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    • 3 people found this helpful

    Betty's November Reads

    Posted by Betty in Smithers, 4 years ago

    Where Am I Wearing?

    53) Now Silence: A Novel of World War II by Tori Warner Shepard
    Both funny and horrifying, this is a very unusual book. Most of the action is played out in Santa Fe, NM and the Philippines POW camps. Please read the review I've posted on the group "Books That Take Place During WWII" (link at end of paragraph), there is too much to do this justice in a few words. The book is interesting at different levels, and was a fairly quick read. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting a different perspective of the war years. Also for all those with an interest in this botched portion of war history. Review: community.indigo.ca/posts/Books-that-take-place-during-WWII/group-277/520620.html

    54) Where Am I Wearing? by Kelsey Timmerman
    How many people think about their clothes, right down to their underwear and wonder who made them where? This is the start of Kelsey's journey of discovery. There is a lot packed into this book but it is not "preachy". It states facts, it humanizes the people, and gives us a lot to think about. I highly recommend this book. Review posted.

    55) Voices Under Berlin by T.H.E. Hill
    A bit of black humour here in this fiction based on fact of wiretaps in tunnels under Berlin during the Cold War. I would definitely recommend this book to those who like Cold War humor, history, and entertaining reading. Review posted here: community.indigo.ca/posts/Seriously-Funny/group-374/522563.html

    56) Pieces of My Heart: a Life by Robert J. Wagner
    The autobiography of a well-grounded man who never lost his awe of life or the movies. He also was humble enough to allow friends to help him in his darkest hours. A man whose gentility reminds one of an earlier time. I highly recommend this book, not just for movie enthusiasts, but for the joyous embracement of life, and the sharing of his sorrows and overcoming them. Review posted.

    57) The Songweavers by Kathleen McDonnell (YA)
    This is the final book in the Notherland Journeys Trilogy. My misfortune is that I have not read either of the first two. I say “my misfortune” because this is a lovely, lyrical fantasy. I definitely recommend it and am sure this pertains to the entire trilogy, I can’t imagine otherwise after reading this final book. Review posted.

    58) The Zookeeper’s Wife: A War Story by Diane Ackerman
    An amazing story of the ability of the mind to access the survival instincts we don't even know we possess. The location is the zoo in Warsaw, Poland during WWII. One woman's story of rescuing hundreds of Jews as a part of the Underground. This book is a must-read if we are ever to find an end to racism and despotism and I highly recommend it. Review posted.

    59) Jolted by Arthur Slade (YA)
    A fascinating, entirely different type of style and storyline to enjoy. A story about a 14-year old boy, Newton, with a very unusual heritage. All his ancestors were killed by lightning, and Newton is the last male descendant. I would recommend this book for children and teens 8-14, but not exclusively. Review posted.

  • Books 44-48

    Posted by Dusty, 4 years ago

    One of 2008's best books

    44) Fight Club by Chuck Palahnt ( 3/ out of 5) I can appreciate this book from a distance but it's all about rage against society and anarchy and that's just not me. Never have seen the movie....

    45) Marrow by Robert Reed ( 2 / 5) I joined 2 SF book clubs on Yahoo last month and this was the first book. Not really all that good and I think there were only two comments other than mine all month so not much of a bookclub either.

    46) Grass by Sheri S Tepper ( 2.5 / 5) This was the second book club selection and was actually pretty good...unfortunately there were no comments other than mine on the bookclub site. Bummer

    47) The Given Day by Dennis Lehane ( 3 / 5) Excellent. Lehane also wrote Mystic River and Gone Baby Gone but my understanding is that this book is much more ambitious than his previous work. Stylistically, it reminds me of E L Doctorow's Billy Bathgate except instead of gangs the book is about cops.

    48) The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larson ( 3 / 5) Starts slow but it turns into a top-notch thriller that ( Warning..Cliche) you just can't put down.

  • Books I Read In November

    Posted by Bookworm, 4 years ago

    54 - Gods Behaving Badly - Marie Phillips - This turned out to be a fun book to read, enjoyed. 3/5
    55 - The Sugar Queen - Sarah Addison Allen - I really like her style of writing. 4/5
    56 - The Handmaid and the Carpenter - Elizabeth Berg. Not one of her best, a short read but I found I could not stay focused on the story. 3/5
    57 - The Almost Moon - Alice Sebold. I totally hated this book. This was my second attempt to read this and I struggled through the whole book to get it read. 1/5

  • FINISHING OFF NOVEMBER

    Posted by Christine L, 4 years ago

    I've been doing a lot of driving lately, so two of these books amused me as audio books and one I actually sat down to read.

    73. SECOND GLANCE by Jodi Picoult. I'm not a huge Picoult fan, but this book sounded interesting and it was. A really good ghost story with accurate historical background about the "Eugenics" project in Vermount. Written in 2002 it is one of her older books. I enjoyed it much more than some of the more recent ones.

    74. CITY OF FIRE by Robert Ellis. I can't rave about this book. If I had been "reading" it, I might have put it aside for something else, but on audio I enjoyed it. A detective novel with a few interesting twists and turns along the way. I hate admitting this about a book, but it was quite forgettable once it was done.

    75. MILE HIGH CLUB by Kinky Friedman. I also listened to this book on audio. The narrator was wonderful, and I am sure that added much to my enjoyment of the book. The author has a quirky sense of humour which always appeals to me. I am definitely going to check out some of his other books.

  • 47. The Hour I First Believed - Wally Lamb

    Posted by MacFly, 4 years ago

    The new book by Wally Lamb, The Hour I First Believed, is a tremendous book. It starts first with its size – over 700 pages – and then with the depth of the story found between its covers. It begins with a husband and wife who have “survived” the shootings at Columbine. But the story then proceeds to be more much that just their reaction to the terrible day in 1999. The depth and detail taken with all the characters is a testament to the writing ability of Lamb. The story spans generations and the reader becomes genuinely invested in so many of them. This was a hard book to put down. I have loved every Wally Lamb that I have read – this is the third – and I hope he has many more to write in the future.

  • #19 Pat Capponi, Last Stop Sunnyside

    Posted by Eileen, 4 years ago

    Mystery set in the rough streets of Toronto

    Loved it. A mystery set in the streets of Parkdale, Toronto. I have walked along most of these streets so enjoyed having them show up in a mystery. This one is set among the folks scratching out an existence in the rooming houses of Parkdale. The detective is one of the rooming house residents, who gathers together a rag tag team of helpers when one of their own is murdered. I enjoyed the sympathetic portrait of the poorest of the poor and learning a bit about the varied stories of how people ended up at the bottom of society. Pat Capponi is a local poverty activist and has lived this life herself, so there is a truthful feel to the story.

    • 3 people found this helpful

    #60 - The Unquiet

    Posted by Kay, 4 years ago

    This was definitely a strange read. This book centres around sexual child abuse and Parker (former police officer and present day PI) trying to find the truth. The story also deals wiith the unseen (devil's agent, angel or lost spirit). The book is definitely a difficult read but was satisfying (whether right or wrong) when the unseen take action. I don't know if I will attempt another Connolly novel but I did not feel that I wasted my time reading this one.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    Some More Reads

    Posted by Lisa Voss, 4 years ago

    64. Sarah's Key. A woman in present time begins investigating the round up of Jewish people in Paris during the occupation and discovers a connection with her family. I enjoyed the story of Sarah the young Jewish girl (as well as you can enjoy a story of such horror) but I wasn't wild about the present day story.

