Challenge: 50 Books discussion
Finish Line 2016
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Carol V 2016 Reading 52+ "challenge"
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#1 
Lord John And The Private Matter by Diana Gabaldon lib ebook seriesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
A fan of the Outlander series this was an good character development story of Lord John who figures as a important side character.Yon know his relationship Jamie but not necce. his background or character. You like him but he is a bit creepy. Here yon get to know him without his obsessions. As a story it is well formed although doesn't have the flow of Gabaldon's larger books. Perhaps it is the lack of the strong women which makes her main series so wonderful that is missing
This story is completely standalone and while a few references to Jamie are made which might be lost on someone not familiar with the main story they have no real impact.
You see John's sense of duty, his confusion, his wariness but yet his strength of heart.
#2
Invisible by James Patterson lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A new set of character for Patterson. While typical Patterson style this story did not seem as repetitive and trite as his stories have become.
The whole underlying theme of underestimating women and what they are capable of is powerful. Even the women underestimate each other as well as making preconceived judgments without realizing they are doing to that person which they hate so much done upon themselves.
Also the concept that the data when analysed can be made such that it leads you in a direction not necessarily true. Especially if there is an expectation that the data will be analysed. Ie the knowledge that the data will be collected can impact the results of the data collected and should be factored into any analysis.
It tied up a little too neatly at the end with not much detail as to how but this is Patterson so this is to be expected.
#3
Lord John and the Hand of Devils by Diana Gabaldon lib ebook seriesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
A Set of Lord John short stories.
Hellfire club: LJ infiltrates a Sent mens club to investigate the death of a friend of the family
Succubus : LJ investigates rumors of a succubus visiting Soldiers in a German camp
Haunted soldier : After nearly getting killed on the battlefield by an exploding cannon he looks into why it exploded
Each adds a new aspect to his character development as well as interesting exploration of historical aspects of military life and each a little mystery . The stories are complicated in a true Gabaldon fashion which is impressive in short story form. Can't say they were overly interesting. They were well written but couldn't hold my attention for too long
#4.
The Blue Rose by Anthony Eglin eBook My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I was so looking forward to this series. I love stories that integrate mystery and horticulture. But this was a disappointment. Alex and Kate were whiney. The Professor Kingston, who supposedly has a role in future Eglin novels , has a lack of personality except being self important Most of the other characters were self serving. clueless or just plain evil.
(view spoiler)[Any gardener knows that a deep scratch from a rose can be dangerous. So that when Vicky got sick it should have been first thing they tested. There were too many problems during the standoff to even enumerate. The fact that Adell was not arrested for his breaches is also sickening. Wolf got what he deserved but that Tanaka got away with barely a footnote is leaving a glaring hole especially with the final realization (hide spoiler)]
There was probably more suspense and intrigue than mystery but that was lacking in substance.Because it is a genre that I am most interested, I might try another if I find it in the library or an exchange but definitively would not purchase full price.
#5
The Eve Tree: a novel by Rachel Devenish Ford free d/l eBook My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I received this as an Amazon free download years ago. The jacket description doesn't not relate the intensity of the story and its characters.A story of a woman's anguish as her land around her is threatened by forest fire. Her attachment to the trees make the threat more intense. In some ways she seems to have more of an connection to the trees and land than she has with her mother or children. Some of it you understand (view spoiler)[ when you realize how she relates the trees to her late Father who died when she was too young to understand. Her mental-illness history makes the storytelling somewhat manic. Her suicidal actions at the end while not surprising seemed selfish and over the top . (hide spoiler)] Jack has the patience of a saint but he is also some what clueless as to what is going on
The story is well written as l felt inside the characters head. It is not a pleasant or lighthearted read but an intense introspective
#6
Sweet Masterpiece by Connie Shelton free d/l eBookMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
A fun cozy . Sam,a strong likable woman down on her luck doing odd jobs while following her baking passion. She happens upon 2 dead bodies while doing foreclosure clean-ups . At first when she finds a painting that seems to be by a well known reclusive artist she just wanted to know where it came from, but once she realizes that the dead body was this artist, she starts digging deeper.
There is a lot packed into this short book on top of this mystery:Sam's blossoming bakery business, her budding relationship with the deputy,her strained relationship with her prodigal daughter, oh and this mysterious box that gives her healing power, energy or special vision that she got from the first dead body.
There are many loose ends in the story to rate it higher than 3 stars , that and the annoying habit of cozys of making the main character become obsessed with their sense of self importance and lack of common sense that they are the only ones to solve the mystery. At least this did not happen till later in the book. . .
Note this was a free download that I picked up off Amazon a few years ago.
#7
Flowers in the Snow by Danielle Stewart free d/l eBookMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fascinating (albeit fictional) account of civil rights struggles in the south and the toils on all those effected. A young girl tries to help an injured man like her bible studies tell her but is ostracized and ridiculed as stupid because his color means he does not warrant common decency. Despite this, this same girl protects a young black girl from a beating for just being in the wrong place. The story is about the development of the relationship between Betty and this young girl's family as well as the growth of a knowledge &Understanding. It is both heartbreaking and uplifting. I did get this book as a free download from Amazon.
