View Full Version : What are you reading and book reviews
I know there are quite a few of us with very healthy reading appetites so I thought it would be cool to see what other people are reading. I'm always interested in trying new genres so if anyone really wants they can put in any reviews of excellent (or terrible) books they've read.
Starting it off, I normally have a couple of the books on the go at once. Sometimes I will get so caught up in one that I'll forget the others which is why some on this list might not change as often as others.
Bag book - The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman
Bedroom book - Eric by Terry Pratchett
Bathroom book - Johnny and the Bomb by Terry Pratchett
(I'm currently working my way thru the Discworld books in order so the bedroom book should follow an obvious pattern :) )
Dymetrie
14-07-2006, 17:40
Currently reading Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman...
Gonna have to select something new as I'll probably finish that on the train tomorrow (must remember to charge phone so it doesn't die and I'm left without book or music!), will probably grab another Gaiman book, or more than likely Good Omens, a book which never gets old :)
The last time I read a book was probably around 8-10 years ago......until we went on holiday last week :)
Piggy packed away a copy of Dan Browns Da Vinci Code for me and once I got reading I couldn't put it down :eek:
It found it easy to get into and easy to read (not in the Billy Blue Hat sense :p)
I've now moved on to Dan Browns Deception Point and I'm finding it the same. Easy to pick up and put down, you don't have to be totally engrosed in it to be able to follow the story. At least that's how it seems to a "non-reader".
Dan Brown's books are very much "easy reading" - I read Digital Fortress in just over 4 hours (Mic wasn't impressed getting up for a day shift to find that I'd not actually gone to sleep yet :embarassed: )
I am mostly readin' seed packets and Crime and Punishment - Dostoyevsky.
leowyatt
14-07-2006, 18:46
At the moment I'm trying to finish read Golden Past, Red Future. It's only a small book but it's finding the time to read it.
All in all it's a great read if you're a Liverpool fan and details the Champions League winning season.
EDIT: Another vote for Digital Fortress here it's a good read.
Blackstar
14-07-2006, 18:49
It doesn't matter what order you read the discworld, i've read them all i speak the truth they are ace.
I read David Attenbourghs autobiography which i would highly reccommend.
Dymetrie
14-07-2006, 18:51
Gonna agree that Digital Fortress is good :)
and an update, I have loaded:
Good Omens - Pratchett & Gaimen
The Minority Report - Philip K Dick
onto my phone :)
Stan_Lite
14-07-2006, 19:24
Current reads are:
Bedtime/travelling - Wit'ch Gate, book 4 of the banned and the banished series by James Clemens.
Not a particularly good fantasy series (by quite a bit) but is very easy to read so I'll perservere with it (and anyway, I bought the bloody things so I'm damn well going to read them :p ). The characters are very one-dimensional and the plot is poorly managed and predictable. The author repeats himself frequently using the same descriptive phrases repeatedly.
The writing style is amateurish and simplistic, which makes it easy to read but not particularly interesting. I also find the author's frequent references to the physical form and functions of pubescent/pre-pubescent girls quite disturbing - although this seems to have, thankfully, trailed off by the 4th book.
Slack time at work - Borstal Boy by Brendan Behan.
I found this this morning whilst tidying the workshop on the rig and thought I'd have a bit of a read.
Looks like it's going to be a damn good read so far. It is an autobiography of a convicted IRA man (Brendan Behan) who was sent to Borstal in Liverpool in 1939 for terrorist activities (and later to jail in Ireland for attempted murder but that is not covered in this book).
The 50 or so pages I have read so far deal with his arrest and the first few days on remand with flashbacks explaining how he came to be involved with the Republican movement.
This promises to be a simply but well written account of a young man's experiences, giving a fascinating insight into his own mind and also the prison/young offenders system of the late 30s and early 40s.
Looking forward to the next quiet few hours.
Stan :)
It doesn't matter what order you read the discworld, i've read them all i speak the truth they are ace.
Oh I know that, I've read then all several times before, its just every now and then I decide to re-read them all in order - I do this with a lot of series'
Kell_ee001
14-07-2006, 20:33
Yet again I'm reading the Katherine Kerr (http://www.deverry.com/) series.
I loves these books! Highly recommended to anyone, as long as you have the time to get into them. They can be very complicated with the different timelines and incarnations but definatley worth it :)
Flibster
14-07-2006, 20:46
The Robert Aspirin Myth and Phule series.
All fantastic books.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Asprin
Simon/~Flibster
Bag book - The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman
Bedroom book - Eric by Terry Pratchett
Bathroom book - Johnny and the Bomb by Terry Pratchett
I started (and finished) Johnny and the Bomb in the bath yesterday afternoon :bath: :embarassed: so now Good Omens is the Bathroom book :embarassed:
They are very very funny books - even though I have read them all several times, I still notice new things, new comments, forward planned jokes and such like now :)
I have just lent the first 2 books to someone at work - I can always lend them to you once I get them back if you want :)
I recently completed the Algebraist, I really liked it, I was looking at getting another Iain M Banks but there are so many, do you chaps know which one is the best?
Flibster
16-07-2006, 12:05
Good Omens - fantastic book. :D
Crawley - a angel who did so much fall, as saunter vaguely downwards
Dog - Satanic hell-hound and cat worrier
:D
Pratchett should be compusary reading tbh. :D
Simon/~Flibster
I read a bit of Going Postal on the train home yesterday but I ended up falling asleep :embarassed: Not because ti was rubbish, I was just tired, so have to go back to that soon.
Besides that I'm reading The Restaurant at the End of the Universe and erm David Beckham's autobiography.....oi don't laugh, it's surprisingly interesting and it only cost 10p :p
Flibster
17-07-2006, 22:26
I haven't read Going Postal yet :shocked:
Listed to the unabridged audiobook though.
Not the best Pratchett but it's very very good.
David Beckham's autobiography.....oi don't laugh, it's surprisingly interesting and it only cost 10p :p
Have they just copied the notes he made in crayon onto paper or have they actually typed it out? :p
Simon/~Flibster
The Robert Aspirin Myth and Phule series.
All fantastic books.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Asprin
Simon/~Flibster
I'll have to go looking as I've only read the first 6 or 7 Myth books and the first 2 Phule ones. Thought they were great :)
Oh and yes Mr Pratchett should be compulsary reading for everyone.
Flibster
17-07-2006, 22:37
I'll have to go looking as I've only read the first 6 or 7 Myth books and the first 2 Phule ones. Thought they were great :)
Oh and yes Mr Pratchett should be compulsary reading for everyone.
As much as I hate to say this....amazon came out on top for these. *hangs head in shame*
The newer Myth and Phule books *strangely since he has been co-writing* aren't as good - but they're still entertaining and most importantly funny.
Simon/~Flibster
Originally Posted by Takhisis
Bag book - The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman
Bedroom book - Eric by Terry Pratchett
Bathroom book - Johnny and the Bomb by Terry Pratchett
I started (and finished) Johnny and the Bomb in the bath yesterday afternoon :bath: :embarassed: so now Good Omens is the Bathroom book :embarassed:
Finished Eric so currently the books I have on the go are:
Bag - The Amber Spyglass
Bedroom - Moving Pictures
Bathroom - Good Omens
Matblack
23-07-2006, 19:09
Animals in Translation by Temple Grandin and Cathrine Johnson
http://www.grandin.com/inc/animals.in.translation.html
MB
Animals in Translation by Temple Grandin and Cathrine Johnson
http://www.grandin.com/inc/animals.in.translation.html
MB
That sounds really interesting - you'll have to give us a review when you've finished it :)
Flibster
24-07-2006, 14:58
Sam/Mic...
Me and the other half have a spare copy of the First Myth-ing omnibus. If you want to have a read we can gladly lend it to you.
They're a bit well read *hell - they were second hand 10 years ago...* but still great. :D
Simon/~Flibster
Mic response - "cool", so I'd take that as a yes please :D
Matblack
11-08-2006, 12:36
Some of the earlier ones are the best and also set the scene well and introduce you to the Discworld universe, I would suggest at least reading The Light Fantastic & Colour of Magic and Mort is one of my personal favorites :)
Although not a Discworld novel Good Omens is one of the funniest books ever writen.
MB
I've just finished reading the last book in the "Elder Gods" series by David and Leigh Eddings.
Oh my God.
What a load of tripe.
First two were good, apart from the downright bizarre retelling bits of the story from different views.
Third was.. well.. interesting, not quite as good as the first two, and felt a bit too much like it was just constantly trying to build a situation into an opportunity to finish the paragraph with another one liner.
