Monday, November 30, 2009

Monday's Beginnings (15)

This is the beginning of a new week!

So, I am wondering:

How are you fareing in reading your books or are you starting a new book for the new week? The beginning of the week always seems to be a great time to start anew. To me it seems to be the way Monday goes is a sign of how the week will follow. Have you been able to get much reading time in today? Or are you going to be rushed all week to get everything into the short 24 hour day?

I am still adding numerous books to my reading list. This week I have picked up three books. I know three is not that many and of these three I found two because of the series I have started. I keep reminding my husband that I would love to get books for Christmas. I will see what I will get. Even gift cards would work if he is afraid of getting the wrong books. So thank you all! This is still a wonderous thing! You are all helping to keep me out of trouble and these wonderful authors in work. I am kind of trying to make notes of books to read but the must, must reads are on the top of the list (that is what list these books are on).

With the holiday and all the running we do to see everyone I didn't get much reading done this week. I did however manage to get one book read and a review up, Darkness Calls by Marjorie M. Liu. Last night I started into just a few pages of my next read, The Sad Tale of the Brothers Grossbart by Jesse Bullington. This read is for a discussion over at Barnes and Nobles, so I will be taking my notes with my stickies. lol. Now with the holiday past I have to get a routine again. And try to find time to do my shopping along with wrapping. I think the next month is going to be a little crazy...

As for today, I did get a little reading done at lunch hour and dinner time. I am going to set an hour aside this evening before bed to get more reading in as well. So, I am hoping this will be a good beginning to the week.

Now... this leaves us with one question left... How does it look for your reading progress to fare this week?

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Book Review: Darkness Calls


Darkness Calls
By: Marjorie M. Liu
Publisher: Ace Books
Publish Date: July 2009
Format: Paperback (4"x 6 3/4"), pgs 303
Genre: Fiction, Paranormal
Series: 2nd bookof Hunter Kiss Series (If you would like to read the 1st books review click here.)
Recommendation: Yes! If you read the first book you have to read this one!
First Sentence:
Zombies had a bad habit of shooting me in the head.
Book Synopsis:
They are the obsidian shadows of my flesh-tattos with minds, hearts, and dreams. By day, they protect me. But when night calls to them, they leave my body, dissolving into their true form-as demons...

Nomad born and bred, demon hunter Maxine Kiss has always relied upon herself to fight the darkness that surrounds her, the predators-human, zombie, and otherwise-who threaten the earth. But one man has penetrated her lonely life: Grant, the last of his kind. With the ability to manipulate energy, he can control any living creature... including demons. And now his life is in danger.

Haunted by the past, determined to change the future, Maxine soon understands that to save Grant, she has only one choice-to lose control and release her own powers of darkness...

My Review and Summary:
Once again the synopsis the book gives is very well done. It hits on all the major topics in the book.
As I noted above, if you have read the first book you need to read this one.

The beginning of the book gives a lot of review with the new happenings to catch you up with the time from reading book one and the release of book two. There is a lot here to get you back up to speed in that break time frame, however for me it was a little slow since I had just finished the first book with all the happenings fresh in my mind. But, when the book picks up on its own path and goes... It goes!

You do get your share of action with Maxine along with the love her and Grant share. But most of all you start to get the story behind Jack and a few other key characters (you have to read to see who and what it is - it is worth it!). The history with Jack and many of the characters, including Maxines' heritage, is amazing and really opens the world up to so much more possibilities. I love the style Marjorie has used to tell the stories through-out the book. You start to see that through the labyrinth their is a large world and lots of great mystery behind the different creatures you are introduced to. You even get to see the connection between all the creatures that is intreging. Then there is an interesting take on where humans came from in accordance to the ancient beings.

I have loved the world and mystery in the Labyrinth. I would love to learn more of the Labyrinth and the magics it holds. After reading this book with the great character building we are still waiting for the veil to fail, and there are a few other troubles that could come Maxines way for the next few books to come.
I am going to be on the watch for book three to be coming out. I have found that Marjorie has a story of Maxine in an anthology of four authors called Wild Things. And there is a new anthology of 4 authors to be out in January 2010 that includes another story of Maxine called Inked. I will be looking into these two books after the new year.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

It's Tuesday...Where are you? (5)


This is hosted by

This week I am only reading one book and in one world.
Maxine and I just dropped Grant off at the airport. He is heading to Shanghi to help an old friend. Maxine and I have a bad feeling, we just know it is a trap. I am not sure what supernatural creature is going to be waiting but there will be something; zombies, avatar, some sort of demon. The boys on Maxines skin are sleeping now but they have been very agitated this morning. With the visit of a stranger and Mary's premonition of Grant dieing, oh yeah and Maxine getting shot in the head. *shiver* Just not a good morning. Maxine has a way figured out that she will be able to get to Grant over in Shanghi without all the paperwork of visas and such.
Darkness Calls
By Marjorie M. Liu

The Turkey Chase Is On...

