SWEETHEARTS

Author: Sara Zarr

Genre: YA, Standalone

Published: 2oo8

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

Yearly Count: 137

Jennifer and Cameron are both outcasts in elementary school. They develop a friendship and understand each other, until one day Cameron is gone - presumed dead at the age of 9. Jennifer suffers his loss, but eventually is able to create a new life for herself when her family moves to a new town.

I liked this. It was a somewhat quiet book, but it had a huge suspense component. I listened to it in one fell swoop (as I was preparing Thanksgiving dinner) and quickly grew to like the characters. They all were realistic, as was the story line. I believe Zarr captured the essence of many high schoolers - yes, there's drama, but this didn't portray anything over the top. This was the first book I have read by her and anticipate many good reads ahead.

I HADN'T MEANT TO TELL YOU THIS

Author: Jacqueline Woodson

Genre: YA, Standalone

Published: 1995

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 136

Marie and Lena, two 8th grade girls that have little in common, discover that neither of them have a mother in their life.

This story delves into the emotions and results of their commonality. Also, race, abuse and friendship play a big role. I don't think this was a powerful, statement-making book, but I was drawn in right away and kept listening. Woodson's ability to develop sound characters that speak from the heart is demonstrated once again.

WHAT THE DOG SAW

Author: Malcolm Gladwell

Genre: Non-Fiction, Articles

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 135

Product Description:

What is the difference between choking and panicking? Why are there dozens of varieties of mustard-but only one variety of ketchup? What do football players teach us about how to hire teachers? What does hair dye tell us about the history of the 20th century?

In the past decade, Malcolm Gladwell has written three books that have radically changed how we understand our world and ourselves: The Tipping Point; Blink; and Outliers. Now, in What the Dog Saw, he brings together, for the first time, the best of his writing from TheNew Yorker over the same period.

Here is the bittersweet tale of the inventor of the birth control pill, and the dazzling inventions of the pasta sauce pioneer Howard Moscowitz. Gladwell sits with Ron Popeil, the king of the American kitchen, as he sells rotisserie ovens, and divines the secrets of Cesar Millan, the "dog whisperer" who can calm savage animals with the touch of his hand. He explores intelligence tests and ethnic profiling and "hindsight bias" and why it was that everyone in Silicon Valley once tripped over themselves to hire the same college graduate.

"Good writing," Gladwell says in his preface, "does not succeed or fail on the strength of its ability to persuade. It succeeds or fails on the strength of its ability to engage you, to make you think, to give you a glimpse into someone else's head."What the Dog Saw is yet another example of the buoyant spirit and unflagging curiosity that have made Malcolm Gladwell our most brilliant investigator of the hidden extraordinary.

This is my third book by Malcolm Gladwell, so I'm very familiar with his style and for the most part - I enjoy it. However, in this book of articles, I found that it was hit or miss. Some articles droned on about something I wasn't that interested in and others had me listening intently. Overall, it was good, but nothing special.

I HATE TO SEE THAT EVENING SUN GO DOWN

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good )

(ss) Yearly Count: 134

There wasn't much diversity in the emotion department in this collection. All the stories were filled with sad, depressing or gloomy feelings. While most of the stories were engaging, I did become tired of experiencing dreariness. And, the lack of quotation marks was not helpful either. However, overall I enjoyed the writing, especially the fact that Gay was able to draw me into his stories even when I knew they were not going to turn out well. The average rating of all 13 stories correlates with my general feelings by the end of the book.

The following are the individual titles and links to my thoughts:

1. I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down

2. A Death in the Woods

3. Bonedaddy, Quincy Nell and the 15,000 BTU Electric Chair

4. The Paperhanger

5. The Man Who Knew Dylan

6. Those Deep Elm Brown's Ferry Blues

7. Crossroads Blues

8. Closure and Roadkill on Life's Highway

9. Sugarbaby

10. Standing By Peaceful Waters

11. Good 'Til Now

12. The Lightpainter

13. My Hand is Just Fine Where It Is

MY HAND IS JUST FINE WHERE IT IS (13 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good )

(ss) Yearly Count: 60

Another affair. Another tragedy.

A new emotion arises in this story of infidelity, but that's about it. As most of the stories in this collection - a good read, but nothing earth shattering.

THE LIGHTPAINTER (12 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good )

(ss) Yearly Count: 59

Parents allow their daughter's friend to live with them in order to keep her from an unstable home.

I appreciated the effort and emotions of the main character. He was interesting to watch develop. The story kept my attention throughout.

GOOD 'TIL NOW (11 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good )

(ss) Yearly Count: 58

A couple have an affair and somebody gets hurt.

This one was interesting in its details of the couple, but other than that - it was just a typical story about an affair.

A FOUNTAIN FILLED WITH BLOOD

Author: Julia Spencer-Fleming

Genre: Mystery, Series #2

Published: 2003

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 133

Police chief Russ Van Alstyne and Rev. Clair Fergusson both reside and work in Millers Kill, New York. The small town is questioning whether a piece of land is pollutants-free for building, and there are several men attacked - one resulting in a death. The two become partners of sorts, because Rev. Fergusson is the one to discover the dead body.

I'm still not so sure about this series. In the first book, I liked the plot and did not care for the main character's relationship all that much. In this book, I didn't care for the plot and still didn't care for the relationship between the two; however, it did feel a bit more realistic. I don't think I will be in a hurry to get to #3. I'm not avoiding it, but there's not much draw for me either.

STANDING BY PEACEFUL WATERS (10 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.25/5 (better than just okay)

(ss) Yearly Count: 57

The house, in which he and his family lives, was built by his grandfather's own two hands. This house of generations is now being taken over by the government.

A good story in theory, but I wasn't too keen on the man or the ending.

SUGARBABY (9 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 56

A husband makes an extremely, rash decision (not infidelity) and suffers the consequences.

Yes, another down-trodden story - and one that is written well, but what is the point of drab, dreary and depressing tales? Admittedly, Gay's style brings you into the fold of the character's lives with a gentleness. You are on a slippery slope, but you are led there one step at a time. However, couldn't he use that talent to write about the opposite end of the emotional spectrum. Maybe he has; I'm just stuck with this collection of stories. They are good, and for the most part he doesn't clobber you over the head with dread, but again - where's the pleasure in reading dismal stories? Isn't it ironic that his name is Gay (the happy definition)?

CLOSURE AND ROADKILL ON LIFE'S HIGHWAY (8 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 55

A husband is wallowing in sadness and needs to find closure after his wife has left him after only a few years of marriage.

This was a good story. The side character added some interesting drama that has left a little wonder in me. I found the ending to be satisfying, but it brought no surprises. Overall, I enjoyed it - nothing extremely compelling, but a good read.

UGLIES

Author: Scott Westerfeld

Genre: YA Science Fiction, Series #1

Published: 2005

Personal Rating: 4.25/5 (better than very good)

Yearly Count: 132

In Uglyville, at the age of 16, you gleefully and thankfully receive an operation to become pretty, then you can live in Pretty Town. With her operation only weeks away, Tally befriends Shay (whose operation is also around the corner), and she sheds a new light on the much awaited change.

I love suspense. Especially when I don't want to put the book down. This one was like that for me. It is another science fiction novel that has realistic elements that holds it together, which helps me accept it. As for the plot - it never stopped and even surprised me a time or two. And, interestingly enough, I even joined in on a few rides - too fun!

I teetered between a 4 and 4.25/5 because while I thought it was very good, I thought the YA showed through with its simplistic language. Unfortunately (for me), I don't like to feel like I'm reading a YA book when in fact it is. Despite that, keeping up the suspense and intrigue warranted the higher rating.

Give-Away Winners!

Oops! I thought I was supposed to post the winners on November 11th. Sorry to those that were looking on the 10th!

WHAT THE DOG SAW WINNERS:

Raidergirl3

Bermudaonion

Booklogged

CONGRATULATIONS!

Give-Aways (Sticky Post)

WHAT THE DOG SAW

Maxwell Gladwell

(audiobook)

You can find out more information about this give-away HERE.

Give-Away Ends: November 10

CROSSROADS BLUES (7 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 2.5/5 (eh)

(ss) Yearly Count: 54

A wife leaves her husband, but he remains in love with her. The story is told from the husband's perspective.

I felt that this story was a little awkward. There were some odd character names and shifting scenes, and I was confused a time or two. Also, the way in which the husband expressed his emotions didn't seem authentic to me. BUT, I'm not a husband and didn't have my wife leave me. (???)

I'm mid-way through this book, and I am now officially annoyed that these stories do not have quotation marks!

THOSE DEEP ELM BROWN'S FERRY BLUES (6 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 53

An older man who is losing the ability to think clearly is living with his son. The son's concerns are steadily increasing.

This was a sad one (a sad one? really?!), both the father and the son are enduring difficult circumstances and wonder about their future. There were some very important descriptive scenes that I thought were well done. They really gave a clear sense of the confusion the father was experiencing. The ending was a troubling surprise.

GOSSAMER

Author: Lois Lowry

Genre: Children's Sci-Fi, Standalone

Published: 2006

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 131

Littlest One is in training as a dream-giver, and she gets the privilege of bestowing dreams upon a foster child.

I thought this was a very cute book. All the characters were enjoyable, and the story line kept me engaged the whole way through. One thing that I consistently like about Lois Lowry's writing is that she doesn't make fantasy seem silly. The Gossamer characters did not come across as caricatures at all. Also, I loved the wide range of emotions and topics that were explored, and most of all the fantasy of dream-givers.

