Books - What are you reading?

[pabbers]

Romance? Thriller? Sci-fi........have your say here:


My first thread. Yay!

I just finished reading a very profoundly moving book called Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay. It's about something I'd never heard of before (and can't believe I haven't!) - the Jewish roundup called Vel' d'Hiv in July 1942. Shocking and disturbing to say the least. Very well written even if the author has obviously been reading too much Dan Brown (cliffhangers at the end of every chapter).


Well, I'm reading Rafa's book. And it's a very good read. Each chapter is split into two - the first half in Rafa's words, and the second half in John Carlin's words with stuff he's got from interviewing family & friends. Rafa has always been such a private person and it's incredible how much he has opened up for this book.


R.L.thanks for opening the book thread. I always liked to browse this thread in the old forum.
That book you describe sounds very interesting - must look for it for my Kindle


i often go back and read books i have read before, some books i must have read a dozen times, the only exception to the rule is my favorite book which ihave only ever read once and i haven't read in about twenty years ,i was very tempted to buy it the other day but resisted the temptation :D


Angels and Demons by Dan Brown - liked the movie better than the Da Vinci Code.


Jay, I also keep all books that I've enjoyed so that I can re-read them. Must have about 200 books in my collection now. Would love to know what is your favourite book.

I remember in the early days of am.com I used to discuss books with Arka. We both really loved A Suitable Boy.



Jay, I also keep all books that I've enjoyed so that I can re-read them. Must have about 200 books in my collection now. Would love to know what is your favourite book.

I remember in the early days of am.com I used to discuss books with Arka. We both really loved A Suitable Boy.

The Stonor Eagles by William Horwood,



Jay, I also keep all books that I've enjoyed so that I can re-read them. Must have about 200 books in my collection now. Would love to know what is your favourite book.

I remember in the early days of am.com I used to discuss books with Arka. We both really loved A Suitable Boy.

The Stonor Eagles by William Horwood,



The Stonor Eagles by William Horwood,

Thanks Jay, have to admit that's one I haven't read.




The Stonor Eagles by William Horwood,

Thanks Jay, have to admit that's one I haven't read.horwood is a little obscure , he tends to do books about animals and tells it from there perspective. stoners eagles tell the story of a young eagle and its journey back to ancient homelands , and it mirrors it through the life of a young kid growing up on the south coast
horwoods most famous books are properly dunction woods about a setc of moles :D


Thanks Jay, read Duncton Wood, was one of my Mum's favourite books. There was another author she really liked who used to write about animals too but I can't remember who it was now.

I love books written by foreign authors that give you insight into a completely different way of life, especially authors from India or Middle East, also Africa, Japan etc. I also like books that are very well written (unfortunately American authors put me off) such as anything by Kazuo Ishiguro.


I'm not big on American authors either. I love the mystery genre but the only American mystery writer who sets her books in America I can stomach is Sue Grafton.

I wonder if I had to pick, what would be my fave book of all time? Interesting.

[patmoren]

Had to stop reading my Kindle for awhile as I have several "real" books accumulating. Reading the latest JD Robb at the moment.

[KnightOwl]

Had to stop reading my Kindle for awhile as I have several "real" books accumulating. Reading the latest JD Robb at the moment.

Real books? Do you mean those funny papery things where you have to actually turn the pages yourself?? :big grin:

[patmoren]

Real books? Do you mean those funny papery things where you have to actually turn the pages yourself?? :big grin:
Something like that, very tiring:jitterbug:

[RoastLamb]

My hairdresser showed me her Kobo last week. It's pretty cool coz you can download books from the library as well. I still like real books though.

I'm starting a new book club in October and am really nervous as I only know one person in the group. We are reading Hotel on the Corner of Bitter Sweet by Jamie Ford. Never heard of the author before.

[hfwardhouse]

Real books? Do you mean those funny papery things where you have to actually turn the pages yourself?? :big grin:

I read one of those recently and it was so annoying cos I was still reading it when we headed to DC .... so had to carry this heavy paper thing as well as the Kindle (in case I finished the book ... which I didn't :rolleyes:

[Linda]

I bought some secondhand books today - I'll have to try to find time to read them now! And I'm already reading a commentary on the New Testament that I got in the Bible shop reduced from £25 to £10 'cos of a slight crease in the cover!

[pabbers]

Reading Tea Time for the Traditionally built by Alexander McCall Smith. I just love the first ladies detective agency books. Thought I'd read them all then discovered he's sneaked a few more in behind my back! They give me a real feel good boost and the characters are so well portrayed I feel like I'm in the same room even though I've never been to Africa.

[RoastLamb]

Pabbers, did you ever see the tv series on Mmw Ramotswe? I thought they were pretty good.

[pabbers]

Pabbers, did you ever see the tv series on Mmw Ramotswe? I thought they were pretty good.

No I didn't watch it because I was worried it might not reflect what I'd imagined. Have you read the books?

[RoastLamb]

Yes, I loved the books. I thought they did a great job and were quite faithful to the characters and stories.

[pabbers]

Wish I'd seen them now....:grrr:

[RoastLamb]

Maybe they'll repeat on telly. I know they are not making a second series, sadly.

[Cathy66]

Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell. Have never read it so thought I would give it a go. It's heavy going!

[Hawkeye]

Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn.

[supergran]

Something like that, very tiring:jitterbug: That reminds me...on my return train journey from the DC I noticed that I was the only person reading a book. So many people reading kindles and others working on laptops. I had to smile.:)

[Minnie98]

That reminds me...on my return train journey from the DC I noticed that I was the only person reading a book. So many people reading kindles and others working on laptops. I had to smile.:)

I tried very hard to read Twilight on the train back from DC but a group of rangers fans were being too loud to even talk to the person sitting next to you.... :grrr:

I've finished it now though :) really good! Thanks SG!

Next up: To Kill a Mockingbird

[RoastLamb]

Minnie, I read To Kill a Mockingbird at school. One of my fave books and I remember it so well. The movie with Gregory Peck is wonderful as well.

I want to read Dyan Cannon's dish on her former husband, Cary Grant. I love celeb biographies.

[supergran]

I tried very hard to read Twilight on the train back from DC but a group of rangers fans were being too loud to even talk to the person sitting next to you.... :grrr:

I've finished it now though :) really good! Thanks SG!

Next up: To Kill a Mockingbird You're very welcome!!

[Alis]

'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett - hadn't realised they had made a film of it until it was featured on breakfast TV today. Great read - I hope the film's as good.

[supergran]

"The Black House" by Peter May. The plot and characters well crafted and the story keeps you enthralled. A brutal murder has taken place on the Isle of Lewis and Finn MacLeod a Detective Inspector is sent from Edinburgh to investigate. Finn is a native of Lewis, hasn't been back for many years and in flashbacks we slowly discover about his boyhood there. Have'nt finished it yet but it is a gripping story with a plot and sub-plots both sinister and mysterious.

[Maza1987]

I'm finally reading Agassi's autobiography. Fascinating.

[supergran]

I'm finally reading Agassi's autobiography. Fascinating. You will really enjoy it....I know I did.

[pabbers]

I'm finally reading Agassi's autobiography. Fascinating.


You will really enjoy it....I know I did.

Yes I loved it - couldn't put it down and I'm not usually one for biographies auto or otherwise.

[hfwardhouse]

I'm finally reading Agassi's autobiography. Fascinating.


You will really enjoy it....I know I did.


Yes I loved it - couldn't put it down and I'm not usually one for biographies auto or otherwise.

Ditto - it was fascinating - and like Pabbers I'm not one for biographies either - love my fiction - but really enjoyed it!

[Linda]

I really enjoyed Agassi's autobiography too. Also enjoyed Blakes' and Rafa's. Three very different books but all very interesting.