#8
In Sunlight and in Shadow by Mark Helprin lib audio hist fictonMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
I do not know how many pages this is as a physical book but as an audio it is over 32 hours. The story is wonderfully written. Painting pictures as much as telling the story. I loved how the sunlight and shadow theme carries throughout the images portrayed. That being said I am not sure of the purpose of the story. It is a post war era saga of a couple from different worlds meeting and falling in love and how life is cruel in so many ways. The rest of the plot seemed all over the place and like a roller coaster. The side story of his time in the war seemed out of place and I was unsure what it added. By the end I was left feeling flat, disappointed and unsatisfied.
#9
Love Beyond Time by Bethany Claire ebookMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
I love the Outlander series and while a similar premise this isn't Outlander . This is a much lighter Harlequin style period romance. It was also 1/4 the size which in why there is not much char depth or period understanding. It was cute and entertaining for a few hours
# 10
Bones Never Lie by Kathy Reichslib audio seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A new episode of the "Temperance Brennan " mystery series.Lots of mystery and intrigue with tastes of emotional distress. I loved how her mother while dying of cancer in a care facility does a bunch of google searches and finds compelling evidence that yields a big turn in the story.I have read a few of these book not in any sort of order and I have to admit that I am somewhat lost on a lot of the back story, but until Bones the TV show is off the air for a bit and I can stop unfairly comparing the show with the book I probably wont make the effort to go back and read the earlier books.
# 11
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruenlib ebook hist fictMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A beautifully written story about a young naive woman who is dragged along on husband's folly during the middle of WWII. Newly wed but neither her in laws and her father are happy or supportive. Her husband is more interested in partying with "their" best friend than anything. After an argument with his father they decide to travel to Scotland to get proof of Nessie(something his father had tried decades before) The story is about the "growth"of Maddie from a privileged waster to someone more in tune with herself and those around. Maddie grew up in a scandalized, unloved albeit privileged environment such that when "best friends"Hank and Ellis pull her into the fold she finally feels part of something good. So she feels she must follow their crazy schemes. When they arrive in Scotland unwelcome, she begins to realize that problems are small and they are all crazy. The boys abandon her on multiple occasions and spend most of the time drunk in a time when everything is scarce. Her eyes are opened to her reality as well as the realities of war and way time survival
Her development of friendships and respect both of others, by others and of herself. Interesting historical aspects of how the war directly and indirectly impacted Scotland that I was not previously aware. The search for Nessie is really not a big part of the story other than its inappropriateness in the middle of a war.
#12
Stars Above by Marissa Meyer lib audio seriesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
A collection of short fillers. Backstories on many of the main characters of the Lunar Chronicles. Gave a better understanding of how the characters became who they were.Plus one epilogue including a wedding of two of the characters.
#13
The Giver by Lois Lowry audio libMy rating: 2 of 5 stars
( probably better than a 2 but not quite an " I liked it" ) Typical dystopian young adult/juvenile story set in a society where differences have been removed and roles are assigned based upon what a committee determines each is suited. Jonas has been selected ( a specific honor) to fulfill a special role within the community as the Receiver of Knowledge including history which most of the population has been shielded from to prevent distress. The story what there is of it is well written for the most part but the end does not make much sense and leaves the receiver of this story with disbelief and dissatisfaction.
#14
The Scottish Prisoner by Diana Gabaldon ebook lib seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Lord John novel that has Jamie from the Outlander Series as a central character (other than Lord John).Jamie is lost and unsure of his place on parole at Helwater. Claire and their child is gone to time, he is separated from his family and now a new child that he can only watch from afar.John's brother Hal brings Jamie in to find a traitor and it throws Jamie into more turmoil. John's obsession adds to the discomfort. All the elements of DG novel - political intrigue, flared tempers, pride filled stupidity, loyalty questioned, not sure who your friends are..... etc etc.Its hard to say whether i like John - sometimes I find him a little whiny but he has a good heart and he is an intelligent counterpart to Jamie.
#15
A Purse to Die For by Melodie Campbell ebook free d/lMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
A somewhat disjointed cozy. Murder of a what seems to be a stranger at a funeral leads to many twist and turns most of which have nothing to do with the mystery. the actual solution seems to out of thin air . I liked the fact that the fashionista that people were trying to protect is the one who found the identifying clue but to come up with the out of the hat solution while stranded out in a blizzard seems a bit far fetched.
#16
The Patriot Threat by Steve Berry lib audio seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Action packed story of intrigue all surrounding the ratification concerns of the 16th amendment- where Income Tax was put into effect. Cotton Malone is very Jack Ryan/Jason Bourne esque.