OCTOBER READS

115. Sweeping Up Glass (Wall)

116. If I Stay (Forman)

117. A Circle of Souls (Grandhi)

* Red Dog (Page)

* A Clerk's Life (Parker)

* Time Will Tell (Phelan)

118. Undiscovered Gyrl (Burnett)

119. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (Bauby)

* Night Court (Rozan)

* Hard Blows (Swingle)

120. Prayers for Sale (Dallas)

* Custom Sets (Wallace)

* Bang (Zeman)

* Going Under (Fairstein)

121. The Prosecution Rests (Edited by Fairstein)

* An Ex-Mas Feast (Akpan)

* I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down (Gay)

122. The Lovely Bones (Sebold)

123. Sorrow's Anthem (Koryta)

* A Death in the Woods (Gay)

124. The Watchman (Crais)

125. Same Kind of Different As Me (Hall & Moore)

* Bonedaddy, Quincy Nell and the 15,000 BTU Electric Chair (Gay)

* The Paperhanger (Gay)

126. Slam (Hornby)

127. Such a Pretty Girl (Wiess)

128. Monster (Myers)

129. Shadow Prey (Sandford)

* The Man Who Knew Dylan (Gay)

130. Body Bags (Golden)

* Short Story (not counted)

BOLD titles made my Best Reads List

Clicking on a title will link you to "Thoughts of Joy...".

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Monthly - Yearly Genre Stats:

Chick-Lit: 0 - 5

Classic: 0 - 1

Fiction: 3 - 31

Memoir: 2 - 7

Mystery: 3 - 20

Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

Non-Fiction Graphic Novel: 0 - 1

Short Story Collection: 1 - 4

Thriller: 2 - 23

True Crime: 0 - 2

YA Classic: 0 - 1

YA Fiction: 5 - 18

YA Graphic Novel: 0 - 4

YA Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

YA Science Fiction: 0 - 6

Children's Historical Fiction: 0 - 1

Children's Thriller: 0 - 1

Children's Sci-Fi/Fantasy: 0 - 3

Short Stories: 14 - 52

Audiobooks: 9 - 75

Books: 7 - 55

Total: 16 - 130

Best Reads: 0 - 16

Series: 3 - 48

DNF: 2 - 6

BODY BAGS

Author: Christopher Golden

Genre: YA Medical Thriller, Series #1

Published: 1999

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 130

Jenna Blake's first days as a freshman in college include some unexpected events. As she begins to get acclimated to college life, she decides to apply for a job with a medical examiner to determine if it would be a good career choice.

I loved reliving the first days of college with Jenna, and I'm glad I didn't personally experience a professor dropping over dead in class! Most of the characters Jenna encounters were realistic, but the plot - not so much. However, once Jenna applies for the job, the action begins and doesn't let up. It's a good, fast read.

THE MAN WHO KNEW DYLAN (5 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3/5 (just okay)

(ss) Yearly Count: 52

A television salesman with a lost dream seems to just go wherever the wind blows.

That's a very poor description and probably not as accurate as it could be, but that's all I got. I'm used to Gay's dreary tone now, and my mind's eye gets filled with pictures from his words; however, with this one - I didn't get invested, so it left me with a just okay feeling. The ending was interesting, but still - just okay.

SHADOW PREY

Author: John Sandford

Genre: Mystery, Series #2

Published: 1990

Personal Rating: 3.25/5 (better than just okay)

Yearly Count: 129

A group of Native Americans are killing officials across the country that have demonstrated prejudice against them. Police lieutenant, Lucas Davenport is on the case, along with a policewoman from New York.

I wasn't too impressed with this story line, so it didn't hold my attention very well. And, then there's Lucas. This is what he says about his philandering ways, "I can't stop it." How unbelievably absurd! This book did nothing to change my initial thoughts about him. Hopefully the third book in this series, Eyes of Prey, will have a better story line, because I don't think Lucas alone is going to keep me coming back for more.

MONSTER

Author: Walter Dean Myers

Genre: YA Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2001

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 128

Sixteen-year-old Steve Harmon is accused of murder that took place during a botched up robbery. As an aspiring filmmaker, he reveals his court case through a movie script format.

I liked the format of the story and the trial itself, but I would have liked it to contain a little more depth and length. It was a very short and simple book. It leaves you with things to ponder, though.

Give-Away Winners!

AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE WINNERS:

Diane

Bonnie

Stacybuckeye

Julie P.

Bookfool

CONGRATULATIONS!

Please Note: I already have e-mail addresses for all of you, so you

DO NOT have to comment here. :)

SUCH A PRETTY GIRL

Author: Laura Wiess

Genre: YA Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2006

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 127

Meredith, a 15-year-old, is petrified when she learns that her father is being released from prison for child abuse, and at the same time, her mother is thrilled.

This story had me intrigued right from the start until the very end with its predator and prey scenario. It was told in very realistic terms, yet not with all the nitty-gritty details. For the most part, the characters were believable, as well as most of the plot. My one complaint is that there were a few times when I wasn't sure what time period Meredith was describing - now or back when she was a young child - little confusing. Other than that, it was a solid, good read. I will be seeking out more novels by Laura Wiess.

SLAM

Author: Nick Hornby

Genre: YA Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2007

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 126

Sam is a typical, teenage boy that discovers how great his life was - after he gets slammed by reality.

My first Hornby book turned out to be a good experience. I liked the main character, Sam, and was entertained by the humor. Sam had some interesting quirks and was forthright with the reader which made him endearing. The plot was true to life, but eventually I became mildly bored with it. The one thing I didn't care for was being "whizzed into the future" of Sam's life. It isn't a technique that I like, but it worked okay for this book.

I have several more Hornby books ready for listening and look forward to see what else he has to offer.

Give-Away: WHAT THE DOG SAW

WOO! I'm so excited about this give-away, because I can't wait to listen to it myself! I love Gladwell's work. There are 3 Audiobooks available, courtesy of Anna from Hachette Audio.

What the Dog Saw

and other adventures

Malcolm Gladwell

Product Description:

What is the difference between choking and panicking? Why are there dozens of varieties of mustard-but only one variety of ketchup? What do football players teach us about how to hire teachers? What does hair dye tell us about the history of the 20th century?

In the past decade, Malcolm Gladwell has written three books that have radically changed how we understand our world and ourselves: The Tipping Point; Blink; and Outliers. Now, in What the Dog Saw, he brings together, for the first time, the best of his writing from TheNew Yorker over the same period.

Here is the bittersweet tale of the inventor of the birth control pill, and the dazzling inventions of the pasta sauce pioneer Howard Moscowitz. Gladwell sits with Ron Popeil, the king of the American kitchen, as he sells rotisserie ovens, and divines the secrets of Cesar Millan, the "dog whisperer" who can calm savage animals with the touch of his hand. He explores intelligence tests and ethnic profiling and "hindsight bias" and why it was that everyone in Silicon Valley once tripped over themselves to hire the same college graduate.

"Good writing," Gladwell says in his preface, "does not succeed or fail on the strength of its ability to persuade. It succeeds or fails on the strength of its ability to engage you, to make you think, to give you a glimpse into someone else's head."What the Dog Saw is yet another example of the buoyant spirit and unflagging curiosity that have made Malcolm Gladwell our most brilliant investigator of the hidden extraordinary.

TO ENTER THIS GIVE-AWAY:

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post!

(And, make sure you come back to see if you have won.)

OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:

~ Winners will be drawn and posted on Tuesday, November 10 , 2009.

~ Winners are responsible to contact me on the post where the winners are announced, if a winner has not responded by Thursday, November 12, 2009 - another name will be drawn on Friday, November 13, 2009. So, please come back to see if you won! :)

~ The give-away is open to people with mailing addresses from the USA and Canada. (No PO Boxes)

HAPPY ENTERING!

THE PAPERHANGER (4 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 51

A doctor's wife is having a new house built and decorated, until tragedy strikes.

This is another good story, but again it has a dark overtone. Gay's writing really draws me in - no question. I'd like to see what he can do with a happy plot.

Bonedaddy, Quincy Nell and the 15,000 BTU Electric Chair (3 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 50

A young girl catches the eye of a womanizing, older man.

The description above pretty much tells it all. There are no revelations or anything profound, but a good story nonetheless.

SAME KIND OF DIFFERENT AS ME

Author: Ron Hall & Denver Moore

Genre: Memoir, Standalone

Published: 2006

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 125

An alternate title: International Art Dealer Meets Homeless Man

Funny how life works. When I was in the middle of this book, I happened to post a comment on a friend's blog explaining why I didn't watch the posted video. I shared that I was not in the mood for "being moved to tears," which is the behavior it was likely to provoke. Little did I know - it was coming around the corner whether I wanted it or not.

Both Ron and Denver share their thoughts with raw honesty in alternating chapters. Most are short and move their story along quickly, but not without emotion. I found it to be a serious and interesting book. It is one that can bring about change in one's life, plant a seed, or at the very least - shed more light on the homeless. There are two topics that may be a stumbling block for some: Christianity and Cancer. Both are prevalent in the book and both - yes, moved me to tears. However, as much as they made a statement, I was enthralled with the homeless man's life prior to being homeless. Slavery has always been a topic that I have been drawn to.

Ultimately, I am very glad I read it, but I am still a bit miffed that I had to endure weeping.

PEONY IN LOVE

Author: Lisa See

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2007

Personal Rating: DNF #6

I love Lisa See's work, so I'm a bit saddened that this one didn't appeal to me at the moment. I listened for over an hour, and it wasn't engaging me. So - with a big lesson learned close behind, I decided to set it aside. Hopefully I have better results when I try again in the future.

THE WATCHMAN

Author: Robert Crais

Genre: Mystery, Series #1

Published: 2007

Personal Rating: 3/5 (just okay)

Yearly Count: 124

Their roles have been reversed. Instead of being the sidekick of Elvis Cole, Joe Pike is the lead in this book. Pike has a debt to pay, so as payment he accepts the job as bodyguard of a young heiress who finds her life in jeopardy after a traffic accident.

