** 2 stars
Such a strange book. I'm still not sure if it was a satire or not. The author seemed to want to be one of the "primates" while also ridiculing them. I guess her stance was to be like the anthropologists who go live among the great apes, or what have you, but I'm not sure it entirely worked. I did sort of like the voyeuristic aspect of the peek into the super rich of Manhattan.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
This is Your Life, Harriet Chance! by Jonathan Evison
*** 3 stars
I wasn't sure I could get past the stilted style (second person) of most of the book but it was okay. That device will never be my favorite but the story was pretty engaging. I'm glad I read it; it was a quick read.
I wasn't sure I could get past the stilted style (second person) of most of the book but it was okay. That device will never be my favorite but the story was pretty engaging. I'm glad I read it; it was a quick read.
Dead Mountain: The Untold True Story of the Dyatlov Pass Incident by Donnie Eichar
*** 3 stars
Good non-fiction read. I had never heard of this mountaineering tragedy. It might have been a little dry in spots but the central mystery was so interesting, I was happy to keep moving. The author proposes an interesting solution to what happened to the mountaineers.
Good non-fiction read. I had never heard of this mountaineering tragedy. It might have been a little dry in spots but the central mystery was so interesting, I was happy to keep moving. The author proposes an interesting solution to what happened to the mountaineers.
All the Stars in Heaven by Adriana Trigiani
**** 4 stars
This was a great read; a fictionalized account of old Hollywood days and relationships among several movie stars. I don't know enough about the history of Loretta Young and Clark Gable to comment on the depiction in this book. It was a fun read, though and I enjoyed the story.
This was a great read; a fictionalized account of old Hollywood days and relationships among several movie stars. I don't know enough about the history of Loretta Young and Clark Gable to comment on the depiction in this book. It was a fun read, though and I enjoyed the story.
The Everything Brain Strain Book by Jake Olefsky
** 2 stars
Fun book to browse through; I picked through and thought about the brain teasers which seemed interesting and skipped a lot!
Fun book to browse through; I picked through and thought about the brain teasers which seemed interesting and skipped a lot!
The Unraveling of Mercy Louis by Keija Parssinen
** 2 stars
Started out strong with a lot of potential but dissolved into a bit of a mess. Don't look for the primary (as in the first) mystery to be resolved with any satisfaction. Now that I think of it, it's kind of offensive to use that issue (fetal demise) as a plot device without resolution.
Started out strong with a lot of potential but dissolved into a bit of a mess. Don't look for the primary (as in the first) mystery to be resolved with any satisfaction. Now that I think of it, it's kind of offensive to use that issue (fetal demise) as a plot device without resolution.
The Bazaar of Bad Dreams by Stephen King
*** 3 stars
Gotta love a new book by King. Like almost all short-story collections, it was a little uneven. A few of the stories had been published before (Blockade Billy - ugh), but most were new. A few were really, really good. A couple (did I mention Blockade Billy?) not so much.
Gotta love a new book by King. Like almost all short-story collections, it was a little uneven. A few of the stories had been published before (Blockade Billy - ugh), but most were new. A few were really, really good. A couple (did I mention Blockade Billy?) not so much.
Beneath the Surface: Killer Whales, Sea World, and the Truth Beyond Blackfish by John Hargrove
*** 3 stars
This was an interesting read, even though it was not particularly well-written. There seems to be a bit of padding; it probably could have been a magazine article rather than a whole book, but I am interested enough in the topic, I could overlook those issues. The author seems trying to convince himself, more than the reader, but the behind the scenes look at Sea World and its policies was insightful.
This was an interesting read, even though it was not particularly well-written. There seems to be a bit of padding; it probably could have been a magazine article rather than a whole book, but I am interested enough in the topic, I could overlook those issues. The author seems trying to convince himself, more than the reader, but the behind the scenes look at Sea World and its policies was insightful.
Lost by Sharon Bolton
0 stars
So, thought perhaps the diminishing quality of the Lacey Flint books was in my own head. This book was just dull. I found I was forcing myself to read a chapter or two but I never looked forward to picking it up. I got way into it, at least halfway, before I gave up. Ugh.
So, thought perhaps the diminishing quality of the Lacey Flint books was in my own head. This book was just dull. I found I was forcing myself to read a chapter or two but I never looked forward to picking it up. I got way into it, at least halfway, before I gave up. Ugh.
The Ghosts of Heaven by Marcus Sedgwick
0 stars
Another did-not-finish. My teenage daughter recommended this to me but I found it to be too obscure and weird.
Another did-not-finish. My teenage daughter recommended this to me but I found it to be too obscure and weird.
Dead Scared by Sharon Bolton
1 star
Somewhat confusingly, this author has changed the way her name is listed on her books. I think "Sharon Bolton" is the current, preferred name. Before that, she used "S.J. Bolton". I did not like this book one bit. I'm kind of mad that I even wasted the time to finish it. I found the entire plot to be beyond ridiculous. The actions of the police and university were completely outlandish as well.
Somewhat confusingly, this author has changed the way her name is listed on her books. I think "Sharon Bolton" is the current, preferred name. Before that, she used "S.J. Bolton". I did not like this book one bit. I'm kind of mad that I even wasted the time to finish it. I found the entire plot to be beyond ridiculous. The actions of the police and university were completely outlandish as well.
If Snow Hadn't Fallen by S. J. Bolton
*** 3 stars
This short novel/long standalone story was a quick read. I found it to be interesting and kept me willing to read on in the series. That might not have been a good thing!
This short novel/long standalone story was a quick read. I found it to be interesting and kept me willing to read on in the series. That might not have been a good thing!
Thunderstruck by Erik Larson
0 stars
A did-not-finish for me. Tried to read this while in the hospital. The situation and my inability to concentrate much could be the sole factor in me losing interest, but I don't think so. The book jumped around between two main stories, one of which was more interesting than the other. Apparently, they would eventually connect but the story didn't connect with me, so I moved on.
A did-not-finish for me. Tried to read this while in the hospital. The situation and my inability to concentrate much could be the sole factor in me losing interest, but I don't think so. The book jumped around between two main stories, one of which was more interesting than the other. Apparently, they would eventually connect but the story didn't connect with me, so I moved on.
Now You See Me by S. J. Bolton
*** 3 stars
I liked but did not love this, the first Lacey Flint story by Bolton. It really strained the bounds of credibility for me and over-reached in trying to be twisty and tricky. However, it did seem there was enough potential to try the others in the series.....
I liked but did not love this, the first Lacey Flint story by Bolton. It really strained the bounds of credibility for me and over-reached in trying to be twisty and tricky. However, it did seem there was enough potential to try the others in the series.....
Little Black Lies by Sharon Bolton
***** 5 stars
I loved this tricky, atmospheric novel. Set in the remote Falkland Islands, it was sort of spooky and creepy. Don't want to say a lot as would not want to spoil it, but even if you don't like the Lacey Flint books by this author (which, I've discovered I don't), I think you would like this one!
I loved this tricky, atmospheric novel. Set in the remote Falkland Islands, it was sort of spooky and creepy. Don't want to say a lot as would not want to spoil it, but even if you don't like the Lacey Flint books by this author (which, I've discovered I don't), I think you would like this one!
Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton
*** 3 stars
I read this years and years ago when the first movie came out. Thought it would be fun to revisit it as we re-watched the original film trilogy in preparation for Jurassic World (which I still haven't seen; I guess I'd forgotten just how scary the first film was and I'm such a big wimp!). Any way, this was fun, a bit dated of course, but still lots of fun.