I really like the historical aspect of the Berry novels I have read so far even if his conspiracy theories get a bit preachy. The fanaticism of the North Koreans especially this ostracized brother is over the top and I hope an exaggeration and if not very scary. I found the aspect of exposing the government dirty secrets as an act of warfare fascinating.
was out of town most of the month of May and never got back to updating challenge list#17
Fast Forward by Juliet Madison lib ebookMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
An appropriate story to finish reading on my 50th birthday. A story that tries to answer the age old wish " If I only I knew then what I know now....". On the verge of her 25th birthday, a somewhat shallow model Keli wakes up on the morning of her 50th birthday. Horrified by the wrinkles and extra pounds finds herself in a life that (at 25) she not only never dreamed of did not think she wanted. Married to the nerd from High school, a successful business owner, 2 adult kids, grand child on the way, Keli is very confused about what is happening. What happened to her international modeling career, her gorgeous photographer boyfriend that she is sure is going to propose?
She goes on a journey of self discovery. By the end of the day when she reverts back to 25th birthday she takes back several nuggets of wisdom that allows her the best of both lives. As one friend points out she seems to mature overnight.....
The story made me reflect on what my 25 year old self would think about my 50 year old life. While I can barely remember my 25 year old self I know I could not imagine where I am today. Would I be horrified or satisfied....
#18
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker lib audio My rating: 4 of 5 stars
this story had a combination of history, traditions of different cultures and the strength of these and how they form our perspective and world, prejudices, greed and the need for power, slavery and the strength of friendship along with a bit of mysticism. Characters from fairy tales of two different but related cultures coincide or perhaps better said collide and develop an friendship and relationship since only they understand what the other is going through. Trying to fit in and not stand out as to scare those whom they have to interact.
It starts out a bit slow and you are unsure where it is going but once it does it does and you are talking to the characters as if you are a part of the story too.
#19
Career of Evil by Robert Galbraith lib audio series My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Started this in April but the library loan expired so ended up listening as we were traveling through England which gave it an interesting perspective. I do like how the writer gives you insie to the disturbing thoughts of the "bad guy" throughout the story. Although I have to stay this one was very disturbed and at times were hard to hear. You get a bit more of Robins and Strikes back story. You understand a bit more of Robin's lack of confidence despite being brilliant. I was really hoping that she would kick Mathew to the curb, but I also want to slap her and tell her to open her eyes and not be so timid.((view spoiler)[ although she does try to step out and gets bitten pretty badly (hide spoiler)]
Strike required a beat down as well since he spent so much time trying to protect Robin that he lost sight of key evidence. Rawling really does an amazing job with this series and I look forward to each book
#20
Cut and Thrust by Stuart Woods lib audio seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Typical Stone but not.
He gets in the middle of all the intrigue. check
He realizes the problem and the solution before everyone else. check
brilliant son can do no wrong , check.
Intertwined with most of the characters of Woods other series including Lee & Rule, Eagle, Fey etc. Kept thinking I must have missed Holly; Joan still runs his life : check
He has a hot relationship with one of the main female characters (sort of - he seems to have settled down a bit has a new steady who has a significant role but is not the main female character)
Seems to have very strong female characters that have no desire to sleep with Stone even the evil ones.
For a guy who was barely making ends meet at the beginning of the series he seems to have a lot of money to burn now....
#21
Fire Touched by Patricia Briggs lib ebook seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I had missed Mercy. It was nice to read the strong female coyote dominating amongst the macho werewolves. I had missed a few books in the series but it was good to see how she fit within the pack and the fae world. As always she gets herself in the middle of a battle between x and y both of which are stronger than her but that she can hold her own and save the day.
#22
Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal lib ebook histficMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
WWII story of a brilliant scholar reduce to being a typist for the PM and how her mathematical know-how and ability to see codes etc makes an impact. Lots of intrigue and character building. Maggie's bravery amidst the men trying to hold her back abounds but relationships and self development also occurs.
#23
Cat's Claw by Susan Wittig Albert pback seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Supposedly I read this about 3 years back (only because goodread told me so) but I did not remember much of it especially that it was written from Smart Cookie's POV. While China got herself invovled not so much stupidly as some of the past stories told. I liked having the differing perspective especially as a woman in charge of a group of good ol boys as well as the beauty and danger of wild animals especially when we infringe upon their territory.
#24
Widow's Tears by Susan Wittig Albert pback seriesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ruby was main focus of storyline which was about as flaky and out there as she tends to be. In fact it made her seem almost logical@times. Loved the meaning of flowers reference. China was a bit more
peripheral to the storyline but of course she came in and saved the day
#25
The Other Daughter by Lauren Willig lib audio My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A story of sacrifice and betrayal at many different levels. Soon after arriving too late for her mothers funeral (the first betrayal of the household that she was working for), she finds the a clipping (while cleaning out her mothers home because the landlord was evicting them) that calls into question everything that she thought she knew about her life. Upon hearing confirmation she encounters someone to help her with entry to a world that she should have been part of (perhaps) to find out more and confront her her previously thought dead father. Parading around London in a new persona in a world that she could have not dreamed but actually performed well in. it was interesting to see the depth of the first thought shallow characters. You also see Rachel become more shallow and she continues to live in this world. Rachael's own level of betrayal due to her single sightedness showed that avoiding it is not as easy as it seems.
