If's been a while since I've done one of these but it's not been for a lack of reading!
What I've finished reading
Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer. I thought it managed to hold up the atmosphere and uneasiness factor the whole way through, and I was definitely intrigued by the biologist, though I was a little unsure about the Crawler scene. I'm not sure I'll reread this, but I'm glad I read it and I'll be reading the next book in the Trilogy, Authority, as I'm even more curious about Area X now.
The Chicagoland Vampire series by Chloe Neill. I spent about a fortnight reading these and they were exactly what I needed them to be: fast, enjoyable reads that distracted me. I was a little disappointed that I didn't love the rest of the books as much as I loved the first one, but not enough to stop me adoring certain characters or carry on reading. I will be reading new books in the series as they come out, but I think they will be library only books.
Poison Study by Maria V Snyder. I first read this years ago and though I hadn't really planned on rereading it, it crossed my desk at work and it really appealed to the mood I was in. I really enjoyed reading it again even if it did feel a little clunkier in some places than I remember. The main romance seemed a lot less sudden for me this time, but I think this is just that I have become better at reading subtext since then rather than I was expecting it. I plan on catching up with the other two in the trilogy sometime soon.
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith. As with the first one, my main reaction was ROBIN! and this time around I really appreciated Strike a lot more. I definitely agree with those who say the locations are a bit over described, but that didn't stop me enjoying it and after a while I stopped noticing as the book completely sucked me in. My overall reaction is the same as the first one as well; really enjoyed it, don’t particularly plan on rereading it, but I’m looking forward to the next one.
I DNF'd Trading in Danger by Elizabeth Moon. I finally admitted it just wasn't doing anything for me so off to the charity shop it goes.
What I'm reading
The Shadow Throne by Django Wexler. Well, I've only just started this but it is shaping up to be full of political intrigue and I've really liked what I've read so far.
Thief's Magic by Trudi Canavan. It's hard to tell if its me or the book, but I've lost a lot of my initial enthusiasm for this. I did skim ahead though and it seems like I will like it later on so I'll carry on with this next week when I've had a chance to relax and get some enthusiasm back.
What' I'm reading next
I've got a pile of books I plan to read on my week off: Authority, The Martian by Andy Weir, The Lascar's Dagger by Glenda Larke, and Girls, Goddesses and Giants by Lari Don.
Showing posts with label reading wednesday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reading wednesday. Show all posts
Friday, 25 July 2014
Wednesday, 11 June 2014
Reading Wednesday
What I've finished reading
Mirror Sight by Kristen Britain. I have so many contradictory feelings about this book. On one hand, it’s apparent that Britain is improving as a writer, and I did enjoy a lot of the book. There was a lot of new worldbuilding, and there felt like there was some character progression. It didn’t go as I expected, but it was still mostly enjoyable.
On the other hand, this is the fifth book in a series that started in 1998, and it’s essentially filler because the end turns out to be filled with magical!memory loss with only a few notes to remember the whole 700+ pages by. Plus the majority of the book feels like Britain decided she wanted to write a steampunk novel but had to write this book first so she decided to get it in anyway she could. (That said, I did really enjoy her take on steampunk, especially in relation to the Green Rider world, but the rest of the series is very much high fantasy so it was rather jarring.) And Amberhill. I do agree with all the other reactions that having three personalities seemed quite over the top, but in the overall scheme of things I didn’t have to suspend my disbelief too much so I'll let it pass. I do think it would have been more effective with just the two personalities though.
Overall, I did enjoy the book (which is what makes it all the more frustrating), but I am really glad I went in knowing the ending as otherwise I would have been as annoyed as a lot of the other reactions I’ve seen. And the more I think about it, it is more and more just the ending I have a problem with. What is the point of writing a 700 page novel only to forget it/essentially make it never happen? At the end of the day, very little in the plot is further forward, more angst is set up and it just all feels like a waste of a book, especially since it is likely to be another three years to the next one (not the longest wait I know, but still).
What I'm currently reading
Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer. It’s shaping up to be a really intriguing, atmospheric read, and I am really quite enjoying it. Plus, the UK hardback edition I’m reading is a lovely book in itself.
Thief’s Magic by Trudi Canavan. I am also enjoying this so far. There are a lot of really interesting concepts, and I like the one main character I've met so far. He thinks things through! It's the sort of book where you don't think you've read much, then look up to discover half an hour has past and you are now 50 pages further on.
What I'm reading next
It’s starting to become a bit of a joke, but I really am going to pick up Trading in Danger this time.
Mirror Sight by Kristen Britain. I have so many contradictory feelings about this book. On one hand, it’s apparent that Britain is improving as a writer, and I did enjoy a lot of the book. There was a lot of new worldbuilding, and there felt like there was some character progression. It didn’t go as I expected, but it was still mostly enjoyable.
On the other hand, this is the fifth book in a series that started in 1998, and it’s essentially filler because the end turns out to be filled with magical!memory loss with only a few notes to remember the whole 700+ pages by. Plus the majority of the book feels like Britain decided she wanted to write a steampunk novel but had to write this book first so she decided to get it in anyway she could. (That said, I did really enjoy her take on steampunk, especially in relation to the Green Rider world, but the rest of the series is very much high fantasy so it was rather jarring.) And Amberhill. I do agree with all the other reactions that having three personalities seemed quite over the top, but in the overall scheme of things I didn’t have to suspend my disbelief too much so I'll let it pass. I do think it would have been more effective with just the two personalities though.
Overall, I did enjoy the book (which is what makes it all the more frustrating), but I am really glad I went in knowing the ending as otherwise I would have been as annoyed as a lot of the other reactions I’ve seen. And the more I think about it, it is more and more just the ending I have a problem with. What is the point of writing a 700 page novel only to forget it/essentially make it never happen? At the end of the day, very little in the plot is further forward, more angst is set up and it just all feels like a waste of a book, especially since it is likely to be another three years to the next one (not the longest wait I know, but still).
What I'm currently reading
Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer. It’s shaping up to be a really intriguing, atmospheric read, and I am really quite enjoying it. Plus, the UK hardback edition I’m reading is a lovely book in itself.
Thief’s Magic by Trudi Canavan. I am also enjoying this so far. There are a lot of really interesting concepts, and I like the one main character I've met so far. He thinks things through! It's the sort of book where you don't think you've read much, then look up to discover half an hour has past and you are now 50 pages further on.
What I'm reading next
It’s starting to become a bit of a joke, but I really am going to pick up Trading in Danger this time.
Wednesday, 28 May 2014
Reading Wednesday
It’s been a tough fortnight, and mostly I've knitted oodles of garter stitch and rewatched some boxsets. There has been progress on the reading front though!
What I've finished reading
The only book finished this last fortnight has been Shadow Spell by Nora Roberts. It was exactly the cosy read I needed, and though it is rather predictable and a little trite in places, I'm quite looking forward to reading the last in the trilogy.
I have been culling my library pile all little as well (I take a lot of random books home, and they quickly build up), but I'm not counting those as it was mainly skim reading to see if I was ever going to properly read them.
What I'm currently reading
Mirror Sight by Kristen Britain. I've just started this, but I'm trying not to get too excited after the three year wait for it because of what I've read online. I was going to avoid spoilers, but after the last book I learned it really is the only way to avoidpossibly throwing it against the wall massive disappointment with this series.
I've started with How to be a Productivity Ninja by Graham Allcott. I love the title, but I've only really read the first chapter so I can’t comment too much. I'm finding it an easy style to read though.
What I'm reading next
I’d like to get further through Trading in Danger (although I was thinking about this the other day and it may end up being a DNF).
What I've finished reading
The only book finished this last fortnight has been Shadow Spell by Nora Roberts. It was exactly the cosy read I needed, and though it is rather predictable and a little trite in places, I'm quite looking forward to reading the last in the trilogy.
I have been culling my library pile all little as well (I take a lot of random books home, and they quickly build up), but I'm not counting those as it was mainly skim reading to see if I was ever going to properly read them.
What I'm currently reading
Mirror Sight by Kristen Britain. I've just started this, but I'm trying not to get too excited after the three year wait for it because of what I've read online. I was going to avoid spoilers, but after the last book I learned it really is the only way to avoid
I've started with How to be a Productivity Ninja by Graham Allcott. I love the title, but I've only really read the first chapter so I can’t comment too much. I'm finding it an easy style to read though.
