Christmas Countdown Review #16 - The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

Hello gentle readers. I apologize, I'm late on the update...by about 5 days...I'll catch up as quickly as I can.

This review is on The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket, the first book in the 13 part Series of Unfortunate Events.

It starts, rather gloomily, with an author's note on why this book should, under no circumstances, be read. From there our 3 protagonists Violet, Klaus and Sunny Baudelaire are introduced and our tale of woe begins. They are on a dreary beach and are given devastating news after which they go to live with their awful uncle who plots to steal the family fortune. Will they get away from the tyrannical Count Olaf? Will he succeed in stealing their fortune? What happens next?

This book, is actually quite cleverly written and pretty great. there are codes (no I won't give them away), villains, a hook handed man, pasta puttanesca and much more. Despite Lemony's desperate pleas to find something else to read (see the forward if you don't believe me) if you should persevere and read this book (which you totally should) I think you'll love it.

Yes I know, it's a short review today, I didn't get much sleep last night and have to be up in about 8 hours so this is where I leave you. I'll try to catch up tomorrow, or maybe tomorrow night, it's my mom's birthday though so I make no promises as to my updating schedule.

As for books I've recently finished reading, I FINALLY FINISHED THE BANE CHRONICLES, so I think I'll review that next...maybe...as always, keep reading, writing, and reviewing and the comment box is always open for comments and suggestions.

Christmas Countdown Review #15 - The Sign of the Four by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Greetings Holmesians and mystery fans of all ages, dedicated readers, I return to you today with my 15th Christmas countdown review. Upon my wading trough the masses of books that endeavour to take over my home I came across a little book that I hadn't seen or indeed read in quite some time. I acquired it as a party favour (a rather wonderful party favour, from my friend Maria, whom I have known for quite some time (I've known her since I was four (at least), let's leave it at that). One birthday she endeavoured to have a mystery party and this was the party favour that came of it, a Collector's Library, complete and unabridged, but still quite small, edition of A Study in Scarlet and the Sign of the Four by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

The Sign of the Four begins, as most of Sherlock Holmes' adventures begin, at 221B Baker Street, the flat that he and Doctor Watson rent from their landlady Mrs. Hudson. But this one begins differently, Holmes has fallen into a sort of melancholic/cocaine induced haze in the sitting room at 221B. He is bored and hasn't had a case in a while but a distraught Mary Morstan steps into the midst with a case that sounds right up their alley. Miss Morstan's father had vanished some 10 years before and 4 years after his disappearance she begins receiving gifts, one large pearl every year. She is at last invited to meet her mysterious gift giver and what follows is a tale of treasure, intrigue, and yes, indeed love. will she meet her mysterious benefactor? What happened to her father 10 years ago? Will Mary Morstan remain in the picture? What goes on in Watson's semi-non-existent love life?

All this and more will be answered as the story unfolds.

I have to say I do enjoy the Sherlock Holmes series and if Conan Doyle was around to hear me say that he'd be kicking himself. But I do, I love them they're wonderful. This one is especially intriguing and action packed and everyone should find a way to read these stories. Whether in E-Book format or paper book (I have it on good authority that there are some websites where you can get them for free (Amazon and Project Gutenberg being just two of them). So read some Sherlock Holmes and get a daily does of Holmesian wit and adventure!

That's all for me today folks, well, for right now at least, I'll be posting today's review shortly I suspect...until next time keep reading, writing and Happy Holidays!

Christmas Countdown Review #14 - City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

Back again, this time with today's review, the second in The Mortal Instruments series; City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare.

City of Ashes picks up where city of Bones left off. Despite the wonderful world that she now knows surrounds her Clary can't help but wish that her life would return to the way it was before her mother got kidnapped by Valentine's Ravener demon, before she met Jace, before she say them kill the blue haired demon at the club. Although, she's got her brother to help her find her way in this world now, and she's got the Shadowhunters of the Institute, even if she and the Lightwood siblings *cough Alec cough* don't always see eye to eye. It isn't long before the Institute gets wind of killings, a werewolf child, a faerie child, it doesn't take long for them to realize that this is all a part of Valentine's newest plot.  But will Valentine's new plot, to cleanse the Mortal Sword and bind it to his allegiance, come to fruition, or will they be able to stop him? Read on to find out more.

This book is great, City of Bones was wonderful and the continuation of the series is just as wonderful. I would say that, especially for fans of City of Bones, this book is a must-read. Of course, it's a must-read for everyone else who likes fantasy novels as well but I'd suggest reading City of Bones first.

That's all for today, I'll try to post again tomorrow morning with my 15th review but I'm not sure what that's going to be just yet. I also have to finish my Christmas shopping tomorrow (although finishing it may be wishful thinking, I will/should get more done though) so I might not post until the evening. Also, for anyone on Pottermore, have you started the 12 days of Christmas thing yet? You get early access to the first 12 moments in Half-Blood Prince!!

Until next time keep reading, writing and wrapping, Happy Holidays!

Christmas Countdown Review #13 - Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan

I'm back with my 13th review of the season, Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson is, chiefly, about 2 boys, both named Will Grayson, as you may have gathered. They've never met each other in their life and they have absolutely nothing connecting them, until one fateful night that is. When they happen to run into each other, quite by accident, it sets of a spiral of events that change both of their live for the better. As it turns out both of their lives go in new, romantic and fabulous directions. Will the most fabulous high school musical ever be a flop? What led tothe fated meeting of the Wills Grayson? What goes on as they become better friends? You'll have to read on and find out.

This book is amazingly funny and witty and wonderful and the collaboration couldn't have been between two better authors. Though I should warn you, each Will Grayson narrates separate chapters, by which I mean one narrates the odd chapters and one narrates the even. Often you can tell by the perspective and the way they talk and the other characters they refer to but, especially if you're reading this at 2:30 in the morning when you can't sleep, it can get confusing especially as their lives entwine more and more thus entwining their friends lives as well.

All in all I loved this book, it was wonderful, funny as I mentioned and witty and one of the most thoroughly entertaining books I've ever read. I would recommend this book to anyone who like young adult fiction, John Green, musicals, John Green, you get the idea.

That's all for today folks but do come back in a little while as I'll finally be doing my 14th book review which means I'll be all caught up! Hopefully I won't get that behind again, I shouldn't but you never know what comes up during the holidays.

Christmas Countdown Review #12 - Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Hi everyone, I know it's been a while (well, 3 days) since my last review but you get 3 reviews today! Days 12-14. I thought I'd have more time to update after my exams were over but it turned into a really busy weekend.

Anyway, on to the review, Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins.

Mockingjay is the 3rd book in the Hunger Games trilogy and Mockingjay part 1 is coming out soon, hence the review.

Mockingjay picks up directly in the aftermath of Catching Fire when Katniss is rescued, obviously the Capitol still has Peeta and Katniss is adamant that something must be done. When they reach the home of the resistance (It's District 13 but you didn't hear that from me) Katniss is briefed on the situation and her role as the Mockingjay and they begin to plan. They plan Peeta's rescue, discussing whether or not it's even possible, the rebellion, the possible overthrow of the Capitol and President Snow, whether or not that is a goal which can be reached, they talk about everything, planning down to the last detail. Will Katniss and her family ever be reunited? Will they be able to rescue Peeta? Will the corrupt Capitol and President Snow ever be overthrown? Read on to find out.

As a dystopian future series the Hunge Games is very good and well loved by many. Mockingjay is a very good book, at the beginning at least. I did like it bu the ending left me wanting more. The way that it ends just didn't seem right for some reason. (Those who have read Mockingjay know exactly what I'm talking about). The rest of the book was OK what with the rebellion and the overthrow of the Capitol and everything It's just the ending that didn't seem right. Of course I'm not going to spoil everything by telling you exactly what didn't seem right about the ending. You'll have to read the book to find out,

All in all, as the end to a series it was alright but overall I think I'd give it a 7/10.

That's all for this review and I'll see you next time with the 13th review!

Christmas Countdown Review #11 - Paper Towns by John Green

Today's actually review, number 11, for the 11th day (no really?) is about Paper Towns by John Green.

Our story starts in Jefferson Park, Orlando with Quentin "Q" Jacobsen and Margo Roth Spiegelman, friends since childhood. However, as is usual for friends who've been that way for a while, they, inevitably, begin to grow apart. That is, until 1 night when they are both in high school and Margo enlists Q's help to get revenge on those who've done her wrong. Margo tells Quentin about her theory about  the "Paper Towns" towns that are so fake they're not even plastic fake, they're just paper, they have not substance (or very little substance).

One day, Margo runs away, trying to escape the Paper Towns and find somewhere real. Quentin goes after her, deciphering her cryptic clue trail that only he understands, along the way. Will he find Margo? Do they find somewhere that's real? Read on to find out.

I did supremely enjoy this book. I found it delightful, intriguing and suspenseful all at once, I say  9.99/10 if not 10/10. I'm not purposefully being cryptic here but I want to post no spoilers...also, there is to be a Paper Towns movie, starring Nat Wolff (Isaac from The Fault in Our Stars). As with all books that are turned into movies, I suggest reading the books first as they almost always differ in major aspect and that can be frustrating for those who've read the book because you know they've changed bits and left bits out but at the same time, you know what's supposed to happen so when you go back and read the book again your mind fills in the gaps automatically.

Anther amazing read from John Green. I'll see you tomorrow for another review, until then, keep reading, writing and reviewing!

Christmas Countdown Review #10 - Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg

Hey everyone, I'm going to power through the reviews I missed (this being the last of 2) and then I'm going to post today's, the 11th review, all before midnight hopefully...I have an hour...and then tomorrow I go Christmas shopping!

OK, so, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe. This book is really good, kind of hard to get into at first but really good once you do. It flits effortlessly between past and present but it all starts when our main character, Evelyn Couch, goes to visit he mother-in-law in her nursing home and ends up running into, and subsequently befriending, the enigmatic Ninny Threadgoode from Whistle Stop Alabama. Ninny gives Evelyn an escape from her Mother-in-law, if you hadn't already guessed, Evelyn and her Mother-in-law don't really get along. But once she meets Ninny Threadgoode her visits to the nursing home become something she looks forward to.