Fourth.. absolute tripe. Story was okayish again, but then they went and completely blew everything out of the window in the last chapter by trying to meet some obscure determination to make sure every character had a happy ending. I mean.. its literally the worst ending to a story I have ever, ever, ever had the displeasure to read. I'm sickened that two authors that are capable of producing stuff like the Belgariad series, and the standalone "Redemption of Althalus", could come up with such a pathetic end. I'm very tempted to take my pristine hard back books to my local library as a donation rather than have them taking up space on my bookshelves anymore, I can't picture myself ever reading them again.
Currently reading Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman...
^^^^^^
Blackstar
11-08-2006, 23:15
I've just bought these two stunners, will keep me busy until forever.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0415233550/026-6770220-4822029?v=glance&n=266239
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0500284415/026-6770220-4822029?v=glance&n=266239
But i'm also reading about the Boston Strangler, i like books on serial killers :|
Dymetrie
12-08-2006, 01:26
^^^^^^
I'm such a bad influence :p
And Kitten, Unlike Matt, I'd advise reading The Colour of Magic and then The Light Fantastic otherwise you may get confuzzled ;)
I'm reading:
The Brentford Triangle - Robert Rankin
and....
Belgarath the Sorcerer - David & Leigh Eddings
I'm terrible for reading two books at once..... but I'm very good at leaving them lying places and forgetting where I put them :embarassed:
I also managed to find a copy of 'A Raw Youth' - Dostoyevsky online the other week so that might have to be next. Although I don't like the idea of reading a book on the PC I like it as a book in my hands ....is that weird?
is that weird?
No - I'm exactly the same - I love books not just the stories.
I have one chapter of The Amber Spyglass to go, I'm reading Small Gods as my bedroom book, I have Restaurant at the End of the Universe as my bath book, Catch me when I fall (Nicci French) in my bag for work plus loads of info I printed from the net on rats and their diet :embarassed:
Also James Toselands biog is out in paperback and I really want to get it soon :embarassed:
Stan_Lite
14-08-2006, 06:27
I'm reading Belgarath the Sorcerer again atm. Crime and Punishment I finished a while back. Crap IMO.
Just about finished with Belgarath so I might see if I can find Polgara.
I need some new books.
Poo!
Sorry Gilly, I gave Polgara to a charity shop not long ago (along with Belgarath) :( if I'd known, I'd have kept it for you.
Stan :)
Kell_ee001
14-08-2006, 09:42
....is that weird?
No it's not. At my old job we weren't allowed books or magazines at the desk, so I used to download classic ebooks. Was nice to read the stories and be entertained, but it wasn't the same as having an actual book :undecided:
I recently completed the Algebraist, I really liked it, I was looking at getting another Iain M Banks but there are so many, do you chaps know which one is the best?This post is obviously from a while back but still...
With his SF work you don't really need to read it in any sort of order. If you fancy something unpleasant I've just read The Wasp Factory, his first novel. It is horrible, but very good. You can see hints of his developing style; brilliant, engrossing description. It’s awful, but I found myself reading it pretty quickly with morbid fascination.
In his SF work I’ve also just read Excession, which was brilliant. It’s one of the 'Culture' novels which I’m really a fan of. If you wanted to start at the beginning here it would be back to Consider Phlebas, although a good body of people seem to recommend The Player of Games as an introduction to the Culture. For an Iain M Banks novel, it is probably a lighter read. Still excellent however. Banks is one of my favourite authors; of the books that I’ve read thus far I would strongly recommend them all.
Aye I have read a lot of his non-science ficton, Wasp-Factory was very good and most of his other stuff is great but very, graphic would be the word. Thanks Nige, I got some waterstones vouchers to use up so I will go spend them. :)
The Wasp Factory was the first I've read of his non-SF; are there any of the others that you'd particularly recommend? :)
Complicity is good its about a newspaper journalist I think who finds an odd pattern of murders, it makes The Wasp Factory look like Fireman Sam.
Walking on Glass and The Bridge are good too. :)
Brilliant, cheers pal. Will have to do some book shopping of my own! :cool:
Matblack
14-08-2006, 12:12
I like The Crow Road and Whit, both very good.
MB
Yeah Whit is good, I'll have to get round to reading Crow Road.
At the moment Crime and Punishment is killing me, it has taken 2 months to get to where I am near the end, its a great boring but I make the mistake of reading it at night so I read about a page and collapse.
I started Angels and Demons on holiday, but have to admit to my shame i haven't picked it back up - been too busy with school stuff.
But whilst on holiday i read A Short History of Tractors in the Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka. Was absolutely hilarious! Couldn't put in down, so finished it in about two days!
I also read Saints and Sinners by Tom Holt which again was an excellent read. I'd recommend both to anyone who likes a well thought out and good read.
Have stopped reading Catch me when I fall and started The Scuttling Gourmet by Alison Campbell
I got books thru the post this morning :D Always a great thing :D
Haven't really kept up to date with this :embarassed: but currently I'm working my way thru the Anita Blake series - I'm up to Cerulean Sins (#11). I do have Hogfather started and in the bedroom, but sex, monsters and violence wins over Pratchett ;D
I'm reading a free book that was given to me in Leicester Sq the other night. One Shot by Lee Child.
Its ok so far...don't really have any recommendations at the moment.
BB x
\o/ - Leo's lost Stiff again, so when it turns up I'll send that over too :)
fnar fnar :evil: :evil: :evil:
leowyatt
16-11-2006, 19:14
Currently I'm reading Fowler: My Autobiography.
but sex, monsters and violence wins
Every time.
Just finished "Layer Cake" by JJ Connely. Liked it a lot.
Just started "Interview with a Vampire". I've got the rest of the series in the boot.
And I'm reading "A Brothers Journey" By Richard Pelzer on the loo. I can't read more than a chapter at a time it depresses me/winds me up to the verge of vigilantism.
If you like the Anne Rice vamps/world DO NOT read Blackwood Farm - it is the only book I have ever come close to giving up on :/
Let's hope he remembered to lift the lid up ;D
Unlike some we could mention.... ;)
FakeSnake
16-11-2006, 21:05
Currently reading The Cell, Stephen King
dont have much chance to read now we have 2 ankle biters, time gets short sadly.
I DO like reading all of the HHGTH one after the other though, and the Alien series of books. For some reason, I never get bored of reading those.
dont have much chance to read now we have 2 ankle biters, time gets short sadly.
Why do you think I've got a book in the toilet?:D
Dymetrie
17-11-2006, 09:45
Just started "Interview with a Vampire". I've got the rest of the series in the boot.
Currently most of the way through 'The Vampire Lestat' finding it much better than 'Interview with a Vampire' although I am slightly concerned about the homo-eroticism surrounding Lestat.. Anne Rice seriously likes her soft core gay porn...
Not reading anywhere near as much as I should because people keep turning up to the pub early (I don't complain about this), but e-books mean that if I have my phone with me I have a compendium of books to enjoy as well :)
Anne Rice seriously likes her soft core gay porn...
*puts book down sharpish*;)
Finished Anita Blake #12 and as #13 and #14 aren't out in paperback yet I'm going to start reading Callgirl :)
My office book is 'Clarkson on Cars' which is still quite amusing, but definately not his best.
My home/travelling book is 'Inside Out: A Personal History of Pink Floyd' by Nick Mason. I'm only a couple of chapters in (I meant to take it with me to the hospital but forgot) but I'm really enjoying it.
I'm reading Night Watch by Terry Pratchett at the moment. Been meaning to for ages, and forgotten how relaxing reading is. :)
I'd be reading Hogfather to get me in the Christmas spirit but I left it in Swansea.
Von Smallhausen
29-11-2006, 21:24
Reading A Life In Combat by Tim Collins and also Judge Dredd. Case Files 01.
Started reading Digital Fortress a few weeks ago, and I've been working my way steadily through it. Not a bad story so far. Read the Da Vinci Code and Angels & Demons a while back, so only got Deception point to read after that.
Im reading Prey by Michael Crichton. Only started it last night but so far it's proving to be one of the best books I've read in a while.
Hmmm, I didnt live up to expectations. It started so well but the end was a bit of a let down :(
I hate it when books do that. Always makes me wonder if they got bored of it near the end so just decided to finish it off :/
Dymetrie
01-12-2006, 14:37
that film breaking & entering is a bit like that. You get really into it, then towards the end it's all kind of wrong and you just think..wtf? Lazy tbh.
From what I've seen of the trailer it looks like at least part of it is filmed on the Rowley Way Estate in Camden... Plus I think my mate who works in the film office mentioned summat about it... If I'd been paying more attention I've got 40+ cameras up there :)
muahahahahahahahhahaha
I have just finished 'Less than Zero' by Bret Easton Ellis his first book which was lurking in the work 'library' downstairs.
Was ok... if you have read 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas' By Hunter S Thompson and 'American Psycho' By Bret Easton Ellis it is written in pretty much the same alchol/drug induced way with long long sentences...
