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MICHAEL'S 50 BOOKS READ IN 2013
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Michael
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May 21, 2013 08:57PM
I will try not to:-)
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41.
by
Hugh HoweyFinish Date: 22nd May
Genre: Fiction
Rating: A+
Review
Very rarely does a sequel out shine the original but Shift achieves this and kicks it up a gear. Shift answers all the questions left from reading Wool and the answers make for a fantastic story. Hugh Howey lets us in on the why and the how humanity finds itself living underground, and why each silo believes they are the only ones. As the plot unravels it is teased out in such a way that you don't want to put down the book. Big brother is watching and the truth is as shocking as the lies he tells.
42.
Jacqueline DrugaFinish Date:24th May
Genre: Fiction
Rating: B+
Review:
This is the second book by this author I have read and like the first I was not disappointed. Jacqueline Druga is a master when it comes to nasty viruses bringing humanity to the edge of extinction. Silent Victor sees a killer virus released that nearly wipes out mankind in a matter of a week. The plot is well thought out and executed and I for one enjoyed the journey it took me on. The virus component of this book is well thought out and it is evident the author has done her homework. The characters and their relationships with each other were engaging and believable. I love books like this as they scare the crap out of me more than any horror book. The chilling fact is that at any time a mutated virus could wreak havoc upon the human population, it has happened before and it is bound to happen again. I for one will be back for the next instalment of this series. This author is certainly becoming one of my favourites
43.
byMark TufoFinish Date: 28h May
Genre: Zombies
Rating: A
Review:
Mark Tufo has continued were he left off and he does not give the reader much time to buckle up before for the ride starts. Our hero Michael Talbot and his unique Talbotism's are back, and as before had me rolling on the floor and gasping for breath because I was laughing so hard. Once again I must give a warning not to read this book on public transport because your raucous laughter will result on dirty from fellow passengers.
Well that is enough of my Talbot worshipping. What about the story I hear you ask, the plot, the subtle and underlying social message contained within the pages. Firstly if you are looking for the second part of that last sentence then you are going to be looking for a long time. What Mark Tufo delivers is a fast paced story in which action, gore and fantastic one liners abound. There is even a tad of the supernatural thrown in...oh and plenty of zombies. You have got your run of the mill zombies, little kiddy zombies, smart zombies, speedy zombies. You have also have one mightily annoyed supernatural female that is hell bent on wiping Talbot and his companions off the map. Talbot and his companion are hunted were ever they go always running from their zombie groupies.
Michael.......I really enjoy your reviews.....they are informative and humorous.
JUNE44.
byLoren NancarrowFinish Date: 2nd June
Genre: Non Fiction
Rating: C+
Review:
Why read a book on worms I hear you say. Because worms are amazing creatures and I wanted to learn how to become a worm farmer. I read this book because I was looking for information for a proposal I was putting together for Worm Farming as an industry in the prison where I work. Did I get the information I was after? Yes I did. After reading this book I had a clear idea for a business plan to harness the might of the worm. My understanding of all things wormy was greatly increased by this book. It is amazing the amount of refuse these little critters go through. Via the humble worm I should be able to cut down on the amount of landfill produced by my work environment by up to 70%. So impressed and excited was I about what worms can do I have set up my own little worm ranch at home.
So why only 3 stars? The last couple of chapters of the book was dedicated to poetry, songs and recipes all to do with worms. Why I get the author really digs worms I could have done without the worm love. Also as a non-American reader it would have been handy to have the measurements and ratios in metric as well as US imperial. This might sound pedantic but I had to spend a bit of time converting these into a form I could get my head around.
Mod
45.
by
Henry MartinFinish Date: 4th of June
Genre: Fiction
Rating: A-
Review
I was fortunate enough to get my hands on an advanced copy of this book, and boy I was pleased that I did. I started reading this book expecting the same explosive first chapter as the previous book in the series. But that was not to be, what I got instead was a seamless narrative which allowed me to very quickly get back into the story. Finding Eivssa manages to be a completely different type of book than the first while managing to keep the narrative flowing. I found it very hard to fit this book into a genre and that for me is a good thing. What I got was a refreshing read that was driven along by realistic characters and realistic relationships.
