If I were wont to use such phrases I might open this review with "HOT D**N this is a good book!" But I don't use those phrases so I'll just say...now...moreIf I were wont to use such phrases I might open this review with "HOT D**N this is a good book!" But I don't use those phrases so I'll just say...now among my favorites!
Get this series. Start at book 1 (Monster Hunter International) and follow the series. As I've said before, this is prime, 100% grade A brain candy. It's an action treat for lovers of Urban Fantasy, Action, Horror, thrillers and so many crossover genre areas that it will appeal to a great many readers and groups of readers. And among these let's not leave out the gun enthusiasts among us.
I've had some "shots" taken at me and those who enjoy these books by people who consider themselves the literati among us...and those who are very involved in anti-gun matters. I've been insulted because you see, these books are obviously not up to the standards of some among us.
Cool. I admit this is wonderfully fun literary junk food. It appeals to our need to escape now and then from the day to day grind. It fulfills a need to vicariously fight a grand battle where good and evil face off where you are part of trying so save a world that is unable or unwilling to participate in it's own defense.
So enjoy I can list other series and other books I like better. I can list other books that have "moved me" more but that's not what we're doing here. We're taking a vacation. And while we must inevitably come back from a vacation it still rests us and renews us for the day to day grind we live.
Highly recommended, high octane action fun. Enjoy. (less)
Okay...takes deep breath...I'm feeling alright at this time so I better get this reviewed before the cravings and shakes start again. I got the latest...moreOkay...takes deep breath...I'm feeling alright at this time so I better get this reviewed before the cravings and shakes start again. I got the latest volume in Jim Butcher's Dresden series, and finished it. Now the waiting begins, the continual search for some book that's remotely like the Dresden books, nearly as involving brain candy something to stave off withdrawal. Many of us who follow these books live in great fear for Mr. Butcher. Will he be safe? How's his health? Maybe he should be kept in isolation, locked away in protective custody. No more risky activities such as camping in the woods or...horrors "LARPING".
Oh I know he's free, this is to him a livelihood (or should that be "lively hood'), a way to make a living an irk...job. At most, it's art. But YOU Mr. Butcher are the one who came up with smart ass err smart-alack wisecracking Harry Dresden. You wrote books that are so enthralling and well constructed, came up with the subtle hanging plot points, the other characters we care about you're the one that has brought about the plight of millions of readers who simply wait a year or a year and a half for the next book.
Mr. Butcher....Jim....you're a junky dealer!!!!!!!
Alright sigh you, my fellow Goodread's member came here for a review of the book. I will attempt it, though that gnawing hunger in my gut, the one we all know has started already.
This is a fantastic read. I will recommend without reservation that you read this novel. Yes if you pick it up with no background in Harry at all I think most will enjoy it...but oh my would you be short changing yourself. I've loved the entire series, though as individual books there are some I'd rate as better than others (though I leave them all at a 5 star rating). This one however may just have nudged it's way to the top...or at least to the top 2 or 3 of the series.
Harry's life, already complicated seems to find ways to just continue spiraling away and Harry continues to try and bring order out of the swirling chaos that surrounds him. This time the maelstrom is no easier to navigate through...or survive (view spoiler)[ though survival at this point may have another totally different connotation, as Harry has already been dead or at least "mostly dead" (yeah we know you got the reference) (hide spoiler)]. I won't give spoilers here and I'm being even careful to dance far back from the edge in case readers look at this who haven't read this far in the series or for that matter, even started it. I will say that a few more running questions get answered here and a couple get answered in ways that simply open new questions. Some of us spotted things early on and saw some of these coming (and we feel so smug when JB's ideas are the ones we figured out) others probably surprise us (those we smile at, enjoy and so on, but don't talk about as much. Embarrassment.) All these things, the cast of characters and of course Harry himself keep us reading.
I do want to say this. If you haven't read this series...stop whatever you're doing right now, even reading this amazing, enthralling, insightful review, and GET Storm Front. Drive to you're nearest book store...get the E book...download it from Audible, whatever you need to do. If you are a fan of fantasy, urban fantasy, action or even horror or noir/hard boiled detective fiction try these. The Dresden books or Dresden files books are almost unique in several ways. For one thing they can each be read as stand alone novels (the earlier ones more so than the last 2 or 3) yet in the "background" another story is building. The clues come a little at a time the pressure builds like a steam kettle on a stove with the heat set on low. It takes a while but it's going to happen. That's why even though each book can be enjoyed individually I strongly recommend, I beg you to start at the first novel and read them. Meet the people in and other characters in Harry's life. Follow the changing relationships enjoy the wiseass wiseacre comments and humor. It's true that "I think"...that is it's my opinion...that the books really begin to hit their stride in book 3 or 4. BUT that could mislead. I still rate book "one" a 5 star read. I mean it's like excellent and getting better. I love these books. (By the way Mr. Butcher, Jim I'm 60 years old so don't take too long, okay?)
Really, don't miss these. I give this book...I give these books my strongest, highest recommendation.(less)
Somehow I don't look at this as a "book" it's more of a document. But I do wish every American would read it. Get through the construction parts, see...moreSomehow I don't look at this as a "book" it's more of a document. But I do wish every American would read it. Get through the construction parts, see what's been changed over the life of our country by reading the amendments (the shameful attempt to allow slavery, the repudiation of slavery. the change from senators being selected by the house to being elected directly, etc., etc.).
Read, understand and treasure the rights guaranteed to every American in the Bill of Rights...note that, "The Bill of RIGHTS". Then realize they apply to all Americans.
