Dirty Laundry by Tori Carrington. Read by (my favorite) Anna Fields.
A fun, little mystery. Easy to follow with some interesting plot twists. As always, Anna Fields is a joy to listen to. This book is apparently part of a series featuring Sofie Metropolis. Sofie and company give an interesting peek into the life of Greek Americans along with a good story. I will be seeking out other books from this series.
Four stars. Maybe there'd be fewer without Ms. Fields narrating.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Book #38 (Audio)
The Neighbor by Lisa Gardner. Read by Emily Janice Card, Kirby Heyborne, and Kirsten Potter.
Confession: I don't like multiple readers for the same book. Otherwise, this was an interesting and suspenseful story. I was never sure until the end whodunnit. I have read and enjoyed Lisa Gardner's book before and this one was just as good as I expected.
I am going with a 4 star rating. Had it been narrated by Anna Fields (impossible, now) I probably would have gone with 4.5. Go figure.
Confession: I don't like multiple readers for the same book. Otherwise, this was an interesting and suspenseful story. I was never sure until the end whodunnit. I have read and enjoyed Lisa Gardner's book before and this one was just as good as I expected.
I am going with a 4 star rating. Had it been narrated by Anna Fields (impossible, now) I probably would have gone with 4.5. Go figure.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Book #37 (Audio)
Dogs and Goddesses by Jessifer Crusie, Anne Stuart and Lani Diane Rich. Read by Renee Raudman.
I don't usually enjoy fantasy, but I loved this book. The reader did a fabulous job of changing voices for each character, especially the dogs. Yes, talking dogs. I've always wished I could understand what my pets were saying. If only I had some temple tonic.
I see that Amazon reviewers only gave the book 3 stars, but I'm going with 4 stars for the audio book. Would it have been less enjoyable without Ms. Raudman's skills? Who knows, I'm just glad I had a chance to listen to this story.
I don't usually enjoy fantasy, but I loved this book. The reader did a fabulous job of changing voices for each character, especially the dogs. Yes, talking dogs. I've always wished I could understand what my pets were saying. If only I had some temple tonic.
I see that Amazon reviewers only gave the book 3 stars, but I'm going with 4 stars for the audio book. Would it have been less enjoyable without Ms. Raudman's skills? Who knows, I'm just glad I had a chance to listen to this story.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Book #36
The Perfect Christmas by Debbie Macomber.
A cheery, little Christmas love story. Very easy to read. No big surprises. You're never surprised with Debbie Macomber, but you're not disappointed either.
Four stars for romance lovers, 3 for the average reader. I'll go with 3.5 since I fall somewhat in between.
A cheery, little Christmas love story. Very easy to read. No big surprises. You're never surprised with Debbie Macomber, but you're not disappointed either.
Four stars for romance lovers, 3 for the average reader. I'll go with 3.5 since I fall somewhat in between.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Book #35
Things I Learned from Knitting whether I wanted to or not by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.
Another great book by the Yarn Harlot. Forty-five short essays about knitting. What could be better? (Ans: 50 essays!)
4.5 stars. Another book I should own. Actually, I think I do own it, but I couldn't find it, so I got it from the library this time. I pretty sure this is the book I bought when I got to see her at the Tattered Cover a while back.
Another great book by the Yarn Harlot. Forty-five short essays about knitting. What could be better? (Ans: 50 essays!)
4.5 stars. Another book I should own. Actually, I think I do own it, but I couldn't find it, so I got it from the library this time. I pretty sure this is the book I bought when I got to see her at the Tattered Cover a while back.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Book #34
At Knit's End, Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.
A great book by The Yarn Harlot. It was hard to put down, but you really need to sometimes to digest and contemplate each short essay. I really must buy a copy of this to keep on my nightstand.
I'm guessing non-knitters wouldn't care for this, but who cares. It's a 5-star book full of wooly goodness.
A great book by The Yarn Harlot. It was hard to put down, but you really need to sometimes to digest and contemplate each short essay. I really must buy a copy of this to keep on my nightstand.
I'm guessing non-knitters wouldn't care for this, but who cares. It's a 5-star book full of wooly goodness.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Book #33
The Penny Pinchers Club by Sarah Strohmeyer.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Strohmeyer. I enjoyed it very much, although it took me some time to finish it. There was nothing wrong with the book, I was just distracted by knitting and not much in a reading mood for the last month or so. I loved that every time I picked up this book, I was immediately plunged back into the story and hadn't forgotten any of the main characters or what was going on with them.
