My Goal for 2006: Finish My Last Bookcase!
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
2005 Summary
2005 hasn't been a great year for reading. I didn't get a lot of reading done, and I also didn't read a lot of great books. I only read 39 books this year, compared with 96 in 2004. That's my lowest total since my slump of 1998-1999. (I only read 24 books in both those years put together.) [My total only includes books I finished, or came close to finishing. If I dump a book in the first few chapters, I don't include it in my database. And it's mostly romance and romance-type books: I always read a few other types of books, Harry Potter for example, or "how to" books, but I don't put those in my database either.]
I can't completely blame the books for this, although I haven't really been excited about many books this year. But I think the blame has to go in part to a couple of major projects - Celebrate Romance in the first part of the year, and a job-related research project in the second half of the year. I just didn't have a lot of uninterrupted free time. And when I did spend time relaxing, I was more likely to watch a DVD or surf the internet than pick up a book.
But I think the hardest thing this year was the lack of good reads. That's surprising, because I focused my reading in 2005 on working through my stash of books that I'd set aside as "extra good reads". Favorite authors, books that had been highly recommended, books that got rave reviews. So I'm surprised that I didn't find more gems.
I only had one keeper this year (The Mysterious Miss M by Diane Gaston) and one near-keeper (The Duchess's Next Husband by Terri Brisbin) but that's not unusual - I'm very picky about keepers and usually only have one or two a year. But I had a surprisingly low number of "very good" reads - books that I graded 4 or 4.5. And most of those came at the very beginning of the year, although I had a few at the end as well. I didn't have a lot of duds, but there were a lot of books that were just kind of average. Blah. Maybe that's why I haven't read as many books as usual this year - it's hard to stay enthusiastic when you're reading one blah book after another.
I've also felt the lack of contemporary and series books - I enjoy reading them but I'm finding it harder and harder to find the types of books I like in those settings. As much as I enjoy historicals, I find it energizing to alternate them with contemps and series books, but over the last few years, I just haven't found as many contemps as I'd like to buy, at least ones that fit my rather exacting standards. (OK, I'm picky, I admit it. But I just don't much care for suspense, mysteries, most comedies and baby/child/motherhood/sisterhood books, which eliminates a lot of the field in the contemporary market.)
When I started this blog, I was looking at a bookcase full of "TBR" books. I buy a lot of books, and often I'll put a book aside as a "rainy day" book - any book that has the potential to be really good, so I want to save it for a rainy day. Almost every book in that bookcase had been recommended to me at some point, and I wanted to finally read them. I vowed to read my way through that bookcase before reading anything else or before buying any more books. I've read a few other books in the meantime, but not that many - my book buying has been greatly curtailed this year. But I still have 36 books in that bookcase. (And over 1400 TBR books boxed up in my attic, but I don't want to think about those! They're my "retirement" fund.) So the challenge isn't over yet.
So my goal for 2006: finish those last 36 books. When I do that, I will reward myself with a huge book-buying binge. Free, free at last!
I can't completely blame the books for this, although I haven't really been excited about many books this year. But I think the blame has to go in part to a couple of major projects - Celebrate Romance in the first part of the year, and a job-related research project in the second half of the year. I just didn't have a lot of uninterrupted free time. And when I did spend time relaxing, I was more likely to watch a DVD or surf the internet than pick up a book.
But I think the hardest thing this year was the lack of good reads. That's surprising, because I focused my reading in 2005 on working through my stash of books that I'd set aside as "extra good reads". Favorite authors, books that had been highly recommended, books that got rave reviews. So I'm surprised that I didn't find more gems.
I only had one keeper this year (The Mysterious Miss M by Diane Gaston) and one near-keeper (The Duchess's Next Husband by Terri Brisbin) but that's not unusual - I'm very picky about keepers and usually only have one or two a year. But I had a surprisingly low number of "very good" reads - books that I graded 4 or 4.5. And most of those came at the very beginning of the year, although I had a few at the end as well. I didn't have a lot of duds, but there were a lot of books that were just kind of average. Blah. Maybe that's why I haven't read as many books as usual this year - it's hard to stay enthusiastic when you're reading one blah book after another.
I've also felt the lack of contemporary and series books - I enjoy reading them but I'm finding it harder and harder to find the types of books I like in those settings. As much as I enjoy historicals, I find it energizing to alternate them with contemps and series books, but over the last few years, I just haven't found as many contemps as I'd like to buy, at least ones that fit my rather exacting standards. (OK, I'm picky, I admit it. But I just don't much care for suspense, mysteries, most comedies and baby/child/motherhood/sisterhood books, which eliminates a lot of the field in the contemporary market.)
When I started this blog, I was looking at a bookcase full of "TBR" books. I buy a lot of books, and often I'll put a book aside as a "rainy day" book - any book that has the potential to be really good, so I want to save it for a rainy day. Almost every book in that bookcase had been recommended to me at some point, and I wanted to finally read them. I vowed to read my way through that bookcase before reading anything else or before buying any more books. I've read a few other books in the meantime, but not that many - my book buying has been greatly curtailed this year. But I still have 36 books in that bookcase. (And over 1400 TBR books boxed up in my attic, but I don't want to think about those! They're my "retirement" fund.) So the challenge isn't over yet.
So my goal for 2006: finish those last 36 books. When I do that, I will reward myself with a huge book-buying binge. Free, free at last!
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
The History in Historical
Another "following the drum" book. I've read a couple of Farrell's Regencies and she's a very talented writer. She hasn't written anything in quite a long time, unfortunately.
Red, Red Rose by Marjorie Farrell
(1999, Regency Historical) 12/26/05
Grade: 4
The illegitimate son of an Earl, Valentine Ashton ends up a Lieutenant in Portugal. He is determined to prove himself, and ends up rescuing Elspeth Gordon, the daughter of an officer. They become friends, and through the long winter, get to know each other - but can their friendship become love, as Val investigates a friend for possible treason?