What I'm reading next
I’d like to get further through Trading in Danger (although I was thinking about this the other day and it may end up being a DNF).
Wednesday, 14 May 2014
What I'm reading this fortnight
What I've finished reading
Heaven's Queen by Rachel Bach. I loved reading it, and I thought it was a great ending to the trilogy. I especially loved how straightforward the answer turned out to be, even though implementing it wasn't straightforward at all. I really felt the Devi/Rupert in this book, and Bach completely made me believe Rupert deserved Devi's trust again, something I wasn't sure was possible after the last book. I squee'd almost as much as Devi at the ending, and all the little details sprinkled throughout (but especially at the end) make me want to read more about Paradox, especially the King and Royal Family. Definitely a series that will be going on my reread pile.
What I'm reading
I'm loaded with a cold and sore throat at the moment, so it's Nora Roberts' Shadow Spell as some light comfort reading.
What I'm reading next
I don't even think I'm going to try naming anythng this time as I seem to keep jinxing myself lately.
Heaven's Queen by Rachel Bach. I loved reading it, and I thought it was a great ending to the trilogy. I especially loved how straightforward the answer turned out to be, even though implementing it wasn't straightforward at all. I really felt the Devi/Rupert in this book, and Bach completely made me believe Rupert deserved Devi's trust again, something I wasn't sure was possible after the last book. I squee'd almost as much as Devi at the ending, and all the little details sprinkled throughout (but especially at the end) make me want to read more about Paradox, especially the King and Royal Family. Definitely a series that will be going on my reread pile.
What I'm reading
I'm loaded with a cold and sore throat at the moment, so it's Nora Roberts' Shadow Spell as some light comfort reading.
What I'm reading next
I don't even think I'm going to try naming anythng this time as I seem to keep jinxing myself lately.
Sunday, 23 March 2014
What I'm reading
What I've finished reading: (aka why I've been awfully quiet lately)
Honour's Knight by Rachel Bach. Like the first, this hit all my favourite spots, though possibly even more so. Badass mercenary who keeps on going when she's frightened or incredibly angry? Descriptions that have me on the edge of my seat (quarry scenes is all I'm going to say). Romance with proper problems but they actually talk to each other? Space politics and scary odds? Sold! Plus the fight scenes are fantastic. I'm not one for them normally but Bach writes them brilliantly, and I love Devi's armour. In short, I'm once again waiting impatiently for the next one.
The Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. (Moon Called, Blood Bound, Iron Kissed, Bone Crossed, Silver Borne, River Marked, Frost Burned and Night Broken.) I am rather fussy about the urban fantasy that I read, even more so about those involving werewolves, but when I fall for a series I fall hard. This series is a perfect example. I raced through the books, loving every second and annoyed when I had to put them down to do something else. I love the whole world buildings, all the characters and Brigg's writing. Can't wait for there to be more in the series!
I also read Fair Game by Patricia Briggs. I was going to wait and read that series in order as well, but Fair Game came in first and I couldn't resist. Supernatural crime with a bit of established romantic angst (but not too much) and awesome women - three of my favourite things in one book. Of course I loved it and I'm waiting not so patiently for the first two books.
What I'm reading:
I'm about a quarter of the way through Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie now, and I can see why everyone was talking about it so much. I am liking it a lot, but I'm finding I have to have enough brain space to settle into reading it. It's more a statement on my brain at the moment than the book though. I'mm looking forward to finishing it.
What I'm reading next:
The other two books in the Alpha and Omega series once I get them, and I have the Aralorn ombinus by Briggs lined up as well.
Honour's Knight by Rachel Bach. Like the first, this hit all my favourite spots, though possibly even more so. Badass mercenary who keeps on going when she's frightened or incredibly angry? Descriptions that have me on the edge of my seat (quarry scenes is all I'm going to say). Romance with proper problems but they actually talk to each other? Space politics and scary odds? Sold! Plus the fight scenes are fantastic. I'm not one for them normally but Bach writes them brilliantly, and I love Devi's armour. In short, I'm once again waiting impatiently for the next one.
The Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. (Moon Called, Blood Bound, Iron Kissed, Bone Crossed, Silver Borne, River Marked, Frost Burned and Night Broken.) I am rather fussy about the urban fantasy that I read, even more so about those involving werewolves, but when I fall for a series I fall hard. This series is a perfect example. I raced through the books, loving every second and annoyed when I had to put them down to do something else. I love the whole world buildings, all the characters and Brigg's writing. Can't wait for there to be more in the series!
I also read Fair Game by Patricia Briggs. I was going to wait and read that series in order as well, but Fair Game came in first and I couldn't resist. Supernatural crime with a bit of established romantic angst (but not too much) and awesome women - three of my favourite things in one book. Of course I loved it and I'm waiting not so patiently for the first two books.
What I'm reading:
I'm about a quarter of the way through Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie now, and I can see why everyone was talking about it so much. I am liking it a lot, but I'm finding I have to have enough brain space to settle into reading it. It's more a statement on my brain at the moment than the book though. I'mm looking forward to finishing it.
What I'm reading next:
The other two books in the Alpha and Omega series once I get them, and I have the Aralorn ombinus by Briggs lined up as well.
Sunday, 9 February 2014
What I'm reading
What did you recently finish reading?
Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson. I whizzed through the rest of the book and loved it just as much as the first part. I love Lawson's writing, and her ability to make the truly heartbreaking readable without descending into outright misery. That said, I'm pretty sure I welled up at a few bits, but I would definitely reread it again at some point.
Earth Girl and Earth Star by Janet Edwards. I first heard of these through fantasybookcafe, and I'm so glad I did. Once I got through the first page or two (I'm not a huge fan of the character talking to you), I absolutely loved both of them. Gloss over any imperfections, don't want to stop reading to eat my dinner, and making me utterly gleeful kind of absolutely loving. I'll definitely be getting my own copies to reread, and what do you mean I have to wait to August for the next one??
What are you currently reading?
Despite bringing it home to try and settle into it, I haven't picked up Knife Sworn by Mazarkis Williams in a wee while. I've simply not been in the mood for it.
I've started dipping into Django Wexler’s The Thousand Names again and I'm enjoying it, but not with the same urgency that I've read others with lately. I still plan on finishing it though.
What do you think you’ll read next?
Val McDermid's Cross and Burn arrived for me on short loan so definitely that. I might rummage around my TBR pile and see what else I feel like during my days off.
Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson. I whizzed through the rest of the book and loved it just as much as the first part. I love Lawson's writing, and her ability to make the truly heartbreaking readable without descending into outright misery. That said, I'm pretty sure I welled up at a few bits, but I would definitely reread it again at some point.
Earth Girl and Earth Star by Janet Edwards. I first heard of these through fantasybookcafe, and I'm so glad I did. Once I got through the first page or two (I'm not a huge fan of the character talking to you), I absolutely loved both of them. Gloss over any imperfections, don't want to stop reading to eat my dinner, and making me utterly gleeful kind of absolutely loving. I'll definitely be getting my own copies to reread, and what do you mean I have to wait to August for the next one??
What are you currently reading?
Despite bringing it home to try and settle into it, I haven't picked up Knife Sworn by Mazarkis Williams in a wee while. I've simply not been in the mood for it.
I've started dipping into Django Wexler’s The Thousand Names again and I'm enjoying it, but not with the same urgency that I've read others with lately. I still plan on finishing it though.
What do you think you’ll read next?
Val McDermid's Cross and Burn arrived for me on short loan so definitely that. I might rummage around my TBR pile and see what else I feel like during my days off.
Thursday, 23 January 2014
What I'm reading
I love going to knitting group on Wednesdays, but it does seem to make the day seem very short!
What did you recently finish reading?
The Emperor’s Knife by Mazarkis Williams. I loved reading it. It felt beautifully lyrical, sucked me completely in and made me eager to read the next one.It wasn’t perfect but the characters and the descriptions were enough to carry me through, though I suspect it’s one of those books you either love or hate.