    65. Good Grief - Lolly Winston. A young woman loses her husband to cancer and has difficulty coping. As sad as the subject matter is Lolly Winston's book made me laugh. This was a relatively light read that I would recommend.

    66. Nineteen Minutes - Jodi Picoult. This is about a school shooting and its aftermath. I'm not sure I'm a fan of Jodi Picoult. I've read 4 of her books and while I find them a compelling read for the most part I do find them in some instances predictable and am always disappointed in the ending. I can't even explain why but I may not bother with any more of her books.

    67. Mister Pip - Lloyd Jones. Set on an island in the Pacific its the story of a young girl and her teacher who becomes known as Mister Pip. As someone else said it was interesting and violent.

    • 1 person found this helpful

    #18 The Namesake, Jhumpa Lahiri

    Posted by Eileen, 4 years ago

    Follows two generations of Bengali immigrants

    This is a good one. The story begins in India with a young man who loves the Russian author Gogol. Then follows an arranged marriage, immigration to the US and children. The Namesake is one of the children, Gogol. The rest of the story is mostly from Gogol's viewpoint and is a kind of exploration of the experience of second generation immigrants, who are caught between two cultures. The tone is a little distant or formal, so it took me a while to read. I put it down, but then picked it up again, and was glad I did. Poetic and balanced.

  • #55 The Other Boleyn Girl

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 4 years ago

    56. The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory – Having read a couple of Philippa Gregory’s books a few years back (the Wideacre books) and having not liked them at all, I had not bothered picking this up despite it being about a favourite historical period. Then my librarian ordered it for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Has anyone seen the movie and is it any good?

    Really liked the portrayal of Mary - and the underlying theme of the book that glam and glitter is not all its cracked up to be. I'll keep my nice little farm in the country anyday...!

  • Canada Reads List out

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 4 years ago

    I read this morning on CBC website that the 2009 Canada Reads list is out. This year includes:

    1. Avi Lewis defending The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill.
    2.Sarah Slean defending Mercy Among the Children by David Adams Richards.
    3.Nicholas Campbell defending The Outlander by Gil Adamson.
    4. Anne-Marie Withenshaw defending The Fat Woman Next Door is Pregnant (La grosse femme d'à côté est enceinte ) by Michel Tremblay, translated by Sheila Fischman.
    5. Jen Sookfong Lee defending Fruit by Brian Francis

    I haven't heard of any of the defenders, but have read #1 & 2. Never heard of books 4 or 5. Sometimes I wonder how relevant Canada Reads is. Other times I love that it exposes me to new books.

    Have had The Outlander on my list - guess this will bump it up...

  • 31/50 Mister Pip, Lloyd Jones

    Posted by Debra Kwinter, 4 years ago

    Very creative plot which juxtaposes Dickens era and characters against poor, isolated contemporary children on a south pacific island wrought with war. Violent, interesting.

    • 3 people found this helpful

    A FEW MORE BOOKS UNDER MY BELT

    Posted by Christine L, 4 years ago

    67. MADE IN THE U.S.A. by Billie Letts. The story of Lutie and Fate, a brother and sister caught in a series of unfortunate incidents and on the road to Las Vegas to find their father. Things do not quite turn out as they planned when they discover they have been orphaned. Despite the often heartwrenching things they go through, this was a feel good book. I actually closed the cover with a sigh and a smile.

    68. THE SUMMONING by Kelley Armstrong. I must admit that YA books are a bit of a guilty pleasure. Every once in a while I like to sit down with a good story that I know I can finish in the course of an afternoon. I have thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld series and this YA venture into a similar genre certainly did not disappoint. The characters and story drew me in and she closed the book with a cliffhanger. I will be reading the others as they are published.

    69. THE STUPIDEST ANGEL by Christopher Moore. I laugh out loud when reading Mr. Moore's writing and this was no exception. He populates his books with quirky characters and improbable situations. This was an appropriate choice with the Christmas season fast approaching. Seasonal levity never hurts when you are in the throngs of Christmas planning. According to Mr. Moore's MySpace blog, we can expect a new release from him in February 2009. I for one am looking forward to it.

    70. LIKE A CHARM: A NOVEL IN VOICES edited by Karin Slaughter. This was a book of short stories that I picked up on the strength of writing contributions by Karin Slaughter and Kelley Armstrong (amoung a multitude of others). It was a unique concept for a book of short stories as each author was given a premise for the story ... to involve a specific charm bracelet and a murder. Each author wrote a story, and when combined into the book, the short stories told a progressive tale. Each story could very well stand alone, but Ms. Slaughter contributes both the first and last story in the book, which ties everything together wonderfully.

    71. THE LOST PAINTING by Jonathan Harr. Another of my adventures into fictionalized art history, this time about the life of Carravaggio and finding ... you guessed it ... one of his lost paintings. I enjoyed it.

    72. SWEETHEART by Chelsea Cain. The continuing saga of Susan (the reporter), Archie (the cop) and Gretchen (the serial killer). I admit, this series and its characters have me hooked. Although the plot line is a little redundant the characters have me captivated. I will definitely read the next installment to find out what happens to them in their lives (and OF COURSE) to find out what color Susan's hair will be.

  • 46. The Flying Troutmans - Mariam Toews

    Posted by MacFly, 5 years ago

    I tried to read A Complicated Kindness a couple of years back and it is one of the few books I didn't actually finish. I thought I should try Mariam Toews again. While I know there will be many people out there who loved this book, I am not one of them. I didn't enjoy the story, wasn't crazy about the writing style and didn't care about the characters. I did finish this one because I wanted to see it through. I think it's time to admit that her books just don't appeal to me.

  • Reads 36 through 43....an uneven group

    Posted by Dusty, 5 years ago

    36) Sword From Red Ice...J V Jones ((3 stars)) Book three of the Sword of Shadows series. Any fan of George RR Martin's books would enjoy this well-written series.

    37) No Country For Old Men...Cormac Macarthy ((2 stars)) I didn't enjoy this book as much as last year's The Road but maybe that's because I saw--and loved--the movie first. Not much different from the movie...I think the Coen brothers got a lot of credit that should have gone instead to Macarthy.

    38) Assassin's Apprentice..Robin Hobb ((2 stars)) Okay first book in a fantasy trilogy. Not a bad book just nothing out of the ordinary.

    39) Deadly Decisions..Kathy Reichs ((1 and a half stars)) A "Bones" mystery. Not my favorite in the series. The TV show and the books are different beasts entirely. I think I prefer the TV show.

    40) Ratcatcher..James McGee ((2 and a half stars)) An odd book. The author essentially lifts the main characters from Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe series (( which follows a British soldier through the Napoleonic Wars) and drops them down into a police procedural in early 19th century London. Could have been really bad but I enjoyed it.