I found myself just reading another couple of pages to find out what was going to happen next and this is a sure sign of a great read. The main character is someone that I want things to go well for, and my heart was in my mouth every time it looked like thing were going pear shaped. The truly amazing aspect to this book was the fact it had a romantic thread to it. Normally this would have me running to the hills screaming like a banshee but in this book it had the reverse effect. I found the relationship it revolved around compelling and it added an extra layer to the plot. I can't wait to see were the last book in this trilogy takes me. If it is like the first two it will be somewhere unexpected and refreshing.
46.
byEdward DolnickFinish Date: 6th June
Genre: History
Rating: B
Review:
This book looks at the birth of modern science and the men who thought it into the world. The book is set around the end of the Seventeenth century; we have a cast of characters that we are all familiar with including Isaac Newton, Galileo and many other members of the Royal Society. The author goes to great length to put us into the mindset of the people of the time. This makes the discoveries made by these men all the more outstanding. As they ideas and thoughts they put forward were as amazing as if someone today proved and demonstrated time travel.
The world of science at the time is shown warts and all, with some great dummy spits thrown in for laughs. The shear nastiness and narcissism of some of the worlds greatest ever minds is scary. So don your powder wigs and pull up your stockings and prepare to be entertained by the skull duggery and brilliance that bore witness to what today, we take as a given.
47.
byStephen FraterFinish Date: 12th June
Genre: WWII History
Rating: D+
Review:
From the title of this book I was expecting an exciting true story of a life and death struggle in the cockpit of a WWII bomber. What I got instead was a book that could not make up it's mind what it wanted to be. The actual story mentioned in the title was not that exciting and made up only a small portion of the book. The author meanders from biography to a very general history.It tries to cover a wide range of subjects and fails. It felt to me that the author got lost in side stories, only to remember what he is meant to be writing about. Why this book is interesting in parts it schizophrenic nature made it very difficult for me to get into the story. This book could have been a great read if only the author could have made up his mind what he wanted from it.
Mod
Having a new baby in the house is helping. Up all ours of the night helping to feed = more chance to read.
Mod
Audible and Kindle :) Just takes a little of mucking around to get set up right though.
48.
by
Mark LawrenceFinish Date: 19th June
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: A
Review:
Finally a book that lives up to the hype. A brutal book that make Game of Thrones look like a Dr Seuss book. Prince of thorns is a tale of revenge driven by pure hatred. But the book does not loose itself in this hatred. Instead what it delivers is a fast paced story that draws you in from the first chapter. The characters are well developed and despite their unsavoury side you find yourself willing them on. For me this is a smart and well plot driven novel that keeps you wondering what is on the next page. I will be searching out the next book in the trilogy and bumping it up my reading list.
49.
by
David P. ForsythFinish Date: 19th June
Genre: Zombie
Rating: B-
Review:
Why I enjoyed the second instalment of the Sovereign Spirit Saga, it did not enthral me like the first book. This book settles into more of a political style with a great deal of the book taken up with the consolidation of the survivors armada and the growth of the main character as a leader. The logistics of feeding the survivors and assisting others are etched out in detail. There is still some awesome zombie fed action but not as much as I would have liked. Taken all this into consideration though the next book is set up for some great action. As the survivors look to carve out safe zones in the mass of zombies.
50.
by
Barrett TillmanFinish Date: 24th June
Genre: WWII History
Rating: B
Review
Whirlwind delivers a thorough examination on the American bombing campaign on Japan during WWII. From the initial Doolittle raid to the dropping of the bomb that changed warfare forever, this book is an engaging read. When I finished reading this book I felt like I had a great understanding of the politics and the men who fought on both sides of this conflict. With saying that the main part of the book is centred around the Americans with just enough of the Japan side of the story told to balance it out.
51.
by
Simon WinchesterFinish Date: 24th June
Genre: History
Rating: A-
Review
Who would think that the story of the Oxford Dictionary would be so entertaining? After reading this book I was in awe of the amount of work and dedication that went into making of the dictionary. After 50 years and the help of countless volunteers they only missed 4 words. This story tells the story in two parts that of the main editor and that of one of the main contributors. Can you guess which one is the Professor and who is the Madman?
