Leslie's going for 75 by June 16th, 2009

Converses75 Books Challenge for 2008

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Leslie's going for 75 by June 16th, 2009

Aquest tema està marcat com "inactiu": L'últim missatge és de fa més de 90 dies. Podeu revifar-lo enviant una resposta.

1LibraryOMidas
ag. 2, 2008, 7:19 pm

I have just noticed after almost two months that my original post said 2008 ... I would have to be a very fast reader to do 75 books in one day ... so I thought I would begin the thread again, accurate this time.

2LibraryOMidas
Editat: ag. 2, 2008, 7:24 pm

I originally posted this on the 50 book challenge, but decided I would put it here as well. Maybe if I don't reach the 75 I will hopefully at least get the fifty there.

1. Web of Evil by J.A. Jance

When her husband misses his court date the day they are supposed to get divorced and his supposed wife-to-be files a missing persons report the following day, Ali Reynolds is automatically the prime suspect, especially when they find that his will is still the same as the day they last saw each other. Now, her husband's fiance has come to her for help with the funeral arrangements and the police are asking her questions every other day. Ali must find out the truth before it's too late for her innocence. A twisted plot of multiple murders, you never know who's going to leave the story when you turn the page. I really enjoyed the book and found that I had a hard time putting it down once I started it. A must read for crime fiction fans everywhere. The first book I have read by J.A. Jance and I will definitely be adding the rest of her collection to my wishlist.

2. Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich

I have read all the novels in the Plum series, and while I enjoyed this particular book, I feel that her writing is getting very predictable. It's good for a few laughs, but it seems that the stories are all becoming a little bit the same just change villain's names and ta-da! new story.

3. At Risk by Patricia Cornwell

I have never read a Patricia Cornwell novel before and unfortunate for me this was my first. I have heard that she is a good writer, this novel shows none of that. I was confused most of the read, wondering how she fit everything in there. I was baffled as to why she would use the present tense through the whole book, it definitely didn't flow well for me. If I went on first impressions I would not read another title of hers. I, however, have an unnatural need to read the whole series when I start so I guess I'll be reading at least one more. Maybe I'll get lucky and she'll stop after the sequel.

4. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

The story of Susie is both heartwrenching and heartwarming at the same time. Raped and killed at foureen, Susie spends the next several years in a place she terms the InBetween, a part of Heaven, where she watches the lives of all those she loves and cares about. She also watches the man who was responsible for her death. This is truly a story of tragedy, death, and family destruction, but also of love, hope, and faith. I loved every page and I enjoyed every minute spent reading it.

3LibraryOMidas
Editat: ag. 2, 2008, 7:24 pm

5. The Brightest Light by Colleen O'Shaughnessy McKenna

Sixteen-year-old Kitty Lee is embarking on her summer vacation, and it's going to be one to remember. Kitty starts the summer working for the local Dairy Queen, but soon after a handsome new stranger comes to town, she leaves the job to become a full-time babysitter to his three children. Working at the Curtis's house opens up things in Kitty's world she's never thought about before, like the need of a wife and mother in the Curtis residence. This was an enjoyable young adult book and I would read more by the talented Ms. McKenna in the future.

6. Find a Stranger, Say Goodbye by Lois Lowry

Natalie Armstrong was raised in a happy home, full of love, and everything else she could have wanted. But at seventeen that wasn't enough. Natalie wanted to know where she really came from, why she had light eyes and dark hair, who her real family was. So, the summer before she leaves for college she embarks on a journey that will ultimately show her the true meaning of family. As an adopted child, I understand the questions that were going through the mind of this young woman. I think that Lois Lowry wrote a very touching story about the meaning of family.

7. Sharing Susan by Eve Bunting

When Susan hears the whispers of her parents, and senses the tension in the house, she fears that they are going to get a divorce. Never in her wildest dreams does she think they are going to tell her that she was switched at birth and her biological parents want her back. Unlike some great novels, I don't feel that this book stood the test of time, being older I didn't find that I enjoyed it that much. To me, it seemed much to simple of a read and the vocabulary was very easy. This wasn't one of my favorites, but I think it would be good for someone younger.

