Cyderry - stilling working on 2009 2nd Qtr

To keep things neat and tidy I decided to start a new thread for the 2nd Qtr.

Here's the link to my old thread. My 1st Qtr Thread for 75 Book Challenge

Yay, I'm the first to post on your new thread! ;)
Have you decided on a new classic for your category? I must say, that I really enjoyed Wuthering Heights, so I was a bit saddened that you decided to drop it. There was another discussion re Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights (I believe on shewhowearsred's thread?) and the conclusion was pretty much that the people who loved one didn't like/hadn't read the other. So I think it's safe to say they're quite different. Not liking Jane Eyre might actually increase your chances of liking WH. :) But then again maybe you just don't like any of the classics. Who knows? I still think you should give it a try...

I decided to try a modern classic so I put The Maltese Falcon in place of WH. I think that with Jane Eyre, Don Quixote, and the Inferno I needed to go a bit more modern for a change of pace in the classics.

I totally agree on the not being able to enjoy classics. I have tried some and just can't get into them.

The closest I came was Pride and Prejudice but I think that is because I saw the film and then listened to the audiobook. Haven't actually read the words.

#53 WHO INVITED THE DEAD MAN?
Author : Patricia Sprinkle
Read : March 27 - April 1
Pages: 272

MacLaren Yarborough is a very busy lady. Her husband, Joe Riddley, recovering from a gunshot wound to the head, requires her nearly constant attention while he is re-educated to learn to perform every day tasks. At the same time, MacLaren has to take care of the family business and is a town magistrate.
To celebrate Joe Riddley's improvements and his 65th birthday, MacLaren throws a birthday party which ends up with an uninvited dead guest. Keeping the murder a secret while the party progresses, the judge manages to get the sheriff to start the investigation and keep her guests happy at the same time.
This mystery is complex and yet simple. Some of the events are predictable and others are surprising. I thought it was tremendously woven to combine these aspects and it was sheer pleasure to read. I definitely need to find the first two in this series. 4 stars

Found you again and starred you again, Cheli!

Regarding the classics - I think it is the same for them as every other book: some people are just flat not going to like them! I hate both Wuthering Heights and The Great Gatsby and will probably never like them. I can live with that :)

#54 SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL
Author : Jerrilyn Farmer
Read : April 2 - April 4
Pages: 398

I really enjoy cozy mysteries and this one I definitely enjoyed. I was hooked by the first page with such mouth watering descriptions of food preparations, I could smell it and I wanted to taste it! The story was brilliantly crafted interlacing the catering services with the mystery. The only drawback is there were no actual recipes. Ms Farmer needs to give the reader a chance to actual taste those treats she describes by providing the instructions for the food we can almost taste!
Definitely need to find the next in the Madeline Bean Culinary Mysteries!

#7: I have never read anything by Farmer before, so I will definitely have to try some of her books, even if I gain weight reading them :)

#55 A PEOPLE'S HISTORY OF THE SUPREME COURT
Author : Peter Irons
Read : March 25 - April 7
Pages: 154

This book is a collection of the landmark cases of the Supreme Court as well as documentation of the thinking of the Founding Fathers at the time of the Drafting of the Constitution. It is divided into 6 parts and I am reading it in 3 sections (1787 -1842), (1857 - 1895), and (1895 - 1986) so that I can use it as background for the Presidents Challenge.
Part I is basically the development of the Constitution and the ratification process as well as the process taken to pass the Bill of Rights.

Part II, which I found very interesting, related the beginning of the Supreme Court and the political issues that surrounded the difficulties at its start. Part II also concentrated on the contribution made by Chief Justice John Marshall in protecting the concept that he believed was the reasoning of the Founding Fathers. At the start of John Marshall's tenure as Chief Justice, the influence of the Supreme Court was negligible, however, John Marshall turned that around by wisely avoiding poitical traps and concentrating on the issues of law. Many of the decisions of the Supreme Court during the Marshall years, were considered landmarks because of how the nation reacted to the rulings affecting the future laws of the land. It was also interesting to see how the lives of the Justices did or did not influence their rulings in the cases that were put before them. Parts I & II carried the time frame up until 1842 and there I will stop until next year when I will read Parts III and IV.

Do I spy A Catered Murder on deck? I have one of that series on hand somewhere. I'll be curious as to whether you like it.

(I think I've got a Christmas one, perhaps.)

Yes, I'm reading it now, I like it, there are some quirky characters but I haven't gotten into the mystery yet, the guy just got murdered.

#56 A Catered Murder
Author: Isis Crawford
Category: Cozy Mystery
Pages: 294

Libby and Bernie are two typical sisters fighting with each other constantly but also loving each tremendously. When Bernie runs home after finding her live in boyfriend with another woman, she is enveloped back into the family fold without a bat of the eye. Libby who takes care of the family bakery/catering business and their invalid father, is at the moment of Bernie's arrival trying to prepare for a large event at which are their friends will be in attendance.
The story progresses through the murder at the event and subsequent investigations that the sisters make to try to clear Libby's best friend of the murder charges.
The writing is entertaining but as mysteries go, the writer failed to give enough clues to make it possible for the reader to solve the mystery. The murderer was in the first few chapters and then did not appear again until the last 2 chapters. I give it only 2 ½ stars.

#12: I hate when authors do that to you - introduce a character at the beginning and then not reintroduce you to them until the end. I think I will be giving that one a pass, Cheli. Thanks for the review!

Cheli, I think there's a reason my Isis Crawford book has been sitting there, unread, for so long. I think it will continue that way--there are too many other good mysteries to read.

My feelings exactly... If I happen to come across another book by this author I think I might pass for awhile. I have so many I want to read, why bother with the ones that frustrate you. I have enough frustrations these days at my husband's office I don't need them in my reading.
I was listening to Death at La Fenice on cassette and my cassette player broke down. UGH! I'm about 2/3 through and now I will have to find a written copy to finish.

#15: Cheli, I will send you my print copy if you like, if you will return it once you are done. Send me your address on my profile page if you are interested.

Outside of my presidents category, to my surprise, professional sleuths is suffering a bit. I've got Death at La Fenice wobbling around at the top of the pile and I will likely get to it soon. I've never read anything by Donna Leon.

My current strategy is to read John Adams during the day and then something else, such as the current baseball book, The Fifth Season, or mystery, at night.

Thanks to everyone for offering to help me through my problem with Death at La Fenice But good news, my sweetie was able to get my cassette player working again. I very rarely use it because I know it is on its last legs, but it was the fastest way for me to get this book from the library. My night in shining armor heard me whimpering in th office and came over to ask what was my problem. I think he thought I was having another work related issue. (I starting filling in at his office lat week and had a really bad day where nothing went right.) He took out the batteries and fiddled with something and got it to start again. YEAH!!! I only have 2 more cassettes left. I listen while I stuff envelopes and stand at the copy machine. Hopefully, I can finish it tomorrow. I guess I'm really going to have to look for a replacement.