I give this book 4 stars and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Strohmeyer. I enjoyed it very much, although it took me some time to finish it. There was nothing wrong with the book, I was just distracted by knitting and not much in a reading mood for the last month or so. I loved that every time I picked up this book, I was immediately plunged back into the story and hadn't forgotten any of the main characters or what was going on with them.
I give this book 4 stars and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Book #32
Yarn Harlot, the Secret Life of a Knitter by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.
Great book of humorous knitting stories. I think this is my favorite SPM book. Love "The Green Afghan" and the fiber-stealin' squirrel stories. Enjoyable for any knitter.
Knitters can give this book an extra star!
Great book of humorous knitting stories. I think this is my favorite SPM book. Love "The Green Afghan" and the fiber-stealin' squirrel stories. Enjoyable for any knitter.
Knitters can give this book an extra star!
Saturday, August 22, 2009
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Quickpost this image to Myspace, Digg, Facebook, and others!Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Book #31 (Audio)
Home Safe by Elizabeth Berg. Read by the author.
Normally, I do not enjoy novels being read by the author. They can be the greatest writers of all time, but that does not make them talented narrators. Thus, when I loaded the first CD and began to listen, I almost popped it out immediately. I didn't like the author's rather mousy voice and figured I pick up the written copy of the book someday instead. However, I was stuck in the car anyway, and NPR was playing one of the few shows I dislike, so I kept listening.
Slowly, Ms. Berg's voice began to grow on me. Her voice truly was that of Helen, the protagonist - a recently widowed novelist who finds she can no longer write. Then, when she finds she is also in significant financial trouble, I was hooked for good.
This is a good story. Helen is a likable and believable main character. The reader wants her to succeed - to begin writing again, to find new love.
I give it 4 and a half stars.
Normally, I do not enjoy novels being read by the author. They can be the greatest writers of all time, but that does not make them talented narrators. Thus, when I loaded the first CD and began to listen, I almost popped it out immediately. I didn't like the author's rather mousy voice and figured I pick up the written copy of the book someday instead. However, I was stuck in the car anyway, and NPR was playing one of the few shows I dislike, so I kept listening.
Slowly, Ms. Berg's voice began to grow on me. Her voice truly was that of Helen, the protagonist - a recently widowed novelist who finds she can no longer write. Then, when she finds she is also in significant financial trouble, I was hooked for good.
This is a good story. Helen is a likable and believable main character. The reader wants her to succeed - to begin writing again, to find new love.
I give it 4 and a half stars.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Book #30 (Audio)
A Wrongful Death, a Barbara Holloway Novel by Kate Wilhelm. Read by Carington MacDuffie.
Another enjoyable novel featuring attorney Barbara Holloway. Surprisingly, there is no actual court case in this book. Instead, Barbara becomes a material witness in a homicide case and is drawn in, ultimately discovering the real killer and proving the innocence of the falsely accused.
I can't decide between a 4 or 4.5 star rating. Erring on the side of caution, but Holloway fans can bump up the rating.
Another enjoyable novel featuring attorney Barbara Holloway. Surprisingly, there is no actual court case in this book. Instead, Barbara becomes a material witness in a homicide case and is drawn in, ultimately discovering the real killer and proving the innocence of the falsely accused.
I can't decide between a 4 or 4.5 star rating. Erring on the side of caution, but Holloway fans can bump up the rating.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
I just started reading this for a book club at the library. Please, please let it get better. The meeting is on June 27th.
Epilogue: I gave up on this novel after about 100 pages. I think the story may have ultimately been good, but I was too distracted by the Scandinavian geography, names and references to be able to concentrate on following the plot.
Epilogue: I gave up on this novel after about 100 pages. I think the story may have ultimately been good, but I was too distracted by the Scandinavian geography, names and references to be able to concentrate on following the plot.
Book #29
Ladder of Year by Anne Tyler.
One of my favorite books of all time. I re-read it every few years. As I age, I get a different message each time I read it. Perfect for any woman who's felt unappreciated as a wife and/or mother.
One of my favorite books of all time. I re-read it every few years. As I age, I get a different message each time I read it. Perfect for any woman who's felt unappreciated as a wife and/or mother.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Book #28
Heaven Preserve Us by Cricket McRae. Second book in the Home Crafting Mystery series.