What I liked best was learning more about Pike's past and the appearances of Elvis Cole, but other than that, I wasn't too impressed. The plot seemed drawn out, and I didn't develop any connection to the characters.

A DEATH IN THE WOODS (2 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 49

A man is found dead in the woods on the property of a married couple.

Well, this makes 2 for 2 stories that are in the gloomy range of emotions. Despite that, I really like Gay's writing style. It's very descriptive and thought-provoking. The gloom isn't all that fun, but the stories are interesting anyway.

SORROW'S ANTHEM

Author: Michael Koryta

Genre: Mystery, Series #2

Published: 2006

Personal Rating: 3/5 (just okay)

Yearly Count: 123

Private Investigator, Lincoln Perry discovers that his estranged, childhood friend is in trouble, and he is determined to help him. Lincoln enlists the help from his partner, Joe Pritchard, a retired cop, to investigate the suspicion of arson and murder.

I read the first in this series, Tonight I Said Goodbye, over three years ago and liked it more than this one. I was encouraged by Lincoln and Joe's relationship and looked forward to seeing them again. However, in this book, I didn't feel the connection or observe any banter between the two. The plot focused more on Lincoln's past friendships, but that shouldn't have prohibited the partners' relationship. Unfortunately, it was bland and disappointed me.

As for the plot, it was pretty good. It had a lot of twists and turns, but at times I was bored. I do like that I learned more about Lincoln and hope that the third book can provide a bit more oomph and visible bond between him and Joe. However, the ending to this book may have provided that missing ingredient. I really hope so. The title, Sorrow's Anthem, was the perfect choice.

THE LOVELY BONES

Author: Alice Sebold

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2002

Personal Rating: 2/5 (not enjoyable)

Yearly Count: 122

Fourteen-year-old Susie is brutally murdered on her way home from school. She tells the story of how her family and friends deal with her death from her heaven.

I started this book years ago and put it aside because I just wasn't in the mood for it at the time. Due to the movie coming out, I thought this would be the perfect time to pick it back up.

I think at the time it was written Susie may have had an interesting and unique perspective, but now it didn't seem like anything special to me. I actually found it to be a bit boring and lacking tension. The characters (and the story line) were unrealistic and frankly, a bit ridiculous. I do think that some of the emotions of some of the characters throughout the years were genuine, but there was just too much hokey stuff with Susie in heaven that I didn't care or connect with much of anything.

Give-Away: AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE

I have the pleasure of giving away

5 paperback copies

of Against Medical Advice (Patterson & Friedman),

courtesy of the Miriam from Hachette Book Group!

Thank you, Miriam!

Patterson's First Non-Fiction Book:

Against Medical Advice

Patterson & Friedman

My Thoughts

From the cover:

One morning when he was almost five years old, Cory Friedman woke up with the uncontrollable urge to shake his head. From that day forward his life became an agony of irrepressible tics and involuntary utterances. Cory embarked on a thirteen-year odyssey of medication upon medication, treatment upon treatment-a constantly changing regimen that left him and his family feeling like guinea pigs in an out-of-control experiment. It soon became unclear which tics were symptoms of his condition and which were side effects of the countless combinations of drugs. The only certainty was that it kept getting worse. Simply put: Cory Friedman's life was a living hell.

Subjected to debilitating treatments and continuous ridicule, Cory became devastatingly aware of how he appeared to others. With the love of his family and the support of a few steadfast teachers and medical professionals, he fought for his very life, and you will cheer his amazing successes.

Against Medical Advice is the true story of Cory's battle for survival in the face of extraordinary difficulties and a sometimes maddening medical establishment. Written by James Patterson and Cory's father, Hal, with the relentless pace of a Patterson thriller, this is a heartrending story of one family's courage, determination, and ultimate triumph.

TO ENTER THIS GIVE-AWAY:

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post!

(And, make sure you come back to see if you have won.)

OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:

~ Winners will be drawn and posted on Tuesday, October 27 , 2009.

~ Winners are responsible to contact me on the post where the winners are announced, if a winner has not responded by Thursday, October 29, 2009 - another name will be drawn on Friday, October 30, 2009. So, please come back to see if you won! :)

~ The give-away is open to people with mailing addresses from the USA and Canada. (No PO Boxes)

HAPPY ENTERING!

THE LAST EMBER ~ Mr. Joy's Thoughts

Author: Daniel Levin

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Mr. Joy's Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Guest Appearances: 2

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the ARC cover:

A secret that reaches back millennia. A desperate search for a legendary relic. A fanatic's quest to erase the past.

When fragments of a stone map of ancient Rome mysteriously resurface, Jonathan Marcus, a young lawyer and a former classics scholar, reluctantly reunites with a former friend from his students days at the American Academy in Rome to search for clues to the location of the fabled Tabernacle Menorah, a priceless historical artifact taken from Jerusalem 2,000 years ago. but as they search, so, too, does the mysterious Salah ad-Din, a radical bent on erasing all remnants of Jewish and Christian presence from the Temple Mount.

What follows is a treasure hunt like no other, a race to control a historical perspective and determine who can define - or redefine - the past. By turns a riveting page-turner and a compelling character study set in the high-stakes worlds of art, politics, and terrorism. The last Ember is a gripping literary thriller that explores the deadly world of illicit antiquity excavation and ancient intrigue.

Once I got past all the Italian names and locations, this turned out to be a fun book. There was a lot of action and intrigue along with a splash of romance. The plot to erase history was an interesting idea and with all the mysterious societies and historic references, it had a Da Vinci Code feel to it. This is an author with a promising future, and I look forward to his next book.

Thanks go to Riverhead Books for providing this ARC. The Last Ember was released on August 6, 2009.

I HATE TO SEE THAT EVENING SUN GO DOWN (1 of 13)

Author: William Gay

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down, 2002

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 48

An old man walks out of his current residence - a nursing home, to return to his own family home, only to discover that another family is living in it.

I was eager and concerned to find out how this one was going to pan out. The writing put me right there, so I had a front row seat; however, it had a negative undertone that made me uneasy. I hope all the stories in this collection are not like that.

AN EX-MAS FEAST (1 of 7)

Author: Uwem Akpan

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: Say You're One of Them, 2008

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 47

The eldest daughter of a poor, homeless African family is relied upon to provide for the family. She is only 12-years-old. Her younger brother is the narrator.

This story depicts deplorable conditions that alone make one cringe, then there's the manner in which they survive that breaks one's heart. I hate it that it probably bares more truth than we would like to admit. The flow of the story was interrupted due to the language (foreign words here and there), and they caused me to lose the emotion. I still thought it was good, though - nothing special, but good.

THE PROSECUTION RESTS

Author: 22 individuals - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 121

I decided to read this collection in-between other books, so it has taken almost 3 months to get through. However, I looked forward to getting back to it every time. I was really surprised at the diversity of stories and for the most part I enjoyed them. There was one that I did not finish and one that received an "excellent" rating, but like all my ratings, they are purely subjective and could very well have had different outcomes if I read them at different times. The overall rating average came to 3.5/5 (good), but as a whole, I enjoyed them more than that, hence, my 4/5 (very good) final rating.

The following are the individual titles and links to my thoughts:

1. The Secret Session (Hoch)

2. Designer Justice (Cohen)

3. Follow Up (Dereske)

4. By Hook or By Crook (Drees)

5. The Letter (Dunbaugh)

6. Spectral Evidence (Gallison)

7. Knife Fight (Goldman)

8. Death, Cheated (Grippando)

9. My Brother's Keeper (Hale)

10. The Flashlight Game (Hansen-Young)

11. Mom is My Co-Counsel (Levine)

12. Quality of Mercy (Lundin)

13. The Mother (Martinez)

14. Red Dog (Page)

15. A Clerk's Life (Parker)

16. Time Will Tell (Phelan)

17. The Evil We Do (Putre)

18. Night Court (Rozan)

19. Hard Blows (Swingle)

20. Custom Sets (Wallace)

21. Bang (Zeman)

22. Going Under (Fairstein)

Thank you Miriam, from Hachette Book Group, for sending me a copy of the book.

GOING UNDER (22 of 22)

Author: Linda Fairstein - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 46

A female police officer vows to herself that she would do anything to earn the shield of Detective.

One must be fully cognizant of what one vows! I could feel the anxiety the situation created - even more so when I envisioned myself in her position.

BANG (21 of 22)

Author: Angela Zeman - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 2.75/5 (better than eh)

(ss) Yearly Count: 45

A woman is determined to find the murderer of her friend that was poisoned by radiation.

I wasn't drawn into this story mainly due to the topic. It just didn't interest me. There were some scenes that kept my attention, but for the most part I just wasn't into it.

CUSTOM SETS (20 of 22)

Author: Joseph Wallace - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4.25/5 (better than very good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 44

A young girl is forced to participate in illicit behavior and eventually seeks revenge.

This was a tough one to read. I was repulsed and held my breath at various times. It wasn't that it was extremely explicit, but what it implied was horrifically pathetic. Wallace apparently has a way with words being that he drew me in and created such emotion in such a short period of time.

PRAYERS FOR SALE

Author: Sandra Dallas

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 120

Hennie Comfort and Nit Spindle find themselves in the mining town of Middle Swan, Colorado during the depression. Hennie, who is an older woman and has lived in Middle Swan for decades, befriends newcomer Nit as she settles in with her husband in a home nearby. As the two become acquainted Hennie shares her knowledge of the town and eventually her life stories.

Hennie tells numerous stories - each being unique and interesting. They focused on her family, the townspeople, and general experiences throughout her lifetime which included some twists and turns. She was a nice and proper character of that time period. The charm of the book was in the present day (in the book) as we watch the friendship grow between Hennie and Nit. Quilting and mining played an important role as well.

