In the conclusion to this series, MaryAnne is tired of feeling all alone. Since the death of their daughter Andrea, David has a difficult time dealing with it all. Now with the upcoming wedding of her brother, MaryAnne decides to go visit to take a break from it all. A letter found on Andrea's grave will take them all on a journey they won't soon forget.
Mr. Evans definitely knows how to grab of your emotions. This book did it for me more than the others. Having to figure out how to deal with the emotions of the time as well as what was going on in the lives of the main characters. As well as knowing the issues of the time period of the main story and making it all believable without being too crude.
MaryAnne is a woman who is so heart broken but knows she needs to move on with her life. David buries himself in work and never takes time for what really matters until its too late. These two have a lot to go through and realize how their love can get them through anything. It may take some time.
This book moved me and I loved seeing the full love story of this couple and how much it affected the lives of the man and his wife Kerri. I appreciated the whole thing and the understandings of the time were phenomenal. Definitely a new author that has completely won me over. A Christmas reading with emotion and heart.
Richard Paul Evans/ Christmas Story/ 336 pages/ 5 out of 5
Off to go get some writing done and then hopefully watch a movie tonight. :)
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Friday, December 05, 2008
The Timepiece by Richard Paul Evans
A timepiece that has meaning is given to the man in the first story. He reflects on the story that surrounded it. MaryAnne is young and expecting and meets her future husband David. It is their life building together that has them get to know Lawrence who repairs clocks. All three lives will be entangled forever after one simple event.
Mr. Evans does it again! I love the bit of back story we get on MaryAnne and her Husband. I could see how she had become the woman she was in Christmas Box. The characters are full of such emotions. I was immensely pleased with his writing style.
Both MaryAnne and the father in the story again truly need to see the message not only in the timepiece but in life itself. There are a lot of lessons to learn and to see how life can be changed in an instant. This is a story that I'll not soon forget and an author that I have completely fallen in love with his writing.
Richard Paul Evans/Christmas story/ Adult Fiction/ 272 pages/ 5 out of 5
I was pleased that it flowed as similar as the movie since I had not read the book before. Now I hope to catch this month to compare it once again. :)
Mr. Evans does it again! I love the bit of back story we get on MaryAnne and her Husband. I could see how she had become the woman she was in Christmas Box. The characters are full of such emotions. I was immensely pleased with his writing style.
Both MaryAnne and the father in the story again truly need to see the message not only in the timepiece but in life itself. There are a lot of lessons to learn and to see how life can be changed in an instant. This is a story that I'll not soon forget and an author that I have completely fallen in love with his writing.
Richard Paul Evans/Christmas story/ Adult Fiction/ 272 pages/ 5 out of 5
I was pleased that it flowed as similar as the movie since I had not read the book before. Now I hope to catch this month to compare it once again. :)
Thursday, December 04, 2008
The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans
A young father tells the story of the Christmas that he'll never forget. Having to move into someone else's home is never easy. At first, it is difficult for this man to get over. Most of all, the change is most affecting his wife and little girl. The woman they move in with may just help this man figure out what he truly wants and needs for his life.
This story is heart warming. Mr. Evans has written a classic with this one. I've had it for awhile just took me forever to read. I am so glad that I did because it gave me the true meaning of Christmas to share with others and to love. This is one author that I will read more of.
Richard Paul Evans/New Author/ Christmas/ Family/ 83 pages/ 4 out of 5
I read this one yesterday but never got a chance to do anything since I wasn't home. lol I thought this was very close to the movie.
This story is heart warming. Mr. Evans has written a classic with this one. I've had it for awhile just took me forever to read. I am so glad that I did because it gave me the true meaning of Christmas to share with others and to love. This is one author that I will read more of.
Richard Paul Evans/New Author/ Christmas/ Family/ 83 pages/ 4 out of 5
I read this one yesterday but never got a chance to do anything since I wasn't home. lol I thought this was very close to the movie.
The Exchange by Inga C. Ellzey
Jewelle Dawson needed a break. Being in the witness protection program had been draining. She needs a break and wants to get out. Against the advisement of her friend, she decides to go ahead and go. She knows she will not be watched over but she doesn't think anything of it. Meeting two wonderful men, Max is a playboy gambler and wants Jewelle to come along and take risks with him. While Paul is a laid back kind of guy and just gently woos her. This trip will be one that she'll never forget.
Ms. Ellzey made me laugh. It all came back to mentioning the small town in Minnesota as well as Duluth. Being someone who has been there just made me smile cause it fit so well. There were a few grammatical and spelling errors but nothing major. I was pleased with how well the plot flowed and the surprises along the way. Ms. Ellzey has a new fan and I cannot wait for the sequel to come out.
Jewelle is a woman who just wants to embrace life. She never knew how a simple testimony could change her life. Now she wants to take a break from the life she had to start. Meeting other people on a cruise seems like the ideal spot. Little does she know that she'll change lives along the way.