I read this years and years ago when the first movie came out. Thought it would be fun to revisit it as we re-watched the original film trilogy in preparation for Jurassic World (which I still haven't seen; I guess I'd forgotten just how scary the first film was and I'm such a big wimp!). Any way, this was fun, a bit dated of course, but still lots of fun.
Sweet Talk by Susan Mallery
*** 3 stars
I remember almost nothing about this book which is no reflection at all on the book. I read it the morning after my surgery while in the hospital (or maybe it was the day after that....) Anyway, it was a pleasant diversion for the situation. There are more books in the series (Bakery Sisters) and I expect I'll get to them. It shouldn't be hard to follow the series and it's your pretty standard romance fare.
I remember almost nothing about this book which is no reflection at all on the book. I read it the morning after my surgery while in the hospital (or maybe it was the day after that....) Anyway, it was a pleasant diversion for the situation. There are more books in the series (Bakery Sisters) and I expect I'll get to them. It shouldn't be hard to follow the series and it's your pretty standard romance fare.
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
*** 3 stars
This was the October book club choice. I liked it even though it meandered and I'm not sure the point was especially clear or well-made. But it was entertaining enough. One book club member had gone on to read the follow-up, The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy, and said it filled in more of the story. I'm not in an especially big hurry to read that one myself, but perhaps I'll pick it up one day.
This was the October book club choice. I liked it even though it meandered and I'm not sure the point was especially clear or well-made. But it was entertaining enough. One book club member had gone on to read the follow-up, The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy, and said it filled in more of the story. I'm not in an especially big hurry to read that one myself, but perhaps I'll pick it up one day.
Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig
**** 4 stars
I am so behind on posting my books! I went in for surgery in mid-October and I am finding my recall of events before and during that time are a little sketchy! So, my reviews might be a little thin here...
I really liked this book even though it turned out to be pretty darn hefty considering the subject matter. It was charming and engaging. I have never read anything by this author before but I might have to catch up on his backlist. He passed away earlier this year.
I am so behind on posting my books! I went in for surgery in mid-October and I am finding my recall of events before and during that time are a little sketchy! So, my reviews might be a little thin here...
I really liked this book even though it turned out to be pretty darn hefty considering the subject matter. It was charming and engaging. I have never read anything by this author before but I might have to catch up on his backlist. He passed away earlier this year.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Pretty Baby by Mary Kubica
*** 3 stars
Not as strong, I think, as The Good Girl but it was pretty good. It dragged a little bit for me and I didn't really connect with very many of the characters. A good enough diversion but not a great read.
Not as strong, I think, as The Good Girl but it was pretty good. It dragged a little bit for me and I didn't really connect with very many of the characters. A good enough diversion but not a great read.
Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time by Jeff Sutherland
**** 4 stars
Reading this book for work (it was actually my suggestion!). First saw it on Book Riot as a "best book I read this month" title. It was actually quite good and engaging (for a work book!) The author was perhaps a bit too impressed with himself and the methodology but it was still a thought-provoking read. He did really lose me at the end when he suggests that Scrum can solve world hungry and other macro-issues (literally). But I did get a lot of useful understanding from the book.
Reading this book for work (it was actually my suggestion!). First saw it on Book Riot as a "best book I read this month" title. It was actually quite good and engaging (for a work book!) The author was perhaps a bit too impressed with himself and the methodology but it was still a thought-provoking read. He did really lose me at the end when he suggests that Scrum can solve world hungry and other macro-issues (literally). But I did get a lot of useful understanding from the book.
Hooked for Life: Adventures of a Crochet Zealot by Mary Beth Temple
**** 4 stars
Charming little reflections on the art and/or craft of crochet. Fun little tidbits and a quick read.
Charming little reflections on the art and/or craft of crochet. Fun little tidbits and a quick read.
Saturday, September 26, 2015
The Husband List by Janet Evonvich and Dorien Kelly
0 stars
I just lost interest in this. I was listening to an audio version of it while I completed a project. It was entertaining enough but I just wasn't compelled to stay with it after I found I had to renew it three times and still hadn't finished it. It seemed to be okay if a little cliched.
I just lost interest in this. I was listening to an audio version of it while I completed a project. It was entertaining enough but I just wasn't compelled to stay with it after I found I had to renew it three times and still hadn't finished it. It seemed to be okay if a little cliched.
The Perfect Comeback of Caroline Jacobs by Matthew Dicks
**** 4 stars
A deceptively slight book with quite a lot of emotional depth and impact. Very quick read, entertaining but quite moving. The character of the teenage daughter was particularly well-done.
A deceptively slight book with quite a lot of emotional depth and impact. Very quick read, entertaining but quite moving. The character of the teenage daughter was particularly well-done.
The Hand That Feeds You by A.J. Rich
**** 4 stars
Good mystery with an interesting protagonist and premise. Tapering off a little bit near the end, might make the case it got a little too tricky but it was an engaging read for sure. Enjoyed it!
Good mystery with an interesting protagonist and premise. Tapering off a little bit near the end, might make the case it got a little too tricky but it was an engaging read for sure. Enjoyed it!
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
0 stars
I'm amazed by the incredible love there seems to be for this book. I found it to be really talky and not much in the way of plot development.
I'm amazed by the incredible love there seems to be for this book. I found it to be really talky and not much in the way of plot development.
Alphabetical: How Every Letter Tells a Story by Michael Rosen
0 stars
Surprisingly dry and dull. Did not finish.
Surprisingly dry and dull. Did not finish.
Juniors by Kaui Hart Hemmings
* 1 star
I really struggled with this one and only finished it because I felt I owed the First to Read program the effort. Considering how much I loved The Descendants and how lukewarm I've been on this author's other works, it seems The Descendants may have been an outlier.
I think this is a YA novel and to be fair, I generally don't care for that genre too much. It's nothing I've examined too closely but it's a rare YA book that I can fully appreciate.
Of course, I loved the setting in Hawaii and getting a feel for everyday life there, but I never really connected with the characters.
I really struggled with this one and only finished it because I felt I owed the First to Read program the effort. Considering how much I loved The Descendants and how lukewarm I've been on this author's other works, it seems The Descendants may have been an outlier.
I think this is a YA novel and to be fair, I generally don't care for that genre too much. It's nothing I've examined too closely but it's a rare YA book that I can fully appreciate.
Of course, I loved the setting in Hawaii and getting a feel for everyday life there, but I never really connected with the characters.
The Mountain Story by Lori Lansens
***** 5 stars
I loved this book. Will be one of my top books of the year, I'm sure. Amazing book that combined an adventure element with emotional impact. I loved how the story unfolded and the relationships were revealed and developed. Raced through it; couldn't put it down!
I loved this book. Will be one of my top books of the year, I'm sure. Amazing book that combined an adventure element with emotional impact. I loved how the story unfolded and the relationships were revealed and developed. Raced through it; couldn't put it down!
Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll
0 stars
Another did-not-finish. Another Gone Girl wanna-be. This book was just so dismal and the main character was so unlikable, I didn't care to finish it. I looked for spoilers and I found I'm fine with not having bothered with this one.
Another did-not-finish. Another Gone Girl wanna-be. This book was just so dismal and the main character was so unlikable, I didn't care to finish it. I looked for spoilers and I found I'm fine with not having bothered with this one.