8. Vinegar Hill by A. Manette Ansay

When Ellie's husband loses his job and the family runs out of savings they are forced to move in with her in-laws. James's parents are downright awful to Ellie and her children, and James is not much better himself, reverting back to a helpless child in the presence of his mother. I didn't like any of the character's in the book but I did enjoy it. Reading this novel made me thankful for the husband I have and the life we live.

4LibraryOMidas
Editat: ag. 2, 2008, 7:25 pm

9. The Christening Day Murder by Lee Harris

Thirty years ago Christene Bennett's best friend Maggie was the last person to be baptized in their small hometown that was destined to be flooded later in the same day. Today, there has been awful drought and the town has resurfaced, Maggie's daughter is going to be baptized in the same place. While Christine is exploring the church she hears an intruder, follows, and stumbles upon a corpse from a thirty year old murder. Now she is spending all of her spare time trying to solve the crime, with no help from publicity hungry sherriff and mayor, while the townspeople are all keeping secrets that could lead to even more scandal. This was not a very lengthy novel but I enjoyed it all the same. It made a very good vacation read.

10. The Priestly Sins by Andrew M. Greeley

This is the first book I've read by Greeley and after reading I am very anxious to read the rest of his work. The overall subject matter of the book was disturbing to read about, but I think that the message we get from it in the end is an important one. Father Hoffman, a young and new priest in the Catholic church, walks in on the sexual abuse of a child committed by another member of the church. The book is the account of his fight for what's right. There is an underlying message that maybe the priest who committed the actual crime is not the worst sinner of all, rather it's those that Father Hoffman informed, and instead of taking appropriate action they just hid the problem and defended the guilty members of the clergy.

11. A Child Called "It" by Dave Pelzer

While reading this book I had a hard time not throwing it against a wall or out of a window. All of this reaction, not because I didn't like it, but because, I was absolutely appalled by what this man's mother did to him as a child. I read this as someone who suffered abuse when younger, thinking that I would be able to relate. I am now ever so much more grateful that my abuser was stopped when I was still very young. This was one of the most heartwrenching and troublesome books I have ever read, but I would recommend it to everyone. I am looking forward to reading the other books that Pelzer has written, I am anxious to see the journey that turned him into the man he is today.

12. The Lost Boy by David Pelzer

I read this immediately after A Child Called "It" and found it almost as sad. I am so glad that David Pelzer shows the positive side of the foster care system and lets everyone know just how important that institution is. Even after David escaped the physical abuse his mother exacts on him in the first book, he has to undergo continuing mental abuse from her. She goes so far as to try and get him institutionalized for the rest of his life in an insane asylum. With everything she does to this poor child I got so mad that she wasn't somehow punished that I wanted to scream. Overall I think this is by far the best set of books that I have ever read. The series David Pelzer wrote is truly life altering for, what I guess is, very many people.

13. A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It isn't like what I would typically read, but it was recommended to me so I thought I would give it a go. After I started I just couldn't stop. He makes many political statements and offends probably everyone just about somewhere, but still I was interested to know more about the trail, and I was laughing loudly in more than one instance. I would definitely recommend this book and I might even read it again in the future.

14. The Secret of Stonehouse by Lynn Hall

This was a nice, easy, YA book. I enjoyed it for a sunny afternoon, reading outside on the swing. When I have children I'm sure that they will really enjoy the story of Heather, her horse, and her search for what keeps pulling her to the now vacant Stonehouse.

5LibraryOMidas
ag. 3, 2008, 11:14 pm

15. Breakwater by Carla Neggers

When Quinn Harlowe's friend is found dead from a suspicious accident, Quinn becomes more than curious about the new high-security compound that has popped up next door. Quinn, however, is not the only one curious, so is undercover agent Huck McCabe. Quinn's meddling is getting Huck in hot water with the boss's of the compound, so he starts to follow her and gets more than he bargained for at the end of his mission.

This was a fast and easy read. I enjoyed it enough the first time, but would probably never reread it. I would however, like to read more by Carla Neggers.

6drneutron
ag. 4, 2008, 10:11 am

Nice list! I agree with you on Evanovich. It's probably time to retire the series, although I did enjoy 14 more than 11-13.

7Whisper1
ag. 4, 2008, 10:30 am

Hi
Thanks for the recommendation regarding A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson. I've added this to be to be read list.