Nice and short.
Also the last book before that I read 'One Shot' was ok I'd give it 6/10 nothing special.
BB x
Dymetrie
01-12-2006, 21:16
Was ok... if you have read 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas' By Hunter S Thompson and 'American Psycho' By Bret Easton Ellis it is written in pretty much the same alchol/drug induced way with long long sentences...
no no no no no!
American Psycho was incredibly well written as being in the mind of a complete introvert extrovert.. The reason there is an ENTIRE chapter on Phil Collins/Genesis is to show how particular and obsessed he is with things...
As the book continues then the way each chapter is written it slowly changes to show the breakdown of his mind as he commits worse atrocities which culminate in the last sentence.. :)
Finished Callgirl in the bath this afternoon and have to say it was very interesting and very well written :)
Will start Spook sometime tomorrow probably :)
Matblack
03-12-2006, 19:24
This
http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0091902673.02._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_V55623271_.jpg
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Piano-Pyrenees-Englishman-French-Mountains/dp/0091902673/sr=8-2/qid=1165170090/ref=sr_1_2/026-5809844-4998838?ie=UTF8&s=books
Just finished this
http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0385608268.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_V36984166_.jpg
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Life-Times-Thunderbolt-Kid/dp/0385608268/sr=1-1/qid=1165170164/ref=sr_1_1/026-5809844-4998838?ie=UTF8&s=books
Both highly recomended, I really like Hawk's work, its easy to read and very very funny.
I have this to read next
http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/0330294911.01._AA180_SCLZZZZZZZ_V39900647_.jpg
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Man-Who-Mistook-Wife-Picador/dp/0330294911/sr=1-1/qid=1165170244/ref=sr_1_1/026-5809844-4998838?ie=UTF8&s=books
MB
Oooh didn't realise Tony Hawks had another book out :) Loved his previous stuff.
That Bryson book is next on the list after I've finished Nick Mason's book.
Oooh didn't realise Tony Hawks had another book out :) Loved his previous stuff.
And not one mention of skateboards...
Matblack
04-12-2006, 10:46
And not one mention of skateboards...
ISWYDT :p
MB
I haven't read a funny book for a while - though I have just finished reading about 5 Tom Sharpe books which are genial!
no no no no no!
American Psycho was incredibly well written as being in the mind of a complete introvert extrovert.. The reason there is an ENTIRE chapter on Phil Collins/Genesis is to show how particular and obsessed he is with things...
As the book continues then the way each chapter is written it slowly changes to show the breakdown of his mind as he commits worse atrocities which culminate in the last sentence.. :)
Meh I was talking from a general pov but ok... will have to dig it out again when I get all my stuff back and we can discuss.
BB x
Dymetrie
04-12-2006, 13:36
Meh I was talking from a general pov but ok... will have to dig it out again when I get all my stuff back and we can discuss.
BB x
Bother... That means I'll have to read it again :s
*looks at pile of e-books waiting to be read*
I don't think I could read American Psycho again :/
Fantastic book but so unpleasant, I'm quite happy having only ever read it once.
I've not actually read American Psycho :embarassed:
Dymetrie
04-12-2006, 13:58
I've not actually read American Psycho :embarassed:
You wouldn't like the bit with the rats...
*remembers*
*shudders*
You wouldn't like the bit with the rats...
*remembers*
*shudders*
Weren't you going to lend me something? :undecided:
You wouldn't like the bit with the rats...
*remembers*
*shudders*
Or the nail gun.
Or the locker.
All this talk is actually intriguing me :embarassed: :huh:
I am SO never reading this book!
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/991/chickenyf8.jpg
Treefrog
05-12-2006, 08:16
Travels in a Strange State by Josie Dew. About cycling across the US
Will start Spook sometime tomorrow probably :)
Have started Spook but its not an "easy" read - what I might do is read it at home (bathtime book) and start something else for my bus journeys.
Still reading the Hogfather too - I keep forgetting about it and taking a different book to bed with me :embarassed: :embarassed:
And as I didn't get an answer before (:p) Dym - weren't you gonna lend me a book? :undecided:
Dymetrie
06-12-2006, 07:43
And as I didn't get an answer before (:p) Dym - weren't you gonna lend me a book? :undecided:
I don't have American Psycho ;)
Sam - do you want to read American Psycho - could've brought it to NYE for you doh! Can send if you want!
Just finished a book I nicked from Pebs on NYE - 'Ps I Love you' - Cecilea Ahern.
Started off quite well (I know this by the amount of times I gasped 'oh no/gasp/cried' on the train while reading it).
Then it got predictable... and then the ending was a bit meh.
BB x
As a reminder - Pebs please bring Dead Run to Burbles non bday thanks!
I've started reading Phil Rickman again. He's a horror writer and writes about the Mid Wales/Hereford area so I get a real feel for it as I've lived in lots of the places he describes.
I love curling up in bed in the winter with a good horror story.
Treefrog
05-01-2007, 16:46
I've just read the first three volumes of "War of the Spider Queen", a Forgotten Realms series, and have just started rereading one of my all time favourite comedies - Tom Sharpe's "The Throwback"
Sam - do you want to read American Psycho - could've brought it to NYE for you doh! Can send if you want!
Ohh yes please :)
I'm only reading Jingo at the mo - going to have another go at Spook so that Kitten can have her books back :embarassed:
Just finished A Brief History Of Time by Stephen Hawking, and it was an amazing book. His ability to explain these complex theories using real analogies and comparisons truly allows people like me to see and appreciate the nature of our universe. It's a hard read, some chapters are quite deep and you do need to be patient with yourself, but if you take your time and re-read parts you're unsure of, then it begins to come together.
Now on to two books this month;
Having a break from the intellectual reading and have opened up Mick Foley's autobiography. He's an interesting, if not strange man, but he's had some experiences and he really has a child like wonder when reading about them which keeps you whittling through the pages to read the next story.
Then after that, I'm going to have a read of a book my colleague has lent me: Galileo's Finger by Peter Atkins. Goes into theories of the universe, DNA structure and the deepest parts of human psychology and existential behaviour. :shocked:
Treefrog
06-01-2007, 02:51
Thanks for the review of Brief History Craig :) It's something I mean to read but haven't got round to getting a copy of it yet.
Much more useful than the standard collection of superlatives that most reviews consist of ;)
I founf Breif History hard going the first time I read it, the second time was easier.
Am currently reading:
THE WAR OF THE RING
BEING THE FIFTH BOOK OF
THE LORD OF THE RINGS
(Thought I'd copy the style of the inside cover)
Needs no review tbh. ;D
Recoil by Andy McNab. Appeals to my warrior side.
killerkebab
07-01-2007, 23:35
Just re-read Dune by Frank Herbert - a true science fiction classic and something which everyone who likes the genre should read.
I am now some ways through I, Robot - review soon :)
I'm reading Long Way Round at the moment. The book of the TV series and the journey Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman took round the world.
It's really good so far, interesting stuff. :)
Don't understand all the bike references as I know very little about bikes but it's still interesting, albeit tinged with sadness for me but that's just a personal thing.
Nice and relaxing reading again. :)
The books is an excellent read :) I've got the DVD too :)
I'm currently on the 3rd of the Torchwood books they bought out - they've been good too :)
Yeah I've got the DVD too :) Might get the illustrated book sometime too :D
Dymetrie
26-01-2007, 00:10
For the last few weeks I've been reading (upon instruction) the 'Anita Blake - Vampire Hunter' series by Laurell K Hamilton. I'm now on book 3 (I don't read as much as I used to)...
They're not bad, slightly juvenille but enjoyable :)
I'm working my way through a Chris Ryan ten book boxset that I got from the bookman at work just before Christmas. The writing style varies between them so much that it's as though they're written by different people. They either are, or he's being clever as the style does vary depending on who he's writing about.
And I've also got the whole of the James Herriott series of vet books on audiobook and am listening to them in the Feekmobile to and from work. I only ever read the first couple before and I think they're great. Being read by Christopher Timothy adds a nice extra touch.
Leo got that for Christmas one year. He really enjoyed it and said the book went into a lot more depth than the show (he read it before the show was aired)
Yeah it does :) Learnt quite a bit that wasn't aired on the show.
First book in a while that's kept me interested which is good.
leowyatt
26-01-2007, 11:51
Well I've currently started reading Nanotechnology: A gentle introduction to the next big idea. I've had it for around 5 years but never picked it up until last week. So far seems good but might end up getting very very confusing.
WooHoo!!!
Just started reading Thud! and I know its gonna be great - the first bit is all about ME!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Currently reading Johnny Cash's autobigraphy, Cash. It's enthralling.