Turkey day on the run...

We will be chasing the turkey all day and more... I don't know about most of you, but I get to make three stops on Thanksgiving and another stop on Saturday. I get breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desert. And then I get dinner and desert two days later, from my large loving family.

So, with all this running we are doing I will definitely have my book in my purse. This book will help pass the time in traveling between places and any blah moments (you know these after everyone has eaten turkey and are getting sleepy) at each house. I will have my current book on hand just for these moments. I will be carrying Darkness Calls by Marjorie M. Liu. Now, just in case I get done with this book I will be carrying, as well, The Sad Tale of Brothers Grossbart by Jesse Bullington. I just hope I don't get caught. *giggle* My families seem to get a little upset at times when we are to be doing family time and I have my nose in another book.

Just curious, will you have your book on hand? Are you doing dinner at you home so... will you be reading in the kitchen with the turkey cooking? What book will you be sneaking in your purse or back pocket?

I hope you have a WONDERFUL TURKEY DAY!!!! Enjoy yourself with your friends and families.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Monday's Beginnings (14)

This is the beginning of a new week!

So, I am wondering:

Where you are in your books or are you starting a new book for the new week? The beginning of the week always seems to be a great time to start anew. To me it seems to be the way Monday goes is a sign of how the week will follow. Have you been able to get much reading time in today? Or are you going to be rushed all week to get everything into the short 24 hour day?

I am still adding numerous books to my reading list. This week I have picked up five books. Well, I do have to say I have told my husband that much of my Christmas list this year consists of books, which you all have contributed to. So thank you all! This is still a wonderous thing! You are all helping to keep me out of trouble and these wonderful authors in work. I am kind of trying to make notes of books to read but the must, must reads are on the top of the list (that is what list these books are on).

I am a little surprised with myself in I have finished two books this past week. They are up and reviewed here as well, but they were Bauchelain and Korbal Broach by Steven Erikson and The Iron Hunt by Marjorie M. Liu. Bauchelain and Korbal Broach was more detailed for me with the characters and the world so it took me a little longer. The Iron Hunt was a very straight forward paranormal read and I just couldn't put it down. Tonight I am starting the next book to The Iron Hunt ~ Darkness Calls. With this week being Thanksgiving I may not get done with it with all our running to see our parents and grandparents all weekend along with Black Friday and a class reunion coming up.

I think I am starting to fall back into my pattern in the evenings again. I have tried to get back into my exercising on the Wii Fit for at least an hour 3 times a week, blogging, reading, and commenting on a book club forum.

As for today, I tried to get an hour of reading done this evening already and will try for another hour later. I do hope in our travels I can read while on our way, and yes I will have my book tucked in my purse so if I start to go through withdrawal I can pull it out. The only thing is the families get a little upset at times, so I will try my hardest not to read but the book may win out.

Now... this leaves us with one question left... Where are you?

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Book Review


The Iron Hunt
By: Marjorie M. Liu
Publisher: Ace Books
Publish Date: July 2008
Genre: Fiction, Paranormal
Series: 1st book of Hunter Kiss series
Recommendation: YES!!!
First Sentence:
When I was eight, my mother lost me to zombies in a one-card draw.
Book Synopsis:
Silver smoke winds around my torso, peeling away from my ribs and back, stealing the dark mist covering my hands and lower extremities... tattoos dissolving into demon flesh, coalescing into small dark bodies. My boys. The only friends I have in this world. Demons.
I am a demon hunter. I am a demon. I am Hunter Kiss.
By day, her tattoos are her armor. By night, they unwind from her body to take on forms of their own - demons of the flesh, turned into flesh. This is the only family demon hunter Maxine Kiss has ever known. It's the only way to live, and the very way she'll die. For one day her demons will abandon her for her daughter to assure their own survival 0 leaving Maxine helpless against her enemies.
But such is the way of Earth's last protector - the only one standing between humanity and the demons breaking out from behind the prison veil. It is a life lacking in love, reveling in death, until one moment - and one man - changes everything...
My Review and Summary:
I am not going to say to much on what happens in the book. I think the book synopsis does a very good job of that. So, I am going to try and stick to my thoughts on this review.
This book is a great beginning to a unique series idea. This book introduces you to all the characters and given what you need to love them, along with the fast pacing to keep you going. The book is VERY well written to make me love and hate the characters with Maxine as we go through the story. I loved how there are many different demons and creatures. By the end of the book, I felt I knew the characters well, but had many curiosities of them. My curiosities were not from a lack in the story, but more of my thinking on the characters afterward. Where they are from and what they could truely be capable of.
There are things here that Marjorie lays out for you to foresee in the story, but there are so many unpredictable happenings, and appearances as well. You get pieces of the plot to puzzle together as the story goes and it keeps you wanting more. I didn't want to put the book down. Another great book where I tried to make stopping points but just could NOT find one, I had to keep reading to find out what happens and what creature am I going to meet next.
I do have to mention the '80s references ~ on the radio and tv reruns. The references are in no way over done. I enjoyed the subtlety of them, since I too am an '80s lover.
One of my favorite characters in the book were the tattoos. I loved the WHOLE idea with/of them. The way they live, protecting Maxine both day and night in different ways. The way they help guide Maxine even when they are sleeping. This is an amazing creation that I look forward to reading more of.
The only thing with this story was I felt, in the first fifty pages or so, I had missed some information. Maybe I missed a story that preceded this book or maybe this is information that is left open to be discussed in future books. Either way it did not hinder the book in any way and keeps a little mystery in the book and future installments for me.
In the end, I loved this books' plot and the characters. I would recommend this book to anyone loving paranormal books.
CymLowell