8LibraryOMidas
ag. 6, 2008, 9:16 pm

#6 - Thank you very much. I do hope if there is a fifteen it is GREAT. She needs it or I will swear off all Evanovich to come.

#7 - I'm glad that my ramblings could help you. I often feel that I'm really not doing that great a job at reviewing the books I read, but so long as it reminds me that I've read it, it serves its purpose.

OK, back to the task at hand, before I forget.

16. Protected Hearts by Bonnie K. Winn

I'm not really much for romance most of the time, but I found this story very refreshing. Bonnie K. Winn isn't a literary genius, in my opinion, but her story was a simple read of overcoming lifes pains to be happier. This book is part of the Love Inspired series and has an ongoing theme of faith. I see more Love Inspired books in my near future.

9Severn
Editat: ag. 7, 2008, 12:39 am

I share your opinion about The Lovely Bones and am interested about how you didn't like the characters in Vinegar Hill - when it comes to the top of the to-read pile, I'll try to remember to get back to you to compare notes!

It seems we're on a par with each other in terms of time frame, and books read. :)

eta - last line

10LibraryOMidas
ag. 12, 2008, 5:48 pm

17. Unfinished Business by Nora Roberts

Unfinished Business is the first of three stories in this Nora Roberts omnibus that I am currently reading.As I have already said, I'm not much of a romance reader, but it was sitting there asking to be read, so I picked it up. I enjoyed the story, not enough to reread, but it was a nice light afternoon sit-down. For me personally, I liked the push and pull relationship of the main character, Vanessa Sexton, and her book beau, Brady Tucker.

11LibraryOMidas
ag. 19, 2008, 3:38 pm

18. Fatal Flaw by William Lashner

Hailey Prouix was loved by many, too many. Guy Forrest was her fiance, and she was the life of his life. He left his wife, children, and successful career to be with her. So what happened that made him the prime suspect in her murder. Victor Carl was her lover, they meant in secret and let no one know of their affair. Guy and Victor go all the way back to law school. On the night of Hailey's death Guy called Victor and asked for his help. When Victor arrived at the home of Guy and Hailey he found Guy sitting naked on the front stoop with the murder weapon in his hands. Victor then promised Guy that he would help him, what he didn't say was that the help would be to make him pay for killing the woman they both loved. Victor quickly makes decisions that will help aid in the speedy conviction of Guy.

Unfortunately for the both of them, not long after it seems that Victor has succeeded in sealing Guy's fate, small details start to not add up just right. Somewhere, Hailey has more lovers and Victor must travel through time and space to uncover the secret life of the the woman he loved but never quite knew.

12LibraryOMidas
ag. 19, 2008, 3:50 pm

19. When Zachary Beaver Came to Town by Kimberly Willis Holt

600 pound Zachary Beaver came to town for the carnival as the only member in the freak show. But, when the carnival packed up and left, Zachery stayed on in his small trailer.
Tobias and Cal are best friends in Antler, Texas and can't seem to stay away from the trailer now parked across the street from the Bowl-A-Rama. They leave bags of food by the stoop and ward off local bullies. Eventually the two young men find themselves inside getting to know Zachary. The three of them form a friendship and all help each other in different ways. This was a truly inspiring story for young readers, letting them know that different doesn't always mean wrong or bad, and that friendship can survive anything.

13Whisper1
ag. 19, 2008, 5:01 pm

I like your description of When Zachary Beaver Came to Town. I've added it to my list. Thanks.

14alcottacre
ag. 22, 2008, 2:05 am

Me, too! I enjoy exploring young adult books these days as well as those written for adults, so I like to see the reviews of adult readers who are reading young adult books as well of those of the younger readers.

15LibraryOMidas
Editat: ag. 30, 2008, 10:00 pm

20. Dance With Me by Luanne Rice

Jane Porter left home when she became a young woman. She couldn't stay there and be constantly reminded of the daughter that she had to give up for adoption. Now fifteen years later, Jane's mother is ill and she must come home to help take care of her. While she is in town, she can't resist visiting the family that adopted her baby daughter, Chloe. While trying to get closer to the child that she has never stopped loving, she falls for Chloe's uncle, Dylan Chadwick. This was a very cute story and didn't take long at all to read. I will probably read more of Luanne Rice in the future.