    41) The Well of Ascension..Brandon Sanderson ((1 and a half stars)) Book two of the Mistborn series...it really annoyed me. The cover blurb boasts that the series features a well-thought-out system of magic. That's fine...as long as it's in the background, not up in your face, drowning out the plot, the characters, any drama...

    42) No Time For Goodbye..Linwood Barclay ((2 and a half stars) A nice little thriller....good enough that I'll try his other books.

    43) The Shadow of the Wind..Carlos Ruiz Zafan ((3 and a half stars)) Wow! It reminds me in some ways of Great Expectations. Both books open in graveyards--of sorts---although in this book the graveyard holds old forgotten books. The main character, Daniel, is told to choose one book and become its keeper. Daniel chooses The Shadow of the Wind and then becomes obsessed with uncovering that book's secret and tragic past. Funny. Romantic. Thrilling. This one has it all.

  • Book 65 - Brick Lane by Monica Ali

    Posted by Unknown User, 5 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

  • 72: My Marriage Is In Trouble ...

    Posted by Marion Abbott, 5 years ago

    ... that's how IN LOVE I am with this book!!! ; )

    The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer

    I can't remember which of you wonderful members first brought this work to my attention, but thank you!!!! Shaffer tells the tale of Juliet and Dawsey, connected just after WWII by a book and follows their friendship based on letters and the uniqueness of the Guernsey/Society. It's smart, hilarious, heartbreaking and romantic - a PERFECT Christmas gift for someone on everyone's list I think.

    For those of you who have also enjoyed this book, try Daddy Long Legs by Jean Webster - it's very similar in tone and set up, just not as heartbreaking.

    Did I mention I'm in love with this book? It has earned a spot on my 'friendly shelf'.

  • The Rose Labyrinth by Titania Hardie

    Posted by ChrisM, 5 years ago

    Does anyone know anything about this book? It came into the store a couple days ago and I am so intrigued by it...

  • #51 was a fast read that had me torn

    Posted by Charity, 5 years ago

    Of course, I pick a book because of its cover and there is no image available!

    "The Infinite Wisdom of Harriet Rose" by Diana Janney. I picked this book up because of the cover (again) and I read the back and it sounded pretty interesting. And I finished it really quickly, and there are passages I will be quoting, but in the end, I don't think I really liked this book. I blame the main character, a 14 year old girl, but I blame her because she really was a 14 year old girl and my didn't she just think she was the smartest cookie in the bag. There was wisdom in parts, but there was also an aggravating lack of wisdom and experience that made her meditations seem unbelievable. Ugh, I don't know....this book just made me confused!

  • Ode to the Apostrophe

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 5 years ago

    55. Eats, Shoots and Leaves by Lynne Truss – Ha ha. I loved this book – an ode to the humble apostrophe (and other points of grammar). I have wanted to read this for years, so when I saw it sitting on my grandmother’s bookshelf, I borrowed it right away. Who would have guessed that a book about grammar would be so entertaining? Highly recommended for anyone – especially those of you who are pained by a misplaced apostrophe.

    • 3 people found this helpful

    59 - Bones to Ashes

    Posted by Kay, 5 years ago

    I was not going to buy this book but won a weekend basket at a United Way option and this was in it. I did not like this book as much as other books that Reichs' has written. I found there was way too much going on and at times lost track of all the bodies and the perceived connection between them. The one thing I did like about the book was a little bit of history regarding the Acadian culture.

  • 64 - - What Was Lost --A wonderful first novel

    Posted by Joanna, 5 years ago

    What Was Lost by Catherine O'Flynn won the Costa First Novel award and was long listed for the Man Booker Prize as well as The Orange Broadband Prize.

    The novel moves from 1984 to 2003 and back. It is well written and keeps the readers interest.

    The novel shows how a single event touches many lives for decades. O'Flynn also touches on our consumer society.

    The story has some things which took me by surprise and I would highly recommend this book to all.

    What Was Lost is one of the books I will remember for a long time. I look forward to reading more by Catherine O'Flynn.

    5*****

  • 70 & 71: Nearing Seventy Five

    Posted by Marion Abbott, 5 years ago

    Starring Brian Linehan - George Anthony
    I was given this copy to read and review and although I had heard of "Linehan" I wasn't sure who he was. For those of you like me, Brian Linehan was a uniquely gifted interviewer that worked for CityTV when it was a new station, trying to establish itself in a competitive market. He had an incredible knack for researching details about celebrities and connecting them to choices and situations in their lives, often flooring them mid-interview. George Anthony was one of his closest friends, a columnist at The Toronto Sun when it was also new on the media scene and during the end of Linehan's life, had promised to write his memoirs. You can read my review (when I have time to post it!) but if you are a Torontonian or connected with the arts/media world, read this book.

    7th Heaven - James Patterson
    Of course I HAD to purchase this one in hardcover - I simply couldn't wait for it to come out in paperback! It's the latest in the Women's Murder Club series - the usual satisfying read. Question: anyone else finding Lindsay's love life a bit frustrating? ;)

  • And she crosses the finish line!

    Posted by Charity, 5 years ago

    This isn't what my copy looks like, but I would buy this book for the cover, and I like my cover too!

    #50 The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor.

    I found this title in a weird way. Reading one of the book blogs I get in my email there was an ad for a new graphic novel called The Looking Glass Wars. Then I noticed that it was based on a novel under the same title. I ordered the novel from the Rare and Used site and am really glad I did.

    If you enjoyed Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" then you should consider checking out this reimagining of the classic tale. Beddor asks, "what is Alice wasn't originally from our world, but was really from Wonderland? And what if Lewis Carroll wrote down her story, but changed the details in a fit of creative freedom?"

    I'm now looking forward to reading the sequel and the graphic novel.

    And now I can stop reading until next year!

    *giggle*

  • #22 - Ex-Terminator: Life After Marriage

    Posted by Virtopia, 5 years ago

    I enjoyed this book . . . it was about 435 pages, but it really could've been cut down to about mid to high 300s. Some of the storylines were quite unrealistic, but it kept me entertained for the most part.

  • 66/50...on goes Inspector Banks

    Posted by Amanda Augustine, 5 years ago

    66. Innocent Graves - Peter Robinson
    I love series writing and Peter Robinson is sure not to dissappoint. Here's the cover summary:
    When last seen alive, sixteen-year-old Deborah Harrison was on her way home from school. Her friend Megan thinks she saw the shadowy figure of a man behind Deborah as they waved goodbye on the bridge, but the fog was so thick that evening she can’t be sure. Not long after, Deborah’s body is found in the local cemetery. The murder terrorises the wealthy enclave of St Mary’s, Eastvale, and because Deborah was the daughter of a prominent industrialist, high-flying new Chief Constable Jeremiah “Jimmy” Riddle puts pressure on Detective Chief Inspector Alan Banks and his team to catch the killer without delay. And soon, partly thanks to the work of new boy Detective Inspector Barry Stott, it looks as if they have done it.
    But Banks is not convinced. While the community breathes a collective sigh of relief and turns into a lynch-mob, Banks examines the loose ends: a vicar, accused of sexually harassing a refugee worker, who lies about his whereabouts at the time of the murder; his straying wife; a schoolteacher with a dark secret; the accused’s vindictive ex-girlfriend; a teenage thug who has threatened Deborah and her family with violence. And then there are Deborah’s own family secrets. With each new piece of information, a different pattern is formed, until Banks is forced to incur the wrath of Jimmy Riddle if he hopes to solve the case.
    Nominated for a Hammett Award by the International Association of Crime Writers.
    Selected by Publishers Weekly as one of the best seven mysteries of 1996.
    Winner of the 1996 CWC Arthur Ellis Award for Best Novel.

