Maisie is learning all over again how to use what Maurice taught her. Georgina needs answers to her twin bother Nicholas’ death. So with the advice of Dame Constance, she seeks out Maisie. Struggling to put everything together, Maisie is tested again. She must go to places Nicholas loved and comes across hidden things. Yet while doing her best for Georgina, she becomes pulled away by a different tragedy. She now must get back to the case and figure out how the different things fit together and remain steady at the same time. Yet she wonders if she can do that.
Ms. Winspear weaves a story full of emotions. Her characters know how to truly feel things but not always share them. The doubts that Maisie must face are relevant to even today. The time and place could be anywhere because of the emotions in this story. War seems to be always there even if we are not involved. I admired Ms. Winspear’s blatant honesty and that her characters are flawed.
Maisie is a woman full of doubts, emotion, and not always willing to look inside herself for the answers. She not only has a lot to think about in this particular case but also in how to handle her personal affairs. Georgina’s family is very intriguing not only in the way they express themselves but how they act around each other. I think this is the most demanding case for Maisie. She has to deal with her dreams and what she wants for her life and so soon after falling ill. I was thrilled to see Inspector Stratton back. He is a man who knows how to listen to Maisie and take in everything she says. Even if her may look bad to other people he works with. He is an honorable man and one I hope to see more of in the next book.
This book got to me because we are in a war now. And no matter what your opinion, it is something we need to think about. Not only those affected by what we do in other countries, but how it affects us at home. Ms. Winspear’s books do make you question what you think about life. Though that may not be her intent that has been my experience. I feel truly blessed that I live now and can appreciate the freedoms we have. As alluring as any other time period might be, I’m glad to be here now. I looked forward to the next book in the series to see what Maisie is up to next. This is one character that never disappointed me with all her faults. It reminds me that I have much to learn still and will do my best every day.
Jacqueline Winspear/ 322 pages/ Mystery/ War/ Historical/ 5 out of 5
I finished this one Sunday but have been busy reading review books. Right now I am working on a book for the author of the month for my yahoo group AN2R. :) Well off to bed!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Pardonable Lies by Jacqueline Winspear
Maisie is in for the most difficult case of her life. A friend of Lord Compton’s, Cecil Lawton promises his wife on her death bed that he would find out if their son Ralph survived the war or not. So not only does she have to do her best to find out the truth but also Maisie will have to face some of her own past as well. That is not something she has done yet. It will test her strength and her friendship to Maurice Blanche. Her old friend Patricia Evernden asks for help in finding out what happened to her brother as well. The connections found will surprise Maisie and hopefully help her deal with her past.
Ms. Winspear has such emotion in her books. Her characters have a lot to deal with living when they do but that never seems to slow them down for too long. The things that happened in this book were hard to handle at times but I just had to keep reading. A lot of trust was tested but it was going to take awhile to heal. Ms. Winspear does a fabulous job of describing what places look like so I feel that I am right there.
Maisie is such a sweetheart. I felt horrible with the things that happened to her. I had to know who was behind it all. Maisie kept going no matter what she was told because she was being paid to find out the truth. I feel like she would have done it even without the pay but she has to make a living somehow. Maurice really surprised me in this book. The things that he had done and were still involved in shocked me. Old friends reappeared in this book for Maisie and the things she was asked to do was not always good. Things finally caught up with the poor lady and I truly felt for her. She was doing her best at setting things to rest and then new things kept coming up.
I really do enjoy this series. It is something to be cherished. I learned a lot about that time period and cannot wait to pick up the next one. Maisie is a character I can still relate to even though I was never involved in a war. Her job at finding the truth makes me want to seek that out in my own life everyday. Ms. Winspear has a treasure on her hands and it just keeps getting better.
Jacqueline Winspear/342 pages/ Mystery/ Historical/ 4 out of 5
I am now reading a review book and then onto Messenger of Truth, the fourth book in the Maisie Dobbs series.
Ms. Winspear has such emotion in her books. Her characters have a lot to deal with living when they do but that never seems to slow them down for too long. The things that happened in this book were hard to handle at times but I just had to keep reading. A lot of trust was tested but it was going to take awhile to heal. Ms. Winspear does a fabulous job of describing what places look like so I feel that I am right there.
Maisie is such a sweetheart. I felt horrible with the things that happened to her. I had to know who was behind it all. Maisie kept going no matter what she was told because she was being paid to find out the truth. I feel like she would have done it even without the pay but she has to make a living somehow. Maurice really surprised me in this book. The things that he had done and were still involved in shocked me. Old friends reappeared in this book for Maisie and the things she was asked to do was not always good. Things finally caught up with the poor lady and I truly felt for her. She was doing her best at setting things to rest and then new things kept coming up.
I really do enjoy this series. It is something to be cherished. I learned a lot about that time period and cannot wait to pick up the next one. Maisie is a character I can still relate to even though I was never involved in a war. Her job at finding the truth makes me want to seek that out in my own life everyday. Ms. Winspear has a treasure on her hands and it just keeps getting better.
Jacqueline Winspear/342 pages/ Mystery/ Historical/ 4 out of 5
I am now reading a review book and then onto Messenger of Truth, the fourth book in the Maisie Dobbs series.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Parallel Attraction by Deidre Knight
Jared Bennett has been focused on his people’s fight for freedom. Thinking of nothing else, the people around him keep reminding him that he needs to mate. He has the power to overthrow his enemy the key to time. Yet one woman will change his life forever. Kelsey has always known someone was out there for her. Though she never found him. When she meets Jared, the attraction for him is so strong she cannot explain it. She knows he has not told her everything but she has no idea what he is hiding. Could his secrets cost them their future together?
Ms. Knight is a fantastic author. The word she uses to spin her tale is amazing. I was swept up not only in the romance between Jared and Kelsey. I also found the culture of the Refarians fascinating. I am sure there is so much more to learn and I cannot wait! The intricate details were planned and I was blown away by how well she created the alien world. Having it take place in our backyard just makes it come alive.
Jared is a man full of duty and honor to his people. That was so refreshing. He also knew that he could not commit to someone he did not care for romantically. Scott Dillon, his best friend, did not understand that at all. But he had to get over it to support Jared’s decision. Kelsey had so much heartache but knew someone was out there for her. Her friends thought she was silly but she knew it in her heart. That was all that mattered to her. I really felt for Thea since she had this ideal in her mind since she was a child. All the people truly loved Jared and I believed that he deserved their admiration.
This is a series that truly delights from the start. I love Science Fiction and if all aliens look like Jared. They truly sizzle. Yet the people do want to protect Earth and win their world back from their enemy. I was pulled in from the beginning. The emotions are real and the difficulties ahead for Jared and Kelsey are not easy for them to face. I just hope they continue to do well.
Deidre Knight/ Romance/ Midnight Warriors Series/ Paranormal/ 320 pages/ 5 out of 5
I have book 2 Parallel Heat on order. I am so glad my friend from AN2R thought up this challenge. Off to the world of Maisie Dobbs again!