#18: Congrats and I hope you get to finish the book up soon!

#57 Death at La Fenice
Author: Donna Leon
Category: Cozy Mystery
Pages: 278

When a world famous conductor is discovered dead between acts at the La Fenice in Venice, Police Comissario (Chief Inspector) Guido Brunetti is called in to investigate. Discovering that the victim was poisoned by cyanide, Brunetti has several suspects. His interrogations take him throughout the city navigating not only through the canals and picturesque sights of Venice but also the dark side of his victim's past.
Guido Brunetti is a well-developed character with considerable aptitude in his profession shown by wry observations and discerning opinions. His family life should be mundane, but appears delightful and fulfilling as well as humorous (while playing Monopoly the Commissario's wife is shown as a compulsive thief).
This charming Italian Policeman unemotionally separates the complex tangles entwined in this squalid tale by using his abilities to read body language, long silences along with other psychological tools, and carefully devises an amazing and fulfilling solution.

Death at La Fenice appears to have embarked on a 'round the world in 80 days journey ;) And not only that, but everyone says it's good!! Hmm...

It is indeed good. Donna Leons are the only mysteries I read.

#20 Cheli, was glad to see that you liked this book too. I read it only a week or so ago and enjoyed it very much. I'd forgotten the scene with the monopoly game - thanks for writing such a nice review. I'll be looking for the next book soon.

#58 MOVING IS MURDER
Author : Sara Rosett
Read : April 7 - April 17
Pages: 264

Ellie Avery is a military wife. She has moved 4 times in the last 5 years but this time it's different. Elie is an organizer but it isn't as easy as it was all the other times because this move involves buying a house and a new baby. Arriving in their new town during a record heat wave, little Livvy makes Ellie wonder if she'll ever manage to get unpacked let alone settled.
Ellie meets her fellow Air Force wives at the first Spouse function and senses a little tension among some of the spouses. Later after her first base function, Ellie comes upon one of the other wives, dead in a ditch.
Trying to help the mourning husband, Ellie offers to take over the duties of organizing the upcoming garage sale, and this is what leads to enumerable clues and murder attempts as Ellie unravels all the clues that she finds.
One really cozy concept appearing in this book are Ellie's tips on how to make your move better organized and hassle free.

#59 DEAL BREAKER
Author : Harlan Coben
Read : April 3 - April 19
Pages: 511

This was the first in the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben. The plot centers around a cunning mystery of sex, murder and blackmail. Simon is a multi-dimensional character having been a sports figure turned FBI agent turned lawyer and ending as a sports agent. All these facets of his background come into play in this story where his prize client is involved in a possible murder. Simon's support staff include a college friend who enjoys playing enforcer while in appearance is MR. Preppie and a secretary/receptionist who used to be a wrestler.
The fact the Simon is not a detective or policeman or PI makes this series seem a bit more interesting because you wonder what other aspects of his background have you not been told yet. I will admit that I was surprised by the ending, I was not prepared for the solution even though I had an inkling of what was happening. Definitely entertaining!

#25: It sounds like you had a good time with the book! I will look for that one since I have yet to have read anything by Coben.

I went on Amazon and told them I wanted Deal Breaker on Kindle. Many, if not most, of Harlan's other books are on Kindle. Not sure why not the first one.

I definitely want to read these Myron Bolitar books.

Wow--I remember when I first joined DorothyL back in the mid-90s. He was a new author, just getting going, and on the listserv. He's hit it bigger than any of the other DL authors.

I love the Myron Bolitar books, but put off reading them for a couple of years - don't know why. Only after I read one of Coben's stand-alone novels, and loved it, did I start the series (and loved it). I still haven't gone back to any of the other stand alone's - so even though I've read all the earlier books and now have the latest Myron Bolitar book home from the library (and then I have to WAIT for him to write another - boo hoo), there are still several other Coben books waiting for me.

Cheli, did you get it on audio? I love the way Jonathan Marosz reads this series.

Yes, dd it on audio - and I agree that Jonathan Marosz was very good.

#60 Mistletoe Murder
Author: Leslie Meier
Category: Cozy Mystery
Read: April 16 - April 23
Pages: 222

Lucy Stone is a working mother and I mean a working mother. By day she takes care of three children, at 5 she heads to work at the Country Cousins mail order facility were she has a shift until 1AM. One night needing a breath of cold air, Lucy finds the company founder dead in his car with the engine running. Since she is in at the beginning of the crime, Lucy proceeds to dig searching for the solution to this murder. The holidays are used as a backdrop for this cozy mystery and the family interactions and seasonal characteristics only blend the story together so that small parts make the whole entertaining and delightful.

#30: That's a fun series! I hope you get a chance to read the rest of them, Cheli.

#61 A CLUE FOR THE PUZZLE LADY
Author: Parnell Hal
Category : Surprise - Books I find and want to read
Pages : 288

I enjoy puzzles because what is a mystery if not a puzzle to be solved so when I ran across this series I decided it definitely was for me and that I'd start at the beginning. In this first of the series, the Puzzle Lady for the public world is Cora Felton, an elderly, grandmotherly type who is just what the syndicates want when they promote the "Puzzle Lady". But in fact, all the work is done by her niece, Sherry, who is trying to hide out from an abusive husband/ex-husband? and move on with her life. They settle in a small town in Connecticut and this is where our story begins.
I chuckled when the mystery started with the discovery of a dead body in the cemetery - how ironic! Not exactly the spot you think of for a murder. When the police chief starts the investigation (there are only 3 on the police force in this small town) by examining the pockets of the victim, he finds a scrap of paper that looks like a crossword puzzle clue. Not being particularly prepared for this type crime, Chief Harper turns to the Puzzle Lady to try to understand what the killer was trying to say with the clue.
Ms Felton has some vices which if known, could possibly end the Puzzle lady's syndications. Somehow Aunt Cora can smoke and drink and still manages to help the Chief Harper through the clues/nonclues and leads him to the solution with an amusing edge.
This cozy mystery is fun and entertaining and I'm definitely looking forward to more of the series.

#32: I like the series, too!

#62 WINTER STUDY
Author: Nevada Barr
Category : New Books in an Old Series
Pages : 477

Due to the expected presence of wolves in Rocky Mountain National Park, District Ranger Anna Pigeon joins the Winter study at Isle Royale in Lake Superior where the wolves have been studied for 50 years. Homeland Security would like to open Isle Royale year round but decisions must be made to determine the feasibility due to weather conditions in the dead of winter. Mysterious and strange events which include a death by wolf attack, near drowning in Lake Superior, blackmail, and possible murder keep Anna actively working to preserve the lives of the team as well as herself. The story is completely chilling with weather conditions depicted throughout the story, but it's great read for any Pigeon fan.