Learn and treasure what it is to be an American. (less)
This is the third in the "Monster Hunter International series" and frankly...it's great.
Well, if you're a card carrying member of the high-brow, elit...moreThis is the third in the "Monster Hunter International series" and frankly...it's great.
Well, if you're a card carrying member of the high-brow, elite, avante-gard, literary snob society then maybe not. You my friends are far too good for this read and above all we action loving readers of brain candy.
You poor things, I feel for you.
That said, this book will appeal to so many people. Urban fantasy readers, action readers, horror readers...it's all here. The book is a thrill ride that doesn't slow down from start to finish. It has fun and pathos, there are laugh out loud moments and moments so melancholy as to bring tears.
I really liked the first in this series, I liked the second though not so much...this one is at least neck in neck with the first.
We got to know Earl (and his furry little problem) throughout the series, but here it's Earl in the spotlight. We get the tale of his background how he got where he is and the consequences of his actions (and the actions of others). We also get more of the background and history of the world we are functioning in here.
(view spoiler)[ We also get reams of paper full of bloody combat, werewolf carnage exciting battle. (hide spoiler)]
You'll not only come away from this one knowing more about Earl, more about the world, and more about MHI...you'll also come away highly impatient for the next installment.
Yes, you're seeing that right. I'm giving this book 5 big stars. This is unabashed brain candy. This is a mental big mac with a large side of fries, a...moreYes, you're seeing that right. I'm giving this book 5 big stars. This is unabashed brain candy. This is a mental big mac with a large side of fries, an extra large Coke and the meal includes your favorite pie smothered in ice cream. This is the sixth Bob Lee Swagger novel and it's my favorite so far.
This one goes back to the roots of the Bob Lee story, back to the Sniper story. The book has a cast of characters "who are completely fictional and if they bear any resemblance to any actual person living or dead" it's completely coincidental...really...completely coincidental...no doubt.
Anyway, as the book opens several people are killed by a sniper. The FBI has a plethora of evidence that leads them to one man. That man is "Carl Hitchcock" legendary sniper from Vietnam (http://military.discovery.com/technol...). The case seems open and closed, air tight, iron clad...except when Bob Lee looks into it, things don't hold up.
There is also a sort of inside joke that runs through this book that older readers (Vietnam era readers) and many country music fans will get. I found myself laughing out loud a few times. I'll say more about that under a spoiler tag later.
So, if you like a good action read I believe you'll like this one. If you're a gun enthusiast I think you'll like it (some humor here to). Anyone who's a shooter target or whatever has seen the "looks" and dealt with the attitude that "you must be just a bit off" if you..."like guns". You know...you're a, "gun nut". Right? Mr Hunter gets some humor from that. The action here picks up as Bob looks into things and then gives us one of those slam bang page turning rides that the best action books manage.
There is a bit of...sliding close to the edge of the "suspension of disbelief" precipice here. But it didn't push me over (as he, Mr. Hunter did a bit in The 47th Samurai). I can enthusiastically recommend this one. Enjoy.
Now...are you one who picked up the slightly inside joke? If your are you might enjoy what I put under the spoiler tag. If you've read the book but don't know what I'm talking about or have just an idea...here:
If you know what this is enjoy. If you don't and you've read the book you'll really get a laugh from it. Even if you're not a huge fan of country music play it through and listen to the lyrics. This song was a hit in 1960....as I said, enjoy. Oh and if you haven't read the book if you listen to the song now then you can laugh along as you read the book, especially in the final climatic scene. (hide spoiler)](less)
As you read this you probably picture me calmly sitting here at my keyboard preparing to tell you why I like this book and gave it my rare 5 star rati...moreAs you read this you probably picture me calmly sitting here at my keyboard preparing to tell you why I like this book and gave it my rare 5 star rating. No, no nothing could be further from the truth.
In actuality I'm screaming, throwing myself down on the floor kicking my heels against said floor and ripping at what little is left of my hair...
I hate cliffhangers.
Moon did this to us at the end of the second volume of the original Paksenarrion trilogy Divided Allegiance. Happily at that time I'd purchased the trilogy in a single volume The Deed of Paksenarrion and was able to go right on to the next novel without undue "overwroughtness" (I don't care what you grammarians say I'm using it as a word). Unhappily here the next book isn't due out till next JUNE!!!!!!! (slams head against wall repeatedly).
(takes deep breath)
Okay, trying to be calm here. This is the third book in the Paladin's Legacy series...that's series NOT TRILOGY...you'd think someone might have mentioned that earlier. And it's as good as the others. I have read a few of Elizabeth Moon's space opera/science fiction books and they're pretty good. I liked them okay but wouldn't list most among my favorites. When I read the 3 books of The Deed of Paksenarrion (as most of my friends here know) I was sold, hooked, branded or whatever. That trilogy is easily among my top 5 or so favorite novels. While the Paladin's Legacy books are a bit longer each and maybe not quite as high on my favorites list as the original trilogy they are on the list.
In this series we are following the characters we got to know in the original trilogy and answering all sorts of unanswered questions. This is a world that is fully imagined and has a magic system (systems or interrelated systems might express that better) that is coherent and yet is still growing and having details revealed. No one, it appears who's life was touched by Paksenarrion the Paladin remains unchanged. In fact it seems that she may have been...or still be a catalyst to change the entire world.
The plot seems to still be growing here and I have no idea how many volumes Ms. Moon has planned but as long as they continue to hold up and be this good I'm sold.