I DNF’d Just One Evil Act by Elizabeth George. I got to the stage where it was annoying me too much.I can see what everyone means by it needs a good edit - very tiny bit characters were given overblown descriptions, then a whole fight scene was given the same size of description. I could skim over that for a while, but then I got to the start of the Italian section where random Italian words were thrown in willy-nilly and it started to annoy me intensely. I flicked to the end to see if it was worth carrying on and I skimmed through the interesting bits. I liked a lot of the character interaction between Havers and Lynley but that wasn’t enough to overcome my annoyance with the book, and I thought life was too short to make myself finish it properly.
What are you currently reading?
Knife Sworn by Mazarkis Williams. It’s got the same feel to it as the first book, but I think it might be a case of too much, too quickly as it’s annoying me a little here. That might be because I’m reading it in short chunks during my breaks ,and I couldn’t really settle into it, so I’m taking it home with me to curl up with it and see if it’s me or the book.
Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson. I’m finding this really funny, but only in small doses so it’s an ideal break time read. That said, I only picked it up yesterday and although I’m only reading a chapter or so at a time, I seem to pick it up every time I pass it, and I’m more than halfway through. Always a good sign.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I would really like to get the Wexler’s The Thousand Names finished (finally!)
What did you recently finish reading?
The Emperor’s Knife by Mazarkis Williams. I loved reading it. It felt beautifully lyrical, sucked me completely in and made me eager to read the next one.It wasn’t perfect but the characters and the descriptions were enough to carry me through, though I suspect it’s one of those books you either love or hate.
I DNF’d Just One Evil Act by Elizabeth George. I got to the stage where it was annoying me too much.I can see what everyone means by it needs a good edit - very tiny bit characters were given overblown descriptions, then a whole fight scene was given the same size of description. I could skim over that for a while, but then I got to the start of the Italian section where random Italian words were thrown in willy-nilly and it started to annoy me intensely. I flicked to the end to see if it was worth carrying on and I skimmed through the interesting bits. I liked a lot of the character interaction between Havers and Lynley but that wasn’t enough to overcome my annoyance with the book, and I thought life was too short to make myself finish it properly.
What are you currently reading?
Knife Sworn by Mazarkis Williams. It’s got the same feel to it as the first book, but I think it might be a case of too much, too quickly as it’s annoying me a little here. That might be because I’m reading it in short chunks during my breaks ,and I couldn’t really settle into it, so I’m taking it home with me to curl up with it and see if it’s me or the book.
Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson. I’m finding this really funny, but only in small doses so it’s an ideal break time read. That said, I only picked it up yesterday and although I’m only reading a chapter or so at a time, I seem to pick it up every time I pass it, and I’m more than halfway through. Always a good sign.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I would really like to get the Wexler’s The Thousand Names finished (finally!)
Wednesday, 8 January 2014
What I'm reading
I found these posts definitely helped me keep track of the books I read last year, so I'm going to do the same again, although this year they are going to be fortnightly instead of weekly.
Just a reminder, these posts aren't really reviews, just some quick thoughts on the books I'm reading.
What are you currently reading?
The Emperor's Knife by Mazarkis Williams. I am enjoying this so much that the only reason I haven't already finished it is because of a combination of sinus headache and tonsillitis.
The Magic of Shetland Lace knitting by Elizabeth Lovick. I'm more dipping in and out of this book, but it is absolutely lovely. I'm going to talk about it more later so I'll leave it at that just now.
Just One Evil Act by Elizabeth George. It's definitely an improvement on her last few books, and I'm finding it does have some of her old ability to suck you back in. When I'm reading it I don't want to put it down, but that same compunction isn't there in the gap between me putting it down and picking it back up again. I think I'm actually going to finish this one though.
What did you recently finish reading?
Just before the close of 2013, I finished Chosen by Benedict Jacka. It's the fourth in the series, and I don't really think it can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed it enough, but I wouldn't have read it had I not read the rest of the series. It was nice to catch up with the characters and see some background, as well as the set up for the next book. I think I will be reading the next one, but I won't be rushing out to get it.
The latest The Broons. My traditional New Year read, and I loved it as always.
What do you think you’ll read next?
If I get Emperor's Knife finished, I'll be finding the next in the trilogy pretty sharpish!
Just a reminder, these posts aren't really reviews, just some quick thoughts on the books I'm reading.
What are you currently reading?
The Emperor's Knife by Mazarkis Williams. I am enjoying this so much that the only reason I haven't already finished it is because of a combination of sinus headache and tonsillitis.
The Magic of Shetland Lace knitting by Elizabeth Lovick. I'm more dipping in and out of this book, but it is absolutely lovely. I'm going to talk about it more later so I'll leave it at that just now.
Just One Evil Act by Elizabeth George. It's definitely an improvement on her last few books, and I'm finding it does have some of her old ability to suck you back in. When I'm reading it I don't want to put it down, but that same compunction isn't there in the gap between me putting it down and picking it back up again. I think I'm actually going to finish this one though.
What did you recently finish reading?
Just before the close of 2013, I finished Chosen by Benedict Jacka. It's the fourth in the series, and I don't really think it can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed it enough, but I wouldn't have read it had I not read the rest of the series. It was nice to catch up with the characters and see some background, as well as the set up for the next book. I think I will be reading the next one, but I won't be rushing out to get it.
The latest The Broons. My traditional New Year read, and I loved it as always.
What do you think you’ll read next?
If I get Emperor's Knife finished, I'll be finding the next in the trilogy pretty sharpish!
Saturday, 16 November 2013
What I'm reading 16/11/13
A short one this week as the last couple of weeks have been hectic with
birthdays, vet and hospital visits (everyone is fine but stress levels are still high), and a job
interview (I think it went okay, I was certainly less nervous than the
last one). Oh and being
sucked down the rabbit hole of watching Arrow. It's been a long time since I've enjoyed something so much, and I can't wait to see the second season.
What are you currently reading?
I'm not sure if it still counts given I haven't really gone much further, but I'm still in the middle of The Thousand Names. I've started The Falconer by Elizabeth May, and it's a quick enjoyable read so far. I've also started a reread of Broken Blade by Kelly McCullough, and I'm enjoying it as much second time around.
What did you recently finish reading?
I went ahead and DNF'd Jeffery Deaver's XO. It just wasn't my cup of tea.
What do you think you’ll read next?
The new Lynley book, Just One Evil Act, has just come in for me at the library, and a skim test makes me think I might actually finish this one.
What are you currently reading?
I'm not sure if it still counts given I haven't really gone much further, but I'm still in the middle of The Thousand Names. I've started The Falconer by Elizabeth May, and it's a quick enjoyable read so far. I've also started a reread of Broken Blade by Kelly McCullough, and I'm enjoying it as much second time around.
What did you recently finish reading?
I went ahead and DNF'd Jeffery Deaver's XO. It just wasn't my cup of tea.
What do you think you’ll read next?
The new Lynley book, Just One Evil Act, has just come in for me at the library, and a skim test makes me think I might actually finish this one.
Sunday, 20 October 2013
What I'm reading (the two month edition)
I didn't mean to take such a long break from posting, but my health took an unexpected turn and started kicking my backside. I'm definitely on the mend now though, and I have quite a few posts lined up to share. First though, it's time to catch up with what I've been reading.
What are you currently reading?
I'm still in the middle of The Thousand Names by Django Wexler which continues to be more enjoyable than I thought I would find it given that is it mainly military based fantasy at the moment. The description of a fantasy version of Sharpe seems very accurate, but Wexler writes well enough and has created characters that keep me wanting to read on despite that. (Nothing wrong with Sharpe, it just isn't usually my cup of tea.)
Technically I'm still in the middle of Jeffery Deaver's XO but I've stalled. It's rather mehish and I've no real desire to go back. I suspect this might be a DNF.
What did you recently finish reading?
Flash and Bones by Kathy Reichs. It was the reading equivalent of comfy old slippers. Not brilliant and much the same feel as her previous ones but enjoyable and good to curl up to. Then there was Bones Are Forever which was much the same, except for one bit where I want to shake one of the characters or throw the book across the room. Ryan really should have known better (especially with what is revealed later on), and I can't quite believe Reichs did that. I'm not too sure if I'll read the latest one yet.
Oor Wullie. It made me giggle, and again like comfy old slippers, but ones that were my favourite to start with for a reason.