This is a fascinating book that grabbed me from the beginning. It jumped from Jewelle to another character a little here and there. It never bothered me and I felt it flowed pretty well. It was a good well written story that the sequel to come out next year is definitely a must read after the cliff hanger you are left with at the end.
Inga C. Ellzey/New Author/ Adult Fiction/ Romance/ Chunkster/401 pages/ 5 out of 5
I would have posted this sooner but we lost power yesterday and forgot to copy this onto something so I could post it. lol Oh well! :)
Ms. Ellzey made me laugh. It all came back to mentioning the small town in Minnesota as well as Duluth. Being someone who has been there just made me smile cause it fit so well. There were a few grammatical and spelling errors but nothing major. I was pleased with how well the plot flowed and the surprises along the way. Ms. Ellzey has a new fan and I cannot wait for the sequel to come out.
Jewelle is a woman who just wants to embrace life. She never knew how a simple testimony could change her life. Now she wants to take a break from the life she had to start. Meeting other people on a cruise seems like the ideal spot. Little does she know that she'll change lives along the way.
This is a fascinating book that grabbed me from the beginning. It jumped from Jewelle to another character a little here and there. It never bothered me and I felt it flowed pretty well. It was a good well written story that the sequel to come out next year is definitely a must read after the cliff hanger you are left with at the end.
Inga C. Ellzey/New Author/ Adult Fiction/ Romance/ Chunkster/401 pages/ 5 out of 5
I would have posted this sooner but we lost power yesterday and forgot to copy this onto something so I could post it. lol Oh well! :)
Monday, December 01, 2008
Ghost Hunting by Jason Hawes, Grant Wilson, Jan
Awesome book! Okay serious it was, I got a glimpse into more of what they do and how they go about doing their work. There was some repetitiveness that drove me crazy from time to time, but I truly felt that they wanted to make sure they said things correctly so people would understand that this is serious work. It truly is, I used to watch the show. I say used to because I have a very vivid imagination.
I remember my first episode, I believe it was last year, all I remember is that they were at this old Physic Hospital that is now abandoned. I think that is what it is but what sticks in my mind is how there was a black form that they saw down the hallway. It “floated” out and “floated” back into the shadows. Steve and Brian (at least I think that is who it was lol) had to go over this a couple of times to make sure that they had seen it. It freaked me out till no end!!! No joke.
Reading about some of their old cases that I had never seen was interesting cause I got a better glimpse of how they did this. They do their best to find out what is really going on and that is what kept me going back to the show time and time again. But well having a young child in the house, not wise to watch it till he is asleep. That meant I couldn't watch the show till 10pm. Umm yeah, bad idea for me!
But I truly appreciated what these guys did and what they are doing now. They truly make sure they try to figure out what is going on whether it is faked, stuff in the house that is making the noises, or it is really real. So yeah, definitely a book to read if you love this show or if you're curious at what they do and not sure you can watch it. :) It still has some jumpy moments but not so scary at least for me. :)
Jason Hawes, Grant Wilson, Jan Michael Freeman, Non Fiction, Ghost stories, 5 out of 5
I remember my first episode, I believe it was last year, all I remember is that they were at this old Physic Hospital that is now abandoned. I think that is what it is but what sticks in my mind is how there was a black form that they saw down the hallway. It “floated” out and “floated” back into the shadows. Steve and Brian (at least I think that is who it was lol) had to go over this a couple of times to make sure that they had seen it. It freaked me out till no end!!! No joke.
Reading about some of their old cases that I had never seen was interesting cause I got a better glimpse of how they did this. They do their best to find out what is really going on and that is what kept me going back to the show time and time again. But well having a young child in the house, not wise to watch it till he is asleep. That meant I couldn't watch the show till 10pm. Umm yeah, bad idea for me!