#34: I have fallen seriously off in reading the Pigeon series, so I may have to start it all over again just to get to that one! Sounds very good. Thanks for the recommendation, Cheli.

I thought a few of the recent ones could have been better, but this almost had me jumping out of my seat.

#34, 35 I've never even heard of this series - what is the premise?

Anna Pigeon is a Ranger for the National Park Service and is stationed at different parks around the country in each book. The first book in the series is Track of the Cat. I enjoy the series for the visual descriptions of each park as well as the murder mystery that is involved. Watching the changes that have taken place in Anna's personality has also been entertaining, as well. (She makes me wonder if possibly I have grown up along the same lines - maturity wise - and learned to appreciate life with all its complexities.)

Sounds interesting - I'll keep my eyes open for them.

Just so that feel like I really did get some reading done in April, I am going to recap my books for the month. Of the 10 books that I read, 8 were new series that I started (what am I getting myself into?!)

1. Who invited the dead man? new series
2. Sympathy for the Devil new series
3. The People's History of the Supreme Court background for Presidents
4. A Catered murder new series
5. Death at Le Fenice new series
6. Moving is Murder new series
7. Deal Breaker new series
8. Mistletoe Murder new series
9. A Clue for the Puzzle Lady new series
10.Winter Study series continuation

I also have been reading Don Quixote but I'm only halfway through.

Now that I'm looking at the list, I read only 1½ books that weren't mysteries.
I better do better next month on my versatility. At least there are a few histories and classics mixed in.

On Deck in May are:
Don Quixote (999)
When did We Lose Harriet?
Candy Cane Murder (999)
The Presidency of James Monroe (President)
Misery loves Cabernet (ER)
The Monroe Doctrine and American Expansionism
Her royal spyness
The Time Traveller's Wife (999)
Cream Puff Murder (999) audio
Scent to her grave
Grime & punishment
A Novena for Murder
The Maltese Falcon (999) audio
Blessed is the busybody
Butcher's Hill (999) audio

Hope I'm not being too ambitious since I also am still working 4 days a week.

**Must be that genetic disorder EBTS (Eyes are Bigger Than Stomach) when it comes to books**

Check out my blog if you wonder if you have EBTS
http://cheliscozycorner.blogspot.com/

Looks like you read some good books in April and have a good reading plan for May. I really liked The Time Travelers Wife and I hope you do to. I'll be very interested to learn what you think of Don Quixote since I'm considering tackling it myself.

#63 WHEN DID WE LOSE HARRIET?
Author: Patricia Sprinkle
Category : Cozy Mystery
Pages : 302

This is the second book by Patricia Sprinkle that I have read. (Who invited the Dead Man? was the third in this series I read first.) What catches me is her titles - When did we lose Harriet? Harriet somehow is the central character of this mystery but we only see her in the first two chapters. The remainder of the story has MacLaren Yarbrough searching for this young girl she has never met.
Mac comes home to Montgomery Alabama because her baby brother, Jake (late 50's) has a heart attack and is being ornery about having surgery. Mac is called upon to take his place at the teen center where she discovers a library book filled with $3000 cash. She determines that it belongs to a girl named Harriet and sets out to return them to the owner. Along the way she finds person after person, who can't even remember the last time that they saw Harriet and she is amazed at their lack of concern for someone that they are responsible for. Mac manages throughout her search to find out where Harriet got the money, what she wanted to do with the money, and eventually where to find Harriet. This is an excellently written mystery that confounds the reader until the very end. All the clues are subtly distributed throughout. I will definitely be looking for the next in the series.

#42: Sounds like another good one for me to put on the Continent. Thanks again, Cheli!

I forgot, there was a great quote in this book when things weren't going well:

Lord, you know that I'm grateful for many things, but this day is not one of them.

This one I'm definitely going to use.

Me, too! (I could have used it this past Wednesday for sure, lol)

#44 That is a great quote - I'm going to remember it, too.

#64 CANDY CANE MURDER
Author: Joanne Fluke
Category : New Books in an Old Series
Pages : 178

I was not aware when I got this book, that it was a collection of short stories so I am only reviewing the Joanne Fluke Candy Cane Murder, though I will say the other stories were entertaining. This Hannah Swensen mystery went a long the guidelines of the other HS mysteries. She finds the body and then gets involved investigating with her sisters and boyfriends. Her instincts lead her to the murderer but her realization of guilty party usually comes a bit late. What always amuses me is that Hannah ca never remember her cell phone!

#47: What always amuses me is that Hannah can never remember her cell phone!

Neither can I! I am always walking off without it.

LOL!!! My children are always surprised when I answer my cell--they assume that I will either (a) forget to take it; (b) forget to charge it; or (c) be unable to locate it ringing in time to answer the call. *wipes tears away from laughing*

Same here, Prop2gether. I make a lot of calls on my cell but I almost never leave it on. As a result, I am startled when it rings.

My friends know better than to call me on my cell if they're running late for dinner or whatever.

I get a lot of voice messages on my cell from my daughter: "What's the point of having a cell phone if you don't answer it!" Oh well.

ETA and I have no idea what my cell phone number is.

The first thing I made (and yes, I "made" her do it) was have my daughter set up my first cell phone with "My Number" so I would remember it. We're on a family plan and she has the fancy-schmanzy bells, toots, and whistles. I have a loud ring and large buttons.

ETA: I got the same messages you do--for years.

I seem to have the opposite problem...I answer mine but my daughter never answers hers. It's always, "Oh, I left it at Jess' house," "Oh, it was on vibrate and in my backpack," "Oh, I was on the phone."

She's firmly convinced that the sole purpose of my paying for her phone is so she can text her friends and download ringtones.

#53 I told my kids that, as long as I'm paying for their phones, I expect my calls to be answered or returned ASAP. So far, they've done pretty well. But I'm learning that I hear from them even sooner if I text them rather than call. I don't get that.

#65 THE PRESIDENCY OF JAMES MONROE
Author: Noble Cunningham
Category : History
Pages : 246


This book centers mainly on the Presidency of James Monroe rather than a complete biography. The early years are summarized to give the reader an understanding of his qualifications and where he was coming from.
From the information in the book it appears that James Monroe was probably the first president to realize that the good will of the people could keep him in office. During his administrations, he undertook several long trips to see how the nation and its people faired. The first trip was to what was then called the East - what we now call the north - New England, New York, and Pennsylvania. By making this his first priority in his travels he was able to consolidate his position by befriending the Federalists even though he was a southern Republican. His second trip was to the South and western reaches of the Ohio Valley.
Conditions were not financial good during the first administration due to recovery from the war. Congressman Richard Johnson of Kentucky is quoted "the times for money are alarming and frightful. I have never seen a time before but when I could raise $1000 with less difficulty than I can now raise $100" "It is impossible to describe to you the distress in this country on account of circulating medium. Loans cannot be obtained from banks or individuals - both are calling in their debts by wholesale, and nothing can be purchased on credit."
The National intelligencer published "our markets are deluged with merchandise from foreign nations, while thousands of our citizens, able and willing to work, and capable of furnishing similar articles, are unable to procure employment." (Does any of this sound familiar?)
Besides the domestic issues of the day, Monroe also had to keep a wary eye open at the revolutions that were in progress in the areas to the south of the USA. These were what led to the Monroe Doctrine. I don't feel that 1 chapter is sufficient to cover that, so I will be reading a book dedicated to this aspect of his presidency.
Overall, a good basic book for a President that I don't think received enough credit for what he had to handle.

