AndrewP's bookshelf: all

AndrewP's bookshelf: all en-US Fri, 20 Jun 2025 15:32:40 -0700 60 AndrewP's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Night Fall (John Corey, #3) 1063356
At dusk on July 17, 1996, on a deserted Long Island beach, a man and a woman engage in adulterous sex in front of a video camera. Suddenly a terrible blast lights up the dark summer sky. TWA Flight 800 has just exploded in midair with 230 souls onboard, and the video camera has recorded the last moments of the doomed airliner.

Five years later the government has declared the crash a result of mechanical failure. But John Corey, an ex-NYPD detective who is now a contract agent with the Federal Anti-Terrorist Task Force, is persuaded by Kate Mayfield, his wife and task force partner, that the case deserves a second look.

Kate, a career FBI agent, plays by the rules. Corey plays by no rules but his own. Against long odds and warnings from their superiors, they set out to reopen the case and discover its most crucial piece of evidence. The hunt will lead to a conspiracy at the highest levels and a race toward an elusive and lethal truth that could be even more horrifying than the crash of Flight 800, one with unimaginable consequences for America...and the world.
--jacket]]> 488 Nelson DeMille AndrewP 3 The main character reminds me somewhat of Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer. A sarcastic wise cracking tough guy who I want to read further. ]]> 4.00 2004 Night Fall (John Corey, #3)

author: Nelson DeMille
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/20
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, thriller, read-in-2025, crime-mystery
review:
Book #3 of the John Corey series focuses on the tragedy of TWA Flight 800 in 1996. Although this was an entertaining read it wasn't what I was expecting. The previous two novels have been clearly in the edge of your seat 'thriller' category with quite a bit of action. This one I would have to put wholly into the 'police procedural' as it was mostly a detailed follow up investigation of a cold case. After the scene had been set and the dates specified, it was fairly obvious where this was going. DeMille pulled l off a decent ending in the last few pages but left some questioned unanswered. A decent read, just not the same impact and story as the first two books.
The main character reminds me somewhat of Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer. A sarcastic wise cracking tough guy who I want to read further.
]]> <![CDATA[The Shattering Peace (Old Man's War, #7)]]> 222376623 After a decade, acclaimed science fiction master John Scalzi returns to the galaxy of the Old Man's War series with the long awaited seventh book, The Shattering Peace

THE PEACE IS SHATTERING

For a decade, peace has reigned in interstellar space. A tripartate agreement between the Colonial Union, the Earth, and the alien Conclave has kept the forces of war at bay, even when some would have preferred to return to the fighting and struggle of former times. For now, more sensible heads have prevailed �� and have even championed unity.

But now, there is a new force that threatens the hard-maintained peace: The Consu, the most advanced intelligent species humans have ever met, are on the cusp of a species-defining civil war. This war is between Consu factions... but nothing the Consu ever do is just about them. The Colonial Union, the Earth and the Conclave have been unwillingly dragged into the conflict, in the most surprising of ways.

Gretchen Trujillo is a mid-level diplomat, working in an unimportant part of the Colonial Union bureaucracy. But when she is called to take part in a secret mission involving representatives from every powerful faction in space, what she finds there has the chance to redefine the destinies of humans and aliens alike... or destroy them forever.]]> 288 John Scalzi 0765389193 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.57 2025 The Shattering Peace (Old Man's War, #7)

The Shattering Peace (Old Man's War, #7)

author: John Scalzi
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Ministry of Time 199798179 A time travel romance, a spy thriller, a workplace comedy, and an ingenious exploration of the nature of power and the potential for love to change it all: Welcome to The Ministry of Time, the exhilarating debut novel by Kaliane Bradley.

In the near future, a civil servant is offered the salary of her dreams and is, shortly afterward, told what project she’ll be working on. A recently established government ministry is gathering “expats�� from across history to establish whether time travel is feasible—for the body, but also for the fabric of space-time.

She is tasked with working as a “bridge��: living with, assisting, and monitoring the expat known as ��1847�� or Commander Graham Gore. As far as history is concerned, Commander Gore died on Sir John Franklin’s doomed 1845 expedition to the Arctic, so he’s a little disoriented to be living with an unmarried woman who regularly shows her calves, surrounded by outlandish concepts such as “washing machines,�� “Spotify,�� and “the collapse of the British Empire.�� But with an appetite for discovery, a seven-a-day cigarette habit, and the support of a charming and chaotic cast of fellow expats, he soon adjusts.

Over the next year, what the bridge initially thought would be, at best, a horrifically uncomfortable roommate dynamic, evolves into something much deeper. By the time the true shape of the Ministry’s project comes to light, the bridge has fallen haphazardly, fervently in love, with consequences she never could have imagined. Forced to confront the choices that brought them together, the bridge must finally reckon with how—and whether she believes—what she does next can change the future.

An exquisitely original and feverishly fun fusion of genres and ideas, The Ministry of Time asks: What does it mean to defy history, when history is living in your house? Kaliane Bradley’s answer is a blazing, unforgettable testament to what we owe each other in a changing world.]]> 339 Kaliane Bradley 1668045141 AndrewP 2 3.54 2024 The Ministry of Time

author: Kaliane Bradley
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.54
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/06/13
date added: 2025/06/14
shelves: e-book, library, read-in-2025, science-fiction, group_sword-and-laser
review:
Defiantly a decent story here trying to get out but this book was either consciously, or unconsciously written as an 'award winner'. I recently came across and article on the current state of the whole Science Fiction nomination process. Basically if you want to get published, nominated for an award then there is a blueprint. Throw in an overwhelming liberal bias, identity politics, diversity, climate change etc. , no science whatsoever and write it as a mystery with a twist at the end. This book checks all the boxes and viewing it in this light then it's just formulaic pulp.
]]> <![CDATA[Photo Finish (Roderick Alleyn, #31)]]> 40785473 A persistent paparazzi has hounded operatic soprano Isabella Sommita until her nerves are at the breaking point. Now her millionaire boyfriend has whisked her to a New Zealand island to recover. There she plans a performance of an aria written just for her-- by her secret young lover, who, along with a bevy of envious celebrities, is also on the island. It's the perfect set-up for grand opera-- wild passions...and bloody murder. And when the great singer is found dead, a photo on her bosom, Superintendent Roderick Alleyn must find out who did the diva in...
]]> Ngaio Marsh AndrewP 0 3.78 1980 Photo Finish (Roderick Alleyn, #31)

author: Ngaio Marsh
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.78
book published: 1980
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/11
shelves: currently-reading, audio-books, crime-mystery, read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Antimatter Blues (Mickey7, #2)]]> 60784562
It’s not going to last.

It may be sunny now, but winter is coming. The antimatter that fuels the colony is running low, and Marshall wants his bomb back. If Mickey agrees to retrieve it, he’ll be giving up the only thing that’s kept his head off of the chopping block. If he refuses, he might doom the entire colony. Meanwhile, the creepers have their own worries, and they’re not going to surrender the bomb without getting something in return. Once again, Mickey finds the fate of two species resting in his hands. If something goes wrong this time, though, he won’t be coming back.]]> 292 Edward Ashton 1250275059 AndrewP 4 3.88 2023 Antimatter Blues (Mickey7, #2)

author: Edward Ashton
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/08
date added: 2025/06/08
shelves: library, read-in-2025, science-fiction
review:
The sequel to Micky 7 and this feels like it was written as duology. There were a a few loose ends in the first book and this ties them all up. A few twists in the story and pretty enjoyable overall. Just missing the thought provoking impact of the first one.
]]> <![CDATA[Happy Endings Dungeon 5: All Night Goblin Gang Party]]> 199449277 When a goblin-slaying barbarian babe comes looking for a filthy feast of goblin payback, the Happy Endings Dungeon is ready to meet her needs! Dungeon Lord Alfie can't stick around and entertain his latest guest. He has an invitation from Lord Heraxon that he can't refuse, and it will take all of Alfie's wits to escape from the Deep Shrine with his life.
No good deed goes unpunished in the Secret Society of Protectors. Alfie's reinvention of the Happy Endings Dungeon has annoyed Master Lord Gaius Heraxon and the supreme ruler of the Dungeon Lords is looking to eliminate a nuisance. Alfie has been summoned to a gathering of the Dungeon Lords at the mysterious Deep Shrine, where he will be forced to mingle with the strange masters of dungeons from across Aropa.

While Lord Heraxon plots Alfie's doom, Heraxon's voluptuous companion Elsa Veluria takes a demented interest in Alfie. Will Elsa drain Alfie dry or will Alfie escape her web of pleasure only to face the executioner for his political views? Can Alfie find allies among the Dungeon Lords or will he get distracted by Myssandra's demonic futanari wrestling match? And who is Shrike and why does he have knives for hands?

These questions and many more will be answered in the latest filthy tale of the Happy Endings Dungeon!]]> 107 Amanda Clover AndrewP 3 e-book, fantasy, read-in-2025 4.17 Happy Endings Dungeon 5: All Night Goblin Gang Party

Happy Endings Dungeon 5: All Night Goblin Gang Party

author: Amanda Clover
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/08
date added: 2025/06/08
shelves: e-book, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
Book 5 of this series and this one seems to have gotten away from the initial premise of the books and is more focused on the meta story arc of Alfie's fight with the other Dungeon Lords. There is very little attention given to the goings on in Alfie's dungeon. No mention of the princess at all except in dialogue.
]]> <![CDATA[Blood at the Root (Inspector Banks, #9)]]> 77513 New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award-winning author Peter Robinson brings us a tantalizing tale of suspense in this classic Inspector Banks thriller.

In the long shadows of an alley a young man is murdered by an unknown assailant. The shattering echoes of his death will be felt throughout a small provincial community on the edge—because the victim was far from innocent, a youth whose sordid secret life was a tangle of bewildering contradictions. Now a dedicated policeman beset by his own tormenting demons must follow the leads into the darkest corners of the human mind in order to catch a killer.

Delving into the complicated human psyche, Blood at the Root showcases Peter Robinson’s singular talent in an exceptional novel of suspense that will linger in readers�� minds long past the final page.]]> 320 Peter Robinson 0380794764 AndrewP 0 to-read 3.90 1997 Blood at the Root (Inspector Banks, #9)

author: Peter Robinson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.90
book published: 1997
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 365 Smiles from Buddha 1659099 Robert Allen 1931722242 AndrewP 0 3.33 2003

author: Robert Allen
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2003
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: currently-reading, 2025-bookshelf-clearance, humour, non-fiction, read-in-2025
review:

]]> Jimmy Page: The Anthology 53399801
Now, in The Anthology, Jimmy Page is granting exclusive access to his archive for the first time, and telling the inside story of his phenomenal career.

In a new text of over 70,000 words, Jimmy Page guides the reader through hundreds of rare items, many of which are previously unseen, and others of mythic status, such as the Gibson double neck guitar, his dragon-emblazoned suit, his white embroidered poppy suit, and the outfit worn in the concert film The Song Remains the Same.

Also included are handwritten diaries, correspondence, rare vinyl pressings, previously unpublished photographs and much, much more. Jimmy Page has personally selected each piece to be photographed in this book, which has been created with his full participation.

The result is Jimmy Page: The Anthology. Both reflective and revealing, it is quite simply the legendary musician’s most comprehensive and fascinating account of his life to date.]]> 400 Jimmy Page 1905662610 AndrewP 0 4.73

author: Jimmy Page
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.73
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: currently-reading, 2025-bookshelf-clearance, bio-autobiography, non-fiction, read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Voyagers II: The Alien Within (Voyagers, #2)]]> 267346 352 Ben Bova 0812513371 AndrewP 3 I have the last 2 books ready to go and will be continuing straight on to finish this mini series. ]]> 3.58 1986 Voyagers II: The Alien Within (Voyagers, #2)

Voyagers II: The Alien Within (Voyagers, #2)

author: Ben Bova
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.58
book published: 1986
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/04
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, science-fiction, read-in-2025
review:
The majority of this book read like a contemporary thriller novel with very little Science Fiction. Only at the end was there a hint of SF and a potential continuation of the alien contact story that the first book centered around
I have the last 2 books ready to go and will be continuing straight on to finish this mini series.
]]> <![CDATA[The Hero Game: A LitRPG Superhero Adventure: Volume One: Tutorial]]> 213678111 And he has to learn on the fly.

Because right now a terrifying crime boss is moving in on Jack’s neighborhood. Jack has to do everything he can to stop him and protect his friends, family, and that cute girl from the library. He’ll have to level up as quickly as possible, because only his wits and fists stand between the Iron Count and total destruction.

But can he take down the Iron Count while balancing school, work, and some unconventional relationships? He’s sure going to try, as he steps into the Hero Game.

The Hero Game is a spicy LitRPG adventure for discerning adults.]]> 385 August Aird AndrewP 3 4.38 The Hero Game: A LitRPG Superhero Adventure: Volume One: Tutorial

The Hero Game: A LitRPG Superhero Adventure: Volume One: Tutorial

author: August Aird
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.38
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/03
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: e-book, read-in-2025, science-fiction
review:
Another Superhero LitRPG book from a new independent author. After the initial introduction of the protagonist into the RPG world ( a bit cheesy, but then I think almost all LitRPG have some sort of hokey setup ), things turned into an entertaining, college kid becoming a superhero story. Some decent superhero fights with a bit of sex thrown in. This is a good start but that happens a lot with this type of book, I will be interested to how this scales up with increasing power (character) levels .
]]> <![CDATA[Dreadnaught (The Lost Fleet: Beyond the Frontier, #1)]]> 9676849
Geary knows that members of the military high command and the government question his loyalty to the Alliance and fear his staging a coup-so he can't help but wonder if the newly christened First Fleet is being deliberately sent to the far side of space on a suicide mission.]]> 356 Jack Campbell 0441020372 AndrewP 3 As expected the story picks up shortly after the conclusion of the original Lost Fleet story. This time Admiral Geary and his fleet are tasked with finding out more about the mysterious Enigma alien race. Most of this first book felt a lot like a setup for a bigger story. Lot's of political wrangling, logistic and personal problems that gave me the feeling that the fleet was being setup to fail. But of that were the case then there would not be much left to defend the Alliance.
Looking forward to see where this story goes.
]]> 4.04 2011 Dreadnaught (The Lost Fleet: Beyond the Frontier, #1)

Dreadnaught (The Lost Fleet: Beyond the Frontier, #1)

author: Jack Campbell
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/03
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: audio-books, read-in-2025, science-fiction
review:
The first book of the second series in the Lost Fleet universe. Having enjoyed the main Lost Fleet series I picked up several of these books from my local second hand bookstore to fill in the gaps of what I already had.
As expected the story picks up shortly after the conclusion of the original Lost Fleet story. This time Admiral Geary and his fleet are tasked with finding out more about the mysterious Enigma alien race. Most of this first book felt a lot like a setup for a bigger story. Lot's of political wrangling, logistic and personal problems that gave me the feeling that the fleet was being setup to fail. But of that were the case then there would not be much left to defend the Alliance.
Looking forward to see where this story goes.

