Emily's 75 Books for 2010
Discussie75 Books Challenge for 2010
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1Emily1
Well, I only reach 73 in 2009, so this year I am looking to reach 75 and perhaps read two extra to make up for last year.
I am starting off the year with:
1. The High King's Tomb by Kristen Britain
****
A good read full of action and happenings. I did find the parts with Alton a bit boring/tiresome at times and would have liked more development in the relationship between Karigan and Zachary, but overall it was much better than First Rider's Call.
I am starting off the year with:
1. The High King's Tomb by Kristen Britain
****
A good read full of action and happenings. I did find the parts with Alton a bit boring/tiresome at times and would have liked more development in the relationship between Karigan and Zachary, but overall it was much better than First Rider's Call.
3alcottacre
Glad to see you back with us again, Emily!
4willowsmom
I completely agree with you--I would have loved to see more development of the relationship between Karigan and Zachary in The High King's Tomb. As characters, they're both so interesting for me--I keep hoping she'll put out another book in this series so that we can see more interaction between them.
5Emily1
> 2 & 3: Thanks!
> 4: Yes, and hopefully we won't have to wait half a decade for the next book!
> 4: Yes, and hopefully we won't have to wait half a decade for the next book!
6dk_phoenix
I just got a copy of The Green Rider from the SantaThing exchange, and I'd never read anything by Kristen Britain before... so I had no idea it was a series! Is this quite a long series? Would I be better off waiting until she writes more books before delving in, or is it worth just going ahead with?
7willowsmom
No, I'd definitely recommending going for it--the series is only three books, and the first (The Green Rider, followed by First Rider's Call and The High King's Tomb) was written in 1998, so...not exactly a new series :). It's an awesome series, and each book reads very well as a stand-alone, so you aren't left feeling incomplete after the first. Or the second or third, for that matter. Personally, my only complaint is just that I loved the characters in these books SO much that I want another story to read!
8Emily1
I agree with willowsmom. Each book has its own story, but you want to read the next one to see how the relationships between the characters develop.
9Emily1
2. The Red Wolf Conspiracy by Robert V.S. Redick
***
This book of nearly 500 pages had the look of your normal epic fantasy novel. The theme of the story was also dark enough that one would expect that it was aimed at adult, or at least YA readers. Yet it read like a children's story.
The main characters, though sixteen years old, acted like ten/twelve year old children. There were too many talking animals and fantastic creatures. The plot seemed too simplistic, unrealistic or contrived at times.
Which is a pity, as the overall story was good and had a lot of potential. I just wish it was written at a more mature level.
Edit to fix typo.
***
This book of nearly 500 pages had the look of your normal epic fantasy novel. The theme of the story was also dark enough that one would expect that it was aimed at adult, or at least YA readers. Yet it read like a children's story.
The main characters, though sixteen years old, acted like ten/twelve year old children. There were too many talking animals and fantastic creatures. The plot seemed too simplistic, unrealistic or contrived at times.
Which is a pity, as the overall story was good and had a lot of potential. I just wish it was written at a more mature level.
Edit to fix typo.
10alcottacre
Too bad about that one! I hope your next read is better for you.
11dk_phoenix
>7 willowsmom:: That sounds great, thank you! I'll try to make sure I get to it this year, in that case. And good to know I can read it as a stand-alone... though if it's as good as you say, I'll probably run out for the sequels anyhow!
12Emily1
3. Sharpe's Fortress by Barnard Cornwell
***
Excellant!! Much better than Sharpe's Triumph, with a lot more story. Now off to Sharpe's Trafalgar!
***
Excellant!! Much better than Sharpe's Triumph, with a lot more story. Now off to Sharpe's Trafalgar!
13Emily1
4. Sharpe's Trafalgar by Bernard Cornwell
**
In one respect, I enjoyed this book, as it brought me back to familiar territory: the deck of a ship of the line.
I was, however, very dissapointed in Sharpe and the character fell steeply in my esteem and liking. Yes, Sharpe is a rogue, rough around the edges and often on the wrong side of the law. But there is a narrow moral divide that the protagonist in a story should not cross lest he looses the sympathy/empathy of the reader.
## Minor SPOILER alert!##:
Given his character, the fact that Sharpe had an adulterous affair did not surprise, but then he went ahead and coldbloodedly murdered someone to prevent him from exposing the love affair. And with that murder, the moral line was crossed and Sharpe lost a lot of my respect.
I also cannot shake the impression that Cornwell is constantly mocking Christianity, and that also puts me off.
Suffice it to say that, unless the moral quality of the other books is better, I will abandon Sharpe despite my interest in the history he unveils.
**
In one respect, I enjoyed this book, as it brought me back to familiar territory: the deck of a ship of the line.
I was, however, very dissapointed in Sharpe and the character fell steeply in my esteem and liking. Yes, Sharpe is a rogue, rough around the edges and often on the wrong side of the law. But there is a narrow moral divide that the protagonist in a story should not cross lest he looses the sympathy/empathy of the reader.
## Minor SPOILER alert!##:
Given his character, the fact that Sharpe had an adulterous affair did not surprise, but then he went ahead and coldbloodedly murdered someone to prevent him from exposing the love affair. And with that murder, the moral line was crossed and Sharpe lost a lot of my respect.
I also cannot shake the impression that Cornwell is constantly mocking Christianity, and that also puts me off.
Suffice it to say that, unless the moral quality of the other books is better, I will abandon Sharpe despite my interest in the history he unveils.
14TadAD
>13 Emily1:: ****** SPOILER ******
I didn't find it out of character at all. I don't think Sharpe killed to prevent his own exposure; he did it to protect Grace. I'm not sure what order you're pursuing in the series, so I won't say too much, but Sharpe is extremely protective of the women for whom he cares.
I didn't find it out of character at all. I don't think Sharpe killed to prevent his own exposure; he did it to protect Grace. I'm not sure what order you're pursuing in the series, so I won't say too much, but Sharpe is extremely protective of the women for whom he cares.
15Emily1
5. Furies of Calderon by Jim Butcher
6. Academ's Fury by Jim Butcher
Both rereads in anticipation of reading Princeps' Fury. Enjoyed both again the second time round.
6. Academ's Fury by Jim Butcher
Both rereads in anticipation of reading Princeps' Fury. Enjoyed both again the second time round.
16alcottacre
#15: I read Furies of Calderon last year and liked it. I have the next 3 on tap to read this year. Glad to know they are worth reading.
18Emily1
8. Sloop of War by Alexander Kent (aka Douglas Reeman)
The 5th Richard Bolitho book (chronologically), consisting of essentially two stories in one over a span of three years. A good, enjoyable read, but Richard seemed just a little too naive/immature when he encounters a girl at the end of the three years last seen - and only met in passing - at the start of the three years.
The 5th Richard Bolitho book (chronologically), consisting of essentially two stories in one over a span of three years. A good, enjoyable read, but Richard seemed just a little too naive/immature when he encounters a girl at the end of the three years last seen - and only met in passing - at the start of the three years.
19Emily1
9. Success to the Brave by Alexander Kent
****
A very good Bolitho novel. The 15th Bolitho novel chronologically, vice-admiral Bolitho is sent to America on a touchy diplomatic mission the hand over a British island to the French following the Peace of Amiens. A constant fast pace was maintained throughout the novel with a lot of shipboard action. Highly recommended.
****
A very good Bolitho novel. The 15th Bolitho novel chronologically, vice-admiral Bolitho is sent to America on a touchy diplomatic mission the hand over a British island to the French following the Peace of Amiens. A constant fast pace was maintained throughout the novel with a lot of shipboard action. Highly recommended.
20Emily1
10. Captain's Fury by Jim Butcher
The fourth Codex Alera book, also a reread.
Of the first four books in the series, Cursor's Fury was the best for me, followed closely by Captain's Fury. I especially enjoy the interaction between Tavi and the Canim and the secondary story of Fidelias and his struggle to decide where his loyalty belongs.
But now, time to - finally - read Princeps' Fury.
The fourth Codex Alera book, also a reread.
Of the first four books in the series, Cursor's Fury was the best for me, followed closely by Captain's Fury. I especially enjoy the interaction between Tavi and the Canim and the secondary story of Fidelias and his struggle to decide where his loyalty belongs.
But now, time to - finally - read Princeps' Fury.
21sibylline
I read the Britain books last year and liked them a lot -- but I agree they just fall short of being excellent -- kind of frustratingly..... so much is so good, so close. Uneven.
One author recommended by George RR Martin that I found incredibly good is [[Daniel Abramson]] -- [The Long Price Quartet] - the last one just came out. The rest are around in paperback. They are total wow! Oo there is the title right there in the touchstones -- An autumn war is the first one.
One author recommended by George RR Martin that I found incredibly good is [[Daniel Abramson]] -- [The Long Price Quartet] - the last one just came out. The rest are around in paperback. They are total wow! Oo there is the title right there in the touchstones -- An autumn war is the first one.