By telling the story in this manner the author gives a great overview of Victorian England. Without giving the story away I found the look into the mental health care system of England fascinating. Finally what would a book on the dictionary be without giving some great examples of English and its origins? For me the making of the Oxford Dictionary ranks up there with one of the greatest wonders of the modern world.
I also thought this book was outstanding, Michael. I can't even imagine attempting what the Professor and his contributors did......indeed one of the great wonders.
Michael wrote: "51.bySimon WinchesterFinish Date: 24th June
..."
I agree, this was a great read.
JULY52.
by
Paul Antony JonesFinish Date: 1st July
Genre: Fiction
Rating: B-
Review
I spent a lot of time pondering how many stars I was going to give this book. Why I loved the originality of the story and its main character there was something just not sitting with me. After thinking it over I realised that the book did not deliver in the fright department that other reviews allude to. This is one downside to reading reviews as they can colour your perception of the book.
Overall though I enjoyed this book and the tale it told. The end of civilisation and slow realisation of what the red rain brings. The main character is well developed and had me mentally shouting out to her "Just GO!!!!!" I look forward to the next book in the series. A quick reminder to those reading this review, 3 stars still equal a good read. As end of the world books go this one is definitely worth a read.
53.
byRichard JohnsonFinish Date: 2nd July
Genre: Zombies
Rating: B+
Review
What do you do when it's the end of the world and everyone around you is trying to eat you? Easy get drunk and throw stuff at the Zombies, from a safe distance that is. A group of middle aged blokes wake up after a drunken sham of a bucks party to the end of the world. This bunch of loosers finds themselves isolated with plenty of booze and fair bit of cat food to keep them going. As they slowly start to die off, picked off by Zombies, suicide and just plain bad luck. The survivors are given a glimmer of hope in the form of a rescue by the US army. There is just one problem between them and safety stands a crap load of Zombies....oh and the Peoples Republic Army of China who are invading the USA.
Why I enjoyed this book and its likeable bunch of deadbeats I found myself wanting to know more about the other two story arcs in the book. It is obvious that they are all going to come together at the end of the book but I feel that the book could have been so much better if these arcs were fleshed out more. Overall an above average read in the saturated genre that is Zombie Apocalypse.
54.
by
Nicholas Sansbury SmithFinish Date: 2nd Ju;y
Genre: Sci-Fi
Rating: A
Review
This novella is a great little saunter back into the world of the Biomass revolution. The author manages to pack a great story into this little book. The characters and plot are well set out and quickly draw you in and that is the key to a great novella. I look forward to reading more from this author and I think that big things lay on his horizons.
55.
by
Max BrooksFinish Date: 4th July
Genre: Zombie
Rating: D
Review
Closure Limited was a bit hit and miss for me. Being a huge fan of World War Z I was expecting more of the same from this book. What I got was a mixed a bag, out of the four stories only one was a real stand out for me. The other three did not seem complete and left me with far more questions than answers. Overall the book gave me the impression of being in to just for the money.
My favourite read of 2013 so far!!!!!!!!!56.
by
Laurence ReesFinish Date: 11th July
Genre: World War II history
Rating: A++++++++++++++
Review
Laurence Rees deliver yet another fascinating book on World War II. He looks at Adolf Hitler and how he cast his spell over Germany. He delves into his own personal collection of unpublished interviews to ask the question what it was that made people follow him. The author takes great care to try and put us in the mindset of the average German during Hitler’s rule. As well as looking at the methods and tools used by Hitler and his staff to build him up as the saviour of Germany. We hear from those that were under his spell and also from those that did not rate him as a leader.
It is a fascinating look into the mind and machine of the Nazi machine. Even though I have read numerous books on Hitler I found this a refreshing look from a different perspective. From his rise to power to his death by his own hand, Rees delivers a masterful work that left me completely satisfied and answered many questions. This book is a chilling and compelling read and a reminder to never let history repeat.
To the top of my TBR list, Michael. A great review.
