Yet another fine Garrett story from the great Glen Cook
348365
Garrett does his finest gumshoe work in this tense, creepy and funny tome.  Truely, this is the beginning of Garrett's true love for art. Glen Cook has  always been my favorite storyteller, I am proud to share the same city with  him and that McGuire guy.
1254643
I really like Glen Cook's books. I can't exactly say he's easy to read...but his characters are so strong they make it worth it.
As does the typically gritty background they live in. This book is no different.
2802212
Like many who have already commented here, I am a Diane Galbaldon fan and have enjoyed both the Outlander and Lord John books. I have come to each series with different expectations. The Outlander books, while somewhat uneven in overall quality (but still 4-5 stars in my estimation) are great adventure stories with many unforgettable characters besides Jamie and Claire. The pious Tom Christie who keeps popping up like a bad penny, the effusive Lizzie, elusive Beardsley twins Jo and Kezzie for starters. And the woman with the forked tongue!
  The Lord John books all read to me as whodunnits. There is a conspiracy - Lord John mulls over doing this, doing that, whatever. The secondary characters often seem interchangeable (certainly not Tom Byrd) and I had to keep reminding myself who Quinn was vs Mac Quarry. The Scottish Prisoner, despite Jamie's presence on nearly every page is a Lord John book. Lord John himself, one of my favorite fictional characters is never as witty and dry in his own stories as he is with Claire and Brianna. (Remember his engagement to Brianna!) There is an occasional gem with Jamie, but there is too much tension in this book for much humor to be appropriate. I hope Stephan von Namtzen will bring out some of that in him in the future (and a larger role in his life).
  All that said, this is the best of the Lord John books. The interplay between Jamie and Lord John - conflict, distrust, growing respect is just what Diane Galbaldon does so well. She writes with a light hand and usually avoids forcing the reader to accept emotional changes in her characters too quickly.
  As the author brings the two stories together it becomes more helpful to read all of the Lord John books. If the gay sex scenes trouble you just skip over them. Lord John is gay and he accepts himself as gay even though it is totally unacceptable at that time. Come on now - how many sex scenes have you read with more anatomical detail than you needed? The opening scene, (reprinted here as a sample) of The Scottish Prisoner is one that I could have done without, even though it is pretty universal. After that it's a fun read and I quit blushing.
2916964
LADY OF THE GLEN by Jennifer Roberson is an interesting medieval Scottish Historical Fiction set in 1685 Scotland. For a romp through 17th century Scotland you must read "Lady of the Glen". It is riveting tale of treachery, betrayal,savagery and a splendor set against a Scotland background. Catriona Campbell and Alasdair Og MacDonald know they are destined to be together although,their clans are enemies, but can their love outlast the times? They are used as pawns of war,during the dangerous times between England and Scotland, will their love survive? Please be aware as with most Highland stories, the language is unique to them, if you don't read many Scottish stories, it can be a bit confusing, but "Lady of the Glen" is an enjoyable read and one not to miss. Very emotional, yet a very satisfying read! I enjoyed Dair and Cat's story and learning more on the Massacre of Glencoe on February 13, 1692. I love Scottish tales and "Lady of the Glen" is a unique tale of love, sacrifice, betrayal and the struggle to survive during the 17th century in a country England wants badly enough to murder the innocent  and guilty alike,every Scot under the age of seventy was to be murdered.  What a tale! Well written with engaging characters and an intriguing storyline. Received for an honest review from the publisher.