Armada by Ernst Cline
0 stars
I really tried with this one because I loved Ready Player One so much. My teenaged son read this one before I did (and before he read RPO), so I was eager to share it with him. But I just could not keep the interest level up. I generally don't like a lot of action sequences in a book, so that coupled with my lack of intimate appreciation for the type of video games in the story, let me without much to hold on to. I did not finish it, although I got quite a ways into it.
I really tried with this one because I loved Ready Player One so much. My teenaged son read this one before I did (and before he read RPO), so I was eager to share it with him. But I just could not keep the interest level up. I generally don't like a lot of action sequences in a book, so that coupled with my lack of intimate appreciation for the type of video games in the story, let me without much to hold on to. I did not finish it, although I got quite a ways into it.
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
*** 3 stars
Honestly, I was surprised to have to rate this book so low. I read this years and years ago before the movie was a twinkle in anyone's eye and I remembered it so fondly. Over the years, various anniversary editions of the book have added a bunch of extra stuff. It's this stuff I found to be rather a slog.....
The conceit of the book, of course, is that it's a book within a book and that Goldman is not the ultimate author. As a result, he's added a whole bunch of stuff about the "real" (not real) Goldman and how the "real" (not real) Princess Bride book came into his life. The story covered by the movie is really the entertaining part. I guess this is my way of admitting this is the rare case where the movie is better than the book.
Honestly, I was surprised to have to rate this book so low. I read this years and years ago before the movie was a twinkle in anyone's eye and I remembered it so fondly. Over the years, various anniversary editions of the book have added a bunch of extra stuff. It's this stuff I found to be rather a slog.....
The conceit of the book, of course, is that it's a book within a book and that Goldman is not the ultimate author. As a result, he's added a whole bunch of stuff about the "real" (not real) Goldman and how the "real" (not real) Princess Bride book came into his life. The story covered by the movie is really the entertaining part. I guess this is my way of admitting this is the rare case where the movie is better than the book.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
The Ice Twins by S.K. Tremayne
***** 5 stars
I loved this super-creepy and compelling mystery/thriller and I raced through it in no time at all. Contrast that with books that get put on a reading plan! You had to buy-in on some rather implausibilities but I was okay with that. It was so atmospheric and spooky. I just loved it!
I loved this super-creepy and compelling mystery/thriller and I raced through it in no time at all. Contrast that with books that get put on a reading plan! You had to buy-in on some rather implausibilities but I was okay with that. It was so atmospheric and spooky. I just loved it!
Black Dog Summer by Miranda Sherry
*** 3 stars
This was a book club choice. It started pretty slow for me and I struggled a little bit with it. I had to put myself on a reading plan to get through it; this is never a good sign. I figure out an end date to finish the book (in this case, the book club meeting) and figure out the number of pages I need to read each day. It becomes a bit of a task, I'm afraid. But it did pick up a little and I enjoyed the conversation about the book as others in the group liked it a lot more than I did.
This was a book club choice. It started pretty slow for me and I struggled a little bit with it. I had to put myself on a reading plan to get through it; this is never a good sign. I figure out an end date to finish the book (in this case, the book club meeting) and figure out the number of pages I need to read each day. It becomes a bit of a task, I'm afraid. But it did pick up a little and I enjoyed the conversation about the book as others in the group liked it a lot more than I did.
The Coincidence of Coconut Cake by Amy E. Reichert
**** 4 stars
Utterly fluffy and formulaic but there was something so charming and comforting about this book. It was just fun to read. It made me want to visit Milwaukee; it painted such a clear and compelling vision of the city. The food all sounded yummy, too. Lots of fun!
Utterly fluffy and formulaic but there was something so charming and comforting about this book. It was just fun to read. It made me want to visit Milwaukee; it painted such a clear and compelling vision of the city. The food all sounded yummy, too. Lots of fun!
Saturday, August 22, 2015
Vanishing Games by Roger Hobbs
*** 3 stars
This was a fun, fast-paced read about a jewel heist gone terribly wrong. I glossed over a lot of the action scenes; they really aren't my thing. But I like the cleverness of the thieves and other low-life types in the story.
This was a fun, fast-paced read about a jewel heist gone terribly wrong. I glossed over a lot of the action scenes; they really aren't my thing. But I like the cleverness of the thieves and other low-life types in the story.
Last Night in the E.R. - A Transplant Surgeon's Odyssey by Bud Shaw
0 stars
A did-not-finish for me. Received a free copy from First to Read but could not struggle through it. I felt dropped into the memoir without context and each chapter was a weird, random scenario. It was not at all what I expected and it was not interesting to me at all. I had no sense of the author, nor the others he tells about. Just rather disappointing.
A did-not-finish for me. Received a free copy from First to Read but could not struggle through it. I felt dropped into the memoir without context and each chapter was a weird, random scenario. It was not at all what I expected and it was not interesting to me at all. I had no sense of the author, nor the others he tells about. Just rather disappointing.
Just What Kind of Mother Are You? by Paula Daly
*** 3 stars
I listened to an audio book version of this. I found it to be quite engaging even if I felt the resolution was a little hard to buy. I think the reader did a particularly good job bringing the characters to life.
I listened to an audio book version of this. I found it to be quite engaging even if I felt the resolution was a little hard to buy. I think the reader did a particularly good job bringing the characters to life.
The Monogram Murders by Sophie Hannah
** 2 stars
This book started out so strong for me and just tickled this long-time Agatha Christie fan. I haven't read (or re-read, really) Christie in a long time but I devoured all her books as a teenager. Anyway, this book initially struck just about all the elements but eventually went a little sideways.
There was some introspection/psychological stuff with Poirot's "helper" that seemed anachronistic. Also, the book got pretty talky and the mystery was complicated in a goofy way, not a twisty/clever way. So, it was just okay as far as I'm concerned.
This book started out so strong for me and just tickled this long-time Agatha Christie fan. I haven't read (or re-read, really) Christie in a long time but I devoured all her books as a teenager. Anyway, this book initially struck just about all the elements but eventually went a little sideways.
There was some introspection/psychological stuff with Poirot's "helper" that seemed anachronistic. Also, the book got pretty talky and the mystery was complicated in a goofy way, not a twisty/clever way. So, it was just okay as far as I'm concerned.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Out by Natsuo Kirino
**** 4 stars
I really debate about whether or not this should be a 5 star book; it was that good. I found it hard to put this book down. It did take a little effort to get into the story with the Japanese names and styling (use of last name and "-san", etc.) but it was so well-written (and/or translated!) that I quickly caught on.
This is a dark, dark book but I really loved it. I couldn't wait to find out what happened and how the pieces (hee hee) would come together. Definitely not for everyone as it is very gruesome! Highly recommended if you have a strong tolerance for gore and very dark humor.
I really debate about whether or not this should be a 5 star book; it was that good. I found it hard to put this book down. It did take a little effort to get into the story with the Japanese names and styling (use of last name and "-san", etc.) but it was so well-written (and/or translated!) that I quickly caught on.
This is a dark, dark book but I really loved it. I couldn't wait to find out what happened and how the pieces (hee hee) would come together. Definitely not for everyone as it is very gruesome! Highly recommended if you have a strong tolerance for gore and very dark humor.