]]> Driven to Distraction 8306804 'Outrageously funny . . . will have you in stitches' Time Out
'Very funny . . . I cracked up laughing on the tube' Evening Standard]]> 480 Jeremy Clarkson 0141044209 AndrewP 4 3.74 2009 Driven to Distraction

author: Jeremy Clarkson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/01
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, non-fiction, read-in-2025, humour
review:
More of Clarkson's weekly newspaper columns. He covers a wide range of subjects with the typical Clarkson witticisms. Good book to have laying around the house for odd moments as each article is only 3-5 pages long. Reading it straight through would probably be boring.
]]> The Lives of Tao (Tao, #1) 17840142
Winner of the Alex Award for the American Library Association's 2014 Youth Media Awards

When out-of-shape IT technician Roen woke up and started hearing voices in his head, he naturally assumed he was losing it. He wasn’t. He now has a passenger in his brain �� an ancient alien life-form called Tao, whose race crash-landed on Earth before the first fish crawled out of the oceans. Now split into two opposing factions �� the peace-loving, but under-represented Prophus, and the savage, powerful Genjix �� the aliens have been in a state of civil war for centuries. Both sides are searching for a way off-planet, and the Genjix will sacrifice the entire human race, if that’s what it takes. Meanwhile, Roen is having to train to be the ultimate secret agent. Like that’s going to end up well…]]> 464 Wesley Chu AndrewP 3 3.82 2013 The Lives of Tao (Tao, #1)

author: Wesley Chu
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/01
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves: e-book, group_sword-and-laser, library, read-in-2025, science-fiction
review:
An interesting premise of aliens sharing human beings bodies to influence the development of mankind. For me this was just an okay read. It bogged down a bit in the middle and from all the flashbacks and history I found both factions actions reprehensible. First book of a trilogy but I will not rush to read the other two.
]]> Red Sonja/Tarzan 41093252 Gail Simone (Birds of Prey, Red Sonja) and Walter Geovani (Red Sonja, Clean Room) reunite to bring us the crossover event featuring two of fiction's greatest heroes side by side at last!]]> 160 Gail Simone 1524108472 AndrewP 0 to-read 3.32 2019 Red Sonja/Tarzan

author: Gail Simone
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.32
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Mickey 7 (Mickey7, #1) 62030429 Now experience where the hit movie from Academy Award-winning director Bong Joon-ho, starring Robert Pattinson, started in Mickey7 (the inspiration for the film Mickey 17).

Dying isn’t any fun…but at least it’s a living.

Mickey7 is an Expendable: a disposable employee on a human expedition sent to colonize the ice world Niflheim. Whenever there’s a mission that’s too dangerous—even suicidal—the crew turns to Mickey. After one iteration dies, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories intact. After six deaths, Mickey7 understands the terms of his deal…and why it was the only colonial position unfilled when he took it.

On a fairly routine scouting mission, Mickey7 goes missing and is presumed dead. By the time he returns to the colony base, surprisingly helped back by native life, Mickey7’s fate has been sealed. There’s a new clone, Mickey8, reporting for Expendable duties. The idea of duplicate Expendables is universally loathed, and if caught, they will likely be thrown into the recycler for protein.

Mickey7 must keep his double a secret from the rest of the colony. Meanwhile, life on Niflheim is getting worse. The atmosphere is unsuitable for humans, food is in short supply, and terraforming is going poorly. The native species are growing curious about their new neighbors, and that curiosity has Commander Marshall very afraid. Ultimately, the survival of both lifeforms will come down to Mickey7.

That is, if he can just keep from dying for good.]]> 369 Edward Ashton 3641280540 AndrewP 5 3.71 2022 Mickey 7 (Mickey7, #1)

author: Edward Ashton
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/24
date added: 2025/05/24
shelves: group_sword-and-laser, library, science-fiction, read-in-2025
review:
A great fun science fiction read. The story and everything moves along at a good pace and was easy to blaze though this short book in a day or so. Despite it being a fun and easy read there is some food for thought here. The author deserves credit managing to weave in the Ship of Theseus paradox as it relates to cloning and replication.
]]> <![CDATA[SpecOps (Expeditionary Force, #2)]]> 30342581 277 Craig Alanson AndrewP 0 to-read 4.25 2016

author: Craig Alanson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Man Who Died Twice (Thursday Murder Club, #2)]]> 61027367
Elizabeth has received a letter from an old colleague, a man with whom she has a long history. He's made a big mistake, and he needs her help. His story involves stolen diamonds, a violent mobster, and a very real threat to his life.

As bodies start piling up, Elizabeth enlists Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron in the hunt for a ruthless murderer. And if they find the diamonds too? Well, wouldn't that be a bonus?

But this time they are up against an enemy who wouldn't bat an eyelid at knocking off four septuagenarians. Can The Thursday Murder Club find the killer (and the diamonds) before the killer finds them?]]> 384 Richard Osman 1984881019 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.34 2021 The Man Who Died Twice (Thursday Murder Club, #2)

The Man Who Died Twice (Thursday Murder Club, #2)

author: Richard Osman
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/22
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Will of the Many (Hierarchy, #1)]]> 62919748 At the elite Catenan Academy, a young fugitive uncovers layered mysteries and world-changing secrets in this new fantasy series by internationally bestselling author of The Licanius Trilogy, James Islington.

AUDI. VIDE. TACE.

The Catenan Republic �� the Hierarchy �� may rule the world now, but they do not know everything.

I tell them my name is Vis Telimus. I tell them I was orphaned after a tragic accident three years ago, and that good fortune alone has led to my acceptance into their most prestigious school. I tell them that once I graduate, I will gladly join the rest of civilised society in allowing my strength, my drive and my focus �� what they call Will �� to be leeched away and added to the power of those above me, as millions already do. As all must eventually do.

I tell them that I belong, and they believe me.

But the truth is that I have been sent to the Academy to find answers. To solve a murder. To search for an ancient weapon. To uncover secrets that may tear the Republic apart.

And that I will never, ever cede my Will to the empire that executed my family.

To survive, though, I will still have to rise through the Academy’s ranks. I will have to smile, and make friends, and pretend to be one of them and win. Because if I cannot, then those who want to control me, who know my real name, will no longer have any use for me.

And if the Hierarchy finds out who I truly am, they will kill me.]]> 630 James Islington 1982141174 AndrewP 3 4.62 2023 The Will of the Many (Hierarchy, #1)

author: James Islington
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.62
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/21
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves: fantasy, group_sword-and-laser, library, read-in-2025
review:
On the surface this book has everything that I should like in an epic fantasy model. World Building, a great magic system, a school, political intrigue etc. But for some reason this did not really resonate with me once I really got into it. The first 50 pages or so really had me hooked but after that is all sort of fell flat for me. Nothing I can really put my finger on but it may have been that I never felt any connection to and of the characters and there was no edge of the seat tension. Lot's of things left open ended for the next book and I want to know how the story continues, but it's not going to be high on my list.
]]> <![CDATA[The Sandman, Vol. 7: Brief Lives]]> 45133151 249 Neil Gaiman AndrewP 3 4.64 1993

author: Neil Gaiman
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.64
book published: 1993
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/21
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves: e-book, graphic-novel, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
So far this is the most disappointing of the collected Sandman comics. There are some great moments and things to read behind the lines but overall the character of Delirium did not work for me.
]]> <![CDATA[A Generation of Vipers (Nell Ward, #4)]]> 110774605
When Dr Nell Ward stumbles across a woman's body amongst the purple heather on Furze Heath, she was on the lookout for nests of poisonous adders.

But something is lurking out here far more dangerous than vipers.

A cold-blooded killer is on the loose and this is not his first victim. As DI James Clark begins to investigate, a pattern emerges pointing towards this being the work of a serial killer. Every victim shares the same physical characteristics - all of which are a match to Nell herself.

As Nell is pulled into a tightly coiled mystery, she can't help feeling someone is tracking her every move...

Can she unmask the murderer before they strike again?]]> 256 Sarah Yarwood-Lovett 1471414310 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.04 2023 A Generation of Vipers (Nell Ward, #4)

author: Sarah Yarwood-Lovett
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Mischief of Rats (Nell Ward, #3)]]> 61415259
Back in her natural habitat, Dr Nell Ward heads to a woodland pond to survey local newt populations. She's shocked to discover a car submerged in the water - with the driver dead behind the wheel.

Nell recognises the dead man as professional racing driver, and tabloid love rat, Jack Rafferty, whose performance on (and off) Finchmere's racetrack had earned him enemies.

Suspecting this isn't the tragic accident it appears DI James Clark calls upon Nell and her ecological skills to help find the murderer. But she soon finds that more lurks under the surface than she could ever have imagined. Despite the danger, Nell is determined to dredge up the truth from the murky depths of this case, before it's too late...]]> 420 Sarah Yarwood-Lovett AndrewP 0 to-read 3.86 2023 A Mischief of Rats (Nell Ward, #3)

author: Sarah Yarwood-Lovett
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Cast of Falcons (Nell Ward, #2)]]> 61415256
When her childhood friend Percy announces she's engaged to handsome businessman Hawke McAnstruther, Dr Nell Ward rashly offers to host the wedding at Finchmere, her family's estate. But she hadn't anticipated Percy's parents' fiery disapproval of the groom.

The ceremony is barely over before Hawke's shady personal and professional life starts to unravel, and tension ripples through the assembled guests. When the wedding night ends with a shocking death, Nell, best-friend, Rav and DI James Clarke all find themselves embroiled in a murder mystery worthy of Agatha Christie.

Surviving a terrifying threat to her own life, Nell has to face up to the truth. Not just about murder at Finchmere, but about where her heart truly lies...]]> 380 Sarah Yarwood-Lovett AndrewP 4 I will be continuing with the series. ]]> 3.87 2022 A Cast of Falcons (Nell Ward, #2)

author: Sarah Yarwood-Lovett
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/12
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: read-in-2025, crime-mystery, cozy
review:
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Not sure why, maybe the setting in an English Stately Home with a host of upper class suspects give it more of a Christy vibe. Some of the characters were a it stereotypical but that is pretty common in this type of cozy mystery. Interesting love triangle between the three main protagonists that maybe resolves here, but may continue into the next book.
I will be continuing with the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Beyond Einstein: The Cosmic Quest for the Theory of the Universe]]> 17140998 Beyond Einstein takes readers on an exciting excursion into the discoveries that have led scientists to the brightest new prospect in theoretical physics today -- superstring theory. What is superstring theory and why is it important? This revolutionary breakthrough may well be the fulfillment of��Albert Einstein's lifelong dream of a Theory of Everything, uniting the laws of physics into a single description explaining all the known forces in the universe. Co-authored by one of the leading pioneers in superstrings, Michio Kaku, and completely revised and updated with the newest groundbreaking research, the book approaches scientific questions with the excitement of a detective story, offering a fascinating look at the new science that may make the impossible possible.]]> 240 Michio Kaku AndrewP 4 3.94 1987 Beyond Einstein: The Cosmic Quest for the Theory of the Universe

Beyond Einstein: The Cosmic Quest for the Theory of the Universe

author: Michio Kaku
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1987
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/07
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, non-fiction, read-in-2025
review:
This book was written in 1995 so is somewhat outdated in terms of the current cutting edge of string theory and quantum physics. But, it's not intended as an detailed explanation, it's more of a history lesson in how things evolved from Einstein up to Superstring theory and the problems overcome along the way. There was a short section in the middle where there were a lot of acronyms and I found this hard going. But overall it was a good read and explained a lot of things in layman's terms. By not going into any of the math things were kept on an understandable level. The most amazing thing is that there were a couple of notable physicists who actually worked in concepts and diagrams and not pure math.
]]> Voyages 205336633 383 Ben Bova AndrewP 4 The story unfolds into what I have come to expect from 6 time Hugo award winner Bova, interesting characters, personality conflicts and political maneuvering. Three more books in this series and I will get to them in short order. ]]> 4.00 Voyages

author: Ben Bova
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/01
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, science-fiction, read-in-2025
review:
This is the first of a four book side series that links into Bova's Grand Tour books at the end. Time and subject matter of this one go back to the 80's and an alien signal is detected on Earth. But it doesn't come from outer space, it comes from something around Jupiter.
The story unfolds into what I have come to expect from 6 time Hugo award winner Bova, interesting characters, personality conflicts and political maneuvering. Three more books in this series and I will get to them in short order.
]]> Drums of War (Ard's Oath #4) 217308138
While his mother prepares to become an Elder and take over House Aldis, Ard is plotting and planning to ensure he doesn't get caught up in Carmilla's machinations this time around.

In the far distance, you can almost hear the drums of war warming up as the frost thaws. While Avente fights over their leadership, Garrish is preparing their invasion.]]> 456 Bruce Sentar AndrewP 4 fantasy, e-book, read-in-2025 I liked this one much better than the previous installments as some pivotal things actually happened and there was some thread resolution (or was there?) Most of the book dealt with Court and Magic Enclave matters with a lot of political maneuvering. The world building continues to grow and there are some twists to the magic system. More sex and violence than the previous book so all the political talk did not bog the book down. My only criticism is that the main character is just to good at everything. Nothing stumps him for long and he is able to master new magic without much effort.
3 1/2 start rounded up to 4. Good enough to keep going with the series.]]> 4.63 Drums of War (Ard's Oath #4)

author: Bruce Sentar
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.63
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/27
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: fantasy, e-book, read-in-2025
review:
Trying to catch up on this series but the author pushes out several books per year. I thought there was only one other in this series, but now I see there are two.
I liked this one much better than the previous installments as some pivotal things actually happened and there was some thread resolution (or was there?) Most of the book dealt with Court and Magic Enclave matters with a lot of political maneuvering. The world building continues to grow and there are some twists to the magic system. More sex and violence than the previous book so all the political talk did not bog the book down. My only criticism is that the main character is just to good at everything. Nothing stumps him for long and he is able to master new magic without much effort.
3 1/2 start rounded up to 4. Good enough to keep going with the series.
]]> <![CDATA[We Solve Murders (We Solve Murders, #1)]]> 228177199 A brand new series. An iconic new detective duo. And a puzzling new murder to solve...

Steve Wheeler is enjoying retired life. He does the odd bit of investigation work, but he prefers his familiar habits and routines: the pub quiz, his favorite bench, his cat waiting for him when he comes home. His days of adventure are over: adrenaline is daughter-in-law Amy’s business now.

Amy Wheeler thinks adrenaline is good for the soul. As a private security officer, she doesn’t stay still long enough for habits or routines. She’s currently on a remote island keeping world-famous author Rosie D’Antonio alive. Which was meant to be an easy job...