Last night I finished a book called 'The Holy Kingdom: The Quest for the Real King Arthur' as part of the research I'm doing for the book I'm writing. It's a bit swamped in detail regarding family trees leading back to Roman times but for the most part truly compelling. Written by a guy called Adrian Gilbert it reveals beyond doubt (in my mind at least) that the legendary King Arthur was in fact a product of two Arthurs (Arthur I and Arthur II) who lived generations apart, and that the King Arthur we know regarding swords in stones and knights of the round table is an amalgamation of both their exploits.
Most fascinating of all was reading how it's generally taken as gospel that he was English and that his remains lie at Glastonbury Abbey, when in fact there is little doubt that he was Welsh and the places attributed to his exploits in Wales still carry the same names now as they did then. Glastonbury doesn't even figure in any of this.
The evidence collected from Welsh documentation is practically inarguable yet still there are many people that believe the legends over the facts. A real eye-opener and if you can track down a copy you'll be convinced as well. The author is English and completely unbiased, and continues to show his amazement at how the facts have been 'covered up' throughout.
Justsomebloke
22-03-2007, 13:33
WooHoo!!!
Just started reading Thud! and I know its gonna be great - the first bit is all about ME!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Well that needs an explanation for starters, SPILL. :)
Am in between books at the mo & looking for a good read.
Belmit, I love history, that sounds absolutely fantastic - do you have an ISBN no or a link to Amazon??
ISBN is 0-552-14489-4. I had to get it through Amazon marketplace as I don't think it's currently in print. Here are the ones currently available.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/0593040627/ref=dp_olp_1/202-8388135-9142210?ie=UTF8&qid=1174569319&sr=8-3
I would lend you my copy but even though I've finished it I need it for reference. :)
And there's no rush for the DVD, Cottage meet will be fine.
Edit: Those are the hardcover editions, looks like there's only one paperback available unfortunately:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/0552144894/ref=dp_olp_1/202-8388135-9142210?ie=UTF8&qid=1174569319&sr=8-2
Note my edit, just in case you missed it!
Well that needs an explanation for starters, SPILL. :)
There is a bit that is a "quote" from essentially dwarf history/bible/how the world was made type thing and it says "Tak" made this, "Tak" made that etc etc so their "god" is called Tak :D
(ok its a male but shhhhh - dwarves don't know the difference ;D )
Flibster
22-03-2007, 15:23
Aaah right...
Was thinking of "Where's My Cow"... :shocked:
:p
Simon/~Flibster
Roberta - I have Cash, I was going to start it next week (have had a comedy interlude with Peter Kay's autobiography which really is laugh out loud funny) :D
I love autobiographies. Billy Connolly's and Dolly Parton's both made me cry.
Aaah right...
Was thinking of "Where's My Cow"... :shocked:
:p
Simon/~Flibster
Well...that does work too :embarassed:
I just thought that I would add this:-
Terry Goodkind - Wizards first rule.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wizards-First-Rule-Sword-Truth/dp/1857982355/ref=pd_ka_6/203-6464815-4342354?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1174603874&sr=8-6
Now this is unusual as I don't normally read "proper" books. The last proper book I attempted to read was years ago. However this book has kept me coming back to it, both on the plane in SF and at home now (i'm a slow reader).
The sword of truth series of books are meant to be excellent and following the links off Amazon I have found other authors to have a look at.
May have been Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business but I read it years ago so can't remember.
Started reading Burton On Burton, Tim Burton's autobiography last night. Great illustrations!
Anyone who is going to Cottage....
Does anyone have Jack and Jill by James Patterson?
I'm trying to read em all in the closest order I can, this one is the missing link at the moment...
Otherwise anyone with a Jeffrey Deaver or something of the same would be appreciated.
Nearly finished my book you see and I know we won't have time to read :p but I need another one anyways :)
Thank you!
BB x
I don't have Jack and Jill but if you let me know which email addy I'll send you the list of what books I do have - there are several Deavers as well as everything else (it is a couple of months out of date but its the closest I have at the moment)
I don't have Jack and Jill but if you let me know which email addy I'll send you the list of what books I do have - there are several Deavers as well as everything else (it is a couple of months out of date but its the closest I have at the moment)
Oooo thanks Sam :) mlperryman@gmail.com
BB x
Justsomebloke
08-08-2007, 17:43
Found a new book to read on the crapper it's called CELL by Stephen King.
It's about some bug that has been sent down mobile phones which makes everyone go mental.
Seems ok so far but i've only done a hundred or so pages.
Mail sent :)
Seen that book in tescos Malc - have resisted buying it so far ;D
I read a LOT of books :)
Currently reading Kolymsky Heights, Lionel Davidson. Read it 3 or 4 times before, but I love it :)
Generally I tend to read the likes of Michael Crichton, Alistair MacLean, Tom Clancy etc.
Just finished Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and about to start
The Long Dark Tea Time of The Soul. Both by Douglas Adams.
Just finished Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and about to start
The Long Dark Tea Time of The Soul. Both by Douglas Adams.
I've lost my Holistic Detective Agency :( Or rather I think my Mum has nicked it! Both great books :)
Dymetrie
19-08-2007, 01:55
At the moment I'm reading 'The Historian' by Elizabeth Kostova...
Pretty good Dracula chase novel with a good grasp of history, loaned to me by (self proclaimed middle class) Ben at work...
After this then I reckon I'll be back on the Anita Blake books (as recommended by someone here :p).
Stan_Lite
03-06-2008, 10:07
I saw Del Lardo's thread and thought "I'm sure there was a book review thread somewhere". Thanks to the search function, here it is, revived in all it's glory.
I'm currently on my third reading in as many months of a book called "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak.
Briefly, the book tells the story of a young German girl, Liesel, who is sent to live with foster parents in nazi Germany in the late thirties and tells her story through the eyes of death himself.
I love this book. The author's use of language is unique and quirky and extremely enjoyable. His style is partly what makes this book so good, combined with a decent story and interesting characters. The story deals with many emotions including sadness, hatred, joy and love and attempts to examine the horror of the holocaust in a unique and fascinating manner.
One of the best books I've read in a long time.
I'm currently reading Kursk: Russia's Lost Pride by Peter Truscott. Good so far, I'm about halfway through and it goes into detail about the men on board and the cover up of the failed rescue mission. Later it should go into the investigation. Interesting reading and not too heavy going.
Use of Weapons - Iain M Banks which so far is a good book just finding it hard to read anything at present so its taking me ages to finish.
Got another of his waiting to be read next, Against a Dark Background, or the new Alastair Reynolds book - House of Suns. Thats if i feel like reading those and dont do my usual jump back to something i have read loads of time already.
SCM
I was reading Through Gates of Fire: A Journey Into World Disorder - Martin Bell. Really interesting book although not exactly cheery stuff! It interests me a lot though. It was recommended to me by a lecturer of mine years ago when I was doing a module on media perceptions of genocides, but only got round to reading it a few months ago.
Not read it in a while though due to it being a bit harsh for my current mental state, but I'd greatly recommend it for anyone interested in that sort of thing :)
Snuggle Ferret
03-06-2008, 17:42
A Biography of Eva Peron. I like my history.
I started my last read through of the discworlds on 2nd January and I just finished them on sunday 1st June (including the "younger adults"/Tiffany books but not including making money as it isn't out in paperback yet)
Considering I only read them in the bath or just before bed I don't think that is too bad going (I wasn't aiming to speed read through them, I was just curious as to how long it would take)
I currently have a few books started but due to a low mood, I've just not felt like reading/been able to get into them. Started I have Karin Slaughter Skin Privilege, Slash biog, Pratchetts Wings and A Witch Alone.
Back in March I did get and read the most recent 3 Torchwood books which I enjoyed as much as the first set of 3. Considering how the tv season ended I am very glad I read them as it does give more insight to the characters which I then could see in the way the actors were portraying them.
I also treated myself recently to Jim Butcher's book 1 in the Dresden file series. I had watched it on sky one and enjoyed it so when I found out that the characters were based on a set of books I decided to try them. The first book is called Storm Front and I finished it in about 3 days. I am planning on getting the rest at some point (list (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dresden_Files#Books_in_the_series)) just waiting to see if I can find any special offers or deals about :)
My book list is completely out of date currently, the library has ended up being a bit of a dumping room so it is impossible for me to get in there, update my list and sort my books out until I sort everything else out. I am pondering trying to decorate it once I've sorted stuff but before I start sorting my books out as it'll probably be easier, but it'll depend on money, time and inclination.
I'm seriously considering doing some serious reading over the next couple of months.
At the moment I'm trying to decide which book to dig out. I'm torn between reading Tolstoy's Anna Karenina and F Scot Fitzgerald's tender is the night.
I've read Anna twice already, and i've not finished tender is the night.