The Improper Life of Bezellia Grove by Susan Gregg Gilmore
** 2 stars
This didn't quite live up to my hopes and expectations. It was okay and readable enough but there wasn't as much substance as I would have thought. The "romance" was not handled particularly well and I never got much sense of Bezellia as a person; she seems to mainly move through the story. It was kind of a strangely unemotional book for a story that seemed so full of emotional moments. I was left pretty cold by it.
This didn't quite live up to my hopes and expectations. It was okay and readable enough but there wasn't as much substance as I would have thought. The "romance" was not handled particularly well and I never got much sense of Bezellia as a person; she seems to mainly move through the story. It was kind of a strangely unemotional book for a story that seemed so full of emotional moments. I was left pretty cold by it.
Runaway Twin by Peg Kehret
**** 4 stars
This book strained credibility and had a sensibility that it was of modern times yet of no time in particular. By that I mean it felt old-fashioned but not necessarily in a bad way. I did struggle, as an adult and as a parent, with some elements of the plot that kept it moving forward, such as the characters our heroine meets along the way; no adult seems concerned enough about her to call the police, for instance, or that she's allowed to rent hotel rooms without much question.
Still, there was something very readable and entertaining about the book and I enjoyed it. It struck a chord with me and had Kehret been writing when I was a child, I'm sure she would have been a favorite author for me. Her youngsters are independent and wily and I would have loved reading about them!
This book strained credibility and had a sensibility that it was of modern times yet of no time in particular. By that I mean it felt old-fashioned but not necessarily in a bad way. I did struggle, as an adult and as a parent, with some elements of the plot that kept it moving forward, such as the characters our heroine meets along the way; no adult seems concerned enough about her to call the police, for instance, or that she's allowed to rent hotel rooms without much question.
Still, there was something very readable and entertaining about the book and I enjoyed it. It struck a chord with me and had Kehret been writing when I was a child, I'm sure she would have been a favorite author for me. Her youngsters are independent and wily and I would have loved reading about them!
Constant Fear by Daniel Palmer
*** 3 stars
I've never read anything by this author but I found this to be a fun and fairly engaging read. I think I did get a little bit lost in the middle; it bogged down a bit and some plot points were a little outlandish but for the most part, this was an enjoyable read.
I've never read anything by this author but I found this to be a fun and fairly engaging read. I think I did get a little bit lost in the middle; it bogged down a bit and some plot points were a little outlandish but for the most part, this was an enjoyable read.
A few "DNF's"
Did not finish:
Carry the One by Carol Anshaw - this had such a promising premise but I found I disliked pretty much everyone involved in the plot and was not in the least interested in them or what happened to them.
Becoming Ellen by Shari Shattuck - I liked but did not love Inivisible Ellen so I wasn't especially excited to read this one anyway. And it was just a bit too "twee" for my taste. A little of that character Temerity (?) goes a long way and I felt I was supposed to just adore her. I did not finish this book; I received an ARC from the First to Read program
The Three by Sarah Lotz - too weird for me and some of the reviews comparing it to World War Z dissuaded me for continuing it. I struggled through WWZ and this seemed to be a similar style.
Carry the One by Carol Anshaw - this had such a promising premise but I found I disliked pretty much everyone involved in the plot and was not in the least interested in them or what happened to them.
Becoming Ellen by Shari Shattuck - I liked but did not love Inivisible Ellen so I wasn't especially excited to read this one anyway. And it was just a bit too "twee" for my taste. A little of that character Temerity (?) goes a long way and I felt I was supposed to just adore her. I did not finish this book; I received an ARC from the First to Read program
The Three by Sarah Lotz - too weird for me and some of the reviews comparing it to World War Z dissuaded me for continuing it. I struggled through WWZ and this seemed to be a similar style.
The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
**** 4 stars
I don't think this was quite a good as the first Calpurnia Tate book but it was another enjoyable read about this feisty young girl. Some of the novelty of the character and the setting has worn off and we are now in a comfortable place with these characters. Very enjoyable.
I don't think this was quite a good as the first Calpurnia Tate book but it was another enjoyable read about this feisty young girl. Some of the novelty of the character and the setting has worn off and we are now in a comfortable place with these characters. Very enjoyable.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
A Life Apart by L.Y. Marlow
* 1 star
I was surprised by all the glowing reviews on Goodreads for this book. I found it to be quite dull and struggled to get through it. I felt the writing was cold and mechanical and I never connected in any way with any of the characters. Very disappointed. I have the author's other book on my TBR shelve but I don't believe I'll be picking it up.
Please note -
I received this book from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for this review.
I was surprised by all the glowing reviews on Goodreads for this book. I found it to be quite dull and struggled to get through it. I felt the writing was cold and mechanical and I never connected in any way with any of the characters. Very disappointed. I have the author's other book on my TBR shelve but I don't believe I'll be picking it up.
Please note -
I received this book from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for this review.
This House is Haunted by John Boyne
*** 3 stars
This book surprised me by how readable it was. I worried that the old-fashioned setting and language would be off-putting, but that was not the case at all. It was an easy read with just enough of a creepiness factor for me (I'm a pretty big wimp!)
This book surprised me by how readable it was. I worried that the old-fashioned setting and language would be off-putting, but that was not the case at all. It was an easy read with just enough of a creepiness factor for me (I'm a pretty big wimp!)
Donna Bell's Bake Shop: Recipes and Stories of Family, Friends and Food by Pauley Perrette
*** 3 stars
A nice cookbook with mostly baked-goods. The photos were nice, that's usually a favorite part of a cookbook for me. The stories were okay; I did enjoy hearing how the friends got together but I would have liked more stories about the food. I suspect the recipes aren't as authentic to "Donna Bell" (the person) as the store owners would like you to think. But it was a nice read.
A nice cookbook with mostly baked-goods. The photos were nice, that's usually a favorite part of a cookbook for me. The stories were okay; I did enjoy hearing how the friends got together but I would have liked more stories about the food. I suspect the recipes aren't as authentic to "Donna Bell" (the person) as the store owners would like you to think. But it was a nice read.
Fear the Worst by Linwood Barclay
*** 3 stars
This is the first Barclay book I've read and I'm sure to pick up others. A fun, easy read with some intriguing elements. It wasn't anything earth-shattering but a good solid thriller.
This is the first Barclay book I've read and I'm sure to pick up others. A fun, easy read with some intriguing elements. It wasn't anything earth-shattering but a good solid thriller.
Around the World in 50 years: My Adventures to Every Country on Earth by Albert Podell
0 stars
I couldn't even get into this one; I wonder if it is actually a series of essays or columns all stuck together. I expected a bit of a lead-in to the "adventures" but felt dropped in mid-stream with no context.
I couldn't even get into this one; I wonder if it is actually a series of essays or columns all stuck together. I expected a bit of a lead-in to the "adventures" but felt dropped in mid-stream with no context.
Elliot Allagash by Simon Rich
** 2 stars
Pretty weird little book. I much preferred Rich's story collections but I do want to give his other novel, What in God's Name, a try.
Pretty weird little book. I much preferred Rich's story collections but I do want to give his other novel, What in God's Name, a try.
Friday, July 10, 2015
Decoded by Mai Jia
0 stars
Can't even get into this one; reviews are mixed anyway. I'm already struggling through a kind of boring, dry read for book club, so I'll pass on this one and move on to something more plot-driven and compelling.
Can't even get into this one; reviews are mixed anyway. I'm already struggling through a kind of boring, dry read for book club, so I'll pass on this one and move on to something more plot-driven and compelling.