Even with the stories being interesting, I got tired of, "Would you like to hear a story?" Other than that, no major complaints - it was good. Sandra Dallas does a great job depicting the timeframe in her stories.

HARD BLOWS (19 of 22)

Author: Morley Swingle - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 43

Jack Hogan is practicing his closing argument while he waits in the bleachers for his daughter to finish her gymnastics class. He is interrupted by an unfamiliar face that says he knows him from 14 years ago.

This was a very realistic scenario - one that I could visualize easily. As the story began to unfold, I knew some of what was to come, but not all. So, there was a little surprise involved. And, I liked Jack.

NIGHT COURT (18 of 22)

Author: S. J. Rozan - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 42

Since Murph has handled night court, the crime has gone down; therefore, the townspeople are experiencing peace and quiet.

This was one of the shorter stories in the collection, but it was well done. I really liked that I was surprised. Actually, I love when that happens!

THE EVIL WE DO (17 of 22)

Author: John Walter Putre - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: DNF #5

The story line did not appeal to me.

THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY

Author: Jean-Dominique Bauby

Genre: Memoir, Standalone

Published: 1997

Personal Rating: 2.75/5 (better than eh)

Yearly Count: 119

Note: Sharing my thoughts about this book is very difficult; however, I'm going to stay true to myself and post my thoughts honestly like I have done with every other book I have read. People may think of me as cold or insensitive, but that couldn't be further from the truth.

Jean-Dominique Bauby, the editor of Elle Magazine, suffered a massive stroke at the age of 43. The stroke left Jean-Dominique paralyzed - except for his left eyelid. That single eyelid provided him the only option for communicating with the outside world.

My heart goes out to Jean-Dominique (JD) and to all those that suffer with "locked-in syndrome." How devastating and frustrating it would be to be trapped in one's own body. I applaud, respect and admire JD for accomplishing such an incredible task - the dictation of a book, letter by letter, with only one eyelid. It's remarkable to say the least. However, I am not rating JD as a man, I am rating my experience reading the book. On the surface, his tenacity is something to aspire to, but the story lacks any deep emotion or passion. There's a tender moment or two, but for the most part he holds himself in check, avoiding any self-pity, but I think in that process he left out his heart.

It's my understanding that the movie is fantastic and one worth seeing many times over. So, I'm going to make a conscience attempt to get the movie and I'm hoping to see what I missed in the book.

UNDISCOVERED GYRL

Author: Allison Burnett

Genre: YA Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 118

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the ARC Cover:

Only on the internet can you have so many friends and be so lonely.

* We're all famous in our own minds.

* Complete honesty is a complete lie.

* What's worse than keeping a shameful secret?

* All s*x has consequences, most of them dire.

* Don't read my life. Go live your own!

I'm not exactly sure what I really liked about this book. It could be the realism portrayed in Katie, the gossipy nature, the connection with blogging, the draw into Katie's emotional roller-coaster, the epistolary format (blogging dates), the secondary characters, the humor, the risky behavior, the fact that I learned to like Katie, etc. In truth, I think it's a little bit of everything.

What I didn't like was the s*x scenes. I don't believe that all the details needed to be spelled out. However, after a while I felt like I knew Katie, so her behavior became expected and accepted . . . because that was Katie, and she was the one telling the story. (I remembered that it was a book after all, so it was okay to accept it from a fictional character.) Anyway, I was always looking for the good in her and hoping for the best for her.

This was quite a book. I am left with many emotions (just finished it) and sadly think that it's probably a very scary truth.

Thank you, Vintage Books for sending me this ARC.

TIME WILL TELL (16 of 22)

Author: Twist Phelan - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 2.5/5 (eh)

(ss) Yearly Count: 41

A male accountant and a female prosecutor have a surface relationship, as well as a deep-rooted one.

Nope - didn't like this one. Nothing wrong with the writing, just didn't care for the story.

A CLERK'S LIFE (15 of 22)

Author: Barbara Parker - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4.25/5 (better than very good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 40

A law school student is clerking for a firm while he is taking care of his ill mother. He happens to see some crimes and has a difficult time in deciding how to handle his knowledge.

I really liked this short story, but was left feeling confused. I prefer tidy endings, and this was far from it. However, I'm still rating it high because it gripped me.

RED DOG (14 of 22)

Author: Anita Page - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4.5/5 (excellent)

(ss) Yearly Count: 39

A mother and daughter are once again being abused by the drunk husband; however, this time it goes a little too far.

What an excellent weave of words. The writing put me in every room, and I felt every emotion. It certainly kept me glued to the pages. This story was very much a thriller - and I wish there was more to read.

A CIRCLE OF SOULS

Author: Preetham Grandhi

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 117

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this book, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the ARC cover:

The sleepy town of Newbury, Connecticut, is shocked when a little girl is found brutally murdered. The town's top detective, perplexed by a complete lack of leads, calls in FBI agent Leia Bines, an expert in cases involving children.

Meanwhile, Dr. Peter Gram, a psychiatrist at Newbury's hospital, searches desperately for the cause of seven-year-old Naya Hastings's devastating nightmares. Afraid that she might hurt herself in the midst of a torturous episode, Naya's parents have turned to the bright young doctor as their only hope.

The situations confronting Leia and Peter converge when Naya begins drawing chilling images of murder after being bombarded by the disturbing images in her dreams. Amazingly, her sketches are the only clues to the crime that panicked Newbury residents. Against her better judgment, Leia explores the clues in Naya's crude drawings, only to set off an alarming chain of events.

In this stunning psychological thriller, innocence gives way to evil, and trust lies forgotten in a web of deceit, fear and murder.

Even though I technically have been reading this book for almost a week, I actually read it in a very few sittings. It was definitely a fast-paced and intriguing read, especially with the assistance of short chapter.

I liked the cast of characters and felt like they were genuine people; however, my greatest and most disliked part of the book revolved around the paranormal aspect in the plot. Unfortunately, it was an integral element, but not overpowering, so I still enjoyed the book as a whole.

The thriller portion of the book had a few gruesome moments, but on the profanity-front, there wasn't any. I'm curious as to the author's reasoning behind that choice. Not that I wanted profanity, but its absence was undeniable and definitely purposeful. On occasion I thought there was too many adjectives - telling instead of showing, but overall it was a very good debut novel. I look forward to more by Grandhi, especially if it's focus is psychological.

Thank you, Preetham Grandhi, for sending me A Circle of Souls. It was my pleasure to read it, and I appreciated the personal touch.

IF I STAY

Author: Gayle Forman

Genre: YA Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 116

When Mia, a senior in high school, is in a car accident with her family, she goes through the thought process of whether or not she wants to fight to live.

Mia, along with her friends and family, are good characters and the story line is a sentimental one. Even though I wasn't deeply affected by her story, it did have some tender moments that I appreciated. For the most part, it is told in flashbacks and has an overall bittersweet flavor.

AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE - QUOTED

Against Medical Advice

James Patterson & Hal Friedman

NOW IN PAPERBACK

. . . and a quote from my thoughts on Against Medical Advice is inside!

(third quote down)

Thanks Bermudaonion (also quoted) for pointing it out to me.

SWEEPING UP GLASS

Author: Carolyn Wall

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.25/5 (better than just okay)

Yearly Count: 115

Olivia, as caretaker of her mother and grandson, lives in rural Kentucky during the depression era. The story is told using flashback scenes to develop the background of the family. As they make the best of their life, Olivia discovers that somebody is killing the wolves in the area. Soon, she also discovers a deep, darker mystery within her community.

I wasn't pulled into the story like I had hoped I would be. The plot and characters didn't seem truly authentic; therefore, I wasn't captivated, but I wasn't bored either. There were occasions when I found myself more attentive and curious, but overall it was just an okay book for me.

SEPTEMBER READS

104. Clara's War (Kramer)

* My Brother's Keeper (Hale)

105. Deadline (Crutcher)

106. Catching Fire (Collins)

107. Rizzo's War (Manfredo)

108. The Juror (Green)

109. Fade Away (Coben)

110. The Maze Runner (Dashner)

* The Flashlight Game (Hansen-Young)

111. Home Safe (Berg)

112. Abandoned (McFadyen)

113. The Gargoyle (Davidson)

114. The Brutal Telling (Penny)

* Mom is My Co-Counsel (Levine)

* Quality of Mercy (Lundin)

* The Mother (Martinez)

* Short Story (not counted)

BOLD titles made my Best Reads List

Clicking on a title will link you to "Thoughts of Joy...".

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Monthly - Yearly Genre Stats:

Chick-Lit: 0 - 5

Classic: 0 - 1

Fiction: 2 - 28

Memoir: 1 - 5

Mystery: 3 - 17

Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

Non-Fiction Graphic Novel: 0 - 1

Short Story Collection: 0 - 3

Thriller: 2 - 21

True Crime: 0 - 2

YA Classic: 0 - 1

YA Fiction: 1 - 13

YA Graphic Novel: 0 - 4

YA Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

YA Science Fiction: 2 - 6

Children's Historical Fiction: 0 - 1

Children's Thriller: 0 - 1

Children's Sci-Fi/Fantasy: 0 - 3

Short Stories: 5 - 38

Audiobooks: 6 - 66

Books: 5 - 48

Total: 11 - 114

Best Reads: 1 - 16

Series: 6 - 45

DNF: 0 - 4

THE MOTHER (13 of 22)

Author: Michele Martinez - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 38

Prosecutor Melanie Vargas (the main character in Martinez's series) is trying a murder case. On behalf of the state, she is requesting the death penalty.