I think Anna will probably win, I watched the 1985 film the other night and it misses out everything that doesnt involve Anna herself.
You ever read any PJ Tracy? Great books, I have the first 'Want to Play' around here somewhere if you want me to send it on to you :)
The name sounds familiar, so I might have some but I've not read them - damn not knowing what I have where :/
You saying that has reminded me I still have BBs copy of American Psycho which I've not even thought about starting :o :( I also have books to return to vix *tries to remember to buy a jiffy bag*
Snuggle Ferret
04-06-2008, 10:48
^^ ooooh i have one about what happened to her body after she was dead (it was hidden etc). I think it's called Santa Evita.... I'll have to double check!
I love history too, have tonnes of historical autobiographies, mostly from the middle ages/medieval period (specially Tudors and Stuarts!!) but love biographies in general - people are soooo interesting!! Also love reading about the history of monarchy and religion :)
Edit: Yep that's the right one, here (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Santa-Evita-Tomas-Eloy-Martinez/dp/186230002X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1212514352&sr=8-1)
I have loads of history books. When I moved, I gave away or donated most of my fiction as I didn't have the space, but didn't have the heart to give any history stuff away and so it is all lonely in storage in Derby without me to stroke them occasionally.
Snuggle Ferret
04-06-2008, 10:50
^^ ooooh i have one about what happened to her body after she was dead (it was hidden etc). I think it's called Santa Evita.... I'll have to double check!
I love history too, have tonnes of historical autobiographies, mostly from the middle ages/medieval period (specially Tudors and Stuarts!!) but love biographies in general - people are soooo interesting!! Also love reading about the history of monarchy and religion :)
Edit: Yep that's the right one, here (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Santa-Evita-Tomas-Eloy-Martinez/dp/186230002X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1212514352&sr=8-1)
And as I am sure Tak will vouch for me that I am not a book eating monster, could I borrow the Evita one? I'll pay for P&P? Tarsees
Pumpkinstew
07-06-2008, 10:19
Use of Weapons - Iain M Banks
Just finished that one. I love the moral ambiguity in it and it's relevence to current world events.
I haven't been disappointed by a Culture book yet.
Snuggle Ferret
07-06-2008, 15:57
Finished Eva, started and finished the biog of The Hamster (very good) and am now reading Karin Slaughter's Skin Privilege.
I haven't read any other "crimey" type books for several months so at the moment I am enjoying Skin Privilege.
I just bought P Cornwell; Book of the Dead and K Reichs; Bones to Ashes. To me both authors have had poor last books but as I've enjoyed the majority of them, I am willing to give them a chance to redeem themselves (and it was 2 for £7 in tesco).
Snuggle Ferret
07-06-2008, 18:21
if the Book of the Dead is Cornwell's last offering, it's been absolutely slated by her fans (and on amazon too). I've read all of hers and I used to really love them, but they have definintely gone downhill. That same thing happened with the Karin Slaughter one.
You'll have to let me know what you think of the Cornwell one, I'd value your opinion more.
On Skin Privilege - don't read until you've finished it.
I think she's reached the end of the road with that set of characters and it was starting to show half way through the book. It was all the same, just reiterating the same old issues and relationships. But I think that's all about to change!
Peter James (http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_ss_w_h_/202-6407557-0527858?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=peter+james&x=0&y=0") is one of my favourite authors, I can package up some of his if you like!
I quite enjoyed Book Of The Dead personally. Yes, it's different mainly because she's having to survive without the help of the big Agencies she had in previous books. Give it a try.
On Skin Privilege - don't read until you've finished it.
I think she's reached the end of the road with that set of characters and it was starting to show half way through the book. It was all the same, just reiterating the same old issues and relationships. But I think that's all about to change!
tbh I didn't see the ending coming. There is only so much you can do with a small number of characters in a small town setting - what was the attraction of the books will probably end up being its killer.
As I'm missing Bones now the series has finished I'm going to move on to Bones to Ashes while I wait for Pratchett :)
About to start reading Sports Nutrition by Anita Bean so get your questions in now!
About to start reading Sports Nutrition by Anita Bean so get your questions in now!
I have that book here and another by her as well, got them free from amazon with some vouchers i earned doing surveys for a company online. Not bad books but they do take a bit of reading so you dont feel completely lost.
SCM
The reviews were good which is why I chose it. Should be a good read - when I'm not so zonked!
The other book i have of hers is Food for Fitness, which again covers some of the info in the Sports Nutrition book but has slightly more recipes to make up your own foods. Both books are good books from my reads through them and cater for all goals/food plan requirements :) I just need to sort out a food plan and stick to it.
SCM
Recipes probably won't be too great for me considering I'm vegan! I was more interested in this book because of the science of it to help me with my job, plus I love reading this stuff anyway!
Ok :) the science side she covers very well for all diets bar it seems vegan. She does cover the vegitarian side of things so i dont know if this can be adapted to be turned into a vegan system or not.
SCM
Just flipping through I can see she's put a few vegan options in which is great. Looks like a good read!
Finished Bones to Ashes last night and really enjoyed it :) I bought Making Money yesterday but Mic has pinched it and taken it to work so I'll probably read Book of the Dead while I wait for him to finish it :)
On my holiday I read 6 books - most of them James Patterson and the last one being Wild Swans by Jung Chang.
I tried to read Wild Swans a while ago, but the stuff about the Communists etc confused me so I gave up, but am glad I managed to complete it!
Amazing book - difficult to think that it is real in parts.
PS - Sam your Patterson is in the post today - SO SORRY!!!
BB x
Snuggle Ferret
13-06-2008, 10:20
Finished the latest Karin Slaughter - was so not expecting THAT!!!
Currently coming to the end of two really good books at the moment
The Last Lecture (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Lecture-Randy-Pausch/dp/0340977000/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213615916&sr=8-1) By Randy Pausch. Really really inspirational read about one of the professors at Carnegie Melon University who has developed pancreatic cancer. I believe his last lecture was entitled Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams and was a bit of an internet phenomenon. As I say really inspirational and well worth the money.
The other book I am reading is The Devils Teeth (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Devils-Teeth-Susan-Casey/dp/0805080112/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213616287&sr=1-1). It's a first hand account of a reporter working at the Farralone Islands 30 miles off the coast of San Franciso. Essentiallty it's her account of working with some experts on Great White Sharks. Really good read if you want to learn about the behaviour of Great White's and some of the pioneering research that has gone on at The Farallones. Certainly helps dispel some of the myths about them thats for sure
Currently reading Dan Brown's Angels & Demons. Think I've read it before. I quite like his overcomplicated plot lines :) Got all 4 of his major novels now.
Snuggle Ferret
17-06-2008, 12:53
Reading the John Peel autobiography - very good.
Dymetrie
17-06-2008, 20:21
Currently reading, in between my hectic schedule on my week off, The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents by Terry Pratchett.
Not far in yet, have been too busy breaking PCs :(
I've been reading a fair bit recently again. Working my way through the Pern novels by Anne McCaffrey (done the first 4) and the "Incarnations of Immortality" series by Piers Anthony, of which I've read the first 3 ("On a Pale Horse", "Bearing an Hourglass" and "With a Tangled Skein"). Love both series for differing reasons. The Incarnations series is set in a fascinating conception of a world, where both science and magic are prevalent and of equal status, as such. For example there are billboards advertising both Flying Carpets, and Automobiles, which compete for business. Both need regular maintenance, and so on. For a fair bit it provides some interesting philosophical stuff too as it goes along. Nothing major, nothing that seems out of place but does occasionally leave me pondering.
Oh, and not long before starting these series I read the three "Word & Void" books by Terry Brooks
Snuggle Ferret
18-06-2008, 08:43
oh i really wanted to read that, never got round to it.
I'll try and dig that book out for you SF, I havent forgotten but was away this weekend :)
I'm reading 'Snow Blind' by PJ Tracy at the moment.
Can lend it to you when I've finished. PM me your address :-)
Snuggle Ferret
18-06-2008, 08:44
I've been reading a fair bit recently again. Working my way through the Pern novels by Anne McCaffrey (done the first 4)
Absolutely LOVE these books. If I had to get rid of all my books, and just keep one series, it would be hers.
I'm reading 'Snow Blind' by PJ Tracy at the moment.
I think this is the only one of the three of their books I havent read!
Want to Play and Live Bait I have deffo read - I like them!
BB x
Finished Book of the Dead last night. I think the character is still a bit too "powerful" because of the nieces influences and money, just makes it seem like she is super woman and its getting on my tits. I know she seems to have a ****e personal life because of her work but if I wanted romance and stuff I'd read bloody mills and boon :/
The book is still good, well written and mostly enjoyable - just a few bug-bears in it for me (other people may not care though).
