Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Susan's Book Talk: WAY overdue!
I can't believe I haven't done a Book Talk since August, when I raved about The Kommandant's Girl. Granted, my reading's (regrettably) slowed since then, as I've had other things in the works and all of us adjusting to the new school year.
I've been reading great books, though. In fact, of the 14 I've read, there have been only 2 that I haven't finished. That's a pretty good ratio.
I'm not going to go through all 12 that I finished. I don't want to bore you -- I want to point you to the great reads. There have been plenty.
Let's start with George and the Virgin. This was my first romance written by Lisa Cach, and it's easy to see what everyone is raving about when they talk about Ms. Cach. I really liked the heroine, but even more, it's a good reminder of what can happen when our lives are ruled by fears.
Sweet Man is Gone is Peggy Ehrhart's fiction debut and a definite don't miss. I reviewed it over at Front Street Reviews -- look under mysteries. I've also swapped a few e-mails with Ms. Ehrhart and she's wonderful.
For a long time now, I'd heard mixed reviews of both War for the Oaks (Emma Bull's classic) and Parable of the Sower (Octavia E. Butler's classic), and had been dragging my heels about reading both of them. It was time to suck it up (see my comment about George and the Virgin for that lesson on being ruled by fear). I'm glad I did. Both books are incredible. Both have very dark visions of society, which is fine. I like a good dystopic society. Parable is perhaps the darkest book I've ever read. Oaks shows the power of music.
I reviewed Parable for Breeni. Check it out.
Time to change gears and finally take the plunge and read a book by Lauren Dane! I've been reading her blog for years and I like her. I won a copy of Making Chase in a contest held at her blog and while it took me a little bit longer than I'd intended to get around to reading it, it was worth the wait. Ms. Dane creates wonderfully real, complex characters. She's about to have a few new books released by a major publisher; look for them.
To tie the romance and the alternate society together, I finally picked up my very-badly-treated copy of Stray (really, the person who sent it shouldn't have, despite the vague rules at PaperbackSwap. This poor book can't be sent back out again -- and before you suggest it might be ME who treated it so badly, I challenge you to ask Bridget, who borrows all my books. She'll tell you how gentle I am with a book. She's been known to ask if the copy I'm handing her is the one I read.). Rachel Vincent's debut is another book I've heard negative things about. With one minor exception, I disagree. Read what I thought over at Breeni's. (It made me feel good to see the comments, where someone says they'd steered away because of the negative talk, but I'd changed their mind.)
And last night, I finished a humdinger. I've read Anita Diamant's The Red Tent. I've read Good Harbor (a book which continues to resonate with me, years later). I've even read some of her nonfiction books "about contemporary Jewish practice," as her bio describes them. The Last Days of Dogtown trumps them all.
The friend who'd handed me her copy said "Eh," as she handed it to me, but I loved this series of interlocking stories that collectively tell the tale of a small New England town (that actually existed, according to the back cover) as it breathes its last. Well-drawn characters it's impossible not to care for make this another book that'll stay with me a long time.
So there you go. Seven books -- that's half of what I've read in the past two months. I'm on a roll. I hope it continues; it's much easier to tear myself away from the screen (and impending burn out) when there's a good novel waiting on the couch for me.
I've been reading great books, though. In fact, of the 14 I've read, there have been only 2 that I haven't finished. That's a pretty good ratio.
I'm not going to go through all 12 that I finished. I don't want to bore you -- I want to point you to the great reads. There have been plenty.
Let's start with George and the Virgin. This was my first romance written by Lisa Cach, and it's easy to see what everyone is raving about when they talk about Ms. Cach. I really liked the heroine, but even more, it's a good reminder of what can happen when our lives are ruled by fears.
Sweet Man is Gone is Peggy Ehrhart's fiction debut and a definite don't miss. I reviewed it over at Front Street Reviews -- look under mysteries. I've also swapped a few e-mails with Ms. Ehrhart and she's wonderful.
For a long time now, I'd heard mixed reviews of both War for the Oaks (Emma Bull's classic) and Parable of the Sower (Octavia E. Butler's classic), and had been dragging my heels about reading both of them. It was time to suck it up (see my comment about George and the Virgin for that lesson on being ruled by fear). I'm glad I did. Both books are incredible. Both have very dark visions of society, which is fine. I like a good dystopic society. Parable is perhaps the darkest book I've ever read. Oaks shows the power of music.
I reviewed Parable for Breeni. Check it out.
Time to change gears and finally take the plunge and read a book by Lauren Dane! I've been reading her blog for years and I like her. I won a copy of Making Chase in a contest held at her blog and while it took me a little bit longer than I'd intended to get around to reading it, it was worth the wait. Ms. Dane creates wonderfully real, complex characters. She's about to have a few new books released by a major publisher; look for them.
To tie the romance and the alternate society together, I finally picked up my very-badly-treated copy of Stray (really, the person who sent it shouldn't have, despite the vague rules at PaperbackSwap. This poor book can't be sent back out again -- and before you suggest it might be ME who treated it so badly, I challenge you to ask Bridget, who borrows all my books. She'll tell you how gentle I am with a book. She's been known to ask if the copy I'm handing her is the one I read.). Rachel Vincent's debut is another book I've heard negative things about. With one minor exception, I disagree. Read what I thought over at Breeni's. (It made me feel good to see the comments, where someone says they'd steered away because of the negative talk, but I'd changed their mind.)
And last night, I finished a humdinger. I've read Anita Diamant's The Red Tent. I've read Good Harbor (a book which continues to resonate with me, years later). I've even read some of her nonfiction books "about contemporary Jewish practice," as her bio describes them. The Last Days of Dogtown trumps them all.
The friend who'd handed me her copy said "Eh," as she handed it to me, but I loved this series of interlocking stories that collectively tell the tale of a small New England town (that actually existed, according to the back cover) as it breathes its last. Well-drawn characters it's impossible not to care for make this another book that'll stay with me a long time.
So there you go. Seven books -- that's half of what I've read in the past two months. I'm on a roll. I hope it continues; it's much easier to tear myself away from the screen (and impending burn out) when there's a good novel waiting on the couch for me.
Labels: Anita Diamant, Breeni Books, Emma Bull, Front Street Reviews, Lauren Dane, Lisa Cach, Octavia E. Butler, Peggy Ehrhart, Rachel Vincent
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Susan's Book Talk: Book Binge!
I decided that joining the Book Binge challenge was something I could easily accomplish. Despite the fact that school is letting out and the Penguins are in the Stanley Cup Finals (for how much longer, no one knows and I really fear for Game 6, but that's how life is. I loved my Pens when they sucked. I love them if they don't win the series.), I read like a demon.
Here's the list:
The Long Lavender Look -- John D. MacDonald
Nine Princes in Amber -- Roger Zelazny
Master -- Colette Gale (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
H -- Elizabeth Shephard
The Rabbi's Cat 2 -- Joann Sfar (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
Little Vampire Does Kung Fu -- Joann Sfar
Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress -- Dai Sijie
Rashi's Daughters II: Miriam -- Maggie Anton
The Island of Dr. Moreau -- HG Wells
Windfall -- Rachel Caine
Leave a Message for Willie -- Marcia Muller
Wow. Eleven books. Pretty good, but I'd been hoping to finish a certain ARC of a certain upcoming release of a certain series I love so much, I can hardly wait to sit down, crawl inside, and read some more of. Stay tuned for more about that, but it's possible that I like this place more than my own creation right now (probably because it's not my creation. You know how that goes).
Only one of these books disappointed me, and I'll have more about that later on. The rest I really dug, especially Little Vampire, which both my kids attached themselves to. The book says it's for kids 10 and over. My kids aren't ten. That hasn't stopped them yet.