It's not really a difficult book to read once you get into it and it is really very good but it does change perspective a lot, mostly between Evelyn in the Nursing home and Ninny's memories of Whistle Stop.

I guess you're all wondering why it's called Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe. Well Ninny's sister in law Idgie Threadgoode used to run the Whistle Stop Cafe with her friend Ruth back in the '20's and one of the specialties of the cafe was, you guessed it, Fried Green Tomatoes. They're Ninny'd favourite and as she tells the story she laments over not being able to get them any more. Especially not the way they were done at the cafe.

As for Ninny's story and her childhood in Whistle Stop you'll have to read to find out.

That's it for review #10, I'll be back soon with today's review. Stay Tuned. As always, feel free to drop me a line with your thoughts and book recommendations. Happy Holidays!

Christmas Countdown Review #9 - Dewey; the Small Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron

I thought, not only because these next 2 reviews are late but because we're heading full tilt into the holiday season, (don't remind me, I still have to Christmas shop, but that's what bookstores are for...and HMV...and the LCBO) that I'd write about a heart warming tale of adventure and love, and cats.

This book is about a small town called Spencer Iowa and the residents there. It all starts, I suppose, at the library. One frigid night a small, dirt covered kitten is dropped through the library book return slot and left. He's rescued by the night librarians, just closing for the night and that's where the journey starts. It's a journey of fame, of tourists coming to small town Spencer just to see the library cat and most of all it's about the paw prints he left on the hearts of millions.

First and foremost this isn't a work of fiction, it actually happened which is, I think, what makes it unique, I mean, how many libraries do you know of that can say they've had a resident cat?

I thoroughly enjoyed this biography, maybe in part because it was about a cat, but I really did love it. It's funny and heartwarming and you'll think about Dewey for the rest of your life, whether you know it or not.

I definitely recommend this book, especially if you like cats, or biographies, or libraries.

I know this one was short but the next one will be longer I promise...once I find a book to review...I'm sure I'll think of something but do feel free t drop me a line any time and suggest things

The website for Dewey Readmore Books (the cat I was talking about) is http://www.deweyreadmorebooks.com/

Christmas Countdown Review #8 - Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Hi everyone, I'm back again. You might remember that in my last post I mused about reviewing more series (aside from Harry Potter, the first 2 books in the Bridget Jones series and the first 2 books in the Lily Bard series by Charlaine Harris, I haven't really), as I seem to review the first book and then stop. So this is a continuation of a series review, Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins.

OK, this is the second book in the Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins and, as many of you may remember, the movie just came out last year. So, if you've read the Hunger Games you know how it ends and you know that the victor(s) return to their district and life seems hunky dory for a while, well, as hunky dory as life can be in Panem. But then the government catches wind of a Mockingjay a symbol of rebellion among the people (if you've read the book you all know who/what the mockingjay is) so the government decides to make life miserable for its victors once more. It announces a special 75th Quarter Quell in which 2 victors from each district will come out of retirement to compete in the games (obviously this doesn't go over well) and things happen, terrible things and there's fire and Catnip almost gets burned alive (well I said victors, it had to be Katniss, she's the only female victor from district 12). And that's where I end my summary...

This book is just as riveting and exciting as the first one and I would recommend that everyone read it if you haven't already. I'll be reviewing Mockingjay soon in preparation for Mockingjay part 1 which comes out later this month

Until next time keep reading, writing and reviewing!

Christmas Countdown Review #7 - City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Hi everyone, I know I'm a day late with review #7 but life is stupid. Once school lets out at the end of this week I should be able to update once a day like I planned.

Anyway, today's review is about a book chocked full of action and adventure, demons, vampires, werewolves, (fabulous) warlocks, who could ask for more? City of Bones by Cassandra Clare, the first in The Mortal Instruments series (Yes that one that they made a movie about last summer, read the books instead (or at least first anyway))

It ll starts with Pandemonium, literally, when Clary Fray and her friend Simon go out clubbing one night, the last thing they expect is murder. So when a patron is murdered by people claiming to be demon hunter, she has her reasons to be skeptical and wants to forget all about it and go about her mundane, every day life, little does she know that everything in her (and the lives of the demon hunters she met (well, saw) that night) was about to be irrevocably changed for the better? On her way home she gets a frantic call from her mother telling her not to come home, but she goes anyway, because she wants to know what's going on and whether or not she's OK (as anyone would do) and that's where trouble starts. With Ravener demons sent by an old Valentine of her mother's and her being able to see what she shouldn't.

This book is absolutely AMAZING, as is the rest of the series. I read this book on the recommendation of my friend Sara actually and, I'll admit, I'd walked past it in the library often enough but I never really paid it much attention but I trusted Sara's judgement and, as always, the book was amazing. I read all of the ones that were out at the time (I think City of Fallen Angels was about to come out) and then I waited (rather impatiently I might add) for the next one, and the next one, and the next one. When Sara told me there were only to be 6 books in the series but there were to be two other series that continued in the Shadhowhunting world I was very excited. I've read all 9 of them so far actually and I'm working on the 10th. anyway, I digress, this book is pack-ed (sorry, terrible werewolf pun) full of action and adventure and, one of the best things about the series, I think, is the Band names that Simon and his crew come up with. I mean there just so...I'll say inventive, not to give too much away before you've read the book. I'd rate this book 5 stars, 10/10 would absolutely read again and again, and again (and have done).

For anyone who enjoys the Supernatural genre, or adventure novels or indeed anything in between, this book is definitely for you.

That's all for me right now...I was looking at my blog archive and I've noticed something, with the exception of Harry Potter, which has the...honour? of being on my Banned Books week lists, I haven't really reviewed many series, I mean, I review the first one and that's it. So I'm going to start reviewing more series...and John Green...

See you next time!

Christmas Countdown Review #6 - The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Back again hooligans! This time I review the slightly eerie and creepy but riveting, if slightly, maybe just a bit, terrifying (not too terrifying though, it's very good) The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman.

Now, you've probably all heard of Neil Gaiman, the wonderful author who writes totally Tim Burton-esque novels that are just the right mixture of terrifying, riveting and happy endings. The Graveyard Book was actually the first Neil Gaiman book I ever read, I got it for Christmas and it sat on my shelf as I drowned in school work and required readings, trying to find time for other things. When I did eventually get around to it I loved it. I mean, it was a tad terrifying but all the best book are, you're always  terrified that the main character isn't going to make it out of any terrible situation alive but for Nobody "Bod" Owens it's just all that much scarier, especially when you've got The Man Jack (the man who murdered Bod's parents and one of the Jacks of all trades, but no spoilers) after you and out for your blood for seemingly no reason (except maybe to finish what he started when he killed your parents). Growing up in a Graveyard might seem a little odd, same with getting taught by the ghosts of said graveyard, but for Bod it's perfectly normal. Read on to find out about his life of adventure!

This book, as I mentioned, was riveting, maybe a tad creepy but nothing terrifying but, Odds Bodkins! if it wasn't a tad creepy it wouldn't be Neil Gaiman! I won't say you have to read this book, but if you haven;t, you should. It's wonderful and riveting and sad (only a bit sad though) and terrifying all at the same time and it just works.

Till tomorrow keep reading, writing, reviewing and requesting book reviews!

Christmas Countdown Review #5 - The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Yes I know, review #5 is a day late but that means you get 2 reviews today instead of just 1!

The Lightning Thief is the first in the Percy Jackson and The Olympians series by Rick Riordan. It follows the (mis)adventures of one Perseus Jackson, his friend Grover Underwood and their History teacher Mr. Brunner. But when the Gods and Monsters of the days of Mount Olympus come waltzing out his text and into his already hectic life what can he do but stand amazed as his whole world and everything he's ever known gets turned upside down. Once he escapes to Camp Half-Blood with his friend Grover and a Minotaur horn in tow will he come to terms with the truth of his past? And what's this about stealing Zeus' Master lightning bolt? You'll have to read to find out about the truly exciting adventures of Seaweed Brain...uh...I mean Percy and his friends Grover and Annabeth.

This book, nay, this series, is absolutely wonderful, I loved it! (I'm going to look into reading Mark of Athena this summer...yes I'm behind considering Blood of Olympus just came out) If you're into Gods and monsters and mythology I would definitely recommend this book. I mean there's fencing (OK, well, proper sword fighting with ancient Greek swords, not so much fencing as active combat), fighting, chases, escapes (No seriously, their escape from Aunty Em (no they're not in Kansas) was genius, if a little Greek Mythology cliche), true love (not so much in this book but you see it in later ones, and the next series...) miracles (and general Demi-God related sorcery and mischief) and yes the Princess Bride references continue because IT WORKS!!

You should definitely read this book, heck, read the series, it's riveting and wonderful and magical for Demi-Gods of all ages.

That's it for now guys but feel free to drop me an Iris message (if you've got a few spare Drachma kickin' around) or just comment or tweet your recommendations...see you next time!

Christmas Countdown Review #4 - Wicked by Gregory Maguire

My fourth Christmas Countdown review is Wicked in all senses of the word. This book is visceral, detailed, descriptive, and definitely not for the faint of heart or children. I can almost hear you saying, "But it's Wicked the untold story of the witches of Oz, I've seen the musical, how bad can it be?" Let's just say it isn't all singing and dancing and happy times. I'd recommend you not read this until you're at least 15, maybe 16.

Aside from the PG-16 (at least) rating it is a very good book, chocked full of details about the life and times of the witches of Oz, some of which you never saw coming, like the convent and the Winkies (you'll  know what I'm talking about if you've read the book). Elphaba's relationships with Galinda and Fiyero and how they develop through the course of the book. There are interesting plot developments (aside from Elphaba's green skin), that are not usually shown in the musical version such as Nessarose's true disability and the shoes, there's something important about hte shoes that you'll learn.

