I show you my books, you show me yours... vol.19

Jana & Steph are bringing us book lovin' bloggers our favorite day of the month again - Show Us Your Books day!  The month that I read a lot of books (well, a lot for me)......................

What I've read since our last link-up:

1.  It's Complicated: Short Stories About Long Relationships by Karen Wright - Karen is a blogger friend (her blog is: Run Wright) who participates in my book challenge.  She is also a self-published author with this collection of short stories that examine dynamics between family members, early love, past love, toxic love, and more.  She lives in NYC and many of the stories are filled with NY touches, and I enjoy the fact that Karen was inspired as she people-watched others on the subway and imagined stories of their lives.  I found myself relating to some of the stories, relationships, and characters more than others, but that's real life, isn't it?  We relate and connect with some people more than we do others.  That made this collection feel authentic and genuine.  I recommend.  4/5

2.  In the Woods by Tana French - For readers who like mystery stories to be solved completely and be given all the answers, this may not be the book for you. To those that enjoy mysteries, different degrees of criminality, damaged characters, and questions that leave you wanting more, then, I recommend it. I really enjoyed some of the characters, others frustrated me, and a couple of times, I was disgusted or infuriated. But, I enjoy a ride that gives me different emotional responses. The writing was tedious at times, but overall, a good book for me, and I will continue reading the series. 3.75/5

3.  Things I Would Say by Alyssa Ammirato - Another blogger buddy is a self-published author with this collection of essays and poetry.  She blogs at "alyssa goes bang".  A quick, thoughtful read filled with raw emotion.  This felt personal.  It felt real.  She spills her brain, heart, and soul onto the pages.  I felt a little lost a couple of times, but I imagine that was more me (the reader's fault) than the writer's.  4/5

4.  The Thicket by Joe R. Lansdale - I sang the praises of Patrick deWitt's The Sisters Brothers last month.  I was reminded of that book as I read this one, but I enjoyed this one even more.  I was also reminded of Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight.  This one is rumored to have a movie in pre-production with Peter Dinklage as "Shorty", a ruthless "gun-shooting dwarf" (that's no spoiler; that phrase is in the first line of the book).  He will be perfect.  The rest of the cast of characters are just as "fun" and interesting.  I highly recommend for a change of pace, something different, with a fantastic group of characters.  5/5

5.  Some of Tim's Stories by S.E. Hinton - A collection of short stories about two cousins that are raised like brothers and how their lives have followed different paths.  A quick, but engrossing read.  The stories were good.  Yes, I read this for two reasons: a book challenge category and S.E. Hinton wrote The Outsiders. 

6.  Reconstructing Amelia by Kimberly McCreight - This book is an example of what happens if you mix Gossip Girl with a Lifetime movie. As Steph often says, "it passed the time just fine." 3.5/5

7.  Everything Changes by Jonathan Tropper - I am a self-professed fangirl of this author.  This is my 4th book that I've read of his, and I've enjoyed every one of them.  I may have enjoyed this one the least, but I don't want that to sound negative, because I still enjoyed it.  Tropper writes dysfunctional families and troubled characters really, really well often with off-color humor, and he has yet to disappoint me. 4/5

8.  I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid - I have no idea how to rate this book because I have no idea what the fuck I just read.  Part horror, part road-trip, part relationships, part 'the crazy thoughts that happen in someone's mind'...some of it bored me to the point that I almost quit, some of it scared the begeezus out of me with anticipation.  I don't want to say too much.  3/5

9.  Adrenalized: Life, Def Leppard, and Beyond by Phil Collen with Chris Epting - from the guitarist of a band that reached massive success during the '80s...kinda makes you assume this book is about the debauchery of sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll. It is not. Phil Collen has been a vegetarian for 25+ and is now a vegan. He has been alcohol free for 25+ years too. He was a self-professed mumma's boy. He has a strong work ethic and takes his craft seriously. His vice?  Women.  I couldn't keep straight all of his relationships, marriages, and babies' mamas.  I recommend only for diehard Def Lep fans, but that's probably it.  3/5

10.  Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys - This author has written 3 books, and I've rated all 3 of them 5 stars.  You could say that I enjoy her writing style.  The story is told from four different characters' perspectives, young voices from different nations that are all directly impacted by WWII, culminating with one particular tragedy. My heart swells with emotion and my eyes swell with tears thinking about the atrocities of war and the innocent casualties. I recommend to historical fiction readers.  5/5

11. Cold Granite by Stuart MacBride - A Scottish friend of mine recommended this series to me months (maybe years) ago.  I'm so glad I finally read it. A solid crime/mystery book, and I will definitely read more of the series. 4/5

12.  The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne - With a 9 year old boy as the narrator, this is a quick, easy read...but the subject matter is far from "easy", and its impact will last for a long time.  5/5

I've shown you mine, now you show me yours............