I recommend that this...but if you haven't read the original trilogy I'd recommend you go back and start there...in fact I envy you a bit. You still those books to read.
Note:
The trilogy The Deed of Paksenarrion is now usually labeled "volumes 3 through 5". That can be misleading as what the publisher calls volumes 1 ans 2 are really prequels and don't need to be read before the trilogy. The original Paksenarrion trilogy is made up of:
The completion of what to my mind is one of the best epic fantasy trilogies of all time. It compares well to LotR and I can't recommend it highly enou...moreThe completion of what to my mind is one of the best epic fantasy trilogies of all time. It compares well to LotR and I can't recommend it highly enough. I gave a longer review of the omnibus edition The Deed of Paksenarrion, check it out if you like. I love these books and can't recommend them highly enough.
This book continuing to tell of the "deed" of Paksenarrion culminates in another series of events that are so well written that they can be very, very hard to read. I've read some who were geuinely disturbed by them/it. This event (or events) is/are (or can be)hard to read but as is often the case leads into a climax that is well worth it.
My only complaint? The novel ends leaving me wishing for more of the story of Paksenarrion. I hope we may get that some day. So far Ms. Moon has not followed with that. There is a very fine series of books in progress that follows up the events here, but Paks herself is more of a side player in those books and the last I saw of her (in Kings of the North) she was riding off in answer to another call.
This is a wonderful book, in a wonderful series. Don't miss it. (less)
Some will look at this book, see Ann Coulter's name and decide they don't like it, sight unseen, book unopened it's very existence will annoy, anger,...moreSome will look at this book, see Ann Coulter's name and decide they don't like it, sight unseen, book unopened it's very existence will annoy, anger, even infuriate them. Okay my nod to reality. My suggestion, try reading it before you hate it.
Ann Coulter is without a doubt an "in your face" sort of debater. Her books and her speaking style leave us in no doubt as to what she thinks. The fact that her facts are generally always "actually facts" and that her arguments are in general logical and well supported (even if a bit aggressive or even abrasive) in no way takes away from the fact that many will dislike her and decide in advance that they disagree with anything she has to say.
To those who can read this with an open mind you will find here an interesting book with arguments based on well founded material. The look here in this book of/at group think is insightful, informative...and a bit "in your face", often with cause. It is logical and interestingly supported by much of the reaction to the book... IE, if you can't argue an idea down logically try to stop the argument or shut the other side up. If you can't attack the facts or that argument itself try to discredit background thinking.. etc.
The book's look at group think vs. thought is (are you ready)..."thought provoking" and I like it. Try to allow those thoughts to percolate, who knows what might happen. :)
I got this one from the library, it's now on my "to buy" list...in my cart at Amazon, waiting till I can afford it. :) (less)
Finished this a couple of days ago... This one came close to getting a 4 star rating from me. It's definitely not quite as good (my opinion throughout...moreFinished this a couple of days ago... This one came close to getting a 4 star rating from me. It's definitely not quite as good (my opinion throughout of course) as The Deed of Paksenarrion and possibly slipped a little from the book that preceded it, Oath of Fealty. Still it falls in the 4.5 range so, I wanted to rate it above 4 stars... in the end, 5 stars, by the skin of it's teeth.
The story moves along and continues the interest level I found in the book it follows. There is a bit of a drag in the story at a couple of points. We get some more details from the king's (duke's) past and how it all ties in. The details we picked up along the way in the Paks world saga continue to fit neatly into place and the story has a good balance of action, plot and characterization.
For those wished for it, we finally pickup a bit of romance here and I admit that it wasn't something I was enthralled by, still it's been coming and is an integral part of the story. Here we are also filling in more of the story we started back in the Paksenarrion trilogy and finding out more about "the Lady".
So, while I may not think this volume as good as the preceding trilogy or lead in volume, I still like it greatly and rate it 5 stars. All these books (The Deed of Paksenarrion, Oath of Fealty and this one, Kings of the North) are highly recommended. (less)
Okay, I started this today and finished it today, and will probably reread it. This has happened with many of Lewis' books. I've read The Four Loves s...moreOkay, I started this today and finished it today, and will probably reread it. This has happened with many of Lewis' books. I've read The Four Loves several times and am getting ready to reread Miracles. There often seems to be a lot that I don't get first time through.
This is a wonderful book with some less than wonderful parts. By that I mean discourses on difficult or unpleasant events and/or topics. I won't try to go over this volume in any kind of detail. I suspect it will "strike" different readers in different ways. The book communicated to me on several levels. From surprise at the details about certain things in the British Public School system (circa early 1900s) and thankfulness that America was spared those parts to a realization that most people in the last 60 years (+or-) could be argued to have received almost no education. The book is valuable simply on the level of a biography and personal account history. (My generation, for example, was the first where Latin and what was then called "foreign languages" became "elective" classes instead of simply being required. In my generation basic math, reading, grammar skills, along with at least rudimentary knowledge of history, and social studies was "required" to pass from grade to grade and then graduate.)
Aside from this however and on deeper levels the book deals with Lewis' rejection of all things spiritual, mystical, metaphysical or religious and decision to become an atheist. It then leads us through his life and reasoning from there to theism and then to Christianity.
I could say a lot more about this book but I can't in this limited space give an account that would come close to doing it justice.