I am glad you liked it Bryan it is refreshing reading a Zombie book not set in the USA
57.
by
John Ajvide LindqvistFinish Date: 23rd July
Genre: Horror
Rating: B-
Review:
I read this book with great expectations after reading numerous reviews about it and I am sad to say it did not deliver what was promised. Why I found the story quite entertaining and engaging I found it in no way a disturbing or scary read. It has been a long time since I have read a Vampire book and this was one was refreshing take on the genre.
As for the horror side of the book I may have become desensitised over the years but this book did not deliver any spine chilling moments. I did not find myself having to read over parts in my shock to make sure I had read it correctly. These elements that make a good horror story for me were absent in this book.
58.
byHenry Martin
Finish Date: 8th July (missed putting it up)
Genre: Indie Fiction
Rating: B+
Review
Eluding Reality wraps up the Mad Days of Me Trilogy and like the other two books this one delivers a different style of story. This book mainly deals with the main character Rudy's issues in dealing with what he has gone through in the other two books. He feels lost and disassociated from his surroundings and begins to question his own sanity. Old friends are visited, tough decisions are made and demons are faced. The book concludes like the trilogy started with a sucker punch of a chapter. I was in two minds about the ending but I found myself thinking more and more about it. After pondering it's meaning over a couple of days it dawned on me that this was a great book. I mean it's not often I find myself pondering the end, days after I have finished a book. With this in mind the ending will not sit well with some readers. The ability for this author to make you care for the main character Rudy in these book and to see life through his eyes is where the gold lies in this series. There is no way in the world I would want Rudy as friend but I was compelled to keep reading as I cared what happened to him
59.
by
Peter V. BrettFinish Date: 29th July
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: B+
Review
This book had me enthralled from the start. The author creates a fantastic world in the mind of the reader. It is one where demons rule the night and mankind cower behind symbols in the hope of safety. From this world of fear comes one man whose thirst for knowledge could mean an end to the fear. Would you turn and face your fear or would you run.
The author weaves three tales into a masterful story that leaves you wanting more. I for one will be coming back for a second helping.
August
byMark StevensFinish Date: 2nd August
Genre: History
Rating: B
Review
Broadmoor revealed is a fantastic journey in to the world of Lunatics Victorian style. The author has sifted through the records of the Broadmoor Asylum to bring us the story of some of its earliest residents. He also walks through the early history and development of the institution.
Broadmoor became the home to those held at her Majesties pleasure, those found not guilty of heinous crimes due to insanity. Also it was home to your more straight lace mad criminals.
It is a great snapshot of an era and speaks great volumes of the social and political values of the time. I thank the author for bringing the cast of colourful inmates and staff back from the mist of time.
61
by
David P. ForsythFinish Date: 14th August
Genre: Zombie Fiction
Ratinig: B
Review
Deluge the Dead returns to the form shown ion the first book of the series. Gone is all the nitty gritty details of the organisation of the flotilla that seemed to dominate book two. What we have here is the return of some good ole fashion Zombie bashing fun. I could literally see the pink mist as zombie after zombie lost their heads. Chuck in a bunch of surf Nazis who dream to pirates and what you have is a shining example of great Zombie yarn. The author uses the surf Nazis to show the dark side of humanity. It is all well and good of being afraid of the undead but I would not take my eye off that young gentleman with a Mohawk if I was you. Well done Mr Forsyth I look forward to the next instalment in the Sovereign Spirit saga.
62.
by
Neil GaimanFinish Date: 15th August
Genre: Fiction
Rating: A+++++
Review
Finally a book that has lived up to the hype surrounding it. American Gods deliver on many levels from the shear originality and entertainment of narrative to the critique of the American psyche and it’s addiction to all things new.
A story of gods old and new and of an ex-con who travels through America with his new mysterious employee that takes him backstage to a battle as old as man. The author delivers a narrative that twists and turns itself into a story that will stay with you long after the book is back on the shelf. The characters are vibrant and mesmerizing and although many are gods they are painfully real.
This book had so many OMG moments that I times I was dizzy with the lack of oxygen and I had to remind myself to breath. From the opening chapter to the closing sentence American Gods had me captivated
63.
byMark TufoFinsih Date: 21st August
Genre: Zombies
Rating: A HUGE A++++++
Review
This book is so twisted and wrong that is so so so right. Mark Tufo reigns supreme yet again delivering another spectacular book in his unique style. Tim the clown is back with his side kick Hugh the zombie, and what's this they have a fat geek called Clarence coming along for the ride as well. The only problem is they all occupy the same body, or should I say their consciousness do. As you can imagine there is not much room in their and Tim and Hugh do not play well with others.
