TIFFIN'S first for 2024
Discussie75 Books Challenge for 2024
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1tiffin
My dear old boy with snow on his nose and an iceball hanging from his dewlap.
I would like to most respectfully ask that people don't leave gifs or other flashing notes here. They really bother my eyes (and probably my brain). Thank you!
Who Am I?
I've noticed that various 2023/24 threads put personal introductions at the start of them. I blithely assumed that after 16 years here, we all pretty much know each other by now in the 75 group, but as there are new people who might drop by, it doesn't seem like a bad idea. I'm a retired college administrator, having worked at Trent University for 30 years, who foolishly thought I'd have all the time in the world to read, garden, quilt, swim, just be, when I retired 16 years ago but life dictated otherwise. Last year in particular was an annus horribilus--I won't bore you with the details.
The thing no one tells you is that while you might be retired, you are also getting older and therefore slowing down correspondingly, so forgive me if I don't visit your threads as often as I should. Some threads are such active places that I simply can't keep up. That said, visitors are always welcome here.
Last thread of 2023: https://www.librarything.com/topic/346755#n8335161
2tiffin
List of Books Read in 2024
(unless specified, most reads are 3.5 to 5 stars)
Brackets with a number inside indicate the number of the book in a series.
1. What you are Looking for is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama
2. Nella Last's War by Nella Last
3. The Lazarus Effect by Frank Herbert & Bill Ransom
4. The Ascension Factor by Frank Herbert & Bill Ransom
5. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
6. Simul by Andrew Caldecott
7. Enchantment; Awakening Wonder in an Anxious Age by Katherine May
8. Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter by Theodora Goss
9. Bride of the Rat God by Barbara Hambly
10. The Cornish Wedding Murder (1) by Fiona Leitch
11. The Cornish Village Murder (2) by Fiona Leitch
12. System Collapse (7) by Martha Wells
13. Earthborn (1) by Catherine Asaro
14. Starborn (2) by Catherine Asaro
15. Winter Raven by Adam Baker
16. The Red Palace by June Hur
17. The Seeker (1) by S.G. MacLean
18. The Black Friar (2) by S.G. MacLean
19. Destroying Angel (3) by S.G. MacLean
20. Strange Weather in Tokyo by Hiromi Kawakami
21. The Fires of Haphaestus (6) by Kyle West
22. The Psion of Darkness (7) by Kyle West
23. The Bear Pit (4) by S.G. MacLean
24. The House of Lamentations (5) by S.G. MacLean
25. The Bookseller of Inverness by S.G. MacLean
26. A Game of Sorrows (2) by S.G. MacLean
27. The Redemption of Alexander Seaton (1) by S.G. MacLean
28. Crucible of Secrets (3) by S.G. MacLean
29. The Devil's Recruit (4) by S.G. MacLean
30.
(unless specified, most reads are 3.5 to 5 stars)
Brackets with a number inside indicate the number of the book in a series.
1. What you are Looking for is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama
2. Nella Last's War by Nella Last
3. The Lazarus Effect by Frank Herbert & Bill Ransom
4. The Ascension Factor by Frank Herbert & Bill Ransom
5. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
6. Simul by Andrew Caldecott
7. Enchantment; Awakening Wonder in an Anxious Age by Katherine May
8. Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter by Theodora Goss
9. Bride of the Rat God by Barbara Hambly
10. The Cornish Wedding Murder (1) by Fiona Leitch
11. The Cornish Village Murder (2) by Fiona Leitch
12. System Collapse (7) by Martha Wells
13. Earthborn (1) by Catherine Asaro
14. Starborn (2) by Catherine Asaro
15. Winter Raven by Adam Baker
16. The Red Palace by June Hur
17. The Seeker (1) by S.G. MacLean
18. The Black Friar (2) by S.G. MacLean
19. Destroying Angel (3) by S.G. MacLean
20. Strange Weather in Tokyo by Hiromi Kawakami
21. The Fires of Haphaestus (6) by Kyle West
22. The Psion of Darkness (7) by Kyle West
23. The Bear Pit (4) by S.G. MacLean
24. The House of Lamentations (5) by S.G. MacLean
25. The Bookseller of Inverness by S.G. MacLean
26. A Game of Sorrows (2) by S.G. MacLean
27. The Redemption of Alexander Seaton (1) by S.G. MacLean
28. Crucible of Secrets (3) by S.G. MacLean
29. The Devil's Recruit (4) by S.G. MacLean
30.