23Emily1
11. Princeps' Fury by Jim Butcher
****
The fifth book in the in the series, Princeps' Fury was on par with the previous two: namely excellant. Tavi is off sailing with the Canem to save their homeland, while Ehren discovers a nasty surprise in the Wilds of Alera.
Though the book was gripping and a good addition to the series, a lot of the main characters seemed like little more than observers and, although a lot of import happened, I was left with the feeling that the main purpose of the book was to set the stage for First Lord's Fury.
And with the cliffhanger left at the end of the book, it is going to be a very long wait for the final book to arrive in South Africa.
****
The fifth book in the in the series, Princeps' Fury was on par with the previous two: namely excellant. Tavi is off sailing with the Canem to save their homeland, while Ehren discovers a nasty surprise in the Wilds of Alera.
Though the book was gripping and a good addition to the series, a lot of the main characters seemed like little more than observers and, although a lot of import happened, I was left with the feeling that the main purpose of the book was to set the stage for First Lord's Fury.
And with the cliffhanger left at the end of the book, it is going to be a very long wait for the final book to arrive in South Africa.
24Emily1
12. Storm of Wings by Chris Bunch
**½
An interesting book that reads easy and never seems dull or boring. It is about wanderer, on the road since he was thirteen, who has a love for dragons. He becomes conscripted into the army and through a series of events becomes a dragonrider.
Although the story was good, I give the low star rating due to the lack of detail in the book. There is almost no world-building (which is essential in most fantasy novels) and the author explains very little.
The book at times reads like a history novel written in a story-telling fashion, with a sequence of events in the life of the main character following one after the other. The beginning of the book was especially frustrating, as the story of his early life could just as easily have been summed up in a couple of paragraphs instead of taking up the numerous pages it did.
Although it is clear that the author has thought things through and knows what he wants, he seems to forget to put some essential facts onto paper, making the reader feel like a mindreader trying to guess the author's thoughts. An example is where a character is injured and remains unconscious for a month. The long duration of his unconsciousness is never explained and cannot be directly contributed to his injuries (no head injuries). The only explanation would be wound fever or similar complications with the injury, but this was never suggested and reader is left scratching his head and wondering what is wrong with the guy.
I was also disappointed in the dragons, as they lacked intelligence and seemed like little more than big horses with wings and teeth.
**½
An interesting book that reads easy and never seems dull or boring. It is about wanderer, on the road since he was thirteen, who has a love for dragons. He becomes conscripted into the army and through a series of events becomes a dragonrider.
Although the story was good, I give the low star rating due to the lack of detail in the book. There is almost no world-building (which is essential in most fantasy novels) and the author explains very little.
The book at times reads like a history novel written in a story-telling fashion, with a sequence of events in the life of the main character following one after the other. The beginning of the book was especially frustrating, as the story of his early life could just as easily have been summed up in a couple of paragraphs instead of taking up the numerous pages it did.
Although it is clear that the author has thought things through and knows what he wants, he seems to forget to put some essential facts onto paper, making the reader feel like a mindreader trying to guess the author's thoughts. An example is where a character is injured and remains unconscious for a month. The long duration of his unconsciousness is never explained and cannot be directly contributed to his injuries (no head injuries). The only explanation would be wound fever or similar complications with the injury, but this was never suggested and reader is left scratching his head and wondering what is wrong with the guy.
I was also disappointed in the dragons, as they lacked intelligence and seemed like little more than big horses with wings and teeth.
25Emily1
13. Knighthood of the Dragon by Chris Bunch
**½
(!Minor spoilers warning!:)
The book was alright in the sense that it flowed smoothly and wasn't boring, but it was one dimensional, lacking complexity. The whole story was about the main character continueing to fight the war that broke out in the first book. That's all. There was no intrigue, almost no subplots, no charater development. Hal had the same friend, the same dragon, the same enemy - nothing new.
I also at times wondered at the intelligence of the main character (author?). Caught behind enemy lines, he hopes that the guard set on him won't be too tight so that he can escape, but at the same time he tells everyone that he is the mighty Dragonmaster, Lord Hal. - Yes, now that they know who you are, I'm sure they will put a lighter guard on you, Hal. - And then later, he meets some fishermen and tells them, 'Listen, I know you don't have a clue who I am, but I am the mighty Lord Hal. But please, it is a secret, so don't tell anyone.' Brilliant.
I also found it very strange that, when Hal and his dragons sacked an unsuspecting city by raining fire and rocks on it, they were received back as heroes. But when they did the same thing to a city they had been blockading for weeks, their own people regarded them as villains for killing poor innocent civilians.
And, lastly, there were some things that were simply too unrealistic. Stone melting from fire arrows? Yeah, right.
**½
(!Minor spoilers warning!:)
The book was alright in the sense that it flowed smoothly and wasn't boring, but it was one dimensional, lacking complexity. The whole story was about the main character continueing to fight the war that broke out in the first book. That's all. There was no intrigue, almost no subplots, no charater development. Hal had the same friend, the same dragon, the same enemy - nothing new.
I also at times wondered at the intelligence of the main character (author?). Caught behind enemy lines, he hopes that the guard set on him won't be too tight so that he can escape, but at the same time he tells everyone that he is the mighty Dragonmaster, Lord Hal. - Yes, now that they know who you are, I'm sure they will put a lighter guard on you, Hal. - And then later, he meets some fishermen and tells them, 'Listen, I know you don't have a clue who I am, but I am the mighty Lord Hal. But please, it is a secret, so don't tell anyone.' Brilliant.
I also found it very strange that, when Hal and his dragons sacked an unsuspecting city by raining fire and rocks on it, they were received back as heroes. But when they did the same thing to a city they had been blockading for weeks, their own people regarded them as villains for killing poor innocent civilians.
And, lastly, there were some things that were simply too unrealistic. Stone melting from fire arrows? Yeah, right.
26alcottacre
#25: Sounds like one I can safely skip. I hope your next book is better, Emily!
27Emily1
14. The Last Battle by Chris Bunch
*½
The last book in the Dragonmaster Trilogy, Bunch should really have sticked with the first two books and not have bothered with the third.
It was boring and unrealistic. And there were many inconsistencies between this book and the previous two. A lot of promise did not deliver.
Definitely not recommended.
*½
The last book in the Dragonmaster Trilogy, Bunch should really have sticked with the first two books and not have bothered with the third.
It was boring and unrealistic. And there were many inconsistencies between this book and the previous two. A lot of promise did not deliver.
Definitely not recommended.
28alcottacre
Yikes! I think I will just skip that entire trilogy. Too bad.
29Emily1
15. 'n Sluier vir Shahira (A veil for Shahira) by Annelize Morgan
**
An Afrikaans romance novel read at the recommendation of my sister. Its set in the seventeenth/eighteenth century and is about a French lady taken when her ship was captured by pirates and who then was sold into slavery in Yemen.
The book was a bit two dimensional, but the development of the main character from a dainty lady to a the strong personality one finds at the end of the book was interesting.
**
An Afrikaans romance novel read at the recommendation of my sister. Its set in the seventeenth/eighteenth century and is about a French lady taken when her ship was captured by pirates and who then was sold into slavery in Yemen.
The book was a bit two dimensional, but the development of the main character from a dainty lady to a the strong personality one finds at the end of the book was interesting.
30Emily1
16. Sharpe's Prey by Bernard Cornwell
***½
Very good. I especially enjoy the way in which Sharpe's life is constantly intertwined with that of Sir Arthur Wellesley.
***½
Very good. I especially enjoy the way in which Sharpe's life is constantly intertwined with that of Sir Arthur Wellesley.
31alcottacre
#30: I really have got to get back to the Sharpe series. I read the first two and liked them.
32Emily1
17. To Glory We Steer by Alexander Kent
***½
Very good. I was tempted to give it four stars, but the ending was a bit rushed.
This is a pivotal book in the Richard Bolitho series and a must-read for all fans, as the events described in this book are referred back to and influences the events in later books. We also meet Thomas Herrick and John Allday for the first time. Highly recommended.
***½
Very good. I was tempted to give it four stars, but the ending was a bit rushed.
This is a pivotal book in the Richard Bolitho series and a must-read for all fans, as the events described in this book are referred back to and influences the events in later books. We also meet Thomas Herrick and John Allday for the first time. Highly recommended.
33Emily1
18. Sharpe's Rifles by Bernard Cornwell
**½
Sharpe and a relatively small number of his Rifles become separated from the main body of their army while campaigning in Spain and need to reach the British garrison in Lisbon, Portugal.
Although this book was the sixth edition in the series chronologically, it was written before the previous five. Perhaps that is why Sharpe seemed less confident in his abilities in this book than in the previous ones. The book was also to a large extent written as if from the viewpoint of a spectator, taking away the immediacy of the action.