Will you add any of these to your "to read" list?

I show you my books; you show me yours... vol.17

Jana & Steph are bringing us book lovin' bloggers our favorite day of the month again - Show Us Your Books day!  If there was ever a day to break away from the news and social media and throw myself into book talk, now is that time.

What I've read since our last link-up:

1.  Extreme Prey by John Sandford (Lucas Davenport in the Prey series #26) - I have been reading this series since the beginning in the early '90s.  Possibly some of you were not even born yet when I started my relationship with Lucas Davenport.  He is smart and a badass, and I love him.  After talking about collecting poetry books: "I'm pretty delicate," Lucas admitted. "You know, when I'm not beating somebody senseless."

I also love that this author has started a spin-off series with another detective (Virgil Flowers), so throughout this book, there is a sprinkling of "that fuckin' Flowers" comments, and that makes me happy.  This particular story focuses on some political nut jobs who are potentially plotting an assassination attempt on a presidential candidate.  There are very few authors that I am as loyal of a fangirl as John Sandford.

2.  The Killing Lessons by Saul Black - A messed up lead detective with a difficult past; mix that with an even more messed up lead killer with a far more disturbing past; that is this book. Plus more.
WARNING (spoilers ahead): if you are sensitive to the topic of miscarriage and/or abortion, you probably want to skip this book.  4/5             

3.  Hades by Candice Fox -  I read this book for the Aussie Author Challenge and review it here.

4.  Breakdown by Jonathan Kellerman (Alex Delaware #31) - Yes, this is a book that is a part of a series, but I have no problem recommending it even if you've never read any previous book by this author.  The relationship between Dr. Alex Delaware, practicing psychologist, and his best buddy Lt. Milo Sturgis, homicide detective, always entertains me enough for a good solid 4 star read. 

5.  The Cartel by Don Winslow - The sequel to The Power of the Dog - Think The Godfather; instead of The Mafia, it focuses on Mexican drug cartels.  No, not The Godfather.  That isn't violent or horrific enough.  Think The Sopranos multiplied by 1000.  And, to think, I've been to every border town that is featured: Juarez, Matamoros, Nuevo Laredo, and Tijuana.  I think that made the book all the more intriguing.  And frightening.  Both of these books would make epic movies.  I looked at the author's website, and guess what, they are in "pre-production" for movies.  Excellent! 4.5/5

6.  The Royal We by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan - After a string of books filled with senseless murders, it was time to switch things up.  Plus, it was time to Read My Books (for the challenge Dani & I are hosting).  I guess this is chick lit, right?  Well, this isn't the normal type of book that I'd pick up to read, but after seeing many-a-blogger sing its praises, I was intrigued.  Thanks to Kristen (blogger buddies & unexpected gifts are awesome!) for ensuring I had my very own copy, this was sitting on my bookshelf waiting for me.  It is delightful, and I'm happy that I stepped out of the box and read this little gem of a book.  Is this a perfect book?  No, but I gave it a five-star rating anyways for the enjoyment factor.  5/5

7.  Dumplin' by Julie Murphy - A celebration of individuality, self-acceptance, growth, friendship, relationships, and love...sprinkle in some Dolly Parton...all set in small town Texas.  For me, what's not to love?  Finally, I can catch up on my Armchair Librarians podcast. 

Book Challenge Reminders:

Read My Books Challenge - happening now!; link-up the 14th of July

Book Challenge by Erin 5.0 - reading begins the 1st of July

Currently Reading: Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs (for #SCSBC16 & #readmybooks)

Read My Books: challenge starts tomorrow!