Then a dead body, a bag of money, and a killer with their sights on Amy have her sending an SOS to the only person she trusts. A breakneck race around the world begins, but can Amy and Steve stay one step ahead of a lethal enemy?]]> 400 Richard Osman 0593653246 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.00 2024 We Solve Murders (We Solve Murders, #1)

author: Richard Osman
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[XS All Areas: The Status Quo Autobiography]]> 6812177 384 Francis Rossi 0283073756 AndrewP 5 If your a fan then this is a great book and a 4 or 5 star read. If your not, then probably not that interesting. Incidentally, rather than a straight collaboration, the book is written with alternating chapters by Francis and Rick so we get to see the same events from both their points of view.]]> 4.33 2004 XS All Areas: The Status Quo Autobiography

XS All Areas: The Status Quo Autobiography

author: Francis Rossi
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2004
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/22
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, bio-autobiography, non-fiction, read-in-2025
review:
I have always been a big fan of Status Quo, right from my college days in the 80's, until today when I sometimes blast out one of their compilation albums in the car. (Only managed to see them once in concert unfortunately). For my mates and I there was always a lot of speculation on what was going on with the band during the lineup changes and the various cover songs they released in later years. At that time, pre internet, we could only got our music news from the weekly newspapers Melody Maker and New Musical Express (Rolling Stone was considered to be all glitz and hype with nothing much worth reading). This books fills in all those blanks that I have wondered about over the years. Lot's of interesting stuff in the usual rock-n-roll vein but also some deep personal tragedy in there too. Unfortunately this book was written in 2004 so the later part of their story including Ricks untimely passing are missing. For that I will have to read Francis Rossi's Autobiography published in 2019.
If your a fan then this is a great book and a 4 or 5 star read. If your not, then probably not that interesting. Incidentally, rather than a straight collaboration, the book is written with alternating chapters by Francis and Rick so we get to see the same events from both their points of view.
]]> <![CDATA[The Anglo Files: A Field Guide to the British]]> 2661003 304 Sarah Lyall 0393058468 AndrewP 2 Many other reviews of this book note her condescending attitude throughout. She pretty much sums this up herself with a quote from her husband "She's not trying to be rude, she an American".

* Too many footnotes!]]> 3.48 2008 The Anglo Files: A Field Guide to the British

The Anglo Files: A Field Guide to the British

author: Sarah Lyall
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.48
book published: 2008
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/16
date added: 2025/04/16
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, read-in-2025, non-fiction
review:
I bought this book for my wife as she is an American and I'm British. She didn't seem to believe some of the stuff in it so I had to read it for myself. For the most part it's pretty interesting reading considering that it's written by a non-Brit. Of course there are many things that may seem obvious to the foreigner superficially, but if you grew up in Britain and have the background then these observations are often taken out of context or are misguided. Her assumption that the British Press are less reliable than their American counterparts (she works for the New Your Times) are pretty laughable given the history of that paper over the last decade. I can understand her problem trying to understand the nuances of Cricket, especially when you have grown up on just American meat head sports. But the author often veers off into historical sources and references that have little to do with todays Britain. In particular she seems to have got a lot of her answers from the upper class, who often have very different views from the man on the street. There is one other major problem with this book.*
Many other reviews of this book note her condescending attitude throughout. She pretty much sums this up herself with a quote from her husband "She's not trying to be rude, she an American".

* Too many footnotes!
]]> <![CDATA[One for the Money (Stephanie Plum, #1)]]> 6853
She’s a product of the “burg,�� a blue-collar pocket of Trenton where houses are attached and narrow, cars are American, windows are clean, and (God forbid you should be late) dinner is served at six.

Out of work and out of money, Stephanie blackmails her bail-bondsman cousin Vinnie into giving her a try as an apprehension agent. Stephanie knows zilch about the job requirements, but she figures her new pal, el-primo bounty hunter Ranger, can teach her what it takes to catch a crook. Her first nail Joe Morelli, a former vice cop on the run from a charge of murder one. Morelli’s the inamorato who charmed Stephanie out of her virginity at age sixteen. There’s still powerful chemistry between them, so the chase should be interesting…and could also be extremely dangerous.]]> 320 Janet Evanovich 0312362080 AndrewP 5 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for ŷ��.]]> 4.05 1994 One for the Money (Stephanie Plum, #1)

author: Janet Evanovich
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.05
book published: 1994
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/09
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, crime-mystery, read-in-2025
review:
This first book in series has been on my bookshelf for and I finally thought it was time to try out this author. Overall I really enjoyed this book, the story was not that complex, the characters were not that deep but putting it all together really worked for me and I zipped through it in a couple of days. I will be continuing this series.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for ŷ��.
]]> <![CDATA[Hermitage, Wat and Some Murder or Other (The Chronicles of Brother Hermitage)]]> 49930200
After 1066 not all the Normans were in England. Those left in Normandy were up to no good and the ghastly Le Pedvin, wants one of them dealt with.Brother Hermitage, the most medieval of detectives, and his companion Wat, weaver of tapestry you wouldn’t want your children to see, are dispatched to the Norman home-land to bring a killer to justice.
How they do it is up to them and why they’re doing it is none of their business; they have their orders and the consequences of disobedience will be death �� as usual.
It’s not clear what Le Pedvin is up to.
It’s not clear that anyone is actually dead.
Not much is clear about Norman villagers at all.
It’s definitely not clear how Hermitage and Wat are going to get out of this alive.

But it will be��.

Howard of Warwick's Chronicles of Brother Hermitage are endless - or at least it feels like it.

And people have said

"The funniest book you will read for the next 1,000 years."

5* "Hilarious."

5* "A hit, a palpable hit."

1* "Started ridiculous and went down hill from there."

Compared to Terry Pratchett, Douglas Adams, Monty Python and Carry-on - you get the picture.]]> 329 Howard of Warwick 1999895916 AndrewP 4 4.00 2014 Hermitage, Wat and Some Murder or Other (The Chronicles of Brother Hermitage)

Hermitage, Wat and Some Murder or Other (The Chronicles of Brother Hermitage)

author: Howard of Warwick
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/06
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, humour, historical, read-in-2025
review:
Another amusing story set after the Norman Conquest. This time Wat and Hermitage are tasked with 'dealing with a murderer'. Problem is nobody seems to have been murdered.
]]> <![CDATA[Merchant of Rebellion (Ard's Oath #5)]]> 222380030 Though his accolades are too startling and he draws the attention of The King only for General Trevis to swoop in and send Ard on a mission behind enemy lines. He's to stir up the populace of their rival kingdom to rebellion.]]> 514 Bruce Sentar AndrewP 0 4.62 Merchant of Rebellion (Ard's Oath #5)

author: Bruce Sentar
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.62
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: e-book, fantasy, read-in-2025, to-read
review:

]]> The London Blitz Murders 18799738
Doing her part for the war effort, Agatha dispenses medicine in shell-shocked London. But the world’s most renowned mystery writer is troubled. Compared to the horrors of World War II, her detective novels seem trivial and quaint. When a Jack the Ripper–style murderer strikes, Agatha lobbies her friend, forensics expert Sir Bernard Spilsbury, to take her to the crime scenes. But the killings are far more gruesome than any that her fictional detectives have ever solved. Can a crime writer also be a crime fighter? Joining forces with London’s top investigators, Agatha risks her life to stop the monstrous serial killer.

With this ripped-from-the-headlines mystery, author Max Allan Collins presents a blood-stained valentine to the most celebrated author of detective fiction.]]> 237 Max Allan Collins 1611094887 AndrewP 3
A pretty good story and there's a detailed explanation of the whole factual circumstances at the end by Collins. ]]> 3.88 2004 The London Blitz Murders

author: Max Allan Collins
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/03
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: crime-mystery, e-book, historical, read-in-2025
review:
In this edition of his 'Disaster' series, Collins puts Agatha Christie in the middle of the Blackout Murders that happened during the WW2 Blitz. As with others in this series, Collins has taken some liberties with the dates but for the most part this is a good account of a True Crime story. He uses the real names of the people involved in the investigation but just adds Christie more into the mix.

A pretty good story and there's a detailed explanation of the whole factual circumstances at the end by Collins.
]]> Warlord (Alexander Hawke, #6) 7083018 —National Public Radio Thriller fiction of the highest order, Warlord by Ted Bell returns British-American MI6 counterterrorism operative Alex Hawke to the field, as he races to stop a plot to murder Great Britian’s royal family. This latest spellbinding installment in the New York Times bestselling series is filled with twists and turns, shocks and surprises, ever-escalating peril and ingenious spycraft. Warlord “puts a capital A in adventure�� ( Madison County Herald ) and offers further proof why Ted Bell deserves his position on the A-list along with Clive Cussler, Robert Ludlum, Brad Thor, Vince Flynn, and Daniel Silva.]]> 544 Ted Bell 006185929X AndrewP 3 Not as good as the others in the series so far, but good enough to make me continue.]]> 4.01 2010 Warlord (Alexander Hawke, #6)

author: Ted Bell
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, thriller, read-in-2025
review:
Alex Hawke is the best James Bond type character that I have come across and this book continues that type of stylish action packed adventure. All the previous 5 books were great reads but, for me, this one did not quite keep up the standard. Rather than their being a super genius villain, there was an average bad guy but lots of really dumb behavior on the part of the good guys. Many times I came across something that suspended my disbelief and threw me right out of the story. The ending of the book also seemed very rushed.
Not as good as the others in the series so far, but good enough to make me continue.
]]> <![CDATA[Happy Endings Dungeon 4: Free Yeti Full Body Massage]]> 188472019 Against all opposition, Dungeon Lord Alfie Ivanhoe is trying to run the only dungeon in all of Aropa that offers female adventurers their erotic fantasies come to life. A buxom ice elf arrives at Alfie's dungeon to heat things up with a yeti rubdown, but Alfie's mind is on the capital city.
The fair Princess Josephine of Orleans is to be wed to the prince of Galamanca. Alfie insists on attending the festivities. With Myssandra and Luisa in tow. He disguises himself as a guest and infiltrates the wedding ball in the hopes of seeing the beautiful princess who lingers in his heart. Keeping Myssandra and Luisa under control as best he can, he soon learns that Josephine is on a crusade that will put her at odds with Alfie.

Can he persuade her that he is not her enemy in the span of a single dance? Can he do it before the forces among the Dungeon Lords lash out at her? Can he protect her from Lord Heraxon's diabolical ambush?

Can Alfie get laid in the process? And what secret lurks in the black sarcophagus within Alfie's dungeon vault? Find out in this fourth delve into Alfie's dungeon of delights!]]> 82 Amanda Clover AndrewP 3 4.11 Happy Endings Dungeon 4: Free Yeti Full Body Massage

Happy Endings Dungeon 4: Free Yeti Full Body Massage

author: Amanda Clover
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.11
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/27
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: e-book, fantasy, read-in-2025, short
review:
Best creature in the dungeons arsenal to deal with an Ice Elf, a yeti of course. Alfie goes to the princesses wedding and despite hitting it off with her is in total opposition to her plans to destroy all the dungeons. Of course she doesn't know he is a dungeon Lord.
]]> <![CDATA[Iron Council (New Crobuzon, #3)]]> 68495
It is a time of wars and revolutions, conflict and intrigue. New Crobuzon is being ripped apart from without and within. War with the shadowy city-state of Tesh and rioting on the streets at home are pushing the teeming city to the brink. A mysterious masked figure spurs strange rebellion, while treachery and violence incubate in unexpected places.

In desperation, a small group of renegades escapes from the city and crosses strange and alien continents in the search for a lost hope.

In the blood and violence of New Crobuzon’s most dangerous hour, there are whispers. It is the time of the iron council. . . .

The bold originality that broke Miéville out as a new force of the genre is here once more in Iron Council : the voluminous, lyrical novel that is destined to seal his reputation as perhaps the edgiest mythmaker of the day.]]> 564 China Miéville 0345458427 AndrewP 0 to-read 3.73 2004 Iron Council (New Crobuzon, #3)

author: China Miéville
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2004
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Scar (New Crobuzon, #2) 68497
For Bellis, the plan is clear: live among the new frontiersmen of the colony until it is safe to return home. But when the ship is besieged by pirates on the Swollen Ocean, the senior officers are summarily executed. The surviving passengers are brought to Armada, a city constructed from the hulls of pirated ships, a floating, landless mass ruled by the bizarre duality called the Lovers. On Armada, everyone is given work, and even Remade live as equals to humans, Cactacae, and Cray. Yet no one may ever leave.

Lonely and embittered in her captivity, Bellis knows that to show dissent is a death sentence. Instead, she must furtively seek information about Armada’s agenda. The answer lies in the dark, amorphous shapes that float undetected miles below the waters—terrifying entities with a singular, chilling mission. . . .]]> 578 China Miéville 0345460014 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.17 2002 The Scar (New Crobuzon, #2)

author: China Miéville
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2002
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dungeon Crawler Carl (Dungeon Crawler Carl, #1)]]> 56791389 Alternate cover edition of ASIN B08BKGYQXW

The apocalypse will be televised!

A man. His ex-girlfriend's cat. A sadistic game show unlike anything in the universe: a dungeon crawl where survival depends on killing your prey in the most entertaining way possible.

In a flash, every human-erected construction on Earth—from Buckingham Palace to the tiniest of sheds—collapses in a heap, sinking into the ground.

The buildings and all the people inside have all been atomized and transformed into the dungeon: an 18-level labyrinth filled with traps, monsters, and loot. A dungeon so enormous, it circles the entire globe.

Only a few dare venture inside. But once you're in, you can't get out. And what's worse, each level has a time limit. You have but days to find a staircase to the next level down, or it's game over. In this game, it's not about your strength or your dexterity. It's about your followers, your views. Your clout. It's about building an audience and killing those goblins with style.

You can't just survive here. You gotta survive big.

You gotta fight with vigor, with excitement. You gotta make them stand up and cheer. And if you do have that "it" factor, you may just find yourself with a following. That's the only way to truly survive in this game—with the help of the loot boxes dropped upon you by the generous benefactors watching from across the galaxy.

They call it Dungeon Crawler World. But for Carl, it's anything but a game.]]> 446 Matt Dinniman AndrewP 4 This may not sound that thrilling, but the author has a great sense of humor and kept surprising me with his inventiveness. Some of the things are very typical of how clever players will try and use the environment and game system in ways that the creator had never envisioned.
I did think the book could have been a bit shorter but that's a minor criticism. The whole series is now on my 'To Be Read' list.]]> 4.48 2020 Dungeon Crawler Carl (Dungeon Crawler Carl, #1)

Dungeon Crawler Carl (Dungeon Crawler Carl, #1)

author: Matt Dinniman
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/29
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves: fantasy, read-in-2024, e-book, group_sword-and-laser
review:
Once you get past the initial bonkers setup at the beginning of this book, it's a fun filled LitRPG adventure. Anyone who has ever participated in a 'dungeon crawl' will be very familiar with how this story goes, complete with grinding out experience, gaining skills and fighting bosses.
This may not sound that thrilling, but the author has a great sense of humor and kept surprising me with his inventiveness. Some of the things are very typical of how clever players will try and use the environment and game system in ways that the creator had never envisioned.
I did think the book could have been a bit shorter but that's a minor criticism. The whole series is now on my 'To Be Read' list.
]]> <![CDATA[Happy Endings Dungeon 3: Win a Date with a Lizardman]]> 150218667 Alfie runs the only dungeon in Aropa that offers pleasure instead of pain, but what happens when a naughty nun visits in search of delights that don't break her vows? Can Alfie help her find a loophole?
Alfie Ivanhoe and his big, busty assistant Myssandra have helped shape a murderous dungeon into a pleasure spa for visiting women. Now the new management is facing an audit from Lord Heraxon and the Secret Society of Protectors. The other Dungeon Lords don't like Alfie's new methods and are calling a meeting at their secret Deep Shrine.

In order to save his hide, Alfie pays a visit to one of his uncle's former allies, a debonair urban Dungeon Lord named Ramone Brookwyne. He finds Ramone to be a friendly host, particularly towards Myssandra, but can Alfie persuade Ramone that his new ways are best? And why is Myssandra disappearing to the wine cellar with Ramone? And why is a sexy vampire nun hanging around Alfie so much?