Overall an interesting read, but it could have been better.
**½
Sharpe and a relatively small number of his Rifles become separated from the main body of their army while campaigning in Spain and need to reach the British garrison in Lisbon, Portugal.
Although this book was the sixth edition in the series chronologically, it was written before the previous five. Perhaps that is why Sharpe seemed less confident in his abilities in this book than in the previous ones. The book was also to a large extent written as if from the viewpoint of a spectator, taking away the immediacy of the action.
Overall an interesting read, but it could have been better.
34Emily1
19. Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
**
Having promised myself that I would not read this, I caved in at the insistance of my sister.
Since my expectations were very low, this book was both better and worse than expected.
The overall story was allright. The book just started veeerrrrrryyy slow.
!!!!! SPOILER WARNING !!!!!
What irritated me the most, was the love triangle between Jacob, Bella and Edward. If it was a simple issue of Bella not being able to choose between the two, I could have lived with it. But instead, after proclaiming throughout the first three quarters of the book that she loved Jacob "like family", she has a sudden epiphany on a mountain top, realising that Jacob is the love of her human life and her soulmate, but that she loved Edward more. (Really??? Or is this just a case of the author trying to have her bread buttered on both sides?)
What also jarred was that, after Jacob forced himself on Bella, kissing her against her will, and resulting in her breaking her hand, upon hearing this her over-protective dad does not reach for his shotgun, but instead claps Jacob on the shoulder saying "Good for you!" (I mean, why should Charlie care that Jacob sexually assaulted and injured his only daughter???). This was totally out of character.
That said, I survived the read. But I am still not a fan of the series (although I suspect that Breaking Dawn will also be forced upon me).
**
Having promised myself that I would not read this, I caved in at the insistance of my sister.
Since my expectations were very low, this book was both better and worse than expected.
The overall story was allright. The book just started veeerrrrrryyy slow.
!!!!! SPOILER WARNING !!!!!
What irritated me the most, was the love triangle between Jacob, Bella and Edward. If it was a simple issue of Bella not being able to choose between the two, I could have lived with it. But instead, after proclaiming throughout the first three quarters of the book that she loved Jacob "like family", she has a sudden epiphany on a mountain top, realising that Jacob is the love of her human life and her soulmate, but that she loved Edward more. (Really??? Or is this just a case of the author trying to have her bread buttered on both sides?)
What also jarred was that, after Jacob forced himself on Bella, kissing her against her will, and resulting in her breaking her hand, upon hearing this her over-protective dad does not reach for his shotgun, but instead claps Jacob on the shoulder saying "Good for you!" (I mean, why should Charlie care that Jacob sexually assaulted and injured his only daughter???). This was totally out of character.
That said, I survived the read. But I am still not a fan of the series (although I suspect that Breaking Dawn will also be forced upon me).
35alcottacre
I read the first book in the series back when it first came out and have no desire to read the rest. I do hope you are able to withstand your sister's insistence :)
36suslyn
I'm reading a Bernard Cornwell atm, well... to borrow Flossie's term, I'm 'stalled' in a Cornwell book atm. It's good, I'm enjoying it, and I keep finding something else I'd rather read :) But I have hopes I'll finish it.
I didn't read your review of Princep's Fury... just in case! LOL I'm re-reading Cpt's Fury atm. And should be getting to it soon.
I didn't read your review of Princep's Fury... just in case! LOL I'm re-reading Cpt's Fury atm. And should be getting to it soon.
37Emily1
I've just finished:
20. Sharpe's Eagle by Bernard Cornwell
***
It is the first Sharpe novel written by him, but still very good. It is tipical of most Sharpe novels: incompetent officers who hate Sharpe and a damsel in distress to be saved. It was an enjoyable read. I especially enjoy the history that is intertwined with the novel's events.
>36 suslyn: Princeps' Fury does not let one down. Enjoy!
20. Sharpe's Eagle by Bernard Cornwell
***
It is the first Sharpe novel written by him, but still very good. It is tipical of most Sharpe novels: incompetent officers who hate Sharpe and a damsel in distress to be saved. It was an enjoyable read. I especially enjoy the history that is intertwined with the novel's events.
>36 suslyn: Princeps' Fury does not let one down. Enjoy!
38Emily1
21. Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer
***
It was allright, but not quite my cup of tea. If you are a die-hard fan, you will enjoy it. If not, don't bother.
***
It was allright, but not quite my cup of tea. If you are a die-hard fan, you will enjoy it. If not, don't bother.
40Emily1
22. Sharpe's Gold by Bernard Cornwell
***
It was good, but I was very disappointed that the author did not show the meeting between Sharpe and Wellington at the end of the book.
And one thing that irritates me of the Sharpe books (from a female perspective): All his love-interests fall for him at the drop of a hat. If his eye catches a girl, he never has to work to win her. All he has to do is to get her away from her old boyfriend.
***
It was good, but I was very disappointed that the author did not show the meeting between Sharpe and Wellington at the end of the book.
And one thing that irritates me of the Sharpe books (from a female perspective): All his love-interests fall for him at the drop of a hat. If his eye catches a girl, he never has to work to win her. All he has to do is to get her away from her old boyfriend.
41Emily1
23. Sharpe's Havoc by Bernard Cornwell
***
It had a slow start, but turned out to be very good. Chronologically taking place after the events in Sharpe's Rifles, but before those in Sharpe's Eagle, Sharpe is stranded behind enemy lines in an effort to save a girl and thwart a traitor. And to my surprise, this is the first Sharpe book that I've read where he does not get the girl. Refreshing.
***
It had a slow start, but turned out to be very good. Chronologically taking place after the events in Sharpe's Rifles, but before those in Sharpe's Eagle, Sharpe is stranded behind enemy lines in an effort to save a girl and thwart a traitor. And to my surprise, this is the first Sharpe book that I've read where he does not get the girl. Refreshing.
42alcottacre
I need to get back to the Sharpe series one of these centuries!
43suslyn
>your blurb made me chuckle :) That is refreshing. Just finished a book with one American in it -- and he didn't save the day. My (French) husband would have felt the same way. :)
44Emily1
24. Promise of the Witch King by R. A. Salvatore
**
A swords and sorcery book that I picked up for next to nothing at a book sale. I read the Drizzt books when I was younger and enjoyed The Silent Blade, another Jarlaxle and Entreri novel, a lot.
Like most of Salvatore's later books, I did not find this book as good as those earlier ones. The story was a bit too one-dimensional, with a lot of the supporting characters not living up to their potential. That said, the relationship between Jarlaxle and Entreri remains interesting and one should after all not expect too much story from this type of book.
Recommended for those who want to have a fun read without having to think much while waiting for their next book.
**
A swords and sorcery book that I picked up for next to nothing at a book sale. I read the Drizzt books when I was younger and enjoyed The Silent Blade, another Jarlaxle and Entreri novel, a lot.
Like most of Salvatore's later books, I did not find this book as good as those earlier ones. The story was a bit too one-dimensional, with a lot of the supporting characters not living up to their potential. That said, the relationship between Jarlaxle and Entreri remains interesting and one should after all not expect too much story from this type of book.
Recommended for those who want to have a fun read without having to think much while waiting for their next book.
45TadAD
>41 Emily1:: I have temporarily abandoned the Sharpe series to go through a few of the Aubrey/Maturin series...I had done 3 Sharpes in a row. Your comment made me laugh because he does seem to have women fall at his feet on a regular basis, doesn't he?
46Emily1
>45 TadAD: Yes, irritatingly so.
I read Master and Commander, but wasn't impressed enough to read the rest. Too much prose, too little action.
I read Master and Commander, but wasn't impressed enough to read the rest. Too much prose, too little action.
47TadAD
>46 Emily1:: I almost didn't continue after Master and Commander but a friend pressed me (no pun intended) and I'm glad I did. There is a lot of prose, but I find that I rather enjoy it. Now that I've come to know the characters pretty well, I like the little insights into their characters and the pictures of naval life. I listen to them as audio books on my commute and I find they have just the right blend of "interesting" without too much "distracting".
48Emily1
25. The Gypsy-Morph by Terry Brooks
**
The third book in the Genesis of Shannara series. I did not enjoy this book and would have abandoned it if it hadn't been the last book in the trilogy. It was boring, with too little happening. Just endless travelling.
Brooks's tendancy to "borrow" themes/magic from his earlier books was also irritating: Been there, done that. How about some originality?
And then the BIG Encounter with the main Enemy, that was aluded to from book one, was over almost before it started.
Not recommended.
**
The third book in the Genesis of Shannara series. I did not enjoy this book and would have abandoned it if it hadn't been the last book in the trilogy. It was boring, with too little happening. Just endless travelling.
Brooks's tendancy to "borrow" themes/magic from his earlier books was also irritating: Been there, done that. How about some originality?