Another excellent depiction of the war against Napoleon, this one with more of an officer’s perspective. This is Val’s story, from his beginnings as an orphaned bastard in England to his struggles with his family and duty in Portugal. The book really focuses on him, and he’s a wonderful hero - a bit tortured but brave and admirable. Elspeth is also a terrific heroine, but she’s a secondary character for most of the book - the focus is on Val and his troubles, and on a detailed depiction of life in camp during a long campaign. It’s only near the end that the romance really comes forward. A book to read for the history, not the relationships.
A bit disappointing, since Marjorie Farrell is known for her deeply emotional Regencies, and I was looking forward to more romance with my history. But it's worth reading for Val's story, even if it's not deeply romantic.
Red, Red Rose by Marjorie Farrell
(1999, Regency Historical) 12/26/05
Grade: 4
The illegitimate son of an Earl, Valentine Ashton ends up a Lieutenant in Portugal. He is determined to prove himself, and ends up rescuing Elspeth Gordon, the daughter of an officer. They become friends, and through the long winter, get to know each other - but can their friendship become love, as Val investigates a friend for possible treason?
Another excellent depiction of the war against Napoleon, this one with more of an officer’s perspective. This is Val’s story, from his beginnings as an orphaned bastard in England to his struggles with his family and duty in Portugal. The book really focuses on him, and he’s a wonderful hero - a bit tortured but brave and admirable. Elspeth is also a terrific heroine, but she’s a secondary character for most of the book - the focus is on Val and his troubles, and on a detailed depiction of life in camp during a long campaign. It’s only near the end that the romance really comes forward. A book to read for the history, not the relationships.
A bit disappointing, since Marjorie Farrell is known for her deeply emotional Regencies, and I was looking forward to more romance with my history. But it's worth reading for Val's story, even if it's not deeply romantic.
Sunday, December 25, 2005
The Dog Makes The Tale
I've never been a big fan of Barbara Metzger - I've read several of her books, but her humor doesn't really work for me, and I find most of her books a bit dull. But people keep giving me her books, assuring me that "you just haven't found the right one yet". This one was most highly recommended.
A Loyal Companion by Barbara Metzger
(1992, Regency) 12/24/05
Grade: 3.5
Fitz is the loyal dog of high-spirited Sunny, and he’s determined to protect her and find her a proper mate. After some false starts, he discovers Darius Conover, a war hero with a bad reputation. Fitz will do anything to see his mistress with the right man - and Darius is just the one for her.
Cute and fun - you don’t read many books that include the dog’s perspective. Fitz’s unique narration kept me laughing, and kept me reading. Unfortunately, the rest of the book wasn’t that interesting - the hero and heroine are kind of bland, and the story runs out of steam about halfway through, even though the book is very short. If it hadn’t been for Fitz, I probably wouldn’t have finished it.
I think this will be my last Metzger...
A Loyal Companion by Barbara Metzger
(1992, Regency) 12/24/05
Grade: 3.5
Fitz is the loyal dog of high-spirited Sunny, and he’s determined to protect her and find her a proper mate. After some false starts, he discovers Darius Conover, a war hero with a bad reputation. Fitz will do anything to see his mistress with the right man - and Darius is just the one for her.
Cute and fun - you don’t read many books that include the dog’s perspective. Fitz’s unique narration kept me laughing, and kept me reading. Unfortunately, the rest of the book wasn’t that interesting - the hero and heroine are kind of bland, and the story runs out of steam about halfway through, even though the book is very short. If it hadn’t been for Fitz, I probably wouldn’t have finished it.
I think this will be my last Metzger...
Friday, December 23, 2005
A Twist On Romancing The Stone
AAR did a recent review of this Harlequin American series title from 1994 - I was looking for a short and light read so I picked it up at the used bookstore.
The Adventuress by M.J. Rodgers (HAR 520)
(1994, Contemporary Series) 12/23/05
Grade: 3.5
Timid librarian Pamela Gibson has a secret - she writes bestsellers about the sexy, adventurous “Roxanne Rainey”, who travels the world righting wrongs. But when she’s bonked on the head during a helicopter hijacking, she wakes up thinking she’s actually Roxanne, and that she and reluctant pilot and pararescuer Skye have to rescue a kidnapping victim in trouble!
A silly-but-fun adventure story, which doesn’t take itself too seriously. The tone is definitely tongue in cheek. I don’t normally like adventure stories that much, but the short length works for it - it’s just long enough to be a fun and frothy read. Roxanne is a plucky, tough heroine who climbs cliffs and dives into Hawaiian lagoons without a second thought - except she can’t figure out why she keeps remembering life as a librarian. Skye has less personality but he and Roxanne have a lot of chemistry together. The ending is a bit rushed, but overall, a fun time is had by all.
Think of this as a twist on Romancing the Stone - an affectionate take-off on the typical romance adventure story. I probably won't remember much about it by tomorrow, but it was a fun way to spend my first day of Christmas vacation.
The Adventuress by M.J. Rodgers (HAR 520)
(1994, Contemporary Series) 12/23/05
Grade: 3.5
Timid librarian Pamela Gibson has a secret - she writes bestsellers about the sexy, adventurous “Roxanne Rainey”, who travels the world righting wrongs. But when she’s bonked on the head during a helicopter hijacking, she wakes up thinking she’s actually Roxanne, and that she and reluctant pilot and pararescuer Skye have to rescue a kidnapping victim in trouble!
A silly-but-fun adventure story, which doesn’t take itself too seriously. The tone is definitely tongue in cheek. I don’t normally like adventure stories that much, but the short length works for it - it’s just long enough to be a fun and frothy read. Roxanne is a plucky, tough heroine who climbs cliffs and dives into Hawaiian lagoons without a second thought - except she can’t figure out why she keeps remembering life as a librarian. Skye has less personality but he and Roxanne have a lot of chemistry together. The ending is a bit rushed, but overall, a fun time is had by all.