Tim makes the clown from IT look like a Granny in a knitting circle. He is more than happy to help Hugh find food, that is people, and eat them. Tim is one of the most deranged and psychotic characters ever to be put on paper. What do I like so much about Tim? Tim is so politically incorrect that it is hilarious, he is so sick and demented that you cannot help but love him. This book is not for the squeamish but if you can get pass the gore you will be rewarded by one the most awesome characters ever. That's right trend setters I said awesome and I make no apologies for it. Mr. Tufo I take my hat off to yet again.
64.
by
Z.A. RechtFinish Date: 28th August
Genre: Fiction
Rating: B-
Review
I really enjoyed this book but I would not label it a Zombie novel. Why there is a fair share of dead people coming back alive, the book concentrates more on the virus causing it.
What was clear to me is that the author has a firm grasp on virology and this lends to the realistic hue to plot, this for me added to the horror of the tale. The story starts with the spread of the virus throughout the world and the devastation it brings.
From this the story evolves into two distinct narratives, one being that of a military group and refugees trying to stay one step ahead. The other group includes a Morning Star expert, journalist and a rogue NSA agent. Their tales run parallel to each other intertwining ever so slightly.
Plague of the Dead will have me coming back for book two and I hope it delivers as much action and suspense as this one.
65.
by
Hunter S. ThompsonFinish Date: 30th August
Genre: Drug Crazed
Rating: C
Review
When I first read this book I was a 20 year old playing guitar in a punk band and I loved this book to death. Fast forward 18 years and I am working for the "man" as a Correctional officer and yes the shine has worn off this book for me.
Why I still enjoyed the rantings of this drug crazed gonzo reporter and his lawyer I found myself getting annoyed and angry at them during the book. Their lack of respect of others and lack of any morale responsibility drove me to distraction. The voice of Mr McKay from South Park kept popping into my head and I had to agree with him that yes drugs are bad.
The book still represents a great snapshot of the times and drug culture of America during the late 60's and 70's. But with a more mature head the book has lost the grasp it once had on me.
SEPTEMBER
66.
byTim TzouliadisFinish Date: 1st September
Genre: History
Rating: A++
Review
Scarier than any Orwellian novel, The Forsaken takes us on a journey into the terror that was unleashed upon Russia by Stalin. The author follows the Americans that were lured to the USSR by the promise of a better life, free from the depression that was paralysing America at the time. For a while their life was good and all that was promised to them seemed within reach. Then Russia was plunged into the Terror where you could trust no one not even your children.
The Americans soon found themselves being taken away in the middle of the night, across the vastness of the Motherland and prisoners in the massive Gulag system. Feeding the economy through the natural riches found in Russia they bleed, suffered and died for their piece of socialist paradise.
The author does more than tell the tale of these unfortunate souls, he uses them as introduction to one of the most heinous crimes ever committed. For around 20 years the average Russians new nothing but fear and paranoia, no one was safe. He also looks at how the American government buried their heads in the sand and ignored pleas from the families left in the US to find their family members.
This book is a masterpiece of historic research and writing. The author strikes a great mix of politics and the human side to Stalin's great terror. This book rings true in the old adage, the victor writes the history, as the world for so long was unaware of this great tragedy. This book is an immensely important piece of work.
Wow, an A++. I will take a look at this, although my TBR pile is huge
Hunter Thompson was THE man back in the day but times have changed and his writings aren't as we remembered them. But I'm glad he was around back then.
Hunter S. Thompson
Peter wrote: "Wow, an A++. I will take a look at this, although my TBR pile is huge"It is a great read Peter.
67.
byEvan RamspottFinish Date: 6th September
Genre: Fiction
Rating: B-
Review:
I would like to start of this review by thanking the author for sharing his life and addiction with me the reader. This book is a great read full of honesty and personal insight, not being someone who has ever suffered from addiction it gave me a new perspective on it. This book takes us on a journey through the author's struggle with alcohol and the damage it caused both socially and health wise to his life. We go through the ups and down of being a slave to alcohol and trying to kick the addiction.