In April, I announced that Dani from Faster and Forever  & I are teaming up for a new book challenge:  Read My Books Challenge with Dani and Erin.  The challenge starts TOMORROW!  Are you ready??  Let's do this...

source

Once again, here's some things to know to help with any confusion or questions you may have:

• Challenge is June 1st, 2016 - June 30, 2016
• Link-up to report how you did in the challenge is the second Thursday of July the 14th
• Your link-up post can be anything related to the challenge (i.e. the books you read, why you "collect" so many books that go unread, a book that surprised you once you read it for the challenge, where you get all those books, ebooks, audio books that end up stacking up and neglected, show us pictures of your bookshelves, etc.) 
• The objective is to finally read some of those books that you own that have been feeling neglected
• ONLY read books (audio books, ebooks included) that you currently own already (or have downloaded already; yes, NetGalley can be included)
• You are not required to read ALL the books you own
• I repeat (because this has been the biggest concern/confusion) that you are not required to read ALL the books you currently own
• Just whatever you read in the month of June should be ones that you already have
• No library books (although I love myself some library), no buying new books, no downloading or borrowing new books
• Two Amazon gift cards will be given to randomly selected lucky winners
• A raffle for the Amazon $ will be posted in the link-up
• This isn't a competition for how many books you read; it's just encouragement to read your books; if you have ONE book on your shelf that has been begging to be read, read that book, and you are a challenge participant!
• Any other questions, just ask!
  
  

Who's with us??

I show you my books; you show me yours... vol.4

I'm in Texas now, probably stuffing my face with as much TexMex as possible.  But, I can't miss this link-up.  It's my favorite link-up ever because, well, you know, book nerds unite!  Because I'm vacationing and family-ing, I may not read all the links immediately. I WILL read them because I love seeing the input from other blogging readers. I encourage you to do the same. 

 

Now, here's what I've read since our last link-up...

The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta - I loved this book. So much love. I loved these characters (many are the same from Marchetta's book Saving Francesca that I reviewed here).  The author captures the spirit of the Sydney suburb and culture so well, all the while getting the reader to become emotionally invested in the characters.  I wanted to know what happened but didn't want it to end. Marchetta needs to write more! 5/5

 

You by Caroline Kepnes - Jana read this, and we share some similar tastes in books, so I thought I'd definitely read this one.  The book is intense and provocative, most of the characters are severely flawed and damaged, and many scenes gave me the heebie jeebies.  The downside to the book is I found myself with about 100 pages left to read thinking, "okay, I got it...now, let's just get it over with already".  Wanting a book to end isn't a good thing.  I don't know why I reached that point.  I still enjoyed the intensity and anticipation involved, but I was ready for it to be finished.  I still recommend it if you like reading about creepy, psychotic stalkers.  3.5/5

Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum - I read this for The Official 2015 TBR Pile Challenge - The book bounces back and forth between a German woman living in Germany during WWII, and her adult daughter, professor of German Studies who lives in America.  I had high expectations for this book, and I was disappointed.  The daughter's character was flat to me.  There was one storyline that was completely unnecessary and lessened the enjoyment; it didn't work with the character development at all.  This book examines atrocities of WWII and looks at the desperation of women living in German towns. The things the maternal character experienced and lived through were extremely painful and scarred the rest of her life. I'd prefer if the book focused completely on her and less on her daughter in the aftermath. There are better books out there about this time period.  2.5/5 

The Universe Versus Alex Woods by Gavin Extence - In recent years, I've read a few books with awkward narrators that have proven to be endearing and enjoyable. It took me a little longer to get into this one, but it definitely won me over.  Highly intelligent, socially awkward Alex Woods in not your average teenager.  He has no father or grandfather figure in his life and no one that he considers a friend (except his neurologist that he meets after being diagnosed epileptic, an astrophysicist that he meets after being hit by a meteor, and a librarian or two). He develops such a relationship and friendship with a neighbour. The story takes the reader on a journey examining issues such as morality, mortality, loyalty, and how far would you go for something you believe in. 4.5/5

Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King - I don't read much Stephen King because I'm not really into fantasy/paranormal. This isn't that. A goodreads reader's choice winner for 2014, this is a straight up thriller with a retired detective, an unusual group of helpers, and a disturbed antagonist. Seriously. This bad guy is a total whack job.  Some of his thoughts and actions are so disturbing, they are really uncomfortable to read.  But, a demented, disturbed bad guy makes for a good thriller/mystery.  There were some far-fetched moments, but I was willing to go there for the sake of the story.  I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  Apparently, it's the first of a trilogy.  I look forward to reading the next two books. 4.5/5

Paper Chains by Nicola Moriarty - I don't even know how I feel about this book. At times, I rolled my eyes. Other times, I wanted to slap some sense into these women, the both of 'em.  Then, my heartached and my heart swelled.  Stories of friendship, family, faith in oneself and faith in others, parental love, spousal love, and new love...this book has all of that and more. I was endeared, at times; and I was annoyed other times. I got all kinds of feels. 