Another interesting mystery featuring Sophie Mae Reynolds. Murder by botulism! Is that even possible? Sophie Mae sets out to see if the poisoning of a local man is an accident or something more sinister.
An interesting introduction to the "craft" of canning. For once, I am not tempted to try a new hobby, although that doesn't reflect badly on this novel.
Another interesting mystery featuring Sophie Mae Reynolds. Murder by botulism! Is that even possible? Sophie Mae sets out to see if the poisoning of a local man is an accident or something more sinister.
An interesting introduction to the "craft" of canning. For once, I am not tempted to try a new hobby, although that doesn't reflect badly on this novel.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Book #27
The Beach Street Knitting Society and Yarn Club by Gil McNeil.
A so-so novel about a widow who leaves London and heads to a small village by the sea to take over her grandmothers knitting shop.
I didn't love this book. I might not have finished it even if knitting hadn't been so prominently featured. My biggest dislike is that the novel was written in England English, not American English. I was constantly having to figure out the American equivilent of various words and phrase; idioms were especially troublesome. Each time one of these arose, I was pulled out of the story and back into real life.
Had this book been "translated" into American, I probably would have given it another star. Anglophiles, start your engines.
A so-so novel about a widow who leaves London and heads to a small village by the sea to take over her grandmothers knitting shop.
I didn't love this book. I might not have finished it even if knitting hadn't been so prominently featured. My biggest dislike is that the novel was written in England English, not American English. I was constantly having to figure out the American equivilent of various words and phrase; idioms were especially troublesome. Each time one of these arose, I was pulled out of the story and back into real life.
Had this book been "translated" into American, I probably would have given it another star. Anglophiles, start your engines.
Book #26 (Audio)
The Things We Do For Love by Kristen Hannah. Read by Susan Ericksen.
A so-so novel saved by an excellent reader.
A so-so novel saved by an excellent reader.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Book #25
The Family Man by Elinor Lipman.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Lipman and I am thrilled to have discovered this talented author. Hmmm, how fast can I put a library hold on all her previous novels??
This is a sweet tale of one Henry Archer and how his world is affected when his recently widowed ex-wife and former step-daughter re-enter his world. Just a nice, easy, interesting story. I highly recommend this novel - four and a half stars!
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Lipman and I am thrilled to have discovered this talented author. Hmmm, how fast can I put a library hold on all her previous novels??
This is a sweet tale of one Henry Archer and how his world is affected when his recently widowed ex-wife and former step-daughter re-enter his world. Just a nice, easy, interesting story. I highly recommend this novel - four and a half stars!
Book #24 (Audio)
Sleight of Hand by Kate Wilhelm.
Another great mystery Barbara Holloway mystery read by my favorite narrator, Anna Fields. Lawyer Holloway must defend an ex-con falsely accused of murder.
Love this series, especially when paired with the talented Ms. Fields. A strong four stars!
Another great mystery Barbara Holloway mystery read by my favorite narrator, Anna Fields. Lawyer Holloway must defend an ex-con falsely accused of murder.
Love this series, especially when paired with the talented Ms. Fields. A strong four stars!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Book #23
Lye in Wait, a Home Crafting Mystery by Cricket McRae.
First book in the Home Crafting series and the introduction of heroine Sophie Mae. I enjoyed it. Loved reading about the process of soap making along with the mystery. Anyone who enjoys crafting should enjoy this series. I rate it 4 stars, but would imagine it'd be fewer for non-crafters.
First book in the Home Crafting series and the introduction of heroine Sophie Mae. I enjoyed it. Loved reading about the process of soap making along with the mystery. Anyone who enjoys crafting should enjoy this series. I rate it 4 stars, but would imagine it'd be fewer for non-crafters.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Book #22
Spin a Wicked Web, a Home Crafting Mystery by Cricket McRae.
Although this is the third book in the series, it is the first I've read. I've already put books one and two on hold at the library since I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read with an interesting mystery, but perhaps a few too many suspects.
Regardless of any plot flaws, I give it 3.5 stars for the average female reader. Another half-star if you're a spinner, or wanna-be spinner. Actually, anyone who likes playing with fiber should enjoy the background story wherein Ruth teaches Sophie Mae to spin her own yarn. Makes me want to break out my wheel.
