infected spider bite. She got an antibiotic injection that will last two weeks and we have cream that has to put on it twice daily. She goes back next Friday so they can see how it is doing. Because she has an allergic reaction to the vaccines last time, this time they are splitting them up into three separate appointments spaced several weeks apart. SO she also got Benedryl and a steroid and then just the feline leukemia vaccine. Now we watch and see what happens. I am a nervous wreck and think that I could also have used the Benedryl injection. Ha!

Please give Abby my love. I will await your thoughts on Rubbernecker.

An infected spider bite!! Yikes!! That sounds like a nightmare!! And the whole thing sounds kind of horrific. Poor little bean. Well, and poor you, too! I don't have a Benadryl injection for you, but maybe this will help...



Abby says thanks for the love. She is hunkered down in our basement, away from the windy weather we are having.

>285 Crazymamie: Wow, that is a lot of stuff going on at the vets!! You better have that glass of wine Ellen offered you. (Way more fun than Benadryl.) Let me pull up a chair for you and definitely do takeout!!

Infected spider bite isn't good--but it's much better than many alternatives! And no drops twice a day for 10 days? Girl, you'd better have that wine and bless your luck! Lifting my glass of wine to you as we speak.

Happy Weekend!

Happy Weekend. I hope you have time to read.

Happy Saturday! Poor little Mercy and her spider bite. She must be uncomfortable. I hope the antibiotic and the medicine clear it up quickly.

>285 Crazymamie: I got myself a nasty little spider bite in Sao Tome cutting a swathe through the African grassland to check the ideal site for a water treatment plant.

Made most of one leg red and swollen for a couple of days but I was assured it was nothing to worry about and a trip to the vets was never mentioned.

Have a fabulous weekend, Mamie, and I trust that my fellow arachno-victim is recovering well. xx

>286 EBT1002: I felt bad for Mercy, Ellen, as that was a lot for one appointment. She seems a bit grumpy this morning - not quite her usual cheerful self, but she is probably sore and feeling a bit out of it. Thanks for the wine! Always welcome!

Abby doesn't like the high winds, huh? Our Bella doesn't, either.

>287 Berly: I know, right?! And a lot of follow-up appointments, but in the end, it will all be worth it. And hopefully we'll find out exactly which vaccine she had the bad reaction to last year, although they are thinking it is probably the rabies vaccine. OH! That chair looks like jus the thing - thank you, And we did do take-put, so all was well.

>288 ronincats: That's exactly what I thought, Roni. I was worried about cancer. The vet said we could either do the oral antibiotic twice a day, or we could do the injection which would last for two weeks. Seemed like a no brainer for me - we opted for the injection. I did have the wine, and believe me, I did bless my luck! I am truly thankful.

>289 nittnut: Happy Weekend to you, Jenn! I thank you for those good wishes!

>290 Whisper1: Thank you, Linda! That is a lovely image. I did have time to read last night - started the second book in the Nathan Active mystery series, which I have out from the library. A good comfort read, and I didn't want to put it down to go to bed, but I did. Hoping to pack in a lot of reading this weekend, as Craig is on call and both Daniel and Rae are working. The house should be nice and quiet.

Hoping that your weekend is full of fabulous!

>291 cbl_tn: Happy Saturday, Carrie! Mercy seems out of sorts this morning, but that was a lot for one afternoon yesterday, poor dear. The vet shaved around her spider bite, so it is very easy to see and treat now - pretty big area, actually. About the size of a dime. Thanks for those good wishes, hopefully the meds will be kicking in by tomorrow and she will start feeling better.

>292 PaulCranswick: YIKES to the nasty spider bite, Paul, but I am so relieved that you didn't have to go to the vet! LOL!

Thank you for those good wishes. We are planning on a quiet weekend, which is probably just what Mercy needs. I am hoping she will be feeling better by tomorrow.

Morning, Mamie!

Nathan Active #2 - I'll look forward to your report on that. I enjoyed that first one.

Glad to hear Mercy's bite's been addressed. I'll bet she's out of sorts today.

I've started The Summer Before the War, and I'm liking it a lot so far.

Oh my goodness! I hope little Mercy's wound heals quickly and proves that it's nothing more than what the vet said.
here's something for Mercy
and something for you

>295 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! I am enjoying Shaman Pass - betting I will finish it up today. Good so far...

Yes, poor Miss Mercy is not quite herself today.

I'll be waiting to see what you think of The Summer Before the War.

>296 Carmenere: Morning, Lynda! Me, too, with Mercy's wound. And Mercy and I thank you for the treats - so thoughtful!!

Morning Mamie! Happy Saturday! Lots of early sunshine at the moment. Most of us, in the Freeburg clan are suffering from allergies, due to all this nature activity, but it is worth it.

Morning, Mark! Happy Saturday! Me, too, with the allergies - pine pollen is a BIG deal down here. Sunny here also - looks to be gorgeous once again, headed to 82!

Hugs to Mercy for her bite and upcoming shots. Hugs to you for allergies. You have great sympathy from one who can relate -- I'm very allergic to grass pollen and find there is no antihistamine strong enough to allow me to breathe in places like CA Central Valley or OR Willamette Valley in early summer.

Sending hugs to Mercy for a calmer Sunday. xo

Happy Sunday, Mamie. Sending hugs to you and Mercy (well, cats generally don't like hugs so perhaps some gentle strokes). I'm relieved that the lump was 'only' a spider bite - hope the injections go smoothly this year and you can figure out which one she reacted to.

>300 RebaRelishesReading: Mercy and I appreciate those hugs, Reba! Thank you! This time of year only Benedryl really gives me any kind of relief, but it makes me tired. I usually try to make do with Zyrtec if I have errands to run. It helps when it rains and knocks some of that pollen down, too. Sorry to hear that you also suffer from allergies.

>301 EBT1002: Thanks for that, Ellen. She is seeming more like herself today - more cheerful and a bit more energy. xo

>302 souloftherose: Happy Sunday, Heather! Mercy loves a good hug when she is in the mood for it. Me, too! So we thank you. The vet thinks that it is a spider bite - she was not 100% certain, but she said it looks like one because it has a core and spider bites tend to do that. We take her back on Friday so the vet can see how it is healing. She did great with the feline leukemia vaccine - no vomiting or reaction of any kind, so I am guessing it's not that one. See how I use my brilliant skills of deduction?! Ha! I am practically Sherlock Holmes. Not.

Morning, Mamie! Happy Sunday! Another beautiful day here. I have some chores to do, inside and out but I am setting a block of time for the books.

Enjoy your day.

Morning, Mark! Happy Sunday! It is also gorgeous here - we are practically twins! Hope today is a good one!

>303 Crazymamie: Benadryl knocks me out, but when I was a little kid and my allergies were worse, I used to take four at at time!! Can't even imagine that now. I would be comatose.

Four!! Oh. My. Word.