The painful first conversations with her father and then the heartbreaking follow-on clarification conversations with both her father and cousin were wrenching and not as predictable as one would expect this type of story to include. Once she gets the answers she is thrown again into a quandary of whether she should cause more upheaval and betrayal or just start over.....
My only problem was the actual conclusion was a bit predictable if not a bit unrealistic....
#26
The Red Garden by Alice Hoffman ebookMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
a collection of tales of the people of a small Berkshire town from 1750- present day. From its founding to encounters with "famous" figures from history to tragedies and suffering during the wars.
The stories were all too short to get any real depth but sometimes the same characters would appear in later stories and you would see the results of previous storylines.
I think if I was someone who would reread books that it would all really start to gel after the 3rd or 4th read.
I was fascinated by the actual Red Garden and how it went from a garden to a graveyard to and unknown patch of blood red soil to a garden that only grew red fruits and flowers to a graveyard epitomizing the cycle of life and how history can be repeated if not recalled or recorded.
#27
Minor in Possession by J.A. Jance pback seriesMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Beau heavy drinking and hard living have finally taken its toll. Doctor says stop drinking or die so Ralph finds a "resort" for him to get cleaned up.But so much for his rest and relaxation since his "punk kid" roommate steals his car, disappears after getting a young girl pregnant and then ends up getting killed with Beau's gun. And thats just to start off the festivities. Add some car chases kidnappings and shootouts to get a bit more action and some buried secrets to add to the intrigue and you have another fabulous Beaumont story.
#28
Trader Of Secrets by Steve Martini pbackMy rating: 2 of 5 stars
While it was well written I felt like I was watching the season finale of a series that I had not seen all season.
I have not read any this series - at least not recently so it seemed like I was missing a lot of character development and backstory. It was action packed but predictable to an extent. A necessary conclusion if you are an avid fan but otherwise I would not bother.(view spoiler)[ Paul has interfered with terrorist/assassin and his plans too many times so said bad guy is targeting Paul and his loved ones. His investigator is in the hospital while his daughter and business partner are in a "safe" house. Daughter doesn't like been cooped up so sneaks out to go for a run and runs smack into said bad guy and gets lucky because her water bottle was in the way of his knife and her dog scared him away from doing more harm. Rather than laying low Paul and crew decide that they have to track down said bad guy and follow him around the world. FBI lets them go as bait.Because there is another storyline with traitors selling secrets and WMD tech to another set of very bad guys that they found a connection to this bad guy and they are hoping that if they find him they will find the other ones. .Daughter left behind to take care of investigator meets hunky Mossad agent who is watching her to hear where her father is tracking bad guy because he too wants to stop this tech trade of secrets because it could mean annihilation of Israel... They all end up in Mayan hinterland in the middle of a big gun battle. Where the hunky guy jumps in front of a bullet to save the girl from original bad guy ...Paul gets into fight with said bad guy and just as he is about to lose a crocodile jumps up and gobbles up bad guy- no more bad guy..... of course the WMD is neatly wrapped up as well. (hide spoiler)]
#29
A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain lib ebook My rating: 4 of 5 stars<
Read as part of Big Library Read http://biglibraryread.com/
As I am a big fan of time travel stories as well as mysteries especially with strong female characters. This story delivered on all counts. the protagonist may have be been brilliant and beautiful but she was damaged, with almost a personality disorder and a large chip on her shoulder. One of the problems of being so smart is that she does not have the patience for others to catch up. This arrogance diminishes her beauty and her effectiveness. The jump from present day to the past was disjointed. Why does the time travel always have to be back to England? The present day set up really has no bearing to the time she travels back to except her vendetta brings her to England.
Then her acceptance in early 19th century England seem a bit far fetched.Let alone their allowance of her behavior and outbursts of information that a mere woman would never know. I do like the Duke and especially Lady Rebecca both seen as a bit quirky in their time but both take to Kendra as a kindred heart.
I enjoyed the story very much only rated it 4 stars because personality issues and some unbelievable aspects.
#30
Bittersweet: A China Bayles Mystery by Susan Wittig Albert pback mystMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A fully enjoyable China Bayles episode. Auxillery characters brought in to help solve and bring in the mystery. I really like Mac. Interesting segways in to the privacy ramifications of drones and the issues with aging parents not to mention hunting and canned hunts.I love the native plant descriptions and how they played within the story. This was one of my favorite later Bayles novels since many of the later ones i found lacking.
#31
Deadline by Sandra Brown lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
a story with lots of twists and intrigue. The damaged characters and how they deal with their inner turmoil. Some of which was self deprecating and some was real.
I dont want to give any spoilers since its the surprises that make the story interesting. Some were not too much of a surprise, a few were "where the hell did that come from" ( ones that didnt add to the story line) and a couple were OMG! I did not see that coming (ones that make the story clearer).