Three of these books are still here in the house (H, Dr. Moreau, and Willie). If you'd like to read one of them, give a yell and I'll share my copy with you. Yes, they're all registered at BookCrossing. Why? Because it's fun to see where a book I've read ends up (and for how long, which is something I'm terribly guilty of).
Now, I must leave and go finish up that ARC 'cause I'm also in the middle of a cool mystery I'll tell you about when I finish it. And there's a lot of buzz right now about the way cool Toni McGee Causey, whose new book, Bobbie Faye's (Kinda, Sorta, Not Exactly) Family Jewels, has me excited to pick up the first in the series as my next read... I've got a copy to share, too, so stay tuned.
Other new releases on my radar:
Fox's Bride, by my bud Amy Ruttan.
A new Ellora's Cave release from Anna J. Evans
One Too Many by Marie-Nicole Ryan
Reilly's Promise by Christyne Butler
Maybe I ought to quit this writing gig and do nothing but read all day. And ride my bike, but that part's a given...
Here's the list:
The Long Lavender Look -- John D. MacDonald
Nine Princes in Amber -- Roger Zelazny
Master -- Colette Gale (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
H -- Elizabeth Shephard
The Rabbi's Cat 2 -- Joann Sfar (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
Little Vampire Does Kung Fu -- Joann Sfar
Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress -- Dai Sijie
Rashi's Daughters II: Miriam -- Maggie Anton
The Island of Dr. Moreau -- HG Wells
Windfall -- Rachel Caine
Leave a Message for Willie -- Marcia Muller
Wow. Eleven books. Pretty good, but I'd been hoping to finish a certain ARC of a certain upcoming release of a certain series I love so much, I can hardly wait to sit down, crawl inside, and read some more of. Stay tuned for more about that, but it's possible that I like this place more than my own creation right now (probably because it's not my creation. You know how that goes).
Only one of these books disappointed me, and I'll have more about that later on. The rest I really dug, especially Little Vampire, which both my kids attached themselves to. The book says it's for kids 10 and over. My kids aren't ten. That hasn't stopped them yet.
Three of these books are still here in the house (H, Dr. Moreau, and Willie). If you'd like to read one of them, give a yell and I'll share my copy with you. Yes, they're all registered at BookCrossing. Why? Because it's fun to see where a book I've read ends up (and for how long, which is something I'm terribly guilty of).
Now, I must leave and go finish up that ARC 'cause I'm also in the middle of a cool mystery I'll tell you about when I finish it. And there's a lot of buzz right now about the way cool Toni McGee Causey, whose new book, Bobbie Faye's (Kinda, Sorta, Not Exactly) Family Jewels, has me excited to pick up the first in the series as my next read... I've got a copy to share, too, so stay tuned.
Other new releases on my radar:
Fox's Bride, by my bud Amy Ruttan.
A new Ellora's Cave release from Anna J. Evans
One Too Many by Marie-Nicole Ryan
Reilly's Promise by Christyne Butler
Maybe I ought to quit this writing gig and do nothing but read all day. And ride my bike, but that part's a given...
Labels: Amy Ruttan, books, Front Street Reviews, Susan's Book Talk
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Giving You... The Rabbi's Cat 2
Edited to congratulate my friend Grace -- yes, Grace in Dubai -- for winning this awesome book! Yay, Grace!
Yes, that's right! You've heard me raving about Joann Sfar's brilliance long enough. Now is your chance to pick up your very own copy of The Rabbi's Cat 2, compliments of the good people at Pantheon Books.
This hardback book hasn't even been opened yet; you'll get to do the honors. (That means I haven't registered it at BookCrossing, either.)
How to enter:
Go visit my review at Front Street Reviews.
Leave a comment on this post with some sort of contact information between now and 24 May, 2008. Please be sure to tell me why you'd like to experience Joann Sfar and his famous cat. Random "Enter me!" comments aren't good enough anymore.
You can be anywhere on Planet Earth. You can have won before. Please don't sell it on eBay; if I think you have done so, I'll toss any future contest entries you make.
Yeah, I'm getting mean. But a book this special deserves special treatment.
Yes, that's right! You've heard me raving about Joann Sfar's brilliance long enough. Now is your chance to pick up your very own copy of The Rabbi's Cat 2, compliments of the good people at Pantheon Books.
This hardback book hasn't even been opened yet; you'll get to do the honors. (That means I haven't registered it at BookCrossing, either.)
How to enter:
Go visit my review at Front Street Reviews.
Leave a comment on this post with some sort of contact information between now and 24 May, 2008. Please be sure to tell me why you'd like to experience Joann Sfar and his famous cat. Random "Enter me!" comments aren't good enough anymore.
You can be anywhere on Planet Earth. You can have won before. Please don't sell it on eBay; if I think you have done so, I'll toss any future contest entries you make.
Yeah, I'm getting mean. But a book this special deserves special treatment.
Labels: books, contest, Front Street Reviews, Joann Sfar
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Susan's Book Talk: Colette Gale's Master
I saw that Colette Gale was offering peeks at her new book, Master, if we'd promise to blog about the book. How could I resist? After all, she's the one who wrote Unmasqued, a book with no small amount of controversy behind it -- seems that it was too sexy for some. (I still don't get that, as both the spine and the cover of the copy I bought at RT clearly mark it as an erotic novel. But then I don't get the person who was offended by Trevor. What did she expect from a rock star if not the word motherfucker? Sometimes, I don't get people. I just don't.)
Therefore, anything I say comes with that caveat: this book is full of explicit, wonderful, yummy sex. Okay? Got that?
Now, you can read my full review over at Front Street Reviews. It's done, it's up, and it says lots of things about the book. I'm going to use this space to say things that I didn't put in the review. Like how absolutely stunning the cover is. How I want to wear the dress on the cover model (even though it seems totally contrary to the outfits of the times). Like how this book reads really fast yet also has a nice, strong subtext.
Oh, wait. I said that last part in my review. Sorry.
But that's probably what struck me most about Master. The fact that on the surface, you've got this story of love and revenge, all tied up into what ought to be a neatly confused package. But it's not. Ms. Colette Gale transcends the easy way out and goes for something better.
I don't want to say too much. Read the review. Buy the book. And no, don't even ask where the contest for my copy is. Not. Gonna. Happen. MINE. Hear me? I'm not parting with this one. Go buy your own.
You won't be disappointed.
Two more you won't be disappointed with: H, by Elizabeth Shepard. This slim, older (1995) book would make great book club discussions.
And... the review is coming. The giveaway is coming. The Rabbi's Cat 2, by my hero, Joann Sfar. Stay tuned, but take this chance to pick up The Rabbi's Cat (the original) so you know what's going on when you read The Rabbi's Cat 2. Because you don't want to miss out on brilliance.
(psst. Master. Buy it!)
Therefore, anything I say comes with that caveat: this book is full of explicit, wonderful, yummy sex. Okay? Got that?
Now, you can read my full review over at Front Street Reviews. It's done, it's up, and it says lots of things about the book. I'm going to use this space to say things that I didn't put in the review. Like how absolutely stunning the cover is. How I want to wear the dress on the cover model (even though it seems totally contrary to the outfits of the times). Like how this book reads really fast yet also has a nice, strong subtext.
Oh, wait. I said that last part in my review. Sorry.
But that's probably what struck me most about Master. The fact that on the surface, you've got this story of love and revenge, all tied up into what ought to be a neatly confused package. But it's not. Ms. Colette Gale transcends the easy way out and goes for something better.
I don't want to say too much. Read the review. Buy the book. And no, don't even ask where the contest for my copy is. Not. Gonna. Happen. MINE. Hear me? I'm not parting with this one. Go buy your own.