His journey takes to Thailand and a Buddhist monastery were he finds the tools to say goodbye to alcohol forever. The methods used are far from conventional and I must admit had me chuckling away at parts, but the results speak for themselves. An engaging read from start to finish I highly recommend and encourage everyone to read this book.
The author has bought a welcomed fresh slant on the Zombie genre. The story starts with the world already back in control after a Zombie outbreak. Zombies are now a marketable commodity and a industry has been built around collecting them for sale. Into this world our hero comes looking for something lost a long time ago. Suffice to say something goes wrong and mayhem and adventure ensue. Why I found this book a highly enjoyable read I feel the author missed out on making this a truly remarkable read by fleshing out the characters and story a bit more. Saying that this book is still a fantastic début novel by the author.
68.
by
Guillermo del ToroFinish Date: 12th September
Genre: Horror
Rating: B
Review:
The Strain delivers a fresh new angle on the Vampire genre. While I enjoyed the authors detail to the mechanics and biology of the "vampire virus" I felt it at times it slowed up the pace of the plot. There is a lot to like about this book from the mystery of the passenger plane to the story of a survivor of the Treblinka death camp. The author mixes numerous characters and sub plots into an enjoyable vampire romp.
So why only 3 stars? There was something about the story that kept me at arm's length and stopped me from fully immersing myself into it. What it was I cannot say, but it was there holding me back. Overall though I did enjoy this book but just not as much as I expected . I will be back to read the next book in the serious and hopefully I will be able to dive right into the story this time.
69.
by
Paul GarriganFinish Date: 14th September
Genre: Memoir
Rating: A-
Review:
I would like to start of this review by thanking the author for sharing his life and addiction with me the reader. This book is a great read full of honesty and personal insight, not being someone who has ever suffered from addiction it gave me a new perspective on it. This book takes us on a journey through the author's struggle with alcohol and the damage it caused both socially and health wise to his life. We go through the ups and down of being a slave to alcohol and trying to kick the addiction.
His journey takes to Thailand and a Buddhist monastery were he finds the tools to say goodbye to alcohol forever. The methods used are far from conventional and I must admit had me chuckling away at parts, but the results speak for themselves. An engaging read from start to finish I highly recommend and encourage everyone to read this book.
70.
by
John ScalziFinish Date: 16th September
Genre: Sci-Fi
Rating: A
Review:
I loved this book it was such a refreshing and highly entertaining read. What would you do if the world you lived in was an average Sci-fi TV show and you were only an extra on said show? Well for one thing you would avoid like the plague being a member of any team that involved one of the main charters and a trip to a unfamiliar planet. This is exactly what the crew of the Intrepid do frequently, they don't know exactly why but it seems like a good plan if you want to stay alive.
This is in a nutshell the mechanics of this book and it delivers a great story that will have any Sci-fi fan in stitches. The author has crafted a wonderful tale that I am sure will surface every time I watch some Sci-fi. A tale of love lost and friends killed that will tug at your heart string.......sorry the narrative must have taken over. Anyway do yourself a favour and give this book a read.
With this book I reach my target of 70 book for the year, so I suppose that is it for the year. Not likely my next target is my record from last year of 78 books. I think I might just have it covered.
71.
by
Terry Pratchett&
Stephen BaxterFinish Date: 22nd September
Genre: Sci-Fi
Rating: A
Review:
Terry Pratchett & Simon Baxter deliver a book that takes you on a journey that I for one did not want to end. I went into this book not really knowing what to expect as it has had mixed reviews. For me the vision of the Long Earth was well set out, explained and executed.
The story did take a bit for me to fall into but once the main plot and characters where introduced I soon fell into step. Being a huge Pratchett fan there was something warm and familiar about the book, even though the book is as away from the Discworld you can get. The story develops at a nice pace and ends, like all good books should, with you wanting to read more.
72.
by
Finish Date: 30th September
Genre: Thriller
Rating: B+
Review:
Tom Rob Smiths follow up to Child 44, while and enjoyable read did not hit the heights of his first novel. Our hero Leo finds his world collapsing around him. With Stalin dead and Khruschev bringing in a new order. Russia is as deadly as ever, but now the shoe is on the other foot.