[RoastLamb]

But if they'd written their books all by themselves dunno if they'd be so interesting.

[Linda]

Well of course none of them would be able to write as well themselves as they are tennis players not writers. But the content is interesting.

[Alis]

I'm finally reading Agassi's autobiography. Fascinating.

Couldn't put Agassi's book down first time round - read it again several months later and enjoyed it just as much. I've even badgered my other half to read it, I think it's so good. I've ordered Rafa's, Brad Gilbert's and McEnroe's - might just be tennis overload!!!!

[mintsauce]

'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett - hadn't realised they had made a film of it until it was featured on breakfast TV today. Great read - I hope the film's as good.

I read this recently too -it was a very good read - I would recommend it highly to anyone. There's a good review of it here: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/5844739/The-maids-tale-Kathryn-Stockett-examines-slavery-and-racism-in-Americas-Deep-South.html

Following on from that I just read Small Island by Andrea Levy which also portrays racism but this time in post-war Britain, another great book reviewed here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/jan/08/small-island-andrea-levy-bookclub

[RoastLamb]

Loved Small Island. They made a really fantastic tv film about it.

Thanks for the great link, Minty. One of the reviews is Little Stranger by Sarah Waters. (http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/jul/24/little-stranger-sarah-waters-club) I read it last year and loved it until the end which I found to be totally antic-climactic.

[Linda]

I loved Small Island too.

I've only read one of Sarah Waters' books - Fingersmith - and I thought it was really good.

[RoastLamb]

I've read three of hers. Fingersmith was her best. And the tv film was awesome as well.

[pabbers]

I loved Small Island too.

I've only read one of Sarah Waters' books - Fingersmith - and I thought it was really good.


I've read three of hers. Fingersmith was her best. And the tv film was awesome as well.

Have heard of Fingersmith - think I might give that a go. Nearly finished Teatime for the Traditionally Built and have got Jo Nesbo's Redbreast lined up after that. Read Devil's Star a while back and wanted to go back to the first Harry Hole novel, although strictly speaking I believe there are 2 earlier books that haven't yet been translated into English - bit annoying. Or maybe it's shame on me for not learning Norwegian :shamed:

[RoastLamb]

Teatime for the Traditionally Built? What an awesome title!!! :rolling:

[pabbers]

Teatime for the Traditionally Built? What an awesome title!!! :rolling:

Priceless isn't it. It's just how I visualise Mma Ramotswe and the books have such a feel good factor. They always give me a lift.

[RoastLamb]

I agree. All of his books are like that.

[pabbers]

I agree. All of his books are like that.
Have you read any of the 44 Scotland Street ones? The characters are so well painted even if exaggerated.

BTW do you have to set questions for your book club? I've often fancied joining one but always been put off by the fact that I'm not a fast reader. I only get the chance to read for about 15-20mins at bedtime so wouldn't be confident of finishing a book in a month. Otherwise wondered if it might be worth having a cyber bookclub on here?

[Linda]

I read each of the Ladies' Detective Agency books as they came out, and loved them. Then there seemed quite a wait until the last one, and I haven't bought it as I seem to have lost the interest now. I've also read a couple of his other books which were also very good.

[RoastLamb]

I've read from all of his series. They're all good. I like his jaunty optimistic writing.

I've been in two book clubs. The first one was quite strict and we did do questions and also scrapbooking pages (which was fun). The second was way more loosey goosey with no formal structure. The third one I've just joined so I don't know as yet. Am going on the 17th for first meeting.

Anyway, I'd love to participate in a cyber book club. We nearly tried it a few years ago but it fizzled. The new McCall Smith would actually be a great place to start.

[pabbers]

I've read from all of his series. They're all good. I like his jaunty optimistic writing.

I've been in two book clubs. The first one was quite strict and we did do questions and also scrapbooking pages (which was fun). The second was way more loosey goosey with no formal structure. The third one I've just joined so I don't know as yet. Am going on the 17th for first meeting.

Anyway, I'd love to participate in a cyber book club. We nearly tried it a few years ago but it fizzled. The new McCall Smith would actually be a great place to start.

Do you fancy setting it up RL, as you have book club experience? Which is the new MS book?

[RoastLamb]

Yup. Who'd like to be involved? Pabbers and myself for starters. Linda? Anyone else?

[Linda]

If it's a McCall Smith book I could probably join in as they are so quick to read. Which book is it? I'll have to go and get it.

[pabbers]

I'm not at all sure what his latest is - this is his website http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/home/

[RoastLamb]

I will check it out tomorrow. Bit tired right now.

[supergran]

Finished "The Black House" this afternoon. Really good read. Unexpected twist at end which took me by surprise.

[RoastLamb]

I'm not at all sure what his latest is - this is his website http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/home/

His latest No. 1 Detective Agency title is The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party. Shall we do that one? I just checked Amazon and it's in pb and trade pb and available?

BTW: great website!

[pabbers]

Thanks, RL. Sounds good - I'm in. Are there any rules of thumb - what do we do?

[RoastLamb]

We should give ourselves a month to read. Then we can discuss what we thought about it on here. Maybe prepare a few questions for each other. Some publishers prepare reading guides for some of their authors which include a Q&A with the author and questions regarding the work. So that's something to consider for future titles.

[hfwardhouse]

I'd like to participate but I'm in the middle of reading through the Sue Grafton series - up to P. I'd prefer not to have to buy a book either ... bit hard up at the moment :shamed: .... but I'll have a look to see if there's a cheap version for the kindle and then I'd be happy to join in.

Edit - just checked and it's £8.49 so count me out for this one - haven't read any of his yet anyway - think I may have them for the kindle too so will have a look and play catch up!

[RoastLamb]

Wow that's steep. Coz it's in paperback and shouldn't it be cheaper than that? Never mind, Jane you can choose a title for next month if you want.

[pabbers]

Should we maybe start a separate thread called book club so that our discussions are coherent and others don't feel they're intruding? Also, might encourage others to join in as it will stand out more? Will buy this over the weekend. Off to Portugal next Thursday for 12 days so should be able to keep up the first month!

[RoastLamb]

Yes, I'll start it altho' it looks like just you and me - for the first month anyway. Jane can pick a title she already has next month. Don't know about Linda as yet.

[Linda]

I'll try to buy the book this weekend.

[RoastLamb]

I'll try to buy the book this weekend.

:cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

[RoastLamb]

Listen, I just looked it up on amazon.uk and it's not been released in paperback as yet so I think we should try a different book - we should always go for paperbacks rather than hardcovers. Maybe the Teatime for the Traditionally Built? Pabbers, you said this was on your list to read, correct?

[pabbers]

Listen, I just looked it up on amazon.uk and it's not been released in paperback as yet so I think we should try a different book - we should always go for paperbacks rather than hardcovers. Maybe the Teatime for the Traditionally Built? Pabbers, you said this was on your list to read, correct?

Wow - yes please............I've just finished it so can't fail to keep up..............:laugh: Seriously though - would that be ok. Or there's the next book in the series The Double Comfort Safari Club if that would suit? Hope Linda doesn't dash out and buy the hardback before reading this! :sad: Just checked and the DCSC is £4.09 for us in the UK on Amazon which is fine.

[Linda]

I almost never buy hardbacks! Only if it's a book I've been waiting for for ages, such as the fourth book onwards of the HP series and Rafa's book. I rather like the sound of Teatime for the Traditionally Built and I haven't read it yet. I prefer to read a series of books in the right order - but I may have missed several as the last one I read was 'The Full Cupboard of Life' - it seemed to me that he had run out of ideas in that book so I didn't enjoy it as much as the earlier ones, and that's why I stopped buying them.