Friday, November 20, 2009

Book Review


Bauchelain and Korbal Broach
By: Steven Erikson
Publisher: Tor
Publish Date: September 2009
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
Series: Volume 1, of Short Novels of the Malazan Empire
Recommendation: Yes, if you like to read in a huge world and may want to jot down little pieces to remember.
Book Synopsis:
Set in the awe-inspiring world of the Malazan Empire. Here are three tales of the enigmatic and eccentric necromancers Bauchelain and Korbal Broach collected in one volume.
BLOOD FOLLOWS
In the port city of Lamentable Moll, a diabolical killer stalks the streets and panic grips the citizens like a fever. As Emancipor Reese's legendary ill luck would have it, his previous employer is the unknown killer's latest victim. But two strangers have come to town, and they have posted in Fishmonger's Round a note, reeking of death-warded magic, requesting the services of a manservant.
THE LEES OF LAUGHTER'S END
After their blissful souourn in Lamentable Moll, the sorcerors Bauchelain and Korbal Broach-along with their manservant, Emancipor Reese-set out on the open seas aboard the sturdy ship Suncurl. Alas, there's more baggage in the hold than meets the beady eyes of the crew, and unseemly terrors awaken. For Bauchelain, Korbal Broach, and Emancipor Reese, it is just one more night on the high seas, on a journey without end.
THE HEALTHY DEAD
The city of Quaint's zeal for goodness can be catastrophic, and no one knows this better than Bauchelain and Korbal Broach, two stalwart champions of all things bad. The homicidal necromancers-and their substance-addled manservant, Emancipor Reese-find themselves ensnared in a scheme to bring goodness into utter ruination. Sometimes you must bring down civilization...in the name of civilization.
First sentences:
1.) The bells pealed across the Lamentable City of Moll, clamouring along the crooked, narrow alleys, buffeting the dawn-risers hurriedly laying out their wares in the market rounds.
2.) West of Theft, the Tithe Strait opens out into the Wastes. A vast stretch of ocean through which naught but the adventurour and the foolhardy dared brave the treacherous, dubious sea-lanes as far as the red road of Laughter's End, and from there, onward to the islands of the Seguleh and the southern coast of Genabackis, where the lands of Lamatath offered surdid refuge for pirates, wastrels, the rare trader and the ubiquitous pilgram ships of the Fallen God.
3.) Those who die healthily are stuffed and displayed in glass-cased shrines as examples of good living. Imid Factallo, foreman of the work crew relaying the cobbles round back of the Wall, was struck unconscious by a collapsing wagon, and so became a saint.
My Review and Summary:
These stories are on the dark side and are very detailed in the world. I have really been enjoying the books with which I feel I should use sticky notes to help me remember who's who and who did what.
The first story started out with me being confused for a little while. But, once I got through it I understood what was going on. In this first story you realize just how massive a world Erikson has created. These stories are based in the same world as Erikson's epic series, of the Malazan Empire.
There seems to be a lot of mysterious magic and different creatures/beings in this colossal world. You do get introduced to a new set of characters in each story, but you are always following the trio of men; Bauchelain, Korbal Broach, and Emancipor (the manservant). This trio of men seem to not be the "bad" guy in so many words, yet... they are. They are definitely not the heros either, but they may have a touch of it in them. I like how he follows from different character point of views, then I found myself wondering what was going to happen when they crossed paths. I had many questions and thoughts of not knowing where this trio of men was going in the world and what trouble they would uncover and create.
In the second and third stories you start to see more of the Gods and old ways of the cities. There is so much happening quickly in these short stories that you have to keep going. The third story even touches on a topic that was very interesting to me, healthiness. Can it be done too much? I really enjoyed the topic and the extreme views of the characters.
I enjoy a story that is on the dark side and has a large amount of details to follow. I have not read the Malazan Empire yet, but this is my goal for 2010 - read the 10 books series.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Balderdash (13)


Word Verification Balderdash
is a weekly meme hosted by Sheila at One Person's Journey Through a World of Books.