Never did figure out Carls plan as to why he had to torture those that he "loved" . The sexual tension was thick and seemed a little creepy since it was a bit stalkerish but she reciprocated??? I liked the story and its only the WTF's that make me rate it not a full 5 stars
#32
Uprooted by Naomi Novik lib audioMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
More of a 3.5 star- I liked it but a little less than "really"
A Slavic tale that has a Beauty and the Beast undertone - especially in the start but then becomes more like the sorcerers apprentice and then a war with an evil entity that may or may not be evil.
A little difficult to follow at times and the chants and spells make no sense and the ending seemed a little too fairy tale-like considering the rest of the book is so dark.
While its main characters are young adults the storyline is quite dark and complex and the "love" story part a bit creepy so I am not sure Young Adult classification is appropriate-
Many of the scenes are beautifully written and really paint an amazing picture. In some ways it seems like a story written in a Slavic country and then translated into english... but some of that might be the heavily accented reader on the audio version.
#33
Sidney Chambers and the Shadow of Death by James Runcie pback mysteryMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love the TV program based upon the character but warning the stories in the book are different even with different outcomes as well as the relationships.
I did enjoy the way the stories were written once I got over the discrepancies with the show.
The comparison between the rule of law and the morality of issues added to the complexity of the issues and observations.
Loved the line" Reading gives you and advantage over life and time. You can travel through history , converse with the dead and live multiple lives" pretty much summarizes my love of reading.
#34
This Is Your Life, Harriet Chance! by Jonathan Evison audio libMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Story of a 78 year old recently widowed woman and her relationships with her parents, husband, children etc and the reflections of the events in her life that formed her personality.
It is disturbing the forms of abuse that she took as normal parts of life but also the blind eye to events around her that lead her to the occasions of abuse. I appreciated her stubbornness but was saddened by her inability to ask for help which of course stemmed from her abuses. I was disappointed in the ending although it was not unexpected but I would have rather seen her bounce back and take on her attackers. (view spoiler)[ but her end was like her life- rolling over and just letting everyone have their way (hide spoiler)]
#35
The Space Between by Diana Gabaldon lib ebook My rating: 2 of 5 stars
this story did not make much sense. yet another character brought back from the dead- and Im not sure why. It does explain Master Raymond a bit from book 2, but the relationship between Michael and Joan is a bit forced and strange.
#36
The Girl in the Spider's Web by David Lagercrantz lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A well done sequel to the Millenium trilogy even though written by a different author it kept most of the same tone and character development. Lots of action and intrigue. Lisbeth is even a bit likeable in this book. She seems to be breaking down a few barriers which may be a character deviation due to a new author or just the appropriate progression and growth of a person.
The identified ties between extreme intelligence ( such as in Lisbeth and Frances) and autism spectrum is an interesting aspect, especially when it shows that they are the only ones can connect with August since both probably have their own variety of autism spectrum. Also seeing how abuse is often the treatment that kids and people receive, but that due to their spectrum tend to block it out .
They illustration of how "charming" people are able to manipulate those they encounter to do things that if they were thinking properly they would never accept. Leading to devastating results.
My only dislike is that things seemed to tie up too neatly but still left a big gaping hole in the lack of resolution with Lisbeth's fathers legacy .. again.
#37
Ripper by Isabel Allende audio libMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed the story. It centers around a family in San Francisco and their lives and how they revolve around a murder spree occurring. Ripper refers to an online role playing game that some of the characters are participating in that have tasked themselves with solving these crimes.
It had a lot of character development ( in some cases too much). It has some very strong female characters. Most of the female characters come off as strong, strong willed and not someone to be tangled with. The male characters come off as arrogant or completely flaky.The male characters were defined as much by their titles as their names " the Deputy Chief", "grandpa" "the navy seal" " the aristocratic playboy"... see for my full review
I found it amusing that a few of the male characters in the Ripper game took on female avatars in their roles in the deductive game.
All in all the story had lots of intrigue and twists and turns revealing just enough to get you to the next uphill climb. I just found the ending left me wanting a bit.
#38
Bent Road by Lori Roy lib audioMy rating: 2 of 5 stars
Disturbing story about what really is just some typical people of the day and age. long and drawn out even though it was only an 8 hr book. The inner anxiety filled thoughts were overwhelming at times led to some confusion. I cant say there was a single character that I liked, but you do not have to like characters for the story to be compelling but this was not the case. The most disturbing was how "society" and the church thought it was more important to keep up appearances than to deal with abuse both mental and physical.
#39
The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George lib audioMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I fully enjoyed this indepth soul searching "romance". While the romance is is the underlying driver its the soul search, investigation and the personal relationships built along the way that are the true meat of the story. I loved how the introduction of different characters awoke certain parts of the search either making them more aware, generated answers or resolved/generated confusions. Jeans insights into people and the books that will help heal the problems that they dont even know they have. I found it interesting that he was so insightful of other but so clueless in his own life.