You won't be disappointed.
Two more you won't be disappointed with: H, by Elizabeth Shepard. This slim, older (1995) book would make great book club discussions.
And... the review is coming. The giveaway is coming. The Rabbi's Cat 2, by my hero, Joann Sfar. Stay tuned, but take this chance to pick up The Rabbi's Cat (the original) so you know what's going on when you read The Rabbi's Cat 2. Because you don't want to miss out on brilliance.
(psst. Master. Buy it!)
Labels: Colette Gale, Front Street Reviews, Joann Sfar, Susan's Book Talk
Friday, March 07, 2008
Giving You ... St. Barts Breakdown
***Sticky Post! Scroll down for this week's good stuff!***
Barb, the lovely editor at Front Street Reviews, was surprised at how harsh I was about Don Bruns' St. Barts Breakdown, given how much I liked it.
I don't think I was harsh. I was trying to be balanced and fair.
What do you think? And, maybe more importantly, do you want a chance to see for yourself? I've got TWO copies of St. Barts Breakdown here -- but one is about to find a place on my shelf.
That means I've got a spare. And it can be yours, so you can read it and tell me if you think I was being too harsh on Michelle and Jordan (and maybe even leading man Mick Sever, even though I basically liked him).
You know the rules...
1. Head on over to Front Street Reviews and check out what I had to say about the rest of St. Barts Breakdown. (This part isn't mandatory, but it'd sure be nice. I spent a good week working on that review! That's six days longer than the average outtake!)
2. Leave me a comment here on this very post, telling me you want to read it.
3. BE SURE TO LEAVE CONTACT INFORMATION. A link to your blog, your e-mail, whatever. But I've got to have a way to tell you that you've won. Please, don't leave your phone number. I hate the phone and won't call.
4. On Saturday, March 8, I'll have The Opening Act (that'd be my kids, for you who don't hang around here -- and why not?) pick a number based on the number of entries.
5. This contest is open to everyone on Planet Earth. Yup, I'll ship around the world. If you've won in the past, so what? Enter again. You might win again, but I make no promises.
6. I will register this book at BookCrossing.com. I love watching my books travel the world. I love seeing what others think of them. That doesn't mean you're obligated to do a darn thing with BookCrossing, although if you're going to remove the lovely book plate I'll be putting inside, don't tell me. That denies me the chance to know what happens to a book that passed through my hands -- and anyone who comes after you to experience the fun of BookCrossing.
7. You've got until Friday night, March 7 to enter.
Good luck! And really, get your hands on this book. Danny Murtz is a trainwreck you don't want to miss out on.
As always, thanks to my promo crew for helping spread the word: Breeni, Laura Williams, Prizey, and a Book Blogger's Diary. Am I missing anyone? Please let me know!
Barb, the lovely editor at Front Street Reviews, was surprised at how harsh I was about Don Bruns' St. Barts Breakdown, given how much I liked it.
I don't think I was harsh. I was trying to be balanced and fair.
What do you think? And, maybe more importantly, do you want a chance to see for yourself? I've got TWO copies of St. Barts Breakdown here -- but one is about to find a place on my shelf.
That means I've got a spare. And it can be yours, so you can read it and tell me if you think I was being too harsh on Michelle and Jordan (and maybe even leading man Mick Sever, even though I basically liked him).
You know the rules...
1. Head on over to Front Street Reviews and check out what I had to say about the rest of St. Barts Breakdown. (This part isn't mandatory, but it'd sure be nice. I spent a good week working on that review! That's six days longer than the average outtake!)
2. Leave me a comment here on this very post, telling me you want to read it.
3. BE SURE TO LEAVE CONTACT INFORMATION. A link to your blog, your e-mail, whatever. But I've got to have a way to tell you that you've won. Please, don't leave your phone number. I hate the phone and won't call.
4. On Saturday, March 8, I'll have The Opening Act (that'd be my kids, for you who don't hang around here -- and why not?) pick a number based on the number of entries.
5. This contest is open to everyone on Planet Earth. Yup, I'll ship around the world. If you've won in the past, so what? Enter again. You might win again, but I make no promises.
6. I will register this book at BookCrossing.com. I love watching my books travel the world. I love seeing what others think of them. That doesn't mean you're obligated to do a darn thing with BookCrossing, although if you're going to remove the lovely book plate I'll be putting inside, don't tell me. That denies me the chance to know what happens to a book that passed through my hands -- and anyone who comes after you to experience the fun of BookCrossing.
7. You've got until Friday night, March 7 to enter.
Good luck! And really, get your hands on this book. Danny Murtz is a trainwreck you don't want to miss out on.
As always, thanks to my promo crew for helping spread the word: Breeni, Laura Williams, Prizey, and a Book Blogger's Diary. Am I missing anyone? Please let me know!
Labels: book reviews, BookCrossing, books, contest, Don Bruns, Front Street Reviews, prizes, St. Barts Breakdown
Saturday, February 16, 2008
...And the winner is!
Paula!
Congratulations to my fellow Blue Ribbon Blogger, Paula, for being chosen as the winner of my copy of State of the Onion, the first in Julie Hyzy's great new mystery series.
Thanks to everyone who entered -- and especially to those of you who jumped over to Front Street Reviews and read my review. I hope you'll hang around there more often and find other great things to read.
And, of course, if you'd like to read State of the Onion anyway, use my handy-dandy links here in this post and pick up a copy of your very own.
More later, including my attempt at this week's Writer's Island prompt. Gulp!
Congratulations to my fellow Blue Ribbon Blogger, Paula, for being chosen as the winner of my copy of State of the Onion, the first in Julie Hyzy's great new mystery series.
Thanks to everyone who entered -- and especially to those of you who jumped over to Front Street Reviews and read my review. I hope you'll hang around there more often and find other great things to read.
And, of course, if you'd like to read State of the Onion anyway, use my handy-dandy links here in this post and pick up a copy of your very own.
More later, including my attempt at this week's Writer's Island prompt. Gulp!
Labels: books, contest, contest winners, Front Street Reviews, Julie Hyzy, prizes
Friday, February 15, 2008
Giving You... State of the Onion
I love giving books away, especially when they are companions to a new review I wrote for Front Street Reviews. But I especially love doing it when it's a book I want to keep, but that I want to spread the word about even more.
This time, it's Julie Hyzy's State of the Onion, a great entry into a new mystery series. Come on into the secure world of the White House Kitchen. Just be prepared for mayhem, chaos, backstabbing and a murder or two -- thankfully not inside the kitchen. Join White House Assistant Chef Olivia Paras as she tries really hard not to meddle in an affair she finds herself smack in the middle of.
Go on and read my review over at Front Street Reviews. See why I liked this book so much. Then come on back and enter your name to win my reviewer's copy. Please note; this is an advance reader copy. If you don't know what that means, Google it. Decide if this is the sort of book you want in your collection; some people are totally opposed to ARCs. I hope you're not one of them.
Here's the fine print:
1. Contest is open to anyone in the universe. Hey, when you live West of Mars, you gotta think this way. Anyone includes past winners. However, it does not include meanies or spammers. Or Trevor, but I'm not so sure he reads, anyway.
2. In the comments on this post, leave your name and some form of contact -- either an e-mail or a web address that'll take me to a way to reach you. If you don't do this, I can't give you the book.
3. On Saturday morning, February 16, I'll let my kids pick a winner and I'll contact that lucky soul by e-mail. So make sure you leave me contact information!!!
Gotta thank the Blue Ribbon Bloggers, Laura Williams, my Thirteener friend QTPies, The Parenting Diaries, A Book Blogger's Diary, and Prizey for helping spread the word!