Ms. Knight is a fantastic author. The word she uses to spin her tale is amazing. I was swept up not only in the romance between Jared and Kelsey. I also found the culture of the Refarians fascinating. I am sure there is so much more to learn and I cannot wait! The intricate details were planned and I was blown away by how well she created the alien world. Having it take place in our backyard just makes it come alive.
Jared is a man full of duty and honor to his people. That was so refreshing. He also knew that he could not commit to someone he did not care for romantically. Scott Dillon, his best friend, did not understand that at all. But he had to get over it to support Jared’s decision. Kelsey had so much heartache but knew someone was out there for her. Her friends thought she was silly but she knew it in her heart. That was all that mattered to her. I really felt for Thea since she had this ideal in her mind since she was a child. All the people truly loved Jared and I believed that he deserved their admiration.
This is a series that truly delights from the start. I love Science Fiction and if all aliens look like Jared. They truly sizzle. Yet the people do want to protect Earth and win their world back from their enemy. I was pulled in from the beginning. The emotions are real and the difficulties ahead for Jared and Kelsey are not easy for them to face. I just hope they continue to do well.
Deidre Knight/ Romance/ Midnight Warriors Series/ Paranormal/ 320 pages/ 5 out of 5
I have book 2 Parallel Heat on order. I am so glad my friend from AN2R thought up this challenge. Off to the world of Maisie Dobbs again!
Thursday, February 07, 2008
White Chocolate Moments by Lori Wick
Arcineh Bryant’s world fell apart after she fell asleep in the back of her parent’s car and then woke up with them gone. Now she is living with her grandpa and things seem to get back to normal. Yet there is something that will happen that is out of her control. She feels betrayed years later and has to get out of there. She meets a girl who she can live with and starts to do hard physical labor. Yet there is a hole in her heart that she cannot fill. She does not know if her path will ever cross with her grandfather again.
Lori Wick is at it again. The transformation between Arcie’s loss and then the end is wonderful. This is not a typical book for Ms. Wick but then she has written so much that I found I did start to really like this book. There is a lot about this book that I really liked. Arcineh is such a sweetie as well as the minor characters are a blast too.
I could not get enough of Arcie. She is a sweet girl who develops into a wonderful woman. I loved watching her grow up. Her cousin Quinn drove me up the wall. Sam, Arcie’s grandfather, was truly married to his business. Though he got a wake up call and had to learn how to change things. Business did still take a bit of priority. I loved Violet, who was the housekeeper for Sam. She is a sweetie and picks up the pieces for Sam. She is a solid rock for Archineh to lean on.
This book had me going from the beginning. I had to find out how Arcineh would turn out. This is certainly not one of my favorites but this was a wonderful book. I loved seeing the relationship between Arcie and Gage grow and bloom. This is one I do recommend and now I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Chocolate is a good thing and how it played a part in this book was very cool!
Lori Wick/ 368 pages/ Christian Romance/ Family/4 out of 5
Well off to a romance by a soon to be favorite author of mine Diedre Knight.
Lori Wick is at it again. The transformation between Arcie’s loss and then the end is wonderful. This is not a typical book for Ms. Wick but then she has written so much that I found I did start to really like this book. There is a lot about this book that I really liked. Arcineh is such a sweetie as well as the minor characters are a blast too.
I could not get enough of Arcie. She is a sweet girl who develops into a wonderful woman. I loved watching her grow up. Her cousin Quinn drove me up the wall. Sam, Arcie’s grandfather, was truly married to his business. Though he got a wake up call and had to learn how to change things. Business did still take a bit of priority. I loved Violet, who was the housekeeper for Sam. She is a sweetie and picks up the pieces for Sam. She is a solid rock for Archineh to lean on.
This book had me going from the beginning. I had to find out how Arcineh would turn out. This is certainly not one of my favorites but this was a wonderful book. I loved seeing the relationship between Arcie and Gage grow and bloom. This is one I do recommend and now I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Chocolate is a good thing and how it played a part in this book was very cool!
Lori Wick/ 368 pages/ Christian Romance/ Family/4 out of 5
Well off to a romance by a soon to be favorite author of mine Diedre Knight.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Birds Of A Feather by Jacqueline Winspear
Maisie is having her hands full with the cases coming in rapidly. Though one case grabs her attention. A well to do gentleman Joseph Waite needs her help to find his daughter Charlotte. She has run away again and he wants to have her back as soon as possible. While searching her room, Maisie comes across an address book that had a prayer in it. Maisie has ideas on where to look at but needs to stay focused. On top of it all, three women are dead and there could be a connection to Charlotte. So Maisie needs to figure out what that is before something awful happens to Charlotte.
Ms. Winspear knows how to write emotion. There is so much emotion in the book that it was overwhelming at times. Yet through it all, it was an emotional time after the war. I can understand that. That is what made it so compelling. All the characters had their place and the reminiscing really brought the book full circle so that you kept things solid in your mind.
Maisie had a lot to deal with in this book. I truly felt for her. She did seek out some help but she did seem more helpful to others than she did herself. It takes time and I hope she can realize it better. I also liked how Maurice was back in this book helping her realize how to see things and be able to solve the crime. Maisie did her best work when she shut up and let the room speak for it self. She also tried to visualize things and that was great.
This book was a lot more emotional than the last but that is how the case presented to Maisie. I am so glad I have the other two books on my shelf cause I am curious to see how quite a few things play out in the next one. This is a series so far that really lives up to being a mystery. There is more than just solving a crime there is the motivation behind it. That is what Maisie always tries to figure out so that she can help. I really liked it. I didn’t like it as much as the previous one but it was still a book that I really did like.
Jacqueline Winspear/ 336 pages/ Mystery/ 4 out of 5
Ms. Winspear knows how to write emotion. There is so much emotion in the book that it was overwhelming at times. Yet through it all, it was an emotional time after the war. I can understand that. That is what made it so compelling. All the characters had their place and the reminiscing really brought the book full circle so that you kept things solid in your mind.
Maisie had a lot to deal with in this book. I truly felt for her. She did seek out some help but she did seem more helpful to others than she did herself. It takes time and I hope she can realize it better. I also liked how Maurice was back in this book helping her realize how to see things and be able to solve the crime. Maisie did her best work when she shut up and let the room speak for it self. She also tried to visualize things and that was great.
This book was a lot more emotional than the last but that is how the case presented to Maisie. I am so glad I have the other two books on my shelf cause I am curious to see how quite a few things play out in the next one. This is a series so far that really lives up to being a mystery. There is more than just solving a crime there is the motivation behind it. That is what Maisie always tries to figure out so that she can help. I really liked it. I didn’t like it as much as the previous one but it was still a book that I really did like.