When I first came across harry Dresden I ordered the available omnibus editions from Science Fiction Book Club. I still have these on my shelf. If you...moreWhen I first came across harry Dresden I ordered the available omnibus editions from Science Fiction Book Club. I still have these on my shelf. If you've read my reviews of the individual books (or by now the other omnibus editions) you know that I'm a fan of the Dresden books. The books in this volume are no exceptions. This book has Proven Guilty and White Night.
In Proven Guilty the world again seemingly lands on the boney shoulders of our hero. Harry's old mentor has a favor to ask and as usual, things are never what they seem and only barely survivable. Any more would be a spoiler, because you'll enjoy finding it all out for yourself...but then what more needs to be said.
Another outing where Harry's investigative skills come to the fore in White Night. As someone runs about killing "lower power" members of the magical community things from Harry's past, present and even future come together in this one. These are (in my opinion) exceptional books. (less)
I mentioned that these (the first 4 omnibus editions from Science Fiction Book Club) are the way I first read the Dresden books that were out when I d...moreI mentioned that these (the first 4 omnibus editions from Science Fiction Book Club) are the way I first read the Dresden books that were out when I discovered Jim Butcher's Professional Wizard for hire. I was hooked on the books right away. This volume is the third omnibus edition and has books #6 and 7 (Blood Rites and Dead Beat) in it.
Blood Rites is a sort of "interlude" in the flow of events with us moving back into Harry's investigator gig. Of course the job he's involved in (seeking out who's throwing nasty curses around on the set of a porn movie) bleeds over into far more than it was supposed to be drawing Harry deeper into things involving the vampires and of course events that transpire here are important to things that will transpire later... Good book.
The second book in this volume is Dead Beat. Here Harry crosses metaphysical swords with powerful and very nasty necromancers and the zombie action is like none you've seen before. The Dresden Files as these books are called are some of my all time and overall favorite books and I think if I were asked to pick a favorite book from the series (as hard as that would be to do) Dead Beat would be in the running. Maybe my favorite Dresden book.
As I mentioned, this is how I read the Dresden books...the first time. I've read them many times since and these remain on my shelf. I bought the (fir...moreAs I mentioned, this is how I read the Dresden books...the first time. I've read them many times since and these remain on my shelf. I bought the (first) four omnibus editions from Science Fiction Book Club and read them back to back. If you have (as mentioned in my review of the first omnibus edition) read my individual reviews, you know I really like these books.
This volume contains Summer Knight and Death Masks. The books are getting longer a bit and we have only 2 in this omnibus.
In Summer Knight again we're getting more early information atop more details about the situations and characters we have already been introduced to. There's little I can say without it being "spoilerish" at least for earlier volumes. Vampires and Fairies can make life exciting and interesting. Ask harry.
In Death Masks we get to meet one the most interesting characters in the series (my opinion throughout of course LOL). Actually we meet 2 but for me there is one I find a fascinating idea and the way it gets developed leads is also good. Things are starting to move here that "may have" come to a climax in the last book. (Mysterious enough...no spoilers? Good.) Harry faces more trouble here, as always. A major Vamp nasty challenges Harry to a duel and of course since it seems that the White Council might be willing to simply throw Harry to the Vamps in exchange for a peace treaty anyway...
Well anymore and we're in spoiler territory...again. (less)
This was the way I read the first books of the Dresden series. I purchased the first 4 omnibus editions (put out by the Science Fiction Book Club) and...moreThis was the way I read the first books of the Dresden series. I purchased the first 4 omnibus editions (put out by the Science Fiction Book Club) and read them back to back. While many find flaws in these books I find the writing, the character of Harry Dresden and "just simply" the enjoyment factor more than enough to push these over to a 5 star rating. These books are unique. Among fantasy and urban fantasy I think they stand alone.
Yes, there are folks who disagree and prefer other writers. That's "cool". We all have different tastes but for you who think you might share my opinion don't miss these.
This volume is made up of, Storm Front, Fool Moon, and Grave Peril. If you've read my individual reviews of these books you know I like them all.
Storm Front intros us to Harry Dresden the only commercially practicing wizard to be found in the phone book anywhere (at the time of the first book. if, like me you've read the series you know that now there is at least one other...but they don't live anywhere near Harry). This book left one of my friends here at good reads a bit frustrated in it's treatment of Harry's relations with another character. It can be, but it does work out later... This book was so good that I was sold on the character and the series right away. Of course I couldn't know here, but in my opinion as the series proceeds it actually improves.
The second book in this volume is Fool Moon. IF, repeat IF there is a weakest book in the series I find it to be this one. I still enjoyed it greatly, I still decided to go with a 5 star rating. So it's like steak or beer...or "the other example" usually given which I shall side step...even when it's not the best it's good. It only gets that said about it as it's part of a series of books that I find amazing as a whole.
In Grave Peril things actually take a very serious turn. We see a different side of harry and he faces more danger (believe it or not) and significantly more loss than before. This book sets up much of the plot that we will follow throughout the rest of the series (much of, but not nearly all).
The first omnibus edition containing the first 3 of what I think is THE BEST urban fantasy out there. (less)
Let me say first that there are those who will not enjoy this book and I understand that. The description of the content will explain this. But I trul...moreLet me say first that there are those who will not enjoy this book and I understand that. The description of the content will explain this. But I truly like this book.
The book Betrayed tells from Stan Telchin's point of view the story of a father and a family caught in a dilemma that has been faced by families, couples and individuals for 2000 years. Stan Telchin is Jewish. He doesn't think a lot about that, he's not a fanatic. He's not overly religious. Then his daughter whom he loves calls home from school. She's become a Christian.