Think of this as a twist on Romancing the Stone - an affectionate take-off on the typical romance adventure story. I probably won't remember much about it by tomorrow, but it was a fun way to spend my first day of Christmas vacation.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
An Admirable Read
I have a couple of "following the drum" books in my TBR pile - I'll be interested to see how different authors explore the subject.
Rules of Marriage by Wilma Counts
(2002, Regency Historical) 12/11/05
Grade: 3.5
After four years married to a cruel soldier, Rachel is resigned to her fate, although she defies her husband to save the life of wounded Major Jake Ferguson. When her husband sells her at an auction, it’s Jake who saves her. She and Jake live together on the campaign trail, but when she returns to England, can she continue as his mistress? Or his wife?
This is a book to be admired for its nobility, rather than loved. The characters rarely come to life - Rachel in particular is so saintly and so passive, it’s hard to root for her or believe in her character. The hero and heroine are apart for much of the book, and their relationship seems rote. The book does contain a lot of interesting details about the Spanish campaign and the lives of the women following the drum, but the book is more of a history lesson, with just a small dollop of romance. I enjoyed the history and I'll keep it in mind when I read other books about the period, but I doubt I'll remember the romance. The characters are just too perfect and the story too predictable.
Red, Red Rose by Marjorie Farrell is sitting next to my bed - I can't decide if I should jump right into another "women in war" book or try something completely different.
Rules of Marriage by Wilma Counts
(2002, Regency Historical) 12/11/05
Grade: 3.5
After four years married to a cruel soldier, Rachel is resigned to her fate, although she defies her husband to save the life of wounded Major Jake Ferguson. When her husband sells her at an auction, it’s Jake who saves her. She and Jake live together on the campaign trail, but when she returns to England, can she continue as his mistress? Or his wife?
This is a book to be admired for its nobility, rather than loved. The characters rarely come to life - Rachel in particular is so saintly and so passive, it’s hard to root for her or believe in her character. The hero and heroine are apart for much of the book, and their relationship seems rote. The book does contain a lot of interesting details about the Spanish campaign and the lives of the women following the drum, but the book is more of a history lesson, with just a small dollop of romance. I enjoyed the history and I'll keep it in mind when I read other books about the period, but I doubt I'll remember the romance. The characters are just too perfect and the story too predictable.
Red, Red Rose by Marjorie Farrell is sitting next to my bed - I can't decide if I should jump right into another "women in war" book or try something completely different.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Elisabeth Fairchild: Always a Pleasure To Read
I'm never disappointed by an Elisabeth Fairchild Regency - some are better than others but they're always a cut above the rest.
A Fresh Perspective by Elisabeth Fairchild
(1996, Regency) 12/3/05
Grade: 4.5
Lord Reed Talcott returns from his grand tour to find his best friend and neighbor, Megan Breech, greatly changed. They always shared a love for art, but it seems that she’s grown up overnight! Megan’s first love was always Reed, but he sees her as just a friend. So she’ll have to look elsewhere - unless she can get him to see her from a new perspective...
Elisabeth Fairchild always impresses me with her writing - she is so vivid, and does such a great job at depicting characters in just a few words. My favorite one, describing a secondary character: "The young woman reminded her of a vine. It did not seem to matter that it was always a different fellow, only that there should be someone male to wind herself around." I also enjoyed the way she keeps coming back to “perspective” - for once, a title that really means something! The story here isn’t all that romantic (Fairchild’s characters are always down to earth but I prefer her more passionate books, like Miss Dornton's Hero) but she keeps me turning the pages because I genuinely like these characters and want to find out what happens to them. The ending is a bit muddled, but that's a minor quibble. Her books never disappoint - highly recommended.
I'm crossing my fingers that Fairchild survives the demise of the Regency, and finds a way to write her wonderful books without destroying what's special about them. (Something that too many Regency authors haven't been able to do...)
A Fresh Perspective by Elisabeth Fairchild
(1996, Regency) 12/3/05
Grade: 4.5
Lord Reed Talcott returns from his grand tour to find his best friend and neighbor, Megan Breech, greatly changed. They always shared a love for art, but it seems that she’s grown up overnight! Megan’s first love was always Reed, but he sees her as just a friend. So she’ll have to look elsewhere - unless she can get him to see her from a new perspective...
Elisabeth Fairchild always impresses me with her writing - she is so vivid, and does such a great job at depicting characters in just a few words. My favorite one, describing a secondary character: "The young woman reminded her of a vine. It did not seem to matter that it was always a different fellow, only that there should be someone male to wind herself around." I also enjoyed the way she keeps coming back to “perspective” - for once, a title that really means something! The story here isn’t all that romantic (Fairchild’s characters are always down to earth but I prefer her more passionate books, like Miss Dornton's Hero) but she keeps me turning the pages because I genuinely like these characters and want to find out what happens to them. The ending is a bit muddled, but that's a minor quibble. Her books never disappoint - highly recommended.
I'm crossing my fingers that Fairchild survives the demise of the Regency, and finds a way to write her wonderful books without destroying what's special about them. (Something that too many Regency authors haven't been able to do...)
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Humor is So Subjective...
Every now and then I like to read a funny book, but it's so hard to find one that works for me...
George & the Virgin by Lisa Cach
(2002, Medieval) 11/25/05
Grade: 3
Every year, the villagers of Markesew make an offering to the local dragon - a virgin. When Alizon is sent to the dragon, she changes the rules and manages to save herself (and the other virgins). But when professional wrestler George is thrown through time, she can only hope he can slay the dragon - and save her from a lifetime of isolation.
A cute premise that works at the beginning. I really liked George the wrestler, and Alizon who saves herself from the dragon - and the setup with the virgins was clever. But the book quickly loses its way - it tries to hit the same notes as Deveraux’s Knight in Shining Armor but it just seems to get lost and muddled. There were a few humorous moments, but mostly they fell flat. I lost interest and skimmed through quite a bit of the second half.