[hfwardhouse]

I've got to go to the library to pick something up so I could have a look and see if any of the ones you're suggesting are there .... sorry for being a skinflint and all that but needs must and I've got loads of freebies on my Kindle to read ;)

[supergran]

Should we maybe start a separate thread called book club so that our discussions are coherent and others don't feel they're intruding? Also, might encourage others to join in as it will stand out more? Will buy this over the weekend. Off to Portugal next Thursday for 12 days so should be able to keep up the first month! Think a separate thread would be ideal especially for members who aren't going to join the Book Club.

[hfwardhouse]

I've set up a new Book Club (http://www.andymurrayfanforum.com/forums/showthread.php?300-Book-Club&p=9349#post9349) thread to continue our discussion there .... will copy the posts from here over.

[Hawkeye]

Just about to start the new Discworld novel by Terry Pratchett, called Snuff.

[RoastLamb]

Snuff? Sounds rather ominous. :hide:

I'm almost finished Dear Cary by Dyan Cannon. I've always been slightly obsessed with Cary Grant and always wanted to know what his wives and family really thought of him. Now I know. I read his daughter's book earlier this year and it's quite fascinating to compare the two books and perspectives. His daughter paints a much nicer picture of him than his ex. :rolling:

[Linda]

Just read Waiting for Columbus by Thomas Trofimuk, a Canadian writer. A very unusual and interesting novel. I always seem to like Canadian authors. Have you read anything by him, Fiona?

[RoastLamb]

I've never even heard of him? :shocked:

What other Cdn authors do you like?

[Linda]

Well, I think you'd like this book. You'll have to look out for him.

ETA - just googled and found that he has a website (http://www.thomastrofimuk.com/) - it's as strange as his book . . .

I like Rohinton Mistry and Margaret Atwood.

[Linda]

I've really got back into reading lately - I'm now reading A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. Not my usual kind of book but I suppose it's appropriate for Hallowe'en! The writeups describe it as 'Harry Potter for grownups' and 'the thinking woman's Twilight'. As it's set at Oxford University, there's also a bit of Northern Lights in there. And as the vampire is gradually telling the witch more of his 1500 year life story, it's also rather like Interview with the Vampire!

[Linda]

This book is now showing another influence - the action has moved to a castle in France, where the vampires all speak Occitan (the ancient language of Southern France). There's also a link to an order of Knights similar to the Templars. So it's all gone a bit Dan Brown! :rolling:

[Hawkeye]

I'm sure that must have been occidental.

[Linda]

*groan*

[RoastLamb]

:rolling:


...a bit Dan Brown.

[Cathy66]

Game of Thrones when I get chance.:)

[supergran]

Dance of Death by Duncan Preston & Lincoln Child. A suspense novel set in NYC. Husband gets loads from charity shop and get through about three a week!! He suggests some books to me if he thinks I'd enjoy them. And so I'm reading his choices which are mainly detective genre. Have enjoyed quite a few lately.

[Linda]

The witches and vampires have now moved to America. And they're thinking of doing a bit of time travel. Whatever next! :rolling:

[pabbers]

Game of Thrones when I get chance.:)

Just on the second one - A Clash of Kings. Really enjoyed A Game of Thrones and so far am not disappointed by the sequel.

The book you're reading sounds good Linda!

[davech]

I'm reading the third in the series, and I'm still enjoying it. The only problem I have is in remembering who all the characters are. A new name seems to be introduced every couple of paragraphs!

[Hawkeye]

It only gets worse!

And also... http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/news/society/game-of-thrones-is-'fantasy-gateway-drug'-201111044505/

[Linda]

“Six months later, he's made his own suit of armour and stands in front of the bathroom door saying 'You shall not pass, I am Krell the Magemancer'. If you try to get past he hits you with a rubber sword, shouting 'minus four strength points'.


:rolling: :rolling: :rolling:

[Linda]

Well, my book didn't really end. I wondered how on earth (or possibly somewhere else, the way it was going) it was going to be finished when I only had two chapters to go and war was about to break out. It seems that it's the first of a trilogy (no idea when the second book will be out). So, after reading 688 pages I'm left with the main characters having just left for 1590 and a huge war about to break out between the witches, vampires and daemons! :grrr:

My son once bought the first book of a trilogy (The Magefire by Alexander Baliol) and unfortunately the author died before writing the other books. That must have been really annoying!

[hfwardhouse]

How inconsiderate :rolleyes: ;) - honestly some folk ;)

[patmoren]

I'm reading the third in the series, and I'm still enjoying it. The only problem I have is in remembering who all the characters are. A new name seems to be introduced every couple of paragraphs!That series is still going. It takes so long to get the next ones in the series, I had one on advance order for a year but it looks as though I finally cancelled it. He is a slow writer!!

[Hawkeye]

It's not so much that he's a slow writer, it's that he has loads of other projects on the go.

[KnightOwl]

I've got to the stage where I actually don't buy books which are part of a trilogy until they're all finished - I've been caught out before either by authors dying or just going on a go-slow for a while! Drives you mad!

Although, I've done that twice before only to find the author has had a bit of a soul-to-soul with himself, anf thought "actually, what the heck, I think I may as well turn this into a quadrilogy" (if such a word exists!)

:grrr:

[supergran]

Halfway through "The Poet" by Michael Connelly. He is a former police reporter for the Los Angeles Times and his themes are usually detective/murder mysteries. We have read quite a few of his books and enjoyed them. This one is about a serial killer and I am finding it absolutely enthralling.

[Linda]

After being distracted by the novels I've mentioned, I'm going to get back to 'Introducing the New Testament' by John Drane. A huge book which I picked up in the local Bible shop for £10 reduced from £25 due to slight damage.

[hfwardhouse]

Halfway through "The Poet" by Michael Connelly. He is a former police reporter for the Los Angeles Times and his themes are usually detective/murder mysteries. We have read quite a few of his books and enjoyed them. This one is about a serial killer and I am finding it absolutely enthralling.

I love Michael Connelly's books - I've read quite a few although I think the Poet is still on my list of books to read! They're un-put-downable!

[galagirl]

I too have read several Michael Connelly books - including "The Poet" all very enjoyable. Another author I like is David Baldacci again in the thriller category.

[supergran]

I too have read several Michael Connelly books - including "The Poet" all very enjoyable. Another author I like is David Baldacci again in the thriller category.Don't think we have read any of his so will definitely look out for them. Thanks.:thanks:

[Linda]

I had a nice browse in Waterstone's today! Saw a book that intrigued me - Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James. She's written a murder book with all the characters from Pride & Prejudice in it! I might get it when the paperback comes out.

[Sallydaisy]

I had a nice browse in Waterstone's today! Saw a book that intrigued me - Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James. She's written a murder book with all the characters from Pride & Prejudice in it! I might get it when the paperback comes out.
I like the sound of that ... but like you will wait for a paperback to come out.
I'm very behind on reading at the moment.

[RoastLamb]

I've read everything PD James has written. So this is defo on my list.

[Jan]

My son bought me Mansour Bahrami's autobiography - The Court Jester - for my birthday. It's a fascinating insight into the struggles he had - financial, political and so on. The guy had amazing tenacity and determination. It's quite staggering to read about some of the things that were going on in the tennis world (and wider world too) really very recently. It's very moving too. I recommend it!

[Linda]

That sounds good - I saw it in the mini-catalogue that the Tennis Shop sent me recently - I think I'll get it!

[Alis]

My son bought me Mansour Bahrami's autobiography - The Court Jester - for my birthday. It's a fascinating insight into the struggles he had - financial, political and so on. The guy had amazing tenacity and determination. It's quite staggering to read about some of the things that were going on in the tennis world (and wider world too) really very recently. It's very moving too. I recommend it!

I heard Mansour speak a little about his background in interview a while ago but didn't know he'd written an autobiography - Amazon here I come!!