Will he escape Ramone's dungeon with his dignity and his life or does one have to go? Will Alfie be able to satisfy the visiting hospitaller in his own dungeon? And is it okay to have a threesome with a monster involved?

Find out in the third steamy dungeon romp for adults only!]]> 74 Amanda Clover AndrewP 3 4.10 Happy Endings Dungeon 3: Win a Date with a Lizardman

Happy Endings Dungeon 3: Win a Date with a Lizardman

author: Amanda Clover
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.10
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/23
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves: e-book, fantasy, short, read-in-2025
review:
This time it's priestess who enters the dungeon. The problem for Dungeon Lord Alfie is that she has sworn a vow of chastity. More of the background story arc which is getting interesting.
]]> Something's Down There 3625548
Is the monster a prehistoric beast rising from the depths? Or mines from a sunken WWII destroyer, only now shaken loose by the U.S. Navy's depth charges? Or the work of someone with an agenda even more deeply undercover than Hooker's?

Hooker quietly begins to investigate with the help of his unwitting fishing partner, Billy Bright; a local movie heiress, the seductive Judy Durant; and Hooker's old nemesis, Chana Sterling. The Company sent her as backup, but Hooker doesn't trust power-hungry government agents too far -- especially Chana, who once put a bullet in him for no good reason. As more boats are mauled and the islanders begin to panic, the action heats up and the players multiply: a Hollywood film company arrives on the scene, eager to turn live footage of "the eater" into box-office payoff, and the heavyweight film executive in charge looks suspiciously like Tony Pallatzo, a Brooklyn mobster from Hooker's violent past. As hemoves steadily closer to the truth, Hooker realizes that someone (or something) is plotting to stop him, and only his rusty instincts will save him this time.

A riveting story of criminal intrigue, greed, romance, and the mysteries of the deep, "Something's Down There" showcases Mickey Spillane at his best.]]> 288 Mickey Spillane 0743251466 AndrewP 3 Lot's of stuff about fishing and messing about in boats for retired government agent Mako Hooker. For some reason I couldn't get the image of William Shatner, as T. J. Hooker, out of my mind while while reading this.
A departure from Spillane's usual themes, but the sarcastic wise cracking dialogue is still there. ]]> 3.00 2003 Something's Down There

author: Mickey Spillane
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.00
book published: 2003
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/22
date added: 2025/03/22
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, read-in-2025, thriller
review:
Another Spillane that I haven't read before. This one is a thriller, set in the Bermuda Triangle, rather than a mystery so a bit of a departure.
Lot's of stuff about fishing and messing about in boats for retired government agent Mako Hooker. For some reason I couldn't get the image of William Shatner, as T. J. Hooker, out of my mind while while reading this.
A departure from Spillane's usual themes, but the sarcastic wise cracking dialogue is still there.
]]> <![CDATA[Happy Endings Dungeon 2: Two Ogres for the Price of One]]> 123197845
Alfie has taken over his deceased uncle's dungeon and made some big changes, much to the chagrin of his sexy demonic assistant Myssandra. She used to work for Alfie's cruel uncle, who designed a misogynist dungeon to lure and defeat brave women, but Alfie does not want to kill anybody with his dungeon. He wanted to be a hero and now he's finding out how hard it is to be good when you're the lord of a dungeon.

Redheaded thaumaturgist Rylie Shaughnessy shows up at the dungeon in search of a dangerous adventure to prove herself and earn the next rank of mastery from her guild. Instead, she finds a welcome sign, a beautiful garden, and a polite demon at the front desk. Will she unleash hell upon the friendly denizens of the dungeon or accept a visit to a gnome massage spa? Does she want to spill blood with sizzling spells or spill ogre seed with her luscious body? While Alfie watches from the dungeon's Nexus, the Happy Endings Dungeon welcomes its first guest.

Alfie's attention is being drawn between his new plan for the dungeon, his lusty assistant who wants to go back to the old ways, and Luisa, the thief, who just wants to have fun and make some coin. But deep down, Alfie is thinking about Princess Josephine. It turns out the beautiful princess is getting married soon and is on a crusade to rid Galamanca and all of Aropa of the Dungeon Lords. And what do the Dungeon Lords think about their newest member?

Find out this and more in the second thrilling fantasy adventure of dungeon delights! This series is definitely for adults only!]]> 88 Amanda Clover AndrewP 3 4.06 Happy Endings Dungeon 2: Two Ogres for the Price of One

Happy Endings Dungeon 2: Two Ogres for the Price of One

author: Amanda Clover
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.06
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/18
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves: e-book, fantasy, read-in-2025, short
review:
Book two of this series of short novellas (most are around 100 pages). Alfie is now starting to get into the role of running a dungeon and word is getting out about his new strategy. The other Dungeon Lords do not approve and this and hints at an overall story arc above the obvious.
]]> <![CDATA[Happy Endings Dungeon: Guess Who Inherited a Dungeon]]> 75625402
After a wild night of pleasure, she confesses that she was searching for Alfie as the nephew and last blood relation of infamous Dungeon Lord Tiberius Ivanhoe. Tiberius is deceased and that makes Alfie next in line to take over his dungeon and become Myssandra's master. With no opportunities in his old life, Alfie reluctantly agrees to accompany Myssandra back to the dungeon and become its Dungeon Lord.

In a faraway land, Alfie learns that his uncle was the lord of the Maze of Masculine Malevolence. The diabolical dungeon was intended to lure brave women to their doom. Alfie won't have long to adjust to his new life. A tomboy thief invades the dungeon in search of treasure and Alfie must decide how to deal with her. Once Alfie realizes the murderous nature of being a Dungeon Lord, he wants to change the dungeon from a place of misogynistic evil to a place where women can explore their deepest and kinkiest desires. He will set out to create a dungeon full of monstrous pleasures and strange delights rather than certain doom.

Unfortunately for Alfie, not everyone agrees that his idea is a good one. Dungeon Lords just aren't supposed to serve up happy endings.

The epic tales of the Happy Endings Dungeon are filled with fantasy adventure, peril, and smut! This series is for adults only!]]> 94 Amanda Clover AndrewP 4 If you want to compare this to an RPG it's like Dungeon Keeper but with sex.]]> 4.18 Happy Endings Dungeon: Guess Who Inherited a Dungeon

Happy Endings Dungeon: Guess Who Inherited a Dungeon

author: Amanda Clover
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.18
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/17
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves: e-book, fantasy, short, read-in-2025
review:
A budding adventurer discovers that he has inherited a dungeon from his deceased uncle. He goes from failed adventurer to Dungeon Lord, his new job to run the dungeon and keep pesky adventurers out.
If you want to compare this to an RPG it's like Dungeon Keeper but with sex.
]]> <![CDATA[The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding: a Hercule Poirot Short Story (Hercule Poirot, #SS-26)]]> 44066606 55 Agatha Christie 9897788093 AndrewP 3 4.01

The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding: a Hercule Poirot Short Story (Hercule Poirot, #SS-26)

author: Agatha Christie
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.01
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2023/12/12
date added: 2025/03/15
shelves: crime-mystery, e-book, read-in-2023, short
review:
A short story about Hercule Poirot spending Christmas at a large country house where he hopes to solve a crime. Proceeds much as you would expect. Nice little story to read around Christmas.
]]> The Evening News 1276352

From the Paperback edition.]]> 510 Arthur Hailey 0385237081 AndrewP 3 Even though this book was writen 35 years ago, Hailey correctly identified the conflict of interest problem when a news network becomes a subsidiary of a bigger corporation with lots of other holdings. The problem that has now made the mainstream news so worthless.
A good read, even though there are references to fax and telegram, it doesn't feel that dated. In my opinion, not as good as his other books such as Hotel, Airport, Wheels and the Moneychangers, but still worth reading.]]> 3.54 1990 The Evening News

author: Arthur Hailey
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.54
book published: 1990
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, read-in-2025, thriller
review:
As the title suggests this book is an in depth look at the prime time evening news and the organization behind it. As with Hailey's other book this there is a wealth of characters, plots and subplots. Basically the TV Networks anchorman becomes the biggest story in the news and many people are faced with tough decisions on what, and what should not be in the news and revealed to the public.
Even though this book was writen 35 years ago, Hailey correctly identified the conflict of interest problem when a news network becomes a subsidiary of a bigger corporation with lots of other holdings. The problem that has now made the mainstream news so worthless.
A good read, even though there are references to fax and telegram, it doesn't feel that dated. In my opinion, not as good as his other books such as Hotel, Airport, Wheels and the Moneychangers, but still worth reading.
]]> <![CDATA[Echo Burning (Jack Reacher, #5)]]> 394715 557 Lee Child 0515143820 AndrewP 4 Probably about 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for ŷ��.]]> 4.00 2001

author: Lee Child
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/14
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, thriller, read-in-2025
review:
Not the best Reacher book I have read as yet, but still a good thrilling read. It was pretty obvious who the head bad guy was given the lack of characters and possible suspects. Funnily enough there was one really big clue, but Reacher missed it as well, so I don't feel so bad.
Probably about 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for ŷ��.
]]> <![CDATA[Clanlands in New Zealand: Kiwis, Kilts, and an Adventure Down Under]]> 123204609
Buckle up, grab a dram, and get ready for another unforgettable wild ride. ��
 ��
They're back! Stars of�� Outlander, Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish are no strangers to the rugged beauty of Scotland. But this time they're setting their sights on a new New Zealand.��
 ��
Join our intrepid Scotsmen on their latest epic adventure across The Land of the Long White Cloud in this thrilling follow-up to�� Clanlands . Setting out to explore a country that Graham calls home, and that Sam has longed to visit, these sturdy friends immerse themselves in all that New Zealand has to stunning landscapes, rich history, world-class food and drink, and �� much to Graham’s mounting anxiety and Sam’s deep satisfaction �� famously adrenaline-fuelled activities! As ever there’s not nearly enough space in their trusty camper van and with plenty of good-natured competition and tormenting to go around, Sam and Graham's friendship is put to the test once again. Along the way we learn about the length and breadth of this jewel of the Southern Seas, exploring the fascinating story of its people while testing the very limits of Graham's sanity.��
 ��
Like the very best buddy movie sequel, this latest installment is full of unforgettable experiences and loveable characters and promises to be an even more memorable ride with two of the most entertaining travel companions around.��
 ��
So, say goodbye to your inhibitions and kia ora to New Zealand like you've never seen it before.��]]> 245 Sam Heughan 1804190764 AndrewP 4 The two authors have an amazing comradery and chemistry together. This is very apparent in the audio book and really lifts this up to another level. As Graham points out towards the end "this is really two books, two accounts of the same events as seen by Sam and Graham". For me, the differences in their opinions is what really makes this book.]]> 4.09 Clanlands in New Zealand: Kiwis, Kilts, and an Adventure Down Under

Clanlands in New Zealand: Kiwis, Kilts, and an Adventure Down Under

author: Sam Heughan
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/06
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: audio-books, non-fiction, read-in-2025
review:
The follow up to Clanlands takes Sam and Graham on adventures around New Zealand. As before, the TV series was merely the visual highlights of the tour. The book is much, much more as it goes into the history and culture of New Zealand.
The two authors have an amazing comradery and chemistry together. This is very apparent in the audio book and really lifts this up to another level. As Graham points out towards the end "this is really two books, two accounts of the same events as seen by Sam and Graham". For me, the differences in their opinions is what really makes this book.
]]> Dejah of Mars 29840113 96 Mark Rahner 1524101117 AndrewP 2 3.19 2016

author: Mark Rahner
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.19
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: e-book, graphic-novel, library, read-in-2025
review:
All I can say about this one is that the art and the story were all over the place. Not to my liking but others may enjoy it.
]]> Born to be Riled 1030220 554 Jeremy Clarkson 0141028998 AndrewP 3 Almost all of the articles relate to cars and other aspects of motoring and as this was written in the 90's some knowledge of British cars and social issues from that era is useful but not essential. I did look up a couple that sounded interesting but for the most part I got what he was talking about from the description.
Of course, everything is presented in the unique politically incorrect Clarkson style and he makes fun of just about everybody and everything. Obviously, easily offended lightweights should avoid this book. For me I got a laugh out of most of it, even though he makes fun of my home county of Norfolk on the cover:)]]> 3.59 1999 Born to be Riled

author: Jeremy Clarkson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.59
book published: 1999
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/07
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: non-fiction, humour, 2025-bookshelf-clearance, read-in-2025
review:
Another book collecting Clarkson's weekly columns from newspapers and magazines. All of these are some 3 or 4 pages in length, so this is the ideal book to have laying around the house to read when you have a spare minute or two.
Almost all of the articles relate to cars and other aspects of motoring and as this was written in the 90's some knowledge of British cars and social issues from that era is useful but not essential. I did look up a couple that sounded interesting but for the most part I got what he was talking about from the description.
Of course, everything is presented in the unique politically incorrect Clarkson style and he makes fun of just about everybody and everything. Obviously, easily offended lightweights should avoid this book. For me I got a laugh out of most of it, even though he makes fun of my home county of Norfolk on the cover:)
]]> <![CDATA[Diddly Squat: A Year on the Farm (Diddly Squat, #1)]]> 56669595 farming was much better left to someone else

Then one day he decided he would do the farming himself.

After all, how hard could it be?

Well . . .

Faced with suffocating red tape, biblical weather, local objections, a global pandemic and his own frankly staggering ignorance of how to 'do farming', Jeremy soon realises that turning the farm around is going to take more than splashing out on a massive tractor.

Fortunately, there's help at hand from a large and (mostly) willing team, including girlfriend Lisa, Kaleb the Tractor Driver, Cheerful Charlie, Ellen the Shepherd and Gerald, his Head of Security and Dry Stone Waller. Between them they enthusiastically cultivate crops, rear livestock and hens, keep bees, bottle spring water and open a farm shop. But profits remain elusive.

And yet while the farm may be called Diddly Squat for good reason, Jeremy soon begins to understand that it's worth a whole lot more to him than pounds, shillings and pence . . .
]]> 208 Jeremy Clarkson 0241464501 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.09 2021 Diddly Squat: A Year on the Farm (Diddly Squat, #1)

Diddly Squat: A Year on the Farm (Diddly Squat, #1)

author: Jeremy Clarkson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Beauty's Punishment (Sleeping Beauty, #2)]]> 18750 The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty, from the author of Beauty's Kingdom.