I really loved Cach's short story Puddings, Pastries and Thou but her longer books haven't really worked for me.
George & the Virgin by Lisa Cach
(2002, Medieval) 11/25/05
Grade: 3
Every year, the villagers of Markesew make an offering to the local dragon - a virgin. When Alizon is sent to the dragon, she changes the rules and manages to save herself (and the other virgins). But when professional wrestler George is thrown through time, she can only hope he can slay the dragon - and save her from a lifetime of isolation.
A cute premise that works at the beginning. I really liked George the wrestler, and Alizon who saves herself from the dragon - and the setup with the virgins was clever. But the book quickly loses its way - it tries to hit the same notes as Deveraux’s Knight in Shining Armor but it just seems to get lost and muddled. There were a few humorous moments, but mostly they fell flat. I lost interest and skimmed through quite a bit of the second half.
I really loved Cach's short story Puddings, Pastries and Thou but her longer books haven't really worked for me.
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Just Don't Like Those Alpha Men
Based on the description on the back cover, this would seem like the perfect book for me - a tortured wounded hero and a tormented heroine with a troubled past - sounds perfect for me, doesn't it?
Gallant Waif by Anne Gracie
(1999, Regency) 10/9/05
Grade: 3.5
Kate is orphaned and destitute when she is rescued (or kidnapped) by her mother’s godmother. She is forced to explain the scandals of her past, but Lady Cahill decides she’s the best person to force her wounded grandson, Jack, from his isolation and depression. Kate becomes Jack’s housekeeper, and soon they both begin to heal each other.
Suprisingly, this one didn’t do much for me. I liked the setup, and Kate was a great heroine - it’s rare to find a “ruined” heroine who actually is ruined. But I didn’t like Jack at all - I found him annoying and domineering most of the time, and I was baffled by Kate’s love for him. All they did was argue. (I’ve never been a fan of the “fighting = true love” type of romance.) The book did improve in the last third, and the ballroom scene was lovely and touching (which is why I gave this a 3.5 instead of a 3) but overall, I found it more frustrating than enjoyable.
I was surprised and disappointed by this one - after the rapturous reviews it received (and by two of my favorite reviewers!) I really expected to love it. I guess I have an exceptionally low tolerence for domineering alpha heroes.
Gallant Waif by Anne Gracie
(1999, Regency) 10/9/05
Grade: 3.5
Kate is orphaned and destitute when she is rescued (or kidnapped) by her mother’s godmother. She is forced to explain the scandals of her past, but Lady Cahill decides she’s the best person to force her wounded grandson, Jack, from his isolation and depression. Kate becomes Jack’s housekeeper, and soon they both begin to heal each other.
Suprisingly, this one didn’t do much for me. I liked the setup, and Kate was a great heroine - it’s rare to find a “ruined” heroine who actually is ruined. But I didn’t like Jack at all - I found him annoying and domineering most of the time, and I was baffled by Kate’s love for him. All they did was argue. (I’ve never been a fan of the “fighting = true love” type of romance.) The book did improve in the last third, and the ballroom scene was lovely and touching (which is why I gave this a 3.5 instead of a 3) but overall, I found it more frustrating than enjoyable.
I was surprised and disappointed by this one - after the rapturous reviews it received (and by two of my favorite reviewers!) I really expected to love it. I guess I have an exceptionally low tolerence for domineering alpha heroes.
Monday, September 26, 2005
Good, But Not Great, Erotica
This story was recommended to me - I don't think I would have paid full trade price for one story, but I found it at the library. I took a quick look at the other two stories but they didn't seem very appealing.
A House East of Regent Street by Pam Rosenthal
Short Story in the Anthology: Strangers In The Night
(2004, Regency Historical) 9/25/05
Grade: 3.5
Returning war veteran Jack Merion plans to buy a former brothel and rent it out - but another party is interested as well. Miss Myles, the sophisticated mistress of a French prince, is willing to spend 5 afternoons with Jack in return for the lease - but will their erotic adventures unexpectedly affect them both?
It’s good erotica - the characters are well defined and the sex scenes are inventive and sensual (without resorting to the usual erotica cliches). But in the end, it just wasn’t that memorable - the story was just too short, less than 100 pages. (I usually find erotica too long, but not in this case.) Between the setup and the resolution, there just wasn’t enough meat in the middle - and the coincidences of the resolution didn’t help either. It needed more.
I tried one of Rosenthal's previous books and it had similar problems - the scenes at the beginning were sexual and exciting, but the book just fizzled out. She could really be good if she could make the rest of her books work as well as her love scenes.
A House East of Regent Street by Pam Rosenthal
Short Story in the Anthology: Strangers In The Night
(2004, Regency Historical) 9/25/05
Grade: 3.5
Returning war veteran Jack Merion plans to buy a former brothel and rent it out - but another party is interested as well. Miss Myles, the sophisticated mistress of a French prince, is willing to spend 5 afternoons with Jack in return for the lease - but will their erotic adventures unexpectedly affect them both?
It’s good erotica - the characters are well defined and the sex scenes are inventive and sensual (without resorting to the usual erotica cliches). But in the end, it just wasn’t that memorable - the story was just too short, less than 100 pages. (I usually find erotica too long, but not in this case.) Between the setup and the resolution, there just wasn’t enough meat in the middle - and the coincidences of the resolution didn’t help either. It needed more.
I tried one of Rosenthal's previous books and it had similar problems - the scenes at the beginning were sexual and exciting, but the book just fizzled out. She could really be good if she could make the rest of her books work as well as her love scenes.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Two Throw-Aways
I had some time to kill in NYC today, so I brought along two "throw away" books - series books so old and battered that even the library book sale wouldn't want them. After I finished, I tossed them out, so I wouldn't have to carry them around all day. Unfortunately, I could barely finish either one.