20 / 75 books. 27% done!

16Whisper1
ag. 30, 2008, 11:24 pm

Hi.
I'm currently reading Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech. This is a Newberry award winning book and I'm enjoying it more than I anticipated.

17Whisper1
set. 3, 2008, 8:41 am

Hi and thanks for your description of When Zachary Beaver Came to Town Becuase of your post, I read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.

18LibraryOMidas
set. 3, 2008, 10:39 pm

I'm glad that my attempt at reviews could help you. It's nice to know that they benefit someone other than me.

21.If life is a bowl of cherries- what am I doing in the pits? by Erma Bombeck

My mother recommended this book to me and I'm so glad that I listened to her. I have never laughed harder while reading in my life. I'm sure to some passersby I looked absolutely ridiculous. Erma Bombeck is not afraid to tell life like it is when your a housewife who is responsible for everyone. Her wit and humor are unmatched in my opinion. I just loved it.

22.Aunt Erma's Cope Book by Erma Bombeck

I read this right after finishing the above. While I didn't think it was quite as funny, I still enjoyed it immensely and hope to read the rest of her books in the future. In this particular rant, she tells about all the self-help books she has read in the past year, and just exactly what they did or didn't do to help her. I think I have another author to add to my favorites. Thank you mom for pointing out the lovely, Mrs. Bombeck.

19dihiba
set. 4, 2008, 8:23 am

Years ago, I read all of Bombeck's books and always had a good laugh. Very therapeutic.

20LibraryOMidas
Editat: set. 15, 2008, 5:23 pm

23. The Sitting Swing by Irene Watson

Irene Watson starts her memoir in her room at the recovery center that changed the rest of her life. From there, she travels back in time and tells us of the problems she faced as a child with an abusive, controlling parent. Irene constantly lived in the shadow of an older brother that she didn't know and no matter what she did in life, it was never up to the standards of how her brother "would have" done it. As Irene grows older she also grows farther from the mother that she so desperately wanted to please her entire life. When she marries, she sees the same situation she had with her mother surfacing with her husband. Unsure if she wants to continue in a relationship that reflects so much of what she couldn't stand when younger, she goes to Avalon, the recovery center recommended by her friends, to see if she can self reflect and find some of the answers to questions she's been asking herself. At first skeptical, Irene quickly starts to open up to the possibility of improvement and amazingly learns much about herself that helps to bring her to the decisions she's made.
I'm glad that she chose to share this story with me as a reader and I hope that others will enjoy her as much as I did. At times heartwrenching, this ended up truly to be one woman's story of hope and strength.

21LibraryOMidas
set. 15, 2008, 5:23 pm

24. Last Kiss by Luanne Rice

With the one year anniversary of Charlie Rosslare's death and no hint of an answer as to what happened from the police, his girlfriend, Nell, hires Gavin Dawson to find out what happened on the last night of Charlie's life. Gavin wants to get answers to more than just what happened to Charlie though, he also wants to know what happened between him and Charlie's mom, Sheridan, and if what they had all those years ago can be had again now. As Gavin digs to find the truth he begins to uncover secrets that no one wants to think about or believe. Will he be able to tell Nell what she longs to hear? Will he ever be more to Sheridan than just a memory from her own childhood?

I very much enjoyed this book and am beginning to think that Luanne Rice may be making my favorite authors books very soon. I feel I will be reading all of her books in the future.

22LibraryOMidas
set. 19, 2008, 11:12 pm

Iraq Through A Bullet Hole by Issam M. Jameel

I got this book by accident through the ER program, an extra copy sent by the publisher with the book I actually requested. My husband was deployed to Iraq at the same time in which the author is describing. While this wasn't the greatest book I've ever read, it was good and it was informative. Through Issam Jameel's journal like entries, I feel like I know a little more about what is going on in a part of the world that I should have been more informed of. I'm glad this mistake was made in my favor and am happy that I got a chance to read Issam's experience.

23blackdogbooks
set. 20, 2008, 1:10 pm

Just got my copy but haven't started it yet. Looking forward to it a little more now from your comments.