Thankless in Death - J.D. Robb. I really enjoyed the character interactions in this one, which is pretty much the only reason I'm keeping reading this series. It was great to curl up with on a wet afternoon when I was stuffed with the cold.
Uncommon Criminals, Double Crossed: A Spies and Thieves Story, Perfect Scoundrels - Ally Carter. Reasonably light-hearted teenage thief shenanigans? All over it. I have such a soft spot for this series, even if it does require a bit of suspension of disbelief at times. I finished the last one disappointed there wasn't more which is a big change from most of the books I've read recently.
Whiskey Beach - Nora Roberts. It could have been any one of her recent standalones, but it was a all right enough read especially as I was in the mood to know exactly what to expect.
Magic Rises - Ilona Andrews. I really enjoyed it. I raced through reading it, and I can't wait to read the next one.
Red-Headed Stepchild, The Mage in Black - Jaye Wells. Red-headed Stepchild read like a first book, a little info dumpy and clunky in places, but I liked it enough to carry on reading. The second in the series read a little better, but I was quickly growing tired of the just about all the characters. I flicked through the other books in the series and that convinced me I really didn't want to carry on reading. I can see why they would appeal to people, but I just didn't like them enough to read any more.
The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson. I absolutely loved it! Definitely going on my to buy pile.
The Thief's Gamble, The Swordsman's Oath, The Gambler's Fortune, The Warrior's Bond and The Assassin's Edge by Juliet E McKenna. I'm absolutely head over heels for this series. It was a reread for me, but it's been such a while since I originally read them that I didn't care at all. I sort of resented the fact I had to put the books down to go to work or do other necessary things, and I savoured every word.
What do you think you’ll read next?
Not sure really. I just want to get The Thousand Names finished, but I suspect I will be buying and reading A Few Further Tales of Einarinn by McKenna as well.
What are you currently reading?
I'm still in the middle of The Thousand Names by Django Wexler which continues to be more enjoyable than I thought I would find it given that is it mainly military based fantasy at the moment. The description of a fantasy version of Sharpe seems very accurate, but Wexler writes well enough and has created characters that keep me wanting to read on despite that. (Nothing wrong with Sharpe, it just isn't usually my cup of tea.)
Technically I'm still in the middle of Jeffery Deaver's XO but I've stalled. It's rather mehish and I've no real desire to go back. I suspect this might be a DNF.
What did you recently finish reading?
Flash and Bones by Kathy Reichs. It was the reading equivalent of comfy old slippers. Not brilliant and much the same feel as her previous ones but enjoyable and good to curl up to. Then there was Bones Are Forever which was much the same, except for one bit where I want to shake one of the characters or throw the book across the room. Ryan really should have known better (especially with what is revealed later on), and I can't quite believe Reichs did that. I'm not too sure if I'll read the latest one yet.
Oor Wullie. It made me giggle, and again like comfy old slippers, but ones that were my favourite to start with for a reason.
Thankless in Death - J.D. Robb. I really enjoyed the character interactions in this one, which is pretty much the only reason I'm keeping reading this series. It was great to curl up with on a wet afternoon when I was stuffed with the cold.
Uncommon Criminals, Double Crossed: A Spies and Thieves Story, Perfect Scoundrels - Ally Carter. Reasonably light-hearted teenage thief shenanigans? All over it. I have such a soft spot for this series, even if it does require a bit of suspension of disbelief at times. I finished the last one disappointed there wasn't more which is a big change from most of the books I've read recently.
Whiskey Beach - Nora Roberts. It could have been any one of her recent standalones, but it was a all right enough read especially as I was in the mood to know exactly what to expect.
Magic Rises - Ilona Andrews. I really enjoyed it. I raced through reading it, and I can't wait to read the next one.
Red-Headed Stepchild, The Mage in Black - Jaye Wells. Red-headed Stepchild read like a first book, a little info dumpy and clunky in places, but I liked it enough to carry on reading. The second in the series read a little better, but I was quickly growing tired of the just about all the characters. I flicked through the other books in the series and that convinced me I really didn't want to carry on reading. I can see why they would appeal to people, but I just didn't like them enough to read any more.
The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson. I absolutely loved it! Definitely going on my to buy pile.
The Thief's Gamble, The Swordsman's Oath, The Gambler's Fortune, The Warrior's Bond and The Assassin's Edge by Juliet E McKenna. I'm absolutely head over heels for this series. It was a reread for me, but it's been such a while since I originally read them that I didn't care at all. I sort of resented the fact I had to put the books down to go to work or do other necessary things, and I savoured every word.
What do you think you’ll read next?
Not sure really. I just want to get The Thousand Names finished, but I suspect I will be buying and reading A Few Further Tales of Einarinn by McKenna as well.
Saturday, 3 August 2013
What I'm reading 3/8/13
Last week was rather hectic so I ended up smooshing two posts into one.
What are you currently reading?
I'm in the middle of Kathy Reich's which is a fast, comfy read perfect for break times. I'm enjoying it, but there is a reason it's languished in the TBR pile for nearly 2 years (I like the characters enough, I'm just a little bored of the 'read one read them all feeling' that I've started to get during the last couple of books.)
What did you recently finish reading?
Komarr by Lois McMaster Bujold. I loved it - it's exactly my sort of scifi, and it wasn't so Miles-centric that it dragged for me. (I like Miles, I just like other characters more.)
Book of Souls by James Oswald. I wasn't as charmed by this one as his first one, mainly I think because I had been looking forward to it whereas the first in the series caught me by surprise. There were a few moments where it seemed a little repetitive, and I think the main plot would have worked better a book or two further into the series, but the characters were all just as engaging and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series (and not just because of the hanging thread at the end of the book!).
Broken Homes by Ben Aaronovitch. I raced through it and loved it. There were bits that made me laugh out loud, a tall order given the way I was feeling, and though I knew there was a twist coming, I was still shocked as hell by it. I can't wait for the next one!
The Thirteenth Sacrifice by Debbie Viguie. I thought it was a quick, enjoyable read and liked it enough to go looking for the next book in the trilogy. The second book, The Last Grave, got a bit weird for my liking and I ending up just skimming. After reading the preview chapter of the last book I don't think I'm too bothered about reading it. I'm actually quite disappointed since it seemed intriguing to start with, but I'm honestly not engaged enough to care about which way the story goes.
I started but didn't finish London Falling by Paul Cornell and The Corpse-Rat King by Lee Battersby. Both were nicely written but boiled down to not my cup of tea so there was no point forcing myself to keep reading.
I read the preview for the next Inspector Lynley book up on Elizabeth George's website. Aside from how badly it was formatted, I don't think I've ever gotten whiplash from reading something so short before. It reinforced the fact I am actually going to read the next book, but also the fact that I really should stay away from it as well because clearly it is not good for me (how can you keep on writing about a character you so obviously hate??)
What do you think you’ll read next?
The Thousand Names by Django Wexler came in on short loan for me so that, and possibly Kathy Reich's Bones are Forever. Oh and last year's Oor Wullie annual as I realised I never did get around to it, shock horror.
What are you currently reading?
I'm in the middle of Kathy Reich's which is a fast, comfy read perfect for break times. I'm enjoying it, but there is a reason it's languished in the TBR pile for nearly 2 years (I like the characters enough, I'm just a little bored of the 'read one read them all feeling' that I've started to get during the last couple of books.)
What did you recently finish reading?
Komarr by Lois McMaster Bujold. I loved it - it's exactly my sort of scifi, and it wasn't so Miles-centric that it dragged for me. (I like Miles, I just like other characters more.)
Book of Souls by James Oswald. I wasn't as charmed by this one as his first one, mainly I think because I had been looking forward to it whereas the first in the series caught me by surprise. There were a few moments where it seemed a little repetitive, and I think the main plot would have worked better a book or two further into the series, but the characters were all just as engaging and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series (and not just because of the hanging thread at the end of the book!).
Broken Homes by Ben Aaronovitch. I raced through it and loved it. There were bits that made me laugh out loud, a tall order given the way I was feeling, and though I knew there was a twist coming, I was still shocked as hell by it. I can't wait for the next one!