Jacqueline Winspear/ 336 pages/ Mystery/ 4 out of 5
Sunday, February 03, 2008
The Manning Sisters by Debbie Macomber
The Cowboy’s Lady
Taylor Manning is not sure what she thought when she agreed to go to Cougar Point, Montana to teach. She must have lost her mind! Yet her mind seems to drift when she spots rancher Russ Palmer. He seems to have all the right things except he irritates her to no end. Her thoughts keep going back to the same thing how she would not mind being the cowboy’s lady.
This was a sweet story by Ms. Macomber. The differences between Russ and Taylor made the story so much more real. Opposites attract a lot in life but they can never seem to make it work. I liked that a lot. It wasn’t that they hated each other but Taylor found herself rationalizing what could be wrong with the relationship instead of what could make it work.
Taylor kept banging things around in her head. Already hurt once before, she was determined not to go down that road. And the funny thing was that she wasn’t looking for anything, just wanted a break from it all to heal. Russ Palmer seemed to have other ideas. But even he took awhile to come around to the idea. Mandy, Russ’ little sister did her best to keep these two involved. She was a little stinker but I think she even realized that they would have to figure it out on their own.
I cannot wait to see what happens in the next story. These characters are making me laugh out loud and I hope the next one does too!
The Sheriff Takes A Wife
Christy Manning is only planning on helping her sister Taylor adjust to her life after baby. She can only take two weeks off, but her boss understands since he is also her new fiancé. Christy just gets in the door when Taylor tells her it is time to go to the hospital. Russ is nowhere around so she calls for Cody. Her heart does flips when she notices him the first time. But can she tell him that she is engaged before anything happens or will she find herself heart broken?
Ms. Macomber does it again! Oh my word, this story was so emotional. I could not stop reading it! Cody and Christy had so much to get through before they could make a commitment to each other. This was quite the roller coaster but I knew it would be resolved somehow whether it ended good or bad.
Christy had a lot on her shoulders. Her parents had always expected a lot out of her and now she was not sure what to do since she no longer wanted to live up to it. Cody had his heart broken once before but Christy seemed to be the one for him. Yet when he finds out what is really going on can he keep his heart together and his hands away from Christy.
I liked both these stories. They were very real to me and so full of heart. It was a nice clean romance and I needed that. Heat has its place but something sweet is nice from time to time. I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out in August. This is one author who never disappoints.
Debbie Macomber/Romance/Sisters/ 528 pages/ 5 out of 5
Oh and I hope to finish a review book that I will count towards my romance challenge set up by my yahoo group AN2R. :)
Taylor Manning is not sure what she thought when she agreed to go to Cougar Point, Montana to teach. She must have lost her mind! Yet her mind seems to drift when she spots rancher Russ Palmer. He seems to have all the right things except he irritates her to no end. Her thoughts keep going back to the same thing how she would not mind being the cowboy’s lady.
This was a sweet story by Ms. Macomber. The differences between Russ and Taylor made the story so much more real. Opposites attract a lot in life but they can never seem to make it work. I liked that a lot. It wasn’t that they hated each other but Taylor found herself rationalizing what could be wrong with the relationship instead of what could make it work.
Taylor kept banging things around in her head. Already hurt once before, she was determined not to go down that road. And the funny thing was that she wasn’t looking for anything, just wanted a break from it all to heal. Russ Palmer seemed to have other ideas. But even he took awhile to come around to the idea. Mandy, Russ’ little sister did her best to keep these two involved. She was a little stinker but I think she even realized that they would have to figure it out on their own.
I cannot wait to see what happens in the next story. These characters are making me laugh out loud and I hope the next one does too!
The Sheriff Takes A Wife
Christy Manning is only planning on helping her sister Taylor adjust to her life after baby. She can only take two weeks off, but her boss understands since he is also her new fiancé. Christy just gets in the door when Taylor tells her it is time to go to the hospital. Russ is nowhere around so she calls for Cody. Her heart does flips when she notices him the first time. But can she tell him that she is engaged before anything happens or will she find herself heart broken?
Ms. Macomber does it again! Oh my word, this story was so emotional. I could not stop reading it! Cody and Christy had so much to get through before they could make a commitment to each other. This was quite the roller coaster but I knew it would be resolved somehow whether it ended good or bad.
Christy had a lot on her shoulders. Her parents had always expected a lot out of her and now she was not sure what to do since she no longer wanted to live up to it. Cody had his heart broken once before but Christy seemed to be the one for him. Yet when he finds out what is really going on can he keep his heart together and his hands away from Christy.
I liked both these stories. They were very real to me and so full of heart. It was a nice clean romance and I needed that. Heat has its place but something sweet is nice from time to time. I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out in August. This is one author who never disappoints.
Debbie Macomber/Romance/Sisters/ 528 pages/ 5 out of 5
Oh and I hope to finish a review book that I will count towards my romance challenge set up by my yahoo group AN2R. :)
Four Wives by Wendy Walker
Four friends live a life most women achieve for. Yet behind it all, there is self-doubt, marital problems, and personal integrity. They may have it all but it is something that they fight for every day. Love, Marie, Gayle, and Janie are good friends and they rely on each other for help. Well as much help as one can get without being truly honest. They figure someone wrong is going on each other’s lives but can never prove it. Each woman has to figure out how to be true to herself first before anything else can happen.
Ms. Walker has a compelling story in this book. She tells it straight for each character and I felt I got a really good glimpse into each life. She puts characters that are easy to believe and problems that almost everyone is affected by. I really liked that and I also liked how you got to see everything from each character’s point of view. It made the story that much more believable since these four women were fairly close.
Love Welsh is a prodigy child who has let her past sit and fester. Marie is a divorce lawyer and normally helps out the father in the situation. Gayle is pretty much a stay at home mom but she comes from a wealthy family, which her husband resents. Janie is struggling in her marriage because she wants adventure and her husband likes what they have now. They all have children that they take care of in some aspect. Gayle wants to be more involved with Oliver but her husband wanted a nanny. Love wants to keep snuggling her 7-month-old son but other mothers say to toughen up. I felt for all these women. They did their best at expressing themselves but felt like they were going in circles.
This is one book that any woman can relate to even if we do not share their problems. These four women are doing their best to find their place in their own world and want to be fulfilled whether they have a job or not. Ms. Walker really gets her point across that you have to be happy where you are even if that means you have to move out of the world you are in and into another. This is a good debut novel and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Wendy Walker/ Women/ Family/ Adult Fiction/ 368 pages/ 5 out of 5
I read this one last month but wanted to wait till the month of it's released to post to the review. Definitley a book to check out. :)
Ms. Walker has a compelling story in this book. She tells it straight for each character and I felt I got a really good glimpse into each life. She puts characters that are easy to believe and problems that almost everyone is affected by. I really liked that and I also liked how you got to see everything from each character’s point of view. It made the story that much more believable since these four women were fairly close.