[supergran]

My son bought me Mansour Bahrami's autobiography - The Court Jester - for my birthday. It's a fascinating insight into the struggles he had - financial, political and so on. The guy had amazing tenacity and determination. It's quite staggering to read about some of the things that were going on in the tennis world (and wider world too) really very recently. It's very moving too. I recommend it! I will definitely buy that. Thanks for discussing it.:thumbup::thumbup:

[Hawkeye]

Just had a major splurge on Amazon, thanks to the gift certificates I received for Christmas!

Books 5-10 of the Tales of the Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson, books 3 & 4 of Well of Echoes and The Songs of the Tears trilogy by Ian Irvine, and books 9-12 of the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind.

[RoastLamb]

So we won't see you on here for a while then, Hawkeye? :lol:

Just spent time on amazon myself buying stuff for my daughter on her gift certificates.

I received a couple of books for Christmas inc. Michael Buble's autobiography which I started reading 11 p.m. Christmas night and finished at 1 a.m. Boxing Day morning. Not much of a serious read. Nice photos.

[Alis]

Also reading 'The Court Jester' by Mansour Bahrami - fascinating reading - I would recommend it to any tennis fan.

[Sallydaisy]

I'm almost finished U for Undertow by Sue Grafton. Started it a couple of months ago but had to break off and lost the plot so yesterday I started again from scratch!!!

The Bahrami book sounds really good.

Just now I'm reading through Sparknotes synopses of the plot and characters of Great Expectations ahead of watching the BBC production starting at 9pm! Despite loving to read I've always struggled with Dickens. I think it's OK once you've got into his style of writing and details but it's hard going to start. I'd rather read a Shakespeare play!
Would like to read Death Comes to Pemberley but only when it is in paperback.
I've got a few others to keep me going in the meanwhile - Port Mortuary by Patricia Cornwell and 5 books written by Linda Fairstein starting with Final Jeopardy.

[Hawkeye]

Just now I'm reading through Sparknotes synopses of the plot and characters of Great Expectations ahead of watching the BBC production starting at 9pm!Not a fan of costume dramas generally, but I'm going to give this a go as a fan of Gillian Anderson.

[cazza99]

Just had a major splurge on Amazon, thanks to the gift certificates I received for Christmas!

Books 5-10 of the Tales of the Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson, books 3 & 4 of Well of Echoes and The Songs of the Tears trilogy by Ian Irvine, and books 9-12 of the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind.

I've read the Ian Irvine and Terry Goodkind ones - enjoyed em - so happy reading. Don't think I have read of any Steven Erikson yet, but I think I have collected some of his books from second hand shops.

edit: I'm currently wending my way through the Kate Elliott Crown of Stars series.

[Hawkeye]

I've read them too. Need to discover someone new though, whilst I'm waiting for GoT6.

[Linda]

Just had a major splurge on Amazon, thanks to the gift certificates I received for Christmas!

Books 5-10 of the Tales of the Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson, books 3 & 4 of Well of Echoes and The Songs of the Tears trilogy by Ian Irvine, and books 9-12 of the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind.

Have you read anything by Scott Lynch?


Also reading 'The Court Jester' by Mansour Bahrami - fascinating reading - I would recommend it to any tennis fan.

Sounds great, I must get that!


Just now I'm reading through Sparknotes synopses of the plot and characters of Great Expectations ahead of watching the BBC production starting at 9pm! Despite loving to read I've always struggled with Dickens. I think it's OK once you've got into his style of writing and details but it's hard going to start. I'd rather read a Shakespeare play!
Would like to read Death Comes to Pemberley but only when it is in paperback.

I'd recommend Hard Times as an introduction to Dickens. I'm also going to get Death Comes to Pemberley when it comes out in paperback. Perhaps we should then make it our book club choice.


Not a fan of costume dramas generally, but I'm going to give this a go as a fan of Gillian Anderson.

You mean you are a fan of ladies with large chests.

[patmoren]

I am reading The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, strange!

[Hawkeye]

Have you read anything by Scott Lynch?No I haven't, I'll check him out.

You mean you are a fan of ladies with large chests.I am, yes, but I wouldn't put her into that category!
I am reading The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, strange!I had thought about trying some of his stuff, seeing as he is doing a fair job of finishing off The Wheel of Time sequence after Robert Jordan's untimely death, I'd be interested to hear if anyone else has any comments!

[patmoren]

I have just finished a series of his books which were very good but this one is a bit different. He is taking his time finishing the Wheel of Time, I have it on pre-order but still sometime to wait.
Shame you don't live nearer I have just taken 4 crates of SF books to the local pub, they lend them out and raise money for charity

[banskogirl]

I had a nice browse in Waterstone's today! Saw a book that intrigued me - Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James. She's written a murder book with all the characters from Pride & Prejudice in it! I might get it when the paperback comes out.

Only reading back through this thread now, I know, I was going to try to keep up with the new website :s anyway Linda this book sound a bit interesting! P & P is my favourite book ever ( I even have a copy for the bath) but who could they murder? might just have to buy it to find out!

[banskogirl]

should have said, I started Great Expectations last week, so have had to save the recordings until I am finished!

[RoastLamb]

I've read some not very complimentary reviews of the PD James book. I do love her though so I may try it.

[banskogirl]

We probably need to read it for ourselves, can't see everyone liking a book like that, my son bought the Zombie version and I was not pleased!

[Sallydaisy]

Just bought a copy of The World of Downton Abbey ... £7 in Tesco. Originally £20, marked on the shelf at £10 but it was £3 less; I didn't argue!!! Think it can be bought for £6 online but there's p&p on top and it's hardback so would probably cost the same if not more. I like historical stuff and I've been lucky enough to visit Highclere Castle where it's filmed so it has more interest.

Bankskogirl - hope you're getting on OK with Great Expectations? I just re-read the Sparknotes ahead of tonight's episode - bit of a cheat but I'm enjoying the serialisation. Gillian Anderson is pretty good; apparently she gets more decrepit tonight.

[supergran]

Supergrandpa received 8 books this Christmas and I didn't get one. I still have to read "Rafa" and as we have "David Copperfield" in the house (2 volumes) am going to re-read that. Lent a pupil "Great Expectations" so may ring and ask for its return.

[ragdoll]

I finally had time to read Game of Thrones, which I bought months ago....read it in a day as soon as I had a chance and loved it :) my br other got Rafa for christmas so I have to wait til he's finished to read it...could be years knowing him :D

[pabbers]

I've read them too. Need to discover someone new though, whilst I'm waiting for GoT6.

Still making my way through A Clash of Kings - I'm a slow reader and I've had to abandon it for a while to read the book club book. I'm enjoying it though, even though there's not actually a lot of action - it's building the tensions between the warring factions quite well. I'll be intrigued to see how they manage to make it gripping tv watching. Hope they don't stray too far from the book - A Game of Thrones was very true to the book.

Love Dickens - Great Expectations is one I've read over and over but I couldn't face another tv dramatisation of it at the mo.

[ragdoll]

I'll be intrigued to see how they manage to make it gripping tv watching. Hope they don't stray too far from the book - A Game of Thrones was very true to the book.

Is the series worth watching? Have to prioritise my TV these days :laugh:

[Hawkeye]

Absolutely!

[pabbers]

Absolutely!

Yup but it's not for the feint hearted or prim and proper!

[ragdoll]

I'll give it a go then :) I don't think I'm faint hearted or prim and proper :D

[cazza99]

I've read them too. Need to discover someone new though, whilst I'm waiting for GoT6.

GoT6 ??????

Game of Thrones?

[Hawkeye]

Yes, I know I should have typed ASOIAF6 but it was too tricky.