This is very easy to do.

If you comment on blogs you can do this too.

Write down all the word verifications you get while posting comments on other peoples blogs.
You then play Balderdash with them.
In case you don't know how to play, you take the made up word and come up with an authentic sounding definition for it.

Do this for a week and then post your best or favorite ones every Thursday.

Here are mine for this week:
cogypto - these are hieroglyphics of an old dead language that young children write to communicate with each other before they are able to write letters of the current day alphabet and forget these.
epersh - a rare and beautiful fish that lives high in the hidden mountains of Ersh where human kind have never treaded.
jurallo - this is the name of a creature that is of humanoid standing but is part jura, a large cat with acute senses and very good at remaining in the shadows and not being seen by the human eye.
wabill - the unbalance you feel in the morning when you get out of bed quickly and still have asleep, then meet the door way head on... Good morning.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Favorite Fictional Character (12)

Favorite Fictional Character

Thanks to the creative mind of Ryan at Wordsmithonia who started this on Wednesdays.

I do not have a picture of my character this week, as she is a character out of a book. I have just read these books and reviewed them here, The Crown Conspiracy & Avempartha by Michael J. Sullivan. The character I have for you today is Princess Arista. Yes, she is a princess. But she is no ordinary princess, actually the people of the kingdom believe her to be a witch.

You find out that she has spent time studying under an amazing and powerful wizard, who is stow away in a magically protected prison. She learned many great things from him. But her biggest attribute, I like, is she is not the pretty and airy princess taking needle point and knitting with her nose in the air. She has studied books and is very smart. She likes her solitude, therefore has her rooms in the tower. She is suspicious and doesn't trust anyone. But, her doubts are just. She sees enough around them of how the people are acting and saying to get there is something going on that is not right. Even with the people she loves and has grown up around.

Princess Arista keeps an open mind and can think there is potential of betrayal from anyone, yet it doesn't stop her from working with them. She doesn't let her heart get the best of her. Even though she does not want someone to be on the wrong side, she still investigates it. She has a good sense for people along with being a good person herself.

I love the strength she exhibits with the people and the knowledge she has on all things. Almost as she is a little wiser than her years. I do hope to read more of Princess Arista in the future books.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Teaser Tuesdays (11)


Teaser Tuesday is a weekly event.
Sponsored by MizB of Should be Reading.
(I am rotating from Teaser Tuesday and Where are you? on Tuesdays. This week is the teaser.)
Here's how it works:

Grab the book you are currently reading
(anything at all)
Open the book to any random pageShare 2 "teaser" sentences from anywhere on the page.
Please Make Sure They Are Not Spoilers!
(Don't Give Too Much Away)

Just enough to pique our interests.

List the book and author so other participants can get their hand on it if they choose to read it as well.

This Week:
"Blessed sorceror," Ineb said, "are you going somewhere?"
The man regarded him a moment, then nodded. "Oh yes. The time has come to enter your beloved city."
Bauchelain and Korbal Broach
By Steven Erikson
I have just finished this book, which has 3 short stories in, and had to put a teaser for it.
Edik's aura flickered. "The veil. It opened tonight. You felt it."
"Do you know what came through?" It would not have been Bood Mama or her brood. Zombie-makers did not need to wait for the veil to open.
The Iron Hunt
by Marjorie M. Liu
This is a teaser for me as well. I have not started this book but it is the one I have choosen to read next. I am excited.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Monday's Beginnings (13)

This is the beginning of a new week!

So, I am wondering:

Where you are in your books or are you starting a new book for the new week? The beginning of the week always seems to be a great time to start anew. To me it seems to be the way Monday goes is a sign of how the week will follow. Have you been able to get much reading time in today? Or are you going to be rushed all week to get everything into the short 24 hour day?

I am still adding numerous books to my reading list. This week I have picked up four books. It is only four this week. Sorry. I do have to say much of my Christmas list this year is going to consist of books, which you all have contributed to. So thank you all! This is still a wonderous thing! You are all helping to keep me out of trouble and these wonderful authors in work. I am kind of trying to make notes of books to read but the must, must reads are on the top of the list (that is what list these books are on).

I have finished no books this past week. I am still reading Bauchelain and Korbal Broach by Steven Erikson, this book is on my right sidebar. I am hoping to be done with this book tomorrow as I think I only have 25 pages left to read.

I do want to apologize for not being as chatty as I normally am. I am trying to get myself back to some schedule here. I have tried to get back into my exercising on the Wii Fit for at least an hour 3 times a week, blogging, reading, and commenting on a book club forum. Needless to say I seem to always be running out of time on my items with doing house hold chores and everyday things along with the kid at basketball or training or what ever else he has going on. I think I am keeping up well but my comments have decreased and I am sorry for that.