Although this is the third book in the series, it is the first I've read. I've already put books one and two on hold at the library since I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read with an interesting mystery, but perhaps a few too many suspects.
Regardless of any plot flaws, I give it 3.5 stars for the average female reader. Another half-star if you're a spinner, or wanna-be spinner. Actually, anyone who likes playing with fiber should enjoy the background story wherein Ruth teaches Sophie Mae to spin her own yarn. Makes me want to break out my wheel.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Book #21
The 8th Confession by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro.
This eighth book in the Women's Murder Club series is, as usual, an action-packed page turner. I enjoyed it more than some of the previous ones, so a 4 star rating.
This eighth book in the Women's Murder Club series is, as usual, an action-packed page turner. I enjoyed it more than some of the previous ones, so a 4 star rating.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Book #20 (Audio)
Manhunting by Jennifer Crusie. Read by Renee Raudman.
More silly romance for the summer. Only 6 CDs. Cute story of a 30-something successful business woman who decides to pursue marriage the way she pursues all her other goals - with a plan. There's no real surprise when the man she falls for doesn't meet any of the requirements of her plan.
I'll go with 3.5 stars - enjoyable, but no real urgency to keep listening. This is not the "I'll just sit in the car for a few minutes even though I'm home because I really want to know what happens next" type of story. But, then again, it doesn't try to be.
Warning: When I first started listening, the reader's voice really grated on my nerves, but I got used to it, and by the second CD, it didn't bother me.
More silly romance for the summer. Only 6 CDs. Cute story of a 30-something successful business woman who decides to pursue marriage the way she pursues all her other goals - with a plan. There's no real surprise when the man she falls for doesn't meet any of the requirements of her plan.
I'll go with 3.5 stars - enjoyable, but no real urgency to keep listening. This is not the "I'll just sit in the car for a few minutes even though I'm home because I really want to know what happens next" type of story. But, then again, it doesn't try to be.
Warning: When I first started listening, the reader's voice really grated on my nerves, but I got used to it, and by the second CD, it didn't bother me.
Book #19
Summer on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber. The fourth book in the series about a yarn store in Seattle (A Good Yarn) and the people around it. It revisits the characters from the previous books and adds some new ones to the mix.
Ok, I admit I like a happy ending and I'm not a huge fan of conflict, so this book was a nice, relaxing read for me. As such, I'm giving it 4.5 stars. Call it a "beach read" or "chick lit", but I really enjoyed it.
Anyone who prefers great literature and lofty themes should steer clear of Debbie M and her novels.
Ok, I admit I like a happy ending and I'm not a huge fan of conflict, so this book was a nice, relaxing read for me. As such, I'm giving it 4.5 stars. Call it a "beach read" or "chick lit", but I really enjoyed it.
Anyone who prefers great literature and lofty themes should steer clear of Debbie M and her novels.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Book #18 (Audio)
Cold Case by Kate Wilhelm. Another interesting mystery featuring attorney Barbara Holloway.
I was annoyed that they switched readers from Anna Fields to Carrington MacDuffie, until I remembered hearing something about Anna Fields dieing in a freak accident. Now that I check the copyright, I see this book came out after her untimely death.
This was an enjoyable story of an attorney defending a writer accused of not only a current murder, but also that of a young woman killed 22 years ago. Some red herrings leave the reader struggling along with the attorney to figure out whodunit.
I give this book 4 stars. Ms. Wilhelm knows what to include in the story, as well as what to leave out.
I was annoyed that they switched readers from Anna Fields to Carrington MacDuffie, until I remembered hearing something about Anna Fields dieing in a freak accident. Now that I check the copyright, I see this book came out after her untimely death.
This was an enjoyable story of an attorney defending a writer accused of not only a current murder, but also that of a young woman killed 22 years ago. Some red herrings leave the reader struggling along with the attorney to figure out whodunit.
I give this book 4 stars. Ms. Wilhelm knows what to include in the story, as well as what to leave out.
Book #17 (Audio)
Magic Hour by Kristan Hannah. I think this would have been a good story if the narrator was better. I cringed whenever she did the dialog. The plot focuses on a "wild" girl who emerges from the woods and the resulting efforts to get her to talk so her family can be found.
Three stars is a generous rating for the audio version.