But I truly appreciated what these guys did and what they are doing now. They truly make sure they try to figure out what is going on whether it is faked, stuff in the house that is making the noises, or it is really real. So yeah, definitely a book to read if you love this show or if you're curious at what they do and not sure you can watch it. :) It still has some jumpy moments but not so scary at least for me. :)
Jason Hawes, Grant Wilson, Jan Michael Freeman, Non Fiction, Ghost stories, 5 out of 5
November Reads and Stats
Very slow month. Working 4 day weeks kept me hopping. So here is my list:
190. The List by Steve Martini 10-30-08 through 11-03-08 C
191.The School Run by Sophie King 11-03-08 through 11-05-08 B
192. A Death in Vienna by Daniel Silva 11-05-08 through 11-08-08 B
193. The Murder of Helen Jewett by Patrica Cline Cohen 11-08-08 through11-16-08 B
194. The Christmas Husband by Mary Anne Wilson 11-17-08 A
195. Once Upon A Christmas by Brenda Novak, Melinda Curtis, and Anna Adams 11-17-08 through 11-18-08 A
196. Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva 11-18-08 through 11-30-08 A
Stats:
Total Books Read: 7
New Authors: 6
Fiction: 6
Non-fiction: 1
TBR: 2
Chunksters: 3
Books I Reviewed: 0
Christmas/Winter: 2
Romance: 3
Mystery: 3
From the Stacks: 7
Books I Bought: 2
PBS Sent: 6
PBS Received: 10
Total pages read: 2717 pages
Well, I have another book review to type up. This one read pretty quick. :)
190. The List by Steve Martini 10-30-08 through 11-03-08 C
191.The School Run by Sophie King 11-03-08 through 11-05-08 B
192. A Death in Vienna by Daniel Silva 11-05-08 through 11-08-08 B
193. The Murder of Helen Jewett by Patrica Cline Cohen 11-08-08 through11-16-08 B
194. The Christmas Husband by Mary Anne Wilson 11-17-08 A
195. Once Upon A Christmas by Brenda Novak, Melinda Curtis, and Anna Adams 11-17-08 through 11-18-08 A
196. Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva 11-18-08 through 11-30-08 A
Stats:
Total Books Read: 7
New Authors: 6
Fiction: 6
Non-fiction: 1
TBR: 2
Chunksters: 3
Books I Reviewed: 0
Christmas/Winter: 2
Romance: 3
Mystery: 3
From the Stacks: 7
Books I Bought: 2
PBS Sent: 6
PBS Received: 10
Total pages read: 2717 pages
Well, I have another book review to type up. This one read pretty quick. :)
Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva
Gabriel Allon is ready to do some work for a friend when Ari comes looking for him. This time there is more at stake than even Gabriel thinks. Can he play by the rules?
Mr. Silva does it again and the real situtaions that happened in this book were taken from history. He just tweaked a little. But then it is fiction so it is entirely possible. Once again I was swept up into this book.
I truly felt for Gabriel. He had to start with a new team and figure out how to solve the problem that was coming. He was also torn between Chiara and his wife Leah. Tough choices for a man who loves his art.
This is a good book but not as good as the last one. Though that one was more heart wrenching. This one had me on the edge of my seat. I will definitely have to get the next one in the series!
Daniel Silva/ Chunkster/ 400 pages/ Spy story/ 4 out of 5
I enjoyed this one. It was not easy to read at times but was interesting. Off to read a review book and then my first Christmas book for December!
Mr. Silva does it again and the real situtaions that happened in this book were taken from history. He just tweaked a little. But then it is fiction so it is entirely possible. Once again I was swept up into this book.
I truly felt for Gabriel. He had to start with a new team and figure out how to solve the problem that was coming. He was also torn between Chiara and his wife Leah. Tough choices for a man who loves his art.
This is a good book but not as good as the last one. Though that one was more heart wrenching. This one had me on the edge of my seat. I will definitely have to get the next one in the series!
Daniel Silva/ Chunkster/ 400 pages/ Spy story/ 4 out of 5
I enjoyed this one. It was not easy to read at times but was interesting. Off to read a review book and then my first Christmas book for December!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
So cool!
I love authors seriously! I know it is a rare thing but the author I really like is sending me a copy of her book for my mom as a christmas gift. I was blown away. Here is the review of her book called My Life With Apache.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Mylifewithapache.html
I am too excited about this. So now I plan on buying my mom something else to go along with it. :) Seriously this book is worth your time reading!
Off to read. Hours picked up so less time to read.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Mylifewithapache.html
I am too excited about this. So now I plan on buying my mom something else to go along with it. :) Seriously this book is worth your time reading!
Off to read. Hours picked up so less time to read.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Just Like The Ones We Used to Know by Brenda Novak
Angela Forrester loves Kayla like she is her own daughter. But that is not the case, but now Kayla is wanting to know here “real” father. Angela isn't so sure at first and then decides to go back to where it all happened. She just hopes it goes better than expected.
Ms. Novak really gets to the heart of the matter. I loved this quick holiday story. :) So sweet and then full of heat. :) Definitely an author I would love to read more by.
The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
Emma Roberts was looking forward to helping her family with the Santa Express in her hometown. Now she gets an offer to drive a man to Las Vegas and she isn;t sure she wants it. Simon has the offer of a lifetime but has to scramble to find a driver. Emma may be the perfect one for the job but she just might find a way into his heart as well.
Ms. Curtis writes a sweet romance to life your spirits. Emma is a character you just want to hug. She has beliefs that she sticks to. You get a good glimpse into the life of Emma and her family. Simon may not be as hard of a nut to crack as he thinks.
All the Christmases to Come by Anna Adams
Andrew Durham takes being a single dad very seriously. Now his girlfriend is expecting and he isn't sure what to do about it. He is resigned to lose her because she wants more kids and he doesn't. But something keeps tugging at his heart.
Ms. Adams writes emotions that are so real in her characters. There are unsure people and then there are people who know what they want. You'll see both in this story. It may take an unplanned event to make them all see the same thing.
These three tales were so much fun to read! I couldn't get enough and definitely want to read more by all three authors. I was hooked with each one and didn't want to see any of the stories end. All three authors are truly talented and I am curious to see if they have written other Christmas stories.