    It was really quite a read, I'd recommend it, happy reading :)

  • 45. Mudbound - Hillary Jordan

    Posted by MacFly, 5 years ago

    Mudbound, by Hillary Jordon, is a book that stands out among others. It is her first novel and one that has placed this author on my watch list for her future works. The story revolves around Laura and her husband Henry and his brother Jamie. Set in Mississippi during the 1940s, the boundaries that existed between black and white residents is explored through a story that captures the reader from the very first page. Each chapter is told from the perspective of the various main characters allowing a greater depth to the story. Once I was a few chapters into this book, I couldn’t put it down.

  • Book 64 - Threats & Promises by Barbara Delinsky

    Posted by Unknown User, 5 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

  • #17 Rise and Shine, Anna Quindlen

    Posted by Eileen, 5 years ago

    Funny and moving drama

    Two New York City sisters - Meghan, a famous TV celebrity, moves in the best social circles and is admired by all. Bridget is a low paid social worker, helping the dispossessed of the city. They are each other's best friends and support, and Meghan is the star. Then Meghan's world starts to crumble, and Bridget steps up to pick up the pieces.
    I loved the bitchy descriptions of NYC high society - they are hilarious. And the contrast with Bridget's world of the dispossessed is good too. Bridget's fast talking, feisty, truth-telling receptionist, Tequila, provides light relief to the painful details of Bridget's client's lives.
    The story moves very briskly and is interesting throughout, and also very funny. I recommend this.

  • My First 40something...5 stars is my top mark

    Posted by Dusty, 5 years ago

    1) The Club Dumas...Arturo Perez-Reverte ( 4 stars ) Polanski and Johnny Depp turned this into The Ninth Gate but the book is more stylish thriller than horror. Excellent writing, this book really got me hooked on Reverte.

    2) Territory...Emma Bull (3 stars) Sort of like urban fantasy but set in the old west, retelling the story of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday but with dark sorcery in the background

    3) Acacia...David Anthony Durham (2 stars) Book one of a big fantasy series. Made a few best of lists last winter but the ending disappointed me. Still, I'll read the next one too

    4) Shadow and Claw...Gene Wolfe (3 stars) My first taste of Wolfe. Well written but not an easy read.

    5) Red Seas Under Red Skies...Scott Lynch (2 stars) Book two of the Lies of Locke Lamora. A fast paced read. High fantasy crossed with the caper genre.

    6) Slan..A E Van Vogt (2 stars) Ancient SF that I loved as a kid but I guess tastes change.

    7) The Mount...Carol Emshwiller (2 and a half stars) Imagine a world where humans have been conquered by teeny-tiny aliens and then turned into domesticated riding animals...A book with things to say.

    8) The Clocks...Agatha Christie (2 stars) She could really write

    9) Look to Windward...Iain M Banks (2 stars) The Brits are writing the best SF these days

    10) Killing Floor..Lee Child (2 stars) Slowly working my way through the Reacher novels...excellent thrillers

    11) Sky People..SM Sterling (1 and a half stars) Written like an old pulp novel....just OK

    12) Halting State...Charles Stross (2 stars) a fun SF romp.

    13) Bright of the Sky...Kay Kenyon (4 stars)One of my favorite books this year. A man re-enters an alternate universe based on ancient China that he stumbled upon once before to try to recover is missing memories and find his wife and daughter

    14) Mistborn..book 1...Brandon Sanderson (3 stars) Great start to this fantasy series but book 2 later on really annoyed me.

    15) Glasshouse...Charles Stross (3 stars) If you only read one Stross book, read this one.

    16) The Fencing Master...Arturo Perez-Reverte (3 stars) Beautiful book. Brings old Spain alive again.

    17) Wild Justice..Wilbur Smith (1 star) A dud

    18) Ysabel..Guy Gavriel Kay (2 and a half stars) Canadian. Winner of this year's world fantasy award

    19) Sharpe's Siege...Bernard Cornwell (4 stars) But then I'm biased. I've loved every one of these books following a courageous British soldier through the Napoleonic wars.

    20) Captaine Alatriste..Arturo Perez-Reverte (3 stars) If you like The Three Musketeers or The Count of Monte Cristo then this series is for you

    21) The Seville Communion...Arturo Perez-Reverte (1 and a half stars) A misfire for Perez-Reverte. I prefer his historical books.

    22) Die Trying..Lee Child (2 and a half stars) Another Reacher book

    23) Scar Night..Alan Campbell (2 stars) Book 1 of a series but I found his depiction of demonic angels disturbing and quit after this book.

    24) War For The Oaks..Emma Bull (1 and a half stars) Urban fantasy...I've seen it done better elsewhere.

    25) The Bonehunters..Steven Erickson (2 and a half stars) Book 6 of the Malazan series...read it up north at the beach..I'm saving Book 7 for next year

    26) Sharpe's Revenge..Bernard Cornwell (2 and a half stars) Almost done the Sharpe series

    27) Rebel..Bernard Cornwell (2 stars)..so I'll start another Cornwell series..love those prolific authors

    28) The Flanders Panel...Arturo Perez-Reverte (3 stars) A thriller, a mystery, a puzzle...an art restorer uncovers a secret puzzle hidden within an old painting

    29) The Name of The Wind...Patrick Rothfuss (2 stars) Start of a fantasy series, it's generated a lot of buzz

    30) Sharpe's Waterloo...Bernard Cornwell (3 stars) Actually my least favorite Sharpe book and now I've finished them all...goodbye my friend

    31) Purity of Blood......Arturo Perez-Reverte (2 and a half stars) Book 2 of the Captaine Alatriste series...I really became a Reverte junkie this year

    32) Worldbinder..David Farland (2 stars) There was a time when I really liked Farland's Runelord series but I think he's lost his way.

    33) The Moving Finger...Agatha Christie (2 and a half stars) Entertaining read even without the mystery element

    34) The Accidental Time Machine..Joe Haldeman (1 and a half stars) Garnered some good reviews but it did nothing for me

    35) The Snake Stone..Jason Goodwin (2 stars) The sequel to The Janissary Tree. A mystery series set in Constantinople starring a clever eunach

    ...that's enough for now....

    • 2 people found this helpful

    #58 - The Murder Stone by Louise Penny

    Posted by Kay, 5 years ago

    I am a Louise Penny fan and was not disappointed with her newest offering. The novel was a comfortable, light read and I had a hard time putting it down.
    I cannot wait for her next book.

  • Might have posted this already 82-84

    Posted by Bookmason, 5 years ago

    I think I tried to post this a week or so ago, but the website decided to lock up on me. Three books that I thoroughly enjoyed, two fantasy, one scifi.