Three stars is a generous rating for the audio version.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Book #16 (Audio)
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
Life in a small southern town. Everyone knows the story from either reading the book or seeing the movie.
Honestly, I don't know what all the hype is about this book. I listened to the audio version of this book and I'm so glad I did. Sissy Spacek's narration made the story come alive for me. Without it, I doubt I would have even finished it.
I give the book 3.5 stars, but I probably would have given it only 3 stars were it not for SS's fine reading.
Life in a small southern town. Everyone knows the story from either reading the book or seeing the movie.
Honestly, I don't know what all the hype is about this book. I listened to the audio version of this book and I'm so glad I did. Sissy Spacek's narration made the story come alive for me. Without it, I doubt I would have even finished it.
I give the book 3.5 stars, but I probably would have given it only 3 stars were it not for SS's fine reading.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Book #15
The Girl She Used to Be by David Cristofano.
One woman's story of growing up in the Witness Protection Program. An enjoyable, if not very believable story. The ending was a bit week, as if the author couldn't figure out what to do with these characters to end the book.
Three stars. This is the author's first book. I expect the next one will earn more stars.
One woman's story of growing up in the Witness Protection Program. An enjoyable, if not very believable story. The ending was a bit week, as if the author couldn't figure out what to do with these characters to end the book.
Three stars. This is the author's first book. I expect the next one will earn more stars.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Book #14
Diary of a Fairy Godmother by Esme Raji Codell.
The story of Hunky Dory, a witch in training who ultimately decides to become a fairy godmother and use her powers for good instead of evil. Hunky battles peer pressure and rejection by her mother (a witch), but stands by her conviction to become a good witch and grant wishes instead of casting evil spells.
A bit preachy and a slow start, but ultimately an ok read, even for an adult. My daughter and I read this for the mother-daughter book club at the local public library. I had high hopes for this book having read something else by this author, so I was a bit disappointed that it wasn't as good as it should have/could have been. 3 stars.
The story of Hunky Dory, a witch in training who ultimately decides to become a fairy godmother and use her powers for good instead of evil. Hunky battles peer pressure and rejection by her mother (a witch), but stands by her conviction to become a good witch and grant wishes instead of casting evil spells.
A bit preachy and a slow start, but ultimately an ok read, even for an adult. My daughter and I read this for the mother-daughter book club at the local public library. I had high hopes for this book having read something else by this author, so I was a bit disappointed that it wasn't as good as it should have/could have been. 3 stars.
Book #13
Run for Your Life by James Patterson & Michael Ledwidge.
Typical James Patterson page turner. If you've read any of his novels, you've read this one too. A detective/murder mystery. Not much else to say about it. I finished it in about 3 days. 3.5 star rating.
Typical James Patterson page turner. If you've read any of his novels, you've read this one too. A detective/murder mystery. Not much else to say about it. I finished it in about 3 days. 3.5 star rating.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Book #12
Handle with Care by Jodi Picoult.
This is, by far, the best book I've read in a long time. I am giving it my first 5-star rating.
The premise behind this story is "wrongful birth", a term I've only heard once or twice, if ever. A mother sues her ob-gyn for malpractice because the doctor didn't detect a serious birth defect before her daughter was born. The mother claims she might have aborted the fetus had she had all the facts.
Add to this the drama of small-town life where the mother and doctor are best friends, as well as the fact that their older daughters are also best friends, although the lawsuit destroys these friendships. Then, a husband who disagrees with the suit and decides to be a witness for the defense, an older daughter who develops bulimia, and the wrongfully-born child who's now a brilliant 6-year old who understands the meaning of wrongful death and quickly internalizes the message that she's not wanted.
The mother inspires both sympathy for her ceaseless struggles to raise this child and wrath for gold-digging her best friend. Early on, it's established that the mother is Catholic and never would have chosen abortion, even had she known about the girl's disease early on in the pregnancy.
Watching this family be torn apart is drama at it's best. I can only hope that in this case, fiction is stranger than fact.
This is, by far, the best book I've read in a long time. I am giving it my first 5-star rating.
The premise behind this story is "wrongful birth", a term I've only heard once or twice, if ever. A mother sues her ob-gyn for malpractice because the doctor didn't detect a serious birth defect before her daughter was born. The mother claims she might have aborted the fetus had she had all the facts.