They say revenge is a dish best served cold and this book delivers a cold cut smorgasbord of death and deception. The Secret Speech is a very enjoyable read but it did meet the expectations set by the first book.
October
73.
by
Augusten BurroughsFinish Date: 1st October
Genre: Memoir
Rating: C+
Review:
I had to think long and hard before writing this review. Running with Scissors is definitely not your average memoir and this is good and bad. There is much to like and dislike about this book and I can see how it has divided the readers.
What we have is the story of a kid that is bought up in the most dysfunctional settings you could imagine. We have a psychotic mother, unloving father, and a psychiatrist that should be in jail and just to mix things up a paedophile is chucked into the mix. Initially I was overwhelmed by all the craziness of the narrative but it also possessed a certain quirky charm. But as the story progressesd some very disturbing elements start to rear their ugly head. This is where I started to struggle with this memoir as the impacts of these elements are underplayed and almost painted over.
This book is certain worth the read but expect to be challenged and disturbed by it. It is a great reflection on the author's strength of character that he is not in a padded cell some well. I am still digesting this read and this speaks of the quality of the writing. What I have got out of it is still up in the air and in time my opinion may change on this book.
74.
by
Nicholas Sansbury SmithFinish Date: 3rd October
Genre: Sci-Fi
Rating: A
Review:
Nicholas Sansbury delivers another great tale in the world of the Biomass Revolution. This short read is the second prequel and gives an insight into the world of the Royal Knights. This book pulls no punches and quickly throws the reader into the action. Once again an incredible amount of story is packed into a few pages, this book adds so much to the readers understanding of the post nuclear world this story is set in.
I look forward to read whatever this talented writer has to offer next. If you have yet to experience the world of Biomass Revolution then immerse yourself soon, trust me you will not be disappointed.
75.
by
Ernest ClineFinish Date: 19th October
Genre: Sci-Fi
Rating: AAA
Review:
Before I start this book review I have a confession to make, it is a secret my wife would like to remain unknown. I am an avid gamer and have been since I can remember. So please keep that in mind as I start this review.
This book rocks it never stopped surprising and entertaining me from the opening chapter to the end. The author spins a tale that had me staying up late many a night just to read a little bit more. As well as creating a world that is not much of a stretch to believe is around the corner. He pays homage to the history of the humble computer game as well as to their forefathers the never forgotten book driven RPG games such as Dungeon & Dragons. I was like a kid in a candy shop as I was taken for a stroll along memory lane as games, films and TV shows are bought up in the story.
The story is where the book hits a home run. A world where fossil fuel and real jobs are rare. Most of humanity lives in a virtual world called Oasis the ultimate social networking and MMO all rolled into one. It is in the Oasis the story runs rampart, we have our hero, a quest and an evil corporation trying to change and corrupt the Oasis forever. This book is for anyone who was bought up in the 80's or has a passing interest in gaming or anything geeky. Even if you do not fit these categories give this book a try and prepare to be entertained.
76.
by
J.J. MarshallFinish Date: 25th October
Rating: B
Review:
A great debut novel by J.J Marshall that delivers one hell of a punch. He paints a world that is dying as the ozone is depleted. Humanity has reached to the stars for its salvation as the refugees of earth clamber for the limited spaces in various space stations and moon bases. A group called the board control the fate of humanity and they are planning to cut their losses and abandoned earth and all that remain on it to their fate.
Here is where the story picks up pace as a small home grown terrorist group get wind of the boards plans and set about exposing it as well as trying to wipe out the board. The story builds up into an ending fitting of any Hollywood blockbuster. Throughout the story the main characters of the book are expertly fleshed out by the author. Their strengths and weakness suck you into the story and hold your hand tightly right through to the end.
Like all good openers to a series this book promises so much more in its next instalment. Let’s hope it delivers because it is shaping up as a fantastic serious.
77.
by
Nicholas Sansbury SmithFinish Date: 27th October
Genre: Sci-Fi
Rating: B
Review:
I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pre-release copy of this book. Yet again have yet again by surprised by how much story this author can pack into these short stories. This book acts as a great little story and a prequel to his next upcoming book ORBS. I finished this little taster to wanting more, more, more and more.