    82 Twilight Herald - Tom Lloyd - Book 2 in the Twilight Realm series continues where Stormcaller left off. Just a rocking good read in dark sword and sorcery tale. This feels like the transition book in the series as plot lines are expanded and our main characters face a variety of personal and physical crisis. Darn good stuff, if you like Erikson's Malazan books give this series a try.

    83 - Return of the Crimson Guard - Ian C. Esslemont - Second book by Esslemont in the Malazan series and quite a departure from his first. The first happened in one night and was a rapid fantasy tale, almost a junkie's fix for those addicted to Steven Erikson's Malazan books. This is a much more layered tale like Erikson's books and is a more than welcome expansion of Erikson's story.

    The Malazan books keep throwing new stuff up and if you like layered complex, surprising tales you must read this. Nothing in fantasy right now compares to these and I include Martin and everyone else. After a short breather, I need to absorb all that happened in this story I will be heading into Book 8 Toll of the Hounds by Erikson. Two more left there don't know how I'll last next two years until they arrive.

    84 Horizons - Mary Rosenblum - Needed a shorter different novel after several very good fantasy books and had this Scifi novel in my stack since last winter when its cover blurb attracted my attention. Kept getting pushed to the bottom by other books - shouldn't have as it was a thoroughly enjoyable read.

    Ms Rosenblum was written an updated Moon is a Harsh Mistress story of rebellion and freedom. A wonderful book, fast paced from start to finish, with plenty of intrigue and action. A well written book mainly set in near Earth orbit space habitats that looks at a near future where humanity is starting to outgrow the rules of the home planet. Both the science and politics of the story are very believalbe as are the characters and their interactions. Strongly recommended for those who liked Heinlien type tales..

  • Answer to Marion's Question

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 5 years ago

    Hi Marion - wasn't sure how best to answer the question you posted under comments on my last post.

    The book you are missing is called The Edge Of The Cloud. It is the second of the Flambards series and, incidentally, the only one that does not have the name of the house in the title. Hope this helps :)

    • 3 people found this helpful

    #19 Not Guilty by Debbie Travis

    Posted by Mary Ellen Anaka, 5 years ago

    This is not your usual Debbie Travis book. It's not about Decorating, Painting, etc. It's about being a Mom and how she managed to cope with working, kids, marriage, tv shows, books, etc. It is a very quick read and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Debbie Travis is so down to earth and normal. She does not put on airs in this book. Some things you'll recognize, because you've been there. Some things will make you laugh and some will make you cry. Very enjoyable Read. I recommend that all Mom's should read this book.

  • MIDDLE OF NOVEMBER (CLEANING UP)

    Posted by Christine L, 5 years ago

    Since quite a few of my favourite authors have ganged up on me and are releasing new books this month, I dedicated the first half of November to finishing off books that I had started and then put aside to read something else.

    62. SPECIAL TOPICS IN CALAMITY PHYSICS by Marish Pessl. This book received a lot of hype. In my opinion it can best be compared to the television show SEINFELD. Not because of the topic, but because the first two thirds of the book are about nothing. It tells the story of the everyday life of a high school student and her, somewhat eccentric, university professor father. While their lives were not boring to read about, I kept expecting something to happen. Then, when something finally did happen, I was drawn in for a little while. It became interesting. Alas, in the resolution, the book went so over the top that I really didn't care about the outcome any more. In my humble opinion this was just a book that tried too hard and became a mish-mash. I would be really interested in hearing from others who have read it.

    63. MICHELANGELO AND THE POPE'S CEILING by Ross King. I enjoy Ross King's writing on topics of art history. He presents the facts in an entertaining way that does not read like a text book and, he is a welcome addition to my library of Canadian born authors. This book told the story of the painting of the Sistine Chapel ceiling. I read this book in anticipation of going to a lecture presented by the authors of THE SISTINE SECRETS. Having read Mr. King's book, I think I will be saving my money and not purchasing THE SISTINE SECRETS. I would like to read one of Ross King's fictional books, so maybe I'll invest the savings there.

    64. HEARTSICK by Chelsea Cain. Loved it. It is the story of Archie (the "defective" detective) and Susan (the "pink haried" reporter) and their adventures in trying to capture a serial killer. We are introduced to interesting characters, including a female serial killer who could easily swap grizzly stories with Hannibal Lecter.

    65. GARGOYLE by Andrew Davidson. What can I say about this book that has not already been said. It was a brilliant read, an unusual writing style, and a somewhat unique story. I put off reading this for some time because of the rumours of the graphic "burn" descriptions ... it was worth getting through that part and it really is integral to the story. Just don't read it while you are having lunch!

    66. THE GENIUS by Jesse Kellerman. A young art dealer is introduced to the mysterious artwork of an artist who has just as mysteriously disappeared. He becomes obsessed with the artist and is determined to find him, or at the very least find out about him. The story is the story of his quest. It takes us down a winding path that turns out to be a very interesting circle. GOOD READ!

    • 8 people found this helpful

    63 -- Good To A Fault (A Giller Finialist)

    Posted by Joanna, 5 years ago

    Good To A Fault by Marina Endicott

    Clara Purdy is a divorced childless woman whose life changes the day she crashes her car into the car of a down and out family. When the mother, Loraine, is hospitalized, due to cancer not the accident, Clara takes over the care of the 3 children and the elderly grandmother.

    This is a story of how being "good" or doing the "good thing" affects the lives of Clara and Lorraine's family.

    Well written and easy to red, the characters are mostly likeable and I cared about what was happening to them.

    The cover had a quote from Elizabeth Hay about the fine line between being useful and being used and I think that is a good description of Clara's story.

    I believe that this novel was a good pick for the Giller short list. Well worth adding to your to read list.

    4 1/2 ****

  • 62 -- The Glass Castle - A Memoir

    Posted by Joanna, 5 years ago

    The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

    This memoir of a dysfunctional family is a story of triumph, Jeannette and her siblings struggled and survived. The children supported each other and found a way "out" and created successful lives.

    The story is not told as a "poor me" story but Walls shows that she had the intelligence and guts to dig her way out of the hole her parents had the family in.

    As well Walls also is able to see the good in her parents; over looking their faults.

    This is a story which makes one grateful for what we have and the life our parents were able to provide us, but also makes us wonder if we could have survived the life the Walls children had.

    This book makes one appreciate our lives.

    Well worth reading. 5*****

  • Five more...

    Posted by Cathy, 5 years ago

    41. The Host -by Stephenie Meyer
    I read this to determine if I wanted to start the Twilight Series. Result: still undecided. I enjoyed the book - she told a good (though not unique) story, but the writing was just okay.

    42. G is for Gumshoe -by Sue Grafton
    If you enjoy this series, this installment does not disappoint!

    43. Aim High -by Tanni Gray Thompson
    This was a "Quick Read" written by a British wheelchair racer. I was looking for something sporty and inspiring to read as the snow descended and I would have to give up running (which I love!) for the winter and get back on the exercise bike (which I don't like so much, except that it is possible to read while cycling). The book was interesting but lacked depth. Mostly it spouted her philosophy of life rather than the sweaty reality I was searching for.