24LibraryOMidas
set. 24, 2008, 1:17 am

26. Say Goodbye by Lisa Gardner

I think that Lisa Gardner may be one of my favorite authors of all time. I have read only two of her novels but they were both great. From the very first page the action is nonstop. Once I picked the book up, I couldn't put it down. Whatever the cliche for a great read, insert here, and that's what I have to say.

When I began reading this novel, I was unaware that it was part of a series. As a matter of fact, not until the mention of Kimberly's father, Quincy, did I realize that it wasn't a stand alone novel. It was definitely good enough to be, the story line was incredible, characters more real than I could ever imagine, and scenes that left me feeling vulnerable. Reading this book, made me scared, really! Not often can a story invoke such strong feelings of fear, but knowing that humans can have a side like that of Dinchara, was enough to give me goosebumps.

I would not only recommend this book, but I would say that it is a must read for suspense/thriller fans everywhere, but, beware that there are places that are difficult to get through due to the graphic violence described.

25Whisper1
set. 24, 2008, 2:48 pm

ok Molly...I've added Say Goodbye to the huge tbr pile

26LibraryOMidas
set. 24, 2008, 10:54 pm

Well, after that rant of mine, I sure hope you like it as much as I did.

27alcottacre
set. 24, 2008, 11:36 pm

#24 molly4407: Lisa Gardner is a favorite of mine, too. If you are interested in reading the series and don't have it already, here is the order: The Perfect Husband, The Third Victim (a terrific book), The Next Accident, The Killing Hour, Gone and Say Goodbye.

28LibraryOMidas
set. 24, 2008, 11:46 pm

Thanks Stasia for the order. I had previously The Third Victim and loved it. I will have to get around to buying the rest and reading them.

29LibraryOMidas
oct. 7, 2008, 9:23 pm

27. Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand

I don't read a lot of nonfiction, but I was very pleasantly surprised with this book. Seabiscuit is an amazing tale of history and it still reads like a great novel. I know the term "couldn't put it down" is cliche, but I honestly couldn't think of a better way to describe my experience while reading this book. Seabiscuit and Red Pollard are perhaps two of the most astounding athletes I have ever heard of, surpassing many of today's sports superstars with their talent, skill, and heart.

30LibraryOMidas
oct. 10, 2008, 11:37 am

28. The Second Time Around by Mary Higgins Clark

Nick Spencer's search for a cancer vaccine has cost tons of people thousands of dollars. When Nick's plane crashes, and the vaccine shows signs of not working, his stockholders begin to question if it was really an accident or if Nick is in another country living it up. Media reporter, Carley DeCarlo, takes on the job of finding out what really happened for a cover story at her new job. The things Carley learns in her investigation into who Nick really is are a shock to her and others.

I guess that the book was okay for a one time read. I thought that it was slightly predictable and I probably wouldn't read it again. But I have definitely read worse.

31alcottacre
oct. 11, 2008, 7:15 am

#29 molly: Looks like I am finally going to have to give in and read Seabiscuit. I have been meaning to get to it forever, well, you know how that goes. Thanks for the review and the reminder, Leslie.

32LibraryOMidas
oct. 18, 2008, 12:19 am

29. Blood on the Leaves by Jeff Stetson

What is the difference between justice and revenge? That question is deeply explored in this great novel written by Stetson. Between 30 and 40 years ago tons of horrific crimes were being committed against blacks of southern towns. The white men who committed many of these crimes not only got away with what they did, but in many instances bragged about it. Justice for these victims was never received, until now. All these years later, Professor Martin Matheson is teaching his classes about each individual case that a white man was knowingly guilty of committing the crime and not made to pay any kind of punishment for his deeds. Teaching a class is no crime until one by one all the men on Matheson's list start showing up killed in a way similar to what they inflicted on their victims decades ago. Now with the death of Earvin Cooper, there is evidence to suggest that Matheson may be the killer. Can prosecutor James Reynolds convict him of a crime that many black people think was well deserved, or will defense attorney Todd Miller get him off?

This is a very well written book and I will keep it for a reread on a rainy day in the future. I feel like now that I have read it I must rush out to add the rest of Stetson's works to my library. I can not wait to get another one and start reading it.

33alcottacre
oct. 18, 2008, 2:30 am

#32 molly4407: Sounds like another good one. On to Continent TBR it goes.