As for today, I tried to get some reading done this evening but it seemed to be a flop. I sure hope this is not the way the week is going to go, especially since I do only have about 25 pages left to read in my current book. Well, I am going to try and get some blogs read for a little tonight before bed.

So not much getting done here lately with the many things of live.

Now... this leaves us with one question left... Where are you?

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Balderdash (12)

Word Verification Balderdash
is a weekly meme hosted by Sheila at One Person's Journey Through a World of Books.
This is very easy to do.
If you comment on blogs you can do this too.

Write down all the word verifications you get while posting comments on other peoples blogs.
You then play Balderdash with them.

In case you don't know how to play, you take the made up word and come up with an authentic sounding definition for it.

Do this for a week and then post your best or favorite ones every Thursday.

Here are mine for this week:
nuread - is what is called a new book you are reading, the book is considered this for about the first 70 pages.
thert - to toss loosely to the side when you are done with something, either tired or relaxly done with it.
Inari - the name of the beautiful and wispy goddess of air.
Demultri - the name of the Devils grandson who seems to look like he is 29 years old for the last 20 years, who is always out and about at the bars having fun like a young, dangerous child who can not die.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Book Review: Canticle


Canticle

By: Ken Scholes

Publisher: Tor

Publish Date: October 2009

Genre: Fiction, Science

Series: Second book of the Psalms of Isaak. (If you would like to read my quick review of Lamentation, the first book, click here.)

Recommendation: Oh Yes!!! If you really like a detailed mystery set in a science fiction fantasy world. AWESOME!!

First Sentence: Sunrise on the Churning Wastes was a terrifying glory.

Book Synopsis:
COME BACK TO THE NAMED LANDS.

Nine months ago, the power and wealth of the now-dessolved Androfrancine Order passed into the hands of Rudolfo, General of the Wandering Army and Lord of the Ninefold Forest Houses. Nine months ago, his consort, Jin Li Tam, told him that she was finally with child and he would have an heir. Nine months ago, Rudolfo and Isaak began the arduous task of transcribing the books and records from the devastated city of Windwir that were stored in the memories of the mechoservitors, and collection whatever books remained in the Named Lands into a new Great Library.

Today, many noble allies have come to the Ninefold Forest for a feast in honor of Gerneral Rudolfo's first-born child. Jin Li Tam lies in childbed, laboring to give birth...

Suddenly, as the feast begins, the doors of the hall fly open and magicked, invisible assassins attack. The Gypsy Scouts are unable to fight them off, and all of Rudolfo's noble guests are slain, including Hanric, the Marsh Queen's Shadow. And yet Rudolfo himself is not touched.

And at the same time, on the Keeper's Gate, which guards the Named Lands from the Churning Wastes, a strange figure has appeared with a message for Petronus, the Hidden Pope.
Thus begins the second movement of The Psalms of Isaak, Canticle.

My Review and Synopsis:
I have really gotten taken away by this series so far. There are going to be five books in all. The characters are well developed and you really get a feel for them all, even the ones you think may be the "bad" guy or girl. The world that is created in these two books is amazing. You have different cultures, religions, believes and gods. All well done to give you just what you need to understand the rules and what is going on, yet enough to keep you with the feel of mystery.

I think Ken Scholes is an awesome author with an epic tale to tell. He lays the paths of possible ways the story could go, we just have to wonder if we are thinking the correct path. Just when you are on the right path you come to the fork in the road again. The story can change directions at any time, but the rules never change and the information is there to keep you on the correct path of thought, thus creating a great mystery adventure.

Being a second book of a series Ken has started us right into the next story. Not even 50 pages into the book and I was caught up with where I left off on the first book and full scale right into the middle of another great mystery of the Whymr maze in this amazing fantasy book.

This book has; mechoservitors ~ Kens' term for metal men, magick ~ which has limits, Gods ~ are a distant past but are there in the background, an ancient vendetta of two old families and ways of lives, and current people trying their hardest to find where there home is.

These books are amazing reads from the point of view of the characters. You learn so much in this way with the way Ken writes it. Very well done to understand what is going on, just pay attention to get the details.

Favorite Fictional Character (11)

Favorite Fictional Character
Thanks to the creative mind of Ryan at Wordsmithonia who started this on Wednesdays.


Since I put up the post of a few movie trailers and mentioned in it that I love watching Robin Williams, I got to thinking. When did I really start watching Robin Williams and loving his acting? Well, I remembered my answer. Yep, you got it. Mork from Mork and Mindy.


I loved watching this show growing up. There was always lots of laughter in watching this show. This show ran from 1978 through 1982.
Mork was an alien from Ork. (Mork from Ork.) Mork came to earth in an egg, yes and egg. Mork was here to understand human behavior and translate it to his home. Mindy was the lucky person to find Mork and once realizing he was an alien let him stay at her home and helped him to better understand humans.
A few of Morks favorite phrases were: Nanoo Nanoo - his greeting to others and Shazbot - his term for cursing. I remember when you told him to go ahead and sit down, he would go over to the seat and put his head down in the seat with his bottom up in the air. *hahaha* I still get a smile now thinking of it. Mork and Mindy eventually fall in love, get married, and Mork has an egg which results in their son.
If you have never seen Mork and Mindy I have attached the opening theme for you to watch. I hope you enjoy it.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

It's Tuesday...Where are you? (4)



This is hosted by An_Adventure_In_Reading


This week I am only reading one book and in one world.