The Thirteenth Sacrifice by Debbie Viguie. I thought it was a quick, enjoyable read and liked it enough to go looking for the next book in the trilogy. The second book, The Last Grave, got a bit weird for my liking and I ending up just skimming. After reading the preview chapter of the last book I don't think I'm too bothered about reading it. I'm actually quite disappointed since it seemed intriguing to start with, but I'm honestly not engaged enough to care about which way the story goes.
I started but didn't finish London Falling by Paul Cornell and The Corpse-Rat King by Lee Battersby. Both were nicely written but boiled down to not my cup of tea so there was no point forcing myself to keep reading.
I read the preview for the next Inspector Lynley book up on Elizabeth George's website. Aside from how badly it was formatted, I don't think I've ever gotten whiplash from reading something so short before. It reinforced the fact I am actually going to read the next book, but also the fact that I really should stay away from it as well because clearly it is not good for me (how can you keep on writing about a character you so obviously hate??)
What do you think you’ll read next?
The Thousand Names by Django Wexler came in on short loan for me so that, and possibly Kathy Reich's Bones are Forever. Oh and last year's Oor Wullie annual as I realised I never did get around to it, shock horror.
Wednesday, 17 July 2013
What I'm reading 17/7/13
What are you currently reading?
I'm a few pages further along in Komarr by Lois McMaster Bujold (and still enjoying it), and I've just started flicking through Managing Ehler Danlos (type 3) Hypermobility Syndrome by Isobel Knight. It's rather more in depth than her last book, though still very readable, and I suspect I will be dipping in and out of it for a while.
What did you recently finish reading?
It's been a mainly disappointing week for books.
I ended up DNF'ing The Aylesford Skull by James P Blaylock. It was all right enough to dip in and out of as a break time read, but I tried to read it for more than ten minutes at a time, and I found I just didn't care. I liked some of the characters, just not enough to finish the book.
Hunted by Kevin Hearne. It was all right I suppose. It wasn't bad, but I found myself skimming passages, and I really only carried on reading because I'm reasonably invested with the characters at this point. I'll read the next book because I want to see where it goes from here, but this book felt like it was just filler
What do you think you’ll read next?
Book of Souls by James Oswald has just come in for me, and I can't wait to read it.
I'm a few pages further along in Komarr by Lois McMaster Bujold (and still enjoying it), and I've just started flicking through Managing Ehler Danlos (type 3) Hypermobility Syndrome by Isobel Knight. It's rather more in depth than her last book, though still very readable, and I suspect I will be dipping in and out of it for a while.
What did you recently finish reading?
It's been a mainly disappointing week for books.
I ended up DNF'ing The Aylesford Skull by James P Blaylock. It was all right enough to dip in and out of as a break time read, but I tried to read it for more than ten minutes at a time, and I found I just didn't care. I liked some of the characters, just not enough to finish the book.
Hunted by Kevin Hearne. It was all right I suppose. It wasn't bad, but I found myself skimming passages, and I really only carried on reading because I'm reasonably invested with the characters at this point. I'll read the next book because I want to see where it goes from here, but this book felt like it was just filler
What do you think you’ll read next?
Book of Souls by James Oswald has just come in for me, and I can't wait to read it.
Friday, 12 July 2013
What I'm reading 12/7/13
Hello again! It's seems like forever since I've managed to blog, but then I remember it's because I was busy surviving and recovering from a holiday with my siblings. It actually wasn't as bad as I feared, and I actually enjoyed myself (although it was hard to tell what was scarier: the rides or my siblings arguing over who got to push me!). I'm starting to get back into the swing of things so expect more updates soon.
What are you currently reading?
At the minute, I'm only in the middle of The Aylesford Skull by James P Blaylock. I am dipping in and out of it as my breaktime read, but I'm not too sure about it. I'm intrigued enough to keep reading but I'm not exactly excited by it.
What did you recently finish reading?
I DNF'd Val McDermid's Place of Execution after I finally admitted I had lost all interest in it. I'm not sure why exactly, especially after the first part sucked me in so well, but I was just past the halfway point and the thought of reading the rest was just plain tiring.
Laidlaw by William McIlvanney. This one felt a little odd to me. I mean, I can see why it is such a recommended book, and how it set off the Scottish crime writing scene, and I did enjoy it, but I have no desire to either reread it or go on and read the other two in the series. I think it was the amount of different POV's that did it - I couldn't really latch onto anyone long enough to properly care about reading more. I'm glad I read it though.
Blade Reforged by Kelly McCullough. It was definitely worth the wait to read this one. I love the slow unveiling of the worldbuilding that keeps taking place, and the development of all the main characters is still fantastic. I said when I first started it that it was like rolling yourself up in your favourite quilt, and that feeling lasted through the whole book. There are throwbacks to previous books, some interesting new characters are introduced and things get a little political as well (always one of my favourite aspects). The whole book is littered with fantastic little details that make the world seem alive, and it feels like coming full circle from the first book. At the same time, new questions and plot threads are introduced so it feels like . The only criticism I would have was the absence of Faran felt a little odd, and perhaps a little forced, but that was my only quibble in what is an otherwise great book.
According to McCullough's website, there are going to be at least two more in the series, but it's going to be at December 2014 before the next one. I'm extremely pleased there is going to be more, but I can wait. The end of this one feels like a natural stopping point in the series, and whilst I'm still very eager for more, it's not quite as urgent as it was at the end of the last one. In the meanwhile, I'll definitely be rereading the series so far.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I'd really like to finish Bujold's Komarr as it sort of fell by the wayside, and Kevin Hearne's Hunted just came in at the library for me.
What are you currently reading?
At the minute, I'm only in the middle of The Aylesford Skull by James P Blaylock. I am dipping in and out of it as my breaktime read, but I'm not too sure about it. I'm intrigued enough to keep reading but I'm not exactly excited by it.
What did you recently finish reading?
I DNF'd Val McDermid's Place of Execution after I finally admitted I had lost all interest in it. I'm not sure why exactly, especially after the first part sucked me in so well, but I was just past the halfway point and the thought of reading the rest was just plain tiring.
Laidlaw by William McIlvanney. This one felt a little odd to me. I mean, I can see why it is such a recommended book, and how it set off the Scottish crime writing scene, and I did enjoy it, but I have no desire to either reread it or go on and read the other two in the series. I think it was the amount of different POV's that did it - I couldn't really latch onto anyone long enough to properly care about reading more. I'm glad I read it though.
Blade Reforged by Kelly McCullough. It was definitely worth the wait to read this one. I love the slow unveiling of the worldbuilding that keeps taking place, and the development of all the main characters is still fantastic. I said when I first started it that it was like rolling yourself up in your favourite quilt, and that feeling lasted through the whole book. There are throwbacks to previous books, some interesting new characters are introduced and things get a little political as well (always one of my favourite aspects). The whole book is littered with fantastic little details that make the world seem alive, and it feels like coming full circle from the first book. At the same time, new questions and plot threads are introduced so it feels like . The only criticism I would have was the absence of Faran felt a little odd, and perhaps a little forced, but that was my only quibble in what is an otherwise great book.
According to McCullough's website, there are going to be at least two more in the series, but it's going to be at December 2014 before the next one. I'm extremely pleased there is going to be more, but I can wait. The end of this one feels like a natural stopping point in the series, and whilst I'm still very eager for more, it's not quite as urgent as it was at the end of the last one. In the meanwhile, I'll definitely be rereading the series so far.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I'd really like to finish Bujold's Komarr as it sort of fell by the wayside, and Kevin Hearne's Hunted just came in at the library for me.
Wednesday, 26 June 2013
What I'm reading 26/6/13
It's been a busy couple of weeks for me, between my wee brother graduating uni, getting reading for holidays and various other bits and bobs. It certainly doesn't feel like a fortnight since I did the last reading Wednesday.
What are you currently reading?
I'm two thirds of the way through Laidlaw by William McIlvanney, and enjoying it so far. I've just started Blade Reforged by Kelly McCullough, and it's like rolling yourself up in your favourite quilt by which I mean I love it, and I had to hold myself back from reading it when it arrived this morning as there was this pesky thing called work I had to go to.
What did you recently finish reading?
Last week there was only a quick reread of Captain Vorpatril's Alliance by Lois McMaster Bujold due to brain-space issues, and I enjoyed it just as much this time as I did the first time.