This is another case when the thoughts traveling through your mind are difficult to juggle. The more I read these stories, the more I sympathize with attorneys. Your heart can tell you one thing, but the law is the law.

QUALITY OF MERCY (12 of 22)

Author: Leigh Lundin - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 37

A prosecutor is trying a case regarding mercy killing.

This one is a devastatingly, thoughtful story. One that you hope you never experience or have to judge.

MOM IS MY CO-COUNSEL (11 of 22)

Author: Paul Levine - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 36

A district attorney is preparing his case for the following morning and his articulate mother sheds some light on the case.

This was very good until the very end. It wasn't a bad conclusion; I just think it was the easy way out.

THE BRUTAL TELLING

Author: Louise Penny

Genre: Mystery, Series #5

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 114

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From Louise Penny's Website:

Chaos is coming, old son.

With those words the peace of Three Pines is shattered. As families prepare to head back to the city and children say goodbye to summer, a stranger is found murdered in the village bistro and antiques store. Once again, Chief Inspector Gamache and his team are called in to strip back layers of lies, exposing both treasures and rancid secrets buried in the wilderness.

No one admits to knowing the murdered man, but as secrets are revealed, chaos begins to close in on the beloved bistro owner, Olivier. How did he make such a spectacular success of his business? What past did he leave behind and why has he buried himself in this tiny village? And why does every lead in the investigation find its way back to him?

As Olivier grows more frantic, a trail of clues and treasures from first editions of Charlotte’s Web and Jane Eyre to a spider web with the word “WOE” woven in it lead the Chief Inspector deep into the woods and across the continent in search of the truth, and finally back to Three Pines as the little village braces for the truth and the final, brutal telling.

This series has such a distinct atmosphere. On the surface it has a low-key feeling, but underneath it has high emotions that run deep. In this 5th book of the series, the story line stays close to home, so we find out a little bit more about the people that reside in the village.

Even though I'm a huge fan of Louise Penny's, I found this plot to have less draw than the others. For me, there just wasn't enough mystery there that compelled me to want to read until dawn. However, the characters still kept me interested. I feel like I know them and was so excited to visit with them again. Gamache had a few subtle comments that made me grin as usual, and I enjoyed hunting for clues along with the team. It was good, but not great.

Thank you Minotaur Books for sending me this ARC.

THE GARGOYLE

Author: Andrew Davidson

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2008

Personal Rating: 1.5/5 (ugh)

Yearly Count: 113

An unnamed man survives a terrible car accident; however, he is left with a body that is burned beyond recognition. During the excruciating pain, and while his thoughts are not revolving around thankfulness, a schizophrenic woman named Marianne Engel appears at his bedside. She claims that they knew each other during medieval times and proceeds to tell him stories of those times.

Oh boy. I didn't follow my gut instinct to discontinue listening to this book and suffered through most of 16 CDs. It would have been so much better to release the book and give it a DNF rating. What was I thinking?! I was thinking that the modern times story was very interesting; well, the burns component was interesting. I didn't care for the occupation of the unnamed narrator, but thought that would pass. Once the medieval stories began I was hoping they would quickly pass, too. They did not - they actually overwhelmed the present day. By the end, I didn't even care much for the present day. Wasted: 19.5 hours of listening time. Lesson: Listen to your gut.

ABANDONED

Author: Cody McFadyen

Genre: Thriller, Series #4

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 112

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post its description. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

Product Description:

He doesn’t kill for thrills, for sex, or even for power.
It’s far more twisted than that….

Cody McFadyen, acclaimed author of The Darker Side, The Face of Death, and Shadow Man, delivers this shocking new thriller that brings to light a psychopath unlike any we’ve ever seen—a killer who thrives in absolute darkness and doesn’t derive pleasure from the kill. And only one woman has the ability to see him coming…even if it’s already too late to stop her own murder.

For FBI Special Agent Smoky Barrett, the wedding of one of their own was cause for celebration. Until a woman staggered down the aisle, incoherent, emaciated, head shaved, and wearing only a white nightgown.

No one knows who she is or where she’s come from—or why she’s chosen to appear in a church filled with law enforcement agents. Then a fingerprint check determines that the woman has been missing for nearly eight years—that once she was someone’s wife, someone’s mother…and a cop. Imprisoning her in a dark cell, depriving her of any contact with the outside world, her enigmatic captor was a man she didn’t know and who seldom spoke, who punished her only when she failed to follow his most basic instructions designed to keep her alive.

Cold, businesslike, seemingly indifferent to his victims, he’s a predator with an M.O. as terrifyingly inscrutable as any Smoky has ever encountered. As she fits together the pieces of what remains of his victim’s fractured life, a chilling picture emerges of a killer every bit as calculating, masterful, and professional as Smoky and the team she leads—a professional psychopath who doesn’t take murder personally and never makes a mistake.

There’s a reason he let one of his victims go free. And by the time Smoky pierces the darkness of his twisted mind, it may cost her more than she can bear to lose to escape. For a trap snapped closed the moment she took this case too much to heart.

I exploded with delight when I realized that the package in my hands contained the latest ARC from one of my favorite authors! I literally jumped up and down and squealed like a little girl. What fun! I even set a book aside, so I could get to it immediately.

In general, it was very good. However . . . I had a huge problem with a portion of the book that caused me to feel offended. Whether warranted or not, I felt that way, and it put a damper on my reading for a short time. While I did get back on track, a distasteful feeling lingered. I understand that it is viewed as a good thing when an author can evoke deep emotions from a reader. They, in essence, have done their job. Unfortunately, the feelings I had converted into dislike. I know very well that Cody's style is very bold and can make my skin crawl, but I never felt this way before. Who knows, maybe I just added another feather to his cap. :)

On a better note, the plot in and of itself was complex and therefore a difficult one to solve. I enjoyed hanging with Smoky and the team as they dug their heels in to make some sense out of their present case. Despite my uncomfortable feelings, I think I would read anything written by this man. Even in the most shocking or scary scenes, he has a way with words that keep me on the edge of my seat or just plain glued to the page. This one was no different, but not a favorite. (It's the first one that didn't make my Best Reads list.) However, that has not kept me from waiting with bated breathe for #5.

My thanks go to Cody and Bantam Dell Publishing Group for sending me the ARC! It will be released on October 27, 2009.

(This was not posted until October 23 at the publisher's request. I put it back in the order in which I read it.)

HOME SAFE

Author: Elizabeth Berg

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3/5 (just okay)

Yearly Count: 111

The death of Dan, Helen's husband, has left her unable to write or cope with general living. As she's trying to get her feet under her, she discovers a shocking detail regarding their joint bank account. Dan had withdrawn a substantial amount several months prior to his death.

This was a gentle, light book. I appreciate it for its calm nature, but I need a little more action and/or friction. There were some moments that produced a grin, nod or a sense of sympathy, but nothing too powerful. All in all, it was a pleasant read.

THE FLASHLIGHT GAME (10 of 22)

Author: Diana Hansen-Young - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 3/5 (just okay)

(ss) Yearly Count: 35

While a father helps his daughter study for the bar exam, he acquires a lot of legal information, then becomes somewhat obsessed with it.

This short story started out interesting and picked up a little bit as it went on, but then it just hit a plateau and didn't go any further. So - just an okay story.

THE MAZE RUNNER

Author: James Dashner

Genre: YA Science Fiction, Trilogy #1

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.25/5 (better than just okay)

Yearly Count: 110

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the ARC cover:

When Thomas wakes up in the life, the only thing he can remember is his first name. He has no recollection of his parents, his home, or how he got where he is. His memory is blank.

But he's not alone. When the life's doors open, Thomas finds himself surrounded by kids who welcome him to the Glade, a large expanse enclosed by stone walls.

Just like Thomas, the Gladers don't know why or how they got to the Glade. All they know is that every morning, for as long as they can remember, the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night, for just as long, they've closed tight. Every thirty days a new boy is delivered in the life. And no one ants to be stuck in the maze after dark.

The Gladers were expecting Thomas's arrival. But the next day, a girl is sent up - the first girl ever to arrive in the Glade. And more surprising yet is the message she delivers. The Gladers have always been convinced that if they can solve the maze that surrounds the Glade, they might find their way home . . . wherever that may be. But it's looking more and more as if the maze is unsolvable.

And something about the girl's arrival is starting to make Thomas feel different. Something is telling his that he just might have some answers - if he can only find a way to retrieve the dark secrets locked within his own mind.

I can see this trilogy going BIG. The thrill that the book creates in its suspense is enticing and one that I think people will thoroughly enjoy. I, however, have reservations about continuing. Unfortunately, both the fact that it's a YA book and that the plot emphasized science fiction significantly affected my pleasure in reading.

By nature, I'm not a fan of science fiction; however, I have been swayed a time or two. And, there were parts that I loved, but others . . . well, let's just say they were prime examples of why I don't like science fiction. Collectively - it fell under the radar for me.

The YA books I have read in the recent past have not made me feel like I was reading YA - this one did. The childish nature of using made-up words put me off the first time one of those words were uttered and continued throughout. I had a difficult time putting those aside and they actually ended up being a huge spoiling point.

The good news - there was a tremendous amount of suspense and intrigue that kept me coming back for more. I absolutely loved ending a chapter with a big event or shocker. My bookmark saved me many times from accidently reading ahead. Props to Dashner for creating such excitement and curiosity in me.

FYI - Technically there isn't any swearing, but the violence steadily increases as the book progresses.

Thank you, Teen Random House for providing me with this ARC. It is scheduled to be released on October 6, 2009.

FADE AWAY

Author: Harlan Coben

Genre: Mystery, Series #3

Published: 1996

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 109

Myron Bolitar is a sports agent that is asked to return to professional basketball - the sport that he was abruptly dismissed from due to a knee injury 10 years earlier. He quickly discovers that the invitation is not for his basketball skills, but to go undercover to locate a player that has disappeared.