#55: I am adding that one to the Continent since I know virtually nothing about Monroe. Thanks for the recommendation.

#66 A NOVENA FOR MURDER
Author: Sister Carol Anne O'Marie
Category : Cozy Mystery
Pages : 184

Having been raised in a Catholic environment (12 years of Catholic school included) I was intrigued to see how a nun could be a detective. The story centers around a murder at a Catholic college in San Francisco. Sister Mary Helen is a retired num aged mid-seventies who recruits her fellow nuns to help her to investigate the murder of the history Professor because she believes that the police's chief suspect has nice eyes and couldn't be guilty.
Sister Anne and Sister Eileen aid Mary Helen while Sister Therese starts a novena to St. Dismas (the patron saint of murderers) to get spiritual assistance. The interactions between the nuns and the police are entertaining and the story is a definite for those who like the old style as well as some religious reminders.

what an usual detective figure! ;) glad you enjoyed your last one - happy happy reading!

#67 THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE
Author: Audrey Niffenegger
Read : May 4 - May 16
Category : Award Winners
Pages : 560

First I want to thank LisaMorr and tututhefirst for recommending this book because I really loved it.

Henry DeTamble is a librarian who involuntarily travels through time. He is drawn in place and time to Clare Abshire who throughout his life supports him by supplying his needs for physical assistance whether she is 6 , 16, or 32. The love affair of these two characters is so multi-dimensional that it is hard to conceive how Audrey Niffenegger managed to keep track of all the details while writing this book.

This book is extremely thought-provoking making the reader wonder if there really are people like Henry who are constantly popping from one time to another, seeing the world in different eras and unable to make changes for the betterment of man. What if there was a way to alter our genes and become time travelers ourselves, so that we could visit with our love ones that we've lost, and at least apologize for the shortfalls of our youths. Would we be brave enough to volunteer?

I'm glad you liked The Time Travelers Wife. I read it last year and liked it as well. Talk about a twisty plot!

I wish I had read The Time Traveler's Wife in a group read to have discussion. I enjoyed the first half of the book quite a lot and would have given it a high rating as a standalone. I thought the second half of the book was significantly less well done and would have given it a rather low rating as a standalone. The result was the book got a "Recommend" from me, but not a rave one.

#68 THE MALTESE FALCON
Author: Dashiell Hammett
Read : May 15 - May 17
Category : CLASSICS
Pages : 224
I seem to have trouble liking classics. I had heard that The Maltese Falcon was Dashiell Hammett's finest work, but if t is, I don't want to read another. I got through this book, that's about all I'll say because I felt that the writing was poor and that there was too much repetition of the actions and words that were used. If I read one more time about how he rolled a cigarette, I was closing the book and quitting right there. Besides the fact, I didn't think that it was much of a mystery.
I hope that this year I can find at least one new classic that I can enjoy.

#69 MISERY LOVES CABERNET
Author: Kim Gruenenfelder
Category : ER books
Read: May 5 - May 18
Pages : 358

First, I have to say that I loved this book. I smiled, I laughed uproariously, I grinned, I cried, I chuckled, I ran the entire gambit of emotions while enjoying this book.

The main character Charlie (female) is in her late twenties and watching the lives of her friends and family move forward while she appears to be treading water. So she decides to make a list of the lessons that she learns so that she can pass them along to her great-granddaughter (should she ever have one).

Charlie lives in Hollywood and her job is personal assistant to movie star, Drew Stanton, a spoiled, charmingly child-like character. She juggles her numerous jobs (cleaning the pool of hippo poop, assisting in the transformation of Drew's dressing room to a winter wonderland) with family and friend , occasions/events.

Charlie's main efforts are centered around her love life and her involvement with two different men - Jordan who goes off to Paris for a job and Liam the producer of Drew's current film. The ending is totally unexpected and leaves the reader wanting more. Definitely a book that I will revisit after I read more by this writer.

#62. I don't think Hammett is the best noir writer although I guess he is an important one, maybe that's why he is on the list? I always wonder about teh criteria for these things. I prefer Raymond Chandler and maybe the darker Jim Thompson.

#70 CREAM PUFF MURDER
Author: Joanne Fluke
Read : May 18 - May 19
Category : New Book in an old Series
Pages : 288

Let's face it, who doesn't love a lady who is always trying to help others and bakes tremendous cookies at the same time. Hannah Swensen can take anything in the cabinet and make a treat out of it.

In the Cream Puff Murder, Hannah is fighting her own person hell - she needs to lose weight so that she can fit into the special dress that her mother, Dolores, ordered for her to wear at the Book Launch Party that is planned for Delores' book.

With her sister, Andrea's help, Hannah sets to exercising at the new spa Heavenly Bodies. There she runs into an old rival- Ronnie Ward. Later when she discovers Ronnie's body in the Jacuzzi, Hannah works to clear Mike (one of her beaus), Lonnie (her sister Michelle's beau), and Bill (Andrea's husband).

While working on solving this mystery, Hannah also had a mystery at home - Moishe, her cat, has some strange eating habits and Hannah needs to figure out how she manages to empty her kitty feeder and still stay thin. The mysteries are entertaining and fun loving. Definitely a great cozy!

Congratulations! You are near the 75 challenge goal.

You also are reading some very interesting books. I read The Time Traveler's Wife three years ago when I was in Seattle Washington for a conference. I fell in love with the cleanliness of Seattle and the beauty. The beauty of the city and the book are melded together in my mind.

Whisper,
When I reach my 75 goal I'm signing up for another!
I'm hoping to reach 165 this year. I've never read that any in a year, but it'll be fun trying!

#71 HER ROYAL SPYNESS
Author: Rhys Bowen
Category : recommended books
Read: May 12 - May 21
Pages : 416

Georgie is Royalty. Lady Victoria Georgiana Charlotte Eugenie still has her problems which haunt her even though she stands 34th in line to the throne. Her half brother is a duke with no money so she gets no allowance for her daily expenses. Her sister-in-law, FIG, is extremely frugal so when Georgia decides to head to London to escape the cold of family Scottish castle, she has no servants and no money for food. When Fig sends her a message that the Duke will be arriving and to make sure that the house is ready, Georgie finds that she can manage the light housework needed to open a house and advertises in the paper for her services.
Little does she realize that she will have to be cleaning up a lot more than dust covers and clean linens when she discovers a dead body drown in her own bathtub.
This book was witty and refreshing even though it is set in the 1930's. The characters are entertaining and cause the reader to cheer for the good guys. I really enjoyed the background settings and the information leaked of what life was like back then.