This week, I raced through Natural Causes by James Oswald. It was another one of these hyped books that I thought lived up to the hype. It was incredibly easy to read, one of those books that you almost just sink into and look up later to find hours have gone by and you've read most of the book without being aware of time. There were a couple of moments where I laughed out loud, and I enjoyed both the characters and the plot. llI'll definitely be reading the next one when it's out in a week or two.
I also read The Mad Duke's Bride by Loretta Chase after seeing it recommended on Dear Author. I greatly enjoyed it, though I wish it would have been longer - it's a novella, and I do think it works at that length, but I quite adored the main characters and would have liked to have seen a little more past where it ended. I think I'll give Chase another go when I come across another one of her books.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I really need to finish Laidlaw ASAP. After that I'm on holiday next week so I think it's going to be finishing Blade Reforged, and rereads of The Thief's Gamble by Juliet E McKenna and The Barbed Coil by J V Jones while I'm away and trying not to kill either my brother or sister.
What are you currently reading?
I'm two thirds of the way through Laidlaw by William McIlvanney, and enjoying it so far. I've just started Blade Reforged by Kelly McCullough, and it's like rolling yourself up in your favourite quilt by which I mean I love it, and I had to hold myself back from reading it when it arrived this morning as there was this pesky thing called work I had to go to.
What did you recently finish reading?
Last week there was only a quick reread of Captain Vorpatril's Alliance by Lois McMaster Bujold due to brain-space issues, and I enjoyed it just as much this time as I did the first time.
This week, I raced through Natural Causes by James Oswald. It was another one of these hyped books that I thought lived up to the hype. It was incredibly easy to read, one of those books that you almost just sink into and look up later to find hours have gone by and you've read most of the book without being aware of time. There were a couple of moments where I laughed out loud, and I enjoyed both the characters and the plot. llI'll definitely be reading the next one when it's out in a week or two.
I also read The Mad Duke's Bride by Loretta Chase after seeing it recommended on Dear Author. I greatly enjoyed it, though I wish it would have been longer - it's a novella, and I do think it works at that length, but I quite adored the main characters and would have liked to have seen a little more past where it ended. I think I'll give Chase another go when I come across another one of her books.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I really need to finish Laidlaw ASAP. After that I'm on holiday next week so I think it's going to be finishing Blade Reforged, and rereads of The Thief's Gamble by Juliet E McKenna and The Barbed Coil by J V Jones while I'm away and trying not to kill either my brother or sister.
Wednesday, 12 June 2013
What I'm reading 12/6/13
I've been a little quiet online lately becuase I've been a whirlwind of offline interaction, but I'm looking forward to catching up and hopefully sharing one or two of my adventures.
Onto this week's reading!
What are you currently reading?
I'm back into Place of Execution by Val McDermid. Every time I put it down and think I'm not going to pick it up again, something else happens that draws me back in. I've also picked up Bujold's Komarr again.
What did you recently finish reading?
I ended up not finishing The City by Stella Gemmell after all. As I said before, there were a lot of intriguing ideas so I wish I had been able to, but I just didn't connect with the book at all. I've got bothing against the book, and I'll take a look when she writes her next one.
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith. I have to say it definitely lived up to it's hype for me. Despite some of the POV changes making me do a double take, I think it was well written, the characters felt real (as I suspected I was all ROBIN!, but I grew quite fond of Strike as well as I kept reading), and I enjoyed the plot. It's billed as the first in a series so I'm really looking forward to the next one.
Shattered Pillars by Elizabeth Bear. I loved it. It was lyrical to read, hit so many of my buttons, and didn't feel like the middle book in a trilogy. I don't really have anything else to say as it really was one of those books that just hit all the right spots for me, but I am really looking forward to the last book in the trilogy.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I've got Laidlaw by William McIlvanney on short loan from the library so that at least.
Onto this week's reading!
What are you currently reading?
I'm back into Place of Execution by Val McDermid. Every time I put it down and think I'm not going to pick it up again, something else happens that draws me back in. I've also picked up Bujold's Komarr again.
What did you recently finish reading?
I ended up not finishing The City by Stella Gemmell after all. As I said before, there were a lot of intriguing ideas so I wish I had been able to, but I just didn't connect with the book at all. I've got bothing against the book, and I'll take a look when she writes her next one.
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith. I have to say it definitely lived up to it's hype for me. Despite some of the POV changes making me do a double take, I think it was well written, the characters felt real (as I suspected I was all ROBIN!, but I grew quite fond of Strike as well as I kept reading), and I enjoyed the plot. It's billed as the first in a series so I'm really looking forward to the next one.
Shattered Pillars by Elizabeth Bear. I loved it. It was lyrical to read, hit so many of my buttons, and didn't feel like the middle book in a trilogy. I don't really have anything else to say as it really was one of those books that just hit all the right spots for me, but I am really looking forward to the last book in the trilogy.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I've got Laidlaw by William McIlvanney on short loan from the library so that at least.
Sunday, 26 May 2013
What I'm reading
This week has been rather minging to put it mildly. Pretty much the only thing I have managed to do was read, so lets talk about books.
What are you currently reading?
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith. I hadn't planned on starting this just now, especially after glancing through the prologue and humming and hawwing about it. I forgot to bring another book for break time though, so I started it and ended up reading it at home as well. I was pleasantly surprised once I got past the prologue and I'm enjoying it so far. I suspect I'm going to be ROBIN! throughout the book but I'll have to wait and see as a certain person nicked it off me.
I also started The City by Stella Gemmell as it's still on the request list. I am not really feeling it right now though it's nicely written. I'm intrigued enough to keep reading though and see if I connect with it at all.
What did you recently finish reading?
Darkening Skies and Defiant Peaks by Juliet E McKenna. I loved them both. I'm going to have to reread the trilogy at some point to catch all the little details I missed, but that isn't going to be a hardship. I liked the repercussions that echoed through the books, and still adored most of the characters. I also loved all the insights into the various magic systems, and McKenna definitely has a writing style that sucks me in and want to not put the books down.
Worth Any Price by LIsa Kleypas. I mentioned to someone that the only reason I finished this book was because I couldn't get up to get anything else. It really was that bad. The characters fell completely flat, and it was more a case of telling that they had fallen in love with each other than showing it, and there was a bondage scene that made me want to through the book across the room. I'm not sure I'll be picking up another Kleypas as she has been more miss than hit for me.
What do you think you’ll read next?
Nothing new as I need to finish both I'm in the middle of.
What are you currently reading?
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith. I hadn't planned on starting this just now, especially after glancing through the prologue and humming and hawwing about it. I forgot to bring another book for break time though, so I started it and ended up reading it at home as well. I was pleasantly surprised once I got past the prologue and I'm enjoying it so far. I suspect I'm going to be ROBIN! throughout the book but I'll have to wait and see as a certain person nicked it off me.
I also started The City by Stella Gemmell as it's still on the request list. I am not really feeling it right now though it's nicely written. I'm intrigued enough to keep reading though and see if I connect with it at all.
What did you recently finish reading?
Darkening Skies and Defiant Peaks by Juliet E McKenna. I loved them both. I'm going to have to reread the trilogy at some point to catch all the little details I missed, but that isn't going to be a hardship. I liked the repercussions that echoed through the books, and still adored most of the characters. I also loved all the insights into the various magic systems, and McKenna definitely has a writing style that sucks me in and want to not put the books down.
Worth Any Price by LIsa Kleypas. I mentioned to someone that the only reason I finished this book was because I couldn't get up to get anything else. It really was that bad. The characters fell completely flat, and it was more a case of telling that they had fallen in love with each other than showing it, and there was a bondage scene that made me want to through the book across the room. I'm not sure I'll be picking up another Kleypas as she has been more miss than hit for me.
What do you think you’ll read next?
Nothing new as I need to finish both I'm in the middle of.
Wednesday, 15 May 2013
What I'm reading #4
My long weekend took rather more out of me than I anticipated, though the tea haul was certainly worthwhile. Let's not talk about that though, let's talk about books instead!
What are you currently reading?
I haven't touched Quiet by Susan Cain and A Place of Execution by Val McDermid since last time so I'm not sure if they really count.