Sail Away by Kathleen Korbel (SD 1254)
(1998, Series) 9/24/05
Grade: 2.5
Lilly Kokoa is sailing near her home in Hawaii when she finds movie star Cameron Ross (actually his look-alike cousin) floating in a life raft, bleeding and disoriented. She tries to help him but soon they're both captured by kidnappers. They flee for their lives - but who is this man really? He can't quite remember.
Although this isn't one of Korbel's best books, I had hopes for it at the beginning. It's light-hearted and charming, a fun "love on the run" story. But then Korbel starts mixing in the bumbling kidnappers (who are supposed to be funny but aren't), Lilly's angst over her Hawaiian heritage, Ethan's impending blindness, etc. etc. It was just too much for a 180 page book, and it ended up a confusing mish-mash. By the the end, I was skimming in frustration.
The Dragon and the Dove by Glenna McReynolds (LS 693)
(1994, Series) 9/24/05
Grade: 2
Jessica Langston, a divorced single mother has just finished her MBA and has gone to work for the mysterious Cooper Daniels. When she discovers his real business is collecting bounty on pirates, she's not sure what to think. He is afraid she's too innocent for his world - but soon finds she's tougher than he thought. Together, they'll strike back at the mysterious pirate who killed his brother.
Another book with potential that's lost in confusion. I really liked the premise - I always enjoy a good revenge plot, especially with a heroine who's tougher and smarter than she looks. But this is another series book that tries to cram 400 pages of plot into 200 pages of book. By the halfway point, I was confused and had no idea what was going on. It just didn't make sense, and the romance seemed like an afterthought. I gave up halfway through.
I keep a stash of these old series books to take with me on trips, and sometimes they're good, sometimes not. Two clunkers today, unfortunately.
Sail Away by Kathleen Korbel (SD 1254)
(1998, Series) 9/24/05
Grade: 2.5
Lilly Kokoa is sailing near her home in Hawaii when she finds movie star Cameron Ross (actually his look-alike cousin) floating in a life raft, bleeding and disoriented. She tries to help him but soon they're both captured by kidnappers. They flee for their lives - but who is this man really? He can't quite remember.
Although this isn't one of Korbel's best books, I had hopes for it at the beginning. It's light-hearted and charming, a fun "love on the run" story. But then Korbel starts mixing in the bumbling kidnappers (who are supposed to be funny but aren't), Lilly's angst over her Hawaiian heritage, Ethan's impending blindness, etc. etc. It was just too much for a 180 page book, and it ended up a confusing mish-mash. By the the end, I was skimming in frustration.
The Dragon and the Dove by Glenna McReynolds (LS 693)
(1994, Series) 9/24/05
Grade: 2
Jessica Langston, a divorced single mother has just finished her MBA and has gone to work for the mysterious Cooper Daniels. When she discovers his real business is collecting bounty on pirates, she's not sure what to think. He is afraid she's too innocent for his world - but soon finds she's tougher than he thought. Together, they'll strike back at the mysterious pirate who killed his brother.
Another book with potential that's lost in confusion. I really liked the premise - I always enjoy a good revenge plot, especially with a heroine who's tougher and smarter than she looks. But this is another series book that tries to cram 400 pages of plot into 200 pages of book. By the halfway point, I was confused and had no idea what was going on. It just didn't make sense, and the romance seemed like an afterthought. I gave up halfway through.
I keep a stash of these old series books to take with me on trips, and sometimes they're good, sometimes not. Two clunkers today, unfortunately.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Gritty Western Fiction
I haven't been reading much lately - too busy with other things, I guess.
These Is My Words by Nancy Turner
(1998, Western) 9/18/05
Grade: 4.5
The (fictional) diary of Sarah Prine, from age 17 to 37, 1881 to 1901. Sarah lives in the Arizona Territory and lives through Indian attacks, marries and has children, loses loved ones and survives life on the frontier.
Very well written and interesting - sort of a grittier version of the Little House books. The first person narrative really works here - Sarah is such a compelling and interesting character that I couldn’t stop reading. And it was fascinating to see her grow and develop over twenty years - something that rarely happens in romance - although I’m shallow enough to wish there had been a “romance novel” ending.
Definitely well worth reading.
These Is My Words by Nancy Turner
(1998, Western) 9/18/05
Grade: 4.5
The (fictional) diary of Sarah Prine, from age 17 to 37, 1881 to 1901. Sarah lives in the Arizona Territory and lives through Indian attacks, marries and has children, loses loved ones and survives life on the frontier.
Very well written and interesting - sort of a grittier version of the Little House books. The first person narrative really works here - Sarah is such a compelling and interesting character that I couldn’t stop reading. And it was fascinating to see her grow and develop over twenty years - something that rarely happens in romance - although I’m shallow enough to wish there had been a “romance novel” ending.
Definitely well worth reading.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
More Frustration...
I picked this one up because of the subject - I love books set in the theatre. Unfortunately, it didn't quite work.
Acts of Love by Judith Michael
(1994, Contemporary) 7/28/05
Grade: 2.5
After the death of his beloved grandmother, Broadway director Lucas Cameron finds letters from her protege - the brilliant actress Jessica Fontaine, who disappeared after an accident. He falls in love with her through her letters and is determined to find her - even if she doesn’t want to be found.
This was a frustrating book - parts of it were fascinating, but they were mixed with a lot of dull and unbelievable sections. The hero and heroine spend most of the book apart, but it worked in the beginning, when Luke was getting to know Jessica through her letters. Luke was annoyingly self-centered, and the section went on for too long, but still I kept reading, because I was eager to finally meet Jessica. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to the buildup. Despite some really interesting sections about the theatre, I kept putting the book down in boredom, or skipping ahead. (And even for someone who loves a HEA, the ending seemed a bit saccharine.) The whole thing felt superficial and a bit shallow.