Brenda Novak, Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, Christmas, Romance, New Authors, 304 pages, 5 out of 5
Off to read Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva and hopefully some more writing. :)
Angela Forrester loves Kayla like she is her own daughter. But that is not the case, but now Kayla is wanting to know here “real” father. Angela isn't so sure at first and then decides to go back to where it all happened. She just hopes it goes better than expected.
Ms. Novak really gets to the heart of the matter. I loved this quick holiday story. :) So sweet and then full of heat. :) Definitely an author I would love to read more by.
The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
Emma Roberts was looking forward to helping her family with the Santa Express in her hometown. Now she gets an offer to drive a man to Las Vegas and she isn;t sure she wants it. Simon has the offer of a lifetime but has to scramble to find a driver. Emma may be the perfect one for the job but she just might find a way into his heart as well.
Ms. Curtis writes a sweet romance to life your spirits. Emma is a character you just want to hug. She has beliefs that she sticks to. You get a good glimpse into the life of Emma and her family. Simon may not be as hard of a nut to crack as he thinks.
All the Christmases to Come by Anna Adams
Andrew Durham takes being a single dad very seriously. Now his girlfriend is expecting and he isn't sure what to do about it. He is resigned to lose her because she wants more kids and he doesn't. But something keeps tugging at his heart.
Ms. Adams writes emotions that are so real in her characters. There are unsure people and then there are people who know what they want. You'll see both in this story. It may take an unplanned event to make them all see the same thing.
These three tales were so much fun to read! I couldn't get enough and definitely want to read more by all three authors. I was hooked with each one and didn't want to see any of the stories end. All three authors are truly talented and I am curious to see if they have written other Christmas stories.
Brenda Novak, Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, Christmas, Romance, New Authors, 304 pages, 5 out of 5
Off to read Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva and hopefully some more writing. :)
Christmas Husband by Mary Anne Wilson
Madison Symthe loves being the voice of Dr. Love. She is able to help people even though she may be pretending on a few things. Now she is asked to be a Christmas present for someone including the husband that doesn't help her out. Now she has to contact an escort service for help, she would rather give up on the whole thing. But when she meets a man after talking to the lady who runs the service, she wonders if that could be the man for her.
Ms. Wilson writes a wonderful romance that heats up. I loved it from the beginning cause the boy really wanted his father around. It truly is a sweet Christmas story that is full of surprises. Ms. Wilson knew how to keep things interesting and keep you wanting to read.
Madison loved doing her job but never felt to take the time to take care of herself. When she is hit with an unexpected situation, I was curious to see how she'd handle things. It certainly was going to show her what she is made of.
This was a cute romance and I really liked it. I definitely would love to read more by this author whether Christmas related or not.
Mary Anne Wilson/New Author/249 pages/ Christmas/Romance/4 out of 5
I finished this one before I left for work. :) I loved this one. Now off to another Christmas book. :)
Ms. Wilson writes a wonderful romance that heats up. I loved it from the beginning cause the boy really wanted his father around. It truly is a sweet Christmas story that is full of surprises. Ms. Wilson knew how to keep things interesting and keep you wanting to read.
Madison loved doing her job but never felt to take the time to take care of herself. When she is hit with an unexpected situation, I was curious to see how she'd handle things. It certainly was going to show her what she is made of.
This was a cute romance and I really liked it. I definitely would love to read more by this author whether Christmas related or not.
Mary Anne Wilson/New Author/249 pages/ Christmas/Romance/4 out of 5
I finished this one before I left for work. :) I loved this one. Now off to another Christmas book. :)
Holiday Book Giveaway
This author Brenda is giving away books on her blog.
http://brendajanowitz.blogspot.com/
Check it out!!
Okay back to reading. :)
http://brendajanowitz.blogspot.com/
Check it out!!
Okay back to reading. :)
Sunday, November 16, 2008
The Murder of Helen Jewett
A prostitute murdered. A man aligned with her that is high in society. What really happened?
This author tries to delve not only into the facts around the death of Helen Jewett but the background of Helen and Robinson. Not to mention the times they grew up and lived in during the 1800's. I was over whelmed with all the information and the things that were going on.
Ms. Cohen truly digs into it all and shows all sides and presents a full picture for you to figure out what really happened. The fact that the trial ended the way it did probably did have something to do with it staying in their memories.
I agree that it had nothing to do with her being a prostitute. Now days, things might have been different and noting would have been thought of. But at that time, things were different. Men would regularly seek out women even just to talk to and pay for it. Impressed is how I would put this, I did get bogged down by all the foot notes so I would only read the ones where extra information was given since there was so much to read about.
Ms. Cohen did a fantastic job and maybe she gave this woman a voice like no other. I am definitely curious to see what else this author has written.