3tiffin
1: What You Are Looking for is in the Library, A Novel by Michiko Aoyama
Kindle edition {added}
What a beautiful book! Each chapter focuses on the life of a character who is a bit lost, somewhat of a misfit, a little out of touch with who he or she really could be. They appear in each other's stories, connected by their experience with the Hatori Community House, the home of a special little library and even more special librarian, Sayuri Komachi. Ms. Komachi is a very large woman with a pale face, dazzling keyboarding skills, who does felting in a Honeydome cookie box. Leaving the library with a comprehensive list of books which includes one totally unexpected book, as well as a bonus gift felted by Ms. Komachi, each individual finds that their self destructive and negative thoughts have been nudged onto a better path, a better way of thinking.
I hope I didn't make this sound soppy or cloying: it's anything but. Each story is lovely, and quietly inspiring. Burned out on various wars, as well as our mistreatment of our planet, and definitely appalled at certain politicians, this kind and gentle book was the perfect antidote and start to my 2024 reading.
Kindle edition {added}
What a beautiful book! Each chapter focuses on the life of a character who is a bit lost, somewhat of a misfit, a little out of touch with who he or she really could be. They appear in each other's stories, connected by their experience with the Hatori Community House, the home of a special little library and even more special librarian, Sayuri Komachi. Ms. Komachi is a very large woman with a pale face, dazzling keyboarding skills, who does felting in a Honeydome cookie box. Leaving the library with a comprehensive list of books which includes one totally unexpected book, as well as a bonus gift felted by Ms. Komachi, each individual finds that their self destructive and negative thoughts have been nudged onto a better path, a better way of thinking.
I hope I didn't make this sound soppy or cloying: it's anything but. Each story is lovely, and quietly inspiring. Burned out on various wars, as well as our mistreatment of our planet, and definitely appalled at certain politicians, this kind and gentle book was the perfect antidote and start to my 2024 reading.
8SandDune
>7 tiffin: Everyone’s learning bits of Welsh today! Diolch.
10FAMeulstee
Happy reading in 2024, Tui!
13tiffin
Thanks Anita, Caro, and BLBera aka Beth.
Caro, it's a quietly deceptive little book which left me feeling hopeful!
Caro, it's a quietly deceptive little book which left me feeling hopeful!
14tiffin
2. Nella Last's War, The Second World War Diaries of Housewife, 49, by Nella Last
Slightly Foxed Editions, No. 60, which I collect as the spirit moves me
Currently reading.
Slightly Foxed Editions, No. 60, which I collect as the spirit moves me
Currently reading.
15alcottacre
>1 tiffin: Last year in particular was an annus horribilus You are not going to get any argument from me on that one!
>2 tiffin: Adding that one to the BlackHole. Thanks for the recommendation, Tui!
>14 tiffin: Dodging that BB in advance as I have already read it.
I hope to keep better track of you this year, Tui, but not making any promises. . .
Happy New Year!
>2 tiffin: Adding that one to the BlackHole. Thanks for the recommendation, Tui!
>14 tiffin: Dodging that BB in advance as I have already read it.
I hope to keep better track of you this year, Tui, but not making any promises. . .
Happy New Year!
16WhiteRaven.17
Happy new year of reading Tui! I always get so many great recs from your page.
17PaulCranswick
Happy new year, Tui.
18Tess_W
Good luck with your 2024 reading. I more than understand the retirement=more time misleading term!
19tiffin
>15 alcottacre:: Stasia, you NEVER have to apologise to me about not being able to keep up. I'm the poster crone for that.
>16 WhiteRaven.17:: I'm delighted to know that you drop by! Happy New Year to you too.
>17 PaulCranswick:: And to you, Paul. You are always so thoughtful with your good wishes.
>18 Tess_W:: Tess, best wishes for 2024 to you too. Thanks for dropping by. My first read of the year was a delightful one, so I cling to hope (although gardening season will find me struggling to keep up).
>16 WhiteRaven.17:: I'm delighted to know that you drop by! Happy New Year to you too.
>17 PaulCranswick:: And to you, Paul. You are always so thoughtful with your good wishes.
>18 Tess_W:: Tess, best wishes for 2024 to you too. Thanks for dropping by. My first read of the year was a delightful one, so I cling to hope (although gardening season will find me struggling to keep up).