This time, it's Julie Hyzy's State of the Onion, a great entry into a new mystery series. Come on into the secure world of the White House Kitchen. Just be prepared for mayhem, chaos, backstabbing and a murder or two -- thankfully not inside the kitchen. Join White House Assistant Chef Olivia Paras as she tries really hard not to meddle in an affair she finds herself smack in the middle of.
Go on and read my review over at Front Street Reviews. See why I liked this book so much. Then come on back and enter your name to win my reviewer's copy. Please note; this is an advance reader copy. If you don't know what that means, Google it. Decide if this is the sort of book you want in your collection; some people are totally opposed to ARCs. I hope you're not one of them.
Here's the fine print:
1. Contest is open to anyone in the universe. Hey, when you live West of Mars, you gotta think this way. Anyone includes past winners. However, it does not include meanies or spammers. Or Trevor, but I'm not so sure he reads, anyway.
2. In the comments on this post, leave your name and some form of contact -- either an e-mail or a web address that'll take me to a way to reach you. If you don't do this, I can't give you the book.
3. On Saturday morning, February 16, I'll let my kids pick a winner and I'll contact that lucky soul by e-mail. So make sure you leave me contact information!!!
Gotta thank the Blue Ribbon Bloggers, Laura Williams, my Thirteener friend QTPies, The Parenting Diaries, A Book Blogger's Diary, and Prizey for helping spread the word!
Labels: books, contest, Front Street Reviews, Julie Hyzy, prizes
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Sunday Best: Reading Challenges
The Tour Manager was kind enough to give me, an asthmatic, his upper respiratory infection. So I feel lousy and am keeping this week's Sunday Best simple.
WAY back in November, I joined this challenge. The idea was to read five books from your To Be Read pile between November and January 30.
I thought I'd let you know how I did.
Here is my last post, checking in and talking about what I'd read so far.
And check out what I did between December 15 and the end of January.
The Sex Club -- LJ Silvers (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
The Garden of Eve -- KL Going
Spin Some More -- Red Garnier
White Bicycles -- Joe Boyd (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
The Historian -- Elizabeth Kostova
The Loop -- Joe Coomer
Aunt Dimity Beats the Devil -- Nancy Atherton
Visions of Sugar Plums -- Janet Evanovich
The Reluctant Swordsman -- Dave Duncan (no link because Powell's only links to the e-book version and I did not read this version.)
July 7th -- Jill McCorkle
State of the Onion -- Julie Hyzy (watch Front Street Reviews for my review!)
A couple of cool things of note:
1. There are NO books in here that I disliked and refused to finish. This is a super-long stretch for me. Maybe I'm finally getting better at picking books.
2. That said, I don't get what all the fuss over The Historian was about.
3. Pleasant surprises? The Reluctant Swordsman, a fantasy novel from the 80s. The Loop, a quirky read that had been on my Wishlist since my Grad School days. See? Patience does pay off.
3. Lots of reviews, possibly more than I intended. Yes, reviews keep me from writing, but it's also good to stretch and discipline my brain, which likes to be about as disciplined at times as Trevor's. (and yes, he's yowling a protest at me for that dig.)
4. I really like Nancy Atherton's Aunt Dimity series. They are fun, smart, and just right. I really like KL Going, too. Even though The Garden of Eve is aimed for a younger audience, it still kicks. I've got a few more of each of these authors' books on the Mountain Range that is TBR.
5. I'm already eager for the next in the new Julie Hyzy series that was kicked off by State of the Onion.
6. Despite this list, it's still not enough. In fact, one more book arrived in January than I was able to read. At this rate, I'll be caught up in 2011. Maybe.
7. I've begun reading for the Jewish Lit challenge. Just wait to see what I'm about to blitz you with.
See ya later for the Poetry Train. And keep an eye out for Trevor. He's escaped my grasp and is leaving comments on the blogs owned by friends of mine. I think he's going to take this getting-his-story-published business into his own hands. Watch out!
WAY back in November, I joined this challenge. The idea was to read five books from your To Be Read pile between November and January 30.
I thought I'd let you know how I did.
Here is my last post, checking in and talking about what I'd read so far.
And check out what I did between December 15 and the end of January.
The Sex Club -- LJ Silvers (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
The Garden of Eve -- KL Going
Spin Some More -- Red Garnier
White Bicycles -- Joe Boyd (read my review at Front Street Reviews!)
The Historian -- Elizabeth Kostova
The Loop -- Joe Coomer
Aunt Dimity Beats the Devil -- Nancy Atherton
Visions of Sugar Plums -- Janet Evanovich
The Reluctant Swordsman -- Dave Duncan (no link because Powell's only links to the e-book version and I did not read this version.)
July 7th -- Jill McCorkle
State of the Onion -- Julie Hyzy (watch Front Street Reviews for my review!)
A couple of cool things of note:
1. There are NO books in here that I disliked and refused to finish. This is a super-long stretch for me. Maybe I'm finally getting better at picking books.
2. That said, I don't get what all the fuss over The Historian was about.
3. Pleasant surprises? The Reluctant Swordsman, a fantasy novel from the 80s. The Loop, a quirky read that had been on my Wishlist since my Grad School days. See? Patience does pay off.
3. Lots of reviews, possibly more than I intended. Yes, reviews keep me from writing, but it's also good to stretch and discipline my brain, which likes to be about as disciplined at times as Trevor's. (and yes, he's yowling a protest at me for that dig.)
4. I really like Nancy Atherton's Aunt Dimity series. They are fun, smart, and just right. I really like KL Going, too. Even though The Garden of Eve is aimed for a younger audience, it still kicks. I've got a few more of each of these authors' books on the Mountain Range that is TBR.
5. I'm already eager for the next in the new Julie Hyzy series that was kicked off by State of the Onion.
6. Despite this list, it's still not enough. In fact, one more book arrived in January than I was able to read. At this rate, I'll be caught up in 2011. Maybe.
7. I've begun reading for the Jewish Lit challenge. Just wait to see what I'm about to blitz you with.
See ya later for the Poetry Train. And keep an eye out for Trevor. He's escaped my grasp and is leaving comments on the blogs owned by friends of mine. I think he's going to take this getting-his-story-published business into his own hands. Watch out!
Labels: books, challenge, Front Street Reviews, Sunday Best
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Giving You... The Sex Club
Sticky post! Sticky post! Scroll on down for new stuff! Sticky post! Sticky post!
To celebrate the publication of my latest review, this time of L.J. Sellers' debut novel, The Sex Club, I'm giving my copy away.
Leave a comment here (with contact information of some sort) if you'd like to win my book. Be sure to visit the review at Front Street Reviews, too 'cause I'm proud of it. I'll announce the winner on Saturday, 12 January.
Yep, like always, this is a world-wide contest. Yep, past winners can enter again.
Did you see this contest mentioned somewhere? Tell me where and I'll give linky love back to my helpful pimpers. Starting with my bud Breeni at BreeniBooks and continuing to the fun folk at A Book Blogger's Diary, Angela at Prize-a-tron, and Laura Williams' Musings. Are you next?
To celebrate the publication of my latest review, this time of L.J. Sellers' debut novel, The Sex Club, I'm giving my copy away.
Leave a comment here (with contact information of some sort) if you'd like to win my book. Be sure to visit the review at Front Street Reviews, too 'cause I'm proud of it. I'll announce the winner on Saturday, 12 January.
Yep, like always, this is a world-wide contest. Yep, past winners can enter again.
Did you see this contest mentioned somewhere? Tell me where and I'll give linky love back to my helpful pimpers. Starting with my bud Breeni at BreeniBooks and continuing to the fun folk at A Book Blogger's Diary, Angela at Prize-a-tron, and Laura Williams' Musings. Are you next?