    44. Big Boned -by Meg Cabot
    I read a lot of Meg Cabot because I find her funny. This wasn't one of her best, but she certainly understands her main character Heather. I wonder what it must be like inside of Cabot's head - so many fun characters live there!

    45. The Story of Edgar Sawtelle -by David Wroblewski
    Well written, well researched, this is an excellent book. (That's why Oprah picked it.)

  • 61 - 63 Grace, The Red Tent & Things the Grandchildren should know

    Posted by Unknown User, 5 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

    • 5 people found this helpful

    # 61 -- No Great Mischief -- 5/5

    Posted by Joanna, 5 years ago

    No Great Mischief by Alistair Macleod

    A truly great novel, the narrator Alexander MacDonald reveals the story of his family who left the highlands of Scotland in 1779 and resettled in "The Land of Trees". The late 1700 were a time of the exodus of the highland people to Cape Breton & the Hebrides.

    The novel is about the strengths of Family "Always take care of your Blood" and explores the tie that binds us to the land of our ancestors.

    The novel gives a brief history of the people of Scotland. I enjoyed the history especially after a recent trip to the Highlands and Hebrides. While there the "Clearances" were mentioned often because everyone had family who were cleared from the land and shipped to Canada. It was interesting to read this same history in such a moving novel.

    I would recommend this novel to everyone.

    5*****

  • 44. Human Amusements - Wayne Johnston

    Posted by MacFly, 5 years ago

    While I liked several of Wayne Johnston's novels better than this one (he is one of my favourite Canadian authors), I also enjoyed this book. The book tells the story of TV character Philo Farnsworth and child actor Henry Pendergast and the complex lives of Henry and his parents.

  • #16 The Choir, Joanna Trollope

    Posted by Eileen, 5 years ago

    Struggles within an English choir school to axe or preserve its choir....

    I really enjoy Joanna Trollope's novels. They are about the sort of people I'll never meet, but enjoy hearing about. This one takes place in a little closed society, a choir school in England. The plot involves a dean of the school plotting to get rid of the famous and fabulous choir, a headmaster trying to save it, and various other colourful characters. I especially loved Henry, the choir boy with the angelic voice and matter of fact temperament. I also identified with the love of music and tradition displayed by a lot of the characters, and the descriptions of a quieter and more traditional way of life. A good read.

  • Two more

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 5 years ago

    53. Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman – I didn’t know this was a movie until today, but I read this over the weekend, and found it enjoyable. The story of two sisters, their aunts, their daughters/nieces – and the family bonds that are inevitable and forever. Also a story of magic – both the supernatural kind, and the kind that all families have but are not always aware of.

    54. Chart Throb by Ben Elton - Library book by the author of Inconceivable (a book that had me in stitches). This one is not as funny, but that could be because I don’t watch or get reality shows, which is what the book is based on. Still, parts were funny, and I could skip some of the “over the top” humour without losing the thread of the story.

  • #49 means I am almost there!

    Posted by Charity, 5 years ago

    So much focus on chess, and I still don't know how to play!

    So I'm thinking I will just stop reading after I finish my 50th book.

    Hah!

    #49 The Eight by Katherine Neville.
    Think "The DaVinci Code" gets obsessed with chess and math. This story focuses around a centuries old battle to become the controller of a famed chess service with alchemical powers. I will be reviewing this if you are interested in more information.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    Catching Up -- #24 to #28

    Posted by BookThia, 5 years ago

    I'm not sure I'll make it to 50, unless I start counting all the children's books I read with my kids, LOL. Anyhow, here's the last 5 I've completed. There are reviews for them all except the Pausch book on my bookshelf. The Last Lecture was wonderful -- but I'm not sure its the kind of book everyone appreciates. I read it aloud with my 13 year old son, and it was a great conversation-starter for us for quite a few weeks.

    28. Sophie's World by Jostein Gaardner -- Rated 3*
    27. The Eight by Katherine Neville -- Rated 4*
    26. Wicked by Gregory Maguire -- Rated 4*
    25. The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch -- Rated 5*
    24. Here on Earth by Alice Hoffman -- Rated 3*

  • #57 - Vanishing Act by Thomas Perry

    Posted by Kay, 5 years ago

    Have you ever had a book that you just don't know if it is a hit or miss? This book is that for me. It has a very slow start and nearly lost me but I had heard only good thinks about this book so kept reading. It picked up and then I was loving it but unfortunately slowed down again and finished with a bang. I would read Perry again because he really put you in the place. The story starts with Jane Whitefield, a loving soul, who helps those in need of disappearing. It takes you back to Jane's home and discusses her native Indian background. It also joins her background, knowledge with her helping those vanish. It is a mystery and there are bodies and discoveries.

  • On the way to 100......Peter Robinson

    Posted by Amanda Augustine, 5 years ago

    I like Peter Robinson's style of writing. He lives in Toronto, but is orginally from the UK, so that is where he sets his books in. Inspector Banks is perhaps a modern day Sherlock Holmes. I've listed what the books jacket says, all 5 are great and I especially liked Wednesday's Child and Past Reason Hated. Happy reading.
    61. A Dedicated Man - Peter Robinson
    The body of a well-liked local historian is found buried under a wall near the village of Helmthorpe. Who could have killed him; Penny, a beautiful folk singer with a mysterious past, a shady land-developer, and a local thriller writer are all suspects. A young girl, Sally Lumb, knows more than she lets on, and her knowledge could lead to danger. Inspector Banks’s second case unearths disturbing secrets.
    62. A Necessary End - Peter Robinson
    Violence erupts at an anti-nuclear demonstration in Eastvale, leaving one policeman stabbed to death. As if this isn’t enough to cope with, Banks finds his freedom hampered by the politically-motivated appointment of an old enemy, Detective Superintendent Richard “Dirty Dick” Burgess, to head the investigation. Finally, warned off the case, the only way Banks can salvage his career is by beating Burgess to the killer. As the two head for a final confrontation, Banks pieces together the full story behind his most tragic case so far.
    63. The Hanging Valley - Peter Robinson
    A faceless, maggot-ridden corpse is discovered in a tranquil, hidden valley above the village of Swainshead. When the identity of the body is discovered, so is a possible connection with an unsolved murder in the same area five years ago. When the Colliers use their influence to slow down the investigation, Inspector Alan Banks heads to Toronto to track down the killer. He soon finds himself in a race against time as events rush towards the shocking and haunting conclusion of his fourth case.
    64. Past Reason Hated - Peter Robinson
    The body of Caroline Hartley is found one evening before Christmas by her lover, Veronica Shildon. It is a cosy scene–log fire, sheepskin rug, Vivaldi on the stereo, Christmas lights and tree–but Caroline is naked and covered in blood. Detective Constable Susan Gay is the first detective at the scene. She has recently been promoted to C.I.D. and the case soon takes on overwhelming professional and personal importance for her. Inspector Banks’s fifth case is an ironic, suspenseful tale of family secrets, hidden passions and desperate violence. Winner of 1991 Arthur Ellis Award for Best Crime Novel.
    It's a great book, I couldn't put it down.
    65. Wednesday's Child - Peter Robinson
    When a well-dressed couple, claiming to be social workers, appear at Brenda Scupham’s door, saying they must take her seven-year-old daughter, Gemma, into care after allegations of abuse, Brenda is confused and intimidated enough to hand the child over. But when the couple, Mr Brown and Miss Peterson, fail to bring Gemma home, Brenda realizes she has made a terrible mistake. As the days go by, Detective Chief Inspector Banks begins to lose hope of finding Gemma alive. Then a rambler finds a body in the ruins of an old lead mine, and the two cases begin to converge in a terrifying way, leading Banks to a showdown with one of the most chillingly evil criminals he has ever come up against. Nominated for an Edgar Award by the Mystery Writers of America.
    I really enjoyed Wednesday's Child, you may think you know everything, but just when you least expect it, you of course don't.