All in all it's a wonderful read, especially for fans of the Wizard of Oz, or indeed, Wicked. I highly recommend it, there are sequels, it's a series, but I haven't had a chance to read past the first one yet. Life gets in the way you know, but I will endeavour to find them, maybe this summer or something.

As always keep reading, writing, reviewing and commenting and I'll see you next time. I should be able to write and post my fifth Christmas Countdown review later today (it's, like, 12:04am on the 5ht right now where I am, so it is, in fact, today)

Christmas Countdown Review #3 - Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

My 3rd Christmas Countdown review actually, in addition to coming off my read but not reviewed shelf, comes off my Summer reading list as well so I can finally cross that off (I'll finish it I swear,I just don't know when!) Also, I have a plan and may do 12 days of Christmas reviews after his as well, I might just review each book in a series for that one (actually, come to it, I know a series that has exactly 12 books so I'll use those, but I digress)

Leviathan is a historical (ish) novel, set "on the cusp of World War 1"1 and shows a totally different perspective (not historically accurate obviously, but different) on the War and why it was fought. It all starts with a young girl named Deryn Sharp, who pulls a Mulan and disguises herself as her brother to get into the army (well, British Air Service, but a spade's a spade). While on board a Darwinist vessel (kind of like a giant jellyfish, zeppelin thing, Barking Spiders!2 you have to read the book to understand). Anyway, she disguises herself as her older brother Dylan and they go off in the Leviathan to do exciting things, in the mountains they come across a broken down Stormwalker (a type of war transport used by the Clankers and go down to, not only search for survivors but possibly do a salvage (think Firefly in 1914, and less trench-coats, and space) and they find Alek (Prince Aleksander of Hohenberg) who fled his home to save his life after his parents were assassinated. So they bring him and his surviving crew aboard and for a wile they fly about wondering what to do with them, are they prisoners? are they...what? The leviathan is attacked and badly damaged and it turns out to be a good thing after all that Alek and his crew are aboard, with spare parts salvaged from the stormwalker our intrepid prince gets his hands dirty and becomes useful repairing the ship. Along the way they pick up Dr. Nora Darwin Barlow, a Darwinist Boffin (a scientist, they use lots of odd slang but it works with the time period and whatnot and it's really cool, no seriously, after I first read this book I went around saying Barking Spiders for about 3 days because it just caught on) anyway, they arrange for Nora to have passage to wherever it is she's headed (she's on a "secret diplomatic mission" that no one knows about and they go off to see the world.

Well, that's about all I can say about what happens (the series kind of blended together, it's been a while since I've read it, I couldn't remember if they'd met someone important yet and I didn't want to spoil the surprise. I think they meet him in the next book though, mustache, laser pigeon and all. (If you watched Sanctuary you'll suddenly know who I'm talking about) (On a side note, I just thought of another Harry Potter reference for no reason other than who I was just thinking of, "Is he a bit mad?" "Mad? He's great! But he is a bit mad yes." My friend Sara will know of whom I speak, he's our favourite scientist and he was a bit mad. Anyway I digress, I do recommend that everyone read this book, not only if you're a fan of historical fiction, it's funny, it's witty, it's packed with adventure, swordfights, chases, escapes, true love, miracles (OK that's the Princess Bride but the same principal applies). I do think you should read it, especially if you're a fan of Scott Westerfeld's other works, like the Uglies Series (which is good to, I might review it if I haven't already)

I think that's it for me just now. Read Leviathan and until next time keep reading, writing, reviewing, commenting and I'll see you next time for my 4th Christmas countdown review (I'll finally be caught up!!)

1 Yes I'm siting things but that synopsis line comes straight from the Shelfari synopsis
2 This is a quote from the book, actually, they say it a lot, kind of like how Ron says Bloody Hell quite a bit during the course of the Harry Potter Series, so this is sort of a citation but I sort of just wanted to make the tentative Harry Potter-esque connection between Deryn and Ron

Christmas Countdown Review #2 - Fatal Voyage by Kathy Reichs

Back again, yes I know I said I'd try to post one a day but it was exam week this week and I got stupid busy. As a result I will (attempt to) post reviews 2-4 today (depending on how far I get I may post the remainder tomorrow with review #5).

Fatal Voyage is a book written by Kathy Reichs about acclaimed forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan (Yes, her books are in fact, the inspiration for "Bones" the wonderful TV series. Although, if you watch the series and read the books there are some noticeable differences but that's to be expected.

As I was saying, Fatal Voyage is about a plane crash in the mountains in North Carolina, mostly. I say mostly in that the plane crash is what brings Tempe down from Montreal as part of the investigating DMORT team. But is there something more sinister at work? Is there something else going on in the area around the crash site, how far will Tempe go to solve this case? Does she get in over her head? (She's Bones, what do you think?)

I really loved this book it was riveting and exciting, just like watching an episode of Bones. Plus, you gotta love a book that starts with a great first line like "I stared at the woman flying through the trees." I mean, that raises all sorts of questions, is said woman alive, is it a corpse (or head?)? is she hang-gliding, zip-lining? what's going on?

Will Tempe solve the case in time? Was it just a plane crash or is there something more sinister at work? Why am I asking so many questions? Why am I asking you?

Anyway, I do think you should read this book, especially if you're a fan of Bones, or CSI it's absolutely spell-binding and definitely worth the read.

OK, that's my second Christmas Countdown review done (I know, I know, I'm 2 behind). As always, feel free to review, comment, tweet, whatever. As a side note, did anyone see the Carmilla season finale? OMG!!

Christmas Countdown Review #1 - Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

I know, I promised to post my first Christmas countdown review on the first but after I posted my Christmas Countdown notice I got really busy and forgot so I'll do 1, 2 and 3, if I have time today and 4 tomorrow and so on. Now, this review may be very short, I'm not sure yet, but as you may be getting 3 today I think that would make up for it's pitiful length

Catch-22 is a satirical novel, written by Joseph Heller. It's a wonderful read and very funny indeed. It's a war story, essentially, and the main character is caught in a Catch-22 if you will (the term was coined after the advent of the book but I'm sure you've cottoned on to that). He's a pilot and there are a set number f missions that he must fly to render his military service complete. However, that number keeps increasing, due to the war dragging on, and on, and on, and there being a shortage of replacement pilots to fly. So it's a Catch-22, there is a certain amount you have to do to finish the job but even when the job's finished, it's not.

I don't know if anyone's seen the TV show M*A*S*H but, in some aspects, in fact, in many aspects, reading Catch-22 if like watching M*A*S*H. It's packed with witticisms and humour that would make Hawkeye Pierce proud.

I strongly recommend that everyone read this book, it's very good, wonderful even, and it will delight readers and leave them wanting more. (Incidentally there is a sequel called Closing Time but I haven't read that yet, I may review it later, if I can find it.)

That's it for just now, until next time keep reading, writing and reviewing, don't forget to recommend things for me to review! As mentioned previously I may not get to it very quickly but I will get there eventually.

I'm back again!

Suffice it to say that this semester got so much busier than I thought it would and I haven't been on much since Banned Books Week. However My semester ends next week so that's good, until then, I'm going to try to be on but I make no extraneous promises. I am going to read more and I'm very excited because I have a stack of books (well, 4) sitting next to my bed, that reach the top of my mattress that are begging to be read. As you can imagine that is quite a few books, some of which I didn't get to read this summer (also, fanfiction has been distracting me and yeah, I haven't been reading many paper books recently, unless you count the reading the books Harry Potter fic I'm reading now (I'm on book 4)) regardless I am going to try to read more paper books between revision for my exams next week, if you want to see what I'm currently reading, have read, or want to read, check the bookshelves on the right of my blog (sidenote, I just checked and I need to add the widgets again, I think I took them off cause I wasn't updating my Shelfari as often as I would like)

Anyway, I'll keep up with the Banned Books Week and I might do a Christmas countdown thing with a review a day or something, maybe using the books on my Read shelf so...look forward to that, also, HAS ANYONE BEEN WATCHING CARMILLA?? (I'll admit I've missed the last couple episode because I was really super busy but I'm going to catch up right...now...ish)

As always feel free to recommend me books to read in comments or over Twitter. I'll be back again soon with my first Christmas Countdown Book Review (No, not Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, I'm saving that for Banned Books Week)

Until next time keep reading, writing and enjoy the Holiday season (which officially starts now, on December 1st, I don't care what TV commercials say, the Holiday season starts in December and not before!!!)

*Skips off to bookshelf to find something to read/review*

Deck the Halls with Book a-plenty, fa la la la la, la la la la

Banned Books Week #2 (September 21-27) Review #2 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

Hello again all, I meant to post this yesterday but I got so caught up in my reading for school that I didn't have a chance. Goblet of Fire is the 4th book in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. Visually it is stunning and much thicker than any of the other books so far (the cover I have has Harry being chased by a dragon who is guarding a golden egg (that's important later on in the book, NO SPOILERS) and it's beautiful!) But enough about the appearance of the book.

The story itself starts, much as it has done for the past 3 books, with Harry's horrible relatives at Privet Drive. Everything seems as if it's going to be business as usual until a letter comes from Harry's best friend Ron inviting him to go to the Quidditch World Cup with them (Bulgaria vs. Ireland, no I won't say how it ends, you have to read the book) Everything's going swimmingly until a strange mark appears in the sky, the mark of the Dark Lord, the one most often left by his Death Eaters in the wake of an attack. Things happen, they're not too important, but soon everyone is packing off to Hogwarts again for their 4th year. Between a dangerous tournament fir inly the best and brightest students from 3 schools and a crazy ex-auror Defense professor, will Harry have a quiet year? Of course not. As for what happens in the end you'll have to read to find out!