Patricia Cline Cohen/ New Author/ 512 pages/ Non-fiction/ Chunkster/ Murder/ 3.5 out of 5
It's been awhile since I posted, work has picked up and slowed down. Now it has picked up so I hope so more lighter fare in books. lol
This author tries to delve not only into the facts around the death of Helen Jewett but the background of Helen and Robinson. Not to mention the times they grew up and lived in during the 1800's. I was over whelmed with all the information and the things that were going on.
Ms. Cohen truly digs into it all and shows all sides and presents a full picture for you to figure out what really happened. The fact that the trial ended the way it did probably did have something to do with it staying in their memories.
I agree that it had nothing to do with her being a prostitute. Now days, things might have been different and noting would have been thought of. But at that time, things were different. Men would regularly seek out women even just to talk to and pay for it. Impressed is how I would put this, I did get bogged down by all the foot notes so I would only read the ones where extra information was given since there was so much to read about.
Ms. Cohen did a fantastic job and maybe she gave this woman a voice like no other. I am definitely curious to see what else this author has written.
Patricia Cline Cohen/ New Author/ 512 pages/ Non-fiction/ Chunkster/ Murder/ 3.5 out of 5
It's been awhile since I posted, work has picked up and slowed down. Now it has picked up so I hope so more lighter fare in books. lol
Saturday, November 08, 2008
A Death in Vienna
Gabriel Allon is off chasing another thing for Shamron. But this time, it involves a friend of his and a bombing that happened in order to keep things quiet. Now Gabriel will risk his life once again to get the answers he wants . He’ll be all over the place. Now if only he can get back in one piece this time under the worst constraints.
Mr. Silva does it again. This book had me going from one end to the other with emotions. I was frustrated with what Gabriel found out about the man behind all the targeting and what his real name was and his involvement during world war 2. The amount of research this man had to do was insurmountable to me. I was truly impressed with how authentic things came across even if it was difficult to read at times.
Gabriel Allon is certainly coming along in this series. He is learning when to do what is needed though at times he just wants to give up on it all. I can certainly understand his emotions and the things he has to face in his past.
This is one series that never ceases to amaze me with what Gabriel is put through. I learn so much about him in each book that it is becoming interesting. I am not that big into spy novels but now I think I’ll pick up this author more often.
Daniel Silva/ Spy stories/ World War 2/ 390 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to read a non-fiction and then to my first Christmas story of the year!!! YAY!!! lol
Mr. Silva does it again. This book had me going from one end to the other with emotions. I was frustrated with what Gabriel found out about the man behind all the targeting and what his real name was and his involvement during world war 2. The amount of research this man had to do was insurmountable to me. I was truly impressed with how authentic things came across even if it was difficult to read at times.
Gabriel Allon is certainly coming along in this series. He is learning when to do what is needed though at times he just wants to give up on it all. I can certainly understand his emotions and the things he has to face in his past.
This is one series that never ceases to amaze me with what Gabriel is put through. I learn so much about him in each book that it is becoming interesting. I am not that big into spy novels but now I think I’ll pick up this author more often.
Daniel Silva/ Spy stories/ World War 2/ 390 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to read a non-fiction and then to my first Christmas story of the year!!! YAY!!! lol
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
The School Run by Sophie King
Five families all make the same run to school. Whether its the school teacher taking the bus, a mom who isn't sure about her marriage, another mom with a disappearing husband, a dad who is coping with the loss of his dead wife, or an au pair who thinks the children she is watching are horrible. Yet something will happen that will connect them all together.
Ms. King is a fantastic writer. She keeps things paced very well. The names when the character's stories changed helped a lot. I was impressed at how much depth you get into each character. That is not always easy to do.
Of all of them I really liked Pippa. She had the most she was dealing with in my opinion even more so than Harriet who wasn't sure about her marriage. Health issues make people think. All of them had their faults but getting the perspective really helped.
This is a good debut. I had parts where I would get upset. Other times not so much. I am curious to see what else she has written. She knows how to write all different kinds of characters and that makes her one well rounded author.
Sophie King/ New Author/ Family/ School/352 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to reading some more. Just started another a Daniel Silva book.
Ms. King is a fantastic writer. She keeps things paced very well. The names when the character's stories changed helped a lot. I was impressed at how much depth you get into each character. That is not always easy to do.
Of all of them I really liked Pippa. She had the most she was dealing with in my opinion even more so than Harriet who wasn't sure about her marriage. Health issues make people think. All of them had their faults but getting the perspective really helped.
This is a good debut. I had parts where I would get upset. Other times not so much. I am curious to see what else she has written. She knows how to write all different kinds of characters and that makes her one well rounded author.
Sophie King/ New Author/ Family/ School/352 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to reading some more. Just started another a Daniel Silva book.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
The List by Steve Martini
Abby Chandalis just wants success. Yet as someone who has bombed on the NY Times best selling list, she isn't sure that it'll happen again. Unless she finds someone to play her pen name that she has created. But doing that just might be deadlier than she thinks.
Mr. Martini is a fabulous writer. There were points in the story that just dragged on and were slightly confusing. The writing was fast paced but never stilted. I was impressed with how developed the characters were as well as the surprises this author could put in his work.