[banskogirl]

Just bought a copy of The World of Downton Abbey ... £7 in Tesco. Originally £20, marked on the shelf at £10 but it was £3 less; I didn't argue!!! Think it can be bought for £6 online but there's p&p on top and it's hardback so would probably cost the same if not more. I like historical stuff and I've been lucky enough to visit Highclere Castle where it's filmed so it has more interest.

Bankskogirl - hope you're getting on OK with Great Expectations? I just re-read the Sparknotes ahead of tonight's episode - bit of a cheat but I'm enjoying the serialisation. Gillian Anderson is pretty good; apparently she gets more decrepit tonight.

yes I'm still reading it, its hard to get time at Christmas! should be easier when off work. I bought a friend the Downton book for Christmas and paid £10! thought it was a bargain ;) going to her house for New Years so will hear what she thinks of it (she will tell me)

[Caro]

Read rafa's book over xmas. Bought it ages ago and had been saving it till I was off work. Really enjoyed it, especially the way he kind of bases it all around the 2008 Wimby final. No major surprises though or too much personal detail. Still think Agassi's was the best autobiography I have read so far. Oh and Jonny Mac's.

[supergran]

Haven't finished Rafa's yet. Thoroughly enjoyed Mac's and Agassi's....I have those signed, dontcha know?:boogie::whistle: Also have Andy's,(signed, of course!!) and Becker's and Nastase's....good also!!

[Caro]

You have everything signed SG!! Would LOVE to have met Mac and Agassi - they were both my favourite players in their eras.

[Sallydaisy]

V for Vengeance arrived today! (Sue Grafton's latest Kinsey Millhone book).
:thumbup:

[pabbers]

V for Vengeance arrived today! (Sue Grafton's latest Kinsey Millhone book).
:thumbup:

Need to finish a Clash of Kings then I can make a start on B and C!!

[supergran]

You have everything signed SG!! Would LOVE to have met Mac and Agassi - they were both my favourite players in their eras.Loved them too!!

[Alis]

Read rafa's book over xmas. Bought it ages ago and had been saving it till I was off work. Really enjoyed it, especially the way he kind of bases it all around the 2008 Wimby final. No major surprises though or too much personal detail. Still think Agassi's was the best autobiography I have read so far. Oh and Jonny Mac's.

I agree Caro, having read most of them now I definitely think Agassi's is the best - so good that I've read it twice!

[Alis]

haven't finished rafa's yet. Thoroughly enjoyed mac's and agassi's....i have those signed, dontcha know?:boogie::whistle: Also have andy's,(signed, of course!!) and becker's and nastase's....good also!!

wow!!!!!

[MurrayAOne]

wow!!!!!

second that 'wow'.....wow!

[Sallydaisy]

Need to finish a Clash of Kings then I can make a start on B and C!!
I'll bring D thru' T with me to Braehead and you can borrow them if you want.

[pabbers]

I'll bring D thru' T with me to Braehead and you can borrow them if you want.

Thanks Sally! Will have to leave space in the hand luggage!

[Sallydaisy]

Thanks Sally! Will have to leave space in the hand luggage!
Forgot you'll have very little room!
:doh:

[pabbers]

Well another couple would be nice - at the rate I read, and I'm likely to read other stuff between, I can wait till the next DC for some more :)

[davech]

Need to finish a Clash of Kings then I can make a start on B and C!!

Ooh, I'm reading the "A Song of Ice and Fire" books at the moment, too. I'm currently reading "A Storm of Swords" which is so ridiculously long that when it was published in France it was split into four volumes.

[pabbers]

Ooh, I'm reading the "A Song of Ice and Fire" books at the moment, too. I'm currently reading "A Storm of Swords" which is so ridiculously long that when it was published in France it was split into four volumes.

Ah - no stamina the French.........:lol:

[RoastLamb]

Just went to Chapters (big Cdn bookstore) with my kids to spend our Christmas gift cards. We got some real bargains inc. half price Christmas cards for next year. Yay!

[hfwardhouse]

I was in Waterstones on Thursday and saw loads of books I want to get ..... but I'll have to wait till they're available cheap for the Kindle cos I just spent all my Christmas money on a pair of boots :shamed: :rolling:

Oh and I got my Christmas cards for 50p a box .... were £3 - RESULT :yahoo:

[WimbledonAce]

Only just finished reading Rafa, has taken me ages what with Christmas getting in the way! An extremely in depth book, impressive!

[RoastLamb]

Popped into our local bookstore this evening and found to my great delight my fave author's new book on sale with 40% off. Elizabeth George's new Insp. Lynley. LOVE HER!!! She only comes out with a Lynley novel every two years.

[Sallydaisy]

Popped into our local bookstore this evening and found to my great delight my fave author's new book on sale with 40% off. Elizabeth George's new Insp. Lynley. LOVE HER!!! She only comes out with a Lynley novel every two years.
That'll be on my list to read then!
:thumbup:

Started reading Sue Grafton's V for Vengeance on Wed night and finished it last night.
As enjoyable as ever.
:)

[patmoren]

Ooh, I'm reading the "A Song of Ice and Fire" books at the moment, too. I'm currently reading "A Storm of Swords" which is so ridiculously long that when it was published in France it was split into four volumes.
You have to wait so long for the next in the series. I was given Book 4 of the Sword of Shadows for Christmas "Watcher of the Dead" I have another great pile of paper books to read again.
Finally finished Brandon Sandersons Way Of Kings -Stormlight Archives. Weird but very compelling.

[Linda]

I have just finished reading a book that had me so hooked that I spent virtually all day yesterday reading it despite the fact that I had lots more important things to do!

It was one of the second hand books I got from the doctor's surgery. It's not a very recent book - it was published in 2002 - but I hadn't heard of it before, despite its being the winner of the WH Smith Literary Award 2002. It's The Little Friend by Donna Tartt. It's set in a small town in Mississippi in the late 60's (or possibly around 1970) and is about a twelve year old girl whose brother has been murdered. She sets out to find out who did it and take revenge. But what is really interesting is the amazing description of that time and place and the people's attitudes. She comes from a "good Christian" family but they look down on their black servants and the "white trash" who live out at the trailer park.

It is a very long book, and it starts off very slowly. But once it gets going it is impossible to put down. It's incredibly well written with loads of description - as you read it you can feel the oppressive heat of the summer and the sense of menace once she gets involved with dangerous criminals. I thoroughly recommend it. I would suggest it for the book club if it were not for the fact that some people expressed a wish for a book that is not too 'heavy'.

[RoastLamb]

Sounds really good. I certainly don't mind a heavy-ish book for book club. We can't and shouldn't be reading all light fare, imho.

[Linda]

Well, I agree with you there. I generally prefer a 'heavy' book to a light one. But when I suggested a couple of books for next month, most people seemed to prefer the light one.

[pabbers]

Well, I agree with you there. I generally prefer a 'heavy' book to a light one. But when I suggested a couple of books for next month, most people seemed to prefer the light one.

Well that was me but I suppose it depends on what you classify as heavy. The one above looks fine to me.

[Linda]

It seems that people are already reading The Book of Tomorrow so we'll have to stick with that this time. Next time it's my turn to choose I'll suggest The Little Friend (unless anyone else picks it in the meantime).

[RoastLamb]

That's what I like about book clubs: the fact we have to read books that we probably wouldn't normally choose for ourselves. I usually get really surprised that I liked a book someone else has picked. Case in point, you weren't initially that keen to read ToaN but you actually quite enjoyed it.

[banskogirl]

I've finished Great Expectations! at last, I know that was before Christmas but it's been a bit crazy. Actually if it wasnt for hubby's chemo clinic it would never have been read! I finished this morning while feel grotty and sad at Andy's loss. Cried my eyes out!

[Linda]

That's what I like about book clubs: the fact we have to read books that we probably wouldn't normally choose for ourselves. I usually get really surprised that I liked a book someone else has picked. Case in point, you weren't initially that keen to read ToaN but you actually quite enjoyed it.