Stan is devastated. His first gut reaction is "we're Jewish, we can't be Christian!" But, out of love for his daughter and his family he doesn't cause a rift by simply trying to "set his foot down". He sets out to prove she's wrong and that a Jewish person can't, can not also be a Christian. The book follows his study and the events that befell him, his daughter, and his family.
Many of you may have read other reviews by me. If you have, then you may already know that I'm a Christian and from that and the fact that I find the book encouraging, you may intuit how his research went. The book follows a family who each, individually on their own, became Christians. They came to understand that being a Christian does not mean you stop being Jewish. In contact with other Christians and in contact with Messianic Jewish Christians Stan and his family come to an understanding of Christ as the Messiah, the Jewish Messiah they come to understand the opening up of His Messiahship to Gentiles. (the rest of human kind) (once Stan began to accept that Jesus [Joshua in "Hebrew"] may indeed be the promised Messiah his first reaction to the opening of the Gospel [Good News] to the Gentiles was "but He's our Messiah".)Through this he/they come to peace with this knowledge of Jesus.
If you are Jewish please don't be offended that I find this book encouraging, I am not trying to convince you of anything. Whether or not you read it is of course up to you.
For you who are Christians, I think you will really enjoy this book and possibly find it deeply moving. (less)
In 1967 I was 15 years old and I fell in love with Julie Andrews. However, due to the facts that there was an almost 17 year age difference and Ms. An...moreIn 1967 I was 15 years old and I fell in love with Julie Andrews. However, due to the facts that there was an almost 17 year age difference and Ms. Andrews was unaware of the situation my love remained unrequited. Eventually I did recover from my broken heart and had to admit to myself that I was quite likely not the first 15 year old to fall in love with someone from (what was then called) the "Silver Screen" (though to be honest in the years since I suspect it has become more common for 15 year olds to be "overcome by lust" than to fall in love...just a flash thought).
Time has past and I no longer feel my heart palpitate (much) when I see or hear Ms. Andrews perform, but I have remained a fan of most of her work. I got the audio of this book mainly because it's read by the author herself and I thought the experience of hearing reminisce about her life not only in her own words but in her her own voice would be a rewarding experience.
I found it so.
I would say that anyone who would like to read (or hear) about the era in question (Ms. Andrews Edwards was born in Oct. 1935 and begins her story when she was very young) as well as those of us who are simply fans of the author might find this a rewarding book.
The book begins (as noted above) in the writer's youth and carries us through her young adulthood. It ends around 1963 just as she is beginning to work on Mary Poppins having already (just) been on Broadway in 3 hits, one monster hit, My Fair Lady and a second also huge hit Camelot (her first foray on Broadway was The Boy Friend, it was also her American stage debut, and a hit in it's own right). While I have always chaffed at the fact that she wasn't asked to play Eliza in the movie version of My Fair Lady, Ms. Andrews Edwards herself here is never anything but gracious about this...or for that matter anything. Giving us a clear portrait of her life both pleasant and unpleasant parts she reminds us (without really trying) that it is possible to be civil and of a generous spirit without being false. I find the conclusion inescapable that society in general has become meaner and more petty.
Ms. Edwards relates so much of her own life and her inner thoughts here that those who are her fans will probably enjoy the book simply for that. She met so many people who are now (and actually were then in some cases) legends, Moss Hart, Alan Jay Lerner, Frederick Loewe, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein, Walt Disney and that's only a few. She also met and became fast friends with Carol Burnett, the two of them performing together over the years the relationship based in that friendship.
So, interested in the person or the period, you might like this one.
I enjoyed this book and give it a correspondingly high rating. One of the abiding disappointments in my life is that I never got to see Ms. Andrews as Guinevere in Camelot. I have always had trouble sympathizing with the character and the way Vanessa Redgrave played her in the movie only made it harder. I know that in the stage play the character's struggle is more apparent. But, as is the case with so many (read most)of the great stage plays of the past...it's gone, no record remains. Thus the insight here to this period of time, that play and all the others is wonderful and I'm glad it's here that the story not be lost. I truly hope Ms. Andrews Edwards decides to go on with her memoir and look forward to it if she chooses to do so. (less)
Again, as in the first book of this trilogy, I've read the text version and this year (2010) received them in audio CD from my daughter for Christmas....moreAgain, as in the first book of this trilogy, I've read the text version and this year (2010) received them in audio CD from my daughter for Christmas. Sometimes a book that is good or exceptional in print form turns out not to be so in audio.
But this one is still great. While Jennifer Van Dyck may not be the best or narrators she's still good and manages to transfer the feeling of the book, the characters, the writer to you.
I am rating the book 5 stars, but must admit to being a little annoyed after a while to the way she reads the elves... If you hear you may see what I mean. Not a deal breaker or anything, but I wish she'd gone another direction. And...at one point two characters switched voices, but that was more of a laugh than anything else.
On the whole this is still a moving book a story of the forming of Paksenarrion's character and growth. A book let me say, when you read or listen to it, have the next, Oath of Gold on hand and ready. Still 5 stars. This trilogy as a whole as a single book makes up one of my all time favorite books. I'd rate it in my top 5 novels of all time.(less)
I have read and reviewed the text version of this book. My daughter got me this (and the next 2 parts of the trilogy) for Christmas this year (2010)....moreI have read and reviewed the text version of this book. My daughter got me this (and the next 2 parts of the trilogy) for Christmas this year (2010).