Love Welsh is a prodigy child who has let her past sit and fester. Marie is a divorce lawyer and normally helps out the father in the situation. Gayle is pretty much a stay at home mom but she comes from a wealthy family, which her husband resents. Janie is struggling in her marriage because she wants adventure and her husband likes what they have now. They all have children that they take care of in some aspect. Gayle wants to be more involved with Oliver but her husband wanted a nanny. Love wants to keep snuggling her 7-month-old son but other mothers say to toughen up. I felt for all these women. They did their best at expressing themselves but felt like they were going in circles.
This is one book that any woman can relate to even if we do not share their problems. These four women are doing their best to find their place in their own world and want to be fulfilled whether they have a job or not. Ms. Walker really gets her point across that you have to be happy where you are even if that means you have to move out of the world you are in and into another. This is a good debut novel and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Wendy Walker/ Women/ Family/ Adult Fiction/ 368 pages/ 5 out of 5
I read this one last month but wanted to wait till the month of it's released to post to the review. Definitley a book to check out. :)
January Stats and Reads
My stats:
Total Books Read: 14
New Authors: 8
Fiction: 14
Non-fiction:
TBR: 0
Chunksters: 3
Books Reviewed: 7From the Stacks: 6Books I Bought: 11
PBS Sent: 3
PBS Received: 2Total Pages Read: 4, 392
Read:
Killing Fear by Allison Brennan 12-29-07 through 01-06-08 A
Three Weeks Last Spring by Victoria Howard 01-08-08 A
Blaze by Richard Bachman 01-08-08 through 01-10-08 A
Play Dirty by Sandra Brown 01-10-08 through 01-11-08 A+
Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear 01-11-08 through 01-14-08 A+
Leftovers by Laura Wiss 01-14-08 A
Third Degree by Greg Iles 01-14-08 through 01-19-08 C
The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz 01-19-08 through 01-20-08 A
Peppermint Twisted by Sammi Carter 01-21-08 through 1-23-08 A
The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman 1-23-08 through 01-24-08 A+
The Art Thief by Noah Charney 01-25-08 through 01-29-08 C
Four Wives by Wendy Walker 01-29-08 A+
Dangerous to Know by Nell Dixon 01-29-08 through 1-30-08 A
Tough Cookie by Diane Mott Davidson 01-30-08 through 01-31-08 A+
I am working on number 2 of the month. I have 2 reviews to post though. :)
Total Books Read: 14
New Authors: 8
Fiction: 14
Non-fiction:
TBR: 0
Chunksters: 3
Books Reviewed: 7From the Stacks: 6Books I Bought: 11
PBS Sent: 3
PBS Received: 2Total Pages Read: 4, 392
Read:
Killing Fear by Allison Brennan 12-29-07 through 01-06-08 A
Three Weeks Last Spring by Victoria Howard 01-08-08 A
Blaze by Richard Bachman 01-08-08 through 01-10-08 A
Play Dirty by Sandra Brown 01-10-08 through 01-11-08 A+
Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear 01-11-08 through 01-14-08 A+
Leftovers by Laura Wiss 01-14-08 A
Third Degree by Greg Iles 01-14-08 through 01-19-08 C
The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz 01-19-08 through 01-20-08 A
Peppermint Twisted by Sammi Carter 01-21-08 through 1-23-08 A
The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman 1-23-08 through 01-24-08 A+
The Art Thief by Noah Charney 01-25-08 through 01-29-08 C
Four Wives by Wendy Walker 01-29-08 A+
Dangerous to Know by Nell Dixon 01-29-08 through 1-30-08 A
Tough Cookie by Diane Mott Davidson 01-30-08 through 01-31-08 A+
I am working on number 2 of the month. I have 2 reviews to post though. :)
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Tough Cookie by Diane Mott Davidson
Goldy is trying to keep herself a float while her kitchen is being redone again. The sinks did not meet the standard so now she is left scrambling. Hosting a TV cooking show was not on her list but she finds herself enjoying it. Until it all seems to go downhill, and now she is being asked a lot of questions. She does not want to look bad but her curiosity still gets her. She needs to know what is going on or so she thinks. She has so much to do that she wonders if she will come out unscathed.
Ms. Davidson does it again! I love this series. I feel so at home with Goldy and her friends and family. I also love reading the recipes that she creates. I know I could never do much with food but Goldy is a whiz and a half!
Goldy is so sweet with her son Arch. I really like the relationship that they share. It is a good one but even Arch acts like a teenager now and then, which is to be expected. Marla was back and I was so happy to see her again! She has me in stitches the entire time she is there. Other people surfaced in the book, which made me very happy. The characters are so real and the ideas that they have are fun. The criminal in this book surprised me. I did not see it coming though I rarely do anyways.
This is one series I hope to finish this year. If I keep this up I should have it done by June if I keep reading one a month. I hate to see it end but I have enjoyed it thoroughly and who knows maybe she comes out with another one this year.
Diane Mott Davidson/ 291 pages/ Cooking/ Mystery/ 5 out of 5
This is the last one of the month. Tomorrow I start TheManning Sisters by Debbie Macomber. I will also post a review for a book I read while ago as well as my books for this month and stats!
Ms. Davidson does it again! I love this series. I feel so at home with Goldy and her friends and family. I also love reading the recipes that she creates. I know I could never do much with food but Goldy is a whiz and a half!
Goldy is so sweet with her son Arch. I really like the relationship that they share. It is a good one but even Arch acts like a teenager now and then, which is to be expected. Marla was back and I was so happy to see her again! She has me in stitches the entire time she is there. Other people surfaced in the book, which made me very happy. The characters are so real and the ideas that they have are fun. The criminal in this book surprised me. I did not see it coming though I rarely do anyways.
This is one series I hope to finish this year. If I keep this up I should have it done by June if I keep reading one a month. I hate to see it end but I have enjoyed it thoroughly and who knows maybe she comes out with another one this year.
Diane Mott Davidson/ 291 pages/ Cooking/ Mystery/ 5 out of 5
This is the last one of the month. Tomorrow I start TheManning Sisters by Debbie Macomber. I will also post a review for a book I read while ago as well as my books for this month and stats!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman
Sophie is so focused on her current life that she has pretty much forgotten her best friend Carrie. They have not talked in a long time so Sophie is completely shocked when she finds out Carrie died in a car accident. As the social worker is reminding her of the agreement she had made on Bella’s Christening day, Sophie is not sure what to do. She does not want to see the two girls hurt but is unsure if she can take care of them.
Ms. Coleman writes a compelling story and a situation that could happen at any time. I loved the storyline since the emotions came across as very real. Sophie has a lot of struggles and that is what makes her so interesting.
Sophie is career focused but finds out that it is not important. She does not want anything bad to happen to either girl and that is what makes her decide to take them. She wants the father involved and so does her own search to find him. Bella and Izzy are a handful but both well behaved girls. Bella acts older than six and that is what broke my heart. She wanted to stay strong for her little sister. Izzy is having a more difficult time with it than Bella since she does not understand what happened. I wanted to wrap my arms around both girls. To lose their mom at such a young age was so sad. Louis had a lot of responsibility to take on being the father and having left his wife and kids. He now realizes how stupid it was of him and is trying to make things better but will it work?