Abby knew the writing industry. She could not try to publish again so her only option was a pen name.Yet she chose a male one and was left scrambling. I could see why she did that but at the same time,it almost blew up in her face. Jack was a guy who had quite the complex at times. He creeped me out a little but then his gun knowledge came in handy. Plus he was always conducting research ways. This
author definitely knows how to let you in the character's head.
This was an up and down book for me. There was a point I actually wanted to put the book down. I kept going along cause I was curious to see how it would all end. The twists and turns with all the characters involved kept me turning pages. Yet, at the same time, there were a lot more things that didn't always make sense. The ending truly wrapped things up and all was revealed but I am still not sure it saved
the book.
Steve Martini/ Author of the Month/Chunkster/ Fiction/Mystery/464 pages/ 3 out of 5
I finished this one yesterday but right before I left for work. I also didn't get the book read in time for last month. lol Have a great day, off to read some more!
Mr. Martini is a fabulous writer. There were points in the story that just dragged on and were slightly confusing. The writing was fast paced but never stilted. I was impressed with how developed the characters were as well as the surprises this author could put in his work.
Abby knew the writing industry. She could not try to publish again so her only option was a pen name.Yet she chose a male one and was left scrambling. I could see why she did that but at the same time,it almost blew up in her face. Jack was a guy who had quite the complex at times. He creeped me out a little but then his gun knowledge came in handy. Plus he was always conducting research ways. This
author definitely knows how to let you in the character's head.
This was an up and down book for me. There was a point I actually wanted to put the book down. I kept going along cause I was curious to see how it would all end. The twists and turns with all the characters involved kept me turning pages. Yet, at the same time, there were a lot more things that didn't always make sense. The ending truly wrapped things up and all was revealed but I am still not sure it saved
the book.
Steve Martini/ Author of the Month/Chunkster/ Fiction/Mystery/464 pages/ 3 out of 5
I finished this one yesterday but right before I left for work. I also didn't get the book read in time for last month. lol Have a great day, off to read some more!
Saturday, November 01, 2008
October Reads and Stats
Stats:
October
Total Books Read: 15
New Authors: 8
Fiction: 13
Non-Fiction: 2
TBR: 2
Chunksters: 5
Books I reviewed: 4
Young Adult: 1
Romances: 4
Mysteries: 2
True Crime: 0
From the Stacks: 14
Books I Bought: 1
PBS Sent: 6
PBS Received: 5
Total Pages Read: 5,149
Books:
175.Final Analysis by Cathrine Crier 10-01-08 through 10-03-08 B
176. Peony in Love by Lisa See 10-03-08 through 10-05-08 B
177. Haunted Memories by Melanie Atkins 10-05-08 A+
178. Queen of Babble Gets Hitched by Meg Cabot 10-06-08 A+
179. The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs 10-06-08 through 10-08-08 A+
180: Anatomy of a Boyfriend by Daria Snadowsky 10-08-08 B
181. Really Something by Shirley Jump 10-09-08 A+
182.Doggy Style by Jane Nay 10-09-08 through 10-10-08 A
183. The Manning Brides by Debbie Macomber 10-11-08 A+
184. The Confessor by Daniel Silva 10-13-08 through 10-19-08 B
185. The House at Riverton by Kate Morton 10-20-08 through 10-22-08 A+
186. Acting Class by Milton Katselas 10-22-08 through 10-25-08 B
187. Like Glass by Matthew Cory 10-25-08 through 10-27-08 B
188. The Well of Lost Plots by Jasper Fforde 10-27-08 through 10-29-08 B
189. The Secret Thief by Judith Jaeger 10-29-08 through 10-30-08 A
Back to reading before off to work. lol
October
Total Books Read: 15
New Authors: 8
Fiction: 13
Non-Fiction: 2
TBR: 2
Chunksters: 5
Books I reviewed: 4
Young Adult: 1
Romances: 4
Mysteries: 2
True Crime: 0
From the Stacks: 14
Books I Bought: 1
PBS Sent: 6
PBS Received: 5
Total Pages Read: 5,149
Books:
175.Final Analysis by Cathrine Crier 10-01-08 through 10-03-08 B
176. Peony in Love by Lisa See 10-03-08 through 10-05-08 B
177. Haunted Memories by Melanie Atkins 10-05-08 A+
178. Queen of Babble Gets Hitched by Meg Cabot 10-06-08 A+
179. The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs 10-06-08 through 10-08-08 A+
180: Anatomy of a Boyfriend by Daria Snadowsky 10-08-08 B
181. Really Something by Shirley Jump 10-09-08 A+
182.Doggy Style by Jane Nay 10-09-08 through 10-10-08 A
183. The Manning Brides by Debbie Macomber 10-11-08 A+
184. The Confessor by Daniel Silva 10-13-08 through 10-19-08 B
185. The House at Riverton by Kate Morton 10-20-08 through 10-22-08 A+
186. Acting Class by Milton Katselas 10-22-08 through 10-25-08 B
187. Like Glass by Matthew Cory 10-25-08 through 10-27-08 B
188. The Well of Lost Plots by Jasper Fforde 10-27-08 through 10-29-08 B
189. The Secret Thief by Judith Jaeger 10-29-08 through 10-30-08 A
Back to reading before off to work. lol
Thursday, October 30, 2008
The Secret Thief by Judith Jaeger
Connie doesn’t want to help her grandmother clean up the house since it is sold. That means giving up her summer before she starts to teach. Her mother pushes her into it, so Connie finally gives in. Her grandmother always is rough with her so she is not sure she wants to go out there. Yet while cleaning and going through boxes, she finds things she never knew about. She begins to question the things her mother told her and wonders what really is the truth.