Thanks to ladyc72385 for the recommendation!

First, congratulations! Second, on your Hammett response, you might try another of his, which was more original, I think, Red Harvest. His Nick and Nora Charles series (starting with The Thin Man) are more fun as well. And for another writer of the period, try Cornell Woolrich with The Bride Wore Black or Rear Window, or Before the Fact by Anthony Berkeley writing as Francis Iles (or vice versa). That one became the film "Suspicion" but the movie only covers part of the story.

#72 DON QUIXOTE
Author: Miguel de Cervantes
Read : April 2 - May 23
Category : Classics
Pages : 1072

I have to admit that I had heard tremendous things about Don Quixote. I understood the idea of the book before I opened it and maybe that was part of my problem. My expectations may have been too high and this book, IMHO, fell short whe it comes to entertainment. I have to admit that I enjoyed the first part but when I got to Part II, that's where he lost me. Cervantes just seems to go on and on adding story after story that has nothing really to do with Quixote's quest. He really could have used a good editor. If I had stopped after Part I, I would have been fine with this book, but as it is it was just toooooooo longgggggg. Another disappointing classic. DARN!

>70 cyderry:: I have tried this book several times and cannot finish it. I keep saying I just have to approach it in the right mood but, so far, that mood has not materialized. :-(

#70

I think I'm not even going to try it. In fact, I vow not to try it. Life's too short!

#63: That one looks like one I would really like. Thanks for the recommendation! Now, if only my local library will cooperate and order it.

Oh Darn! That's one that I always wanted to try. *sih*

#73 POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Author: Augusten Burroughs
Category: Audiobooks
Pages: 304
Read: May 22 - May 27

This book is a collection of essays/short stories/memoirs surrounding the early childhood, of the author. Reviews had this book as being hilarious especially when read on audio by the author. This is the version that I checked out of the library. It missed with me. The stories are told in reverse chronological order which is a little strange - going from successful relationships to a loner; non-smoking Alcoholic in AA to a smoking drinker; gay relationship to young man looking at girls; The tales included telling of when he was a child, his reluctance to visit one grandmother (evil) after visiting the other (good) (If one of my grandmothers had a tooth fairy that gave $50 per tooth, I 'd think that the other was evil too.), spending over $600 a month on Nicorette gum when he quit smoking, and a crush on a female doctor as a child. A few of the short stories are extremely entertaining but the entire book wasn't worth its reviews that were raves. (IMHO)

I chose this book because my husband and I were going on a car trip to Richmond and we do audio books when we travel. My husband liked it better than I did. He gave it 3 stars.

Totally agree on the Don Quixote - I was so, so bored. The second part is better than the first one, but still. Loooong.

#74 SCENT TO HER GRAVE
Author: India Ink
Category: Leaders
Pages: 390
Read: May 21 - May 30

India Ink has written a witty, often amusing and definitely complex amateur sleuth mystery. The central character is a martial arts expert who is a very feminine, spirited and independent woman. Trying to elude a bad relationship in Seattle, Persia Vanderbilt returns home to Gull Harbor and sets to work at her aunt's business, Venus Envy, a business that creates custom blended oils and spa services. At the beginning, Persia is blending an individual scent for Lydia Wang when Lydia (the Radiance Cosmetics Beauty Contest winner) gets into several altercations - one with her former boyfriend, Trevor, a employee of Venus Envy, another with the contest runner-up, Colleen. When Persia finds Lydia dead in the spa the next morning, and the murder weapon is one of Trevor's tools, Trevor becomes the chief suspect. Not believing in his guilt, Persia sets out to clear her employee and in the process nearly loses her own life. Since Lydia was such an abrasive personality and she had made so many enemies, it is difficult to choose just one person as the murderer and as the clues are revealed, the reader is able to solve the murder right along with Persia. I had to run out and get the next one, I enjoyed this one so much.

I DID IT!!! AND IN ONLY 5 MONTHS - WOW!

#75 THE QUILTER'S APPRENTICE
Author: Jennifer Chiaverini
Category: Crafts/Cooking in the background
Pages: 272
Read: May 27 - May 30

This is a heartwarming story of a young couple, Sarah and Matt, who must leave the only home that they've known to move to another town so that Matt can get work. His new job puts Sarah in the position of being unemployed for the first time and searching for a job in a tough market. While she is searching, the cranky elderly woman, Mrs. Compson, that Matt is work for offers Sarah a chance to earn some money helping prepare her family estate(Elm Creek Manor) for sale. Sarah agrees provided that Mrs. Compson teaches her how to quilt. During the daily quilting lessons, Mrs. Compson and Sarah develop a close friendship while revealing their own life stories/issues/problems.
The stories that are related are at times powerfully moving, and reminders of how our own errors can effect our lives. In total it is remarkable how this book can show that love and friendship can help overcome just about anything including past injuries and insults. The descriptions of the quilting processes that are intermingled throughout are fascinating. The only drawback is that at times, the character of Sarah seems a bit whiny. Hopefully, she'll out grow it in future books.

Congratulations on reaching the 75 challenge goal!

Way to goooooooo!

Congratulations on reaching 75 books! I hope your visit over the Memorial Day holiday with your new grandson was wonderful.

It was great.... he is such a good baby. Did you see his new picture on my profile?

I had been thinking about starting a new 75 thread for 75 books X 2 but I think that I will, for the time being, stay with this one.

#83 Yes, I check out your profile every once in awhile to see the pictures! He's adorable. I'm glad you finally got a chance to meet him and I hope you get to visit often. I've posted some pictures of Jaxon on my thread, if you're interested. I'm a proud grandma and must brag and haul out the pictures whenever I can!

Congrats on reaching the 75 goal already!!

Congrats, Cheli. Way to go!!

btw, I've read one of those Jennifer Chiaverini quilters books and loved it, even though I'm not a crafter. I think it was The New Year's Quilt. These are enjoyable books. I'd like to start with the first one and get through them all, eventually.

Congratulations on reaching 75--and on that cutie-pie grand-babie.

Cheli - Congrats on 75 books this year and on your adorable grandson. Jackson is such a cutie!

Way to go on reaching the the 75 books!

*claps hands and whistles*

Congrats!

