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1Jenson_AKA_DL
For 2009 I have decided to decrease my 2008 goal of 150 which I didn't quite make (I got to 124) and this year go for 125.
I've finished my first novel of 2009 today which was Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead. I enjoyed it and I'll be checking out future books in the series.
Genre: Young Adult Urban Fantasy
Characters: Vampire and Dhampir
My suggested rating: PG-13
Recommended?: Yes!
Just for kicks I've decided to make comparisons between my 2008 and 2009 lists as I go along. My 2008 thread is here:
http://www.librarything.com/topic/27089#965760
Comparison to Book 1 read in 2008
In 2008 my first book was Stardust by Neil Gaiman. Since I was kind of disappointed with Stardust after all the hype I had read about the author I'd have to say I preferred Vampire Academy. I felt more invested in the characters and story.
I've finished my first novel of 2009 today which was Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead. I enjoyed it and I'll be checking out future books in the series.
Genre: Young Adult Urban Fantasy
Characters: Vampire and Dhampir
My suggested rating: PG-13
Recommended?: Yes!
Just for kicks I've decided to make comparisons between my 2008 and 2009 lists as I go along. My 2008 thread is here:
http://www.librarything.com/topic/27089#965760
Comparison to Book 1 read in 2008
In 2008 my first book was Stardust by Neil Gaiman. Since I was kind of disappointed with Stardust after all the hype I had read about the author I'd have to say I preferred Vampire Academy. I felt more invested in the characters and story.
2Jenson_AKA_DL
2nd book - The Darkest Night by Gena Showalter
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Characters: Demons and Psychics
My suggested rating: R
Recommended: Yes!
In 2008 my second read was Coming Undone, a contemporary romance by Susan Anderson. It is hard to compare paranormals and romances because even if they're both romances, the styles of writing are completely different. I do remember really enjoying Coming Undone and really, most contemporary stories are hit or miss with me. I guess overall I'd have to say that even with taking their differences into account I liked my 2008 and 2009 second stories about the same.
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Characters: Demons and Psychics
My suggested rating: R
Recommended: Yes!
In 2008 my second read was Coming Undone, a contemporary romance by Susan Anderson. It is hard to compare paranormals and romances because even if they're both romances, the styles of writing are completely different. I do remember really enjoying Coming Undone and really, most contemporary stories are hit or miss with me. I guess overall I'd have to say that even with taking their differences into account I liked my 2008 and 2009 second stories about the same.
3Jenson_AKA_DL
3rd book - Babylonne by Catherine Jinks
Genre - Young Adult Historical Fiction
Characters: Priests, knights, soldiers and Religious Servants galore
My Suggested Rating: PG-13
Recommended: Nowheres near as much as Catherine Jinks' Pagan books which were excellent.
Comparison to 3rd 2008 book, Tempting the Beast
There is really no way to compare these two books as they are completely different age levels and genre. The only thing they really had in common is that they both disappointed me.
Genre - Young Adult Historical Fiction
Characters: Priests, knights, soldiers and Religious Servants galore
My Suggested Rating: PG-13
Recommended: Nowheres near as much as Catherine Jinks' Pagan books which were excellent.
Comparison to 3rd 2008 book, Tempting the Beast
There is really no way to compare these two books as they are completely different age levels and genre. The only thing they really had in common is that they both disappointed me.
4Jenson_AKA_DL
4th book - PsyCop by Jordan Castillo Price
Genre-Gay Lit Murder Mystery
Characters - Psychics, Cops, ghosts
My Suggested Rating - X (adults only please!)
Recommended - To those that enjoy the genre, Yes!
Comparison to 2008's Total Control by Pamela Britton - Once again it is a difficult comparison considering the difference in genres. While Britton's NASCAR romance writing is completely innocent Price's book pretty much falls into the erotica realm (although it does go beyond being just about sex and has a very good plot and great characters).
Genre-Gay Lit Murder Mystery
Characters - Psychics, Cops, ghosts
My Suggested Rating - X (adults only please!)
Recommended - To those that enjoy the genre, Yes!
Comparison to 2008's Total Control by Pamela Britton - Once again it is a difficult comparison considering the difference in genres. While Britton's NASCAR romance writing is completely innocent Price's book pretty much falls into the erotica realm (although it does go beyond being just about sex and has a very good plot and great characters).
5Jenson_AKA_DL
5th book - Lover Unbound by J.R. Ward
Genre - Paranormal romance/urban fantasy
Characters - Vampires, doctors
My Suggested Rating - R+
Recommended - Totally! I really loved this book!!
Comparison to Both Sides of Time by Caroline B. Cooney, 5th book of 2008 - One of the things I didn't really like about Both Sides of Time was that I just never really felt invested in the characters or the story. The writing never really drew me in. With Lover Unbound the writing had much more depth and it was impossible not to care for the characters. If Cooney's story had been 500+ pages I don't think I would ever have finished although with Ward's book the pages flew by and I had no problem finishing.
Genre - Paranormal romance/urban fantasy
Characters - Vampires, doctors
My Suggested Rating - R+
Recommended - Totally! I really loved this book!!
Comparison to Both Sides of Time by Caroline B. Cooney, 5th book of 2008 - One of the things I didn't really like about Both Sides of Time was that I just never really felt invested in the characters or the story. The writing never really drew me in. With Lover Unbound the writing had much more depth and it was impossible not to care for the characters. If Cooney's story had been 500+ pages I don't think I would ever have finished although with Ward's book the pages flew by and I had no problem finishing.
6Jenson_AKA_DL
6th book - Blood Red by Heather Graham
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - Vampires, artists
My suggested rating - PG-15
Recommended - For those who are looking for non-steamy paranormal romances (and I remember having seen requests for just such books) this would be a good one.
In comparing this with my 6th 2008 book Out of Time I have to say I probably have just about the same "meh" feeling about both. Not horrible, but not the best thing I've ever read.
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - Vampires, artists
My suggested rating - PG-15
Recommended - For those who are looking for non-steamy paranormal romances (and I remember having seen requests for just such books) this would be a good one.
In comparing this with my 6th 2008 book Out of Time I have to say I probably have just about the same "meh" feeling about both. Not horrible, but not the best thing I've ever read.
7Jenson_AKA_DL
7th book Frostbite by Richelle Mead
Genre - Young Adult Urban Fantasy
Characters - Vampires, dhampirs
My suggested rating - PG-13
Recommended - Definitely, yes. I'm really enjoying the Vampire Academy series.
I certainly enjoyed this one much more than 2008's 7th book, Prisoner of Time. The writing was much more involving and, although flawed, I like these characters much more.
Genre - Young Adult Urban Fantasy
Characters - Vampires, dhampirs
My suggested rating - PG-13
Recommended - Definitely, yes. I'm really enjoying the Vampire Academy series.