I'm really hoping my next read will be something special...
Acts of Love by Judith Michael
(1994, Contemporary) 7/28/05
Grade: 2.5
After the death of his beloved grandmother, Broadway director Lucas Cameron finds letters from her protege - the brilliant actress Jessica Fontaine, who disappeared after an accident. He falls in love with her through her letters and is determined to find her - even if she doesn’t want to be found.
This was a frustrating book - parts of it were fascinating, but they were mixed with a lot of dull and unbelievable sections. The hero and heroine spend most of the book apart, but it worked in the beginning, when Luke was getting to know Jessica through her letters. Luke was annoyingly self-centered, and the section went on for too long, but still I kept reading, because I was eager to finally meet Jessica. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to the buildup. Despite some really interesting sections about the theatre, I kept putting the book down in boredom, or skipping ahead. (And even for someone who loves a HEA, the ending seemed a bit saccharine.) The whole thing felt superficial and a bit shallow.
I'm really hoping my next read will be something special...
Sunday, July 24, 2005
A Disappointing Tortured Hero
Still working my way through some of the older books in my TBR.
The Heart's Desire by Gayle Wilson
(1994, Regency Historical) 7/24/05
Grade: 2.5
After following the drum in Spain, Emily Fairfax thought she’d seen it all - but she’s confused and attracted by Dominic, the Duke of Avon. He seems hard and uncaring, ignoring taunts about his crippled leg, his only passion his secret work for the war effort - but underneath he knows he can never have the happiness that others have. Can Emily show him otherwise?
Even though I love a good tortured hero, this book was a chore to get through. Even though Dominic had every reason to be “tortured”, I got tired of his whining - and Emily’s attraction to him didn’t seem to be rooted in anything other than plot necessity. It seemed like a throwback to books from the early 80’s - he treats her badly, she loves him for no apparent reason, and every development is predictable. Why did I keep reading? I did grow to like the characters, and the spy plot in the first half was fairly interesting. (And I kept hoping that the book would get better!) But overall this was a disappointment, even for a die-hard tortured hero lover.
It's hard to believe that there's a tortured hero that I didn't like! (As a friend put it, the more they suffer, the more I like it.) But there was just something missing in this one.
The Heart's Desire by Gayle Wilson
(1994, Regency Historical) 7/24/05
Grade: 2.5
After following the drum in Spain, Emily Fairfax thought she’d seen it all - but she’s confused and attracted by Dominic, the Duke of Avon. He seems hard and uncaring, ignoring taunts about his crippled leg, his only passion his secret work for the war effort - but underneath he knows he can never have the happiness that others have. Can Emily show him otherwise?
Even though I love a good tortured hero, this book was a chore to get through. Even though Dominic had every reason to be “tortured”, I got tired of his whining - and Emily’s attraction to him didn’t seem to be rooted in anything other than plot necessity. It seemed like a throwback to books from the early 80’s - he treats her badly, she loves him for no apparent reason, and every development is predictable. Why did I keep reading? I did grow to like the characters, and the spy plot in the first half was fairly interesting. (And I kept hoping that the book would get better!) But overall this was a disappointment, even for a die-hard tortured hero lover.
It's hard to believe that there's a tortured hero that I didn't like! (As a friend put it, the more they suffer, the more I like it.) But there was just something missing in this one.
Friday, July 08, 2005
An E-Book (Mostly) Worth Reading
Another book that's been highly touted online - I finally got around to this one when I was traveling (one of the few times I read ebooks).
Yorkshire by Lynne Connolly
(2002, Georgian) 7/7/05
Grade: 4
Rose and her family have just arrived at Hareton Abbey, to find the house in ruins and the Earl under the spell of a fundamentalist minister. She also meets Richard, Lord Strang, who is immediately drawn to her. Within days, the Earl is dead and Rose is deeply involved with Richard - but who was behind the Earl’s death, and can she trust this new love in her life?
At first, I found Yorkshire frustrating - there were so many characters, it was hard to tell who was who (especially difficult in an ebook where you can't easily flip back to check a name or reread a paragraph). I was also skeptical of the “instant” love and commitment between Richard and Rose - it didn’t seem based in anything except the requirements of the plot. But once I’d gotten past this, the book improved, and I found myself caught up in the detailed descriptions of the Georgian time period and the well-written characters. It’s hard to grade this - I was close to giving up on it after the first third (and I might have if I hadn't been on a bus with nothing else to read), but it did improve quite a bit in the second half, with many memorable scenes.
Although this didn't quite live up to the online hype, it was an enjoyable and unique book. The next books in the series seem to lean more toward mystery / suspense, unfortunately - not a type of book I usually enjoy. I'm not sure the next book is worth paying full price (too bad I can't skim through it at the library), but I'm glad I read this one.
Yorkshire by Lynne Connolly
(2002, Georgian) 7/7/05
Grade: 4
Rose and her family have just arrived at Hareton Abbey, to find the house in ruins and the Earl under the spell of a fundamentalist minister. She also meets Richard, Lord Strang, who is immediately drawn to her. Within days, the Earl is dead and Rose is deeply involved with Richard - but who was behind the Earl’s death, and can she trust this new love in her life?
At first, I found Yorkshire frustrating - there were so many characters, it was hard to tell who was who (especially difficult in an ebook where you can't easily flip back to check a name or reread a paragraph). I was also skeptical of the “instant” love and commitment between Richard and Rose - it didn’t seem based in anything except the requirements of the plot. But once I’d gotten past this, the book improved, and I found myself caught up in the detailed descriptions of the Georgian time period and the well-written characters. It’s hard to grade this - I was close to giving up on it after the first third (and I might have if I hadn't been on a bus with nothing else to read), but it did improve quite a bit in the second half, with many memorable scenes.