RATING: 4

HEAT RATING: MILD

REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
2988562
As usual, Diana Gabaldon gives us an excellent story and the usual interest and excitement we have enjoyed in all her books.  I was pleased to see at the end of this novel, it looks like there is an opening shown for the next great book to come.
4090364
As one of those who has the complete set of Sharpe, I preordered the book, and started reading it the same evening I received it. It is always nice to follow the story of an old friend such as Sharpe. The history of the early 1800's comes to life in these stories. Here we see the contrast between the poor of England and Denmark as Sharpe travels back to his childhood and settles old scores, and then to Denmark and sees the contrast in Denmark. Wonderful battle scenes. The story of a battle of the British/French wars that we know little about. We see Sharpe and Wellington as they meet after three years. Harper makes an appearence. Just a wonderful read. I always read these books through for the story and color, then go back and read it again for clarity. I look forward to more of Sharpe over the coming years. Highly recommended.
1081192
Another great series by garrett. If you have read far enough in the nightblade series you will see another view point to one of the books. Great read.
4726042
As always GA delivers a fun, interesting story, with lots of lovable characters!  This is one of my favorite series...well written& peppered with humor!
1047547
Just finished reading Eskkar & Trella - The Beginning. It is Part 4 of Sam Barone's Eskkar Saga. It is another great read and I couldn't put it down. I've enjoyed the first 3 of Barone's books in the Eskkar series and this one doesn't disappoint. There is the same quality of writing and a detailed level of military strategy. Definitely recommend this to lover of historical fiction, particularly the Bronze Age.
3493614
This is a great, suspenseful, fantasy novel.  The best novel Glen Cook has written (except maybe for the Black Company, the novel that begin his 10+ book series).
3909033
I was very glad to have another Chief Inspector Gamache novel from Louise Penny.  Although it is not one of my favorites in the series, The Long Way Home shows that Armand Gamache's adventures have not ended with his "retirement"--He can indeed operate from Three Pines.  Penny reminds the reader what is important about each character and refers to previous traumatic events that seemed like an ending for the previous books in the series.  However, I do agree with other reviewers that fans of the series will appreciate this book more than new readers.  I also agree with the criticism that the book is a bit melodramatic, especially the degree of trepidation that Armand and Reine-Marie Gamache experience concerning his decision to leave Three Pines to search for a friend.

As usual Penny incorporates references to art and literature in way that gives the books value beyond their plot.  I also enjoyed learning about the Lower North Shore of the St. Lawrence.  And I liked the strong theme of finding oneself or finding one's way that threads through the book.  I did not believe that Penny planted the seeds for some of the plot twists as well as in some of the other books except for one possibility that became too obvious and which Gamache inexplicably ignored (rusty?).  Despite this criticism, the writing is good, the characters are wonderful, and I will always be ready to return to Three Pines for another installment.

P.S. Look at the cover photo again after you have read the book.
3397795
Gabe is the third in the Buckhorn brothers series.  Lori Foster continues to deliver a good overall story.  Gabe is the youngest of the brothers and likes what he does just fine.  Hes a handyman, no need to have a normal job that would tie him into doing just one thing.  A prim, but still cute, little red-head drops into town and tries to get Gabe to tell her all about being a hero.  She needs to have his story to add to her research for her thesis, he doesnt think he has done anything out of the ordinary, and certainly nothing that would claim him as hero.  As he slowly gets her to unwind from her prim and proper behavior and clothing, totally wrong for the heat of the weather, he begins to understand there is more going on with Elizabeth than researching a hero for a paper.  Their story is one of heat, learning, adjusting, and change.  Lori brings it all together with her usual fun and charm.  Each story is standalone, and doesnt have to read in order, but they tie together better if you do.  This is another great read from Lori Foster..
4911459
I am a little late on the KGI wagon, but I am catching up fast and I can't get enough! I have to say that so far Garrett has been my favorite (and I can't wait to see if Donovan gets his story), but Nathan's story is just as good as the others! I have to admit that I was a bit sceptical on the telepathy aspect - I really don't go for the paranormal genre, but since I loved the series I went for it, and I am glad I did! Maya Banks just has a way of putting stories together that each reader can connect to the characters and this one was a nail-biting story line! I could not put it down and I am glad to say that book #5 Echos at Dawn is waiting for me to start tonight! The series is excellent and I love the family dynamic and the brother's banter with each other. I also liked to see that Rusty has warmed up and opened up to the family as well and feels like a part of them! Shea is probably so far my favorite heroine of the series, although I still like Rachel as well and I like how Nathan connects with her and sees her in a different light after his experience as a captive. It was interesting to observe Shea's connection to her sister Grace, while at the same time Nathan was having a hard time connecting with his twin Joe. Love the series, can't get enough! Thank Ms. Banks for the entertainment you provide!
1594579
The Dales of Yorkshire are the venue for the books by a couple of today's finest British crime writers. Having just finished Peter Robinson's latest book "Friend of the Devil", Ruth Rendell's brand new Inspector Wexford novel "Not in The Flesh" conveniently landed in my mail box and made for some more first class reading from another dependable master.