I certainly enjoyed this one much more than 2008's 7th book, Prisoner of Time. The writing was much more involving and, although flawed, I like these characters much more.
8Jenson_AKA_DL
8th book The Pagan Stone by Nora Roberts
Genre- paranormal romance
characters - gambler, demons
My suggested rating - PG13
Recommended - If you like Nora Roberts or like contemporaries and want to try out a paranormal this might be a good trilogy to start with.
My 2008 book was Seven Year Seduction which was a cute series contemporary. Very fluffy, and I remember enjoying it a lot. I'd probably have to go with my 2008 as my fave in this case.
Genre- paranormal romance
characters - gambler, demons
My suggested rating - PG13
Recommended - If you like Nora Roberts or like contemporaries and want to try out a paranormal this might be a good trilogy to start with.
My 2008 book was Seven Year Seduction which was a cute series contemporary. Very fluffy, and I remember enjoying it a lot. I'd probably have to go with my 2008 as my fave in this case.
9billiejean
You are making great progress on your Happy List! :) I like all the info that you give on each book.
--BJ
--BJ
10Jenson_AKA_DL
Thanks, BJ!
9th book - Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Genre-classic, gothic psychological drama
characters - Man who makes faces at dogs and dysfunctional families
My Suggested Rating - PG
Recommended - Yes! Although I'm not sure I would have liked it as much in high school as I did as an adult.
In 2008 my 9th book was The Waterlord by the late Dawn Thompson. It was a bit of a supernatural romance but unfortuntately a little disappointing. On the other hand I expected to dislike Wuthering Heights and instead was utterly facinated. Sometimes there are reasons books become classics and I can totally see why here.
9th book - Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Genre-classic, gothic psychological drama
characters - Man who makes faces at dogs and dysfunctional families
My Suggested Rating - PG
Recommended - Yes! Although I'm not sure I would have liked it as much in high school as I did as an adult.
In 2008 my 9th book was The Waterlord by the late Dawn Thompson. It was a bit of a supernatural romance but unfortuntately a little disappointing. On the other hand I expected to dislike Wuthering Heights and instead was utterly facinated. Sometimes there are reasons books become classics and I can totally see why here.
11Jenson_AKA_DL
I guess I forgot to post my 10th book before.
Midnight's Daughter by Karen Chance
Genre - Urban Fantasy
Characters - Vampires, fairies, mosters, wizards
My Suggested Rating - PG 15
Recommended - I thought this one was better than many of these type of urban fantasies and would recommend it.
11th book Oleander House by Ally Blue
Genre - Horror, gay lit, paranormal
characters - psychics, monsters
My Suggested Rating - The high end of R
Recommended - I thought it was pretty good. If you like straightforward paranormal horror type stories and don't mind the gay relationship I would recommend it.
Midnight's Daughter by Karen Chance
Genre - Urban Fantasy
Characters - Vampires, fairies, mosters, wizards
My Suggested Rating - PG 15
Recommended - I thought this one was better than many of these type of urban fantasies and would recommend it.
11th book Oleander House by Ally Blue
Genre - Horror, gay lit, paranormal
characters - psychics, monsters
My Suggested Rating - The high end of R
Recommended - I thought it was pretty good. If you like straightforward paranormal horror type stories and don't mind the gay relationship I would recommend it.
12spacepotatoes
Love your character summary of Wuthering Heights! Also a really neat idea to compare last year's book with this year's. You're off to great start so far!
13Jenson_AKA_DL
Thanks! I just loved the beginning of WH where they guy was sitting there making faces at Heathcliff's dogs, it totally cracked me up!
I love your username!!
My 12th book for this year was Finder by Emma Bull
Genre - YA, alternate world, urban fantasy
Characters - Psychic, Elves, cops
My Suggested Rating - PG15 (there is one slightly adult scene)
Recommended - I certainly liked it. I think that I would recommend this one to teenagers who like "steampunk" stories. I think if I had read this back when I was a teen I would have absolutely loved it.
In 2008 my 12th read was No Time to Lose, a NASCAR romance by Carrie Weaver. Once again this is like comparing apples to oranges, they're both fruits (or books in this case) but that is pretty much where the similarity ends. I thought they were both decent stories for their genres.
I love your username!!
My 12th book for this year was Finder by Emma Bull
Genre - YA, alternate world, urban fantasy
Characters - Psychic, Elves, cops
My Suggested Rating - PG15 (there is one slightly adult scene)
Recommended - I certainly liked it. I think that I would recommend this one to teenagers who like "steampunk" stories. I think if I had read this back when I was a teen I would have absolutely loved it.
In 2008 my 12th read was No Time to Lose, a NASCAR romance by Carrie Weaver. Once again this is like comparing apples to oranges, they're both fruits (or books in this case) but that is pretty much where the similarity ends. I thought they were both decent stories for their genres.
14Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 13 - Archangel Protocol by Lyda Morehouse
Genre - science fiction
characters - Angels, computer programs, cops
My Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - If you're not easily offended in matters of politics and/or religion I would certainly recommend the story!
Comparison to Pagan in Exile by Catherine Jinks, 13th book of 2008:
As interesting as Archangel Protocol was, I loved Pagan in Exile and it was one of my top five books in 2008. Pagan is just one of those special characters that will stick with me for years to come.
Genre - science fiction
characters - Angels, computer programs, cops
My Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - If you're not easily offended in matters of politics and/or religion I would certainly recommend the story!
Comparison to Pagan in Exile by Catherine Jinks, 13th book of 2008:
As interesting as Archangel Protocol was, I loved Pagan in Exile and it was one of my top five books in 2008. Pagan is just one of those special characters that will stick with me for years to come.
15Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 14 - City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
characters - wizards, demons, vampires, werewolves, fairies
My Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - I'm enjoying the series so I'd say yes.
In 2008 my 14th book was The Untamed One by Rhonda Thompson which is a paranormal romance about werewolves. In respect to the paranormal aspects the two books were comparable and I think they would both appeal to adults who enjoy the paranormal genre. Another interesting note is that they are both middle books in a series. I thought they were both good books that are above average for their intended audiences.
As a side note I read The Untamed One while on vacation in Virginia last year. I really, REALLY wish I was on vacation again now *sigh*
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
characters - wizards, demons, vampires, werewolves, fairies
My Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - I'm enjoying the series so I'd say yes.
In 2008 my 14th book was The Untamed One by Rhonda Thompson which is a paranormal romance about werewolves. In respect to the paranormal aspects the two books were comparable and I think they would both appeal to adults who enjoy the paranormal genre. Another interesting note is that they are both middle books in a series. I thought they were both good books that are above average for their intended audiences.