    • 2 people found this helpful

    #15 Daddy's Girl, Lisa Scottoline

    Posted by Eileen, 5 years ago

    A prison riot leaves 2 men dead. Natalie, law professor and lover of Shakespeare, happens to be there to teach a course on literature and the law. Like it or not, she's involved, and she races to find out what really happened.

    This book has great style and the story speeds along, with a likable detective. Once I thought about it, it seemed to me that the ending was a bit contrived (can't say what the problem was without spoiling it). It's a good read anyway.

  • 14 The Friday Night Knitting Club, Kate Jacobs

    Posted by Eileen, 5 years ago

    Georgia has carefully put together a life for herself and her daughter by creating a small knitting boutique in New York City. A small group of knitters start congregating every Friday. The book follows their stories. Kind of a cozy type of story where you wish you had friends like these perhaps. Not bad. My favorite character is Darwin, the women's studies grad student who always says the wrong thing. Maybe I should take up knitting this winter...

  • 69: Why Different Names?

    Posted by Marion Abbott, 5 years ago

    While buying up the Women's Murder Club series for my vacation, I came across
    Gatecrasher by Madeleine Wickham
    (I think I've got this straight ...) Sophie Kinsella is actually a pen name, and Madeleine Wickham is her real name? So this book is by the same author. phew!

    The book was interesting - a unique premise: a woman crashes funerals in search of a successful (read: financially rewarding) liaison with a widower. What I found most refreshing was that the main character was very flawed and remained so to the end, no last minute "I'm going to change my life and be a better person!" I found the overall tone darker and explored more realistic relationships then the other books of hers that I've read. If you're a fan, definitely give this one a try ...

    Question: why DO authors use 'pen names'? is it to conceal their identities? test the market without their 'million dollar bestseller' plastered on the cover? once again, I'm curious ... :)

  • Advanced copies...

    Posted by ChrisM, 5 years ago

    I'm not sure it was this group or not- but somewhere I read a post about how to get ARCs of books...and I can't find that post. It included links to different web sites. etc. Anyone know what I am talking about?

  • 65-68: A Vacation With The Women's Murder Club

    Posted by Marion Abbott, 5 years ago

    This is a highly addictive series of books! I love how Patterson captures an (somewhat?) authentic atmosphere and energy that surrounds those people that work in law enforcement. Although he writes 'the sensational', I think he also gives a good representation of some of the mundane details and routine that are a part of the job.

    Apparently there is a seventh book in the series which somehow escaped my notice when I went shopping before my vacation started - so I'm off to the world of Sophia Kinsella tomorrow ... only one more full day of movie-watching and book-reading left in my vacation ... boo hoo ...

  • My October Reads

    Posted by Claire Humphrey, 5 years ago

    97. Hussein by Patrick O'Brian. A novel of India, written by a man who never visited the country. Far inferior to his Aubrey novels.

    98. Stress of Her Regard by Tim Powers. See my review--vampires and Romantic poets.

    99. Unclean Spirits by MLN Hanover. A rather messy paranormal--decent action but a lot of underdeveloped characters.

    100. Generation Loss by Elizabeth Hand. Great book to choose for my hundredth read of the year: moody, intelligent and thrilling.

    101. Rest Falls Away by Colleen Gleason. Boring paranormal, poor sense of period.

    102. Killing Circle by Andrew Pyper. Strong Toronto horror novel; see my review.

    103. Tall Dark & Dead by Tate Hallaway. This was only OK. I'm really going to have to stop reading paranormals as I keep getting disappointed.

    104. Ghost by Robert Harris. Strong suspense novel which I read on the plane between Chicago and Toronto. It got me halfway there--it's quite short.

    105. New Amsterdam by Elizabeth Bear. I've really enjoyed just about everything I've read of Bear's, and this one didn't disappoint.

    October was a poor reading month for me as I was working insane hours. November promises to be better--not only do I expect to have more time, but there are some new releases I've been anticipating!

  • 49 to 55

    Posted by Lady Ethereal Butterfly, 5 years ago

    I haven't posted here for a long time, so I'm overdue for a post. I have reviewed every book, except Breakfast at Tiffany's.

    49. Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Truman Capote -- I enjoyed this book a lot. It had an almost poetic beauty to it.

    50. Loose Girl: A Memoir of Promiscuity by Kerry Cohen -- A very honest memoir about a troubled girl.

    51. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath -- I loved this book. It really took on a whole new meaning when considering the life and death of Sylvia Plath.

    52. Club Dead by Charlaine Harris -- Delightful!

    53. Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris -- My favorite book in the Southern Vampire series so far!

    54. The Story of a Widow - Musharraf Ali Farooqi -- Loved it! It’s a very touching story of self-discovery and the search for happiness.

    55. Skin Game – Caroline Kettlewell -- While the subject matter (self-mutilation) is a bit hard to read about, the author was so open about her thoughts and actions that it was a mesmerizing read.

  • The rest of October's books

    Posted by Denise Nielsen, 5 years ago

    49. Scarlet Feather by Mauve Binchy – someone else here read Binchy, putting me in the mood for a Sunday cup-of-tea-and don’t disturb-me-kids I’m-reading afternoon. Binchy’s books always fit the bill for that.

    50. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte - The allure of the moors. Great brooding atmospheric novel for this time of year. I know many who don’t like this novel, but I’m fascinated enough to read it every few years.

    51. September by Rosamunde Pilcher – Because Maude Binchy wasn’t enough. Another friendly, heart-warming novel, peopled with characters you’d like to hang out with, drink wine with, eat with.

    52. Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon – Out of six books read in October, five of them are ones I’ve read before – most of them (including this terrific one) more than once. My next book is going to be one I’ve never read before…a promise to myself.

    • 1 person found this helpful

    #21 - Brown Sugar 4: Secret Desires

    Posted by Virtopia, 5 years ago

    This was probably my second or third read through and for some reason, I didn’t enjoy it as much and it was probably because I was reading better books at the same time. Nonetheless, it had stories that I enjoyed all 3 times I've read it and that was worth the read.

  • 30/50 Bel Canto by Ann Patchett

    Posted by Debra Kwinter, 5 years ago

    A night at the opera goes badly in an un-named South American country. A hostage situation turns comic, then tragic, then comic again.