I was swept up in this book immediately. This premise has written quite a few times but I felt that Ms. Coleman had put her own spin on it. I was pleased with the book and how it ended. That is not always easy to do is to make people happy. You have your own ideas and so you put them on the page. I will definitely want to read more by this author.
Rowan Coleman/ New Author/ Kids/432 pages/ 5 out of 5
I read this one last week but with my crazy work schedule I never got it typed up till now. :)
Ms. Coleman writes a compelling story and a situation that could happen at any time. I loved the storyline since the emotions came across as very real. Sophie has a lot of struggles and that is what makes her so interesting.
Sophie is career focused but finds out that it is not important. She does not want anything bad to happen to either girl and that is what makes her decide to take them. She wants the father involved and so does her own search to find him. Bella and Izzy are a handful but both well behaved girls. Bella acts older than six and that is what broke my heart. She wanted to stay strong for her little sister. Izzy is having a more difficult time with it than Bella since she does not understand what happened. I wanted to wrap my arms around both girls. To lose their mom at such a young age was so sad. Louis had a lot of responsibility to take on being the father and having left his wife and kids. He now realizes how stupid it was of him and is trying to make things better but will it work?
I was swept up in this book immediately. This premise has written quite a few times but I felt that Ms. Coleman had put her own spin on it. I was pleased with the book and how it ended. That is not always easy to do is to make people happy. You have your own ideas and so you put them on the page. I will definitely want to read more by this author.
Rowan Coleman/ New Author/ Kids/432 pages/ 5 out of 5
I read this one last week but with my crazy work schedule I never got it typed up till now. :)
The Art Thief by Noah Charney
Pieces of art are being stolen and nothing seems connected. Or is it? That is the job of Inspector Wickenden. Genevieve Delacloche takes care of the society dedicated to the painter Kasimir Malevich. When one of his best paintings is stolen, she gets help from not only the Inspector but she has him call in Gabriel Coffin. Yet all seems right in the end, but is there truly honor among thieves?
Mr. Charney has done a fabulous job of confusing me until the end. Things that I thought were right were not. Having the knowledge about art truly helped me understand how they verify paintings once they acquire them from either people who donate them or if they win them through an auction.
Genevieve works for this society because her father at one time sold a painting to be able to take care of some debts. It happened to be by the painter Malevich and now working for the society she can keep an eye on all his paintings and hopefully acquire the one that was sold. Inspector Wickenden is the only man I did not see with any fault. He wanted the truth to be solved and put his whole heart into it. I really appreciated his efforts to do what he needed to but he never crossed the line. Gabriel Coffin helps solve cases but he also lectures all around the world. He tries to bring in as much income as he can. His secrets are very surprising.
I was disappointed in a couple of these characters. I expected better but was left flat. I knew people would do anything to get what they want but I felt the ones who were behind it all went way too stinking far! It almost got to the point where it pissed me off. I have read a quick blurb for his next book and I hope it will be much better. I don’t like giving up on authors.
Noah Charney, New Author, Art, Thieves, 304 pages, Simon and Schuster, 3 out of 5
Next up is Four Wives by Wenday Walker. :) After that finally a review book for CTR.
Mr. Charney has done a fabulous job of confusing me until the end. Things that I thought were right were not. Having the knowledge about art truly helped me understand how they verify paintings once they acquire them from either people who donate them or if they win them through an auction.
Genevieve works for this society because her father at one time sold a painting to be able to take care of some debts. It happened to be by the painter Malevich and now working for the society she can keep an eye on all his paintings and hopefully acquire the one that was sold. Inspector Wickenden is the only man I did not see with any fault. He wanted the truth to be solved and put his whole heart into it. I really appreciated his efforts to do what he needed to but he never crossed the line. Gabriel Coffin helps solve cases but he also lectures all around the world. He tries to bring in as much income as he can. His secrets are very surprising.
I was disappointed in a couple of these characters. I expected better but was left flat. I knew people would do anything to get what they want but I felt the ones who were behind it all went way too stinking far! It almost got to the point where it pissed me off. I have read a quick blurb for his next book and I hope it will be much better. I don’t like giving up on authors.
Noah Charney, New Author, Art, Thieves, 304 pages, Simon and Schuster, 3 out of 5
Next up is Four Wives by Wenday Walker. :) After that finally a review book for CTR.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Peppermint Twisted by Sammi Carter
Abby Shaw is back again. This time she seems to be taking on more than she can handle. Abby is asked to step in and confront Felicity Asbury after she is named head of the committee for the arts festival. Problems only continue when Felicity is found dead in Divinity’s parking lot. Abby is looked at as the main suspect. She is not going to be duped when she knows she did not do it. So she must solve the case yet do it secretly. In this small town that is a huge task not to mention trying to keep herself safe. Can she figure out who is so twisted to do it or be in great danger?
Sammi Carter is a fabulous writer! It seemed to take forever to get this novel out but it was definitely worth the wait! She writes real characters that you feel for. I loved being around the small town of Paradise, Colorado. The characters also have their quirks. That what makes each one so unique.
I loved being back with Abby to see not only what obstacles that she was up against but how she would handle them. That girl has more guts than I ever could. Her family is still completely against her owning Divinity and willing to see her fail. I also liked seeing Pine Jawarski again. He is such a sweetie. I just wish he would get things figured out. Maybe in the next one?
Okay so I do not know if there is another book coming but I hope so. This author has captured my attention and I enjoy every book. All three are great but definitely read in order so if you have not read this series please start with Candy Apple Dead. I will be waiting for the next installment with bated breath.
Sammi Carter/Cozy Mystery/Candy/244 pages/4 out of 5
Next up is a review book called The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman.
Sammi Carter is a fabulous writer! It seemed to take forever to get this novel out but it was definitely worth the wait! She writes real characters that you feel for. I loved being around the small town of Paradise, Colorado. The characters also have their quirks. That what makes each one so unique.
I loved being back with Abby to see not only what obstacles that she was up against but how she would handle them. That girl has more guts than I ever could. Her family is still completely against her owning Divinity and willing to see her fail. I also liked seeing Pine Jawarski again. He is such a sweetie. I just wish he would get things figured out. Maybe in the next one?
Okay so I do not know if there is another book coming but I hope so. This author has captured my attention and I enjoy every book. All three are great but definitely read in order so if you have not read this series please start with Candy Apple Dead. I will be waiting for the next installment with bated breath.
Sammi Carter/Cozy Mystery/Candy/244 pages/4 out of 5
Next up is a review book called The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman.