As a side note I read The Untamed One while on vacation in Virginia last year. I really, REALLY wish I was on vacation again now *sigh*
16Jenson_AKA_DL
15th for 2009 - Marrying the Captain by Carla Kelly
Genre - historical romance
characters - The English, The French, The War, Innkeepers and Navy Men.
My Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - For those who love old school regency romances.
In 2008 my 15th book was Marked by P.C. Cast. I'd say I liked both of these books about the same. Marked was certainly more exciting but I think I liked the characters in the romance a little better.
Genre - historical romance
characters - The English, The French, The War, Innkeepers and Navy Men.
My Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - For those who love old school regency romances.
In 2008 my 15th book was Marked by P.C. Cast. I'd say I liked both of these books about the same. Marked was certainly more exciting but I think I liked the characters in the romance a little better.
17Jenson_AKA_DL
16th book - Modern Magic by Anne Cordwainer
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
characters - Sorcerers, Mundanes
Suggested Rating - PG
Recommended - see review
In 2008 I read For All Time by Caroline B. Cooney which was the ending book of a historical/time traveling, young adult series. I don't remember the book all that well although I feel that I enjoyed both books equally. I also feel that these two books, unlike most of the other posts I've made, would appeal to the same audience.
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
characters - Sorcerers, Mundanes
Suggested Rating - PG
Recommended - see review
In 2008 I read For All Time by Caroline B. Cooney which was the ending book of a historical/time traveling, young adult series. I don't remember the book all that well although I feel that I enjoyed both books equally. I also feel that these two books, unlike most of the other posts I've made, would appeal to the same audience.
18Jenson_AKA_DL
Book number 17 - Melusine by Sarah Monette
Genre - Fantasy
Characters - Wizards and Thieves
Suggested Rating - R (there is a rape scene near the beginning, otherwise I would have gone with PG13)
Recommended - Yes, this was a very well written, fast moving fantasy!
Compairison:
In 2008 my 17th book was Master of Wolves by Angela Knight. I don't remember much of the book but from re-reading my review it sounded as though I was a little disappointed. I do know that Angela Knight tends to go heavy on the erotic sex and sometimes it really bugs me, especially if it trumps the plot. On the other hand, Melusine was quite a good fantasy so it was definitely my preference.
Genre - Fantasy
Characters - Wizards and Thieves
Suggested Rating - R (there is a rape scene near the beginning, otherwise I would have gone with PG13)
Recommended - Yes, this was a very well written, fast moving fantasy!
Compairison:
In 2008 my 17th book was Master of Wolves by Angela Knight. I don't remember much of the book but from re-reading my review it sounded as though I was a little disappointed. I do know that Angela Knight tends to go heavy on the erotic sex and sometimes it really bugs me, especially if it trumps the plot. On the other hand, Melusine was quite a good fantasy so it was definitely my preference.
19Jenson_AKA_DL
Book number 18 - Sexy by Joyce Carol Oates.
Genre - YA, Drama
Characters - homophobic students, teachers
Suggested Rating - I'd say 16 +
Recommended - I didn't really enjoy the style of writing or the subject matter generally. However, it has had some good reviews. I wouldn't personally recommend it but others might.
Genre - YA, Drama
Characters - homophobic students, teachers
Suggested Rating - I'd say 16 +
Recommended - I didn't really enjoy the style of writing or the subject matter generally. However, it has had some good reviews. I wouldn't personally recommend it but others might.
20bell7
Glad to see you liked City of Ashes. I'm hoping to at least read the first book in the series this year.
21Jenson_AKA_DL
I think Cassandra Clare is a pretty solid urban fantasy writer and I've enjoyed her books so far. I hope you find her entertaining as well :-)
Book number 19 - The Virtu by Sarah Monette
Genre - Fantasy
Characters - wizards, thieves
suggested rating - R for adult themes and scenes
Recommended - Yes, I think this series is a very well written fantasy and wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
in 2008 my 19th book read was Pagan's Vows by Catherine Jinks. In both cases I really enjoyed the books although maybe marginally less than the first ones. In both I really enjoyed the characters and was very happy to be reading about them.
Book number 19 - The Virtu by Sarah Monette
Genre - Fantasy
Characters - wizards, thieves
suggested rating - R for adult themes and scenes
Recommended - Yes, I think this series is a very well written fantasy and wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
in 2008 my 19th book read was Pagan's Vows by Catherine Jinks. In both cases I really enjoyed the books although maybe marginally less than the first ones. In both I really enjoyed the characters and was very happy to be reading about them.
22Jenson_AKA_DL
#20 - Enchanting the Lady by Kathryne Kennedy
Genre - Paranormal/Victorian Romance
Characters - Enchanters, weres
suggested rating - PG15
Recommended - Yes! It was a cute, quick paranormal romance based in a fictional, magical London.
In 2008 my 20th book was Discoveries, an ebook by F.M. McPherson and a sequel to her YA novel, Secrets. Ms. McPherson is an author I discovered through Myspace. I was tickled to find Secrets at my local library and had recognized the cover (which is horribly unforgettable). Both Secrets and Discoveries were very unique takes on the young adult, werewolf genre and despite Discoveries being an ebook, I loved it.
Genre - Paranormal/Victorian Romance
Characters - Enchanters, weres
suggested rating - PG15
Recommended - Yes! It was a cute, quick paranormal romance based in a fictional, magical London.
In 2008 my 20th book was Discoveries, an ebook by F.M. McPherson and a sequel to her YA novel, Secrets. Ms. McPherson is an author I discovered through Myspace. I was tickled to find Secrets at my local library and had recognized the cover (which is horribly unforgettable). Both Secrets and Discoveries were very unique takes on the young adult, werewolf genre and despite Discoveries being an ebook, I loved it.
23Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 21 - Faire Grounds by Willa Okati
Genre - Gay Lit, fantasy, romance
Characters - gypsies, wizards
Suggested Rating - Above R
Recommended - If you like the genre and know what you're getting in to, it was okay.
Book 22 - Dark Needs at Night's Edge by Kresley Cole
Genre - Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
Characters - Ghost, vampires, werewolves, demons, etc.
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - Kresley Cole is (IMHO) one of the best paranormal romance writers out there. I wouldn't necessarily start with this book because it is a middle volume in an ongoing series, but yes, I would recommend this book and series as a whole.
Genre - Gay Lit, fantasy, romance
Characters - gypsies, wizards
Suggested Rating - Above R
Recommended - If you like the genre and know what you're getting in to, it was okay.
Book 22 - Dark Needs at Night's Edge by Kresley Cole
Genre - Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
Characters - Ghost, vampires, werewolves, demons, etc.
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - Kresley Cole is (IMHO) one of the best paranormal romance writers out there. I wouldn't necessarily start with this book because it is a middle volume in an ongoing series, but yes, I would recommend this book and series as a whole.