#76 GRIME AND PUNISHMENT
Author: Jill Churchill
Category: Leaders
Pages: 246
Read: June 1 - June 2

This is the beginning of the Jane Jeffrey series. Jane is a widow whose husband died a few months ago in an auto accident. While she tries to keep things on an even keel for her three children, Jane handles carpools, PTA meetings but has to replace her cleaning lady. She and her next door neighbor, Shelly, contact the Happy Helper, and hire Edith, who is highly recommended by other neighbors.
Edith calls in sick when she is due at Shelly's house on a day that Shelly is hosting a meeting, so a replacement is sent. When she comes home from doing her errands, Shelly frantically calls Jane over to her house because she has found Edith's replacement strangled with a vacuum cleaner cord.
Jane and Shelly work to figure out why the maid was dispatched.
It was entertaining, wouldn't say that it was the greatest.

#77 BLESSED IS THE BUSYBODY
Author: Emilie Richards
Category: New Writers
Pages: 272
Read: June 7

This was the first book that I read for the 12 hour mystery-thon. It had numerous entertaining moments and a well-crafted mystery that centered around a minister's family that lives in a small town in Ohio. It all starts with a naked body being found on the front porch of the vicarage. Aggie and her husband Ed have to ride the scandal as the police try to solve the murder that literally lands on their doorstep. The Women's Society for their church is not happy about the scandal and are tempted to relieve Ed of his position and then one of their own is murdered and things get even more complicated and Aggie sets out to clear her husband's reputation.

HOTEL PARADISE
Author: Martha Grimes
Category: ABANDONED
Pages: 85
Read: June 7

This was the second book that I picked for the 12 hour mystery-thon. I tried and read 85 pages but the story and style just couldn't grab my attention. I could never recommend this book to anyone. I do not see what the hype about this series could ever be about..

#93: I will look for that one. Thanks for the recommendation, Cheli.

#94: I am not a fan of that series by Grimes either.

I made the High Reviiew list for a few hours.
#79 MISTRESS OF THE ART OF DEATH
Author: Ariana Franklin
Category: LT Recommendation
Pages: 607
Read: June 2 - June 10

Four children have been tortured and horrifically murdered. Anytime you see a book that has this premise, you wonder where such a murdering monster hides. This monster is hidden in the folds of history. This book is set in 1171 medieval England, the small town of Cambridge. The townspeople believe that the Jews are responsible and force King Henry I to move all the Jews to protection within the royal castle fortress. King Henry has a vested interest in clearing the Jews because without their money lending and the taxes that they generate, the royal treasuries will be bankrupt.
How will the perpetrator be identified and brought to justice?
King Henry contacts the King of Sicily and asks for his finest master of the art of death, a medieval medical examiner. The doctor selected for the mission is Vesuvia Adelia Rachel Ortese Aguilar - A mistress of the Art of Death. Adelia and her companions-Simon, a Jew, and Mansur, a Moor- journey to England to uncover the serial killer who committed the Cambridge murders. A few of the problems that restrict Adelia's efforts to solve the murders are the superstitions of the time (women doctors are suspected of witchcraft) and her association with a Jew and a Muslim eunuch - foreigners who are not welcome in England. Adelia teams up with a tax collector, Sir Rowley and together the story evolves.

This book is a combination of Kay Scarpetta,CSI, and Sherlock Holmes. This tremendously well-crafted mystery is interwoven with an unusual love story as well as historical pageantry with multi-faceted characters that come to life on the page. The writing is at times thrilling, and other times humorous. It is amazing that the story can be both frightening and heart-warming.

lovely review - another LTer who has enjoyed this book! I must put it on my wishlist!

A very nice review of Mistress of the Art of Death, Cheli. I read it earlier this year and liked it as well.

#97: Count me in among the lovers of Mistress of the Art of Death as well. I just read it this past week, too.

Great review, Cheli. A big 'thumbs up' from me!

Mistress of the Art of Death is getting such rave reviews, I ought to add it to my TBR, too.

Lately, it seems like every book I read results in me adding at least 2 or 3 more to TBR.

Thanks - I worked extra had on the review because it really is a great book. Can't wait for the next in the series.

Just checked and I made it to the HOT REVIEWS! I'm so excited!

My husband, Tim, asks me why I spend so much effort on my reviews. He says I should just say I liked it or didn't like it and move on. But I figure if a writer really makes an effort to write a good book, it deserves my efforts on the review side.
Thanks everybody!

#102: Congratulations on the Hot Review, Cheli!!

#80 James Monroe:The Quest for National Identity
Author: Harry Ammon
Category : History
Pages : 706

James Monroe was the last of the Revolutionary Presidents. He served the United States during the War of Independence being wounded while scouting for the Battle Trenton, and during Washington's administration served in the US Senate and State Department. He represented the United States in France and Spain as he continued his diplomatic career (assisting in the negotiations regarding the Louisiana Purchase). He was also the Governor of Virginia and during the Madison Administration served as both the Secretary of State and the Secretary of War. With his election to the Presidency, Monroe's political career was complete.
Monroe was a very analytical man, who gathered all the information available before making momentous decisions. He regularly held meetings with all of his advisors (Cabinet members) and then would reflect on their viewpoints and analyze the ramifications of the proposed actions.
Perception was that Monroe was indecisive, however, it appears that he mainly used a delaying tacit to allow time for others to arrive at the same conclusions. He preferred unanimity within his Cabinet.
It was also assumed that because of John Quincy Adams' extensive diplomatic experience that Monroe allowed him to set the foreign policy, but it is shown in Adams' diaries that Monroe controlled the foreign policy and the direction of proposed discussions with foreign ministers of the time. One must remember that he too had diplomatic experience and had served 8 years as the Secretary of State.

Monroe questioned himself and wrote to Jefferson" Was it not proper for the US to encourage nations seeking their freedom while condemning those seeking to deprive others of their liberty? "

Monroe made the conscious decision that it was time for the United States to take a bolder stand on the international front and in 1823 during his annual "State of the Union" address, declared several paragraphs which stated that

1) "the occasion has been judged proper for asserting, as a principle in which the rights and interest of the United States are involved, that the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as the subjects for future colonization by any European powers." and

2) "We owe therefore, to candor and to the amicable relations existing between the United States and those powers to declare that we should consider any attempt on their part to extend their system to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous to our peace and safety."

At the time, it was referred to as the "American System". Now we know it as the Monroe Doctrine. This moral standing had no "imperial mission" behind it but served notice to all the nations of the world that the Americas were not to trifled with.

This is a very detailed biography of the 5th President. The author makes every effort to inform the reader of the accomplishments of the man as well as show his shortcomings.

On a personal note, I was not particular impressed with Monroe until I realized all that he had been through and accomplished in his lifetime. He reminds me a good deal of Washington in that he felt that the Constitution was to be adhered to fanatically and that the good of the Nation was more important than the good of his party. I was unaware that the "Monroe Doctrine" was actually part of the annual address to Congress in 1823. It was not a separate document but several separate paragraphs in his State of Union address and yet made such a definitive statement that it still serves as part of the United States foreign policy standards. It is sad that this man who put forth the policy that "protected" the Americas also was partially responsible for the Missouri Compromise that put us on the road to war.

How ironic, that the last of the Revolutionary Presidents also died on the 4th of July.