Think Mic has nearly finished Making Money so hopefully will get that off him soon
they are fab, I think there's another one. YES1! Dead Run.
Want me to pop this over to you when I've finished it? It's my Mum's but she won't mind!
YEs please!!! xxxxxxxxx :D
I think I have read Dead Run too... will check on Amazon... like films... I tend to forget books pretty quickly when I read them :o
BB x
Read Making Money on Saturday and really enjoyed it :)
Started reading Danse Macabre (book 14 of the Anita Blake series) in the bath last night. I know people say they are pap, but for me they are fun to read pap :)
Snuggle Ferret
23-06-2008, 11:31
Finished Dark Moon by David Gemmell yesterday. It's been ages since I read a Gemmell and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you Charity Shop for letting me get 4 unread ones for 99p each.
Been reading Bad Luck and Trouble by Lee Child.
His books are really easy to get into and I love his descriptions of things and Jack Reacher is an awesome character.
I'll have finished by the end of the day and might start Sepulchre by Kate Mosse, though, I'm swithering whether to leave it as a holiday book or not :/
I am doing my yearly read of Lord of the Rings again and will decide after that what to read next. Still got new books to read but felt like returning to an old favourite first :)
SCM
Snuggle Ferret
23-06-2008, 20:55
I'm just getting into the Kate Mosse one. Loved Labryinthe, this one is a little harder to get into at the beginning, Ive started it but put it aside until I've got more time to devote to it. Still reading snow blind atm.
Hey - do you want to borrow the John Peel autobiog?
Been reading Bad Luck and Trouble by Lee Child.
His books are really easy to get into and I love his descriptions of things and Jack Reacher is an awesome character.
I'll have finished by the end of the day and might start Sepulchre by Kate Mosse, though, I'm swithering whether to leave it as a holiday book or not :/
I've read a couple of Lee Childs too.
Pretty good.... need to get a proper bookshelf so I can line up all my James Herberts/James Pattersons and Jeffery Deavers.
BB x
PS - Sam your Patterson is in the post today - SO SORRY!!!
Just wondering if you did post it, as nothing has arrived :/
I'm just getting into the Kate Mosse one. Loved Labryinthe, this one is a little harder to get into at the beginning, Ive started it but put it aside until I've got more time to devote to it. Still reading snow blind atm.
Would you advise against it as a holiday read?
Looking for something easy going like Labrinthe was. Don't want to think to much on holiday! :)
Snuggle Ferret
24-06-2008, 12:03
ooh yes please!
Let me have your address by PM :-)
Also, did you find the Eva Peron book? You said you would have a look in your attic.
Cheers
Just wondering if you did post it, as nothing has arrived :/
Er... no its still here :o sorry, will try and get it out today!
BB x
Thats ok - was just worried it had gone awol in the post :)
Thats ok - was just worried it had gone awol in the post :)
Its being sent 'speshul' :p hee hee to your house so should get it tomorrow.
:D sorry!!!!!11
BB x
I had to work hard not to shed a tear at the death of MasterHarper Robinton. Chokes me up every time still.
Snuggle Ferret
26-06-2008, 16:02
Sepulchre - not sure yet, still on the first bit (the past bit) seemed similar to Labryinthe though, so if you liked that, probably be fine!
Eva Peron, no i haven't found it but I think last night I remembered where it was so I'll get Leo to have a look tonight. Do keep reminding me, I won't mind, I am useless *USELESS* at remembering to send things. I have them sitting there for years (i had a scarf for lostkat for a YEAR! before I remembered to send it).
I'll pm you my addy thanks :)
Kitten - polite reminder - PM YOUR ADDY :p:p:p:p:p:p:p
Sam - did ya get your book?
BB x
Yeah I did - was going to post and let you know this morning and completely forgot :o sorry :o
No worries - glad it made it back (at last!)
BB x
Just finished 6th Target - Jimmy Patterson.
Have read all the Womens Murder club in sequence so far and this is the poorest :/
Maybe because I didn't read it continously or maybe I need a break from them.
I dunno.
BB x
Snuggle Ferret
27-06-2008, 17:36
I had to work hard not to shed a tear at the death of MasterHarper Robinton. Chokes me up every time still.
Yep. Gets me every time and I know it's going to happen !
Eva Peron, no i haven't found it but I think last night I remembered where it was so I'll get Leo to have a look tonight. Do keep reminding me, I won't mind, I am useless *USELESS* at remembering to send things.
Is it Santa Evita? I also have it knocking around somewhere and I am happy to lend it out if you are having problems locating yours. I agree it is a really interesting book.
This tread has reminded me of some books on my read/reread list including; Wild Swans (to reread), Anna Karenina (heard some as radio play and know most of story but haven't read) and John Peel autobiography (borrowed from dad and started to read but I was too sad at the time as it wasn't long after his untimely death).
My recommendations of the books that I have read most recently are;
The Time Traveller's wife
The Memory Keeper's Daughter
The Historian
Empress Orchid
A Spot of Bother
I will try and come back to add a but more of an outline/review on these but I think I'd better get off to bed now....
Just read the four X Files books that Phil had, (been a bit of an X Files addict at the mo as we are watcing the entire collection in preparation for the film)
They are:
Goblins
Whirlwind
Ground Zero
Ruins
Just Wiki'd and there are two more 'adult' (lol) ones and a lot of 'young adult' ones so I'm now on a mish.
I finished book 14 of the Anita Blake series and am now onto book 2 of the Dreseden Files :)
The Time Traveller's wife
I was looking at this on Audible last week, but it's a long book at 17 hours which will take me a lot of journeys to and from work. I'd appreciate knowing what you think of it?
Snuggle Ferret
05-07-2008, 11:24
Is it Santa Evita? I also have it knocking around somewhere and I am happy to lend it out if you are having problems locating yours. I agree it is a really interesting book.
This tread has reminded me of some books on my read/reread list including; Wild Swans (to reread), Anna Karenina (heard some as radio play and know most of story but haven't read) and John Peel autobiography (borrowed from dad and started to read but I was too sad at the time as it wasn't long after his untimely death).
My recommendations of the books that I have read most recently are;
The Time Traveller's wife
The Memory Keeper's Daughter
The Historian
Empress Orchid
A Spot of Bother
I will try and come back to add a but more of an outline/review on these but I think I'd better get off to bed now....
Yes, it's the Santa Evita one - that would be great if Kitten can't find hers.
Have The Time Traveller's Wife to read. Read The Historian and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I have just finished M.M.Smith - The Servants
Things are unreliable. Things break. Things fall apart. Even at 11 years old, Mark knows this all too well.
By the time he moves out of London to a wintry seaside town, things are already bad. His mother is sick, and Mark doesn't get along with his new stepfather. Although he finds an ally in an elderly neighbour, it still doesn't feel like home, and shadows are soon gathering as things slowly start to get worse
Mark knows he has to do something, but he doesn't know what. And the only people who might be able to help him...
... may not even exist.
I really enjoyed this book, I read it in one evening (It's not a very long book but I wasn't able to put it down either). It felt very much like his short stories that were in 'What You Make It'. If I had to describe this book in 3 words..... personal, atmospheric, curious.
Reading the time traveler's wife at the mo. Loving it.
Kitten - did you say you were sending me a book? Or did I dream that?! :huh:
Only cos I haven't received anything yet - work or home and I'm worried is lost :(
BB x
Snuggle Ferret
12-07-2008, 21:23
Just started The Time Traveller's Wife - very good so far but not enough time in the day to read it :-)
am now onto book 2 of the Dreseden Files :)
Really enjoying these - started book 4 yesterday :)
Snuggle Ferret
14-07-2008, 14:19
Finished The Time Traveller's Wife - very good; would highly recommend.
Currently reading book 5 of The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. The series started off good, got slightly boring then picked up again and I'm finally getting into the flow of his writing style now.
Dymetrie
15-07-2008, 16:49
I've started Fallen Dragon by Peter F Hamilton.
Much like the Nights Dawn trilogy it jumps straight in with the technobabble and very disparate storylines...
I like it so far :)
Snuggle Ferret
16-07-2008, 13:30
Am reading The Girls at the moment and I think it's going to be sad at the end :(
Snuggle Ferret
17-07-2008, 11:38
Am reading The Girls at the moment and I think it's going to be sad at the end :(
Finished this .. very good; another recommend.
Finished The Time Traveller's Wife - very good; would highly recommend.
That was fast !! I am only half way through it, but i only read for about 35 mins each day on the train when i go to work, about half way through now.
Snuggle Ferret
18-07-2008, 11:05
That was fast !! I am only half way through it, but i only read for about 35 mins each day on the train when i go to work, about half way through now.
I get lots of time to read and when a book gets me, then that's it :-)
Snuggle Ferret
18-07-2008, 11:05
The Memory Keeper's Daughter. Very good poignant story.