This book is poignantly, brilliantly written with plot twists every step of the way that will keep you guessing and the magical adventures along the way will keep you hooked and leave you wanting more. You'll laugh, you'll be scared, you'll fly with dragons and you'll love every minute of it. Speaking of laughing I wonder if Draco's father every found out about his little run in with Moody...(I will say no more, you have to read it) I'll try and post again soon...probably on the 5th book (the longest of the lot interestingly enough)

Banned Books Week #2 (September 21-27) Review #1 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

Hi all, it's Banned Books week again! I must admit I have been most remiss in my reviews for this week, I posted the list and ever since I've been reading Neverwhere. However, my first review this week (I know, it's already Thursday, school gets in the way sometimes) is the third Harry Potter book.

It's the start of Harry's third year and he's at the Dursley's again. This year there are no house elves with dire warning on his birthday and his letters come through but it's still shaping up to be an awful summer. Ron's off to Egypt with his family to see his eldest brother Bill and his Hogwarts letter arrives with a permission slip for Hogsmeade, the wizarding village near Hogwarts. Unfortunately his Aunt Marge is coming to stay and suffice it to say that her visit doesn't end well and Harry runs off. When he reaches the Leaky cauldron, thats in London, Hedwig is already waiting for him. A few days later he meets his friends there and the new school year starts with promise. Unfortunately for Harry there's an escaped mass murderer on the loose with dementors chasing him, so much for a quiet year. Why is he after Harry? Who is he? What does he really want? Find out all this an more in the third installment of the acclaimed Harry Potter series.

This book, these books, are brilliant and once you've read them you never go back. It's brilliantly written and the story is so wonderful, sad at parts I won't lie, but great. This installment, like it's predecessors, is so cleverly written it keeps you guessing with endless questions, who is the mysterious, Prisoner of Azkaban? didhe actually commit the crimes he was jailed for? If he was innocent why didn't Dumbledore do something? What kind of coward chops off his finger and frames his best friend for murder? What kind of Cowardly Lion are you? And you call yourself a Gryffindor, McGonagall would be disgusted.

You can probably tell I'm a huge Potterhead but if you've read the books and seen the movies, you understand...I highly recommend this book, and it's predecessors and once you read them you never see the world the same way, I promise you that.

As always you can recommend me books to read through Twitter or my blog here, even on Shelfari, until next time (sorry for the delay) keep reading, keep writing, and DFTBA!

Banned Books Week #2 September 21-27, 2014 - Review list

Hi all, I'm doing the September Banned Books Week (I did the one in February as well) and I thought I'd post a list of the books that I'd be reviewing...feel free to comment of tweet me with other banned books that you'd like me to review and I'll work through the list during both Banned Books Weeks (the one now and the one in February) and in honour of my birthday in October I might do my own Banned Books week then (or something) and of course I'll try my hardest to finish my old summer reading list, I know I didn't get far.

1. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - J.K. Rowling
2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - J.K. Rowling
3. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - J.K. Rowling
4. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - J.K. Rowling
5. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - J.K. Rowling
6. Neverwhere - Neil Gaiman
7. Looking for Alaska - John Green
8. The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald
9. Catch-22 - Joseph Heller
10. The Catcher in the Rye - J.D. Salinger
11. The Giver - Lois Lowry
12. Carrie - Stephen King
13. The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
14. The Golden Compass - Phillip Pullman
15. The Subtle Knife - Phillip Pullman
16. The Amber Spyglass - Phillip Pullman
17. Fahrenheit 451 - Ray Bradbury
18. Are you there God? It's me Margaret - Judy Blume
19. Slaughterhouse Five - Kurt Vonnegut
20. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer - Mark Twain
21. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn - Mark Twain
22. The Perks of Being a Wallflower - Stephen Chbosky

Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason by Helen Fielding

Hi again, I told you a new review would be up shortly. This time I review "Bridget Jones:The Edge of Reason"

This book is brilliantly written, witty and funny. I loved the first book and the second was just as good, funnier and Bridget is back with more trials and tribulations of living her urban lifestyle in London. As always she has her friends Sharon (Shazzer) and Jude by her side and this time, she takes on world travel. As they journey to places unknown (I know where they're going I just want it to be a surprise) and meet knew people they are bound to have an adventure or two. Will Jude marry Vile Richard? What has happened to Sharon and Simon? What's going on with Mark and Bridget? Read on to find out (not read on here, read the book, sillies, I'm not going to give it all away, although do, by all means, read on here if you want to read the review and not just the summary)

This book, much like the first one is witty, poignant and funny and continues to strike a chord with people everywhere. It's a diary of a year in her life and it's absolutely wonderful. Read it, read it, read it! Fielding's writing is wonderful, it carries you into Bridget's life on a fast moving (sometimes out of control) train but everything evens out by December.

Well that's all for today folks, I told you there would be 2 reviews today, so far. Until next time keep reading, writing and for heaven's sake comment! (or tweet me) but tell me what you think!

See you next time!

Shakespeare's Champion by Charlaine Harris

Hey All I'm finally back!

I'm not quite through the stack of library books but they have to be returned (doing that tomorrow (or, as such, later today)) but I finally finished reading Shakespeare's Champion by Charlaine Harris.

This is the second book in the Lily Bard mystery series and this time finds her in a bit of a spot.

Between mysterious strangers and threats and a mysterious ring she's really got her hands full this time. But when she's caught between her old friend (and once beau) Claude Friedrich, Shakespeare's chief of police and a mysterious stranger who uses a false name and seems to have come to Shakespeare on the winds of the past she manages to get in way over her head. But you know our heroine, never one to back down from a fight. But when the situation escalates and Lily is caught up in it, what will happen? Who knows, read the book to find out.

Now this book was very good, and especially if you read the first one I would strongly suggest that you continue the series. However there are mature themes,think, To Kill a Mockingbird themes. I loved it. Charlaine Harris is a wonderful author and she really has a way with words that weaves you in to the background of little town Shakespeare.

Well, short review today folks but I will be posting another one very shortly. as always please comment or Tweet me about what you thought or with book recommendations. Until next time keep reading!

Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor

The epic sequel to Daughter of Smoke and Bone and the second book in the trilogy this book with grip you from beginning to end on a roller-coaster ride of action and emotion, magic and wonder that will leave you wanting more.

Hi again readers I'm back! This time I review Days of Blood and Starlight, the sequel to Daughter of Smoke and Bone. This book once again follows Karou on her journey through life. This time the resurrectionist in a Kasbah in Morocco creating monsters for a man as monstrous as can be. Will Karou ever be able to leave, flee, will her friends find her? Will she ever see her beloved Akiva again? Read on to find out.

This book was gripping from beginning to end, I didn't want to put it down. The journey was wonderful, if a little bloody at times but what can you expect from battles and a book titled "Days of Blood and Starlight"? It was a great read though and I would definitely recommend it to everyone. obviously read "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" first but if you have, and you liked it? read this one. (The third one's out too I just haven't read it yet).

Well folks, short review today, I'm working at BluesFest this weekend so I might not have too much time to read for the next 4 days but I will definitely try to keep up with it. I can't believe it's August already. If you hadn't already guessed my summer reading list will carry on into the school year and I might have a hope of finishing it. (I'm slowly buying copies of the books I wanted to read and had borrowed from the library, some of them are overdue and they really need to be returned so buying them, especially if I wanted to read them more than once, seemed the easiest option.)

As always I'm open to suggestions in comments or over Twitter and feel free to comment with what you think! As always keep reading and I'll see you next time!

Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman

Hey all I'm back, I just finished reading "Practical Magic" a book by Alice Hoffman. Now, some of you might recall that this is also a movie starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, it's usually on around Halloween. As always with these things the book differs from the movie in some aspects but mostly the story remains the same.

Well how did I come to know that "Practical Magic" wasn't just a movie? Funny story, I was looking for the movie in my local library database, they didn't have the movie but they had the book. This book will captivate you from beginning to end, it's almost...bewitching. The story is wonderful and captivating and absolutely amazing...I can almost hear you saying "Enough with the praise, and the personal anecdotes what's it about?

Well, it's about two sisters, Sally and Gillian Owens who go to live with their aunts after their parents die. The Aunts (Aunt Frances and Aunt Bridget (everyone calls her Jet)) live in Massachusetts in an old house on Magnolia Crescent. The Owens women have lived there for generations and by all accounts Gillian and Sally had a pretty good life living with the Aunts on Magnolia Crescent. But the Aunts were always considered a little weird by everyone in the neighbourhood. everyone was convinced that they were witches. Sally and Gillian had to deal with that all through school, but Gillian runs away with her then boyfriend Jimmy and Sally stays behind, she eventually moves to a different town where nobody knows her or thinks she's a witch and she gets married and has two children. One day tragedy strikes however, shattering her world, not long after that Gillian comes back into her life bringing a whole host of trouble that Sally neither wanted nor expected. Will they be able to work through their issues and their problems? Or will Gillian's past come back to haunt them and hang over them forever? Read on and find out.

As I said, it's a great read, absolutely worth reading, worth savouring. It's magical and captivating and I would definitely recommend that you read it, especially if you're a fan of the movie.

That's all for today folks, I have to go through my library books and figure out which ones to return (I just ordered, like, 6 books online from one of the local bookstores and then I went out and bought more and most of the books I bought were ones I'd borrowed from the library (some are, admittedly, overdue (I know, I have to go return them tomorrow)) But I figured, if I was going to read them anyway I might as well buy them (not all at once obviously) especially if it sounded like, or was, something that I might like to read again *cough* Portrait of a Killer: Jack the Ripper, Case Closed by Patricia Cornwell.

As always feel free to leave books for me to read in the comments or suggest them to me via Twitter. See you next time, until then, read on book lovers!

If Only You Knew by Mags Storey

Hey all! Today I review "If Only You Knew" by Mags Storey which was (you'll see by my Summer Reading List) recommended to me by the mother of a friend of mine. I have Susan Barclay to thank for this amazing read.