Ms. Jaeger has such a way with words. I could feel into Connie’s heart. The small town was a hoot and it came alive in this story. Secrets are often hid back past things. I was pleased not only with how things came out but the ending of this story.
Connie does not mind using the five-finger discount but then she wonders if she is really doing her self any good. The things she has been told while growing up suddenly sound false. But she has to figure out what is the truth and what isn’t. It’s going to be tough but she might just finally see the world for what it really is. The grandmother keeps things close to her heart to make sure things don’t repeat themselves. Connie’s mother is very controlling and must keep things in order. She is hurt by the decisions she made in life and now feels better once she is able to control things.
This is a book full of ups and down but when you close it, you’ll just feel like everything was pretty much figured out. There aren’t many lingering questions but that is a nice change. The author truly lets you into the mind of Connie so you can see where she is coming from.
Judith Jaeger/ New Author/ 194 pages/ Family/ Secrets/ 4 out of 5
Well off to read the author of the month. :) Then another one from the stacks. :)
Ms. Jaeger has such a way with words. I could feel into Connie’s heart. The small town was a hoot and it came alive in this story. Secrets are often hid back past things. I was pleased not only with how things came out but the ending of this story.
Connie does not mind using the five-finger discount but then she wonders if she is really doing her self any good. The things she has been told while growing up suddenly sound false. But she has to figure out what is the truth and what isn’t. It’s going to be tough but she might just finally see the world for what it really is. The grandmother keeps things close to her heart to make sure things don’t repeat themselves. Connie’s mother is very controlling and must keep things in order. She is hurt by the decisions she made in life and now feels better once she is able to control things.
This is a book full of ups and down but when you close it, you’ll just feel like everything was pretty much figured out. There aren’t many lingering questions but that is a nice change. The author truly lets you into the mind of Connie so you can see where she is coming from.
Judith Jaeger/ New Author/ 194 pages/ Family/ Secrets/ 4 out of 5
Well off to read the author of the month. :) Then another one from the stacks. :)
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
The Well of Lost Plots by Jasper Fforde
Thursday is settling into her book Caversham Heights yet feeling like she is supposed to remember something. Her family is still there but her memories are becoming tainted. And with the promised changes to the Book World coming, things are definitely topsy-turvy. Help must come but will Thursday be able to remember anything of her life.
Mr. Fforde has such creativity in his books. I just cannot believe the things that he is able to imagine. I would love sometime to jump into a book just for an hour but in between chapters so as to not mess anything up. Thursday is a character who has a lot to deal with but I never felt things were cruel for her. There was a good balance of craziness and the normal every day things people deal with but in a book world.
Thursday has a lot to battle in this book. Her memory is slowly fading and she doesn’t understand why. The people in Justifiction are doing their best to train her. Her mentor is always there but there will be a point that she must start working on her own. But can she do that and work on what she is forgetting?
This is an interesting book in the series. There are a lot of cliffhangers in this one. I am just curious to see how it all works out. Mr. Fforde had a few scenes that I could see leading to other things. I definitely love how this author writes but it does take awhile to get used to the writing if you’ve not read him in awhile. Oh, and you must start from the beginning with They Eyre Affair.
Jasper Fforde/ Mystery/ Books/ Chunkster/ 416 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to another review book and then one for the Author of the Month from my yahoo group. :)
Mr. Fforde has such creativity in his books. I just cannot believe the things that he is able to imagine. I would love sometime to jump into a book just for an hour but in between chapters so as to not mess anything up. Thursday is a character who has a lot to deal with but I never felt things were cruel for her. There was a good balance of craziness and the normal every day things people deal with but in a book world.
Thursday has a lot to battle in this book. Her memory is slowly fading and she doesn’t understand why. The people in Justifiction are doing their best to train her. Her mentor is always there but there will be a point that she must start working on her own. But can she do that and work on what she is forgetting?
This is an interesting book in the series. There are a lot of cliffhangers in this one. I am just curious to see how it all works out. Mr. Fforde had a few scenes that I could see leading to other things. I definitely love how this author writes but it does take awhile to get used to the writing if you’ve not read him in awhile. Oh, and you must start from the beginning with They Eyre Affair.