Monday, January 21, 2008
The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz
Amy Redwing is dedicated to rescuing and taking care of Golden Retrievers. She even went so far as to found an organization to do just that. She is seen as rather reckless at times when it comes to getting the dogs out of homes. Especially her boyfriend Brian McCarthy, he really does not understand why she does it and honestly wishes she would stop. It won’t be until they meet a beautiful golden retriever named Nickie that things will begin to make sense for him. Though at the same time, Amy starts to feel like she is being followed and watched. Someone wants her to become fearful and hunted just like the animals she is always saving. But will anyone be able to save her this time?
Dean Koontz has done it again! This man just boggles my mind how he creates the stories that captivate you. I was enthralled from page one and then as Amy’s back-story is revealed and as I slowly put the picture together I was in awe! His characters run the gamut of cruelty and nice. Yet that is what makes them so real. This is one author who is completely become my favorite!
Amy has told no one of her past. She thinks it is safer that way. I can understand that sometimes it is just better to let the past be in the past. Yet when Brian experiences things of his own, Amy realizes she needs to tell him everything. He might be the one who can help her get through this mess. The dogs in this story were amazing what they had been through and how well they were healing. I also appreciated how realistic Mr. Koontz could be at times with some of the dogs in the story not making it.
I appreciated the fact at how discreet Mr. Koontz kept the details of the horrible lives of some of the dogs. This was one compelling story not only because of the dogs but also of Amy and Brian. The twists and turns in this book had me going for a loop. Not to mention the unexpected thing that kept happening from time to time. Nickie was a sweet dog and I can only imagine how sweet Trixie, Mr. Koontz’s dog was. This is one book I highly recommend!
Dean Koontz/Thriller/354 pages/4 out of 5/Dogs
Even though the copy I had from the library was rather smokey, I could not put this book down!
Dean Koontz has done it again! This man just boggles my mind how he creates the stories that captivate you. I was enthralled from page one and then as Amy’s back-story is revealed and as I slowly put the picture together I was in awe! His characters run the gamut of cruelty and nice. Yet that is what makes them so real. This is one author who is completely become my favorite!
Amy has told no one of her past. She thinks it is safer that way. I can understand that sometimes it is just better to let the past be in the past. Yet when Brian experiences things of his own, Amy realizes she needs to tell him everything. He might be the one who can help her get through this mess. The dogs in this story were amazing what they had been through and how well they were healing. I also appreciated how realistic Mr. Koontz could be at times with some of the dogs in the story not making it.
I appreciated the fact at how discreet Mr. Koontz kept the details of the horrible lives of some of the dogs. This was one compelling story not only because of the dogs but also of Amy and Brian. The twists and turns in this book had me going for a loop. Not to mention the unexpected thing that kept happening from time to time. Nickie was a sweet dog and I can only imagine how sweet Trixie, Mr. Koontz’s dog was. This is one book I highly recommend!
Dean Koontz/Thriller/354 pages/4 out of 5/Dogs
Even though the copy I had from the library was rather smokey, I could not put this book down!
Third Degree by Greg Iles
Laurel is having one of the worst days ever. She came home early from school to find her husband Warren tearing apart their house looking for something. She initially thought it had something to do with the audit that was going to happen at his doctor’s office but when he blindsided her with the fact that he had found a love letter to her. Her world crashed around her not to mention the fact that she had found out she was pregnant this morning but didn’t know who the father was. Now she has to try to calm her hubby down before the kids come home and hope she can keep her secret.
Greg Iles is a fantastic writer. He devises scenes that are not easy to wrap your mind around. The situations are similar to other books but the thing I like the most is how Mr. Iles makes his characters react to it. That is what sets his books apart. Yet I had a difficult time getting past how some of the characters were not wanting to pay for their crimes.
Laurel did what a lot of women do today by looking for love in other places than their husband. That is her first mistake not to mention the fact that she won’t get caught. Warren seems obsessed with finding out who wrote the letter to his wife. It overtakes him as part as his OCD. It just became surprising how important that was to him. Nothing else mattered not even his kids; Warren needed to know the truth. The man became very creepy and reminded me again why adultery is so horrible.
This book was quite the thriller not only for the fact that Laurel was trying to figure out how to keep her kids safe. But also she wanted her lover to remain unknown. This one was not one of my favorites by him but still he is one of my favorite authors. Mr. Iles really knows how to make you think and I appreciate that. I will read his next one and I have a few of his older ones that I have not read yet.
Greg Iles/385 pages/ Thriller/ Family/3 out of 5
I finished this one and The Darkeste Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz this wekeend. both very well written and authors I have really come to like their writing style. :)
Greg Iles is a fantastic writer. He devises scenes that are not easy to wrap your mind around. The situations are similar to other books but the thing I like the most is how Mr. Iles makes his characters react to it. That is what sets his books apart. Yet I had a difficult time getting past how some of the characters were not wanting to pay for their crimes.
Laurel did what a lot of women do today by looking for love in other places than their husband. That is her first mistake not to mention the fact that she won’t get caught. Warren seems obsessed with finding out who wrote the letter to his wife. It overtakes him as part as his OCD. It just became surprising how important that was to him. Nothing else mattered not even his kids; Warren needed to know the truth. The man became very creepy and reminded me again why adultery is so horrible.
This book was quite the thriller not only for the fact that Laurel was trying to figure out how to keep her kids safe. But also she wanted her lover to remain unknown. This one was not one of my favorites by him but still he is one of my favorite authors. Mr. Iles really knows how to make you think and I appreciate that. I will read his next one and I have a few of his older ones that I have not read yet.
Greg Iles/385 pages/ Thriller/ Family/3 out of 5
I finished this one and The Darkeste Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz this wekeend. both very well written and authors I have really come to like their writing style. :)
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Leftovers by Laura Wiss
Blair and Ardith are best friends. They are sick of kids at school judging them and making their life set for them by the gossip that goes around. So they set out to do something unforgivable. They do it because of their backgrounds. They feel forgotten and left over.
Ms. Wiss presents a compelling story that makes you think. She never puts her opinion on the table. She writes so you can make your own decisions. You are able to view a world that could happen to any young girl. It is something that will keep you turning pages.
Blair was sick of her mom deciding her life for her so she set out to do what she wanted. She made sure to keep up appearances but leaving her mom in the dark. Ardith wanted to leave her family. She rarely brought anyone home. She kept herself safe by a padlock on her bedroom door.
Eye opening does not even begin to describe this book. The parents presented in this book outraged me. There has got to be a balance somewhere that parents can be involved but not too restricting. Consequences need to happen but I thought these parents were not wanting to be involved in their kids’ lives and that upset me the most. This is one I recommend not only for teenagers but for parents too. It is a good short read that will have you questioning everything. I definitely want to read more by this author.
Laura Wiss/ Review Book/ 4 out of 5/ Young Adult Fiction/Friends/196 pages
I read this one for Simon and SChuster. Right now I am working on Third Degree by Greg Iles.
Ms. Wiss presents a compelling story that makes you think. She never puts her opinion on the table. She writes so you can make your own decisions. You are able to view a world that could happen to any young girl. It is something that will keep you turning pages.