24Jenson_AKA_DL
Numero 23 - Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs
Genre - urban fantasy
characters - walker, werewolves, fae
Suggested Rating - 15+
Recommended - Patricia Briggs is a very strong urban fantasy writer and I would never hesitate to recommend her work.
Genre - urban fantasy
characters - walker, werewolves, fae
Suggested Rating - 15+
Recommended - Patricia Briggs is a very strong urban fantasy writer and I would never hesitate to recommend her work.
25Jenson_AKA_DL
24 - Line of Sight by Rachel Caine
Genre - Romantic Suspense/light paranormal
characters - FBI Agents, law enforcement, magicians, psychics
Suggested rating - 16+
Recommended - Rachel Caine may have some faults along the lines of liking to write cliffies too much but she remains one of my favorite authors for creating interesting characters and storylines. I guess that's my long-winded "yes" answer on the recommendation.
Genre - Romantic Suspense/light paranormal
characters - FBI Agents, law enforcement, magicians, psychics
Suggested rating - 16+
Recommended - Rachel Caine may have some faults along the lines of liking to write cliffies too much but she remains one of my favorite authors for creating interesting characters and storylines. I guess that's my long-winded "yes" answer on the recommendation.
27billiejean
You are moving along at high speed! :)
--BJ
--BJ
28Jenson_AKA_DL
BJ - Mostly because I've been sick and not doing much of anything else on my weekends. I'm also trying to stock it all in now because I know with the nice weather coming my reading time will be less. It's kind of a catch 22, I love to have an excuse to read but I'm feeling pretty anxious to start seeing the color green again!
29Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 27 - Crossing Borders by Z.A. Maxfield
Genre - Contemporary gay romance
characters - skateborder/college student, bikers, cops
Suggested rating - 18+
Recommended? - The world of gay lit is an interesting one with books that run from the literary/tragic (see At Swim, Two Boys) to the fluffy/erotic. This particular title is more in the realm of the erotica although it is one of the better ones I've read in the sub-genre. In that context I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Book 28 - Love At First Bite an anthology
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - Vampires, werewolves
Suggested rating - 17+ (some of the scenes are a little steamy so I guess it would depend on the maturity of the person)
Recommended? - As far as anthologies go this was not one of the more impressive ones I've read. I suppose it is good for those who already know something about each series, but not the best introduction otherwise (IMHO).
Genre - Contemporary gay romance
characters - skateborder/college student, bikers, cops
Suggested rating - 18+
Recommended? - The world of gay lit is an interesting one with books that run from the literary/tragic (see At Swim, Two Boys) to the fluffy/erotic. This particular title is more in the realm of the erotica although it is one of the better ones I've read in the sub-genre. In that context I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Book 28 - Love At First Bite an anthology
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - Vampires, werewolves
Suggested rating - 17+ (some of the scenes are a little steamy so I guess it would depend on the maturity of the person)
Recommended? - As far as anthologies go this was not one of the more impressive ones I've read. I suppose it is good for those who already know something about each series, but not the best introduction otherwise (IMHO).
30Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 29 - The Host by Stephenie Meyer
Genre - Sci-fi
Characters - aliens, humans
Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - I really enjoyed this book! Great premise, interesting characters and good story telling. Yes, definitely recommended!!
Genre - Sci-fi
Characters - aliens, humans
Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - I really enjoyed this book! Great premise, interesting characters and good story telling. Yes, definitely recommended!!
31Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 30 - Dark Desires After Dusk by Kresley Cole
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - demons, valkyre
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - Certainly for those who are fans of Cole's Immortals After Dark series although I do think that you could go into this one not having read any of the previous books and understand what is going on.
Book 31 - braced 2 bite by Serena Robar
Genre - young adult/urban fantasy
Characters - vampires, half-vampires, friends and family
Suggested Rating - tween and up
Recommended - I honestly liked this story much more than I thought I would and I certainly wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a sweet, quick vampire story.
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - demons, valkyre
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - Certainly for those who are fans of Cole's Immortals After Dark series although I do think that you could go into this one not having read any of the previous books and understand what is going on.
Book 31 - braced 2 bite by Serena Robar
Genre - young adult/urban fantasy
Characters - vampires, half-vampires, friends and family
Suggested Rating - tween and up
Recommended - I honestly liked this story much more than I thought I would and I certainly wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a sweet, quick vampire story.
32Jenson_AKA_DL
#32 - Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs
Genre - Urban Fantasy/paranormal romance
Characters - werewolves, witches
suggested rating - older teens and adults
Recommended - Although I liked the story it did drag more than this author's Mercy Thompson books. If you wanted to try this author out for the first time I'd suggest reading Moon Called as a first story rather than this one. Additionally, it would also be helpful to read the short story in the On the Prowl anthology which is our initial introduction to these characters before picking this book up.
#33 - A Dangerous Game by Julia Templeton
Genre - Historical Romance
Characters - Musicians, Lords and ladies
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - I enjoyed this one. I really liked the characters and felt it was a unique historical romance. I'd certainly recommend it to those who enjoy the genre.
Genre - Urban Fantasy/paranormal romance
Characters - werewolves, witches
suggested rating - older teens and adults
Recommended - Although I liked the story it did drag more than this author's Mercy Thompson books. If you wanted to try this author out for the first time I'd suggest reading Moon Called as a first story rather than this one. Additionally, it would also be helpful to read the short story in the On the Prowl anthology which is our initial introduction to these characters before picking this book up.
#33 - A Dangerous Game by Julia Templeton
Genre - Historical Romance
Characters - Musicians, Lords and ladies
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - I enjoyed this one. I really liked the characters and felt it was a unique historical romance. I'd certainly recommend it to those who enjoy the genre.
33billiejean
Is Spring there where you are now? Although we just had 6 inches of beautiful snow that covered the blooms on all of our trees, it melted quickly and did not seem to hurt the trees' blooms. I was worried that would cut short the show. Our baby dogwood is just beginning to bloom now. Although things are starting to get green here in Tulsa, today was cold and windy and full of clouds and we are having a few more freezes.
I hope that you are all well by now. :) Happy reading and have a super day!
--BJ
I hope that you are all well by now. :) Happy reading and have a super day!
--BJ
34Jenson_AKA_DL
Hi, BJ! Spring is coming slowly here in Massachusetts. It is warm and in the 60s one day and rainy and miserable in the low 40s the next (typical New England weather). I've always pictured Tulsa as warm, not sure why...it sounds like your weather is a lot like ours.
I am finally over being sick *knock on wood* but it was a rough couple months. Thanks for asking!
Book #34 for me was Swordspoint by Ellen Kushner
Genre - Fantasy
Characters - Lords, ladies and sword fighters
Suggested rating - 16+
Recommended - For me the book dragged, but I can certainly see where people who don't necessarily need depth of characterization and enjoy books with lots of political maneuvering would like it.