This book starts off with a mystery. When Jo sees a guy get hit by a car of course the first logical thing she does is tell her sister and together they call the police. But when she goes back to visit her sister the next summer. She finds something that she never expected. She meets a great guy, maybe two or three and gets embroiled in the mystery of the small town of Silverpoint. But when her curiosity starts to endanger her life can she see it through to the end and find out what happened to the guy she saw get hit?

OK, OK, not the best description, the one on the back of the book is better. But it is a great read and keeps you guessing all the way through. Who will you trust? Sam, Kevin or the mysterious Nate, who's got a dangerous past a mile wide (which I won't go into here because spoilers).

This book, I have to admit, when I read the back of the book I was kind of hooked. However, for some reason, I found it really hard to get into, but that's just me. It is an amazing read when you really get into it.

It touches on, and focuses on, the impact that religion has in people's lives and the changes that happen in people's lives to make them turn to (or indeed away) from religion.

Mags Storey is a Canadian Author and she spins a tale of intrigue and romance that is absolutely gripping and she writes in ways that keep you guessing. I strongly recommend that everyone read this book. I think, especially people who are fans of mystery, romance and religion, will love it.

The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin

Hey all, I'm back from my brief trip to the states (I got the perfect shoes for my FanExpo costume) and it was most exciting. However, that's not why I'm here today. This review is on a book that I just recently finished and actually found quite interesting.

The Lathe of Heaven is about a man named George Orr who is capable of having "effective dreams", basically dreams so powerful they affect the world around them. Well, he starts having drug abuse problems because he's always hopped up on sleeping pills. He wants to stop the dreams you see, he's seen the destruction they can cause, despite all the good they can do. So he gets sent to a psychiatrist that specializes in dreams "Doctor Haber". But will Doctor Haber help George overcome his effective dreams or will he wreak havoc on the world as we (well, they) know it?

Sounds interesting doesn't it. I found this book quite good. I mean, who among us hasn't been fascinated by dreams and wonder if they have the power to predict the future or change it. But that's not the only reason I liked it. The characters are masterfully written, the settings vivid and the plot only thickens with each chapter. This book is a stark contrast to "The Wizard of Earthsea" from a society which could have been in our history, and older society with very little technology, to a futuristic society where dreams can change the world.

I really got into this book, although, at some points, I found Doctor Haver...um...Haber... very infuriating, especially as the book went on. There were some times where I just wanted to smack him over the head with his own files.

Despite the infuriating tendencies of Doctor Haber (but think about it, if you were in his position what would you do?) this book is a wonderful read, exciting, twisting, turning and truly gripping. I think everyone should read this book. I loved it and it's definitely on the list of ones I intend to read again.

Until next time! Also, Camp NaNo's July session is almost over but after that don't forget to keep writing, and reading!

As always you can reach me via the usual channels if you want to recommend a book or two for me to read and feel free to comment with what you think of my reviews as well!

Weird Things Customers Say in Bookstores by Jen Campbell

Hey again everyone, yes, a second review!

This book is phenomenally funny. Jen Campbell is author of a blog as well as this book and, as you might have guessed, the book is composed of all the weird and wacky, crazy, zany things that customers do and say in bookstores.

From 'Literary Pursuits' to 'Out of Print' (the first and last sections in the book) this book will keep you entertained for hours, hours I say. I came by this quite by accident, actually, I was in Uptown and, there's this little bookstore in Uptown that I like to go to, the one I mentioned had it's 30th anniversary recently(well I say recently but was that really May?) It's in my New Books post here. I was browsing, incidentally that's where I found out that 'The Book of Life' by Deborah Harkness (the third one in the Discovery of Witches series) was out in hardcover. I was browsing and I found it in the bargain bin interestingly enough. Well, I picked it up (and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern) and I left. I spent 2 hours in the Starbuck's down the street reading it (well almost 2 hours but let's not be pedantic) and I laughed the whole way through, though, some things were just a little sad.

I think Neil Gaiman puts it best (from the cover) "So funny. So sad...Read it and sigh"

I think absolutely everyone should read this book, it's funny, it's charming, and good if you're in need of a laugh or two (here blog can be found here) (Yes I'm experimenting with hyperlinks so sue me) Interestingly enough there is one more in this series currently (all the details are on her blog) but there is a third instalment coming autumn 2014)

Read this book and sigh, or laugh, or whatever you make of it. Definitely glad I picked it up.

See you another time readers, until next time keep reading!

A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. LeGuin

Hi again guys, it's been a couple of days since my last review, 5 days to be exact and at long last I have come to the end of my journey )well, my next book in any case.

A Wizard of Earthsea is actually a tremendously difficult read. Like any classic, or classic style novel there's tons of exposition and, to be perfectly honest, I found it a bit of a hard read at times. It was good, don't get me wrong, just difficult. I don't know what it is about it that makes it so, it just is, although, there are dragons and, as you know, dragons and magic and quests makes anything worth reading. Despite being difficult to get through (even though it was only 200 pages) it was a great read. I put it down earlier tonight and I really felt like I'd been on Ged's quest with him, from his apprenticeship to the end of the journey.

When young Ged is apprenticed to the great sorcerer Ogion his life changes, after many years of learning from his master he learns that he is to go the great Wizard's School on Roke. While there he makes many friends and a couple of enemies naturally. He is young and prideful and boasts of his power and that leads him into danger. But when he starts to dabble in dark forces, forces he knows not of, what will become of him? Will his pride-fullness and wanton need to prove himself better than any other wizard get him killed? or will it do something worse. Of course you'll have to read to find out.

I really did like this book, I enjoyed it immensely and for lovers of fantasy, especially stories of wizards I would definitely recommend it without hesitation.

I know, sort review today, I continue to work my way through the list (found here if you want to see what I've read/will read) Of course I'm always open to suggestion either in the comments or over Twitter.

Until next time keep reading, and writing!

Plain Kate by Erin Bow

This book is magical. it carves the life of Kate Carver into immortality. Plain Kate grows up with her father, a brilliant woodcarver, in a small village. She learns to carve with him and soon is almost a master carver. She tells her father "I'll be a master carver by 20." But  one day the Skara Rok comes to the village and they look for a witch to blame. Since Kate has witches eyes (one blue, one brown) they look to blame her and she flees for her life. On her journey she runs into an actual witch but she runs away from him, straight into the arms of a travelling troupe of Roamers. She travels with them for a good while and then, just when things start looking up, Kate's life takes another turn for he worse. She flees the Roamers and starts life anew with her cat. Little does she know more trouble is on the way for her, and there's nothing she can do about it. What of the fate of Kate and her little cat? You'll have to read the book to find out.

This book was the TD Canadian Children's Literature Award but despite that it's not just a book for children. I would argue that it's not really a book for children at all but when you re-read Harry Potter at 19 you start to think that maybe that's a bit to intense for children too. But an old enough child might just find it fascinating and wonderful and mysterious to live in a magical world. It is indeed a masterful piece of writing and absolutely gripping. I say, to any who want to read it, do so, it is absolutely brilliant.

Well, that concludes my review for today. If you looked at my Summer Reading List you would have noticed that this book was recommended to me by a friend, or, in this case, a friend's mother, I'd like to Thank Susan Bee for recommending this book to me, it was a truly gripping read and one I'l come back to again and again.

An Arsonist's Guide to Writer's Homes in New England by Brock Clarke

Hello again everyone I'm back! It's the July session of Camp NaNo currently so I thought my reviews might be less frequent but, as it turns out, I have quite a bit of time to read in addition to having time to write.

An Arsonist's Guide to Writer's Homes in New England is narrated by Sam Pulsifer an, albeit slightly accidental, arsonist. After accidentally setting fire to a writer's home (I'm not telling you which one, you have to read the book) his life is never the same. He ends up going to jail for a number of years and when he finally gets out everything's changed. One day, while visiting his parents he finds out that people have written him, while he was in jail, to ask him to burn down other writer's homes. But he has a new life now, he's walked away from his past, or has he? when an unexpected figure shows up at his door his new life takes a nasty turn and secrets from the past are revealed. I'll leave you to find out the rest on your own if you read the book.

Let me preface this by saying that this book was an impulse check-out from my local library. I'd gone there with a list of things to look for (none of which they had on hand but all of which I put on hold) and there it was, on the display shelf, you know, the ones libraries have in the hopes that you'll check out some books that they're promoting. So I thought I'd check it out and I must say I was pleasantly surprised. It's very well written and Sam's voice really speaks to you though the pages. Brock Clarke writes a brilliant narrative full of secrets and lies and ghosts from the past come back to haunt our narrator.

All in all I think I would give this book and 10/10. I think many people, literary enthusiasts included, would love it and it also, kind of, serves as a sight-seeing guide, if you go to New England which writer's houses should you see, kind of thing.

I definitely recommend reading this book. As always I am constantly taking suggestions for books to read and you can give me those suggestions via Twitter or in the comments below, if you have suggested a book that I have not yet reviewed, sorry about that, it's more than likely in my pile of library books to read and I will get to it I promise.

Until next time keep reading, and writing!

Bridget Jones Diary by Helen Fielding

Hey all!!!

As you can see I'm steadily working my way through that pile of, like, 30 odd books (and the director's cut and final cut of Blade Runner. I may review some movies this summer as well, just for the heck of it. Also, as you may have noticed (or not, depending on how close attention you pay) this is my 60th post so it's kind of a milestone, hence my possible movie review start.

Bridget Jones Diary is a witty and funny and totally great. Bridget herself is absolutely hilarious and a relatable character. Her diary chronicles a year in her life during which she wants to find a boyfriend, quit smoking, drink less and lose weight while dealing with her parent's problems and navigating a couple of jobs. I'm not going to tell you how her year ends, it's a surprise, you'll have to read the book to find out. When you think of this book you may think of the movie with Reneé Zellweger, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant and the book is every bit as good as the movie.

Bridget is funny, poignant and relatable and everyone who reads this book will laugh along the whole way and want to read it again and again. It's really well written and a book that everyone will enjoy.