I want to review this in that a wonderful book can be read by a "not so wonderful reader" and be then in audio form...not so wonderful. That isn't the case here. While not the best reader I've ever heard in an audio book Jennifer Van Dyck does a fine job on the book and only in a couple of places does she miss a cue or fail to carry over the emotion that I believe Ms. Moon wanted.
Let me say again that I love these books and can't recommend them highly enough. I "read" these books years ago, have read them several times, and will in all probability reread and now re-listen to them again and again.
This is one of those series (I think of them as a single book) where when I run on someone who doesn't like them or doesn't get them I am as the saying goes... flummoxed.
I find these full of life lessons as well as one of the best most involving stories I've ever read. The audio works for me also and I (a rough, tough, macho, conservative male) find myself in tears at times during the story. Again as in the text version, 5+ stars.
I have recently reread these and am almost impelled to come here, update this to say, don't miss this one. These are at the top of my favorites list. About very few books do I say, I love love this book, but in this case I do. Again, my highest recommendation. (less)
Okay...so I'm a Dresden junkie. I got the book yesterday and finished it (this time LOL) at 1:30 this morning.
The book picks up pretty much as the las...moreOkay...so I'm a Dresden junkie. I got the book yesterday and finished it (this time LOL) at 1:30 this morning.
The book picks up pretty much as the last book ends and.....****************** NOTE: THIS REVIEW WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS FOR THE LAST BOOK, CHANGES. I WILL BE ASSUMING THAT IF YOU ARE READING GHOST STORY YOU HAVE READ CHANGES...........
Okay, as I was saying, the book picks up pretty much as the last book (Changes) ends, though time doesn't run in death as it does here.
Don't ask me, I don't know why.
Harry having died is probably a little relieved that he might get to lay back and "rest in peace" (though his ultimate after-life disposition does concern him a bit). He's still a little preoccupied about leading everyone who cares/cared about him on what seemed pretty much a suicide mission...oh and murdering his child's mother. But hey everyone has a bad day now and then right?
Unfortunately upon arriving at "Between" (that's apparently "between life and death" though Harry never really gets a straight answer to that either.), Harry finds that he's not moving on to anything as simple and restful as hell, no there were..."irregularities" about his death.
So what else is new for Harry? Should he (or for that matter we) have been surprised or expected anything else?
Anyone who's read many of my posts knows that I am a Jim Butcher fan. And while there could be said to be some "issues" with the books it says something that none of them are "deal-breakers" for me. (For example, don't get your theology from novels...) I have read all these books (and most of the Codex Alera books, a few of those still to go). I snap up the Dresden books as soon as I can, and I recommend them. There will always be a matter of taste with any book or series of books. I enjoy Mr. Butcher's turn of phrase, I enjoy his sense of humor and I enjoy his story telling. This book has all those things and moves our main character into a situation (or set of situations) that is (are) not typical of what we've seen before.
What's good and what's not so good here? Well, on the "not so good" side there may be a bit of a feeling that things are moving a bit slowly. By that I don't mean there's a lack of action, anything but. I mean that for those of us who see the Story moving or trying to move forward there may be times that it starts to feel that we're sort of taking a couple of steps back before we move forward. (And I'm not really talking about the flashback sequences there.)Personally I thought Harry himself moved forward a bit slowly here. There were for me a few times I felt a little like I was circling, but be aware, it didn't really gripe me. The story flowed and the gaps were/are getting filled in. There is obviously a saga building. As one character says (I won't say who as that might be spoilerish) "it's one of those "it's about the journey not the destination" things".
You are going to find out a bit more about Harry's background here, get a look at a couple of things we've only seen mentioned in passing before and also begin considering things from a totally different perspective.
So...good book. Highly recommended, as a matter of fact, my highest "brain candy" recommendation.I'll list it among my favorites along with the rest of the series. I'm now awaiting the announcement of the release date for Cold Days. Pathetic huh? LOL
(view spoiler)[I had "indulged" in much discussion as to who was behind Harry's murder. A friend here on Goodreads had suggested that Harry himself might have been behind it. I had dismissed this because Harry had given the "big promise" to Mab that he wouldn't suicide. The idea that he would ask Molly to "mess in his head" thus breaking the laws of magic (and worse asking Molly to break the laws of magic) also further damaging Molly was something I didn't think Harry would do... I was of course, wrong.
I assume this is/was all part of the Harry has gone too far; Harry has crossed a line point. Uriel opens a lot up for Harry when he lets Harry look at what he (Harry)said and did. When Harry said he'd let the world burn to save Maggie he was (in effect) saying he'd let Molly burn (and of course by extension Thomas, Butters, Mouse and Mister...and Murphy burn). Not to mention he had to realize that he was saying to save his daughter he would kill or allow to die a lot of other father's daughters.
A lot still coming...how will he interact with Mab, what happened with Bob... Who or what is the parasite... who whispered in his ear... ?
Hope I live to see the series complete. Come on Jim, I'm closing on 60. LOL (hide spoiler)](less)
Note: On advice from Sandi, thank you Sandi, I make note here that if you haven't read Changes you should read it before you read (at least the final...moreNote: On advice from Sandi, thank you Sandi, I make note here that if you haven't read Changes you should read it before you read (at least the final story in) this book as it will give away the end of said novel. Also it has been advised that I warn you not to read the synopsis of the next Dresden book, due to be released this April.
Thanks again Sandi for the heads up.