This sequel to The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty, the first of Anne Rice's (writing as A.N. Roquelaure) volumes of erotica, continues her explicit, teasing exploration of the psychology of human desire. Now Beauty, having indulged in a secret and forbidden infatuation with the rebellious slave Prince Tristan, is sent away from the Satyricon-like world of the Castle. Sold at auction, she will soon experience the tantalizing punishments of "the village," as her education in love, cruelty, dominance, submission, and tenderness is turned over to the brazenly handsome Captain of the Guard. And once again Rice's tale of pleasure and pain dares to explore the most primal and well-hidden desires of the human heart. This series [predates the eroticism of E.L. James' Fifty Shades of Grey and Sylvia Day's Bared to You.]]> 256 A.N. Roquelaure 0452281431 AndrewP 3 3.64 1984 Beauty's Punishment (Sleeping Beauty, #2)

Beauty's Punishment (Sleeping Beauty, #2)

author: A.N. Roquelaure
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.64
book published: 1984
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/07
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
Book 2 of this trilogy written by Anne Rice under the pseudonym of A. A. Roquelaure. For me the book did not live up to it's title. There was too much Prince Tristan (2/3 of the book) and not enough Beauty. On to the third and final book.
]]> <![CDATA[Beauty's Release (Sleeping Beauty, #3)]]> 1197075 238 A.N. Roquelaure 0525481680 AndrewP 3 3.11 1985

author: A.N. Roquelaure
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.11
book published: 1985
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
The final book of the trilogy and I have much the same comments about this one as the previous one. The book is supposed to be about Sleeping Beauty, but there is very little of her in this book.
]]> Sleepyhead (Tom Thorne #1) 19172392 Dear Detective Inspector Thorne. What can I say? Practice makes perfect. And don't you just envy her that perfect...distance? I invite you to consider the concept of freedom. True freedom. Have you ever really considered it? I'm sorry about the others. Truly. I shall not insult your intelligence with platitudes about ends and means but offer in mitigation the thought that a massive undertaking often has an appropriate margin of error. It's all about pressure, Detective Inspector Thorne, but then you'd know all about that. Seriously, though, Tom, maybe I'll call you sometime.

Mark Billingham's arresting debut novel Sleepyhead, an international bestseller, is a mesmerizing, psychological thriller. Tense and unnerving, this menacing tale of obsession is as scathingly witty as it is bone chilling, and it introduces a stunning new talent in detective fiction.

Alison Willetts is unlucky to be alive. She has survived a deliberately induced stroke, and although she can see, hear, and feel, she is completely unable to move or to communicate. In leaving Alison alive, the police believe her assailant has made his first mistake. Until Detective Inspector Tom Thorne discovers the horrifying Alison is the psychopath's first success; the three women he killed before her were the mistakes. "An appropriate margin of error" is how their killer dismissed them; his true intention was to leave them just like put to sleep for the rest of their natural lives. And Thorne knows they won't be his last victims. To save innocent lives, he must find a criminal whose agenda is terrifyingly unique. But this untraceable, sadistic madman is smart, elusive, and cryptic —he enjoys toying with the police almost as much as he savors pursuing his sick fantasy �� and the only lead Thorne has is the tragically uncommunicative Alison.

Sensational, sinister, and sophisticated, Sleepyhead is a twisted take on the contemporary crime novel, and with it Mark Billingham reveals an extraordinary depth and range of talent. Impeccably plotted and remarkably assured, Billingham's debut marks the start of a brilliant career.]]> 436 Mark Billingham 0802193269 AndrewP 4 There was one reference to a cell phone that I felt was very artificial and forced, hence 4 stars instead of 5.
Going to continue this series for sure.
]]> 3.80 2001 Sleepyhead (Tom Thorne #1)

author: Mark Billingham
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/07
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: e-book, crime-mystery, read-in-2025
review:
This was one of those mystery books that sucked me in from the very first chapter. The story, pacing and characters maintained my level of interest the whole way through. Opposite to many books of this genre, there were not a multitude of suspects and I was wondering if the most obvious answer was the correct one. Not going to put a spoiler here so you will have to read it for yourself.
There was one reference to a cell phone that I felt was very artificial and forced, hence 4 stars instead of 5.
Going to continue this series for sure.

]]> <![CDATA[The Wondrous Adventures of the Domino Lady! (Annotated) (Illustrated)]]> 42255401 256 Lars Anderson 1973735717 AndrewP 0 to-read 3.00 2014

The Wondrous Adventures of the Domino Lady! (Annotated) (Illustrated)

author: Lars Anderson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.00
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The City & the City 4703581
Borlú must travel from the decaying Beszel to the only metropolis on Earth as strange as his own. This is a border crossing like no other, a journey as psychic as it is physical, a shift in perception, a seeing of the unseen. His destination is Beszel’s equal, rival, and intimate neighbor, the rich and vibrant city of Ul Qoma. With Ul Qoman detective Qussim Dhatt, and struggling with his own transition, Borlú is enmeshed in a sordid underworld of rabid nationalists intent on destroying their neighboring city, and unificationists who dream of dissolving the two into one. As the detectives uncover the dead woman’s secrets, they begin to suspect a truth that could cost them and those they care about more than their lives.

What stands against them are murderous powers in Beszel and in Ul Qoma: and, most terrifying of all, that which lies between these two cities.

Casting shades of Kafka and Philip K. Dick, Raymond Chandler and 1984, The City & the City is a murder mystery taken to dazzling metaphysical and artistic heights.]]> 312 China Miéville 0345497511 AndrewP 4 Great book though and well worth the effort. For people who have their doubts it's a relatively short book (less the half of Perdido Street Station) so probably a good place to start with this author, ]]> 3.90 2009 The City & the City

author: China Miéville
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/01
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: group_sword-and-laser, e-book, library, read-in-2025, science-fiction
review:
Mielille's books are always a challenging read. He has a great vocabulary and never fails to use a word or two that I have to look up. In addition his sentence structures can be complex and I often have to backtrack to reread something to make sure I have the correct context/meaning. In this book, the central concept of the story wasn't easy to get my head around and, even after finishing, I'm not 100% sure how things really worked.
Great book though and well worth the effort. For people who have their doubts it's a relatively short book (less the half of Perdido Street Station) so probably a good place to start with this author,
]]> When the Moon Hits Your Eye 211004190
It's a whole new moooooon.

One day soon, suddenly and without explanation, the moon as we know it is replaced with an orb of cheese with the exact same mass. Through the length of an entire lunar cycle, from new moon to a spectacular and possibly final solar eclipse, we follow multiple characters -- schoolkids and scientists, billionaires and workers, preachers and politicians -- as they confront the strange new world they live in, and the absurd, impossible moon that now hangs above all their lives.]]> 326 John Scalzi 0765389096 AndrewP 0 to-read 3.80 2025 When the Moon Hits Your Eye

author: John Scalzi
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Fawlty Towers 3275349 224 John Cleese 0860075982 AndrewP 3 bio-autobiography, humour 4.16 1977

author: John Cleese
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.16
book published: 1977
rating: 3
read at: 1978/08/23
date added: 2025/02/23
shelves: bio-autobiography, humour
review:
A book about the show with some scripts and history etc.
]]> <![CDATA[Inhibitor Phase (Revelation Space, #4)]]> 56072402
Fleeing the 'wolves' - the xenocidal alien machines known as Inhibitors - he has protected his family and community from attack for forty years, sheltering in the caves of an airless, battered world called Michaelmas. The slightest hint of human activity could draw the wolves to their home, to destroy everything ... utterly. Which is how Miguel finds himself on a one-way mission with his own destructive mandate: to eliminate a passing ship, before it can bring unwanted attention down on them.

Only something goes wrong.

There's a lone survivor.

And she knows far more about Miguel than she's letting on . . .

Ranging from the depths of space to the deeps of Pattern Juggler waters, from nervous, isolated communities to the ruins of empire, this is a stealthy space opera from an author at the top of his game.

Praise for Al Reynolds' Revenger

'A swashbuckling thriller' The Guardian

'A blindingly clever imagining of our solar system in the far flung future' The Sun

'A rollicking adventure yarn with action, abduction, fights and properly scary hazards' The Daily Telegraph]]> 432 Alastair Reynolds AndrewP 3
Not his best work but still a good read if you are invested in the series.]]> 4.01 2021 Inhibitor Phase (Revelation Space, #4)

author: Alastair Reynolds
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/20
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves: e-book, read-in-2025, science-fiction
review:
This book occurs chronologically after the three main Revelation Space Novels and continues the story of the fight against the Inhibitors/Wolves. For me the whole book seemed like an afterthought with a quest for wonderous technology that will save humanity. There was some tie in to other places and characters in the series and we finally got to find out more about the Pattern Jugglers.

Not his best work but still a good read if you are invested in the series.
]]> <![CDATA[The Sandman, Vol. 6: Fables & Reflections]]> 44525971 262 Neil Gaiman AndrewP 4 Now I am beginning to appreciate why this series has received so much praise. The storytelling is very good and the art (although not to my usual taste) fits perfectly with the dark tone of most of the book. ]]> 4.41 1993 The Sandman, Vol. 6: Fables & Reflections

The Sandman, Vol. 6: Fables & Reflections

author: Neil Gaiman
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.41
book published: 1993
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/20
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves: fantasy, library, graphic-novel, read-in-2025
review:
This volume collects several multi-issue stories. The titles are ones that will be familiar to most people, but not the exact story, or at least this telling of it. 'Morpheus in the Underworld' for example.
Now I am beginning to appreciate why this series has received so much praise. The storytelling is very good and the art (although not to my usual taste) fits perfectly with the dark tone of most of the book.
]]> <![CDATA[The Black Ice (Harry Bosch, #2; Harry Bosch Universe, #2)]]> 24244 Working the case, LAPD detective Harry Bosch is reminded of the primal police rule he learned long ago: don't look for the facts, but the glue that holds them together.

Soon Harry's making some very dangerous connections, starting with a dead cop and leading to a bloody string of murders that wind from Hollywood Boulevard to the back alleys south of the border. Now this battle-scarred veteran will find himself in the centre of a complex and deadly game - one in which he may be the next and likeliest victim.

]]> 439 Michael Connelly 0446613444 AndrewP 3 4.07 1993 The Black Ice (Harry Bosch, #2; Harry Bosch Universe, #2)

author: Michael Connelly
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.07
book published: 1993
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/04
date added: 2025/02/04
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, crime-mystery, read-in-2025
review:
I have been watching the TV show Bosch, so I though this a good time to catch up with some of the books. Only the second book in the series and I'm sure they get better as Connelly gets more experienced as a writer. This one didn't seem to be anything special to me but the characters are intriguing and I will continue on with the series.
]]> Breakfast at Tiffany's 20800759 3 Truman Capote AndrewP 2 audio-books
Not a bad story but somewhat dated and I felt like it was supposed to be a noir. It had some of the language and events but did not really pull it together.]]> 3.85 1958 Breakfast at Tiffany's

author: Truman Capote
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.85
book published: 1958
rating: 2
read at: 2014/10/10
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves: audio-books
review:
I'm not sure if this was originally a play or a novella. Very short at only 3 hours for the audio book.

Not a bad story but somewhat dated and I felt like it was supposed to be a noir. It had some of the language and events but did not really pull it together.
]]> Starship Troopers 573824 224 Robert A. Heinlein 0450005739 AndrewP 4 4.00 1959

author: Robert A. Heinlein
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published: 1959
rating: 4
read at: 1982/11/21
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: science-fiction, npr_top-100-sf-fantasy
review:
Not quite what I was expecting. The first half was action and the second half more political.
]]> Life of Pi 4214 460 Yann Martel 0770430074 AndrewP 4 Well worth reading even though, in my opinion, it doesn't quite live up to the hype. ]]> 3.94 2001

author: Yann Martel
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/01
date added: 2025/02/01
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, read-in-2025
review:
Several years ago, I bought this book after watching the movie, never got around to reading it. Finally did and breezed through it in a few days. Most of what happens in this strange story is explained in section at the end, but then again is it? Up to the reader to draw their own conclusions as I don't think the author wanted to put everything in black and white.
Well worth reading even though, in my opinion, it doesn't quite live up to the hype.
]]> <![CDATA[Kill Me, Darling: A Mike Hammer Novel]]> 25957969
Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer is back - and a new case has found him whether he's ready or not.

The course of true love never did run smooth for PI Mike Hammer. His secretary and partner Velda has walked out on him without explanation, and Mike is just surfacing from a four-month bender. But then an old cop turns up murdered - a cop who once worked with Velda on the NYPD Vice Squad. What's more, Mike's pal Captain Pat Chambers has discovered that Velda is in Florida, now the moll of gangster and drug runner Nolly Quinn.

Hammer hits the road and drives to Miami, where he enlists the help of a horse-faced newspaperman and a local police detective. But can they find Velda in time? And what is the connection between the murdered vice cop in Manhattan and Mike's ex turned gun moll in Florida?]]> 1 Max Allan Collins 1504624041 AndrewP 4
In the intro, Collins explains that he completed this book from a manuscript that was an early alternative version of Spillane's 1962 book The Girl Hunters. As such, quite a bit of this book felt very familiar. It has all the traits that make Hammer the character he is, a violent ruthless vigilante. It's written very much in the style of the period, so people obsessed with modern political correctness are likely to be offended.

The story begins, like so many others, when a cop friend of Hammer is murdered. Pat Chambers points him the direction of Miami, where all of the action occurs.

This is an odd one, it's familiarity works as a pro and a con so I give it 3.5 starts, rounded up to 4 for ŷ��. ]]> 4.12 2015 Kill Me, Darling: A Mike Hammer Novel

author: Max Allan Collins
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2018/09/20
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves: 2018-bookshelf-clearance, audio-books, crime-mystery, read-in-2018
review:
Even though I have a hardback copy of this one, I listened to it on audio because it's narrated by Stacy Keach. I'm sure I'm not alone in agreeing with Max Alan Collins that Keach is the voice of Mike Hammer for a generation (or even longer really).

In the intro, Collins explains that he completed this book from a manuscript that was an early alternative version of Spillane's 1962 book The Girl Hunters. As such, quite a bit of this book felt very familiar. It has all the traits that make Hammer the character he is, a violent ruthless vigilante. It's written very much in the style of the period, so people obsessed with modern political correctness are likely to be offended.

The story begins, like so many others, when a cop friend of Hammer is murdered. Pat Chambers points him the direction of Miami, where all of the action occurs.