Yes, that's very true, that's what's good about book clubs. That's what's good about school reading lists too - you don't know what you'll like until you try it. Some of the books we had to read at school I loved, and others I hated. And some of them I could only get into once I was off sick and had the time to devote to them. In fact, being off sick was the best thing ever for reading. A few years ago I had a really good offer for the Booker shortlist at a knockdown price so of course I bought it and read them all. I wasn't so keen on the winner that year (Life of Pi by Yann Martel) but I discovered Rohinton Mistry, now one of my favourite authors.

[RoastLamb]

I think they're both Canadian authors too. Good choice!

[Hawkeye]

Just started reading the Tales of the Malazan Book of the Fallen series by Steven Erikson now that I finally have the whole lot.

[RoastLamb]

Reading The Bishop's Man by Linden MacIntyre set in Canada. It's about a priest whose job has been to clean up after deviant priests and now he finally has his own parish but the past demons come back to haunt. Very nicely written and almost lyrical. Couple of years ago it won a huge fiction prize over here called The Giller.

[patmoren]

Just finished Elantris by Brandon Sanderson, great read. Having a light read now Barbara Taylor Bradford Playing the Game

[Elizabeth]

I have just finished reading My Brother's Voice and cried at some parts. It is a true story of how a young hungarian boy survived the Holocaust. The story teller is that young boy (now a man). It is quite disturbing and upsetting but I could not put it down.

[Hawkeye]

Just finished a really rubbish book called The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt for our staff book group at work. Imagine my surprise when I found out that it was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Maybe it's me...

[RoastLamb]

Just finished a really rubbish book called The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt for our staff book group at work. Imagine my surprise when I found out that it was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Maybe it's me...

It won the Giller Prize here in Canada (it's Canadian). Sorry you didn't like it. :shamed:

[Hawkeye]

Have you read it RL? I assure you my dislike had nothing to do with its origins!

[RoastLamb]

No, I doubt I'd like it either tbh. :lol:

[patmoren]

I read the War Horse yesterday, was already feeling sad so that finished me off. Stayed up late to finsh it , get it all out of my system in one day!! I have now started the Meera Syal book.

[pabbers]

I read the War Horse yesterday, was already feeling sad so that finished me off. Stayed up late to finsh it , get it all out of my system in one day!! I have now started the Meera Syal book.

Didn't enjoy the film I'm afraid. Hope Meera cheers you up a bit!

[RoastLamb]

I'm reading Reginald Hill's The Woodcutter. You'd like it, Jane. Some strong Scottish characters in it.

[ljs]

I realize you bunch have already read it , but Im now reading Andy's bio , couldnt get it here , but my son went to Manchester for a week and brought it back for me

[hfwardhouse]

Just finished reading The Disappeared by M R Hall - found it extremely enjoyable and would recommend it to anyone who likes a good crime novel. Hadn't read any of the series - just discovered there's 4 and this was the second - and will definitely be getting the others!

[RoastLamb]

Just finished reading The Disappeared by M R Hall - found it extremely enjoyable and would recommend it to anyone who likes a good crime novel. Hadn't read any of the series - just discovered there's 4 and this was the second - and will definitely be getting the others!

Will defo read that. The Stuart Macbride series you introduced me to was and is brilliant!

[hfwardhouse]

Glad you enjoyed them Fiona :) - I love them too! The M R Hall was the other book I suggested for the book club - am so glad I decided to have a read! I've just downloaded book 1 in the series for my kindle so will be reading it next I think .... then I'll hit the book club choice for March :)

[pabbers]

Glad you enjoyed them Fiona :) - I love them too! The M R Hall was the other book I suggested for the book club - am so glad I decided to have a read! I've just downloaded book 1 in the series for my kindle so will be reading it next I think .... then I'll hit the book club choice for March :)

Wish I could read as fast as some of you guys. I have books apart from the book club ones that I want to read but I can't seem to fit them in!

[hfwardhouse]

I don't read that fast. Just at breakfast and later in the day if it's a book that has got me hooked!

[RoastLamb]

You should see my bedside table. It's sky high in books waiting to be read.

[Hawkeye]

Just spent the first morning of my week's holiday in bed reading Salmon Fishing In The Yemen by Paul Torday in one sitting for our staff book club. Thoroughly enjoyed it...

[hfwardhouse]

Sounds different ... can't say the title is one that would have me rushing to the bookshelf though!

I've been emailing Waterstones lately to try and get a proof copy of various books for review - finally met with success when a package arrived through the post this morning with a copy of The Gathering Dark by Leigh Bardugo which is not for me .... Minnie is thrilled and has vanished upstairs with it ....

[Hawkeye]

Is that one of those that they're calling Dark Fantasy nowadays? i.e vampires etc.

[RoastLamb]

Just spent the first morning of my week's holiday in bed reading Salmon Fishing In The Yemen by Paul Torday in one sitting for our staff book club. Thoroughly enjoyed it...

I've heard about that one. Got great reviews! And they've made a film starring Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor, I believe. Maybe you should join our book club and we could pick that title for the next free month?

[patmoren]

I am onto the 5th book of the Crown of Stars series. I hope some of you get hooked on the series after you've read the first, it is really good.

[Hawkeye]

I'm back to the Tales of the Malazan Book of the Fallen, have you read them Pat?

[patmoren]

Yes, read them some years ago. I have very rarely read a bad SF book.

[Linda]

I saw the Salmon Fishing book in Waterstone's and was thinking of getting it, so it's good to have a recommendation.

I've read King's Dragon now but will save my comments for when we discuss in the book club thread.

At our French class we started reading a book, Et si c'était vrai by Marc Levy. I got into it so after the class on Friday I carried on reading and finished it yesterday. It's very obviously written with the intention that it be made into a film - does anyone know whether it has? It's about a young woman in a coma and a man who sees and becomes involved with a sort of ghost of her.

Have just started reading Guernica by Dave Boling.

I'm spending more time reading than usual as due to my bad back I can't do much else! Have been to work although sitting is really painful. I'm fine when I'm lying on my bed.

[hfwardhouse]

Is that one of those that they're calling Dark Fantasy nowadays? i.e vampires etc.

Not sure but Esther's very into those .... and she's enjoying this one already!!!

[Linda]

Finished reading Guernica. Really enjoyed it. Now reading another second hand book from the doctor' surgery, The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters. I enjoyed her Fingersmith, so hopefully I'll like this one too.

[Linda]

I finished The Little Stranger but didn't like it nearly as much as Fingersmith.

I've just read The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. Caz bought me this from a charity shop a while ago, but I hadn't read it yet - I thought I wouldn't like it because it's sad. But in fact I liked it very much. Yes, it is sad, but it is also beautiful. A lovely book, which I thoroughly recommend.

[RoastLamb]

I liked The Lovely Bones too. Much better than the movie. I'm reading Ruth Rendell's Tigerlily's Orchids. Waiting for something to happen and I'm a third the way through.

[patmoren]

Ruth Rendell is quite long winded. Still working my way through the Crown of Stars, the current one is nearly 1000 pages

[pabbers]

Ruth Rendell is quite long winded. Still working my way through the Crown of Stars, the current one is nearly 1000 pages

I know you like sci fi Pat - have you read any of Peter Hamilton's stuff? Mr P is heavily into sci fi (I like it too). The Night's Dawn Trilogy is really different - the Reality Dysfunction is the first one of the three..........a long read but as I say very different and it's thought provoking too.

[Hawkeye]

Off down to my mum and dad's today to pick through their book collection, they're having a clear out prior to moving out of their home of the last 25 years. No doubt some of them will be mine anyway!