Although this didn't quite live up to the online hype, it was an enjoyable and unique book. The next books in the series seem to lean more toward mystery / suspense, unfortunately - not a type of book I usually enjoy. I'm not sure the next book is worth paying full price (too bad I can't skim through it at the library), but I'm glad I read this one.
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Another Page-Turner from J.D. Robb
I can't resist the J.D. Robb books - I drove to the Tuxedo Park library to pick this one up yesterday, and I'd finished it by dinner time!
Origin in Death by J.D. Robb
(2005, Suspense) 6/25/05
Grade: 4
Eve and Peabody are back, investigating the death of a pioneering plastic surgeon. On the surface, he seems to be a perfect saint - devoted to his work and his family - but Eve wonders what he may be hiding underneath. What she finds will shock everyone.
The usual J.D. Robb formula, but it kept me turning the pages. The non-suspense content is fairly minimal in this one - Roarke has invited his Irish relatives to visit for Thanksgiving, the usual complement of quirky friends appear, and Eve and Roarke have lots of hot sex - no surprises there. But the focus is on the suspense plot, and it’s a really creepy one. The introduction gives away too much, but it’s still very suspenseful and chilling. Enjoyable, although not one of the best in this series.
One note about this one - people who are squeamish about violence against children might find this hard to take. Except for the introduction, the violence is all implied, but the situation is deeply creepy, and it involves children, which is something some readers want to avoid. I found it disturbing but fascinating (what does that say about me, I wonder?)
Origin in Death by J.D. Robb
(2005, Suspense) 6/25/05
Grade: 4
Eve and Peabody are back, investigating the death of a pioneering plastic surgeon. On the surface, he seems to be a perfect saint - devoted to his work and his family - but Eve wonders what he may be hiding underneath. What she finds will shock everyone.
The usual J.D. Robb formula, but it kept me turning the pages. The non-suspense content is fairly minimal in this one - Roarke has invited his Irish relatives to visit for Thanksgiving, the usual complement of quirky friends appear, and Eve and Roarke have lots of hot sex - no surprises there. But the focus is on the suspense plot, and it’s a really creepy one. The introduction gives away too much, but it’s still very suspenseful and chilling. Enjoyable, although not one of the best in this series.
One note about this one - people who are squeamish about violence against children might find this hard to take. Except for the introduction, the violence is all implied, but the situation is deeply creepy, and it involves children, which is something some readers want to avoid. I found it disturbing but fascinating (what does that say about me, I wonder?)
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Two Ruth Wind Titles
I read two Ruth Wind titles on my way back home - books I started weeks ago but never finished. (Maybe there was a reason?)
Walk in Beauty by Ruth Wind (SSE 881)
(1994, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 4
Eight years earlier, Jessie made the agonizing decision to leave Luke, even though she loved him with all her heart. She was pregnant and Luke was sliding into alcoholism, something she knew all too well. Now he’s back, sober and determined to play a part in his daughter’s life. Can she risk her heart again?
Ruth Wind’s books are always well done, and this one is no exception. The characters are well written and sympathetic, and the sexual chemistry between Luke and Jessie is apparent on every page. The depiction of modern Indian life is fascinating. Seven year old Giselle is somewhat angelic but not too annoying. But something was missing in this book - it just didn’t have the emotional depth of some of her other books. Surprising, especially since she deals with Luke’s alchoholism honestly - but it just didn’t grab my heart the way her other books have. Worth reading, but not one of her best.
Rainsinger by Ruth Wind (SSE 1031)
(1996, Series) 6/16/06
Grade: 4
Both Winona Snow and Daniel Lynch have a claim on an ancient peach tree orchard - she grew up there, and his Indian ancestors planted the trees. They agree to share the house for the summer, along with Winona’s troubled teenage sister Joleen. But as the attraction between Winona and Daniel grows, can they find a way to work out their differences?
The characters make this book - both Daniel and Winona are unique and interesting people, and I enjoyed reading about them. But the rest of the book wasn’t as compelling, which made this book less resonant than many of Wind’s other books. I found Joleen somewhat tedious, and the constant back and forth about Indian rights to the land became tiresome after a while. The intriguing chemistry between the hero and heroine wasn’t enough to sustain the entire book, unfortunately.
I'm not a big fan of kids in romances, and that may have colored my feelings about these two books. Both books had good qualities, but it's hard for any book to measure up to Wind's best work.
Walk in Beauty by Ruth Wind (SSE 881)
(1994, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 4
Eight years earlier, Jessie made the agonizing decision to leave Luke, even though she loved him with all her heart. She was pregnant and Luke was sliding into alcoholism, something she knew all too well. Now he’s back, sober and determined to play a part in his daughter’s life. Can she risk her heart again?
Ruth Wind’s books are always well done, and this one is no exception. The characters are well written and sympathetic, and the sexual chemistry between Luke and Jessie is apparent on every page. The depiction of modern Indian life is fascinating. Seven year old Giselle is somewhat angelic but not too annoying. But something was missing in this book - it just didn’t have the emotional depth of some of her other books. Surprising, especially since she deals with Luke’s alchoholism honestly - but it just didn’t grab my heart the way her other books have. Worth reading, but not one of her best.
Rainsinger by Ruth Wind (SSE 1031)
(1996, Series) 6/16/06
Grade: 4
Both Winona Snow and Daniel Lynch have a claim on an ancient peach tree orchard - she grew up there, and his Indian ancestors planted the trees. They agree to share the house for the summer, along with Winona’s troubled teenage sister Joleen. But as the attraction between Winona and Daniel grows, can they find a way to work out their differences?
The characters make this book - both Daniel and Winona are unique and interesting people, and I enjoyed reading about them. But the rest of the book wasn’t as compelling, which made this book less resonant than many of Wind’s other books. I found Joleen somewhat tedious, and the constant back and forth about Indian rights to the land became tiresome after a while. The intriguing chemistry between the hero and heroine wasn’t enough to sustain the entire book, unfortunately.