Sorry not been around much - I have dug out Santa Evita. PM your address and I will post it off :)
Aitch, have you read any of Kate Moss? From what you've outlined there, I think you'd like Labrynthe/Sepulchre.
I quite fancy Wild Swans & Empress Orchid but have been warned that it is very graphic in places! I have the Historian but haven't read it yet.
Thanks Kitten I will try her.
Wild Swans is hefty both physically and emotionally but well worth it - and worth a re-read. Empress Orchid is an easier read IMO but still interesting and there are fabulous descriptions of the outfits!
I wouldn't say Wild Swans was that graphic...I attempted it once and gave up, but due to reading all my books in Malaysia I made it my mission and was glad I read it :)
As H said v emotional but highly interesting.
BB x
Sam - do you want to read American Psycho
Yeah I know I'm only 18 odd months late :o Started this in the bath tonight and christ it isn't an "easy" read :confused:
It doesn't help that when its going on about designer (or non-designer) stuff I haven't a clue what is "good" or not :o ;D :o
I'll get though it - just might take a lil longer than I had planned :o
LOL! At least you've started it!!! :p
Saw the film recently.. mmm Christian Bale hubba hubba :cool:
BB x
I found it pretty hard to read in places just because some of the descriptions were a tad graphic. There's one bit in particular that I don't think I'll ever forget because it was so :shocked: Wasn't in the film though, but probably a bit tricky to have done and still been given a certificate :p
Great book :) Have to read it again sometime, not read it in years!
Saw the film recently.. mmm Christian Bale hubba hubba :cool:
Even as Patrick Bateman? :eek:
Even as Patrick Bateman? :eek:
YES!!!
BB x
Just reading the Alchemist by Jack Coehlo - it's really rather wonderful, although a translation, it does, I'm sure, captures the strong descriptive lexicon used originally. Maybe not a life changing book, but understanding the meaning behind the story I'm finding quite soul charging.
AboveTheSalt
07-09-2008, 10:33
An interesting thread ...
Personally, I have just finished Spike Milligan's World War II biographical trilogy which predictably enough consists of seven books written over a twenty year period:"Adolf Hitler: My Part in His Downfall"
"Rommel? Gunner Who?: A Confrontation in the Desert"
"Monty, His Part in My Victory"
"Mussolini: His Part in My Downfall"
"Where Have All the Bullets Gone"
"Goodbye Soldier"
"Peace Work"They may sound dull, but they are both very amusing and quite sad. They describe the lunacy and comradeship of war in a way that perhaps MASH & Catch 22 do as well, but they do so from a very personal perspective. I don't know if any of them are still available, I was lent them by a work colleague.
The two books that I keep re-reading and would heartily recommend are "The Gormenghast Trilogy" by Mervyn Peake and "The Dice Man" by Luke Rhinehart.
Other than that, I tend to favour reading historical and biographical books; I am not really that keen on novels.
semi-pro waster
07-09-2008, 11:37
At the moment I'm reading Vengeance by George Jonas, an account of the people sent after the people behind the Munich terrorist attack. It's rather gripping and fascinating subject material.
Before this was Attack of the Unsinkable Rubber Ducks by Christopher Brookmyre, quite entertaining and easy to read book about the hokum of spirituality, not one of the better Jack Parlabane books but not too bad either.
cleanbluesky
08-09-2008, 13:48
Just finished A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini and now reading American Psycho
Just started Nation by Terry Pratchett today will update in a few days what i thought of it. Also got it half price from Tesco's today so bargain :D
SCM
ChemicalKicks
08-09-2008, 20:05
Currently reading Dr Hunter S Thompson book, can't remember the name but it's all about his life from other peoples points of view. Certainly paints him in a different light from what we all assume is the real him.
Turns out he's a bit of a bastard at times but for the most part you get a feeling that the people in his life really respected him.
It's a good read, has kept me up to 5am reading it many a times.
I'll give you all the real name and author the next time I venture upstairs if you're interested.
Currently reading Dr Hunter S Thompson book, can't remember the name but it's all about his life from other peoples points of view. Certainly paints him in a different light from what we all assume is the real him.
I bought this book for my brother last Christmas... its an autobiography isn't it?
He admired Hunter S... not sure if thats a good thing?! :confused: Should I be worried that my nephew is named after him?!
BB x
ChemicalKicks
08-09-2008, 20:19
I bought this book for my brother last Christmas... its an autobiography isn't it?
He admired Hunter S... not sure if thats a good thing?! :confused: Should I be worried that my nephew is named after him?!
BB x
Yeah.
It has various peoples input, the people he worked with, his son and ex wife etc, great read, would recomend it to anyone.
I think it's a good thing.
What's his name Hunter Thompson?
Im currently reading:
Bedroom Book: Night Watch (the one the Russian sci-fi film of the same name was based on)
In my bag: The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins. Just started reading it having read the God Delusion a while back. So far so good, with Dawkins sticking to what he's good at i.e. evolutionary theory without getting distracted by religion.
On my desk: "Inverting the Pyramid" by Jonathan Wilson. Again only read the first few chapters but an interesting take on the development of the modern game from the various "school rules" versions of football. Plus its reassuring to see that Scotland were the first team to actually apply real tactics to their advantage :D All in all an interesting read thus far.
I think it's a good thing.
What's his name Hunter Thompson?
His middle name is Hunter :) I thought it was pretty random so asked about the choice and he explained!
I've only read Fear and Loathing and that was hard work!
BB x
Metalface Mark
08-09-2008, 23:27
Currently reading Duncan Bannantyne's autobiography, its been fairly interesting and informative.
I always keep a copy of The Time Travellers Wife in the toilet, ive read it probably 15-20 times now.
ChemicalKicks
08-09-2008, 23:27
His middle name is Hunter :) I thought it was pretty random so asked about the choice and he explained!
I've only read Fear and Loathing and that was hard work!
BB x
BB
If you can get a hold of the book you bought your brother I would highly suggest it.
Tell them I think they're ace for that name.
FWIW I wanted to give my daughter the middle name of 'sparkles' cos I thought it reflected how it made me feel at the time LoL
needless to say I wasn't allowed.
xx
Flibster
09-09-2008, 00:30
Re-reading all the Robert Asprin 'Myth' series.
Finished the 'Phule' series at the weekend
cleanbluesky
09-09-2008, 12:32
Currently reading Duncan Bannantyne's autobiography, its been fairly interesting and informative.
I always keep a copy of The Time Travellers Wife in the toilet, ive read it probably 15-20 times now.
I might read Bannatyne's bio if its an easy read - he strikes me as the most versatile and skilled on Dragons Den becasue of his background.
Metalface Mark
09-09-2008, 12:59
I might read Bannatyne's bio if its an easy read - he strikes me as the most versatile and skilled on Dragons Den becasue of his background.
Its a great and easy read, ill be finished with it in a few days if you want ill send you it once im done.
I always keep a copy of The Time Travellers Wife in the toilet, ive read it probably 15-20 times now.You can get pills for that.
;D
Metalface Mark
09-09-2008, 13:49
You can get pills for that.
;D
A good book and a good dump are two of lifes enjoyments, together, they combine to make an unholy force of good in my life.
cleanbluesky
09-09-2008, 14:04
Its a great and easy read, ill be finished with it in a few days if you want ill send you it once im done.
Okay, but only in exchange for another book
Metalface Mark
09-09-2008, 14:10
Okay, but only in exchange for another book
You can do me a copy of the Erich Von Markovich stuff, i ended up grabbing the wrong thing before (some 80's movie with Robert Downey Jnr in it :P)
cleanbluesky
09-09-2008, 14:39
You can do me a copy of the Erich Von Markovich stuff, i ended up grabbing the wrong thing before (some 80's movie with Robert Downey Jnr in it :P)
Yeah, sounds fair...
now reading American Psycho
How are you getting on with it? I am finding it a hard slog so far.
Bedroom Book: Night Watch (the one the Russian sci-fi film of the same name was based on)
Bought that the other day as it caught my eye. If I enjoy it I'll probably buy the other two in the series as well.
cleanbluesky
12-09-2008, 17:41
How are you getting on with it? I am finding it a hard slog so far.
Bit of a slog, its interesting though - lots of attention to detail. Makes me wonder how accurate it is and how all the research was done
Metalface Mark
14-09-2008, 01:05
I read Elephants on Acid and other experiments this weekend while in Dublin. It was pretty good, actually CBS would love it (as will my wife), theres quite a lot of psychological experiments, and it makes for very interesting reading.
I also bought Danny Wallaces new book, so ill get that read this week.