This is an odd one, it's familiarity works as a pro and a con so I give it 3.5 starts, rounded up to 4 for ŷ��.
]]> <![CDATA[Into Darkness (Children of D'Hara, #5)]]> 44671501 The irresistible power of a Witch's Oath...
A fracture in the world of life...
An opening in the world of death...
To confront an apocalyptic nightmare, Richard Rahl must step...
INTO DARKNESS. Into Darkness is the fifth episode �� a blockbusting 688 pages �� in Terry Goodkind's irresistibly intense new serial novel, The Children of D'Hara . 'I want to introduce everyone to THE CHILDREN OF D'HARA, a new series that continues the story of the lives of Richard and Kahlan. This is a journey that began 25 years ago with the 1994 release of WIZARD'S FIRST RULE, when Richard first met Kahlan that fateful day in the Hartland woods. After the 'The Sword of Truth' series ended, I knew there was more to Richard and Kahlan's story. Much more. A whole world more. For years, readers have asked me about Richard and Kahlan's lives after the Sword of Truth series . . . and importantly, about their children. While my masterwork, 'The Sword of Truth', concluded with WARHEART �� 20 languages and 26 million books sold �� I was burning to tell readers more about Richard and Kahlan. For that reason, this new series starts immediately after the 'Sword of Truth' books ended. Without skipping a beat, readers will plunge back into Richard and Kahlan's lives, with new episodes releasing every three months. So it is that I want to welcome you all back into the Sword of Truth world with many of the characters besides Richard and Kahlan, such as the Mord-Sith, that we have come to love. Learn what the star shift has done to their world and what monsters now lurk in shadows. I promise an arresting, beautiful, and sometimes tragic adventure that will keep you glued to this irresistible story.'
—Terry Goodkind .]]> 392 Terry Goodkind AndrewP 4 This final series occurs chronologically after the main series and probably along the same timelines as the Nicci Chronicles. They are in the same world but these books go back to the original characters, Richard and Kahlen, and do form a sort of conclusion t their story. As these were published as a series of novellas (I believe a collected version is now available) there is a certain amount of repetition in the books if you read them back to back. This is probably a criticism of the majority most of his works, going over the same point or concept repeatedly.
Been a fun ride but now it's time to move onto something else, although I will now go and watch the TV series based on this series 'Legend of the Seeker'.]]> 4.33 2020 Into Darkness (Children of D'Hara, #5)

author: Terry Goodkind
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/23
date added: 2025/01/23
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
The fifth and final volume of the 'Children of D'Hara' and for me the final book in the works of Terry Goodkind. It's been a long journey since I first read 'Wizard's First Rule' almost 25 years ago. Overall I really enjoyed all of his books, as he often had a great writing ability to building tension and excitement, creating literal 'edge of the seat' reading experiences. Some of his subject matter is probably objectionable to many people (i.e. more closely aligned with Game of Thrones than the Wheel of Time.)
This final series occurs chronologically after the main series and probably along the same timelines as the Nicci Chronicles. They are in the same world but these books go back to the original characters, Richard and Kahlen, and do form a sort of conclusion t their story. As these were published as a series of novellas (I believe a collected version is now available) there is a certain amount of repetition in the books if you read them back to back. This is probably a criticism of the majority most of his works, going over the same point or concept repeatedly.
Been a fun ride but now it's time to move onto something else, although I will now go and watch the TV series based on this series 'Legend of the Seeker'.
]]> <![CDATA[Witch's Oath (Children of D'Hara, #4)]]> 44443388
'The Sword of Truth series was my masterwork. Yet, life for these characters goes on after the conclusion of that series. For years readers have been asking about Richard and Kahlan's children. This is that story' TERRY GOODKIND.

In 1994 Wizard's First Rule introduced Richard Cypher, a young woodsman seeking answers and vengeance in the aftermath of his father's murder, and Kahlan Amnell, a mysterious young woman pursued by a bloodthirsty tyrant's assassins.

The Sword of Truth is one of the most ambitious fantasy series ever written. It was a decades-long masterwork that has been translated into 20 languages and sold 26 million copies. After 16 volumes and one novella, it concluded in 2016 with Warheart .

The Children of D'Hara picks up immediately after the conclusion of the Sword of Truth series. The story will be told in installments, as novella-length episodes published every three months. Witch's Oath is the fourth novella]]> 336 Terry Goodkind 178954131X AndrewP 4 4.05 2019 Witch's Oath (Children of D'Hara, #4)

author: Terry Goodkind
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/12
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
The end of the side quest/mystery but leaves more questions unanswered. Now the party of nine must travel to the Wizards Keep to be safe from the alien invaders. This fourth story is a full length novel at 336 pages and is a continuation of the story with a sort of minor conclusion. The final book after this is longer still so I hope for the sort of conclusion that made the Sword of Truth so good.
]]> <![CDATA[Wasteland (Children of D'Hara, #3)]]> 41448966
HE WASN'T.

"WE'RE IN TROUBLE," HE SAID.

Richard Rahl and Kahlan Amnell are fighting on all fronts. The Golden Goddess, Collector of Worlds, has infiltrated the People's Palace, able to insinuate herself into the minds of those without the gift of magic.

Richard can trust no-one but the gifted. So, when Vika, one of his sworn Mord-Sith bodyguards is abducted, he has to get her back. His determination will lead him and Kahlan deep into the labyrinthine heart of the People's Palace - the Wasteland - and into more danger than they have ever faced before.

"THE SWORD OF THE TRUTH SERIES WAS MY MASTERWORK. YET, LIFE FOR THESE CHARACTERS GOES ON AFTER THE CONCLUSION OF THAT SERIES. FOR YEARS READERS HAVE BEEN ASKING ABOUT RICHARD AND KAHLAN'S CHILDREN. THIS IS THAT STORY" (TERRY GOODKIND)

In 1994, 'Wizard's First Rule' introduced Richard Cypher, a young woodsman seeking answers and vengeance in the aftermath of his father's murder, and Kahlan Amnell, a mysterious young woman pursued by a bloodthirsty tyrant's assassins.

The Sword of Truth is on of the most ambitious fantasy series ever written. It was a decades-long masterwork that has been translated into 20 languages and sold 26 million copies. After 16 volumes and one novella, it concluded in 2016 with 'Warheart'.

The Children of D'Hara picks up immediately after the conclusion of the Sword of Truth series. The story will be told in installments. 'Wasteland' is the third novella.

©2019 Terry Goodkind (P)2019 Recorded Books]]> 240 Terry Goodkind 1789541298 AndrewP 4 4.01 2019 Wasteland (Children of D'Hara, #3)

author: Terry Goodkind
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/09
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
A bit of a side quest from the main storyline lead Richard and Kahlan into a vast underground maze known as the Wasteland. The new villain here is a bit of a plot device as he must have been there all the time, throughout the entire 'Sword of Truth' series and only now becomes a problem. Overall a decent read though.
]]> Wool - Holston (Wool, #1) 12287209
Or you'll get what you wish for.]]> 56 Hugh Howey AndrewP 4 There were a couple of things similar to other books/stories I have read, so I could not give this 5 stars.]]> 4.14 2012 Wool - Holston (Wool, #1)

author: Hugh Howey
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at: 2013/04/29
date added: 2025/01/09
shelves: science-fiction, group_sword-and-laser, e-book
review:
An engaging story that grabs you from the start and moves along at a nice pace. Entertaining and the kind of great ending that makes the short form Science Fiction story so great.
There were a couple of things similar to other books/stories I have read, so I could not give this 5 stars.
]]> <![CDATA[Hateful Things (Children of D'Hara, #2)]]> 41448580
'The Sword of Truth series was my masterwork. Yet, life for these characters goes on after the conclusion of that series. For years readers have been asking about Richard and Kahlan's children. This is that story' TERRY GOODKIND

In 1994 Wizard's First Rule introduced Richard Cypher, a young woodsman seeking answers and vengeance in the aftermath of his father's murder, and Kahlan Amnell, a mysterious young woman pursued by a bloodthirsty tyrant's assassins.

The Sword of Truth is one of the most ambitious fantasy series ever written. It was a decades-long masterwork that has been translated into 20 languages and sold 26 million copies. After 16 volumes and one novella, it concluded in 2016 with Warheart.

The Children of D'Hara picks up immediately after the conclusion of the Sword of Truth series. The story will be told in instalments, as novella-length episodes published every three months. Hateful Things is the second novella.]]> 210 Terry Goodkind 1789541204 AndrewP 4 4.08 2019 Hateful Things (Children of D'Hara, #2)

author: Terry Goodkind
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/05
date added: 2025/01/05
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:
The second novella in this series moves the plot along a bit and explains some of the motivations of the bad guys. Some other revelations as well adds tension to the story.
]]> <![CDATA[The Scribbly Man (Children of D'Hara, #1)]]> 41447929 From the internationally bestselling author of the Sword of Truth series comes a new Richard and Kahlan novella.

"They are the monsters under the bed when you are little, the shape just caught out of the corner of your eye when you thought you were alone, the shadow of something in a dark corner that surprises you and then isn't there. They stop you dead with a knot of unexpected terror in the pit of your stomach. We have all seen fleeting glimpses of them. Never long enough to see them as I saw them, but it was them. I recognized it the instant I saw it.

"We've all seen flashes of them, the dark shadow just out of sight. They could briefly terrify us before but never hurt us because they came from so far distant. They were never able to fully materialize in our world so we saw only transient glimpses of them, the shape of them if the light was just right, if the shadows were deep enough . . . if you were afraid enough.

"I think that the star shift has brought us closer to their realm so that they now have the power to step into our world and hurt us." �� Kahlan Amnell.

]]> 149 Terry Goodkind 1789541182 AndrewP 4 3.83 2019 The Scribbly Man (Children of D'Hara, #1)

author: Terry Goodkind
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/03
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: 2025-bookshelf-clearance, fantasy, read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Eddie Braben’s Morecambe and Wise Book]]> 211104323
Morecambe and Wise charmed a nation for decades and at their height commanded TV audiences that could only be matched by the moon landings and the 1966 World Cup final. Often called the third member of Morecambe and Wise, the late Eddie Braben was the quiet genius behind their best-loved jokes. Here, collected together for the first time, is a celebration of the finest repartee Braben ever penned for them - the banter between Eric and Little Ern, lines from those horrendous plays what Ernie wrote, and the unforgettable celebrity encounters with such names as Glenda Jackson, Andre Previn and, of course, Des O'Connor. The perfect Christmas stocking-filler for Eric and Ernie fans young and old.

Ernie: Can you remember the first words you spoke in the theatre?

Eric: I'll never forget them. How could I? 'This way, please! Programmes!...' After a couple of months came my big break. That great Shakespearian actor and dance band leader, Sir Lawrence Olivier came to the theatre.

Ernie: What happened?

Eric: He came up to me. My heart stopped. He said, ' Young man, have you read any of Shakespeare's plays?'

Ernie: What did you say?

Eric: I said, 'Only two of them.' He said, 'Which ones?' I said, 'Romeo and Juliet.' So he put me in his next play.

Ernie: What was it about?

Eric: It was about thirty minutes too long.]]> 176 Eddie Braben AndrewP 4 This a book by the writer of many of their their comedy routines. (But not the plays what Ern wrote). After their career ended he still had many jokes that could only have been performed by Eric and Ernie. Some of these are in this book along with some old sketches that have become fan favorites. It was fun to read the actual script of the infamous 'Grieg' Piano Concerto' featuring Andre Previn. If you've never seen this, then check one of the highlights of British comedy on YouTube:

Fun to read and brought back a lot of great memories. ]]> 4.00 2013 Eddie Braben’s Morecambe and Wise Book

author: Eddie Braben
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/12
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: 2024-bookshelf-clearance, humour, read-in-2024
review:
The untimely death of Eric Morecambe in 1984 ended the career of probably the best double act that Britain ever produced. They were, and still are, one of the most beloved comedy acts and it's well documented that their 1977 Christmas special was watched by well over 20 million brits.
This a book by the writer of many of their their comedy routines. (But not the plays what Ern wrote). After their career ended he still had many jokes that could only have been performed by Eric and Ernie. Some of these are in this book along with some old sketches that have become fan favorites. It was fun to read the actual script of the infamous 'Grieg' Piano Concerto' featuring Andre Previn. If you've never seen this, then check one of the highlights of British comedy on YouTube:

Fun to read and brought back a lot of great memories.
]]> Cursed Bunny 61031128 Cursed Bunny is a collection that will shock and surprise readers with each new tale. Translated by the acclaimed Anton Hur, Chung’s stories are wildly unique and imaginative, by turns thought-provoking and stomach-turning, where monstrous creatures take the shapes of furry woodland creatures and danger lurks in unexpected corners of everyday apartment buildings. But Chung’s rare, haunting universe could be our own, illuminating the ills of contemporary society.

“The Head�� follows a woman haunted by her own waste. “The Embodiment�� takes us into a dystopian gynecology office where a pregnant woman is told that her baby must have a father or face horrific consequences. Another story follows a young monster, forced into underground fight rings without knowing the force of his own power. The titular fable centers on a cursed lamp in the approachable shape of a rabbit, fit for a child’s bedroom.

Cursed Bunny is a book that screams to be read late into the night and passed on to the nearest set of hands the very next day.]]> 247 Bora Chung 1643753606 AndrewP 3 I think a lot got lost during translation here leaving a couple of memorable stories, the rest not so much ]]> 3.72 2017 Cursed Bunny

author: Bora Chung
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2024/07/14
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: group_sword-and-laser, library, science-fiction, read-in-2024
review:
Read this short story collection as part of an online book club. Some of the stories clearly belong in the genre of 'bizzaro' fiction so even though they may seem weird to many, Chung is not really breaking any new ground here.
I think a lot got lost during translation here leaving a couple of memorable stories, the rest not so much
]]> <![CDATA[Gerry & Sylvia Anderson's UFO. Series Guide, Volume One: The Beginning: Straker and Foster]]> 96178886 110 Adrian Sherlock AndrewP 3 3.00

Gerry & Sylvia Anderson's UFO. Series Guide, Volume One: The Beginning: Straker and Foster

author: Adrian Sherlock
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/07/16
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: e-book, non-fiction, science-fiction, read-in-2024
review:
The first of three series guides for Jerry Anderson's UFO series. Having just finished a re-watch of the entire series I though I would take a look at these guides to get someone else's perspective and insights into anything I might have missed. As I expected, there were a few nuances that I didn't catch. I think it's worth reading these after watching the show and then maybe taking a second, or third look at some of the episodes.
]]> Roadkill 61856981
Jack Kernigan is having a bad day...a bad year...a bad life. After being booted out of MIT, he’s back in his Ohio hometown, working for the family business, facing a life of mediocrity. Then one day, out on a delivery, his truck hits...something. Something big...something furry...something invisible. And, it turns out, something not of this Earth.

Fate can play funny tricks. Which is why Jack suddenly finds himself the planet’s best hope to unravel a conspiracy of galactic proportions that could spell the end of the human race. All Jack and his best friends, Natalie and Patrick, have to defeat an alien threat is their wits, a lot of coffee, and a rather snippy AI named Sheldon. Plus, their own spaceship.

After all, if you’re going to rescue the world, the least you can get out of it is your own spaceship.]]> 9 Dennis E. Taylor AndrewP 4 4.06 2022 Roadkill

author: Dennis E. Taylor
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/01
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: audio-books, science-fiction, read-in-2024
review:
The first non Bobiverse book I've read from Dennis E. Taylor. It's a tale of an accidental first encounter, crazy conspiracy theories and saving the world. Great light hearted stuff and there were several LOL moments. There did seem to be one character side plot that sort of fizzled out when I though something major was going to come of it. Aside from that, a great fun read. The audio book has the same narrator as the Bobiverse books, which just accentuates the humor.
]]> <![CDATA[Rivers of London Vol. 11: Here Be Dragons]]> 125683109 110 Ben Aaronovitch 1787741923 AndrewP 5
Recommended.]]> 4.16

Rivers of London Vol. 11: Here Be Dragons

author: Ben Aaronovitch
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.16
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/28
date added: 2025/01/02
shelves: e-book, graphic-novel, urban-fantasy, read-in-2024
review:
I was a bit disappointed with the previous book of this series but with this one Aaronovitch really gets back on form. Several magical elements are involved, but the storyline that ties them together with landmarks of London and Jimmy Hendrix is masterful.