Blair was sick of her mom deciding her life for her so she set out to do what she wanted. She made sure to keep up appearances but leaving her mom in the dark. Ardith wanted to leave her family. She rarely brought anyone home. She kept herself safe by a padlock on her bedroom door.
Eye opening does not even begin to describe this book. The parents presented in this book outraged me. There has got to be a balance somewhere that parents can be involved but not too restricting. Consequences need to happen but I thought these parents were not wanting to be involved in their kids’ lives and that upset me the most. This is one I recommend not only for teenagers but for parents too. It is a good short read that will have you questioning everything. I definitely want to read more by this author.
Laura Wiss/ Review Book/ 4 out of 5/ Young Adult Fiction/Friends/196 pages
I read this one for Simon and SChuster. Right now I am working on Third Degree by Greg Iles.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear
Maisie Dobbs is trying to find a way to get income now that she is no longer in the service of wealthy London aristocrats. Ten years after serving as a nurse on the front lines, she comes back to open her own detective agency. The first assignment looks to be a rather simple infidelity case. But upon further investigation, Maisie sees how difficult it will really be and she has to revisit the horrors of her past and the ghost she left behind. Can she do it and still give the peace of mind her client needs?
Ms. Winspear’s writing pleased me. She presented characters that not only tried to make the world better in some cases that happened even in the smallest aspect. I was pleased with how well it was written and the flashbacks gave it some meat that I enjoyed. The mystery took some time to solve and Ms. Winspear made sure that Maisie got all the help she could.
Maisie was a woman I could cheer for. She used her resources to the best of her ability. She made sure never to abuse anyone because she wanted to repay him or her for what they did. I liked how she was a friend to Maurice. The man was a great character and very smart. He helped her learn before she ever made it to Cambridge. Definitely an ally she could rely on whenever she needed to bounce ideas off of someone.
This book had its sad moments but all in all, Maisie even got something out of doing her mystery solving. The next one cannot get to me fast enough. The storyline was good and the interview at the end of the book was fantastic! I got a good look into the author and how she was able to write this book. It impressed me! This is an author to go out and read!
Jacqueline Winspear/ New Author/ 294 pages/ Mystery/Historical/ 5 out of 5
Now off to read Leftovers by Laura Wiss. :)
Ms. Winspear’s writing pleased me. She presented characters that not only tried to make the world better in some cases that happened even in the smallest aspect. I was pleased with how well it was written and the flashbacks gave it some meat that I enjoyed. The mystery took some time to solve and Ms. Winspear made sure that Maisie got all the help she could.
Maisie was a woman I could cheer for. She used her resources to the best of her ability. She made sure never to abuse anyone because she wanted to repay him or her for what they did. I liked how she was a friend to Maurice. The man was a great character and very smart. He helped her learn before she ever made it to Cambridge. Definitely an ally she could rely on whenever she needed to bounce ideas off of someone.
This book had its sad moments but all in all, Maisie even got something out of doing her mystery solving. The next one cannot get to me fast enough. The storyline was good and the interview at the end of the book was fantastic! I got a good look into the author and how she was able to write this book. It impressed me! This is an author to go out and read!
Jacqueline Winspear/ New Author/ 294 pages/ Mystery/Historical/ 5 out of 5
Now off to read Leftovers by Laura Wiss. :)
Friday, January 11, 2008
Play Dirty by Sandra Brown
Griff Burkett was finally a free man. Cheating during a game while playing for the Cowboys sent his to jail, now he is trying to rebuild his life. Foster Speakman has a plan in mind and needs Griff’s help. He and his wife are the perfect couple except they have no children. That is where Griff comes in. But can he agree to the terms presented to him? Or will everything fall apart around them? Yet things must be settled and Grif is not sure what to do about that and the situation presented to him by the Speakman’s.
Sandra Brown is a fantastic write who weaves the plot that leaves you spell bound. Her characters are full of complexities that make the plot well rounded. I could not get enough and the twists and the turns left me on the edge of my seat.
I really felt for Laura Speakman. She was willing to do anything for her hubby even though she didn’t agree with it. It took a lot of guts for her to agree to Foster’s terms. But she made sure that she had her say as well. She was not going to agree till she had not only talked to Griff but also made sure he knew what was expected of him. Griff was in a tough spot.
I really liked this book and cannot wait for the next Sandra Brown book. I have quite a few that I have not read yet so I hope to read another one soon! She is a good writer that never ceases to amaze me!
Sandra Brown/Adult Fiction/ 404 pages/ 5 out of 5
Now I am working on Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear. I hope it's a good book. Will let you know. :)
Sandra Brown is a fantastic write who weaves the plot that leaves you spell bound. Her characters are full of complexities that make the plot well rounded. I could not get enough and the twists and the turns left me on the edge of my seat.
I really felt for Laura Speakman. She was willing to do anything for her hubby even though she didn’t agree with it. It took a lot of guts for her to agree to Foster’s terms. But she made sure that she had her say as well. She was not going to agree till she had not only talked to Griff but also made sure he knew what was expected of him. Griff was in a tough spot.
I really liked this book and cannot wait for the next Sandra Brown book. I have quite a few that I have not read yet so I hope to read another one soon! She is a good writer that never ceases to amaze me!
Sandra Brown/Adult Fiction/ 404 pages/ 5 out of 5
Now I am working on Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear. I hope it's a good book. Will let you know. :)
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Blaze by Richard Bachman
Blaze has had a hard life but things chance once he meets George Rackley. He feels like he is accepted again even if that means a life of crime. But the two of them come up with a scheme so that they don’t have to do any other crimes ever again. They plan on kidnapping a baby. But not just any baby, an heir to a fortune. Things go bad when George is killed and now Blaze is all on his own. Can he go through with it after all or will he chicken out now that he is alone?
Richard Bachman is a good writer. He knows how you to get interesting from page one till the end. I was pulled into this story and had to find out what was going to happen to not only Blaze but the baby that they had picked. It had slow moments for back story but all in all it made sense and was important. It really helped get a feel for the characters and their motivations in life.
I truly felt sorry for Blaze. If his father had been a better father, he probably would have had a completely different life. But being thrown down the stairs twice would truly mess up your life. He just wanted something better for himself and he got chances at it. Thought it never seemed to pan out, which bummed me out a lot. George was your typical guy who wanted to find someone to work with as well as make a plan and stick to it.
This was a good book and one that was a good read. The flashbacks were good to read because as I said before you got a better feel for the characters. That helped me actually feel for them. I definitely want to read more by this author.
At the end of the book is a short story by Stephen King called Memory. It was well written and sounds like that one is being turned into a story. So it will be interesting to see what is done with it.
Richard Bachman/285 pages/ Thriller/ 4 out of 5
Right now I am working on Play Dirty by Sandra Brown.
Richard Bachman is a good writer. He knows how you to get interesting from page one till the end. I was pulled into this story and had to find out what was going to happen to not only Blaze but the baby that they had picked. It had slow moments for back story but all in all it made sense and was important. It really helped get a feel for the characters and their motivations in life.