Labels: Front Street Reviews, LJ Sellers, The Sex Club
Friday, December 21, 2007
Booking Through Thursday: And the Nominees Are...
Oops. Almost forgot this week!
Booking through Thursday asks:
1. What fiction book (or books) would you nominate to be the best new book published in 2007?
(Older books that you read for the first time in 2007 don’t count.)
2. What non-fiction book (or books) would you nominate to be the best new book published in 2007?
(Older books that you read for the first time in 2007 don’t count.)
3. And, do “best of” lists influence your reading?
Let's go backwards.
Yes, best-of lists influence my reading. If a book shows up on 90% of the lists, I'll often refuse to read it, figuring it's overhyped and I probably won't like it. The list of books I've been stung with like this is pretty long.
As for non-fiction, you guys know me. Other than the occasional rock-and-roll-themed book I'll review for Front Street Reviews, I avoid non-fiction.
So... that brings us to fiction. And to be honest, I have no clue, other than Jennifer Estep's books, and the latest Colleen Gleason, what else I've read this year that was actually published in 2007.
I'd do better to give you a round-up of what I've read in 2007, and I'll be doing that before the 27th, so if you're in town, stay tuned. If you're going to be travelling, add me to your reader so it'll be there when you get home.
Merry Christmas to my celebrating friends, happy Eid to those who are about to end their celebrations, and safe travels to all.
And if you need something to fill your time, there's a cool interview posted at Front Street you shouldn't miss, as well as Bunnygirl's Holiday Flash Fiction Carnival.
Booking through Thursday asks:
1. What fiction book (or books) would you nominate to be the best new book published in 2007?
(Older books that you read for the first time in 2007 don’t count.)
2. What non-fiction book (or books) would you nominate to be the best new book published in 2007?
(Older books that you read for the first time in 2007 don’t count.)
3. And, do “best of” lists influence your reading?
Let's go backwards.
Yes, best-of lists influence my reading. If a book shows up on 90% of the lists, I'll often refuse to read it, figuring it's overhyped and I probably won't like it. The list of books I've been stung with like this is pretty long.
As for non-fiction, you guys know me. Other than the occasional rock-and-roll-themed book I'll review for Front Street Reviews, I avoid non-fiction.
So... that brings us to fiction. And to be honest, I have no clue, other than Jennifer Estep's books, and the latest Colleen Gleason, what else I've read this year that was actually published in 2007.
I'd do better to give you a round-up of what I've read in 2007, and I'll be doing that before the 27th, so if you're in town, stay tuned. If you're going to be travelling, add me to your reader so it'll be there when you get home.
Merry Christmas to my celebrating friends, happy Eid to those who are about to end their celebrations, and safe travels to all.
And if you need something to fill your time, there's a cool interview posted at Front Street you shouldn't miss, as well as Bunnygirl's Holiday Flash Fiction Carnival.
Labels: Booking Through Thursday, Colleen Gleason, Front Street Reviews, Jennifer Estep
Monday, December 10, 2007
Special Hanukkah Giveaway!
*Sticky post! Scroll down for the new stuff*
To keep the celebration of Hanukkah going and to point your attention toward my review of Jeffrey Overstreet's ground-breaking debut novel, Auralia's Colors, over at Front Street Reviews, I thought I'd -- reluctantly! -- give my copy to one of you.
Simply leave a message in this post and on Dec. 11th, the last night of Hanukkah, I'll pick a winner at random and share this great read. You can be anywhere in the world. You can celebrate any religion, sleep with either gender (or both), have any color skin, be right-handed, be left-handed, be like me and be ambidextrous ... the possibilities are endless.
The only thing I ask is that you read the book and tell me what you thought of it.
One more thing: I've registered it at BookCrossing. There's no need for you to make a journal entry, although it's fun to watch where a book travels and what people think of it.
Really. Read it. That's enough.
Have a wonderful Hanukkah. May the week be full of light and miracles.
(and for those of you waiting for more about Springer, keep reading. There will be more about this year's Musical Hanukkah Celebration. If you're lost about Springer, click here. The link in the Hanukkah Celebration will only take you to last year's post, so you can read from the beginning.)
Edited on Wednesday to say: check out Overstreet's reaction to my review here!
*Sticky post! Scroll down for the new stuff!*
To keep the celebration of Hanukkah going and to point your attention toward my review of Jeffrey Overstreet's ground-breaking debut novel, Auralia's Colors, over at Front Street Reviews, I thought I'd -- reluctantly! -- give my copy to one of you.
Simply leave a message in this post and on Dec. 11th, the last night of Hanukkah, I'll pick a winner at random and share this great read. You can be anywhere in the world. You can celebrate any religion, sleep with either gender (or both), have any color skin, be right-handed, be left-handed, be like me and be ambidextrous ... the possibilities are endless.
The only thing I ask is that you read the book and tell me what you thought of it.
One more thing: I've registered it at BookCrossing. There's no need for you to make a journal entry, although it's fun to watch where a book travels and what people think of it.
Really. Read it. That's enough.
Have a wonderful Hanukkah. May the week be full of light and miracles.
(and for those of you waiting for more about Springer, keep reading. There will be more about this year's Musical Hanukkah Celebration. If you're lost about Springer, click here. The link in the Hanukkah Celebration will only take you to last year's post, so you can read from the beginning.)
Edited on Wednesday to say: check out Overstreet's reaction to my review here!
*Sticky post! Scroll down for the new stuff!*
Labels: books, contest, Front Street Reviews, Hanukkah
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: A New Reading Challenge
I discovered this challenge after November first, so I haven't been in a huge hurry to catch up and get my voice added.
At any rate, it's my favorite sort of challenge: catch up on Mt. TBR (that's To Be Read, and mine is not just a single mountain but an entire range these days).
The From the Stacks reading challenge encourages you to pick five books from the mountain and read them. The time frame is November 1 to January 30 -- and they'll be handing out random, small prizes along the way.
For me, getting a little more caught up is prize enough.
Thus, my five picks:
Auralia's Colors, by Jeffrey Overstreet
I'm reading this now and will review it for Front Street Reviews. Stay tuned. I'm on page 33 and so far, it's a great read.
My New-Found Land, Bunnygirl's book. I've blogged about it before. Here, in fact. Even though my copy's not autographed, I have the feeling that if you'd like me to part with my copy, it's not going to happen. Sorry. (unless an autographed copy happens to show up in my PO Box? Maybe?)
Death du Jour, Kathy Reichs. Yep, I'm WAY behind on kicking this series off.
The Hook, by Donald E. Westlake. I loved his book The Ax. Will I feel the same about The Hook? And will it inspire any Deadly Metal Hatchet adventures?
Death of a Saint Maker, by Allana Martin. This book's been here so long, I don't remember where it came from or why. Yes, I'm that far behind.
And for a bonus read, I've had The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova here every bit as long, too. I'll admit it: I'm daunted by its size. I need to get over that, as it's one of a number of thick books awaiting me.
It'd be nice, too, if I could finally finish July 7th, Jill McCorkle's novel that's been on my nightstand for awhile now. I really like reading it, but it falls victim to exhaustion more often that not, sad to say.
One final plug: have you seen my reviews up at Front Street Reviews? Reviews for Jennifer Estep's Hot Mama are now up, as is Rebecca Drake's The Next Killing. And if you haven't seen my thoughts on Colleen Gleason's first two Gardella Vampire Chronicles, it's still there, too. Let me know what you think of this bounty of reviews!
At any rate, it's my favorite sort of challenge: catch up on Mt. TBR (that's To Be Read, and mine is not just a single mountain but an entire range these days).