I thoroughly enjoy Myron and his sidekick Win. Together their wit brings about smiles or grins, but Myron's personality can stand on its own. His sarcastic comments add flavor to the story and is what I like most about him. However, the plot in this book (#3) has allowed us to get to know Myron on more of a personal level, and I liked that side of him, too.

The series at this point is dated, but the references are fun and entertaining. Coben came out with the 9th book in March, 2009. It should prove to be interesting to move along in time with the books as I try to catch up.

THE JUROR

Author: George Dawes Green

Genre: Thriller, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 2/5 (not enjoyable)

Yearly Count: 108

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and listen to this audiobook, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the audiobook box cover:

Annie Laird is Juror 224, a sculptor struggling to raise a son on her own. Summoned to what looks like a routine tour of civic duty. Annie soon discovers that this is no ordinary trial. It is a mob case whose outcome has been meticulously orchestrated by a cold, calculating mastermind. Known only as The Teacher, he promises Annie that her child will be safe, her career will flourish, and her friends will remain alive - if she says two words: not guilty. But as she is stalked, seduced, and terrorized by this man of insidious power and deadly precision. Annie will be driven to make a shocking decision - one that may cost her everything . . ..

I discovered that this audiobook was an abridged version after accepting the offer; therefore, my thoughts are abridged and unfair to the novel and author.

I was very interested in the beginning and enjoyed the trial. The major conflict in the story was intriguing, as well; however, the abridged narration made a seemingly good plot come off like a group of people who thought they were tough and wanted to play gangsters. In general, I felt like all I got was the outsides of an Oreo - just the cookie with no stuff in the middle to hold the pieces together. All that missing stuff is vital to making the read/listen a full experience. That's why it was written in the first place. Needless to say, it was disappointing and has reassured me in my decision to not listen to abridged audiobooks. No fault of the author - I don't think I would be pleased if someone chopped up my writing.

Thank you, Anna, from Hachette Audio for providing me with this audiobook.

RIZZO'S WAR

Author: Lou Manfredo

Genre: Police Procedural, Series #1

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 107

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the ARC cover:

On the force, there's the good, the bad, and Rizzo . . .

He makes his own rules but plays the game carefully, and just when you think you've figured him out, think again. Veteran NYPD cop Joe Rizzo's not a good cop, he's a great cop, and after a year of riding together as detectives in the 62nd Precinct in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, his younger counterpart Mike McQueen knows it. They've worked on many cases, some big, some small, but the lesson is always the same according to Rizzo: "There's no wrong. There's no right. There just is."

Rizzo's War contains some of my favorite attributes: a gritty setting; smart, likable, good, but flawed (like the rest of us) cops; and most of all - a mentoring relationship.

Unfortunately, I did become overwhelmed with numbers. Yes, the setting is NY and the street names are numbers, but did every single turn or destination have to include the street name? Ugh. And, I was annoyed with a repetitive line. Rizzo smokes, so almost every time he was in the car with his partner McQueen, he would blow the smoke out the passenger window. I got it - he smokes. He smokes a lot and tries to spare his partner the secondhand smoke. Grrr.

Putting the above aside, I really liked Manfredo's style. He allowed us into the heads and hearts of both Rizzo and McQueen while moving the story line along, so I feel like I know these two cops, and I really like them both. They have different personalities, mainly due to their experience level, but they blend and compliment one another nicely. Also, shining light on the ambiguity of the job and working a variety of cases added a very realistic feel.

I prefer a strong sense of suspense and a little humor every now and then to make a book an "excellent" read, but I'm very pleased with Manfredo's debut and look forward to my next encounter with these two detectives.

My thanks go to LibraryThing Early Reviews program and Minotaur Books for sending me this ARC. It is scheduled to be released on September 29, 2009.

CATCHING FIRE

Author: Suzanne Collins

Genre: YA Science Fiction, Trilogy #2

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 106

The story of Katniss continues right where The Hunger Games left off.

Overall, I was disappointed in the story line in Catching Fire. It was too repetitious, consequently, leaving the suspense by the wayside. My other complaint would be Katniss. She was not the Katniss I remembered - I missed the strength in her character.

However, I was impressed with the creativity of the world in which Katniss lives. Collins has a gift for making the oddest ideas seem realistic. Catching Fire did have some twists and turns that kept the book interesting, but I was not riveted like I was for The Hunger Games. Despite my lack of enthusiasm, I am looking forward to the conclusion. Hopefully it'll be fresh and exciting.

DEADLINE

Author: Chris Crutcher

Genre: YA Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2007

Personal Rating: 2.75/5 (better than eh)

Yearly Count: 105

High school senior Ben Wolf is diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia and chooses to keep the news to himself and live his remaining time as "normal" as possible.

Deadline is not necessarily a sad, sappy novel. I believe its intent is to have some deep meaning or profound affect upon your thoughts of living your last days, but it did not reach that level for me. I liked Ben, the surrounding cast of characters and the writing - a lot, so I would like to read another Crutcher book, but this story line just didn't do anything for me. I'm clearly in the minority though - it's highly rated on Amazon.

MY BROTHER'S KEEPER (9 of 22)

Author: Daniel J. Hale - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 34

A man is in jail - apparently for the murder of his ex-wife. His brother, a former criminal lawyer, is promptly informed.

Family dynamics play an important role in this drama. The relationships between different family members tell the story, and we are let in on more than one secret from the past. Those secrets are what help determine why the ex-wife was found dead.

CLARA'S WAR

Author: Clara Kramer

Genre: Biography, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4.5/5 (excellent)

Yearly Count: 104

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the ARC cover:

Clara Kramer was a typical Polish Jewish teenager from a small town at the outbreak of the Second World War. When the Germans invaded, Clara's family was taken in by the Becks, a Volksdeutsch (ethnically German) family from their town. Mr. Beck was known to be an alcoholic, a womanizer, and a vocal anti-Semite. His wife had worked as Clara's family's housekeeper. But on hearing that Jewish families were being led into the woods and shot, Beck sheltered the Kramers and two other Jewish families.

Eighteen people in all lived in a bunker dug out of Beck's basement. Fifteen-year-old Clara kept a diary during the twenty terrifying months she spent in hiding, writing down details of their unpredictable life, from the hous's catching fire to Beck's affair with Clara's cousin, from the nightly SS drinking sessions in the room above to the small pleasure of a shared Christmas carp.

Against all odds, Clara lived to tell her story, and her diary is now part of the permanent collection of the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C.

As always, when I read a book from a foreign country that contains unfamiliar names and places, I am temporarily thrown off, and it takes some time to get adjusted. Unfortunately with Clara's War, I experienced the same uneasiness. Thankfully it didn't last long, and I was drawn in.

Every Holocaust survivor story, even though they have their similarities, are totally unique. Clara's story shows the depth in which one will reach to remain alive and even amongst the horrors of war, the depth of humanity. The deplorable conditions, lack of food, and the entrapment of the bunker didn't kill the spirit of Clara and the group. However, their survival could not have been accomplished without the help of the German family. It was remarkable to see (and vicariously feel) the love and compassion of this family when it would have been easier and to their benefit to not harbor Jews (understatement, of course).

I was bothered by a variety of errors in this ARC. Hopefully, it has been tweaked and polished up for the final publication. I would hate for the strength of this book to be diminished due to editing errors. I'm curious as to whether there are pictures in the published version. I need to check that out!

Thank you Kyle, from Harper Collins Publishers, for sending me this ARC.

AUGUST READS

92. We Need to Talk About Kevin (Shriver)

93. Die Trying (Child)

94. Illegal (Levine)

95. The Little Giant of Aberdeen County (Baker)

96. Hattie Big Sky (Larson)

97. Escape (Jessop)

98. Holly's Inbox (Denham)

* Death, Cheated (Grippando)

99. The Case of Madeleine Smith (Geary)

100. Sworn to Silence (Castillo)

101. The Castaways (Hilderbrand)

102. Ender's Game (Card)

103. Tilt-A-Whirl (Grabenstein)

* Short Story (not counted)

BOLD titles made my Best Reads List

Clicking on a title will link you to "Thoughts of Joy...".

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Monthly - Yearly Genre Stats:

Chick-Lit: 2 - 5

Classic: 0 - 1

Fiction: 2 - 26

Memoir: 1 - 4

Mystery: 1 - 14

Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

Non-Fiction Graphic Novel: 0 - 1

Short Story Collection: 0 - 3

Thriller: 3 - 19

True Crime: 0 - 2

YA Classic: 0 - 1

YA Fiction: 1 - 12

YA Graphic Novel: 1 - 4

YA Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

YA Science Fiction: 1 - 4

Children's Historical Fiction: 0 - 1

Children's Thriller: 0 - 1

Children's Sci-Fi/Fantasy: 0 - 3

Short Stories: 1 - 33

Audiobooks: 8 - 60

Books: 4 - 43

Total: 12 - 103

Best Reads: 1 - 15

Series: 7 - 39

DNF: 1 - 4

TILT-A-WHIRL

Author: Chris Grabenstein

Genre: Mystery, Series #1

Published: 2005

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 103

In Sea Haven, New Jersey, during the peak of the tourist season, John Ceepak, an ex-military policeman, and Danny Boyle, a "summer cop" are investigating partners in the death of a wealthy real-estate resident. As the two join forces to catch the murderer, we learn about them as individuals and as a team.

Oddly enough, I found the narration to be awkward at first - Boyle is the narrator. Ceepak is the stronger character, so in the beginning I thought Ceepak was talking, but I was wrong. It was clearly identified who was speaking, but it felt off to me. I'm not so sure why that happened, but I adjusted quickly.