You by Caroline Kepnes
0 stars
Abandoning this one; it's just too weird and icky. And it seems to be first in a series. Not grabbing me, so I'm moving on.
Abandoning this one; it's just too weird and icky. And it seems to be first in a series. Not grabbing me, so I'm moving on.
Big Girl Panties by Stephanie Evanovich
** 2 stars
This was okay, pretty fluffy and silly but okay. I was vaguely embarrassed the whole time I was reading it, I think because of the stupid title. I thought Holly was kind of funny but I didn't really see the appeal of the guy; he seemed shallow. I know we were supposed to see his emotional growth but it was all handled rather poorly. Just okay.
This was okay, pretty fluffy and silly but okay. I was vaguely embarrassed the whole time I was reading it, I think because of the stupid title. I thought Holly was kind of funny but I didn't really see the appeal of the guy; he seemed shallow. I know we were supposed to see his emotional growth but it was all handled rather poorly. Just okay.
Consequences by Aleatha Romig
** 2 stars
Kindle-freebie. Happened upon the title on a list of "Books You Won't Be Able to Put Down." Well, that was mainly true; this book was horribly written and read like a toned-down "50 Shades of Grey" but there was something quite readable about it.
I don't think I'll go on to the next books in the series as I find that, only a few days after finishing it, I've not spent even one second thinking about it until it came time to make this blog entry. My library doesn't carry these books and I wouldn't imagine paying for the next books; not when there are so many other books available.
Kindle-freebie. Happened upon the title on a list of "Books You Won't Be Able to Put Down." Well, that was mainly true; this book was horribly written and read like a toned-down "50 Shades of Grey" but there was something quite readable about it.
I don't think I'll go on to the next books in the series as I find that, only a few days after finishing it, I've not spent even one second thinking about it until it came time to make this blog entry. My library doesn't carry these books and I wouldn't imagine paying for the next books; not when there are so many other books available.
Gathering Prey by John Sandford
**** 4 stars
Entertaining Lucas Davenport story with all the typical elements.
Entertaining Lucas Davenport story with all the typical elements.
The Fold by Peter CLines
**** 4 stars
This read like it's just begging for a movie treatment (and maybe it is!). Lots of fun, crazy plot line and crazy science. I enjoyed the build-up a lot more than the ending; I don't really do so well with "action-y" sequences. I always find them kind of boring and find I tend to skim them. But this was a great summer read.
This read like it's just begging for a movie treatment (and maybe it is!). Lots of fun, crazy plot line and crazy science. I enjoyed the build-up a lot more than the ending; I don't really do so well with "action-y" sequences. I always find them kind of boring and find I tend to skim them. But this was a great summer read.
Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen by Mary Norris
**** 4 stars
This was a fun memoir of life as a copy editor. Read a bit like a collection of short stories as the chapters were almost self-contained. I really want to get a box of Black Wing pencils. Who knew there was so much mystery and intrigue and cult-status around a pencil!
This was a fun memoir of life as a copy editor. Read a bit like a collection of short stories as the chapters were almost self-contained. I really want to get a box of Black Wing pencils. Who knew there was so much mystery and intrigue and cult-status around a pencil!
The Mystery Writers of America Cookbook: Wickedly Good Meals and Desserts to Die For by Kate White
**** 4 stars
Pretty much a straight-up cookbook with recipes from various mystery authors. I liked all the pictures and the accompanying text with little stories about the food.
Pretty much a straight-up cookbook with recipes from various mystery authors. I liked all the pictures and the accompanying text with little stories about the food.
Spoiled Brats by Simon Rich
***** 5 stars
So, so funny. I especially liked the story of the pickled grandpa; so cute. A fun and quick read. I don't read a lot of short stories but sometimes they are really fun. Having an assortment and moving through them quickly is an enjoyable reading experience.
So, so funny. I especially liked the story of the pickled grandpa; so cute. A fun and quick read. I don't read a lot of short stories but sometimes they are really fun. Having an assortment and moving through them quickly is an enjoyable reading experience.
Finders Keepers by Stephen King
**** 4 stars
I enjoyed this read! It was fast-paced and pretty clever. I liked the riff on the Misery theme; sort of the dark side of being a fan and when enjoying a story crosses the line. I hadn't realized that Mr. Mercedes was the first part of a trilogy and I had sort of lost track of the Bill Hodges character but I'm glad to know there will be more!
I enjoyed this read! It was fast-paced and pretty clever. I liked the riff on the Misery theme; sort of the dark side of being a fan and when enjoying a story crosses the line. I hadn't realized that Mr. Mercedes was the first part of a trilogy and I had sort of lost track of the Bill Hodges character but I'm glad to know there will be more!
Saturday, June 20, 2015
My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick
** 2 stars
This was a choice for book club; I don't believe we understood it was a YA title when we chose it. It was an okay read; I felt the characters were a little superficial but the depiction of young love was quite charming.
This was a choice for book club; I don't believe we understood it was a YA title when we chose it. It was an okay read; I felt the characters were a little superficial but the depiction of young love was quite charming.
Diary of a Mad Diva by Joan Rivers
**** 4 stars
Listened to this on a long drive. Not much to say about Joan that hasn't already been said, so it was no surprise that this book gross, outrageous, politically incorrect (to say the least) and pretty darn funny. Some of the jokes got recycled throughout a little bit and some references were dated but it was a good diversion and I enjoyed it.
Listened to this on a long drive. Not much to say about Joan that hasn't already been said, so it was no surprise that this book gross, outrageous, politically incorrect (to say the least) and pretty darn funny. Some of the jokes got recycled throughout a little bit and some references were dated but it was a good diversion and I enjoyed it.
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
*** 3 stars
This was a gentle and charming read about a curmudgeonly old fellow. I had high hopes for it and it didn't quite live up to it for me but it was enjoyable enough. Felt a little long perhaps and I found my attention wandering sometimes. But I'm glad I read it.
This was a gentle and charming read about a curmudgeonly old fellow. I had high hopes for it and it didn't quite live up to it for me but it was enjoyable enough. Felt a little long perhaps and I found my attention wandering sometimes. But I'm glad I read it.
Monday, May 25, 2015
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal
**** 4 stars
I loved this crazy book! The structure of the stories was somewhat baffling but I enjoyed the ride so much I was wiling to let that go. As a Midwesterner and a Minnesotan by birth, I particularly enjoyed the references to local towns, locations and restaurants. The food descriptions were amazing. Just a fun, delightful read that I finished up like a delicious bite! Highly recommended and I'm so glad I received an ARC from First To Read. Thank you!
I loved this crazy book! The structure of the stories was somewhat baffling but I enjoyed the ride so much I was wiling to let that go. As a Midwesterner and a Minnesotan by birth, I particularly enjoyed the references to local towns, locations and restaurants. The food descriptions were amazing. Just a fun, delightful read that I finished up like a delicious bite! Highly recommended and I'm so glad I received an ARC from First To Read. Thank you!
Where They Found Her by Kimberly McCreight
** 2 stars
I found this book to be cluttered and rather hard to follow. Far too many characters who were indistinct and far too much jumping back and forth in an effort to keep the story tricky. I really only finished it because it was the book I had handy during a trip. Rather disappointing.
I found this book to be cluttered and rather hard to follow. Far too many characters who were indistinct and far too much jumping back and forth in an effort to keep the story tricky. I really only finished it because it was the book I had handy during a trip. Rather disappointing.