Amazing insights on pain, books and their power, relationships both real and imagined, reality and its worth, growth and its importance.....to name a few- I may have to find a ebook/physical book version to take notes since in the audio version it is hard to record such thoughts.
#40
The Dead Will Tell: A Thriller by Linda Castillo audio lib mystMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
The first book that I have read of the series so I don't have all the back story referenced. While the mystery was fairly action packed I had figured out the culprit pretty early on even if I did not know the relationship to the original crime. see https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... for rest of review
#41
Time and Again by Jack Finney ebook My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This story drug on.... while I loved the concept the story telling could not hold my attention.The intrigue was compelling or it should have been but I found even the more intense parts lacking. This was disappointing because I was really looking forward to this story. I found interesting in concept the fact that the proper imagination and mindset was what allowed success more than any science or technology (or magic/mysticism as in newer novels). As if time were just a perception and not a reality. I did find it disturbing their way of determining the impact of the visits and the thought that true observation could be done without an interaction or relationship. see https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... for rest of review.
I had the exact same reaction to this book. Tried multiple times to read it. Got a little further each time, but kept putting down in favor of other reads. Finally gave up on after it languished on the shelf for about a decade.
#42
Curious Minds by Janet Evanovich lib audioMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
amusing in a typical Evanovich way , but definitely does not have the laugh out-loud lines that the Plum novels had ( esp at first). The chemistry between Em and Reilly is not even a spark in comparison to Stephanie and Joe a/o Ranger or even Fox and OHare.
Emersons stilted personality while partly a personality disorder/devil may care attitude is hard to really get to like. Reilly may be 1st in her class brilliant woman she sure doesn't show it here.Could be a fascinating premise of a story/mystery novel if not made a slapstick with disjointed one-liners and villains that seem not as smart as they think they are.
#43
One Murder More by Kris Calvin pback My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great debut novel by Kris Calvin. She give an interesting perspective in to the state politics process and people and weaves her mystery around it. It touches upon several topics from cell phone safety, how the death of parent can affect ones life and what you do with it, that family is more than just your parents and siblings, rape (whether by physical or influential or emotional) come is different flavors but it all has an impact, power and perception shapes relationships.
#44
Vinegar Girl: A Novel by Anne Tyler lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A modern retelling of Taming of the Shrew. I was originally introduced to the story via a Kiss Me Kate theater production. I've never been a great Shakespeare fan but this is one of the few I have enjoyed - more in its retelling rather than the original. In fact I saw the original play a few years ago and was horrified at the mental and physical abuse that Catherine had to endure. In this retelling I found it more of a growth and understanding of herself that brought about the changes as well as the perception of others. ...
#45
AN Unthymely Death by Susan Wittig Albert ebook mystMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Enjoyable snippets of China and her circle of friends and little mysteries. I am normally not a fan of short stories but these stories were not too cursory - just simple mysteries. The added joy were the more extensive herbal explanations and recipes . If you are already a China fan then this is a way to get a little herbal comfort between novels and if you are not yet introduced it is a nice introduction without too much backstory and in depth mystery.
#46
The Secret Place by Tana French audio lib mystMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A mystery with lots of twist and turns ( my favorite kind!) . Told from two points of view both from the current day and a year back. Alternating in view and perspective. It kept you on your toes and analyzing what was being said and intimated etc. I have not read/listened to any of the other French mysteries so I don't have anything to compare with but I liked the interplay between the characters and the delving into the dangerous/evil world of teenage girls. One voice was from the point of view of the group of friends whose world revolved around each other , the other was from the point of view of the officer trying to help on this murder case- being shut out from the murder squad before, he partners with another detective who has her own "popularity" issues. Both points of view are riddled with insecurities and complexities that are in some ways mirrored in the other set of characters.
The supernatural aspect seem a bit "Heathers-ish" and seemed unnecessary except to solidify the closeness of the group but there were more natural ways to do this- especially since it didnt seem to play much into the story line except as an underlying aspect of the "Vow".
The other thing I found confusing was the subtitle using Cassie Maddox and Rob Ryan who were not referenced anywhere within the book. I kept expecting to see some reference to them.. I noticed that the entire series is now subtitled Dublin Murder squad rather than the specific detectives.If this is one of her poorly written books as others who have read more I am anxious to read some of the earlier books.
#47
Victoria by Daisy Goodwin pback histficMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I won the book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. It was a delightful story of Queen Victoria in her first years of her reign.She grew up with everyone telling her what to do and think that she went the opposite to an extreme her first few years ( as any teenager/young lady getting her first taste of freedom would). Her childhood was lonely, her relationship with her mother sad, her relationship with her PM was kinda creepy but at least he showed her some respect. Yes she needed guidance but (according to this story ) his guidance was not shoveled in with put downs and insults and dictations. This English monarchy story was a refreshing change from Greggory's sex and intrigue stories which while they may for an interesting story they do tend to be a bit much at times. For such a young and sheltered monarch she had enough self preservation and intuitive knowledge of what she needed to know and how to move forward. I found it enlightening and a light read. I wanted the story to continue.