Ceepak and Boyle are different. Ceepak appears to be somewhat uptight and too perfect (a bit tiring after a while) and Boyle - a little green in police work. However, those characteristics add some spice to the plot and makes for an enjoyable read. There's humor, which creates some smirks and smiles, and by the end, Ceepak and Boyle are a team that I want to ride with again. I look forward to getting to know them more.

ENDER'S GAME

Author: Orson Scott Card

Genre: YA Science Fiction, Series #1

Published: 1985

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 102

At the age of 6, Andrew (Ender) Wiggin is recruited to train at Battle School. Ender is taught skills as a soldier in the event of an attack by the Buggers. His high intelligence makes him a great candidate as a leader, but can his emotional-self handle the stress that accompanies leadership?

I had my highs and lows with Ender's Game. My interest level was high for the first third, then the repetition began to gnaw at me in the middle, which caused boredom and irritation. The last third picked up in plot and became a bit more interesting. So, in general, it turned out to be a good read at best.

This is probably ideal for high schoolers (mainly boys) who are interested in science fiction and the details of battle movements. Also, those that understand politics and don't mind swearing in their books should really find this a great read. I was actually surprised at the language and would never suggest this to a younger crowd. In the epilogue, Card even states that he wouldn't want his young son to read it due to the language, so he removed it all (that may have been for the short story version which came out well before the novel), but somehow it reappeared in the book.

Needless to say, the plot had some unique features and some minor surprises. I liked Ender and cheered him on, but I have no interest in continuing with the series.

THE CASTAWAYS

Author: Elin Hilderbrand

Genre: Chick Lit, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3/5 (just okay)

Yearly Count: 101

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this book, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the front cover:

On the tiny island of Nantucket, everybody's business is everyone's business. When the charming, talented music teacher Greg MacAvoy shares a rainy Sunday night with the beautiful high school senior April Peck, rumors swarm the island like tourists on Memorial Day. The stories strain Greg's marriage, and his wife, Tess, is torn between her love for her husband and a secret of her own. With their anniversary approaching, the MacAvoys head out on their sailboat to celebrate, hoping the roughest waters are behind them.

But instead comes heartbreaking news: Greg and Tess have mysteriously drowned, leaving behind two small children. Their closest friends - the Kapenashes, Drakes, and Wheelers - are devastated. For as long as anyone can remember, the four couples have vacationed and celebrated together confided in and depended on one another. But tragedy brings long-simmering conflicts and emotions to the surface. The Six Friends, upended by grief and denial, set out to answer the question: What happened to Greg and Tess MacAvoy?

A page-turning story of passion and suspense, The Castaways is a masterful exploration of the boundaries of friendship and forgiveness, filled with the perfect details of summer life that have made Elin Hilderbrand's novels bestsellers nationwide.

The mystery component gave this book its backbone, otherwise it was pure soap opera. There were 8 characters (4 couples), and their stories were told in the present, as well as in the past, to help reveal what was going on in the lives of the couple that died. At first, it was difficult to keep everybody straight, but their personalities ended up being easily distinguishable. (I suggest taking notes, though.) Unfortunately, I never really connected with any of the 8, but didn't dislike any of them either.

The Castaways is truly a drama-filled novel. It has all the makings for a solid soap opera, so if that's what you like - this is perfect! I was hoping for something more, but still thought it was okay. The mystery is what kept me engaged. In the long run, I liked Elin Hilderbrand's writing style and am curious about her other books.

Thank you Miriam, from Hachette Book Group, for sending me a copy of the book, and Anna from Hachette Audio, for providing me with the audiobook.

Taking Care of Business 2

Oh my goodness! I've been trying to catch up on some blog posts and rediscovered another neglected award.

Jenn from Jennifer Morrill's Attempt at a Blog bestowed this award upon me earlier this month. Her "attempt" at a blog is a very successful blog that contains a variety of reviews that span from children to adult and covers a multitude of genres. Check out her blog - I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Please don't take my lack of response personally, Jenn. I am truly grateful and appreciative. Thank you very much for passing the award this way. :)

Taking Care of Business

I have been extremely busy and have absorbed too many Google Reader subscriptions lately that I have neglected my regular commenting and even posting on my own blog! I've been barely able to keep up with posting my thoughts on the books I've read, let alone any other business. So, today I'm going to catch up a bit with a couple of things where I've dropped the ball.

First, Book Dragon from Book Dragon's Lair, presented me with this Lemonade Award on June 15th!

Book Dragon's header:

BOOK DRAGON'S LAIR

BECAUSE A BOOK IS A TREASURE WORTH PROTECTING

I think most of us book lovers can relate to that!

Book Dragon hosts 4 challenges and participates in many, so you may have already been introduced to her. If not, please stop by and say hello.

Thank you, Book Dragon! I'm sorry for the delay.

AND . . .

I was totally shocked to receive an e-mail that I have been nominated for BBAW. The category is Best Thriller/Mystery/Suspense/Crime Blog! Thank you so much to the {{{person}}} that nominated me. I'm very grateful and love the fact that someone likes to read my thoughts on the books I read. It's an honor to be nominated. Thank you!

SHIVER

Author: Maggie Stiefvater

Genre: YA Fantasy, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: DNF #4

I received this from the kind people at Scholastic (unsolicited) and felt the need to give it a try. Unfortunately, after 100 pages (double the amount of pages I usually give a book!), I cannot continue. My dislike is focused on the topic, not the writing. Plain and simple - I am not a fan of werewolf stories. Shiver has been received with high marks, so don't let my thoughts deter you from reading it.

SWORN TO SILENCE

Author: Linda Castillo

Genre: Thriller, Series #1

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 100

Kate Burkholder grew up in the Ohio Amish country and is now the Chief of Police. Kate is faced with a serial killer in her jurisdiction, and at the same time, is faced with her past. She must do everything possible to catch this evil person while protecting her and her family's secret.

Kate is a likable, flawed character. Her team consists of people of varying ages and life circumstances making it a well-rounded group. In general, the plot follows a typical formula for thrillers, but does a great job in setting up the series. I'm thrilled to have found this new-to-me author at the beginning of it. I'm interested in the Amish culture, so the contrast with police encounters is intriguing to me.

This is not a book for the squeamish, though. There is extremely descriptive violence of the tortured victims and crude language. That was a bit difficult to get through. Also, I listened to this thriller and would have preferred to read it. The narrator's rendition of the male characters and the Pennsylvania-Dutch language didn't set well with me. I do not think it would bother others, though. I've discovered that I prefer my books to be read flat. Next time I will skip the audio version and pick up the book. I'm looking forward it.

THE CASE OF MADELEINE SMITH

Author: Rick Geary

Genre: YA NF Graphic Novel, Series

Published: 2006

Personal Rating: 4.25/5 (better than very good)

Yearly Count: 99

Madeleine Smith is secretly dating a man of lesser means and doesn't want to disappoint her family by continuing the relationship.

I find this series, A Treasury of Victorian Murder, to be fascinating. Geary has a way of succinctly describing the events and depicting them with his drawings that keep me engrossed. With my natural curiosity towards true crime books, these are a fantastic way to learn about and see the time period.

DEATH, CHEATED (8 of 22)

Author: James Grippando - Edited by Linda Fairstein

Genre: Short Story Collection

Published: The Prosecution Rests, 2009

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

(ss) Yearly Count: 33

The ex-girlfriend of attorney Jack Swyteck asks if he would represent her as she is being sued for a million and a half dollars.

This story is a great introduction to Jack Swyteck, who is a criminal defense lawyer in a series written by Grippando. There weren't any fabulous twists or gripping dialog, but I enjoyed the solid writing style and Jack.

HOLLY'S INBOX

Author: Holly Denham

Genre: Chick Lit, Series #1

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 98

Holly's a new employee at a major bank in London. She works at the reception desk with a co-worker and does her best to fit in. This five month collection of Holly's e-mails has been made available for us to read, and they mainly include her friends, family members and co-workers.

I am so on the fence with stepping this up to "very good" status, because for the most part it was just frivolous nonsense; however, I was always happy to pick it up again and see what Holly and her friends were up to. It's a book that I had to be in the mood to read and I was - therefore, it worked.

I thoroughly enjoyed the e-mail format and didn't find any difficulty in reading or following along even with the many times I had to put it down (due to its length). My only complaint is that sometimes the content (s*x talk) became a bit much. Even so, I had a grin here and there throughout the book and enjoyed the various characters and the interactions between them. I think the author did a fabulous job keeping the flow of all the story lines and the depth he was able to create in such a difficult venue.

Recommended By: Bookfool at Bookfoolery and Babble

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

From: Joy

To: Trish (Trish's Reading Nook)

Hey, Trish! Thank you so much for sending me Holly's Inbox! I really needed a book like this right now and am so thankful to you. You have been such a kind soul since I met you and appreciate you more than you know.

Joy

xxx

*grin*

ESCAPE

Author: Carolyn Jessop

Genre: Memoir, Standalone

Published: 2007

Personal Rating: 4.5/5 (excellent)

Yearly Count: 97

Carolyn Jessop, who grew up in a family that followed the practice of the Fundamentalist Church of the Latter Day Saints (FLDS), found herself at the age of 18, to be the 4th wife of a 50-year-old man. Carolyn shares the unbelievable (but true) details about her childhood through her escape.

Wow. I read the YA fiction book on the same topic titled The Chosen One (Williams) at the end of July and became very curious as to how much truth it contained. Escape was a perfect choice to help me determine what was fact or fiction. It turns out that The Chosen One was very much fact, and the whole book could have actually been a memoir of a 13-year-old girl. Shockingly, Escape and The Chosen One were identical in their basic story.