    Didn't love this one, though given the pedigree it should have been better. Penn/Falkner Award?, ok. I would have preferred more action and interplay given the situation faced by the characters.

  • 43. The Almost Moon - Alice Sebold

    Posted by MacFly, 5 years ago

    She does tackle the most different subjects, doesn't she?! Although I think I liked The Lovely Bones better, this book was also very interesting. A bit like a train wreck - you don't want to look but you can't look away.

  • October Reads

    Posted by ChrisM, 5 years ago

    30. Julie and Julia by Julie Powell - an often funny memoir of a woman who tries to change her life by cooking her way through a Julia Child cook book.

    31. The Box Children - Sharon Wyse - a young girl grows up in Texas, with no one to talk to but her diary.

    Reviews posted.

    • 6 people found this helpful

    A Few More Reads

    Posted by Lisa Voss, 5 years ago

    58. Sweetheart by Chelsea Cain. A continuation of the story of Archie and Gretchen along with a few murders and intrigue. I liked it and look forward to the next one.
    59. Dead Connection by Alafair Burke. A quick read. Not bad.
    60. Good to a Fault by Marina Endicott. This is one of the Giller finalists. It starts with Clare, a single 43 year old woman crashing into the car of a small, down and out family on their way to Fort MacMurray. No one is really hurt in the accident but while at the hospital it is discovered that the young mother has cancer. Clare, filled with guilt, takes the family in. I like that at times she wonders what the heck she's gotten herself into and almost hates everyone and yet continues to care for these people. Do they actually deserve her help or even appreciate it? I give this book a 5 out of 5.
    61. Boys in the Trees by Mary Swan. This is the story of a family in the 1880's and the tragedy that occurs. Once this tragedy happens the rest of the book is from the perspective of various townspeople and how they were reacted. Shortlisted for the Giller Prize. 4 out of 5.
    62. Cockroach by Rawi Hage. Another Giller finalist. I'm not sure how I feel about this book. I read it, I think I understand what he was saying but did I enjoy it? - the jury is still out. (It will probably win the Giller).
    63. Vlad the Last Confession by C.C. Humphreys. I must confess that I haven't quite finished this yet. I have about 80 pages to go but I'm including it because I know I will finish it soon. This was a bookclub pick and we've already had our meeting and discussed it. It was about Vlad the Impaler and while historically somewhat interesting it was very violent (a hint of that would the been the Impaler part of his name). Some ladies in the club did not get past the first impaling and I really don't blaim them (although as a group we did rate it 3.5 out of 5. It is quite graphic and not necessarily for the squeamish.

  • October Reads

    Posted by DLOTS, 5 years ago

    Bit of a slow down this month as Lego Batman and Guitar Hero World Tour started eating up some of my spare time.

    86- Plutonium Blonde ....................................John Zakour
    This is the first book in John's series about the last freelance detective in 2057. A mix of pulp and humor and very entertaining. Of course since this is the first book in the series, its the last one I read. I look forward to more books in this series which currently has a book count of 5.

    87-A Game of Thrones: Book 1 of a Song of Ice and Fire..........George RR Martin
    Wow, this is a fabulous read. If you have any interest in the fantasy genre then you do yourself a disservice to pass on this book.

    88-Brain Droppings...............................................George Carlin
    This book does a good job at allowing George to express his thoughts in a George like way. We miss you buddy.

    89-Devil May Care.............................................Sebastian Faulks
    The latest 007 novel written to honor Ian Flemming's 100th birthday which of course he wouldn't be around to celebrate. The book has that Ian Flemming style to it but I always found these worked better as movies than books.

    90- In Your Dreams.................................................Tom Holt
    This books picks up where The Portable Door ends. I found The Portable Door hard to get into but had a great second half. With this book I didn't have those same issues and enjoyed it from start to finish.

    91-94 Discworld................................................Terry Pratchett
    I'm currently on a quest to reread the discworld series. I'm nearing the end of the quest and synopsis and opinion can be read at Discworld Fans Unite. This months titles were The Truth, Thief of Time, Nigth Watch and Monstrous Regiment

    Graphic Novels
    76 - Spiderman: Reign
    77 - Spiderman: Feral
    78 - Spiderman and the Fantastic Four: Silver Rage
    79 - Superman/Batman Public Enemies
    80 - Spiderman: The Last Stand

    Reign, Feral and Public Enemies were good, Silver Rage wasn't.
    The Last Stand had a very "Wanted" feel to it which I guess is appropriate since both were written by Mark Millar.

  • 56 - lullabies for little criminals - Heather O'Neill

    Posted by Kay, 5 years ago

    This book was a very difficult book to read because of the emotions it stirred in me. It covers about a two year span of a young girl named Baby. She is 11 when the book starts with one parent, a father, who is only 26. This book shows the down and out side of life on the streets of Montreal and how the habits of one generation are passed to the next. My heart was breaking for this young girl. I would not recommend if you are looking for something light.

  • I did it again !

    Posted by Christine L, 5 years ago

    I read about a book and forgot to write down the title and author, recently something triggered my memory and now, OF COURSE, I cannot remember either. I was just wondering if anyone could help?

    The book was about a young man who time travels to England and encounters J.W. Turner (the painter). Thats all I remember, and the book intrigued me because of my interest in art.

    With all the versatile reading this group does, I was just hoping someone might have read it or come across it and could give me the title and/or the author. Thanks!!

  • Finally! Time to post again

    Posted by Christine L, 5 years ago

    I have gotten behind in not only my posts, but my reading as well. Hopefully I will be able to get some more in before the Chrismas insanity sets in.

    59. MOOSE by Stephanie Klein. I found this book to be sad. This is unusual since it is written with a great sense of humour and honesty. The story of a young girl battling with her weight and her experiences at "fat camp". The sad part was that she was so obsessed with her weight at such a young age (11) and the importance everyone in her life put on her "weight". All else aside, although the author was very honest in the book, I did not like her very much ... this was unfortunate since it was a good book that I found I just didn't enjoy very much. Make sense?

    60. DON'T TELL A SOUL by David Rosenfelt. I enjoy Mr. Rosenfelt's writing and this was a good combination of government conspiracy and who-dun-it. I miss the sarcasm and wit that is present in his "Andy Carpenter" books, but a good read none the less. I guess sometimes its just difficult when a favourite author strikes out in a different vein.

    61. THE LADIES OF COVINGTON SEND THEIR LOVE by Joan Medlicott. A feel good book about some senior ladies setting out on an adventure. It proves that you are never too old to feel young!

  • Book 60 - Marley & Me by John Grogan

    Posted by Unknown User, 5 years ago

    -Message Deleted-

    • 7 people found this helpful

    #13 The Blackwater Lightship, Colm Toibin

    Posted by Eileen, 5 years ago

    This is a quiet tale about character and family relationship by Irish author Colm Toibin. Helen re-unites with her estranged family when they come together to support her brother who is dying of AIDS. I loved the character of the grouchy outspoken old grandmother and also admired the independent business-woman mother. A good book if you're in the mood for a meditation on loss and family. Great writing too.

> Read more posts from: October 2008 or December 2008

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