#48
California Schemin' by Kate George ebook free d/lMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
A fun light read. Different than the typical chick mystery/intrigue/action
I like Bree as a character. She is strong and quick but not so much as to be to get out of every situation. She does tend to be a bit of a catastrophe magnet but shes not flighty.
3+ stars only because there are too many points a little over the top
(view spoiler)[
* shifting alien FBI agent??!!
* a pet skunk
* kidnapping someone and then transporting them across country on a commercial flight
* someone going to all the trouble to get a false identification - should have figured that he would have given up after the first half a dozen times she said no
* killer who has eluded the law so far risks his freedom just to come back to Vermont to confront Bree. (hide spoiler)]
I will have to go and find the first book and the third because this is the perfect type of relaxing respite book.
#49
That Summer by Lauren Willig lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
an entertaining but thought invoking story of two women from different times and their relationships within the same house.
Imogene, an 19th century girl from the English countryside, arriving at the London home of her new husband to find it not as welcoming as she had dreamed. Her husband now treats her as one of his collectibles rather than the partner that she expected and she has no real role in the household since it has been run by her predecessor's sister. While she establish a good relationship with her step daughter and spends most of the next decade teaching her- she finds the house more of a prison than a home. It is only after her husband insists that her portrait be done that she finds someone who she can talk to and makes her feel appreciated and alive.
Julia- a 21st century American woman in her 30's, inherits the home from an great Aunt that she doesn't remember. An out of work financial analyst she arrives to the house among a flood of memories of her long dead mother with the plan to clean out the house and put it on the market. She meets family that she has not seen in over a quarter of a century. She finds hidden treasures throughout the home both revealing more of her practically forgotten mother as well as as her forebearer Imogene.
Willig attacks the impact on children when parents abandon them whether by death, divorce or neglect and how that affects their ability to have relationships as well and Prerafaelite art history.
#50
Axeman's Jazz by Julie Smith audio ebook free d/lMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Murder mystery centered around people in a codependency group.....I found it disturbing that these codependency groups were being used as pickup joints- and the intimation- no outright statement- that most of the members of the group were faking just to get attention. I found it scary that people who actually needed this support would potentially be opening themselves to people that would take advantage of them. All the main characters though were disturbed in their own way - probably more than a simple support group would be able to handle. I went back and forth on who the Axeman was. My first guess was correct but there were so many other clues thrown in that I second and third guessed myself. I even contemplated Missy for about a second. The characters were wide ranging and developed even though I did not read the first episode of the series.
I actually got this as a free download from Amazon special and for once it might make me look into some of the other stories in the series...
#51
Frog Music by Emma Donoghue audio libMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
not sure why this was on my to read list but the audio book became avail at my online library prior to a long trip so I brought it along.... I was expecting a crime novel but it was more a statement on treatment of women in the late 19 th century in SF. Blanche was a burlesque dancer supporting her Mac and his boyfriend. She is oblivious to how wrong it was until she meets Jenny who dresses as a man (and gets arrested for wearing pants) to hide her hurt of being a woman. when Jenny opened Blanche's eyes and mind all hell breaks loose. The story bounced back and forth between two timeline leading up to the murder and the aftermath. The language and the pornographic scenes were a bit over the top making the story sometimes hard to listen to. The writing style made it am interesting and different read. The accents used by the narrator were a bit overdone and in Kenya case completely wrong making her sound like a backwoods hick when she was far from. Many of the topics dealt with in the storyline were very heavy. It was a good story otherwise.
#52
Saving Grace by Pamela Fagan Hutchins ebook free d/lMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Enjoyable fun read.I like the characters for the most part.Esp Annalise- although I kept wondering in the beginning - who she was supposed to be- since the series title include Kate and Annalise. lots of characters were introduced as important but then just kinda left hanging. I am assuming that followon episodes will go into more.
well I hit my 52 book goal with 6 more weeks in the year....
#53
11th Hour by James Patterson lib audio seriesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
An "new" ( for me at least) episode of the Womens Murder club, while I have not read one of the series in quite a while it was a nice to read about some old friends. I had sworn off Patterson for a while since I found he was getting rote especially in the Cross series, but I had enjoyed this one so it was nice to read another after many years. The characters have matured and mellowed somewhat and their relationship working a case seemed more on the researching together rather than the bouncing of ideas I remember from earlier stories. The mystery itself seemed a bit choppy and not so much intrigue. At least they were getting shot or majorly injured either- ( just some of the male characters)
#54
The 14th Colony by Steve Berry lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Cotton Malone series is the perfect combination of action packed thriller, mystery and historical fiction- with a conspiracy intrigue. On the eve of the new President's inauguration Cotton again is pulled into a job that was supposed to be quick and easy and turned out to be life threatening and the fate of the US on his shoulders -- in other words just another day in Cotton's life...... At least he and Cassie are speaking again.There are events playing out separately on several different stages.