20tiffin
3: The Lazarus Effect, Pandora Sequence Book 2, by Frank Herbert and Bill Ransom
Kindle edition {added}
For being a bit of an oldie goldie, this is a pretty good series.
Kindle edition {added}
For being a bit of an oldie goldie, this is a pretty good series.
21tiffin
4: The Ascension Factor, The Pandora Sequence Book 3, by Frank Herbert & Bill Ransom
Kindle edition {added}
Herbert and Ransom were a good partnership. They had gone as far as planning out the final instalment of the Pandora Sequence together, when Frank Herbert's cancer ended his life, leaving Bill Ransom to do the actual writing. He ended the series very well, wrapping up all the loose ends while keeping Herbert's ideas and story direction very much in mind.
Classic science fiction, and quite enjoyable.
Kindle edition {added}
Herbert and Ransom were a good partnership. They had gone as far as planning out the final instalment of the Pandora Sequence together, when Frank Herbert's cancer ended his life, leaving Bill Ransom to do the actual writing. He ended the series very well, wrapping up all the loose ends while keeping Herbert's ideas and story direction very much in mind.
Classic science fiction, and quite enjoyable.
22Caroline_McElwee
Glad you have your reading wheels for the new year under you Tui.
I hope this year is way better than last.
I hope this year is way better than last.
23richardderus
>21 tiffin: I think I owned these at one point, but definitely do not now...and no particle of the story sounds familiar. Will recollect as and when they hit the sales Kindle.
Given the wind speed and direction here today, I and my building could be in your front yard soon.
Given the wind speed and direction here today, I and my building could be in your front yard soon.
24tiffin
5: Fourth Wing, by Rebecca Yarros
TRed Tower Books hardbound {added}
Um, I dunno about this one. It's written well enough. It didn't live up to the hype about it but it was a Christmas gift along with the 2nd book, so beggars can't be choosers. I may donate it/them to the village library.
Lots of murder, fighting, dragons incinerating people, nasty people, secrets, Sexual Tension with furniture destroying releases. Deffo a late adolescent, perhaps early twenties story.
TRed Tower Books hardbound {added}
Um, I dunno about this one. It's written well enough. It didn't live up to the hype about it but it was a Christmas gift along with the 2nd book, so beggars can't be choosers. I may donate it/them to the village library.
Lots of murder, fighting, dragons incinerating people, nasty people, secrets, Sexual Tension with furniture destroying releases. Deffo a late adolescent, perhaps early twenties story.
25tiffin
6: Simul, Momenticum Book 2, by Andrew Caldecott Too new for a touchstone.
Kindle edition {added}
This just landed in. I've had it on pre-order since I read the first book, Momenticum. I will be diving into it asap!
ETA: I do like this man's writing. An enjoyable conclusion to the first book.
Kindle edition {added}
This just landed in. I've had it on pre-order since I read the first book, Momenticum. I will be diving into it asap!
ETA: I do like this man's writing. An enjoyable conclusion to the first book.
26Caroline_McElwee
>24 tiffin: Disappointing Tui. I hope >25 tiffin: hits the spot more.
27tiffin
7. Enchantment; Awakening Wonder in an Anxious Age, by Katherine May
Kindle edition {added}
Delightful for the most part although I didn't always agree with her or follow her thought processes where we diverged too greatly. I did connect, however, with her quest for wonder.
Kindle edition {added}
Delightful for the most part although I didn't always agree with her or follow her thought processes where we diverged too greatly. I did connect, however, with her quest for wonder.
28tiffin
I'm still dipping into Nella Last's War. It isn't a book that I can read at a gulp.
29LizzieD
Happy New Year, Tui, with Happy Reading! I fervently hope that it may be. I won't mention my doubts....
I do enjoy the Mass Observation Project's collections. In fact, I pulled one which is in competition with too many others for reading right now. I have read Nella Last and enjoyed her a lot.
I'm off to have a look both at Caldecott and Aoyama. Thank you, as usual!
I do enjoy the Mass Observation Project's collections. In fact, I pulled one which is in competition with too many others for reading right now. I have read Nella Last and enjoyed her a lot.
I'm off to have a look both at Caldecott and Aoyama. Thank you, as usual!
30tiffin
Peggy, I'm pretty sure you will love the Aoyama. I first discovered Caldecott when I read his Rotherweird series, which I promptly went out and ordered in hardbound as I liked it so much. I really like his quirky imagination--but then I did my thesis on Gormenghast.