78.
by
Neil deGrasse TysonGenre: Science
Rating: B-
Review:
Learning about the space has never been such fun. The author's enthusiasm for all things cosmic comes shining through in this book. As a person that has a passing interest in black holes, quasar and other stuff like that. This book provides a great crash course in all things spacey. I now feel a little bit smarter but I am also now in awe of the scientist t past and present that seek to unravel the secrets of our universe.
The book is cut up nicely into sections dealing with individual subjects. I did find it a tad annoying that the authors amusing explanations of certain things repeated throughout the book. This to me tarnished this otherwise great read. I particularly liked how he pulled apart common misconceptions like the sun rises in the east and set in the west. Overall this is science delivered in a way us commoners can understand without dumbing it down too much. As for the title I for one am not in favour of meeting my end this way.
November
79.
byMark TufoFinish Date: 6th november
Rating: B-
Review:
this book did not pack the punch of the first two in the series. Saying the author still had me laughing out loud as a hero Michael Talbot battles his way through yet more hoards of Zombie. All the cast of characters are there from Henry the flatulent dog to his arch nemesis Eliza.
Why there is a lot to like about this book it just missed the mark with me. I still remain a loyal Tufo fan and look forward to devouring the next book in the series. I hope he can forgive me for this 3 star review.
80.
by
Nicholas Sansbury SmithFinish Date: 10th November
Rating: A+
Review:
ORBS is a fast moving captivating Sc-Fi thriller. The science of the book has obviously been well researched and this adds to the enjoyment of the read. This book makes the Green House effect look like a storm in a tea cup. The characters are well developed and this pulls you into the story even more. I especially love the "blue orbs" they are one of the most bad ass and scariest things around. ORBS delivers yet another enthralling read from this major new talent and has me salivating for more.
81.
John SafranFinish Date: 13th November
Genre: True Crime
Rating: B-
Review:
It is fair to say John Safran likes stirring the pot. So it was with excited anticipation I opened his book. Instead of Safrans usual style he has delivered a surprisingly mature book. This book delivers two stories in one and this makes for some interesting reading. The first story is that of a White Supremacist that the author had some fun with in of his documentary series. This guy has been murdered so Safron travels to Mississippi to follow up the story. The other part of this book is about what he goes through in order to get the information to write the book.
I loved his interaction with the murderer and his method to do so, but this probably has a lot to do with the fact that I work in a prison. This book gives a great snapshot into what goes on in the big Sippi and I found myself captivated by the stories of the main players in this real life saga. This book does seem to get bogged down in too much detail at times and this is why I have given it the 3 stars. Overall though I strongly suggest anyone with a passing interest to give this book a read. It is a refreshingly new style of crime writing.
82.
by
Justin CroninFinish Date: 17th November
Rating: A+
Review:
This book is a sweeping epic tale that comes on relentlessly like waves crashing against the base of a cliff. The authors apocalyptic vision is masterfully delivered and at times left me gasping for air. The story is well structured and covers a large period of time and change extremely well.
Not normally a lover of the vampire genre the author has delivered a well thought out and different slant on this genre. There is so much that I love about this book that it is hard to convey how much I enjoyed this book in a review. As I sit here thinking about the book more and more scenes and characters keep popping into my head. This in itself is a great reflection of the power of this story.
Regarding "Ready Player One" since you are a gamer and an SF reader you might like the "Dream Park" series by Niven and Barnes. e.g.
all by some combination of
Larry Niven and
Steven Barnes
Great reading year for you Michael.....and your reviews are superb. Thanks so much for participating. We will be setting up the 2014 challenge very soon.
Thanks Jill I look forward to the next challenge
The History Book Club
Books mentioned in this topic
The California Voodoo Game (other topics)The Moon Maze Game (other topics)
The Barsoom Project (other topics)
Dream Park (other topics)
When the World Ends... (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Steven Barnes (other topics)Larry Niven (other topics)
Neil deGrasse Tyson (other topics)
J.J. Marshall (other topics)
Ernest Cline (other topics)
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