(view spoiler)[ I was really unclear how the various Canadian invasion plans had anything to do with a major assassination attempt on the US government until they offhandedly explained that the tunnel from the church to the White House was put in after the British burnt the White House and Capital in the war of 1812 which was supposedly a retaliation to the US attempt to invade/annex Canada ie the 14th Colony. The supposedly later invasion plans of the 20th century were elaborated as filler??? The historical aspect of Reagan/Pope JPII collusion was interesting "explanation" of SDI program in the 80's (even if I don't believe RR could have thought that up) and the rules of succession are especially interesting with the debut of the new TV series Designated Survivor (hide spoiler)] I like how the various historical fiction/ conspiracy theories make you think and research and opens the mind a little further. Whether you agree or disagree with the politics it makes the story that much more interesting.
#54.5
The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry olMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
while i have seen the story referenced- I was pointed to the online version of the story as part of a literary advent calendar http://bookriot.com/2016/12/01/a-lite...
It was a perfect way to start the holiday season with the reason for the season of sacrifice for the ones we love, but also that communication is really the best gift in a relationship since neither got to enjoy the gift or the feeling of giving a gift due to the results.
#55
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah lib audio My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow. A beautifully written story of two sisters and what they endured during Nazi occupied France.Their horrible ordeals are described in a way where you almost experience them yourself. The strength of these women who in different ways contributed to the anti Nazi efforts and what they had to sacrifice to survive was inspiring and heartbreaking. They were underestimated by the men around them, each other and especially the Nazis. The beauty of the love, the amazing courage and fortitude, and the sorrow of the loss and heartbreak.
#56
The Atlantis Gene by A.G. Riddle ebookMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
I dont know...... I was fascinated by the concepts detailed in the story with the science and history woven in through them but then they got more and more farfetched with leaps that came out of left field that made the story jump in incongruous ways leaving more holes than conclusions.
The concept of a leap in the genetic makeup that allowed our species to survive and move forward when others of our genus did not was intriguing. The idea that an alien race imbued us with this ability great fodder for a story. Add in a global organization bent on world domination,"ethnic" cleansing and creating a new race of genetically superior humans. The Spanish flu was really caused by some alien protection device that was accidentally triggered by said organization -an interesting "clarification of history". Purposely infecting the current population of a similar pandemic just to create this superior race without any proof that anyone really could survives...are just a few of the WTF were they thinking aspects - not to mention the time and space portals and the library of evolution..... by the end I am not sure I will want to read the next parts of the trilogy....
I may have to re read this to understand some of the jumps that came out of nowhere to see if I missed something. ( and since I almost never reread a story I might have to chalk this up to not worth my time to continue.)
#57
Holidays Can Be Murder by Connie Shelton ebook free d/lMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
a light pre-holiday read..All the holiday prep in the storyline got me in the mood for Christmas but otherwise there wasn't much meat to the story. It is a pretty short story ( less than 150 pgs) so there wasnt much bandwidth to play with. The murder and investigation were a small part of the story- and none of the investigation had anything to do with the the actual crime. If you are looking for something to read on a Sunday afternoon before Christmas with a cup of hot cocoa this would be a great option.
#58
The Dressmaker by Rosalie Ham lib audioMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A story of coming home thats not so joyful. Tilly comes home to a town that banished because of a tragedy that was not her fault. She rescues her spiteful mother from staving to death and brings a sense of fashion but she is still shunned and not respected despite her beautiful work. When tragedy strikes again and she is again blamed although again it was more due to their disrespect than anything she did. Pettiness and cruelty rule through this neighborhood so the ending was not too much a surprise except that that the estate was spared...where i would expect that should have received the brunt.
#59
Just One Damned Thing After Another by Jodi Taylor ebook free d/lMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A team that investigates important historical event to witness what really happened. Shows that witnessing is difficult without impacting.
has a bit of romance, intrigue, action, historical fiction, science fiction and an all important evil guy from the future-Poor Max seems to be a lightening rod for problems from missions where things go horribly wrong.
The science of the science fiction is a bit on the light side and there are a few (gaping) holes in their decisions to do what they were doing .
(view spoiler)[ why would they send relatively new historians to a 3 month observation trip to the crustacean period, when they come up with the idea of saving artifacts just before destruction why would they go to one of the most dangerous first why not test it out on something simpler; and why if "history" prevents them changing events and bringing stuff back is Ronan able to do this in the future. and if the bad guys are from the future how do they not already know what has been discovered/ discussed/done (hide spoiler)]
#60
The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparksaudio libMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
2 love stories - one in the past and one in the present. A dying man reflects on his life and the love that made it full and a young couple find new love. Both reflect on the true value of love and its worth-- so much more than financial worth....the 2 stories seem completely disparate through 90% of the novel and saw now ties until the very end when the young couple recognized the value of the older mans love and it changed their life.
I always start with a 52 book goal but usually review and revise it higher later in the year.
Last year I took the time and effort to review each book and i will continue this but also going to figure out a way to record the number of hours in each audio book so that i can get an idea of that along with the number of pages.
Happy reading to all!!!
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