And then the BIG Encounter with the main Enemy, that was aluded to from book one, was over almost before it started.
Not recommended.
49alcottacre
#48: OK, I will gladly skip that one. I hope you enjoy your next read better, Emily!
50Emily1
26. Sharpe's Escape by Bernard Cornwell
***½
I found this edition of the Sharpe series very good. It was gripping, a page turner. I would have given it four stars, except for two things:
Firstly, Cornwell again avoided showing an encounter between Sharpe and Wellington at the end of the book. As Sharpe's regard for and loyalty to Wellington and the interaction between these two disparate men is one of the things I enjoy most in the Sharpe books, this was a disappointment.
Secondly, I found this book very graphic, much more so than the other books in the series. If a thug is beating someone into a pulp, it is sufficient for the author to just say so with a brief description. It is not necessary to describe the process in the minutest detail.
The book recounts the final march of the French to the Lines of Torres Verdas. Besides having to deal with traitors and rescuing damsels in distress, Sharpe is suddenly faced with a threat to his captaincy. Highly recommended.
***½
I found this edition of the Sharpe series very good. It was gripping, a page turner. I would have given it four stars, except for two things:
Firstly, Cornwell again avoided showing an encounter between Sharpe and Wellington at the end of the book. As Sharpe's regard for and loyalty to Wellington and the interaction between these two disparate men is one of the things I enjoy most in the Sharpe books, this was a disappointment.
Secondly, I found this book very graphic, much more so than the other books in the series. If a thug is beating someone into a pulp, it is sufficient for the author to just say so with a brief description. It is not necessary to describe the process in the minutest detail.
The book recounts the final march of the French to the Lines of Torres Verdas. Besides having to deal with traitors and rescuing damsels in distress, Sharpe is suddenly faced with a threat to his captaincy. Highly recommended.
51Emily1
27. The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks
****
I was unsure whether I would like this book due to its dark theme, but instead it was one of the better books I've read.
It reminded me a lot of The Lies of Locke Lamora, the main character just being an assassin instead of a thief. It did not have the same humour as Scott Lynch'es books, but at the same time wasn't as crude.
The book was a page-turner: I could not put it down. The relationship between Azoth and Durzo Blint was the most gripping and poignant part of the book.
One of the strongest themes that emerged throughout the book, was that of redemption and the conflict that the possibility thereof created within certain of the characters. Yet this theme did not drown out the main story, but rather formed an undercurrent supporting it.
Despite its dark theme (definitely not recommended for young readers), this novel was about love and hope. Highly recommended.
****
I was unsure whether I would like this book due to its dark theme, but instead it was one of the better books I've read.
It reminded me a lot of The Lies of Locke Lamora, the main character just being an assassin instead of a thief. It did not have the same humour as Scott Lynch'es books, but at the same time wasn't as crude.
The book was a page-turner: I could not put it down. The relationship between Azoth and Durzo Blint was the most gripping and poignant part of the book.
One of the strongest themes that emerged throughout the book, was that of redemption and the conflict that the possibility thereof created within certain of the characters. Yet this theme did not drown out the main story, but rather formed an undercurrent supporting it.
Despite its dark theme (definitely not recommended for young readers), this novel was about love and hope. Highly recommended.
53Emily1
28. Shadow's Edge by Brent Weeks
*
The first book in the series was good. This one, was not. It combined all the things that I did not like from the first book to create a story that lacked cohesion and did not feel authentic.
With many characters from the first book either dead, dying or undergoing drastic personality changes and the viewpoint jumping every chapter, I found that I couldn't care less what happened to the characters.
By page 400 the author still had not been able to catch my interest or immerse me in the events of the book. When we reached the climactic Big Fight/denouement at the end of the book, I found myself skimming paragraphs. Not because I'm on the edge of my seat, anxious to see what will happen, but because at that stage I did not care what happened to the characters and just wanted the book to be over with.
The book was too graphic and explicit, unnecessarily so. The author had also leaned too much on other authors. The killing off of characters might have worked for George R R Martin, but did not for Weeks, and there was a new theme introduced that reminded me all too much of the Sisters of the Light in Terry Goodkind's Stone of Tears.
If I ever read the third book, it will be solely due to the relevation on the very last page of the book, the only thing that made reading the book worthwhile.
*
The first book in the series was good. This one, was not. It combined all the things that I did not like from the first book to create a story that lacked cohesion and did not feel authentic.
With many characters from the first book either dead, dying or undergoing drastic personality changes and the viewpoint jumping every chapter, I found that I couldn't care less what happened to the characters.
By page 400 the author still had not been able to catch my interest or immerse me in the events of the book. When we reached the climactic Big Fight/denouement at the end of the book, I found myself skimming paragraphs. Not because I'm on the edge of my seat, anxious to see what will happen, but because at that stage I did not care what happened to the characters and just wanted the book to be over with.
The book was too graphic and explicit, unnecessarily so. The author had also leaned too much on other authors. The killing off of characters might have worked for George R R Martin, but did not for Weeks, and there was a new theme introduced that reminded me all too much of the Sisters of the Light in Terry Goodkind's Stone of Tears.
If I ever read the third book, it will be solely due to the relevation on the very last page of the book, the only thing that made reading the book worthwhile.
54ronincats
Okay, you've convinced me. I do NOT want to read the series by Brent Weeks. I hate graphic and explicit. I'll look at the last page in passing at the bookstore, and then forget about him.
55dk_phoenix
Huh. I've wondered about that series... and based on your comments, I guess it's not worth starting. But that's okay, it means one less series to read!
56Emily1
>#54 The last page of the book will only make sense if you've read the first book in the series, The Way of Shadows. It is unfortunate that the second book was so bad, as I enjoyed the first one (at #51 above).
57alcottacre
Well, I picked up The Way of Shadows at the library the other day and from the looks of it, the book can just go back unread. I do not want to start a series I will not finish. I am with Roni in hating graphic and explicit. Too many other books out there for me to read to waste my time on that one. Thanks for the heads up, Emily.
58Emily1
29. The Painted Man by Peter V. Brett
**
Genre: Fantasy
The story was alright, but not great. It tells the separate life stories of mainly three characters, who only meet each other for the first time in the last part of the book.
Humanity is besieged by demons that rise up from the core of the earth at night, only to dissipate again in the morning. The result is that people can only go out during the day, having to hide behind warded walls at night. And those wards sometimes fail... Consequently, humanity cannot prosper. Commerce suffers, as towns and cities that aren't within a day's ride from each other only infrequently are visited by messengers willing to risk staying out at night to make the arduous journey, transporting both letters and essential goods.
Children are also engaged or married off between the ages of 12 and 15 to increase humanity's dwindling numbers. Although I can understand the rational behind it - a symptom of struggling to survive - it felt unrealistic reading of children thinking only of sex even before they reach puberty.
Although the premise of the story was good, what further bothered me about the book was that it had no central theme that the story could build up to: No main goal, no climax. There was no climactic battle at the end of the book, only a brief skirmish of little importance.
Although not a bad book, I will not go out of my way looking for the sequel.
**
Genre: Fantasy
The story was alright, but not great. It tells the separate life stories of mainly three characters, who only meet each other for the first time in the last part of the book.
Humanity is besieged by demons that rise up from the core of the earth at night, only to dissipate again in the morning. The result is that people can only go out during the day, having to hide behind warded walls at night. And those wards sometimes fail... Consequently, humanity cannot prosper. Commerce suffers, as towns and cities that aren't within a day's ride from each other only infrequently are visited by messengers willing to risk staying out at night to make the arduous journey, transporting both letters and essential goods.
Children are also engaged or married off between the ages of 12 and 15 to increase humanity's dwindling numbers. Although I can understand the rational behind it - a symptom of struggling to survive - it felt unrealistic reading of children thinking only of sex even before they reach puberty.
Although the premise of the story was good, what further bothered me about the book was that it had no central theme that the story could build up to: No main goal, no climax. There was no climactic battle at the end of the book, only a brief skirmish of little importance.
Although not a bad book, I will not go out of my way looking for the sequel.
59Emily1
30. Passage to Mutiny by Alexander Kent (aka Douglas Reeman)
***
Another Richard Bolitho Novel. This book is set in Australian waters and coincides with the outbreak of the French Revolution.
It is not the best in the series, but still a good read. The ending was a bit abrubt, and I personally did not like the theme relating to the reappearance of Viola Raymand (from Command a King's Ship.
***
Another Richard Bolitho Novel. This book is set in Australian waters and coincides with the outbreak of the French Revolution.
It is not the best in the series, but still a good read. The ending was a bit abrubt, and I personally did not like the theme relating to the reappearance of Viola Raymand (from Command a King's Ship.
60suslyn
Thx for the heads up on Brett. re: Kent/Reeman, I enjoy picking up stories about what was going on in another part of the world when I have some familiarity with the period in another setting. Glad it was at least 'good' even if a bit disappointing!