Recommended.
]]> <![CDATA[A Night in the Lonesome October]]> 57823573 290 Roger Zelazny 1515451127 AndrewP 4
Great fun book, featuring many characters from fiction in a pseudo Victorian time period. Well worth the read and if you can find a copy that has the illustration of all the characters on the front that's even better.]]> 4.32 1993 A Night in the Lonesome October

author: Roger Zelazny
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.32
book published: 1993
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/31
date added: 2025/01/02
shelves: e-book, read-in-2022, fantasy, read-in-2024
review:
Several book clubs read this in October as it was written to be read one chapter a day for each of the 31 days. Many of the early chapters are very short, but I resisted the temptation to read ahead.

Great fun book, featuring many characters from fiction in a pseudo Victorian time period. Well worth the read and if you can find a copy that has the illustration of all the characters on the front that's even better.
]]> <![CDATA[Wind and Truth (The Stormlight Archive, #5)]]> 203578847 The long-awaited explosive climax to the first arc of the #1 New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive―the iconic epic fantasy masterpiece that has sold more than 10 million copies, from acclaimed bestselling author Brandon Sanderson.

Dalinar Kholin challenged the evil god Odium to a contest of champions with the future of Roshar on the line. The Knights Radiant have only ten days to prepare―and the sudden ascension of the crafty and ruthless Taravangian to take Odium’s place has thrown everything into disarray.

Desperate fighting continues simultaneously worldwide―Adolin in Azimir, Sigzil and Venli at the Shattered Plains, and Jasnah at Thaylen City. The former assassin, Szeth, must cleanse his homeland of Shinovar from the dark influence of the Unmade. He is accompanied by Kaladin, who faces a new battle helping Szeth fight his own demons . . . and who must do the same for the insane Herald of the Almighty, Ishar.

At the same time, Shallan, Renarin, and Rlain work to unravel the mystery behind the Unmade Ba-Ado-Mishram and her involvement in the enslavement of the singer race and in the ancient Knights Radiants killing their spren. And Dalinar and Navani seek an edge against Odium’s champion that can be found only in the Spiritual Realm, where memory and possibility combine in chaos. The fate of the entire Cosmere hangs in the balance.]]> 1344 Brandon Sanderson 1250319188 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.34 2024 Wind and Truth (The Stormlight Archive, #5)

Wind and Truth (The Stormlight Archive, #5)

author: Brandon Sanderson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dejah Thoris and the White Apes of Mars (Warlord of Mars)]]> 15894886 96 Mark Rahner 1606903632 AndrewP 2 2.75 2012

Dejah Thoris and the White Apes of Mars (Warlord of Mars)

author: Mark Rahner
name: AndrewP
average rating: 2.75
book published: 2012
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: e-book, graphic-novel, read-in-2024, library
review:
I can enjoy a graphic novel with great artwork but a lackluster story. Vice Versa a great story but lacking artwork. In this case both were pretty bad. Cannot recommend this.
]]> <![CDATA[The Body on the Shore (DCI Craig Gillard #2)]]> 41473419 344 Nick Louth 1788632222 AndrewP 3 4.10 2018

The Body on the Shore (DCI Craig Gillard #2)

author: Nick Louth
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: crime-mystery, e-book, read-in-2024
review:
I enjoyed the first part of this book but not the second part. Everything therel happened in Albania and for my tastes had more in common with an action movie than a police procedural. The two parts never really came together for me, otherwise it was okay.
]]> Blindsight (Firefall, #1) 7703915 Blindsight is the Hugo Award–nominated novel by Peter Watts, "a hard science fiction writer through and through and one of the very best alive" (The Globe and Mail).

Two months have past since a myriad of alien objects clenched about the Earth, screaming as they burned. The heavens have been silent since—until a derelict space probe hears whispers from a distant comet. Something talks out there: but not to us. Who should we send to meet the alien, when the alien doesn't want to meet?

Send a linguist with multiple-personality disorder and a biologist so spliced with machinery that he can't feel his own flesh. Send a pacifist warrior and a vampire recalled from the grave by the voodoo of paleogenetics. Send a man with half his mind gone since childhood. Send them to the edge of the solar system, praying you can trust such freaks and monsters with the fate of a world. You fear they may be more alien than the thing they've been sent to find—but you'd give anything for that to be true, if you knew what was waiting for them. . . .

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.]]> 384 Peter Watts AndrewP 2 On the one hand the underlying point of comparing intelligence and consciousness is extremely clever and though provoking. The aliens are very very different and reasonably well presented.
On the other side of the coin, I think the book seemed to be a kluge of ideas taken from different scientific papers but without total understanding. The story jumps around in unexpected places and takes the reader out of the most interesting parts with babbling flashbacks. Having a vampire in the story was to me like having the aliens from Mars Attacks in the end of 2001... Made me cringe.
Overall, great ideas but flawed by bad structure and some absurd science (vampires). The author has pages of references at the end of the book and more explanation on his website. For me, a book that requires that much justification is an epic fail in terms of communicating the story.
]]> 3.94 2006 Blindsight (Firefall, #1)

author: Peter Watts
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2006
rating: 2
read at: 2011/04/30
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: science-fiction, group_sword-and-laser, e-book
review:
Not sure what to make of this book really.
On the one hand the underlying point of comparing intelligence and consciousness is extremely clever and though provoking. The aliens are very very different and reasonably well presented.
On the other side of the coin, I think the book seemed to be a kluge of ideas taken from different scientific papers but without total understanding. The story jumps around in unexpected places and takes the reader out of the most interesting parts with babbling flashbacks. Having a vampire in the story was to me like having the aliens from Mars Attacks in the end of 2001... Made me cringe.
Overall, great ideas but flawed by bad structure and some absurd science (vampires). The author has pages of references at the end of the book and more explanation on his website. For me, a book that requires that much justification is an epic fail in terms of communicating the story.

]]> <![CDATA[Warlord Of Mars: Dejah Thoris Omnibus Vol. 2]]> 40203922 455 Robert Place Napton AndrewP 4 4.32 2018

Warlord Of Mars: Dejah Thoris Omnibus Vol. 2

author: Robert Place Napton
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/28
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: fantasy, graphic-novel, library, read-in-2024
review:
The second giant omnibus of the Dejah Thoris comics is another 455 pages of adventures and I would rate this one about the same as the first. There were some stories and art that I think let down the overall quality, but still very good compared with a lot of graphic novels. Overall, well worth reading the entire series especially if you are a fan of the ERB Barsoom books.
]]> <![CDATA[Not Till We Are Lost (Bobiverse #5)]]> 159116833
The Bobiverse is a different place in the aftermath of the Starfleet War, and the days of the Bobs gathering in one big happy moot are far behind. There’s anti-Bob sentiment on multiple planets, the Skippies playing with an AI time bomb, and multiple Bobs just wanting to get away from it all.

But it all pales compared to what Icarus and Daedalus discover on their 26,000-year journey to the center of the galaxy. Sure, it could settle the Fermi Paradox for good (and what Bob doesn’t want to solve a mystery of the universe?). But it also reveals a threat to the galaxy greater than anything the Bobs could have imagined.

Just another average day in the Bobiverse.]]> 413 Dennis E. Taylor AndrewP 4 As usual, Ray Porter gives an amazing performance on the audiobook version.]]> 4.25 2024 Not Till We Are Lost (Bobiverse #5)

author: Dennis E. Taylor
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/23
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: audio-books, read-in-2024, science-fiction
review:
Whereas the previous book was almost all centered around one alien race and a megastructure, this one goes back to the exploration of the galaxy and solving physics and engineering problems. A pretty good story with plenty of humor, Easter eggs and inside jokes for SF and Tech nerds. A bit of a 'holy crap' ending so I will be interested to see where this series goes next.
As usual, Ray Porter gives an amazing performance on the audiobook version.
]]> <![CDATA[Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Omnibus Vol. 1]]> 34974578
Four hundred years before John Carter would arrive on the Red Planet, the long-lived Dejah Thoris must unite the forces of Greater and Lesser Helium, two warring city-states, to fend off the greatest threats ever to plague their lands: a rampaging colossus, pirate raiders, the dreaded Boora Witch, invading vampires from Saturn, and even more unspeakable menaces!

This Omnibus contains the following four graphic novels in one value priced book.

Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Volume 1 - The Colossus of Mars 9781606902455
Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Volume 2 - Pirate Queen of Mars 9781606902677
Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Volume 3 - The Boora Witch 9781606903766
Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Volume 4 - The Vampire Men of Saturn 9781606904176

Reviews:
"Dynamite has a winner with a great setting, a strong female lead, an unlimited storehouse of adventures, and the creative team to make it happen. You should be reading." - Weekly Comic Book Reviews
"Where else are you going to find an epic tale of war, revenge, and deceit set against a Martian backdrop with sexy people fighting giant green aliens? Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris has a great hook, that also includes a great story and earns 4 out of 5 Stars." - Major Spoilers]]> 504 Arvid Nelson 1524104264 AndrewP 4
The events depicted here occur before John Carter set foot on Mars, so there isn't the problem of him overshadowing all the other characters. Well worth a look and I will be continuing on with the second omnibus. ]]> 3.79 2017 Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Omnibus Vol. 1

Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris Omnibus Vol. 1

author: Arvid Nelson
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/23
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: e-book, read-in-2024, library, fantasy, graphic-novel
review:
500 page marathon omnibus of the first 19 comics in this series. The first 3/4 of this book was a great story and the artwork of Carlos Rafael outstanding as his vision of Deja Thoris and mine seem to coincide almost exactly. The final part of the book by different artists, not so much.

The events depicted here occur before John Carter set foot on Mars, so there isn't the problem of him overshadowing all the other characters. Well worth a look and I will be continuing on with the second omnibus.
]]> The Erection Set 189221 The Erection Set introduces Mickey Spillane's greatest hero yet--Dogeron Kelly, a walking bomb of a man who explodes into block-busting action at the drop of a gun or a lift of a skirt as he goes after a multi-million-dollar mob with vengeance on his mind and burning hate in his heart.]]> 304 Mickey Spillane 0451141431 AndrewP 3 3.59 1972 The Erection Set

author: Mickey Spillane
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.59
book published: 1972
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/21
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: 2024-bookshelf-clearance, crime-mystery, read-in-2024
review:
Somehow this book came across as just trying to hard to be 'hard boiled'. The dialogue mostly came across as totally over the top and was full of odd phrases and metaphors. For me this works in smaller doses, either as a short story, or part of a longer one, but got tiring here.
]]> Dejah Thoris vs. John Carter 59385696 Can Dejah and Carter's love hold through a planet-sized war? Find out, courtesy of superstar DAN ABNETT (Guardians Of The Galaxy, Justice League) and ALESSANDRO MIRACOLO (Red Sonja)!]]> 156 Dan Abnett 1524120995 AndrewP 2 3.13 2022 Dejah Thoris vs. John Carter

author: Dan Abnett
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.13
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/13
date added: 2024/12/13
shelves: e-book, fantasy, graphic-novel, library, read-in-2024
review:
The best part of this was the cover and the alternative covers printed inside. Story and artwork were just to lazy and simplistic for my tastes.
]]> Blitz (The Checquy Files, #3) 55228104
Until Pamela, the most sensible of them, suddenly breaks all the rules and brings down a Nazi bomber with her bare hands. The three resolve to tell no one about it, but they soon learn that a crew member is missing from the downed bomber. Charred corpses are discovered in nearby houses and it becomes apparent that the women have unwittingly unleashed a monster.

Through a city torn by the Blitz, the friends must hunt the enemy before he kills again. Their task will take them from the tunnels of the Underground to the halls of power, where they will discover the secrets that a secret organization must keep even from itself.

Today. Lynette Binns, a librarian with a husband and child, is a late recruit to the Checquy, having discovered only as an adult her ability to electrify everyday objects with her touch.

After completing her training, she is assigned to examine a string of brutal murders of London criminals and quickly realizes that all bear the unmistakable hallmark of her own unique power. Unable to provide an alibi and determined to prove her innocence, she flees, leaving behind her family to venture into the London underworld to find answers. But now she is prey, being tracked by her own frighteningly capable comrades.

As Lyn fights off powered thugs and her own vengeful colleagues, she will find that the solution to the murders and to the mystery of her own past lies in the events of World War II, and the covert actions of three young women during the Blitz.]]> 496 Daniel O'Malley 146075638X AndrewP 2 3.96 2022 Blitz (The Checquy Files, #3)

author: Daniel O'Malley
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/11
date added: 2024/12/13
shelves: audio-books, urban-fantasy, read-in-2024
review:
The first book in this series got my attention and the second book was event better. However, this third installment fell flat for me. The second book had excellent character development and enough background material to flesh out the world in more detail. In the third book the were endless pages of backstory and history that really bogged down the story. Or should I say stories as there were two POV's, one from present day and one from the WW2 area. I had expected these to converge with some twist, but that never really happened. The constant switching back and forth made the story hard to follow (at least in audiobook form). As it was the book was way too long and may have been better if the two stories were separated out into two smaller volumes.
]]> <![CDATA[The Fortress in Orion (1) (Dead Enders)]]> 21487730 At the cost of many lives, the Democracy has managed to clone and train General Michkag, one of the Traanskei's master strategists. Colonel Pretorius and a hand-picked team must kidnap the real Michkag if they can, assassinate him if they can't, but no matter which, put the clone in his place, where he will misdirect the enemy's forces and funnel vital information to the Democracy.
Against the odds, Pretorius, along with Cyborg Felix Ortega, computer expert Toni Levi, convict and contortionist Sally "Snake" Kowalski, the near-human empath Marlowe, the alien Gzychurlyx, and Madam Methuselah - the Dead Enders - must infiltrate the Fortress in Orion, accomplish their mission, and escape with their lives.]]> 303 Mike Resnick 1616149906 AndrewP 2 2.88 2014 The Fortress in Orion (1) (Dead Enders)

author: Mike Resnick
name: AndrewP
average rating: 2.88
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/06
date added: 2024/12/06
shelves: 2024-bookshelf-clearance, science-fiction, read-in-2024
review:
This sounded like the sort of book that I would enjoy. Unfortunately it was just to YA and to simplistic for me.
]]> <![CDATA[Ms Patriot Down And Out 2 Boxed Set: Grimme City Super Heroines in Peril (Grimme City Super Heroines in Peril Series)]]> 23635332 309 Don Ship AndrewP 3 e-book, fantasy, read-in-2024 3.25 2014 Ms Patriot Down And Out 2 Boxed Set: Grimme City Super Heroines in Peril (Grimme City Super Heroines in Peril Series)

Ms Patriot Down And Out 2 Boxed Set: Grimme City Super Heroines in Peril (Grimme City Super Heroines in Peril Series)

author: Don Ship
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.25
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/02
date added: 2024/12/02
shelves: e-book, fantasy, read-in-2024
review:
At 308 pages this collection is good value for money. For some reason I did not find the format as appealing as the long format novellas. With such short stories there was a certain amount of repetitiveness. Spacing out the stories between other books remedied this.
]]> <![CDATA[Thieves' Dozen (Dortmunder, #12)]]> 415849 183 Donald E. Westlake 0446693022 AndrewP 3 If you haven't read any of the books and don't know the character then you will miss a lot here.]]> 4.03 2004 Thieves' Dozen (Dortmunder, #12)

author: Donald E. Westlake
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/27
date added: 2024/11/27
shelves: crime-mystery, e-book, read-in-2024
review:
A dozen short stories of Dortmunder's misadventures. All of these were pretty entertaining but I missed the rest of his crew. Andy appears in several of the stories but only in a supporting role.
If you haven't read any of the books and don't know the character then you will miss a lot here.
]]> <![CDATA[The Sins of Our Fathers (The Expanse, #9.5)]]> 59548471
But the worst monsters are human, and the greatest dangers are the past they brought.]]> 64 James S.A. Corey AndrewP 3 4.08 2022

The Sins of Our Fathers (The Expanse, #9.5)

author: James S.A. Corey
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/23
date added: 2024/11/23
shelves: library, read-in-2024, science-fiction, short
review:
A novella that occurs after the end of book 9 of the expanse series and shows what may be happening on many of the colony worlds. In this case it follows up on what happened to one of the characters that were left as a loose end in the main books. Not a character I particularly cared about so this was not an essential read for me. If you loved the series then it's worth reading.
]]> Auberon (The Expanse, #7.5) 51209450 A novella set in the universe of James S. A. Corey’s NYT-bestselling Expanse series, Auberon explores a new and alien world and the age-old dangers that humanity has carried with it to the stars. Now a Prime Original series.