The Book of Joe by Jonathan Tropper - This author has 5 or 6 books. I've read two. I will read them all. His characters are dysfunctional and flawed. So much so that it is difficult to decide if you really, really like them or are absolutely annoyed by them.  As the book states: "I find that most people worth knowing are fucked up in some way or another.”  I couldn't agree more, and I enjoy Tropper's characters and writing style immensely. 4.5/5

Let me know what you've read lately. Any of these?

List #26 - Semi-Charmed Kind of Life Summer Book Challenge

Yeah, yeah, yeah...surprise, surprise...another book challenge.  Sorry not sorry if you get bored with my book posts, but they're going to happen.  The first book challenge that I ever participated in was hosted by Megan, and I imagine I'll be forever a participant.  If you're new here and/or unfamiliar with Megan's challenges, here's a link with the details:

Semi-Charmed Kind of Life Summer Book Challenge 2015 - SCSBC15

And here's my list or go check it out on goodreads:

5 points: Freebie! Read any book that fits the general rules. -
Gathering Prey by John Sandford

READ May 17, 2015

10 points: Read a book you have never heard of before. (Just go to a shelf and pick a book based on the cover, the title, whatever you want!)

Paper Chains by Nicola Moriarty - I went to my favorite second hand bookstore, wandered around looking at titles of books, covers, and reading the synopsis on the back.  I did not want to cross reference to good reads because I thought that would be cheating ;)  I selected this book, only to discover it IS on my good reads "to read" list (along with 462 other books, so I didn't remember it).
READ May 5, 2015

10 points: Read a book that has been on your TBR list for at least two years. (If you've had a Goodreads account for 2+ years, this will be easy to figure out. If you don’t, do your best to pick a book you’re pretty sure you’ve been wanting to read for years.)

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys  

READ June 9, 2015

10 points: Read a book that won a Goodreads “Best Book” award in 2014.

We Were Liars by E. Lockhart  
READ June 21, 2015

15 points: Read a book by an author who is completely new to you. 

Missing by Sam Hawken

READ May 30, 2015
 
15 points: Read a book by an author you have read before. (No re-reads for this one.)

The Book of Joe by Jonathan Tropper  

READ May 12, 2015

15 points: Read a book with "light" or "dark" in the title. (Or "lightness" or "darkness.")

Darkside by Belinda Bauer  
READ June 19, 2015

20 points: Read a book with the name of a city, state or country in the title.

 Last Night at the Viper Room: River Phoenix and the Hollywood He Left Behind by Gavin Edwards
READ June 4, 2015

20 points: Read a book with an animal on the cover.

Summertime by Vaness Lafaye (also released as Under a Dark Summer Sky)
READ July 17, 2015

25 points: Read a book that is part of a series with at least four books.

Killer by Jonathan Kellerman 
READ May 25, 2015

25 points: Read a book that is longer than 500 pages long. — Submitted by winter finisher Kristen from See You in a Porridge. - 

Middlesex by Jefferey Eugenides (my copy was 566 pages)
READ August 6, 2015

30 points: Read a book with an alliterative title. (All words in the title must begin with the same letter; no exceptions for articles or prepositions. Examples: Gone Girl or Nicholas Nickleby. Yes, this is tough, which is why it's worth the most points!) - 

Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt
READ June 15, 2015

I read the categories and went to my bookshelf (and floor).  I had eight books that fit the challenge sitting there waiting to be read.  All eight were purchases from second hand bookstores that I'd picked up over the last couple of years.  Finally, I'll get around to reading them! 

Have you read any of these books?  Do you participate in book challenges?

List #25 - I'll show you my books, you show me yours... vol.3

ISteph and Jana host a monthly link-up - a place for bloggers & readers to share what books they've read the previous month.  I blog.  I read.  I've talked about the multiple book challenges I'm tackling.  So, this link-up is a great way to share my thoughts on books I've read, keep track of my book challenges, and find (even more!) books to read that are shared by others.

I know, I know.  I already posted about a book today.  That was a requirement for challenges that I'm participating in.  Sorry not sorry for the repetition.  I've read a lot this month.  This may be some kind of record for me.  I probably deserve a treat for my efforts.