[pabbers]

Off down to my mum and dad's today to pick through their book collection, they're having a clear out prior to moving out of their home of the last 25 years. No doubt some of them will be mine anyway!

Good boy! Wish ours would do the same. We've got cupboards bulging with Sega games and the like :grrr:

[Hawkeye]

There's been a fair degree of coercion tbh!

[patmoren]

I know you like sci fi Pat - have you read any of Peter Hamilton's stuff? Mr P is heavily into sci fi (I like it too). The Night's Dawn Trilogy is really different - the Reality Dysfunction is the first one of the three..........a long read but as I say very different and it's thought provoking too.
I don't recall reading any Peter Hamilton, will keep my eyes peeled, always looking for new SciFi

[RoastLamb]

1000 pages! BLIMEY! Reminds me of The Pillars of the Earth. :eek:

[Linda]

I enjoyed Pillars of the Earth. Not particularly well written, but the details of the architecture etc. were fascinating.

[RoastLamb]

I didn't really love it. I had to read it for my book club so I toiled until the end but I, too, did like the architecture details (stonemasonry and cathedral building) and all the period stuff. I knew little of that time in British history so that was quite fascinating.

[pabbers]

1000 pages! BLIMEY! Reminds me of The Pillars of the Earth. :eek:

Erm yes - and if you remember I'm a slow reader..........and that's just the first part! They don't get any thinner.

[Hawkeye]

Another one for our staff book group, The Impossible Dead by Ian Rankin, and enjoyed this too, mainly because it's set in a part of the world I know really well! Of course, we've yet to actually have a meeting...

[RoastLamb]

I've read and enjoyed it. I've read all of his. Even met him at the Toronto Book Expo one year and got him to sign one of my books. He's lovely.

[patmoren]

A friend lent me the book called Call the Midwives, which was a television series a short while ago. Set in the times when I started nursing, amazing how quickly things have changed. It is all three books in one. The final book is composed of some case histories as well a an historical record of the East End of London into the 60s. It even mentions the Mothers Hospital in Clapton( the Salvation Army Hospital then), where my son was born. Takes me back a bit. Really good book though. Unfortunately can't rememeber the authors name and the book is back at home.

[RoastLamb]

I remember reading this series when I was a teen about a nurse called Sue Barton. Loved it. My brother-in-law has published two books about nursing, one about nursing practitioners dispensing drugs and the other about famous nurses inc. Florence Nightingale.

[cazza99]

I've just read the novel "A Guide to the Birds of East Africa" by Nicholas Drayson and enjoyed it. Its one for Alexander McCall Smith fans.

I can't decide what to read next. I've got a few sets of fantasy books to read. Has anyone read the LE Modsitt Jr books? Are they any good?

[RoastLamb]

I'm reading The Mistress of Nothing by Kate Pullinger. It won a Cdn award called the Governor's General. It's about Lady Lucie Duff Gordon (Victorian writer and translator) who was so ill with TB she had to live in Africa and Egypt for the heat. It's mainly about her maid, Sally, who had an affair with their Egyptian manservant and had his baby whilst she and her Lady were living in Luxor. Rather good. It's for my real book club.

[hfwardhouse]

Just finished A Cold Day for Murder by Dana Stabenow - really enjoyed it and have downloaded another couple of her books which were free for the kindle. Set in Alaska :)

[pabbers]

Just started Prince of Dogs - the second of seven (!!!) books in the Crown of Stars series by Kate Elliott. Enjoyed reading the first one so much for the book club on here (erm, aren't we real RL :lol:) that I'm hooked - thanks Pat Moren.

[patmoren]

I am halfway through the seventh and final one. Glad you are enjoying it Pat. Shame you aren't nearer I could give the other 5.

[RoastLamb]

Just about to start Patmoren's book club selection. A bit nervous tbh.

[Sallydaisy]

Oh crumbs, forgot to comment on Dawns book; just going out for a couple of hours so I'll do it this evening.
Sorry MA1.
:shamed:

And I'm thinking about what book I'll be asking you to read over the next day or so (with some trepidation I can tell you!).
:p

[pabbers]

Oh crumbs, forgot to comment on Dawns book; just going out for a couple of hours so I'll do it this evening.
Sorry MA1.
:shamed:

And I'm thinking about what book I'll be asking you to read over the next day or so (with some trepidation I can tell you!).
:p

Quite right too..........:lol:

[hfwardhouse]

I've not got started on Pat's selection yet although I was thinking of reading it next .... it's just I really enjoyed reading on the kindle again so am swithering about doing another kindle book before I kick off on a paper one!

[cazza99]

I finished the Crown of Stars series a month ago. Really good. :):)

[Alis]

Just finished 'Sister'by Rosamund Lupton. Its a psychological thriller - not my usual cup of tea but I really enjoyed it - read it in two nights!

[DaveArneRiise]

Reading "The Power Of Now" by Eckhart Tolle. Fascinating read.

[patmoren]

Just finished the last book in the Crown of Stars series. It is strange after reading such a long series I feel almost brereaved at the end, feel as though I have lost a family. Reminder to self, don't get so involved in books!!

[Hawkeye]

Have to say, I didn't like the ending of Crown of Stars, but then I rarely do, which makes my trepidation about the forthcoming last volume of Wheel of Time all the more worrying.

In saying that, it can't be any worse than the ending of Stephen King's Dark Tower sequence, which was an utter travesty!

[cazza99]

Just finished the last book in the Crown of Stars series. It is strange after reading such a long series I feel almost brereaved at the end, feel as though I have lost a family. Reminder to self, don't get so involved in books!!

I always feel like that too after reading long series. I'm still deciding which series to read next.

[MurrayAOne]

No worries! Looking forward to your comments and your choice of book!

[patmoren]

I am reading the Hunger Games, bought it on the Kindle when several people on twitter were saying how good it was and they were right, already nearly finished the second one, only started at the weekend, can't put it down.

[Linda]

I must be the last person on the planet to be reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. I didn't think I'd like it, but I can't put it down.

[RoastLamb]

I loved it. You should see the movies as well. Both Swedish and Hollywood versions are great.

[RoastLamb]

I am reading the Hunger Games, bought it on the Kindle when several people on twitter were saying how good it was and they were right, already nearly finished the second one, only started at the weekend, can't put it down.

My daughters and hairdresser LOVED Hunger Games so I will try it.

[pabbers]

Have read all 3 of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series - author's life very interesting and tragic too.

[RoastLamb]

I didn't enjoy the third book as much. Too many characters, too much political stuff and a bit dull. I do often wonder, had the author lived, what else he'd have written and where he'd have taken Lisbeth. Sigh. Hate it when lives are cut short. Such a tragedy. But at least we have those three books.

[supergran]

I must be the last person on the planet to be reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. I didn't think I'd like it, but I can't put it down. You're not Linda. I have resisted it as so many people tell me I should read it. Hate it when I'm told what to read and then regarded as strange because I haven't followed their advice. Probably will read it eventually.:):)

[Linda]

You're not Linda.

Oh yes I am! At least that's what it says on my passport . . . ;)

Finished the book. Wasn't so keen on the last couple of chapters.

[traveller7]

I have not read the above book, or twilight books or hunger games trilogy! Odd one out probably!

Ive just read a couple of books I picked up from charity shop by someone called carola dunn, she writes murder mystery stories. Really enjoyed them, quite light and something to pass the time before bed. Will be on the look out for her other stories in the shops!

[KnightOwl]

Oh yes I am! At least that's what it says on my passport...;)

Oh, Linda!! How dare you suggest to an english teacher that she may possibly have - inadvertently and without malice or forethought - perhaps ommitted one teeny tiny insignificant little comma ;)

:lol:

[supergran]

Oh, Linda!! How dare you suggest to an english teacher that she may possibly have - inadvertently and without malice or forethought - perhaps ommitted one teeny tiny insignificant little comma ;)

:lol:This is a plot to make me go mad. Have seen films about this. Don't know what you are talking about.:confused::confused::fingersear:

[Linda]

I feel sorry for the poor lost little comma :sad: ;)

[supergran]

Well you're younger than I. Go and look for it please.