Until next time keep reading and writing and, if you like a book, or movie, and want me to review it on my blog, comment below or message/tweet me on Twitter.

Until next time readers!

Watership Down by Richard Adams

Hi again everybody, I finally finished another book! (Of course that's not saying much as I still have many to go).

Watership Down is a book about rabbits, it's told in the narrative style of rabbits and its main characters are of the lapine persuasion. I though this was going to be my book club's book for a while but no, I'm sure we'll think of something though.

These rabbits start out living an OK life in the Sandleford warren. However, things are not always as they seem, join Fiver, Hazel, Bigwig and a host of others as they journey from their dangerous warren to a better place where they can make a new life. Now, Fiver is a rabbit possessed of extraordinary powers, mostly of premonition. He senses something has gone wrong and has a dream of the warren being in danger so he goes to their Chief Rabbit to attempt to evacuate the warren that they might all survive. When his entreaties fail he and a small group of rabbits set out, leaving their home, to escape Fiver's prophecy. Now, whether Fiver's Prophecy comes to pass and something does happen to the warren, I will leave for the story to tell.

I will tell you this, on their journey they encounter many perils, will they reach the mysterious destination in Fiver's dream? or are they destined to wander the hills forever? You'll just have to read and find out, really I've said too much already.

An adventure fraught with peril for Fiver, Hazel, Bigwig and their rabbit friends this story is gripping from the off and it only keeps you wanting more.

I give a hearty recommendation for this book any day (and not just because I like rabbits) it's a wonderfully crafted narrative, if a bit hard to get through at times, I won't lie. It's got quite a bit of exposition and the lapine language thrown in but it is a good read and the lapine vocabulary only makes it better and serves to tell the story, without it the story wouldn't be the same.

Now, my reviews may slow down (not that they've been frequent, per se) as it is the July session of Camp NaNo but I will do my best to read a lot and review as often as I can.

Until next time keep reading and writing and for Frith's sake comment and tweet and give me books to read!

Shakespeare's Landlord by Charlaine Harris

Shakespeare's Landlord...what can I say about Shakespeare's Landlord except that it is amazing, AMAZING! This book uses the backdrop of the little town of Shakespeare combined with our fearless heroine, Lily Bard (A Bard in Shakespeare...hm...) to create a wonderful story I won't soon forget (I'm going to read the rest of the series in the coming weeks, maybe).

The landlord of the Shakespeare Garden Apartments is not particularly nice, I mean, you only hear about him through the eyes of the other citizens of Shakespeare but from what I could infer, he wasn't loved by his tenants and he was kind of an ass. I say was, you can probably infer what happened, it is a mystery novel, and what's a small town and close knit community without a little mystery, scandal and intrigue.

This novel also delves into the dark and painful past of Lily Bard, she moved to Shakespeare from Memphis, the reasons for which become painfully apparent, and she thinks she's safe from her past. She didn't change her name when she moved, despite her horrific past and only a few people know what happened to her. When someone seems intent of threatening her, chasing her out of Shakespeare, she thinks it's the person who murdered the Landlord...but is it?

This book is gripping from beginning to end and no matter what Lily does between classes at the local gym she's always getting into some sort of scrape, but she manages alright.

As for the murderer and whoever was threatening her, that I'm not going to tell you, you're going to have to read on to find out. This book has all the elements of a great murder mystery, love, intrigue, murder, prowlers intent on scaring off the protagonist, but it also has Lily Bard, a fierce gal who can beat anything that comes at her.

I would definitely recommend that everyone reads this book, especially those who are fans of murder mysteries...

That concludes my review today, as always, I'm open to suggestions on what to read next so comment, or message me on Twitter (or Tumblr).

Until next time, (which I hope will be sooner, rather than later), keep reading, writing, whatever it is you do and remember that, no matter how hectic your life gets, alwyas try to find time to do something that you love. :D

The Jane Austen Book Club by Karen Joy Fowler

This is a book about a book club. That much is obvious, it's in the title. But this is a very special book club. For throughout the book, as they explore the works of Jane Austen you begin to see that each person in the book club is similar to a Jane Austen Hero or Heroine. The book club starts out as  5 women and 1 man, one for each Austen novel and each month they get together at someone's house to discuss the current book. In many ways this book emulates an Austen novel (and I'm not just saying that because of the title). Will each one find their way and find what they had lost? You'll have to read to find out.

This book...what can I say...I think it's one of my favourites. Especially if you are an Austen fan this is a must read, I was first introduced to it actually by way of the movie, I caught some of it when it was last on TV and I was going through my books to find something for my book club to read and I thought of it. Last time my book club tried to read an Austen novel we all tried to read Persuasion and none of us got very far, you know, life gets in the way of reading and Persuasion isn't an easy read if you're not used to reading classical novels (We've decided to try again and read Watership Down but that's not important). However, The Jane Austen Book Club is a very good segue into reading the actual novels because, through the book club meeting you meet the heroes and heroines of the Austen world and it actually inspired me to break out my Jane Austen box set and read them all.

Especially if you're a fan of Austen, and even if you're not, or have only seen the movies I would heartily recommend this book, it's a wonderful read and, believe it or not, it's given me other titles to try that aren't Austen. I would heartily recommend this book to anyone in a heartbeat, who knows? It might inspire you to get a group of friends together and start a book club.

Also, I'm not sure if anyone's read it or heard of it or whatever but Val McDermid recently wrote a modern retelling of Nothanger Abbey and I'm definitely adding it my summer reading list, while we're on the topic of Austen.

The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

Hey everyone! (I told you I'd post another review tonight, way the by, if you're following me on Twitter and I post a review and you're not around/awake the tweet with the link should be top on my profile (or near the top at least))

Yes I know, I have very strange posting habits, but enough about me, what about the book is what you're probably all thinking. Yes! On with the book!

The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency was written by the brilliant and widely prolific Scottish Author Alexander McCall Smith. The setting: Botswana, our detective: Precious Ramotswe.

Throughout the book she take on a variety of cases big and small and has a great many adventures along the way. Between bad men and snakes (like, literal snakes, that slither on the ground and hiss, not the slang for a skeevy guy), from affairs to missing children Mma. Ramotswe is on the case! But is she up for the number of cases ahead of her? You'll have to read the book and find out.

This book is a masterfully written book. Within a chapter or 2 you are thrown into Botswana head first and boy is it ever exciting. If there was ever an author of detective fiction that you have to read, especially if you like mystery novels, it's Alexander McCall Smith. (He has 3 series', this one, set in Botswana, one set in Scotland and the Isobel Dalhousie Mysteries.)

I actually suggested that my book club read this book (or 44 Scotland Street, the first in the Scotland Street series but we haven't actually settled on a book to read first, we tried to read Persuasion last year and we all gave up, we had other things to do and it was just too hard to get into.) This year, I suggested that the book club start up again and that we read something that none of us had read, so I suggested something from my list, I'm still waiting for a verdict.

I would heartily recommend this book, especially to those who are in to detective fiction. (Speaking of Detective Fiction, The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith comes out this month, on a sidenote THE TFIOS MOVIE COMES OUT TODAY!!!!!)

That's all for me right now folks, until next time keep reading!

Dave Cooks the Turkey by Stuart McLean

This is a timeless Christmas tale as told by Stuart McLean of the Vinyl Café. Dave is enlisted by Morely to help with Christmas by preparing the turkey and chaos ensues. From hotels to gravy dripping from the lights it's hilariously funny and definitely worth the read.

For me Christmas isn't complete without hearing the story of Dave and the turkey and it's one of my favourite Vinyl Café stories, second only to, maybe Dave and the duck. From the busy months prior to Christmas to the weeks leading up to the big day to the chaos of the day itself this story is full of mirth and hijinks and will keep you laughing all through. Whether you listen to it on the radio show or read the book version this tale is sure to become a Christmas favourite and you're going to want to listen to it and read it time and time again (even when it's not Christmas). Stuart McLean has a real gift for story telling and while that comes through in all of his tales in this one it really shines. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a Christmas story, or any story really.

Hey guys, I know it's a short review today but what can you say about a short story without giving everything away? I would have posted this sooner but my computer was down for a couple of days, it gave me chance to catch up on my reading (sort of-ish-not really) and another review with be forthcoming tonight to make up for my lack of posting.

I did find out that I need to stay away from bookstores because no matter how big my stack of books to read is, if I go to Chapter's it's just going to get bigger (you'll notice that the list of things to read is actually growing not shrinking (well, not noticeably shrinking)

Despite my ever growing reading list I am always looking for things to read and review so comment, comment, comment! You can also suggest books to me via twitter (my info is at the top of my blog as well as the hastags you can tag suggestions with). Speaking of Twitter, I've decided to start using my Twitter in conjunction with my blog, I'm going to post there every time I review a new book from here on out so keep that in mind.

Oh, by the by, if you do suggest something for me to read keep track of my blog to see when I post it, by all means but again, I'll be posting on Twitter so if you're on Twitter and you miss my blog update, follow me on Twitter and you'll get the Twitter update.

I think that's all for now! Thanks readers!

The Vinyl Café Diaries by Stuart McLean

Hi everyone, I'm back again (I know, I read fast, one of the perks of reading a couple books at once).

This book, one in a series of many written about The Vinyl Café is absolutely hilarious. The book itself is split into 4 sections, Dave, Morely, Stephanie and Sam and each section starts with a letter about each character. It's a riveting romp through University life, school field trips, Christmas, book clubs and much more. It's truly a stellar read and I think that everyone, regardless of whether or not you enjoy The Vinyl Café, would get a kick out of it.

At the end of the book, in the afterword written by Stuart McLean you get to know exactly how the radio show came into being and the things that inspired the stories and characters. If you read the book you have to read the afterword, it's very enlightening and a little bit of a riot. This book is something I might tell stories out of because they never get old and I'll keep coming back to it again and again simply because the stories, not just in this book but in all of them, are timeless, no matter how many times you read them they never stop being funny.