I am with Sergeant Guld at Knoll Barrow, the only grassy barrow in the city of Lamentable Moll. There is not much here but the two men, who are rat-hunters, Guld is looking to talk to hoping they will be able to point us into a direction of finding the madman or thing that is killing these people every night in the most gruesome way. There they are, picnicing at the top ~ roasting over the fire.


Bauchelain and Korbal Broach by Steven Erikson
I have just started this new book. It is volume one of three short novels of the Malazan Empire.

Movie Trailers - 1 Comedy & 2 Science Fiction

Movie trailers for you to check out. One Comedy and two Science Fiction trailers.
You know how there are always movie trailers before the movie starts at the theater... Well, I saw a few trailers at the theater on Saturday and really liked them. So, I thought I would share them with you to get some ideas on what you think.

This first one just looked hilarious to me. I love Robin Williams and really like John Travolta. I HAVE to go see this movie! I just hope there are many more funny parts other than what is in this trailer. It looks as the release date is November 25, 2009.

Old Dogs






This next movie is a Science Fiction movie. Some how my son new of this movie before I did. He thinks he wants to go see this one, I am not sure just yet. I need to see more reviews on this before I say yes or no to him. It looks as it is to be released December 18, 2009.

Avatar


This next movie I saw on a poster in the theater and had to look up the trailer for it at home. Is there anyone out there that remembers Tron? This movie is based on that. I am not sure if the story line will be any good but the graphics look as they could be nicely done. It looks as though it wont be out till 2010.


Tron Legacy


Monday, November 9, 2009

Monday's Beginnings (12)

This is the beginning of a new week!

So, I am wondering:

Where you are in your books or are you starting a new book for the new week? The beginning of the week always seems to be a great time to start anew. To me it seems to be the way Monday goes is a sign of how the week will follow. Have you been able to get much reading time in today? Or are you going to be rushed all week to get everything into the short 24 hour day?

I am still adding numerous books to my reading list. This week I have picked up TWELVE books. Yes, Twelve! It is hard to believe, and I am not even caught up with reading all your posts. I also have a series I would like to add but I am not sure how many books are in the series, Cirque Du Freak. Since we went to see the movie I would like to start reading this series. I just googled it and it looks like it is twelve books itself. I do have to say much of my Christmas list this year is going to consist of books, which you all have contributed to. So thank you all! This is still a wonderous thing! You are all helping to keep me out of trouble and these wonderful authors in work. I am kind of trying to make notes of books to read but the must, must reads are on the top of the list (that is what list these books are on).

I finished two books this past week. One is reviewed alread and up, Avempartha, the second one, Canticle, is still running around in my head. I will have the review coming up when my head clears a little. (There is so much detail and happenings.) I am currently in a big discussion of this book over at Barnes and Nobles forums. Then, we as a family went to see Cirque Du Freak: Vampires Assistant and enjoyed it very much. My review for Cirque Du Freak is also posted here. I am now reading Bauchelain and Korbal Broach by Steven Erikson, this book is on my right sidebar. I tried to get started with this over the weekend but have not got far. I am going to blog and try to read some blogs for a little tonight along with my discussion over at Barnes and Nobles then try to read for about an hour before bed. So not much getting done here lately with the many things of live.

Now... this leaves us with one question left... Where are you?

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Movie Review (2)

Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant
There has been talk of this movie coming out. And after reading what everyone had posted about this movie and doing research on the books to find it is a book of Vampires but geared toward the younger crowd, I shared this idea with my son ~ who has seen the commercials on tv as well.
If you have not seen the commercials for this movie or read the books yet here is a short summary of the movie. Your main character, Darren, is a young boy, whom is attracted to spiders, goes to see a circus (as we would say). This circus is called Cirque Du Freak. It ends up Darrens best friend Steve recognizes one of the cirque people to be a Vampire. All in all, which is quickly at the beginning of the movie, Darren must make a choice wheither to leave his family and friends to go live with the Cirque Du Freak... as a vampire.
So, we went to see this movie last night. My view is from the view of a person who has NOT read the books yet. I have to say we all enjoyed the movie. We went with another family to watch this and when the movie started there where a total of 13 of us in the theater. I do hope this movie is doing better in other areas or other times of the day.
I have to say if you have a young budding paranormal fan in your house this is a movie to go see. My son usually scares of the vampires and werewolves thing. But, he is starting to get older and able to handle them better. This movie though makes the vampire idea interesting and entertaining as well. There are no gross scenes that we normally see as adults in vampire movies. There is also great humor that we all laughed at. Then there was a few things that we were able to talk about in the way of thoughts. There was only one thing that caught my attention and got to me, it was the wallpaper in Darrens home. I am sorry it was just very... eye catching and distracting. But I did enjoy the movie.
When we walked out of the theater my son said he wants the books to read them. I told him he has quite the stack here to read now, then we will move on to these. I have to agree with him though, I am ready to go purchase the books to read them. The book is always better than the movie, right?
After a days thought on the movie, we all agree here that we really liked it. I liked the fact that it is geared toward younger vampire lovers yet there is a story and humor that the adults can laugh and get as well without being bored. My son is hoping the movie does well so he can see the second book done as a movie too. I hope he has that chance. And again my reading list has grown by more books.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Book Giveaway!!