I am finally over being sick *knock on wood* but it was a rough couple months. Thanks for asking!
Book #34 for me was Swordspoint by Ellen Kushner
Genre - Fantasy
Characters - Lords, ladies and sword fighters
Suggested rating - 16+
Recommended - For me the book dragged, but I can certainly see where people who don't necessarily need depth of characterization and enjoy books with lots of political maneuvering would like it.
35billiejean
Well, that was an exceptionally late snow for us. And we did have a cold winter this year. I think that today we will have 80s. I think that the weather here is wonderful. We have a great summer for lots of swimming. I am ready for it now!
--BJ
--BJ
36Jenson_AKA_DL
Me too! I'm looking forward to seeing the sun on a regular basis. BJ, I have to say you're a great inspiration to us on the challenge. I've been checking out a few of the other threads and you always have such great things to say and contribute! Thanks :-)
Book #34 - Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs
genre - urban fantasy
characters - walker, werewolves, vampires, fae, ghosts
suggested rating - 16+
recommended - I know I've said it before but the Mercy Thompson series is probably one of the best urban fantasy series I've read. Certainly recommended!
Book #34 - Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs
genre - urban fantasy
characters - walker, werewolves, vampires, fae, ghosts
suggested rating - 16+
recommended - I know I've said it before but the Mercy Thompson series is probably one of the best urban fantasy series I've read. Certainly recommended!
37billiejean
Thanks for your kind words! :)
I think I spoke too soon about our warm Spring weather as we are going to have a cold and rainy Easter. But I am sure that it won't last!
I have seen Patricia Briggs' name popping up here and there. I need to read one of them and this one looks like a winner!
Have a super day!
--BJ
I think I spoke too soon about our warm Spring weather as we are going to have a cold and rainy Easter. But I am sure that it won't last!
I have seen Patricia Briggs' name popping up here and there. I need to read one of them and this one looks like a winner!
Have a super day!
--BJ
38Jenson_AKA_DL
BJ - If you're interested in the Mercy Thompson books I'd recommend starting off with the first book, Moon Called. I'd love to hear what you think of them if you do read them!
39billiejean
Thanks for the recommendation! :) I added it to my wishlist along with the other one, but I noted that I need to read this one first.
--BJ
--BJ
40Jenson_AKA_DL
The Mercy Thompson series in order (just in case you need to know):
Moon Called
Blood Bound
Iron Kissed
Bone Crossed
It is one of those series where the books work best read in order.
Book #35 - Dragon Actually by G.A. Aiken
Genre - Fantasy/Romance
Characters - dragons, blood thirsty warriors
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - Sure, if you like slightly campy fantasy and don't mind crudity in the language used I'd say, "go for it".
Moon Called
Blood Bound
Iron Kissed
Bone Crossed
It is one of those series where the books work best read in order.
Book #35 - Dragon Actually by G.A. Aiken
Genre - Fantasy/Romance
Characters - dragons, blood thirsty warriors
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - Sure, if you like slightly campy fantasy and don't mind crudity in the language used I'd say, "go for it".
41billiejean
Thanks for listing the order for the books. There are so many series out there that I am not familiar with. I hope to find Moon Called soon. Have a great day!
--BJ
--BJ
42Jenson_AKA_DL
You're welcome :-)
Book # 36 - Fangs 4 Freaks by Serena Robar
Genre - YA/urban fantasy
characters - vampires, half-blood vampires
Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - This is the second book of the campy and cute Colby Blanchard series. I enjoyed them and think others would too.
Book # 36 - Fangs 4 Freaks by Serena Robar
Genre - YA/urban fantasy
characters - vampires, half-blood vampires
Suggested Rating - PG13
Recommended - This is the second book of the campy and cute Colby Blanchard series. I enjoyed them and think others would too.
43Jenson_AKA_DL
Book # 37 - After Glow by Jayne Castle
Genre - alternate world/fantasy/sci-fi/romance
Characters - Para-rez Tanglers, Para-rez Hunters, dust bunnies (so cute!)
Suggested Rating - 16+
Recommended - This is a very enjoyable sci-fi/alternate world story with a light romance. I'd suggest reading the first book of the series, After Dark, before this one and recommend them both.
Genre - alternate world/fantasy/sci-fi/romance
Characters - Para-rez Tanglers, Para-rez Hunters, dust bunnies (so cute!)
Suggested Rating - 16+
Recommended - This is a very enjoyable sci-fi/alternate world story with a light romance. I'd suggest reading the first book of the series, After Dark, before this one and recommend them both.
44Jenson_AKA_DL
Book #38 - I forgot that the one I read before After Glow was actually The Pirate Lord by Sabrina Jeffries. I'm crusing through my reading being on vacation this week.
Book #39 - Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Genre - Urban Fantasy/romance/mythology
Characters - Gods, goddesses, Dark Hunters, Were Hunters, demons...pretty much a smorgasbord of things.
Suggested Rating - 16+
Recommended - Yep, especially for anyone who reads the Dark Hunters series this is a must read!
Book #39 - Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Genre - Urban Fantasy/romance/mythology
Characters - Gods, goddesses, Dark Hunters, Were Hunters, demons...pretty much a smorgasbord of things.
Suggested Rating - 16+
Recommended - Yep, especially for anyone who reads the Dark Hunters series this is a must read!
45billiejean
Enjoy your vacation!
--BJ
--BJ
46Jenson_AKA_DL
Thanks, BJ!
Last night I finished up Colin's Conquest by Lisa Rene Smith as my 40th book:
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Characters: Vampires along with a cat and a parrot thrown in for good measure. Oh, and some cannibals near the end as well.
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - If you enjoy vampire stories and don't mind a bit of campiness, this is a good one. I didn't like the characters at first but they all really grew on me, especially Ben.
41st book - Two Parties, One Tux, and a Very Short Film About the Grapes of Wrath by Steven Goldman
Genre - young adult/contemporary
Characters - Average teens
Suggested rating - 14+
Recommended - I can't recommend this story enough! It was wonderfully funny and sweet, but no so sweet that it would turn anyone off. Big emphasis on friendship and what it all means.
Last night I finished up Colin's Conquest by Lisa Rene Smith as my 40th book:
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Characters: Vampires along with a cat and a parrot thrown in for good measure. Oh, and some cannibals near the end as well.
Suggested Rating - R
Recommended - If you enjoy vampire stories and don't mind a bit of campiness, this is a good one. I didn't like the characters at first but they all really grew on me, especially Ben.
41st book - Two Parties, One Tux, and a Very Short Film About the Grapes of Wrath by Steven Goldman
Genre - young adult/contemporary
Characters - Average teens
Suggested rating - 14+
Recommended - I can't recommend this story enough! It was wonderfully funny and sweet, but no so sweet that it would turn anyone off. Big emphasis on friendship and what it all means.