 1.  Stolen by Lucy Christopher - I read this for the Aussie Author Book Challenge, and you can read my review here.  Go on.  Read it.  Because this book was gooood.

 

 2.  The Martian by Andy Weir -  Story - wonderful. Characters - fantastic. But....... I'm not science-y enough for this. I skimmed A LOT. The math talk and science talk was WAY over my head and out of my zone of interest. When talks of oxygenators, RTGs, EVAs, how much space needed for farming, how many solar panels needed for energy, etc...it was too much for me. All VERY important things to maintain life, but things I'm happy we have scientists to study and mathematicians to calculate. Astronauts are smarrrrrrt. The characters are the winners for me. If it weren't for the characters, I would have quit the book.  I will watch the movie because I really like the casting.

 3.  The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom - When I finished this book, I was almost at a loss for words. I experienced a full range of emotions from disgust to joy. The most important lesson to me to take from this story is what traits determine a family...loyalty, protection, support, and love...regardless of birthright, heritage, or race.  A book filled with interesting characters that will make you feel all kinds of "stuff".  

4.  The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith - This was my first J.K. Rowling book (because she's who wrote it).  Don't try to draw me into your Harry Potter world.  I'm glad you're a fan.  I'm not interested.  Anyhoo.  It took me a little while to get pulled into this. I felt the skeleton was there, but the meat and muscle wasn't. I'm glad I persisted because I grew fond on the lead detective; he's the kind of damaged goods character that I enjoy.  I was happy with how most pieces of the story came together.  There was one big question I had that wasn't answered very well, but I can't really discuss that without giving away important details. So, forget I said anything.  This book did not convince me that J.K. Rowling is the world's greatest writer, but I plan on reading the new book in this series, so I thought it was good enough for that. 

 5.  All That I Am by Anna Funder - I read this for the Aussie Author Challenge.  I thought this was a superb historical fiction read, so if you're into that sort of thing, read my review.

6.  Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell - Again, Rainbow Rowell has written characters who are almost impossible not to fall in love with. Reagan - although a supporting role, was my favorite character by far. I loved her spirit.  The only criticism I have is I never "got" Harry Potter, so I had to be really creative in imagining the love and fandom of the world of Simon and Baz. If you were into HP, then you'd like this book even more than I did. A joy to read.

The next three books that I read (7,8,9) were all for the Aussie Author Challenge - you can read what I thought of all three of them in this review.  Go read now; I'll still be waiting here for you to return.

 7.  Strange Places by Will Elliott 

8.  Graffiti Moon by Cath Crowley

 9.  Frantic by Katherine Howell

  10.  Private L.A. by James Patterson and Mark Sullivan - I am one of the reasons James Patterson is a gazillionaire.  I read almost all of his books.  I like Jack Morgan - the lead character of the Private series.  He is featured a lot in some of these books, and a little in others.  I find the ones that he is in a lot (Private #1 Suspect), I like more than the ones he's not (Private India, Private Games).  As with almost all James Patterson books, it is quick, easy to read, with several storylines happening at once that seem to be wrapped up by the end.  It feels like watching a movie rather than reading a book.  You know how Law & Order SVU will take a real life story straight from the headlines and tweak it for fiction?  This story does that featuring a Brad & Angelina-type power couple being kidnapped with their three adoptive children.  This one was good, but not great.

 11.  Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta - This is a fantastic book about transformation, growth, family, friends, mental illness, and finding your own voice. I found myself caring about the characters...all of them...and interested in their lives and wanting the best for them.  This was written in 2003, so keeping that in mind, it was fun to see that the kids didn't seem to all have mobile phones yet, and one of the characters is always listening to his "discman".  Highly recommend it...I'd give it an A-

I enjoyed it so much, I immediately followed up by reading The Piper's Son, where the author takes a look at the same social group five years later through another's eyes.  I'm enjoying that one even more.  So, look for that next link-up :)

Book lovers - have you read any of these?  What did you think?  Will you read any of them?

Sunday's Seven Snapshots #13

Big props to my mom for this care package of Red Velvet Oreos!

Getting out of bed in the mornings is especially difficult when kitties want to snuggle. 

Got my hair beautified this week

Went to a bookstore and limited myself to only three (one of which *may* be a part of a care package for another blogger; wonder if she'll notice)

Went to visit a friend in Sydney's Northern Beaches; we hiked to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse and got rained on.

 

Another magnificent view in the Northern Beaches; view from Long Reef before the rain

Sunday stroll with the sweet sisters