61Emily1
31. Sharpe's Fury by Bernard Cornwell
****
A very good instalment in the Sharpe series. Through a series of events, Sharpe finds himself in Cadiz, Spain, where he has to contend with Blackmailers and settle a score with a French colonel.
Highly recommended.
****
A very good instalment in the Sharpe series. Through a series of events, Sharpe finds himself in Cadiz, Spain, where he has to contend with Blackmailers and settle a score with a French colonel.
Highly recommended.
62alcottacre
#61: I keep telling myself I need to get back to that series, and I keep not doing it. One of these days . . .
63Emily1
32. Beyond the Shadows by Brent Weeks
***
After the disappointment that was the second book, I rather enjoyed the final instalment in the series. It had a much lighter, more positive tone than the previous two.
It was also filled to the brim with events, so much so that Weeks did not have the leisure to fully develop the sub-plots. Instead, he skimmed over them quickly, throwing short references here and there to be able to tie everything together in the denouement at the end of the book. He should much rather have scrapped the second book, jumping directly to the events in the third book, which he could then develop into two novels with a more fully fleshed-out sub-plots.
Two things that did bother me:
1. An item was stolen from one of the characters by a nameless somebody identified only as the Thief and referred to only off-screen, who not only stole the item in a situation where there was no way he could have known who had the item or where that person was, but he also managed to steel it literaly off that wary person's back without him noticing. And then you never hear of this superb thief again. Very lazy writing, in my opinion.
2. The ending was just too unrealitic and fairy-tale perfect.
Still, recommended (if you can stand reading the second book to get to it).
***
After the disappointment that was the second book, I rather enjoyed the final instalment in the series. It had a much lighter, more positive tone than the previous two.
It was also filled to the brim with events, so much so that Weeks did not have the leisure to fully develop the sub-plots. Instead, he skimmed over them quickly, throwing short references here and there to be able to tie everything together in the denouement at the end of the book. He should much rather have scrapped the second book, jumping directly to the events in the third book, which he could then develop into two novels with a more fully fleshed-out sub-plots.
Two things that did bother me:
1. An item was stolen from one of the characters by a nameless somebody identified only as the Thief and referred to only off-screen, who not only stole the item in a situation where there was no way he could have known who had the item or where that person was, but he also managed to steel it literaly off that wary person's back without him noticing. And then you never hear of this superb thief again. Very lazy writing, in my opinion.
2. The ending was just too unrealitic and fairy-tale perfect.
Still, recommended (if you can stand reading the second book to get to it).
64Emily1
33. Sharpe's Battle by Bernard Cornwell
***
Another good instalment in the series. Sharpe is given the duty to train a company of the king of Spain's royal bodyguard and makes an enemy after executing two French soldiers.
It was good, with excellent battle scenes, but it fit the mould of previous Sharpe novels a bit too closely.
***
Another good instalment in the series. Sharpe is given the duty to train a company of the king of Spain's royal bodyguard and makes an enemy after executing two French soldiers.
It was good, with excellent battle scenes, but it fit the mould of previous Sharpe novels a bit too closely.
65Emily1
34. Once a Hero by Elizabeth Moon
***½
Genre: Sci-Fi
This book follows on the events of the Serrano Legacy Trilogy and follows the career of Junior Luitenant Esmay Suiza. It was good, with Moon - calling on her experience as a former marine - describing military life in a very authentic way.
Only two things bothered me: One, Esmay was just a tad too brilliant. She frequently comes to tactical conclusions that none of her superior officers considered, making you wonder how such stupid officer came to hold the positions they do in the Fleet (the episode with the mine is a clear example of this). And non of the officer seems able to come up with any plans or show any initiative.
Second, I really could have done without the psychology lessons. The same emotional foundations could have been laid for the story without exploring the psycological effects in such depth.
Not all Touchstones working. Grrrr.
***½
Genre: Sci-Fi
This book follows on the events of the Serrano Legacy Trilogy and follows the career of Junior Luitenant Esmay Suiza. It was good, with Moon - calling on her experience as a former marine - describing military life in a very authentic way.
Only two things bothered me: One, Esmay was just a tad too brilliant. She frequently comes to tactical conclusions that none of her superior officers considered, making you wonder how such stupid officer came to hold the positions they do in the Fleet (the episode with the mine is a clear example of this). And non of the officer seems able to come up with any plans or show any initiative.
Second, I really could have done without the psychology lessons. The same emotional foundations could have been laid for the story without exploring the psycological effects in such depth.
Not all Touchstones working. Grrrr.
66alcottacre
I just finished my first book by Moon, Remnant Population, and will definitely be reading more of hers. Thanks for giving me another one to check into!
67Emily1
#66 For Sci-fi, you should try her Vatta's War series. The Serrano series is also good, but the Vatta once were better.
35. Rules of Engagement by Elizabeth Moon
***
Following chronologically on the events described in Once a Hero, Esmay is attending command school and insults a fellow student, resulting in social condemnation descending upon her with the force of a hammer. Matters are worsened when that student is abducted and Esmay is blamed.
Although good, there was too little action in this lengthy novel. Instead, Moon spent a lot of pages describing the circumstances of the abovementioned student's captivity - in far too much detail. Most of the action takes place off-screen, so don't expect too many space battles.
35. Rules of Engagement by Elizabeth Moon
***
Following chronologically on the events described in Once a Hero, Esmay is attending command school and insults a fellow student, resulting in social condemnation descending upon her with the force of a hammer. Matters are worsened when that student is abducted and Esmay is blamed.
Although good, there was too little action in this lengthy novel. Instead, Moon spent a lot of pages describing the circumstances of the abovementioned student's captivity - in far too much detail. Most of the action takes place off-screen, so don't expect too many space battles.
68alcottacre
#67: The only book my local library has in the Vatta's War series is Marque and Reprisal. Can it be read as a stand alone?
69Emily1
#68 I would not recommend it. Marque and Reprisal is the second book in the series (it also goes by the name Moving Target). One really needs to read the first book, Trading in Danger, to understand what the series is about.
70alcottacre
Too bad. Unfortunately, my local library's stock of Moon's books is limited. It has exactly 3, one of which was a stand alone, Remnant Population. The other two are Marque and Reprisal and Oath of Fealty, both of which seem to be parts of series.
71Emily1
36. Form Line of Battle by Alexander Kent
***
Another good Bolitho naval novel. After recovering from illness, Captain Richard Bolitho is given command of a Ship of the Line and ordered to join Admiral Hood's squadron. Upon arrival, he is charged with securing a Spanish island to prevent the French from getting hold of it.
One thing that bothered me, was that Bolitho lost his love in the previous novel, but in this novel not only is this lost love never mentioned, but Bolitho also falls in love with a girl after speaking about two words with her. To be fair, it might be possible that the two novels was written chronologically out of sequence, but still, you kept wondering while reading why Bolitho isn't mourning.
***
Another good Bolitho naval novel. After recovering from illness, Captain Richard Bolitho is given command of a Ship of the Line and ordered to join Admiral Hood's squadron. Upon arrival, he is charged with securing a Spanish island to prevent the French from getting hold of it.
One thing that bothered me, was that Bolitho lost his love in the previous novel, but in this novel not only is this lost love never mentioned, but Bolitho also falls in love with a girl after speaking about two words with her. To be fair, it might be possible that the two novels was written chronologically out of sequence, but still, you kept wondering while reading why Bolitho isn't mourning.
72Emily1
I went through the entire July without reading a single book of fiction. Shocking, I know, but for some reason I just wasn't in the mood for anything on my TBR pile.
Well, luckily my reading drought seems to be over: I stayed up reading till late last night, almost finishing a book I only picked up yesterday. Only 40 pages left to go, so should be posting something soon.
Well, luckily my reading drought seems to be over: I stayed up reading till late last night, almost finishing a book I only picked up yesterday. Only 40 pages left to go, so should be posting something soon.
73alcottacre
I am glad the reading drought is over for you, Emily! I hate those things.
74Emily1
37. Sharpe's Company by Bernard Cornwell
****
Sharpe at his best. A good installment in the series. I especially enjoy the relationship between Wellington and Sharpe, given the history they share. My only disappointment was the reintroduction of Hakeswill into the plot, a character I despise.
****
Sharpe at his best. A good installment in the series. I especially enjoy the relationship between Wellington and Sharpe, given the history they share. My only disappointment was the reintroduction of Hakeswill into the plot, a character I despise.
75Emily1
38. Deliverer by C. J. Cherryh
A reread before starting Conspirator. It is the 9th book in the Foreigner series, which still remains one of my favourites.
A reread before starting Conspirator. It is the 9th book in the Foreigner series, which still remains one of my favourites.
76alcottacre
Congratulations on reaching the halfway point of the series, Emily!