[Linda]

If I find it, I won't be able to bend over and pick it up 'cos I've got a bad back! :lol:

[supergran]

:lol::Sorry I shouldn't laugh. Bad backs are horrible. Keep moving!!:)

[banskogirl]

I haven't read those books either, although have been advised to read the Girl with the Dragon tattoo! Am reading an Agatha Christie, Poirot, at the minute, bought the collection in a charity shop last year and read one every now and again, for light reading in between War and Peace :rolling: it's called Evil Under the Sun.

[supergran]

Talking about the missing comma has given me an idea for the book I am writing. The story is about an old, retired teacher who lives alone. The few friends she had are all gone now. Two died, one went to Australia and three have gone on a shopping trip to Debenhams. Her eyesight and her memory are failing and she rarely leave the small cottage that she has lived in for most of her life. Then one day a stranger rings the bell. She then has to knock loudly as the old woman never hears the bell. The stranger is a woman who introduces herself as a friend from the distant past. The plot revolves around the friendship that develops and the underlying subplot where the stranger takes over the life of this vulnerable, old lady. The working title of this book is "You're Not Linda!". As you have probably guessed there are many twists and turns as this thrilling book reaches its denouement. Only a few chapters have been written as I keep forgetting where I have left them. I am writing it in longhand as sometimes I make errors when typing, especially commas and I often forget to save the work. Of course it's a work of fiction but all good writers use their own experiences so I am intending to bring into this gripping tale such things as wine-drinking, perhaps a tennis match or two, and a bizarre reunion which ends in a tragedy.

[KnightOwl]

Brilliant :lol:

[Linda]

Great! Maybe you should write it on here, and we could all contribute! Well, we could all join in with the wine drinking, anyway! :wino:

[Linda]

Went round all the charity shops this afternoon and bought several more books to read! :)

[supergran]

Great! Maybe you should write it on here, and we could all contribute! Well, we could all join in with the wine drinking, anyway! :wino:You couldn't keep up!!! And, anyway.....you're NOT Linda!!

[jamie&andy's fan]

My mum brought me a book on my birthday - me before you. I think it's a good book and it made me cry at the end.

[Linda]

Currently reading The Janissary Tree. I saw this in Waterstone's when it came out a few years ago, read the description and thought that I'd read it many years ago. The story seemed just as I remembered - a murder in the palace in Istanbul, then another murder in the city, and the central character who was trying to solve it was a eunuch. But then I saw that it was a new book so it couldn't be the one I had read years before. :confused: Anyway I didn't buy it then, but saw it in a charity shop the other day and got it. I'm about half way through. The author has apparently written several non-fiction historical books previously, so I assume that his descriptions of 19th century Istanbul are authentic. It's very interesting. He has an unusual way of writing - there are many short scenes interspersed with -0- - it saves him having to write any linking stuff between the scenes. I'll have to remember that if I ever get around to writing a book. Also by making his main character a eunuch he avoids writing any sex scenes (which absolutely no author does well). Very sensible. Will remember that ruse as well.

[Sallydaisy]

I've read The Janissary Tree - and rather liked it so I've read it a couple of times more!
The author is good on historical references and I liked the style of writing very much.
Kept me hooked to the denouement - which is both cataclysmic and funny!!!
:thumbup:

[patmoren]

Finished the Hunger Games and now reading the latest Terry Brookes books about the Word and the Void!
The Measure of the Magic: Legends of Shannara Bk 2

[pabbers]

Currently reading The Janissary Tree. I saw this in Waterstone's when it came out a few years ago, read the description and thought that I'd read it many years ago. The story seemed just as I remembered - a murder in the palace in Istanbul, then another murder in the city, and the central character who was trying to solve it was a eunuch. But then I saw that it was a new book so it couldn't be the one I had read years before. :confused: Anyway I didn't buy it then, but saw it in a charity shop the other day and got it. I'm about half way through. The author has apparently written several non-fiction historical books previously, so I assume that his descriptions of 19th century Istanbul are authentic. It's very interesting. He has an unusual way of writing - there are many short scenes interspersed with -0- - it saves him having to write any linking stuff between the scenes. I'll have to remember that if I ever get around to writing a book. Also by making his main character a eunuch he avoids writing any sex scenes (which absolutely no author does well). Very sensible. Will remember that ruse as well.

Hmmm the talk of the week at work is a book called 50 shades of grey (part of a trilogy) - a work of fiction that has apparently revolutionised some people's sex lives! Not having it in our house on the grounds that it may resurrect our sex life :shamed: :lol:

[RoastLamb]

:lol: Pabbers! I've heard that series is very badly written. Can't bring myself to read it.

Pat: did you like Hunger Games? My kids loved it and I keep telling myself to steal their books and read them.

[Alis]

Reading 'Daughters in Law' by Joanna Trollope - about a rather domineering mother who finds it difficult to cut her 3 sons from her apron strings. Definitely a good read for anyone with daughters in law!

[Speedy Hawk]

Reading 'Deaf Like Me' book. Good story, sad but end happy.

[Linda]

I finished the Janissary Tree; it was very good. I know I've read a book a long time ago with a similar plot in the same setting, but I can't remember what it was.

Got out the next of my charity shop purchases to read - Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernieres - and immediately realised that I've read it before. :sad:

[Sallydaisy]

The Janissary Tree is the first in the Yashim the Detective series, followed by The Snake Stone, The Bellini Card, and An Evil Eye. Perhaps you've read one of those already and it reminded you?

[pabbers]

Got out the next of my charity shop purchases to read - Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernieres - and immediately realised that I've read it before. :sad:

Think I must be the only person in the whole wide world who HATED Captain Corelli's Mandolin with a vengeance - had to grit my teeth to get to the end :shamed:

[Linda]

The Janissary Tree is the first in the Yashim the Detective series, followed by The Snake Stone, The Bellini Card, and An Evil Eye. *Perhaps you've read one of those already and it reminded you?

No. When the Janissary Tree first came out, I saw it in Waterstones, read the blurb on the back and thought that I had already read it many years previously. It was only when I looked at the date of publishing that I realised that I couldn't have 'cos it was new. I haven't read any of the later books yet.


Think I must be the only person in the whole wide world who HATED Captain Corelli's Mandolin with a vengeance - had to grit my teeth to get to the end :shamed:

Pabbers - you are indeed the first person I've heard of who didn't like Captain Corelli's Mandolin! I loved it - I loaned it to my Mum and she loved it too.

[pabbers]

Says it all really I s'pose :dunce:

[Linda]

But I am sure that there are lots of books that you have liked that I haven't - we all have different tastes, as we've seen from our book club!

[Sallydaisy]

Think I must be the only person in the whole wide world who HATED Captain Corelli's Mandolin with a vengeance - had to grit my teeth to get to the end :shamed:


Pabbers - you are indeed the first person I've heard of who didn't like Captain Corelli's Mandolin! I loved it - I loaned it to my Mum and she loved it too.
Well you can add me as the 2nd person, have tried reading it several times, didn't like it and it's still on the shelf. Perhaps I should revisit it when I'm older.

[Hawkeye]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7lp3RhzfgI

[supergran]

I am reading "Lost Light" by Michael Connelly. Love his books and the whole detective/thriller genre. Some of my friends are reading "50 Shades of Grey" but I will give it a miss.

[Linda]

Oh yes, a colleague at work was telling me yesterday that she is reading 50 Shades of Grey. I said to her that I'd heard that it's not very well written but she said she hadn't noticed :rolling: