By Kristine Gasbarre
I love it when there's a trailer for the book I want to review! It explains it so much better than I can.
My Thoughts: This was such a loving tribute to the author's grandparents, which I could totally relate to, as I also adored my grandfather and thought he was just the most perfect man and my grandmother was the epitome of grace and style. I've been married for 25 years to my high school sweetheart, so I didn't really need the advice on how to find and love an American man, but it was a sweet story. At times, it read like a novel, so it really kept my interest, where some memoirs are just so I, me, my that I lose interest.
My daughter and I were lucky enough to meet Kristine at BEA this year and my only problem with this book was that after meeting her, I was surprised that someone so beautiful, intelligent and charming, was having trouble finding her true love!!! We first talked to her at the Bloggers cocktail party one night, where a fellow blogger we had never met, grabbed us, screaming something along the lines of "Look, I got me an author!" Kristine proceeded to introduce herself and describe her book to us, which my daughter realized she was already signed up for on a book tour. Very cool! The next day, we ran into her a Speed Dating Author Event, where she was seated at our table with another author and they were both supposed to describe their book and answer questions. Unfortunately in the middle of Kristine's presentation, this EXTREMELY rude publicist interrupted her and said,'"You know, this is supposed to be 'author who shall remain nameless' table." After we all picked our jaws up off the floor, because she was so freakin' rude, Kristine very graciously apologized and said she was almost done. Truly classy, because I probably would not have so polite.
Anyways, this is a really lovely book from an awesome author!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
Stay
By Allie Larkin
I am feeling kind of lazy, so instead of describing this book, I'll just post it's trailer!!
Now, the original idea was to try to get the cover dog, Argo, who is Allie Larkin's actual dog, in the trailer. I prefer this one, but they chose not to use it.
I am going to state at the outset of this review, that I was not in any way influenced by the fact that Allie Larkin is absolutely adorable and came to our Book Club meeting and brought us wine, while writing my review. Even if she did not come (which was awesome) and was a total doll (which she was!), I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY loved this book.
First off, any book that features an animal as a prominent character is a winner in my book. I have a dog that I am so in love with it's scary, even though he does not respond to commands in Slovakian (or in English for that matter!),so I could totally connect with the main character, Van, deciding to get a dog to restart her life and finally have someone to count on, when the unrequited love of her life, Peter, marries her best friend Janey.
This book was funny at times, made me cry at times and was just overall a fantastic read. I basically read it in one sitting while out in the sun, because I wanted to see how it ended. And then I was sad it was over. Allie did tell us at our Book Club meeting (WHICH SHE CAME TO!!!), that she is not done with Van yet and might possibly come back to her in a future book. YAY!!!
I am totally looking forward to Allie's next book, which is in the works. In the meantime, she has an essay in an anthology book, coming out in September I think, called "I'm Not the Biggest Bitch in This Relationship",
which is a collection of essays about the authors' dogs. Sounds hilarious!
I would highly recommend this to anyone, regardless of what genre you usually read, as it was just so enjoyable!! Loved it!!!
I am feeling kind of lazy, so instead of describing this book, I'll just post it's trailer!!
Now, the original idea was to try to get the cover dog, Argo, who is Allie Larkin's actual dog, in the trailer. I prefer this one, but they chose not to use it.
I am going to state at the outset of this review, that I was not in any way influenced by the fact that Allie Larkin is absolutely adorable and came to our Book Club meeting and brought us wine, while writing my review. Even if she did not come (which was awesome) and was a total doll (which she was!), I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY loved this book.
First off, any book that features an animal as a prominent character is a winner in my book. I have a dog that I am so in love with it's scary, even though he does not respond to commands in Slovakian (or in English for that matter!),so I could totally connect with the main character, Van, deciding to get a dog to restart her life and finally have someone to count on, when the unrequited love of her life, Peter, marries her best friend Janey.
This book was funny at times, made me cry at times and was just overall a fantastic read. I basically read it in one sitting while out in the sun, because I wanted to see how it ended. And then I was sad it was over. Allie did tell us at our Book Club meeting (WHICH SHE CAME TO!!!), that she is not done with Van yet and might possibly come back to her in a future book. YAY!!!
I am totally looking forward to Allie's next book, which is in the works. In the meantime, she has an essay in an anthology book, coming out in September I think, called "I'm Not the Biggest Bitch in This Relationship",
which is a collection of essays about the authors' dogs. Sounds hilarious!
I would highly recommend this to anyone, regardless of what genre you usually read, as it was just so enjoyable!! Loved it!!!
Monday, July 25, 2011
I Think I Love You
By Allison Pearson
I am way behind in posting this- actually finished it a while ago and I've probably read five or six since then. Very active reader, extremely lazy blogger!
Summary: When Petra was 13, she and her friends were huge David Cassidy fans at the height of his popularity. She and a friend entered a contest of knowledge of all things David, hoping for a chance to meet the object of their affection. Fast foward about 25 years and Petra is now going through a divorce and her controlling mother has just died. While going through her mother's things, Petra finds a reply from the contest from so long ago that her mother had hidden from her, announcing that she and her friend had won the contest. Instead of just tossing the letter, Petra decides to see if she can still claim her prize.
My Thoughts: I wanted to read this book because I too was a huge David Cassidy fan back in the day. The premise of this book sounded like it would be really light and funny, but it kind of wasn't. There were some funny parts, but it was more of a serious book, describing first Petra's painful longing to belong to a certain group of girls as a teen-ager that she really didn't fit in with and then adult Petra trying to come to grips with the changes her life is taking because of her divorce and the death of her mother. I enjoyed this book, but it was not what I expected. The David Cassidy angle was a different twist on the story of a woman realizing that her life is not what she thought it was, but I was a little disappointed but that was not full of laughs (after all, how seriously can you take David Cassidy?) Overall, it was a good read, just not what I thought I was getting.
I am way behind in posting this- actually finished it a while ago and I've probably read five or six since then. Very active reader, extremely lazy blogger!
Summary: When Petra was 13, she and her friends were huge David Cassidy fans at the height of his popularity. She and a friend entered a contest of knowledge of all things David, hoping for a chance to meet the object of their affection. Fast foward about 25 years and Petra is now going through a divorce and her controlling mother has just died. While going through her mother's things, Petra finds a reply from the contest from so long ago that her mother had hidden from her, announcing that she and her friend had won the contest. Instead of just tossing the letter, Petra decides to see if she can still claim her prize.
My Thoughts: I wanted to read this book because I too was a huge David Cassidy fan back in the day. The premise of this book sounded like it would be really light and funny, but it kind of wasn't. There were some funny parts, but it was more of a serious book, describing first Petra's painful longing to belong to a certain group of girls as a teen-ager that she really didn't fit in with and then adult Petra trying to come to grips with the changes her life is taking because of her divorce and the death of her mother. I enjoyed this book, but it was not what I expected. The David Cassidy angle was a different twist on the story of a woman realizing that her life is not what she thought it was, but I was a little disappointed but that was not full of laughs (after all, how seriously can you take David Cassidy?) Overall, it was a good read, just not what I thought I was getting.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The Wedding Writer
The Wedding Writer by Susan Schneider
My daughter and I were lucky enough to meet Susan Schneider at BEA this year at the author speed dating event. She has worked as an editor and writer for all the big bridal magazines, so this, her first novel, is about the bridal magazine industry. We really enjoyed talking to her, especially since she knows Randy from Say Yes to the Dress, one of our favorite shows and even said she would hook us up when we are ready to shop for Steph's wedding gown (if she can ever get her boyfriend to propose that is!!) The book wasn't coming out until June 6th, so Susan promised she would send it out to us, so we frantically checked the mail every day until it came! I'm a faster reader, so I got to read it first (sorry about that baby girl!)
The Wedding Writer is about a bridal magazine "Your Wedding" and what happens when the editor-in-chief, Grace Ralston, is fired and replaced by the protege she took under her wing, Lucky Quinn. Unfortunately, things do not go smoothly for anyone involved, as Grace is now considered too old and not fresh enough anymore and Lucky is stuck with staff members, Felice and Sara, who are still fiercely loyal to Grace. It is told in alternating chapters about each of the four women, so you get a different perspective on the events that are happening.
I really loved this book and even though some of the characters are not entirely likeable, she still manages to make you feel sorry for them when things are not working out exactly as they would like them to. I also discovered that I would NEVER want to work in the magazine industry (except for the goodies closet where they keep all the freebies and gifts from the advertisers - would love to get into that!). I am now also convinced that my future daughter-in-law cannot get married in anything other than Christian Louboutin shoes, or at least a pair of knock-offs! Thanks for that, Susan!!!
So if you're looking for a fun read, this is it!!!
4/5
My daughter and I were lucky enough to meet Susan Schneider at BEA this year at the author speed dating event. She has worked as an editor and writer for all the big bridal magazines, so this, her first novel, is about the bridal magazine industry. We really enjoyed talking to her, especially since she knows Randy from Say Yes to the Dress, one of our favorite shows and even said she would hook us up when we are ready to shop for Steph's wedding gown (if she can ever get her boyfriend to propose that is!!) The book wasn't coming out until June 6th, so Susan promised she would send it out to us, so we frantically checked the mail every day until it came! I'm a faster reader, so I got to read it first (sorry about that baby girl!)
The Wedding Writer is about a bridal magazine "Your Wedding" and what happens when the editor-in-chief, Grace Ralston, is fired and replaced by the protege she took under her wing, Lucky Quinn. Unfortunately, things do not go smoothly for anyone involved, as Grace is now considered too old and not fresh enough anymore and Lucky is stuck with staff members, Felice and Sara, who are still fiercely loyal to Grace. It is told in alternating chapters about each of the four women, so you get a different perspective on the events that are happening.
I really loved this book and even though some of the characters are not entirely likeable, she still manages to make you feel sorry for them when things are not working out exactly as they would like them to. I also discovered that I would NEVER want to work in the magazine industry (except for the goodies closet where they keep all the freebies and gifts from the advertisers - would love to get into that!). I am now also convinced that my future daughter-in-law cannot get married in anything other than Christian Louboutin shoes, or at least a pair of knock-offs! Thanks for that, Susan!!!
So if you're looking for a fun read, this is it!!!
4/5
Friday, June 10, 2011
A Turn in the Road
By Debbie Macomber
I love Debbie Macomber - she tells just really nice stories. You always know what you're going to get when you read one of her books.
"A Turn in the Road" is about a road trip that Bethanne Hamlin, her daughter, Annie, and her ex-mother-in-law, Ruth, take from Seattle to Florida for Ruth's 50th high school reunion. Bethanne needs the time to make a decision about getting back together with her ex-husband, now that his second marriage has failed, Annie is on the rebound from her boyfriend and Ruth is looking to reconcile with her high school sweetheart.
This trip takes them all places they were not expecting.
Like all of Debbie's books, this is full of likeable characters and enough of a plot to keep you interested, without being overwhelming. Are there a few corny parts? Yes, but they just add to the charm of Debbie's writing. If you're a long time fan, then this won't disappoint and if you've never read anything of hers before, this is a nice introduction to her work. She does have some serials, but this is a stand alone and was totally enjoyable.
I would give "A Turn in the Road" a 4.5/5.
I love Debbie Macomber - she tells just really nice stories. You always know what you're going to get when you read one of her books.
"A Turn in the Road" is about a road trip that Bethanne Hamlin, her daughter, Annie, and her ex-mother-in-law, Ruth, take from Seattle to Florida for Ruth's 50th high school reunion. Bethanne needs the time to make a decision about getting back together with her ex-husband, now that his second marriage has failed, Annie is on the rebound from her boyfriend and Ruth is looking to reconcile with her high school sweetheart.
This trip takes them all places they were not expecting.
Like all of Debbie's books, this is full of likeable characters and enough of a plot to keep you interested, without being overwhelming. Are there a few corny parts? Yes, but they just add to the charm of Debbie's writing. If you're a long time fan, then this won't disappoint and if you've never read anything of hers before, this is a nice introduction to her work. She does have some serials, but this is a stand alone and was totally enjoyable.
I would give "A Turn in the Road" a 4.5/5.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Night Circus
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
While at BEA (hope no one is sick of stories of BEA yet. Got a lot of books there I can't wait to read!), my daughter told me to go stand in line for this book while she stood in another. This line snaked all the way around the convention center I'm pretty sure and this book was being promoted as "THE NEXT BIG THING!" I read the back of it while I was standing in line, as I wasn't even sure what book I was standing in line for (this happened a lot - I just go where Stephanie tells me, but only because this was her graduation gift. Normally she does not have this much control over me.) It sounded kind of interesting, although not something I would normally pick up, but never being one to miss out, I wanted to read it anyways. Plus she gave out little chocolate mice candies with the book. Anyone that gives me chocolate is a friend of mine.
The Night Circus is about, obviously a circus that operates at night, but it was created as a venue for a bet between two master magicians, as to whose methods and protege are superior. The two dueling magicians, Celia and Marco, were entered into this bet as children and trained for this event without their knowledge or consent. As he starts to work for the circus, Marco knows who his opponent is, but Celia does not.
The story, background and characters in this book are so intricate. The style of it reminds me of the Harry Potter series, where J. K. Rowling created a completely new world and language as her setting for the books. Erin Morgenstern has a wonderful imagination and you feel like you are there, as everything is described in such detail, (but not boring, will it never end details) even down to how things smell.
The Night Circus certainly lived up to its hype and I am really glad I decided to give it a try, even though it's not my usual cup of tea. The release date is 9/13/11 and I'm sure it's going to be a big success. If there isn't a movie deal from this, I would be very surprised!!! So look for this in the fall, grab yourself a copy and prepare to be amazed and charmed by The Night Circus!!!
I give this book a 5/5!!!!
While at BEA (hope no one is sick of stories of BEA yet. Got a lot of books there I can't wait to read!), my daughter told me to go stand in line for this book while she stood in another. This line snaked all the way around the convention center I'm pretty sure and this book was being promoted as "THE NEXT BIG THING!" I read the back of it while I was standing in line, as I wasn't even sure what book I was standing in line for (this happened a lot - I just go where Stephanie tells me, but only because this was her graduation gift. Normally she does not have this much control over me.) It sounded kind of interesting, although not something I would normally pick up, but never being one to miss out, I wanted to read it anyways. Plus she gave out little chocolate mice candies with the book. Anyone that gives me chocolate is a friend of mine.
The Night Circus is about, obviously a circus that operates at night, but it was created as a venue for a bet between two master magicians, as to whose methods and protege are superior. The two dueling magicians, Celia and Marco, were entered into this bet as children and trained for this event without their knowledge or consent. As he starts to work for the circus, Marco knows who his opponent is, but Celia does not.
The story, background and characters in this book are so intricate. The style of it reminds me of the Harry Potter series, where J. K. Rowling created a completely new world and language as her setting for the books. Erin Morgenstern has a wonderful imagination and you feel like you are there, as everything is described in such detail, (but not boring, will it never end details) even down to how things smell.
The Night Circus certainly lived up to its hype and I am really glad I decided to give it a try, even though it's not my usual cup of tea. The release date is 9/13/11 and I'm sure it's going to be a big success. If there isn't a movie deal from this, I would be very surprised!!! So look for this in the fall, grab yourself a copy and prepare to be amazed and charmed by The Night Circus!!!
I give this book a 5/5!!!!
Monday, June 6, 2011
How I Planned Your Wedding
My son recently became engaged and so a lot of talk now is centered around "THE WEDDING." My daughter brought this home from work at the library and thought it would be fun to read. Now, I am not the mother of the bride, but we are very close. In fact, she asked me to come along when she picked out her wedding gown, which I was quite honored, as a lot of future mother-in-laws are not included in this event. It was so much fun, like Say Yes to the Dress (one of our favorite shows), but without Randy. If you don't watch this, you really should.
Anyways, this book was co-written by New York Times bestselling author, Susan Wiggs, and her daughter Elizabeth when Elizabeth became engaged. They alternate chapters, although the majority of it was written by Elizabeth, who also has a very funny blog, www.IAmTheBeholder.com. Susan and Elizabeth are mother and daughter and best friends and Elizabeth has always shared everything with her mom, so of course her wedding was also a joint venture.
Normally a book about wedding planning is more of a how-to manual, but this was written as a story with wedding details thrown in. It was a very enjoyable read and I loved hearing about their tight mother-daughter bond! Even if you are not in the middle of planning "THE WEDDING", you will love this book.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
BEA/BBC!!!
Just got back from BEA/BBC in NYC, where we took our daughter, aka StephtheBookworm, as her graduation gift from college. As you may or may not know, I started this blog at her insistence, so that I could go to BEA with her. I went with the mindset that I would be just tagging along, but totally ended up enjoying the whole experience (minus the death cab rides, heinous lines at the bus terminal one night, inability to catch a cab 99% of the time and the general stinky, garbagy atmosphere). We met a lot of super nice bloggers, librarians and teachers while standing in line for autographs. We split up most times to cover more ground and ended up with 135 books that we brought home!!!
The highlight for me was meeting Harlan Coben, one of my all-time favorite authors (I have read every word he has ever written I believe), who I didn't even know was going to be there. He was extremely nice and personable!!! Almost like meeting Myron Bolitar himself. (Where was Win?) As luck would have it, I was reading his latest book, Live Wire, in the car on the way and had only about 20 pages to go when I met him. He was autographing copies of his upcoming book, Shelter, which is the first in a new YA series he is starting using a character he introduced in Live Wire. I read Shelter on the drive home, so my review today is a 2-for-1 Harlan Coben!!!
Live Wire (by Harlan Coben, as mentioned above)
This is the latest in his series starring Myron Bolitar, former basketball star/former lawyer/sports rep/private investigator. Myron is asked by his client, tennis star Suzze T to locate her husband, rock star Lex, who has run off when a post shows up on Suzze's facebook questioning the paternity of her unborn child. While investigating, Myron also runs into his sister-in-law, who has been estranged from Myron for sixteen years, so he also ends up trying to locate his brother.
Like all of his books, this is a page turner, that manages at times to be a funny, dramatic, suspenseful page turner that I hated to put down (which I was forced to so we could go to BEA.)
I absolutely loved this book, which was only enhanced by the fact that I got to discuss it with the author himself! Does it get any better than that?
Shelter (also by Harlan Coben)
Shelter is the first in a series of YA books, featuring Mickey Bolitar, who was introduced in Live Wire as Myron's nephew. Because this is a YA book, it was quicker read than his adult books, but without sacrificing any of the wit and action of his adult novels. It overlaps slightly with Live Wire, but this time you get Mickey's perspective on the events. It then launches into Mickey's story, where he is trying to locate his missing girlfriend, getting into all the trouble you would expect from a Harlan Coben novel.
I also loved this book and think it would appeal to adults as well as the target YA audience. Spoiler alert - do not read this first if you are planning to read Live Wire!!!
All in all, a great experience and two great books!!!
The highlight for me was meeting Harlan Coben, one of my all-time favorite authors (I have read every word he has ever written I believe), who I didn't even know was going to be there. He was extremely nice and personable!!! Almost like meeting Myron Bolitar himself. (Where was Win?) As luck would have it, I was reading his latest book, Live Wire, in the car on the way and had only about 20 pages to go when I met him. He was autographing copies of his upcoming book, Shelter, which is the first in a new YA series he is starting using a character he introduced in Live Wire. I read Shelter on the drive home, so my review today is a 2-for-1 Harlan Coben!!!
Live Wire (by Harlan Coben, as mentioned above)
This is the latest in his series starring Myron Bolitar, former basketball star/former lawyer/sports rep/private investigator. Myron is asked by his client, tennis star Suzze T to locate her husband, rock star Lex, who has run off when a post shows up on Suzze's facebook questioning the paternity of her unborn child. While investigating, Myron also runs into his sister-in-law, who has been estranged from Myron for sixteen years, so he also ends up trying to locate his brother.
Like all of his books, this is a page turner, that manages at times to be a funny, dramatic, suspenseful page turner that I hated to put down (which I was forced to so we could go to BEA.)
I absolutely loved this book, which was only enhanced by the fact that I got to discuss it with the author himself! Does it get any better than that?
Shelter (also by Harlan Coben)
Shelter is the first in a series of YA books, featuring Mickey Bolitar, who was introduced in Live Wire as Myron's nephew. Because this is a YA book, it was quicker read than his adult books, but without sacrificing any of the wit and action of his adult novels. It overlaps slightly with Live Wire, but this time you get Mickey's perspective on the events. It then launches into Mickey's story, where he is trying to locate his missing girlfriend, getting into all the trouble you would expect from a Harlan Coben novel.
I also loved this book and think it would appeal to adults as well as the target YA audience. Spoiler alert - do not read this first if you are planning to read Live Wire!!!
All in all, a great experience and two great books!!!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Just want to make sure y'all read this book!!!
Miss Hildreth Wore Brown: Anecdotes of a Southern Belle by Olivia DeBelle Byrd
If you're reading this review, I'm sure you already read the one posted by my lovely and much more famous daughter, Stephanie the Bookworm. As soon as I read it, I demanded she give it to me read, thus holding up the person she is sending this to from Good Reads (sorry 'bout that, but motherhood has some privileges!) BTW, she did send it out today. She doesn't usually give her books away, but this one was so cute and she really wanted to get it out there so more people could enjoy it, it's that good!
Anyway, I was a southern belle myself for a short time when I was a little girl and we lived in Smyrna, Georgia for a few years, so I am always interested in the Southern way of life. This book is a collection of short essays on a variety of topics that are all so amusing. My particular favorite is where she is describing a friend of hers who was on a very long car trip with her three children. After hours and hours of listening to them fight, she finally snapped, turned and pointed to them each in turn and said, "I hate you, I hate you and I hate you." Love it and could totally identify with that emotion.
If Stephanie didn't convince you to give this book a try, I hope I gave you a little push in the right direction.
P.S. The author is so sweet - after Stephanie posted her review, she sent her a thank you note!! How very Southern and polite of her!!
So what are you waiting for, go get this book!!!!
If you're reading this review, I'm sure you already read the one posted by my lovely and much more famous daughter, Stephanie the Bookworm. As soon as I read it, I demanded she give it to me read, thus holding up the person she is sending this to from Good Reads (sorry 'bout that, but motherhood has some privileges!) BTW, she did send it out today. She doesn't usually give her books away, but this one was so cute and she really wanted to get it out there so more people could enjoy it, it's that good!
Anyway, I was a southern belle myself for a short time when I was a little girl and we lived in Smyrna, Georgia for a few years, so I am always interested in the Southern way of life. This book is a collection of short essays on a variety of topics that are all so amusing. My particular favorite is where she is describing a friend of hers who was on a very long car trip with her three children. After hours and hours of listening to them fight, she finally snapped, turned and pointed to them each in turn and said, "I hate you, I hate you and I hate you." Love it and could totally identify with that emotion.
If Stephanie didn't convince you to give this book a try, I hope I gave you a little push in the right direction.
P.S. The author is so sweet - after Stephanie posted her review, she sent her a thank you note!! How very Southern and polite of her!!
So what are you waiting for, go get this book!!!!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Been reading, but no time to write reviews!!!
My last post was March 8th. I am so ashamed. I've actually read quite a bit since then, but have been too busy (or lazy) to write reviews.
WHAT I READ
Miles to Go by Richard Paul Evans
This is the second in the series of "The Walk." I read "The Walk" last year when it came out and it was so good, I read it in one sitting. This is not as great an accomplishment as it sounds, as these are short books, but so well written. In the first book, Alan Christoffersen, loses his wife, his house and business within a month. He decides to cash in everything he owns and walk from Seatle to Key West with only a backpack.
"Miles to Go" picks up where "The Walk" left off. I won't ruin it for you, because if you haven't read "The Walk" yet, you should definitely read that first.
I can't recommend these books enough. The character of Alan is so sad, yet so strong and I can't wait to read the third installment, which unfortunately doesn't come out until April of 2012. I absolutely guarantee you will love these books!!!
On Borrowed Time by David Rosenfelt
Richard Kilmer is head over heels in love with Jennifer Ryan, who takes him home to meet her parents, where she accepts his marriage proposal. During a drive, a freak storm rolls in and Richard loses control of the car. When the storm clears in a matter of seconds, Jen is gone. Neither Richard nor the police responding to the scene can find her. More horrifying is that no one in Richard's life will confirm Jen's existence and all traces of her disappeared. Has Richard lost his mind or has something far worse happened?
David Rosenfelt is one of my favorite authors, who has on ongoing series featuring smartass lawyer, Andy Carpenter, which is awesome. At first I was disappointed that this book wasn't about Andy and the gang, but this book drew me in within the first few pages and I kept reading way past my bedtime so I could see how it ended. This kept me guessing until the end, every time I thought maybe I had it figured out, there was another twist.
If you've never read any of his work before, you definitely should. This is a great stand alone book, but the Andy Carpenter series is totally a must read!!!
What I Watched
Dear FX network:
I hate you for making such an excellent show, "Lights Out", canceling it and then leaving the series finale with such a terrible cliff hanger!! I hope one of the other cable networks is smart enough to pick this up and continue the story.
Totally unrelated, also hated the musical episode of Grey's Anatomy, but I don't know of anyone who liked it. And since this horrible episode aired, there have been nothing but repeats. I've been a fan since day one, but they're going to have to step it up, 'cuz I'm losing interest.
Not a good TV week at all!!!
WHAT I READ
Miles to Go by Richard Paul Evans
This is the second in the series of "The Walk." I read "The Walk" last year when it came out and it was so good, I read it in one sitting. This is not as great an accomplishment as it sounds, as these are short books, but so well written. In the first book, Alan Christoffersen, loses his wife, his house and business within a month. He decides to cash in everything he owns and walk from Seatle to Key West with only a backpack.
"Miles to Go" picks up where "The Walk" left off. I won't ruin it for you, because if you haven't read "The Walk" yet, you should definitely read that first.
I can't recommend these books enough. The character of Alan is so sad, yet so strong and I can't wait to read the third installment, which unfortunately doesn't come out until April of 2012. I absolutely guarantee you will love these books!!!
On Borrowed Time by David Rosenfelt
Richard Kilmer is head over heels in love with Jennifer Ryan, who takes him home to meet her parents, where she accepts his marriage proposal. During a drive, a freak storm rolls in and Richard loses control of the car. When the storm clears in a matter of seconds, Jen is gone. Neither Richard nor the police responding to the scene can find her. More horrifying is that no one in Richard's life will confirm Jen's existence and all traces of her disappeared. Has Richard lost his mind or has something far worse happened?
David Rosenfelt is one of my favorite authors, who has on ongoing series featuring smartass lawyer, Andy Carpenter, which is awesome. At first I was disappointed that this book wasn't about Andy and the gang, but this book drew me in within the first few pages and I kept reading way past my bedtime so I could see how it ended. This kept me guessing until the end, every time I thought maybe I had it figured out, there was another twist.
If you've never read any of his work before, you definitely should. This is a great stand alone book, but the Andy Carpenter series is totally a must read!!!
What I Watched
Dear FX network:
I hate you for making such an excellent show, "Lights Out", canceling it and then leaving the series finale with such a terrible cliff hanger!! I hope one of the other cable networks is smart enough to pick this up and continue the story.
Totally unrelated, also hated the musical episode of Grey's Anatomy, but I don't know of anyone who liked it. And since this horrible episode aired, there have been nothing but repeats. I've been a fan since day one, but they're going to have to step it up, 'cuz I'm losing interest.
Not a good TV week at all!!!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
I Still Dream About You
By Fannie Flagg
What It's About: Maggie Fortenberry is a former Miss Alabama and now a successful real estate agent. From the outside, anyone would think she is living the perfect life. Maggie has had some heartbreak and secrets from her past and she has come up with a plan to take care of it all.
What I Thought About This Book: I am always charmed and delighted by Fannie Flagg's books. This one, as are all of her books, is filled with warm, crazy, funny characters. My particular favorite is Hazel Whisenott, a self confident "small person", who was the original founder of Red Mountain Realty, where Maggie works as a real estate agent. Although Hazel has already passed away (and is one of the reasons Maggie is so despondent), she is brought alive by the many memories shared by the other characters in the story.
I tore through this book, as I couldn't wait to see how it all turned out. Maggie's plan keeps getting postponed as one obstacle after another gets in the way of her carrying it out. I think anyone looking for a not too serious read would enjoy this or any of Ms. Flagg's books.
4.5/5
What I Watched
Today I want to talk about Lights Out, which is a new series on FX. FX usually puts out one or two new series a year and they are almost always winners -Rescue Me, Damages, Justified and last seasons's Terriors, which was awesome, but unfortunately not renewed.
Lights Out is on Tuesday nights at 10:00 and I have to admit I was way behind without about four episodes on my DVR that I hadn't had a chance to watch yet. My son also loves this show and has been pestering me to get caught up, so I had a marathon yesterday. All I have to say is WOW!
Patrick "Lights" O'Leary was the heavyweight boxing champ until his defeat five years ago by "Death Row" Reynolds. He was badly hurt in this fight and his wife made him promise her that he would stop boxing. Unfortunately Lights' brother Johnny, his business manager (and a complete douche) has squandered away all 12 million dollars of his winnings and now Lights is danger of losing everything. He feels his only way out is to return to the boxing ring.
Although I am not really a boxing fan, but loved all the Rocky movies, I must say there is something totally satisfying about watching some total jerk getting punched repeatedly. The actual boxing is just a small part of this show and there's enough drama to keep just about anybody interested. Give it a try, I think you'll like it!!!
What It's About: Maggie Fortenberry is a former Miss Alabama and now a successful real estate agent. From the outside, anyone would think she is living the perfect life. Maggie has had some heartbreak and secrets from her past and she has come up with a plan to take care of it all.
What I Thought About This Book: I am always charmed and delighted by Fannie Flagg's books. This one, as are all of her books, is filled with warm, crazy, funny characters. My particular favorite is Hazel Whisenott, a self confident "small person", who was the original founder of Red Mountain Realty, where Maggie works as a real estate agent. Although Hazel has already passed away (and is one of the reasons Maggie is so despondent), she is brought alive by the many memories shared by the other characters in the story.
I tore through this book, as I couldn't wait to see how it all turned out. Maggie's plan keeps getting postponed as one obstacle after another gets in the way of her carrying it out. I think anyone looking for a not too serious read would enjoy this or any of Ms. Flagg's books.
4.5/5
What I Watched
Today I want to talk about Lights Out, which is a new series on FX. FX usually puts out one or two new series a year and they are almost always winners -Rescue Me, Damages, Justified and last seasons's Terriors, which was awesome, but unfortunately not renewed.
Lights Out is on Tuesday nights at 10:00 and I have to admit I was way behind without about four episodes on my DVR that I hadn't had a chance to watch yet. My son also loves this show and has been pestering me to get caught up, so I had a marathon yesterday. All I have to say is WOW!
Patrick "Lights" O'Leary was the heavyweight boxing champ until his defeat five years ago by "Death Row" Reynolds. He was badly hurt in this fight and his wife made him promise her that he would stop boxing. Unfortunately Lights' brother Johnny, his business manager (and a complete douche) has squandered away all 12 million dollars of his winnings and now Lights is danger of losing everything. He feels his only way out is to return to the boxing ring.
Although I am not really a boxing fan, but loved all the Rocky movies, I must say there is something totally satisfying about watching some total jerk getting punched repeatedly. The actual boxing is just a small part of this show and there's enough drama to keep just about anybody interested. Give it a try, I think you'll like it!!!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
OOPS!!!
My daughter the professional blogger, Stephanie the Bookworm or STBW as her dad calls her, pointed out to me that although I want to give my book away, The J.A.P. Chronicles, I mentioned to send me an e-mail without actually giving my e-mail address. I am so not worthy. She suggested instead that you leave me a comment instead.
So, if you would like me to send you this book, do like she said. Then I guess she'll tell me what to do after that.
Kids just love to tell you when you're stupid.
So, if you would like me to send you this book, do like she said. Then I guess she'll tell me what to do after that.
Kids just love to tell you when you're stupid.
Monday, February 21, 2011
What I Read While I Was Sick
I was out of commission for about a week, so was happy that I was able to lay in bed and do quite a bit of reading. Unfortunately, once I was better, I had to catch up on all the work that I didn’t do while I was sick, so didn’t have time to write up my reviews. So here they all are!!
Rescue by Anita Shreve
Rescue is the story of paramedic, Peter Webster, who pulls a mysterious woman, Sheila Arsenault, out the car she totaled while drunk. He falls almost immediately in love with her and so begins their whirlwind romance, pregnancy and marriage. Unfortunately, things do not stay idyllic for long and Sheila returns to her old ways and Peter is left alone to raise their daughter Rowan. In Rowan’s 18th year, she begins to give Peter trouble and he wonders whether to bring her mother back into her life or not.
Anita Shreve is a bestselling author and I’ve read some her work before and she never disappoints. The characters are believable and despite Sheila’s many flaws, I was still pulling for her to succeed.
I would definitely recommend this if you are in the mood for a serious book.
4.5/5
Stately Pursuits by Katie Fforde
Hetty Longden has recently been dumped by her boyfriend (who felt that the best way to break up with her would be for her to find him in bed with another woman – what a jerk!) and is pretty much at loose ends, when her mother decides that to get over her broken heart, she should become the caretaker of her great uncle’s, in much need of work mansion.
This is a British novel, which I always enjoy. I just love how they word things and the characters are so quirky and have eccentric neighbors and they live in the cutest little cottages. It all just sounds so adorable and fun. Hetty knows absolutely nothing about renovation, but with a lot of help from the supporting cast, she attempts to bring the mansion back to its former glory as a historic landmark.
This is a great book if you are looking for something light and not at all serious to read.
4/5
The Cotton Queen by Pamela Morsi
Laney Hoffman’s life has not quite turned out the way she planned, so she is forced to return home –back under the thumb of her beauty queen mother, Babs.
I had never heard of this author before, but was intrigued as the back of the book had quotes from both Laney and Babs, each describing the other. It’s also set in a small southern town, which usually means a good time with all the crazy town folk.
I really, really loved this book – the setting was great and the characters were people you’d imagine would inhabit a small town, all in each other’s business and driving each other nuts. I would definitely recommend this.
A side note – I picked this up used at my library’s book sale and it was autographed to Rhonda from the author. Shame on you Rhonda for not treasuring your autographed book!!!
5/5
The J.A.P. Chronicles by Isabel Rose
Willow Lake was THE camp for girls from the best families. Seven former bunkmates come to together as adults at a reunion for a camp. Ali Cohen, who is now an Oscar winning documentary film maker, was the outcast of the group and now wants to make a documentary about her former bunk mates. They each agree to meet with her once they are back home for interviews about how their lives turned out.
This was an interesting concept in that the former geek-turned-success tries to get a glimpse into the current lives of her former tormentors, hoping to find them miserable. In the process, she learns a lot about herself and the illusions she had of these woman as girls. I did like this book for the most part, but there were so many characters, that it was kind of hard to keep track of them all. There would be a section highlighting each of the women, but when they were referred to later in the book, I had to refresh my memory as to which one was which.
I did enjoy it and if anyone would like me to send them my copy, I would be happy to do so. It was also bought at my library’s book sale, so it’s not a pristine copy, but it is a hard cover. Just send me an e-mail with your address and I’ll pop it in the mail for you.
4/5
Well, there’s my reviews and now I’m tired. I’ll have to leave the What I Watched for another time. Hope you saw something here you might want to read!!!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
OMG, I have followers!! How cool is that!!
I would like to thank my awesome daughter, Stephanie the Bookworm, for announcing me on her blog and to all of her friends who decided to check mine out. I have always been struck by the kindness of her followers and she truly feels as though they are friends. Of course her blog is much more polished and professional than mine, as she is a professional reader (future librarian) and I am merely an amateur.
I look forward to joining this fun circle of friends with her!! Will write again soon, just have to finish up "Rescue" by Anita Shreve. So far, it's fantastic!!!
I look forward to joining this fun circle of friends with her!! Will write again soon, just have to finish up "Rescue" by Anita Shreve. So far, it's fantastic!!!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Welcome to my new blog!!!!
Welcome to my blog, Kim the House Mole. Yes, I am a house mole and proud of it. Not that I don’t go out, cuz I do, just not that much. I’m pretty much a low maintenance girl (woman, ack!!) I like to read and watch my shows, of which there are many. My daughter, StephTheBookworm, has been blogging for over a year now and just loves it and has really encouraged me to start my own blog, mostly so I can go the BEA Convention with her in NYC in May.
What I Read
For my first ever book review, I have chosen one of my favorite authors, Jen Lancaster’s newest book, “My Fair Lazy”. My daughter and I have been loyal fans since her first book, “Bitter is the New Black”, which is hilarious. You will laugh so hard that tears will be coming out of your eyes and even later when think about certain lines, you will laugh again all by yourself and people will question your mental capacity.
Basically Jen, (yeah I feel that we are on a first name basis) is one of the most sarcastic, opinionated, funny people on the planet. In “My Fair Lazy”, she is on a journey to transform herself from a reality TV watching sloth, into a sophisticated lover of arts and all things cultural. She enlists her friend Stacy, who is everything Jen aspires to be, to teach her the ropes, and sometimes her poor husband, Fletch, who is coerced into taking wine tasting and other snobbery classes with her.
I loved this book, as I loved all her books, because she makes me laugh. One night I was reading while my husband was watching TV (probably that garbage picking show or the equally stupid Pawn Stars, I hate that guy), I was laughing so hard that I couldn’t stop and he told me I was weird. She would like you to think that she is this cold, hard bitch, but when she describes her relationship with her three dogs (especially Maisy) and her many cats, you know she’s just an old softie inside.
I would highly recommend this book or any of her books for that matter. Just do it, she is a New York Times bestselling author you know.
What I Watched
I watch (or try to watch) a lot of shows. I pay a lot for cable and want to get my money’s worth. We have two DVR’s and they are both usually 90% full, so I don’t get to watch as much as I want as I also have to work for a living. Why, oh why, have I not won the MegaMillions yet?
Today, I watched Friday Night Lights. This is one of the all-time best shows on TV that not enough people watch. This is their last season and it is so good. So start with Season One - get it at the library or Netflix or Amazon or wherever you get your DVD’s, and I guarantee you will be hooked. Yes, I’m a little bossy, but I’m a mom and that’s my job.
So this is my blog. Hope you liked it.
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