This may have been the closest to a 4 star rating I've come for a Butcher Dresden effort. This is a collection of short stories/novelettes that have (except for one) appeared else where. I didn't get into the story that featured Thomas much...just me. I'm probably just a Dresden addict. Because of that I briefly considered a 4 but then I went on and I believe the story Day Off decided me on the 5 star rating. I laughed out loud in an empty room...alone but for a cat I laughed so hard it was, well, laughable :).
I must admit to one fault here... I opened the book to the back first and read Aftermath, which takes place just after the end of Changes. I'm holding on not wanting to "wish my life away" as my mother would have said (especially at my age) but dying for Ghost Story to be released.
So, great book some action, some laughs, some details about Harry you might not have picked up if you've only read the novels. We get a little insight into Mac, see a little more about Murphy and Harry and...all in all get a good read. I'm going 5 stars and recommending this one also.(less)
This is a good book as evidenced by the four star rating...but it's not quite as good as the first in the series.
So, you ask, "why have you rated it...moreThis is a good book as evidenced by the four star rating...but it's not quite as good as the first in the series.
So, you ask, "why have you rated it the same as the first book in the series?" (since I wrote this...I went back and changed Monster Hunter International's rating to 5. Seemed the thing to do) "Well", I reply, "we are again the victim of the 5 star system. Not having half stars or a 10 star system I'm forced to compromise. The first book in the series I enjoyed greatly...but I didn't feel it was quite up to five star standards.(obviously I changed my mind on that) This book, I liked, not so well as the first, but while it's not as good (in my opinion of course) as Monster Hunter International it's still better than a 3 star read (by far). Thus another compromise. Unfortunately both compromises leave me with 4 stars (well, not anymore...I was conflicted about this). So the first is at the top edge of the 4 star continuum (now 5)while this one is center."
***(Actually since I wrote this in 2010 I've gone back and upped the rating of Monster Hunter International to 5 stars...so not that applicable anymore I suppose.)***
Clear as mud? Good. Now, let's move on.
This is grade A, hand pulled, double chocolate dipped brain candy. It's literary junk food of the first order. This is to literature what a Burger King Whopper is to cuisine. Enjoy it. Don't come here for deep meanings or literary subtlety. This book is a fast moving, action packed, violent adventure.
Why do I say it's not quite as good (at least in my view) as the first? The book has some humor in it as the first did, but this one treads a little closer to the absurd and it moves a little too close for my taste. Still it resumes the action and I enjoyed it for what it is... fun and adventure.
These books have I suppose, a couple of niche audiences. First Urban Fantasy fanciers. This one takes up it's place in the pantheon of modern day fantasies beside Jim Butcher's Dresden Files, Rob Thurman's Leandros Series, Simon Green's Secret Histories and others. It will also appeal to enthusiasts of Action reads. Action adventure, thrillers and so on you get a double barrel, shoulder mounted, belt-fed, dose of it all here. Also gun enthusiasts, shooters and so on will like the detail and accuracy in that area. The writer being a shooter himself, he makes sure to get it right. But, maybe if you just like a good story, you'll enjoy these books to.
So yes, I enjoyed the book, I recommend the book, I already have the next in the series. So, four (4) stars for some great literary junk food, enjoy. (less)
I would like to say a lot about this book, but some of it would undoubtedly contain spoilers. I had to consider carefully before rating it, it comes v...moreI would like to say a lot about this book, but some of it would undoubtedly contain spoilers. I had to consider carefully before rating it, it comes very close (for me) to a 5 star rating. As has been said before, were there half stars I'd go 4.5 easily here.
First, this isn't the typical type book that I usually read or that usually appeals to me. We follow Ian through most of his life, his lack of wisdom, the decisions he makes, their consequences... I picked this book up because I saw (and liked) a made for TV movie based on it. I'd say this is one of of those rare cases where the movie is about as good as the book. There are things in the book that aren't in the movie, but there is at least one scene in the movie, that I prefer to the way it was handled in the book.
Second, don't go to this book for your theology. I could argue with a lot of what's said...but in a way that's part of the point. The thing that bothered me most was the transposition in the church Ian joins of the good works from being a result of a relation to God to some sort of "atoning sacrifice" where forgiveness seems conditional. All sins are forgiven and the changes that come are a result of the change wrought by Jesus. But, The teaching set forth in the novel isn't an unusual teaching and I'm sure some reading the book will agree with it. So, just as certain "other Christians" in the book take issues with smaller questions, some this will bother others it won't. I feel it's an extremely important question, but it didn't ruin the novel for me. So as I said...this isn't a book on theology. It's a book about people and Christians are people, they're human and as flawed as other people. Enjoy the book for what it is.
Okay, finally (I could add more, but as I said the more detailed the closer I get to a spoiler), I would describe this book with an old fashioned word that you don't hear that often any more. The book is "heartwarming". It's readable, enjoyable, memorable, and one of my favorites. I've read it a couple of times and I'd recommend it, and the movie to for that matter.
I just decided to get the "Audible edition" of this one.(less)
Okay....I was going to go 4 stars on this, because it's not as good or absorbing as the Paksenarrion Trilogy. On the other hand, it's better than many...moreOkay....I was going to go 4 stars on this, because it's not as good or absorbing as the Paksenarrion Trilogy. On the other hand, it's better than many books I've given 4 stars, limited options here. Again with half star wish. Oh well. I'll compromise. For now I won't put it among my favorites. But it is an excellent read.
The book is billed as being in the Paksenarrion universe, and it is. Paks herself is in the background of the story showing up as a sort of bit player. Or, possibly more than that, but without playing a large part, at least here.