Stuart McLean is one of my favourite story tellers of all time, I look forward to The Vinyl Café every week and if, by some unhappy coincidence, we end up listening to, or watching something else I feel a tad put out (But I get the Podcasts through iTunes so it's all good, I have to catch up on those actually).

I know, this review was a bit short but it's late (or early, depending on how you look at it) and I really should get some sleep. One of my friends has asked me to go the bookstore with her tomorrow and I kind of really want to be awake for that (I like bookstores, but they're bad for your bank account, especially if you're a voracious reader like myself). As always feel free to suggest books in the comments or via twitter or, if you have me on Facebook, via Facebook, I also have a Tumblr you can message (My Tumblr and my Twitter is in my blog description).

As always keep reading and writing and I hope to post again soon! (Of course I have to finish another book first).

The 'Make Good Art' Speech by Neil Gaiman

Hi All,

This is going to be a mini review, just a mini one. The 'Make Good Art' Speech that was given by Neil Gaiman was transcribed into a book, the speech itself was 19 minutes long and made some very good points, you can find it online if you want to watch it.

It states that no matter what is going on in your life you should make good art, whether that be writing, music, visual art, anything.

It is a very moving speech and VERY inspirational and I would suggest that you listen to it, or read it, or both.

Another thing that I found inspirational was a quote I found online from Neil Gaiman. He got a question (maybe over Tumblr I don't rightly know) but the question was

"I want to be a writer when I grow up, am I insane?"

His response was "Yes. Growing up is highly overrated, just be an author."

To me this meant that you didn't have to wait to be an adult to do what you wanted to do with your life, just do it.

So yes, inspiration post thingy and mini-review of the "Make Good Art" speech by Neil Gaiman, there will be more reviews to come (definitely) and this would have been longer but how long can you make a review of a book that is about 100 pages?

(I just checked out, like 20 odd books from my local library and I will be working through them and reviewing them when I finish them, keep reading, and, even though I've got a lot of reading to do suggest books for me to read by all means, because God knows when I finish my stack of books I'll need something else to read)

Extreme Vinyl Café by Stuart McLean

OK, this anthology has to be my absolute favourite. It houses all of the "extreme" things that Dave and his friends have done. From bungee jumping off a cruise ship to getting married in a dress from the hardware store to getting stuck in a dumbwaiter to riding roller coasters it's packed full of laughs and fun and, as always, amazing stories.

You know an anthology is going to hysterical when it starts out with a boy turning green while his parents are away and he's in the care of his older sister. From there it just gets better when Dave gets stuck in a dumbwaiter, Stephanie goes to London, Sam and Murphy get lost in Quebec, Dave gets a paper route, there's a water slide incident and a ten year old lottery ticket and it all culminates in Dave and the Roller Coaster.

From beginning to end this anthology is packed with laughs, and wisdom, not just from Dave and his friends but from the wonderful Stuart McLean himself. Frequent readers and listeners will love this book and cherish it forever and first time readers and listeners will laugh out loud.

In short, I do recommend that everyone read this book, it will make you smile and laugh and maybe make you want to go to the amusement park and try out a roller coaster or two.

Secrets from the Vinyl Café by Stuart McLean

Well folks, here's another one to strike from my list of things to read. (Yes I know, I read very fast, but I spent most of my day at home, reading (I mean, I went to the library for a bit but, for the most part, I was reading).

Well, Stuart McLean has done it again, with this instalment in the Vinyl Café series we delve into the...um...Secrets, behind the series (sort of). See, it's secondary title is "Closer to the Truth than We've Ever Been" and it delves into the, I won't say crime ridden, necessarily, but interesting sides of the characters. In this book is contained an account of the misdemeanours and crimes of the neighbours and friends of Dave and Morely. It's split into 5 sections, Passion, Double Lives, Lies and Betrayal, Civil Disobedience and Arson, Theft and Petty Crime. As you can probably guess, it's chocked full of interesting tales and anecdotes from the April Fool's jokes that Kenny and Dave play on each other to the incident with the chemistry set.

This book, this selection of hand picked tales from the Vinyl Café, is wonderful, funny, sometimes cringe worthy, especially if you usually suffer from second hand embarrassment on behalf of your favourite fictional characters or friends but definitely worth the read. From beginning to end this book will have you smiling and laughing.

As I mentioned before The Vinyl Café is also a podcast done by CBC Radio 1 and can be downloaded on iTunes or you can tune in to CBC Radio 1 at noon on Sundays. (Well, it's noon for my timezone at least) they have a website you can check out for more info

http://www.cbc.ca/vinylcafe/home.php

Until next time keep reading, check out iTunes for lots of great podcasts and stay tuned, my next review shouldn't be to far behind.

Revenge of the Vinyl Café by Stuart McLean

Revenge of the Vinyl Café is the latest instalment in the series of books by Stuart McLean that chronicles the life of Dave and Morley and their family.

However, Revenge of the Vinyl Café is exactly that, this book contains the stories where nothing seems to go right. There are monsters in sewers, a trip to the hospital gone awry and an incident with a bear while fishing.

Stuart McLean, both on his radio show (The Vinyl Café on CBC Radio 1, Sundays at noon) and in his books has a true gift for story telling. His stories of Dave and Morley and their neighbours are timeless...I think my favourite was the one where Dave cooked the Turkey...

Anyway I digress. Revenge chronicles the tales in which nothing seems to go right. These tales are magically written and I would recommend that everyone read them and, if you get CBC radio 1 or have iTunes I would look into listening to the Vinyl Café, it's available as a podcast on iTunes.

Well, that's my review for now, I know it's short but I can't review every story in the book or I'd be here all night. Until next time keep reading, and writing and as always, I'm open to suggestions over Twitter, or in the comments.

The Birth House by Ami McKay

The Birth House by Ami McKay was the selection for the 2011 "Canada Reads" contest/thing run by the CBC. It tells of life in the small town of Scot's Bay, Nova Scotia as old by resident Dora Rare.

The book reads as diary entries and it documents her life both before and after she was apprenticed to the town midwife, Miss B. When trouble comes to town what will become of the traditions of town, specifically the ones regarding childbirth? Will this spell the end for the 2 midwives? You'll have to read to find out won't you.

This book was beautifully written, the way Ami McKay wrote the diary entries, it didn't feel as though you were reading a diary, it was told as if it was a story. The life of Scot's Bay residents through Dora's eyes and the things that go on in her life. It felt, at some points, as though you were watching the story unfold with your own two eyes.

Ami McKay is a Canadian journalist, and novelist (part of the reason she was nominated for the "Canada Reads" thing). She grew up in Indiana but moved to Scot's Bay later in life.

Back to the book, Dora goes through many ups and downs in her life as a resident of Scot's Bay (who doesn't, both human and book character alike (you know what I mean))

As I mentioned it is beautifully well written with famous quotes and such woven in to the text.

How does everything turn out for Dora and the residents of Scot's Bay you ask? Well...no spoilers...at all...none whatsoever!!! You have to read to read the book.

Tequila Mockingbird by Tim Federle

Tequila Mockingbird by Tim Federle is...well...I suppose you could call it non-fiction. It's a book of cocktails, mocktails and snacks and each one has a literary twist (hence the title, haha pun) I got this book today and I've already finished it (it's only a hundred some odd pages) I found it and I thought it might come in handy as I have been accepted to the bartending course at my local college for the Fall Semester. As I mix and try the various drinks and make the various foods from the book I will update this post with results and whatnot. I would suggest this book to English majors and "barflies" alike as I think they'd enjoy it and the cocktails sound really good.

SO...mini book review today...very mini...but this will be updated as I go through the book...I would suggest that if you find it, you pick up a copy, it would be good for entertaining, especially during the holidays or whenever.

Keep reading, I know a bit of a disappointing review today but I just a couple of new books from the library so...more reading to come (If you want to see what I have read, what I am reading and what I will read check out my Summer Read List and feel free to suggest things!)

The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith

OK, I finished this book just recently (read about 3 hours ago) and it's really wonderful. There's some profanity and mature subject matter but it's a book for adults I think we can handle it. The sequel comes out next month (all the back of the book says is June 2014 but according to the Robert Galbraith website the date is definitely June 19, 2014, exactly a month from today's date :D)

This book is the first in the Cormoran Strike series. When a famous model falls off her balcony to her death Cormoran is called in to investigate, was it suicide, as her death suggests? Or murder? There are many twists and turns along the way and the trail seems to be getting ever colder but Strike keeps investigating. If it was murder the murderer has to have slipped up somewhere along the way.

This book is a great read, I bought it last week (when I went to the 30th anniversary of one of the local bookstores?) and I finished it today and it's great, it's poignant and it keeps you riveted all through. The adventures of Cormoran Strike and his plucky young secretary/sidekick Robin will keep you wanting more and begging to know who the murderer is.

I will post no spoilers, that's mean, but you should definitely read this book, mystery fans the world over will love Cormoran Strike.