34Prop2gether
oct. 20, 2008, 6:25 pm

Seabiscuit was a delight, and I had not read a "horse" story since the salad days of Marguerite Henry years ago. I enjoyed the book, and recommend it to you as well.

35Whisper1
oct. 21, 2008, 8:01 pm

Hi Molly
like alcottacre, I've added Blood on the Leaves to be mountain of tbr books. I like your description of this one!

36LibraryOMidas
oct. 22, 2008, 10:24 pm

30. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

I don't know how I never read this growing up, but now that I have I am glad I made the time for it. A truly unforgettable tale told by the young Scout Finch that will have you turning the pages until the very end without ever wanting to put it down.

37alcottacre
oct. 23, 2008, 1:47 am

#36: I read it for the first time as well this year and agree with your assessment. I have no idea how I did not read it when I was younger, but I am glad I finally did.

38LibraryOMidas
oct. 24, 2008, 11:38 pm

31. Slow Waltz In Cedar Bend by Robert James Waller

This was a love story written from a man's point of view, which is something I haven't had the privilege of reading before. I absolutely adored the relationship between the lead characters, Michael and Jellie. It was a quick read but very enjoyable none the less.

39blackdogbooks
oct. 26, 2008, 4:14 pm

Thanks for your thoughts on the Waller book. My reaction to The Bridges of Madison County was so extreme, I have never read this one. In fact, the passage that was the most emotional for me in Bridges was the one not played out in the film adaptation, the one where the man is visited again, years later, clearly still in love with the woman. I may have to try it out now.

40LibraryOMidas
oct. 26, 2008, 11:16 pm

32. Rocky Road To Romance by Janet Evanovich

An earlier Evanovich than the Stephanie Plum series, this wasn't one of my favorites. This book was definite fluff material. It was very easy to read and had absolutely no depth but there were a few spots that were good for a cheap laugh.

41ms.hjelliot
oct. 27, 2008, 5:10 am

Hey blackdogbooks, there is a sequel of sorts to The Bridges of Madison County. It's called A Thousand Country Roads. Waller wrote it because of the huge response he got from readers of Bridges. I haven't read it, but my mom absolutely adored it.

42blackdogbooks
oct. 27, 2008, 11:10 am

Thanks hjelliot. When you say sequel of sorts, what do you mean? Does it deal with the same characters in some way?

43ms.hjelliot
oct. 27, 2008, 6:06 pm

I say sequel of sorts because we know what happens...they never get together. But it does tell the story of the two characters in the following years after that meeting.

44blackdogbooks
oct. 27, 2008, 6:19 pm

Cool!!!! Thanks!!!

45Whisper1
oct. 27, 2008, 8:39 pm

Regarding the posts about The Bridges of Madison County, approximately five years ago, a friend who lives in Iowa took me to the house where the movie was filmed. We had great, good fun and sat in the bathtub holding an empty glass (too bad wine wasn't in it.)

The objects are still in the house and it had a distinct late 40-early 50's kind of feel to it.

And, Molly, I agree with you regarding regarding the recent Janet Evanovich books. I think she needs to move along. Perhaps she has milked the Stehanie Plum series for all it is worth. The most recent books were simply not as funny as the earlier ones.

46LibraryOMidas
nov. 5, 2008, 11:31 am

33. Faithless by Karin Slaughter

Fifth in the Grant County series, Faithless was the first book that I read, and it was a good stand alone without the other books. Estranged police husband and coroner wife work together to solve the horrible murder of a young pregnant girl. Their investigations take them to a soy farm that seems to be a facade for some type of religious cult. However, things aren't always exactly how they seem.

I am anxious to read the rest of the series after this book. Slaughter is a good author and I will be interested to see what she has in store.

34.Chill of Fear by Kay Hooper

My fist Kay Hooper novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and read it all in one sitting.

Diana Brisco has been heavily drugged her whole life to fix her "mental problems", when in fact she was never ill but psychic. Now she has to come to terms with the fact that she really isn't crazy and her ability can help FBI detective, Quentin Hayes, solve a 25 year old murder that has controlled his life. Is she strong enough to be the link that Quentin needs to put an end to his nightmares or is her past too hard to overcome?