31tiffin
8: The Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter, by Theodora Goss
Kindle edition {added}
This was a bit of fun. Goss tossed together a mystery featuring Sherlock Holmes and Watson, Jekyll and Hyde, Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein", "The Island of Dr. Moreau" in a period piece mystery involving the daughters of famous scientists whose driving passion to create new forms of humanity led them to experiment with their own daughters. I think there might be more in this series--must check.
Kindle edition {added}
This was a bit of fun. Goss tossed together a mystery featuring Sherlock Holmes and Watson, Jekyll and Hyde, Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein", "The Island of Dr. Moreau" in a period piece mystery involving the daughters of famous scientists whose driving passion to create new forms of humanity led them to experiment with their own daughters. I think there might be more in this series--must check.
32tiffin
9: Bride of the Rat God, by Barbara Hambly
Kindle edition {added}
Set in 1923 Hollywood, the silent film era. Widowed Norah has flown from England to Hollywood to look after her late husband's sister, stage name of Chrysanda Flamande, a star possessed of virtually no acting skill but oozing with sex appeal. Chrysanda, really Christine, appears to be an airhead but underneath the gobs of makeup required, is actually a nice woman who is also tougher than she appears. Nora is the sensible type with wool skirts, white shirts, and flat shoes. She not only manages Christine but is the caretaker for Christine's three Pekingese dogs: the 3-legged Chang Ming, Black Jasmine, and Buttercreme.
Then there is a murder. And ancient Chinese magic, complete with a mysterious Chinese man who appears out of nowhere and ends up as Christine's gardener but who is really so much more, of course. As are the dogs. All told at times in the slightly florid style of movies from that era but as Norah is a reliable narrator, the story stays on track and is quite entertaining. Hambly made it all work, somehow.
Kindle edition {added}
Set in 1923 Hollywood, the silent film era. Widowed Norah has flown from England to Hollywood to look after her late husband's sister, stage name of Chrysanda Flamande, a star possessed of virtually no acting skill but oozing with sex appeal. Chrysanda, really Christine, appears to be an airhead but underneath the gobs of makeup required, is actually a nice woman who is also tougher than she appears. Nora is the sensible type with wool skirts, white shirts, and flat shoes. She not only manages Christine but is the caretaker for Christine's three Pekingese dogs: the 3-legged Chang Ming, Black Jasmine, and Buttercreme.
Then there is a murder. And ancient Chinese magic, complete with a mysterious Chinese man who appears out of nowhere and ends up as Christine's gardener but who is really so much more, of course. As are the dogs. All told at times in the slightly florid style of movies from that era but as Norah is a reliable narrator, the story stays on track and is quite entertaining. Hambly made it all work, somehow.
33tiffin
10: The Cornish Wedding Murder, Book 1, by Fiona Leitch
Kindle edition {added}
I love Cornwall. A mystery set there is just what the doctor ordered right now. There is humour!
Kindle edition {added}
I love Cornwall. A mystery set there is just what the doctor ordered right now. There is humour!
34richardderus
>32 tiffin: She is such a versatile writer, isnt she? Seldom a misfire in her œuvre.
>33 tiffin: ...iiinteresting...
>33 tiffin: ...iiinteresting...
35tiffin
11: The Cornish Village Murder, A Nosey Parker Cosy Mystery Book 2, by Fiona Leitch
Kindle edition {added}
Definitely a cosy.
Kindle edition {added}
Definitely a cosy.
36tiffin
12: System Collapse, Murderbot Diaries Book 7, by Martha Wells
Kindle edition {added}
I enjoy the Murderbot series. I suspect I might have missed one or two--off to check.
Kindle edition {added}
I enjoy the Murderbot series. I suspect I might have missed one or two--off to check.
37richardderus
>35 tiffin: Almost suffocatingly so...I spent a whopping 99¢ on it this afternoon and dove right in. Sooooo cozy. Sooooooooooooo very very cozy.
38richardderus
>36 tiffin: This one takes place after #5, which could be throwing you off.
39tiffin
13: Earthborn, Lightning Strike Book 1, by Catherine Asaro
Kindle edition {added} No touchstone.
The first book in a science fiction duo.
Review pending.
Kindle edition {added} No touchstone.
The first book in a science fiction duo.
Review pending.