77Emily1
39. Conspirator by C. J. Cherryh
*****
Excellent! It started somewhat slow but quickly picked up a pace that never let up. It is amazing how Cherryh is able - on the 10th book in the series - to still write such an excellant, fresh, action-packed book. I would say that this book ranks among the best in the series.
Bren is on holiday at his Najida estate with his brother and associates. Most of your favourite characters feature, the character development continues, there's moments of action and suspense, a new twist enters the political arena - in short everything one wants from a Foreigner novel. I was also glad that one short-coming of the previous book was rectified: Cajeiri acted for too mature in Deliverer. He seemed more like a teenager twice his age then an eight-year-old (looking up architecture and plumbing in the library to plan his escapes??). In Conspirator he was much more convincingly a proper (mischievous) eight-year-old.
Highly recommend for Foreigner fans. For those unfamiliar with the series, however, DO NOT START HERE. You have to read the previous 9 books (that are also very good!) to fully appreciate the 10th one.
I can't wait for Deceiver. Pity the paperback only comes out next year. Now I just have to find the patience somewhere to wait ...
*****
Excellent! It started somewhat slow but quickly picked up a pace that never let up. It is amazing how Cherryh is able - on the 10th book in the series - to still write such an excellant, fresh, action-packed book. I would say that this book ranks among the best in the series.
Bren is on holiday at his Najida estate with his brother and associates. Most of your favourite characters feature, the character development continues, there's moments of action and suspense, a new twist enters the political arena - in short everything one wants from a Foreigner novel. I was also glad that one short-coming of the previous book was rectified: Cajeiri acted for too mature in Deliverer. He seemed more like a teenager twice his age then an eight-year-old (looking up architecture and plumbing in the library to plan his escapes??). In Conspirator he was much more convincingly a proper (mischievous) eight-year-old.
Highly recommend for Foreigner fans. For those unfamiliar with the series, however, DO NOT START HERE. You have to read the previous 9 books (that are also very good!) to fully appreciate the 10th one.
I can't wait for Deceiver. Pity the paperback only comes out next year. Now I just have to find the patience somewhere to wait ...
78Emily1
40. Sharpe's Sword by Bernard Cornwell
**
I did not enjoy this book. There were far too much foreshadowing by the author and not a lot happened. Definitely not one of Cornwell's best works.
**
I did not enjoy this book. There were far too much foreshadowing by the author and not a lot happened. Definitely not one of Cornwell's best works.
79TadAD
>77 Emily1:: I don't think you'll be disappointed in Deceiver, other than the fact that it's one of the "middle" books...which means that absolutely nothing gets resolved and we all wait another year.
80Emily1
41. Sharpe's Enemy by Bernard Cornwell
****
If Cornwell lost his touch in Sharpe's Sword, he completely regained it before writing Sharpe's Enemy. This was a very good book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only complaint was that it lacked the historical backing that the other novels have. Recommended.
****
If Cornwell lost his touch in Sharpe's Sword, he completely regained it before writing Sharpe's Enemy. This was a very good book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only complaint was that it lacked the historical backing that the other novels have. Recommended.
81Emily1
42. Stormcaller by Tom Lloyd
A reread. Not a great book, but readable. As I picked up the third book in the series at a sale, I decided to first refresh my memory by reading the previous two.
A reread. Not a great book, but readable. As I picked up the third book in the series at a sale, I decided to first refresh my memory by reading the previous two.
82TadAD
>80 Emily1:: I over-Sharped a bit and it's been a while since I read one. Seeing your post, I think it's time to try one again (I think Sharpe's Escape is next for me).
83Emily1
>82 TadAD:: You will not be disappointed in Sharpe's Escape. It is one of the better Sharpe novels. See my short review at #50 above.
84TadAD
>83 Emily1:: Great!
85Emily1
43. Twilight Herald by Tom Lloyd
Also a reread. Not as good as the first one - a bit too dark for my taste.
Also a reread. Not as good as the first one - a bit too dark for my taste.
86suslyn
Stasia -- I second the rec for Vatta's War over Suismay by Moon and I'm thrilled that you liked Remnant Population. It's one of my absolutely fav stand-alone short reads in SF.
I can't wait to read the rest of Cherryh's 3 trilogy -- Got to read book 7 while I was in the States and am ready for more :)
I can't wait to read the rest of Cherryh's 3 trilogy -- Got to read book 7 while I was in the States and am ready for more :)
87alcottacre
#86: Unfortunately my local library is extremely limited as the books of Moon's that is has. Of the Vatta's War series, the local library has book 2.
88Emily1
#86 + 87: Wasteland of Flint by Thomas Harlan is a very interesting mixture between sci-fi and archaeology with an engaging female main character. If you like Moon's work, you might also enjoy this one.
44. Grave Thief by Tom Lloyd
*
What a big load of nonsense (to put it politely). After building all the premises of a very good story in the first book, the slide in the second book increased to an ultimate collapse in the third book.
The main characters, developed with such care in Stormcaller, were pushed to the periphery of this book, acting as little more than spectators to the events of the book. There were too many inconsequential events, too much focus on Azaer and the madness afflicting the priests after the fall of Scree in the 2nd book.
As reader, I don't really care what the evil bad guys are doing except in the most general way, unless I witness it through the eyes of the good guys. No, I want to read what characters I care about are doing - and please, they must please actually be DOING something in the book instead of just walking around and moping the whole while.
This entire book focussed on what the bad guys were doing. Fine, it may be necessary for the plot to tell me what they're doing, but a chapter or two should suffice. I don't want to read a book dedicated to the bad guys. I want to read about the good guys. The author had me skipping paragraphs almost throughout the book searching for something to give meaning to the story and make it worth my while reading further.
Not recommended and I doubt whether I'll read the fourth book in the series. As matters stand, I am seriously considering donating the first three books to the local library so that they stop sullying my bookshelf with their presence.
Edit to fix typo.
44. Grave Thief by Tom Lloyd
*
What a big load of nonsense (to put it politely). After building all the premises of a very good story in the first book, the slide in the second book increased to an ultimate collapse in the third book.
The main characters, developed with such care in Stormcaller, were pushed to the periphery of this book, acting as little more than spectators to the events of the book. There were too many inconsequential events, too much focus on Azaer and the madness afflicting the priests after the fall of Scree in the 2nd book.
As reader, I don't really care what the evil bad guys are doing except in the most general way, unless I witness it through the eyes of the good guys. No, I want to read what characters I care about are doing - and please, they must please actually be DOING something in the book instead of just walking around and moping the whole while.
This entire book focussed on what the bad guys were doing. Fine, it may be necessary for the plot to tell me what they're doing, but a chapter or two should suffice. I don't want to read a book dedicated to the bad guys. I want to read about the good guys. The author had me skipping paragraphs almost throughout the book searching for something to give meaning to the story and make it worth my while reading further.
Not recommended and I doubt whether I'll read the fourth book in the series. As matters stand, I am seriously considering donating the first three books to the local library so that they stop sullying my bookshelf with their presence.
Edit to fix typo.
89alcottacre
#88: Wasteland of Flint looks like a book I would really enjoy. Thanks for the recommendation, Emily!
90Emily1
45. Enemy in Sight by Alexander Kent
***½
Another good Richard Bolitho novel. Lots of naval action and Richard meets Adam Pascoe in this novel. I do miss the detail of C. S. Forester's battles and sailing manoeuvres (Hornblower series) and the historical accuracy of Bernard Cornwell (Sharpe series), but Kent tells a good and engaging story.
***½
Another good Richard Bolitho novel. Lots of naval action and Richard meets Adam Pascoe in this novel. I do miss the detail of C. S. Forester's battles and sailing manoeuvres (Hornblower series) and the historical accuracy of Bernard Cornwell (Sharpe series), but Kent tells a good and engaging story.
91ronincats
I'll keep an eye out for Wasteland of Flint since I do like Moon.
92Emily1
46. Dust of Dreams by Steven Erikson
***
The ninth book in the Malazan series, it was better than Toll the Hounds, but took a very long time to pick up speed.
There were a lot of sub-plots that I felt were totally unnecessary - adding nothing to the plot, but just increasing the page volume of what is a very long book. I would have liked to see more editing. And although not as downtrodden as Toll, it had its depressing bits.
The last third of the book was fast paced and the book ended with lots of action and some cliff-hangers. One can see that things are drawing to a close and that Erikson is starting to tie up all the threads (a daunting task!). I just hope he rereads his books with pen and paper at hand to note down all the places where he left the reader dangling with curiosity and questions. And that he answers those questions in his next book...
***
The ninth book in the Malazan series, it was better than Toll the Hounds, but took a very long time to pick up speed.
There were a lot of sub-plots that I felt were totally unnecessary - adding nothing to the plot, but just increasing the page volume of what is a very long book. I would have liked to see more editing. And although not as downtrodden as Toll, it had its depressing bits.