47LibraryOMidas
nov. 6, 2008, 5:29 pm

35. On the Run by Iris Johansen

This was a very good book, read it in one session. Grace Archer has been hiding and protecting her daughter from the evils of her past for the last eight years. But, she's been found and she doesn't have long to save both herself and her little girl. One of the obstacles she must overcome is the feelings she houses against her ex lover, Jake Kilmer, because without his help she doesn't have much of a chance of getting away. Great, great read and I will be adding Iris Johansen to my favorite authors soon.

48alcottacre
nov. 7, 2008, 3:13 am

Boy, you hit some of my favorites all in a row, Leslie. I have read all of Slaughter's Grant County series, all of Hooper's books (except her early romances), and most, if not all, of Johansen's books (with the same exceptions as Hooper). Glad to see you are enjoying the books.

49Whisper1
nov. 9, 2008, 8:31 pm

I haven't read any of Iris Johnansen's books. I'll add On the Run to my tbr pile. Thanks for your wonderful review.

50alcottacre
nov. 10, 2008, 6:31 am

#49: Linda, I really recommend the Eve Duncan series by Johansen. It is about a forensic sculptor whose daughter was murdered.

51LibraryOMidas
nov. 13, 2008, 3:33 pm

36. Body of Lies by Iris Johansen

Another great book by a great author. I have read two Johansen works now, and I must say that I am definitely hooked. I was unaware until msg. 50 that this was a part of a series, and so now I find myself fighting with me on whether to run out and buy the rest of them. I bet I win no matter what. Anyhow, back to the task at hand, I found it hard to quit reading once I started. I absolutely adored Jane, she's a tough cookie for a little girl. I wish that I would have read the other books first so that I knew Eve and Joe's background better. Other than that, I was very happy with this book and enjoyed it immensely.

52alcottacre
nov. 14, 2008, 2:53 am

Leslie,

The order of books in the Eve Duncan series is: The Face of Deception, The Killing Game, Body of Lies, Blind Alley, Countdown, Stalemate, and Quicksand. I know you are not going to be able to resist the temptation to go out and purchase them all!

Stasia

53LibraryOMidas
nov. 18, 2008, 5:39 pm

Thank you for the list Stasia.

37. Safe Harbor by Luanne Rice

Even with a tragedy in which two children lose their parents, this is one of the most charming stories I have read in a long time. Luanne Rice, in my opinion, writes some of the greatest love stories today - and this one is no exception. Dana Underhill has spent her entire life travelling, living freely, being the artist she was born to be. Then, her sister and brother-in-law lose their lives in a horrible accident and it is up to her to take care of her two nieces. With the help of a boy she saved when she was young, Dana learns the true meaning of love, life, family, and most importantly home.

54alcottacre
nov. 20, 2008, 2:23 am

No problem regarding the list.

One of my favorites by Luanne Rice is Follow the Stars Home. Have you read that one?

55Whisper1
nov. 20, 2008, 9:10 pm

Hi Molly
I'm adding Safe Harbor to my list. I really like your description. Thanks!

56LibraryOMidas
nov. 25, 2008, 7:58 pm

38. Let Me Call You Sweetheart by Mary Higgins Clark

This had a good storyline, a fast pace, and an ending that I never would have guessed. An absolute enjoyment to read, Mary Higgins Clark is a master at what she does. I can't wait to read more of her work.

57LibraryOMidas
des. 8, 2008, 1:04 pm

My list took a small vacation. My husband returned home from Afghanistan on Nov. 21, so I cut back on the reading for a while. But, I think now that I am back on track.

39.Body Parts by Vicki Stiefel

Tally Whyte is a counselor to those who have lost loved ones to death. Recently however, it seems that she is the one who is surrounded by the death. She has become the target of Boston's newest serial killer, the Harvester. Will Tally be able to find out who is taking the lives and pieces of her friends, or will the Harvester get to Tally first?

This was a really good book and the ending was a surprise that I never saw coming. I gasped out loud when I found out the truth. Just a good read all around.

58alcottacre
des. 8, 2008, 3:30 pm

Hey, glad to see you got to visit with your hubby for a while! Let's face it, sometimes real life takes precedence over books. My stepson is getting to come home from Iraq for Christmas, but unfortunately, we are not going to get to see him. It's good to know that he is coming home, though, if even for a brief visit.