Auberon is one of the first and most important colony worlds in humanity’s reach, and the new conquering faction has come to claim it. Governor Rittenaur has come to bring civilization and order to the far outpost and guarantee the wealth and power of the Empire.

But Auberon already has its own history, a complex culture, and a criminal kingpin named Erich with very different plans. In a world of deceit, violence, and corruption, the greatest danger Rittenaur faces is love.]]> 78 James S.A. Corey 1549170090 AndrewP 3 4.13 2019 Auberon (The Expanse, #7.5)

author: James S.A. Corey
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/22
date added: 2024/11/22
shelves: library, science-fiction, short, read-in-2024
review:
I missed this novella when it first came out so read it after finishing the main 9 book series. A pretty good side story that comes somewhere between book 7 and 8 and highlights what might happen on any of the colony worlds when the Laconian's tried to enforce their rule.
]]> Three Rivers (DI Tanner #4) 52062022 A CHILLING NORFOLK BROADS CRIME THRILLER
A body caught on the end of a mast, another skewered by a rhond hook, and a chain of evidence Tanner cannot accept.

As a twisting gale howls its way over Barton Broad, DS Jenny Evans joins a handsome old friend to help rescue the crew of an overturned boat. But when they discover a body, snagged on the end of the mast, one murder soon follows another, leaving DI John Tanner with a race against time, desperate to prove that the most obvious suspect isn’t who everyone seems to think it is.

Set within the mysterious beauty of the Norfolk Broads, this fast-paced British detective series is a dark cozy murder mystery with a slice of humour and a touch of romance, one that will have you guessing until the very end, when the last shocking twist is finally revealed.]]> 354 David Blake AndrewP 4 4.26 Three Rivers (DI Tanner #4)

author: David Blake
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.26
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/17
date added: 2024/11/17
shelves: crime-mystery, e-book, read-in-2024
review:
Another book in the DI Tanner, Norfolk Broads police procedurals. As with the others this is a real page turner that I blew through in a couple of days. Lot's of locations which I'm familiar with in real life gives this an additional note of realism. More character development of the main players and a significant event at the end. I will be interested to see how things progress in the rest of the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Royal Gambit (The Checquy Files, #4)]]> 221179055 From the brilliant and hilarious author of The Rook, a delightful new supernatural When the heir to the British throne suddenly dies under mysterious circumstances, Checquy operative and reluctant aristocrat Alix is assigned to be lady-in-waiting/personal bodyguard to the new Crown Princess, and must navigate the halls of power and privilege while investigating the supernatural murder of the Prince of Wales.
��
Alexandra "Alix" Dennis-Palmer-Hudson-Gilmore-Garnsey, the twelfth Lady Mondegreen, has never had any control of her life. Her supernatural ability to shatter bones with a touch made her the automatic property of the Checquy, the secret British government agency that deals with the supernatural. Her aristocratic ancestry made Alix the perfect asset for the Checquy to deploy close to the royal family. Since childhood, Alix has been coached to befriend Princess Louise, second in line to the throne, but despite all machinations, the two have never been close. Now an adult and a full Pawn of the Checquy, Alix is a skilled investigator unravelling supernatural manifestations for the security of the nation.
��
Everything changes when Louise's brother, the Prince of Wales, dies abruptly, and all signs point to an unnatural assassination. To protect Louise, the new and unwilling heir apparent, Alix is assigned to be her lady-in-waiting. Thrust into the limelight overnight—both in the everyday world and in the underground world of the Checquy—Alix must juggle her responsibilities and her loyalties as she attempts to unravel the murder, keep Louise safe, and learn how to smile graciously while eerie threats loom around every corner.]]> 416 Daniel O'Malley 0316568104 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.28 2025 Royal Gambit (The Checquy Files, #4)

author: Daniel O'Malley
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Stiletto (The Checquy Files, #2)]]> 25695756
When secret organizations are forced to merge after years of enmity and bloodshed, only one person has the fearsome powers—and the bureaucratic finesse—to get the job done. Facing her greatest challenge yet, Rook Myfanwy Thomas must broker a deal between two bitter adversaries:

The Checquy—the centuries-old covert British organization that protects society from supernatural
threats, and��
The Grafters—a centuries-old supernatural threat.

But as bizarre attacks sweep London, threatening to sabotage negotiations, old hatreds flare. Surrounded by spies, only the Rook and two women, who absolutely hate each other, can seek out the culprits before they trigger a devastating otherworldly war.

STILETTO is a novel of preternatural diplomacy, paranoia, and snide remarks.]]> 583 Daniel O'Malley 0316228044 AndrewP 5 The tone of the book was also much more humorous that the first one and I would put it right up there with 'The Laundry Files' and 'The Rivers of London' in terms of entertainment and enjoyment value. Highly recommended. On to book 3.]]> 4.10 2016 Stiletto (The Checquy Files, #2)

author: Daniel O'Malley
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/13
date added: 2024/11/15
shelves: audio-books, urban-fantasy, read-in-2024
review:
The second book in the Checquy Files series and this one seems like a big step up from the first book 'The Rook'. It seemed to me that the writing was substantially better, but the main difference was the length. This book is almost twice as long as your average urban fantasy and that gives the author more pages to develop the characters, story and world building. Some of the characters carry on from the first book but most of them are new.
The tone of the book was also much more humorous that the first one and I would put it right up there with 'The Laundry Files' and 'The Rivers of London' in terms of entertainment and enjoyment value. Highly recommended. On to book 3.
]]> <![CDATA[Leviathan Falls (The Expanse, #9)]]> 28335699
In the dead system of Adro, Elvi Okoye leads a desperate scientific mission to understand what the gate builders were and what destroyed them, even if it means compromising herself and the half-alien children who bear the weight of her investigation. Through the wide-flung systems of humanity, Colonel Aliana Tanaka hunts for Duarte’s missing daughter. . . and the shattered emperor himself. And on the Rocinante, James Holden and his crew struggle to build a future for humanity out of the shards and ruins of all that has come before.

As nearly unimaginable forces prepare to annihilate all human life, Holden and a group of unlikely allies discover a last, desperate chance to unite all of humanity, with the promise of a vast galactic civilization free from wars, factions, lies, and secrets if they win.

But the price of victory may be worse than the cost of defeat.]]> 528 James S.A. Corey 0356510395 AndrewP 5 After 9, fairly substantial books, it's sad to leave the hero's after all these years but I can always re-watch the Expanse TV show, and then re-read these books at some point.
An excellent science fiction series, highly recommended.]]> 4.48 2021 Leviathan Falls (The Expanse, #9)

author: James S.A. Corey
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/12
date added: 2024/11/12
shelves: e-book, science-fiction, read-in-2024
review:
I came to this final book in the Expanse series with some trepidation. Many times I have read a great series only to find that the author cannot live up to expectations with the ending. In this case, I'm happy to report, the series did have a satisfying conclusion. The authors tied up all the loose ends and finished up the story with a nice mixture of happiness, sadness and regret. Not a total bummer, nor 'they all lived happily ever after'.
After 9, fairly substantial books, it's sad to leave the hero's after all these years but I can always re-watch the Expanse TV show, and then re-read these books at some point.
An excellent science fiction series, highly recommended.
]]> Steve & Me 486550
Their story is not just one of taking a noble cause to new heights of success and recognition, it is also a fairytale love affair. When Terri, and American tourist in Australia, first laid eyes on Steve, she saw a real-life action hero. When she tried to get a date, she was disappointed to learn that his heart already belonged to another. Steve offered to introduce her to his girlfriend, whistled, and presented his best a Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Sui.

Later, he took Terri on the kind of date every girl dreams of--a canoe ride through the swamp at night. Terri describes the luminescent eyes of the crocodiles flashing in the beam of her flashlight in the otherwise total darkness. When Steve then confidently climbed out of the boat and into the water, she knew she would never feel unsafe again. The two married in June 1992, in Eugene, Oregon. The footage of their crocodile-trapping honeymoon became the first episode of The Crocodile Hunter.

The two of them went on to change the world. Their hit show was broadcast in over 137 countries, reaching 500 million people, and they founded the Australia Zoo in 1992, as well as the conservation foundation Wildlife Warriors Worldwide Ltd. in 2002. On September 4, 2006, Steve Irwin was fatally pierced in the chest by a stingray spine while snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, at Batt Reef, which is located off the coast of Port Douglas in Queensland. Irwin was at the time filming his own documentary, Ocean's Deadliest.]]> 288 Terri Irwin 1416953884 AndrewP 0 to-read 4.41 2007 Steve & Me

author: Terri Irwin
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2007
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Naked: A Novel of Lady Godiva 23014749 We all know the legend of Lady Godiva, who famously rode naked through the streets of Coventry, covered only by her long, flowing hair. So the story goes, she begged her husband Lord Leofric of Mercia to lift a high tax on her people, who would starve if forced to pay. Lord Leofric demanded a that Godiva ride naked on horseback through the town. There are various endings to Godiva's ride, that all the people of Coventry closed their doors and refused to look upon their liege lady (except for ‘peeping Tom') and that her husband, in remorse, lifted the tax.
Naked is an original version of Godiva's tale with a twist that may be closer to the by the end of his life Leofric had fallen deeply in love with Lady Godiva. A tale of legendary courage and extraordinary passion, Naked brings an epic story new voice.]]> 302 Eliza Redgold 1250066158 AndrewP 3 This is one of those pseudo historical novels, based on someone who may, or may not, have actually existed. If she did actually exist then I think the folklore that exists today is very much an exaggeration, in the same way that King Arthur and Robin Hood have grown out of some obscure folk tales.
Not a bad book but I'm not the intended audience of romantic historical fiction so others may enjoy it more.]]> 3.65 2015 Naked: A Novel of Lady Godiva

author: Eliza Redgold
name: AndrewP
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/29
date added: 2024/10/29
shelves: historical, read-in-2024, library
review:
This book was previously recommended to me by an online book club member who has since passed away. As such, reading this was a bit bitter sweet.
This is one of those pseudo historical novels, based on someone who may, or may not, have actually existed. If she did actually exist then I think the folklore that exists today is very much an exaggeration, in the same way that King Arthur and Robin Hood have grown out of some obscure folk tales.
Not a bad book but I'm not the intended audience of romantic historical fiction so others may enjoy it more.
]]> Rogue Element 58318716 403 Silas Keplar 1990164080 AndrewP 3 e-book, fantasy, read-in-2024 I see that there are two more books in this series, so I will be checking them out at some point. ]]> 4.48 Rogue Element

author: Silas Keplar
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.48
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/21
date added: 2024/10/21
shelves: e-book, fantasy, read-in-2024
review:
A LitRPG book told from the POV of a kobold. An interesting twist on the usual LitRPG that tends to be the unfortunate human somehow transported into an RPG. Some creative ideas and a decent, although linier, story. My only complaint was that the 'game system' was a bit convoluted and it was difficult to keep track of. At the end there was a listing of the main characters stats and abilities as he was at the conclusion of the book.
I see that there are two more books in this series, so I will be checking them out at some point.
]]> <![CDATA[Agatha Raisin: The Complete BBC Radio Drama Collection]]> 51604311 10 David Semple 1529126347 AndrewP 4 Each of the books is shortened into about an hour of radio split into two episodes and obviously abridges the stories somewhat. Still, very enjoyable and great to hear these presented in this way. Even if oyu have read all the books, this is well worth a listen. ]]> 4.28 Agatha Raisin: The Complete BBC Radio Drama Collection

Agatha Raisin: The Complete BBC Radio Drama Collection

author: David Semple
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.28
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/18
date added: 2024/10/19
shelves: audio-books, cozy, read-in-2024
review:
I had already listened to all of the individual books adapted to radio in this collection, but it was nice to hear them again as full BBC radio dramas. As with the books Penelope Keith plays Agatha, and even before I listened to any of the audio books I would have imagined a very similar voice in my head. If not Penelope Keith, then Patricia Routledge (of Keeping Up Appearances fame).
Each of the books is shortened into about an hour of radio split into two episodes and obviously abridges the stories somewhat. Still, very enjoyable and great to hear these presented in this way. Even if oyu have read all the books, this is well worth a listen.
]]> <![CDATA[Tiamat's Wrath (The Expanse, #8)]]> 28335698
In the dead systems where gates lead to stranger things than alien planets, Elvi Okoye begins a desperate search to discover the nature of a genocide that happened before the first human beings existed, and to find weapons to fight a war against forces at the edge of the imaginable. But the price of that knowledge may be higher than she can pay.

At the heart of the empire, Teresa Duarte prepares to take on the burden of her father's godlike ambition. The sociopathic scientist Paolo Cortázar and the Mephistophelian prisoner James Holden are only two of the dangers in a palace thick with intrigue, but Teresa has a mind of her own and secrets even her father the emperor doesn't guess.

And throughout the wide human empire, the scattered crew of the Rocinante fights a brave rear-guard action against Duarte's authoritarian regime. Memory of the old order falls away, and a future under Laconia's eternal rule -- and with it, a battle that humanity can only lose - seems more and more certain. Because against the terrors that lie between worlds, courage and ambition will not be enough...]]> 534 James S.A. Corey 0316332879 AndrewP 4 This middle volume sees a partial resolution to the conflict that started in the previous book, but that has sparked an even bigger danger. This sets things up for a grand conclusion and I can't wait to see where it ends.
My only reservation about this book was that the main bad guy had some really stupid ideas. Antagonizing the ultimate bad guys, who had already wiped out a civilization superior to you own, just seemed crazy to me. ]]> 4.54 2019 Tiamat's Wrath (The Expanse, #8)

author: James S.A. Corey
name: AndrewP
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/12
date added: 2024/10/12
shelves: library, read-in-2024, science-fiction
review:
The penultimate book in the Expanse series. For some reason I have been putting off finishing this series (probably because I didn't want it to end). I know I put off reading the last three until they were all published because the authors had said that the conclusion would be a trilogy.
This middle volume sees a partial resolution to the conflict that started in the previous book, but that has sparked an even bigger danger. This sets things up for a grand conclusion and I can't wait to see where it ends.
My only reservation about this book was that the main bad guy had some really stupid ideas. Antagonizing the ultimate bad guys, who had already wiped out a civilization superior to you own, just seemed crazy to me.
]]>