In this volume we pick up almost at the moment of the closing of Oath of Gold and go on with the stories of the Duke (Kieri Phelan)aka King, Dorrin, and others. I read one reviewer who said that this would be a good place to start if you hadn't read the trilogy as it starts coherently. This is true, but if you haven't read the trilogy don't miss it. As good as this volume is (and it's excellent) the trilogy that sets it up (The Deed of Paksenarrion) is superb and even better.
I was prepared when I started here to be disappointed as I've not been enthralled by Moon's space operas and as anyone who's read my reviews and comments knows, I loved the Paks books. The idea that I wasn't continuing the story of Paks herself was a bit of a "put off" for me. I'm glad to say that I was wrong. While I don't like this (these as I'm halfway through Kings of the North) nearly as well as the trilogy, I do find them well done and satisfying.
Do they have a drawback? I'd say that the plot construction is a bit weak, as it's so decentralized. However that may be taken care of when all three of these books are published. The first book ends more or less at a sort of "pause" in the action and the next book ( Kings of the North as mentioned above) picks up as this book is ending.
Literally. This book ends and Kings of the North opens on that scene.
So, while in my opinion not quite as good as the Paks trilogy still an excellent read. Speaking for myself, I enjoyed it immensely.
Update: Originally reviewed Mat 2012.
Just a note...I now know this isn't a trilogy as I finished the third book and it ends in a cliff hanger type ending...sigh. Well, I'll have to call it a series, not a trilogy I guess. They're still good though. (less)
Okay, full disclosure I love the Dresden books. If you have read my reviews of them you know this. This one is no exception and is possibly the best s...moreOkay, full disclosure I love the Dresden books. If you have read my reviews of them you know this. This one is no exception and is possibly the best so far.
I can't say much about the book's storyline without spoilers, but there are parts of the story...threads if you will, that have been running through the other volumes more or less underneath other "Main story lines". (These books can really make you rethink the concept of a "fairy godmother" for instance) A lot of these come to culmination here. Other things....don't. The book is well written and structured, the character which (many of us have followed since his first novel if not his first appearance) has grown along lines that the story laid out. The stories/story and Harry have been true to themselves.
The ending here is of a type that Butcher hasn't used in the Dresden novels before...I can't say more other than it's a sort of "non-resolution" ending. (Can anyone say "cliffhanger"?)
This book is one of those that people like to call a "page turner" or possibly a "thrill ride". Start it when you can afford to sit up late and finish it...I finished it at 3:00AM this morning.
Now I just have to get by till Ghost Story is published. (less)
**************Rereading for a study and discussion**********************
"When I say "I believe" or "I have faith" I must correct myself and add' not I...more**************Rereading for a study and discussion**********************
"When I say "I believe" or "I have faith" I must correct myself and add' not I but Christ in me.'"
To try and review this book in a few paragraphs would be like showing you the world in a couple of photos. The mediation of Christ is what this short volume is about, but that can't possibly express the depth or volume of information, instruction, and inspiration within. That God's work is a whole, and that we in our sin and depravity have attempted to break it up, to divide it and in so doing have attacked God again and attempted in some ways (unknowingly) to crucify Christ to ourselves again..
Too theological? Sorry. I recommend this book. The split in the Church (including the schism between east and west, Christian and Jew...yes I said Christian and Jew, Old and New Testament) and the actual mediation of Christ are a subject for study and meditation for all Christians.
I believe that I may have gotten a percent or two of what there is here to get and will need in the future to reread and study this book. it is short, but extremely dense (and by that I mean a lot packed into a small space).
I have moved Torrance to my list of favorite writers, theologiens and (somewhat) appoligists.
This is an old book (published 1920) that belonged to my father. When i was young I found it at my grand parents home. My grand mother read it to me,...moreThis is an old book (published 1920) that belonged to my father. When i was young I found it at my grand parents home. My grand mother read it to me, when I was too young to read and I read in it myself (stories) over and over.
It's a book of animals and their adventures (sometimes life and death adventures, it's an older book). I held on to it and hope it will still survive for many years even though it is starting to look...worn.
Anyway...I checked, you can find this book if you want it. They're used but maybe kids today would like them to. I hope so really. I loved these.(less)
This book is hard to track down but it is worth it if you can find it. A good war story (of WWII) that drew me in the first time I read it, almost 40...moreThis book is hard to track down but it is worth it if you can find it. A good war story (of WWII) that drew me in the first time I read it, almost 40 years ago. I still have a paper back copy of this novel that is more than 30 years old and"only just" holding together. This is one of those times when it's a great book and a great movie.(less)
The Lord of the Rings is the best of it's "type" and since it's the scale most other high and epic fantasy is measured against what more neesd to be s...moreThe Lord of the Rings is the best of it's "type" and since it's the scale most other high and epic fantasy is measured against what more neesd to be said?(less)
I love Elric and while he exemplifies melancholy and tragidy the story telling is always first rate. I reviewed these in the omnibus edition before, b...moreI love Elric and while he exemplifies melancholy and tragidy the story telling is always first rate. I reviewed these in the omnibus edition before, but read the paperback many years ago.(less)
This book contain's 3 novels Beat to Quarters, Ship of the Line, and Flying Colours.
The story picks up speed and staem...war, personal loss, personal...moreThis book contain's 3 novels Beat to Quarters, Ship of the Line, and Flying Colours.
The story picks up speed and staem...war, personal loss, personal gain, prisoner of war, escape, court martial, knighthood. Don't miss any of it.(less)
Mike (the Paladin)
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