The Widow's Walk by Robert Barclay
**** 4 stars
Somewhat soapy and outside my usual wheelhouse of reading selections but I liked this gentle romance with a touch of the paranormal. Technically a ghost-story, I suppose, it was very readable and a quick, fun book. The ending might have been a bit hasty and unlikely but it seems with stories like this an author can make his own rules.
Somewhat soapy and outside my usual wheelhouse of reading selections but I liked this gentle romance with a touch of the paranormal. Technically a ghost-story, I suppose, it was very readable and a quick, fun book. The ending might have been a bit hasty and unlikely but it seems with stories like this an author can make his own rules.
The Royal We by Heather Cocks
**** 4 stars
Could there be a more perfect book to take on a vacation trip? I think not, so I was delighted that my reserve copy came in right before I left for a plane ride and a car trip to San Diego! Fun, fun, fun and the perfect read for devotees of the British royal family. Charming, frothy fun!
Could there be a more perfect book to take on a vacation trip? I think not, so I was delighted that my reserve copy came in right before I left for a plane ride and a car trip to San Diego! Fun, fun, fun and the perfect read for devotees of the British royal family. Charming, frothy fun!
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver
**** 4 stars
I wasn't sure I'd like this as it initially comes across as rather preachy and the whole experience (of living a year on your own land raising your own food) seems like the kind of luxury only the privileged can really do these days.
However, even though the somewhat lecturing tone persisted to some extent, I found the writing to be so good and the anecdotes to be so interesting, I ended up really enjoying the book. It was also thought-provoking and I find that I may ave some new outlooks on some of the topics. A good read and one I've recommended to others since finishing it.
I wasn't sure I'd like this as it initially comes across as rather preachy and the whole experience (of living a year on your own land raising your own food) seems like the kind of luxury only the privileged can really do these days.
However, even though the somewhat lecturing tone persisted to some extent, I found the writing to be so good and the anecdotes to be so interesting, I ended up really enjoying the book. It was also thought-provoking and I find that I may ave some new outlooks on some of the topics. A good read and one I've recommended to others since finishing it.
A Few Abandoned Books
Noting here a few titles I did not want to finish for one reason or another:
Dismantled by Jennifer McMahon - Got quite a long ways into this one but I didn't really like the characters nor care about them in any way. Moved on...
Housewitch by Katie Schickel - started out really cute but I just lost interest.
Darwin's Blade by Dan Simmons - started this one before I went on a trip and I wasn't engaged enough with it to bring it along. It's become stale now and I'm no longer interested.
Dismantled by Jennifer McMahon - Got quite a long ways into this one but I didn't really like the characters nor care about them in any way. Moved on...
Housewitch by Katie Schickel - started out really cute but I just lost interest.
Darwin's Blade by Dan Simmons - started this one before I went on a trip and I wasn't engaged enough with it to bring it along. It's become stale now and I'm no longer interested.
Beach Trip by Cathy Holton
** 2 stars
This was a book club selection and it generated pretty good discussion but I didn't particularly like it. I probably liked it least of all the book club members. It was okay but I felt the characters were not especially well-defined and the book was entirely too long for how slight a story it was.
This was a book club selection and it generated pretty good discussion but I didn't particularly like it. I probably liked it least of all the book club members. It was okay but I felt the characters were not especially well-defined and the book was entirely too long for how slight a story it was.
Lacy Eye by Jessica Treadway
***** 5 stars
This was a fun and tricky read. It's hard to say much about books like this without spoiling too much. It may have been a little slow to start but I quickly found myself captivated by the story. Recommend!
This was a fun and tricky read. It's hard to say much about books like this without spoiling too much. It may have been a little slow to start but I quickly found myself captivated by the story. Recommend!
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Never Tell a Lie by Hallie Ephron
*** 3 stars
A perfect read for a rainy day in which I could devote the whole day to reading! That almost never happens, even when I'm on vacation. The story was intriguing and kept me interested. I'm not sure it entirely held up, once all was revealed and you can tell this is an early book for the author. But it was an entertaining and non-taxing read.
A perfect read for a rainy day in which I could devote the whole day to reading! That almost never happens, even when I'm on vacation. The story was intriguing and kept me interested. I'm not sure it entirely held up, once all was revealed and you can tell this is an early book for the author. But it was an entertaining and non-taxing read.
The Room by Jonas Karlsson
**** 4 stars
This was a weird little book; took me a bit to get into it but then I read it straight through. Very odd, very thought-provoking and very sly. I thought it was clever and insightful and I'm glad I read it!
This was a weird little book; took me a bit to get into it but then I read it straight through. Very odd, very thought-provoking and very sly. I thought it was clever and insightful and I'm glad I read it!
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Descent by Tim Johnston
0 stars
I was also excited to get this new book which is getting good reviews. I loved the premise and was really intrigued. Sadly, I found the book to be really dull and the language stilted and annoyingly obscure. Moving on....
I was also excited to get this new book which is getting good reviews. I loved the premise and was really intrigued. Sadly, I found the book to be really dull and the language stilted and annoyingly obscure. Moving on....
The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro
**** 4 stars
An excellent choice for book club! I really enjoyed this thought-provoking book. It generated a lot of interesting discussion. I learned a lot about how artists really work and create art, especially painting. The book really made me think about the nature of creating and beauty and value. Highly recommended!
An excellent choice for book club! I really enjoyed this thought-provoking book. It generated a lot of interesting discussion. I learned a lot about how artists really work and create art, especially painting. The book really made me think about the nature of creating and beauty and value. Highly recommended!
Saturday, March 14, 2015
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
0 stars
Can't get into this one and with a mediocre recommendation from a trusted reading pal, I'm going to move on.
Can't get into this one and with a mediocre recommendation from a trusted reading pal, I'm going to move on.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
0 stars
I was super-excited to immediately get my hands on a Kindle copy from the library. This is a brand new book and I had just seen how Books on the Nightstand raved about it. Disappointed that I cannot get into this book either! Actually, since I also did not like this author's The People in the Trees, perhaps it's not so surprising.
I was super-excited to immediately get my hands on a Kindle copy from the library. This is a brand new book and I had just seen how Books on the Nightstand raved about it. Disappointed that I cannot get into this book either! Actually, since I also did not like this author's The People in the Trees, perhaps it's not so surprising.
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
*** 3 stars
This was another quick read. I knew it was in "verse form" which would not usually be something I would pick, so I was a little worried I wouldn't like it. Turned out that I found the style to be a non-issue and I liked reading this very personal memoir. I'm not sure it lived up to all the hype but it was a good read.
This was another quick read. I knew it was in "verse form" which would not usually be something I would pick, so I was a little worried I wouldn't like it. Turned out that I found the style to be a non-issue and I liked reading this very personal memoir. I'm not sure it lived up to all the hype but it was a good read.
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon
0 stars
A did-not-finish. Disappointed, after hearing for years how wonderful this book is, I'm disappointed I couldn't get into it. I wonder if it's a "guy's book". I don't know; when this happens I think for a minute there's something wrong with me and then I move on. As you'll see in subsequent posts, I've had a run through lately of raved-about books that left me un-engaged......It's not you, book, I'm sure it's me!
A did-not-finish. Disappointed, after hearing for years how wonderful this book is, I'm disappointed I couldn't get into it. I wonder if it's a "guy's book". I don't know; when this happens I think for a minute there's something wrong with me and then I move on. As you'll see in subsequent posts, I've had a run through lately of raved-about books that left me un-engaged......It's not you, book, I'm sure it's me!