The last third of the book was fast paced and the book ended with lots of action and some cliff-hangers. One can see that things are drawing to a close and that Erikson is starting to tie up all the threads (a daunting task!). I just hope he rereads his books with pen and paper at hand to note down all the places where he left the reader dangling with curiosity and questions. And that he answers those questions in his next book...
93Emily1
47. Rebecca by Wilna Adriaanse
***½
An Afrikaans Romance novel recommended by my mother. It was good, but went on a bit to long, in my opinion. Would have had a much better conclusion if the author had not dragged it out so much.
***½
An Afrikaans Romance novel recommended by my mother. It was good, but went on a bit to long, in my opinion. Would have had a much better conclusion if the author had not dragged it out so much.
94alcottacre
#93: Too bad you did not enjoy that one more. I hope your next read is more to your taste, Emily!
95Emily1
48. The Silver Pigs by Lindsey Davis
****
Very good! It is about a private informer (= private detective) named Falco living in 70 AD Rome. It is written in the first person and, although it took a while to get used to Falco's "voice", once I did, Falco became a very endearing character. It was funny how Falco had such a low opinion of himself, while it was clear from his actions and other characters' reactions that he is quite a noble character.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
****
Very good! It is about a private informer (= private detective) named Falco living in 70 AD Rome. It is written in the first person and, although it took a while to get used to Falco's "voice", once I did, Falco became a very endearing character. It was funny how Falco had such a low opinion of himself, while it was clear from his actions and other characters' reactions that he is quite a noble character.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
96alcottacre
#95: I have had that book in the BlackHole forever. I think I am just going to have to break down and buy a copy!
98alcottacre
#97: My local library has a lot of Davis' books, just not that particular one - except in audio form. I may give it a try that way just to see if I like it enough to continue with the series.
99Emily1
#98: The Silver Pigs is the first in the series. The audiobook would thus be best.
100Emily1
49. Kinkels van die Hart by Bep du Toit
***
Was in the mood to read something light that did not require much thought. This Afrikaans romance novel, although not great, suited nicely.
***
Was in the mood to read something light that did not require much thought. This Afrikaans romance novel, although not great, suited nicely.
101alcottacre
#100: Sometimes we all need those 'light' novels. Glad you found one that suited you.
102Emily1
50. Sabriel by Garth Nix
***
Seeing that so many enjoyed the group read, I decided to give it a try. It was an interesting story, but a bit too YA for me (the talking cat was a bit much), and it lacked depth. Still, an enjoyable read.
51. Waar Liefde Vonkel by Marilyn Bennett
**½
An Afrikaans quick-read to pass the Sunday afternoon.
***
Seeing that so many enjoyed the group read, I decided to give it a try. It was an interesting story, but a bit too YA for me (the talking cat was a bit much), and it lacked depth. Still, an enjoyable read.
51. Waar Liefde Vonkel by Marilyn Bennett
**½
An Afrikaans quick-read to pass the Sunday afternoon.
103alcottacre
Congratulations on passing 50 books for the year, Emily!
104Emily1
52. Sewe Dae by Lizet Engelbrecht
***
Another relatively short (218 p.) novel while deciding what to read next.
***
Another relatively short (218 p.) novel while deciding what to read next.
105Emily1
53. Die Weddenskap by Cecilia Nortjé
54. Sharpe's Honour by Bernard Cornwell
***
Another good and enjoyable Sharpe novel. I admit to being saddened when Sharpe lost one thing that was very dear to him, and surprised when his honour prevailed over his love/lust (Sharpe's one weakness still being women). And, as always, I was irritated with Cornwell for not writing about Sharpe's encounter with Wellington at the end of the book.
54. Sharpe's Honour by Bernard Cornwell
***
Another good and enjoyable Sharpe novel. I admit to being saddened when Sharpe lost one thing that was very dear to him, and surprised when his honour prevailed over his love/lust (Sharpe's one weakness still being women). And, as always, I was irritated with Cornwell for not writing about Sharpe's encounter with Wellington at the end of the book.
106Emily1
54. By Omdraai Verby by Elizabeth Burgers
55. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis
****½
This book was truly excellent, even better than The Silver Pigs. It was good to hear Falco's "voice" again (it is written in the first person). He is a very likeable character. His low opinion of himself contrasts sharply with his strong values, bravery and thoroughness, and reading about his interaction with Helena is a treat. Highly recommended.
55. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis
****½
This book was truly excellent, even better than The Silver Pigs. It was good to hear Falco's "voice" again (it is written in the first person). He is a very likeable character. His low opinion of himself contrasts sharply with his strong values, bravery and thoroughness, and reading about his interaction with Helena is a treat. Highly recommended.
107alcottacre
#106: I just got a copy of The Silver Pigs (finally!) so I am jumping on the Falco bandwagon.
109alcottacre
Thanks, Emily!
110Emily1
56. Die Reuk van Verlange by Wilna Adriaanse
57. 'n Tweede Kans by Martie Gouws
Two shortish Afrikaans novels with which to pass the time.
58. Sharpe's Regiment by Bernard Cornwell
***½
Another good one, and this time with a change of scenery. Sharpe goes to England to find his battalion's missing recruits in order to prevent the South Essex from being disbanded due to their depleted numbers. He is thrown completely out of his depth in London high society but, as always, is surrounded by beautiful ladies to help him along. Recommended.
57. 'n Tweede Kans by Martie Gouws
Two shortish Afrikaans novels with which to pass the time.
58. Sharpe's Regiment by Bernard Cornwell
***½
Another good one, and this time with a change of scenery. Sharpe goes to England to find his battalion's missing recruits in order to prevent the South Essex from being disbanded due to their depleted numbers. He is thrown completely out of his depth in London high society but, as always, is surrounded by beautiful ladies to help him along. Recommended.
111Emily1
59. Die Vrouehater by Bets Smith
60. Venus in Copper by Lindsey Davis
***½
The third Falco novel. Although I enjoyed the previous book more, this book is also good. I just felt sorry for Falco at the end of the book because of how things turned out with his flat. Now I have to search around to find The Iron Hand of Mars.
60. Venus in Copper by Lindsey Davis
***½
The third Falco novel. Although I enjoyed the previous book more, this book is also good. I just felt sorry for Falco at the end of the book because of how things turned out with his flat. Now I have to search around to find The Iron Hand of Mars.
112Emily1
61. Jy's die Een by Madelie Human
62. 'n Ongewone Belegging by Wilna Adriaanse
I'm not giving reviews on the books in Italics, firstly because they are in Afrikaans and unlikely to be read by anyone here; secondly, because they are mostly shortish novels (200 pages or less) and are light reading entertainment that do not require much thought (that serves nicely in relieving my stress: currently have heavy workload at work).
63. Lirael by Garth Nix
!!!!!!!!!MINOR SPOLER WARNING!!!!!!!!
***
The second book in the Abhorsen trilogy, it had more depth of story than Sabriel, but is still very YA (the talking cat is joined by a talking dog).
I did find it very disturbing that, while clearly aimed at a younger audience, suicide is postulated as a potential answer to one's troubles and disappointments in life, the particular character only prevented from carrying through with the deed because her nerve failed her. And even thereafter, she keeps considering it as a potential out, without any healthy moral censure added (which could easily have been done, either through the characters own enlightenment or through advice given by an elder). Instead, the immature reader might come to the false conclusion that suicide is a "valid" solution to one's problems. Definitely not what I would recommend for younger readers.
Aside for the above, the story was all right and I'll probably keep an eye out for Abhorsen.
62. 'n Ongewone Belegging by Wilna Adriaanse
I'm not giving reviews on the books in Italics, firstly because they are in Afrikaans and unlikely to be read by anyone here; secondly, because they are mostly shortish novels (200 pages or less) and are light reading entertainment that do not require much thought (that serves nicely in relieving my stress: currently have heavy workload at work).
63. Lirael by Garth Nix
!!!!!!!!!MINOR SPOLER WARNING!!!!!!!!
***
The second book in the Abhorsen trilogy, it had more depth of story than Sabriel, but is still very YA (the talking cat is joined by a talking dog).
I did find it very disturbing that, while clearly aimed at a younger audience, suicide is postulated as a potential answer to one's troubles and disappointments in life, the particular character only prevented from carrying through with the deed because her nerve failed her. And even thereafter, she keeps considering it as a potential out, without any healthy moral censure added (which could easily have been done, either through the characters own enlightenment or through advice given by an elder). Instead, the immature reader might come to the false conclusion that suicide is a "valid" solution to one's problems. Definitely not what I would recommend for younger readers.
Aside for the above, the story was all right and I'll probably keep an eye out for Abhorsen.
113TadAD
>95 Emily1: & ff: You've hit upon my absolute favorite mystery series. I just finished Nemesis a few months ago, which is #20. I usually lose interest in a series character long before that but Falco and Helena still have my attention.