The From the Stacks reading challenge encourages you to pick five books from the mountain and read them. The time frame is November 1 to January 30 -- and they'll be handing out random, small prizes along the way.
For me, getting a little more caught up is prize enough.
Thus, my five picks:
Auralia's Colors, by Jeffrey Overstreet
I'm reading this now and will review it for Front Street Reviews. Stay tuned. I'm on page 33 and so far, it's a great read.
My New-Found Land, Bunnygirl's book. I've blogged about it before. Here, in fact. Even though my copy's not autographed, I have the feeling that if you'd like me to part with my copy, it's not going to happen. Sorry. (unless an autographed copy happens to show up in my PO Box? Maybe?)
Death du Jour, Kathy Reichs. Yep, I'm WAY behind on kicking this series off.
The Hook, by Donald E. Westlake. I loved his book The Ax. Will I feel the same about The Hook? And will it inspire any Deadly Metal Hatchet adventures?
Death of a Saint Maker, by Allana Martin. This book's been here so long, I don't remember where it came from or why. Yes, I'm that far behind.
And for a bonus read, I've had The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova here every bit as long, too. I'll admit it: I'm daunted by its size. I need to get over that, as it's one of a number of thick books awaiting me.
It'd be nice, too, if I could finally finish July 7th, Jill McCorkle's novel that's been on my nightstand for awhile now. I really like reading it, but it falls victim to exhaustion more often that not, sad to say.
One final plug: have you seen my reviews up at Front Street Reviews? Reviews for Jennifer Estep's Hot Mama are now up, as is Rebecca Drake's The Next Killing. And if you haven't seen my thoughts on Colleen Gleason's first two Gardella Vampire Chronicles, it's still there, too. Let me know what you think of this bounty of reviews!
Labels: book reviews, books, challenge, Front Street Reviews
Friday, September 28, 2007
Booking Through Thursday: Friendship
I am loving this week's Booking Through Thursday question.
Buy a Friend a Book Week is October 1-7 (as well as the first weeks of January, April, and July). During this week, you’re encouraged to buy a friend a book for no good reason. Not for their birthday, not because it’s a holiday, not to cheer them up–just because it’s a book.
What book would you choose to give to a friend and why?
And, if you’re feeling generous enough–head on over to Powell's and actually send one on its way!
Well. There are a million books I'd love to share; that's why I have my Library Thing widget on my sidebar. Those are only the books I've loved enough to rave about.
But I've come across three that are worth mentioning!
First, all you Tamora Pierce fans, listen up! Ms. Pierce has collaborated with Timothy Liebe on a graphic novel called White Tiger. I've only begun reading it, so no total raves yet, but what caught my eye, other than the author's name, is the artwork. Wow! It looks like I was lucky enough to pick it up on release day, too. Bonus!
And to tie books and music together yet again (like I don't do this often?), I found Rob Zombie's The Haunted World of El Superbeasto. Flipping through, there seem to be lots of naked boobies and the vivid colors that Zombie is known for. A bit less detail than we're used to from him; I wonder if that's to better fit the format of a graphic novel. But what's this I hear about a movie-tie-in? (yeah, it looks like it came out in 2006. What hole have I been living in?)
And lastly, head over to SuperFastReader. She's giving away a Jeffrey Overstreet's Auralia's Colors because she read it and flipped for it. I haven't even heard of it before, so I'll be checking it out with you. Please take note that this contest coincides with Buy a Friend a Book Week! Good timing, Superfast!!!
Edited to add: I forgot to tell you all to go on over to my review home, Front Street Reviews, and check out my thoughts on Colleen Gleason's first two books. I'd buy those for someone... Well, maybe myself, as my copies have already been stolen! They were autographed, too!
Buy a Friend a Book Week is October 1-7 (as well as the first weeks of January, April, and July). During this week, you’re encouraged to buy a friend a book for no good reason. Not for their birthday, not because it’s a holiday, not to cheer them up–just because it’s a book.
What book would you choose to give to a friend and why?
And, if you’re feeling generous enough–head on over to Powell's and actually send one on its way!
Well. There are a million books I'd love to share; that's why I have my Library Thing widget on my sidebar. Those are only the books I've loved enough to rave about.
But I've come across three that are worth mentioning!
First, all you Tamora Pierce fans, listen up! Ms. Pierce has collaborated with Timothy Liebe on a graphic novel called White Tiger. I've only begun reading it, so no total raves yet, but what caught my eye, other than the author's name, is the artwork. Wow! It looks like I was lucky enough to pick it up on release day, too. Bonus!
And to tie books and music together yet again (like I don't do this often?), I found Rob Zombie's The Haunted World of El Superbeasto. Flipping through, there seem to be lots of naked boobies and the vivid colors that Zombie is known for. A bit less detail than we're used to from him; I wonder if that's to better fit the format of a graphic novel. But what's this I hear about a movie-tie-in? (yeah, it looks like it came out in 2006. What hole have I been living in?)
And lastly, head over to SuperFastReader. She's giving away a Jeffrey Overstreet's Auralia's Colors because she read it and flipped for it. I haven't even heard of it before, so I'll be checking it out with you. Please take note that this contest coincides with Buy a Friend a Book Week! Good timing, Superfast!!!
Edited to add: I forgot to tell you all to go on over to my review home, Front Street Reviews, and check out my thoughts on Colleen Gleason's first two books. I'd buy those for someone... Well, maybe myself, as my copies have already been stolen! They were autographed, too!
Labels: Booking Through Thursday, Colleen Gleason, Front Street Reviews, Rob Zombie, Tamora Pierce
Friday, August 10, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: Multiples and other things
First off: this week's Booking Through Thursday:
Do you have multiple copies of any of your books?
If so, why? Absent-mindedness? You love them that much? First Editions for the shelf, but paperbacks to read?
If not, why not? Not enough space? Not enough money? Too sensible to do something so foolish?
I have a lot of multiples that have come to me through BookCrossing -- I'll forget to take something off my wishlist (with 1200+ books on there, can you blame me?) or someone will think I'll like a book, so they send it to me, not knowing I've got a copy here that I haven't registered at BookCrossing yet.
And I buy multiples, too -- to share via BookCrossing or the book trading sites ('cause whenever I offer you guys my books, you don't take me up on it. What's up with THAT?). Those multiples are books I loved and want to help spread the word about. You know, sort of like my own way of helping people find a Hidden Treasures book.
Speaking of Hidden Treasures, there's only five days left in the contest. Get your last reviews up! If you're web wandering and you find a review posted, why not encourage the writer to submit it to the contest?? They've already done the hard work; invite them to come get rewards and some extra linkie love for it.
I hear that Jennifer Estep, one of our Hidden Treasures authors, has a few ARCs for the second in her Big Time series, Hot Mama. I'll let you know when the review's up at Front Street Reviews.
And lastly (I think), I'd love to thank Robin L. Rotham for pulling my very own name out of a hat and declaring me the winner of a copy of her new short, Seniorella. This is going to be my very first foray into e-books, so if you prefer Microsoft Reader to PDF format, or the other way, you'd better weigh in on that subject now...
Happy reading, everyone! Let's get some last reviews in for the Summer's Hidden Treasures contest, okay?
Do you have multiple copies of any of your books?
If so, why? Absent-mindedness? You love them that much? First Editions for the shelf, but paperbacks to read?
If not, why not? Not enough space? Not enough money? Too sensible to do something so foolish?
I have a lot of multiples that have come to me through BookCrossing -- I'll forget to take something off my wishlist (with 1200+ books on there, can you blame me?) or someone will think I'll like a book, so they send it to me, not knowing I've got a copy here that I haven't registered at BookCrossing yet.