Then and Always by Dani Atkins
*** 3 stars
This was a super-quick read and perfect for a car trip. It was a charming little "what-if" tale with some twists and turns.
This was a super-quick read and perfect for a car trip. It was a charming little "what-if" tale with some twists and turns.
Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast
***** 5 stars
It was a bit unsettling to read this the week my mother-in-law died but it was due back at the library! This was an amazing, painful, funny, insightful graphic novel about the author's experiences with her aging parents and their ends of life. I experienced the loss of my own mother a few years ago and now my husband's mother, all the while keeping an eye on my dad and seeing how his life is changing....well, let's just say the book resonated with me. It's candid and honest and hard to read, but also offers a great deal of comfort and wisdom. Highly recommended!
It was a bit unsettling to read this the week my mother-in-law died but it was due back at the library! This was an amazing, painful, funny, insightful graphic novel about the author's experiences with her aging parents and their ends of life. I experienced the loss of my own mother a few years ago and now my husband's mother, all the while keeping an eye on my dad and seeing how his life is changing....well, let's just say the book resonated with me. It's candid and honest and hard to read, but also offers a great deal of comfort and wisdom. Highly recommended!
Gray Mountain by John Grisham
*** 3 stars
I approach a new Grisham with a great deal of trepidation as he has become quite inconsistent. His books are definite "borrow, not buy" books. This was a good read with an interesting premise. Having to set the activities just a few years ago (the plot hinges on the economic downturn) as all a little bit awkward. I wonder if this is the start of a new recurring character.
This was a good mystery and I enjoyed the stories of the folks using the Legal Aid clinic, particularly the old lady who wanted to preserve her land and protect it from the mining companies.
I approach a new Grisham with a great deal of trepidation as he has become quite inconsistent. His books are definite "borrow, not buy" books. This was a good read with an interesting premise. Having to set the activities just a few years ago (the plot hinges on the economic downturn) as all a little bit awkward. I wonder if this is the start of a new recurring character.
This was a good mystery and I enjoyed the stories of the folks using the Legal Aid clinic, particularly the old lady who wanted to preserve her land and protect it from the mining companies.
The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg
*** 3 stars
This was a book club choice and although it was almost entirely different from what I expected, I found it to be a quick and enjoyable read. It generated good discussion with the group, too, especially around a little known area of WWII history, the WASPs.
I was much more interested in the "girls" of the All-Girl Filling Station than of Sookie's present day story. I found the Sookie character somewhat overwrought and hard to understand. But all in all in was a fun read!
This was a book club choice and although it was almost entirely different from what I expected, I found it to be a quick and enjoyable read. It generated good discussion with the group, too, especially around a little known area of WWII history, the WASPs.
I was much more interested in the "girls" of the All-Girl Filling Station than of Sookie's present day story. I found the Sookie character somewhat overwrought and hard to understand. But all in all in was a fun read!
Saturday, February 28, 2015
The Chocolate Rose by Laura Florand
** 2 stars
Oh, what happened to this series! I was just enchanted by the first two books in the Amour et Chocolat series; this was a terrible let-down. I had to force myself to finish it. It was just so....meh. I didn't really feel connected to the characters and the whole conflict was sort of false and the romance rushed and unbelievable.
I'll probably continue with the next book with the premise that this title may be a bit of misfit in the series.
Oh, what happened to this series! I was just enchanted by the first two books in the Amour et Chocolat series; this was a terrible let-down. I had to force myself to finish it. It was just so....meh. I didn't really feel connected to the characters and the whole conflict was sort of false and the romance rushed and unbelievable.
I'll probably continue with the next book with the premise that this title may be a bit of misfit in the series.
Laura Ingalls Wilder: A Writer's Life by Pamela Smith Hill
*** 3 star
An interesting, if somewhat dry, read on how Wilder's books were created and published. It's quite academic and therefore, skim-worthy but as a big fan of the books, I found myself rather interested. I'm not sure I learned much new but it's always fun to spend time in Laura's world.
An interesting, if somewhat dry, read on how Wilder's books were created and published. It's quite academic and therefore, skim-worthy but as a big fan of the books, I found myself rather interested. I'm not sure I learned much new but it's always fun to spend time in Laura's world.
Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler
**** 4 stars
I really enjoyed this quick and easy read. Quality-wise it is probably closer to a 3 but I found myself quite engaged. The story does strain credibility in spots and drives the book closer to a soap opera than a literary read but it was interesting and entertaining.
I really enjoyed this quick and easy read. Quality-wise it is probably closer to a 3 but I found myself quite engaged. The story does strain credibility in spots and drives the book closer to a soap opera than a literary read but it was interesting and entertaining.
Done in One by Grant Jerkins
**** 4 stars
Once again, Jerkins is the best writer you aren't reading. I will say this turned out to be my least favorite of his books so far, but I still really enjoyed it. A thoughtful and yet tricky study of the private life of a police sharpshooter.
Once again, Jerkins is the best writer you aren't reading. I will say this turned out to be my least favorite of his books so far, but I still really enjoyed it. A thoughtful and yet tricky study of the private life of a police sharpshooter.
A Few for the Life is Far Too Short Shelf
A collection of recent attempts that I abandoned at various points in the book and for various reasons....
Etta and Otto and Russell and James by Emma Hooper
This was a disappointment as it held such promise and sounded so quirky/cute. Sadly, I think it's too easy for quirky to devolve into twee and this crossed the line for me. The stylistic nonsense (no quotation marks) is something I can sometimes overlook if the story is strong enough. This was just a big yawn.
Midnight Riot by Ben Aaronovitch
Boy, I got quite a way into this one before it fell apart for me. Started out with a really intriguing premise and then got way too weird. I'll pass on this and the series.
Fifty Mice by Daniel Pyne
It's books like this that make me cynical about the publishing world. It's got a great concept but it's not well-written and it reads like a novelization of a movie. Rather flat and contrived, so I moved on.
Thinkertoys by Michael Michalko
Picked this up in the bargain bin; seems to be a business classic but one I'd never heard of. Was far less interesting than you'd think and far less profound. Felt like nothing new to me, so I didn't finish it.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
The Same Sky by Amanda Eyre Ward
*** 3 stars
I was very much looking forward to this new book by Ward as I've been just captivated by her previous titles. Intricate plots that eventually merge are pretty much my favorite literary device ever, and she had pretty much mastered that with Sleep Toward Heaven as far as I was concerned! This book, however, was much more obvious to me and not as surprise-filled or profound as I'd hoped. It was a quick read and I very much appreciated ("enjoyed" seems to be the wrong word) Carla's story in particular.
Alice was not quite as well defined and her story seemed padded with subplots (Evian, for one). I think the depiction of a couple devastated by infertility could have been handled better and more convincingly.
Still, there was a lot to like about the book. It did give me a lot to think about in terms of the current issues around illegal immigration.
I was very much looking forward to this new book by Ward as I've been just captivated by her previous titles. Intricate plots that eventually merge are pretty much my favorite literary device ever, and she had pretty much mastered that with Sleep Toward Heaven as far as I was concerned! This book, however, was much more obvious to me and not as surprise-filled or profound as I'd hoped. It was a quick read and I very much appreciated ("enjoyed" seems to be the wrong word) Carla's story in particular.