This time a body is found by Jim Belbury and his dog Honey searching for truffles in a wood outside Kingsmarkham. According to the medical examiner, the body has lain buried 10-11 years and a computer search for missing persons at that time is started. Chief Inspector Wexford knows that a long investigation lies ahead. People go missing at an alarming rate in Britain, somewhat like 500 a day nationwide.

Then another body is found in a cottage cellar only twenty yeards away from the woodland burial site and the detection skills of Wexford, his assistand Burden and the rest of the Kingsmarkham Police Force are tested to the utmost in order to solve the murders and fine out whether they might possibly be connected.

Chief Inspector Wexford is yet another great detective personality who over the years has come to seem like a dear old friend. As with Robinson's Alan Banks, we also get to know about Wexford's private life. His wife Dora, his two daughters and his special love for his youngest daughter Sheila.

Wexford is a peaceful, down to the earth kind of man. No dashing hero, but just as attractive in his own special way. In fact, Wexford is a bit like everybody's grandfather. Being among the last of a generation uncomfortable with and strange to computers and other technical wonders in today's world, he trusts his instincts and experience - and with great results at that.

Another thing about the Wexford series. It's very English. Of course, Kingsmarkham is not untouched by a modern and changing England. There is for instance a small colony of immigrants from Somalia in the town. However, the description of Kingsmarkham and surroundings, its population, traditions, the way people talk - it's not only very non-urbane, but a bit like a breath from an almost forgotten time. Blessedly oldfashioned and oddly peaceful in spite of the horrible crimes being investigated.

Ruth Rendell has written numerous of other books, usually deemed by reviewers to be better than the Wexford series. However, the Wexford books are my favourite Rendell novels. Having read and enjoyed them all, "Not in the Flesh" was another unputdownable treat. A great concept from a superb writer.
4198876
I have enjoyed these novels ever since the first one about ten years ago.  I really enjoy the developing relationship of the main characters, and the addition of  the next generation.  Since Eleaor of Aquitaine is my favorite historical figure (and ancestress) I enjoy Helewise's connection with her.  The forest people are just fanciful enough without going overboard.  There have been some great stories in this series, including this one.
4448320
Another great novel by Glen.  Keeps you guessing until the end.  His stories always draw you in as if you were a part of it.  Can't wait to read the next one!
799713
Once again, Kyle Pratt has written a great story.  As a stand alone novel, A Time to Endure is four-stars.  The scenario is very realistic.  Pratt doesn't waste a lot of time adding unnecessary "filler" dialogue, so reading this tale is not a chore.  The action sequences are excellent.  The characters are very believable.  It is a great story worth the read and the money.

As a sequel:

First, let me begin by saying that the most difficult thing to do is to follow up a masterpiece with another masterpiece, so I cannot be overly harsh.  As a sequel, the story kind of drifts off into a different direction than the novel that it tries to follow up.  In my opinion, this is a "classic" mistake that is made by many sequel writers whether it be books or movies.  This story makes a left turn in that it drifts away from the rogue government-terrorists-Chinese invasion gauntlet of the first novel and introduces yet another antagonist - Hispanic gangs.  Pratt does lightly link the gangs to the Chinese connection, but, again in my opinion it distracts from the mystery of the first novel regarding the splitting of the government, the brewing civil war and the machinations of a Chinese occupation.  Overall, my impression three quarters of the way into the book was that I'm looking forward to the 3rd novel hoping that the story "gets back to business."  Endure is a nice episode, but a bit of a distraction.  Happy reading, and looking forward to the 3rd novel.