#81 THE INNOCENCE OF FATHER BROWN
Author: C.K. Chesterton
Read : June 13 -15
Category : Classics
Pages : 236


A classic collection of Father Brown short stories. The French master criminal Flambeau is repeatedly beaten by this unremarkable priest, before he decides to join Father Brown in solving a series of perplexing mysteries.
I won't say this was the greatest, but with my track record with classics, this was okay.

#105 Hi glad to hear its readable, I just picked up the complete father brown.

#82 A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE WHITE HOUSE
Author: Charles Osgood
Read : June 14 -16
Category : History/Humor
Pages : 239

We've all heard Harry Truman's saying about if it's too hot to get out of the kitchen, well this book is full of the quips and anecdotes from presidential elections from Harry Truman through Bush II and some are just as memorable. McGovern is remembered for saying "Three things beat me. Dirty tricks, tapped phones, and I lost 49 states." The quotes and stories are amusing and lighthearted.

My favorites that pertain to no candidates in particular are: Richard Harkness (newspaper commentator) "When it comes to facing up to serious problems, each candidate will pledge to appoint a committee. And what is a Committee? A group of the unwilling, picked from the unfit, to do the unnecessary. It all sounds great in a campaign speech." or humorist Caskie Stinnett's quote "take a second look at the candidate whose voice falters at the end of each page of his speech. He doesn't know, any more than you do, what's coming next."
On occasion we have had third party candidates that have added to the amusement. I liked the quote about Ross Perot. The National Review said "Ross Perot won't hire gays or adulterers for his administration. At last----a practical plan to shrink the size of the government." (Not my viewpoint, just an amusing quote.)

#83 MURDER UNCORKED
Author: Michele Scott
Read : June 7 -19
Category : Cozy Mystery
Pages : 219


Nikki Sands, an out of work actress, is waiting tables in Hollywood to make ends meet. She works at an upscale restaurant and has educated herself about wine pairings to increase her tip perspectives. One evening she shows off a bit of her knowledge, infuriating a blonde bimbo but intriguing her date. She gets fired for spilling wine on the bimbo, but is rescued by the hunk and learns that he is a winemaker from Napa Valley and is interesting in hiring her for marketing and general assistant staff support.

Nikki flies to Napa with Derek Malveaux where she is embroiled in a double murder investigation on the Malveaux Estate. Her one and only acting role seems to be coming alive - that of a Detective Sydney Martini. The story is complex but the writer allows the reader to gather the clues along with Nikki. Entertaining while providing recipes and wine pairings.

#84 THE SCARECROW AND HIS SERVANT
Author: Philip Pullman
Read : June 12 -19
Category : Cozy Mystery
Pages : 219


This book reminds me of The Wizard of Oz but rather than Dorothy trying to find her way back to Kansas and Auntie Em, the Scarecrow is trying to find his way to Spring Valley where he is supposedly the owner of all the land. The story starts out with the miraculous tale of how the Scarecrow comes to life and follows his adventures with his "servant" Jack, an orphaned boy who figures that he can't do any worse than starve to death.

It is a delightful, whimsical story which shows how perseverance and goodness will triumph over adversity.

Thanks to tututhefirst for the recommendation.

#85 THE WEDDING OF THE WATERS:
The Erie Canal and the Making of a Great Nation
Author: Peter Bernstein
Read : June 16 -21
Category : History
Pages : 448

This book is divided into 5 sections - the vision, the action the creation, the path, the aftermath.
The first section of this book begins with identification of those people who believed that the expansion of the United States required the improvement of its waterways to allow for easier navigation from the Atlantic Coast to the interior. George Washington was interested in expanding the Potomac River usage (possibly because of his large Mount Vernon frontage on this river) and though there was a company founded to explore this possibility, it never came to fruition. Numerous others from Christopher Coles to Gouverneur Morris tried and failed in the attempts to get the project funded and started. Along with the proposed waterway expansion, this section also identified men who designed and improved the watercrafts that were to be used once this project was underway.
The second section addresses the funding and proposal. In 1807, President Jefferson, in his annual address to Congress, suggested that the government surplus of funds be directed to "canals, roads, education…" Congress commissioned the Treasury to submit a plan "to propose the opening of roads and making canals which as objects of public improvement, may require and deserve the aid of the government."
Albert Gallatin, the Secretary of the Treasury stressed in his report that for the volume of industry to increase with territorial expansion, a nationwide network of canals and roadways was essential for connections over the long distances. However, when the proposal was presented to the President requesting funds, Jefferson pointed to the Potomac (C&O Canal) and noted that it was unfinished for the last few miles but for a lack of $200,000 and New York wanted $10 million for a "350 mile canal through the wilderness - it is little short of madness". (Again an instance of Jefferson saying one thing and doing another.) New York resolved to proceed on its own.
Six New York commissioners undertook a 700 mile trek across the state in 53 days to gather the required details so that the NY legislature could be informed of what the project would entail. Several routes were under consideration -specifically one to Lake Ontario, the other to Lake Erie. Legislators frequently sided with the route that aided them either monetarily or politically. Finally, in March of 1811, the commissioners were authorized to arrange for funding, purchase the necessary land, and applied to Congress for additional funds. The project was on.
The War of 1812 had 2 effects on the Canal project. First, it delayed the progress because of the manpower that was routed to the war effort but two, it proved the need for a better communication and transportation system between the east coast and the western frontier. Only through rapid shipbuilding in Erie, PA was the access of the great lakes maintained by the US and not overtaken by the British.
After the war, legislatures both state and National held up the project until the official route of the canal was decided upon, and funding was in place.
Construction started on July 4, 1817 and as it progressed so did improvements to the construction process. Numerous inventions were found/discovered to speed the construction. Inventions for speeding the cutting down of trees, removal of tree stumps and even cement came with the construction of the canal.
In 1819, the nation suffered its first depression and thanks to the Canal project, NY state survived nearly unscathed. Unemployment, rampant elsewhere, was non-existent around the Canal construction, in fact employment was up 20%.
As the project progressed, political issues surrounded the finishing aspects - the location of the terminal on Lake Erie and how to handle a few of the final sections were just a few.
After the canal was completed, traffic increased in the first year from 2000 boats to 7000 boats. The time frame of traveling the distance from Albany to Buffalo was cut from 32 days to 5 days.
Weather caused some issues - the canal froze in winter and the spring rains caused flooding.
But towns sprung up overnight along the route and small villages turned into cities.
Farm productivity in western NY state and beyond expanded 30% by 1840 and eastern areas turned to dairy farming.
But the main impact of the Erie canal was the unification of the nation by the connection of the western areas to the eastern seaboard. Areas in the west could now ship their goods all the way to New York while receiving luxury items from the east that had not been available before.
This book was very informative but has a few drawbacks. At times it was very detailed in the descriptions of the building of the canal. For non-technical readers this would have been aided by drawings to help visualize what was being described. The writer also had a tendency at times to inappropriately report on the far future of NY state and how the Erie Canal was continuing, making the tale somewhat disjointed at these parts. Overall a very good book for background reading to this timeframe of US history.