I recently started Lois McMaster Bujold's Komarr, and I really enjoyed what I've read so far. I only put it down because I didn't have the spoons to carry on, and the omnibus edition I bought resembles a brick. It's certainly not the biggest one in my collection, but it was big enough to cause problems at the time.
The one I'm actively reading, i.e. I only put down about ten minutes ago, is Darkening Skies by Juliet E McKenna. It's the follow on Dangerous Waters (which I'll talk about below) and so far I am loving it.
What did you recently finish reading?
I finished one of Lois McMaster Bujold's novellas, Winterfair Gifts and I adored it. I don't really have much else to say about it really. I also reread her A Civil Campaign, and I think I loved it even more this time around. It was just so easy to sink into reading it, and I kept smiling as I read it. I think it's going to be a comfort read for me, and I can see myself rereading it repeatedly.
Dangerous Waters by Juliet E McKenna. I ended up enjoying it just as much as I thought I would, to the extent I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next book. McKenna managed that rare trick of making me care about reading about characters I wasn't particularly fond of, and she certainly has a knack with creating multifaceted characters. I enjoyed everything about it, from the world building, the characters, the politics, to the magic systems and the plot itself. I definitely have a soft spot for the wizards though, Jilseth in particular. I can see it growing better with rereads, and I definitely see that happening, as well as rereading McKenna's earlier stuff sometime later this year.
Calculated in Death by J D Robb. It was an okay entry in the series. I think by this point I am mainly reading for the characters, especially the Dallas - Peabody interaction but it was an enjoyable enough way to pass a tired afternoon.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I don't know why I bother answering this one as every week I turn around and read something else! :D I'll probably finish off the McKenna trilogy, then pick something from my library pile.
What are you currently reading?
I haven't touched Quiet by Susan Cain and A Place of Execution by Val McDermid since last time so I'm not sure if they really count.
I recently started Lois McMaster Bujold's Komarr, and I really enjoyed what I've read so far. I only put it down because I didn't have the spoons to carry on, and the omnibus edition I bought resembles a brick. It's certainly not the biggest one in my collection, but it was big enough to cause problems at the time.
The one I'm actively reading, i.e. I only put down about ten minutes ago, is Darkening Skies by Juliet E McKenna. It's the follow on Dangerous Waters (which I'll talk about below) and so far I am loving it.
What did you recently finish reading?
I finished one of Lois McMaster Bujold's novellas, Winterfair Gifts and I adored it. I don't really have much else to say about it really. I also reread her A Civil Campaign, and I think I loved it even more this time around. It was just so easy to sink into reading it, and I kept smiling as I read it. I think it's going to be a comfort read for me, and I can see myself rereading it repeatedly.
Dangerous Waters by Juliet E McKenna. I ended up enjoying it just as much as I thought I would, to the extent I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next book. McKenna managed that rare trick of making me care about reading about characters I wasn't particularly fond of, and she certainly has a knack with creating multifaceted characters. I enjoyed everything about it, from the world building, the characters, the politics, to the magic systems and the plot itself. I definitely have a soft spot for the wizards though, Jilseth in particular. I can see it growing better with rereads, and I definitely see that happening, as well as rereading McKenna's earlier stuff sometime later this year.
Calculated in Death by J D Robb. It was an okay entry in the series. I think by this point I am mainly reading for the characters, especially the Dallas - Peabody interaction but it was an enjoyable enough way to pass a tired afternoon.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I don't know why I bother answering this one as every week I turn around and read something else! :D I'll probably finish off the McKenna trilogy, then pick something from my library pile.
Thursday, 2 May 2013
What I'm reading #3
It finally feels like spring is here! It's been a hectic couple of weeks, but I did manage to squeeze in some reading time.
What are you currently reading?
I'm still in the middle of Quiet by Susan Cain and A Place of Execution by Val McDermid, but slightly further ahead in both.
I also picked up Dangerous Waters by Juliet E McKenna. It's been on my to request from the library list for ages, and so far it is not disappointing me at all. I'm actually enjoying it which is a marked difference from the last two fantasy books I've read.
What did you recently finish reading?
Frankly, it's been a crap week or so for books. (Spoilers for Fade to Black by Francis Knight and Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George.)
The best of the bunch was The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook. I liked a lot of the ideas, and the book wasn't bad, but I never really connected with any of the characters despite wanting to. The greatest feeling I got from the book was disappointment, and I don't think I'll bother with any of the others in the series.
I didn't actually finish Fade to Black by Francis Knight. I picked it up to finish it, and the main character intensely annoyed me again so I decided there was no point in forcing myself to carry on. I feel like the book could have been so good - the initial worldbuilding and set up had me quite excited, but it quickly degenerated into the outsider comes in and does a better job than the resistance and saves everyone. By itself that could have been okay, but the main character was an unlikeable arsehole who kept reminding the reader that he didn't know why he was bothering and didn't want to care, and the women were divided into two types: those who wanted to sleep with the main character and vengeful harpies. Oh sorry I forgot the third type: cold hearted bitch. (I had to go check the book was actually written by a woman.) Annoyed is probably my greatest feeling from reading this one.
I didn't properly finish Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George either. I skimmed it again, and my thoughts of disappointment, why am I forcing myself to read this? were confirmed. I do think it was a little better than This Body of Death as it did suck me in at parts but there wasn't an actual murder in it. That, and the random fat shaming of characters that were essentially stage dressing were majorly disappointing. I don't think I'll even go into the main characters because I just want to throw things when I think about them. I can feel the need to rewatch the TV series come on again, where there is actual consistent character development, and it doesn't give the impression that the author hates one character and uses another as an author stand in.
I did perk up at the idea presented at the end of the book that the next one would be a proper Barbara book, but my hopes were dashed when I read the blurb for it. The worst of it is, I'm still probably going to skim read it. :(
What do you think you’ll read next?
Bitter Seeds by Ian Tregillis I think, though Elizabeth Bear's Shattered Pillars is making it's way to the library for me. Maybe both since it's a long weekend.
What are you currently reading?
I'm still in the middle of Quiet by Susan Cain and A Place of Execution by Val McDermid, but slightly further ahead in both.
I also picked up Dangerous Waters by Juliet E McKenna. It's been on my to request from the library list for ages, and so far it is not disappointing me at all. I'm actually enjoying it which is a marked difference from the last two fantasy books I've read.
What did you recently finish reading?
Frankly, it's been a crap week or so for books. (Spoilers for Fade to Black by Francis Knight and Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George.)
The best of the bunch was The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook. I liked a lot of the ideas, and the book wasn't bad, but I never really connected with any of the characters despite wanting to. The greatest feeling I got from the book was disappointment, and I don't think I'll bother with any of the others in the series.
I didn't actually finish Fade to Black by Francis Knight. I picked it up to finish it, and the main character intensely annoyed me again so I decided there was no point in forcing myself to carry on. I feel like the book could have been so good - the initial worldbuilding and set up had me quite excited, but it quickly degenerated into the outsider comes in and does a better job than the resistance and saves everyone. By itself that could have been okay, but the main character was an unlikeable arsehole who kept reminding the reader that he didn't know why he was bothering and didn't want to care, and the women were divided into two types: those who wanted to sleep with the main character and vengeful harpies. Oh sorry I forgot the third type: cold hearted bitch. (I had to go check the book was actually written by a woman.) Annoyed is probably my greatest feeling from reading this one.
I didn't properly finish Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George either. I skimmed it again, and my thoughts of disappointment, why am I forcing myself to read this? were confirmed. I do think it was a little better than This Body of Death as it did suck me in at parts but there wasn't an actual murder in it. That, and the random fat shaming of characters that were essentially stage dressing were majorly disappointing. I don't think I'll even go into the main characters because I just want to throw things when I think about them. I can feel the need to rewatch the TV series come on again, where there is actual consistent character development, and it doesn't give the impression that the author hates one character and uses another as an author stand in.
I did perk up at the idea presented at the end of the book that the next one would be a proper Barbara book, but my hopes were dashed when I read the blurb for it. The worst of it is, I'm still probably going to skim read it. :(
What do you think you’ll read next?
Bitter Seeds by Ian Tregillis I think, though Elizabeth Bear's Shattered Pillars is making it's way to the library for me. Maybe both since it's a long weekend.