47Jenson_AKA_DL
42nd book - Death Masks by Jim Butcher
Genre - Urban Fantasy
Characters - Wizards, vampires, Holy Knights, demons
Suggested rating - 16+
Recommended - Yes, this is a great series, both exciting and humorous :-)
Genre - Urban Fantasy
Characters - Wizards, vampires, Holy Knights, demons
Suggested rating - 16+
Recommended - Yes, this is a great series, both exciting and humorous :-)
48Jenson_AKA_DL
43rd book - Kiss of a Demon King by Kresley Cole
Genre - fantasy/paranormal romance
Characters - demons, sorcerers, valkyre, vampires
Suggested rating - R
Recommended - Good series. This particular entry was much more steamy than the past ones IMHO. I enjoyed it but it is something to keep in mind for others.
Genre - fantasy/paranormal romance
Characters - demons, sorcerers, valkyre, vampires
Suggested rating - R
Recommended - Good series. This particular entry was much more steamy than the past ones IMHO. I enjoyed it but it is something to keep in mind for others.
49Jenson_AKA_DL
44th book - Brethren: Raised by Wolves by W.A. Hoffman
Genre - Historical, gay romance
Characters - bucconeers, plantation owners,
suggested rating - R
Recommended - This is not a quick read nor is it explicit, which I know some people prefer. This is a relationship heavy historical novel with some action but actually seems to deal mostly with psychosis brought on after traumatic experiences. Lots of violence and discussion of sex (once again, not explicit). I would guess that the author did quite a bit of research into her historical setting (the tropics in the 1600s) although I personally don't know enough about the time period or place to comment on how accurate it is. I found the book to be interesting because I enjoy relationship heavy books with some action, although others may not have the patience for it.
Genre - Historical, gay romance
Characters - bucconeers, plantation owners,
suggested rating - R
Recommended - This is not a quick read nor is it explicit, which I know some people prefer. This is a relationship heavy historical novel with some action but actually seems to deal mostly with psychosis brought on after traumatic experiences. Lots of violence and discussion of sex (once again, not explicit). I would guess that the author did quite a bit of research into her historical setting (the tropics in the 1600s) although I personally don't know enough about the time period or place to comment on how accurate it is. I found the book to be interesting because I enjoy relationship heavy books with some action, although others may not have the patience for it.
50Jenson_AKA_DL
45th book - City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
Characters - Angels, demons, wizards, warriors, vampires, werewolves
suggested rating - PG13 (or younger depending on the maturity of the reader)
Recommended - For anyone who has already read the first two Mortal Instruments books this is a not quite definitive conclusion. I enjoyed the series so yes, I would recommend it.
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
Characters - Angels, demons, wizards, warriors, vampires, werewolves
suggested rating - PG13 (or younger depending on the maturity of the reader)
Recommended - For anyone who has already read the first two Mortal Instruments books this is a not quite definitive conclusion. I enjoyed the series so yes, I would recommend it.
51Jenson_AKA_DL
46th book Raven by Allison van Diepen
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
Characters - breakdancers and more I don't want to say, too spoilerish :-)
suggested rating - 15+
Recommended - This book had some very good points (such as a very interesting plot and characters) and some bad points (the ending seemed much more rushed and unemotional than the preceeding majority of the book). I would say if you can get this out from your library you might want to check it out.
Genre - young adult, urban fantasy
Characters - breakdancers and more I don't want to say, too spoilerish :-)
suggested rating - 15+
Recommended - This book had some very good points (such as a very interesting plot and characters) and some bad points (the ending seemed much more rushed and unemotional than the preceeding majority of the book). I would say if you can get this out from your library you might want to check it out.
52billiejean
You are closing in on 50 and on track to make 125 no problem! Yea!
--BJ
--BJ
53Jenson_AKA_DL
Thanks :-)
47th book In a Wild Wood by Sasha Lord
Genre - Historical Romance
Characters - Warriors, Lords, Ladies, wolves, dogs
suggested rating - Adult
Recommended - If you're one of the people who loved the romance between Clare and Jamie in Outlander you might want to check this one out.
Longer review on book page.
47th book In a Wild Wood by Sasha Lord
Genre - Historical Romance
Characters - Warriors, Lords, Ladies, wolves, dogs
suggested rating - Adult
Recommended - If you're one of the people who loved the romance between Clare and Jamie in Outlander you might want to check this one out.
Longer review on book page.
54Jenson_AKA_DL
48th book Blood Rites by Jim Butcher
Genre - Urban Fantasy
Characters - Wizards, soul sucking vampires, puppies, cops
suggested rating - 15+
Recommended - I'm really enjoying the series. I'm so glad I picked it back up and would certainly recommend it!
49th book Gypsy Rizka by Lloyd Alexander
Genre - Juvenile/YA
Characters - Extremely odd townsfolk, cats, meddlesome yet clever half-gypsy
Suggested rating - 4th grade +
Recommended - I think if I had been much younger reading this story I would have enjoyed it even more. Not that I didn't like it, but it was just a little young for me. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one to elementary students 4th grade and up.
Genre - Urban Fantasy
Characters - Wizards, soul sucking vampires, puppies, cops
suggested rating - 15+
Recommended - I'm really enjoying the series. I'm so glad I picked it back up and would certainly recommend it!
49th book Gypsy Rizka by Lloyd Alexander
Genre - Juvenile/YA
Characters - Extremely odd townsfolk, cats, meddlesome yet clever half-gypsy
Suggested rating - 4th grade +
Recommended - I think if I had been much younger reading this story I would have enjoyed it even more. Not that I didn't like it, but it was just a little young for me. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one to elementary students 4th grade and up.
55Jenson_AKA_DL
My 50th book is Passion Unleashed, an Early Reviewer book by Larissa Ione.
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - demons, angels, vampires
suggested rating - R
Recommended - I've been in a little funk when it comes to paranormal romances lately. However, this one mangaged to really grab my attention. It is the third book of a series but I had no problem catching on to the overall theme even without having read the first two. I would certainly recommend it to people who enjoy J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood books!
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Characters - demons, angels, vampires
suggested rating - R
Recommended - I've been in a little funk when it comes to paranormal romances lately. However, this one mangaged to really grab my attention. It is the third book of a series but I had no problem catching on to the overall theme even without having read the first two. I would certainly recommend it to people who enjoy J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood books!
56Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 51 - Corambis by Sarah Monette
Genre - fantasy
characters - wizards, robots, various and sundry others
suggested rating - There is a rape scene so probably R at least
Recommended - I've throughly enjoyed Ms. Monnette's series of which this is the fourth, and purportedly last, book. I'd highly recommend them to adult lovers of fantasy.
Genre - fantasy
characters - wizards, robots, various and sundry others
suggested rating - There is a rape scene so probably R at least
Recommended - I've throughly enjoyed Ms. Monnette's series of which this is the fourth, and purportedly last, book. I'd highly recommend them to adult lovers of fantasy.
57Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 52 - I finished Dead Beat by Jim Butcher a few days back and guess I forgot to post it here. This wasn't one of my favorites of the series. Blood Rites left me off on a high note with all the interaction between Murphy, Harry and Thomas I was looking forward to more, only to find that Murphy was practically non-existent in this volume. Even Thomas, despite the new living arrangement, was regulated to more of a background character.
Although certainly not enough to put me off the series I was definitely a little disappointed (of course, Sue was quite interesting and certainly a highlight of the book!)
Genre - urban fantasy
characters - wizards, zombies, vampires, forensic body examiners
Although certainly not enough to put me off the series I was definitely a little disappointed (of course, Sue was quite interesting and certainly a highlight of the book!)
Genre - urban fantasy
characters - wizards, zombies, vampires, forensic body examiners
58Jenson_AKA_DL
Book 53 - At long last I have finished The Wheel of Nuldoid by Russ Woody
Between the fact that my son's graduation/birthday was this past weekend and the book didn't really hold my attention, this one took me much longer than average.
Genre - fantasy
characters - crustoids (humans), 'doids (Nuldoids, Oidoids other kinds of 'doids which are kind of like grumpy little dwarves)
suggested rating - 14+
recommended - For those who like lots of world building and questing in their stories I would certainly recommend. Unfortunately I'm more of a character based reader and didn't really feel for any of the characters in this book.
Between the fact that my son's graduation/birthday was this past weekend and the book didn't really hold my attention, this one took me much longer than average.
Genre - fantasy
characters - crustoids (humans), 'doids (Nuldoids, Oidoids other kinds of 'doids which are kind of like grumpy little dwarves)
suggested rating - 14+
recommended - For those who like lots of world building and questing in their stories I would certainly recommend. Unfortunately I'm more of a character based reader and didn't really feel for any of the characters in this book.
59Jenson_AKA_DL
Number 54 - Proven Guilty by Jim Butcher
Genre - urban fantasy
characters - wizards, demons, dogs, fairies
suggested rating - 16+
recommended - Another must read in the Dresden series although it continues to be strongly recommended to read these in order as they build on each other.
Genre - urban fantasy
characters - wizards, demons, dogs, fairies
suggested rating - 16+
recommended - Another must read in the Dresden series although it continues to be strongly recommended to read these in order as they build on each other.
60Jenson_AKA_DL
Number 55 - Vision in White by Nora Roberts
Genre - contemporary romance
characters - wedding consultants, photographer, high school teacher, neruotic mothers, brides, grooms and one three legged cat
suggested rating - older teen and up. There are bedroom scenes but they didn't seem to be overly explicit to me.
recommended - if contemporary is your cup of tea, this was a pretty cute one.
Genre - contemporary romance
characters - wedding consultants, photographer, high school teacher, neruotic mothers, brides, grooms and one three legged cat
suggested rating - older teen and up. There are bedroom scenes but they didn't seem to be overly explicit to me.
recommended - if contemporary is your cup of tea, this was a pretty cute one.
61Jenson_AKA_DL
Number 56 - I forgot to add in White Night by Jim Butcher. I've been whipping through the Dresden books at a pretty rapid rate and am forgetting to list them.
62Jenson_AKA_DL
Number 57 - Small Favor by Jim Butcher
Ditto what I've said about all the other Dresden books. Highly recommended, absolutely fantastic urban fantasy series!!
Number 58 - Into Thin Air by Cindy Miles
Genre - paranormal romance
Characters - ghosts, warriors, angel
suggested rating - PG-15 There is one semi-steamy scene near the end, otherwise it would have been PG-13.
recommended - This is a very cute, sweet romance that suffers from a little repetativeness and a slow storyline.
Ditto what I've said about all the other Dresden books. Highly recommended, absolutely fantastic urban fantasy series!!
Number 58 - Into Thin Air by Cindy Miles
Genre - paranormal romance
Characters - ghosts, warriors, angel
suggested rating - PG-15 There is one semi-steamy scene near the end, otherwise it would have been PG-13.
recommended - This is a very cute, sweet romance that suffers from a little repetativeness and a slow storyline.
63Jenson_AKA_DL
Missed a couple more on this list....#59 Lord of Fire by Gaelen Foley and #60 Mad, Mad Monday by Herma Silverstein.
65Jenson_AKA_DL
Also missed #62 Star Trek by Alan Dean Foster and #63 One Eye Open by Karen Whiddon. I noticed after I updated my running total on the Romance group that I'm off and have obviously missed a few on this list. I working to rectify that.
66Jenson_AKA_DL
64 - Turn Coat by Jim Butcher
By now it's obvious I'm addicted to the series. Unfortunately, now that I've caught up I'll have to wait for the next one to come out and it looks like it will be a while.
By now it's obvious I'm addicted to the series. Unfortunately, now that I've caught up I'll have to wait for the next one to come out and it looks like it will be a while.
67Jenson_AKA_DL
65 - Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements
Genre - young adult/urban fantasy
Characters - Invisible boy, blind girl, annoying adults
Suggested Rating - tweens and up
Recommended - Yes, I felt this was well written and the way it was presented it almost seemed feasible. Very interesting!
Genre - young adult/urban fantasy
Characters - Invisible boy, blind girl, annoying adults
Suggested Rating - tweens and up
Recommended - Yes, I felt this was well written and the way it was presented it almost seemed feasible. Very interesting!
68Jenson_AKA_DL
It has been a while since I've visited this challenge thread (been too busy reading!) I've read 13 books since my last post, so I'm now up to 78:
Cut & Run by Madeline Urban
The 10th Kingdom by Kathryn Wesley
Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
Prince of Shadows by Susan Krinard
Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson
Stuck in Shangri-La by Kelsey Michaels
Wuthering High
The Bone Doll's Twin by Lynn Flewelling
Dangerous Lover by Maggie Shayne
Hidden Warrior by Lynn Flewelling
Upon the Midnight Clear by Sherrilyn Kenyon
The Ghost Belonged to Me by Richard Peck
and
The Oracle's Queen by Lynn Flewelling
My favorites off this list were the Tamir Trilogy books by Lynn Flewelling (dark fantasy) and The Ghost Belonged to me by Richard Peck (young adult, historical, supernatural). Very enjoyable!
Cut & Run by Madeline Urban
The 10th Kingdom by Kathryn Wesley
Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
Prince of Shadows by Susan Krinard
Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson
Stuck in Shangri-La by Kelsey Michaels
Wuthering High
The Bone Doll's Twin by Lynn Flewelling
Dangerous Lover by Maggie Shayne
Hidden Warrior by Lynn Flewelling
Upon the Midnight Clear by Sherrilyn Kenyon
The Ghost Belonged to Me by Richard Peck
and
The Oracle's Queen by Lynn Flewelling
My favorites off this list were the Tamir Trilogy books by Lynn Flewelling (dark fantasy) and The Ghost Belonged to me by Richard Peck (young adult, historical, supernatural). Very enjoyable!
69Jenson_AKA_DL
I'm updating my list again for books read through the end of August:
The Kiss by Sophia Nash
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya by Nagaru Tanigawa
Megan's Mark by Lora Leigh
Enchantment by Orson Scott Card
Awakening by K. Lippi
Dream Chaser by Sherrilyn Kenyon
City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Broken by Kelley Armstrong
I think this brings me up to 86 so far this year. I'll have to check my total here against my tally over on the Romance group, but I'm more or less on track for my goal of 125.
The Kiss by Sophia Nash
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya by Nagaru Tanigawa
Megan's Mark by Lora Leigh
Enchantment by Orson Scott Card
Awakening by K. Lippi
Dream Chaser by Sherrilyn Kenyon
City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Broken by Kelley Armstrong
I think this brings me up to 86 so far this year. I'll have to check my total here against my tally over on the Romance group, but I'm more or less on track for my goal of 125.
70Jenson_AKA_DL
My September, 2009 list of books read:
Street Magic by Caitlin Kittredge - A very admirable urban fantasy in an over-saturated market. I really liked this for the British viewpoint.
Briar Rose by Jane Yolen - Very well told story of the holocost.
Smoke and Shadows by Tanya Huff - Since I wasn't very fond of Huff's Blood books (stopped reading after first two) I wasn't sure about this offshoot series. I was very pleasantly surprised. I loved Tony Foster's character and really wish she'd have written more. I finished all three books in this trilogy in September.
L.A. Heat by P.A. Brown - a relatively decent murder/mystery/gay lit story.
From Dream to Dream by Arlene Golds - I didn't care for the writing style although the concept and story were interesting. I'm thinking of posting this up on the Member Giveaway in the hopes someone else will read and review.
Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan - Rasvan is now one of my fave male Carpatians. She really hit it with this story. I enjoyed it very much.
Smoke and Mirrors by Tanya Huff - best of the trilogy!
Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews - It took me quite a while to start enjoying this, but I wound up liking it enough that I picked up the second one and am currently reading it.
Smoke and Ashes by Tanya Huff
Storm of Visions by Christina Dodd - It may just be that I have ODed on urban fantasy/paranormal romance but this one just didn't thrill me.
A Strong and Sudden Thaw by R.W. Day - Interesting post-apocolyptic fantasy.
Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning - Disappointing.
I write reviews of all the books I read if anyone is interested in a little more description.
According to the Romance Group's list this brings me to 101 for the year. Moving right along.
Street Magic by Caitlin Kittredge - A very admirable urban fantasy in an over-saturated market. I really liked this for the British viewpoint.
Briar Rose by Jane Yolen - Very well told story of the holocost.
Smoke and Shadows by Tanya Huff - Since I wasn't very fond of Huff's Blood books (stopped reading after first two) I wasn't sure about this offshoot series. I was very pleasantly surprised. I loved Tony Foster's character and really wish she'd have written more. I finished all three books in this trilogy in September.
L.A. Heat by P.A. Brown - a relatively decent murder/mystery/gay lit story.
From Dream to Dream by Arlene Golds - I didn't care for the writing style although the concept and story were interesting. I'm thinking of posting this up on the Member Giveaway in the hopes someone else will read and review.
Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan - Rasvan is now one of my fave male Carpatians. She really hit it with this story. I enjoyed it very much.
Smoke and Mirrors by Tanya Huff - best of the trilogy!
Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews - It took me quite a while to start enjoying this, but I wound up liking it enough that I picked up the second one and am currently reading it.
Smoke and Ashes by Tanya Huff
Storm of Visions by Christina Dodd - It may just be that I have ODed on urban fantasy/paranormal romance but this one just didn't thrill me.
A Strong and Sudden Thaw by R.W. Day - Interesting post-apocolyptic fantasy.
Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning - Disappointing.
I write reviews of all the books I read if anyone is interested in a little more description.
According to the Romance Group's list this brings me to 101 for the year. Moving right along.
71Jenson_AKA_DL
Just finished off Magic Burns by Ilona Andrews tonight as my last book of September. 102 for the year.
72Jenson_AKA_DL
I've read another 12 novels in October:
Into the Wild by Sarah Beth Durst - well told fairy taleish story for tweens and teens
Tempt me at Twilight by Lisa Kleypas - Kleypas remains my favorite historical romance writer
The Bride and the Beast by Teresa Medeiros-enjoyable
Blood Promise by Richelle Mead - I like the ending - no major cliffhanger, but manages to leave you wanting more!!
Hard Day's Knight by Katie MacAlister - very funny at the start and well worth the read.
Snobbery with Violence by Marion Chesney - my very first cozy and a cute little story
Armed and Magical by Lisa Shearin - nice follow-up to Magic Lost, Trouble Found although I didn't like it quite as much.
Graceling by Kristen Cashore - interesting young adult fantasy/adventure with a strong female protagonist
Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian - I liked it but it was a little too similar to many other paranormal romances I've read.
Magic Strikes by Kate Daniels-My favorite of this series so far with better characterization and more action.
What I Meant by Marie Lamba -Well told ethnically diverse young adult story with believable problems. Very Bend it like Beckhamish
Soulless by Gail Carriger - very cool steampunk/paranormal romance/cozy mystery. Takes many things I've grown tired of and twists them into something interesting and unusual.
Into the Wild by Sarah Beth Durst - well told fairy taleish story for tweens and teens
Tempt me at Twilight by Lisa Kleypas - Kleypas remains my favorite historical romance writer
The Bride and the Beast by Teresa Medeiros-enjoyable
Blood Promise by Richelle Mead - I like the ending - no major cliffhanger, but manages to leave you wanting more!!
Hard Day's Knight by Katie MacAlister - very funny at the start and well worth the read.
Snobbery with Violence by Marion Chesney - my very first cozy and a cute little story
Armed and Magical by Lisa Shearin - nice follow-up to Magic Lost, Trouble Found although I didn't like it quite as much.
Graceling by Kristen Cashore - interesting young adult fantasy/adventure with a strong female protagonist
Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian - I liked it but it was a little too similar to many other paranormal romances I've read.
Magic Strikes by Kate Daniels-My favorite of this series so far with better characterization and more action.
What I Meant by Marie Lamba -Well told ethnically diverse young adult story with believable problems. Very Bend it like Beckhamish
Soulless by Gail Carriger - very cool steampunk/paranormal romance/cozy mystery. Takes many things I've grown tired of and twists them into something interesting and unusual.