Alice was not quite as well defined and her story seemed padded with subplots (Evian, for one). I think the depiction of a couple devastated by infertility could have been handled better and more convincingly.
Still, there was a lot to like about the book. It did give me a lot to think about in terms of the current issues around illegal immigration.
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
***** 5 stars
Oh, why did it take me so long to get around to this book? What a delightful and charming book. It's not all sweetness and light by any means; it's definitely bittersweet but I loved the characters and the setting. Of course, it may be a bit of a cheat to pander to book-lovers, who are the ones most likely to read your book, by sprinkling the book with delightful discussions of books and their impact. I was happy to go along for the ride! This was a lovely fable of a book and I just adored it.
Oh, why did it take me so long to get around to this book? What a delightful and charming book. It's not all sweetness and light by any means; it's definitely bittersweet but I loved the characters and the setting. Of course, it may be a bit of a cheat to pander to book-lovers, who are the ones most likely to read your book, by sprinkling the book with delightful discussions of books and their impact. I was happy to go along for the ride! This was a lovely fable of a book and I just adored it.
The Burning Room by Michael Connelly
**** 4 stars
A very fine mystery and an entertaining read. I know I had a few missteps with a Connelly book a while back but I'm starting to think it was me, not the author! Very possible as I'm quite the fickle reader. Anyway, this was all that I would expect from Connelly; just good and solid. Still love the Bosch character and I particularly liked the handling of his new partner who's trying to learn the ropes.
A very fine mystery and an entertaining read. I know I had a few missteps with a Connelly book a while back but I'm starting to think it was me, not the author! Very possible as I'm quite the fickle reader. Anyway, this was all that I would expect from Connelly; just good and solid. Still love the Bosch character and I particularly liked the handling of his new partner who's trying to learn the ropes.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
The Woman Who Stole My Life by Marian Keyes
**** 4 stars
Four stars is definitely generous by I do love Marian so much, I'm happy to be generous. I found I really enjoyed this book and in that regard it definitely deserves four stars. But it's an odd book and it feels really like 2 or 3 books glued together and glued together somewhat awkwardly. The pacing is odd and we hear an awful lot about Stella's initial situation. Her recovery from that is very rushed and then suddenly we are in another book entirely.
But both books are fun anyway! Marian's trademark of humor and bittersweet charm is fully available. It was really fun to get a copy for the UK well in advance of the US publication in July of this year.
Four stars is definitely generous by I do love Marian so much, I'm happy to be generous. I found I really enjoyed this book and in that regard it definitely deserves four stars. But it's an odd book and it feels really like 2 or 3 books glued together and glued together somewhat awkwardly. The pacing is odd and we hear an awful lot about Stella's initial situation. Her recovery from that is very rushed and then suddenly we are in another book entirely.
But both books are fun anyway! Marian's trademark of humor and bittersweet charm is fully available. It was really fun to get a copy for the UK well in advance of the US publication in July of this year.
Deadline by John Sandford
**** 4 stars
I've approached the last couple Sandford novels, either the Virgil Flowers or the Lucas Davenport series, with a bit of trepidation. He's just become a little bit uneven and unreliable for me. He's not an auto-buy anymore but he's still an auto-hold at the library.
I was pleased that this novel was enjoyable and engaging. I do really like the character of Virgil Flowers and his adventures in a small Minnesota city. The intrigue in this one was pretty good even if somewhat extreme. Conspiracies involving many parties seem to strain credibility but I was game for the ride. I was much less interested in the plot involving the dogs and by the time I got to the end, I saw why it was there at all. And I was pretty much unmoved; it seemed sort of phony, but really a minor nit. Mostly a fun and fast read.
I've approached the last couple Sandford novels, either the Virgil Flowers or the Lucas Davenport series, with a bit of trepidation. He's just become a little bit uneven and unreliable for me. He's not an auto-buy anymore but he's still an auto-hold at the library.
I was pleased that this novel was enjoyable and engaging. I do really like the character of Virgil Flowers and his adventures in a small Minnesota city. The intrigue in this one was pretty good even if somewhat extreme. Conspiracies involving many parties seem to strain credibility but I was game for the ride. I was much less interested in the plot involving the dogs and by the time I got to the end, I saw why it was there at all. And I was pretty much unmoved; it seemed sort of phony, but really a minor nit. Mostly a fun and fast read.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Fourth of July Creek by Smith Henderson
* 1 star
I didn't finish this bleak and, to me, pointless book. I am wildly out of step with the majority of readers on this one but I plodded through this until something new and shiny arrived on my TBR pile. I think I was nearly 2/3 the way through this and it just wasn't catching fire for me. I was somewhat interested in the individual vignettes along the way but ultimately I was not really seeing the point of the anecdotes and where the book was really going. Just pretty bleak and filled with unpleasant people and events. Not sure I need that....
I didn't finish this bleak and, to me, pointless book. I am wildly out of step with the majority of readers on this one but I plodded through this until something new and shiny arrived on my TBR pile. I think I was nearly 2/3 the way through this and it just wasn't catching fire for me. I was somewhat interested in the individual vignettes along the way but ultimately I was not really seeing the point of the anecdotes and where the book was really going. Just pretty bleak and filled with unpleasant people and events. Not sure I need that....
The Chocolate Kiss by Laura Florand
**** 4 stars
This is the second book in Florand's Amour et Chocolat series and it is more of the delightfulness of the first book! The sparring couple from the first book make an appearance here, so I'm sure all the books in this "world" will tie together. And this world is just purely fun. Pretty sexy romance with all the typical elements and plot points but the trappings are just so charming; Paris, fashion, chocolates, macarons, pastries. What's not to love? Total escapism and I'm looking forward to reading The Chocolate Rose very soon!
This is the second book in Florand's Amour et Chocolat series and it is more of the delightfulness of the first book! The sparring couple from the first book make an appearance here, so I'm sure all the books in this "world" will tie together. And this world is just purely fun. Pretty sexy romance with all the typical elements and plot points but the trappings are just so charming; Paris, fashion, chocolates, macarons, pastries. What's not to love? Total escapism and I'm looking forward to reading The Chocolate Rose very soon!
Saturday, January 3, 2015
The One I Left Behind by Jennifer McMahon
*** 3 stars
This was another good thriller from McMahon; I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. This one was a little more "run of the mill" than The Winter People but I did enjoy it and found it to be quite readable.
This was another good thriller from McMahon; I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. This one was a little more "run of the mill" than The Winter People but I did enjoy it and found it to be quite readable.
Invisible Ellen by Shari Shattuck
*** 3 stars
I found this to be a charming and quirky story; it never fully got off the ground for me, but I was okay to coast along with it. Not sure it was as "deep" as it purported to be but it was cute and fun.
I found this to be a charming and quirky story; it never fully got off the ground for me, but I was okay to coast along with it. Not sure it was as "deep" as it purported to be but it was cute and fun.
Food: A Love Story by Jim Gaffigan
**** 4 stars
Very, very funny. Obviously it reads like one of his stand-up routines but that's okay with me. I chuckled my way through this and laughed out loud so often during a car trip, my teenage son asked to borrow it. Good humor; pretty clean and very clever. I'll count myself as a big fan!
Very, very funny. Obviously it reads like one of his stand-up routines but that's okay with me. I chuckled my way through this and laughed out loud so often during a car trip, my teenage son asked to borrow it. Good humor; pretty clean and very clever. I'll count myself as a big fan!
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