40tiffin
14: Starborn, Lightning Strike Book 2, by Catherine Asaro
Kindle edition {added} No touchstone.
Review pending
Kindle edition {added} No touchstone.
Review pending
41tiffin
15: Winter Raven Book 1 of the Path of the Samurai, by Adam Baker
Kindle edition {added}
1532, Medieval Japan, an era of violence, intrigue, wars. A fierce code of honour bound the Samurai to their masters, (to be continued)
Kindle edition {added}
1532, Medieval Japan, an era of violence, intrigue, wars. A fierce code of honour bound the Samurai to their masters, (to be continued)
42Caroline_McElwee
>41 tiffin: Hmm Samurai. Putting it on the maybe list Tui. I have a biog of a real samurai in the pile to consume first.
43tiffin
16: The Red Palace by June Hur
Kindle edition {added}
June Hur was born in South Korea but was raised in Toronto, Canada. Her bio says she studied at the University of Toronto, and went on to be a librarian at the Toronto Public Library. She continues to live in Toronto.
This was a cracking good story about a young nurse, Hyeon, whose diligence and hard work has landed her the position of a palace nurse. In 1758 Korea, the Emperor and the Red Palace rule everything and everyone. When three nurses and a noble woman are murdered on one night, with Hyeon's teacher and mentor as the main suspect, Hyeon and a young police inspector, Eojin, join forces to prove her teacher's innocence. Politics, corruption, danger involving the Crown Prince, spies, and murder form the basis of the story. June Hur's insight into Korean culture and society give the story an authenticity which helped this murder mystery ring true.
Kindle edition {added}
June Hur was born in South Korea but was raised in Toronto, Canada. Her bio says she studied at the University of Toronto, and went on to be a librarian at the Toronto Public Library. She continues to live in Toronto.
This was a cracking good story about a young nurse, Hyeon, whose diligence and hard work has landed her the position of a palace nurse. In 1758 Korea, the Emperor and the Red Palace rule everything and everyone. When three nurses and a noble woman are murdered on one night, with Hyeon's teacher and mentor as the main suspect, Hyeon and a young police inspector, Eojin, join forces to prove her teacher's innocence. Politics, corruption, danger involving the Crown Prince, spies, and murder form the basis of the story. June Hur's insight into Korean culture and society give the story an authenticity which helped this murder mystery ring true.
44alcottacre
>21 tiffin: I wonder if I would enjoy that series despite having not particularly liked Dune. I am trying to incorporate more science fiction into my reading these days.
>25 tiffin: I will have to give Mr Caldecott's books a try. Thanks, Tui.
>27 tiffin: I just read this one recently and I pretty much agree with your assessment.
>31 tiffin: Yes, that one was a bit of fun and you remind me that I need to get back to the series, which currently stands at 3 books.
>32 tiffin: Hambly is pretty much all over the place in her writing so I think she can make anything work, lol.
>33 tiffin: >35 tiffin: Yay! Just what I need, another series. . .
>36 tiffin: Hey, a BB I can dodge!
>43 tiffin: That one looks really good. *sigh*
Have a wonderful weekend, Tui!
>25 tiffin: I will have to give Mr Caldecott's books a try. Thanks, Tui.
>27 tiffin: I just read this one recently and I pretty much agree with your assessment.
>31 tiffin: Yes, that one was a bit of fun and you remind me that I need to get back to the series, which currently stands at 3 books.
>32 tiffin: Hambly is pretty much all over the place in her writing so I think she can make anything work, lol.
>33 tiffin: >35 tiffin: Yay! Just what I need, another series. . .
>36 tiffin: Hey, a BB I can dodge!
>43 tiffin: That one looks really good. *sigh*
Have a wonderful weekend, Tui!
46Owltherian
Hello! My name is Owl or Lily, its nice to meet you.
47tiffin
17: The Seeker by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
I do love a good historical mystery. This one was set during the era of The Protector, Oliver Cromwell, @1650 when Cromwell was fully in charge of England. This power and control came at a price, however, with spy networks and constant diligence, as the Royalists have merely gone underground or wait across the channel in France. Chief among his spies was a man known as the Seeker. When one of the heroes of Cromwell's revolution is murdered, John Winter, the Seeker is brought in to find who killed him.