Jasper Fforde/ Mystery/ Books/ Chunkster/ 416 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to another review book and then one for the Author of the Month from my yahoo group. :)
Monday, October 27, 2008
Like Glass by Matthew Cory
Rob hadn’t spoken to his brother or the love of his life in eight years. It almost seemed like he had forgotten it all now focusing on running his own business. But one phone call brings back memories from long ago. Now Janet needs his help with the death of his brother Bill, but can he forgive and learn to move on?
Matthew Cory presents a real hard look at forgiveness and betrayal. The characters have depth and you feel the emotions along with them. Yet forgiveness must prevail or all Rob could have might be over. Mr. Cory truly lets you into the world of the character. Flash backs are natural and you get a better understanding of the reasons behind the emotions that is not always easy to do.
Rob just wanted to move on. Feelings were ever present on his face. The man couldn’t hide anything. His past nagged at him from time to time but he never let it get to him. Bill was overpowering and boisterous to say the least. Rob struggled to get along with him. They had good memories but Rob felt so betrayed that he couldn’t let go of his anger. Now the grudge years later comes back to haunt him. Janet, his old love, is struggling since she moved on with her life. Can he see Janet as she is now and forgive? Or is it a hopeless cause?
For a first novel, there is depth, emotion, and a story to tell whether in the past or the present. Janet, Lisa, and Rob have to deal with the now. The brother he knew seems to be such a good guy. Things are changing all the time and Rob has to figure out how to keep up. Mr. Cory keeps things light at times but there is healing that needs to be done.
Matthew Cory/ 210 pages/ Adult Fiction/ Families/ Healing/ 4 out of 5
I was contacted by the author to do this review. That was nice. :) Great book and a little bit of romance as well. :) Off to Well of Lost Plots by Jasper Fforde next!
Matthew Cory presents a real hard look at forgiveness and betrayal. The characters have depth and you feel the emotions along with them. Yet forgiveness must prevail or all Rob could have might be over. Mr. Cory truly lets you into the world of the character. Flash backs are natural and you get a better understanding of the reasons behind the emotions that is not always easy to do.
Rob just wanted to move on. Feelings were ever present on his face. The man couldn’t hide anything. His past nagged at him from time to time but he never let it get to him. Bill was overpowering and boisterous to say the least. Rob struggled to get along with him. They had good memories but Rob felt so betrayed that he couldn’t let go of his anger. Now the grudge years later comes back to haunt him. Janet, his old love, is struggling since she moved on with her life. Can he see Janet as she is now and forgive? Or is it a hopeless cause?
For a first novel, there is depth, emotion, and a story to tell whether in the past or the present. Janet, Lisa, and Rob have to deal with the now. The brother he knew seems to be such a good guy. Things are changing all the time and Rob has to figure out how to keep up. Mr. Cory keeps things light at times but there is healing that needs to be done.
Matthew Cory/ 210 pages/ Adult Fiction/ Families/ Healing/ 4 out of 5
I was contacted by the author to do this review. That was nice. :) Great book and a little bit of romance as well. :) Off to Well of Lost Plots by Jasper Fforde next!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Acting Class Take A Seat by Milton Katselas
Mr. Katselas has worked with some of the best names in the business. His main thing now is to teach acting classes. But he does it in a way that the students do all the work. He wants them to be able to do pretty much anything that is required and go after the roles that they think they would fit the best. He understands that type casting happens but you can break out of that too if you work hard enough. It all comes down to business. Reading through the chapters, I saw how difficult it is even for actors. The exercises presented in this book were great! I have taken an acting class and have seen similar things done.
They want the parts but they have to believe in themselves before they can get anywhere. They also have to prepare for any situation and script. There is a time and place for improvisation but rarely in that industry. You have to get along with others as well as cut the gossip. I can see everything he says is true. It is nice to have someone who spells it out as it is now. And with the involvement he has had, this one guy I would pay attention to.
I may not be an actor but I was impressed with how well things were laid out. This is one author who knows what he is talking about and not just writing for the fun of it. Lots to learn and knowledge to acquire; a must have for any one who is an actor or who wants to be one. Being involved whether in theatre or film, the principles still remain. I learned a lot from it myself.
Milton Katselas/Non-fiction/ Acting/ 320 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to rest. I have one more review book and then back to my own pile. :)
They want the parts but they have to believe in themselves before they can get anywhere. They also have to prepare for any situation and script. There is a time and place for improvisation but rarely in that industry. You have to get along with others as well as cut the gossip. I can see everything he says is true. It is nice to have someone who spells it out as it is now. And with the involvement he has had, this one guy I would pay attention to.
I may not be an actor but I was impressed with how well things were laid out. This is one author who knows what he is talking about and not just writing for the fun of it. Lots to learn and knowledge to acquire; a must have for any one who is an actor or who wants to be one. Being involved whether in theatre or film, the principles still remain. I learned a lot from it myself.
Milton Katselas/Non-fiction/ Acting/ 320 pages/ 4 out of 5
Off to rest. I have one more review book and then back to my own pile. :)
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