There is a rumor floating around that she was stopping this series after this book—I really hope it's not true.
She's got a new book about Emperor Domitian coming out. Like all of hers, it will start in the UK and then, eventually, make its way over to the US. And, like always, I have to decide whether I want to order it from the UK and pay shipping. :-)
There is a rumor floating around that she was stopping this series after this book—I really hope it's not true.
She's got a new book about Emperor Domitian coming out. Like all of hers, it will start in the UK and then, eventually, make its way over to the US. And, like always, I have to decide whether I want to order it from the UK and pay shipping. :-)
114Emily1
>113 TadAD:: I'm still hunting for the Iron Hand of Mars. I've got Poseidon's Gold, but don't want to read the books out of order.
115Emily1
64. Maanskyn en Dissels by Elsa Rall
65. Sharpe's Siege by Bernard Cornwell
***
Another good Sharpe novel. Sometimes, looking at the cover, I wonder if I'm really in the mood for a war novel, but as soon as I start reading, I can't put it down. Looking forward to the next one.
65. Sharpe's Siege by Bernard Cornwell
***
Another good Sharpe novel. Sometimes, looking at the cover, I wonder if I'm really in the mood for a war novel, but as soon as I start reading, I can't put it down. Looking forward to the next one.
116Emily1
66. The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
***½
The first book in the Mistborn Trilogy, I was tempted to give it four stars. But even though it had an interesting magic system, the first half of the book was just too slow and boring. Almost nothing happened.
Things only started to pick up once Vin started infiltrating the nobility, and from there I must admit the book continued to pick up pace and became quite gripping. Although part of a trilogy, the book can also be read as a stand-alone. It did not end with any cliffhangers and had a satisfying ending that still left scope for the rest of the trilogy.
Recommended, if you can get past the first +- 300 pages.
Edit to fix typo.
***½
The first book in the Mistborn Trilogy, I was tempted to give it four stars. But even though it had an interesting magic system, the first half of the book was just too slow and boring. Almost nothing happened.
Things only started to pick up once Vin started infiltrating the nobility, and from there I must admit the book continued to pick up pace and became quite gripping. Although part of a trilogy, the book can also be read as a stand-alone. It did not end with any cliffhangers and had a satisfying ending that still left scope for the rest of the trilogy.
Recommended, if you can get past the first +- 300 pages.
Edit to fix typo.
117alcottacre
It takes 300 pages to get into the book? Wow. I may rethink reading that trilogy.
118Emily1
#117: The book itself consists of about 600 pages.
67. Furies of Calderon by Jim Butcher - I'm rereading the entire Codex Alera series as I finally got hold of First Lord's Fury.
68. Academ's Fury by Jim Butcher - the second book in the series and, although still good, my least favourite thus far.
67. Furies of Calderon by Jim Butcher - I'm rereading the entire Codex Alera series as I finally got hold of First Lord's Fury.
68. Academ's Fury by Jim Butcher - the second book in the series and, although still good, my least favourite thus far.
119dk_phoenix
I didn't find that Mistborn started slowly at all!!! Rather, I found myself sucked in from the very beginning. Personal preference, I suppose. I should add that I loved the whole series and found the magic system unique and fascinating. I'm looking forward to the Mistborn novella that Sanderson is releasing next year... and by "looking forward to", I mean "anxious and salivating over". Haha.
120Emily1
#119: What did you think of the third book in the series (Hero of Ages)? I haven't read the second or third books yet, but heard from some LT'ers that the third one is not so good.
122alcottacre
#121: I have got to get back to that series!
123Emily1
71. Princeps' Fury by Jim Butcher - Another reread.
124dk_phoenix
>120 Emily1:: I really liked the third one, though it takes some unexpected turns that I can see someone not liking. I thought the ending was spot on, it couldn't have gone any other way, and I found myself thinking about the ending long after it happened (I think I went through a number of stages of grief... shock, denial, anger, and finally acceptance... it had to happen that way, it just wouldn't make sense otherwise). My husband also read the series and liked the third book. On the whole, I think the Mistborn trilogy has one of the most creative and unique magic systems I've ever encountered, and I really liked the characters and world Sanderson created. If you go into the third book realizing the dire situation everyone is in, and stick around for the explanation about everything, it makes sense and is absolutely worthwhile.
Yep, I'm a bit of an evangelist for the series :)
Yep, I'm a bit of an evangelist for the series :)
125Emily1
72. First Lord's Fury by Jim Buthcer
***½
I am ambivalent about this book, and writing about it without giving spoilers is difficult. The first half was as good as the others in the series, except for a few minor discrepancies (as if Butcher failed to reread the previous books when writing this one).
The second half was less satisfying. The battle(s) with the Vord was drawn out too long and, disappointingly, some major characters played almost no roll in the final battle, sitting it out on the injury bench instead. Tavi's character also felt a little bit off. There were some instances where he acted downright stupidly and where I missed the ingenuity of the young man we've come to know.
Finally, the last chapter was a bit of a disappointment. It was set 6 months after the final battle and the way in which things were wrapped up seemed just a bit too utopian. I would much rather have liked to see more of what happened in the direct aftermath of the battle, and a more realitic way of solving the multi-cultural issues then what was proposed in the end.
Still, I enjoyed the series overall and it will remain one of my favourites.
***½
I am ambivalent about this book, and writing about it without giving spoilers is difficult. The first half was as good as the others in the series, except for a few minor discrepancies (as if Butcher failed to reread the previous books when writing this one).
The second half was less satisfying. The battle(s) with the Vord was drawn out too long and, disappointingly, some major characters played almost no roll in the final battle, sitting it out on the injury bench instead. Tavi's character also felt a little bit off. There were some instances where he acted downright stupidly and where I missed the ingenuity of the young man we've come to know.
Finally, the last chapter was a bit of a disappointment. It was set 6 months after the final battle and the way in which things were wrapped up seemed just a bit too utopian. I would much rather have liked to see more of what happened in the direct aftermath of the battle, and a more realitic way of solving the multi-cultural issues then what was proposed in the end.
Still, I enjoyed the series overall and it will remain one of my favourites.
126alcottacre
Emily, the 2011 group is up and running. I do hope you will be joining us again!
http://www.librarything.com/groups/75booksin20111
http://www.librarything.com/groups/75booksin20111
127Emily1
#126: Only once I've reached my goal for 2010!
73. The Iron Hand of Mars by Lindsey Davis
***½
Another fun Falco novel, the fourth in the series. This time, Falco is sent to Germany on a quest for Vespasian. Enjoyable, although the the way in which he found two of his missing persons at the end of the book was a little bit too convenient.
Edit to fix Touchstone.
73. The Iron Hand of Mars by Lindsey Davis
***½
Another fun Falco novel, the fourth in the series. This time, Falco is sent to Germany on a quest for Vespasian. Enjoyable, although the the way in which he found two of his missing persons at the end of the book was a little bit too convenient.
Edit to fix Touchstone.
128alcottacre
I am glad to hear you will be back with us in 2011 once this year is wrapped up!
129Emily1
74. Poseidon's Gold by Lindsey Davis
***½
The fifth Falco novel. Also good. My only complaints, though minor, are that there are to much foreshadowing by the author and the a few discrepancies with the first couple of novels in the series. In the first two books, Falco suspected who his father was, but wasn't sure. In this book Falco and everbody had always known who he was.
Lastly, I wish that something would for once go right in poor Falco's life. Bad luck seems to haunt him.
***½
The fifth Falco novel. Also good. My only complaints, though minor, are that there are to much foreshadowing by the author and the a few discrepancies with the first couple of novels in the series. In the first two books, Falco suspected who his father was, but wasn't sure. In this book Falco and everbody had always known who he was.
Lastly, I wish that something would for once go right in poor Falco's life. Bad luck seems to haunt him.
131Emily1
Temporarily lost my internet access, so I couldn't post. Herewith reads that I got in before the clock struck midnight on the 31st:
75. Vlindersoene by Anne Penzhorn
76. Man van Min Woorde by Marile Cloete
77. Liefde Verander Alles by Elizabeth Burgers
78. Romanse op die Spyskaart by Salome Schutte
79. Maak my Anders, Here! by Maretha Maartens
The above five are all Afrikaans titles. The last one is a book with dailly devotionals. The first four are paperback romance novels: ideal for a day at the beach (yes, I live in sunny South Africa!).
75. Vlindersoene by Anne Penzhorn
76. Man van Min Woorde by Marile Cloete
77. Liefde Verander Alles by Elizabeth Burgers
78. Romanse op die Spyskaart by Salome Schutte
79. Maak my Anders, Here! by Maretha Maartens
The above five are all Afrikaans titles. The last one is a book with dailly devotionals. The first four are paperback romance novels: ideal for a day at the beach (yes, I live in sunny South Africa!).