Kindle edition {added}
I do love a good historical mystery. This one was set during the era of The Protector, Oliver Cromwell, @1650 when Cromwell was fully in charge of England. This power and control came at a price, however, with spy networks and constant diligence, as the Royalists have merely gone underground or wait across the channel in France. Chief among his spies was a man known as the Seeker. When one of the heroes of Cromwell's revolution is murdered, John Winter, the Seeker is brought in to find who killed him.
48tiffin
18: The Black Friar, Book 2 of the Seeker series, by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
The second instalment in the Seeker series. MacLean does a nice job of combining the problems of the Royalists and their machinations with the homegrown factions and sects stirring the pot around London itself. Such a tangled web of spies surrounding Cromwell and his army as they strive to maintain control of the unwieldy mess that is England and the continent, holding back the Royalists and their plots.
On to the third book!
Kindle edition {added}
The second instalment in the Seeker series. MacLean does a nice job of combining the problems of the Royalists and their machinations with the homegrown factions and sects stirring the pot around London itself. Such a tangled web of spies surrounding Cromwell and his army as they strive to maintain control of the unwieldy mess that is England and the continent, holding back the Royalists and their plots.
On to the third book!
49tiffin
>46 Owltherian:: Hello Owl or Lily, thanks for dropping by. Nice to *meet* you too.
50Owltherian
>49 tiffin: You're welcome and i dont care if you call me owl or even lily, since i like both.
51tiffin
>49 tiffin: My grandmother was called Lily, although her name was really Amelia Lillian, and owls are one of my most favourite birds, so both work for me too.
52PaulCranswick
>48 tiffin: I really like the look of that one, Tui.
54tiffin
19: Destroying Angel, Book 3 of the Seeker series by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
This series is best read in order as the story of the Seeker's life is being told in chronological order. Another good one!
Kindle edition {added}
This series is best read in order as the story of the Seeker's life is being told in chronological order. Another good one!
55tiffin
20: Strange Weather in Tokyo by Hiromi Kawakami
Kindle edition {added}
A lovely story, quirky as Japanese novels can often be. A May-December love story, but also a story about friendship, loneliness, and courage. I really enjoy Kawakami's characters.
Kindle edition {added}
A lovely story, quirky as Japanese novels can often be. A May-December love story, but also a story about friendship, loneliness, and courage. I really enjoy Kawakami's characters.
56tiffin
21: The Fires of Hephaestus, The Starsea Cycle Book 6, by Kyle West
Kindle edition {added}
Carrying on with this series as I stumble across reasonably priced copies for the Kindle. It's just escapist science fiction, my go-to reading when I don't want anything too heavy.
Kindle edition {added}
Carrying on with this series as I stumble across reasonably priced copies for the Kindle. It's just escapist science fiction, my go-to reading when I don't want anything too heavy.
57tiffin
22: The Psion of Darkness, Starsea Cycle Book 7, by Kyle West
Kindle edition {added}
Three more to go in this series: The Siege of Earth (8), The Gates of Time (9), and The Heart of Creation (10). I think I'll take a break for the nonce.
Kindle edition {added}
Three more to go in this series: The Siege of Earth (8), The Gates of Time (9), and The Heart of Creation (10). I think I'll take a break for the nonce.
58tiffin
23: The Bear Pit, Seeker Book 4, by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
As the Protectorate seeks to exert more control over the Royalists who are fighting back like cornered rats as they are weakening, things get nastier as each side vies for control. It was a hard, rough time to live, with each side exhibiting cruelty so that it was hard to tell them apart at times. Seeker continues his work for Thurloe and Oliver Cromwell but the latter has been assuming the trappings of the nobility, being called "Highness", living in luxury, and wandering dangerously far from his Puritan roots. This book was a dangerous episode for the Seeker.
Kindle edition {added}
As the Protectorate seeks to exert more control over the Royalists who are fighting back like cornered rats as they are weakening, things get nastier as each side vies for control. It was a hard, rough time to live, with each side exhibiting cruelty so that it was hard to tell them apart at times. Seeker continues his work for Thurloe and Oliver Cromwell but the latter has been assuming the trappings of the nobility, being called "Highness", living in luxury, and wandering dangerously far from his Puritan roots. This book was a dangerous episode for the Seeker.
59tiffin
24: The House of Lamentations, Book 5 of the Seeker series, by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
The final book in the Seeker series. I found this series fascinating. It's well written with a Sansome-like historical accuracy and a real feel for all of the characters involved. MacLean's ability to suss out the lives of ordinary folk, making her characters live and breathe, making the reader care for them, is beautiful writing.