Add to this the drama of small-town life where the mother and doctor are best friends, as well as the fact that their older daughters are also best friends, although the lawsuit destroys these friendships. Then, a husband who disagrees with the suit and decides to be a witness for the defense, an older daughter who develops bulimia, and the wrongfully-born child who's now a brilliant 6-year old who understands the meaning of wrongful death and quickly internalizes the message that she's not wanted.
The mother inspires both sympathy for her ceaseless struggles to raise this child and wrath for gold-digging her best friend. Early on, it's established that the mother is Catholic and never would have chosen abortion, even had she known about the girl's disease early on in the pregnancy.
Watching this family be torn apart is drama at it's best. I can only hope that in this case, fiction is stranger than fact.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Book #11
It Itches: A Stash of Knitting Cartoons by Franklin Habit. This was a cute little book of knitting cartoons and short essays. Not much else can be said about it. It was fun to read. It would make a nice gift for a knitting friend.
Four stars for knitters, three for non-knitters.
Four stars for knitters, three for non-knitters.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Book #10
Drunk, Divorced & Covered in Cat Hair by Laurie Perry. (aka Crazy Aunt Purl)
If I was not an avid follower of the Crazy Aunt Purl blog, I might have given this book 4 stars. However, as I have been reading it regularly for what seems like years, I was disappointed by the lack of new material. I'm giving it 3.5 stars, but anyone who doesn't already know CAP's whole story should probably add a half or even a whole star.
This story essentially covers Laurie's life from when her ex walked out until she begins finding happiness again - by herself, with her friends, with her cats, with her knitting. I was disappointed with the lack of ink her four cats (Roy, Bob, Frankie, and Soba) received. Maybe cat literature doesn't sell main stream. Laurie has a down-to-earth writing style that makes her blog (and her book) fun and easy to read. Weirdly, after all this time, I feel like I actually know her. (Note the strange way I am using her first name.)
Despite the 3.5 star rating, I recommend this book to anyone not familiar with Laurie's work.
If I was not an avid follower of the Crazy Aunt Purl blog, I might have given this book 4 stars. However, as I have been reading it regularly for what seems like years, I was disappointed by the lack of new material. I'm giving it 3.5 stars, but anyone who doesn't already know CAP's whole story should probably add a half or even a whole star.
This story essentially covers Laurie's life from when her ex walked out until she begins finding happiness again - by herself, with her friends, with her cats, with her knitting. I was disappointed with the lack of ink her four cats (Roy, Bob, Frankie, and Soba) received. Maybe cat literature doesn't sell main stream. Laurie has a down-to-earth writing style that makes her blog (and her book) fun and easy to read. Weirdly, after all this time, I feel like I actually know her. (Note the strange way I am using her first name.)
Despite the 3.5 star rating, I recommend this book to anyone not familiar with Laurie's work.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Book #9 (Audio)
Anyone But You by Jennifer Crusie. Read by Susan Ericksen.
This is a cute little love story, nothing more, nothing less. It was a little, er, uncomfortable listening to some of the racier parts read aloud, so I'll recommend reading the book over listening to the audio. For the record though, the reader did a very good job.
I'll give it 3.5 stars. Add half a star if you enjoy romance novels. I didn't know it was romance - picked it in a hurry based on the photo of the dog on the cover.
This is a cute little love story, nothing more, nothing less. It was a little, er, uncomfortable listening to some of the racier parts read aloud, so I'll recommend reading the book over listening to the audio. For the record though, the reader did a very good job.
I'll give it 3.5 stars. Add half a star if you enjoy romance novels. I didn't know it was romance - picked it in a hurry based on the photo of the dog on the cover.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Book #8 (Audio)
The Unbidden Truth by Kate Wilhelm. Nine CD's read by my favorite narrator, Anna Fields.
This one has been playing in my sewing room. I think I finished it in about a week or so, as I've had extra time to spend in there lately. A good listen, although the plot could be a bit hard to follow if you're not paying attention. Or perhaps because there was a scratch in the cd, so I had to forward past it and maybe missed something important in that section.
When I first started listening, I thought the story was a little familiar and that maybe I'd listened to this before. Now, however, I see on the cover this is "A Barbara Holloway Novel". Apparently, this is a series, so I guess I've listened to another one featuring these characters.
I give this audio book a 4-star rating. Anything read by Anna Fields is always enjoyable.