You get your choice of one of three hardcover books over at Bookbound by Jessica.

Book 1 of Sookie Stackhouse, Deep Kiss of Winter, or Lover Avenger. Go over and check it out! (click Bookbound above in purple.)

Entries taken till November 28, 2009 and winner drawn November 29, 2009.

You could get extra entries for the contest if you know what book cover the puzzle pieces match up to. Good luck to you all!!

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Balderdash (11)


Word Verification Balderdash
is a weekly meme hosted by Sheila at One Person's Journey Through a World of Books.

This is very easy to do.
If you comment on blogs you can do this too.

Write down all the word verifications you get while posting comments on other peoples blogs.
You then play Balderdash with them.

In case you don't know how to play, you take the made up word and come up with an authentic sounding definition for it.

Do this for a week and then post your best or favorite ones every Thursday.

Here are mine for this week:

agramper - This is that book you just can't put down. The one you lock yourself in the bedroom or bathroom away from all others in the family because you can't quit turning the pages and just want to devour the book at this very moment just to know what happens and how it ends.
typectog - This is the cramp in your hand from typing non-stop for the whole day.
tomence - This is the menced tomatoe loaf. This is the very tasty vegetarian version of meatloaf made with fresh vegetables but mainly home grown tomatoes.
glensm - This is the gleam seen in childrens eyes. That first sight of something that just makes them glow from the inside out. The very first instant when their eyes just start to sparkle at the wonder they are seeing.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Book Review: Avempartha


Avempartha

By: Michael J. Sullivan

Publisher: Ridan

Publish Date: April 2009

Genre: Fiction

Series: Second book in the Riyria Novels, If you would like to read my review of the first book, The_Crown_Conspiracy, click on the title.

Recommendation: Yes, especially if you like some conspiracy and mystery with your fantasy.

First Sentence: As the man stepped out of the shadows, Wyatt Deminthal knew this would be the worst, and possibly the last, day of his life.

Book Synopsis:
When a destitute young woman hires Royce and Hadrian to help save her remote village from nocturnal attacks, they are once more drawn into the schemes of the wizard Esrahaddon. While Royce struggles to breech the secrets of an ancient elven tower, Hadrian attempts to rally the villagers to defend themselves against the unseen killer. Once more, what begins with the simple theft of a sword places the two thieves at the center of a firestorm-but this time the outcome could change the future of Elan.

My Review and Summary:
When I started reading the book I had thought it was going one direction, but was very pleased when it went a different direction. I had thought in the beginning the book was moving a little slow, but now realize I was getting a lot of character details which I needed to come to my speculations. These details help me in trying to figure out the bigger picture with the lingering thoughts I have in the end of the book. In all these details are worth it and needed in the end.

The books tell a complete story in themselves so could be read alone. But, to get the full epic feel of the books and what the series is truely driving at I would read them in order from book one, The Crown Conspiracy. I had thoughts on the characters and of the under laying epic story. Some of these have been answered and some suspicion has been added.

You meet up with the characters you started to get to know in The Crown Conspiracy; Royce, Hadrian, Princess Arista, King Alric, Mauvin Pickering, Fanen Pickering, and even a few other characters ~ some were a hope of mine to see again and some were a surprise.

I enjoyed the humor in the book, the characters sarcasm and jokes with each other. Although, I do have to say reading the first book will help in seeing the humor and irony in the jokes.

So, after being framed to take blame for the murder of the King then clearing your name, what would you do? Go looking for the man who sent you in on the fake mission in the first place and have your revenge... right? That is where Royce and Hadrian are. The book starts when they find this man a few winters after book one. While in Colnora you start to get some history on Royce and Hadrian, to learn more of these characters. Also, while in Colnora there is a beautiful young farm girl, Thrace, throwing their names around looking for them. Royce and Hadrian find her being robbed and passing out from lack of food. Royce and Hadrian save her to find that she wants to hire them for a job. A difficult job of breaking into a locked tower to steal a sword.