I truly felt sorry for Blaze. If his father had been a better father, he probably would have had a completely different life. But being thrown down the stairs twice would truly mess up your life. He just wanted something better for himself and he got chances at it. Thought it never seemed to pan out, which bummed me out a lot. George was your typical guy who wanted to find someone to work with as well as make a plan and stick to it.
This was a good book and one that was a good read. The flashbacks were good to read because as I said before you got a better feel for the characters. That helped me actually feel for them. I definitely want to read more by this author.
At the end of the book is a short story by Stephen King called Memory. It was well written and sounds like that one is being turned into a story. So it will be interesting to see what is done with it.
Richard Bachman/285 pages/ Thriller/ 4 out of 5
Right now I am working on Play Dirty by Sandra Brown.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Dec Reads and Stats
Between working after Christmas through New Year's and then working 4 days in a row this past weekend, I have not been able to post my reads and stats for last month. SO here they are!
263. The Tokyo Look Book by Philomena Keet 11-29-07 through 12-01-07 A
264. Ask Now The Beasts by Ruth Rudner 12-01-07 through 12-03-07 A+
265. Mew for Murder by Clea Simon 12-03-07 through 12-05-07 A
266. In the Blood by Rick R. Reed 12-05-07 through 12-08-07 B
267. The Vision: Book 1 The Green Stone of Healing by C.L. Talmudge 12-09-07 through 12-14-07 A
268. The Fallout: Book 2 The Green Stone of Healing by C.L. Talmadge 12-14-07 through 12-17-07 A
269. Sliced Ice Cream by Tammy Lynn Whisman 12-17-07 through 12-18-07 B
270. Hell for the Holidays by Chris Grabenstein 12-18-07 through 12-20-07 A+
271. Minx by Megan Blythe 12-20-07 through 12-21-07 C
272. The Scent of Rosa’s Oil by Lina Simoni 12-21-07 through 12-23-07 A
273. Not Quite A Mom by Kirsten Sawyer 12-23-07 through 12-24-07 A+
274. The Handyman by Jodi Lynn Copeland 12-24-07 through 12-25-07 A+
275. Blood Dreams by Kay Hooper 12-25-07 through 12-28-07 A
276. The Murder Game by Beverly Barton 12-28-07 A+
Stats:
Total Books Read: 14
New Authors: 11
Fiction: 11
Non-Fiction: 3
TBR: 0
Chunksters: 0
Christmas Books: 1
Books Reviewed: 12
From the Stacks: 8
Books I bought: 1
Books Given to me: 4
PBS Sent: 2
PBS Received: 2
Total Pages Read: 3, 808 pages
I am still working on the numbers for the year. :)
263. The Tokyo Look Book by Philomena Keet 11-29-07 through 12-01-07 A
264. Ask Now The Beasts by Ruth Rudner 12-01-07 through 12-03-07 A+
265. Mew for Murder by Clea Simon 12-03-07 through 12-05-07 A
266. In the Blood by Rick R. Reed 12-05-07 through 12-08-07 B
267. The Vision: Book 1 The Green Stone of Healing by C.L. Talmudge 12-09-07 through 12-14-07 A
268. The Fallout: Book 2 The Green Stone of Healing by C.L. Talmadge 12-14-07 through 12-17-07 A
269. Sliced Ice Cream by Tammy Lynn Whisman 12-17-07 through 12-18-07 B
270. Hell for the Holidays by Chris Grabenstein 12-18-07 through 12-20-07 A+
271. Minx by Megan Blythe 12-20-07 through 12-21-07 C
272. The Scent of Rosa’s Oil by Lina Simoni 12-21-07 through 12-23-07 A
273. Not Quite A Mom by Kirsten Sawyer 12-23-07 through 12-24-07 A+
274. The Handyman by Jodi Lynn Copeland 12-24-07 through 12-25-07 A+
275. Blood Dreams by Kay Hooper 12-25-07 through 12-28-07 A
276. The Murder Game by Beverly Barton 12-28-07 A+
Stats:
Total Books Read: 14
New Authors: 11
Fiction: 11
Non-Fiction: 3
TBR: 0
Chunksters: 0
Christmas Books: 1
Books Reviewed: 12
From the Stacks: 8
Books I bought: 1
Books Given to me: 4
PBS Sent: 2
PBS Received: 2
Total Pages Read: 3, 808 pages
I am still working on the numbers for the year. :)
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Hell for the Holidays by Chris Grabenstein
Christopher Miller is at it again to save the city. Well maybe not so much the city but get one more bad guy off the streets. With the anniversary of the last attack, which affected Chris’ daughter Angela, he really wants to stick around home as much as possible. But that does not prove to be possible. It seems to be a terrorist attack at first but Chris does not see how that could be possible with the usual suspects uninvolved. It will take some quick thinking on his part as well as the team he works with to bring down whomever is leading the attack before something horrible happens.
Mr. Grabenstein brings it again with this thrilling story about the Holidays. It is one that leaves me on the edge of my seat. His compelling characters really keep you turning pages. They are easy to feel for or cheer for. The situations seem outlandish at first but then it does not mean something like this could not happen. The scary thing is that it could very well happen.
I was really happy to read more about Christopher and his family. Angela is so sweet and his wife Nicole is always there to remind him when he needs to be home no matter what is going on. I was surprised at the character Dr. Tully that he could easily sway people’s thinking in following him just was not something I thought could happen. But if it is someone who shares your beliefs that definitely would help sway you. The things that that characters got away with at first was astonishing. It certainly made for interesting reading. I just was curious at how long it would take Christopher and his team to figure it all out.
This story had me at first since it is a character that I am fairly familiar with. This book did not disappoint for one moment. I hope there is another one in the works because this is a character I would love to read more about.
Chris Grabenstein/ Christmas Book Challenge for AN2R/ Christmas book/ 396 pages/ 5 out of 5
Mr. Grabenstein brings it again with this thrilling story about the Holidays. It is one that leaves me on the edge of my seat. His compelling characters really keep you turning pages. They are easy to feel for or cheer for. The situations seem outlandish at first but then it does not mean something like this could not happen. The scary thing is that it could very well happen.
I was really happy to read more about Christopher and his family. Angela is so sweet and his wife Nicole is always there to remind him when he needs to be home no matter what is going on. I was surprised at the character Dr. Tully that he could easily sway people’s thinking in following him just was not something I thought could happen. But if it is someone who shares your beliefs that definitely would help sway you. The things that that characters got away with at first was astonishing. It certainly made for interesting reading. I just was curious at how long it would take Christopher and his team to figure it all out.
This story had me at first since it is a character that I am fairly familiar with. This book did not disappoint for one moment. I hope there is another one in the works because this is a character I would love to read more about.
Chris Grabenstein/ Christmas Book Challenge for AN2R/ Christmas book/ 396 pages/ 5 out of 5
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