This one has been playing in my sewing room. I think I finished it in about a week or so, as I've had extra time to spend in there lately. A good listen, although the plot could be a bit hard to follow if you're not paying attention. Or perhaps because there was a scratch in the cd, so I had to forward past it and maybe missed something important in that section.
When I first started listening, I thought the story was a little familiar and that maybe I'd listened to this before. Now, however, I see on the cover this is "A Barbara Holloway Novel". Apparently, this is a series, so I guess I've listened to another one featuring these characters.
I give this audio book a 4-star rating. Anything read by Anna Fields is always enjoyable.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Book #7 (Audio)
Oh My Stars by Lorna Ladnvik. Twelve CDs read by Teres Byrne, approx. 15 hours. I am linking to the paperback version for the purpose of reading other reviews.
I have had this book playing in the car for many, many weeks. It is an enjoyable, easy to follow story with a good reader. I rarely had to rewind to remember what was happening. This was the first time I've heard a book by this narrator. She did a good job with the voices and I could usually tell who was talking even before the "said Violet" at the end of a sentence or paragraph. I sometimes wished I had more time in the car so I could have listened in bigger chunks.
I am giving this book a 4-star rating. I was tempted to add another half-a-star to that, but I feel like an Olympic judge who has to leave room for even better books to come this year. I will seek out further books by this author and also look for ones with Teres Byrne as the reader.
I have had this book playing in the car for many, many weeks. It is an enjoyable, easy to follow story with a good reader. I rarely had to rewind to remember what was happening. This was the first time I've heard a book by this narrator. She did a good job with the voices and I could usually tell who was talking even before the "said Violet" at the end of a sentence or paragraph. I sometimes wished I had more time in the car so I could have listened in bigger chunks.
I am giving this book a 4-star rating. I was tempted to add another half-a-star to that, but I feel like an Olympic judge who has to leave room for even better books to come this year. I will seek out further books by this author and also look for ones with Teres Byrne as the reader.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Book #6
Knit Two, A Friday Night Knitting Club novel by Kate Jacobs.
I started this book with high hopes. I remember loving the first book, The Friday Night Knitting Club. Shortly into the story, however, I knew this sequel wasn't going to do justice to the original. I slogged through it anyway, hoping it'd get better, but it never did. If anything, it continued to get worse, right through to the last page. The final wrap up seemed like a "Gee, the publisher only wants 300 pages and I'm already on page 296! How can I end this thing quickly without having to do too much rewriting?" moment.
I clicked on amazon.com and am surprised by all the 4 and 5 star ratings. I'm going with a 2.5 star rating and that's probably more than it deserves. My real recommendation is don't waste your time on this book, but if you do, don't be suckered into buying it. Get it from the library.
I started this book with high hopes. I remember loving the first book, The Friday Night Knitting Club. Shortly into the story, however, I knew this sequel wasn't going to do justice to the original. I slogged through it anyway, hoping it'd get better, but it never did. If anything, it continued to get worse, right through to the last page. The final wrap up seemed like a "Gee, the publisher only wants 300 pages and I'm already on page 296! How can I end this thing quickly without having to do too much rewriting?" moment.
I clicked on amazon.com and am surprised by all the 4 and 5 star ratings. I'm going with a 2.5 star rating and that's probably more than it deserves. My real recommendation is don't waste your time on this book, but if you do, don't be suckered into buying it. Get it from the library.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Book #5 (Audio)
This book was an audio - 15 CDs.
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah. Read by Susan Ericksen.
I really enjoyed this audio book. I must have if I kept listening for 15 CDs worth. The ending was sad, but nicely handled. I don't believe I've listened to anything by this reader before. She did a nice job of changing voices. The change was subtle, but discernible.
I went back and forth between a 4 and 4.5 star rating. Finally, I'm settling on 4-stars, as the ending bordered on banal. Add a half a star if you enjoy chick-lit.
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah. Read by Susan Ericksen.
I really enjoyed this audio book. I must have if I kept listening for 15 CDs worth. The ending was sad, but nicely handled. I don't believe I've listened to anything by this reader before. She did a nice job of changing voices. The change was subtle, but discernible.
I went back and forth between a 4 and 4.5 star rating. Finally, I'm settling on 4-stars, as the ending bordered on banal. Add a half a star if you enjoy chick-lit.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Book #4
Casting Spells by Barbara Bretton.