Book #39 sounds right up my alley. I will have to put it on Continent TBR.

I hope you are joining us for the 2009 group? Drneutron has already got the group set up - come on over!

59Whisper1
des. 9, 2008, 6:56 am

Hi Molly
I've added the book Body Parts to my list of books to read in 2009.

It is good news that your husband is home. I hope your holidays will be very joyful!

60blackdogbooks
des. 11, 2008, 8:32 pm

Pat you husband on the back for me and thank him for me for his service!! God bless you both!

61LibraryOMidas
des. 12, 2008, 4:50 pm

Thank you for your kind words and support, I have passed along all messages to the hubby.

Stasia, no amount of time home is too short for these guys and I'm so happy that he will be able to spend the holidays on peaceful ground. Our thoughts are with him when he returns and we thank him for his service.

40.The Killing Hour by Lisa Gardner

I haven't read this series in order, but rather I bounce back and forth when the books become available. But, WOW!!! I love the way that Lisa Gardner writes and out of the novels I have read she is three for three. I am pretty confident that no matter what I pick up by this woman I am going to love.

Two victims every time the Eco-Killer hits. One is a roadmap to lead to the second. If they can find her in time, number two might live. However, the clues keep getting harder and the victim list is adding up. Then he stops. Until five years later. The clues are the hardest yet and he's still getting away with it. Will Kimberly Quincey and her father be able to stop the Eco-Killer or will the devastating heat keep getting to everyone.

62alcottacre
des. 12, 2008, 4:52 pm

Sounds like another good one by Lisa Gardner. Looks like I am going to have to spend some time reading her books over the next year or so.

63LibraryOMidas
Editat: des. 18, 2008, 9:51 am

41.The Perfect Lie by Dinah Mccall

Jonah Slade has just put a Columbian drug lord behind bars, after spending years undercover. But this is not the end of Jonah's work with the padrone, it's just the beginning. Now, Calderone wants revenge and he goes after the son that Jonah doesn't know he has. Can Jonah save his son without costing his own life or will Calderone take them both out?
This was an ok read. Quick and easy. I didn't mind it but I probably will never reread it.

64LibraryOMidas
des. 23, 2008, 3:01 pm

42.The Face of Deception by Iris Johansen

Eve Duncan is the best forensic sculptor in the country. John Logan has a skull that needs a face, and the importance is so vast that he won't settle for anyone other than Eve to work on it. It doesn't take long before Eve realizes that she is in way over her head, and she's not sure that Logan is really doing what's in her best interest. When she finishes however, the truth becomes so unbelievable that she will either see it go to the right people or she will see it to her grave.

Another great book by Iris Johansen, I have yet to read one that I didn't like. She is definitely one of my favorite authors. Thank you Stasia for the list. I'm already awaiting The Killing Game, it's on mooch request now.

65alcottacre
des. 25, 2008, 6:11 am

I am very glad you are enjoying her books!

I hope you have a wonderful holiday. Please give my best to your husband as well - is he back overseas?

66LibraryOMidas
des. 25, 2008, 12:43 pm

Stasia,
No, he's home now until orders are given for a new deployment. We are hoping that he will be seperated from the military before then. Have a great holiday to you too.

67LibraryOMidas
des. 27, 2008, 1:19 am

My husband just added up all the pages I've read so far in '08, the total was 12,664. I think in the '09 challenge my side goal will be 25,000 pages. Wish me luck all and see you on the new thread in a few days.

68alcottacre
des. 27, 2008, 2:26 am

Wow! That's a lot of pages, but I am sure you can get there.

BTW - We just found out today that my stepson, who has been in Iraq for the past year, will not have to go back. He is being transferred to a base in Mississippi. That was a great Christmas present!

I hope your hubby has some good news soon, too.

69Whisper1
des. 27, 2008, 8:44 pm

Stasia
It is great, good news that your stepson will not have to go back to Iraq!

And Molly4407, like Stasia, I hope your husband has good news!

70LibraryOMidas
des. 28, 2008, 4:50 pm

Stasia, I am so excited for your family. News like that is amazing and, unfortunately, rare.

Thanks go out to the both of you on your kind words to my husband. As far as we know, he is home for good too. But with five years left anything can happen, we just hope and pray that we won't be redeployed.