In fact, I'm going on to read more of her super historical fiction. I love discovering a new-to-me author who pulls me right in and tells me a cracking good tale.
Kindle edition {added}
The final book in the Seeker series. I found this series fascinating. It's well written with a Sansome-like historical accuracy and a real feel for all of the characters involved. MacLean's ability to suss out the lives of ordinary folk, making her characters live and breathe, making the reader care for them, is beautiful writing.
In fact, I'm going on to read more of her super historical fiction. I love discovering a new-to-me author who pulls me right in and tells me a cracking good tale.
60tiffin
25: The Bookseller of Inverness, by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
Iain MacGillivray has survived Culloden but just barely. Left for dead on Drummossie Moor, with his face slashed to ribbons and his best friend dead beside him, Iain has made it back to Inverness to his aunt's house. Six years later, he has set up a book shop as he tries to regather the shreds of his life back around him. The Scots may seem defeated and the red coats are certainly still riding around but beneath the surface of an apparent defeat and a cruel yet shaky victory, there is much animosity and bitterness still roiling. Ian's bookshop has become an unintentional focus for revenge and murder.
This book won the Waterstones Scottish Book of the Year for 2023. I can see why!
Kindle edition {added}
Iain MacGillivray has survived Culloden but just barely. Left for dead on Drummossie Moor, with his face slashed to ribbons and his best friend dead beside him, Iain has made it back to Inverness to his aunt's house. Six years later, he has set up a book shop as he tries to regather the shreds of his life back around him. The Scots may seem defeated and the red coats are certainly still riding around but beneath the surface of an apparent defeat and a cruel yet shaky victory, there is much animosity and bitterness still roiling. Ian's bookshop has become an unintentional focus for revenge and murder.
This book won the Waterstones Scottish Book of the Year for 2023. I can see why!
61tiffin
26: A Game of Sorrows, Book 2 of the Alexander Seaton series, by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
When a man who looks exactly like him arrives to tell him that his hitherto unknown family in Ireland has urgent need of him, and he must go to from Scotland to Ulster to help them, Alexander Seaton's life as an instructor at the university in Aberdeen is thrown into turmoil. Reluctantly accompanying his "cousin", Alexander gets sucked into the turmoil of Irish nationalist politics as different ones strive to restore the Ireland of old, conniving against the English king and his loyalists who are seeking to tame the wild Irish clans. Ancient feuds and grudges, fuelled by superstition, make a volatile mix which Alexander struggles to understand and survive in.
Taking place over a period of two to three weeks, with wild rides through Ulster, murder and mayhem, we wonder along with Alexander if he'll ever see his sane life in Scotland again.
I have purchased the remaining books: Crucible of Secrets (3), The Devil's Recruit (4) but somehow read the first book out of order.
Kindle edition {added}
When a man who looks exactly like him arrives to tell him that his hitherto unknown family in Ireland has urgent need of him, and he must go to from Scotland to Ulster to help them, Alexander Seaton's life as an instructor at the university in Aberdeen is thrown into turmoil. Reluctantly accompanying his "cousin", Alexander gets sucked into the turmoil of Irish nationalist politics as different ones strive to restore the Ireland of old, conniving against the English king and his loyalists who are seeking to tame the wild Irish clans. Ancient feuds and grudges, fuelled by superstition, make a volatile mix which Alexander struggles to understand and survive in.
Taking place over a period of two to three weeks, with wild rides through Ulster, murder and mayhem, we wonder along with Alexander if he'll ever see his sane life in Scotland again.
I have purchased the remaining books: Crucible of Secrets (3), The Devil's Recruit (4) but somehow read the first book out of order.
62tiffin
27: The Redemption of Alexander Seaton, Book 1 of the Alexander Seaton Series, by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
It was somewhat discombobulating to start on the 2nd book of this series. I got myself back on track by reading the 1st book, which got this unscrambled for me.
Kindle edition {added}
It was somewhat discombobulating to start on the 2nd book of this series. I got myself back on track by reading the 1st book, which got this unscrambled for me.
63tiffin
28: Crucible of Secrets, Book 3 of the Alexander Seaton series by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
When the Librarian of the school where Alexander Seaton teaches is murdered, no one can fathom how such a kind and gentle scholar could be the victim of such a nasty crime. But as Seaton peels back the layers of the crime, finding connections to deeper and darker matters, Robert Sim's death is revealed as a piece of a larger puzzle.