And I buy multiples, too -- to share via BookCrossing or the book trading sites ('cause whenever I offer you guys my books, you don't take me up on it. What's up with THAT?). Those multiples are books I loved and want to help spread the word about. You know, sort of like my own way of helping people find a Hidden Treasures book.
Speaking of Hidden Treasures, there's only five days left in the contest. Get your last reviews up! If you're web wandering and you find a review posted, why not encourage the writer to submit it to the contest?? They've already done the hard work; invite them to come get rewards and some extra linkie love for it.
I hear that Jennifer Estep, one of our Hidden Treasures authors, has a few ARCs for the second in her Big Time series, Hot Mama. I'll let you know when the review's up at Front Street Reviews.
And lastly (I think), I'd love to thank Robin L. Rotham for pulling my very own name out of a hat and declaring me the winner of a copy of her new short, Seniorella. This is going to be my very first foray into e-books, so if you prefer Microsoft Reader to PDF format, or the other way, you'd better weigh in on that subject now...
Happy reading, everyone! Let's get some last reviews in for the Summer's Hidden Treasures contest, okay?
Labels: book reviews, BookCrossing, Booking Through Thursday, books, Front Street Reviews, Jennifer Estep, prizes, Summer's Hidden Treasures, Susan's Book Talk
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Summer Hidden Treasures Author Spotlight
Yeah, I know I raved about Jennifer Estep and her debut, Karma Girl, before. And yeah, you'll be hearing more from me about Ms. Estep, especially next winter, when Debut a Debut returns.
BUT since I can't get enough, if you head over to Front Street Reviews and click on Interviews, you'll see a short conversation the lady and I had. It blew me away how similar our thought processes are; I hope to one day be able to sit and compare notes with the lovely Jennifer Estep.
Be sure to check out my review of Karma Girl, too, while you're there. And if you missed yesterday's outtake as part of the Poetry Train, make sure you scroll down (or click through and then scroll down, you feed readers). Definitely one of my favorites.
And on a personal note, I mastered the bun! It was actually quite easy. Now, getting all that gel and spray out may be a different story, but getting it together turned into a no-brainer breeze. I'll take it.
BUT since I can't get enough, if you head over to Front Street Reviews and click on Interviews, you'll see a short conversation the lady and I had. It blew me away how similar our thought processes are; I hope to one day be able to sit and compare notes with the lovely Jennifer Estep.
Be sure to check out my review of Karma Girl, too, while you're there. And if you missed yesterday's outtake as part of the Poetry Train, make sure you scroll down (or click through and then scroll down, you feed readers). Definitely one of my favorites.
And on a personal note, I mastered the bun! It was actually quite easy. Now, getting all that gel and spray out may be a different story, but getting it together turned into a no-brainer breeze. I'll take it.
Labels: Front Street Reviews, Jennifer Estep, Karma Girl, Summer's Hidden Treasures
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: Reviews and a contest or two
Bunches of little things and one big one...
1. Check out Front Street Reviews for two (not one! Two!) of my latest book reviews -- one for Catch a Wave: The Rise, Fall and Redemption of the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, by Peter Ames Carlin. (the link's to buy the book. Use the Front Street Reviews link to read what I had to say about it.)
The other review is for a new rave of mine: Karma Girl, by Jennifer Estep. (Oh, just check out both links, then the Front Street one for the review!) This is a writer worth watching; her vision is incredible. She creates a totally believable world that you'll want to live in. I promise.
2. Have you been to Dewey's place lately? She's running this really cool contest and yours truly has offered to throw in for the prizes. Come jump on the fun.
3. And finally, speaking of contests and Jennifer Estep, I'm looking for more authors who've published fiction by royalty-paying publishers. Yes, gang, it's time for our summer reading contest, and I am hoping some of you authors, or friends of authors, will stop by and offer up not only prizes, but up to five books or authors who fit the theme of Hidden Treasures.
I've noticed that this is a hot theme this year; I picked it way back in February, so I may be late to the bandwagon, but that's cause I was busy hitching the horses up to it.
Drop me an e-mail for more details. Authors only right now, though! The rest of you can wait a scant two weeks. (Go hunt down Karma Girl in the meantime, okay?)
1. Check out Front Street Reviews for two (not one! Two!) of my latest book reviews -- one for Catch a Wave: The Rise, Fall and Redemption of the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, by Peter Ames Carlin. (the link's to buy the book. Use the Front Street Reviews link to read what I had to say about it.)
The other review is for a new rave of mine: Karma Girl, by Jennifer Estep. (Oh, just check out both links, then the Front Street one for the review!) This is a writer worth watching; her vision is incredible. She creates a totally believable world that you'll want to live in. I promise.
2. Have you been to Dewey's place lately? She's running this really cool contest and yours truly has offered to throw in for the prizes. Come jump on the fun.
3. And finally, speaking of contests and Jennifer Estep, I'm looking for more authors who've published fiction by royalty-paying publishers. Yes, gang, it's time for our summer reading contest, and I am hoping some of you authors, or friends of authors, will stop by and offer up not only prizes, but up to five books or authors who fit the theme of Hidden Treasures.
I've noticed that this is a hot theme this year; I picked it way back in February, so I may be late to the bandwagon, but that's cause I was busy hitching the horses up to it.
Drop me an e-mail for more details. Authors only right now, though! The rest of you can wait a scant two weeks. (Go hunt down Karma Girl in the meantime, okay?)
Labels: book reviews, books, contest, cool stuff, Front Street Reviews, Jennifer Estep, Susan's Book Talk
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: mysteries, Buy a Friend a Book Week, and more on punks
First off, let me tell you that I've finished my first book for the Spring Reading Thing challenge: Linda Fairstein's The Kills. I really liked it, so if you'd like to read it, you can get it one of three ways: by requesting it at PaperBackSwap, by mooching it from me at BookMooch, or by leaving me a comment here and asking for it. Be sure to leave me an e-mail address, if I don't have an address on file for you.
My copy's a hardback and yes, it's registered at BookCrossing. I'd love it if you'd leave some thoughts about what you think of it.
Other stuff...
Barb at Front Street Reviews has asked me to tell you guys to check out a cool profile she's done of Capital Crime Press. Two of their more prominent authors are the extremely funny Robert Fate (author of Baby Shark) and Troy Cook (author of 47 Rules of a Highly Effective Bank Robber). This feature is in conjunction with Small Press Month; don't forget to finish off the month with some small presses!
Buy a Friend a Book Week is fast approaching. I'm going to do a small contest for it, so watch the blog for more details. But here's a hint: anyone who e-mails me a scanned receipt for the purchase of Steven Lee Beeber's The Heebie-Jeebies at CBGB's will win a cool book from me. I'll have other books to give away during BAFAB week, if only because I have too many here again and would like to get them moving through the world.
And while I'm talking about Beeber and punk rock, I'd like to once again put forth my willingness to review Clinton Heylin's new book on punk. Babylon's Burning. Not only am I curious to read it, I want to see how it stacks up against Beeber's book. Now pushed back to a July release, I'd love to be part of some pre-publication reviews -- and I'll offer up Barb's Front Street Reviews as a spot for which to post that review. Ain't it great to have friends?
My copy's a hardback and yes, it's registered at BookCrossing. I'd love it if you'd leave some thoughts about what you think of it.
Other stuff...
Barb at Front Street Reviews has asked me to tell you guys to check out a cool profile she's done of Capital Crime Press. Two of their more prominent authors are the extremely funny Robert Fate (author of Baby Shark) and Troy Cook (author of 47 Rules of a Highly Effective Bank Robber). This feature is in conjunction with Small Press Month; don't forget to finish off the month with some small presses!