You maybe asking how a poor, innocent farm girl would know to ask for them here in this city, in which they are not welcome. Well, Esrahaddon is back and guiding people around again.

The cover of this book is a very good depiction of a scene in the book. If you look closely you may see the beast in which is the center of why Thrace has come looking for Royce and Hadrian. But unknown to Thrace there is much, much more going on here than to her visible eye. You are going to have to read the book to see where it will lead you.

Favorite Fictional Character (10)

Favorite Fictional Character

Thanks to the creative mind of Ryan at Wordsmithonia who started this on Wednesdays.

This week I am digging deep for my Favorite Fictional Character. I hope many of you remember her. My characters full name is, Pippilotta Delicatessa Windowshade Mackrelmint Ephraim's Daughter Longstocking. Okay, many of us remember her as Pippi Longstocking.

This girl was one of my favorites growing up. She had her own horse, Little Old Man, and monkey, Mr. Nilsson. I would have loved to have my own horse and monkey! And that red hair with the braids that stuck out and up at the sides.

Pippi never cared that her clothes were of less quality than other children. Pippi also always seemed to get in to all sort of trouble that young children do. BUT, the one great thing about Pippi ~ she never let it get her down. She always had a positive view on everything that happened. She was definitely the character that could turn that frown upside down.

Pippi seemed to have a very creative mind. The other children and people thought she was always making up her crazy stories of pirates and other things, Pippi always talked about finding her papa. But then you see a few of her tales are really true and start to wonder if all her far-fetched tales were true.

One of the most memorable things I have of Pippi is her incredable strength. This little girl that looked as she could be just skin and bones was extremely strong. But, the best thing about Pippi was she had a very strong sense of right and wrong, morals, and beliefs. This character would be a great rule model for always believing in the right and doing what is right.

It has been some time since I have seen Pippi. I think I need to see the movie again.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Series or Stand-Alone Novels?

Do you seem to be drawn to Series or Stand-Alone Novels?
I am a guest blogger over at Drying_Ink and the post is what I was thinking on, for myself anyway. Stop over Jacob's blog to read and comment your thoughts. Click on Drying_Ink to go there, read, and comment. We would love to hear what you have to say.
I am curious to see what you are drawn to and why...

Teaser Tuesday (10)

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly event.
Sponsored by MizB of Should be Reading.

(I am rotating from Teaser Tuesday and Where are you? on Tuesdays. This week is the teaser.)
Here's how it works:

Grab the book you are currently reading (anything at all)
Open the book to any random pageShare 2 "teaser" sentences from anywhere on the page.
Please Make Sure They Are Not Spoilers!(Don't Give Too Much Away)
Just enough to pique our interests.
List the book and author so other participants can get their hand on it if they choose to read it as well.

This Week:

The taste of the powders were still bitter in his mouth when Rudolfo joined Rafe Merrique at the helm of the Kinshark. Most of his life, he'd used the magicks to hide his men but not himself.
Canticle
By Ken Scholes

This is page 263. I have read this section already. I am not wanting to go to a teaser to close to the end of the book as it may give to much away to me at this point.

Lord Rufus struck the chest of the creature, but the blow glanced away uselessly. He struck again and again, but it was like striking stone with a stick.
Avempartha
By Micheal Sullivan

I have finished this book, but thought I would put the teaser in for it as well since I just finished.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Monday's Beginnings (11)

This is the beginning of a new week!

So, I am wondering:

Where you are in your books or are you starting a new book for the new week? The beginning of the week always seems to be a great time to start anew. To me it seems to be the way Monday goes is a sign of how the week will follow. Have you been able to get much reading time in today? Or are you going to be rushed all week to get everything into the short 24 hour day?

I am still adding numerous books to my reading list. This week I think I have picked up TWELVE books. Yes, Twelve! It is hard to believe. I do have to say much of my Christmas list this year is going to consist of books, which you all have contributed to. So thank you all! This is still a wonderous thing! You are all helping to keep me out of trouble and these wonderful authors in work. I am kind of trying to make notes of books to read but the must, must reads are on the top of the list (that is what list these books are on).

I have not finished any books this past week. That is okay, I am currently reading two books. They both are takeing a lot of attention for me to follow the plots and mysteries of the scheming. But, I am within 30 pages of finishing one of them then hope to finishe the second one later this week.

Well, for me today: The current books I am reading are (there on my right sidebar) Avempartha by Michael Sullivan and Canticle by Ken Scholes. These both are the second books in their series. I am still taking lots of notes and really reading closely. Canticle is for my discussion board over at Barnes and Nobles and Avempartha is for my pleasure. I have been reading some this evening after dinner and some cleaning got done. I plan on finishing Avempartha this evening as I am to a point I don't want to put it down. I had to force myself to stop long enough to come to the blog here to do this post. So I will be returning to my book here shortly to finish.

Now... this leaves us with one question left... Where are you?