Let me start by saying I don't like the fantasy genre at all. Tried to read Harry Potter and couldn't get beyond the first few pages. Romance is also not high on my list. That said, this fantasy-romance book has been quite enjoyable, so far. I'm about 2/3 through it and never thought I'd get past the first chapter when trolls, vampires, witches, etc. started showing up.
ETA: Finished the book today. Nice story. I'll give it 3 stars, but you may want to rate it higher if you're a fan of the fantasy genre.
Let me start by saying I don't like the fantasy genre at all. Tried to read Harry Potter and couldn't get beyond the first few pages. Romance is also not high on my list. That said, this fantasy-romance book has been quite enjoyable, so far. I'm about 2/3 through it and never thought I'd get past the first chapter when trolls, vampires, witches, etc. started showing up.
ETA: Finished the book today. Nice story. I'll give it 3 stars, but you may want to rate it higher if you're a fan of the fantasy genre.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Book #3
Hide & Seek, How I Laughed at Depression, Conquered My Fears and found Happiness by Wendy Aron.
Billed on the cover as "A Neurotic's Hilarious Journey".
I am currently on page 150 of225. So far, I wouldn't exactly call it hilarious, but there are funny moments, and it's an easy, interesting read. I liked that it was set on Long Island, so I recognized many of the towns she mentions. Also, as a life-long sufferer of depression, it was an interesting peek into someone else's battle.
I'll give it 3.5 stars for now and will edit to add any change in rating that occurs upon completion. I am surprised to see so many 5-star ratings on Amazon. Maybe I am a harsh critic?
ETA: I am downgrading this to a 3 star rate because the of weak ending.
Billed on the cover as "A Neurotic's Hilarious Journey".
I am currently on page 150 of225. So far, I wouldn't exactly call it hilarious, but there are funny moments, and it's an easy, interesting read. I liked that it was set on Long Island, so I recognized many of the towns she mentions. Also, as a life-long sufferer of depression, it was an interesting peek into someone else's battle.
I'll give it 3.5 stars for now and will edit to add any change in rating that occurs upon completion. I am surprised to see so many 5-star ratings on Amazon. Maybe I am a harsh critic?
ETA: I am downgrading this to a 3 star rate because the of weak ending.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Book #2
Still reading this - on page 200.
Knitting, A Novel By Anne Bartlett
I haven't been very impressed with this book, but I've come so far that I'll see it through to the end. The writing seems choppy to me and the characters not well developed. Because it is about knitting, I will give it stars for knitters only. Probably 2 stars for non-knitters. Maybe something fabulous will occur in the last 80 pages that makes me rethink my rating, but I doubt it.
1/14/09 ETA: Nothing in the last 80 pages changes my above stated opinion of this book.
Knitting, A Novel By Anne Bartlett
I haven't been very impressed with this book, but I've come so far that I'll see it through to the end. The writing seems choppy to me and the characters not well developed. Because it is about knitting, I will give it stars for knitters only. Probably 2 stars for non-knitters. Maybe something fabulous will occur in the last 80 pages that makes me rethink my rating, but I doubt it.
1/14/09 ETA: Nothing in the last 80 pages changes my above stated opinion of this book.
Book #1
First book of the new year!
Free Range Knitter : The Yarn Harlot Writes Againby Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
I had high hopes for this book having read and enjoyed all of SPM's previous books. I was disappointed though. She steps aways from humor and writes what I assume are supposed to be touching little essays. I wasn't touched the way others apparently were (see amazon.com's reviews). It wasn't a bad book, just not what I expected or wanted to read. Glad I checked this out of the library before I wasted any money or shelf space.
Free Range Knitter : The Yarn Harlot Writes Againby Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
I had high hopes for this book having read and enjoyed all of SPM's previous books. I was disappointed though. She steps aways from humor and writes what I assume are supposed to be touching little essays. I wasn't touched the way others apparently were (see amazon.com's reviews). It wasn't a bad book, just not what I expected or wanted to read. Glad I checked this out of the library before I wasted any money or shelf space.
New Blog to Record 2009 Reading
This new blog is to record and track my 2009 reading. I will attempt to read a book a week for the entire year. The Ravelry group I joined, which prompted this blog, has agreed to accept audio books as "books read", so we don't have to cut into our knitting time. Since I am a big audio book fan, this works out great for me.
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