Lovely writing, as always, by Shona MacLean who brings her characters to life and Aberdeen of the mid 1600s alive for we readers. My reading of these stories is amplified by the fact that this is my own history, these are my own people, but I think anyone with a love of accurate and educated historical fiction with a cracking good mystery at its heart would enjoy these tales.
Kindle edition {added}
When the Librarian of the school where Alexander Seaton teaches is murdered, no one can fathom how such a kind and gentle scholar could be the victim of such a nasty crime. But as Seaton peels back the layers of the crime, finding connections to deeper and darker matters, Robert Sim's death is revealed as a piece of a larger puzzle.
Lovely writing, as always, by Shona MacLean who brings her characters to life and Aberdeen of the mid 1600s alive for we readers. My reading of these stories is amplified by the fact that this is my own history, these are my own people, but I think anyone with a love of accurate and educated historical fiction with a cracking good mystery at its heart would enjoy these tales.
64tiffin
28: The Devil's Recruit, Book 4 of the Alexander Seaton series by S.G. MacLean
Kindle edition {added}
Kindle edition {added}
65tiffin
29: The Ward Witch, Unholy Island Book I, by Sarah Painter
Kindle edition
By the author who wrote the wonderful series about the magic families of London, the Pearls, the Foxes, the Silvers, the Crows. This tale is about an island to the north of Lindisfarne, the Holy Isle, which is a refuge for those who are *other*. Esme fled to the island, escaping from an abusive husband, and the island welcomed her to stay. There is a small colony of folks who fulfill a variety of functions to protect the island, to keep it hidden and safe.
I really enjoy Painter's storytelling and the magical worlds she creates.
Kindle edition
By the author who wrote the wonderful series about the magic families of London, the Pearls, the Foxes, the Silvers, the Crows. This tale is about an island to the north of Lindisfarne, the Holy Isle, which is a refuge for those who are *other*. Esme fled to the island, escaping from an abusive husband, and the island welcomed her to stay. There is a small colony of folks who fulfill a variety of functions to protect the island, to keep it hidden and safe.
I really enjoy Painter's storytelling and the magical worlds she creates.
68tiffin
32: In the Footsteps of Du Fu by Michael Wood
Simon and Schuster Hardbound {added}
I am reading this lovely book in small increments just before bed. Du Fu is one of my favourite poets, so I want to give this biography its due. About halfway through at this point.
Simon and Schuster Hardbound {added}
I am reading this lovely book in small increments just before bed. Du Fu is one of my favourite poets, so I want to give this biography its due. About halfway through at this point.
69tiffin
33: Unconquerable Sun, The Sun Chronicles Book 1 by Kate Elliott
Kindle edition
Really behind so just catching up with recording my reads. Descriptions to follow later. I just want to get these entered.
Kindle edition
Really behind so just catching up with recording my reads. Descriptions to follow later. I just want to get these entered.
76LizzieD
I'll be back for the comments, Tui. Right now I'm bound to investigate the MacLean books. If I can't help myself, I'll start with the first.
ETA: Got it!
ETA: Got it!
77richardderus
>70 tiffin: I'm very interested to see what you thought about this read. If you haven't yet, I do recommend the film...Patricia Clarkson as Violet Gamart is *memorable*!
Stay well, my dear lady. Sending hugs!
Stay well, my dear lady. Sending hugs!
78tiffin
40: Death in Rheims, Tom Walsingham Mysteries Book 3, by C.P. Giuliani
Kindle edition
I think this might have been a reread.
Kindle edition
I think this might have been a reread.
79tiffin
>77 richardderus:: Richard, I enjoyed the book on the whole but was a bit sad at how it ended. I didn't want the "you do the jams, I'll do the jellies" one to win.
84tiffin
The last few adds are all out of order, a higgledy piggledy catch-up of misrule and disorder. Himself and I are grounded because of Covid, so I thought I would go through my Kindle, trying to slot my "Uncollected" folder books into their various proper collections, while trying to catch up with myself here at the same time. Once the Kindle is tidier, I'll go back over the books listed here for 2024 to try to write a sentence or two about each one.
I have had altogether too many things going on of both a life and health nature so I do apologise for disastrous state of my library here, and its readings.
I have had altogether too many things going on of both a life and health nature so I do apologise for disastrous state of my library here, and its readings.