I'm not a big fan of kids in romances, and that may have colored my feelings about these two books. Both books had good qualities, but it's hard for any book to measure up to Wind's best work.
Too Predictable
Cop books have never been one of my favorites, but I was hopeful since Virginia Kantra is so highly regarded for her emotional reads.
The Reforming of Matthew Dunn by Virginia Kantra (SIM 984)
(1998, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 3
Since her husband’s death, Clare has devoted herself to a garden project that helps troubled kids in a rough neighborhood. But when injured detective Matthew Dunn moves in across the street, she finds herself longing for something more - despite his more cynical view of her work and her ideals.
There’s nothing wrong with this book, but nothing particularly outstanding either. The plot and characters were both well done, but predictable. Nothing stood out - I felt like I’d read this book a dozen times before. Some authors can take a familiar plot and make it new, but this book just felt like a retread.
Unfortunately, Virginia Kantra has been a disappointment to me so far - but I still have hopes (and many of her books in my TBR).
The Reforming of Matthew Dunn by Virginia Kantra (SIM 984)
(1998, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 3
Since her husband’s death, Clare has devoted herself to a garden project that helps troubled kids in a rough neighborhood. But when injured detective Matthew Dunn moves in across the street, she finds herself longing for something more - despite his more cynical view of her work and her ideals.
There’s nothing wrong with this book, but nothing particularly outstanding either. The plot and characters were both well done, but predictable. Nothing stood out - I felt like I’d read this book a dozen times before. Some authors can take a familiar plot and make it new, but this book just felt like a retread.
Unfortunately, Virginia Kantra has been a disappointment to me so far - but I still have hopes (and many of her books in my TBR).
Charm Only Goes So Far
Don't read this one when you're hungry! The descriptions of truffles and other goodies would give anyone a chocolate craving.
Sweet Success by Susan Mallery
(2001, Contemporary) 6/14/05
Grade: 3.5
Ali’s life centers around her chocolate shop in the small town of Santa Magdalana, and her friends and family there. She’s almost given up on love when a new handyman piques her interest - what is he hiding? Matt is running from a tragic past and doesn’t intend to stay long, but he can’t stay away from Ali - and hopes he’ll find redemption there.
Despire a hefty dollop of angst in Matt’s past (his wife tragic death etc.), this book coasts along primarily on charm - and does it well for the first two thirds. The characters are charming and likeable, the situations amusing and poignant at times. But the charm seems to wear thin after a while, especially with the fairly predictible plot “twist” in the last third. It was enjoyable enough to read, but it never went beyond a pleasant diversion.
Even though I enjoyed Sweet Success (and I always appreciate a good contemporary), it left me wanting more.
Sweet Success by Susan Mallery
(2001, Contemporary) 6/14/05
Grade: 3.5
Ali’s life centers around her chocolate shop in the small town of Santa Magdalana, and her friends and family there. She’s almost given up on love when a new handyman piques her interest - what is he hiding? Matt is running from a tragic past and doesn’t intend to stay long, but he can’t stay away from Ali - and hopes he’ll find redemption there.
Despire a hefty dollop of angst in Matt’s past (his wife tragic death etc.), this book coasts along primarily on charm - and does it well for the first two thirds. The characters are charming and likeable, the situations amusing and poignant at times. But the charm seems to wear thin after a while, especially with the fairly predictible plot “twist” in the last third. It was enjoyable enough to read, but it never went beyond a pleasant diversion.
Even though I enjoyed Sweet Success (and I always appreciate a good contemporary), it left me wanting more.
Another Excellent Harlequin Historical
Even though I've been trying to read some of my older books, I couldn't resist this one when I saw it on the shelf last month.
The Duchess's Next Husband by Terri Brisbin
(2005, Regency Historical) 6/11/05
Grade: 4.5
When Adrian became the Duke, his warm marriage became one of formality and duty, with the only goal an heir. But as his asthma attacks become worse, he fears he will die within the year. He has to find a way to protect Miranda, and find her a new husband - and in the process, he finds out his feelings for his wife are much deeper than duty - and Miranda discovers a new life for herself as well.
A deeply poignant book, this came close to being a keeper. It's rare to read a book that deals with the duty and formality of life in the Regency, even between a husband and wife. The setup is somewhat contrived, but for most of the book it works - it brings out deep emotions and had me reaching for the tissues. Unfortunately, the book gets bogged down by misunderstandings in the last section, which was frustrating. And even though things had to work out in the end, the combination of the misunderstandings and the "tie it up with a bow" ending left me wanting more - and left this one just short of keeper quality.
Even though I've met Terri dozens of times at book signings and events, I'd only read one of her books (a time travel that didn't do much for me). Obviously I've been missing out! This one was so close to being a keeper - I'm right on the edge.
The Duchess's Next Husband by Terri Brisbin
(2005, Regency Historical) 6/11/05
Grade: 4.5
When Adrian became the Duke, his warm marriage became one of formality and duty, with the only goal an heir. But as his asthma attacks become worse, he fears he will die within the year. He has to find a way to protect Miranda, and find her a new husband - and in the process, he finds out his feelings for his wife are much deeper than duty - and Miranda discovers a new life for herself as well.
A deeply poignant book, this came close to being a keeper. It's rare to read a book that deals with the duty and formality of life in the Regency, even between a husband and wife. The setup is somewhat contrived, but for most of the book it works - it brings out deep emotions and had me reaching for the tissues. Unfortunately, the book gets bogged down by misunderstandings in the last section, which was frustrating. And even though things had to work out in the end, the combination of the misunderstandings and the "tie it up with a bow" ending left me wanting more - and left this one just short of keeper quality.
Even though I've met Terri dozens of times at book signings and events, I'd only read one of her books (a time travel that didn't do much for me). Obviously I've been missing out! This one was so close to being a keeper - I'm right on the edge.
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