Eileen's Summer Reading List

I will add to this as I obtain new books to read and, at the end of the summer, anything not read and reviewed will be archived for me to review at a later date (probably on weekends once fall semester starts). I mentioned some of these in my 'Coming Attractions' post you'll remember and I really do look forward to reviewing all of these wonderful books. I'll strike through the title and author once the book has been read and reviewed so as to avoid confusion

1. Tesla: Man out of Time - Margaret Cheney
2. Murder on the Orient Express - Agatha Christie
3. Kiki Strike: Inside the Shadow City - Kirsten Miller
4. The Other Boleyn Girl - Phillipa Gregory
5. Gallows Thief - Bernard Cornwell
6. Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
7. Persuasion - Jane Austen
8. Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
9. Mansfield Park - Jane Austen
10. Northanger Abbey - Jane Austen
11. Emma - Jane Austen
12. The Cuckoo's Calling - Robert Galbraith
13. The Silkworm - Robert Galbraith (I found a copy the grocery store for, like, 40% off the Canadian cover price so I sprung for it SO EXCITED!!!)
14. Divergent - Veronica Roth
15. Insurgent - Veronica Roth
16. Allegiant - Veronica Roth
17. Ruby Red - Kerstin Gier
18. French Revolutions: Cycling the Tour de France - Tim Moore
19. The Hound of the Baskervilles - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
20. The Adventure of the Speckled Band - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
21. An Abundance of Katherines - John Green
22. Never Somewhere Else - Alex Gray
23. The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde
24. The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald #
25. Let it Snow - John Green, Maureen Johnson, Lauren Myracle
26. This Dark Endeavour - Kenneth Oppel
27. (Such Wicked Intent - Kenneth Oppel)
28. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - Robert Louis Stevenson
29. A Discovery of Witches - Deborah Harkness
30. Shadow of Night - Deborah Harkness (already reviewed, but I'll update it)
31. The Book of Life - Deborah Harkness (IT'S FINALLY OUT!! I don't have it yet but will buy it soon)
32. ((Pride and Prejudice and Zombies - Seth Grahame-Smith, Jane Austen))
33. Love me Back - Merrit Tierce
34. Let's Just Say it Wasn't Pretty - Diane Keaton
35. The Forever Girl - Alexander McCall-Smith
36. The Ladies Number One Detective Agency - Alexander McCall-Smith
37. (Hollow City - Ransom Riggs)
38. The Glory Wind - Valerie Sherrard*
39. If only you Knew - Mags Storey*
40. Plain Kate - Erin Bow*
41. City of Heavenly Fire - Cassandra Clare
42. The Diviners - Libba Bray*
43. Will Grayson, Will Grayson - John Green
44. Who-ology: Doctor Who, the Official Miscellany - Cavan Scott & Mark Wright
45. Leviathan - Scott Westerfeld*
46. Stardust - Neil Gaiman :D
47. Looking for Alaska - John Green #
48. Geek Girls Unite - Leslie Simon
49. Page Fright - Harry Bruce
50. Tequila Mockingbird - Tim Federle
51. The Birth House - Ami McKay
52. Lights Out in Wonderland - DBC Pierre
53. An Arsonist's Guide to Writer's homes in New England - Brock Clarke
54. Dark Triumph - Robin LaFevers
55. Revenge of the Vinyl Café - Stuart McLean
56. Secrets from the Vinyl Café - Stuart McLean
57. Vinyl Café Diaries - Stuart McLean
58. Alex Cross - James Patterson
59. Extreme Vinyl Café - Stuart McLean
60. 44 Scotland Street - Alexander McCall Smith
61. The Vinyl Café Notebooks - Stuart McLean
62. The 'Make Good Art Speech' - Neil Gaiman
63. Dave Cooks the Turkey - Stuart McLean
64. A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court - Mark Twain
65. ((The Casual Vacancy - J.K. Rowling))
66. The Jane Austen Book Club - Karen Joy Fowler
67. Northanger Abbey - Val McDermid
68. Shakespeare's Landlord - Charlaine Harris
69. Shakespeare's Champion - Charlaine Harris
70. Watership Down - Richard Adams
71. Catcher in the Rye - J.D. Salinger
72. Bridget Jones Diary - Helen Fielding
73. Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason - Helen Fielding
74. A Wizard of Earthsea - Ursula Le Guin*
75. Days of Blood and Starlight - Laini Taylor
76. Practical Magic - Alice Hoffman
77. The Lathe of Heaven - Ursula Le Guin
78. Brave New World - Alduous Huxley
79. Carrie - Stephen King
80. Weird Things Customers Say in Bookstores - Jen Campbell
81. The Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern

As you can see it's an ever expanding Behemoth of a thing with a whopping total of 81 books to read in the next 5 months (I think I can do it, even if I do the July session of Camp NaNo).

*The ones with an asterisk next to their names are the ones that have been recommended to me by someone

() The ones in single brackets I have to find either in a bookstore or a library 1

(()) The ones in doubles brackets I own, I just have to find them (or get them from the library if I can't find them)2
# The ones with Number signs next to them are also on my Banned Books Week list so as I review for that they will be crossed of the list

As I mentioned this list will be comprehensively updated with everything that I intend to review. Keep reading, writing and for heaven's sake recommend a book, I don't bite I promise :)

1 Apparently I can do footnote-y type things...I will delete the brackets once I have either bought or rented this book
2 I will  underline these titles once I find my copy (or get one from the library)

New books!

Hello again readers!!!

As I mentioned in my last post I have some time off this spring and summer during which I will be (among other things) reading and reviewing. I mentioned that I have a stack of books to read this summer and I'm pleased to report, after a successful trip to my local bookstore, (It's their 30th birthday/anniversary and they were having a sale, I couldn't resist! (aside from the 30th anniversary/birthday sale it's a great book store in general)) I now own 4 new books which I can review, in honour of the 30th anniversary thing they had, like, gift bags with books in them and I pick up one that had 3! 3! I also bought The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith (in soft cover if you must know, I hadn't really seen it in softcover before today to be honest) and I've already started reading it! It's really good so far, I'm only 5 chapters in or so, so I won't be reviewing in depth just yet, just thought I'd let you know. One of the other I got (in the prize bag) was by the author of The Ladies Number One Detective Agency, Alexander McCall Smith (for the life of me I can't remember what it's called right now).

As always book suggestions are always welcome in comments or via twitter (or via Tumblr at my book blog! (http://thelibrarian-bloggerin221c.tumblr.com this Tumblr is more for interesting book things and bookstores etc. but I may occasionally post a review, this will be my main book review blog however) (my other blog (http://theartisticnovelist.tumbr.com) is more for my art stuff and novel updates rather than book reviews.)

Stay tunes for a comprehensive list of up and coming reviews (possibly in some semblance of an order I haven't decided). This list will be updated every time I find something new that I want to review and, as I mentioned, suggestions are always welcome. My summer reading series will go from about now (starting Monday (May 12)) and will go until the fall semester starts (Around Labour Day in September) and I will update as often as possible. I look forward to your feedback on books to read and review and stay tuned for summer reading list!

By the Pricking of my Thumbs by Agatha Christie

Hello again,

As I mentioned in "Coming Attractions" I recently finished reading "By the Pricking of my Thumbs" by Agatha Christie. It follows Mrs. Tuppence Beresford and her husband through the solving of an ages old mystery. But when Thomas (Tuppence's husband) is away on important government business and Tuppence is left to investigate on her own she digs too deep and ends up in trouble. Will she get out of it?

This book is a wonderful book, from start to finish it has you wondering what will happen next and how Tuppence will get out of the situations she finds herself in. Mopre imprtantly it leaves you wanting more. Not just from Tuppence and Thomas but from Christie herself.

It all starts after Thomas' Aunt Ada dies and Tuppence goes on a quest to return a painting she had to its original owner. From there it's a roller coaster of travel and mystery for Tuppence, who gets into a heap of troouble but bothing she can't deal with. If you like the mystery Genre or classic novels you'll want to read thuis book, especially if you're a fan of Agatha Christie. I found it riveting  and engaging the whole way through (Well, there was one chapter where she switched focus from Tuppence to Thomas and it was a little confusing but when she went back to Tuppence it all made sense). I highly reccomend that you read this book.

Sorry to cut the review short today but there's really not much to say. As always your feedback and book suggestions are welcome in the comments below and I will try my level best to review everything that you suggest (that'll be easier now that I'm off for the summer and I don't have classes). So please suggest books for me to read, or movies for me to watch, I'm open to doing some movie reviews as well (You'll recall that in "Coming Attractions", my last post, I mentioned that I was going to see Captain America: The Winter Soldier and was going to do a review).

That's all for me today folks, as always your feedback is very welcome and any and all book suggestions will be read and reviewed in due time (I have to FIND the book and reasd it before I can review it, most of the time it's finding it that's the trouble.) I hate to cut this one short but my German exam beckons. In the mean time keep reading, writing and yes, watching movies.

TTFN!

Coming Attractions

Well I fell off the blogging bandwagon again but life. So, as I said, Coming Attractions.

I'm going to see Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Divergent soon (I will see them. I'm so looking forward to it) Don't know when yet, because there ARE NO MATINEES AT THE THEATRE NEAR MY HOUSE, the earliest time is 4 in the afternoon! (Maybe over Easter weekend...although I do have an exam on Monday evening) anyway, I digress.

I went shopping with my friend Sara yesterday and I bought some books to add to my summer reading list!!!I got a biography of Nikola Tesla (Sara's and my favourite inventor), the first book in the "This Dark Endeavour" series (I know, I know, it came out, like, 3 years ago but I've never read it) and a book that I'd been looking for forever "Let it Snow" by John Green, Lauren Myracle and Maureen Johnson so I'm looking forward to reading that (actually I did start that one already it's really good, but I'm only a couple of chapters in.) I'm going to read the Divergent series again because I want to finally read "Allegiant" and I want a bit of a refresher (maybe I'll just read "Allegiant"). I'm going to read "Pride and Prejudice" (or finish it at any rate) and maybe I'll work my way through my Jane Austen box set and finally get to "Murder on the Orient Express." I'm going to work my way through "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (again) and finally read "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." and I'll possibly read "A Discovery of Witches" and "Shadow of Night" again but won't be writing a new review for "Shadow of Night", just updating it. I'll certainly read anything you suggest to me (comment people for goodness sake! It's like I'm talking to myself!)

My next review will be of a book I recently finished actually "By the Pricking of my Thumbs" by Agatha Christie (if I've reviewed it already (I don't think I have but I'll check) I'll just update the review instead of writing another one.) Thus is a brief picture of the next few months of book reviews. Please do suggest books in the comments and don't forget to tell me what you thought of the books I've suggested if you have read/do read them.

That's all for now I think, happy spring! Keep reading and writing (oh, and please I know it's a bit far down on my blog, one of my first posts I think, but please,  read the excerpt of my Mystery Novel and tell me what you think.