Whilst I'm still persevering with American Psycho I needed something light on the brain so have also now started Heat Stroke by Rachel Caine - its book 2 of the Weather Warden series.
I read book 1 of of the Weather Warden series and thought it was blah, so wont be bothering with the rest.
American Pyscho was a book for its time, haven't read it for yonks but I suspect it wont resonate with todays culture now that the yuppie boom is long gone.
cleanbluesky
14-09-2008, 15:30
American Pyscho was a book for its time, haven't read it for yonks but I suspect it wont resonate with todays culture now that the yuppie boom is long gone.
It's a complex novel, there is little or no metaphor and its all written in first person by a delusional obsessive. I can't tell how accurate the cultural references are and I've only got an idea of what the author is trying to achieve with his style - its commonly seen as a significant book, hence why I'm reading it although one things I've noticed about books is that the well touted ones may tend to be the "Great American Novel" and capture a particular culture or time in a way that other book don't. But that doesn't guarantee well developed characters or ideas.
Last books I've read are "Your brain is God" by Tim Leary, "Speed on New York on Speed" by Tim "Speed" Levitch (watch Waking Life if you want to know why that one) and "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl.
Ok finished Nation a few nights ago and it was a good book although, strange reading a non discworld based Pratchett book. Up to his usual standards but not maybe as funny as some of the discworld ones can be. Worth grabbing a hold of though.
Also finished the new Terry Brooks Genesis of Shannara book, Gypsy Morph, at 6am this morning lol. A good read and for those of us who wondered how the elves survived into the books set later on it answers that question. Will say no more except it is well worth a read for those Brooks fans around these parts.
Now it's either the new Kevin J Anderson and last of his Saga of the Seven Suns series or the new Alastair Reynolds book.
SCM
Slightly OT but has anyone read any of the Dexter books. I understand they are a little darker than the TV series but wouldn't mind giving them a go.
Ravenlord
14-09-2008, 16:23
Emperor series by Conn Iggulden and A Game of Thrones by George RR Martin. Both very good reading.
Slightly OT but has anyone read any of the Dexter books. I understand they are a little darker than the TV series but wouldn't mind giving them a go.
Think thats what SINC is reading atm
Metalface Mark
14-09-2008, 18:45
Slightly OT but has anyone read any of the Dexter books. I understand they are a little darker than the TV series but wouldn't mind giving them a go.
Ive read all of them, the first two are superb, the first series being pretty much based on the first book, the second series somewhat being based on it (goes totally off tangent but there are similarities).
I dont really think its a darker dexter, if anything, he seems to have more of a personality, im sure in the series, he mentions that he dosent like eating, while in the books he really loves to eat.
The third book i finished a few weeks ago, it went into the realms of weirdness, while still interesting, it was the worst of the books to date.
I'm about 20 pages from the end of Jupiter's Travels.
Ted Simon circumnavigates the world on a motorbike, for 4 years. It's more personal than just a writing of his adventure. It's very thought provoking, humorous in places, yet sincere and inspiring.
I always read before I go to bed, and I've had some very exciting dreams after reading his book before I sleep. :D
Heat Stroke by Rachel Caine - its book 2 of the Weather Warden series.
I read book 1 of of the Weather Warden series and thought it was blah, so wont be bothering with the rest.
I didn't mind it too much, you could definitely tell that it was a "filler" book in the series but it hasn't put me off getting the others in the future :)
I have started The Night Watch now and am really enjoying it :) I've over half way though it at the moment and will be buying the Day and Twlight books as soon as I have some money :)
NokkonWud
23-09-2008, 12:23
I've just finished Ugly Americans by Ben Mezrich. The structure of the book itself was very good, as was the delivery of information - though it's subject; the stock markets, went straight over my head with the mentionings of arbitrage accounts etc... It did describe it, but not too in-depth, which in my mind was probably to the benefit of the book.
It's about a group of American traders who play the Nikkei (Japanese stock market) and make an absolute killing, playing it in ways that the Eastern Traders can't, and being 'gaijin' in Japan lets them get away with many things, however it becomes apparent that it's not all plain sailing and that Yakuza are very much engrained in the Japanese economy markets in many levels.
It revolves around a 'John Malcolm' (not being his real identity) who graduates from University, a Football scholar who has a degree in economics and, through links to his school is offered a job as a button pusher in Osaka for 'Dean Carney', an American trader, who like Malcolm, graduated from the same University many years earlier.
The story flits between the many different companies and people Malcolm works for, some which collapse through economic strain (one company collapsed from the crippling losses of one Nick Leeson.
It's a pretty good book, it's structured better than Bringing Down The House (which later became the movie, '21' with Kevin Spacey), but as a read it's not as engrossing I would say. Certainly not for me anyway. The other issue is that the book is quite clearly one sided in the way it's written, painting Japan as a sex-city, concentrating pretty much on the Kubichi-Cho province of Tokyo, seldom mentioning the positive sides (if you don't class a sex district as positive that is ;)), which is a shame, and it seems to lose its way in the end, meaning you never really know if you are getting all the facts and in the end, all the differing points of view don't really intersect as you would have hoped, but it still remains a decent read.
Certainly worth reading on a plane journey or so, but it won't be remembered as great book.
Snuggle Ferret
25-09-2008, 15:34
Am reading The Duchess; the book that the film is based on. I do like my history :)
cleanbluesky
27-09-2008, 10:58
Reading Dracula on Tak's recommendation and whilst the language may not be for everyone, its an excellent read with exciting characters - particularly Dracula himself who features prominently in the first 4-5 chapters
Now it's either the new Kevin J Anderson and last of his Saga of the Seven Suns series or the new Alastair Reynolds book.
SCM
I finished reading that yesterday, it's a good book, better than some of the previous ones certainly. A problem I have with Kevin J Anderson, is he seems to have really good ideas for his plots, characters environments, but doesn't really seem able to express them very well. Particularly when it comes to character interactions they feel very stilted and unemotional. I felt the same reading the work he did on the prequels to Dune, you could tell the storylines were epic, but there was just something about the delivery.
Someone though who is a master at plot weaving is Peter F Hamilton, the vision he has is incredible and his ability to describe it all is amazing. The Nightsdawn Trilogy is one of my favourite works, and the Commonwealth Saga must be one of the best pieces of sci fi of recent times.
In case you can't tell I highly recommend his books, and am eagerly looking forward to the 2nd book in the Void Trilogy in the next few weeks.
Psymonkee
27-09-2008, 12:59
Trying to work my way through Tom Clancy's Debt of Honour. Misplaced the book right now which is making it a little harder....
Misplaced the book right now which is making it a little harder....
;D Yeah - not knowing where the book is can make it a lil difficult to read it :p
(sorry - don't mean to extract the urine but that tickled me ;D )
Psymonkee
27-09-2008, 15:50
Only a touch - luckily I found it now. In the toilet (not literally).
I took the lead from Nokkon this week and spent more time reading rather than wasting. So cheers for the inspiration Bud ;)
Currently deep into The Audacity of Hope by Barrack Obama. Essentially, it's his thoughts on where American Politics have gone wrong. I was half expecting some very skewed Democratic propoganda. Yet it has turned out to be very well balanced and thought out. I am finding it to be quiet an education as well. As you would expect, the book is written with an American Audience in mind and some of the contents on previous administrations and policies require supplementary reading to truly grasp what he is trying to say.
Indirectly it highlights a lot of subtle differences between our two respective cultures. Upto now I am enjoying reading it. For an insight into where the American politcal system has gone wrong, it's not too bad a book to start with.
NokkonWud
27-09-2008, 19:38
I've got The Audacity of Hope on Audiobook, I've listened to the first chapter and it's pretty moving, especially as, as you said, it's not mis-balanced or skewed. He's certainly a powerful man, I for one hope he gets the presidency.
Plus, McCain likely wouldn't last out his tenure... imagine if a woman was handling the worlds foremost super-power! They can't even handle cars! ;).
I have started The Night Watch now and am really enjoying it :) I've over half way though it at the moment and will be buying the Day and Twlight books as soon as I have some money :)
Finished Night and Day, just waiting for the shop to have Twilight in (might actually go look today :D ) Really enjoyed them both :D
In the meantime I have been lent Pratchett's Nations which I have in the bedroom but as my bath book I'm reading Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris.
I've actually only read the first one in the series so far and this is book 5. I will admit it is much better than book 1 was - I found that a bit too wishy washy whereas Harris seems to have got to grips with things a bit more now. It is still what I call easy read pap but I like easy read pap :p
Snuggle Ferret
12-10-2008, 13:14
Finished Night and Day, just waiting for the shop to have Twilight in (might actually go look today :D ) Really enjoyed them both :D
Could I borrow please?
Mic is reading them at the moment.
Got Twilight :D
might have also got the 3 new torchwood books too :o
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