Hmm. Looks good. Another for the TBR, I suppose!

I'm with Jim, Cheli! Looks good.

It does look good.

#86 BUTCHER'S HILL
Author : Laura Lippman
Read : June 21 -24
Category : Award Winner -Agatha, Anthony, Shamus Awards
Pages : 416

Tess Monaghan has finally hung out her shingle but her new office is not in the best area of Baltimore. On one of her first days in operation, Tess has two new clients - Luther Beale and Jackie. Jackie wants to hire Tess to find the daughter she gave up for adoption 13 years ago. Luther Beale, known as the Butcher of Butcher's Hill wants to find five children who were friends of the boy he was convicted of killing. He wants to make restitution. Both cases appear pretty straight forward but they turn out to be far from it.
Jackie's case brings Tess face to face with facts that may be hard for her to reconcile emotionally and Luther's case gets a bit dangerous. I found it interesting the way that the stories was woven together even though they were separate cases.
It was a bit slow in some spots, but overall an interesting combination. I still enjoy seeing the references of my hometown, though listening on audio, I tend to want to correct the pronunciations at times.

#114: I like the Tess Monaghan series. Glad to see that you are enjoying it, too.

#87 THROUGH THE FIRE
Author : Shawn Grady
Read : June 19 - 25
Category : ER books
Pages : 328

Aidan O'Neill is a fireman, his father was a fireman, he comes from a family of firemen and they all believed that they had gift - a gift of understanding the fire - where it was going to go, who it was going to harm, what it was going to devour. Aidan was sure of that gift until his father was killed in an arson fire. Then he began to question that gift.
For seven years he searched for the arsonist even after the fire department had put the search to bed. The arsonist had gone back to the shadows and was quiet. But now the arsonist was back, endangering Aidan's colleagues, his friends.
This is the story of a fireman who searches for the truth, trying to find the person who killed his father, who damaged these buildings, who frightened the people of the city that was his home. The conclusion is a bit shocking.

It's an interesting story but I wouldn't say that is always well-written. There are times when the writing appears to go off on a tangent and you wonder what's going on, and then it's back. You wonder why but it isn't cleared up for over 100 pages. The structure needs to be tightened up but overall an interesting read.

#88 THE GEOGRAPHY OF BLISS
Author : Eric Weiner
Read : June 21 - 27
Category : New Writers
Pages : 328

Have you ever heard of the study of happiness? I know that I hadn't until I read this book, I understand now, how addictive it could be to try and find a happy place, if, of course, I wasn't already happy and had an expense account to fund it.
This book gives statistics of happiness arrived at through vast research, for example:
Extroverts are happier than introverts;
optimists are happier than pessimists(who would have thunk?);
married people are happier than singles, though people with children are no happier than childless couples;
Republicans are happier than Democrats;
wealthy people are happier than poor ones; (do the last two go together?)
people with an active sex life are happier than those without; (Does that one go with the last two, too?
busy people are happier than those with little to do; it just goes on and on.

So the author sets out to explore the possibility that some places are happier than others. He starts out in Holland and after determining that part of the "happiness" allure to the Dutch nation is the legality of pot and prostitution, and their fondness for cycling, he moves on to Switzerland.

After all, Switzerland makes great Chocolate, what would make you happier? The insights presented for Swiss happiness appear normal in some instances (nature, mountains) and bizarre in other ( strict laws - no toilet flushing after 10PM but euthanasia is legal). Philosopher Bertrand Russell wrote "A certain amount of boredom is essential to a happy life" and the author concludes the Swiss reason for happiness is that they are boring. He moves on.

Next is Bhutan and Asian country in the Himalayas which actually has a national Happiness Policy and it is part of the national anthem. What would you expect being so close to the mythical Shangri-La.

The author visits Qatar where Happiness is a winning lottery ticket, Iceland where happiness is failure (a unique concept), Moldova which is at the bottom of the happiness scale (possibly because of the economic and cultural conditions since the Soviet breakup), and Thailand where the people are too busy being happy to think about happiness because they take life as it comes.
Starting his trip heading home, the author stops in India receiving the definition of Indian happiness being unpredictability, and Great Britain is happy with change. Finally arriving home the author determines that paradise is fleeting. If you find it, everyone else will too and then, it might not be paradise anymore. But, for most, Happiness is home.

It sounds like quite a fascinating read. Did you feel that his ideas had merit, or it wasn't actually relevant to the definition of happiness and how we 'become' happy?

I thought that at points it was really fascinating and at other points he was just trying to be amusing. Like in Holland, he was trying to experience the "happiness" there and decided that he wasn't up to cycling and that his wife wouldn't appreciate it if he tried out the prostitution aspect, so he went to pot for the testing phase. He had to find the proper place, and then go over the menu as to what type of pot and how much. It was amusing.

#89 ON AGATE HILL
Author : Lee Smith
Read : June 24 - 28
Pages : 621

This book, set after the Civil War, is the life story of a woman, telling of the losses of her lifetime.

The premise is the finding, by a student, of the diaries and letters of a woman in a secret room in Agate Hill Plantation. As a child after her family is lost, Molly is taken in at Agate Hill, a plantation owned by her Uncle Junius and Aunt Fanny. After adjusting to her new environment under the care of her Aunt Fanny, Molly loses Aunt Fanny in childbirth. Her uncle becomes despondent and lets the plantation become rundown. Uncle Junius' sister comes to help with the running of the house bringing her granddaughter who becomes Molly's first and dearest friend. This friendship is the basis of the letters that are used as the narrative after Molly goes off to a girl's school.

The narrative continues with her travels to the opening a school in the Appalachian mountains, through her marriage, the death of children and husband, the coroner's trial, and her return to Agate Hill.

This book was interesting but I think it was a bit too long. It was disjointed in the section of Molly's original stay in Agate Hill. I think that it was unnecessary to have the student continually interrupting the storyline.

#120 You got my hopes up with those first 3 paragraphs. The book sounds interesting, but I'm getting the impression that you didn't really care for it in the end? Do you recommend it?

I had complete forgotten that I read this book sometime in the last 3-4 years. I really enjoyed it. Must have been a library book, tho, 'cuz I don't see it on the shelves..

Overall, I liked it, I just thought it was a tiny bit too long at the end. There was no need, IMHO, to go into the details of her benefactor when the book was centered around Molly's life. But I did enjoy it, and would look for something from this writer again.

To keep things neat and tidy I decided to start a new thread for the 3rd Qtr.

Here's the link to my new thread. My 3rd Qtr Thread for the 75 Book Challenge X2

Thanks for visiting here and I hope to see you on the new thread.

Cheli