Friday, 5 April 2013
What I'm reading
This week has been rather stressful, but I'm off the whole weekend, and one of my cacti is flowering so it must be spring!
What are you currently reading?
Still reading Quiet by Susan Cain – actually it’s been the sort of week where I haven’t picked it up at all. I did finally start Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George. It seems all right so far, though it hasn’t sucked me in properly yet like some of George’s earlier work has. I also started A Place of Execution by Val McDermid as my break time read. I am rather enjoying it so far – I didn’t want to put it down and go back to work this evening.
What did you recently finish reading?
Someone Like You by Cathy Kelly. It was, all right I suppose is the word. I raced through it but thought it dragged a little in places, some things were just a little too pat to seem properly plausible, and I didn’t like one of the protagonists at several points. I did finish it though, and it was an enjoyable enough book to read curled up with a mug of tea on a miserable afternoon. I feel like I’m damning it with faint praise but while it wasn’t brilliant, I did enjoy it enough to keep reading. I can’t ever see myself rereading it though, and I won’t go seeking out anything else by Kelly.
The Husband Hunt by Lynsay Sands. Well I didn’t finish it exactly. I correctly guessed who the villain was at his first appearance, and normally that wouldn’t put me off, but by page 70 I hadn’t connected with the characters at all, and it really wasn’t shaping up to a book that I would enjoy so back it went.
It feels like a rubbish week for books. Hopefully next week will be better.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I would like to get further into Quiet, and finish Believing the Lie so possibly only Fade to Black by Francis Knight as it came in at the library, and I’ve been looking forward to it since I read a sample chapter.
Link of the week - fantasybookcafe is hosting Women in SFF month. It’s only just started but there are some great posts already. I'm looking forward to the rest of the month.
Still on the subject of books, the blurb for Val McDermid's new Tony Hill and Carol Jordan book was released this week. I wasn't impressed with the last one at all, and I wasn't sure if I was going to bother much with this one, but I'm pretty sure the blurb has been tailored to get me waiting on the edge of my seat until it comes out.
What are you currently reading?
Still reading Quiet by Susan Cain – actually it’s been the sort of week where I haven’t picked it up at all. I did finally start Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George. It seems all right so far, though it hasn’t sucked me in properly yet like some of George’s earlier work has. I also started A Place of Execution by Val McDermid as my break time read. I am rather enjoying it so far – I didn’t want to put it down and go back to work this evening.
What did you recently finish reading?
Someone Like You by Cathy Kelly. It was, all right I suppose is the word. I raced through it but thought it dragged a little in places, some things were just a little too pat to seem properly plausible, and I didn’t like one of the protagonists at several points. I did finish it though, and it was an enjoyable enough book to read curled up with a mug of tea on a miserable afternoon. I feel like I’m damning it with faint praise but while it wasn’t brilliant, I did enjoy it enough to keep reading. I can’t ever see myself rereading it though, and I won’t go seeking out anything else by Kelly.
The Husband Hunt by Lynsay Sands. Well I didn’t finish it exactly. I correctly guessed who the villain was at his first appearance, and normally that wouldn’t put me off, but by page 70 I hadn’t connected with the characters at all, and it really wasn’t shaping up to a book that I would enjoy so back it went.
It feels like a rubbish week for books. Hopefully next week will be better.
What do you think you’ll read next?
I would like to get further into Quiet, and finish Believing the Lie so possibly only Fade to Black by Francis Knight as it came in at the library, and I’ve been looking forward to it since I read a sample chapter.
Link of the week - fantasybookcafe is hosting Women in SFF month. It’s only just started but there are some great posts already. I'm looking forward to the rest of the month.
Still on the subject of books, the blurb for Val McDermid's new Tony Hill and Carol Jordan book was released this week. I wasn't impressed with the last one at all, and I wasn't sure if I was going to bother much with this one, but I'm pretty sure the blurb has been tailored to get me waiting on the edge of my seat until it comes out.
Friday, 29 March 2013
What I'm reading Wednesday
Sometime around university, my reading for pleasure really trailed off and it's not recovered yet. It's been my yearly goal for the last couple of years to rectify that and so far I've been moderately successful. This year looks to be even better, mainly because every Wednesday I've been answering these three simple questions somewhere where people can see them. I don't consider these to be proper reviews, just my quick thoughts on the books.
And yes, I know it's not Wednesday today, but it's been a rather hectic week and better late than never, right?
What Are You Reading Wednesday?
• What are you currently reading?
• What did you recently finish reading?
• What do you think you’ll read next?
What are you currently reading?
I've just started Quiet - The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain. It seems very readable so far, and I've heard good things about the book. I've also just started The Husband Hunt by Lynsay Sands. The back blurb really intrigued me, but I'm at page 40 now, and I'm still not entirely sure if I like it.
What did you recently finish reading?
Cryoburn by Lois McMaster Bujold. It turned out rather like I thought it would - a very enjoyable read but not quite as loveable as either Captain Vorpatril's Alliance or A Civil Campaign (for me anyway) due to the lack of Lady Alys. (I have rather fallen in love with Lady Alys so that would explain it.) That said I did adore Vorlynkin and would love to read some more about him set after the book. All in all, I did enjoy reading it, and it has cemented the fact I want to read the rest of the books in the series.
Crossed Blades by Kelly McCullough. I utterly loved it. There really are no other words for it. The characters and relationships are explored and developed more thoroughly this book, the worldbuilding is slowly expanding, and I really couldn't put the book down. I adored the plot, and I'm bouncing about and tearing my hair out at the wait for the next book in the series. Whyyyyy can't it be out now????????? July seems like such a long way away at the moment.
The Ugly Duchess by Eloisa James. I adored Theo, and for the first three quarters or so of the book I didn't want to put it down. I even thought it was shaping up nicely enough to put on my to buy list (since it was a library copy). Then the ending happened. It was far too rushed, and I had a real problem with James essentially trapping Theo in the house and sending away most of the house hold. I don't think I would have finished it had I not fallen in love with Theo, and Eloisa James has enough ability that I still wanted to read to the end despite hating it. I am really, really disappointed in how it turned out.
What do you think you’ll read next?
If I'm still on a regency kick, then Unbuttoning Miss Hardwick by Deb Marlowe. Possibly Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George if I finish that.
And yes, I know it's not Wednesday today, but it's been a rather hectic week and better late than never, right?
What Are You Reading Wednesday?
• What are you currently reading?
• What did you recently finish reading?
• What do you think you’ll read next?
What are you currently reading?
I've just started Quiet - The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain. It seems very readable so far, and I've heard good things about the book. I've also just started The Husband Hunt by Lynsay Sands. The back blurb really intrigued me, but I'm at page 40 now, and I'm still not entirely sure if I like it.
What did you recently finish reading?
Cryoburn by Lois McMaster Bujold. It turned out rather like I thought it would - a very enjoyable read but not quite as loveable as either Captain Vorpatril's Alliance or A Civil Campaign (for me anyway) due to the lack of Lady Alys. (I have rather fallen in love with Lady Alys so that would explain it.) That said I did adore Vorlynkin and would love to read some more about him set after the book. All in all, I did enjoy reading it, and it has cemented the fact I want to read the rest of the books in the series.
Crossed Blades by Kelly McCullough. I utterly loved it. There really are no other words for it. The characters and relationships are explored and developed more thoroughly this book, the worldbuilding is slowly expanding, and I really couldn't put the book down. I adored the plot, and I'm bouncing about and tearing my hair out at the wait for the next book in the series. Whyyyyy can't it be out now????????? July seems like such a long way away at the moment.
The Ugly Duchess by Eloisa James. I adored Theo, and for the first three quarters or so of the book I didn't want to put it down. I even thought it was shaping up nicely enough to put on my to buy list (since it was a library copy). Then the ending happened. It was far too rushed, and I had a real problem with James essentially trapping Theo in the house and sending away most of the house hold. I don't think I would have finished it had I not fallen in love with Theo, and Eloisa James has enough ability that I still wanted to read to the end despite hating it. I am really, really disappointed in how it turned out.
What do you think you’ll read next?
If I'm still on a regency kick, then Unbuttoning Miss Hardwick by Deb Marlowe. Possibly Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George if I finish that.
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