I was mesmerized by Carolyn's story. I never wanted to stop listening to it (fabulous narrator) and thought about it when I wasn't. The rumors I heard and, of course, things that I learned about in The Chosen One seemed so crazy that I had a difficult time believing them. Carolyn's story clarified and convinced me of the truth that lies behind those closed doors. What a harrowing, debilitating, repressed existence the followers of the FLDS live. Unfortunately, those born into it don't know anything else and are brainwashed. Carolyn "rebelled." She is a remarkable woman who exhibited strength, courage and determination to save her children and herself from a life of further torment.

HATTIE BIG SKY

Author: Kirby Larson

Genre: YA Historical Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2006

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

Yearly Count: 96

Sixteen-year-old, orphaned Hattie, travels to Montana in 1918 to inherit a homestead from her uncle. She struggles with making it on her own, but also discovers who she is and what she is capable of doing.

There were interesting historical accounts weaved throughout the story. The war and its draft, along with the reprecusions that reverberated all the way back to Montana, and the weather that farmers were so dependent upon both created tension and apprehension between community members. However, some relationships added much needed reprieve and reciprocated love.

The lifestyle during the timeframe was researched by Larson and actually prompted by her grandmother's experience as a young, female homesteader. Hattie was a strong character and persevered in the tough living environment, but she was not without concerns. However, she focused on reaching her goal and to make the best of each situation. I liked Hattie's attitude and determination.

THE LITTLE GIANT OF ABERDEEN COUNTY

Author: Tiffany Baker

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 95

Truly, the little giant of Aberdeen, struggles through life due to an overactive pituitary gland, which causes her to grow continually. Throughout childhood she suffered, not only because of her medical problem, but because both of her parents died leaving her and her sister as orphans. Truly gets shuffled from home to home, but eventually she learns to make the best of her life.

I thought this story line was unique and interesting. There were many issues touched upon including neglect, marriage, witchcraft - just to name a few and just as many emotions to go along with them. Throughout the book, my interest never faltered, but there were a few spots that I thought were gratuitous, and there was a lot that I didn't like regarding the witchcraft. Ultimately, I didn't find it to be anything special, but a good read nonetheless.

ILLEGAL

Author: Paul Levine

Genre: Thriller, Series #1

Published: 2009

Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)

Yearly Count: 94

Please Note: While being thankful for the opportunity to receive and read this book, I feel the need to post the blurb from its cover. However, in my opinion there is usually too much disclosed. Read at your own discretion.

From the inside cover:

Haunted by a tragedy in his past and wanted by the cops for his latest malfeasance, trail lawyer Jimmy "Royal" Payne needs to skip town. That's when he crosses paths with twelve-year-old Tino Perez, newly arrived from Mexico with nomoney and no papers. The gutsy kid first robs Payne, then pleads for his help. Marisol, the boy's mother, is missing, after crossing the border with a vicious coyote.

Payne doesn't go out of his way for anyone. But ex-wife Sharon, the L.A.P.D. detective he still loves, gives him a choice: help the boy or go to jail.

Following a chain of greed, corruption, and betrayal, Payne traces Marisol's steps from Mexicali to California's Hellhole Canyon, swept into the dark current of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and se*ual slavery. Soon the cynical lawyer and the savvy kid are bonding . . . and battling cunning predators on both sides of the border. It's the two of them against an army of cops, coyotes, vigilantes, and s*x slavers. Most dangerous of all is Simeon Rutledge, a wealthy grower and the biggest employer of farm workers in California.

Just why is Rutledge willing to bribe Payne - 0r kill him - to keep Marisol under wraps? Will Payne's quest redeem his mistakes and resurrect his dead marriage - or get him buried in a shallow grave? Either way, he'll find out there's no escaping his past . . . .

From the shadows of migrant stash houses to the fertile fields of the San Joaquin Valley, Illegal delivers a searing mix of live-wire prose, shattering violence, and rich characterization. Set against a backdrop of larger social issues, this is a masterful tale from one of the most skillful practitioners of the contemporary thriller.

Right from the start, I was caught up in the two main stories and didn't mind the switching from one to the other at all. Levine kept them both moving along at a fast pace and neither had any dull moments. My only complaint, which affected me a lot, were the scenes and talk of the se*ual slavery. It took the wind out of my sails. I almost dropped the rating more, but I enjoyed the first two-thirds too much to rate it lower. Illegal was a very good introduction to this new-to-me author. I will definitely be seeking out his past work and future novels of Jimmy Payne.

My thanks go to the Goodreads Firstreads Program and Bantam Books for providing me with this book.

DIE TRYING

Author: Lee Child

Genre: Thriller, Series #2

Published: 1998

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 93

Jack Reacher, an ex-military policeman, is kidnapped while being an innocent bystander. Jack and the intended victim, Holly, begin to communicate to figure out the reason behind the kidnapping and how they are going to escape.

This kidnapping scenario was very intriguing, and I enjoyed the book a lot for about a third of it, then it began to wane. My interest wasn't totally lost, but I was tired of the dragged-out plot.

The best part was how Jack made general observations that lead him to discoveries. These observations were not at a rocket scientist's level, but interesting nonetheless. I hope his character deepens as the series moves along because I really don't know much about this guy and I want to.

WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

Author: Lionel Shriver

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2003

Personal Rating: 3.75/5 (better than good)

Yearly Count: 92

An affluent, New York family consists of challenging relationships that mainly focus around the high school son named Kevin. Kevin's world is skewed and it affects all those that surround him in a profoundly negative way. This family's story is told by Eva, the wife of Franklin and the mother of Kevin and Celia.

The story line of We Need to Talk About Kevin was a tough one. The family structure was challenged with difficult relationship, and I believe the struggles depicted were common, but in my experience have been handled differently - thus creating different outcomes. Thankfully. I would have liked to have heard more conversation, instead of being talked at so much, but that was the nature of the format. The main characters were interesting and as the book settles in my mind, I'm appreciating more of what was shared.

I found rating this book to be difficult. While I thought the story to be very intriguing, it truly didn't grab me until the second half. I have to take into account the fact that I do not care for the narrator of this audiobook - at all, so I struggled throughout. I knew that going into it, but I just didn't have the time to read it - leaving audio as my only other option. Also, there is an hour long interview with the author at the end of the book, which I loved, but it did not encourage me to rate the book any higher.

Both of those experiences were odd. Usually when a book builds and gets better, so does my rating, just as reading or listening to an interview. I love learning the behind the scene thoughts and intentions. This time, my rating was only raised by a marginal amount due to the second half improving and was not affected by the interview. I know that the narrator played a huge role in my displeasure and the author had an air about her that I didn't care for either. I can't say for sure if my rating would have gone up more if those two entities didn't exist, but I think a book being "better than good" is terrific under the circumstances.

I have to ask this: Did anybody else laugh at some of Kevin's responses? I honestly don't know if I would have laughed had I not listened to it.

July Reads

80. The Actor and the Housewife (Hale)

* By Hook or By Crook (Drees)

81. The Blue Notebook (Levine)

*The Letter (Dunbaugh)

82. The Sleeping Doll (Deaver)

83. Ravens (Green)

84. The Murder of Abraham Lincoln (Geary)

85. This Lovely Life (Forman)

86. Bud, Not Buddy (Curtis)

87. Victorian Murder (Geary)

88. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks (Lockhart)

89. Fear the Worst (Barclay)

* Spectral Evidence (Gallison)

* Knife Fight (Goldman)

90. The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher

91. The God of War (Silver)

*Short Story (not counted)

BOLD titles made my Best Reads List

Clicking on a title will link you to "Thoughts of Joy...".

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Monthly - Yearly Genre Stats:

Chick-Lit: 1 - 3

Classic: 0 - 1

Fiction: 2 - 24

Memoir: 1 - 3

Mystery: 0 - 13

Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

Non-Fiction Graphic Novel: 0 - 1

Short Story Collection: 0 - 3

Thriller: 3 - 16

True Crime: 1 - 2

YA Classic: 0 - 1

YA Fiction: 1 - 11

YA Graphic Novel: 2 - 3

YA Non-Fiction: 0 - 1

YA Science Fiction: 0 - 3

Children's Historical Fiction: 1 - 1

Children's Thriller: 0 - 1

Children's Sci-Fi/Fantasy: 0 - 3

Short Stories: 4 - 32

Audiobooks: 5 - 52

Books: 7 - 39

Total: 12 - 91

Best Reads: 2 - 14

Series: 3 - 32

DNF: 0 - 3

THE GOD OF WAR

Author: Marisa Silver

Genre: Fiction, Standalone

Published: 2008

Personal Rating: 3.5/5 (good)

Yearly Count: 91

In the late 70's, 12-year-old Ares Ramirez is growing up with his mother and 6-year-old disabled brother (undiagnosed autism) in a poor community in California. As he struggles with his past memories and what the future may hold, Ares finds himself in the throws of adolescence which causes him to act out in a variety of ways in the attempt to handle the internal turmoil.

This was a good coming-of-age story. I enjoyed meeting the characters and found that the story being narrated by Ares added an interesting perspective. There wasn't any great connections for me, but a good story nonetheless.

*Recommended By: Diane from Bibliophile By the Sea

THE SUSPICIONS OF MR. WHICHER

Author: Kate Summerscale

Genre: True Crime, Standalone

Published: 2008

Personal Rating: 3.25/5 (better than just okay)

Yearly Count: 90

Three-year-old Saville Kent was murdered in 1860 on the grounds of the family's country estate. Mr. Whicher is one of the first detectives in England, and he demonstrates his best work in trying to solve the case.

This case appealed to me and some of the details relating to the timeframe were of great interest; however, overall - I felt it lacked some spunk. There were many facts repeated, and the story dragged a bit. The book also contained the history of other family members and the era, most of which I liked learning about.