Buy a Friend a Book Week is fast approaching. I'm going to do a small contest for it, so watch the blog for more details. But here's a hint: anyone who e-mails me a scanned receipt for the purchase of Steven Lee Beeber's The Heebie-Jeebies at CBGB's will win a cool book from me. I'll have other books to give away during BAFAB week, if only because I have too many here again and would like to get them moving through the world.
And while I'm talking about Beeber and punk rock, I'd like to once again put forth my willingness to review Clinton Heylin's new book on punk. Babylon's Burning. Not only am I curious to read it, I want to see how it stacks up against Beeber's book. Now pushed back to a July release, I'd love to be part of some pre-publication reviews -- and I'll offer up Barb's Front Street Reviews as a spot for which to post that review. Ain't it great to have friends?
Labels: BookCrossing, BookMooch, books, Buy a Friend a Book Week, contest, Front Street Reviews, Linda Fairstein, PaperBackSwap, punk rock, Spring Reading Thing, Susan's Book Talk
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: Groupies Galore
I got TWO rejections from agents Monday, and like the two before them, they said the same thing, if you read between the lines. It's either they hate that Trevor gets sick, or that they think they can't sell the book somehow.
I think the worst part is that these rejections I'm getting come in one of two varieties: the form letter that tells me they didn't read past the first word, or else the personal letter that's truly regretful and yet hopeful that I'll find the right one of their colleagues who'll take this on. One of the letters yesterday, from a VP at one of the biggie agencies, handwrote an additional "I am sorry" on the bottom of the letter. Like she'd wanted to take me on but someone stopped her.
Okay, enough of my frustrations. On to the good stuff.
I've been talking to Breeni about having a graphic made for when I talk up my groupies and when you guys blog about me. What do you think? You game? Do you want an official West of Mars Groupie graphic? What? (go on and say t-shirts; I'm on it)
Claire found this gem of an idea. We all know what I want for the world -- for everyone to have the chance to meet Trevor. What do you want?
Now, the real news: Camille at Littlebird blue sent me this link, to Green Man Review, where she's got a few reviews posted. Check them out.
And Karen and Janelle and I have been discussing this one via e-mail: The Bookseller is out with their (his? Her?) annual list of the oddest book titles. Be sure you vote.
Debut a Debut author Joshua Palmatier dropped into my inbox to tell me that his debut novel, The Skewed Throne, is one of the four finalists for the Baltimore Science Fiction Society's Compton Crook/Stephen Tall Memorial Award for best first novel of 2006. HUGE congratulations to Joshua!! May the best book be yours!
Lastly, a shameless plug that you go check out what's new at Front Street Reviews. Nothing from me (I'm too busy with the query letters), but plenty of other gems that you might want to consider for the summer reading contest... Stay tuned for that, as well as that graphic I'm thinking about. If you'd like it, give me a yay or nay in the comments.
I think the worst part is that these rejections I'm getting come in one of two varieties: the form letter that tells me they didn't read past the first word, or else the personal letter that's truly regretful and yet hopeful that I'll find the right one of their colleagues who'll take this on. One of the letters yesterday, from a VP at one of the biggie agencies, handwrote an additional "I am sorry" on the bottom of the letter. Like she'd wanted to take me on but someone stopped her.
Okay, enough of my frustrations. On to the good stuff.
I've been talking to Breeni about having a graphic made for when I talk up my groupies and when you guys blog about me. What do you think? You game? Do you want an official West of Mars Groupie graphic? What? (go on and say t-shirts; I'm on it)
Claire found this gem of an idea. We all know what I want for the world -- for everyone to have the chance to meet Trevor. What do you want?
Now, the real news: Camille at Littlebird blue sent me this link, to Green Man Review, where she's got a few reviews posted. Check them out.
And Karen and Janelle and I have been discussing this one via e-mail: The Bookseller is out with their (his? Her?) annual list of the oddest book titles. Be sure you vote.
Debut a Debut author Joshua Palmatier dropped into my inbox to tell me that his debut novel, The Skewed Throne, is one of the four finalists for the Baltimore Science Fiction Society's Compton Crook/Stephen Tall Memorial Award for best first novel of 2006. HUGE congratulations to Joshua!! May the best book be yours!
Lastly, a shameless plug that you go check out what's new at Front Street Reviews. Nothing from me (I'm too busy with the query letters), but plenty of other gems that you might want to consider for the summer reading contest... Stay tuned for that, as well as that graphic I'm thinking about. If you'd like it, give me a yay or nay in the comments.
Labels: agent hunting, book reviews, books, Front Street Reviews, Green Man Review, Joshua Palmatier, Trevor's Song, writing process
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Susan's Reviewed a Book!
Check out my review of LL Cool J's Platinum Workout, now posted at Front Street Reviews.
Best line in the book? Near the end, when LL is telling the ladies not to worry about bulking up too much. "Believe me, ladies, I want to be the hardest thing in the bed."
You've got to love a man who can slip a line like that into an exercise book.
And in Debut a Debut news...
Karen has featured one of our debut authors (and prize contributors). Make sure you stop in if you like historical fiction.
Looking to start a new series? Try Heather Hayashi's To Save the World. I don't know much about Hayashi (yet), but it seems that her series is directed at gamers. The Tour Manager will be pleased.
Best line in the book? Near the end, when LL is telling the ladies not to worry about bulking up too much. "Believe me, ladies, I want to be the hardest thing in the bed."
You've got to love a man who can slip a line like that into an exercise book.
And in Debut a Debut news...
Karen has featured one of our debut authors (and prize contributors). Make sure you stop in if you like historical fiction.
Looking to start a new series? Try Heather Hayashi's To Save the World. I don't know much about Hayashi (yet), but it seems that her series is directed at gamers. The Tour Manager will be pleased.
Labels: book reviews, contest, Debut a Debut, Front Street Reviews, LL Cool J
Friday, December 15, 2006
Susan's Book Talk: Who Knew Punk was so Hot?
Another book about punk rock has entered my radar: Babylon's Burning: From Punk to Grunge, by Clinton Heylin.
Best known as a biographer of Bob Dylan, Heylin's apparently written other books about punk: From the Velvets to the Voidoids, and All Yesterday's Parties: The Velvet Underground in Print, among other books about music.
Well. If you don't remember what happened the LAST time I blogged about a book about punk, let me refresh your memory.
One book hardly makes me an expert on the genre of books about punk, but I'm sure game to turn myself into one. Therefore, I'd like to hand down this challenge:
If Barb at Front Street Reviews is willing, and if someone in Mr. Heylin's camp is willing, I'll read Babylon's Burning and review it for all of you. We'll see how this Brit's take on punk compares to Steven Lee Beeber's.
Given that we've got the perspectives of two different countries, each rich in punk tradition, I think this could be an interesting project.
Best known as a biographer of Bob Dylan, Heylin's apparently written other books about punk: From the Velvets to the Voidoids, and All Yesterday's Parties: The Velvet Underground in Print, among other books about music.
Well. If you don't remember what happened the LAST time I blogged about a book about punk, let me refresh your memory.
One book hardly makes me an expert on the genre of books about punk, but I'm sure game to turn myself into one. Therefore, I'd like to hand down this challenge:
If Barb at Front Street Reviews is willing, and if someone in Mr. Heylin's camp is willing, I'll read Babylon's Burning and review it for all of you. We'll see how this Brit's take on punk compares to Steven Lee Beeber's.
Given that we've got the perspectives of two different countries, each rich in punk tradition, I think this could be an interesting project.
Labels: book reviews, books, challenge, Front Street Reviews, publishing, punk rock, rock and roll
